bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High expression of miR-17-5p and miR-20a-5p predicts favorable disease-specific survival in stage I-III colon cancer
Authors: Selven Hallgeir , Andersen Sigve , Pedersen Mona I. , Lombardi Ana Paola Giometti , Busund Lill-Tove Rasmussen , Kilvær Thomas Karsten
Published: April 2022

In many types of cancer, microRNAs (miRs) are aberrantly expressed. The aim of this study was to explore the prognostic impact of miR-17-5p and miR-20a-5p in colon cancer. Tumor tissue from 452 stage I-III colon cancer patients was retrospectively collected and tissue microarrays constructed. miR-17-5p and miR-20a-5p expression was evaluated by in situ hybridization and analyzed using digital pathology. Cell line experiments, using HT-29 and CACO-2, were performed to assess the effect of miR-17-5p and miR-20a-5p over expression on viability, invasion and migration. In multivariate analyses, high miR-17-5p expression in tumor (HR = 0.43, CI 0.26–0.71, p < 0.001) and high expression of miR-20a-5p in tumor (HR = 0.60, CI 0.37–0.97, p = 0.037) and stroma (HR = 0.63, CI 0.42–0.95, p = 0.027) remained independent predictors of improved disease-specific survival. In cell lines, over expression of both miRs resulted in mitigated migration without any significant effect on viability or invasion. In conclusion, in stage I-III colon cancer, high expression of both miR-17-5p and miR-20a-5p are independent predictors of favorable prognosis.
Analytical modelling of soil porosity and bulk density across the soil organic matter and land-use continuum
Authors: Robinson D. A. , Thomas A. , Reinsch S. , Lebron I. , Feeney C. J. , Maskell L. C. , Wood C. M. , Seaton F. M. , Emmett B. A. , Cosby B. J.
Published: April 2022

The thin layer of soil at the earth’s surface supports life, storing water and nutrients for plant uptake. These processes occur in the soil pore space, often half the soil volume, but our understanding of how this volume responds to environmental change is poor. Convention, has been to predict soil porosity, or its reciprocal bulk density (BD), from soil texture using pedotransfer functions (PTFs). A texture based approach, invariant to environmental change, prevents feedback from land use or climate change to soil porosity. Moreover, PTFs are often limited to mineral soils with < 20% soil organic matter (SOM) content. Here, we develop an analytical model to predict soil porosity, or BD, as a function of SOM. We test it on two comprehensive, methodologically consistent, temperate national-scale topsoil data sets (0–15 cm) (Wales, n = 1385; Great Britain, n = 2570). The purpose of the approach is to generate an analytical function suitable for predicting soil porosity change with SOM content, while providing insight into the main grain-scale factors determining the porosity emergence. The newly developed function covering the entire SOM gradient allows for impacts of land use, management or climate change to feedback on soil porosity or bulk density through decadal dynamic changes in SOM.
Cosmic time synchronizer (CTS) for wireless and precise time synchronization using extended air showers
Authors: Tanaka Hiroyuki K. M.
Published: April 2022

Precise time synchronization is an essential technique required for financial transaction systems, industrial automation and control systems, as well as land and ocean observation networks. However, the time synchronization signals based on the global-positioning-system (GPS), or global-navigation-satellite-system, are sometimes unavailable or only partially available in indoor, underground and underwater environments. In this work, the simultaneous and penetrative natures of the muon component of the extended air shower (EAS) were used as signals for time synchronization in environments with little or no GPS coverage. CTS was modeled by combining the results of previous EAS experiments with OCXO holdover precision measurements. The results have shown the capability of CTS to reach perpetual local time synchronization levels of less than 100 ns with a hypothetical detector areal coverage of larger than 2 × 10−4. We anticipate this level of areal coverage is attainable and cost-effective for use in consumer smartphone networks and dense underwater sensor networks.
Mutational spectrum of hepatitis C virus in patients with chronic hepatitis C determined by single molecule real-time sequencing
Authors: Nakamura Fumiyasu , Takeda Haruhiko , Ueda Yoshihide , Takai Atsushi , Takahashi Ken , Eso Yuji , Arasawa Soichi , Iguchi Eriko , Shimizu Takahiro , Mishima Masako , Kumagai Ken , Yamashita Taiki , Uemoto Shinji , Kato Nobuyuki , Marusawa Hiroyuki , Sekine Akihiro , Seno Hiroshi
Published: April 2022

The emergence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) with resistance-associated substitution (RAS), produced by mutations in the HCV genome, is a major problem in direct acting antivirals (DAA) treatment. This study aimed to clarify the mutational spectrum in HCV-RNA and the substitution pattern for the emergence of RASs in patients with chronic HCV infection. HCV-RNA from two HCV replicon cell lines and the serum HCV-RNA of four non-liver transplant and four post-liver transplant patients with unsuccessful DAA treatment were analyzed using high-accuracy single-molecule real-time long-read sequencing. Transition substitutions, especially A>G and U>C, occurred prominently under DAAs in both non-transplant and post-transplant patients, with a mutational bias identical to that occurring in HCV replicon cell lines during 10-year culturing. These mutational biases were reproduced in natural courses after DAA treatment. RASs emerged via both transition and transversion substitutions. NS3-D168 and NS5A-L31 RASs resulted from transversion mutations, while NS5A-Y93 RASs was caused by transition substitutions. The fidelity of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, HCV-NS5B, produces mutational bias in the HCV genome, characterized by dominant transition mutations, notably A>G and U>C substitutions. However, RASs are acquired by both transition and transversion substitutions, and the RASs-positive HCV clones are selected and proliferated under DAA treatment pressure.
Adenomyosis is an independent risk factor for complications in deep endometriosis laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Gracia Meritxell , de Guirior Cristian , Valdés-Bango Marta , Rius Mariona , Ros Cristina , Matas Isabel , Tortajada Marta , Martínez-Zamora María Ángeles , Quintas Lara , Carmona Francisco
Published: April 2022

Deep endometriosis (DE) occurs in 15–30% of patients with endometriosis and is associated with concomitant adenomyosis in around 25–49% of cases. There are no data about the effect of the presence of adenomyosis in terms of surgical outcomes and complications. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of adenomyosis on surgical complications in women with deep endometriosis undergoing laparoscopic surgery. A retrospective cohort study including women referred to the endometriosis unit of a referral teaching hospital. Two expert sonographers preoperatively diagnosed DE and adenomyosis. DE was defined according to the criteria of the International Deep Endometriosis Analysis group. Adenomyosis was considered when 3 or more ultrasound criteria of the Morphological Uterus Sonographic Assessment group were present. Demographical variables, current medical treatment, symptoms, DE location, surgical time, hospital stay and difference in pre and post hemoglobin levels were collected. The Clavien–Dindo classification was used to assess surgical complications, and multivariate analysis was performed to compare patients with and without adenomyosis. 157 DE patients were included into the study; 77 (49.05%) had adenomyosis according to transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) and were classified in the A group, and 80 (50.95%) had no adenomyosis and were classified in the noA group. Adenomyosis was associated with a higher rate of surgical complications: 33.76% (A group) vs. 12.50% (noA group) (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed a 4.56-fold increased risk of presenting complications in women with adenomyosis (CI 1.90–11.30; p = 0.001) independently of undergoing hysterectomy. There was a statistically significant association between the number of criteria of adenomyosis present in each patient and the proportion of patients presenting surgical complications (p < 0.001). Adenomyosis is an independent preoperative risk factor for surgical complications in DE surgery after adjustment for known demographic, clinical and surgical risk factors.
Investigating the competing E2 and SN2 mechanisms for the microsolvated HO−(H2O)n=0–4 + CH3CH2X (X = Cl, Br, I) reactions
Authors: Wu Xiangyu , Zhang Shaowen , Xie Jing
Published: April 2022

Calculations show that when reacting with C2H5X (X = Cl, Br, I), single- and double-hydration of HO− nucleophiles affects the barrier of four pathways and enlarges the barrier difference between inv-SN2 and anti-E2 pathways.
Polysaccharides from soybean residue fermented by Neurospora crassa alleviate DSS-induced gut barrier damage and microbiota disturbance in mice
Authors: Huang Wenli , Deng Zeyuan , Lu Ling , Ouyang Yaoming , Zhong Shuyuan , Luo Ting , Fan Yawei , Zheng Liufeng
Published: April 2022

FSRP can suppress inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-1β) and boost the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-22 by manipulating specific bacteria (e.g. Tenericutes, Clostridia, and Bacilli), hence maintaining gut barrier integrity and alleviating colitis.
A flame retardant containing biomass-based polydopamine for high-performance rigid polyurethane foam
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Sui Yanlong , Guo Pengyu , Chen Rui , Mu Jianxin
Published: April 2022

An inorganic/polymer flame retardant system constructed from biomass can improve the comprehensive properties of rigid polyurethane foam.
High selectivity of a novel D–A structured copolymer as a gas chromatographic stationary phase toward aromatic isomers
Authors: He Yongrui , Zheng Bing , Qi Meiling , Huo Lijun
Published: April 2022

This work reports a new π-conjugated copolymer with D–A structure (PBDB-T) as the stationary phase for gas chromatography (GC) with high resolving performance towards aromatic isomers of high similarity in structure and properties.
The structural characterization and anticancer activity of a polysaccharide fromCoriolus versicolor
Authors: Wang Jiahui , Nie Jing , Wang De , Liu Hui , Liu Meng , Yang Yanjing , Zhong Shian
Published: April 2022

Coriolus versicoloris a traditional Chinese medicine and is widely applied as a functional food. In this study, a homogeneous polysaccharide, YZP-1a, was isolated fromC. versicolorand its structure and anticancer activity were investigated.
Total synthesis and stereochemical assignment of rakicidin F
Authors: Han Fangzhi , Liu Guangju , Zhao Xiuhe , Du Shunshun , Ding Yahui , Zhang Quan , Deng Huiting , Wang Liang , Chen Yue
Published: April 2022

Total synthesis of rakicidin F was accomplished and its unknown absolute configuration of stereogenic centers was confirmed.
Bimetallic sulfide particles incorporated in Fe/Co-based metal–organic framework ultrathin nanosheets toward boosted electrocatalysis of the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Yu Rui , Wang Cheng , Liu Dongmei , Wu Zhengying , Li Jie , Du Yukou
Published: April 2022

CoFe-MS/MOF nanocatalysts consisting of interconnected MOF ultrathin nanosheets doped with metal sulfide particles are prepared via a facile one-step solvothermal method as efficient electrocatalysts for the OER.
A mitochondria-localized iridium(iii)–chlorin E6 conjugate for synergistic sonodynamic and two-photon photodynamic therapy against melanoma
Authors: Chen Zhuoli , Feng Tao , Shen Jinchao , Karges Johannes , Jin Chengzhi , Zhao Yukun , Ji Liangnian , Chao Hui
Published: April 2022

A mitochondria-localized iridium(iii)–chlorin e6 conjugate was developed for synergistic sonodynamic and two-photon photodynamic therapy against melanoma A375 cells and A375 mice xenografts.
Rationalization of TS-1 synthesis through the design of experiments
Authors: Rosso Francesca , Rizzetto Andrea , Airi Alessia , Khoma Khrystyna , Signorile Matteo , Crocellà Valentina , Bordiga Silvia , Galliano Simone , Barolo Claudia , Alladio Eugenio , Bonino Francesca
Published: April 2022

A Design of Experiments approach allowed studying the parameters affecting TS-1 synthesis. Few of them drive the key properties of the TS-1 (synthesis yield, Ti content and speciation), namely hydrolysis time and crystallization time and temperature.
Recent advances in the design, synthesis and catalytic applications of triazine-based covalent organic polymers
Authors: Yadav Deepika , Subodh  , Awasthi Satish K.
Published: April 2022

In this review, we have summarised the significant advances made in triazine-based COP synthetic strategies and their catalytic advancements. Synthetic methodologies are discussed in a simplistic way to create a better understanding for future modification of these methods.
Decarboxylative amination of benzoic acids bearing electron-donating substituents and nonactivated amines
Authors: Wang Feilong , Han Ying , Yu Le , Zhu Dianhu
Published: April 2022

A highly desirable and straightforward decarboxylative amination of benzoic acids was developed, with the long-inaccessible extension of decarboxylative amination to normally poorly reactive electron-rich benzoic acids and non-activated amines.
Resonant cavity-enhanced colloidal quantum-dot dual-band infrared photodetectors
Authors: Luo Yuning , Zhang Shuo , Tang Xin , Chen Menglu
Published: April 2022

We report an integration of the colloidal quantum dot dual-band infrared photodetector and a Fabry–Perot resonance cavity, which improves absorption and spectral selectivity in the short-wave infrared and mid-wave infrared range.
Multi‐label hybrid radar signals recognition and visualization based on interpretable convolutional classification layer and discriminative region suppression
Authors: Si Weijian , Luo Jiaji , Deng Zhian
Published: May 2022

As the electromagnetic environment becomes increasingly complex, the radar receivers may receive multiple radar signals simultaneously. However, the current radar signal recognition algorithm based on deep learning can only predict a single class. The interpretable multi‐label hybrid radar signal recognition framework based on the interpretable convolutional classification layer and discriminative region suppression is proposed. The proposed interpretable convolutional classification layer is a weakly supervised localization method that can directly localize the discriminative regions of the corresponding class from the feature map of the model without additional computation. The proposed method can recognize, localize and separate hybrid radar signals in time‐frequency images, which improves the interpretability and transparency of the model. In addition, the feature pyramid network is adopted to improve the spatial resolution of the interpretable feature maps. Experiments with eight different modulation types of mixed radar signals show that the recognition accuracy for hybrid radar signals achieves 97.4% at 0 dB.
Geolocation a known‐altitude moving source by TDOA and FDOA measurements
Authors: Pei Yuhao , Wu Guizhou , Guo Fucheng
Published: May 2022

Source altitude information, if known or can be measured by an altimeter, can greatly improve localisation performance. In this letter, a novel algebraic solution for known‐altitude moving source geolocation using time difference of arrival and frequency difference of arrival measurements is developed. The localisation problem is solved via the successive unconstrained minimisation method. Simulation results demonstrate that the estimation accuracy of the source position and velocity can achieve the constrained Cramér–Rao lower bound at moderate noise levels.
A two‐stage robust optimal configuration model of generation‐side cloud energy storage system based on cooperative game
Authors: Wang Chutong , Zhang Xiaoyan , Xia Yuanxing , Xiong Houbo , Guo Chuangxin , Wang Luyu , Wang Yucui
Published: April 2022

Cloud energy storage system (CESS) can effectively improve the utilization rate of the energy storage system (ESS) and reduce the cost. However, there is a lack of a model designed for large‐scale renewable energy power plants (REPPs). Due to the volatility and intermittency of renewable energy power generation, as well as the demand of following scheduling plan and market arbitrage, it is also necessary to configure ESS for REPPs. However, if the REPP builds ESS by itself, the investment is relatively high. Therefore, the application of CESS on the renewable energy generation side can reduce the investment cost and increase the revenue by utilizing the difference between actual output and demand.

Considering the uncertainties of renewable energy, this paper proposes a robust optimal configuration model of CESS based on the cooperative game. Firstly, the CESS model on the generation side is developed to describe the formation mechanism of ESS supply and demand. Then, the proposed model aims at maximizing the revenue of REPPs. The participants of the coalition are each REPP. By taking the renewable power uncertainty into consideration, the novel nested column‐and‐constraint generation (nested C&CG) method is utilized to solve the proposed model based on the min–max–min form. Furthermore, the Shapley‐value method is used to distribute the benefits to each member of the grand coalition. Finally, case studies verify the rationality and validity of the proposed model.
Stability improvement of MMC‐based hybrid AC/DC grids through the application of a decentralized optimal controller
Authors: Elahidoost Atousa , Tedeschi Elisabetta
Published: April 2022

Interconnection and expansion of AC networks through high‐voltage direct current grids based on modular multilevel converters to form a multiterminal hybrid AC/DC grid can pose stability issues. These challenges can arise from dynamic interactions between/within AC and DC subgrids due to poorly damped modes that are potential sources of persistent and disruptive oscillations. This paper aims to ensure the stability of multiterminal hybrid AC/DC grids via a decentralized optimal controller. The proposed methodology analytically and simultaneously identifies both the decentralized optimal controller and the worst‐case perturbation scenario under the grid control inputs' and state variables' constraints, without the need for detailed and time‐consuming dynamic simulations of all possible scenarios. Eigenvalue stability analysis and time‐domain simulations show that the proposed controller can efficiently enhance the test grid stability margins and reduce the oscillations, not only under the worst‐case perturbation scenario (increasing damping ratios of the two pairs of least damped modes by 2.34 and 4.05 times) but also under other critical fault conditions. Furthermore, the controller's superior performance is validated through comparison with the power system stabilizer and modular multilevel converter droop controller under small and large disturbances, and its robustness is assessed against parametric uncertainties.
Salp swarm algorithm based on golden section and adaptive and its application in target tracking
Authors: Guo Zhimin , Tian Yangyang , Feng Yuxing , Zhang Huanlong , Liu Junfeng , Wang Zanfeng
Published: April 2022

In order to solve the problem that the conventional tracker is not adapted to the abrupt motion, a tracking algorithm based on the improved salp swarm algorithm (ISSA) was proposed. Visual tracking is considered to be a process of locating the optimal position through the interaction between leaders and followers in successive images. Firstly, the adaptive mechanism of leader and follower is introduced into the original salp swarm algorithm (SSA) to balance the exploitation and exploration of the algorithm. This method can improve the accuracy and effect of tracking. Secondly, the golden‐sine algorithm was used to update the position of followers, considering that the SSA had a single spatial search mode for followers and was easy to fall into the local optimum. By comparing with 19 classical tracking algorithms, qualitative and quantitative analysis is carried out to verify the tracking effect of the proposed method. A large number of experimental results show that the algorithm proposed here has good performance in visual tracking, especially for mutation motion tracking.
Unmanned aerial vehicles object detection based on image haze removal under sea fog conditions
Authors: Pikun Wang , Ling Wu , Jiangxin Qi , Jiashuai Dai
Published: April 2022

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have gradually become a major air threat to ships because of small size, good maneuverability, and low cost. Vision‐based UAV detection offers one of the main ways to identify and protect against UAVs. Unlike land environment, the weather is complicated at sea. The visibility of an object is undermined by such factors as sea fog and sunlight, which makes it difficult to detect UAVs at sea through vision‐based object detection. For the purpose of object detection at sea, this paper proposes a UAV object detection method based on image haze removal. In the proposed method, an improved dark channel haze removal (DCHR) algorithm is utilized to remove haze for and restore video images. Additionally, co‐ordinate attention (CoordAttention, CA) is introduced to the lightweight algorithms of You Only Look Once (YOLO) for the object detection in restored video images, so as to improve the precision and speed of detection and reduce the miss rate. Some video images are also taken for detection experiments to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.
A research on underwater target recognition neural network for small samples
Authors: WU Yanchen , WANG Yingmin
Published: May 2022

In the face of the challenges in the field of marine engineering applications in the new era, the goal of automation, high efficiency and accuracy can be achieved by using deep learning-based neural networks in hydroacoustic engineering. However, in the face of objective problems such as the lack of underwater target samples, the complex underwater sound environment, and the poor sample signal-to-noise ratio, the deep learning also becomes less sensitive due to its own limitations. In this paper, by constructing a variety of target feature extraction methods and a deep neural network model, we obtain the target recognition rate network prediction value after matched different target feature extraction with neural network model. Through comparing experimental results, a new idea of solving small sample target identification through deep neural network deep design is proposed.
Theoretical modeling and experimental study of fluid-elastic isolator
Authors: DENG Jinghui
Published: May 2022

The fluid-elastic vibration isolator, mounted on the final reduction channel of a helicopter, could reduce the vibration acting on the airframe effectively. It is an efficient approach to vibration load isolation, therefore has been studied and employed vastly abroad. A fluid-elastic vibration isolator is designed based on the theory of dynamic anti-vibration isolation. The equation of motion is derived by applying the Lagrange principle. Parametric study is carried out to investigate the dynamic performance with varying parameters. Then the main design parameters are determined on the basis of the vibration characteristics of a civil helicopter. Experiments are conducted on the fluid-elastic vibration isolator; the performances are evaluated for different excitation displacements employing the frequency-sweeping technique. Theoretical analysis indicates that the performance of an isolator is the overall effect of various parameters, therefore all the factors should be considered for a specific isolation frequency. Experimental results reveal that the fluid-elastic vibration isolator demonstrates only a 30% of displacement transfer rate. The theoretical analysis is in good agreement with the experimental finding. Experiments with different excitation displacements show that the displacement transfer rate increases slightly with the increase of the displacement.
Transient flow structures and pressure pulsations of a high-pressure aero-fuel centrifugal pump
Authors: LI Jia , LI Huacong , ZHANG Wei , WANG Yue , LI Keke , WANG Shuhong
Published: May 2022

In order to study the complex transient flow characteristics of a high-pressure aero-fuel centrifugal pump within its full working envelope, a certain type of centrifugal pump is numerically simulated, in which the simulation results are compared with the experiment results to verify the effectiveness of the present simulation method. Then, the verified simulation method is selected to analyze the transient flow characteristics, in which the time-frequency characteristic of pressure pulsation at monitored positions is analyzed by using fast fourier transform. In addition, the unsteady flow structures are studied by focusing on the relative speed, turbulent kinetic energy and so on. The results show that the main frequency of pressure pulsation in the impeller and volute is rotation frequency and blade frequency, respectively, where different monitoring points show similar trend. Meanwhile, the flow is relatively stable under design flow rate condition. However, a certain large-scale vortex appears in the impeller channel under small flow rate conditions, which mainly exists at the exit of the impeller channel near the tongue. In addition, turbulent kinetic energy at the exit of the impeller and the tongue has a large distribution range and changes seriously, where a certain hydraulic loss is produced.
Sonographic differential diagnosis of duplex kidneys
Authors: Deeg Karl-Heinz
Published: April 2022

Duplex kidneys have two renal pelvises and two ureters, which can join on the way to the urinary bladder but can also enter the bladder separately. A distinction must be made between normal and pathological duplex kidneys. In normal duplex kidneys, both renal pelvises are normal in width, and the upper and lower poles are approximately the same size. Furthermore, ureters are not dilated, and the upper and lower poles of the kidneys are not cystically altered. In contrast, pathological duplex kidneys, occurring in about 50 % of cases, are characterized by dilation of one or both renal pelvises. Additionally, one or both ureters may be dilated. Megaureters may be obstructive or refluxive. If a megaureter is present, a ureterocele must be ruled out, as well as an ectopically opening ureter. A pathological duplex kidney must always be assumed if one pole of the kidney is hypoplastic. Hypoplasia of the upper renal pole is often associated with an obstructive megaureter. Vesicoureteral reflux into the lower pyelon is common in hypoplasia of the lower pole. In the presence of vesicoureteral reflux, the associated (lower) pyelon is dilated when the bladder is full or during micturition. In addition, there is a dilated ureter. On the other hand, the pyelon can have a normal width when the bladder is empty. In rare cases, one pole may be cystically altered in pathological duplex kidneys. In this instance, segmental multicystic dysplastic duplex kidney must be differentiated from segmental multicystic nephroma.
Assessment of Cranial Radiotherapy Treatment in T-cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma: Retrospective Study from Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Mehta Maitrik , Shah Isha , Parikh Ankita , Suryanarayan U. , Panchal Harsha , Singh Jayesh , T. Arun
Published: April 2022

Introduction Leukemia-like regimens given for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are the cornerstone of treatment for T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) and can produce complete remission rates exceeding 90%. For central nervous system (CNS) prophylaxis, intrathecal chemotherapy and cranial irradiation are used to prevent future CNS recurrence.

Objective The purpose of this study was to assess CNS relapse rate after cranial prophylaxis treatment given at our institute.

Materials and Methods In this retrospective analysis, between July 2013 and June 2019, 149 files of lymphoblastic lymphoma were reviewed. Out of these, 53 patients received cranial irradiation. All patients were given CNS-directed therapy in the form of intrathecal methotrexate and patients with CNS-negative disease and primary tumor complete response or more than partial response after chemotherapy were given prophylactic cranial irradiation (18 Gy/10#), and in patients with upfront CNS involvement, therapeutic cranial irradiation (24 Gy/12#) was delivered. Radiotherapy was delivered as per the standard conventional protocol on a linear accelerator.

Results Out of 53 patients (age range: 2–50 years, mean–16.79 years, 26 [49.1%] pediatric [<14 years], 27 [50.9%] adults [>14 years]), 13/53 (24.5%), and 40/53 (75.5%) patients were on MCP 841 and BFM 90 protocols, respectively. Also, 48 (90.56%) patients received prophylactic cranial irradiation (25 [52.1%] pediatric, 23 [47.9%] adults). Moreover, 3/48 (6.25%) (2 [4.16%] pediatric, 1 [2.08%] adult) patients had CNS failure after receiving prophylactic cranial irradiation. For 48 target patients, with the median follow-up of 27.27 months (26.1 months–pediatric, 28.2 months– adults), EFS (event-free survival) in the brain was 93.8% (92%: pediatric, 95.7%: adults). Also, the difference between pediatric and adult groups was not statistically significant (p-value = 0.662). Five (9.43%) patients had CNS-positive disease upfront and received therapeutic cranial irradiation.

Conclusion In BFM 90/MCP 841 protocol in lymphoblastic lymphoma, prophylactic cranial irradiation and intrathecal methotrexate have been the standard of care as the CNS-directed therapy to prevent cranial infiltration. Though our results are not at par with the published world literature, further research and efforts are required to prevent CNS relapse in a selected sub-set of patients with lymphoblastic lymphoma.
Rubidium Uptake in Chest Tumors on PET/CT
Authors: Oldan Jorge D. , Femi-Abodunde Abiola D. , Muhleman Mitchel A. , Khandani Amir H.
Published: April 2022

Background Chest tumors are often found incidentally on cardiac scans; we aimed to describe the findings of rubidium (Rb) in incidentally discovered extracardiac tumors.

Materials and Methods We reviewed a database of cardiac Rb scans performed over a period of 11 years and identified those with a previously unsuspected malignancy seen on the plane of section. We then measured maximum standard uptake value for each of the tumors, as well as background lung, liver, mediastinum, and body wall. In cases where fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) was available, we compared Rb results with FDG PET/CT.

Results We identified 63 patients meeting criteria including full visualization of a tumor of at least 1.0 cm with no prior treatment. Of these patients, 17 had breast, 36 had lung, and 10 had miscellaneous other tumors. We selected patients with either breast or lung tumors for further analysis. Overall uptake was relatively stable between rest and stress but lower than FDG PET/CT; it was generally low and similar to blood pool. There was a small but statistically significant correlation between estrogen receptor positivity and Rb uptake in breast tumors. There was a stable pattern of uptake in background tissues, with liver being greater than mediastinal blood pool, which in turn was more avid than lung, which was more avid than subcutaneous body wall tissues. Lung showed a noticeable tendency toward increased uptake in dependent regions, likely reflecting low-level atelectasis.

Conclusion Uptake was stable between rest and stress but low relative to FDG PET/CT; some correlations with receptors suggest it may be useful in molecular imaging.
Unexpected Rare Association of Secondary Breast, Thyroid, and Ovarian Lymphomas in a Female Patient with Burkitt Lymphoma: PET-CT Findings
Authors: Ouriagli Salah Nabih
Published: April 2022

We report the case of a 15-year-old female, followed for Burkitt lymphoma with initial ovarian presentation. Positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) performed to evaluate initial extension assessment showed an unexpected association with secondary breast, thyroid, and ovarian lymphomas. To our knowledge, this association is very rare, unusual, and these extranodal presentations have been reported in literature as a separate case report. Authors highlight performance of PET-CT with 18F-FDG to determinate the secondary origin of this multiglandular involvement, to establish a lesional map of the whole body, and to contribute to the therapeutic decision.
Detection of Spinal Tuberculosis by F-18 FDG PET/CT as a Cause of Unusual Referred Pain in the Right Upper Quadrant of Abdomen
Authors: Sampath Santhosh , Basumani Pandurangan , Kothandaraman Anand , Ramakrishnan Ravi
Published: April 2022

Tuberculous involvement of the spine (tuberculosis [TB] spine) can cause severe morbidity unless detected and treated early. Apart from the constitutional symptoms, it can present with back pain, kyphosis, gait abnormality, and paraplegia secondary to the bone or spinal cord involvement. There had been instances of TB spine presenting directly as abdominal pain due to psoas abscesses. Herein, we report a very rare clinical manifestation of TB spine as referred pain in the right upper abdominal quadrant due to right epidural phlegmon associated with T7 vertebra, detected by positron emission tomography.
Establishment and proliferation under climate change: temperate tunicates in south-western Iceland
Authors: Micael Joana , Rodrigues Pedro , Ramos-Esplá Alfonso A. , Gíslason Sindri
Published: May 2022

Context Botryllus schlosseri and Diplosoma listerianum are spreading along the south-western coast of Iceland. Both species are non-indigenous and originated from the temperate zone. In some geographic regions, these species have been associated with negative ecological and economic impacts. The proliferation of these colonial tunicates in newly colonised areas will benefit from the projected warming of sea-surface temperatures. Aims Owing to the influence of temperature in physiological processes of marine invertebrates, the determination of the temporal dynamic of breeding activity is crucial for operational field control actions aiming to keep population abundances below a density-dependent adverse effect. Methods Colonies of B. schlosseri and D. listerianum were collected during a 12-month period, in Sandgerði, south-western Iceland. The number of oocytes and larvae were counted. Key results This study showed that both species are present year-round in south-western Iceland. The release of larvae is more intense during the warmer months. Conclusions To control their population density levels, field actions should be applied during the winter months before the onset of sexual reproduction and recruitment. Implications In the light of the findings, it is now possible to suggest the best time for countermeasures for both species and optimise resources for marine management.
‘The chances are zero’: a qualitative study on perceived susceptibility to pregnancy among women experiencing homelessness
Authors: Galvin Annalynn M. , Garg Ashvita , Griner Stacey B. , Diener Anelise K. , Thompson Erika L.
Published: May 2022

Background Women experiencing homelessness are at higher risk of unintended pregnancy than women stably housed. The way women perceive their susceptibility to pregnancy may contribute to effective contraceptive use. This study aimed to explore how women experiencing homelessness perceive their susceptibility to pregnancy with and without contraception from a qualitative, emic perspective. Methods Semi-structured interviews (n = 19) were conducted from December 2019 to October 2020 among English-speaking, pregnancy-capable (i.e. not sterilised) women, aged 18–45 years, experiencing homelessness. Interview questions included perceived susceptibility to pregnancy with and without contraception, attitudes toward pregnancy, and pregnancy intention. Interviews were audio-transcribed and coded to consensus using a seven-step coding process. Themes were identified via thematic and framework analysis, stratifying participants by pregnancy desire in the next year: yes (n = 4), no (n = 9), or don’t know (n = 6). Results Seventeen women reported inconsistent or no contraceptive use. Some women found their risk of pregnancy was equal with and without contraception based on perceptions of specific contraception efficacy (e.g. condoms vs pills); fertility and fecundity concerns; and high abstinence self-efficacy themes. In stratified analysis, women who desired pregnancy or were uncertain of pregnancy desire in the next year reported similar perceived susceptibility with and without contraception, compared with women not desiring pregnancy in the next year. Conclusions Given the need to have higher susceptibility to pregnancy without contraceptive use for consistent contraception uptake, findings may explain the lack of contraceptive behaviours and contraception preferences related to pregnancy desire.
Physicochemical classification of organisms
Authors: Vallina Estrada Eloy , Oliveberg Mikael
Published: May 2022

Significance

A common way to establish functional relations across organisms is through sequence conservation. In this study, we show that functional evolution also involves a second level of optimization coded in sequence regions that are generally considered nonconserved: the charge of the hypervariable surfaces of folded proteins. The physicochemical signatures of this protein-surface optimization not only diverge in a phylogenetically consistent way, but also are so systematically organized that they allow for detailed functional classification of organisms across all kingdoms of life. Accordingly, the finding 1) exposes a universal determinant of cellular fitness and 2) presents an alternative method for evolutionary and functional elucidation of organisms that is orthogonal to conventional sequence alignment.
A comparative approach reveals diversity of floral developmental processes in Urticaceae
Authors: Pedersoli Giseli D , Staedler Yannick M , Schönenberger Jürg , Teixeira Simone P
Published: April 2022

Most species of Urticaceae, the nettle family, have small and inconspicuous, diclinous flowers, in which the perianth, androecium and gynoecium tend to vary in number. Our objective was to study the morphology of the developing flowers of seven species of Urticaceae to understand the pathways that lead to the different patterns of floral reduction and the complex development of pseudomonomerous gynoecia. Buds and flowers were prepared for electron and light microscopy. Vascularization was studied via high resolution X-ray computed tomography micro-CT. Only one whorl of perianth organs is initiated, except for Phenax sonneratii, the flower of which is achlamydeous; variation in perianth merosity results from absence of organs from inception; dicliny results from the absence of stamens from inception (pistillate flowers) and from pistil abortion at intermediate developmental stages (staminate flowers). The gynoecium results from a primordium that divides partially forming two congenitally united primordia (most species) or from a single primordium that apparently does not divide. The gynoecium is served by a single (four species), or two vascular bundles. This second condition is expected for a pseudomonomerous gynoecium. Pistillode or rudimentary carpels occur in staminate flowers. The comparison among species shows that the developmental processes acting in the floral construction in Urticaceae is diverse.
Defining diagnostic trajectories in patients with podocytopathies
Authors: Cirillo Luigi , Lugli Gianmarco , Raglianti Valentina , Ravaglia Fiammetta , Buti Elisa , Landini Samuela , Becherucci Francesca
Published: April 2022

Podocytopathies are glomerular disorders in which podocyte injury drives proteinuria and progressive kidney disease. They encompass a broad spectrum of aetiologies, resulting in pathological pictures of minimal-changes, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, diffuse mesangial sclerosis or collapsing glomerulopathy. Despite improvement in classifying podocytopathies as a distinct group of disorders, the histological definition fails to capture the relevant biological heterogeneity underlying each case, manifesting as extensive variability in disease progression and response to therapies. Increasing evidence suggests that podocytopathies can result from a single causative factor or a combination of multiple genetic and/or environmental risk factors with different relative contributions, identifying complex physiopathological mechanisms. Consequently, the diagnosis can still be challenging. In recent years, significant advances in genetic, microscopy and biological techniques revolutionized our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying podocytopathies, pushing nephrologists to integrate innovative information with more conventional data obtained from kidney biopsy in the diagnostic workflow. In this review, we will summarize current approaches in the diagnosis of podocytopathies, focusing on strategies aimed at elucidating the aetiology underlying the histological picture. We will provide several examples of an integrative view of traditional concepts and new data in patients with suspected podocytopathies, along with a perspective on how a reclassification could help to improve not only diagnostic pathways and therapeutic strategies, but also the management of disease recurrence after kidney transplantation. In the future, the advantages of precision medicine will probably allow diagnostic trajectories to be increasingly focused, maximizing therapeutic results and long-term prognosis.
Single-Cell Identification, Drug Susceptibility Test, and Whole-genome Sequencing of Helicobacter pylori Directly from Gastric Biopsy by Clinical Antimicrobial Susceptibility Test Ramanometry
Authors: Liu Min , Zhu Pengfei , Zhang Lei , Gong Yanhai , Wang Chen , Sun Lu , Wang Lili , Chen Rongze , Mao Yuli , Fu Xiaoting , Zhang Lili , Xu Teng , Ji Yuetong , Dong Quanjiang , Ma Bo , Zhang Jianzhong , Xu Jian
Published: April 2022

Background

The battle against Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections demands fast, reliable, and sensitive methods for pathogen identification (ID), antimicrobial susceptibility tests (ASTs) based on metabolic response, and genome-wide mutation profiling that reveals resistance mechanisms.

Methods

Here we introduce Clinical Antimicrobial Susceptibility Test Ramanometry for H. pylori (CAST-R-HP), and its validation with clinical samples. This method performs rapid ID, metabolism inhibition–based AST, and high-quality whole-genome sequencing for cells of targeted resistance phenotype, all at precisely 1-cell resolution and directly from biopsy samples.

Results

In CAST-R-HP, automated acquisition and machine learning of single-cell Raman spectra (SCRS) enable distinguishing individual H. pylori cells directly from a biopsy sample, with 98.5 ± 0.27% accuracy in ID. Moreover, by adding a 48- to72-h D2O feeding and drug exposure step prior to SCRS acquisition, CAST-R-HP reports AST for levofloxacin and clarithromycin with 100% accuracy, based on metabolic inhibition level. Furthermore, CAST-R-HP supports rapid sorting, low-bias DNA amplification, and full genome sequencing of single H. pylori cells with the SCRS defined, targeted drug-susceptibility phenotype, via Raman-activated gravity-driven cell encapsulation and sequencing. The genome-wide mutation map (maximum 99.70% coverage), at precisely 1-cell resolution, not only elucidates the drug-susceptibility phenotypes but also unveils their underlying molecular mechanisms.

Conclusion

The culture independency, shorter turnaround time, high resolution, and comprehensive information output suggest that CAST-R-HP is a powerful tool for diagnosing and treating H. pylori infections.
The potential for bacteria from carbon-limited deep terrestrial environments to participate in chlorine cycling
Authors: Bhattarai Susma , Temme Hanna , Jain Abhiney , Badalamenti Jonathan P , Gralnick Jeffrey A , Novak Paige J
Published: April 2022

Bacteria capable of dehalogenation via reductive or hydrolytic pathways are ubiquitous. Little is known, however, about the prevalence of bacterial dechlorination in deep terrestrial environments with a limited carbon supply. In this study we analyzed published genomes from three deep terrestrial subsurface sites: a deep aquifer in Western Siberia, the Sanford Underground Research Facility in South Dakota, USA, and the Soudan Underground Iron Mine (SUIM) in Minnesota, USA to determine if there was evidence to suggest that microbial dehalogenation was possible in these environments. Diverse dehalogenase genes were present in all analyzed metagenomes, with reductive dehalogenase and haloalkane dehalogenase genes the most common. Taxonomic analysis of both hydrolytic and reductive dehalogenase genes was performed to explore their affiliation; this analysis indicated that at the SUIM site, hydrolytic dehalogenase genes were taxonomically affiliated with Marinobacter species. Because of this affiliation, experiments were also performed with Marinobacter subterrani strain JG233 (‘JG233’), an organism containing three predicted hydrolytic dehalogenase genes and isolated from the SUIM site, to determine whether hydrolytic dehalogenation was an active process and involved in growth on a chlorocarboxylic acid. Presence of these genes in genome appears to be functional, as JG233 was capable of chloroacetate dechlorination with simultaneous chloride release. Stable isotope experiments combined with confocal Raman microspectroscopy demonstrated that JG233 incorporated carbon from 13C-chloroacetate into its biomass. These experiments suggest that organisms present in these extreme and often low-carbon environments are capable of reductive and hydrolytic dechlorination and, based on laboratory experiments, may use this capability as a competitive advantage by utilizing chlorinated organic compounds for growth, either directly or after dechlorination.
Coronary artery bypass grafting for coronary artery anomalies in infants and young children
Authors: Hohri Yu , Yamagishi Masaaki , Maeda Yoshinobu , Asada Satoshi , Hongu Hisayuki , Numata Satoshi , Yaku Hitoshi
Published: April 2022

OBJECTIVES

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) has been reported for coronary artery diseases in patients with Kawasaki disease and coronary artery complications after arterial switch operations for transposition of the great arteries. However, only a few studies have explored this modality for congenital coronary artery anomalies. As congenital coronary artery anomalies, particularly left coronary artery atresia and stenosis, are one of the reasons for sudden death, coronary revascularization is often required in infants and young children. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the outcome of CABG for such anomalies in infants and young children.

METHODS

From 2014 to 2018, 3 infants and 2 children (median age: 10 months; range: 6–40 months) with coronary artery anomalies underwent CABG at our hospital. The indications for the procedure included left main coronary artery atresia and stenosis in 2 and 3 patients, respectively. Graft patency was evaluated postoperatively by contrast-enhanced computed tomography or coronary angiography, and postoperative outcomes (including death and cardiac events) were assessed during the follow-up period.

RESULTS

No 30-day or in-hospital mortalities were noted. Postoperative examinations revealed patent grafts in all patients. They were discharged without any cardiac complications. Regarding the outcomes at the follow-up period, the graft patency rate was 80.0% (4/5 grafts), with no deaths or cardiac events.

CONCLUSIONS

CABG is a useful strategy for coronary revascularization in infants and young children with coronary artery anomalies. Although the mid-term outcomes and patency are satisfactory, careful follow-up is necessary because the long-term outcomes remain unknown.