bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dating deformation: the role of atomic-scale processes
Authors: Villa Igor M.
Published: March 2022

Dating deformation is difficult, as textures and petrogenesis of deformed rocks are complex. Moreover, geochronometer categories are pursued by communities that often do not communicate.

Hygrochronology dates the retrograde metasomatic/metamorphic reactions caused by aqueous fluid circulation events.

Thermochronology models time-temperature histories by assuming that mineral ages can be uniquely assigned to a ‘closure temperature
T
c
’, the only process occurring in rocks being Fick's Law diffusion. Diffusion by definition produces a bell-shaped concentration profile. In contrast, patchy intra-grain isotope concentration profiles denounce aqueous retrogression, whose rate is orders of magnitude faster than diffusion.

Petrochronology is based on opposite assumptions, as the mobility of structure-forming major cations is higher than that of radiogenic Pb, Ar, and Sr. Whenever the formation of a mineral occurs at
T
 < 
T
c
, its apparent age dates its formation.

Nanochronology analyses samples at the nanometre-scale. These analyses illuminate atomic-scale processes, e.g. open-system transport of soluble ions along self-sealing networks of nanopores.

The key to dating deformation and producing correct, regional-sized (up to hundreds of kilometres) tectonic models is the realization that minerals consist of atoms, whose behaviour is only firmly constrained by nanometre-scale analyses.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Isotopic Dating of Deformation collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/isotopic-dating-of-deformation
IS-HBase: An In-Storage Computing Optimized HBase with I/O Offloading and Self-Adaptive Caching in Compute-Storage Disaggregated Infrastructure
Authors: Cao Zhichao , Dong Huibing , Wei Yixun , Liu Shiyong , Du David H. C.
Published: March 2022

Active storage devices and in-storage computing are proposed and developed in recent years to effectively reduce the amount of required data traffic and to improve the overall application performance. They are especially preferred in the compute-storage disaggregated infrastructure. In both techniques, a simple computing module is added to storage devices/servers such that some stored data can be processed in the storage devices/servers before being transmitted to application servers. This can reduce the required network bandwidth and offload certain computing requirements from application servers to storage devices/servers. However, several challenges exist when designing an in-storage computing- based architecture for applications. These include what computing functions need to be offloaded, how to design the protocol between in-storage modules and application servers, and how to deal with the caching issue in application servers.

HBase is an important and widely used distributed Key-Value Store. It stores and indexes key-value pairs in large files in a storage system like HDFS. However, its performance especially read performance, is impacted by the heavy traffics between HBase RegionServers and storage servers in the compute-storage disaggregated infrastructure when the available network bandwidth is limited. We propose an
I
n-
S
torage-based
HBase
architecture, called

IS-HBase

, to improve the overall performance and to address the aforementioned challenges. First, IS-HBase executes a data pre-processing module (
I
n-
S
torage
S
can
N
er, called

ISSN

) for some read queries and returns the requested key-value pairs to RegionServers instead of returning data blocks in HFile. IS-HBase carries out compactions in storage servers to reduce the large amount of data being transmitted through the network and thus the compaction execution time is effectively reduced. Second, a set of new protocols is proposed to address the communication and coordination between HBase RegionServers at computing nodes and ISSNs at storage nodes. Third, a new self-adaptive caching scheme is proposed to better serve the read queries with fewer I/O operations and less network traffic. According to our experiments, the IS-HBase can reduce up to 97% network traffic for read queries and the throughput (queries per second) is significantly less affected by the fluctuation of available network bandwidth. The execution time of compaction in IS-HBase is only about 6.31% – 41.84% of the execution time of legacy HBase. In general, IS-HBase demonstrates the potential of adopting in-storage computing for other data-intensive distributed applications to significantly improve performance in compute-storage disaggregated infrastructure.
Object Intersection Captures on Interactive Apps to Drive a Crowd-sourced Replay-based Compiler Optimization
Authors: Mpeis Paschalis , Petoumenos Pavlos , Hazelwood Kim , Leather Hugh
Published: March 2022

Traditional offline optimization frameworks rely on representative hardware, software, and inputs to compare different optimizations on. With application-specific optimization for mobile systems though, the idea of a representative testbench is unrealistic while creating offline inputs is non-trivial. Online approaches partially overcome these problems but they might expose users to suboptimal or even erroneous code. Therefore, our mobile code is poorly optimized, resulting in wasted performance and energy and user frustration.

In this article, we introduce a novel compiler optimization approach designed for mobile applications. It requires no developer effort, it tunes applications for the user’s device and usage patterns, and it has no negative impact on the user experience. It is based on a lightweight capture and replay mechanism. Our previous work [
46
] captures the state accessed by any targeted code region during its online stage. By repurposing existing OS capabilities, it keeps the overhead low. In its offline stage, it replays the code region but under different optimization decisions to enable sound comparisons of different optimizations under realistic conditions. In this article, we propose a technique that further decreases the storage sizes without any additional overhead. It captures only the intersection of reachable objects and accessed heap pages. We compare this with another new approach that has minimal runtime overheads at the cost of higher capture sizes. Coupled with a search heuristic for the compiler optimization space, our capture and replay mechanism allows us to discover optimization decisions that improve performance without testing these decisions directly on the user. Finally, with crowd-sourcing we split this offline evaluation effort between several users, allowing us to discover better code in less time.

We implemented a prototype system in Android based on LLVM combined with a genetic search engine and a crowd-sourcing architecture. We evaluated it on both benchmarks and real Android applications. Online captures are infrequent and introduce ~5 ms or 15 ms on average, depending on the approach used. For this negligible effect on user experience, we achieve speedups of 44%  on average over the Android compiler and 35% over LLVM -O3. Our collaborative search is just 5% short of that speedup, which is impressive given the acceleration gains. The user with the highest workload concluded the search 7

\( \times \)

faster.
Dynamic Connectedness, Spillovers, and Delayed Contagion between Islamic and Conventional Bond Markets: Time‐ and Frequency‐Domain Approach in COVID‐19 Era
Authors: Owusu Junior Peterson
Published: March 2022

Using the Baruník and Křehlík spillover index, the study examines the dynamic connectedness and spillovers between Islamic and conventional (G6) bond markets to reveal the time‐ and frequency‐domain dynamics of the two asset classes under different market conditions. From August 22, 2012, through September 17, 2021, the daily bond yield indices for Islamic and G6 markets were employed. The findings reveal that volatility spillovers between and within Islamic and/or G6 bond markets are time‐ and frequency‐dependent, although conventional bonds are more volatile than Islamic bonds during Black Swan periods. Across all time horizons, USA, UK, and Canada are the biggest producers of shocks to the Islamic and G6 markets, with Pakistan being the lowest shocks transmitter. During the European debt crisis, Brexit, and COVID‐19 periods, the results underscore delayed contagious spillovers emanating from USA, Canada, and UK. With both the Islamic and G6 bond markets, short‐term spillovers are more important than long‐term spillovers. Investors should use their understanding of market trends and volatility to hedge their holdings against poorer asset returns when volatility spillover is more severe during market turmoil. Spillovers should be closely monitored by policymakers, since they jeopardise cross‐market linkages.
Blockchain-Based Information Supervision Model for Rice Supply Chains
Authors: Wang Jian , Zhang Xin , Xu Jiping , Wang Xiaoyi , Li Haisheng , Zhao Zhiyao , Kong Jianlei
Published: March 2022

Rice is a major food crop around the world, and its various quality and safety problems are closely related to human health. As an important area of food safety research, the rice supply chain has attracted increasing attention. Based on blockchain technology, this study investigated problems of data privacy and circulation efficiency caused by complex rice supply networks, long circulation cycles, and various risk factors in each link. First, we deconstructed the quality and safety of each link of the rice supply chain at the information level and established a key information classification table for each link. On that basis, we built a rice supply chain information supervision model based on blockchain. Various encryption algorithms are used to secure the sensitive data of enterprises in the supply chain to meet regulators’ needs for efficient supervision. Moreover, we propose a practical Byzantine fault-tolerant consensus algorithm that scores the credit of enterprise nodes, optimizes the selection strategy of master nodes, and ensures high efficiency and low cost. Then, we built a prototype system based on the open-source framework of hyperledger fabric, analyzed the model’s viability, and implemented the system using cases. The results indicated that the proposed system can optimize the information supervision process of rice supply chain regulators and provide a feasible solution for the quality and safety supervision of grain and oil.
Fast and Robust Image Encryption Scheme Based on Quantum Logistic Map and Hyperchaotic System
Authors: Mohamed Nehal Abd El-Salam , Youssif Aliaa , El-Sayed Hala Abdel-Galil
Published: March 2022

Topic of quantum chaos has begun to draw increasing attention in recent years. So, to ensure the security of digital image, an image encryption algorithm based on combining a hyperchaotic system and quantum 3D logistic map is proposed. This algorithm is applied in four stages. Initially, the key generator builds upon the foundation of mean for any row or column of the edges of the plain image. Its output value is used to yield initial conditions and parameters of the proposed image encryption scheme. Next, it diffuses the plain image by the random sequences generated by 3D hyperchaotic system, and the diffusion process is realized by implementing XOR operation. Then, the diffused image and chaotic sequences are produced by the 3D quantum chaotic logistic map, expressed as a quantum superposition state using density matrix which is a representation of the state of a quantum system, and finally the resulting quantum image is then confused and diffused simultaneously by a unitary matrix generated by logistic chaos using XNOR operation to obtain the final cipher image. Because of the dependence on the plain image, the algorithm can frustrate the chosen‐plaintext and known‐plaintext attacks. Simulation results and theoretical analysis verify that the presented scheme has high safety performance, a good encryption effect, and a large key space. The method can effectively resist exhaustive, statistical, and differential attacks. Moreover, the encryption time of the proposed method is satisfactory, and the method can be efficiently used in practice for the secure transmission of image information.
Study on Enterprise Financial Risk Prevention and Early Warning System Based on Blockchain Technology
Authors: Xie Wangsong
Published: March 2022

To address the challenges of financing SMEs, breaking the limitations of traditional financing models, a blockchain-based financial risk prevention and early warning system for businesses has been proposed and an in-depth study of the system has been undertaken. As a scientific and technological means to strengthen the disclosure and sharing of information such as credit records and risk early warning, The key to getting financial institutions to lend to SMEs is to avoid financial credit risk in the value chain. Considering SMEs located in supply chains as an object of study, using the logical relationships between block chains and financial credit risk management chains, three principles of supply chain management are proposed by analyzing the logical relationships between supply chains and financial credit control chains. Chain using blockchain technology, namely: the principle of recognizing the trust of major enterprises, the principle of sharing information about the financing process and the principle of general cooperation for successful financing. Based on this principle, an evolutionary game model is used to analyze the evolutionary path of endorsement fiduciary relationships between major enterprises and SMEs, the influencers of evolutionary equilibrium, the evolutionary path of cooperation between commercial banks and SMEs in financing, the evolutionary path under the control of third-party institutions, and influencers. The research shows that the financing activities of commercial banks and small and medium-sized enterprises are based on the trust endorsement of core enterprises in the supply chain, and the intervention of third-party regulators will help to promote the consistent cooperation and information sharing of all participants in the supply chain, so as to promote the smooth completion of supply chain financing.
Effect of Feed Form on Body Conformation Traits of Different Hybrids of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Lawrence Azua Oluwabukola Olayemi , Gebisa Gelaye , Gizaw Oda
Published: March 2022

This research was conducted to measure the exterior characteristics in four hybrids of broilers fed pelleted and commercial mash feed. A total of 112 one-day-old chicks from four broiler hybrids, namely, Arbor Acre, Cobb 500, Marshall, and Ross 308 were used for this experimentation and allocated into four treatments with 28 birds of each hybrid and were replicated four times with 7 birds per replicate in a 2 × 4 factorial experiment. Pelleted and milled (mash) commercial feed was used for this experiment. The feeding trial lasted at the age of 59 days old, and data on the conformation trait were recorded. The results of the conformation traits showed no significant difference (

P
>
0.05

) in any of the parameters measured. Most of the conformation traits examined were positive and strongly correlated with one another. Finally as a suggestion, further deep study needed to be conducted by considering different factors including an interaction effect of the main factors.
Molecular Mechanism of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge in Treating Cerebral Infarction
Authors: Ye Xietao , Liu Jiali , Yuan Xinyao , Yang Songhong , Huang Yi , Chen Yan
Published: March 2022

Background. Cerebral infarction (CI) is a common brain disease in clinical practice, which is mainly due to the pathological environment of ischemia and hypoxia caused by difficult cerebral circulation perfusion function, resulting in ischemic necrosis of local brain tissue and neurological impairment. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, CI is mainly due to blood stasis in the brain. Therefore, blood-activating and stasis-dissipating drugs are often used to treat CI in clinical practice. Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (SMB) is a kind of traditional Chinese medicine with good efficacy in promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, and treatment of CI with it is a feasible strategy. Based on the above analysis, we chose network pharmacology to investigate the feasibility of SMB in the treatment of CI and to study the possible molecular mechanisms by providing some reference for the treatment of CI with TCM. Methods. The active ingredients and related targets of SMB were obtained through the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database, and CI-related targets were obtained from the GeneCards and DisGeNET databases. The target of SMB for the treatment of CI was obtained using Cytoscape software and visualized. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis was performed based on “clusterProfiler” within R, and the prediction results were validated by molecular docking technique. Results. By constructing a compound-target (C-T) network, it was found that the active components in SMB mainly treated CI by regulating key proteins such as AKT1, IL-6, and EGFR. These key proteins mainly involve in pathways such as immune regulation, cancer and lipid metabolism, such as lipid and atherosclerosis, chemical carcinogenesis-receptor activation pathways, and IL-17 signaling pathway. In the GO term, it mainly regulates the response to steroid hormones, membrane rafts, and G protein-amine receptor coupled activity. Eventually, we verified that the luteolin and tanshinone IIA components in SMB have a good possibility of action with AKT1 and IL-6 by in silico techniques, indicating that SMB has some scientificity in the treatment of CI. Conclusion. SMB mainly treats CI by regulating 94 proteins involved in lipid and atherosclerosis, chemical carcinogenesis-receptor activation, and IL-17 signaling pathway. Our research strategy provided a template for the drug development of TCM for the treatment of CI.
Rule Analysis of Teaching Evaluation System Based on Data Mining under Web Platform
Authors: Wang Jing
Published: March 2022

In order to understand the advantages of the teaching evaluation system to teachers and students more intuitively, according to the data analysis, the lowest total score of teachers is ˗1.04, and the five index values are all negative, so the relevant teaching contents should be changed according to the index factors of relevant teaching evaluation to make it easier for students to understand and accept. Through the analysis of the total evaluation scores of several teachers surveyed in each semester, we can see that the total evaluation scores of teachers 4 and 7 fluctuate greatly, so we should choose suitable teaching content for rectification. By classifying teachers, they are divided into three categories by means of discipline colleges, etc. It can be seen from the figure that the lowest total score of teachers in category 3 is ˗2.12, which shows that teachers in this category may have similar problems in teaching methods. By comparing the information entropy algorithm of teaching evaluation, we know that the information entropy under the AVF algorithm model takes about 1 ms to the teaching evaluation algorithm, while the greedy algorithm model takes about 20 ms to test the teaching evaluation system. We know that the teaching evaluation system based on the proposed algorithm information entropy algorithm and the teaching evaluation system under the AVF algorithm model and traditional information entropy all pass the test. However, combined with the images, the AVF algorithm model has the highest computational efficiency and the shortest time, followed by the proposed algorithm model. Compared with the traditional teaching evaluation algorithm, it is inefficient and takes a long time. When the number of requests is 1000, the average response time of the AVF algorithm method is 17 ms, and the longest time of the traditional method is 32 ms. Combined with images, when the number of requests is 1000, 1500, 200, 2500, 3000, 350, and 4000, the average response time increases with the increase of the number of requests, but the AVF algorithm method takes the shortest time and meets most teaching evaluation requirements. Combined with the success rate image, we can see that the success rate decreases slightly with the increase of request times, but the success rate of the AVF algorithm method is relatively stable, with the lowest of 99.6% when the request times are 3500. Through a large number of charts and analyses, we can see that the teaching evaluation under the AVF algorithm method has the highest efficiency and the shortest time.
A “Boil” Being the Clue to Think beyond Typical Bacterial Pathogens in Community-Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Auriemma Jeanna
Published: March 2022

Empyema necessitans is an exceptionally rare complication of bacterial pneumonia in the pediatric population. It occurs when the infection extends from the lung parenchyma to the chest wall by forming a fistula, which leads to infection of the surrounding soft tissue. In this case, a 13-year-old boy is found to have empyema necessitans caused by Actinomyces meyeri, with a preceding clue to the diagnosis being that he was treated for a superficial chest wall abscess several weeks prior to developing significant respiratory symptoms. Providers should be aware of this entity as it requires obtaining cultures to identify the appropriate pathogen and avoid treatment failure as it has implications for antibiotic choice and length of therapy.
Vitamin D is Positively Associated with Bone Mineral Density Muscle Mass and Negatively with Insulin Resistance in Senile Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Gao Yan , Chen Zhaoyu , Ma Zijian
Published: March 2022

Objective. To explore the correlations between vitamin D level and bone mineral density (BMD), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and muscle mass in patients with senile type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods. Totally, 80 patients with senile T2DM admitted to China-Japan Friendship Hospital from Jan 2020 to Oct 2021 were enrolled and assigned to the 25 (OH)D-deficiency group (

n
=
35

) or 25(OH)D-normal group (

n
=
45

) according to serum 25(OH)D level. BMD and HOMA-IR in the femur neck and muscle masses of upper and lower limbs were compared between the two groups, and Pearson’s correlation analysis was performed to determine the relations between 25(OH)D and BMD, HOMA-IR, and muscle masses of upper and lower limbs. Results. No notable difference was found between the two groups in general data including age, gender, diabetes duration, BMI, HBA 1c, and fasting insulin (all

P
>
0.05

). Compared with the 25(OH)D-normal group, the 25 (OH)D-deficiency group showed a notably lower BMD in the femur neck, notably lower muscle masses of upper and lower limbs, and a notably higher HOMA-IR level (all

P
<
0.05

). The Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed positive associations between 25(OH)D and BMD and muscle masses of upper and lower limbs in patients with senile T2DM and a negative correlation between 25(OH)D and HOMA-IR (all

P
<
0.05

). Conclusions. The serum 25(OH)D decreases notably in patients with senile T2DM, and higher serum 25(OH)D level may improve insulin resistance, limb muscle masses, and bone density and thus maintain bone health.
Release of IFNγ by Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells Remodels Bone Marrow Immune Microenvironment by Inducing Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Corradi Giulia , Bassani Barbara , Simonetti Giorgia , Sangaletti Sabina , Vadakekolathu Jayakumar , Fontana Maria Chiara , Pazzaglia Martina , Gulino Alessandro , Tripodo Claudio , Cristiano Gianluca , Bandini Lorenza , Ottaviani Emanuela , Ocadlikova Darina , Piccioli Milena , Martinelli Giovanni , Colombo Mario Paolo , Rutella Sergio , Cavo Michele , Ciciarello Marilena , Curti Antonio
Published: March 2022

Purpose:

The stromal and immune bone marrow (BM) landscape is emerging as a crucial determinant for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Regulatory T cells (Treg) are enriched in the AML microenvironment, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly elucidated. Here, we addressed the effect of IFNγ released by AML cells in BM Treg induction and its impact on AML prognosis.

Experimental Design:

BM aspirates from patients with AML were subdivided according to IFNG expression. Gene expression profiles in INFγhigh and IFNγlow samples were compared by microarray and NanoString analysis and used to compute a prognostic index. The IFNγ release effect on the BM microenvironment was investigated in mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)/AML cell cocultures. In mice, AML cells silenced for ifng expression were injected intrabone.

Results:

IFNγhigh AML samples showed an upregulation of inflammatory genes, usually correlated with a good prognosis in cancer. In contrast, in patients with AML, high IFNG expression was associated with poor overall survival. Notably, IFNγ release by AML cells positively correlated with a higher BM suppressive Treg frequency. In coculture experiments, IFNγhigh AML cells modified MSC transcriptome by upregulating IFNγ-dependent genes related to Treg induction, including indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1). IDO1 inhibitor abrogated the effect of IFNγ release by AML cells on MSC-derived Treg induction. In vivo, the genetic ablation of IFNγ production by AML cells reduced MSC IDO1 expression and Treg infiltration, hindering AML engraftment.

Conclusions:

IFNγ release by AML cells induces an immune-regulatory program in MSCs and remodels BM immunologic landscape toward Treg induction, contributing to an immunotolerant microenvironment.

See related commentary by Ferrell and Kordasti, p. 2986
DNA-PK Inhibition and Radiation Promote Antitumoral Immunity through RNA Polymerase III in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Wang Weiwei , McMillan Matthew T. , Zhao Xinyi , Wang Zhuwen , Jiang Long , Karnak David , Lima Fatima , Parsels Joshua D. , Parsels Leslie A. , Lawrence Theodore S. , Frankel Timothy L. , Morgan Meredith A. , Green Michael D. , Zhang Qiang
Published: March 2022

Targeting the DNA damage response in combination with radiation enhances type I interferon (T1IFN)-driven innate immune signaling. It is not understood, however, whether DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), the kinase critical for repairing the majority of radiation-induced DNA double-strand breaks in cancer cells, is immunomodulatory. We show that combining radiation with DNA-PK inhibition increases cytosolic double-stranded DNA and tumoral T1IFN signaling in a cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)- and stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-independent, but an RNA polymerase III (POL III), retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I), and antiviral-signaling protein (MAVS)-dependent manner. Although DNA-PK inhibition and radiation also promote programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, the use of anti–PD-L1 in combination with radiation and DNA-PK inhibitor potentiates antitumor immunity in pancreatic cancer models. Our findings demonstrate a novel mechanism for the antitumoral immune effects of DNA-PK inhibitor and radiation that leads to increased sensitivity to anti–PD-L1 in poorly immunogenic pancreatic cancers.

Implications:

Our work nominates a novel therapeutic strategy as well as its cellular mechanisms pertinent for future clinical trials combining M3814, radiation, and anti-PD-L1 antibody in patients with pancreatic cancer.
Microsatellite Instability Analysis and Its Prognostic Value in Invasive Nonampullary Duodenal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yang Guang , Tanaka Takehiro , Kinugasa Hideaki , Kanzaki Hiromitsu , Chen Meng-Xi , Ichimura Koichi , Nakagawa Masahiro , Jin Zai-Shun , Zheng Ru-yi , Yoshino Tadashi
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Nonampullary duodenal adenocarcinoma (NADA) is a rare disease. Although several prognostic factors have been reported for this disease, they remain controversial due to their rarity. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed 54 cases of invasive NADA, focusing on the microsatellite instability (MSI) phenotype, programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, and prognostic factors. Methods: Expression of the PD-L1 protein and cell differentiation markers in tumors was detected by immunohistochemistry. Microsatellite markers (NR-21, NR-22, NR-24, BAT-25, and BAT-26) were amplified for MSI assessment by PCR. Results: The incidence of MSI in invasive NADA was 35.2%. No significant correlation between the MSI phenotype and clinicopathological factors was observed. Positive expression of PD-L1 by immune cells was common in advanced-stage disease (p = 0.054), and positive expression of PD-L1 in cancer cells correlated significantly with the histologically undifferentiated type (p = 0.016). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated a significantly better overall survival (OS) in patients with MSI (p = 0.013) and at early-stage disease (p = 0.000) than in those with microsatellite-stable or at late tumor stages. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that MSI (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.282, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.106–0.751, p = 0.011) and early tumor stage (stage I-II) (HR: 8.81, 95% CI: 2.545–30.500, p = 0.001) were independent better prognostic factors of OS. Conclusions: MSI and early tumor stage (stage I-II) were independent better prognostic factors of OS. A high proportion of MSI phenotypes and positive PD-L1 expression may be helpful for identifying immune checkpoint inhibitors as a novel therapeutic strategy.
Robotic Navigational Bronchoscopy Combined with Needle-Based Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy: Case Report of a Novel Approach to Diagnose Small Lung Nodules
Authors: Manley Christopher , Kramer Tess , Kumar Rohit , Gong Yulan , Ehya Hormoz , Bonta Peter I. , Annema Jouke
Published: March 2022

Lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related death. Advancements in navigational bronchoscopy have shown encouraging results but the diagnostic yield of small lung nodules by bronchoscopic techniques is still below that of transthoracic needle aspiration. The development of robotic bronchoscopy has demonstrated a significantly improved navigational success but the diagnostic yield is regularly limited by near-miss of the target nodule. Needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy is a novel imaging technique that allows for the real-time visualization of individual cells and structures with microscopic resolution at the tip of the needle. We present the first reported case of confocal laser endomicroscopy guided robotic bronchoscopy for the real-time diagnosis of a small, partially cystic lung nodule.
Evaluation of Skin Prick Test Reading Time at 10 versus 15 min in Young Infants
Authors: Lie Anine , Wärnberg Gerdin Sabina , Skrindo Ingebjørg , Rehbinder Eva Maria , Jonassen Christine Monceyron , LeBlanc Marissa , Staff Anne Cathrine , Söderhäll Cilla , Vettukattil Riyas , Ådalen Sigve , Aaneland Hilde , Lødrup Carlsen Karin Cecilie , Skjerven Håvard Ove , Nordlund Björn
Published: March 2022

Introduction: The optimal time point for reading the mean wheal diameter (MWD) of a skin prick test (SPT) in infants is not established. We aimed to assess if either of two reading time points of the SPT, 10 or 15 min, was superior to detect allergic sensitization (AS) in 6-month-old infants. Methods: In 1,431 6-month-old infants from the population-based Preventing Atopic Dermatitis and ALLergies in children (PreventADALL) mother-child cohort, the SPT was performed with standard solutions for egg, cow’s milk, peanut, wheat, soy, birch, timothy, dog, and cat. The MWD was measured after 10 and 15 min. AS was defined as a positive SPT with MWD ≥2 mm larger than the negative control. Results: Overall, 149 (10.4%) infants were sensitized to at least one allergen at 10 and/or 15 min, while 138 (9.6%) had a positive SPT at 10 min and 141 (9.9%) at 15 min. A total of 12,873 allergen pricks were performed with 212 (1.6%) being positive at any time point, 194 (1.5%) positive at 10 min, and 196 (1.5%) positive at 15 min. The mean (95% CI) histamine MWD of 3.8 (3.8, 3.9) mm at 10 min was significantly larger than the 3.6 (3.6, 3.7) mm at 15 min. Discussion/Conclusions: Reading the SPT after both 10 and 15 min increased the number of 6-month-old infants with documented AS compared to reading after one time point only. As neither 10 nor 15 min reading time was superior to the other in detecting AS, our results indicate that readings at both time points should be considered. However, the histamine MWD was significantly larger at 10 min compared to 15 min. Reappraisal of SPT reading in infancy may be warranted.
Isaac Syndrome with Intractable Neuropathic Pain Features: A Case Report
Authors: Al-Chalabi Mustafa , DelCimmuto Nicholas R. , Devarasetty Pratyush Pavan , Jeyarajan Jayasai , Baumle Blair N. , Pirzada Noor
Published: March 2022

Isaac syndrome (IS) is a peripheral nerve hyperexcitability state associated with voltage-gated potassium channel (VGKC) complex antibodies. Major manifestations are muscle twitching, stiffness, hypertrophy, and dysautonomic features such as hyperhidrosis [Ahmed and Simmons. Muscle Nerve. 2015;52(1):5–12]. Neuropathic pain is a rare manifestation. We describe a case of IS characterized by muscle twitching and intractable neuropathic pain. Diagnostic workup included elevated VGKC complex antibodies and EMG/NC that showed neuromyotonic discharges. Neuropathic pain was initially difficult to relieve even after using multiple medications, including opiates, benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). Moderate pain control was eventually achieved with long-term use of carbamazepine and subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg). Common manifestations of IS are muscle twitching, stiffness hypertrophy, and dysautonomia [Ahmed and Simmons. Muscle Nerve. 2015;52(1):5–12]. Sensory manifestations such as neuropathic pain are rare, but, as illustrated by our patient, can be the most distressing symptom. In our patient, not only was neuropathic pain disabling but it also showed the least response to IVIg. The use of 200 mg of long-acting carbamazepine twice daily with weekly SCIg demonstrated the best response. This case highlights an uncommon but potentially resistant symptom of IS.
Vascular Dysfunction of COVID-19 Is Partially Reverted in the Long-Term
Authors: Zanoli Luca , Gaudio Agostino , Mikhailidis Dimitri P. , Katsiki Niki , Castellino Niccolò , Lo Cicero Lorenzo , Geraci Giulio , Sessa Concetto , Fiorito Letizia , Marino Francesca , Antonietta Di Rosolini Maria , Colaci Michele , Longo Antonio , Montineri Arturo , Malatino Lorenzo , Castellino Pietro , Aparo Paola , Arena Andrea , Barchitta Martina , Castelletti Federica , Di Noto Martina , Di Pino Antonino , Giarrusso Ornella , Isaia Ivan , Lentini Paolo , Magnano San Lio Paola , Manuele Rosa , Marino Elisa , Morale Walter , Sciuto Alice , Scuto Salvatore Sebastiano , Xourafa Anastasia , Zocco Sabrina
Published: March 2022

Background:

COVID-19 is characterized by severe inflammation during the acute phase and increased aortic stiffness in the early postacute phase. In other models, aortic stiffness is improved after the reduction of inflammation. We aimed to evaluate the mid- and long-term effects of COVID-19 on vascular and cardiac autonomic function. The primary outcome was aortic pulse wave velocity (aPWV).

Methods:

The cross-sectional Study-1 included 90 individuals with a history of COVID-19 and 180 matched controls. The longitudinal Study-2 included 41 patients with COVID-19 randomly selected from Study-1 who were followed-up for 27 weeks.

Results:

Study-1: Compared with controls, patients with COVID-19 had higher aPWV and brachial PWV 12 to 24 (but not 25–48) weeks after COVID-19 onset, and they had higher carotid Young’s elastic modulus and lower distensibility 12 to 48 weeks after COVID-19 onset. In partial least squares structural equation modeling, the higher the hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) at hospitalization was, the higher the aPWV 12 to 48 weeks from COVID-19 onset (path coefficient: 0.184;
P
=0.04). Moreover, aPWV (path coefficient: −0.186;
P
=0.003) decreased with time. Study-2: mean blood pressure and carotid intima-media thickness were comparable at the end of follow-up, whereas aPWV (−9%;
P
=0.01), incremental Young’s elastic modulus (−17%;
P
=0.03), baroreflex sensitivity (+28%;
P
=0.049), heart rate variability triangular index (+15%;
P
=0.01), and subendocardial viability ratio (+12%;
P
=0.01×10
−4
) were significantly improved. There was a trend toward improvement in brachial PWV (−6%;
P
=0.14) and carotid distensibility (+18%;
P
=0.05). Finally, at the end of follow-up (48 weeks after the onset of COVID-19) aPWV (+6%;
P
=0.04) remained significantly higher in patients with COVID-19 than in control subjects.

Conclusions:

COVID-19-related arterial stiffening involves several arterial tree portions and is partially resolved in the long-term.
Robot-Assisted Training as Self-Training for Upper-Limb Hemiplegia in Chronic Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Takebayashi Takashi , Takahashi Kayoko , Amano Satoru , Gosho Masahiko , Sakai Masahiro , Hashimoto Koichi , Hachisuka Kenji , Uchiyama Yuki , Domen Kazuhisa
Published: March 2022

Background:

This study aimed to examine whether robotic self-training improved upper-extremity function versus conventional self-training in mild-to-moderate hemiplegic chronic stroke patients.

Methods:

Study design was a multi-center, prospective, randomized, parallel-group study comparing three therapist-guided interventions (1-hour sessions, 3×/wk, 10 weeks). We identified 161 prospective patients with chronic, poststroke, upper-limb hemiplegia treated at participating rehabilitation centers. Patients were enrolled between November 29, 2016, and November 12, 2018 in Japan. A blinded web-based allocation system was used to randomly assign 129 qualifying patients into 3 groups: (1) conventional self-training plus conventional therapy (control, N=42); (2) robotic self-training (ReoGo-J) plus conventional therapy (robotic therapy [RT], N=44); or (3) robotic self-training plus constraint-induced movement therapy (N=43). Primary outcome: Fugl-Meyer Assessment for upper-extremity. Secondary outcomes: Motor Activity Log-14 amount of use and quality of movement; Fugl-Meyer Assessment shoulder/elbow/forearm, wrist, finger, and coordination scores; Action Research Arm Test Score; Motricity Index; Modified Ashworth Scale; shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist, and finger range of motion; and Stroke Impact Scale (the assessors were blinded). Safety outcomes were adverse events.

Results:

Safety was assessed in 127 patients. An intention-to-treat full analysis set (N=121), and a per-protocol set (N=115) of patients who attended 80% of sessions were assessed. One severe adverse event was recorded, unrelated to the robotic device. No significant differences in Fugl-Meyer Assessment for upper-extremity scores were observed between groups (RT versus control: −1.04 [95% CI, −2.79 to 0.71],P=0.40; RT versus movement therapy: −0.33 [95% CI, −2.02 to 1.36],P=0.90). The RT in the per-protocol set improved significantly in the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for upper-extremity shoulder/elbow/forearm score (RT versus control: −1.46 [95% CI, −2.63 to −0.29];P=0.037).

Conclusions:

Robotic self-training did not improve upper-limb function versus usual self-training, but may be effective combined with conventional therapy in some populations (per-protocol set).

Registration:

URL:https://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr; Unique identifier: UMIN000022509.
Prunus yunkaishanensis (Rosaceae), a new species from Guangdong, South China
Authors: WU BAO-HUAN , ZHAO WAN-YI , YANG HAI-JUN , CHEN ZHI-HUI , LI YOU-YU , CUI DA-FANG , LIAO WEN-BO , KANG MING
Published: March 2022

Prunus yunkaishanensis, a new species of Prunus subg. Laurocerasus (Rosaceae), is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to P. phaeosticta and P. fordiana in their leaves with punctate abaxial surface, but it can be distinguished from the latter two species by having larger leaves with more pairs of lateral veins, shorter inflorescences with stout rachises, bracts persistent during anthesis, and ovoid fruits.
Pier Paolo Pasolini’s Pendulum Swing on Fascism
Authors: Kozłowski Michał
Published: March 2022

The following work is a case study. Its purpose is to reconstruct a particular situation involving the recognition and understanding of fascism. This situation is determined by both history and the social dynamics of the present day. The time and place is Italy of the 1960s and 70s, the observer – Pier Paolo Pasolini. But not because he offers us an original, complex and versatile theory of fascism. On the contrary, Pasolini can be superficial and rash, while his polemic passion often devours the argument and the analysis. However, Pasolini’s method of intellectual and political involvement allows us to use it as a keystone of a makeshift synthesis of a certain version of leftist anti-fascism.
The Effects of Hormone Contraceptives and Menstruation on Object Memory and Spatial Ability in Young Women
Authors: Thrasher Christina A. , Otto Lily , Harburger Lauren L.
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between hormone contraceptive use and menstruation on cognitive performance in young women. The object array task assessed object memory and a mental rotations test assessed spatial ability in women taking hormone contraceptives and naturally cycling women. Women taking hormone contraceptives were significantly better than naturally cycling women at identifying novel objects on an object array, but not on performance of a mental rotations task. There were also no significant differences in either task between naturally cycling women who were menstruating and those who were not menstruating during testing. The results of this study suggest that women taking hormone contraceptives outperformed naturally cycling women in recalling the identities of objects. The findings from this study help to further demonstrate the relationship between ovarian hormones and cognitive performance and add to the understanding of how hormone contraceptives affect cognition.
Synthesis of oligomeric phthalonitrile resins containing imide units and study of the methylene-cyano thermal synergistic polymerization effect
Authors: Xie Huanxin , He Xian , Pu Yu , Lv Jiangbo , Chen Menghao , Zeng Ke , Yang Gang
Published: March 2022

The meta- and para-catenated methylene-containing phthalonitrile oligomers were prepared from the reaction of an excess amount of 4,4′-(4,4′-isopropylidenediphenoxy) bis-(phthalic anhydride) (BPADA) with 4,4′-Methylenedianiline (MDA) in a N, N-dimethylformamide/ toluene solvent mixture, followed by end-capping agent with 4-nitrophthalonitrile or 4-phenoxyaniline in a two-step, one-pot reaction. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed that both PN oligomers exhibited low softening points. The self-catalyzed curing reactivity of the PN oligomers was confirmed by the isothermal rheological measurements. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and ultraviolet and visible spectrophotometry (UV–Vis) data of the pre-curing resins were employed to investigate the chemical structure of the pre-cured resins, suggesting that oligomers generated crosslinking sites, including triazine, isoindoline, and phthalocyanine. The results further confirmed the self-catalyzed curing reactivity of the oligomers. Thermal properties were investigated by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), demonstrating good thermal properties of the cured resins. The glass transition temperatures (Tgs) of PIPN-1-325, PIPN-1-350, PIPN-1-375 were in the range of 285–345°C, the 5% weight loss temperature (T5%) was observed at 482°C. The PIPN-2-325, PIPN-2-350, PIPN-2-375 showed Tgs ranging from 293 to 370°C, and T5% of the resins were in the range of 481–501°C. Then the isothermal rheological results of model compound and PN oligomers implied that the curing process of PN oligomers was closely related to the methylene-cyano radical thermal synergistic polymerization (TSP) effect proposed in our previous research, and then a revised curing mechanism (radical TSP mechanism) was proposed.
Proximal femoral replacement for non-neoplastic conditions: a systematic review on current outcomes
Authors: Di Martino Alberto , Pederiva Davide , Bordini Barbara , Di Carlo Gabriele , Panciera Alessandro , Geraci Giuseppe , Stefanini Niccolò , Faldini Cesare
Published: March 2022

Proximal femoral replacement (PFR) is a well-established treatment for neoplasia of the proximal femur. The use of this surgical technique for non-neoplastic conditions has increased over the years. We carried out a systematic review of the literature to study the indications, complications, and functional results when PFR is used for non-neoplastic conditions. Twenty-seven studies were included in the review with a total of 828 PFRs with a mean follow-up of 50 months (range 1–225 months). The main indications were infection (28%), periprosthetic fracture (27%), aseptic loosening (22%), and fracture (16%). The rate of reoperation was 20.3% overall. The overall revision rate was 15.4%. The main complications were dislocation (10.2%) and infection (7.3%). After 2010, the rates of reoperation (25.5% versus 18.2%), loosening (9.4% versus 3.2%), and dislocation (15.7% versus 7.9%) were lower than before 2010. The 30-day mortality ranged from 0% to 9%. The hip function scores improved post-surgery. In conclusion, the use of PFR in non-neoplastic conditions remains a marginal tool, associated with low direct mortality and high complication rates, but we expect its use to increase in the near future.
Distribution and pathogenic diversity in Fusarium udum Butler isolates: the causal agent of pigeonpea Fusarium wilt
Authors: B. M Ravikumara , G Ramanagouda , Naik M. K. , Telangre Rameshwar , Sharma Mamta
Published: March 2022

Background

Fusarium wilt (Fusarium udum Butler), an important soil-borne disease of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.)], causes significant yield losses across the major pigeonpea production regions. Widespread and high diversity in F. udum hampers the breeding for pigeonpea wilt resistance. The study aimed to elucidate the pathogenic diversity and distribution of F. udum variants in major pigeonpea growing regions of India.

Results

The roving survey was conducted in major pigeonpea-growing states of India to collect the F. udum isolates. Pathogenic variability of 60 F. udum isolates which are selected from diverse geographical locations and pathogenicity test were performed against 11 pigeonpea host differentials cultivars [ICP 8858, ICP 8859, ICP 8862, ICP 8863, ICP 9174, C 11, BDN 1, BDN 2, LRG 30, ICP 2376 and Bahar (ICP 7197)]. The current study indicated distribution of F. udum isolates into nine variants (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8). Variant-2 and 3 were found to be widespread and predominant in most pigeonpea producing regions. Variant-7 (Karnataka) and Variant-8 (Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra) were found highly virulent, as most of the host differentials were susceptible to these variants. Three host differential cultivars namely ICP 9174, BDN-2 and Bahar (ICP 7197) were found resistant to most of the F. udum isolates.

Conclusion

The present study generated significant information in terms of variants of F. udum which could be used further for the deployment of location-specific wilt resistant cultivars for optimized disease-management strategies. Study is also useful for development of broad-based wilt resistant cultivars to curtail the possible epidemics.