bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case report: Anti-ARHGAP26 autoantibodies in atypical dementia with Lewy bodies
Authors: Hansen Niels , Rentzsch Kristin , Hirschel Sina , Wiltfang Jens , Schott Björn Hendrik , Bartels Claudia , Lange Claudia , Bouter Caroline
Published: August 2023

Background

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is the second most common type of neurodegenerative dementia. Here, we report a case of dementia associated with anti-Rho-GTPase-activating protein 26 (ARHGAP26) autoantibodies, which have never been previously linked to DLB.

Methods

We describe the case of a 78-year-old man who underwent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), 18F-fluorodesoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET), and a detailed neuropsychological evaluation.

Results

The patient presented with mild dementia syndrome associated with extrapyramidal symptoms. Neuropsychological testing revealed impaired cognitive flexibility, figural memory, and verbal memory. Fluctuating cognitive abilities with deficits in attention-executive dysfunction and visuoconstruction also developed over time. A brain MRI showed reduced biparietal and cerebellar brain volume with generalized accentuation of the outer CSF spaces. The patient's CSF revealed anti-ARHGAP26 autoantibodies, which were also detectable in serum. In the differential complementary imaging diagnosis at 2 years, an FDG-PET revealed decreased occupancy of the posterior cingulum and precuneus. Although the FDG-PET, MRI, and clinical findings were potentially consistent with Alzheimer's disease, negative amyloid biomarkers in the CSF made an AD diagnosis highly unlikely. Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with [(123)I] N-omega-fluoropropyl-2beta-carbomethoxy-3beta-{4-iodophenyl}nortropane ([(123)I]FP-CIT) showed right-sided predominance, reduced dopamine transporter uptake in the putamen, consistent with a positive indicative biomarker finding typical of DLB. Considering the clinically probable DLB associated with the two core features of Parkinsonism and fluctuating cognition with deficits in attention, supported by an abundant tracer uptake in the right putamen and lower uptake in the left putamen on 123I-FP-CIT-SPECT as an indicative biomarker, we started an antidementia drug using a cholinesterase inhibitor.

Conclusions

Our report shows that atypical DLB may be associated with anti-ARHGAP26 autoantibodies, although their role and significance in the pathogenesis of DLB are unknown. However, it has to be mentioned that it is also possible that antibody-specific synthesis of anti-ARHGAP26 autoantibodies is a hallmark of a rare autoimmune disease that may cause the clinical and laboratory features involving altered dopamine transporter uptake on 123I-FP-CIT-SPECT, dementia, and mild Parkinson's symptoms rather than idiopathic DLB with only two core DLB features and inconsistent cognitive and imaging findings. Further research is needed to investigate the role of these autoantibodies in different dementias, particularly in DLB and mixed DLB-AD types.
What Is In A Tomato? Mapping The Building Blocks Of Food
Authors: Ahmed Selena , Chien Chi-Ming , de la Parra John , German J. Bruce , Jarvis Andy , Lal Vincent , Lartey Anna , McDade Marianne , Morgan Katherine , Prenni Jessica , Rajasekharan Maya , Shafizadeh Tracy , Vázquez-Manjarrez Natalia , Watkins Steve
Published: August 2023

When you bite into a tomato, what exactly are you eating? Join us for a tour of tomatoes, as we learn about the building blocks of food, known as biomolecules. Our tour explores the thousands of biomolecules in food, many of which play important roles in nutrition and health. An examination of tomatoes from various farms tells us that not all tomatoes have the same biomolecules. Lots of things affect the amounts and types of biomolecules in tomatoes, including their genetics, where and how they are grown, and even how they are stored and cooked. Our tour ends with a peek into a lab where scientists work on a global project to map all the biomolecules in foods. Welcome to an exciting frontier of science, where discoveries can lead to big improvements in the health of people and the planet.
Early hospital readmission following stroke: the Florida Stroke Registry
Authors: Gardener Hannah , Romano Jose G. , Derias Terry , Gutierrez Carolina , Asdaghi Negar , Johnson Karlon , Gordon Perue Gillian , Marulanda Erika , Brown Scott C. , Foster Dianne , Rundek Tatjana
Published: August 2023

Background

Hospital readmission is an important indicator of poor transition of care post-stroke. Data on characteristics of patients at highest risk for readmission is limited and necessary to inform effective interventions. The goal is to identify risk factors at hospital discharge that predict 30-day readmission in the Florida Stroke Registry (FSR).

Methods

The study population included 45,877 patients discharged home or to rehabilitation with an ischemic stroke or intracerebral hemorrhage in the FSR between 2017 and 2019. The FSR is a voluntary statewide registry of stroke patients from 167 hospitals using data from Get With the Guideline-Stroke. Readmissions were ascertained by propensity matching FSR with the Florida Agency for Healthcare Administration dataset, which includes all hospital admissions in Florida. The primary outcome was 30-day hospital readmission for any cause, and secondary outcomes were vascular-related and stroke readmissions specifically. Multivariable logistic regression models identified patient characteristics that independently predicted 30-day readmissions, including sociodemographics, stroke clinical characteristics, in-hospital treatment, medical history, discharge status, and hospital characteristics.

Results

A hospital readmission within 30 days was experienced in 12% of cases; 6% had a vascular-related readmission, and 3% a recurrent stroke. The following characteristics were independently associated with an increased risk of all-cause readmission: Medicare or Medicaid insurance, large artery atherosclerosis as the stroke mechanism, increased stroke severity, diabetes, atrial fibrillation, peripheral vascular disease, coronary artery disease, prior stroke, chronic renal insufficiency, and depression. The following characteristics were independently associated with a decreased risk of all-cause readmission: ambulation, treated dyslipidemia, tPA treatment, discharge mRS 0–2, and treatment at a comprehensive stroke center.

Conclusions

The risk of 30-day hospital readmission was substantial, modifiable, and impacted by insurance status, medical history, stroke etiology and severity, stroke care, and functional status at discharge. These findings can inform strategies to target high-risk patients who can benefit from interventions to improve transitions of care post-stroke.
Flaxseed- and chia seed-derived protein hydrolysates exhibiting enhanced in vitro antidiabetic, anti-obesity, and antioxidant properties
Authors: Mudgil Priti , Ajayi Feyisola Fisayo , Alkaabi Amani , Alsubousi Maitha , Singh Brij Pal , Maqsood Sajid
Published: August 2023

This study investigated in vitro antidiabetic, anti-obesity, and antioxidant activities of chia seed protein hydrolysates (CSPHs) and flaxseed protein hydrolysates (FSPHs) generated using three food-grade proteases at the hydrolysis at intervals of 120 min for 6 h. The inhibitory potentials of CSPHs and FSPHs on the enzymatic biomarkers related to diabetes (α-glucosidase and DPP-4) and obesity (pancreatic lipase and cholesteryl esterase) were determined. The antioxidant capacity of CSPHs and FSPHs was also assessed using ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP antioxidant assays. Increasing the proteolytic reaction time was shown to significantly increase the degree of hydrolysis values of CSPHs and FSPHs. Protein hydrolysates resulted in higher inhibitory potential against enzymatic biomarkers related to metabolic diseases (diabetes and obesity) as well as higher antioxidant activities compared with undigested proteins. Overall, the lowest IC50 inhibition values demonstrated in DPP-IV were observed by alcalase-catalyzed CSPH at 6 h (IC50 = 272.17 μg/mL) and bromelain-catalyzed FSPH at 6 h (IC50 = 338.70 μg/mL). The strongest inhibition of pancreatic lipase was observed in bromelain-catalyzed hydrolysates (IC50 = 292.43 μg/mL and IC50 = 307.62 μg/mL for CSPH and FSPH, respectively) after 6 h. These findings indicate that CSPHs and FSPHs exhibited enhanced antidiabetic, anti-obesity, and antioxidant properties. Therefore, these hydrolysates can be successfully used for their applications in the development of functional foods.
Intrinsic calf factors associated with the behavior of healthy pre-weaned group-housed dairy-bred calves
Authors: Riley Beth B. , Duthie Carol-Anne , Corbishley Alexander , Mason Colin , Bowen Jenna M. , Bell David J. , Haskell Marie J.
Published: August 2023

Technology-derived behaviors are researched for disease detection in artificially-reared calves. Whilst existing studies demonstrate differences in behaviors between healthy and diseased calves, intrinsic calf factors (e.g., sex and birthweight) that may affect these behaviors have received little systematic study. This study aimed to understand the impact of a range of calf factors on milk feeding and activity variables of dairy-bred calves. Calves were group-housed from ~7 days to 39 days of age. Seven liters of milk replacer was available daily from an automatic milk feeder, which recorded feeding behaviors and live-weight. Calves were health scored daily and a tri-axial accelerometer used to record activity variables. Healthy calves were selected by excluding data collected 3 days either side of a poor health score or a treatment event. Thirty-one calves with 10 days each were analyzed. Mixed models were used to identify which of live-weight, age, sex, season of birth, age of inclusion into the group, dam parity, birthweight, and sire breed type (beef or dairy), had a significant influence on milk feeding and activity variables. Heavier calves visited the milk machine more frequently for shorter visits, drank faster and were more likely to drink their daily milk allowance than lighter calves. Older calves had a shorter mean standing bout length and were less active than younger calves. Calves born in summer had a longer daily lying time, performed more lying and standing bouts/day and had shorter mean standing bouts than those born in autumn or winter. Male calves had a longer mean lying bout length, drank more slowly and were less likely to consume their daily milk allowance than their female counterparts. Calves that were born heavier had fewer lying and standing bouts each day, a longer mean standing bout length and drank less milk per visit. Beef-sired calves had a longer mean lying bout length and drank more slowly than their dairy sired counterparts. Intrinsic calf factors influence different healthy calf behaviors in different ways. These factors must be considered in the design of research studies and the field application of behavior-based disease detection tools in artificially reared calves.
microRNA-203 inhibits migration and invasion of canine tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma cells by targeting SLUG
Authors: Noguchi Shunsuke , Matsui Asuka
Published: August 2023

Objective

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) occurring in the tonsils (TSCC) has a poorer prognosis than SCC occurring in other regions of the oral cavity (non-tonsillar SCC [NTSCC]) because it easily metastasizes to distant organs. This study aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the migration and invasion of TSCC cells in vitro.

Materials and methods

This study focused on differential microRNA (miRNA) expression using microRNA microarrays and quantitative polymerase chain reaction in canine TSCC and NTSCC tissues and cell lines. A target gene of the miRNA involved in cell migration and invasion was validated by wound healing, transwell, and luciferase assays.

Results

miR-203 expression was lower in TSCC tissues than in the normal oral mucosa and NTSCC tissues. Transfection of the miR-203 mimic resulted in the downregulation of mesenchymal marker protein expression and attenuation of cell migration and invasion in TSCC cells, but not in NTSCC cells. A dual-luciferase assay revealed that miR-203 directly targeted the mesenchymal transcription factor SLUG. SLUG overexpression enhances the migration of TSCC cells.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that the miR-203/SLUG axis may be involved in the metastatic mechanisms of TSCC.
The Basis for Variations in the Biofilm Formation by Different Salmonella Species and Subspecies: An In Vitro and In Silico Scoping Study
Authors: Sarjit Amreeta , Cheah Yi , Dykes Gary A.
Published: August 2023

This study examined whether the presence/absence of biofilm-associated genes may indicate the potential for differences in the biofilm formation among the Salmonella species/subspecies. We conducted an in vitro study on the biofilm formation by eighteen Salmonella strains of different species/subspecies. Strains belonging to subspecies enterica were generally poorer biofilm formers than strains belonging to species bongori and subspecies arizonae, diarizonae, and indica. A broader in silico study was subsequently conducted. The presence/absence of 57 biofilm-associated genes was further investigated among 323 Salmonella whole genomes of various species/subspecies. The lpfE gene was present in in 88.2% of subspecies enterica but was absent in ~90.2–100% of other subspecies. The sirA gene was present in 11.8% of subspecies enterica and 2.9% of S. diarizonae genomes while absent in other species/subspecies. The lpfe gene and sirA gene in subspecies enterica negatively correlated with environmental biofilm formation. The csrB gene was present in 71.4% of the S. arizonae and 94.3% of S. diarizonae genomes but absent in other species/subspecies. The absence of csrB in subspecies enterica positively correlated with weaker environmental biofilm formation. This may contribute to subspecies arizonae and diarizonae being better biofilm formers.
The Impact of Graphene in Na2FeP2O7/C/Reduced Graphene Oxide Composite Cathode for Sodium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Nesterova Inara , Britala Liga , Sarakovskis Anatolijs , Kruze Beate , Bajars Gunars , Kucinskis Gints
Published: August 2023

This study presents a thorough investigation of Na2FeP2O7 (NFP) cathode material for sodium-ion batteries and its composites with carbon and reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Our findings demonstrate that rGO sheets improve cycling performance in NFP/C/rGO composite in the absence of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI)-stabilizing additives. However, once SEI is stabilized with the help of fluoroethylene carbonate electrolyte additive, NFP with carbon additive (NFP/C) exhibits a superior electrochemical performance when compared to NFP/rGO and NFP/C/rGO composites. The decreases in capacity and rate capability are proportional to the amount of rGO added, and lead to an increase in overvoltage and internal resistance. Based on our results, we attribute this effect to worsened sodium kinetics in the bulk of the electrode—the larger ionic radius of Na+ hinders charge transfer in the presence of rGO, despite the likely improved electronic conductivity. These findings provide a compelling explanation for the observed trends in electrochemical performance and suggest that the use of rGO in Na-ion battery electrodes may present challenges associated with ionic transport along and through rGO sheets.
Analysis of the Volatile Organic Compound Fingerprint of Greek Grape Marc Spirits of Various Origins and Traditional Production Styles
Authors: Marinaki Maria , Sampsonidis Ioannis , Nakas Alexandros , Arapitsas Panagiotis , Assimopoulou Andreana N. , Theodoridis Georgios
Published: August 2023

The most well-known traditional Greek grape marc distillate made from winemaking pomace is called “Tsipouro”. Its production involves various grape pomace cultivars, preparation protocols, and anise-flavoring or not, and it should be a colorless liquid with intense organoleptic properties due to the raw materials used in its production and have a minimum alcoholic strength of 37.5% by volume. This study aimed to characterize the volatilome of tsipouro products by covering as many geographical areas and production styles as possible, as there is a lack of characterization of the aromatic composition of this Greek traditional alcoholic beverage. A Headspace Solid Phase Microextraction Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) method was applied in 60 samples, resulting in the identification and semi-quantification of over 90 volatile compounds. The statistical analysis pointed out the metabolites that characterized each traditional product group and underlined the influence of the geographical origin and the production protocol. Aniseed spirits from Northern Greece, Macedonia, Limnos Island, and Thessaly, produced from Muscat pomaces, were found to be richer in terpenes, terpenoids, and flavored compounds, attributing to product aroma and quality; different terpenoids were found to be dominant in Muscat distillates from different regions, showing the importance of geographical origin and production process. In conclusion, the results demonstrated the high aroma variability of the Greek Tsipouro, explained that this diversity is caused mainly by the raw material, and could be helpful in the better protection of the origin of this traditional product and the improvement of its quality.
Finite Deformation of Scleral Tissue under Electrical Stimulation: An Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian Finite Element Method
Authors: Mehr Jafar Arash , Hatami-Marbini Hamed
Published: August 2023

The sclera is considered as the principal load-bearing tissue within the eye. The sclera is negatively charged; thus, it exhibits mechanical response to electrical stimulation. We recently demonstrated the electroactive behavior of sclera by performing experimental measurements that captured the deformation of the tip of scleral strips subjected to electric voltage. We also numerically analyzed the electromechanical response of the tissue using a chemo-electro-mechanical model. In the pre-sent study, we extended our previous work by experimentally characterizing the deformation profile of scleral strips along their length under electrical stimulation. In addition, we improved our previous mathematical model such that it could numerically capture the large deformation of samples. For this purpose, we considered the transient variability of the fixed charge density and the coupling between mechanical and chemo-electrical phenomena. These improvements in-creased the accuracy of the computational model, resulting in a better numerical representation of experimentally measured bending angles.
The Application of Biomedicine in Chemodynamic Therapy: From Material Design to Improved Strategies
Authors: Cheng Bingwei , Li Dong , Li Changhong , Zhuang Ziqi , Wang Peiyu , Liu Gang
Published: August 2023

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) has garnered significant interest as an innovative approach for cancer treatment, owing to its notable tumor specificity and selectivity, minimal systemic toxicity and side effects, and absence of the requirement for field stimulation during treatment. This treatment utilizes nanocatalytic medicines containing transitional metals to release metal ions within tumor cells, subsequently initiating Fenton and Fenton-like reactions. These reactions convert hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into hydroxyl radical (•OH) specifically within the acidic tumor microenvironment (TME), thereby inducing apoptosis in tumor cells. However, insufficient endogenous H2O2, the overexpressed reducing substances in the TME, and the weak acidity of solid tumors limit the performance of CDT and restrict its application in vivo. Therefore, a variety of nanozymes and strategies have been designed and developed in order to potentiate CDT against tumors, including the application of various nanozymes and different strategies to remodel TME for enhanced CDT (e.g., increasing the H2O2 level in situ, depleting reductive substances, and lowering the pH value). This review presents an overview of the design and development of various nanocatalysts and the corresponding strategies employed to enhance catalytic drug targeting in recent years. Additionally, it delves into the prospects and obstacles that lie ahead for the future advancement of CDT.
Insulin Can Delay Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Formation In Vitro—Implication for Diabetic Wound Care?
Authors: Linnemann Caren , Şahin Filiz , Li Ningna , Pscherer Stefan , Götz Friedrich , Histing Tina , Nussler Andreas K. , Ehnert Sabrina
Published: August 2023

Diabetes is a worldwide evolving disease with many associated complications, one of which is delayed or impaired wound healing. Appropriate wound healing strongly relies on the inflammatory reaction directly after injury, which is often altered in diabetic wound healing. After an injury, neutrophils are the first cells to enter the wound site. They have a special defense mechanism, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), consisting of released DNA coated with antimicrobial proteins and histones. Despite being a powerful weapon against pathogens, NETs were shown to contribute to impaired wound healing in diabetic mice and are associated with amputations in diabetic foot ulcer patients. The anti-diabetic drugs metformin and liraglutide have already been shown to regulate NET formation. In this study, the effect of insulin was investigated. NET formation after stimulation with PMA (phorbol myristate acetate), LPS (lipopolysaccharide), or calcium ionophore (CI) in the presence/absence of insulin was analyzed. Insulin led to a robust delay of LPS- and PMA-induced NET formation but had no effect on CI-induced NET formation. Mechanistically, insulin induced reactive oxygen species, phosphorylated p38, and ERK, but reduced citrullination of histone H3. Instead, bacterial killing was induced. Insulin might therefore be a new tool for the regulation of NET formation during diabetic wound healing, either in a systemic or topical application.
A Study of Maternal Patients Diagnosed with Inborn Errors of Metabolism Due to Positive Newborn Mass Screening in Their Newborns
Authors: Onuki Takanori , Hiroshima Shota , Sawano Kentaro , Shibata Nao , Ogawa Yohei , Nagasaki Keisuke , Nyuzuki Hiromi
Published: August 2023

Background: There are reports of mothers being diagnosed with inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) via positive newborn screening (NBS) of their newborns. Mothers with IEM are often considered to have mild cases of little pathological significance. Based in Niigata Prefecture, this study aimed to investigate mothers newly diagnosed with IEM via positive NBS in their newborns using tandem mass spectrometry, and to clarify the disease frequency and severity. Methods: This was a single-institution, population-based, retrospective study. The subjects were mothers whose newborns had false-positive NBS, among 80,410 newborns who underwent NBS between April 2016 and May 2021. Result: there were 3 new mothers were diagnosed with IEM (2 with primary systemic carnitine deficiency (PCD) and 1 with 3-methylcrotonyl-CoA carboxylase deficiency) out of 5 who underwent examination among 18 false positives. The opportunity for diagnosis was low C0 and high C5-OH acylcarnitine levels in their newborn. Two novel SLC22A5 variants (c.1063T > C/c.1266A > G) were identified in patients with PCD. None of the patients had any complications at the time of diagnosis, but two patients showed improvement in fatigue and headache after taking oral carnitine. Conclusion: New mothers with IEM cannot be considered as mild cases and need to be treated when necessary. The two novel SLC22A5 variants further expand the variant spectrum of PCD.
Contemporary Endodontic Approaches for Children
Authors: Iandolo Alfredo
Published: August 2023

Endodontic therapy is necessary when caries extend further into the tissues of the tooth and reach the pulp, producing irreparable inflammation or necrosis [...]
Permeability Model of Liquid Microcapsule Based on Multiple Linear Regression Method
Authors: Xu Xiuqing , Li Fagen , Zhao Xuehui , Yang Fang
Published: August 2023

The release rate of liquid core material from microcapsules is crucial for the surface properties of self-protective metal/liquid microcapsule composite plating coating. However, there is no method to accurately predict the release rate of microcapsules. In this paper, the permeability experiments of different shell membranes and core materials were carried out using the weight loss method, and the permeability model of liquid microcapsules was studied based on a multiple linear regression method. The results show that three-variable mathematical model C, including membrane porosity, the viscosity of core material, and membrane thickness is suitable to describe permeability, and the membrane thickness is the most significant influence factor. Additionally, the accuracy of model C was experimentally verified, and the error of the permeation rate is about 2.06% between predictive and experimental values.
DECCo-A Dynamic Task Scheduling Framework for Heterogeneous Drone Edge Cluster
Authors: Zhang Zhiyang , Wu Die , Zhang Fengli , Wang Ruijin
Published: August 2023

The heterogeneity of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) nodes and the dynamic service demands make task scheduling particularly complex in the drone edge cluster (DEC) scenario. In this paper, we provide a universal intelligent collaborative task scheduling framework, named DECCo, which schedules dynamically changing task requests for the heterogeneous DEC. Benefiting from the latest advances in deep reinforcement learning (DRL), DECCo autonomously learns task scheduling strategies with high response rates and low communication latency through a collaborative Advantage Actor–Critic algorithm, which avoids the interference of resource overload and local downtime while ensuring load balancing. To better adapt to the real drone collaborative scheduling scenario, DECCo switches between heuristic and DRL-based scheduling solutions based on real-time scheduling performance, thus avoiding suboptimal decisions that severely affect Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE). With flexible parameter control, DECCo can adapt to various task requests on drone edge clusters. Google Cluster Usage Traces are used to verify the effectiveness of DECCo. Therefore, our work represents a state-of-the-art method for task scheduling in the heterogeneous DEC.
Causal Responsibility Division of Chronological Continuous Treatment Based on Change-Point Detection
Authors: Liu Hang , Ma Tiefeng , Liu Conan , Liu Shuangzhe
Published: August 2023

This paper introduces a novel approach, called causal relation quantification, based on change-point detection to address the issue of harmonic responsibility division in power systems. The proposed method focuses on determining the causal effect of chronological continuous treatment, enabling the identification of crucial treatment intervals. Within each interval, three propensity-score-based algorithms are executed to assess their respective causal effects. By integrating the results from each interval, the overall causal effect of a chronological continuous treatment variable can be calculated. This calculated overall causal effect represents the causal responsibility of each harmonic customer. The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated through a simulation study and demonstrated in an empirical harmonic application. The results of the simulation study indicate that our method provides accurate and robust estimates, while the calculated results in the harmonic application align closely with the real-world scenario as verified by on-site investigations.
Derek Jarman’s Tempest, William Shakespeare’s Salò
Authors: Elliott Tomas
Published: August 2023

This article re-evaluates Derek Jarman’s adaptation of William Shakespeare’s The Tempest (1979) based on archival research into the cinematic and historical intertexts that influenced the film. Specifically, it focuses on the impact of Pier Paolo Pasolini on Jarman’s aesthetics, particularly the Italian filmmaker’s last work: Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom (1975). The article explores how Jarman used Pasolini’s work as a filter through which to frame his adaptation of Shakespeare’s play. In so doing, he produced a decidedly Pasolinian twist on The Tempest, which he explicitly referred to in his notes as “Shakespeare’s Salò.” Bridging the gap between the Renaissance and Jarman’s contemporary moment, Jarman’s film offers a meditation on ideas of captivity and captivation in The Tempest, which extends from the play and film’s literal representations of imprisonment to their exploration of the affective power of performance and spectacle.
Experimental One-Sided Choppers Relating Neuromuscular Human Abilities to Heart Rates and Technological Evolution
Authors: Parra Igor , Morales Luisa , Mar Javier , Carbonell Eudald
Published: August 2023

The length of time it takes to experimentally make one-sided choppers, as found in the fossil record, bears a linear relationship to the knapping process of fabricating them. In addition, this temporal frame appears to be related to human heart rates measured as beats per minute, which act as a physiological metronome. We achieved these observations, assuming that any paleolithic one-sided chopper has the information needed to estimate, quantitatively, the number of strikes on it. The experimental data allow us to establish the total timing needed for the standard fabricating of any one-sided chopper. We discuss issues derived from these experimental results, showing the evolution of human neurological abilities from 2.4 million years ago to the Modern period via the duration of time needed for making one chopper to that needed to play a 19th-century music score on a piano. Given that the neuronal and physiological distance between both actions differs by a factor of 6, we propose the concept of “technome” to measure human evolution by using methodological homogeneous metrics applied to these two human technologic objects: the chopper and the piano.
Three-Dimensional-Derived Echocardiographic Left Ventricular Structure and Function and Indices from the 12-Lead Electrocardiogram across the Menstrual Cycle in Healthy Physically Active Females: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Morrison Barbara N. , Campbell Allison J. , Coté Anita T. , Mohammad Aleah , Sambrook Laura , Robinson Georgia , George Keith , Oxborough David
Published: August 2023

Background: The impact of the menstrual phases on left ventricular (LV) structure and function using 3D echocardiography and resting electrocardiogram (ECG) in healthy, eumenorrheic, and physically active females has not been investigated. Methods: sixteen females (20 y ± 2) underwent 3D echocardiography and an ECG at three time points in the menstrual cycle phases (follicular, ovulation, luteal). LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDVi), LV ejection fraction (LVEF), LV mass allometrically indexed to height2.7 (LVMi), torsion, and global longitudinal, circumferential, and radial strain (GLS, GCS, and GRS) were evaluated. ECG data of the P and QRS waves were presented as well as axis deviation, chamber enlargement, and any rhythm abnormalities. Results: LVMi was significantly higher in the luteal phase (36.4 g/m2.7 ± 3.3) compared to the follicular (35.0 g/m2.7 ± 3.7) and ovulation (34.7 g/m2.7 ± 4.3) phases (p = 0.026). There were no differences in other indices of LV structure and function or ECG variables across all phases of the menstrual cycle or evidence of arrhythmia. Conclusions: In physically active females, there is a small but significantly higher LVMi associated with the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle with no concomitant change in LV function or ECG parameters. These findings are important to consider when conducting clinical or research serial assessments.
Analysis of Tempering Effects on LDS-MID and PCB Substrates for HF Applications
Authors: Wolf Marius , Werum Kai , Guenther Thomas , Schleeh Lisa , Eberhardt Wolfgang , Zimmermann André
Published: August 2023

Mechatronic Integrated Devices or Molded Interconnect Devices (MID) are three-dimensional (3D) circuit carriers. They are mainly fabricated by laser direct structuring (LDS) and subsequent electroless copper plating of an injection molded 3D substrate. Such LDS-MID are used in many applications today, especially antennas. However, in high frequency (HF) systems in 5G and radar applications, the demand on 3D circuit carriers and antennas increases. Electroless copper, widely used in MID, has significantly lower electrical conductivity compared to pure copper. Its lower conductivity increases electrical loss, especially at higher frequencies, where signal budget is critical. Heat treatment of electroless copper deposits can improve their conductivity and adhesion to the 3D substrates. This paper investigates the effects induced by tempering processes on the metallization of LDS-MID substrates. As a reference, HF Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) substrates are also considered. Adhesion strength and conductivity measurements, as well as permittivity and loss angle measurements up to 1 GHz, were carried out before and after tempering processes. The main influencing factors on the tempering results were found to be tempering temperature, atmosphere, and time. Process parameters like the heating rate or applied surface finishes had only a minor impact on the results. It was found that tempering LDS-MID substrates can improve the copper adhesion and lower their electrical resistance significantly, especially for plastics with a high melting temperature. Both improvements could improve the reliability of LDS-MID, especially in high frequency applications. Firstly, because increased copper adhesion can prevent delamination and, secondly, because the lowered electrical resistance indicates, in accordance with the available literature, a more ductile copper metallization and thus a lower risk of microcracks.
Mucormycosis: A 14-Year Retrospective Study from a Tertiary Care Center in Lebanon
Authors: Allaw Fatima , Zakhour Johnny , Nahhal Sarah B. , Koussa Karim , Bitar Elio R. , Ghanem Anthony , Elbejjani Martine , Kanj Souha S.
Published: August 2023

Mucormycosis (MCM) is a serious invasive fungal disease (IFD) that is associated with high mortality, particularly in immunocompromised patients. A global surge in MCM cases was reported with the COVID-19 pandemic. We analyzed all recorded cases of MCM at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC), a tertiary care center in Lebanon, over 14 years. We aimed to identify the incidence, seasonal variation, clinical characteristics of the patients, and predictors of mortality. We conducted a retrospective chart review between 1 January 2008 and 1 January 2023. All patients with proven or probable MCM were included in the study. Proven or probable MCM was defined by positive histopathology and/or positive cultures. A total of 43 patients were identified as having MCM. Their median age was 53 years, and the majority were males (58.1%). Most of the cases were diagnosed in the autumn season. In total, 67.4% of the patients had hematological malignancies (HMs), and 34.9% had uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM). The most common site of involvement was rhino-orbital-cerebral MCM (ROCM) (74%). The annual cases of MCM per 100,000 patient days increased markedly during the years of the COVID-19 pandemic (from 0 to 4.4 cases/100,000 patient days to 7.5 cases/100,000 during 2020 and 2021). Liposomal amphotericin (Ampho) B was used as a first-line agent in most of the patients (86%). The median duration of total in-hospital antifungal therapy was 21 days and 51.2% of the patients received step-down therapy with azoles. Surgical debridement and isolated ROCM were significantly associated with survival (p-value: 0.02 and <0.001, respectively). All-cause mortality was 46.7%, with chronic renal disease being significantly associated with mortality (p-value < 0.05). The incidence of MCM has been increasing at our institution, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Early diagnosis, treatment, and surgical debridement improve patient outcomes and overall survival.
Model Driven Approach for Efficient Flood Disaster Management with Meta Model Support
Authors: Khan Saad Mazhar , Shafi Imran , Butt Wasi Haider , Díez Isabel de la Torre , Flores Miguel Angel López , Galvlán Juan Castañedo , Ashraf Imran
Published: August 2023

Society and the environment are severely impacted by catastrophic events, specifically floods. Inadequate emergency preparedness and response are frequently the result of the absence of a comprehensive plan for flood management. This article proposes a novel flood disaster management (FDM) system using the full lifecycle disaster event model (FLCNDEM), an abstract model based on the function super object. The proposed FDM system integrates data from existing flood protocols, languages, and patterns and analyzes viewing requests at various phases of an event to enhance preparedness and response. The construction of a task library and knowledge base to initialize FLCNDEM results in FLCDEM flooding response. The proposed FDM system improves the emergency response by offering a comprehensive framework for flood management, including pre-disaster planning, real-time monitoring, and post-disaster evaluation. The proposed system can be modified to accommodate various flood scenarios and enhance global flood management.
The Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Computed Tomography in Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Hussain Omar , Kaushal Mayank , Agarwal Nitin , Kurpad Shekar , Shabani Saman
Published: August 2023

Traumatic injuries of the spine are associated with long-term morbidity and mortality. Timely diagnosis and appropriate management of mechanical instability and spinal cord injury are important to prevent further neurologic deterioration. Spine surgeons require an understanding of the essential imaging techniques concerning the diagnosis, management, and prognosis of spinal cord injury. We present a review in the role of computed tomography (CT) including advancements in multidetector CT (MDCT), dual energy CT (DECT), and photon counting CT, and how it relates to spinal trauma. We also review magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and some of the developed MRI based classifications for prognosticating the severity and outcome of spinal cord injury, such as diffusion weighted imaging (DWI), diffusion tractography (DTI), functional MRI (fMRI), and perfusion MRI.
Salvage Hepatectomy for Giant GIST Liver Metastases Unresponsive to Systemic Therapy—Case Report
Authors: Kraft Alin , Moldovan Cosmin , Bârcu Alexandru , Dumitru Radu , Croitoru Adina , Herlea Vlad , Popescu Irinel , Botea Florin
Published: August 2023

Therapeutic decision-making for advanced GIST liver metastases is challenging due to limited clinical evidence. This case study aims to demonstrate the survival benefit of resection in non-responsive cases. A 40-year-old male presented with abdominal pain, weight loss, altered general status, massive hepatomegaly, and intermittent melaena. He was diagnosed with stage IV GIST with the primary tumor in the ileal loop and multiple gigantic synchronous bilobar liver metastases. Despite 31 months of tyrosine-kinase inhibitor therapy post-primary tumor resection, the disease remained unresponsive. The patient was admitted to our tertiary center with significant hepatomegaly. A two-stage debulking liver resection was performed after a multidisciplinary team decision. The first operation debulked the left hemiliver through a non-anatomical ultrasound-guided resection of segments 2, 3, and 4. The second operation (7 weeks later) debulked the right hemiliver through a right posterior sectionectomy involving segments 5 and 8. Despite receiving a second line of tyrosine-kinase inhibitor therapy after surgery, the disease progressed both within and outside the liver. However, the patient survived for 55 months, with a postoperative survival benefit of 25 months. In conclusion, this case emphasizes the significant survival benefit achieved through a complex two-stage debulking liver resection for giant liver metastases, even in cases where systemic therapy fails.
Correction of Shape Error at Cut-In and Cut-Out Points in Abrasive Waterjet Cutting of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP)
Authors: Popan Ioan Alexandru , Cosma Cosmin , Popan Alina Ioana , Panc Nicolae , Filip Daniel , Balc Nicolae
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a solution aimed at enhancing the accuracy of abrasive waterjet cutting (AWJC) for the processing of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP). Processing CFRP with high accuracy and good surface quality in a short processing time is a difficult task. One crucial problem is the occurrence of shape errors, overcuts, at the cut-in and cut-out point during the cutting process. Shape errors have the potential to create mechanical stress concentrators, which can result in structural failures and compromise the integrity and reliability of components. The primary objective of this study was to gain a comprehensive understanding of the formation mechanism underlying the shape error. The observed shape error is closely associated with both the lead-in/lead-out strategies employed and the process parameters selected. The experimental investigation focused on two commonly used strategies for CFRP cutting: lead-in/lead-out in arc and lead-in/lead-out in line. In order to minimize shape errors, this study proposed a correction method that offers a set of recommendations for selecting the appropriate lead-in/out strategy and a suitable combination of process parameters. Additionally, a mathematical model has been developed to determine the depth of the shape error. The conclusions drawn from this study have been successfully validated through industrial applications.
Alternative Formulations of Decision Rule Learning from Neural Networks
Authors: Qiao Litao , Wang Weijia , Lin Bill
Published: August 2023

This paper extends recent work on decision rule learning from neural networks for tabular data classification. We propose alternative formulations to trainable Boolean logic operators as neurons with continuous weights, including trainable NAND neurons. These alternative formulations provide uniform treatments to different trainable logic neurons so that they can be uniformly trained, which enables, for example, the direct application of existing sparsity-promoting neural net training techniques like reweighted L1 regularization to derive sparse networks that translate to simpler rules. In addition, we present an alternative network architecture based on trainable NAND neurons by applying De Morgan’s law to realize a NAND-NAND network instead of an AND-OR network, both of which can be readily mapped to decision rule sets. Our experimental results show that these alternative formulations can also generate accurate decision rule sets that achieve state-of-the-art performance in terms of accuracy in tabular learning applications.
Behavior-Aware Pedestrian Trajectory Prediction in Ego-Centric Camera Views with Spatio-Temporal Ego-Motion Estimation
Authors: Czech Phillip , Braun Markus , Kreßel Ulrich , Yang Bin
Published: August 2023

With the ongoing development of automated driving systems, the crucial task of predicting pedestrian behavior is attracting growing attention. The prediction of future pedestrian trajectories from the ego-vehicle camera perspective is particularly challenging due to the dynamically changing scene. Therefore, we present Behavior-Aware Pedestrian Trajectory Prediction (BA-PTP), a novel approach to pedestrian trajectory prediction for ego-centric camera views. It incorporates behavioral features extracted from real-world traffic scene observations such as the body and head orientation of pedestrians, as well as their pose, in addition to positional information from body and head bounding boxes. For each input modality, we employed independent encoding streams that are combined through a modality attention mechanism. To account for the ego-motion of the camera in an ego-centric view, we introduced Spatio-Temporal Ego-Motion Module (STEMM), a novel approach to ego-motion prediction. Compared to the related works, it utilizes spatial goal points of the ego-vehicle that are sampled from its intended route. We experimentally validated the effectiveness of our approach using two datasets for pedestrian behavior prediction in urban traffic scenes. Based on ablation studies, we show the advantages of incorporating different behavioral features for pedestrian trajectory prediction in the image plane. Moreover, we demonstrate the benefit of integrating STEMM into our pedestrian trajectory prediction method, BA-PTP. BA-PTP achieves state-of-the-art performance on the PIE dataset, outperforming prior work by 7% in MSE-1.5 s and CMSE as well as 9% in CFMSE.
The Synergistic Effect of Zuogui Pill and Eldecalcitol on Improving Bone Mass and Osteogenesis in Type 2 Diabetic Osteoporosis
Authors: Shi Tuo , Liu Ting , Kou Yuying , Rong Xing , Meng Lingxiao , Cui Yajun , Gao Ruihan , Hu Sumin , Li Minqi
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: The incidence of diabetic osteoporosis, an important complication of diabetes mellitus, is increasing gradually. This study investigated the combined effect of the Zuogui pill (ZGP) and eldecalcitol (ED-71), a novel vitamin D analog, on type 2 diabetic osteoporosis (T2DOP) and explored their action mechanism. Materials and Methods: Blood glucose levels were routinely monitored in db/db mice while inducing T2DOP. We used hematoxylin and eosin staining, Masson staining, micro-computed tomography, and serum biochemical analysis to evaluate changes in the bone mass and blood calcium and phosphate levels of mice. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to assess the osteoblast and osteoclast statuses. The MC3T3-E1 cell line was cultured in vitro under a high glucose concentration and induced to undergo osteogenic differentiation. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, immunofluorescence, ALP, and alizarin red staining were carried out to detect osteogenic differentiation and PI3K–AKT signaling pathway activity. Results: ZGP and ED-71 led to a dramatic decrease in blood glucose levels and an increase in bone mass in the db/db mice. The effect was strongest when both were used together. ZGP combined with ED-71 promoted osteoblast activity and inhibited osteoclast activity in the trabecular bone region. The in vitro results revealed that ZGP and ED-71 synergistically promoted osteogenic differentiation and activated the PI3K–AKT signaling pathway. The PI3K inhibitor LY294002 or AKT inhibitor ARQ092 altered the synergistic action of both on osteogenic differentiation. Conclusions: The combined use of ZGP and ED-71 reduced blood glucose levels in diabetic mice and promoted osteogenic differentiation through the PI3K–AKT signaling pathway, resulting in improved bone mass. Our study suggests that the abovementioned combination constitutes an effective treatment for T2DOP.