bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DWI Metrics Differentiating Benign Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms from Invasive Pancreatic Cancer: A Study in GEM Models
Authors: Romanello Joaquim Miguel , Furth Emma , Fan Yong , Song Hee , Pickup Stephen , Cao Jianbo , Choi Hoon , Gupta Mamta , Cao Quy , Shinohara Russell , McMenamin Deirdre , Clendenin Cynthia , Karasic Thomas , Duda Jeffrey , Gee James , O’Dwyer Peter , Rosen Mark , Zhou Rong
Published: August 2022

KPC (KrasG12D:Trp53R172H:Pdx1-Cre) and CKS (KrasG12D:Smad4L/L:Ptf1a-Cre) mice are genetically engineered mouse (GEM) models that capture features of human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN), respectively. We compared these autochthonous tumors using quantitative imaging metrics from diffusion-weighted MRI (DW-MRI) and dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE)-MRI in reference to quantitative histological metrics including cell density, fibrosis, and microvasculature density. Our results revealed distinct DW-MRI metrics between the KPC vs. CKS model (mimicking human PDAC vs. IPMN lesion): the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of CKS tumors is significantly higher than that of KPC, with little overlap (mean ± SD 2.24±0.2 vs. 1.66±0.2, p<10−10) despite intratumor and intertumor variability. Kurtosis index (KI) is also distinctively separated in the two models. DW imaging metrics are consistent with growth pattern, cell density, and the cystic nature of the CKS tumors. Coregistration of ex vivo ADC maps with H&E-stained sections allowed for regional comparison and showed a correlation between local cell density and ADC value. In conclusion, studies in GEM models demonstrate the potential utility of diffusion-weighted MRI metrics for distinguishing pancreatic cancer from benign pancreatic cysts such as IPMN.
Application of Artificial Intelligence Methods for Imaging of Spinal Metastasis
Authors: Ong Wilson , Zhu Lei , Zhang Wenqiao , Kuah Tricia , Lim Desmond Shi Wei , Low Xi Zhen , Thian Yee Liang , Teo Ee Chin , Tan Jiong Hao , Kumar Naresh , Vellayappan Balamurugan A. , Ooi Beng Chin , Quek Swee Tian , Makmur Andrew , Hallinan James Thomas Patrick Decourcy
Published: August 2022

Spinal metastasis is the most common malignant disease of the spine. Recently, major advances in machine learning and artificial intelligence technology have led to their increased use in oncological imaging. The purpose of this study is to review and summarise the present evidence for artificial intelligence applications in the detection, classification and management of spinal metastasis, along with their potential integration into clinical practice. A systematic, detailed search of the main electronic medical databases was undertaken in concordance with the PRISMA guidelines. A total of 30 articles were retrieved from the database and reviewed. Key findings of current AI applications were compiled and summarised. The main clinical applications of AI techniques include image processing, diagnosis, decision support, treatment assistance and prognostic outcomes. In the realm of spinal oncology, artificial intelligence technologies have achieved relatively good performance and hold immense potential to aid clinicians, including enhancing work efficiency and reducing adverse events. Further research is required to validate the clinical performance of the AI tools and facilitate their integration into routine clinical practice.
m6A Methylation Regulators Are Predictive Biomarkers for Tumour Metastasis in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Liang Yingchun , Zhang Xiaohua , Ma Chenkai , Hu Jimeng
Published: August 2022

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancers in men. Usually, most PCas at initial diagnosis are localized and hormone-dependent, and grow slowly. Patients with localized PCas have a nearly 100% 5-year survival rate; however, the 5-year survival rate of metastatic or progressive PCa is still dismal. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common post-transcriptional mRNA modification and is dynamically regulated by m6A regulators. A few studies have shown that the abnormal expression of m6A regulators is significantly associated with cancer progression and immune cell infiltration, but the roles of these regulators in PCa remain unclear. Here, we examined the expression profiles and methylation levels of 21 m6A regulators across the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), 495 PCas by consensus clustering, and correlated the expression of m6A regulators with PCa progression and immune cell infiltration. Consensus clustering was applied for subtyping Pca samples into clusters based on the expression profiles of m6A regulators. Each subtype’s signature genes were obtained by a pairwise differential expression analysis. Featured pathways of m6A subtypes were predicted by Gene Ontology. The m6A score was developed to predict m6A activation. The association of the m6A score with patients’ survival, metastasis and immune cell infiltration was also investigated. We identified three distinct clusters in PCa based on the expression profiles of 21 m6A regulators by consensus clustering. The differential expression and pathway analyses on the three clusters uncovered the m6A regulators involved in metabolic processes and immune responses in PCa. Moreover, we developed an m6A score to evaluate the m6A regulator activation for PCa. The m6A score is significantly associated with Gleason scores and metastasis in PCa. The predictive capacity of the m6A score on PCa metastasis was also validated in another independent cohort with an area under the curve of 89.5%. Hence, our study revealed the critical role of m6A regulators in PCa progression and the m6A score is a promising predictive biomarker for PCa metastasis.
An Artificial Intelligence-Based Tool for Data Analysis and Prognosis in Cancer Patients: Results from the Clarify Study
Authors: Torrente María , Sousa Pedro A. , Hernández Roberto , Blanco Mariola , Calvo Virginia , Collazo Ana , Guerreiro Gracinda R. , Núñez Beatriz , Pimentao Joao , Sánchez Juan Cristóbal , Campos Manuel , Costabello Luca , Novacek Vit , Menasalvas Ernestina , Vidal María Esther , Provencio Mariano
Published: August 2022

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) has contributed substantially in recent years to the resolution of different biomedical problems, including cancer. However, AI tools with significant and widespread impact in oncology remain scarce. The goal of this study is to present an AI-based solution tool for cancer patients data analysis that assists clinicians in identifying the clinical factors associated with poor prognosis, relapse and survival, and to develop a prognostic model that stratifies patients by risk. Materials and Methods: We used clinical data from 5275 patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, breast cancer, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma at Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro-Majadahonda. Accessible clinical parameters measured with a wearable device and quality of life questionnaires data were also collected. Results: Using an AI-tool, data from 5275 cancer patients were analyzed, integrating clinical data, questionnaires data, and data collected from wearable devices. Descriptive analyses were performed in order to explore the patients’ characteristics, survival probabilities were calculated, and a prognostic model identified low and high-risk profile patients. Conclusion: Overall, the reconstruction of the population’s risk profile for the cancer-specific predictive model was achieved and proved useful in clinical practice using artificial intelligence. It has potential application in clinical settings to improve risk stratification, early detection, and surveillance management of cancer patients.
Methyltransferase Setdb1 Promotes Osteoblast Proliferation by Epigenetically Silencing Macrod2 with the Assistance of Atf7ip
Authors: Zhang Lijun , Xu Liqun , Zhang Xiaoyan , Wang Ke , Tan Yingjun , Li Gaozhi , Wang Yixuan , Xue Tong , Sun Quan , Cao Xinsheng , Zhang Ge , Hu Zebing , Zhang Shu , Shi Fei
Published: August 2022

Bone loss caused by mechanical unloading is a threat to prolonged space flight and human health. Epigenetic modifications play a crucial role in varied biological processes, but the mechanism of histone modification on unloading-induced bone loss has rarely been studied. Here, we discovered for the first time that the methyltransferase Setdb1 was downregulated under the mechanical unloading both in vitro and in vivo so as to attenuate osteoblast proliferation. Furthermore, we found these interesting processes depended on the repression of Macrod2 expression triggered by Setdb1 catalyzing the formation of H3K9me3 in the promoter region. Mechanically, we revealed that Macrod2 was upregulated under mechanical unloading and suppressed osteoblast proliferation through the GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathway. Moreover, Atf7ip cooperatively contributed to osteoblast proliferation by changing the localization of Setdb1 under mechanical loading. In summary, this research elucidated the role of the Atf7ip/Setdb1/Macrod2 axis in osteoblast proliferation under mechanical unloading for the first time, which can be a potential protective strategy against unloading-induced bone loss.
Expression of Functional Cannabinoid Type-1 (CB1) Receptor in Mitochondria of White Adipocytes
Authors: Pagano Zottola Antonio C. , Severi Ilenia , Cannich Astrid , Ciofi Philippe , Cota Daniela , Marsicano Giovanni , Giordano Antonio , Bellocchio Luigi
Published: August 2022

Via activation of the cannabinoid type-1 (CB1) receptor, endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids modulate important biochemical and cellular processes in adipocytes. Several pieces of evidence suggest that alterations of mitochondrial physiology might be a possible mechanism underlying cannabinoids’ effects on adipocyte biology. Many reports suggest the presence of CB1 receptor mRNA in both white and brown adipose tissue, but the detailed subcellular localization of CB1 protein in adipose cells has so far been scarcely addressed. In this study, we show the presence of the functional CB1 receptor at different subcellular locations of adipocytes from epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) depots. We observed that CB1 is located at different subcellular levels, including the plasma membrane and in close association with mitochondria (mtCB1). Functional analysis in tissue homogenates and isolated mitochondria allowed us to reveal that cannabinoids negatively regulate complex-I-dependent oxygen consumption in eWAT. This effect requires mtCB1 activation and consequent regulation of the intramitochondrial cAMP-PKA pathway. Thus, CB1 receptors are functionally present at the mitochondrial level in eWAT adipocytes, adding another possible mechanism for peripheral regulation of energy metabolism.
Single Cell Analysis of Cultivated Fibroblasts from Chronic Pancreatitis and Pancreatic Cancer Patients
Authors: Sunami Yoshiaki , Chen Yijun , Trojanowicz Bogusz , Sommerer Matthias , Hämmerle Monika , Eils Roland , Kleeff Jörg
Published: August 2022

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a major role in the progression and drug resistance of pancreatic cancer. Recent studies suggest that CAFs exhibit functional heterogeneity and distinct transcriptomic signatures in pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic fibroblasts also form an integral component in pancreatic diseases such as chronic pancreatitis named disease-associated fibroblasts (DAFs). However, intra-tumoral heterogeneity of CAFs in pancreatic cancer patients and their pivotal role in cancer-related mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Further, it has not been elucidated whether CAF subtypes identified in pancreatic cancer also exist in chronic pancreatitis. In this study, we used primary isolated fibroblasts from pancreatic cancer and chronic pancreatitis patients using the outgrowth method. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed, and bioinformatics analysis identified highly variable genes, including factors associated with overall survival of pancreatic cancer patients. The majority of highly variable genes are involved in the cell cycle. Instead of previously classified myofibroblastic (myCAFs), inflammatory (iCAFs), and antigen-presenting (ap) CAFs, we identified a myCAFs-like subtype in all cases. Most interestingly, after cell cycle regression, we observed 135 highly variable genes commonly identified in chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer patients. This study is the first to conduct scRNAseq and bioinformatics analyses to compare CAFs/DAFs from both chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer patients. Further studies are required to select and identify stromal factors in DAFs from chronic pancreatitis cases, which are commonly expressed also in CAFs potentially contributing to pancreatic cancer development.
Developing a Reliable Holographic Flow Cyto-Tomography Apparatus by Optimizing the Experimental Layout and Computational Processing
Authors: Běhal Jaromír , Borrelli Francesca , Mugnano Martina , Bianco Vittorio , Capozzoli Amedeo , Curcio Claudio , Liseno Angelo , Miccio Lisa , Memmolo Pasquale , Ferraro Pietro
Published: August 2022

Digital Holographic Tomography (DHT) has recently been established as a means of retrieving the 3D refractive index mapping of single cells. To make DHT a viable system, it is necessary to develop a reliable and robust holographic apparatus in order that such technology can be utilized outside of specialized optics laboratories and operated in the in-flow modality. In this paper, we propose a quasi-common-path lateral-shearing holographic optical set-up to be used, for the first time, for DHT in a flow-cytometer modality. The proposed solution is able to withstand environmental vibrations that can severely affect the interference process. Furthermore, we have scaled down the system while ensuring that a full 360° rotation of the cells occurs in the field-of-view, in order to retrieve 3D phase-contrast tomograms of single cells flowing along a microfluidic channel. This was achieved by setting the camera sensor at 45° with respect to the microfluidic direction. Additional optimizations were made to the computational elements to ensure the reliable retrieval of 3D refractive index distributions by demonstrating an effective method of tomographic reconstruction, based on high-order total variation. The results were first demonstrated using realistic 3D numerical phantom cells to assess the performance of the proposed high-order total variation method in comparison with the gold-standard algorithm for tomographic reconstructions: namely, filtered back projection. Then, the proposed DHT system and the processing pipeline were experimentally validated for monocytes and mouse embryonic fibroblast NIH-3T3 cells lines. Moreover, the repeatability of these tomographic measurements was also investigated by recording the same cell multiple times and quantifying the ability to provide reliable and comparable tomographic reconstructions, as confirmed by a correlation coefficient greater than 95%. The reported results represent various steps forward in several key aspects of in-flow DHT, thus paving the way for its use in real-world applications.
Cytosine Methylation in Genomic DNA and Characterization of DNA Methylases and Demethylases and Their Expression Profiles in Viroid-Infected Hop Plants (Humulus lupulus Var. ‘Celeia’)
Authors: Sečnik Andrej , Štajner Nataša , Radišek Sebastjan , Kunej Urban , Križman Mitja , Jakše Jernej
Published: August 2022

Abiotic and biotic stresses can lead to changes in host DNA methylation, which in plants is also mediated by an RNA-directed DNA methylation mechanism. Infections with viroids have been shown to affect DNA methylation dynamics in different plant hosts. The aim of our research was to determine the content of 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) in genomic DNA at the whole genome level of hop plants (Humulus lupulus Var. ‘Celeia’) infected with different viroids and their combinations and to analyse the expression of the selected genes to improve our understanding of DNA methylation dynamics in plant-viroid systems. The adapted HPLC-UV method used proved to be suitable for this purpose, and thus we were able to estimate for the first time that the cytosine methylation level in viroid-free hop plants was 26.7%. Interestingly, the observed 5-mC level was the lowest in hop plants infected simultaneously with CBCVd, HLVd and HSVd (23.7%), whereas the highest level was observed in plants infected with HLVd (31.4%). In addition, we identified three DNA methylases and one DNA demethylase gene in the hop’s draft genome. The RT-qPCR revealed upregulation of all newly identified genes in hop plants infected with all three viroids, while no altered expression was observed in any of the other hop plants tested, except for CBCVd-infected hop plants, in which one DNA methylase was also upregulated.
Kynurenine Pathway—An Underestimated Factor Modulating Innate Immunity in Sepsis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury?
Authors: Krupa Anna , Krupa Mikolaj M. , Pawlak Krystyna
Published: August 2022

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection, and it accounts for about half of the cases of acute kidney injury (AKI). Although sepsis is the most frequent cause of AKI in critically ill patients, its pathophysiological mechanisms are not well understood. Sepsis has the ability to modulate the function of cells belonging to the innate immune system. Increased activity of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) and production of kynurenines are the major metabolic pathways utilized by innate immunity cells to maintain immunological tolerance. The activation of the kynurenine pathway (KP) plays a dual role in sepsis—in the early stage, the induction of IDO1 elicits strong proinflammatory effects that may lead to tissue damage and septic shock. Afterwards, depletion of tryptophan and production of kynurenines contribute to the development of immunosuppression that may cause the inability to overpower opportunistic infections. The presented review provides available data on the various interdependencies between elements of innate immunity and sepsis-induced AKI (SAKI) with particular emphasis on the immunomodulatory significance of KP in the above processes. We believe that KP activation may be one of the crucial, though underestimated, components of a deregulated host response to infection during SAKI.
Mitochondrial Impairment: A Common Motif in Neuropsychiatric Presentation? The Link to the Tryptophan–Kynurenine Metabolic System
Authors: Tanaka Masaru , Szabó Ágnes , Spekker Eleonóra , Polyák Helga , Tóth Fanni , Vécsei László
Published: August 2022

Nearly half a century has passed since the discovery of cytoplasmic inheritance of human chloramphenicol resistance. The inheritance was then revealed to take place maternally by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Later, a number of mutations in mtDNA were identified as a cause of severe inheritable metabolic diseases with neurological manifestation, and the impairment of mitochondrial functions has been probed in the pathogenesis of a wide range of illnesses including neurodegenerative diseases. Recently, a growing number of preclinical studies have revealed that animal behaviors are influenced by the impairment of mitochondrial functions and possibly by the loss of mitochondrial stress resilience. Indeed, as high as 54% of patients with one of the most common primary mitochondrial diseases, mitochondrial encephalomyopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) syndrome, present psychiatric symptoms including cognitive impairment, mood disorder, anxiety, and psychosis. Mitochondria are multifunctional organelles which produce cellular energy and play a major role in other cellular functions including homeostasis, cellular signaling, and gene expression, among others. Mitochondrial functions are observed to be compromised and to become less resilient under continuous stress. Meanwhile, stress and inflammation have been linked to the activation of the tryptophan (Trp)–kynurenine (KYN) metabolic system, which observably contributes to the development of pathological conditions including neurological and psychiatric disorders. This review discusses the functions of mitochondria and the Trp-KYN system, the interaction of the Trp-KYN system with mitochondria, and the current understanding of the involvement of mitochondria and the Trp-KYN system in preclinical and clinical studies of major neurological and psychiatric diseases.
Role of Ultrasonography in the Diagnosis of Wilms’ Tumour
Authors: Bălănescu Radu Ninel , Băetu Alexandru Emil , Moga Andreea Alecsandra , Bălănescu Laura
Published: August 2022

Background. Wilms’ tumour or nephroblastoma is the most common renal malignancy encountered in the paediatric population. Imaging findings are of great importance to the surgeon, the oncologist and the radiologist in the diagnosis and the staging and surveillance of this tumour. Material and Methods. This study was carried out as a 10-year retrospective study of patients who were diagnosed with Wilms’ tumour. Results. The study included 12 boys and 11 girls. Ultrasound and computed tomography were performed in all cases. Ultrasonography was found to be superior to the CT examination when approximating the antero-posterior and transverse diameters; the computer-tomographic examination is cited as superior for estimating the invasion of nephroblastomas. Conclusions: Ultrasound has been shown to be effective in detecting the rupture of the renal capsule, tumour calcifications and invasion of the renal vein, pelvis and ureter. However, ultrasound cannot replace CT in the detection of lymphadenopathy and the invasion of adjacent organs.
Novel Lung Growth Strategy with Biological Therapy Targeting Airway Remodeling in Childhood Bronchial Asthma
Authors: Tsuge Mitsuru , Ikeda Masanori , Tsukahara Hirokazu
Published: August 2022

Anti-inflammatory therapy, centered on inhaled steroids, suppresses airway inflammation in asthma, reduces asthma mortality and hospitalization rates, and achieves clinical remission in many pediatric patients. However, the spontaneous remission rate of childhood asthma in adulthood is not high, and airway inflammation and airway remodeling persist after remission of asthma symptoms. Childhood asthma impairs normal lung maturation, interferes with peak lung function in adolescence, reduces lung function in adulthood, and increases the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Early suppression of airway inflammation in childhood and prevention of asthma exacerbations may improve lung maturation, leading to good lung function and prevention of adult COPD. Biological drugs that target T-helper 2 (Th2) cytokines are used in patients with severe pediatric asthma to reduce exacerbations and airway inflammation and improve respiratory function. They may also suppress airway remodeling in childhood and prevent respiratory deterioration in adulthood, reducing the risk of COPD and improving long-term prognosis. No studies have demonstrated a suppressive effect on airway remodeling in childhood severe asthma, and further clinical trials using airway imaging analysis are needed to ascertain the inhibitory effect of biological drugs on airway remodeling in severe childhood asthma. In this review, we describe the natural prognosis of lung function in childhood asthma and the risk of developing adult COPD, the pathophysiology of allergic airway inflammation and airway remodeling via Th2 cytokines, and the inhibitory effect of biological drugs on airway remodeling in childhood asthma.
Diagnostic Tools in the Detection of Physical Child Abuse: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pavone Vito , Vescio Andrea , Lucenti Ludovico , Amico Mirko , Caldaci Alessia , Pappalardo Xena , Parano Enrico , Testa Gianluca
Published: August 2022

Child abuse is a critical social issue. The orthopedic surgeon’s role is essential in noticing signs and symptoms of physical abuse. For this reason, several authors have proposed scoring systems to identify abuse early on and reduce undiagnosed cases. The aim of this systematic review is to overview the screening tools in the literature. In 2021, three independent authors performed a systematic review of two electronic medical databases using the following inclusion criteria: physical child abuse, questionnaire, survey, score, screening tool and predictive tool. Patients who had experienced sexual abuse or emotional abuse were excluded. The risk of bias evaluation of the articles was performed according to the Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale Cohort Studies. Any evidence-level study reporting clinical data and dealing with a physical child abuse diagnosis tool was considered. A total of 217 articles were found. After reading the full texts and checking the reference lists, n = 12 (71,035 patients) articles were selected. A total of seven screening tools were found. However, only some of the seven diagnostic tools included demonstrated a high rate of sensitivity and specificity. The main limits of the studies were the lack of heterogeneity of evidence and samples and the lack of common assessing tools. Despite the multiplicity of questionnaires aimed at detecting validated child abuse, there was not a single worldwide questionnaire for early diagnosis. A combination of more than one test might increase the validity of the investigation.
Outcomes of Femoral Arterial Catheterisation in Neonates: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Turner Lucy , Alexopolou Vasiliki , Tawfik Hanin Tawfik Mohammed , Silva Monica , Yoxall Charles William
Published: August 2022

Background: To review the outcome of all femoral arterial catheter (FAC) insertions in a single, large neonatal unit over a 12 year period, we will describe the incidence of harms arising from FAC insertion and to identify risk factors associated with ischaemic injury. Methods: Retrospective survey of data relating to all episodes of FAC insertion in a single neonatal intensive care unit over a 12 year period up to 2020. Results: 146 FACs were inserted into 139 babies with a median (interquartile range) gestation and birth weight of 27 (24 to 37) weeks and 1092 (682 to 2870) g. Impaired limb perfusion occurred in 32 (22%). This was transient and recovered with no injury in 26 of the 32. There was an increased risk of impaired limb perfusion in babies with lower weight at the time of insertion; from 5.7% in babies over 3000 g to 34.7% in babies under 1000 g (relative risk 6.1 (1.5 to 24.6)). Six babies (4%) had ischaemic injury. Risk factors for ischaemic injury included weight below 1000 g (four cases), pre-existing partial arterial obstruction (two cases), concerns about limb perfusion prior to FAC insertion (two cases) and a delay in removing the FAC after recognition of the poor perfusion (five cases). Two clinicians inserted 71 (50%) FACs and had no associated injuries. Conclusions: FAC can be used in neonates, although there is a risk of ischaemic injury, particularly in very small babies. Our data can be used to inform decisions about patient selection for this procedure.
Effect of Al2O3 on Sintering Reaction of Calcium Ferrite
Authors: Jing Zhenwei , Xing Xiaofei , Yan Hongyan , Meng Ju , Qi Xiwei , Li Hui , Liang Jinglong
Published: August 2022

Calcium ferrite containing aluminum (CFA) has been widely used in blast furnace production because it is an important compound that affects the quality of sinter. The influence of Al2O3 on CFA preparation process was studied by the raw material of CaO-Fe2O3-Al2O3. Diffraction of x-rays (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis were used to analyze the phase, micro morphology and the reducibility of the products. The results showed that CaO tended to combine more with Fe2O3 to form calcium ferrite with the increase of Fe2O3, whereas CaO tended to combine more with Al2O3 to form calcium aluminate with the content of Al2O3 above 45%. The micro morphology of sintered samples had a stable sintering skeleton structure due to the existence of calcium ferrite. Calcium ferrite was distributed between different particles in flakes, whereas calcium aluminate was attached to the Al2O3 particle surface. The large amount of calcium aluminate inhibited the emergence of calcium ferrite, and it had an adverse impact on the reducibility of sinter and the preparation of CFA.
Design of Semiconductor Contact Grating Terahertz Source with Enhanced Diffraction Efficiency
Authors: Tibai Zoltán , Mbithi Nelson M. , Almási Gábor , Fülöp József A. , Hebling János
Published: August 2022

We report a semiconductor contact grating terahertz source design based on a rectangular profile for phase-matched terahertz generation in the long infrared pump wavelength range. The calculations show that the best diffraction efficiency can be achieved by a filling factor significantly smaller than 50%. Furthermore, the possibility of diffraction efficiency enhancement was investigated by applying three different antireflective coating structures. Numerical simulations have indicated that at 2.06 μm and 3.0 μm pump wavelength, diffraction efficiencies greater than 91% and 89% can be achieved by adding an appropriate antireflective coating to the GaP and GaAs contact grating structure, respectively. In addition, numerical simulations were performed to investigate the influence of wall angles on diffraction efficiency. The results reveal that the wall angle does not significantly affect the diffraction efficiency: while keeping the wall angle deviation from the vertical below 25 degrees, the efficiency drop remains below 5% for otherwise optimal grating parameters.
A Review on Mesophase and Physical Properties of Cyclotriphosphazene Derivatives with Schiff Base Linkage
Authors: Jamain Zuhair , Azman Ahmad Nor Asyraf , Razali Nurul Asma , Makmud Mohamad Zul Hilmey
Published: August 2022

Over the last decades, liquid crystalline has been of great recent importance due to many unique and different features. The linking unit, terminal group, and core system are the most factors to influence the liquid crystal behaviour. Schiff base linkage with the formula of -C=N- can maintain linearity by providing the stepped core structure with high stability. Incorporation of Schiff base linkage in cyclotriphosphazene system enhances the mesophase characteristic and high thermal stability. This review focussed on the mesophase behaviour and physical properties of cyclotriphosphaze derivatives attached to Schiff base linkages. A basic introduction to liquid crystalline materials, including description and classification, is provided in this review.
Safety and Feasibility of Steerable Radiofrequency Ablation in Combination with Cementoplasty for the Treatment of Large Extraspinal Bone Metastases
Authors: Pusceddu Claudio , De Francesco Davide , Ballicu Nicola , Santucci Domiziana , Marsico Salvatore , Venturini Massimo , Fior Davide , Moramarco Lorenzo Paolo , Faiella Eliodoro
Published: August 2022

Background: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and cementoplasty, individually and in concert, has been adopted as palliative interventional strategies to reduce pain caused by bone metastases and prevent skeletal related events. We aim to evaluate the feasibility and safety of a steerable RFA device with an articulating bipolar extensible electrode for the treatment of extraspinal bone metastases. Methods: All data were retrospectively reviewed. All the ablation procedures were performed using a steerable RFA device (STAR, Merit Medical Systems, Inc., South Jordan, UT, USA). The pain was assessed with a VAS score before treatment and at 1-week and 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up. The Functional Mobility Scale (FMS) was recorded preoperatively and 1 month after the treatment through a four-point scale (4, bedridden; 3, use of wheelchair; 2, limited painful ambulation; 1, normal ambulation). Technical success was defined as successful intraoperative ablation and cementoplasty without major complications. Results: A statistically significant reduction of the median VAS score before treatment and 1 week after RFA and cementoplasty was observed (p < 0.001). A total of 6/7 patients who used a wheelchair reported normal ambulation 1 month after treatment. All patients with limited painful ambulation reported normal ambulation after the RFA and cementoplasty (p = 0.003). Technical success was achieved in all the combined procedures. Two cement leakages were reported. No local recurrences were observed after 1 year. Conclusions: The combined treatment of RFA with a steerable device and cementoplasty is a safe, feasible, and promising clinical option for the management of painful bone metastases, challenging for morphology and location, resulting in an improvement of the quality of life of patients.
Patient-Reported Experiences of Breast Cancer Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Delay, and Telemedicine Adoption during COVID-19
Authors: Du Simo , Carfang Laura , Restrepo Emily , Benjamin Christine , Epstein Mara M. , Fairley Ricki , Roudebush Laura , Hertz Crystal , Eshraghi Leah , Warner Erica T.
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To evaluate and quantify potential sociodemographic disparities in breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the use of telemedicine. Methods: We fielded a 52-item web-based questionnaire from 14 May 2020 to 1 July 2020 in partnership with several U.S.-based breast cancer advocacy groups. Individuals aged 18 or older were eligible for this study if they: (1) received routine breast cancer screening; OR (2) were undergoing diagnostic evaluation for breast cancer; OR (3) had ever been diagnosed with breast cancer. We used descriptive statistics to understand the extent of cancer care delay and telemedicine adoption and used multivariable logistic regression models to estimate the association of sociodemographic factors with odds of COVID-19-related delays in care and telemedicine use. Results: Of 554 eligible survey participants, 493 provided complete data on demographic and socioeconomic factors and were included in the analysis. Approximately half (n = 248, 50.3%) had a personal history of breast cancer. Overall, 188 (38.1%) participants had experienced any COVID-19-related delay in care including screening, diagnosis, or treatment, and 339 (68.8) reported having at least one virtual appointment during the study period. Compared to other insurance types, participants with Medicaid insurance were 2.58 times more likely to report a COVID-19-related delay in care (OR 2.58, 95% Cl: 1.05, 6.32; p = 0.039). Compared to participants with a household income of less than USD 50,000, those with a household income of USD 150,000 or more were 2.38 (OR 2.38, 95% Cl: 1.09, 5.17; p = 0.029) times more likely to adopt virtual appointments. Self-insured participants were 70% less likely to use virtual appointment compared to those in other insurance categories (OR 0.28, 95% Cl: 0.11, 0.73; p = 0.009). Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, and accelerated the delivery of virtual care. Lower-income groups and patients with certain insurance categories such as Medicaid or self-insured could be more likely to experience care delay or less likely to use telemedicine. Careful attention must be paid to vulnerable groups to insure equity in breast cancer-related service utilization and telemedicine access during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
Metastatic SDH-Deficient GIST Diagnosed during Pregnancy: Approach to a Complex Case
Authors: Chennouf Anas , Zeidan Elie , Borduas Martin , Noël-Lamy Maxime , Kremastiotis John , Beaudoin Annie
Published: August 2022

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) account for 1% of GI neoplasms in adults, and epidemiological data suggest an even lower occurrence in pregnant women. The majority of GISTs are caused by KIT and PDGFRA mutations. This is not the case in women of childbearing age. Some GISTs do not have a KIT/PDGFRA mutation and are classified as wild-type (WT) GISTs. WT-GIST includes many molecular subtypes including SDH deficiencies. In this paper, we present the first case report of a metastatic SDH-deficient GIST in a 23-year-old pregnant patient and the challenges encountered given her concurrent pregnancy. Our patient underwent a surgical tumor resection of her gastric GIST as well as a lymphadenectomy a week after induction of labor at 37 + 1 weeks. She received imatinib, sunitinib as well as regorafenib afterward. These drugs were discontinued because of disease progression despite treatment or after side effects were reported. Hence, she is currently under treatment with ripretinib. Her last FDG-PET showed a stable disease. This case highlights the complexity of GI malignancy care during pregnancy, and the presentation and management particularities of metastatic WT-GISTs. This case also emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach and better clinical guidelines for offering optimal management to women in this specific context.
Alien Travel Companies: The Case of Two Sea Slugs and One Bryozoan in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Mioni Erika , Furfaro Giulia
Published: August 2022

Mediterranean marine fauna is constantly changing due to the entry of non-indigenous (NI) species and the loss of endemic biodiversity. In this framework, it is very important to monitor this constant change and investigate possible new pathways of dispersion. Marinas and ports are considered key stations to detect and study some important ecological aspects, such as NI and invasive species, the effects of climate change, and pollution. Here, we reported the case of a group of NI species that presumably reached the Mediterranean Sea together, each of them being ecologically associated with one another. The bryozoan Amathia verticillate and the sea slugs Favorinus ghanensis and Polycerella emertoni were found in the shallow waters of Fezzano’s marina in the gulf of La Spezia (Ligurian Sea, Mediterranean Sea). Molecular analyses were carried out to exclude cryptic diversity and to investigate the phylogenetic relationships occurring between closely related taxa. The spreading of these two NI sea slugs into the Mediterranean Sea was confirmed and the first record of P. emertoni from the Ligurian Sea reported. These findings shed some light on the poorly known ecology of these species that could be useful for future monitoring and conservation strategies.
Retinal and Choroidal Thinning—A Predictor of Coronary Artery Occlusion?
Authors: Matulevičiūtė Indrė , Sidaraitė Agnė , Tatarūnas Vacis , Veikutienė Audronė , Dobilienė Olivija , Žaliūnienė Dalia
Published: August 2022

Introduction. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) allowed visualization of retina and choroid to nearly the capillary level; however, the relationship between systemic macrovascular status and retinal microvascular changes is not yet known well. Aim. Our purpose was to assess the impact of retinal optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) parameters on prediction of coronary heart disease (CHD) in acute myocardial infarction (MI) and chronic three vessel disease (3VD) groups. Methods. This observational study included 184 patients—26 in 3VD, 76 in MI and 82 in healthy participants groups. Radial scans of the macula and OCTA scans of the central macula (superficial (SCP) and deep (DCP) capillary plexuses) were performed on all participants. All participants underwent coronary angiography. Results. Patients in MI groups showed decreased parafoveal total retinal thickness as well as GCL+ retinal thickness. Outer circle total retinal thickness and GCL+ retinal thickness were lowest in the 3VD group. The MI group had thinner, while 3VD the thinnest, choroid. A decrease in choroidal thickness and vascular density could predict 3VD. Conclusions. A decrease in retinal and choroidal thickness as well as decreased vascular density in the central retinal region may predict coronary artery disease. OCT and OCTA could be a significant, safe, and noninvasive tool for the prediction of coronary artery disease.
H-Theorem in an Isolated Quantum Harmonic Oscillator
Authors: Hsueh Che-Hsiu , Cheng Chi-Ho , Horng Tzyy-Leng , Wu Wen-Chin
Published: August 2022

We consider the H-theorem in an isolated quantum harmonic oscillator through the time-dependent Schrödinger equation. The effect of potential in producing entropy is investigated in detail, and we found that including a barrier potential into a harmonic trap would lead to the thermalization of the system, while a harmonic trap alone would not thermalize the system. During thermalization, Shannon entropy increases, which shows that a microscopic quantum system still obeys the macroscopic thermodynamics law. Meanwhile, initial coherent mechanical energy transforms to incoherent thermal energy during thermalization, which exhibiting the decoherence of an oscillating wave packet featured by a large decreasing of autocorrelation length. When reaching thermal equilibrium, the wave packet comes to a halt, with the density distributions both in position and momentum spaces well-fitted by a microcanonical ensemble of statistical mechanics.
Multi-Source Information Fusion Based on Negation of Reconstructed Basic Probability Assignment with Padded Gaussian Distribution and Belief Entropy
Authors: Chen Yujie , Hua Zexi , Tang Yongchuan , Li Baoxin
Published: August 2022

Multi-source information fusion is widely used because of its similarity to practical engineering situations. With the development of science and technology, the sources of information collected under engineering projects and scientific research are more diverse. To extract helpful information from multi-source information, in this paper, we propose a multi-source information fusion method based on the Dempster-Shafer (DS) evidence theory with the negation of reconstructed basic probability assignments (nrBPA). To determine the initial basic probability assignment (BPA), the Gaussian distribution BPA functions with padding terms are used. After that, nrBPAs are determined by two processes, reassigning the high blur degree BPA and transforming them into the form of negation. In addition, evidence of preliminary fusion is obtained using the entropy weight method based on the improved belief entropy of nrBPAs. The final fusion results are calculated from the preliminary fused evidence through the Dempster’s combination rule. In the experimental section, the UCI iris data set and the wine data set are used for validating the arithmetic processes of the proposed method. In the comparative analysis, the effectiveness of the BPA determination using a padded Gaussian function is verified by discussing the classification task with the iris data set. Subsequently, the comparison with other methods using the cross-validation method proves that the proposed method is robust. Notably, the classification accuracy of the iris data set using the proposed method can reach an accuracy of 97.04%, which is higher than many other methods.
Validation of the French Smoking Cessation Motivation Scale with French Smokers Using a Mobile App for Smoking Cessation
Authors: Bustamante Luz Adriana , Romo Lucia
Published: August 2022

To tailor and predict the outcomes of smoking cessation treatment, it is essential to identify the nature of motivation, as it is the basis for long-term change in healthy behaviors according to self-determination theory (SDT). The purpose of this study is to examine the psychometric properties of the French Smoking Cessation Motivation Scale (F-SCMS). The factorial structure and the psychometric properties were assessed with French-speaking users who had started a 9-step preparation program through a mobile app for smoking cessation (n = 13,044). The results of the present study confirmed content validity (CFI = 0.905, SRMR = 0.045, RMSEA = 0.087) and good internal consistency (α = 0.86, ωh = 0.7, ωt = 0.89) with CFA. The convergent validity was very small, but there were highly significant positive correlations between the willingness and readiness to quit with integrated and intrinsic subscales (rs = 0.25–0.37, p < 0.001). The amotivation subscale significantly had no correlation with any degree of willingness (r = 0.01, p < 0.001), ability (r = 0.01, p < 0.001), and readiness to quit (r = 0.02, p < 0.001). This scale facilitates future research regarding the nature of motivation to quit smoking in the French-speaking population.
FOSSBot: An Open Source and Open Design Educational Robot
Authors: Chronis Christos , Varlamis Iraklis
Published: August 2022

In the last few years, the interest in the use of robots in STEM education has risen. However, their main drawback is the high cost, which makes it almost impossible for schools to have one robot per student. Another drawback is the proprietary nature of commercial solutions, which limits the ability to expand or adapt the robot to educational needs. Different robot kit versions, which have different electronics and programming interfaces and target different age groups, make the decision of educators on which robot to use in STEM education even more complicated. In this work, we propose a new low-cost 3D-printable and unified software-based solution that can cover the needs of all age groups, from kindergarten children to university students. The solution is driven by open source and open hardware ideas, with which, we believe we will help educators in their work. We provide detail on the 3D-printable robot parts and its list of electronics that allow for a wide range of educational activities to be supported, and explain its flexible software stack that supports four different operating modes. The modes cover the needs of users that do not know or want to program the robot, users that prefer block-based programming and less or more experienced programmers who want to take full control of the robot. The robot implements the principles of continuous integration and deployment and allows for easy updates to the latest software version through its web-based administration panel. Though, in its first steps of development and testing, the proposed robot has a huge potential, due to its open nature and the community of students, researchers and educators, that potential has kept growing. A pilot at selected schools, a performance evaluation of various technical aspects and a comparison with state-of-the-art platforms will soon follow.
Air Combat Maneuver Strategy Algorithm Based on Two-Layer Game Decision-Making and Distributed Double Game Trees MCTS under Uncertain Information
Authors: Li Qiuni , Wang Fawei , Yang Wanping , Liu Zongcheng
Published: August 2022

In this paper, a model for maneuver decisions in air combat is established based on position situation information, the performance of the fighter, the threat of combat intention, and the multi-fighter collaboration effect. Additionally, a two-layer game decision algorithm based on the double game tree distributed Monte Carlo search strategy is proposed, and the operational rules of interval numbers and possibility degree comparison rules are adopted to solve the designed method. The experiment results show that the model and algorithm are effective in their intended purpose. The two-layer game decision-making and distributed double game tree MCTS can precut the huge game tree strategy space and quickly identify the optimal air combat game decision scheme, which improves the efficiency of strategy searches. By compared experiments, it was found that the proposed algorithm can improve the performance of air combat.