bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 3D-Printed Microfluidic Device for qPCR Detection of Macrolide-Resistant Mutations of Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Authors: Wang Anyan , Wu Zhenhua , Huang Yuhang , Zhou Hongbo , Wu Lei , Jia Chunping , Chen Qiang , Zhao Jianlong
Published: November 2021

Mycoplasma pneumonia (MP) is a common respiratory infection generally treated with macrolides, but resistance mutations against macrolides are often detected in mycoplasma pneumoniae in China. Rapid and accurate identification of mycoplasma pneumoniae and its mutant type is necessary for precise medication. This paper presents a 3D-printed microfluidic device to achieve this. By 3D printing, the stereoscopic structures such as microvalves, reservoirs, drainage tubes, and connectors were fabricated in one step. The device integrated commercial polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tubes as PCR chambers. The detection was a sample-to-answer procedure. First, the sample, a PCR mix, and mineral oil were respectively added to the reservoirs on the device. Next, the device automatically mixed the sample with the PCR mix and evenly dispensed the mixed solution and mineral oil into the PCR chambers, which were preloaded with the specified primers and probes. Subsequently, quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) was carried out with the homemade instrument. Within 80 min, mycoplasma pneumoniae and its mutation type in the clinical samples were determined, which was verified by DNA sequencing. The easy-to-make and easy-to-use device provides a rapid and integrated detection approach for pathogens and antibiotic resistance mutations, which is urgently needed on the infection scene and in hospital emergency departments.
Assessment of Brain Functional Activity Using a Miniaturized Head-Mounted Scanning Photoacoustic Imaging System in Awake and Freely Moving Rats
Authors: Wang Yuhling , Chu Tsung-Sheng , Lin Yan-Ren , Tsao Chia-Hui , Tsai Chia-Hua , Ger Tzong-Rong , Chen Li-Tzong , Chang Wun-Shaing Wayne , Liao Lun-De
Published: November 2021

Understanding the relationship between brain function and natural behavior remains a significant challenge in neuroscience because there are very few convincing imaging/recording tools available for the evaluation of awake and freely moving animals. Here, we employed a miniaturized head-mounted scanning photoacoustic imaging (hmPAI) system to image real-time cortical dynamics. A compact photoacoustic (PA) probe based on four in-house optical fiber pads and a single custom-made 48-MHz focused ultrasound transducer was designed to enable focused dark-field PA imaging, and miniature linear motors were included to enable two-dimensional (2D) scanning. The total dimensions and weight of the proposed hmPAI system are only approximately 50 × 64 × 48 mm and 58.7 g (excluding cables). Our ex vivo phantom experimental tests revealed that a spatial resolution of approximately 0.225 mm could be achieved at a depth of 9 mm. Our in vivo results further revealed that the diameters of cortical vessels draining into the superior sagittal sinus (SSS) could be clearly imaged and continuously observed in both anesthetized rats and awake, freely moving rats. Statistical analysis showed that the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the PA A-line signals (relative to the blood vessel diameter) was significantly increased in the selected SSS-drained cortical vessels of awake rats (0.58 ± 0.17 mm) compared with those of anesthetized rats (0.31 ± 0.09 mm) (p < 0.01, paired t-test). In addition, the number of pixels in PA B-scan images (relative to the cerebral blood volume (CBV)) was also significantly increased in the selected SSS-drained blood vessels of awake rats (107.66 ± 23.02 pixels) compared with those of anesthetized rats (81.99 ± 21.52 pixels) (p < 0.01, paired t-test). This outcome may result from a more active brain in awake rats than in anesthetized rats, which caused cerebral blood vessels to transport more blood to meet the increased nutrient demand of the tissue, resulting in an obvious increase in blood vessel volume. This hmPAI system was further validated for utility in the brains of awake and freely moving rats, showing that their natural behavior was unimpaired during vascular imaging, thereby providing novel opportunities for studies of behavior, cognition, and preclinical models of brain diseases.
Microfluidic Raman Sensing Using a Single Ring Negative Curvature Hollow Core Fiber
Authors: Wang Xinyu , Li Shuguang , Gao Shoufei , Wang Yingying , Wang Pu , Ebendorff-Heidepriem Heike , Ruan Yinlan
Published: November 2021

A compact microfluidic Raman detection system based on a single-ring negative-curvature hollow-core fiber is presented. The system can be used for in-line qualitative and quantitative analysis of biochemicals. Both efficient light coupling and continuous liquid injection into the hollow-core fiber were achieved by creating a small gap between a solid-core fiber and the hollow-core fiber, which were fixed within a low-cost ceramic ferrule. A coupling efficiency of over 50% from free-space excitation laser to the hollow core fiber was obtained through a 350 μm-long solid-core fiber. For proof-of-concept demonstration of bioprocessing monitoring, a series of ethanol and glucose aqueous solutions at different concentrations were used. The limit of detection achieved for the ethanol solutions with our system was ~0.04 vol.% (0.32 g/L). Such an all-fiber microfluidic device is robust, provides Raman measurements with high repeatability and reusability, and is particularly suitable for the in-line monitoring of bioprocesses.
Cerebrospinal Fluid IgM and Oligoclonal IgG Bands in Multiple Sclerosis: A Meta-Analysis of Prevalence and Prognosis
Authors: Fonderico Mattia , Portaccio Emilio , Razzolini Lorenzo , Pastò Luisa , Bellinvia Angelo , Addazio Ilaria , Betti Matteo , Aprea Maria Grazia , Ballerini Clara , Biagioli Tiziana , Amato Maria Pia
Published: November 2021

The presence of intrathecal IgM synthesis (ITMS) has been associated with an aggressive multiple sclerosis (MS) clinical course. In the present systematic review, we aimed at assessing the prevalence of ITMS among different MS phenotypes. Moreover, we aimed at quantifying the risk of a second relapse in ITMS positive and oligoclonal IgG bands (OCGBs)-positive patients. We selected clinical studies reporting the ITMS prevalence assessed as oligoclonal IgM Bands (OCMBs), lipid-specific OCMBs (LS-OCMBs), and/or as an intrathecal IgM production > 0% (IgMLoc, Reiber formula). The overall prevalence of ITMS was higher in relapsing-remitting (RR) than clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) patients (40.1% versus 23.8%, p < 0.00001), while was in line with that detected in primary progressive MS (PPMS, 26.7%). Almost all patients (98%) with ITMS had also OCGBs. The risk of having a second relapse was higher in OCGBs positive patients (HR = 2.18, p = 0.007) but much higher in ITMS positive patients (HR = 3.62, p = 0.0005). This study revealed that the prevalence of ITMS is higher in RRMS patients. It suggests that the risk of having a second relapse, previously ascribed to OCGBs, may, to a certain extent, be related to the presence of intrathecal IgM.
Understanding Somatic Symptoms Associated with South Korean Adolescent Suicidal Ideation, Depression, and Social Anxiety
Authors: Donnelly Hayoung , Richardson Danielle , Solberg Scott
Published: November 2021

Korea’s suicide rate has increased steadily in recent years and it has become the leading cause of death among Korean youth. This paper aims to propose suicide risk identification strategies for South Korean youth by identifying profiles of suicide risk alongside reported somatic complaints. For several reasons, somatic complaints are more commonly reported than mental health concerns in Korea, where somatic complaints are likely to be representative of larger mental health worries. Nationally representative data of Korean first-year middle school students were used to identify mental health profiles by examining reported suicidal ideation, depression, and social anxiety and the prediction effect of reported somatic symptoms within these profiles. Results indicated that female students reported a greater level of suicidal ideation, depression, and social anxiety compared to male students. Each gender (females and males) exhibited five different mental health profile groups, which ranged from low risk to high risk. Somatic symptoms (sleep, stomach ache, tiredness, breathing, appetite, headache, fever, nausea) significantly predicted each profile group, with sleep issues serving as the strongest predictor for risk across both genders and all groups. Therefore, for mental health professionals working with Korean youth, it is encouraged to identify and recognize somatic complaints as potentially representative of mental health concerns and suicidality risk.
Learnings from User Digital Trail Post-Occupancy Evaluation before COVID-19 for Future Workplace Analysis and Design
Authors: Regodón Alicia , García-Navalón Enrique , Santiso-Hernandez Juvenal , Delgado-Rodriguez Enrique , Garcia-Santos Alfonso
Published: November 2021

Data are required for optimizing workplace design, assessing user experience, and ensuring wellbeing. This research focuses on the benefits of incorporating post-occupancy evaluation (POE) data analysis by studying the digital trail of employees generated by the existing Wi-Fi infrastructure of the office. The objective is to enable a safe return to offices through compliance with COVID-19 space-capacity regulations and in consideration of the health and wellbeing of employees. Workplaces, teams, and people have become more digitalized and therefore more mobile due to the globalization of knowledge and cutting-edge technological innovations, a process that has been accelerated by the COVID-19 crisis. Now, hybrid work and fully remote working routines are increasing in a significant number of companies. Nevertheless, with the return to the office, understanding how to calibrate spatial capacity is now key for workplaces and companies. Traditional assessment methods are obsolete; new methods that respond to mobility, changing occupancy rates, and comfort are essential. This paper analyzes, through the case study of a pre-COVID-19 activity-based office, the advantages of using digital indoor-location techniques (such as Wi-Fi networks, which additionally have the advantage of being previously installed in the majority of these spaces). The paper demonstrates that the incorporation of digital POE of user trends enabled a more seamless, accurate, and scalable return to a new normal office work scenario and an improved post-COVID-19 design of workplaces.
Optimization Design of Mix Proportion of Large Stone Permeable Mixture Based on Target Air Voids
Authors: Suo Zhi , Bao Xu , Nie Lei , Yan Qiang , Qi Kailin
Published: November 2021

Through theoretical analysis, this paper preliminarily puts forward the optimization design method of a mix proportion large stone permeable mixture based on target voidage. The optimized large stone permeable mixture is abbreviated as OLSPM (optimization large stone permeable mixture). On this basis, the asphalt content was verified by leakage analysis experiment, and the molding method was determined by comparing the volume parameter changes and the appearance of the specimen in the molding process of both a Marshall compaction test and rotary compaction test. The final experimental analysis results show that the asphalt content calculated by this method can meet the technical requirements of leakage loss. The rotary compaction method is the suitable molding method for indoor cylindrical specimens of OLSPM, and the voidage is used as the index to control the compac-tion times of OLSPM. Under the same voidage, OLSPM-25 has more fine aggregates and thus leads to a relatively large amount of asphalt. In addition, the content of 4.75–19 mm coarse aggregate in its coarse aggregate is also higher than that of LSPM-25.
Liver Decompensation as Late Complication in HCC Patients with Long-Term Response following Selective Internal Radiation Therapy
Authors: van Doorn Diederick J. , Hendriks Pim , Burgmans Mark C. , Rietbergen Daphne D. D. , Coenraad Minneke J. , van Delden Otto M. , Bennink Roel J. , Labeur Tim A. , Klümpen Heinz-Josef , Eskens Ferry A. L. M. , Moelker Adriaan , Vegt Erik , Sprengers Dave , Mostafavi Nahid , Ijzermans Jan , Takkenberg R. Bart
Published: November 2021

Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) is used as a treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of this study was to assess long-term liver-related complications of SIRT in patients who had not developed radioembolization-induced liver disease (REILD). The primary outcome was the percentage of patients without REILD that developed Child-Pugh (CP) ≥ B7 liver decompensation after SIRT. The secondary outcomes were overall survival (OS) and tumor response. These data were compared with a matched cohort of patients treated with sorafenib. Eighty-five patients were included, of whom 16 developed REILD. Of the remaining 69 patients, 38 developed liver decompensation CP ≥ B7. The median OS was 18 months. In patients without REILD, the median OS in patients with CP ≥ B7 was significantly shorter compared to those without CP ≥ B7; 16 vs. 31 months. In the case-matched analysis, the median OS was significantly longer in SIRT-treated patients; 16 vs. 8 months in sorafenib. Liver decompensation CP ≥ B7 occurred significantly more in SIRT when compared to sorafenib; 62% vs. 27%. The ALBI score was an independent predictor of liver decompensation (OR 0.07) and OS (HR 2.83). After SIRT, liver decompensation CP ≥ B7 often developed as a late complication in HCC patients and was associated with a shorter OS. The ALBI score was predictive of CP ≥ B7 liver decompensation and the OS, and this may be a valuable marker for patient selection for SIRT.
Does Clinical and Biochemical Thyroid Dysfunction Impact on Endometrial Cancer Survival Outcomes? A Prospective Database Study
Authors: Barr Chloe E. , Njoku Kelechi , Hotchkies Leo , Ryan Neil A. J. , Wan Y. Louise , Davies David A. , Razvi Salman , Crosbie Emma J.
Published: November 2021

Endometrial cancer is the commonest gynaecological malignancy in developed countries, and women presenting with high risk or advanced disease have poor outcomes. Thyroid hormones play a key role in cellular metabolism and can influence cancer growth and invasion. Our aim was to evaluate the association between clinical and biochemical thyroid dysfunction and endometrial cancer survival outcomes. This was a prospective cohort study of women treated for endometrial cancer at a specialist centre. Clinical diagnosis of hypothyroidism was based on clinical and biochemical assessment, verified by general practitioner (GP) records. Pre-treatment serum samples were tested for thyrotropin (TSH), thyroid hormones (free T4 and total T3), and thyroid peroxidase antibodies. Kaplan–Meier survival estimates and log-rank tests were used to compare survival between groups, while Cox regression was used for multivariable analysis, adjusting for known confounders and effect modifications. In total, 333 women with median age and body mass index (BMI) of 66 years (interquartile range (IQR) 56, 73) and 33 kg/m2 (IQR 27, 41) respectively were included. A total of 51 (15.3%) women had a diagnosis of hypothyroidism, 39 (11.9%) had biochemical evidence of overt or subclinical hypothyroidism. Median follow-up was 35 months (IQR 21, 45) with 38 (11.7%) relapses and 50 (15.0%) deaths. Women with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism had improved overall survival (adjusted HR = 0.22, 95%CI 0.06–0.74, p = 0.02), cancer-specific survival (adjusted HR = 0.21, 95%CI 0.05–0.98, p = 0.04) and fewer recurrences (adjusted HR = 0.17, 95%CI 0.04–0.77, p = 0.02) than those who did not. Confirmatory studies should explore underlying mechanisms and the potential for therapeutic exploitation.
Bisphenol A Alters the Energy Metabolism of Stromal Cells and Could Promote Bladder Cancer Progression
Authors: Pellerin Ève , Chabaud Stéphane , Pouliot Frédéric , Pelletier Martin , Bolduc Stéphane
Published: November 2021

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting molecule used in plastics. Through its release in food and the environment, BPA can be found in humans and is mostly excreted in urine. The bladder is therefore continuously exposed to this compound. BPA can bind to multiple cell receptors involved in proliferation, migration and invasion pathways, and exposure to BPA is associated with cancer progression. Considering the physiological concentrations of BPA in urine, we tested the effect of nanomolar concentrations of BPA on the metabolism of bladder fibroblasts and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Our results show that BPA led to a decreased metabolism in fibroblasts, which could alter the extracellular matrix. Furthermore, CAF induction triggered a metabolic switch, similar to the Warburg effect described in cancer cells. Additionally, we demonstrated that nanomolar concentrations of BPA could exacerbate this metabolic switch observed in CAFs via an increased glycolytic metabolism, leading to greater acidification of the extracellular environment. These findings suggest that chronic exposure to BPA could promote cancer progression through an alteration of the metabolism of stromal cells.
Factors Associated with Thyroid-Related Adverse Events in Patients Receiving PD-1 or PD-L1 Inhibitors Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: Kim Woorim , Cho Young-Ah , Kim Dong-Chul , Jo A-Ra , Min Kyung-Hyun , Lee Kyung-Eun
Published: November 2021

Targets of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) regulate immune homeostasis and prevent autoimmunity by downregulating immune responses and by inhibiting T cell activation. Although ICIs are widely used in immunotherapy because of their good clinical efficacy, they can also induce autoimmune-related adverse events. Thyroid-related adverse events are frequently associated with anti-programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) or anti-programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) agents. The present study aims to investigate the factors associated with thyroid dysfunction in patients receiving PD-1 or PD-L1 inhibitors and to develop various machine learning approaches to predict complications. A total of 187 patients were enrolled in this study. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the association between such factors and adverse events. Various machine learning methods were used to predict thyroid-related complications. After adjusting for covariates, we found that smoking history and hypertension increase the risk of thyroid dysfunction by approximately 3.7 and 4.1 times, respectively (95% confidence intervals (CIs) 1.338–10.496 and 1.478–11.332, p = 0.012 and 0.007). In contrast, patients taking opioids showed an approximately 4.0-fold lower risk of thyroid-related complications than those not taking them (95% CI 1.464–11.111, p = 0.007). Among the machine learning models, random forest showed the best prediction, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic of 0.770 (95% CI 0.648–0.883) and an area under the precision-recall of 0.510 (95%CI 0.357–0.666). Hence, this study utilized various machine learning models for prediction and showed that factors such as smoking history, hypertension, and opioids are associated with thyroid-related adverse events in cancer patients receiving PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors.
Principles of Surgical Management of Small Intestinal NET
Authors: Pasquer Arnaud , Walter Thomas , Milot Laurent , Hervieu Valérie , Poncet Gilles
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Small-intestinal neuroendocrine tumors (siNETs) account for 25% of gastroenteropancreatic NETs. Multiple siNETs appear to develop in a limited segment of the small bowel (SB), 89% of them being located in the ileum, most often within 100 cm of the ileocecal valve (ICV). According to the European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (ENETS) and the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC), all localized siNETs should be considered for radical surgical resection with adequate lymphadenectomy irrespective of the absence of lymphadenopathy or mesenteric involvement. Surgical management of siNETs: The preoperative workout should include a precise evaluation of past medical and surgical history, focusing on the symptoms of carcinoid syndrome (flush, diarrhea, and cardiac failure). Morphological evaluation should include a CT scan including a thin-slice arterial CT, a PET/CT with 68 Ga, and a hepatic MRI in cases of suspected metastasis. Levels of 24 h urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid are needed. Regarding surgery, the limiting component is the number of free jejunal branches allowing a resection without risk of short small bowel syndrome. The laparoscopic approach has been poorly studied, and open laparotomy remains the gold standard to explore the abdominal cavity and entirely palpate the small bowel through bidigital palpation and compression. An extensive lymphadenectomy is required. A prophylactic cholecystectomy should be performed. In case of emergency surgery, current recommendations are not definitive. However, there is expert agreement that it is not reasonable to initiate resection of the mesenteric mass without comprehensive workup and mapping. Conclusion: The surgery of siNETs is in constant evolution. The challenge lies in the ability to propose a resection without imposing short small bowel syndrome on the patients. The oncological benefits supported in the literature led to recent changes in the recommendations of academic societies. The next steps remain the dissemination of reproducible quality criteria to perform these procedures.
Changing the Treatment Paradigm for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using Atezolizumab plus Bevacizumab Combination Therapy
Authors: Kudo Masatoshi
Published: November 2021

Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab combination therapy was approved worldwide for use in 2020. A 30% objective response rate with 8% complete response (CR) was achieved in a phase 3 IMbrave150 trial. Here, the change in the treatment strategy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using atezolizumab plus bevacizumab combination therapy is reviewed. The phase 3 IMbrave150 clinical trial was successful because of the direct antitumor effect of bevacizumab, which shifted the suppressive immune microenvironment to a responsive immune microenvironment, in addition to its synergistic effects when combined with atezolizumab. The analysis of CR cases was effective in patients with poor conditions, particularly tumor invasion in the main portal trunk (Vp4), making the combination therapy a breakthrough for HCC treatment. The response rate of the combination therapy was 44% against intermediate-stage HCC. Such a strong tumor-reduction effect paves the way for curative conversion (ABC conversion) therapy and, therefore, treatment strategies for intermediate-stage HCC may undergo a significant shift in the future. As these treatment strategies are effective in maintaining liver function, even in elderly patients, the transition frequency to second-line treatments could also be improved. These strategies may be effective against nonalcoholic steatohepatitis-related hepatocellular carcinoma and WNT/β-catenin mutations to a certain degree.
Tris(dibenzylideneacetone)dipalladium(0) (Tris DBA) Abrogates Tumor Progression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Multiple Myeloma Preclinical Models by Regulating the STAT3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Arora Loukik , Mohan Chakrabhavi Dhananjaya , Yang Min Hee , Rangappa Shobith , Deivasigamani Amudha , Kumar Alan Prem , Kunnumakkara Ajaikumar B. , Garg Manoj , Chinnathambi Arunachalam , Alharbi Sulaiman Ali , Alahmadi Tahani Awad , Rangappa Kanchugarakoppal S. , Hui Kam Man , Sethi Gautam , Ahn Kwang Seok
Published: November 2021

STAT3 is an oncogenic transcription factor that controls the expression of genes associated with oncogenesis and malignant progression. Persistent activation of STAT3 is observed in human malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and multiple myeloma (MM). Here, we have investigated the action of Tris(dibenzylideneacetone) dipalladium 0 (Tris DBA) on STAT3 signaling in HCC and MM cells. Tris DBA decreased cell viability, increased apoptosis, and inhibited IL-6 induced/constitutive activation of STAT3, JAK1, JAK2, and Src in HCC and MM cells. Tris DBA downmodulated the nuclear translocation of STAT3 and reduced its DNA binding ability. It upregulated the expression of SHP2 (protein and mRNA) to induce STAT3 dephosphorylation, and the inhibition of SHP2 reversed this effect. Tris DBA downregulated the expression of STAT3-driven genes, suppressed cell migration/invasion. Tris DBA significantly inhibited tumor growth in xenograft MM and orthotopic HCC preclinical mice models with a reduction in the expression of various prosurvival biomarkers in MM tumor tissues without displaying significant toxicity. Overall, Tris DBA functions as a good inhibitor of STAT3 signaling in preclinical HCC and MM models.
Quality of Life (QoL) among Health Care Workers with Diabetes Mellitus: A Literature Review
Authors: Alamri Warda , Alhofaian Aisha , Mersal Nahed
Published: November 2021

Objective: This scoping literature review explores the impact of diabetes mellitus (DM) on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of health care workers (HCWs). HCWs play a vital role in the global health care system, with the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrating their effectiveness and worth beyond any doubt. However, HCWs are among the most vulnerable members of the health care system because they are most susceptible to stress, exhaustion, and occupational health risks. Method: The review was conducted in 2021 and included articles published in English in the past five years that explore diabetic HCWs’ QoL and studies intended to assess the relationship between work stress and DM. In total, 27 relevant articles were found that satisfied the inclusion criteria and were critically and thematically analyzed. Results: Most DM studies have focused on the clinical management of patients, but researchers have paid little attention to the high-risk group of HCWs with diabetes. In addition to fulfilling their job mandate, HCWs are burdened with various sociological stressors that affect their QoL. Conclusion: This literature review suggests DM has a significant impact on QoL in the work–life context. However, there is limited evidence to demonstrate the impact of DM on the QoL of HCWs. Thus, further research is needed in this area to improve the provision of integrated care.
Report from the Western Canadian Gastrointestinal Cancer Consensus Conference Virtual Education Series—Transition from Local to System Therapy and Optimal Sequencing of Systemic Therapy for HCC
Authors: Zaidi Adnan , Ahmed Shahid , Ahmed Shahida , Brunet Bryan , Davies Janine , Doll Corinne , Dueck Dorie-Anna , Gordon Vallerie , Hebbard Pamela , Kim Christina , Le Duc , Lee-Ying Richard , Lim Howard , Liu Dave , McGhie John Paul , Mulder Karen , Park Jason , Renouf Daniel , Schellenberg Devin , Wong Ralph P. W. , Moser Mike
Published: November 2021

The Western Canadian Gastrointestinal Cancer Consensus Conference (WC-5) convened virtually on 10 February 2021. The WC-5 is an interactive multidisciplinary conference attended by health care professionals from across Western Canada (British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba) who are involved in the care of patients with gastrointestinal cancer. Surgical, medical, and radiation oncologists; pathologists; radiologists; and allied health care professionals participated in presentation and discussion sessions for the purpose of developing the recommendations presented here. This consensus statement addresses current issues in the management of hepatocellular cancer (HCC). Recommendations have been made for the transition from local to systemic therapy and the optimal sequencing of systemic regimens in the management of HCC.
Implementing and Sustaining Early Cancer Diagnosis Initiatives in Canada: An Exploratory Qualitative Study
Authors: Fahim Christine , Davenport Huyer Larkin , Lee Tom (Taehoon) , Prashad Anubha , Leonard Robyn , Khare Satya Rashi , Stiff Jennifer , Chadder Jennifer , Straus Sharon E.
Published: November 2021

Background: The interval between suspected cancer and diagnosis for symptomatic patients is often fragmented, leading to diagnosis delays and increased patient stress. We conducted an exploratory qualitative study to explore barriers and facilitators to implementing and sustaining current initiatives across Canada that optimize early cancer diagnosis, with particular relevance for symptomatic patients. Methods: The national study included a document review and key informant interviews with purposefully recruited participants. Data were analyzed by two researchers using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Results: Twenty-two participants from eight provinces participated in key informant interviews and reported on 17 early cancer diagnosis initiatives. Most initiatives (88%) were in early phases of implementation. Two patient-facing and eight provider/organization barriers to implementation (e.g., lack of stakeholder buy-in and limited resources) and five facilitators for implementation and sustainability were identified. Opportunities to improve early cancer diagnosis initiatives included building relationships with stakeholders, co-creating initiatives, developing initiatives for Indigenous and underserved populations, optimizing efficiency and sustainability, and standardizing metrics to evaluate impact. Conclusion: Early cancer diagnosis initiatives in Canada are in early implementation phases. Lack of stakeholder buy-in and limited resources pose a challenge to sustainability. We present opportunities for funders and policymakers to optimize the use and potential impact of early cancer diagnosis initiatives.
Immune Correlates of Non-Necrotic and Necrotic Granulomas in Pulmonary Tuberculosis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kumar Ranjeet , Subbian Selvakumar
Published: November 2021

A granuloma, a pathologic hallmark of tuberculosis (TB), is a complex cellular structure that develops at the site of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection and is comprised of different immune cell types. Severe pulmonary TB in humans is characterized by the presence of heterogeneous granulomas, ranging from highly cellular to solid/non-necrotic and necrotic lesions, within the lungs. The host-Mtb interactions within the granulomas dictate the containment of Mtb infection or its progression into a necrotic, cavitary disease. However, the immune environment in various granulomas is poorly understood. The myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are key immune cells that regulate the protective versus permissive host responses against Mtb infection. However, their contexture within the lung granulomas remains unclear. In this study, using single and multiplex immunohistochemical staining, we analyzed the distribution of MDSCs, macrophages, CD4+ T cells and their immunometabolic and effector function states in the solid/non-necrotic and necrotic granulomas in patients with active pulmonary TB. We found increased MDSCs with elevated expression of immunosuppressive molecules in the solid/non-necrotic granulomas. In contrast, cells in the solid and necrotic granulomas produced similar levels of IL-6 and IL-10. Our findings suggest that MDSCs are present in solid/non-necrotic granuloma, which may play an essential role in the progression into a necrotic lesion, thus exacerbating disease pathology and transmission.
Technical condition of the agricultural machine
Authors: Solomashkin A. A. , Kostomakhin M. N.
Published: November 2021

In article material by definition of technical condition of the car/mechanism is provided. Operability definition is given, working capacity and technical condition of the car. Ways of digitization of these concepts are given.
On the issue of analyzing the technical condition of agricultural machinery using neural networks
Authors: Pestryakov E. V. , Kostomakhin M. N. , Petrishchev N. A. , Sayapin A. S. , Molybozhenko K. K.
Published: November 2021

This article is devoted to the increasing role of artificial intelligence in agriculture, namely in the diagnosis of the state of agricultural machinery. The development of new software using artificial intelligence in its work is carried out all over the world. Also, in parallel with the programs, new computing devices are being developed that allow storing and processing large amounts of information. All this allows you to create complex computer systems that involve many third-party devices. In addition, agriculture should develop, focusing on current trends.
Brief analysis of indicators of energy resources provision of agricultural organizations of the Republic of Belarus
Authors: Kovalev I. L. , Efremov A. A.
Published: November 2021

A number of important points and indicators characterizing the current state and potential of the Belarusian agricultural production are considered. It has been established that over the past decade in the agricultural organizations of the republic there was a decrease in the energy supply indicator by 15 %, and the power supply to labor during this time increased by more than 1.4 times. The overall efficiency of agricultural and livestock production, the level of labor productivity in an agricultural organization, the availability of energy capacities has a very significant and often decisive impact.
SECURITY RESOURCE OF THE WORLDVIEW KNOWLEDGE IN EDUCATION:
THE CASE OF RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Authors: Brodetskyi Oleksandr , Horokholinska Iryna
Published: November 2021

The study consider a number of risks facing modern society (both globally and in Ukraine). It is analyzed the cognitive-methodological and value possibilities of religious studies and their ability to increase the security potential in society. The authors reveal the prerequisites for effective and heuristic realization of such potential through the functioning of religious studies in education (especially higher education).
THE PROBLEM OF THE SPREAD OF XENOPHOBІA AND RACІSM
Authors: Barabash Rostyslav
Published: November 2021

At the heart of nihilism is the problem of the Self-Other relationship, the monologue of the autonomous, self-contained, narcissistic self-subject who objectifies the world and other people around him, does not perceive the difference, "otherness" in all its manifestations. The nihilistic attitude is set up for the perception of the Other as an enemy of the Alien, the destruction of everything that is not like the Self.
Perancangan Model Simulator dan Performansi Kesalahan Bit untuk Variasi Tipe Modulasi Digital Dalam Lingkungan Kanal Additive White Gaussian Noise (AWGN)
Authors: Taufiqurrahman Aditya
Published: November 2021

Penelitian ini dibuat berdasarkan permasalahan pada penelitian sebelumnya, dimana belum menampilkan gelombang sinyal sesudah melewati kanal Additive White Gaussian Noise (AWGN), serta menampilkan hasil simulasi perbandingan kesalahan bit yang ditampilkan dalam bentuk grafik kurva untuk berbagai tipe modulasi. Selain itu gelombang sinyal probabilitas kesalahan bit masih ditampilkan terpisah serta belum melakukan analisa antara perhitungan dengan hasil simulasi. Maka pada penelitian ini akan dilakukan pengembangan pada source code dan juga dibuatnya graphical user interface (GUI) Matlab beserta dengan perhitungan teoritisnya. Pada hasil simulasi jumlah bit minimal sebesar 100 bit didapatkan  untuk modulasi amplitude Shift Keying (ASK),  untuk modulasi frekuency shift keying (FSK) dan  untuk binary phase shift keying (BPSK). Sedangkan pada jumlah bit maksimum bit sebesar 500 bit didapatkan  untuk modulasi ASK,  untuk modulasi FSK, dan  untuk modulasi BPSK. Dari dua data tersebut menunjukan bahwa data simulasi sudah sesuai dengan teori yang ada, dimana semakin besar energi bit yang digunakan maka bit error rate (BER) yang dihasilkan akan semakin kecil. Kesesuaian simulasi dengan teori didukung juga oleh hasil perhitungan probabilitas kesalahan bit. Hasil simulasi dan teoritis probabilitas kesalahan bit memiliki karakteristik yang sama, dimana modulasi BPSK memiliki penurunan probabilias kesalahan bit yang lebih kecil dibandingkan modulasi ASK dan FSK. Selain itu didapatkan bahwa hasil perhitungan mengalami penurunan kesalahan bit yang lebih kecil serta ideal pada Eb/N0 yang sama untuk setiap percobaannya.
Analisa Penggunaan Nilai Bobot Heuristik yang Berbeda pada Algoritma Weighted A*
Authors: Diana Ipan , Herdiana Budi
Published: November 2021

Path planning merupakan urutan keadaan untuk memindahkan objek dari keadaan awal ke keadaan akhir, serta menghindari daerah yang tidak dapat dilalui. Objek disini dapat berupa robot, mobil otonom dan yang lainnya. Algoritma A* merupakan algoritma pencarian jalur yang menggunakan estimasi jarak dengan menggunakan pencarian jalur terdekat untuk mencapai tujuan. Weighted A* adalah algoritma yang digunakan untuk memecahkan masalah pencarian jalur dengan mengubah nilai bobot pada fungsi heuristiknya. Tujuan dari penelitian ini yaitu menganalisa perbandingan algoritma Weighted A* dengan algoritma A*, serta menganalisa pengaruh nilai bobot heuristik pada algoritma Weighted A*. Pengujian yang dilakukan yaitu menggunakan lingkungan maze, narrow, trap, clutter. Hasil yang didapat pada perbandingan algoritma Weighted A* dan A*, dari hasil pengujian diperoleh algoritma Weighted A* menghasilkan waktu pencarian yang lebih baik yaitu sebesar 0,33 detik, sedangkan algoritma A* menghasilkan waktu 1,40 detik. Tetapi algoritma A* dapat menghasilkan jalur yang lebih optimal yaitu 163,69 dibandingkan algoritma Weighted A* yang menghasilkan jalur sebesar 164,52. Dengan strategi yang lebih menekankan pemilihan node yang lebih dekat dengan node goal, maka Weighted A* dapat menghasilkan jalur dengan waktu komputasi yang lebih cepat. Sedangkan algoritma A* karena memilih node dengan nilai heuristik terkecil, maka dapat menghasilkan jalur yang lebih optimal. Weighted A* cocok di implementasikan pada sistem yang membutuhkan waktu pencarian jalur yang lebih singkat tapi tidak harus optimal. Algoritma A* cocok di implementasikan pada sistem yang membutuhkan jalur optimal walaupun waktu pencariannya tidak terlalu cepat
Sistem Otomatis Pembuatan Nutrisi Ideal untuk Tanaman Pakcoy Menggunakan kendali Logika Fuzzy
Authors: Malik Aditya , Hartono Rodi
Published: November 2021

Pada dasarnya, khususnya di Indonesia rata-rata perkebunan hidroponik itu masih menggunakan sistem manual, termasuk dalam pengaturan nutrisi petani masih menggunakan sistem manual dalam pengaturannya. Hal tersebut memakan banyak waktu dalam melakukan pemberian nutrisi secara manual tersebut, petani harus telebih dahulu memberi air untuk setiap tandon nutrisi, lalu setelahnya petani harus memberi pupuk atau nutrisi A dan B untuk dicampur dengan air lalu diaduk. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah merancang dan mengimplementasikan sistem pengecekan dan pengaturan komposisi nutrisi dengan metoda logika fuzzy untuk mendapatkan dan menjaga kondisi ideal nutrisi untuk tanaman hidroponik jenis pakcoy. Dengan menggunakan metode fuzzy, sifat ketidakpastian yang sering muncul akan teratasi. Dengan membuat 19 himpunan keanggotaan input dan juga 19 himpunan keanggotaan output yang sudah dibuat dengan cara mengambil data untuk nilai konsentrasi nutrisi mencapai set point yaitu 1050-1400 ppm, sistem akan mampu membuat dan juga mempertahankan nilai konsentrasi nutrisi pada range ideal. Dari pengujian sistem yang dilakukan didapatkan kesimpulan berupa, penambahan nutrisi A dan B terbanyak yaitu 5100 mL dengan waktu 17 menit dalam keadaan wadah nutrisi maksimal, dan penambahan nutrisi A dan B paling sedikit adalah 300 mL dengan waktu 1 menit dalam keadaan wadah nutrisi maksimal.

 

 

Kata kunci : fuzzy, nilai konsentrasi, nutrisi, pakcoy, PPM
Projeção de rotas ciclo turísticas no interior de Pernambuco
Authors: Bezerra Thales Ramon Queiroz , Costa Emilly Cristine de Aguiar
Published: November 2021

O ciclo turismo é uma atividade turística realizada com bicicletas, que podem trazer vantagens na área da saúde e da economia, podendo gerar trabalho, emprego e renda para as comunidades contempladas com a criação de rotas. O trabalho teve como objetivo principal conhecer as práticas e as características do ciclo turismo em Pernambuco e propor a criação de rotas ciclo turísticas na Zona da Mata Sul do estado, que possui o segundo menor índice de incidentes com bicicletas em Pernambuco. Desta forma, utilizou-se de formulários para entender: o perfil do praticante no estado; o que eles consideram importantes numa rota; entrevistar especialistas para definir critérios, hierarquizá-los para definir os municípios postulantes. Para isso, utilizou-se o método “Analytic Hierarchy Process” - AHP, que entre outras coisas, auxilia na tomada de decisão. Os resultados mostraram que dos 24 municípios da região estudada, sete deles reuniam as melhores condições para implantação de uma rota, em função das riquezas naturais, culturais e infraestrutura, que foram considerados critérios indispensáveis pelos entrevistados. Desta forma foi possível a projeção de 3 rotas ciclo turísticas que podem ajudar na potencialização da economia local, se transformados em um produto a ser comercializado por agências de turismo e gestores.
Kahramanın Cehenneme Yolculuğu: Altay Destanı Maaday Kara’da ve İlahi Komedya’da Cehennem Tasviri
Authors: ALKIR Yağmur
Published: November 2021

İnsanoğlunun en büyük merakı olan ölümden sonraki hayat, birçok din ve kültürde benzer motiflerle tasvir edilmiştir. Dinî metinler dışında, insan ruhunun gideceği yer ve dünyadaki davranışlarına göre ölüm sonrası yaşayacaklarının belirlenmesi üzerine tarih boyunca birçok edebî eser kaleme alınmıştır. Çalışmada insanın hangi dine ya da hangi kültürel daireye mensup olursa olsun ürettiği ve inandığı şeyin ortaklığı vurgulanmış, İlahi Komedya ile Altay Destanı Maaday Kara karşılaştırılmıştır. Dante’nin İlahi Komedya’sı bugüne kadar birçok farklı eserle karşılaştırılarak incelenmiştir. İlahi Komedya’da öte dünyaya olan yolculuğunun ilk seyahati olan Cehennem, dokuz kattan oluşmakta ve bu katlar günahlara göre sıralanmaktadır. Altay Destanı Maaday Kara ise ölümle savaşan ve onu yenen kahraman Kögüdey Mergen’in ölümü yenmesi için cehenneme yaptığı yolculuğu anlatmaktadır. Bu yolculukta görülmektedir ki cehennem dokuz katlıdır ve katlar günahlara göre sıralanmaktadır. Bu çalışmanın amacı iki eserin öte dünyayla ilgili motiflerini tespit ederek insanlığın ortak algısında bulunan cehennem kavramını incelemektir. Her iki eser de kahramanını cehennemde yolculuğa çıkarır ve insanlığın ortak cehennem ve günah algısını ortaya koyar. Farklı inançlara ve dönemlere ait olmalarına rağmen insanlığın öteki yaşamla ilgili sorularının cevaplarını vermesi bakımından benzer olan bu eserler, ait olduğu topluma hayatı nasıl yaşaması gerektiğini öğütleyen yol gösterici nitelikte ürünlerdir.
Uji Kegunaan Perangkat Lunak menggunakan Metode Cognitive Walkthrough
Authors: Susanto M. Rifky Naratama , Putri Annisa Adytia , Azhari Muh. Andriansya , Maghfiroh Lutfi Rahmatuti
Published: November 2021

Praktek Kerja Lapangan (PKL) Politeknik Statistika STIS angkatan 60, khususnya divisi Sistem Komunikasi dan Kolaborasi (Sikoko) merancang sebuah forum diskusi daring berbasis web untuk memenuhi kebutuhan kegiatan, yaitu wadah diskusi saat pelaksanaan kegiatan PKL sedang berlangsung. Hal tersebut menimbulkan suatu permasalahan tentang tampilan web yang harus dibuat menyesuaikan pengguna, yaitu mahasiswa. Apabila tampilannya tidak ramah pengguna, tentu akan menghambat pengguna untuk menggunakan forum tersebut. Penelitian mengenai desain antarmuka pengguna dari web Forum PKL dilakukan dengan menggunakan salah satu metode analisis usability, yaitu Cognitive Walkthrough (CW). Hasil usability testing dengan metode Cognitive Walkthrough pada Web Forum PKL 60 diujikan dengan menjalankan skenario tugas-tugas utama yang dilakukan pada forum, seperti membuat thread, membalas thread, dan melakukan pencarian thread tertentu. Hasilnya menunjukkan penurunan tingkat kesalahan dan peningkatan tingkat penyelesaian yang dilakukan responden setelah dilakukan pengujian dan perbaikan terhadap tampilan web.
Electrochemical Mechanism of Al Metal–Organic Battery Based on Phenanthrenequinone
Authors: Bitenc Jan , Košir Urban , Vizintin Alen , Lindahl Niklas , Krajnc Andraž , Pirnat Klemen , Jerman Ivan , Dominko Robert
Published: November 2021

Al metal-organic batteries are a perspective high-energy battery technology based on abundant materials. However, the practical energy density of Al metal-organic batteries is strongly dependent on its electrochemical mechanism. Energy density is mostly governed by the nature of the aluminium complex ion and utilization of redox activity of the organic group. Although organic cathodes have been used before, detailed study of the electrochemical mechanism is typically not the primary focus. In the present work, electrochemical mechanism of Al metal-phenanthrenequinone battery is investigated with a range of different analytical techniques. Firstly, its capacity retention is optimized through the preparation of insoluble cross-coupled polymer, which exemplifies extremely low capacity fade and long-term cycling stability.
Ex situ
and
operando
ATR-IR confirm that reduction of phenanthrenequinone group proceeds through the two-electron reduction of carbonyl groups, which was previously believed to exchange only one-electron, severely limiting cathode capacity. Nature of aluminium complex ion interacting with organic cathode is determined through multiprong approach using SEM-EDS, XPS, and solid-state NMR, which all point to the dominant contribution of AlCl
2+
cation. Upon full capacity utilization, Al metal-polyphenanthrenequinone battery utilizing AlCl
2+
offers an energy density of more than 200 Wh/kg making it a viable solution for stationary electrical energy storage.
Experiencias y vínculos con el saber universitario por parte de estudiantes egresadas del Plan FinEs
Authors: Garriga Olmo Santiago
Published: November 2021

El trabajo analiza las experiencias y los vínculos con el saber en el primer año de las carreras de Sociología y Enfermería de la Universidad Nacional de La Plata por parte de estudiantes egresadas del Plan FinEs. Se trata de una investigación de carácter cualitativo en la que se priorizó la técnica de la entrevista en profundidad. Describimos las características del Plan FinEs –y las experiencias de las estudiantes en dicha instancia– como así también algunas de las características de las carreras de Sociología y Enfermería con el fin de comprender el contexto en el que se desarrollan las experiencias educativas. El trabajo presenta el análisis de la información construida sobre la base del trabajo de campo de las experiencias y vínculos con el saber universitario a partir del primer acercamiento a la carrera, el curso de ingreso, el rol y las prácticas docentes y los textos y contenidos abordados en las materias de primer año.