bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classification of Arabic Poetry Emotions Using Deep Learning
Authors: Shahriar Sakib , Al Roken Noora , Zualkernan Imran
Published: April 2023

The automatic classification of poems into various categories, such as by author or era, is an interesting problem. However, most current work categorizing Arabic poems into eras or emotions has utilized traditional feature engineering and machine learning approaches. This paper explores deep learning methods to classify Arabic poems into emotional categories. A new labeled poem emotion dataset was developed, containing 9452 poems with emotional labels of joy, sadness, and love. Various deep learning models were trained on this dataset. The results show that traditional deep learning models, such as one-dimensional Convolutional Neural Networks (1DCNN), Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, performed with F1-scores of 0.62, 0.62, and 0.53, respectively. However, the AraBERT model, an Arabic version of the Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT), performed best, obtaining an accuracy of 76.5% and an F1-score of 0.77. This model outperformed the previous state-of-the-art in this domain.
Dermatological Bioactivities of Resveratrol and Nanotechnology Strategies to Boost Its Efficacy—An Updated Review
Authors: Mascarenhas-Melo Filipa , Araújo André , Rodrigues Márcio , Mathur Ankita , Gonçalves Maria , Tanwar Kalpita , Heidarizadeh Fariba , Nejaddehbashi Fereshteh , Rahdar Abbas , Mazzola Priscila , Veiga Francisco , Paiva-Santos Ana
Published: April 2023

Resveratrol is a polyphenolic phytoalexin, whose main natural sources are red grapes, red wine, berries, and peanuts. When applied to the skin, resveratrol evidences a good penetrating capacity and low degradation compared to the oral route, allowing for a longer and improved topical effect. This bioactive molecule has been gaining interest in dermo-pharmacy and cosmetics for the prevention and treatment of skin alterations. Its inherent meritorious biomedical potentials, including anti-aging, photoprotective, estrogen-like, skin-whitening, anti-acne, wound healing, anti-scarring, antimicrobial, and anti-skin cancer properties are the most evident. However, resveratrol evidences stability hurdles, becoming an unstable molecule when exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Several technological strategies have been developed to improve its stability, efficacy, and safety. We have described the main topical properties of resveratrol, and the involved mechanisms of action, and a great focus was placed on the technological strategies for the efficient application of resveratrol in dermatological and cosmetic formulations, including nanotechnology.
Unveiling the Transporting Mechanism of (Ti0.2Zr0.2Nb0.2Hf0.2Ta0.2)C at Room Temperature
Authors: Liu Tao , Lei Liwen , Zhang Jinyong , Li Neng
Published: April 2023

High-entropy materials have been widely researched in recent years, and more work on their thermal and electrical properties is still needed. Herein, we fabricate a high-entropy carbide (Ti0.2Zr0.2Nb0.2Hf0.2Ta0.2)C ceramic and report the thermal and electrical conductivity at room temperature using first-principles calculations and experiments. The movement of phonons is suppressed in high-entropy carbides when analyzing the thermal and electrical conductivity at room temperature, but the movement of electrons is not. After the first-principles calculations on the electronic structure and lattice vibration and experiments, we give the reasons why the rule of mixture can predict electrical conductivity but not thermal conductivity at room temperature. Finally, we outline the cause of the similar lattice patterns between TaC and (Ti0.2Zr0.2Nb0.2Hf0.2Ta0.2)C.
High Current Density Trench CAVET on Bulk GaN Substrates with Low-Temperature GaN Suppressing Mg Diffusion
Authors: Wen Xinyi , Lee Kwang Jae , Nakazato Yusuke , Chun Jaeyi , Chowdhury Srabanti
Published: April 2023

We report that, for the first time, a low-temperature GaN (LT-GaN) layer prepared by metal–organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) regrowth was used as a Mg stopping layer (MSL) for a GaN trench current–aperture vertical electron transistor (CAVET) with p-GaN as a carrier blocking layer (CBL). Inserting LT-GaN on top of the p-GaN effectively suppresses Mg out-diffusion into the regrown AlGaN/GaN channel, contributing to the high current capability of GaN vertical devices with a p-GaN CBL. With different MOCVD growth conditions, MSLs inserted in trench CAVETs were comprehensively investigated for the influence of MSL regrowth temperature and thickness on device performance. With the best on-state current performance obtained in this study, the trench CAVET with a 100 nm thick MSL regrown at 750 °C shows a high drain current of 3.2 kA/cm2 and a low on-state resistance of 1.2 mΩ∙cm2. The secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) depth profiles show that the trench CAVET with the 100 nm thick MSL regrown at 750 °C has a dramatically decreased Mg diffusion decay rate (~39 nm/decade) in AlGaN/GaN channel, compared to that of the CAVET without a MSL (~104 nm/decade). In developing GaN vertical devices embedded with a Mg-doped p-type layer, the LT-GaN as the MSL demonstrates a promising approach to effectively isolate Mg from the subsequently grown layers.
Crystal Structure of a Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) scFv Domain Rearrangement Forming a VL-VL Dimer
Authors: Cheung Jonah , Wazir Shagun , Bell David R. , Kochenderfer James N. , Hendrickson Wayne A. , Youkharibache Philippe
Published: April 2023

Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR-T) immunotherapies are dependent upon designed transmembrane proteins to bind target antigens and stimulate an immune response. The success or failure of these CARs is only partially predictable, yet recent work has highlighted the importance of antigen binding scFvs driving distinct oligomerization states with varied CAR-T efficacy. Here, we sought to determine the extracellular structure of the anti-CD19 CAR 47G4-CD828Z. Unexpectedly, the resolved crystal structure revealed an IgVL homodimer bound along an inverted VL|VL interface. We found that the VL-VH linker, designed to be cleavage resistant, was cleaved, and the VH and CAR hinge domains were absent from the crystal structure lattice. Molecular Dynamics simulations revealed that the inverted VL|VL interface was more stable than the canonical VL|VL configuration. Our work substantiates the need to interrogate the scFv structure and CAR oligomerization state for optimal CAR-T design.
Optimizing Struvite Crystallization at High Stirring Rates
Authors: Korchef Atef , Abouda Salwa , Souid Imen
Published: April 2023

Phosphorus and ammonium can both be recovered in the presence of magnesium through struvite (MgNH4PO4·6H2O) crystallization. The present work aimed to optimize struvite crystallization at turbulent solution flow. Struvite was crystallized by magnetic stirring at different initial phosphorus concentrations between 200 and 800 mg·L−1 and high stirring rates between 100 and 700 rpm. The crystals obtained were analyzed by powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. For all experiments, the only phase detected was struvite. It was shown that for an initial phosphorus concentration of 200 mg·L−1, increasing the stirring rate to 500 rpm accelerated the precipitation of struvite, improved the phosphorus removal efficiency, and obtained larger struvite crystals. A decrease in the phosphorus removal efficiency and smaller struvite crystals were obtained at higher stirring rates. This was attributed to the solution turbulence. The limiting effect of turbulence could be overcome by enhancing the initial phosphorus concentration or by lowering the stirring rate. The highest phosphorus removal efficiency (~99%) through large struvite crystals (~400 μm in size) was obtained for an initial phosphorus concentration of 800 mg·L−1 and a stirring rate of 100 rpm.
Vapor Deposition Growth of SiC Crystal on 4H-SiC Substrate by Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Wu Kangli , Mei Qingsong , Liu Haowen , Zhou Shengjun , Gao Bing , Li Chenglin , Liu Sheng , Wan Liang
Published: April 2023

Due to the lack of appropriate experimental methods for imaging the evolution of the microstructure of materials at the growth conditions, our understanding of the physical behavior of crystal growth and defect formation during the vapor deposition growth of SiC crystals is still rather limited. In the present work, the vapor deposition growth of SiC crystal on a 4H-SiC substrate has been investigated by the molecular dynamics (MD) computer simulation method. Three different lattice planes of 4H-SiC ((0001), (112-0) and (1-100)) were selected as the surface of the substrate, and three different temperatures for substrate (2200 K, 2300 K and 2400 K) were used in growth simulations. The characteristics of the formation of different polytypes of SiC and dislocations in the grown crystals were examined. The results show that the SiC crystals were grown by a subsurface nucleation and growth mode in the vapor deposition process. For substrates with (0001) plane as the surface, the 3C-SiC single crystal was obtained in the deposited thin film. For substrates with (112-0) or (1-100) plane as the surface, the 4H-SiC single crystal was obtained instead. The temperature of the substrate was found to have a significant effect on the dislocation density generated in the grown crystals. The mechanism for the formation of Frank partial dislocations during the growth of SiC crystals has been analyzed, for which the importance of the diffusivity of atoms on the surface layer in growth has been highlighted, and it gives a good explanation of the temperature effect on dislocation formation in the grown crystals. These results can be helpful for experimental vapor deposition growth of SiC single crystals and epitaxial layers of high quality.
First-Principles Modeling of Bottom-Up Synthesis of Carbon Quantum Dots
Authors: Boukhvalov Danil W. , Osipov Vladimir Yu.
Published: April 2023

In this work, we report the results of various scenarios related to the initial stages in the assembly of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) from citric acid (CA) or o-phenylenediamine (OPD). The results of the step-by-step simulations of the synthesis demonstrate that all possible scenarios of CQD assembly are different from those previously proposed. For example, in synthesizing CQDs from citric acid, each addition of a new carbon ring to the growing nanographene leads to the appearance of the carbonyl (C=O) groups on the edges and carboxyl (–COOH) groups in the interior parts of the nanographenes. Even the initial steps of CQD assembly from CA are accompanied by the formation of bushy structures from carboxyl and –CH2–COOH groups on the edges. On the other hand, in manufacturing CQDs from OPD, the formation of flat nanographenes is extremely energetically favorable. This result is in qualitative agreement with a very high yield of synthesized CQDs from OPD. However, the discussed process of nanographene formation proceeds simultaneously with the oxidation of newly formed nanographenes in a medium of superheated water accompanied by the appearance of C–OH bonds in the internal parts of newly formed sp2- carbon species or even in their etching. For both cases, the scenario of eliminating excessive carboxyl or hydroxyl groups by forming interlayer C–C bonds between two adjacent nanographenes is estimated as possible.
Management of Multiple Myeloma: A Review for General Practitioners in Oncology
Authors: Monteith Bethany E. , Sandhu Irwindeep , Lee Ann S.
Published: April 2023

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant clonal plasma cell disorder in the bone marrow and is the second-most common hematologic malignancy in adults. Although patients with MM have a moderate life expectancy, it remains a heterogeneous disease that often requires multiple lines of chemotherapy for durable control and long-term survival. This review outlines current management strategies for both transplant-eligible and transplant-ineligible patients as well as for relapsed and refractory disease. Advances in drug therapies have widened management options and improved survival. In this paper, we also discuss implications for special populations and survivorship care.
Not Waiting to Progress; How the COVID-19 Pandemic Nudged Neoadjuvant Therapy for Stage III Locally Advanced Melanoma Patients
Authors: Kinaschuk Katie , Cheng Tina , Brenn Thomas , McKinnon J. Gregory , Temple-Oberle Claire
Published: April 2023

Background: Early-phase neoadjuvant trials have demonstrated promising results in the utility of upfront immunotherapy in locally advanced stage III melanoma and unresected nodal disease. Secondary to these results and the COVID-19 pandemic, this patient population, traditionally managed through surgical resection and adjuvant immunotherapy, received a novel treatment strategy of neoadjuvant therapy (NAT). Methods: Patients with node-positive disease, who faced surgical delays secondary to COVID-19, were treated with NAT, followed by surgery. Demographic, tumour, treatment and response data were collected through a retrospective chart review. Biopsy specimens were analysed prior to the initiation of NAT, and therapy response was analysed following surgical resection. NAT tolerability was recorded. Results: Six patients were included in this case series; four were treated with nivolumab alone, one with ipilimumab and nivolumab and one with dabrafenib and trametinib. Twenty-two incidents of adverse events were reported, with the majority (90.9%) being classified as grade one or two. All patients underwent surgical resection: three out of six patients following two NAT cycles, two following three cycles and one following six cycles. Surgically resected samples were histopathologically evaluated for the presence of disease. Five out of six patients (83%) had ≤1 positive lymph node. One patient showed extracapsular extension. Four patients demonstrated complete pathological response; two had persisting viable tumour cells. Conclusions: In this case series, we outlined how in response to surgical delays secondary to the COVID-19 pandemic, NAT was successfully applied to achieve promising treatment response in patients with locally advanced stage III melanoma.
Major Cuban Green Turtle Rookeries: Identification of Management Units and Their Genetic Relationships with Other Greater Caribbean Populations
Authors: Azanza-Ricardo Julia , Abreu-Grobois F. Alberto , Oyama Ken , Chassin-Noria Omar , Espinosa-López Georgina , González-Sansón Gaspar
Published: April 2023

Genetic monitoring of highly migratory endangered species is fundamental for effective management, particularly when they are shared internationally, and their populations need to be identified. A prime example is the green turtle, Chelonia mydas, whose genetic structure has been extensively studied in the Western Atlantic. Nevertheless, the identification of Cuban management units has remained uncertain, despite representing regionally significant nesting assemblages and occurring within a strategically central position. Compared to previous work, the current study used 800 bp mtDNA control region sequences and larger sample sizes (n = 189 from four nesting sites in SW Cuba). Of the 23 resolved haplotypes, nine were novel, fourteen were reported in Cuba for the first time, and eleven were endemic. Even though the distribution of nesting grounds barely spans 300 km, three management units were identified: Guanahacabibes-San Felipe (GUCB; with most of the endemic haplotypes), Isla de la Juventud (IJCB; with a predominance of haplotype CM-A13.1), and Cayo Largo (CLCB; with a haplotype profile closely related to Southern Caribbean rookeries). We discuss how the geographic distribution of mtDNA variation has likely been shaped by local and regional oceanic current patterns or derived from formerly hyperabundant regional populations. Genetic characterization of Cuban management units represents a significant contribution, filling critical knowledge gaps that have hampered the comprehensive mixed-stock analyses required to guide effective regional conservation strategies.
The Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Northeast Asian Rove Beetle, Lordithon arcuatus (Solsky, 1871) and Performance of Site-Specific Mixture Models in Building the Mitogenomic Phylogeny of Staphylinidae (Insecta: Coleoptera)
Authors: Ji Qiao-Qiao , Sun Yi-Nuo , Lü Liang , Zhao Tian-You , Wu Dong-Hui
Published: April 2023

Lordithon species are typically mushroom-dwelling rove beetles that devour maggots. This study presents the mitogenome of a Lordithon arcuatus specimen that was procured from Changbai Mountain in the Jilin Province of China. The mitogenome is 18,290 bp long and comprises 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs, and 2 rRNAs. The base composition of the mitogenome is as follows: A = 38.80%, T = 37.93%, G = 8.94%, and C = 14.32%. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic trees were constructed using 68 representative staphylinid species, which showed that Lordithon, Bolitobius, and Ischnosoma form a stable and fully supported Mycetoporinae clade, whereas there was no consensus regarding the relationships among Tachyporinae taxa. Additionally, the performance of site-specific mixture models for inferring the phylogeny of staphylinids using mitogenomic data was assessed. The results suggest that heterotachy models should be used with caution, as they may result in incorrect topology with delusive precedence in AIC- or BIC-based model selection.
The Impact of Breeding Yellow-Legged Gulls on Vegetation Cover and Plant Composition of Grey Dune Habitats
Authors: Portela Diogo , Pereira Jorge M. , Cerveira Lara R. , Paiva Vitor H. , Ramos Jaime A.
Published: April 2023

The establishment of large populations of yellow-legged gull Larus michahellis in coastal and urban areas can lead to strong changes in vegetation cover and composition through creating physical disturbance in the vegetation and impacting the soil quality through defecation. In this study, we evaluated the effects of breeding yellow-legged gull populations on tall and short vegetation cover and plant species composition in old (occupied for 13 years) and new (occupied for 3 years) colony sites in grey dunes of the Algarve, southern Portugal. In each site, sampling plots were used to measure the percentage of vegetation cover in areas with and without breeding gulls. In the old colony site, the cover by tall vegetation was substantially reduced and the cover by short vegetation substantially increased in the areas where gulls are breeding in comparison with the adjacent areas. In the new colony sites, there were only minor differences. The increase in cover of short vegetation in the breeding area of the old colony site was mostly by nitrophilous species (Paronychia argentea and Malcolmia littorea) and should be explained by the decrease in vegetation cover of tall plant species and by feces deposition. Tall and slow-growing species Suaeda maritima and Helichrysum italicum covers were negatively affected. Our results showed that yellow-legged gulls affected vegetation cover and composition of grey dunes after 3 years of consecutive breeding, and this should be considered in the management of these habitats where breeding yellow-legged gulls are increasing.
Diagnostic Value of Chromosomal Microarray Analysis for Fetal Congenital Heart Defects with Different Cardiac Phenotypes and Extracardiac Abnormalities
Authors: Zhang Simin , Wang Jingjing , Pei Yan , Han Jijing , Xiong Xiaowei , Yan Yani , Zhang Juan , Liu Yan , Su Fangfei , Xu Jinyu , Wu Qingqing
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: The objective of this study was to investigate the diagnostic value of chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) for congenital heart defects (CHDs) with different cardiac phenotypes and extracardiac abnormalities (ECAs) and to explore the pathogenic genetic factors of CHDs. (2) Methods: We collected fetuses diagnosed with CHDs by echocardiography at our hospital from January 2012 to December 2021. We analyzed the CMA results of 427 fetuses with CHDs. We then categorized the CHD into different groups according to two dimensions: different cardiac phenotypes and whether it was combined with ECAs. The correlation between the numerical chromosomal abnormalities (NCAs) and copy number variations (CNVs) with CHDs was analyzed. Statistical analyses, including Chi-square tests and t-tests, were performed on the data using IBM SPSS and GraphPad Prism. (3) Results: In general, CHDs with ECAs increased the detection rate for CA, especially the conotruncal defects. CHD combined with the thoracic and abdominal walls and skeletal, thymic and multiple ECAs, were more likely to exhibit CA. Among the CHD phenotypes, VSD and AVSD were associated with NCA, while DORV may be associated with NCA. The cardiac phenotypes associated with pCNVs were IAA (type A and B), RAA, TAPVC, CoA and TOF. In addition, IAA, B, RAA, PS, CoA and TOF were also associated with 22q11.2DS. The length distribution of the CNV was not significantly different between each CHD phenotype. We detected twelve CNV syndromes, of which six syndromes may be related to CHDs. The pregnancy outcome in this study suggests that termination of pregnancy with fetal VSD and vascular abnormality is more dependent on genetic diagnosis, whereas the outcome in other phenotypes of CHDs may be associated with other additional factors. (4) Conclusions: CMA examination for CHDs is still necessary. We should identify the existence of fetal ECAs and specific cardiac phenotypes, which are helpful for genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis.
Patello-Femoral Pain Syndrome: Magnetic Resonance Imaging versus Ultrasound
Authors: Pacini Patrizia , Martino Milvia , Giuliani Luca , Santilli Gabriele , Agostini Francesco , Del Gaudio Giovanni , Bernetti Andrea , Mangone Massimiliano , Paoloni Marco , Toscano Martina , De Vito Corrado , Ottonello Carlo , Santilli Valter , Cantisani Vito
Published: April 2023

Background: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ultrasound (US) in combination with clinical data could contribute to the diagnosis, staging and follow-up of Patello-Femoral Syndrome (PFS), which often overlaps with other pathologies of the knee. Purpose of the Study: To evaluate the diagnostic role of MRI and US findings associated with PFS and define the range values of instrumental measurements obtained in pathological cases and healthy controls, the performance of the two methods in comparison, and the correlation with clinical data. Materials and Methods: 100 subjects were examined: 60 patients with a high suspicion of PFS at the clinical evaluation and 40 healthy controls. All measurements obtained by MRI and US examination were correlated with clinical data. A descriptive analysis of all measurements was stratified for pathological cases and healthy controls. A Student’s t-test for continuous variables was used to compare patients to controls and US to MRI. Logistic regression analysis was applied to test the correlation between MRI and US measurements with clinical data. Results: Statistical descriptive analysis determined the MRI and US range values of medial patello-femoral distance and the thickness of retinacles and cartilages in pathological cases and healthy controls. In pathological cases, the retinacle results of both increased; the medial appeared to be slightly more increased than the lateral. Furthermore, in some cases, the thickness of the cartilage decreased in both techniques; the medial cartilage was more thinned than the lateral. According to logistic regression analyses, the best diagnostic parameter was the medial patello-femoral distance due to the overlapping results of the US and MRI. Furthermore, all clinical data obtained by different tests showed a good correlation with patello-femoral distance. In particular, the correlation between medial patello-femoral distance and the VAS score is direct and equal to 97–99%, which is statistically significant (p < 0.001), and the correlation with the KOOS score is inverse and equal to 96–98%, which is statistically significant. Conclusions: MRI and Ultrasound examination in combination with clinical data demonstrated high-value results in the diagnosis of PFS.
A Patient with Synchronous Gallbladder and Bone Plasmacytoma
Authors: Markouli Mariam , Saridaki Alexia , Viniou Nora-Athina , Giannakopoulou Nefeli , Lakiotaki Eleftheria , Korkolopoulou Penelope , Diamantopoulos Panagiotis
Published: April 2023

Multiple myeloma (MM) is the most common primary bone-originating tumor, whereas extramedullary plasmacytoma (EMP) is a plasma cell tumor that arises outside the bone and is most commonly found in the head and neck area. Gastrointestinal and particularly gallbladder involvement is exceedingly rare, and symptoms, if any are present, are usually similar to those seen with cholelithiasis. Treatment options usually include surgical resection and/or chemotherapy. In this report, we present a rare case of a clinically unexpected plasmablastic extramedullary plasmacytoma that was found on abdominal ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a 61-year-old asymptomatic patient and led him to undergo cholecystectomy. A fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission computed tomography (FDG PET-CT) that was performed due to the onset of left thigh pain also demonstrated concurrent bone plasmacytoma. The patient is currently receiving chemotherapy and is also being prepared for autologous stem cell transplantation. In this context, we further present the diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic challenges of EMPs. Lastly, we point out the distinct features of the plasmablastic subtype and analyze its differences compared to other histologic subtypes in achieving a successful diagnosis and management.
Influence of Adipose Tissue on Early Metabolic Programming: Conditioning Factors and Early Screening
Authors: Puche-Juarez Maria , Toledano Juan M. , Ochoa Julio J. , Diaz-Castro Javier , Moreno-Fernandez Jorge
Published: April 2023

Background: Obesity and being overweight have become one of the world’s most severe health issues, not only because of the pathology but also because of the development of related comorbidities. Even when children reach adulthood, the mother’s environment during pregnancy has been found to have a significant impact on obesity prevention in children. Thus, both maternal dietary habits and other factors such as gestational diabetes mellitus, excessive weight gain during pregnancy, smoking, or endocrine factors, among others, could influence newborn growth, adiposity, and body composition at birth, in childhood and adolescence, hence programming health in adulthood. Methods: The aim of this review is to analyze the most recent human studies on the programming of fetal adipose tissue to determine which modifiable factors may influence adiposity and thus prevent specific disorders later in life by means of a bibliographic review of articles related to the subject over the last ten years. Conclusions: The importance of a healthy diet and lifestyle not only during pregnancy and the first months of life but also throughout childhood, especially during the first two years of life as this is a period of great plasticity, where the foundations for optimal health in later life will be laid, preventing the emergence of noncommunicable diseases including obesity, diabetes mellitus type 2, hypertension, being overweight, and any other pathology linked to metabolic syndrome, which is so prevalent today, through health programs beginning at a young age.
A Hypothesis on the Progression of Insulin-Induced Lipohypertrophy: An Integrated Result of High-Frequency Ultrasound Imaging and Blood Glucose Control of Patients
Authors: Yu Jian , Wang Hong , Zhou Meijing , Zhu Min , Hang Jing , Shen Min , Jin Xin , Shi Yun , Xu Jingjing , Yang Tao
Published: April 2023

Aims: To put forward a scientific hypothesis about the progression of insulin-injection-induced lipohypertrophy (LH) according to the high-frequency ultrasonic imaging of insulin injection sites and the blood glucose control of patients. Methods: A total of 344 patients were screened for LH by means of high-frequency ultrasound scanning. The results of their ultrasound examination were described in detail and categorized into several subtypes. Seventeen patients with different subtypes of LH were followed up to predict the progression of LH. To further verify our hypothesis, the effects of different types of LH on glycemic control of patients were observed by comparing glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C) and other glycemic-related indicators. Results: LH was found in 255 (74.1%) patients. According to the high-frequency ultrasonic imaging characteristics, LH can be categorized into three subtypes in general. Among all the LHs, the most common type observed was nodular hyperechoic LH (n = 167, 65.5%), followed by diffuse hyperechoic LH (n = 70, 27.5%), then hypoechoic LH (n = 18, 7.0%). At the follow-up after six months, all 10 patients with nodular hyperechoic LH had LH faded away. Of the five patients with diffuse hyperechoic LH, two had inapparent LH, and three had diffuse hyperechoic parts which had shrunk under ultrasound. No obvious changes were observed in the two cases of hypoechoic LH. Compared with the LH-free group, the mean HbA1C of the nodular hyperechoic LH group increased by 0.8% (9 mmol/mol) (95% CI:−1.394~−0.168, p = 0.005), that of the diffuse hyperechoic LH group increased by 2.0% (21 mmol/mol) (95% CI: −2.696~−1.20, p < 0.001), and that of the hypoechoic LH group increased by 1.5% (16 mmol/mol) (95% CI: −2.689~−0.275, p = 0.007). Conclusions: It was hypothesized that the earlier stage of LH is nodular hyperechoic LH. If nodular LH is not found in time and the patient continues to inject insulin at the LH site and/or reuse needles, LH will develop into a diffuse type or, even worse, a hypoechoic one. Different subtypes of LH may represent differences in severity when blood glucose control is considered as an important resolution indicator. Further studies are needed to confirm our hypothesis on the progression and reversion of insulin-induced lipohypertrophy.
Immature Teratoma: Diagnosis and Management—A Review of the Literature
Authors: Moraru Liviu , Mitranovici Melinda-Ildiko , Chiorean Diana Maria , Coroș Marius , Moraru Raluca , Oală Ioan Emilian , Turdean Sabin Gligore
Published: April 2023

An immature teratoma is a germinal malignant tumor composed of three germ cell layers, occurring more frequently in young women. It is the second most frequent among the malignant germinal tumors after dysgerminoma, and it is the only neoplasm with germ cells that are histologically graded. Even if we do not have a consensus regarding its therapeutical management, it has a good prognosis, with an excellent overall survival rate and good fertility preservation. More studies are needed regarding the necessity of adjuvant chemotherapy in pediatric oncology, and because of chemotherapy’s long-term adverse effects, surveillance or a targeted treatment is preferred, but the main therapy is fertility-sparing surgery. Special attention should be given to the genetic mapping of the histological pieces for patient risk stratification due to its value in prognosis and future treatment.
Chronic or Changeable Infarct Size after Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection
Authors: Krljanac Gordana , Apostolovic Svetlana , Mehmedbegovic Zlatko , Nedeljkovic-Arsenovic Olga , Maksimovic Ruzica , Ilic Ivan , Djokovic Aleksandra , Savic Lidija , Lasica Ratko , Asanin Milika
Published: April 2023

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) could be the cause of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and sudden cardiac death. Clinical presentations can vary considerably, but the most common is the elevation of cardiac biomarkers associated with chest discomfort. Different pathological etiology in comparison with Type 1 AMI is the underlying infarct size in this population. A 42-year-old previously healthy woman presented with SCAD. Detailed diagnostical processing and treatment which were performed could not prevent myocardial injury. The catheterization laboratory was the initial place for the establishment of a diagnosis and proper management. The management process can be very fast and sometimes additional imaging methods are necessary. Finding predictors of SCAD recurrence is challenging, as well as predictors of the resulting infarct scar size. Patients with recurrent clinical symptoms of chest pain, ST elevation, and complication represent a special group of interest. Therapeutic approaches for SCAD range from the ”watch and wait” method to complete revascularization with the implantation of one or more stents or aortocoronary bypass grafting. The infarct size could be balanced through the correct therapeutical approach, and, proper multimodality imaging would be helpful in the assessment of infarct size.
Lactate versus Phosphate as Biomarkers to Aid Mechanical Circulatory Support Decisions in Patients with Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest and Return of Spontaneous Circulation
Authors: Duse Dragos Andrei , Voß Fabian , Heyng Laura , Wolff Georg , Quast Christine , Scheiber Daniel , Horn Patrick , Kelm Malte , Westenfeld Ralf , Jung Christian , Erkens Ralf
Published: April 2023

Aims: Identifying patients who may benefit from mechanical circulatory support (MCS) after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) remains challenging; thus, a search for helpful biomarkers is warranted. We aimed to evaluate phosphate and lactate levels on admission regarding their associations with survival with and without MCS. Methods: In 224 OHCA patients who achieved ROSC, the initial phosphate and lactate levels were investigated to discriminate in-hospital mortality by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. According to the Youden Index (YI) from the respective ROC, the groups were risk stratified by both biomarkers, and 30-day mortality was analyzed in patients with and without MCS. Results: Within the entire collective, MCS was not associated with a better chance of survival. Both phosphate and lactate level elevations showed good yet comparable discriminations to predict mortality (areas under the curve: 0.80 vs. 0.79, p = 0.74). In patients with initial phosphate values > 2.2 mmol/L (>YI), 30-day mortality within the MCS cohort was lower (HR 2.3, 95% CI: 1.4–3.7; p = 0.0037). In patients with lower phosphate levels and groups stratified by lactate, 30-day mortality was similar in patients with and without MCS. Conclusions: We found a significant association between survival and MCS therapy in patients with phosphate levels above 2.2 mmol/L (Youden Index), and a similar discrimination of patient overall survival by lactate and phosphate. Prospective studies should assess the possible independent prognostic value of phosphate and its clearance for MCS efficiency.
Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Angiographical Features and Short-Term Prognosis of Acute Coronary Syndrome in People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Results of a Retrospective Observational Multicentric Romanian Study
Authors: Bajdechi Mircea , Gurghean Adriana , Bataila Vlad , Scafa-Udriste Alexandru , Radoi Roxana , Oprea Anca Cristiana , Marinescu Adrian , Ion Stefan , Chioncel Valentin , Nicula Alina , Anastasiou Achilleas , Bajdechi Georgiana-Elena , Savulescu-Fiedler Ilinca , Dumitru Irina Magdalena , Rugina Sorin
Published: April 2023

People living with human immunodeficiency virus have increased cardiovascular risk due to a higher prevalence of traditional and particular risk factors such as chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, endothelial dysfunction, coagulation abnormalities and antiretroviral therapy. In developed countries, coronary artery disease has become the most frequent cardiovascular disease and an important cause of mortality in these patients. The symptomatology of an acute coronary syndrome can be atypical, and the prevalence of each type of acute coronary syndrome is reported differently. Regarding coronary artery disease severity in people living with HIV, the literature data indicates that the presence of single-vessel disease is akin to that of HIV-negative patients, and their short-term prognosis is unclear. This study aims to assess the clinical characteristics, biological parameters, angiographical features and short-term prognosis of acute coronary syndrome in a cohort of Romanian people living with human immunodeficiency virus.
Surgical Treatment in Patients with Toxic Phosphorus Osteonecrosis of Facial Skull Middle Zone
Authors: Ispiryan Davit H. , Hakobyan Gagik , Li Anastasia , Diachkova Ekaterina Yu. , Vasil’ev Yuriy , Kheygetyan Artur , Ivanova Elena , Zhandarov Kirill , Kireeva Natalia , Safronov Roman , Serikov Alexey , Medvedev Yuri A.
Published: April 2023

During the last few years, in the territory of the Russian Federation, the number of cases of toxic phosphoric osteonecrosis of the jaws has increased against the background of taking drugs of “artisanal” production (pervitin, desomorphin). The aim of our study was to increase the effectiveness of surgical treatment of patients with a diagnosis of toxic phosphorus necrosis of the maxilla. We performed a comprehensive treatment of patients with a history of drug addiction and the above diagnosis. Surgical intervention in the volume of complete resection of pathologically altered tissues and reconstructive techniques using local tissues and a replaced flap made it possible to achieve good aesthetic and functional results in the early and late postoperative period. Thus, our proposed method of surgical treatment can be used in similar clinical situations.
One-Step Surface-Treatment Reagent (35% 3-O-Ethyl-l-ascorbic Acid Plus 50% Citric Acid Solution) Restores the Shear Bond Strength of Metal Brackets Bonded to Bleached Human Enamel: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Saeoweiang Pichanee , Charoenrat Thanit , Aonbangkhen Chanat , Chobpradit Pattraporn , Techalertpaisarn Paiboon
Published: April 2023

This study investigates how a new substance, composed of ethyl ascorbic acid and citric acid, affects the shear bond strength (SBS) of metal brackets when bonded to bleached teeth. Forty maxillary premolar teeth were used and randomly placed into four groups (n = 10): the control group did not undergo bleaching; the remaining groups underwent bleached using 35% hydrogen peroxide. In group A, 37% phosphoric acid was applied after bleaching. In group B, 10% sodium ascorbate was used for ten minutes before 37% phosphoric acid. In group C, 35%3-O-ethyl-l-ascorbic acid plus 50% citric acid solution (35EA/50CA) was applied for 5 min. The subgroups were bonded immediately after bleaching. The SBS was determined with a universal testing machine and analyzed using one-way ANOVA and then Tukey’s HSD tests. Adhesive remnant index (ARI) scores were determined with a stereomicroscope and analyzed with a chi-squared test. The significance level was 0.05. Group C demonstrated significantly higher SBS values than group A (p < 0.001), but was not significantly different than the control group or group C (p > 0.05). The ARI scores were significantly different among the groups (p < 0.001). In conclusion, enamel surface treatment using 35EA/50CA improved the reduced SBS to an acceptable clinical level and reduced the clinical chair time.
Entanglement Purification for Logic-Qubit of Photon System Based on Parity Check Measurement Gate
Authors: Li Chunyan , Kong Rong , Ren Baocang , Deng Meiqiu , Deng Fuguo
Published: April 2023

It has been found that logic-qubit entanglement has great potential for applications in quantum communication and quantum networks in recent years. However, along with the effects of noise and decoherence, the fidelity of the communication transmission can be greatly reduced. In this paper, we investigate the entanglement purification of logic bit-flip error and phase-flip error in polarization logic-qubit entanglement based on the parity-check measurement (PCM) gate, which is constructed by the cross-Kerr nonlinearity and used to distinguish the parity information of two-photon polarization states. The probability of entanglement purification is higher than the scheme using the linear optical method. Moreover, the quality of logic-qubit entangled states can be improved by a cyclic purification process. This entanglement purification protocol will be useful in the future when faced with long-distance communication with logic-qubit entanglement states.
The No-Cloning Life: Uniqueness and Complementarity in Quantum and Quantum-like Theories
Authors: Plotnitsky Arkady
Published: April 2023

This article considers a rarely discussed aspect, the no-cloning principle or postulate, recast as the uniqueness postulate, of the mathematical modeling known as quantum-like, Q-L, modeling (vs. classical-like, C-L, modeling, based in the mathematics adopted from classical physics) and the corresponding Q-L theories beyond physics. The principle is a transfer of the no-cloning principle (arising from the no-cloning theorem) in quantum mechanics (QM) to Q-L theories. My interest in this principle, to be related to several other key features of QM and Q-L theories, such as the irreducible role of observation, complementarity, and probabilistic causality, is connected to a more general question: What are the ontological and epistemological reasons for using Q-L models vs. C-L ones? I shall argue that adopting the uniqueness postulate is justified in Q-L theories and adds an important new motivation for doing so and a new venue for considering this question. In order to properly ground this argument, the article also offers a discussion along similar lines of QM, providing a new angle on Bohr’s concept of complementarity via the uniqueness postulate.
Simulating Urban Growth Using the Cellular Automata Markov Chain Model in the Context of Spatiotemporal Influences for Salem and Its Peripherals, India
Authors: Theres Linda , Radhakrishnan Selvakumar , Rahman Abdul
Published: April 2023

Urbanization is one of the biggest challenges for developing countries, and predicting urban growth can help planners and policymakers understand how spatial growth patterns interact. A study was conducted to investigate the spatiotemporal dynamics of land use/land cover changes in Salem and its surrounding communities from 2001 to 2020 and to simulate urban expansion in 2030 using cellular automata (CA)–Markov and geospatial techniques. The findings showed a decrease in aerial vegetation cover and an increase in barren and built-up land, with a rapid transition from vegetation cover to bare land. The transformed barren land is expected to be converted into built-up land in the near future. Urban growth in the area is estimated to be 179.6 sq km in 2030, up from 59.6 sq km in 2001, 76 sq km in 2011, and 133.3 sq km in 2020. Urban sprawl is steadily increasing in Salem and the surrounding towns of Omalur, Rasipuram, Sankari, and Vazhapadi, with sprawl in the neighboring towns surpassing that in directions aligned toward Salem. The city is being developed as a smart city, which will result in significant expansion and intensification of the built-up area in the coming years. The study’s outcomes can serve as spatial guidelines for growth regulation and monitoring.
How Doctor of Physical Therapy Students Overcome Academic Challenges to Achieve First-Attempt Success on the National Physical Therapy Examination: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Baldwin Jane , Schmidt Catherine , Plummer Laura , Gochyyev Perman , Battista Jillian E. , Kaur Simran , Naidoo Keshrie
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this mixed methods study was to identify Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students with markers of potential challenges on the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and evaluate their outcomes. The qualitative arm, framed by social cognitive theory, identified strategies students used to achieve first-attempt success. Of the 143 students from one DPT program who had markers of potential NPTE challenges, 79% overcame challenges to achieve success, revealing a weaker association between undergraduate grade point average (GPA) and NPTE performance. Year one program GPA and written exam performance while in the program were stronger predictors of NPTE performance. Qualitative analysis of interviews with 19 graduates revealed three themes: (1) Critical resources build confidence for a unique standardized test; (2) Peers support, teach, and hold each other accountable; and (3) Self-care is vital as emotions run high. Participants described needing to change their approaches to learning between undergraduate and DPT education. Critical resources for achieving first-attempt success included contextualizing knowledge in the clinical setting, NPTE preparatory courses, and frequent self-assessment, which facilitated retrieval practice and revealed knowledge deficits. Little is known about graduates who did not achieve first-attempt success but were ultimately successful, warranting further research.
Investigating the Effect of Binary Gender Preferences on Computational Thinking Skills
Authors: Niousha Rose , Saito Daisuke , Washizaki Hironori , Fukazawa Yoshiaki
Published: April 2023

The Computer Science industry suffers from a vivid gender gap. To understand this gap, Computational Thinking skills in Computer Science education are analyzed by binary gender roles using block-based programming languages such as Scratch since they are intuitive for beginners. Platforms such as Dr. Scratch, aid learners in improving their coding skills by earning a Computational Thinking score while supporting effective assessments of students' projects and fostering basic computer programming. Although previous studies have examined gender differences using Scratch programs, few have analyzed the Scratch project type's impact on the evaluation process when comparing genders. Herein, the influence of project type is analyzed using instances of 124 (62 male, 62 female) projects on the Scratch website. Initially, projects were categorized based on the user's gender and project type. Hypothetical testing of each case shows that the scoring system has a bias based on the project type. As gender differences appear by project type, the project type may significantly affect the gender gap in Computational Thinking scores. This study demonstrates the importance of incorporating the project type's effect into the Scratch projects' evaluation process when assessing gender differences.
Transdisciplinary STEM: Examples of Student Thinking within Nonformal Learning Experiences
Authors: Lesseig Kristin , Slavit David , Simpson Amber
Published: April 2023

Calls for more integrated approaches to STEM have reached every sector of education, including formal and nonformal spaces, from early childhood to tertiary levels. The goal of STEM education as an integrated effort shifts beyond acquiring knowledge in any one or combination of STEM disciplines and, instead, focuses on designing solutions to complex, contextual problems that transcend disciplinary boundaries. To realize this goal, we first need to understand what transdisciplinary STEM might actually look and sound like in action, particularly in regard to the nature of student thinking. This paper addresses that need by investigating student reasoning during nonformal STEM-focused learning experiences. We chose four learning episodes, all involving elementary students working on engineering design tasks, to highlight the various ways transdisciplinary thinking might arise or not. In our analysis, we highlight factors that may have supported or hindered the integration of mathematical, scientific, technological, and engineering ways of thinking. For example, the nature of the task, materials provided, and level of adult support influenced the nature of student reasoning. Based on our findings, we provide suggestions for how to promote transdisciplinary thinking in both formal and nonformal spaces.