bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Injury to the Extrasellar Portion of the Internal Carotid Artery during Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery: A Case Report
Authors: Teramoto Shinichiro , Tahara Shigeyuki , Murai Yasuo , Sato Shun , Hattori Yujiro , Kondo Akihide , Morita Akio
Published: May 2022

Background

Injury to the internal carotid artery (ICA) during endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (ETSS) is a serious complication with a risk of mortality. ICA injury during ETSS usually occurs during intrasellar manipulations and rarely occurs in the extrasellar portion. Several hemostatic procedures have been proposed for ICA injury in the intrasellar portion, whereas hemostatic methods for ICA injury in the extrasellar portion, where the ICA is surrounded by bone structures, are less well known.

Case Presentation

A 65-year-old man with an incidental pituitary tumor underwent ETSS. The petrous portion of the left ICA was injured during resection of the sphenoid septum connected with left carotid prominence using a cutting forceps. Bleeding was too heavy for simple hemostatic techniques. Hemostasis using a crushed muscle patch was tried unsuccessfully during controlling of the bleeding. Eventually, the injured site of the ICA was covered with cotton patties followed by closing with a vascularized pedicled nasoseptal flap. Cerebral angiography immediately after surgery showed no extravasation from the injured site of the left ICA petrous portion. However, a carotid-cavernous sinus fistula originating from the injured ICA site was detected 7 days after surgery, so the vascular reconstructive surgery combined with left ICA occlusion was performed. The overall postoperative course was uneventful.

Conclusion

We believe that emergency application of the cottonoids may be effective for hemostasis against ICA injury in the extrasellar portion during ETSS, but further vascular reconstruction combined with ICA occlusion on the injured side and removal of the cottonoids would be required.
Numerical Investigation on the Performance of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell With Zigzag Flow Channels
Authors: Zhang Shuanyang , Liu Shun , Xu Hongtao , Mao Yijun , Wang Ke
Published: May 2022

Reasonable flow channel designs play a significant role in improving the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC). The effect of the zigzag flow channels with three different numbers of turns on the performance of PEMFC was investigated in this paper. The polarization curves, molar concentration of oxygen and water, and power density were analyzed, and the numerical results showed that the overall performance of the zigzag flow channels was significantly better than that of the conventional parallel flow channel. With the increase of the number of turns from 3 to 9, the performance of PEMFC was gradually improved, the diffusion capacity of oxygen to the interface of the electrochemical reaction was also promoted, and the low oxygen concentration regions were gradually reduced. When the number of turns was 9, the current density of PEMFC was 8.85% higher than that of the conventional parallel channel at the operating voltage of 0.4 V, and the oxygen non-uniformity at the between gas diffusion layer (GDL) and catalyst layer (CL) interface was the minimum with a value of 0.51. In addition, the molar concentration of water in the channel also decreased. Due to the relatively large resistance of the zigzag flow channels, the maximum pressure drop of the zigzag flow channel was 263.5 Pa, which was also conducive to the improvement of the drainage effect of the conventional parallel flow channel. With the increase of the number of turns in the zigzag channel, the pressure drop and parasitic power density gradually increased. The 9-zigzag flow channel obtained the maximum pressure drop and net power density, which were 263.5 Pa and 2995.6 W/m2, respectively.
Comprehensive Review on the Interactions of Clay Minerals With Animal Physiology and Production
Authors: Damato Anna , Vianello Fabio , Novelli Enrico , Balzan Stefania , Gianesella Matteo , Giaretta Elisa , Gabai Gianfranco
Published: May 2022

Clay minerals are naturally occurring rock and soil materials primarily composed of fine-grained aluminosilicate minerals, characterized by high hygroscopicity. In animal production, clays are often mixed with feed and, due to their high binding capacity towards organic molecules, used to limit animal absorption of feed contaminants, such as mycotoxins and other toxicants. Binding capacity of clays is not specific and these minerals can form complexes with different compounds, such as nutrients and pharmaceuticals, thus possibly affecting the intestinal absorption of important substances. Indeed, clays cannot be considered a completely inert feed additive, as they can interfere with gastro-intestinal (GI) metabolism, with possible consequences on animal physiology. Moreover, clays may contain impurities, constituted of inorganic micronutrients and/or toxic trace elements, and their ingestion can affect animal health. Furthermore, clays may also have effects on the GI mucosa, possibly modifying nutrient digestibility and animal microbiome. Finally, clays may directly interact with GI cells and, depending on their mineral grain size, shape, superficial charge and hydrophilicity, can elicit an inflammatory response. As in the near future due to climate change the presence of mycotoxins in feedstuffs will probably become a major problem, the use of clays in feedstuff, given their physico-chemical properties, low cost, apparent low toxicity and eco-compatibility, is expected to increase. The present review focuses on the characteristics and properties of clays as feed additives, evidencing pros and cons. Aims of future studies are suggested, evidencing that, in particular, possible interferences of these minerals with animal microbiome, nutrient absorption and drug delivery should be assessed. Finally, the fate of clay particles during their transit within the GI system and their long-term administration/accumulation should be clarified.
Retrospective Evaluation of Outcome in Dogs With Appendicular Osteosarcoma Following Hypofractionated Palliative Radiation Therapy With or Without Bisphosphonates: 165 Cases (2010–2019)
Authors: Ringdahl-Mayland Beck , Thamm Douglas H. , Martin Tiffany W.
Published: May 2022

Objective

To report the survival times in dogs that received a standardized palliative-intent radiation therapy (RT) protocol for the treatment of canine appendicular osteosarcoma (OSA), alone or in combination with bisphosphonates (BPs), and to determine whether the addition of BPs affects survival. A secondary objective was to identify prognostic features that may influence outcome in dogs undergoing treatment.

Design

Retrospective case series.

Materials and Methods

Dogs with presumed or confirmed OSA of the appendicular limb treated with daily hypofractionated RT (8 Gy x 2) at the Flint Animal Cancer Center between 2010 and 2019 were evaluated retrospectively. Clinical data were abstracted from the medical records, and adjuvant therapies were noted. Outcome was assessed using medical records and electronic follow up.

Results

One hundred and sixty-five dogs were included. Sixty-eight dogs received BPs as a part of their palliative-intent treatment. The median survival time from first RT treatment to death was not significantly different between groups (119 vs. 109 days for BP and non-BP groups, respectively, p = 0.758). Only age (>9 years) was found to be prognostic in this population (p = 0.031). Factors that were not found to be associated with survival time included BP drug type, timing of BP administration, tumor location, weight, breed, sex, time to treatment, concurrent administration of chemotherapy, and salvage amputation.

Conclusions

This study suggests no difference in outcome for dogs treated with and without BPs in addition to hypofractionated RT. Prospective studies are needed to determine if the addition of BPs to hypofractionated RT leads to an improved quality of life in dogs undergoing palliative-intent treatment for OSA.
Preoperative Serum Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9 Levels Cannot Predict the Surgical Resectability of Pancreatic Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Benke Márton , Farkas Nelli , Hegyi Péter , Tinusz Benedek , Sarlós Patrícia , Erőss Bálint , Szemes Kata , Vörhendi Nóra , Szakács Zsolt , Szücs Ákos
Published: May 2022

Background and Aims: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma has one of the worst prognosis of all malignancies. This investigated the relationship between the preoperative serum carbohydrate antigen 19-9 and surgical resectability.

Methods: A systematic search was performed in three databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science) to compare the surgical resectability of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma in patients with high and low preoperative serum carbohydrate antigen 19-9 values. The receiving operating characteristic curves were constructed and the weighted mean differences for preoperative serum carbohydrate antigen 19-9 levels of resectable and unresectable groups of patients were calculated. The PROSPERO registration number is CRD42019132522.

Results: Results showed that there was a significant difference in resectability between the low and high carbohydrate antigen 19-9 groups. Six out of the eight studies utilised receiver operating characteristic curves in order to find the cut-off preoperative carbohydrate antigen 19-9 levels marking unresectability. The overall result from the pooled area under curve values from the receiver operating characteristic curves was 0.794 (CI: 0.694–0.893), showing that the preoperative carbohydrate antigen 19-9 level is a “fair” marker of resectability. The result of the pooled weighted mean differences was 964 U/ml (p < 0.001) showing that there is a significant carbohydrate antigen 19-9 difference between the resectable and unresectable groups. Based on the results of the I-squared test, the result was 87.4%, accounting for “considerable” heterogeneity within the population.

Conclusion: Carbohydrate antigen 19-9 is not a reliable marker of unresectability, it should not be used on its own in surgical decision-making.
Dynamic Behaviour of Donor Specific Antibodies in the Early Period Following HLA Incompatible Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Phillpott Mason , Daga Sunil , Higgins Rob , Lowe David , Krishnan Nithya , Zehnder Daniel , Briggs David , Khovanova Natalia
Published: May 2022

In HLA-incompatible kidney transplantation, monitoring donor-specific antibodies (DSA) plays a crucial role in providing appropriate treatment and increases kidney survival times. This work aimed to determine if early post-transplant DSA dynamics inform graft outcome over and above other predictive factors. Eighty-eight cases were classified by unsupervised machine learning into five distinct DSA response groups: no response, fast modulation, slow modulation, rise to sustained and sustained. Fast modulation dynamics gave an 80% rate for early acute rejection, whereas the sustained group was associated with the lowest rejection rates (19%). In complete contrast, the five-year graft failure was lowest in the modulation groups (4–7%) and highest in the sustained groups (25–31%). Multivariable analysis showed that a higher pre-treatment DSA level, male gender and absence of early acute rejection were strongly associated with a sustained DSA response. The modulation group had excellent five-year outcomes despite higher rates of early rejection episodes. This work further develops an understanding of post-transplant DSA dynamics and their influence on graft survival following HLA-incompatible kidney transplantation.
Modeling the Potential of Treg-Based Therapies for Transplant Rejection: Effect of Dose, Timing, and Accumulation Site
Authors: Lapp Maya M. , Lin Guang , Komin Alexander , Andrews Leah , Knudson Mei , Mossman Lauren , Raimondi Giorgio , Arciero Julia C.
Published: May 2022

Introduction: The adoptive transfer of regulatory T cells (Tregs) has emerged as a method to promote graft tolerance. Clinical trials have demonstrated the safety of adoptive transfer and are now assessing their therapeutic efficacy. Strategies that generate large numbers of antigen specific Tregs are even more efficacious. However, the combinations of factors that influence the outcome of adoptive transfer are too numerous to be tested experimentally. Here, mathematical modeling is used to predict the most impactful treatment scenarios.

Methods: We adapted our mathematical model of murine heart transplant rejection to simulate Treg adoptive transfer and to correlate therapeutic efficacy with Treg dose and timing, frequency of administration, and distribution of injected cells.

Results: The model predicts that Tregs directly accumulating to the graft are more protective than Tregs localizing to draining lymph nodes. Inhibiting antigen-presenting cell maturation and effector functions at the graft site was more effective at modulating rejection than inhibition of T cell activation in lymphoid tissues. These complex dynamics define non-intuitive relationships between graft survival and timing and frequency of adoptive transfer.

Conclusion: This work provides the framework for better understanding the impact of Treg adoptive transfer and will guide experimental design to improve interventions.
Posttransplantation Diabetes Mellitus Among Solid Organ Recipients in a Danish Cohort
Authors: Dos Santos Quenia , Hornum Mads , Terrones-Campos Cynthia , Crone Cornelia Geisler , Wareham Neval Ete , Soeborg Andreas , Rasmussen Allan , Gustafsson Finn , Perch Michael , Soerensen Soeren Schwartz , Lundgren Jens , Feldt-Rasmussen Bo , Reekie Joanne
Published: May 2022

Post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is associated with a higher risk of adverse outcomes. We aimed to describe the proportion of patients with diabetes prior to solid organ transplantation (SOT) and post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) in three time periods (early-likely PTDM: 0–45 days; 46–365 days and >365 days) post-transplant and to estimate possible risk factors associated with PTDM in each time-period. Additionally, we compared the risk of death and causes of death in patients with diabetes prior to transplant, PTDM, and non-diabetes patients. A total of 959 SOT recipients (heart, lung, liver, and kidney) transplanted at University Hospital of Copenhagen between 2010 and 2015 were included. The highest PTDM incidence was observed at 46–365 days after transplant in all SOT recipients. Age and the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI Score) in all time periods were the two most important risk factors for PTDM. Compared to non-diabetes patients, SOT recipients with pre-transplant diabetes and PTDM patients had a higher risk of all-cause mortality death (aHR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.16–2.69 and aHR: 1.89, 95% CI: 1.17–3.06 respectively). Pre-transplant diabetes and PTDM patients had a higher risk of death due to cardiovascular diseases and cancer, respectively, when compared to non-diabetes patients.
Liderazgo directivo y desempeño profesional docente de la enseñanza virtual durante el estado de emergencia sanitaria en una escuela pública
Authors: Maita-Díaz David , Nolazco-Labajos Fernando Alexis , Menacho-Carhuamaca Jaime David
Published: May 2022

El liderazgo directivo en tiempos de virtualidad ha constituido un reto institucional, así como el desempeño profesional docente en las actividades pedagógicas desarrolladas en el proceso formativo escolar, predispuestas en alcanzar el cumplimiento de sus objetivos y metas planificadas lo que involucra una convivencia efectiva entre directivos y docentes. De esta manera, el objetivo del estudio fue establecer la relación significativa entre el liderazgo directivo y el desempeño docente en el escenario virtual escolar. Se ha desarrollado la metodología de enfoque cuantitativo, correlacional de diseño no experimental en una escuela pública y se ha contado con la participación de los docentes a quienes se les aplicó un cuestionario validado. Los resultados mostraron que el liderazgo directivo en la virtualidad se encuentra en un nivel regular y en cuanto al desempeño docente se identificó la necesidad de mejorar el desarrollo de la profesionalidad e identidad pedagógica. Se concluyó que si existe relación entre variables y la sugerencia de implementar y fortalecer las competencias de liderazgo para los directivos y las competencias profesionales digitales para los docentes en la enseñanza virtual.
Impacto del modelo STEM en el aprendizaje del Principio de Pascal
Authors: Calle-Chumo Rafael Norberto
Published: May 2022

El propósito del presente artículo fue analizar el rendimiento de dos metodologías activas para mejorar la enseñanza de la Física, a través de una comparación entre aprendizaje basado en proyectos y STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), durante una práctica del Principio de Pascal en estudiantes de ingeniería, asistida por la metodología cuantitativa. Para ello, se determinó la ganancia de aprendizaje normalizada de Hake frente a dos escenarios de instrucción; ABP (grupo de control) frente a STEM (grupo experimental) con 69 estudiantes entre 18 y 21 años, a través de un cuestionario de diez preguntas de opción múltiple con una única respuesta. Como resultado, los estadísticos de aprendizaje compararon ambas metodologías y presentaron dos indicadores de rechazo: probabilidad inferior y estadístico t. Seguidamente, un análisis post-hoc apoyado por un factor de concentración verificó en cada grupo las medias de calificaciones de entrada y salida en zonas de comprensión. Al finalizar, se comprobó que la metodología STEM generó mayor incremento en el aprendizaje ya que sus anchos de distribución distaban en mayor valor frente al ABP, dejando la concentración de zonas en niveles superiores denominados como correctos. En definitiva, se comprobó que el modelo STEM brinda mayor efectividad metodológica, ya que caracteriza el entorno propicio para facultar el aprendizaje hacia la comprensión, creatividad, análisis y cálculos en estudiantes universitarios de ingeniería.
Incidencias de las restricciones por pandemia en las pequeñas empresas de la ciudad de Quito, periodo 2019-2020
Authors: Balarezo-Noboa Mauricio Alberto , Cumbal-Flores Héctor Silvio , Vaca-Sandoval Gladys Umbelina , Villamarín-Granja María Yolanda
Published: May 2022

Las pequeñas empresas son organizaciones flexibles que se adaptan a los nuevos rumbos, protagonistas en el mercado local, en América Latina son fuente de sustento para los hogares, contribuyen a los ingresos fiscales y al crecimiento del Producto Interno Bruto (PIB). En tiempos de pandemia este sector de la economía fue muy afectado, amerita analizar las incidencias de las restricciones establecidas por el gobierno ecuatoriano en el contexto COVID. El objetivo de este estudio fue conocer las incidencias que dejaron las medidas restrictivas en plena pandemia. Se utilizó el método exploratorio descriptivo aplicado al grupo de pequeñas empresas de la ciudad de Quito para los años 2019 y 2020. Entre los resultados de esta investigación se aprecian: el cierre de 425 empresas, disminución del empleo y la afectación en variables financieras como el impuesto a la renta que dejó de recaudar el Servicio de Rentas Internas por más de 10 millones de dólares. Las conclusiones señalan que este grupo de empresas es más vulnerable ante eventos desastrosos como la pandemia, se deja al descubierto la dificultad para cubrir nuevas inversiones y mantenerse en el mercado, así como la carencia de recursos, vía tributos, que incidió también en la gestión operativa del aparato público. Retos para futuras investigaciones representan: el análisis de las incidencias en otras ciudades importantes del país y las estrategias de resiliencia adoptadas por los empresarios en tiempos de emergencia sanitaria.
Minor Sea Turtle Nesting Areas May Remain Unnoticed without Specific Monitoring: The Case of the Largest Mediterranean Island (Sicily, Italy)
Authors: Prato Oleana Olga , Paduano Valentina , Baldi Giulia , Bonsignore Salvatore , Callea Gerlando , Camera Carlo , Culmone Girolamo , D’angelo Stefania , Fiorentino Diego , Galia Gino , Coriglione Salvatore , Genco Laura , Mazzotta Giuseppe , Napolitano Nicola , Palazzo Francesco Paolo , Palilla Giuseppe , Pelletti Santo Dylan , Mingozzi Toni , Agresti Luigi , Casale Paolo
Published: May 2022

Identifying coastal tracts suitable for sea turtle reproduction is crucial for sea turtle conservation in a context of fast coastal development and climate change. In contrast to nesting aggregations, diffuse nesting is elusive and assessing nesting levels is challenging. A total of 323 nesting events by the loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta have been reported in Sicily, the largest Mediterranean island, in the 1944–2021 period, mostly in the last decade. Specific monitoring efforts are the most likely explanation for such an increase and shows that sea turtle nesting may be underestimated or completely ignored in many areas with scattered nesting. The real nesting level along the 464 km sandy shores of Sicily is still unknown and more research is needed. The observed incubation period was relatively long (57 d) suggesting that a majority of males are produced in Sicily, in contrast to the typical female-biased sex ratio of sea turtles. In a context of climate warming producing sex ratios more skewed towards females, the potential of Sicily as a male-producing area should be further investigated. Other reproductive parameters are provided, such as clutch size and hatching and emergence success. A negative effect of relocation on the latter two was observed.
Prevalence and Genotyping of Anaplasma phagocytophilum Strains from Wild Animals, European Bison (Bison bonasus) and Eurasian Moose (Alces alces) in Poland
Authors: Myczka Anna W. , Kaczor Stanisław , Filip-Hutsch Katarzyna , Czopowicz Michał , Plis-Kuprianowicz Elwira , Laskowski Zdzisław
Published: May 2022

Wild large ungulates, like European bison (Bison bonasus) and Eurasian moose (Alces alces), form an important part of the circulation of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, a Gram-negative, intracellular, tick-transmitted bacterium, in the natural environment. Bison and moose tissue samples were subjected to 16S rDNA, groEL and ankA partial gene marker amplification with specific primers using various variants of PCR. Out of 42 examined individuals, Anaplasma sp. were detected in 4/13 Eurasian moose (31%) and 7/29 European bison (24%). In addition, 12 groEL and 5 ankA partial gene positive samples were obtained from the examined animals. The phylogenetic analysis of the groEL partial gene classified samples from European bison to ecotype I, and samples from Eurasian moose to ecotype I and II; the analysis of the ankA partial gene assigned the samples to clusters I and IV. This study extends knowledge about A. phagocytophilum in wild large ungulates in Poland. This is the first report about the occurrence of Anaplasma sp. in one of the largest populations of free living European bison in the world. Our findings confirm that strains of A. phagocytophilum from Bison bonasus and Alces alces may constitute a natural reservoir of pathogenic HGA Anaplasma strains.
Ethanol Extract of Artemisia Annua Prevents LPS-Induced Inflammation and Blood–Milk Barrier Disruption in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Song Jie , Hu Yao , Wang Lifang , Ao Changjin
Published: May 2022

This experiment evaluated the pre-protective effect of AAE on inflammatory injury and tight junction disturbance in bMECs induced by LPS. The bMECs were treated with AAE (3, 6, 12 μg/mL) for 3 h and then incubated with 10 μg/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 12 h. Our results showed that LPS significantly increased the mRNA and protein expression of CD36, induced the phosphorylation of IκBα and p65 and elevated the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA, which further resulted in ultrastructural damage, disrupted the expression of tight junction proteins (occludin, zonula occludens (ZO-1) and claudin-1) and decreased the viability of bMECs (p < 0.05). More importantly, AAE pretreatment attenuated the expression of CD36, suppressed the activity of the NF-κB signaling pathway and down-regulated the levels of inflammatory factors in LPS-stimulated bMECs (p < 0.05). Therefore, AAE can effectively protect bMECs against inflammatory injury and tight junction dysfunction, which has important research value for the prevention of bovine mastitis.
Effects of Aromatherapy on the Physical and Mental Health and Pressure of the Middle-Aged and Elderly in the Community
Authors: Ke Mei-Hua , Hsieh Kun-Ta , Hsieh Wen-Ying
Published: May 2022

The physical and mental health of an aging society has become a major issue, and stress reduction and the improvement of physical and mental health are important physical and mental health issues for middle-aged and elderly people. This research sought to explore the application of aromatherapy for the improvement of physical and mental health and stress levels, as well as other issues, that concern the elderly in the community. The research was based on intentional sampling. A pre- and post-test design with unequal groups was employed. The experimental treatments were divided into five groups: Group A (compound essential oil massage plus sniffing), Group B (compound essential oil massage), Group C (pure base oil massage), Group D (compound essential oil sniffing), and control Group E (without any aromatherapy intervention). To explore the effects of aromatherapy on physical and mental health and stress relief among the elderly in the community, the self-completed Mental and Physical Health Scale for the Elderly and the Stress Index Measurement Scale were used to collect data. The obtained data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and by paired sample t-test. It was concluded that aromatherapy can improve the physical and mental health of the elderly in the community and can significantly reduce stress. The experimental results on aromatherapy in this study can provide a basis for home application to help the elderly in the community. They also provide a foundation for the organization of health promotion courses for the elderly and other practical applications in social welfare group planning.
Innovative Trend Analysis of High-Altitude Climatology of Kashmir Valley, North-West Himalayas
Authors: Gujree Ishfaq , Ahmad Ijaz , Zhang Fan , Arshad Arfan
Published: May 2022

This paper investigates the annual and seasonal variations in the minimum and maximum air temperature (Tmin and Tmax) and precipitation over Kashmir valley, Northwestern Himalayas from 1980–2019 by using the innovative trend analysis (ITA), Mann-Kendall (MK), and Sen’s slope estimator methods. The results indicated that the annual and seasonal Tmin and Tmax are increasing for all the six climatic stations, whereas four of them exhibit significant increasing trends at (α = 0.05). Moreover, this increase in Tmin and Tmax was found more pronounced at higher altitude stations, i.e., Pahalgam (2650 m asl) and Gulmarg (2740 m asl). The annual and seasonal precipitation patterns for all climatic stations showed downward trends. For instance, Gulmarg station exhibited a significant downward trend for the annual, spring, and winter seasons (α = 0.05). Whereas, Qazigund showed a significant downward trend for the annual and spring seasons (α = 0.05). The overall analysis revealed that the increased Tmin and Tmax trends during the winter season are one of the reasons behind the early onset of melting of snow and the corresponding spring season. Furthermore, the observed decreased precipitation trends could result in making the region vulnerable towards drier climatic extremes. Such changes in the region’s hydro-meteorological processes shall have severe implications on the delicate ecological balance of the fragile environment of the Kashmir valley.
Application of Affinity Propagation Clustering Method in Medium and Extended Range Forecasting of Heavy Rainfall Processes in China
Authors: Huang Wei , Li Yong
Published: May 2022

Based on the precipitation data of an ensemble forecast from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, we establish a clustering model named EOF_AP by using the empirical orthogonal function decomposition and the affinity propagation clustering method. Then, using EOF_AP, we conducted research on the identification and classification of the characteristics of medium and extended range forecasts on 11 heavy rainfall events in the middle–lower reaches of the Yangtze River, North China, and the Huanghuai region, from June to September in 2021. We then selected two representative cases to analyze the common characteristics in detail to evaluate the effect of the model. The results show that the EOF_AP clustering model can better identify and classify the main rainfall pattern characteristics, and their corresponding occurrence probability of heavy rainfall processes, on the basis of comprehensively retaining the main forecast information of ensemble members with a few representative types. The rainfall pattern characteristics of some types with low occurrence probability can be identified, such as the extreme type. The distributions of rainfall patterns of the same type are basically consistent, whereas those among different types are distinct. Moreover, through the comparison of the forecast results with different starting times, we analyze the forecast performance of ensemble members and the variation trend of forecast results. We hope this study can provide a reference for the probability forecast of medium and extended range heavy rainfall process.
No Cooperative Lamb Shift in Response of Thin Slab to cw Beam of Resonant Light
Authors: Friedberg Richard , Manassah Jamal T.
Published: May 2022

We review the definition of cooperative Lamb shift originally introduced by ourselves and S. R. Hartmann in 1973. We point out that the definition specified the preparation of a sample of identical two-level atoms prepared with partial excitation by a short pulse. We spell out in some detail the reasoning behind our assertion that the CLS does not enter into the dielectric constant, which determines the transmission of cw radiation through a sample. We give a prescription, using the transfer matrix formalism, for determining the transmission coefficient through a slab, given the thickness in wavelengths and the dielectric constant. We explore the possibility of achieving a true measurement of the CLS in a gaseous cold-atom cloud, with the help of a large foreign gas broadening of the resonant line.
Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench Pod Extract Revealed Antagonistic Effect against the Synergistic Antidiabetic Activity of Metformin and Acarbose upon Concomitant Administration in Glucose-Induced Hyperglycemic Mice
Authors: Haque Md. Anamul , Hossain Md. Sanower , Sayed Nur Muhammad Abu , Islam Mohammad Touhidul , Khan Md. Robin , Ahmmed Foyez , Zohora Fatama Tous , Ağagündüz Duygu , Ming Long Chiau , Capasso Raffaele
Published: May 2022

Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench, commonly known as okra, is one of the most widely used vegetable crops currently used for diabetes treatment as well. It is thought that the large amount of soluble dietary fibers present in okra is responsible for the slowing of the absorption of glucose from the gut. However, its role in concomitant administration with commonly prescribed medications, including metformin (MET) and acarbose (ACR) for diabetes, is unclear. Therefore, this study assessed the effect of A. esculentus pod extract (AEE) administered concomitantly with MET and ACR in the glucose-induced hyperglycemic mice model. The AEE was prepared using green okra pods. In this experiment, each male Swiss Webster mouse was administered a 2.5 gm/kg/BW dose of glucose via gastric lavage to induce hyperglycemia. The experimental animals were divided into five groups: (i) negative control, (ii) positive control, (iii) MET only, (iv) MET and ACR, and (v) MET, ACR, and AEE. The orally administered doses of the MET, ACR, and the extract were 150 mg/kg/BW, 15 mg/kg/BW, and 0.2 mL/kg/BW, respectively. We found that MET only and a combination of MET and ACR reduced glucose levels significantly (p < 0.01) compared to the positive control. On the other hand, when MET, ACR, and AEE were administered simultaneously, the synergistic antihyperglycemic action of the MET and ACR was diminished. After 150 min, the blood glucose level was 4.50 ± 0.189 mmol/L (iv) and 6.58 ± 0.172 mmol/L (v). This study suggests that taking AEE concurrently with MET and ACR would reduce the effectiveness of antidiabetic drugs; thereby, concomitant administration of these antidiabetic agents is not recommended. This study provides an essential basis for decision-making about the consumption of AEE with conventional medicine. Further study is required to find the molecular insight of drug interactions in combination therapy of medicinal plants for diabetes.
Syntax Acquisition in Healthy Adults and Post-Stroke Individuals: The Intriguing Role of Grammatical Preference, Statistical Learning, and Education
Authors: Kirsch Simon , Elser Carolin , Barbieri Elena , Kümmerer Dorothee , Weiller Cornelius , Musso Mariacristina
Published: May 2022

Previous work has provided contrasting evidence on syntax acquisition. Syntax-internal factors, i.e., instinctive knowledge of the universals of grammar (UG) for finite-state grammar (FSG) and phrase-structure grammar (PSG) but also syntax-external factors such as language competence, working memory (WM) and demographic factors may affect syntax acquisition. This study employed an artificial grammar paradigm to identify which factors predicted syntax acquisition. Thirty-seven healthy individuals and forty-nine left-hemispheric stroke patients (fourteen with aphasia) read syllable sequences adhering to or violating FSG and PSG. They performed preference classifications followed by grammatical classifications (after training). Results showed the best classification accuracy for sequences adhering to UG, with performance predicted by syntactic competence and spatial WM. Classification of ungrammatical sequences improved after training and was predicted by verbal WM. Although accuracy on FSG was better than on PSG, generalization was fully possible only for PSG. Education was the best predictor of syntax acquisition, while aphasia and lesion volume were not predictors. This study shows a clear preference for UG, which is influenced by spatial and linguistic knowledge, but not by the presence of aphasia. Verbal WM supported the identification of rule violations. Moreover, the acquisition of FSG and PSG was related to partially different mechanisms, but both depended on education.
Coupling CFD Simulation and Field Experiments in Summer to Prove Feng Shui Optimizes Courtyard Wind Environments: A Case Study of Prince Kung’s Mansion in Beijing
Authors: Guo Peiyan , Ding Chenyang , Guo Zipeng , Liu Tingfeng , Lyu Taifeng
Published: May 2022

Feng shui in ancient China was harmonized with the natural environment. The layout of houses following feng shui is conducive to a comfortable wind environment. To explore the positive influence of feng shui on ventilation, this study takes Prince Kung’s Mansion, which has the characteristics of a feng shui layout, as the research object. In parallel, the study assumes a dissimilation layout that has lost the feng shui layout characteristics. Comparing the ventilation of courtyards in the summer for both the feng shui layout and the dissimilation layout through CFD simulation, the results were as follows: (1) the wind speed values in the summer, taken from 60 points in Prince Kung’s Mansion by way of CFD simulation and field experiments, were well coupled, which proves that PHOENICS is suitable for the courtyard wind environments simulation in this study. (2) The CFD simulation results show that the average wind speed and the comfortable wind speed zone ratio in the courtyards of the feng shui layout were higher than those of the dissimilation layout during the summer, and the courtyard wind speeds of the two layouts were linearly related. Therefore, the feng shui layout is more conducive to the comfort of courtyards’ wind environment than the dissimilation layout. (3) The front and rear wind pressure differences of the main houses in the feng shui layout can optimize the indoor ventilation better than those of dissimilation layout in the summer. (4) According to the evaluation criteria for the wind environment, the wind speed and wind pressure of the feng shui layout are superior to those of dissimilation layout in the summer. In summary, this study verifies that the layout of feng shui optimizes the courtyard wind environment in the summer, which embodies the ecological concept of the Chinese ancients in the layout of houses.
Regulation of NKG2D Stress Ligands and Its Relevance in Cancer Progression
Authors: Jones Amber B. , Rocco Abbey , Lamb Lawrence S. , Friedman Gregory K. , Hjelmeland Anita B.
Published: May 2022

Under cellular distress, multiple facets of normal homeostatic signaling are altered or disrupted. In the context of the immune landscape, external and internal stressors normally promote the expression of natural killer group 2 member D (NKG2D) ligands that allow for the targeted recognition and killing of cells by NKG2D receptor-bearing effector populations. The presence or absence of NKG2D ligands can heavily influence disease progression and impact the accessibility of immunotherapy options. In cancer, tumor cells are known to have distinct regulatory mechanisms for NKG2D ligands that are directly associated with tumor progression and maintenance. Therefore, understanding the regulation of NKG2D ligands in cancer will allow for targeted therapeutic endeavors aimed at exploiting the stress response pathway. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of regulatory mechanisms controlling the induction and repression of NKG2D ligands in cancer. Additionally, we highlight current therapeutic endeavors targeting NKG2D ligand expression and offer our perspective on considerations to further enhance the field of NKG2D ligand biology.
Acupuncture and Moxibustion for Cancer-Related Fatigue: An Overview of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Choi Tae-Young , Ang Lin , Jun Ji Hee , Alraek Terje , Lee Myeong Soo
Published: May 2022

Although acupuncture (AT) is used in the treatment of CRF, the evidence from different systematic reviews (SRs) of AT has not yet been comprehensively evaluated. Moxibustion, which is a treatment method that is well established within Traditional East Asian Medicine, applies the heat of burning herbs towards or onto special points on the skin. Commonly, the herb Artemisia vulgaris, is used. It has been used for palliative cancer care, as well as for CRF. The aim of this overview was to evaluate the efficacy of AT and moxibustion in the management of CRF. Eleven databases were searched through for studies that were published from their dates of inception to February 2022. The study selection, the data extraction, and the assessment were performed independently by two researchers. The methodological and report quality were assessed by using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews-2 (AMSTAR-2) tool. The evidence quality was evaluated by using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Fifteen SRs on AT (n = 10) and moxibustion (n = 5) treatments for CRF were included, and they include 169 randomized controlled trials and 14,392 participants. All of the SRs that were evaluated by the AMASTAR-2 had more than one deficiency, and so all of the SRs were rated as either low or critically low. For the GRADE, 18 outcomes were rated as very-low-quality evidence, 13 as low-quality evidence, 3 as moderate-quality evidence, and 0 as high-quality evidence. Most of the SRs reached the potential benefits of AT for CRF. No serious adverse effects were identified. In conclusion, the evidence suggests that, despite the advantages of AT in terms of the improvement in and the safety of the treatment of CRF, the methodological quality of most of these studies is low, which limits our ability to draw definitive meanings. Further research of high quality is needed in order to confirm these findings.
Can Schlafen 11 Help to Stratify Ovarian Cancer Patients Treated with DNA-Damaging Agents?
Authors: Bednarikova Marketa , Hausnerova Jitka , Ehrlichova Lucie , Matulova Kvetoslava , Gazarkova Eliska , Minar Lubos , Weinberger Vit
Published: May 2022

Platinum-based chemotherapy has been the cornerstone of systemic treatment in ovarian cancer. Since no validated molecular predictive markers have been identified yet, the response to platinum-based chemotherapy has been evaluated clinically, based on platinum-free interval. The new promising marker Schlafen 11 seems to correlate with sensitivity or resistance to DNA-damaging agents, including platinum compounds or PARP inhibitors in various types of cancer. We provide background information about the function of Schlafen 11, its evaluation in tumor tissue, and its prevalence in ovarian cancer. We discuss the current evidence of the correlation of Schlafen 11 expression in ovarian cancer with treatment outcomes and the potential use of Schlafen 11 as the key predictive and prognostic marker that could help to better stratify ovarian cancer patients treated with platinum-based chemotherapy or PARP inhibitors. We also provide perspectives on future directions in the research on this promising marker.
Hepatocyte Thorns, A Novel Drug-Induced Stress Response in Human and Mouse Liver Spheroids
Authors: Pridgeon Chris S. , Bolhuis Dian P. , Milosavljević Filip , Manojlović Marina , Végvári Ákos , Gaetani Massimiliano , Jukić Marin M. , Ingelman-Sundberg Magnus
Published: May 2022

The in vivo-relevant phenotype of 3D liver spheroids allows for long-term studies of, e.g., novel mechanisms of chronic drug-induced liver toxicity. Using this system, we present a novel drug-induced stress response in human and murine hepatocyte spheroids, wherein long slender filaments form after chronic treatment with four different drugs, of which three are PPARα antagonists. The morphology of the thorns varies between donors and the compounds used. They are mainly composed of diverse protein fibres, which are glycosylated. Their formation is inhibited by treatment with fatty acids or antioxidants. Treatment of mice with GW6471 revealed changes in gene and protein expression, such as those in the spheroids. In addition, similar changes in keratin expression were seen following the treatment of hepatotoxic drugs, including aflatoxin B1, paracetamol, chlorpromazine, cyclosporine, and ketoconazole. We suggest that thorn formation may be indicative of hepatocyte metaplasia in response to toxicity and that more focus should be placed on alterations of ECM-derived protein expression as biomarkers of liver disease and chronic drug-induced hepatotoxicity, changes that can be studied in stable in vivo-like hepatic cell systems, such as the spheroids.
Probing the Drug Dynamics of Chemotherapeutics Using Metasurface-Enhanced Infrared Reflection Spectroscopy of Live Cells
Authors: Shen Po-Ting , Huang Steven H. , Huang Zhouyang , Wilson Justin J. , Shvets Gennady
Published: May 2022

Infrared spectroscopy has drawn considerable interest in biological applications, but the measurement of live cells is impeded by the attenuation of infrared light in water. Metasurface-enhanced infrared reflection spectroscopy (MEIRS) had been shown to mitigate the problem, enhance the cellular infrared signal through surface-enhanced infrared absorption, and encode the cellular vibrational signatures in the reflectance spectrum at the same time. In this study, we used MEIRS to study the dynamic response of live cancer cells to a newly developed chemotherapeutic metal complex with distinct modes of action (MoAs): tricarbonyl rhenium isonitrile polypyridyl (TRIP). MEIRS measurements demonstrated that administering TRIP resulted in long-term (several hours) reduction in protein, lipid, and overall refractive index signals, and in short-term (tens of minutes) increase in these signals, consistent with the induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress. The unique tricarbonyl IR signature of TRIP in the bioorthogonal spectral window was monitored in real time, and was used as an infrared tag to detect the precise drug delivery time that was shown to be closely correlated with the onset of the phenotypic response. These results demonstrate that MEIRS is an effective label-free real-time cellular assay capable of detecting and interpreting the early phenotypic responses of cells to IR-tagged chemotherapeutics.
Special Issue: Back Pain in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Zernikow Boris , Rathleff Michael Skovdal
Published: May 2022

“What is the big deal about back pain in children and adolescents? Doesn’t it just go away if you give it time and rest?” [...]
Difficult Vascular Access in Children with Short Bowel Syndrome: What to Do Next?
Authors: Grimaldi Chiara , Gigola Francesca , Bici Kejd , Oreglio Chiara , Coletta Riccardo , Morabito Antonino
Published: May 2022

Short Bowel Syndrome and intestinal failure are chronic and severe conditions that may require life-long parenteral nutrition in children. Survival of these children rely on the correct functioning of central venous catheters; therefore, careful management, prevention, and treatment of complications is of paramount importance. Despite a growing awareness of preserving the vascular real estate, a certain number of patients still experience a progressive and life-threatening exhaustion of vascular access. We searched the literature to highlight the current management of children with vascular exhaustion, specifically focusing on vascular access salvage strategies and last-resource alternative routes to central veins. Given the paucity of data, results are reported in the form of a narrative review.
Investigating the Link between Alpha-1 Antitrypsin and Human Neutrophil Elastase in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid of COVID-19 Patients
Authors: D’Amato Maura , Vertui Valentina , Pandolfi Laura , Bozzini Sara , Fossali Tommaso , Colombo Riccardo , Aliberti Anna , Fumagalli Marco , Iadarola Paolo , Didò Camilla , Viglio Simona , Meloni Federica
Published: May 2022

Neutrophils play a pathogenic role in COVID-19 by releasing Neutrophils Extracellular Traps (NETs) or human neutrophil elastase (HNE). Given that HNE is inhibited by α1-antitrypsin (AAT), we aimed to assess the content of HNE, α1-antitrypsin (AAT) and HNE–AAT complexes (the AAT/HNE balance) in 33 bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALf) samples from COVID-19 patients. These samples were submitted for Gel-Electrophoresis, Western Blot and ELISA, and proteins (bound to AAT or HNE) were identified by Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. NETs’ release was analyzed by confocal microscopy. Both HNE and AAT were clearly detectable in BALf at high levels. Contrary to what was previously observed in other settings, the formation of HNE–AAT complex was not detected in COVID-19. Rather, HNE was found to be bound to acute phase proteins, histones and C3. Due to the relevant role of NETs, we assessed the ability of free AAT to bind to histones. While confirming this binding, AAT was not able to inhibit NET formation. In conclusion, despite the finding of a high burden of free and bound HNE, the lack of the HNE–AAT inhibitory complex in COVID-19 BALf demonstrates that AAT is not able to block HNE activity. Furthermore, while binding to histones, AAT does not prevent NET formation nor their noxious activity.
Clean Technologies 2020 Best Paper Awards
Authors:   Clean Technologies Editorial Office
Published: May 2022

Clean Technologies (Clean Technol.) is instituting the Best Paper Awards to recognize outstanding papers published in the journal [...]