bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluorouracil modulates the genome of HCT116 colorectal cancer cells as revealed by whole exome sequencing
Authors: Sabit Hussein , Alshammari Thamer , Almofty Sarah
Published: August 2022

The Cancer mortality rate has globally increased by almost 40% over the past four decades. The mortality is expected to increase to 60% in the current decade, with an estimated death of 13 million cancer patients by 2030. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequent type of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths for both sexes, worldwide. Since CRC accounts for 10% of the most diagnosed types of cancer, there is an urgent need for developing treatment plans. In the present study, human colorectal carcinoma cells (HCT116) were challenged with and 5-fluorouracil (5 either alone or synergized by 5-Aza cytidine (5-Aza) at a final concentration of 5 µM. MTT, wound healing assay, and colony formation assays were performed to assess the cell viability, migration, and proliferation. Data indicated significant reductions in the viability of the 5-FU-treated cells synergized by 5-Aza compared to the monotherapy of both drugs. Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed to assess the genetic changes after treatments. Results showed that 5-FU treatment significantly reduced the total number/type of SNPs of HCT116 cells, from 249,448 to 4,213 SNPs, with 3,521 novel SNPs. In conclusion, 5-Aza synergizes the effect of 5-FU by sensitizing HCT116; therefore, this combination could be optimal as a therapeutic option for CRC. Although these findings were promising, it needs further investigation at the pre-clinical and clinical levels.
Rapid Real-time Viral Load Estimation Technique for chilli leaf curl virus and its validation in different chilli genotypes from Eastern Himalayan Plains.
Authors: Kumar Jammugani Vinod , Sil Poulami , Ghosh Srinjoy , Das Arindam , Ray Soham , Mondal Debayan , Mandal Somnath , Choudhury Ashok , Pandit Goutam Kumar , Sahana Nandita
Published: August 2022

Chilli leaf curl virus is one of the most devastating virus infecting chilli crops in India. Management of chilli leaf curl disease largely relies on early detection and quantification of the virus. In the present study different Open Reading Frames from chilli leaf curl virus from sub-Himalayan Terai region were cloned, sequenced and submitted in NCBI database with accession number MN851261, MN857412, and MN857413. Comparison of these gene sequences with previously reports revealed that chilli leaf curl virus coochbehar strain exhibits 90–92% similarity with tomato leaf curl joydebpur virus and pepper leaf curl Bangladesh virus. Using these sequence primers were designed from the unique AV2 region of the chilli leaf curl virus coochbehar strain and a SYBR based Rapid Real-time Viral Load estimation (ReViLeR) technique was developed to quantify the virus directly from extracts of infected leaf samples. Seventeen chilli genotypes were evaluated for virus accumulation with ‘ReViLeR’ method after challenge inoculation with chilli leaf curl virus. Traditional landraces like Chuapara, Line boya and White chilli were found to have highest viral titer (36659, 22909 and 25195 viral copies per genomic unit (GU) respectively). On the other hand, from the genotypes like Micro, Pusa Sadabahar, Dalle Khursani no virus was detected. Higher viral load in the susceptible genotypes manifested severe leaf curl symptoms whereas resistant genotypes with no detectable viral load remained healthy. The sensitivity of the newly developed ReViLeR technique was found up to 83% in rapid detection of chilli leaf curl virus.
Identification of QTLs and heterosis loci for grain shape using single segment substitution lines in rice ( Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Wang Xiaoling , Peng Zhiqin , Luo Xin , Tang Shusheng , Wang Zhiquan , Zhao Hui , Xia Qiyu , Yu Chuanyuan , Xiao Yulong
Published: August 2022

QTL and HQTL (heterosis QTL) of grain shape are two important components for grain yield and influence the end-use rice quality. However, limited QTLs of grain shape were detected, with only a few applied in production. In this study, 54 QTLs of grain shape were detected on 10 chromosomes over 2 years,twenty-three of which showing positive additive genetic effects, including some QTLs that were newly found and with large positive effect such as qHGW4-1,qHGW4-2 and qHGW10-2. 26 HQTLs of grain shape were probed, with eighteen of which providing positive dominance genetic effects. 33 QTLs of grain shape were mapped by linkage analysis. Most of grain shape QTLs have pleiotropic effects which control simultaneously the multiple appearance traits of the grain shape, for instance GL, GW, LWR, GS, GC, GR and TGW. Linkage mapping by F2 population deriving from sub-SSSLs further narrowed the interval containing qTGW10-3 down to about 75.124 kb between markers PSM169 and RM25753, where eight candidate genes were predicted. In this study, the finding of grain shape QTL will provide us greater insight into improving rice quality and grain yield in rice breeding.
A new data driven method for summarising multiple cause of death data
Authors: Dobson Annette , McElwee Paul , Baneshi Mohammad Reza , Eynstone-Hinkins James , Moran Lauren , Waller Michael
Published: August 2022

National mortality statistics are based on a single underlying cause of death. This practice does not adequately represent the impact of the range of conditions experienced in an ageing population in which multimorbidity is common. We propose a new method for calculating the percentages of deaths attributed to different causes that takes account of the patterns of associations among underlying and contributing causes of death. It is driven by the data and unlike previously proposed methods does not rely on arbitrary choices of weights which can over-emphasise the contribution of some causes of death. The method is illustrated using Australian mortality data for people aged 60 years or more. Compared to the usual method based only on the underlying cause of death the new method attributes higher percentages of deaths to conditions like diabetes and dementia that are frequently mentioned as contributing causes of death and lower percentages to conditions to which they are closely related such as ischaemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. For some causes, notably cancers, which are usually recorded as underlying causes with few if any contributing causes the new method produces similar percentages to the usual method. These different patterns among groups of related conditions are not apparent if arbitrary weights are used. The new method does not greatly affect the rank order of conditions, confirming the validity of existing methods but it more adequately reflects the contributions of certain causes to overall mortality burden.
A hybrid unsupervised approach improved the representation of central visual field loss
Authors: Yoo Seungtae , Jin Sang Wook , Kim Jung Lim , Shin Jonghoon , Lee Seung Uk , Lee Jiwoong , Song Giltae
Published: August 2022

Background
Quantitative recognition of visual field loss is important for glaucoma patients and has implications for follow-up management. This study aimed to identify the characteristic patterns of 10 − 2 visual field (VF) test results and effectively express central VF loss using a machine learning approach.
Methods
We obtained 7,927 10 − 2 VF test data from 3,328 patients in five hospitals. We propose a hybrid approach that combines archetypal analysis (AA) and fuzzy c-means (FCM) to identify characteristic patterns and decompose VF without loss. To demonstrate the clinical usefulness of our approach, mean deviation (MD) change prediction was performed through supervised learning using decomposition coefficients change and a linear mixed model was performed to examine the relationship between the MD slope and baseline decomposition coefficients.
Results
We identified ten characteristic and representative archetypes (AT) for the central VF test results. FCM decomposition results outperformed the AA-only approach in MD change prediction based on mean squared error (MSE) and Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) prediction evaluation metrics (all P ≤ 0.039). In the linear mixed model, the FCM is more suitable in the prediction of MD slope compared with the AA model for both Akaike (AIC) and Bayes information criteria (BIC) (AIC decrease:20.31, BIC decrease:13.33). The FCM baseline coefficients of AT 3, and AT 4 were significantly associated with a faster MD slope (both P ≤ 0.026).
Conclusions
In this study, we used a hybrid approach of unsupervised learning to identify hidden aspects of central VF loss via a characteristic archetype and lossless decomposition. We believe that our approach can help discover hidden clinical features of glaucoma.
A Strep A vaccine demand and return on investment forecast to inform industry R&D prioritization decisions
Authors: Walkinshaw Donald , Wright Meghan , Williams Marni , Scarapicchia Tanya , Excler Jean-Louis , Wiley Ryan , Mullin Anne
Published: August 2022

Investment in Strep A vaccine R&D is disproportionately low relative to the large burden of Strep A diseases globally. This study presents a novel Strep A vaccine demand and financial forecast model with estimates of potential global demand and associated revenue and profits for a hypothetical Strep A vaccine as well as a net present value (NPV) analysis of return on capital investments required to develop the vaccine. A positive NPV was calculated for a variety of developer scenarios and target populations, including global rollout of the vaccine in private and public markets by a multinational pharmaceutical company and a staged rollout by a developing country vaccine manufacturer for both infant and child populations. The results suggest there is a viable commercial market for a Strep A vaccine. It is hoped that this study will help to inform industry decision-making and drive increased prioritization of, and investment in, Strep A vaccine R&D.
Evaluation of Sedimentary Basins For Hydrocarbon Exploration Using Aeromagnetic Data, Northwestern Sinai Peninsula, Egypt
Authors: Gaber Gaber Magdy
Published: August 2022

The Sinai Peninsula's northwestern area has many structure patterns with different directions and strong variations in basement depth. This work aims to deduce the basement surface’s depth and sedimentary basin’s locations and evaluate the subsurface structural framework to determine the new concession for hydrocarbon exploration in the research area.Geophysical data used in this study compiled between total aeromagnetic intensity (TM) data and wells data as locations and depths were used in 2D magnetic profiles in basement depth determination. The technique used for magnetic data interpretation to determine basement depth and structures include; Reducing to the pole (RTP), Power spectrum (low and high pass filters to determine deep and shallow sources), and Centre for Exploration Targeting (CET) Grid analysis.Therefore, according to these results, the basement depths range from 1500 to 5000 meters and the area has two principal structural trends: NW-SE trends related to extensions that happened in the Delta belt (Hing line) north Pelusium line and NE-SW trends associated with the Syrian arch system compressional force south Pelusium line. The new concession for hydrocarbon exploration is represented in the northwestern part of the study area.
Basilar invagination without atlantoaxial dislocation: treatment by correction of clivus canal angle with interfacet distraction and fixation
Authors: Hou Zhe , Fan Tao , Fan Wayne , Jian Qiang , Wang Yinqian
Published: August 2022

Objective
Reports on the surgical technique used and clinical outcomes obtained during the treatment of basilar invagination (BI) without atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD) through the correction of the clivus canal angle (CCA) using interfacet distraction and fixation.
Methods
Nineteen cases with BI without AAD treated by the correction of the clivus canal angle were retrospectively analyzed. Pre- and postoperative computed tomography scans and three-dimensional reconstruction views were obtained to measure the size of the CCA, pB-C2 distance, and degree of BI. Chiari malformation and syringomyelia were evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The clinical outcomes for all patients were measured using the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scale. The CCA was corrected by using interfacet distraction and fixation techniques. Paired t-tests were used to compare pre- and postoperative measurements.
Results
All the patients were followed up for 12 to 36 months; no patient suffered intraoperative nerve or vascular injury. Clinical symptoms improved in 17 patients (89.5%). The mean JOA score increased from 12.32 ± 1.89 to 14.37 ± 1.30 (Z = -3.655, P < 0.001). The mean CCA improved from 129.34 ± 8.52° preoperatively to 139.75 ± 8.86° postoperatively (Z = -3.824, P < 0.001). The mean pB-C2 decreased from 7.47 ± 2.21 to 5.68 ± 3.13 (Z = -3.060, P = 0.002). Syringomyelia was significantly reduced in 10 out of 13 patients by the first follow-up year. All patients achieved bony fusion.
Conclusions
Posterior interfacet distraction and fixation to correct the CCA is a feasible and effective method for treating BI without AAD.
Impact of biochar soil amendment on alleviation of single and combined effect of drought and salt stresses on vicia faba seedlings planted in alkaline soil
Authors: Rajhi Imene , Baccouri Bechir , Frchichi Nouha , Damegi Bilel , Zribi Fethia , Hammami Jamila , bassi Leila El , Mhadhbi Haythem
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of biochar (0, 2, 5, and 8% designed by C, B2, B5, and B8, respectively) on the single and interactive effects of salinity and drought treatments on the growth of vicia faba plants in alkaline soil. 21 morphological, physiological, and photosynthetic parameters were evaluated. The amendment of biochar, carbon-rich material developed from combustion of biomass under no or limited oxygen supply, in alkaline soil under salinity stress performed positive effects on internal concentration of CO2(+ 96.16% at B8), transpiration rate (+ 83.79% at B5), stomatal conductance (+ 30% at B2), and net CO2assimilation (+ 37.84% at B2). Under drought stress, the addition of biochar had no effect on internal concentration of CO2and the water use efficiency. Under combined conditions, the maximum increase (+ 40%) of internal concentration of CO2was registered at B5. Also, addition of 2% of biochar (B2) can increase the transpiration rate to + 116%. Biochar was alleviating the effect of combined stress on vicia faba leaves by ameliorating the stomatal conductance to + 58.73% at B2. We, also, noticed that net CO2assimilation rate increase with the increase of biochar concentration. On the other hand, biochar addition did not have effect on lengths of shoot, roots, and total plants and fresh biomass, spad value, and leaf number. However, the amendment of biochar has slightly ameliorated the electrolyte leakage, protein content, and foliar surface. The pH and the EC of initial and final treatment were also evaluated. The statistical analysis demonstrates that addition of 2% (B2) of biochar can significantly mitigate the negative effect of single effect of salinity and combined salinity drought in alkaline soil. On the other hand, the addition of 5% (B5) of biochar can alleviate the individual effect of drought compared to their respective controls. This result confirms the positive effect of biochar addition in alkaline soils. Thus, a better understanding of biochar addition on physiological basis for faba bean growth under drought and salinity stress in alkaline soil will be beneficial for sustainable agriculture.
Surgical waste generated in phacoemulsification versus manual small-incision cataract surgery
Authors: Zhu Catherine Q. , LaMattina Kara C.
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To compare the surgical waste generated by two different cataract surgery techniques, phacoemulsification versus manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS).Methods: The amount of disposable waste was assessed by weighing the plastic and glass items used during a single uncomplicated cataract surgery for two cataract surgery techniques, phacoemulsification and manual small-incision cataract surgery (MSICS), including the packaging for each item.Results: We found that in a typical phacoemulsification case, the weight of the single-use disposable waste totaled 252.4 g, compared to a typical MSICS case, which totaled 125.5 g. Materials that are used in both procedures (e.g. drapes and prep materials, balanced saline solution, viscoelastic, lens, etc.) were considered “neutral” and not individually weighed.Conclusions: The waste generated by a standard phacoemulsification cataract surgery is roughly twice that of that generated by MSICS, revealing a striking difference between the two techniques. A major contributor is the cartridges, wiring, and tubing required for phacoemulsification and irrigation/aspiration. In addition to producing more waste, particularly plastic waste, phacoemulsification also generates more energy via the phacoemulsification machine. These data suggest that MSICS may be a more environmentally sustainable technique for cataract surgery. More research is needed to better describe the carbon footprint of various ophthalmic practices, particularly pertaining to cataract surgery.
A quick electromagnetic performance analysis method for permanent magnet claw pole machine based on combined analytical and equvialent magnetic circuit method
Authors: Liu Chengcheng , Chao Zheng , Wang Shaopeng , Wang Youhua
Published: August 2022

As permanent magnet claw pole machine (PMCPM) is designed with complex 3D magnetic structure, the 3D finite element method (FEM) is commonly used for its accurate performance analysis. However, using 3D FEM will consume very long time in the initial design stage. Its analysis time can be saved greatly by using the analytical method (AM) or equivalent magnetic circuit method (MCM), however the obtained performance is not accurate and some performance even can’t be obtained if only one of these methods is used. To overcome above constraints, this paper proposes a calculation method that combined analytical and equivalent magnetic circuit method (AMCM) to calculate the main electromagnetic performance of PMCPM quickly. Its calculated results are verified by corresponding results that obtained by using the 3D FEM. It can be seen that the proposed AMCM is effective for calculating the main electromagnetic performance and designing of PMCPM.
Computation and Analysis of Price of Anarchy for Selfish Node Detection and efficient Resource Allocation for Dynamic Communication Network using Game theory
Authors: Kanmani S , Murali M.
Published: August 2022

With the advent of novel technologies, the coverage of communication networks and the number of participating nodes have increased drastically. Due to the dynamic and decentralized nature of the system, some nodes tend to be uncooperative with other nodes within the network. The uncooperative nodes (selfish nodes) use the facilities of the cooperative nodes to raise their interest, which leads to security threats, path delay, congestion and a suboptimal use of resources. To curtail this issue and enhance the performance of the system, there is need to identify potentially selfish nodes. This paper proposes a combination of Nash equilibrium based game theory with Price of Anarchy (PoA) for detection of selfish nodes in a network. Also, a least response dynamic based Capacitated Selfish Resource Allocation (CSRA) game is proposed to enhance resource usage among participating nodes. The simulation was carried out using the SolarWinds simulator and an evaluation of the results demonstrates that the proposed approach promises outputs in terms of throughput, delay and delivery ratio in comparison to the state-of-the-art detection and allocation techniques.
Impact of surgical margin width on prognosis and recurrence in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A single-center retrospective study
Authors: Doi Shunsuke , Yasuda Satoshi , Hokuto Daisuke , Kamitani Naoki , Matsuo Yasuko , Nakagawa Kenji , Nishiwada Satoshi , Nagai Minako , Terai Taichi , Kohara Yuichiro , Sho Masayuki
Published: August 2022

Background
The impact of the surgical margin (SM) on long-term survival remains controversial. This study retrospectively investigated the impact of the SM on prognosis and recurrence of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) and evaluated the optimal margin width.
Methods
We reviewed the medical records of 58 ICC patients who underwent macroscopically curative surgery.
Results
The patients were classified into five categories according to the SM; R1, 0 to < 1 mm, 1 to < 5 mm, 5 to < 10 mm, and ≥ 10 mm. The prognosis tended to be different for SM < 1 mm or SM ≥ 1 mm, therefore, the cut-off value was set at 1 mm. Thirty-three (56.9%) patients had an SM ≥ 1 mm, and 25 (43.1%) had an SM < 1 mm. The multivariate analysis identified SM < 1 mm (p = 0.027) and microvascular invasion (p = 0.026) as independent prognostic factors of overall survival. After the propensity score-matching based on tumor-related factors, the overall survival and relapse-free survival rates of the SM < 1 mm group were significantly lower than those of the SM ≥ 1 mm group (p = 0.013 and p = 0.025, respectively). Peritoneal dissemination was significantly increased in the SM < 1 mm group than in the SM ≥ 1 mm group (p = 0.007). The post-recurrence survival rate of the SM < 1 mm group was significantly lower than that of the SM ≥ 1 mm group (p = 0.012).
Conclusions
This study suggests that an SM of at least 1 mm should be achieved during ICC resection. An SM < 1 mm may indicate a higher risk of peritoneal dissemination.
137Cs distribution on the territory of Romania 30 years after Chernobyl accident
Authors: Blebea-Apostu Ana-Maria , Margineanu Romul Mircea , Duliu Octavian G. , Persa Diana , Gomoiu Claudia
Published: August 2022

To estimate the contribution of Chernobyl 137Cs contamination, in 1993 and especially 2016, its total inventory was determinate by gamma-ray high resolution spectroscopy in 62 and respectively 747 soil samples covering entire Romanian territory. This permitted to estimate the 1993 and 2016 total 137Cs inventory to 43 ± 2 TBq and respectively to 14.1 ± 0.7 Tbq, the last one reduced by factor of 3 ± 0.3. This value, about twice higher than natural disintegration suggests a significant amount of 137Cs being washed out by precipitation and, in a lower measure, incorporated into plants. At the same time, by evaluating the maximum contribution of 137Cs to the population exposure, in 1993 and especially in 2016, the supplementary annual effective dose did not exceed, the maximum accepted value 1 mSv.
Temporal stability of soil moisture in a fixed dune of the Horqin Sand Land in northern China
Authors: Yao Shuxia , Zhao Chuancheng
Published: August 2022

Soil moisture (SM) is a key factor that determines the stability and functioning of desert ecological systems, with SM exhibiting strong stability over time (TS). To obtain greater insights into the SM TS of the Horqin Sand Land, SM was measured in a fixed dune (FD) over a depth profile of 0–1 m and on 14 occasions between May and July 2021. These data were combined with soil property and precipitation measurements to assess the SM TS and determine the optimal locations that could represent the mean SM of the area. Results indicated that (1) the mean SM of FD varied from 1.98–6.73%, with minimal spatial variation (mean standard deviation (STD) < 3%; mean coefficient of variation (CV) ranging between 42% and 56%). (2) SM continually decreased over time until considerable precipitation occurred. Temporal dynamics decreased with increasing soil depth. Further, only larger precipitation events (> 20 mm) led to significant SM increases. In deeper soil layers (> 60 cm), the SM response exhibited a lag. (3) The relationship between STD and mean SM indicated that SM becomes more variable under wetter conditions, such that SM increases were associated with CV increases in this region. (4) The Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (RS) values between different sampling dates indicated that most of the relationships were significant (p < 0.05), especially for soils in the 60–100 cm layer. (5) The mean values of mean relative differences (MRD) were smaller for soils < 40 cm and the mean corresponding standard deviation of MRD (SDRD) values were smaller for soils < 60 cm, indicating that SM tended to be more stable in deeper soil layers. (6) Linear regression analyses between the estimated means obtained from the identified locations and the actual field means led to the identification of the best representative SM locations for the 0–20, 20–40, 40–60, 60–80, and 80–100 cm layers at locations 8, 16, 8, 11, and 6, respectively. (7) The accumulated temporal stability index (ITS) of SM for different soil layers suggested that the 12th location (with a minimum ITS value) was the most representative location to approximate the mean SM of different soil layers in the FD. However, linear regression analyses of the SM between the actual field mean and that of the 12th representative location revealed a satisfactory fit only for soil layers above 40 cm.
Multifunctional nanoparticles as enhanced rheumatoid arthritis theranostic agent via sequential activated macrophages targeting and responsive dexamethasone release
Authors: Wang Pengchong , Zhang Ying , Dong Kai , Lei Hengyu , Zhou Qinyuan , Yu Jie , Shi Xianpeng , Zhu Yaning , Zhang Peng , Xing Jianfeng , Dong Yalin
Published: August 2022

Dexamethasone (DEX) is widely used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), however serious side effects will be generated after long-term use of it. In this study, a nanotheranostic agent (HCPC/DEX NPs) was designed to improve the therapeutic effect of RA. HCPC/DEX NPs can responsively release drug in the presence of H2O2 and acidic condition, and can prevent drug from excessively leaking in neutral environment. Under the action of hyaluronic acid, HCPC NPs can be selectively taken up by activated macrophages and then release drug in cells. After intravenous administration, HCPC/DEX NPs can be accumulated in adjuvant-induced arthritis (AA) rat joints, and showed better RA treatment effect compared with DEX. HCPC/DEX NPs can effectively alleviate paw swelling, repaire cartilage injury, and reduce inflammatory cell infiltration and proinflammatory cytokines secretion in AA rats. And HCPC/DEX NPs caused no side effects on main organs of normal rats. Our research indicated that HCPC/DEX NPs is an effective and safe RA theranostic agent and has potential application prospects in enhanced RA treatment.
Biocompatible and Breathable Healthcare Electronics with Sensing Performances and Photothermal Antibacterial Effect for Sport Rehabilitation
Authors: Xuan Shouhu , Wang Xinyi , Tao Yan , Pan Shaoshan , Fang Xue , Lou Congcong , Xu Yunqi , Wu Jianpeng , Sang Min , Lu Liang , Gong Xinglong , Luo Tianzhi
Published: August 2022

With the booming development of smart wearable devices, flexible multifunctional composites with high sensitivity and well health therapy have evoked great interest for next-generation healthcare electronics. However, the weak biocompatibility, low breathability, and narrow sensing range greatly hinder the development of healthcare sensors. Herein, a porous, flexible and conductive MXene/Polydimethylsiloxane/Polydopamine/Polyurethane Sponge (MXene/PDMS/PDA/PU) nanocomposite is developed as a promising sport rehabilitation device with good flexibility, breathability, sensing performance, photothermal therapy and antibacterial activity. Benefiting from the porous structure and biocompatible surface, this multifunctional sensor is further fabricated into a sports rehabilitation medical system for monitoring human body motion and performing hot therapy/antibacterial treatment in the application of sports injury site. Moreover, both the wireless smart insole and cushion are constructed to gait monitoring and sit position detecting. This multifunctional hybrid sponge not only demonstrates great potential for motion monitoring sensors but also exhibits wide potential in wearable medical assistive and therapeutic systems.
A proof-of-concept study for the use of a computerised avatar to embody the eating disorder voice in anorexia nervosa
Authors: Cardi Valentina , Ward Thomas , Aya Viviana , Calissano Chiara , Thompson Alistair , Treasure Janet
Published: August 2022

Purpose: This study assessed (1) the experience of the eating disorder voice in people with anorexia nervosa or recovered from the illness, and (2) the feasibility of creating and interacting with a computerised representation (i.e., avatar) of this voice.Methods: Twenty-one individuals with anorexia nervosa and 18 individuals who had recovered from the illness participated in the study. They reported on the characteristics of their eating disorder voice and created a personalised avatar (a visual and auditory representation of the eating disorder voice), using a computerised software. Participants assessed closeness of match between the voice and the avatar, perceived distress and acceptability of re-exposure to the avatar. Results: Patients felt less powerful than their eating disorder voice and unable to disregard its commands. The experience of the voice was associated with negative, as well as some positive emotions, reflecting the prototypical ambivalence towards the illness. Recovered individuals had an opposite pattern of responses. They attributed only negative emotions to the voice, felt more powerful than the voice, and able to disregard its commands. Overall participants reported that there was a good match between the voice and the sound of the avatar. Patients expressed willingness to repeat exposure to the avatar.Conclusion: Individuals with anorexia can create personalised digital avatars representing the eating disorder voice and are willing to engage therapeutically with this avatar. The next step is to test the feasibility of repeated exposure to the avatar to address the power and distress associated with the eating disorder voice.Level of evidence: Level III
WITHDRAWN: Study of the Flow Characteristics Due to the Effect of Offsetting in Platoon of Sport Utility Vehicles
Authors: Borse Sachin L. , Alshqirate AbedAlrzaq , Shende M. D. , Ghafoor Dastan Zrar
Published: August 2022

In this article, CFD analysis carried out to study the flow Characteristics due to the effect of offsetting in platoon of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) using OpenFOAM software. Platoon of three bodies of SUV in tandem are considered. Effect of spacing of SUV platoon on drag coefficient assessed. CFD analysis of full scale SUV performed at speed of 80 km/hr for vehicle spacing from 0.25 to 2 times length of SUV It is observed that average drag coefficient of platoon is lower than that of standalone single SUV for range of spacing considered by 24%. Thus effect of platooning results in fuel saving. Also effect of offset of middle car in platoon by 10%, 20% and 30% assessed on average drag coefficient of platoon. Offset of middle car in platoon results in increased platoon average drag coefficient to extend of 6.61% as compared to inline platoon. Thus in platooning it is better to maintain SUV straight-line to get full benefit of platooning.
Variations of the Spontaneous Electrical Activities of the Neuronal Networks Imposed by the Exposure of Electromagnetic Radiations Using Computational Map-based Modeling
Authors: Rad Mohsen Kamelian , Hamedani Meysam Hedayati , Khodabakhshi Mohammad Bagher
Published: August 2022

The interaction between neurons in a neuronal network develops spontaneous electrical activities. But the effects of electromagnetic radiation on these activities have not yet been well explored. In this study, a ring of three coupled 1-dimensional Rulkov neurons is considered and then exposed to an electromagnetic field (EMF) to investigate how its spontaneous activities might change regarding the EMF exposure. By employing the bifurcation analysis and time series, a comprehensive view of neuronal behavioral changes due to electromagnetic radiations is provided. It is demonstrated that exposure to these EMFs may inhibit chaotic neuronal behaviors when the neuronal network is supposed to develop a chaotic behavior spontaneously. In fact, EMFs completely eliminated the chaotic intrinsic behaviors of the neuronal loop. On the other hand, due to this exposure, the development of chaotic regimes is seen when the network is supposed to show regular spiking behaviors. Furthermore, it is observed that with weaker synaptic couplings, electromagnetic radiation inhibits and suppresses neuronal activities. On the whole, electromagnetic radiation may change the pattern of the spontaneous activities of neuronal networks in the brain according to synaptic strengths and initial states of the neurons.
A nested case-control study of untargeted albumin adductomics and acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Rahman Mohammad , Bassig Bryan , Grigoryan Hasmik , Hu Wei , Hosgood H. Dean , Huang Wen-Yi , Wong Jason , Strickland Paul , Rappapport Stephen , Lan Qing , Rothman Nathaniel
Published: August 2022

Environmental exposures often produce reactive electrophiles in vivo, leading to oxidative stress, which plays a major role in carcinogenesis. These electrophiles frequently form adducts with human albumin, which can be measured to assess in vivo oxidative stress. Here, we aimed to examine the associations of albumin adducts with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the most common adult myeloid leukemia with consistent associations with environmental exposures. We conducted a case-control study of 52 incident AML cases and 103 controls matched on age, sex, and race nested on two prospective cohorts: the CLUE and PLCO studies. We measured 42 untargeted albumin adducts in pre-diagnostic samples using liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry. Circulatory albumin adducts were associated with AML in conditional logistic regression models. For instance, higher levels of Cys34 disulfide adduct of the S-γ-glutamylcysteine, a precursor of an essential antioxidant, glutathione were associated with a lower risk of AML (odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd tertiles were 1.0, 0.65(0.31–1.36); and 0.31(0.12–0.80), respectively (p-trend = 0.01). These associations were largely driven by effects present among cases diagnosed ≥ median follow-up year of 5.5 years. Our results support the idea that oxidative stress may play a role in the etiology of AML.
A smart admission control and cache replacement approach in content delivery networks
Authors: Abdo Lamis , Ahmad Imtiaz , Abed Sa’ed
Published: August 2022

Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) distribute most data traffic nowadays by caching the contents in a network of servers to provide users with the requested objects, and helping to reduce latency when delivering contents to the user. The content caching system performance depends upon many factors such as where the objects should be stored, which object to store, and when to cache them. The proposed methodology includes two main phases: an admission control phase and a cache replacement phase. The admission control phase is responsible for accepting or rejecting the incoming request based on training the Reinforcement Learning (RL) algorithm to make the best decision in the near future to maximize its reward, which, in this case, is the hit ratio. The cache replacement phase estimates the object’s future popularity. This is achieved by building a predictive model based on the popularity prediction mechanism, where the Long-Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model is used to compute the object’s popularity. The LSTM model’s outcome can help decide which objects to cache and which objects to evict from the cache. The proposed methodology is tested on a dataset to demonstrate its effectiveness in enhancing the hit ratio compared to conventional replacement policies such as First-in-First-Out (FIFO), Least Recently Used (LRU), Least Frequently Used (LFU) and a recent machine learning-based algorithm. The experimental results on the dataset revealed that the proposed methodology outperformed the baseline algorithms by 34.7% to 97.17% with a cache size of 130.
A two-step non-nominal troposphere monitor for GBAS
Authors: Li Jiaxiang , Yin Hao , Cheng Jianhua , Li Liang , Jia Chun , Jiang Jiachang
Published: August 2022

The non-nominal troposphere caused by hazardous horizontal gradients poses a threat to the accuracy and integrity of the safety-critical civil aviation precision approach. The carrier phase-based monitors are widely applied for evaluating and detecting the non-nominal troposphere. However, the detection sensitivity of carrier phase-based monitor is significantly limited by the reliability of ambiguity resolution. A two-step non-nominal troposphere monitor is proposed based on the parallel short-baseline reference receivers. The probabilities of false alarm and missed detection are dynamically allocated between the two-step monitoring of ambiguity resolution and non-nominal troposphere sequentially. The real BDS dual-frequency data are utilized to test the proposed two-step monitoring method. The result shows that the proposed two-step monitor with the dynamic allocation can obtain the detection sensitivity improvement by 40.5% when compared with the fixed allocation method. It has been demonstrated that the proposed monitor can effectively reduce the integrity risk of high-precision navigation service caused by non-nominal troposphere.
Two firing modes and well-resolved Na + , K + , and Ca 2+ currents at the cell-microelectrode junction of spontaneously active rat chromaffin cell on MEAs
Authors: Marcantoni Andrea , Chiantia Giuseppe , Tomagra Giulia , Hidisoglu Enis , Franchino Claudio , Carabelli Valentina , Carbone Emilio
Published: August 2022

We recorded spontaneous extracellular action potentials (eAPs) from rat chromaffin cells (CCs) at 37°C using microelectrode-arrays (MEAs) and compared them with intracellularly recorded APs (iAPs) through conventional patch-clamp recordings at 22°C. We show the existence of two distinct firing modes on MEAs: a ~ 4 Hz irregular continuous firing and a frequent intermittent firing mode where periods of high-intraburst frequency (~ 8 Hz) of ~ 7 s duration are interrupted by silent periods of ~ 12 s. eAPs occurred either as negative- or positive-going signals depending on the contact between cell and microelectrode: either predominantly controlled by junction-membrane ion channels (negative-going) or capacitive/ohmic coupling (positive-going).Negative-going eAPs were found to represent the trajectory of the Na+, Ca2+ and K+ currents passing through the cell area in tight contact with the microelectrode during an AP (point-contact junction). The inward Nav component of eAPs was blocked by TTX in a dose-dependent manner (IC50 ~ 10nM) while the outward component was almost fully attenuated by the BK channel blocker paxilline (200nM) or TEA (5mM). The SK channel blocker apamin (200nM) had no effect on eAPs. Inward Nav and Cav currents were well-resolved after block of Kv and BK channels in cells exhibiting no evident outward K+ currents. Unexpectedly, on the same type of cells, we could also resolve inward L-type currents after adding nifedipine (3µM). In conclusion, MEAs furnish a direct way to record different firing modes of rat CCs and to estimate the Na+, Ca2+ and K+ currents that sustain cell firing and spontaneous catecholamines secretion.
Development and Validation of a Glioma-Associated Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Related Gene Prognostic Index for Predicting Prognosis and Guiding Individualized Therapy in Glioma
Authors: Peng Zesheng , Wu Yuxi , Wang Jiajing , Gu Sujie , Wang Yihao , Xue Bingzhou , Fu Peng , Xiang Wei
Published: August 2022

Background: Recent studies have demonstrated that glioma-associated mesenchymal stem cells (GA-MSCs) are implicated in the regulation of glioma malignant progression. However, the prognostic value of GA-MSCs has not been comprehensively explored in glioma.Methods: We extracted GA-MSCs from glioma tissues, established intracranial xenograft models in nude mice, and obtained GA-MSC-related genes (GA-MSCRGs) by using microarrays. The transcriptome data and clinical information of glioma patients were obtained from the CGGA and TCGA databases. We screened 8 prognostic GA-MSCRGs to construct a prognostic index by using the multivariate Cox regression method. The validity of the GA-MSCRGPI was verified in the training (CGGA693) and validation (TCGA and CGGA325) cohorts. The expression patterns of these 8 GA-MSCRGs were validated in 78 glioma tissue specimens by using a qRT‒PCR assay.Results: GA-MSCs were successfully isolated from glioma tissues. Based on intracranial xenograft models and transcriptome microarray screening, 8 genes (MCM7, CDK6, ORC1, CCL20, TNFRSF12A, POLA1, TRAF1 and TIAM1) were selected for the construction of a GA-MSC-related gene prognostic index (GA-MSCRGPI). In both the training and validation cohorts, high GA-MSCRGPI patients showed an inferior survival outcome compared with low GA-MSCRGPI patients. A nomogram was established based on independent prognostic indicators (PRGPI, age and WHO grade) and exhibited a strong forecasting ability for overall survival (OS). Moreover, we found that the GA-MSCRGPI could evaluate the prognosis of glioma patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy. The high GA-MSCRGPI group exhibited higher immune, stromal and ESTIMATE scores; lower tumor purity; higher infiltration of Tregs and M2-type macrophages; fewer activated NK cells; and higher expression of immune checkpoints. Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) showed that the high GA-MSCRGPI group had more responders to ICI therapy. The results of the genetic mutation profile and tumor mutation burden (TMB) in different GA-MSCRGPI subgroups further supplement GA-MSCRGPI-related mechanisms. Finally, the expression patterns of 8 selected GA-MSCRGs in GA-MSCRGPI were correlated with glioma WHO grades to a certain extent.Conclusion: The constructed GA-MSCRGPI could predict prognosis and guide individualized therapy in glioma patients.
The use of Foundational Ontologies in Bioinformatics
Authors: Bernabé César H. , Queralt-Rosinach Núria , Souza Vítor E. Silva , Santos Luiz Olavo Bonino da Silva , Mons Barend , Jacobsen Annika , Roos Marco
Published: August 2022

Background: The FAIR principles recommend the use of controlled vocabularies, such as ontologies, to define data and metadata concepts. Ontologies are currently modelled following different approaches, sometimes describing conflicting definitions of the same concepts, which can affect interoperability. To cope with that, prior literature suggests organising ontologies in levels, where domain specific (low-level) ontologies are grounded in domain independent high-level ontologies (i.e., foundational ontologies). In this level-based organisation, foundational ontologies work as translators of intended meaning, thus improving interoperability. Despite their considerable acceptance in bioinformatics, there are very few studies testing foundational ontologies. This paper describes a systematic literature mapping that was conducted to understand how foundational ontologies are used in bioinformatics and to find empirical evidence supporting their claimed (dis)advantages. Results: From a set of 79 selected papers, we identified that foundational ontologies are used for several purposes in bioinformatics: ontology construction, repair, mapping, and ontology-based (federated) data analysis. Foundational ontologies are claimed to improve interoperability, enhance reasoning, speed up ontology development and facilitate maintainability. The complexity of using foundational ontologies is the most commonly cited downside. Despite being used for several purposes, there were hardly any experiments (1 paper) testing the claims for or against the use of foundational ontologies. In the subset of 49 papers that describe the development of an ontology, it was observed a low adherence to ontology construction (16 papers) and ontology evaluation formal methods (4 papers). Conclusion: Our findings have two main implications. First, the lack of empirical evidence about the use of foundational ontologies indicates a need for evaluating the use of such artefacts in bioinformatics. Second, the low adherence to formal methods illustrates how the bioinformatics field could benefit from a more systematic approach when dealing with the development and evaluation of ontologies. The understanding of how foundational ontologies are used in bioinformatics can drive future research towards the improvement of ontologies and, consequently, data FAIRness. The adoption of formal methods can impact the quality and sustainability of ontologies, and reusing these methods from other fields is encouraged.
Thermodynamic of moisture vapor sorption and mechanical properties of methylcellulose and ethylcellulose based films to predict its stability
Authors: Velazquez Gonzalo , Guadarrama-Lezama Andrea Y. , Viveros-Contreras Rubi , Diaz-Bandera Daniel , Castaño Johanna
Published: August 2022

The thermodynamic parameters of moisture adsorption isotherms and the mechanical behavior of ethylcellulose (EC) and metylcellulose (MC) polymer-based films were studied. The experimental isotherms were well fitted using the GAB equation with E < 10%. The thermodynamic analysis showed that the minimum integral entropy value was found in the 0.1–0.6 range of water activity (aw) in both types of films, being the lower values for MC. Pore radius values of the films ranged from 0.49 to 352.56 nm, which corresponds to the micropores and mesopores classification. As the moisture content and temperature increased, the pore radius also increased. Compensation enthalpy-entropy in films showed that the water vapor adsorption phenomena was driven by entropy at low aw values. Mechanical analysis of films equilibrated at different aw conditions (0.11–0.90) showed constant values of tensile strength and elongation to break for films at aw values between 0.1 and 0.6, where also the minimum of entropy was reached, confirming that thermodynamic properties could be used to predict the stability of films. The study of thermodynamic water adsorption and the mechanical properties allows understanding the preparation process of stable films with adequate parameters intended for food packaging materials.