bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homologous Recombination Deficiency and Cyclin E1 Amplification Are Correlated with Immune Cell Infiltration and Survival in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: van Wagensveld Lilian , van Baal Juliette O. A. M. , Timmermans Maite , Gaillard Duco , Borghuis Lauri , Coffelt Seth B. , Rosenberg Efraim H. , Lok Christianne A. R. , Nijman Hans W. , Kooreman Loes F. S. , Sanders Joyce , de Bruijn Marco , Wessels Lodewyk F. A. , van der Wiel Rianne , Rausch Christian , Broeks Annegien , Kruitwagen Roy F. P. M. , van der Aa Maaike A. , Sonke Gabe S. , Schouten Philip C. , Van de Vijver Koen K. , Horlings Hugo M.
Published: December 2022

Background: How molecular profiles are associated with tumor microenvironment (TME) in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is incompletely understood. Therefore, we analyzed the TME and molecular profiles of HGSOC and assessed their associations with overall survival (OS). Methods: Patients with advanced-stage HGSOC treated in three Dutch hospitals between 2008–2015 were included. Patient data were collected from medical records. BRCA1/2 mutation, BRCA1 promotor methylation analyses, and copy number variations were used to define molecular profiles. Immune cells were assessed with immunohistochemical staining. Results: 348 patients were categorized as BRCA mutation (BRCAm) (BRCAm or promotor methylation) (30%), non-BRCA mutated HRD (19%), Cyclin E1 (CCNE1)-amplification (13%), non-BRCAmut HRD and CCNE1-amplification (double classifier) (20%), and no specific molecular profile (NSMP) (18%). BRCAm showed highest immune cell densities and CCNE1-amplification lowest. BRCAm showed the most favorable OS (52.5 months), compared to non-BRCAmut HRD (41.0 months), CCNE1-amplification (28.0 months), double classifier (27.8 months), and NSMP (35.4 months). Higher immune cell densities showed a favorable OS compared to lower, also within the profiles. CD8+, CD20+, and CD103+ cells remained associated with OS in multivariable analysis. Conclusions: Molecular profiles and TME are associated with OS. TME differs per profile, with higher immune cell densities showing a favorable OS, even within the profiles. HGSOC does not reflect one entity but comprises different entities based on molecular profiles and TME.
Investigational Microbiological Therapy for Glioma
Authors: Wang Jing , Liu Yaxue , Zhang Aohan , Yu Wenxin , Lei Qian , Xiao Bo , Luo Zhaohui
Published: December 2022

Glioma is the most common primary malignancy of the central nervous system (CNS), and 50% of patients present with glioblastoma (GBM), which is the most aggressive type. Currently, the most popular therapies are progressive chemotherapy and treatment with temozolomide (TMZ), but the median survival of glioma patients is still low as a result of the emergence of drug resistance, so we urgently need to find new therapies. A growing number of studies have shown that the diversity, bioactivity, and manipulability of microorganisms make microbial therapy a promising approach for cancer treatment. However, the many studies on the research progress of microorganisms and their derivatives in the development and treatment of glioma are scattered, and nobody has yet provided a comprehensive summary of them. Therefore, in this paper, we review the research progress of microorganisms and their derivatives in the development and treatment of glioma and conclude that it is possible to treat glioma by exogenous microbial therapies and targeting the gut–brain axis. In this article, we discuss the prospects and pressing issues relating to these therapies with the aim of providing new ideas for the treatment of glioma.
The Mutually Mediated Chloride Intracellular Channel Protein 1 (CLIC1) Relationship between Malignant Cells and Tumor Blood Vessel Endothelium Exhibits a Significant Impact on Tumor Angiogenesis, Progression, and Metastasis in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC)
Authors: Ferician Adela Maria , Ferician Ovidiu Catalin , Nesiu Alexandru , Cosma Andrei Alexandru , Caplar Borislav Dusan , Melnic Eugen , Cimpean Anca Maria
Published: December 2022

Background: Overexpression of chloride intracellular channel protein 1 (CLIC1) in tumor cells has been confirmed, but it has received less attention in the tumor blood vessel endothelium. Aim: The assessment of CLIC1 expression in ccRCC tumor blood vessels and its relationship with TNM parameters and tumor cell CLIC1 expression. Methods: CLIC1 immunostaining in ccRCC was evaluated in 50 cases in both malignant cells and tumor blood vessels (CLIC1 microvessel density-CLIC1-MVD) and was correlated with TNM staging parameters. Results: CLIC1-MVD was observed in approximately 65% of cases, and CLIC1 co-localization in both tumor and endothelial cells was observed in 59% of cases. ccRCC was classified into four groups (Classes 0–3) based on the percentage of positive tumor cells, with each group including sub-groups defined by CLIC1 expression in the endothelium. Class 3 (60–100% positive tumor cells) had the highest CLIC1-MVD, with an impact on T and M parameters (p value = 0.007 for T, and p value = 0.006 for M). For cases with CLIC1 intracellular translocation, there was a strong correlation between CLIC1-MVD and M (p value < 0.001). Conclusions: Co-expression of ccRCC tumor and endothelial cells promotes tumor progression and metastasis and should be investigated further as a potential therapeutic target for ccRCC and other human malignancies.
Comparison of Neurocognitive Functioning and Fine Motor Skills in Pediatric Cancer Survivors and Healthy Children
Authors: Chipeeva Nadezda , Deviaterikova Alena , Glebova Elena , Romanova Elizaveta , Karelin Alexander , Kasatkin Vladimir
Published: December 2022

Background: The late treatment outcomes of pediatric brain tumors and of hematopoietic and lymphoid tissue tumors are an important focus of both rehabilitation and research. Neurocognitive and motor disorders induce further learning problems impeding social-emotional adaptation throughout a whole lifespan. Core deficits in short-term and working memory, visuospatial constructional ability, verbal fluency, and fine motor skills underlie distorted intellectual and academic achievement. This study aimed to assess the individual differences in cognitive ability and fine motor skills of pediatric tumor survivors and the age-matched healthy controls. Methods: A total of 504 tumor survivors after treatment and 646 age-matched healthy controls underwent neurocognitive and fine motor assessments. Findings: The group of tumor survivors scored significantly worse in both neurocognitive and fine motor skill in compared with the healthy control group. The pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBT group) performed worse in cognitive (p < 0.001 for verbal fluency and p < 0.001 for visuospatial constructional ability) and motor tests (p < 0.001) compared to the healthy controls. Hematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues tumors survivors (THL group) performed worse in verbal fluency (p < 0.01) and visuospatial constructional test (p < 0.001) compared to the control group. Furthermore, the PBT group had worse results in visuospatial constructional ability (p < 0.05) and fine motor (p < 0.001) ability than the THL group. Significant differences between females and males were found in fine motor test performance in the PBT group (p < 0.05), as well as in verbal fluency (p < 0.01) and visuospatial constructional ability (p < 0.01) in the control group. Neurocognitive and fine motor skill characteristics in the THL group did not correlate with age.
TRICIN: A Phase II Trial on the Efficacy of Topical TRIchloroacetic Acid in Patients with Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia
Authors: Schwameis Richard , Ganhoer-Schimboeck Julia , Hadjari Victoria Laudia , Hefler Lukas , Bergmeister Birgit , Küssel Tatjana , Gittler Gunda , Steindl-Schoenhuber Theodora , Grimm Christoph
Published: December 2022

Data on non-surgical treatment approaching persistent cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) are scarce. Retrospective analysis suggest high efficacy of topical treatment with trichloroacetic acid (TCA). This prospective phase II study set out to investigate the efficacy of a single application of 85% TCA in the treatment of CIN I/II. Patients with CIN I/II were treated a single time with 85% TCA. After three and six months colposcopic, histologic, and HPV evaluation was performed. The primary endpoint was treatment efficacy defined as complete histologic remission six months after treatment. The secondary endpoint was HPV clearance six months after treatment. A total of 102 patients with CIN I/II were included into this trial. Complete histologic remission rates were 75.5% and 78.4% three and six months after TCA treatment, respectively. Clearance rates of HPV 16, 18 and other high risk types were 76.5%, 91.7%, 68.7% after six months, respectively. Side effects of TCA were mild and lasted usually less than 30 min. This is the first prospective trial reporting high histologic complete remission rates in patients with CIN I/II after a single 85% TCA treatment. In the future, TCA may represent an effective and feasible non-surgical treatment approach for CIN.
Co-Enzymes with Dissimilar Stabilities: A Discussion of the Likely Biocatalyst Performance Problems and Some Potential Solutions
Authors: Høst Amalie Vang , Morellon-Sterling Roberto , Carballares Diego , Woodley John M. , Fernandez-Lafuente Roberto
Published: December 2022

Enzymes have several excellent catalytic features, and the last few years have seen a revolution in biocatalysis, which has grown from using one enzyme to using multiple enzymes in cascade reactions, where the product of one enzyme reaction is the substrate for the subsequent one. However, enzyme stability remains an issue despite the many benefits of using enzymes in a catalytic system. When enzymes are exposed to harsh process conditions, deactivation occurs, which changes the activity of the enzyme, leading to an increase in reaction time to achieve a given conversion. Immobilization is a well-known strategy to improve many enzyme properties, if the immobilization is properly designed and controlled. Enzyme co-immobilization is a further step in the complexity of preparing a biocatalyst, whereby two or more enzymes are immobilized on the same particle or support. One crucial problem when designing and using co-immobilized enzymes is the possibility of using enzymes with very different stabilities. This paper discusses different scenarios using two co-immobilized enzymes of the same or differing stability. The effect on operational performance is shown via simple simulations using Michaelis–Menten equations to describe kinetics integrated with a deactivation term. Finally, some strategies for overcoming some of these problems are discussed.
A Combined Computational–Experimental Study on the Substrate Binding and Reaction Mechanism of Salicylic Acid Decarboxylase
Authors: Chen Fuqiang , Zhao Yipei , Zhang Chenghua , Wang Wei , Gao Jian , Li Qian , Qin Huimin , Dai Yujie , Liu Weidong , Liu Fufeng , Su Hao , Sheng Xiang
Published: December 2022

Salicylic acid decarboxylase (SDC) from the amidohydrolase superfamily (AHS) catalyzes the reversible decarboxylation of salicylic acid to form phenol. In this study, the substrate binding mode and reaction mechanism of SDC were investigated using computational and crystallographic methods. Quantum chemical calculations show that the enzyme follows the general mechanism of AHS decarboxylases. Namely, the reaction begins with proton transfer from a metal-coordinated aspartic acid residue (Asp298 in SDC) to the C1 of salicylic acid, which is followed by the C–C bond cleavage, to generate the phenol product and release CO2. Interestingly, the calculations show that SDC is a Mg-dependent enzyme rather than the previously proposed Zn-dependent, and the substrate is shown to be bidentately coordinated to the metal center in the catalysis, which is also different from the previous proposal. These predictions are corroborated by the crystal structure of SDC solved in complex with the substrate analogue 2-nitrophenol. The mechanistic insights into SDC in the present study provide important information for the rational design of the enzyme.
FPGA Prototyping of Web Service Using REST and SOAP Packages
Authors: Chang Chee Er , Mustapha Azhar Kassim , Mohd-Yasin Faisal
Published: December 2022

This Communication reports on FPGA prototyping of an embedded web service that sends XML messages under two different packages, namely Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP) and Representational State Transfer (REST). The request and response messages are communicated through a 100 Mbps local area network between a Spartan-3E FPGA board and washing machine simulator. The performances of REST-based and SOAP-based web services implemented on reconfigurable hardware are then compared. In general, the former performs better than the latter in terms of FPGA resource utilization (~12% less), message length (~57% shorter), and processing time (~4.5 μs faster). This work confirms the superiority of REST over SOAP for data transmission using reconfigurable computing, which paves the way for adoption of these low-cost systems for web services of consumer electronics such as home appliances.
Autonomic Nervous System Regulation of Epicardial Adipose Tissue: Potential Roles for Regulator of G Protein Signaling-4
Authors: Carbone Alexandra M. , Del Calvo Giselle , Nagliya Deepika , Sharma Karina , Lymperopoulos Anastasios
Published: December 2022

The epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) or epicardial fat is a visceral fat depot in the heart that contains intrinsic adrenergic and cholinergic nerves, through which it interacts with the cardiac sympathetic (adrenergic) and parasympathetic (cholinergic) nervous systems. These EAT nerves represent a significant source of several adipokines and other bioactive molecules, including norepinephrine, epinephrine, and free fatty acids. The production of these molecules is biologically relevant for the heart, since abnormalities in EAT secretion are implicated in the development of pathological conditions, including coronary atherosclerosis, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure. Sympathetic hyperactivity and parasympathetic (cholinergic) derangement are associated with EAT dysfunction, leading to a variety of adverse cardiac conditions, such as heart failure, diastolic dysfunction, atrial fibrillation, etc.; therefore, several studies have focused on exploring the autonomic regulation of EAT as it pertains to heart disease pathogenesis and progression. In addition, Regulator of G protein Signaling (RGS)-4 is a protein with significant regulatory roles in both adrenergic and muscarinic receptor signaling in the heart. In this review, we provide an overview of the autonomic regulation of EAT, with a specific focus on cardiac RGS4 and the potential roles this protein plays in this regulation.
The Role of MRE11 in the IL-6/STAT3 Pathway of Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Wu Ching-Yuan , Shu Li-Hsin , Liu Hung-Te , Cheng Yu-Ching , Wu Yu-Huei , Wu Yu-Heng
Published: December 2022

MRE11 is a pivotal protein for ATM activation during double-strand DNA break. ATM kinase activations may act as lung cancer biomarkers. The IL-6/STAT3 pathway plays an important role in tumor metastasis, including lung cancer. However, the mechanism between MRE11 and the IL-6/STAT3 pathway is still unclear. In this study, we discovered that MRE11 can interact with STAT3 under IL-6 treatment and regulate STAT3 Tyr705 phosphorylation. After the knockdown of MRE11 in lung cancer cells, we discovered that IL-6 or the conditional medium of THP-1 cells can induce the mRNA expression of STAT3 downstream genes, including CCL2, in the control cells, but not in MRE11-knockdown lung cancer cells. Moreover, CCL2 secretion was lower in MRE11-knockdown lung cancer cells than in control cells after treatment with the conditional medium of RAW264.7 cells. In addition, MRE11 deficiency in lung cancer cells decreases their ability to recruit RAW 264.7 cells. Furthermore, MRE11 is a potential target for lung cancer therapy.
Precipitation Trends and Flood Hazard Assessment in a Greek World Heritage Site
Authors: Dimitriou Elias
Published: December 2022

Natural disasters have become more frequent and intense over the last decade mainly as a result of poor water and land management. Cultural sites and monuments are extremely vulnerable to natural disasters, particularly floods, while mitigation measures and protective infrastructure are difficult to construct within such areas. In the present study, the precipitation trends of the recent past and over the next 80 years were analyzed for the old town of Corfu (UNESCO World Heritage Site) in order to identify potentially significant changes that may affect the flood risk of the area. Moreover, a multi-criteria analysis using GIS software was used to identify high flood hazard zones in this living monument in order to propose specific mitigation measures that are in line with the characteristics of the site. The main effort in this study was to find a methodological approach for a fast but reliable assessment of future changes in the flood risk of historic monuments without the need for a hydrodynamic model and with a limited amount of locally based data. With the selected approach, a good indication of the potential changes in flood risk was provided, according to climate scenarios and simple, physically-based geostatistical models. The results indicate that no significant changes in the flood risk were found for the future climatic conditions, and the identified flood-prone areas will remain approximately the same as today in this particular historic monument. The uncertainty that is included in this output originates mainly from the inherent errors in climate modeling and from the non-high temporal resolution of the data.
Structural and Electrochemical Behaviors of ZnO Structure: Effect of Different Zinc Precursor Molarity
Authors: Mohamed Ruziana , Anuar Muhammad Syakir Azri
Published: December 2022

This research synthesised zinc oxide (ZnO) structure by a hydrothermal method. ZnO samples were prepared using different molarities of zinc (Zn) precursor, ranging from 0.10 to 0.16 M. Structural and morphological properties were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The XRD patterns show that all samples are prominently grown along the three diffraction peaks at (001), (002) and (101) planes. The ZnO sample with 0.16 M Zn precursor has the highest peak orientation along the (002) plane. The average crystallite sizes for the ZnO structure with 0.10, 0.12, 0.14 and 0.16 M precursor are 48, 51, 49 and 31 nm, respectively. ZnO sample prepared at 0.16 M has the smallest crystallite size and the lowest tensile strain. The SEM images show that the ZnO samples are randomly oriented with average diameters of 209, 325, 295 and 348 nm when using 0.10, 0.12, 0.14 and 0.16 M of the precursor, respectively. The electrochemical behaviour of the ZnO structure was determined through cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurement. In the CV curve, the calculated specific capacitance for the ZnO sample prepared at 0.16 M has the highest value of 3.87 Fg−1. The ZnO sample prepared at 0.10 M has the lowest specific capacitance value of 2.11 Fg−1. Therefore, changing the molarity of the Zn precursor could change the structural and electrochemical properties. ZnO sample prepared with 0.16 M of the precursor provides the optimal result.
Prevalence of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in HIV-Positive Patients in Wroclaw, Poland—Unexpected Difference between First and Second Wave
Authors: Ciepłucha Hubert Dawid , Zalewska Małgorzata , Kujawa Krzysztof , Szetela Bartosz
Published: December 2022

Background: The presence and level of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in PLWH from the Lower Silesia region in Poland. Material and Methods: A total of 216 serum samples of both sexes, aged 21–77, and treated with TDF or TAF together with FTC and INSTI at two points of time. Anyone who did not experience COVID-19 symptoms. Samples were checked for the presence and levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies regarding CD4 + T and CD8 + T cells counts, the ratio of these cells, age, sex, VL, and type of tenofovir used. Results: The average level and prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies during the first wave were 65.81 IU/mL and 4.17%, while during the second wave, they were 125.98 IU/mL and 14.29%, respectively. There was a significant correlation between the number and type of lymphocytes and the presence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. We did not find the same correlation regarding anti-SARS-CoV-2 levels. The average level of antibodies was higher during the second wave. There was no difference between the type of tenofovir used and the humoral response, as well as no correlation of anti-SARS-CoV-2 levels with age, gender, or VL. Conclusion: PLWH can have asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection, which can influence the presence, but not levels, of anti-SARS-CoV-2 Ab. No correlation with type of tenofovir was observed.
The Efficiency of Photodynamic Therapy in the Bacterial Decontamination of Periodontal Pockets and Its Impact on the Patient
Authors: Munteanu Ioana R. , Luca Ruxandra E. , Mateas Marius , Darawsha Laura Diana , Boia Simina , Boia Eugen-Radu , Todea Carmen D.
Published: December 2022

Research in the field of periodontal disease continues to focus on disease-associated microorganisms, as the microbial plaque and the host immune responses are considered to be important causative factors, that are highly responsible for the progression of this disease. The purpose of this article is to compare the reduction in the number of specific periodontopathogens in two test groups according to different therapeutic approaches in periodontal disease and to show possible differences. This article is based on a prospective clinical study involving eighteen subjects with forty-four average periodontal pockets assigned to study groups treated by two different methods, SRP and SRP followed by a single PDT application. Efficiency in removing specific bacterial species was evaluated by PCR testing, at baseline and immediately after treatment. The hypothesis that using SRP + aPDT results in an increased decontamination potential was confirmed statistically, when all five specific bacterial pathogens were investigated together. When the pathogens were considered separately, two of the five microorganisms tested were significantly lower in the SRP + PDT group (p < 0.00), and important germ counts reductions were also observed for the other three. There is also a statistically significant relation between the pain at 48 h postoperatively and the type of treatment the patients received, as resulted from the Questionnaire Form. Our results demonstrate that aPDT, as an adjunctive treatment to conservative mechanical cleaning of root surfaces at sites affected by periodontitis, represents an effective tool in terms of reducing specific periodontopathogen germs.
A Novel ARMC5 Germline Variant in Primary Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia Using Whole-Exome Sequencing
Authors: Eghbali Maryam , Cheraghi Sara , Samanian Sara , Rad Iman , Meghdadi Jafar , Akbari Hamideh , Honardoost Maryam
Published: December 2022

Background: Primary macronodular adrenocortical hyperplasia (PMAH) is a rare form of adrenal Cushing’s syndrome with incomplete penetrance which may be sporadic or autosomal dominant. The inactivation of the ARMC5 gene, a potential tumor suppressor gene, is one of the associated causes of PMAH. This study aimed to identify the variant responsible for Iranian familial PMAH. Methods: The proband, a 44-year-old woman, was directed to whole-exome sequencing (WES) of the blood sample to discover a germline variant. In addition, the identified causative variant was confirmed and segregated in other and available unaffected family members. Results: The novel germline heterozygous missense variant, c.2105C>A in the ARMC5 gene, was found, and the same germline variant as the proband was confirmed in two affected sisters. This variant was detected in the brother of the proband with an asymptomatic condition and this considered because of incomplete penetrance and age-dependent appearance. The function of the ARMC5 protein would be damaged by the identified variant, according to in silico and computer analyses that followed. Conclusion: The new germline ARMC5 variation (c.2105C>A, (p. Ala702Glu)) was interpreted as a likely pathogenic variant based on ACMG and Sherloc standards. PMAH may be diagnosed early using genetic testing that shows inherited autosomal dominant mutations in the ARMC5 gene.
A Feasibility Study for Immediate Histological Assessment of Various Skin Biopsies Using Ex Vivo Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy
Authors: Ogrzewalla Hanna , Möhrle Matthias , Metzler Gisela , Eigentler Thomas , Münch Anne-Kristin , Forchhammer Stephan
Published: December 2022

Background: Digitally stained ex vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) scans are a possible alternative to formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) and hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) stained slides. This study explores the diagnostic accuracy of digitally-stained CLSM scans in comparison to H&E-stained slides in various dermatologic diseases in a real-life setting. Methods: Samples of patients out of one selected dermatologic office were primarily scanned via CLSM; a diagnosis was made afterwards using FFPE- and H&E-stained slides by two experienced dermatopathologists. Primary outcomes were sensitivity and specificity of diagnosis in digitally stained CLSM scans in three separate diagnostic groups. Results: CLSM evaluation of epithelial tumors (n = 132) demonstrated a sensitivity of 64.3%/83.9% and a specificity of 84.2%/71.1%. Diagnosis of melanocytic tumors (n = 86) showed a sensitivity of 19.1%/85.1% and a specificity of 96.3%/66.7%. In the diagnosis of other tumors/cysts and inflammatory dermatoses (n = 42), a sensitivity of 96.4%/96.8% and a specificity of 57.1%/45.5% was reached. Conclusions: This study shows the possibilities and limitations of a broad use of CLSM. Because of a partly low diagnostic accuracy, such an application does not seem to be recommendable at present for every indication.
Effects of Automatic Deep-Learning-Based Lung Analysis on Quantification of Interstitial Lung Disease: Correlation with Pulmonary Function Test Results and Prognosis
Authors: Aoki Ryo , Iwasawa Tae , Saka Tomoki , Yamashiro Tsuneo , Utsunomiya Daisuke , Misumi Toshihiro , Baba Tomohisa , Ogura Takashi
Published: December 2022

We investigated the feasibility of a new deep-learning (DL)-based lung analysis method for the evaluation of interstitial lung disease (ILD) by comparing it with evaluation using the traditional computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) system and patients’ clinical outcomes. We prospectively included 104 patients (84 with and 20 without ILD). An expert radiologist defined regions of interest in the typical areas of normal, ground-glass opacity, consolidation, consolidation with fibrosis (traction bronchiectasis), honeycombing, reticulation, traction bronchiectasis, and emphysema, and compared them with the CAD and DL-based analysis results. Next, we measured the extent of ILD lesions with the CAD and DL-based analysis and compared them. Finally, we compared the lesion extent on computed tomography (CT) images, as measured with the DL-based analysis, with pulmonary function tests results and patients’ overall survival. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed a significant correlation between DL-based analysis and CAD results. Forced vital capacity was significantly correlated with DL-based analysis (r = 0.789, p < 0.001 for normal lung volume and r = −0.316, p = 0.001 for consolidation with fibrosis volume). Consolidation with fibrosis measured using DL-based analysis was independently associated with poor survival. The lesion extent measured using DL-based analysis showed a negative correlation with the pulmonary function test results and prognosis.
Fluorescence Melting Curve Analysis for Concurrent Genotyping of Three Tag SNPs in FUT3
Authors: Soejima Mikiko , Koda Yoshiro
Published: December 2022

The synthesis of Lewis blood group antigens is governed by two fucosyltransferase genes, FUT2 and FUT3. Evidence is accumulating to suggest that functional polymorphisms of FUT2 and FUT3 are associated with a variety of clinical conditions. Fluorescence melting curve analysis (FMCA), using three different dual-labeled probes for concurrent genotyping of three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of FUT3, c.59T>G, c.314C>T, and c.484G>A for Lewis-negative allele inference, was developed and validated using Ghanaian and Caucasian subjects. Although two other SNPs, c.55G>A, and c.61C>T, are located in the probe sequence for c.59T>G, it seems feasible to detect these two SNPs along with c.59T>G. The results obtained by probe-based FMCA were in perfect accordance with those obtained by Sanger sequencing for 106 Ghanaians and 100 Caucasians. The present method is useful and reliable for estimating Lewis-negative alleles on a relatively large scale.
Registered Clinical Trials for Artificial Intelligence in Lung Disease: A Scoping Review on ClinicalTrials.gov
Authors: Li Bingjie , Jiang Lisha , Lin Dan , Dong Jingsi
Published: December 2022

Clinical trials are the most effective tools to evaluate the advantages of various diagnostic and treatment modalities. AI used in medical issues, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment decisions, improves health outcomes and patient experiences. This study’s objective was to investigate the traits of registered trials on artificial intelligence for lung disease. Clinical studies on AI for lung disease that were present in the ClinicalTrials.gov database were searched, and fifty-three registered trials were included. Forty-six (72.1%) were observational trials, compared to seven (27.9%) that were interventional trials. Only eight trials (15.4%) were completed. Thirty (56.6%) trials were accepting applicants. Clinical studies often included a large number of cases; for example, 24 (32.0%) trials included samples of 100–1000 cases, while 14 (17.5%) trials included samples of 1000–2000 cases. Of the interventional trials, twenty (15.7%) were retrospective studies and twenty (65.7%) were prospective studies.
Cadaveric and Ultrasound Validation of Percutaneous Electrolysis Approach at the Distal Biceps Tendon: A Potential Treatment for Biceps Tendinopathy
Authors: Calderón-Díez Laura , Sánchez-Sánchez José L. , Belón-Pérez Pedro , Robles-García Miguel , Pérez-Robledo Fátima , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César
Published: December 2022

Distal biceps brachii tendinopathy is a musculoskeletal pain condition—comprising chronic intrasubstance degeneration with alterations of the tendon structure—that is difficult to treat. Preliminary evidence suggests a positive effect for pain and related disability of percutaneous electrolysis treatment in patients with tendinopathy. Ultrasound is an excellent diagnostic tool to identify tendon injuries, such as tendinopathy, and to guide treatment approaches. Different approaches using ultrasound evaluation of the biceps tendon have been described. Our aim was to determine the validity and safety of a percutaneous electrolysis approach, targeting insertion of the distal tendon of biceps brachii, in both human (ultrasound-guided) and Thiel-embalmed cadaver (not ultrasound-guided) models. There were two approaches evaluated: an anterior approach with the elbow in extension and the forearm in supination and a posterior approach with the elbow in flexion and the forearm in pronation. A needle was inserted following the tendon up to its insertion into the radial tuberosity. The anterior approach, both in cadaveric study and US-guided intervention, revealed a close relationship between the distal biceps tendon and the brachial artery. The mean distance of the depth of the biceps tendon distal to the brachial artery was 0.21 ± 0.021 cm in the cadavers and 0.51 ± 0.024 cm in subjects. It was also found that the anterior approach has a potential technical difficulty due to the anatomical location of the brachial artery. With the posterior approach, it was possible to safely identify the tendon insertion and the needle approach, since no important vascular and nervous structures were visualized in the window of insertion of the needle. The clinician rated the posterior approach as low difficulty in all subjects. Current results would support a posterior approach with US guidance as a safe approach for applying the percutaneous electrolysis technique for insertional tendinopathies of the distal biceps brachii tendon. The current study did not assess the effectiveness of the proposed intervention; accordingly, future studies investigating the clinical effectiveness of the proposed intervention are needed.
p53 Modulates Radiosensitivity in Head and Neck Cancers—From Classic to Future Horizons
Authors: Mireștean Camil Ciprian , Iancu Roxana Irina , Iancu Dragoș Petru Teodor
Published: December 2022

p53, initially considered a tumor suppressor, has been the subject of research related to cancer treatment resistance in the last 30 years. The unfavorable response to multimodal therapy and the higher recurrence rate, despite an aggressive approach, make HNSCC a research topic of interest for improving therapeutic outcomes, even if it is only the sixth most common malignancy worldwide. New advances in molecular biology and genetics include the involvement of miRNA in the control of the p53 pathway, the understanding of mechanisms such as gain/loss of function, and the development of different methods to restore p53 function, especially for HPV-negative cases. The different ratio between mutant p53 status in the primary tumor and distant metastasis originating HNSCC may serve to select the best therapeutic target for activating an abscopal effect by radiotherapy as a “booster” of the immune system. P53 may also be a key player in choosing radiotherapy fractionation regimens. Targeting any pathway involving p53, including tumor metabolism, in particular the Warburg effect, could modulate the radiosensitivity and chemo-sensitivity of head and neck cancers.
Is the Diagnosis of Generalized Stage IV (Severe) Periodontitis Compatible with the Survival of Extended Stabilizing Prosthetic Restorations? A Medium-Term Retrospective Study
Authors: Rădulescu Viorelia , Boariu Marius , Rusu Darian , Boldeanu Camelia , Christodorescu Ruxandra , Roman Alexandra , Surlin Petra , Didilescu Andreea Cristiana , Vela Octavia , Kardaras Giorgios , Veja Ioana , Martu Ioana , Stratul Stefan-Ioan
Published: December 2022

The aim of the study was to identify the most relevant patient-related factors directly involved (alone or in combinations) in the long-term survival and functionality of the abutment teeth of extensive stabilizing bridges and removable prosthesis, in patients treated for Stage IV periodontitis, adhering to SPT over a period of at least 5 years. Seventy-six patients treated between 2000–2022, rehabilitated with FDPs and RDPs, adhering to SPT for at least 5 years were included. Patient-related factors influencing retention of RDPs and FDP, survival rates in regular (RCs) and irregular compliers (ICs), and incidence of biological and technical complications were assessed. During a follow-up of 69 months, from 57 patients with FDPs and 19 patients with RDPs, 39 (51.32%) were ICs, while 37 (48.68%) were RCs. An overall statistically significant association (p = 0.04) was identified between biological complications and the type of prostheses. The RDP patients had more complications than FDP patients. In 5.26% of the RDP patients, root caries were identified, and 10.53% were diagnosed with a periapical (endodontic) lesion, while 3.51% of the FDPS patients presented root caries. In five (6.57%) cases, abutment loss resulted in the loss of the prosthesis. Statistically significant correlations were observed between systemic diseases and tooth loss, and between type of tooth lost and the reason for tooth loss, irrespective of the type of prosthesis. A total of 66.67% of the lost incisors, 85.71% of the lost premolars, and 88.89% of the lost molars occurred due to periodontal causes. Furthermore, 93% of the FDPs and RDPs were still in place and in function.
Aerodynamic Performance Analysis of VTOL Arm Configurations of a VTOL Plane UAV Using a Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Nugroho Gesang , Hutagaol Yoshua Dwiyanson , Zuliardiansyah Galih
Published: December 2022

A vertical take-off and landing plane (VTOL plane) is a fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicle (FWUAV) configuration with the ability to take off and land vertically. It combines the benefits of fixed-wing and multirotor configurations, which gives it a high cruising range and independence from a runway. This configuration requires arms as mountings for the VTOL’s motors. This study discusses the design of a VTOL Plane with various VTOL arm configurations, and a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation was conducted to find out which configuration performs the best aerodynamically. The VTOL arm configurations analyzed were a quad-plane, a twin-tail boom, a tandem wing, and a transverse arm. The interpreted performances were the lift and drag performances, stall conditions, flight efficiency, stability, and maneuverability. The relative wind directions toward the longitudinal axis of the UAV, which are the sideslip angle and the angle of attack, were varied to simulate various flying conditions. The results showed that the twin tail-boom is the most advantageous based on the interpreted performances.
Offline Imagery Checks for Remote Drone Usage
Authors: Francis Roxane J. , Brandis Kate J. , McCann Justin A.
Published: December 2022

Drones are increasingly used for a wide range of applications including mapping, monitoring, detection, tracking and videography. Drone software and flight mission programs are, however, still largely marketed for “urban” use such as property photography, roof inspections or 3D mapping. As a result, much of the flight mission software is reliant upon an internet connection and has built-in cloud-based services to allow for the mosaicking of imagery as a direct part of the image collection process. Another growing use for drones is in conservation, where drones are monitoring species and habitat change. Naturally, much of this work is undertaken in areas without internet connection. Working remotely increases field costs, and time in the field is often aligned with specific ecological seasons. As a result, pilots in these scenarios often have only one chance to collect appropriate data and an opportunity missed can mean failure to meet research aims and contract deliverables. We provide a simple but highly practical piece of code allowing drone pilots to quickly plot the geographical position of captured photographs and assess the likelihood of the successful production of an orthomosaic. Most importantly, this process can be performed in the field with no reliance on an internet connection, and as a result can highlight any missing sections of imagery that may need recollecting, before the opportunity is missed. Code is written in R, a familiar software to many ecologists, and provided on a GitHub repository for download. We recommend this data quality check be integrated into a pilot’s standard image capture process for the dependable production of mosaics and general quality assurance of drone collected imagery.
Shifted LT Code Security Scheme for Partial Information Encryption
Authors: Zhang Si , Niu Fanglin , Wang Lizheng , Yu Ling
Published: December 2022

The existing physical layer security technology based on fountain codes needs to ensure that the legal channel is superior to the eavesdropping channel; when the quality of the legal channel and the eavesdropping channel are close, the information security cannot be guaranteed. Aiming at this problem, this paper proposes a shifted Luby transform (SLT) code security scheme for partial information encryption, which is mainly divided into two stages, partial information encryption transfer and degree distribution adjustment. The main idea is that the source randomly extracts part of the information symbols, and performs XOR encryption with the random sequence containing the main channel noise sent by the legitimate receiver. Afterward, the degree distribution is adjusted using the number of transfer information symbols received by the legitimate receiver to improve the average degree of the encoded codewords. Since the eavesdropper can only obtain fewer information symbols in the initial stage, it is difficult to decode the generated coded symbols after the degree distribution adjustment, thereby ensuring the safe transmission of information. The experimental results show that, compared with other LT anti-eavesdropping schemes, even if the legitimate channel is not dominant, the proposed scheme still has better security performance and less decoding overhead.
Lightweight Multiprincipal Element Alloys with Excellent Mechanical Properties at Room and Cryogenic Temperatures
Authors: Lin Gongxi , Guo Ruipeng , Shi Xiaohui , Han Lina , Qiao Junwei
Published: December 2022

Lightweight multiprincipal element alloys (MPEAs) are promising candidates for potential application as engineering materials due to their high strength and low density. In this work, lightweight Ti70Al15V15 and Ti80Al10V10 MPEAs were fabricated via vacuum arc melting. The phases of the Ti70Al15V15 alloys consisted of a BCC phase and a small amount of B2 phase while the Ti80Al10V10 alloys displayed a dual-phase structure with BCC and HCP phases. The different phase compositions led to differences in their mechanical properties. When the temperature changed from 298 K to 77 K, the strength of the alloys further increased and maintained a certain plasticity. This is attributed to the increasing lattice friction stress at cryogenic temperature. TEM observation demonstrated that dislocation played a crucial role in plastic deformation for both the Ti70Al15V15 and Ti80Al10V10 alloys. In addition, Ti80Al10V10 exhibited significant work-hardening capabilities. By analyzing the strengthening mechanism of the alloys, the theoretical yield strength was calculated, and the results agreed with the experimental values. The present results provide new insight into developing lightweight MPEAs containing Ti and Al.
Numerical Study on Heat-Transfer Characteristics of Convection Melting in Metal Foam under Sinusoidal Temperature Boundary Conditions
Authors: Feng Xiang-Bo , Huo Shi-Fan , Xu Xiao-Tao , Liu Fei , Liu Qing
Published: December 2022

Convection melting in metal foam under sinusoidal temperature boundary conditions is numerically studied in the present study. A multiple-relaxation-time lattice Boltzmann method, in conjunction with the enthalpy approach, is constructed to model the melting process without iteration steps. The effects of the porosity, phase deviation, and periodicity parameter on the heat-transfer characteristics are investigated. For the cases considered in this work, it is found that the effects of the phase deviation and periodicity parameter on the melting rate are weak, but the melting front can be significantly affected by the sinusoidal temperature boundary conditions.
An Exploratory Intervention Program on Chinese Culture among CFL Students at a Vietnamese University
Authors: Wang Yanjun , Wei Pei-Ling , Nguyen Van Thanh
Published: December 2022

This article reports on a study of an intensive three-week culture intervention program, delivered via VooV Meeting (an online meeting platform) as an additional opportunity for CFL students at a Vietnamese university in December 2021. The primary aim was to explore students’ perceptions and experiences of learning about Chinese culture in a non-target language environment since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Two hundred and nine mixed-level undergraduate CFL students participated in a survey administered via Google Forms. Overall results indicated that students valued the opportunity offered by this program to learn Chinese culture and acknowledged the importance of cultural study in CFL. There appeared to be different preferences among male and female students and the different year groups in choosing the contents and methods of cultural learning. Additionally, students expressed concerns about using technology in language and culture learning despite its benefits, especially in the absence of real-life human interactions and communications due to travel restrictions. One significant finding was that students recognised teachers’ essential role in learning culture. The survey results, in particular the participants’ responses to open-ended questions, are discussed in this paper. The understanding gained from this study is expected to provide Chinese language professionals and practitioners with insights and suggestions on how Chinese culture can be better integrated into CFL through appropriate and effective teaching strategies in a post-pandemic era.
Solving Problems through Engineering Design: An Exploratory Study with Pre-Service Teachers
Authors: Vale Isabel , Barbosa Ana , Peixoto Ana , Fernandes Fátima
Published: December 2022

A possible pathway to achieve disciplinary integration is through the use of the Engineering Design (ED) process, starting with problems in a real context that enable the mobilization of concepts from various disciplinary areas. The study reported in this paper aims to analyze the performance underlying the use of the ED process in solving authentic problems in a STEAM perspective, with future teachers of elementary education. We adopted a qualitative and interpretative methodology, with an exploratory design, where data were collected through participant observation, documents, artefacts and photographic records. The results are discussed, taking into account previous research and the data collected throughout the classes, where future teachers solved a problem task and created an artefact and a poster. Preliminary results show that the participants valued the experience and were actively engaged, showing persistence and motivation in solving the problem in a collaborative way, through the different steps of the ED cycle. This approach constituted an opportunity to favor the establishment of connections between different areas, such as mathematics, sciences or arts, detecting the possibility of integrating previously learned concepts. Difficulties were evidenced in the identification of some underlying mathematical and physical sciences concepts, particularly in the mobilization of an adequate scientific language while arguing and making decisions, or in accurately justifying the need to improve the designed plan.
Solar PV Stochastic Hosting Capacity Assessment Considering Epistemic (E) Probability Distribution Function (PDF)
Authors: Mulenga Enock
Published: December 2022

This paper presents a stochastic approach to assessing the hosting capacity for solar PV. The method is part of the optimal techniques for the integration of renewables. There are two types of uncertainties, namely aleatory and epistemic uncertainties. The epistemic and aleatory uncertainties influence distribution networks’ hosting capacity differently. The combination of the two uncertainties influences the planning of distribution networks. The study introduces and considers the epistemic probability distribution function (PDF). DSO does take levels of risk for a parameter violation when planning. Epistemic PDF is a range of values of the planning risk margin for quantifying the hosting capacity. The planning risk acknowledges that overvoltages may occur at weaker conceivable locations in a distribution network. In the paper, it has been shown that the number of customers who will be able to connect solar PV in future is influenced by the DSO’s planning risk margin. The DSO can be stricter or less strict in planning risk margin. It has been concluded that fewer customers can connect solar PV to a distribution network when a DSO takes a stricter planning risk. Alternatively, more customers can connect solar PV units for a less strict planning risk. How stricter or less strict the DSO is with the planning risk margin determines the investment needed for mitigation measures. The mitigation measures in the future will lead to not exceeding the overvoltage limit when solar PV is connected to the weaker conceivable points of the distribution network.