bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The application of 3D printing in the development of RECIST standard for evaluating tumor efficacy*
Authors: Yang Xiaodan , Han Tao , Zhang Yue , Zhang Yanming , Li Gao , Liu Yongye , Liu Zhaozhe , Zheng Zhendong
Published: June 2023

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, as a novel technical method, can convert conventional computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to computer-aided design files and develop a 2D spatial structure into a 3D imaging structure. In recent years, the technology has been widely used in numerous areas, including head and neck surgery, orthopedics, and bio-medicinal research. This article uses examples of 3D printed tumor models to develop Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors (RECIST) standards to evaluate the changes in tumors. RECIST standard is currently recognized as the standard for assessment of chemotherapy. Under the RECIST standard, changes occurring in tumors before and after the surgery, are evaluated. The assessment depends upon a CT evaluation of the changes in the lesions with the largest diameters. In addition, the disease progression and stability of remission is also assessed. Three-dimensional printing technology is more intuitive in the evaluation of changes to human tumors following chemotherapy and targeted therapy. However, a few reports are available.
Adrenal endothelial cyst associated with adrenocortical adenoma: a case report and literature review
Authors: Hong Yuxiang , Yang Qingtao , Zheng Junhong , Hou Gaoming
Published: June 2023

We present a case of a middle-aged male Chinese patient who was asymptomatic with a large (6 × 7 cm) right adrenal mass was found in this patient upon routine health examination. He underwent laparoscopic right adrenalectomy after comprehensive evaluation, and the mass was finally diagnosed as right adrenal endothelial (vasculature) cyst associated with adrenocortical adenoma according to pathological and immunohistochemical studies. The puzzling image resemblance of a variation of adrenal cyst to carcinoma necessitated histological examination for confirmative diagnosis. The development of endothelial cyst is extremely rare, and its association with other adrenal neoplasms is even rarer. Herein, we report a new case of adrenal endothelial cyst associated with adrenocortical adenoma, which was almost indistinguishable from adrenocortical carcinoma, and hope that it would be helpful in the diagnosis of other similar cases.
Vascular endothelial growth factor expression and significance in different grades of the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System*
Authors: Wang Gangping , Li Jingjing , Yang Shuguang , Zhang Zuofeng , Lei Songjing
Published: June 2023

Objective

Mammography is the only modality proven to reduce mortality in breast cancer, and ultrasonography is a well-known adjunct to mammography screening. The Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) classification is a practical tool and is correlated with histopathology and combined use with triple assessment (examination, imaging, and biopsy) of palpable diagnostic cases. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and different grades of BI-RADS in breast cancer.

Methods

Ninety-six patients with breast carcinoma were evaluated using BI-RADS by ultrasonography, mammography, and a combination of both modalities. In the combined imaging assessment, BI-RADS 1-4a grade was considered when the score of ultrasonography and mammography was lower than 4a, and BI-RADS 4b-5a grade was considered when the score of ultrasonography and mammography was higher than 4a. Immunohistochemical Ultra SensitiveTMS-P method was employed to evaluate the expression of VEGF in 96 patients. Fifty patients with benign breast disease were selected as the control group. The relationship between VEGF expression and different grades of BI-RADS and that between VEGF expression and other standard prognostic parameters associated with invasive breast cancer, such as size, grade, cancer stage, and metastasis were analyzed.

Results

The sensitivities of ultrasonography and mammography alone was 74.0% and 84.4%, respectively; However, the sensitivity of their combination increased to 90.6%. The positive rates of VEGF in invasive breast cancer BI-RADS 4b-5 (59/87, 67.8%) were higher than those in BI-RADS 4a (3/9, 33.3%,P< 0.05) and benign breast disease tissues (BI-RADS 1-4a, 11/50, 22.0%) (P< 0.05). There was a positive correlation between VEGF overexpression and BI-RADS 4b-5, histological grade (III), lymph node metastasis, and distant metastasis of invasive breast cancer. VEGF expression was not related to the age and size of the tumor in each group (P> 0.05).

Conclusion

There was a positive correlation between VEGF overexpression and BI-RADS 4b-5 grade. The overexpression of VEGF might be an important biological marker for the invasion and metastasis of breast cancer.
Association between diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, chronic viral hepatitis, and the risk of multiple myeloma: a case-control study
Authors: Zhou Gang , Meng Xiangyu , Liu Shangqin
Published: June 2023

Objective

This case-control study aimed to investigate whether diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and chronic viral hepatitis are risk factors for multiple myeloma (MM). Moreover, the clinical characteristics of MM patients with or without the abovementioned exposure factors were analyzed.

Methods

In total, 340 MM patients and 680 patients with benign diseases who were hospitalized from January 2012 to December 2017 were classified under the case group and control group, respectively. Data about medical history of DM, hypertension, hyperlipidemia and chronic viral hepatitis were collected by reviewing medical records. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to compare the history of DM, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and viral hepatitis between the two groups. Considering DM, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and chronic viral hepatitis as exposure factors, clinical characteristics, such as renal function and presence of fungal and other types of infections, between the exposed and non-exposed groups were analyzed.

Results

No significant difference was observed in the prevalence of DM, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia between the case and control groups. MM patients had a higher prevalence of chronic viral hepatitis than those with benign diseases. No significant difference was observed in the prevalence of renal dysfunction, fungal infection, and non-fungal infections in MM patients with or without DM, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. MM patients with chronic viral hepatitis had a significantly higher prevalence of non-fungal infections during hospitalization than those without.

Conclusion

No significant association was noted between MM and DM, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Chronic viral hepatitis is correlated to a significantly higher risk of MM, and MM patients with chronic viral hepatitis were more susceptible to non-fungal infections during hospitalization. Although a non-significant trend was observed in this study, we believe that DM and hypertension might be associated with a higher risk of MM. Thus, large-scale studies must be conducted to validate the results of the current study.
Clinical characteristics and survival outcomes of perianal Paget's disease: A SEER population-based study*
Authors: Peng Hui , Liu Zhimin , Ara Ghoorun Roshan , Yuan Xianglin
Published: June 2023

Objective

The aim of the study was to analyze the clinical features of patients with perianal Paget's disease (PPD) and investigate prognosis risk factors.

Methods

The SEER*Stat software was used to identify 116 PPD patients from 1975 to 2015 in the SEER research database. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to conduct a univariate analysis for PPD patients. The differences in survival rates were evaluated using the log-rank test. The differences in the clinicopathological features of PPD patients with or without anorectal carcinoma were compared using the chi-square test.

Results

The median survival time of PPD patients was 44 months. The median age of onset was 73 years old. The 43.10% of the patients were alive at the end of follow up, and only 12.93% of the patients died of PPD. Elderly (age > 70 years; χ2 = 9.453, P = 0.002), poor differentiation (χ2 = 46.557, P = 0.000) and abdominal perineal resection (APR; χ2 = 46.557, P = 0.000) were unfavorable risk factors of prognosis. Nearly 50% of PPD had combined with other malignancies, and over 22.41% of those had multiple primary neoplasms (3 or more). PPDs predisposed concurrent malignancy, and 48.21% of PPD patients with other malignancies combined with anorectal carcinoma in the study. Stage (χ2 = 10.127, P = 0.018), and surgical method (χ2 = 12.245, P = 0.007) were statistically significant in the PPD patients with or without anorectal carcinoma. The 16.07% of patients had multiple lesions of Paget's.

Conclusion

Patients with PPD have a favorable survival, while the disease-specific mortality is low. Diagnosed age, differentiation, and surgical methods were the influence factors of prognosis in PPD patients. PPDs with anorectal carcinoma is of most important in further investigation.
Identification of potential immune-related prognostic biomarkers of lung cancer using gene co-expression network analysis*
Authors: Chen Aixia , Zhao Shengnan , Zhou Fei , Lv Hongying , Liang Donghai , Jiang Tao , Liu Rui , Zhu Lijin , Cao Jingyu , Liu Shihai , Yu Hongsheng
Published: June 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to identify new carcinogenetic hub genes and develop the integration of differentially expressed genes to predict the prognosis of lung cancer.

Methods

GSE139032 microarray data packages were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus for planning, testing, and review of data. We identified KRT6C, LAMC2, LAMB3, KRT6A, and MYEOV from a key module for validation.

Results

We found that the five genes were related to a poor prognosis, and the expression levels of these genes were associated with tumor stage. Furthermore, Kaplan-Meier plotter showed that the five hub genes had better prognostic values. The mean levels of methylation in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) were significantly lower than those in healthy lung tissues for the hub genes. However, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) for single hub genes showed that all of them were immune-related.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated that KRT6C, LAMC2, LAMB3, KRT6A, and MYEOV are all candidate diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for LUAD. They may have clinical implications in LUAD patients not only for the improvement of risk stratification but also for therapeutic decisions and prognosis prediction.

Abbreviations:

LUAD, lung adenocarcinoma; GSEA, gene set enrichment analysis; NSCLC, non-small-cell lung cancer; WGCNA, weighted gene co-expression network analysis; MEs, module eigengenes; GS, gene significance; MS, module significance; KEGG, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes; GO, gene ontology; CC, cellular component; MF, molecular function; BP, biological process; GEPIA, gene expression profiling interactive analysis; HPA, Human Protein Atlas; TIMER, Tumor Immune Estimation Resource; TCGA, The Cancer Genome Atlas; OS, overall survival; PF, first progression; PPS, post-progression survival; IHC, immunohistochemical
Analysis of the adverse reactions of atezolizumab: A real-world study based on FAERS database
Authors: Liu Hao , Zhang Yujing , Li Jingyi , Yan Rong
Published: June 2023

Objective

In this study, we aimed to determine the incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) of atezolizumab, identify ADR signals that are significantly related to atezolizumab, and provide a reference for the rational use of atezolizumab in the clinic through the statistical analysis of its adverse drug events (ADEs) reported in the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database.

Methods

In total, 4796 cases of atezolizumab ADEs reported in the American FAERS database from 2017 to 2019 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The top three ADEs were febrile neutropenia (3.7%), anemia (2.9%), and acute renal failure (2.3%). In addition, the incidence rates of some ADEs were significantly different according to sex and age. The systematic organ classification of atezolizumab ADEs involved 32 systems, among which the top three were blood and lymphatic system disorders (585 cases, 12.2%), gastrointestinal disorders (433 cases, 9.0%), and infections and infestations (401 cases, 8.4%). The reporting odds ratio (ROR) method was used to detect the ADR signals of atezolizumab. The ROR (95% confidence interval) of the top ADE, febrile neutropenia, was 39.236 (33.757-45.604). In addition, we found 121 cases of complications associated with immune-related ADEs.

Conclusion

The ADRs of atezolizumab reported in the FAERS database were consistent with those mentioned in the instructions for atezolizumab use, suggesting that atezolizumab has an acceptable and controllable drug effect.
Diagnostic value of lncRNAs as potential biomarkers for oral squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis: a meta-analysis*
Authors: Wei Yuxue , Yang Hua , Liu Xiaoqiu
Published: June 2023

Objective

Several studies have revealed the critical role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as biomarkers for diagnosing oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, the data remain inconsistent. This meta-analysis was performed to summarize the potential of lncRNAs as OSCC biomarkers.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases for literature published until December 10, 2020. Study quality was assessed using Quality Assessment for Studies of Diagnostic Accuracy-2, and sensitivity, specificity, and other measures regarding lncRNAs for OSCC diagnosis were pooled using bivariate meta-analysis models. Data analyses were performed using STATA 14.0.

Results

Overall, 8 studies with 981 cases and 585 controls were included in the pooled analysis. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds ratio, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values were as follows: 0.76 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.65-0.84], 0.90 (95% CI, 0.82-0.95), 7.5 (95% CI, 4.20-13.40), 0.27 (95% CI, 0.18-0.39), 28 (95% CI, 13.00-58.00), 0.90 (95% CI, 0.87-0.93), respectively. Deeks’ funnel plot asymmetry test (P = 0.56) indicated no potential publication bias.

Conclusion

Our meta-analytical evidence suggests that lncRNAs could be employed as a potential non-invasive diagnostic tool for OSCC.
Effect of UBR5 on the tumor microenvironment and its related mechanisms in cancer*
Authors: Wang Guangyu , Yin Sutong , Afrifa Justice , Rong Guihong , Jiang Shaofeng , Guo Haonan , Hou Xianliang
Published: June 2023

Objective

UBR5, recently identified as a potential target for cancer therapeutics, is overexpressed in multiple malignant tumors. In addition, it is closely associated with the growth, prognosis, metastasis, and treatment response of multiple types of cancer. Although emerging evidence supports the relationship between UBR5 and cancer, there are limited cancer analyses available.

Methods

In this study, online databases (TIMER2, GEPIA2, UALCAN, c-BioPortal, STRING) were employed to comprehensively explore expression levels and prognostic values of the UBR5 gene in cancer, using bioinformatic methods.

Results

We found that various characteristics of the UBR5 gene such as gene expression, survival value, genetic mutation, protein phosphorylation, immune infiltration, and pathway activities in the normal tissue were remarkably different from those in the primary tumor. Furthermore, “protein processing in spliceosome” and “ubiquitin mediated proteolysis” have provided evidence for their potential involvement in the development of cancer.

Conclusion

Our findings may provide insights for the selection of novel immunotherapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers for cancer.
Comparison of conventional right colectomy and complete mesocolic excision technique—case–control analysis of short-term results
Authors: Sztipits Tamas , Mészáros Peter , Dubóczki Zsolt , Wettstein Daniel , Olah Gergely , Mezo Kornel , Budai Barna , Mersich Tamas
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The long-term oncologic advantages of complete mesocolic excision (CME) with central vascular ligation and extended lymphadenectomy in right-sided colon cancer have been emphasized in several studies, without compromise of perioperative morbidity or mortality; however, prospective randomized data are scarce.

Methods

We performed a single-center non-randomized case–control study comparing conventional non-CME right colectomies (nCME) and complete mesocolic excision (CME) procedures during the period from January 2019 to December 2020. Perioperative morbidity, length of hospital stay (LOHS), operative time, and lymph node yield were analyzed.

Results

A total of 131 patients underwent surgery for right-sided colon cancer, with 28 (21%) in the CME group and 103 (79%) in the conventional group. Operative time was significantly longer in the CME group (p < 0.001) compared to conventional procedures. The duration of hospitalization was statistically similar (p = 0.226), no difference was observed in 30-day morbidity (p = 0.166), and the majority of complications in both groups were grades 0–2 (CME: 82%; nCME: 91%). There were no 30-day mortalities. The lymph node yield in CME was significantly higher compared to the conventional surgery (p = 0.041).

Conclusion

Complete mesocolic excision (CME) for right-sided colon cancer is safe without increasing complications or hospital stay, with an acceptable increase in operative time. The significant increase in lymph node yield enables better staging and may lead to improved long-term oncologic outcomes.
A content analysis of tobacco content in season 1 of ‘And Just Like That’
Authors: Barker Alexander B. , Bal Jaspreet , Murray Rachael L.
Published: June 2023

Aim

‘Sex and the City’ regularly featured smoking as a plot device, often linked with sexuality and female empowerment. Eighteen years later, the follow up ‘And Just Like That’ was released. The aim of this paper was to explore the amount of tobacco content in the first series of ‘And Just Like That’.

Subject and methods

A 1-minute content analysis of the 10 episodes from season 1 of ‘And Just Like That’.

Results

The 10 episodes included 394 one-minute intervals of content, with individual episodes ranging from 35–44 minutes. Tobacco content occurred in 45 intervals (11% of the total) across all 10 episodes.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that, despite the 18-year age gap between the end of the ‘Sex and the City’ TV series and the start of ‘And Just Like That’, and the declining smoking rates during that time, tobacco content is still regularly featured in these programmes. Whilst viewing figures are not available for this series, we know that this was HBO Max’s most streamed show of all time and was highly popular; it is, therefore, likely that large numbers of people were exposed to tobacco content through this programme.
Can democracy accelerate sustainability transformations? Policy coherence for participatory co-existence
Authors: Pickering Jonathan
Published: June 2023

The 2030 Agenda envisages a world “in which democracy, good governance and the rule of law […] are essential for sustainable development” (Transforming our world: The 2030 Agenda for sustainable development, 2015, paragraph 9). However, the extent to which democratic practices can help or hinder sustainable development remains contested. I show how the relationship between democracy and environmental sustainability can be illuminated by recent advances in research on policy coherence for sustainable development. I apply a framework developed by Shawoo et al., (2022), to illustrate how (in)coherence between these two objectives is driven by a mix of ideas, institutions and interests. This framework can, in turn, help to identify policy options for strengthening coherence between democratic and environmental aims, spanning pluralisation of integrative frames and discourses, inclusive institutional design and reforms that broaden the range of public interests included in decision-making while restraining undue influence of vested interests.
Global Existence and Blow-up Solutions for a Parabolic Equation with Critical Nonlocal Interactions
Authors: Zhang Jian , Rădulescu Vicentiu D. , Yang Minbo , Zhou Jiazheng
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we study the initial boundary value problem for the nonlocal parabolic equation with the Hardy–Littlewood–Sobolev critical exponent on a bounded domain. We are concerned with the long time behaviors of solutions when the initial energy is low, critical or high. More precisely, by using the modified potential well method, we obtain global existence and blow-up of solutions when the initial energy is low or critical, and it is proved that the global solutions are classical. Moreover, we obtain an upper bound of blow-up time for

$$J_{\mu }(u_{0})<0$$

J
μ

(

u
0

)

<
0

and decay rate of

$$H^{1}_{0}$$

H
0
1

and

$$L^{2}$$

L
2

-norm of the global solutions. When the initial energy is high, we derive some sufficient conditions for global existence and blow-up of solutions. In addition, we are going to consider the asymptotic behavior of global solutions, which is similar to the Palais-Smale (PS for short) sequence of stationary equation.
Integrating business and market intelligence to expedite service responsiveness: evidence from Malaysia
Authors: Nawaz Muhammad , Hameed Waseem Ul , Bhatti M. Ishaq
Published: June 2023

In today’s business world, Malaysian postal and courier companies are rapidly growing due to recent Covid-19 but they face various challenges due to intense competition in the use of high-tech e-services. The paper examines the role of business and market intelligence in expediting service innovation and responsiveness in Malaysia, which is considered the business hub of Asia. Primary survey data were collected from the 93 managerial staff of postal and courier companies in Malaysia. We employed PLS-SEM methodology to test the relationship between the selected variables of interest. The results indicate that market intelligence and business intelligence are the major contributors to service innovation and service responsiveness. Moreover, the role of knowledge management is crucial in better utilization of external and internal knowledge. Finally, this study provides practical guidelines to practitioners and policymakers of postal and courier companies to devise viable strategies for efficiently realizing service innovation and service responsiveness to the best satisfaction of the end customers.
Towards a systemic entrepreneurship activity model
Authors: Dahle Yngve , Reuther Kevin , Steinert Martin , Supphellen Magne
Published: June 2023

Entrepreneurship research would benefit from a mechanism gathering activity data from a large number of entrepreneurial initiatives. This paper starts by building on Zott and Amit’s activity system perspective to introduce a holistic activity model of entrepreneurship containing seven steps and 29 elements. This model has been used by 13,927 entrepreneurial projects between the years of 2015 to 2022. By applying a digital, non-participant observation method, this led to the development of a dataset containing information on 935,745 activities. We use three concrete research cases to exemplify how this model, method and dataset can be utilized for bringing research on entrepreneurial activities forward.
Recurrent/Metastatic Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Treatment from Present to Future: Where Are We and Where Are We Heading?
Authors: Juarez-Vignon Whaley Juan Jose , Afkhami Michelle , Onyshchenko Mykola , Massarelli Erminia , Sampath Sagus , Amini Arya , Bell Diana , Villaflor Victoria M.
Published: June 2023

Opinion statement

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is distinct in its anatomic location and biology from other epithelial head and neck cancer (HNC). There are 3 WHO subtypes, which considers the presence of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and other histopathology features. Despite the survival benefit obtained from modern treatment modalities and techniques specifically in the local and locally advanced setting, a number of patients with this disease will recur and subsequently die of distant metastasis, locoregional relapse, or both. In the recurrent setting, the ideal therapy approach continues to be a topic of discussion and current recommendations are platinum-based combination chemotherapy. Phase III clinical trials which led to the approval of pembrolizumab or nivolumab for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) specifically excluded NPC. No immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, to date, has been approved by the FDA to treat NPC although the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommendations do include use of these agents. Hence, this remains the major challenge for treatment options. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is challenging as it is really 3 different diseases, and much research is required to determine best options and sequencing of those options. This article is going to address the data to date and discuss ongoing research in EBV + and EBV – inoperable recurrent/metastatic NPC patients.
Detecting and Managing Childhood Onset Hypertension in Africa: A Call to Action
Authors: Craig A. , Breet Y. , Gafane-Matemane L. F. , Norris S. A. , Kruger R.
Published: June 2023

Purpose of Review

To review recent evidence on childhood hypertension across Africa, identifying knowledge gaps, challenges and priorities, and highlight clinical perspectives in managing primary hypertension.

Recent Findings

Only 15 of the 54 African countries reported on absolute blood pressure (BP) measures, elevated BP, pre- and/or hypertension. The reported hypertension prevalence ranged between 0.0 and 38.9%, while elevated BP and/or pre-hypertnesion ranged from 2.7 to 50.5%. Childhood BP nomograms are lacking across Africa and the rates of hypertension were based on guidelines developed in countries with the lowest to no number of children from African ancestry. The recent studies across Africa also showed little to no detail when reporting BP specific methodology. No recent data informing the use or effectiveness of antihypertensive agents in children and adolesents are available.

Childhood hypertension is on the rise, while data from Africa remains vastly under-represented. Collaborative research, resources, and policies need to be strengthened in addressing the growing public health concern of childhood onset hypertension on this continent.
Math anxiety and attention: Biased orienting to math symbols or less efficient attentional control?
Authors: González-Gómez Belén , Colomé Àngels , Núñez-Peña María Isabel
Published: June 2023

Previous research about the existence of an attentional bias for math in highly math-anxious (HMA) individuals shows inconsistent results, and methodologies used so far cannot distinguish the various components of attentional bias. Here we adapted Grafton and MacLeod (2014)’s methodology to assess biases linked to math anxiety in engagement and disengagement when task-irrelevant math and neutral symbols are briefly presented. Twenty-one HMA and 21 low math-anxious individuals were asked to perform the attentional task just after solving an arithmetic task expected to generate group differences in state anxiety. Considering attentional control theory, state anxiety will likely increase allocation of attention to task-irrelevant stimuli. Therefore, individual differences in efficiency responding to this task, which despite being simple and non-mathematical is interrupted by task-irrelevant stimuli, were also analyzed to study whether HMA individuals show reduced attentional control. Our results provide evidence against the presence of an attentional bias towards/against mathematical symbols in visuospatial orienting of the HMA population, neither in the form of an engagement bias nor as a disengagement bias. Rather, HMA individuals were slower and could not take advantage of a longer interval to overcome distraction, which suggest less efficient attentional control, at least when they experience higher state anxiety. Therefore, it is unlikely that an attentional bias for math may originate or aggravate math anxiety. However, reduced attentional control may underlie the less efficient processing on math tasks usually shown by HMA individuals, so research on attention in math anxiety should keep focusing on HMA’s difficulties in executive control.
Why Did Red Ereño Limestone Go Red? Linking Scientific Knowledge and Geoheritage Story-Telling (Basque Country, Spain)
Authors: Damas Mollá Laura , Aranburu Arantza , Villalain Juan José , García-Garmilla Francisco , Uriarte Jesus Ángel , Zabaleta Ane , Bodego Arantxa , Ladron de Guevara Martín , Monge-Ganuzas Manu , Antiguedad Iñaki
Published: June 2023

Red Ereño is a red-stained ornamental
and construction limestone with characteristic white fossil shells. Although exploited since Roman times, marketed worldwide and that the rock itself and its outcrop areas have been included in geological heritage inventories, the origin of its characteristic reddish colour remained unresolved. The aim of this work is to deepen the scientific knowledge of Red Ereño as a basis for understanding the characteristics of this stone and to make this information available for geoconservation actions. The mineralogical and petrological study, mainly based on optical and electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and rock magnetism and paleomagnetic techniques, concluded that the red-staining mineral is pigmentary hematite. Moreover, the analysis stated that hematite precipitated after sedimentation but prior to burial diagenesis and before alpine inversion. Based on palaeomagnetic studies, it can be stated that mineralisation occurred during the Late Cretaceous. This work illustrates how scientific research on this potential heritage stone provides key information for geoconservation.
Association Between Family History of Diabetes, Irrational Beliefs, and Health Anxiety with 10-Year Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: the ATTICA Epidemiological Study (2002–2012)
Authors: Vassou Christina , Tsiampalis Thomas , Georgousopoulou Ekavi N. , Chrysohoou Christina , Yannakoulia Mary , Pitsavos Christos , Cropley Mark , Panagiotakos Demosthenes B.
Published: June 2023

Background

This study aimed to examine the relationship between family history of diabetes, irrational beliefs, and health anxiety in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Method

ATTICA is a prospective, cohort study (2002–2012). The working sample included 845 participants (18–89 years), free of diabetes at baseline. Α detailed biochemical, clinical, and lifestyle evaluation was performed, while participants’ irrational beliefs and health anxiety were assessed through the Irrational Beliefs Inventory and the Whiteley index scale, respectively. We evaluated the association between the participants’ family history of diabetes mellitus with the 10-year risk of diabetes mellitus, both in the total study’s sample and separately according to their levels of health anxiety and irrational beliefs.

Results

The crude 10-year risk of T2DM was 12.9% (95%CI: 10.4, 15.4), with 191 cases of T2DM. Family history of diabetes was associated with 2.5 times higher odds (2.53, 95%CI 1.71, 3.75) of T2DM compared to those without family history. Among participants with family history of diabetes, the highest likelihood of developing T2DM, regarding their tested psychological features (i.e., low/high irrational beliefs in the entire group, low/high health anxiety in the entire group, and low/high irrational beliefs, low/high healthy anxiety), had people with high irrational beliefs, low health anxiety (OR 3.70, 95%CI 1.83, 7.48).

Conclusions

The findings underline the important moderating role of irrational beliefs and health anxiety in the prevention of T2DM, among participants at increased risk of T2DM.
A Maturity Model for Assessing the Digitalization of Public Health Agencies
Authors: Doctor Eileen , Eymann Torsten , Fürstenau Daniel , Gersch Martin , Hall Kristina , Kauffmann Anna Lina , Schulte-Althoff Matthias , Schlieter Hannes , Stark Jeannette , Wyrtki Katrin
Published: June 2023

Requests for a coordinated response during the COVID-19 pandemic revealed the limitations of locally-operating public health agencies (PHAs) and have resulted in a growing interest in their digitalization. However, digitalizing PHAs – i.e., transforming them technically and organizationally – toward the needs of both employees and citizens is challenging, especially in federally-managed local government settings. This paper reports on a project that develops and evaluates a continuous (vs. a staged) maturity model, the PHAMM, for digitalizing PHAs as a cornerstone of a digitally resilient public health system in the future. The model supports a coordinated approach to formulating a vision and structuring the steps toward it, engaging employees along the transformation journey necessary for a federally-managed field. Further, it is now being used to allocate substantial national funds to foster digitalization. By developing the model in a coordinated approach and using it for distributing federal resources, this work expands the potential usage cases for maturity models. The authors conclude with lessons learned and discuss how the model can incentivize local digitalization in federal fields.
The effect of activator type on physicochemical and sorption properties of nanostructured carbon adsorbents obtained from fennel seed by chemical activation
Authors: Paluch Dorota , Bazan-Wozniak Aleksandra , Pietrzak Robert
Published: June 2023

In this study, fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) seeds were used as a precursor for obtaining nanostructured activated carbons by chemical activation with various reagents. The obtained activated carbons were characterized using nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms, ash content, Boehm titration and pH of water extracts. It was shown that the choice of activator had an important effect on the physicochemical and sorption properties of the obtained activated carbons. The specific surface area of the obtained adsorbents ranged from 345 to 1052 m2/g. Chemical activation of the starting material with potassium carbonate made it possible to obtain activated carbons with the strongest developed specific surface area and the best sorption capacity against the tested pollutants. 1 g of this carbon is able to adsorb 1215 mg of iodine and 454 mg of methylene blue. The least effective adsorbent turned out to be the carbon obtained by chemical activation of fennel seeds with sodium carbonate, whose sorption capacity toward the pollutants from aqueous solutions was 77 mg/g and 317 mg/g for methylene blue for iodine, respectively. The alkaline pH of the solution promotes effective adsorption of methylene blue on the surface of the obtained adsorbents. The reaction of the dye molecules adsorption on the activated carbons occurs according to the pseudo-second-order model. The Langmuir isotherm best described the process under study. In addition, it was shown that chemical activation of fennel seeds leads to carbon adsorbents with acidic surface character. The negative values of Gibbs free energy indicate the spontaneous character of the process. The study has shown that fennel seeds can be successfully used to obtain low-cost and effective nanostructured carbon adsorbents with good sorption capacity toward organic and inorganic contaminants, from the aqueous phase.
Methionine-producing tumor micro(be) environment fuels growth of solid tumors
Authors: Vega Alexis A. , Marshall Erin A. , Noonan Avery J. C. , Filho Fernando Sergio Leitao , Yang Julia , Stewart Greg L. , Johnson Fraser D. , Vucic Emily A. , Pewarchuk Michelle E. , Shah Parag P. , Clem Brian F. , Nislow Corey , Lam Stephen , Lockwood William W. , Hallam Steven J. , Leung Janice M. , Beverly Levi J. , Lam Wan L.
Published: June 2023

Background

Recent studies have uncovered the near-ubiquitous presence of microbes in solid tumors of diverse origins. Previous literature has shown the impact of specific bacterial species on the progression of cancer. We propose that local microbial dysbiosis enables certain cancer phenotypes through provisioning of essential metabolites directly to tumor cells.

Methods

16S rDNA sequencing of 75 patient lung samples revealed the lung tumor microbiome specifically enriched for bacteria capable of producing methionine. Wild-type (WT) and methionine auxotrophic (metA mutant) E. coli cells were used to condition cell culture media and the proliferation of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cells were measured using SYTO60 staining. Further, colony forming assay, Annexin V Staining, BrdU, AlamarBlue, western blot, qPCR, LINE microarray and subcutaneous injection with methionine modulated feed were used to analyze cellular proliferation, cell-cycle, cell death, methylation potential, and xenograft formation under methionine restriction. Moreover, C14-labeled glucose was used to illustrate the interplay between tumor cells and bacteria.

Results/Discussion

Our results show bacteria found locally within the tumor microenvironment are enriched for methionine synthetic pathways, while having reduced S-adenosylmethionine metabolizing pathways. As methionine is one of nine essential amino acids that mammals are unable to synthesize de novo, we investigated a potentially novel function for the microbiome, supplying essential nutrients, such as methionine, to cancer cells. We demonstrate that LUAD cells can utilize methionine generated by bacteria to rescue phenotypes that would otherwise be inhibited due to nutrient restriction. In addition to this, with WT and metA mutant E. coli, we saw a selective advantage for bacteria with an intact methionine synthetic pathway to survive under the conditions induced by LUAD cells. These results would suggest that there is a potential bi-directional cross-talk between the local microbiome and adjacent tumor cells. In this study, we focused on methionine as one of the critical molecules, but we also hypothesize that additional bacterial metabolites may also be utilized by LUAD. Indeed, our radiolabeling data suggest that other biomolecules are shared between cancer cells and bacteria. Thus, modulating the local microbiome may have an indirect effect on tumor development, progression, and metastasis.
Towards autonomous inland waterway vessels — a comprehensive analysis of regulatory, liability and insurance frameworks
Authors: Ahmed Yaseen Adnan , Theotokatos Gerasimos , Maslov Ilia , Wennersberg Lars Andreas Lien , Nesheim Dag Atle
Published: June 2023

The use of maritime autonomous vessels for the inland waterway (IWW) transport can revolutionise the current logistics supply chain and enable the shifting of the cargo transportation from the less efficient road and rail transport modes. However, the lack of guidelines and requirements for the operation and testing of autonomous vessels must be addressed to enable autonomous operations. This study aims to identify the gaps of the prevailing regulatory, liability and insurance frameworks and propose viable recommendations for the operation and testing of the autonomous IWW vessels. The theoretical case study of a next-generation autonomous ship operating in European IWW along with the required key enabling technologies is considered. A systematic methodological approach is followed focusing on the existing, transition and next-generation stages for developing autonomous vessels. The existing stage deals with classifying the identified gaps considering the categories of high, moderate or low severity, whereas the anticipated new stakeholders with associated risks in the context of autonomous vessels are analysed. The transition stage discusses recommendations to mitigate the identified gaps of the analysed existing frameworks by either developing interpretations, amending existing instruments or proposing new instruments. The proposed recommendations demonstrate a pathway towards upgrading the existing frameworks based on the identified severity levels and hence are expected to be beneficial for the policymakers whilst preparing the roadmap for the design and operation of next-generation autonomous ship (NGAS).
Integrating Foundational and Clinical Science Remotely by Combining Team-Based Learning and Simulation
Authors: Roberts Joel , Zhong Qing , Linger Rachel
Published: June 2023

Integrating foundational and clinical science in medical and other professional healthcare degree programs has been well established as a means to enhance learning. However, implementation remains challenging, and a significant gap exists in guidance for non-professional degree programs to effectively accomplish both types of integration. Additionally, many modalities described in the literature are resource-intensive, scale poorly to larger groups, and are widely inaccessible. We present an online modality combining team-based learning and a simulation-based learning experience that fosters vertical and horizontal integration of physiology, pharmacology, and clinical science. The tools utilized include a vital sign simulator, video conferencing software, and a document-sharing platform. The activity demonstrated improved knowledge comparing pre- and posttests and evidence that the activity helped students integrate physiology, pharmacology, and clinical medicine. The novel structure is effective and accessible, uses open-source software and standard equipment available to most undergraduate and graduate faculty, and is adaptable to in-person, hybrid-remote, and fully remote delivery.
Multi-component Adsorption Isotherms: Review and Modeling Studies
Authors: Amrutha  , Jeppu Gautham , Girish C. R. , Prabhu Balakrishna , Mayer Katharina
Published: June 2023

Adsorption is an important phenomenon widely used for the removal of contaminants. Several drinking water contaminants such as arsenic and fluoride, vanadium and chromium, nickel, cadmium and cobalt  are found to coexist in nature as multi-component mixtures in water. Hence, the modeling of multi-component adsorption isotherms for designing water treatment systems has gained importance recently. However, review studies of multi-component adsorption and competitive adsorption modeling are limited. The current review paper summarizes twenty-six multi-component adsorption isotherm models. Also, case studies of several common multi-component adsorption systems and the mechanisms of multi-component adsorption are discussed. Furthermore, a modeling analysis of four multi-component isotherms models for three commonly found two-component adsorption systems, i.e., cadmium-nickel, nickel–cobalt, and cadmium-cobalt, is reported. The Extended Langmuir isotherm, Competitive Langmuir isotherm, Extended Langmuir–Freundlich isotherm and Extended Freundlich isotherm models were applied in the modeling study for the competitive adsorption of Cd, Ni, and Co. The goodness of fit parameters and adsorption isotherm constants were estimated for these models. The factors influencing competitive adsorption, mechanisms of adsorption, various single and multi-component isotherm models, their significance, and limitations are also discussed in this review article.

Highlights

• Twenty-six multi-component and ten single-component isotherm models are compiled

• Factors affecting multi-component competitive adsorption isotherms are discussed in this review paper

• The applications of four multi-component isotherm models for three binary contaminant systems are presented.

Graphical Abstract
Latest Trends in Modelling Forest Ecosystems: New Approaches or Just New Methods?
Authors: Blanco Juan A. , Lo Yueh-Hsin
Published: June 2023

Purpose of Review

Forest models are becoming essential tools in forest research, management, and policymaking but currently are under deep transformation. In this review of the most recent literature (2018–2022), we aim to provide an updated general view of the main topics currently attracting the efforts of forest modelers, the trends already in place, and some of the current and future challenges that the field will face.

Recent Findings

Four major topics attracting most of on current modelling efforts: data acquisition, productivity estimation, ecological pattern predictions, and forest management related to ecosystem services. Although the topics may seem different, they all are converging towards integrated modelling approaches by the pressure of climate change as the major coalescent force, pushing current research efforts into integrated mechanistic, cross-scale simulations of forest functioning and structure.

We conclude that forest modelling is experiencing an exciting but challenging time, due to the combination of new methods to easily acquire massive amounts of data, new techniques to statistically process such data, and refinements in mechanistic modelling that are incorporating higher levels of ecological complexity and breaking traditional barriers in spatial and temporal scales. However, new available data and techniques are also creating new challenges. In any case, forest modelling is increasingly acknowledged as a community and interdisciplinary effort. As such, ways to deliver simplified versions or easy entry points to models should be encouraged to integrate non-modelers stakeholders into the modelling process since its inception. This should be considered particularly as academic forest modelers may be increasing the ecological and mathematical complexity of forest models.
Multiscale fracture networks and their impact on hydroshearing response in the Canadian Shield (Kuujjuaq, Canada)
Authors: Miranda Mafalda M. , Raymond Jasmin , Dezayes Chrystel , Wigston Andrew , Perreault Serge
Published: June 2023

Understanding the natural fracture network is essential for geothermal-related investigations. However, the geometrical attributes depend on the scale of observation. Therefore, a multiscale characterization of the fracture network is essential to ensure that heat and flow simulations are based on stochastically generated discrete fracture network models representative of the natural fracture system observed. The objective of this project was to understand the scale effect of fracture data on the performance of a potential enhanced geothermal system in crystalline rock in northern Canada. This was accomplished by collecting and characterizing fracture data from core, outcrops and satellite image, and then constructing a discrete fracture network model which was used to simulate the performance of the geothermal system. The numerical simulations suggest that fracture length and spacing have an important impact on its performance. Thermal short-circuiting can be easily achieved if the fracture network is modelled based solely on satellite image data, and hydroshearing may be less effective if the DFN is constructed based solely on outcrop data. The simulations suggest that combining the different datasets provides the best compromise between heat extraction, water losses, hydraulic impedance and thermal drawdown. Despite the uncertainties, the fracture data used highlights the importance of multiscale fracture analysis for heat-flow simulations of geothermal reservoirs.