bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Multimodal Fusion Approach for Human Activity Recognition
Authors: Koutrintzes Dimitrios , Spyrou Evaggelos , Mathe Eirini , Mylonas Phivos
Published: December 2022

The problem of human activity recognition (HAR) has been increasingly attracting the efforts of the research community, having several applications. It consists of recognizing human motion and/or behavior within a given image or a video sequence, using as input raw sensor measurements. In this paper, a multimodal approach addressing the task of video-based HAR is proposed. It is based on 3D visual data that are collected using an RGB + depth camera, resulting to both raw video and 3D skeletal sequences. These data are transformed into six different 2D image representations; four of them are in the spectral domain, another is a pseudo-colored image. The aforementioned representations are based on skeletal data. The last representation is a “dynamic” image which is actually an artificially created image that summarizes RGB data of the whole video sequence, in a visually comprehensible way. In order to classify a given activity video, first, all the aforementioned 2D images are extracted and then six trained convolutional neural networks are used so as to extract visual features. The latter are fused so as to form a single feature vector and are fed into a support vector machine for classification into human activities. For evaluation purposes, a challenging motion activity recognition dataset is used, while single-view, cross-view and cross-subject experiments are performed. Moreover, the proposed approach is compared to three other state-of-the-art methods, demonstrating superior performance in most experiments.
Thermal performance analysis of Sutterby nanoliquid subject to melting heat transportation
Authors: Anjum Nazash , Khan W. A. , Ali M. , Hussain I. , Waqas M. , Irfan M.
Published: December 2022

In the recent years, nanotechnology has been widely used in several fields regarding its rapid developments which create a lot of prospects for researchers and engineers. More specifically, replacement of conventional liquid with nanofluid is considered as an innovative solution to heat transfer problems. Keeping aforesaid pragmatism of nanofluid in view, we considered a time-dependent mathematical model to formulate the heat sink-source based Sutterby nanofluid model under thermophoretic and Brownian movements. New mass flux and melting boundary conditions are used for heat/ mass transfer analyses. Moreover, Prandtl’s boundary-layer idea is employed for mathematical formulation. The leading nonlinear set of partial differential equations is transformed to nonlinear set of ordinary differential equations. Numeric outcomes are acquired through bvp4c algorithm, graphical results are found via MATLAB technique. Acquired numerical data shows that temperature of nanofluid boosts for greater thermophoretic and unsteady parameters. Intensification is measured in concentration distribution.
MMsRT: A Hardware Architecture for Ray Tracing in the Mobile Domain
Authors: Yan Run , Huang Libo , Guo Hui , Lü Yashuai , Yang Ling , Xiao Nong , Shen Li , Lan Mengqiao , Wang Yongwen
Published: December 2022

Today’s desktop rendering platforms typically use GPUs, which have become the most powerful computing chip to meet the growing visual needs, especially in ray tracing. However, ray tracing is challenging for mobile platforms because mobile GPUs need to accommodate insufficient computing power, hardware resources, and memory bandwidth. This paper presents a novel architecture for the mobile domain called Mobile Multiple stacks Ray Tracing (MMsRT). The most complicated calculations in ray tracing are completed through lightweight embedded design. MMsRT has three key features: First, we set multiple stacks to ensure multiple rays are parallel in the system. Second, it sets a stack cache to store the data in stacks when the storage space of multiple stacks is insufficient. Third, we adopt the data prefetching mechanism to set caches to improve the cache hit rate and performance. An accurate simulator test proves that our design can be applied to mobile devices. We calculate the performance of about 82.9 Million Rays Per Second (MRPS), the chip area is about 0.856[Formula: see text]mm2, and 96.85[Formula: see text]MRPS/mm2.
PEDOT:PSS-Doped Graphene Oxide as an Alternative to Hole Transport Material and Transparent Conducting Electrode
Authors: Chakraborty Neha , Sharma Rishi , Singh Rajan Kumar , Mukherjee Sanat Kumar , Sharma Neelima
Published: December 2022

In this paper, the fabrication of PEDOT:PSS-doped graphene oxide (GO) as a hole transport conducting electrode has been discussed. GO has been synthesized by modified Hummer’s method. Formation of GO and structural changes in GO after PEDOT:PSS doping had been confirmed by Raman and XRD analyses. FESEM images depict the morphological changes in GO before and after doping. Bonds in the samples have been analyzed by FTIR. UV-Vis study shows that PEDOT:PSS-doped GO has good transparency in the visible region. Hall measurement indicates that the electrical conductivity in GO is due to the electron transport while the conductivity in PEDOT:PSS-doped GO is due to the hole transport. A new type of DSSC has been proposed with the fabricated hole transport PEDOT:PSS electrode without ITO. The working of the cell with the new hole transport electrode has been explained. Prepared electrodes have been used in the fabrication of DSSC, showing exciting initial results.
Modified Bilateral V–Y Rotation Advancement Flap for Coverage of Fingertip Amputations
Authors: MOHSEN Ibrahim , MAHMOUD Mostafa , SHAHEEN Ayman
Published: December 2022

Background: The use of homodigital antegrade flow flaps is an appealing option for coverage of fingertip injuries with exposed bone as it provides good padding, sensation and colour match with no need for splinting or secondary procedure for flap separation. V–Y flaps presented by Atasoy and Kutler have limited ability of distal advancement. We used two separate V flaps each based on a separate neuro-vascular bundle to allow better advancement while keeping good vascularity and sensation.

Methods: We used a modified bilateral V–Y rotation advancement flap for coverage of fourteen fingertip injuries with bone exposed in 11 adult patients. Time to complete healing and return to work was recorded. Range of motion of injured finger as well as fingertip sensation using two-point discrimination were assessed and compared to non-injured contralateral finger 6 months after surgery. Fingertip hypersensitivity, cold intolerance and hooked nail deformity were assessed as well.

Results: All flaps survived, and all patients resumed their activities after a mean period of 5 weeks. The mean two-point discrimination was 3.9 mm and was comparable to non-injured side. All patients regained full range of motion and were satisfied by the result. Two cases suffered from hypersensitivity that resolved at 3 months post-operative. Hooked nail deformity and cold intolerance were not recorded in our study.

Conclusions: This modified bilateral V–Y rotation advancement flap technique presents a simple and single step procedure that provides good padding of fingertip with cosmetically pleasant contour and normal sensation.

Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic)
Quantum Creativity and Cognition in Humans and Robots
Authors: Mannone Maria , Seidita Valeria
Published: December 2022

In this research, we present a categorical framework to connect research on creativity and cognition for humans and robots, in light of the quantum paradigm. These fields and their relationships suggest a wider vision: modeling human creativity/cognition through quantum computing, and creating robots that can help us learn more about the humans themselves. We represent the human–robot comparison through functors (function generalization). Fundamental elements to understand human creativity are motivation and feedback as aesthetic pleasure. Is it possible to model it? Can the quantum paradigm help us in such an endeavor? We envisage the concept of emergence and quantum computing as decisive keys for creativity. Investigation of robotic models, including swarms of robots, might help shed new light on human creative interactions.
GEO: A Computational Design Framework for Automotive Exterior Facelift
Authors: Huang Jingmin , Chen Bowei , Yan Zhi , Ounis Iadh , Wang Jun
Published: December 2022

Exterior facelift has become an effective method for automakers to boost the consumers’ interest in an existing car model before it is redesigned. To support the automotive facelift design process, this study develops a novel computational framework –
Generator, Evaluator, Optimiser (GEO)
, which comprises three components: a StyleGAN2-based design generator that creates different facelift designs; a
convolutional neural network (CNN)
-based evaluator that assesses designs from the aesthetics perspective; and a
recurrent neural network (RNN)
-based decision optimiser that selects designs to maximise the predicted profit of the targeted car model over time. We validate the GEO framework in experiments with real-world datasets and describe some resulting managerial implications for automotive facelift. Our study makes both methodological and application contributions. First, the generator’s mapping network and projection methods are carefully tailored to facelift where only minor changes are performed without affecting the family signature of the automobile brands. Second, two evaluation metrics are proposed to assess the generated designs. Third, profit maximisation is taken into account in the design selection. From a high-level perspective, our study contributes to the recent use of machine learning and data mining in marketing and design studies. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that uses deep generative models for automotive regional design upgrading and that provides an end-to-end decision-support solution for automakers and designers.
Sinus node dysfunction: current understanding and future directions
Authors: Manoj Pavan , Kim Jitae A. , Kim Stephanie , Li Tingting , Sewani Maham , Chelu Mihail G. , Li Na
Published: December 2022

The sinoatrial node (SAN) is the primary pacemaker of the heart. Normal SAN function is crucial in maintaining proper cardiac rhythm and contraction. Sinus node dysfunction (SND) is due to abnormalities within the SAN, which can affect the heartbeat frequency, regularity, and the propagation of electrical pulses through the cardiac conduction system. As a result, SND often increases the risk of cardiac arrhythmias. SND is most commonly seen as a disease of the elderly given the role of degenerative fibrosis as well as other age-dependent changes in its pathogenesis. Despite the prevalence of SND, current treatment is limited to pacemaker implantation, which is associated with substantial medical costs and complications. Emerging evidence has identified various genetic abnormalities that can cause SND, shedding light on the molecular underpinnings of SND. Identification of these molecular mechanisms and pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of SND is hoped to identify novel therapeutic targets for the development of more effective therapies for this disease. In this review article, we examine the anatomy of the SAN and the pathophysiology and epidemiology of SND. We then discuss in detail the most common genetic mutations correlated with SND and provide our perspectives on future research and therapeutic opportunities in this field.
Contribution of intracranial pressure to human dynamic cerebral autoregulation after acute brain injury
Authors: Brasil Sérgio , Nogueira Ricardo C. , Salinet Angela S. M. , Yoshikawa Márcia H. , Teixeira Manoel J. , Paiva Wellingson , Malbouisson Luiz M. S. , Bor-Seng-Shu Edson , Panerai Ronney B.
Published: December 2022

Cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) is normally expressed by the difference between mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and intracranial pressure (ICP) but comparison of the separate contributions of MAP and ICP to human cerebral blood flow autoregulation has not been reported. In patients with acute brain injury (ABI), internal jugular vein compression (IJVC) was performed for 60 s. Dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA) was assessed in recordings of middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAv, transcranial Doppler), and invasive measurements of MAP and ICP. Patients were separated according to injury severity as having whole/undamaged skull, large fractures, or craniotomies, or following decompressive craniectomy. Glasgow coma score was not different for the three groups. IJVC induced changes in MCAv, MAP, ICP, and CPP in all three groups. The MCAv response to step changes in MAP and ICP expressed the dCA response to these two inputs and was quantified with the autoregulation index (ARI). In 85 patients, ARI was lower for the ICP input as compared with the MAP input (2.25 ± 2.46 vs. 3.39 ± 2.28; P < 0.0001), and particularly depressed in the decompressive craniectomy (DC) group ( n = 24, 0.35 ± 0.62 vs. 2.21 ± 1.96; P < 0.0005). In patients with ABI, the dCA response to changes in ICP is less efficient than corresponding responses to MAP changes. These results should be taken into consideration in studies aimed to optimize dCA by manipulation of CPP in neurocritical patients.
Inositol Alleviates Pulmonary Fibrosis by Promoting Autophagy via Inhibiting the HIF-1α-SLUG Axis in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Liang Yufeng , Xu Yingyi , Lu Bingtai , Huang Yuanming , Xu Shuman , Xie Junjie , Liu Ming , Che Di , Ma Liuheyi , Tao Jianping , Hong Jie , Zhang Jianhui , Situ Xun , Ou XinXu , Chen Lihe , Li Yang , Zhang Lihong , Wu Zhiyuan
Published: December 2022

The effective remission of acute respiratory distress syndrome- (ARDS-) caused pulmonary fibrosis determines the recovery of lung function. Inositol can relieve lung injuries induced by ARDS. However, the mechanism of myo-inositol in the development of ARDS is unclear, which limits its use in the clinic. We explored the role and mechanism of myo-inositol in the development of ARDS by using an in vitro lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) established alveolar epithelial cell inflammation model and an in vivo ARDS mouse model. Our results showed that inositol can alleviate the progression of pulmonary fibrosis. More significantly, we found that inositol can induce autophagy to inhibit the progression pulmonary fibrosis caused by ARDS. In order to explore the core regulators of ARDS affected by inositol, mRNA-seq sequencing was performed. Those results showed that transcription factor HIF-1α can regulate the expression of SLUG, which in turn can regulate the key gene E-Cadherin involved in cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) as well as N-cadherin expression, and both were regulated by inositol. Our results suggest that inositol activates autophagy to inhibit EMT progression induced by the HIF-1α/SLUG signaling pathway in ARDS, and thereby alleviates pulmonary fibrosis.
Urban Logistics Services Supply Chain Process Modelling Based on the Underground Logistics System via the Hierarchical Colored Petri Net
Authors: Pan Xinwei , Xu Chenghua , Cheng Helan , Shi Yehui , Dong Jianjun , Chen Zhilong
Published: December 2022

The implementation of the urban underground logistics system (ULS) can effectively mitigate the contradiction between the surging logistics demand and the increased negativity of urban logistics. The widespread implementation of ULS still suffers from a lack of research into its operation in the marketplace, although the research on ULS system technology and network design appears to be sufficient. A new supply chain for logistics service based on ULS (ULS-SSC) was proposed, as ULS embedded in the urban logistics system could lead to the evolution of the role of supply chain participants. This article analyzed the organizational structure and operation characteristics of ULS-SSC and designed a top-down ULS-SSC operation process model based on the designed functional structure and subsystems relationship using the hierarchical colored Petri net (HCPN). The simulation results show that the integrated information management platform based on ULS can integrate urban logistics service supply chain resources and operate effectively under the two main service modes designed. The high-time delay intermediate links can be upgraded by system optimization, and the links with initial pickup and terminal distribution can be improved through outsourcing and supply chain collaboration. The findings provide new insights into the feasibility of the operation of ULS in the market and help stimulate the implementation of ULS.
Prognostic Value of Lymphocyte-to-Monocyte Ratio (LMR) in Cancer Patients Undergoing Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Wan Luying , Wu Chunlan , Luo Shuimei , Xie Xianhe
Published: December 2022

Background. There is accumulating evidence that the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) is related to the outcomes of cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). However, the results remain controversial. Method. Electronic databases were searched to retrieve the studies that explore the relationship between LMR and the efficacy of ICIs. The primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), evaluated by the hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), and the secondary endpoints included disease control rate (DCR) and immune-related adverse events (irAEs), assessed by the odd ratios (ORs) with 95% CI. Results. A total of 27 studies involving 4,322 patients were eligible for analysis. The results indicated that increased LMR at baseline was associated with a superior OS (HR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.39-0.56,

p
<
0.001

), PFS (HR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.49-0.74,

p
<
0.001

), and DCR (OR: 3.16, 95% CI: 1.70-5.87,

p
<
0.001

). Posttreatment LMR was linked to a better PFS (HR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.29-0.71,

p
=
0.001

), but failed to show this correlation in the analysis of OS and DCR. No correlation existed between LMR and irAEs regardless of the testing time (baseline or posttreatment). Subgroup analyses focusing on baseline LMR revealed that higher baseline LMR possessed a better OS in renal cell cancer (RCC) arm, nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) arm, multiple cancer arm, monotherapy arm, LMR <2 arm, LMR ≥2 arm, western countries arm, eastern countries arm, and anti-PD-1 arm. Higher baseline LMR correlated with better PFS in RCC arm, NSCLC arm, gastric cancer (GC) arm, multiple cancer arm, LMR <2 arm, LMR ≥2 arm, western countries arm, and eastern countries arm. Conclusions. Higher LMR at baseline was positively correlated with a superior OS, PFS, and DCR for ICIs, but not with irAEs.
Effects of Blanching and Drying Condition on the Quality of Small Shrimp (Acetes)
Authors: Tran Thi Yen Nhi , Nguyen Ngoc Linh , Nguyen Thi Ngoc Anh , Le Dang Truong , Phan Duc Anh , Tran Thanh Truc , Dao Tan Phat
Published: December 2022

The study aimed to evaluate the influence of various parameters of the blanching and drying condition of small shrimp (Acetes) on some product quality parameters. Some criteria were assessed, such as salt content, astaxanthin content (ATC), and color of small shrimp. The results showed that the blanching time significantly affected the salt content. When increasing the blanching time, the salt content was found to increase from 17.35 ± 2.48 mg/g DW to 39.51 ± 0.45 mg/g DW. The astaxanthin content achieved the highest value (0.026 ± 0.001 mg/g DW) in a 2% salt solution. The study showed that the blanching and drying processes significantly affected the salt content, astaxanthin, and color of the small shrimp, and the optimized temperatures for blanching and drying were 70°C and 60°C, respectively.
Weather-Based Prediction Models for the Prevalence of Dengue Vectors Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus
Authors: Herath J. M. Manel K. , Abeyasundara Hemalika T. K. , De Silva W. A. Priyanka P. , Weeraratne Thilini C. , Karunaratne S. H. P. Parakrama
Published: December 2022

Dengue is an important vector-borne disease transmitted by the mosquitoes Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus. In the absence of an effective vaccine, vector control has become the key intervention tool in controlling the disease. Vector densities are significantly affected by the changing weather patterns of a region. The present study was conducted in three selected localities, i.e., urban Bandaranayakapura, semiurban Galgamuwa, and rural Buluwala in the Kurunegala district of Sri Lanka to assess spatial and temporal distribution of dengue vector mosquitoes and to predict vector prevalence with respect to changing weather parameters. Monthly ovitrap surveys and larval surveys were conducted from January to December 2019 and continued further in the urban area up to December 2021. Aedes aegypti was found moderately in the urban area and to a lesser extent in semiurban but not in the rural area. Aedes albopictus had the preference for rural over urban areas. Aedes aegypti preferred indoor breeding, while Ae. albopictus preferred both indoor and outdoor. For Ae. albopictus, ovitrap index (OVI), premise index (PI), container index (CI), and Breteau index (BI) correlated with both the rainfall (RF) and relative humidity (RH) of the urban site. Correlations were stronger between OVI and RH and also between BI and RF. Linear regression analysis was fitted, and a prediction model was developed using BI and RF with no lag period (R2 (sq) = 86.3%; F = 53.12; R2 (pred) = 63.12%; model: Log10 (BI) = 0.153 + 0.286

∗

Log10 (RF); RMSE = 1.49). Another prediction model was developed using OVI and RH with one month lag period (R2 (sq) = 70.21%; F = 57.23; model: OVI predicted = 15.1 + 0.528

∗

Lag 1 month RH; RMSE = 2.01). These two models can be used to monitor the population dynamics of Ae. albopictus in urban settings to predict possible dengue outbreaks.
The Emerging Role of Probiotics and their Derivatives against Biofilm‐Producing MRSA: A Scoping Review
Authors: Jalalifar Saba , Mirzaei Rasoul , Motallebirad Tahereh , Razavi Shabnam , Talebi Malihe
Published: December 2022

Background. Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the main bacterial pathogens causing chronic infections, mainly because of its capacity to produce biofilm. Biofilm production is one of the underlying strategies for antibacterial drug resistance. Accordingly, preventing and attenuating biofilm production has become an emerging approach to controlling persistent infections. Therefore, this scoping review is aimed at surveying the published literature describing the usage of probiotics and their derivatives against biofilm‐producing MRSA. Methods. Updated literature searches were conducted across seven electronic databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, Embase, and Google Scholar to identify all original published articles about probiotics against MRSA. In this regard, studies were summarized and analyzed in the present review. Results. In the reviewed studies, various microorganisms and compounds were used as probiotics as follows: Lactobacillus species (8 studies), Enterococcus species (4 studies), Bacillus species (2 studies), Streptomyces species (2 studies), Saccharomyces cerevisiae (1 study), Corynebacterium accolens (1 study), and Lactococcus lactis derived Nisin (3 studies). Based on our comprehensive search, 21 studies with eligibility criteria were included in the present review including 12 studies on clinical strains, 6 studies on ATCC, 2 studies simultaneously on clinical and standard strains, and finally 1 study on food sample. Conclusions. Our study showed that there was an increasing trend in the number of publications reporting probiotics against biofilm‐producing MRSA. The results of this scoping review could use to guide the undertaking of the subsequent systematic reviews. In summary, probiotics with antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties can use as an embedded agent in food products or as a biopharmaceutical in the prevention and treatment of MRSA infections.
Antitumor Effects of Ononin by Modulation of Apoptosis in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer through Inhibiting PI3K/Akt/mTOR Pathway
Authors: Gong Guowei , Ganesan Kumar , Xiong Qingping , Zheng Yuzhong
Published: December 2022

Lung cancer is a leading global cause of cancer-related death in both males and females. Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer type that can be difficult to control with conventional chemotherapeutic and surgical approaches resulting in a poor prognosis. Paclitaxel (PTX) is a commonly used chemotherapeutic drug for NSCLC, which can cause tissue injury in healthy cells and affect the quality of life in patients with cancer. In order to treat NSCLC, alternative medications with minimal or no side effects are highly needed. Ononin is an isoflavone glycoside extracted from Astragali Radix (AR) that has various pharmacological activities. Therefore, this study investigated whether ononin inhibits NSCLC progression and promotes apoptosis synergistically with PTX both in vitro and in vivo. Antitumorigenic properties of ononin were determined by MTT assay, colony formation assay, migratory capacity, and apoptotic marker expression in A549 and HCC827 cells. The combination of ononin with PTX increased the expression of apoptotic markers and ROS generation and inhibited cell proliferation through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. Furthermore, ononin prevented the translocation of NF-κB from cytosol to the nucleus. Also, we used the xenograft NSCLC mice model to confirm the in vivo antitumorigenic efficacies of ononin by reduction of CD34 and Ki67 expressions. Based on the histological analysis, the cotreatment of PTX and ononin reduced PTX-induced liver and kidney damage. Overall, our findings suggested that the therapeutic index of PTX-based chemotherapy could be improved by reducing toxicity with increasing antitumor capabilities when combined with ononin.
Structure Preprocessing Method for the System of Unclosed Linear Algebraic Equations
Authors: Li Ling , Li Yongxian
Published: December 2022

The complexity of open linear algebraic equations makes it difficult to obtain analytical solutions, and preprocessing techniques can be applied to coefficient matrices, which has become an effective method to accelerate the convergence of iterative methods. Therefore, it is important to preprocess the structure of open linear algebraic equations to reduce their complexity. Open linear algebraic equations can be divided into symmetric linear equations and asymmetric linear equations. The former is based on 2 × 2. The latter is preprocessed by the improved QMRGCGS method, and the applications of the two methods are analyzed, respectively. The experimental results show that when the step is 500, the pretreatment time of quasi‐minimal residual generalized conjugate gradient square 2 method is 34.23 s, that of conjugate gradient square 2 method is 35.14 s, and that of conjugate gradient square method is 45.20 s, providing a new reference method and idea for solving and preprocessing non‐closed linear algebraic equations.
Effect of Long-Term Cryopreservation on the Stemness of Stem Cells of Apical Papilla
Authors: Digka Anna , Gounari Eleni , Kouzi-Koliakou Kokkona , Lyroudia Kleoniki
Published: December 2022

Stem cells of apical papilla (SCAPs) are considered a subpopulation of dental stem cells with unique properties. They originate from a developing tissue, the apical papilla of developing teeth, a characteristic that enhances their stemness. Banking of these stem cells can offer a source of dental stem cells for future regenerative therapies. Until now, only the effect of six months’ cryopreservation on SCAPs has been studied. In this study, the long-term (19 months) effect of cryopreservation on SCAPs was examined by means of estimation of their differentiation’s capacity, flow cytometry immunophenotypical characterization, and molecular characterization of the main transcriptional factors that coincide with pluripotency. As was indicated from our results, 19-month cryopreservation of SCAPs did not affect negatively their stemness; since no significant difference was observed on their typical fibroblast-like morphology, they retained their differentiation capacity, and no discrepancies were found either on immunophenotypical level or molecular level.
Prevalence of Child Functional Difficulties and Its Associated Factors in Bangladesh: An Application of Count Regression Model
Authors: Habib Md. Jakaria , Hossain Md. Ismail , Haq Iqramul , Methun Md. Injamul Haq , Sakib Md. Saifullah
Published: December 2022

Children that are mentally and physically healthy have a higher quality of life and are better able to function in their daily lives. Therefore, this study is aimed at investigating associated factors causing functional difficulties in male and female children ages 5‐17 years. This study used data from a nationally representative cross‐sectional household survey named the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) Bangladesh 2019. A total of 58,746 children aged 5‐17 were selected for the study, where 30,300 children were male, and 28,446 were female. To deal with overdispersed count data, the study used a negative binomial regression model to find the associated factors. The results show that 39.3% of the male children and 40.9% of the female children were from the age group of 10‐14. Educated children had a lower risk of dysfunction. Among male children, women with a total number of children ever born of 4 or more were 1.21 times (incidence rate ratios (IRR) = 1.21) more likely to have a dysfunctional child. Children of dysfunctional mothers are more likely to be dysfunctional themselves. The incidence rate ratio for children functional difficulty among Muslim girls was 36 percent higher than non‐Muslim girls in Bangladesh. When compared to the Barisal Division, female children in the Mymensingh Division had a 16% higher risk of functional problems. Based on the findings, the Bangladesh government and other development partners should initiate policies and programs to minimize the impact of functional dysfunction in children.
Identification of an Immune‐Related Gene Signature Associated with Prognosis and Tumor Microenvironment in Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Li Chunzhen , Zhou Weizheng , Zhu Ji , Shen Qi , Wang Guangjie , Chen Ling , Zhao Tiejun
Published: December 2022

Background. Esophageal cancer (EC) is a common malignant tumor of the digestive system with high mortality and morbidity. Current evidence suggests that immune cells and molecules regulate the initiation and progression of EC. Accordingly, it is necessary to identify immune‐related genes (IRGs) affecting the biological behaviors and microenvironmental characteristics of EC. Methods. Bioinformatics methods, including differential expression analysis, Cox regression, and immune infiltration prediction, were conducted using R software to analyze the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort was used to validate the prognostic signature. Patients were stratified into high‐ and low‐risk groups for further analyses, including functional enrichment, immune infiltration, checkpoint relevance, clinicopathological characteristics, and therapeutic sensitivity analyses. Results. A prognostic signature was established based on 21 IRGs (S100A7, S100A7A, LCN1, CR2, STAT4, GAST, ANGPTL5, TRAV39, F2RL2, PGLYRP3, KLRD1, TRIM36, PDGFA, SLPI, PCSK2, APLN, TICAM1, ITPR3, MAPK9, GATA4, and PLAU). Compared with high‐risk patients, better overall survival rates and clinicopathological characteristics were found in low‐risk patients. The areas under the curve of the two cohorts were 0.885 and 0.718, respectively. Higher proportions of resting CD4+ memory T lymphocytes, M2 macrophages, and resting dendritic cells and lower proportions of follicular helper T lymphocytes, plasma cells, and neutrophils were found in the high‐risk tumors. Moreover, the high‐risk group showed higher expression of CD44 and TNFSF4, lower expression of PDCD1 and CD40, and higher TIDE scores, suggesting they may respond poorly to immunotherapy. High‐risk patients responded better to chemotherapeutic agents such as docetaxel, doxorubicin, and gemcitabine. Furthermore, IRGs associated with tumor progression, including PDGFA, ITPR3, SLPI, TICAM1, and GATA4, were identified. Conclusion. Our immune‐related signature yielded reliable value in evaluating the prognosis, microenvironmental characteristics, and therapeutic sensitivity of EC and may help with the precise treatment of this patient population.
Assessment of C Fibers Evoked Potentials in Healthy Subjects by Nd : YAP Laser
Authors: Ammendola Elena , Tancredi Giusy , Ricci Katia , Falcicchio Giovanni , Valeriani Massimiliano , de Tommaso Marina
Published: December 2022

Introduction. Although laser stimuli activate both Ad- and C-fibres, the corresponding laser evoked potentials (LEPs) remain restricted to the Ad-fibers input, while the C-fibers related potential is hardly detectable. Aims. To evaluate multichannel ultralate LEPs (U-LEPs) by using Nd : Yap laser pulses in healthy volunteers to stimulation of face and lower and upper limbs, in order to estimate the reliability of C-LEPs elicited from both trigeminal and somatic sites. Methods. Twenty healthy volunteers participated in two stimulation sessions to record Aδ-LEPs and C-LEPs. We used a Nd : YAP Laser and 62 EEG recording electrodes. Stimuli parameters were set to activate either small myelinated (Aδ), eliciting purely warmth sensations, or unmyelinated (C) afferents, and eliciting pinprick sensations. Results. At the trigeminal level, we obtained a negative-positive complex in a time interval compatible with the C fibers activation. In the somatic districts, the averaged responses consisted of an earlier negative-positive complex, followed by a later one. Single trials analysis of U-LEPs showed a maximal positive peak in a time interval in the range of C fibers. Topographical analysis of U-LEPs resembled that of LEPs. All subjects exhibited readable U-LEPs in at least 2 stimulated sites. Discussion. A purely warmth sensation seems to correspond to Aδ and C-fibers coactivation, at least in the somatic districts. While the related cortical waves seem hardly readable, their total absence could be a sign of systemic involvement of warm related C-fibers in specific clinical conditions.
Using Residual Blood from the Arterial Blood Gas Test to Perform Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Vancomycin: An Example of Good Clinical Practice Moving towards a Sustainable Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Smeets T. J. L. , van de Velde D. , Koch B. C. P. , Endeman H. , Hunfeld N. G. M.
Published: December 2022

Background. Regarding sustainability in the intensive care unit (ICU), there is increasing interest in reducing material waste and avoiding unnecessary procedures. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of vancomycin, using a dedicated tube, is standard clinical care during treatment with vancomycin. Furthermore, in the ICU, on a daily basis, arterial blood gas (ABG) tests are frequently performed throughout the day. After analysis, a variable volume of blood is discarded. Lithium heparin (LiHep) syringes for ABG tests differ from normally used dipotassium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (K2EDTA) tubes. The primary objective was to compare both containers and validate the use of LiHep syringes. Secondary objectives were to evaluate the potential impact on saving materials, nursing time, and costs when implementing vancomycin TDM via LiHep syringes. Methods. Vancomycin analysis from sampling in lithium heparin (LiHep) syringes for ABG tests was validated and compared with the concentrations from conventional sampling in K2EDTA tubes. For method comparison, a Bland–Altman plot and Deming regression analysis were performed. The method was validated for inter- and intra-day precision and accuracy. Vancomycin was analyzed by means of the validated method using a particle-enhanced turbidimetric inhibition immunoassay (PETINIA) autoanalyzer. Furthermore, an analysis was conducted to evaluate the potential impact of implementing vancomycin sampling via ABG tests on savings in materials, nursing time, and costs. Results. From 18 patients, 24 plasma samples in both K2EDTA tubes and LiHep syringes were obtained and compared. The mean relative difference between the two containers was −2.0% (−3.0 to −0.93%). Both the Deming regression analysis and the Bland–Altman plot met the acceptance criteria. Potentially, over 1000 blood draws and accompanying materials and packaging can be saved when vancomycin samples are obtained by means of scavenged LiHep syringes. The vancomycin analysis for LiHep syringes showed a total interday precision of 1.95% and an accuracy of 99.7%. The total intraday precision was 2.22%, and the accuracy was 99.2%. Accuracy and precision values were within the acceptance criteria of recovery 85 to 115% and ≤15%, respectively. Conclusion. No significant differences were found in vancomycin concentration between the two analyses, and the LiHep analysis was validated for further implementation in clinical care. Residual blood from ABG test samples can be used for TDM of vancomycin, resulting in a potential reduction of materials used and the number of blood draws. These results will contribute to a more sustainable TDM process with benefits for the patient.
A Comprehensive Hepatitis B Surface Antigen-Positive Patient-Centered Screening and Linkage to Care Strategies Targeting Microelimination of Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Chongqing, China
Authors: Cai Dachuan , Zhang Dazhi , Hu Peng , Ren Hong
Published: December 2022

Background and Aims. The likelihood of coinfection increases in regions where HBV is endemic because of the similar transmission route. China is another endemic nation, with 5.9% of the population being HBsAg-positive. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of HCV antibody positivity in HBsAg-positive subjects, HCV RNA positivity in anti-HCV positive subjects, and HBV/HCV coinfection with the hope of exploring hepatitis C microelimination using currently available therapies. Method. 12,500 HBsAg-positive serum samples were collected. All samples were screened for anti-HCV. Furthermore, positive samples were screened for HCV RNA. All patients with positive HCV RNA were followed up for suspicious transmission routes of HCV and linkage to care. Results. 44 out of 10,560 (0.4%) patients with positive HBsAg had detectable anti-HCV. There were 32 males and 12 females, with a statistical difference. 17 out of 44 were HCV RNA positive. Among them, 15 out of 38 patients were HCV RNA positive; 8 patients had started anti-HCV treatment with the DAA regimen, while the other 7 patients had not. After patient education, one patient had begun treatment and reached SVR12, while three patients still refused anti-HCV treatment. Conclusion. The HCV/HBV coinfection prevalence was found to be lower in this study. Even though HBV and HCV share a somewhat similar transmission route, HBsAg-positive subjects may not be at high risk for HCV infection. The process of hepatitis C’s microelimination could be accelerated by increasing patient awareness and education. This trail is registered with NCT03794791.
Molecular Pathways and Mechanisms of HER2 in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Raghav Kanwal P.S. , Moasser Mark M.
Published: December 2022

The oncogene ERBB2 encoding the receptor tyrosine-protein kinase erbB-2 (HER2) is frequently overexpressed or amplified and occasionally mutated in a variety of human cancers. The early discovery of this oncogene, its established oncogenic relevance in diverse cancers, its substantial expression on the surface of cancer cells, and its druggable catalytic activity have made it one of the most pursued targets in the history of cancer drug development. Initiatives targeting HER2 provided the early stimulus for several transformational pharmaceutical technologies, including mAbs, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, antibody–drug conjugates, and others. The seismic impact of these efforts has been felt in treatment of many cancers, including breast, gastroesophageal, lung, colorectal, and others. This impact continues to broaden with increasing indications on the horizon and a plethora of novel agents in development. However, implementation of these therapeutic strategies has been complex. The clinical translation of every one of these classes of agents has been notable for underperformance or overperformance characteristics that have informed new lines of research providing deeper insights into the mechanistic complexities and unrealized opportunities provided by this molecular target. Despite all the successes to date, the preponderance of scientific evidence indicates that the full potential of HER2 as a target for cancer therapeutics is far greater than currently realized, and numerous lines of investigation are ongoing to deepen and broaden the scope of impact of HER2 as a signaling, homing, or immunologic target. In this review, we explore the existing data and evolving paradigms surrounding this remarkable target for cancer therapy.
Predictors of Mortality and Functional Outcome in Pregnancy and Puerperium-Related Cerebral Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Khan Maria , Arauz Antonio , Uluduz Derya , Barboza Miguel A. , Duman Taskin , Cano-Nigenda Vanessa , Awan Safia , Wasay Mohammad ,   Venost Study Group
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) associated with pregnancy and puerperium has long been recognized, with poor information in terms of functional outcomes. Our objective was to analyze risk factors, clinical, imaging, and laboratory variables to predict functional outcome and death in this population. Methods: CVT registries from three referral centers from Pakistan, Turkey, and Mexico, recruiting prospective cases, were combined for CVT associated with pregnancy or puerperium. Datasets and variables were standardized. Demographic characteristics, presentation, risk factors, and functional outcomes in pregnancy/puerperium-related CVT were analyzed. Binary logistic regression was used to assess predictors of outcome. The main outcome was modified Rankin score >2 at 30 days and mortality at 30 days. Results: Five hundred fifty-three cases (median age 28 years [IQR 23–34]) of CVT associated with pregnancy and puerperium were included; 439 cases (79.4%) happened in the puerperium and 20.6% during pregnancy (53.5% occurred during the first trimester). Anemia (36.7%) and dehydration (22.9%) were the commonest obstetric risk factors identified. Predictors of poor outcome (mRS >2) were encephalopathy (OR 12.8, p < 0.001), cases from Mexican origin (OR 3.1, p = 0.004), fever/puerperal infection (OR 2.7, p = 0.02), and anemia (OR 2.2, p = 0.01). Cases from Mexican origin (OR 12.0, p = 0.003) and Encephalopathy (OR 7.7, p < 0.001), presented with the highest mortality association in the final adjusted model. Discussion/Conclusion: In CVT associated with pregnancy and puerperium, encephalopathy, fever/puerperal infection, and anemia are associated with bad functional outcomes, meanwhile encephalopathy and cases from Mexican origin with higher mortality in the acute (30-days) of CVT onset. Anemia and infection are potential reversible predictors of poor outcome that clinicians should be aware of in order to prevent poor outcomes in these patients.
Can the Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index Be a Useful Marker for the Prediction of a Missed Abortion in the First Trimester of Pregnancy?
Authors: Soykan Sert Zekiye , Bülbül Ramazan
Published: December 2022

Background: We aimed to predict the efficacy of the systemic immune-inflammatory index (SII) in predicting missed abortions. Methods: In this retrospective study, we analyzed the data of women diagnosed with a missed abortion between gestational weeks 7–12 at our clinic from January 2018 to December 2021. The control group consisted of women in healthy pregnancies who were at the same gestational weeks. The demographic characteristics of participants, SII (neutrophil count x platelet count/lymphocyte count), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) values were evaluated in both groups. Results: A total of 142 missed abortion group and 142 control group were included. SII was found to be statistically significantly higher in the missed abortion group than in the control group (917.1 ± 549.7 and 557.1 ± 193.7, respectively; p < 0.001). In the logistic regression model, SII was found to be an independent predictor of a missed abortion (odds ratio = 2.85, 95% confidence interval: 1.34–4.15, p < 0.001). We found that the diagnostic value of SII (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.765) was higher than PLR (AUC: 0.711) or NLR (AUC: 0.703) alone in patients with a missed abortion. We determined that an SII value of >709.75 predicted the development of a missed abortion with 64.0% sensitivity and 80.9% specificity. Discussion: In recent years, complete blood count parameters have been increasingly used as an indicator of systemic inflammation. Although there are many studies in the literature investigating the relationship of a missed abortion with PLR and NLR, there is limited research evaluating the relationship of this clinical condition with SII. We determined that SII obtained from the combination of lymphocyte, platelet, and neutrophil counts was more valuable than evaluating these parameters by dividing them separately. Conclusion: Our results show that there is a significant relationship between SII and a missed abortion, and therefore SII can be used as a predictive marker of this clinical condition.
A Novel Postoperative Drop Regimen Reduces Risk of Ocular Hypertension Following Pars Plana Vitrectomy
Authors: Orlans Harry O. , Yazdouni Sadat , Williamson Tom H. , Wong Roger S. , Laidlaw D. Alistair H.
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Postoperative steroid/antibiotic drop regimens are known to effectively suppress inflammation and infection following pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), but the steroid frequently induces ocular hypertension (OHT). The aim of this contemporaneous cohort-control study was to assess safety and efficacy of a novel post-PPV drop regimen conceived to address this problem. Methods: Electronic case notes of consecutive eyes undergoing PPV between December 2020 and April 2021 at St. Thomas’ Hospital, London, UK, were reviewed retrospectively. Postoperative drops in the intervention cohort consisted of 1-week g. dexamethasone 0.1%/antibiotic QDS and 1-month g. ketorolac TDS. Standard care controls received 1-month g. dexamethasone 0.1%/antibiotic QDS. Results: Fifty-eight patients were in the intervention cohort, and 151 received standard care. The primary outcome measure was IOP ≥30 mm Hg 2 weeks postoperatively. This occurred in none of the intervention group but in 14% of controls (p = 0.01). Secondary outcomes of rates of anterior uveitis and cystoid macular edema did not differ significantly between the groups, but those in the intervention cohort had fewer hospital visits (p = 0.0004). Conclusion: A post-PPV drop regimen of 1-week dexamethasone 0.1%/antibiotic and 1-month ketorolac may be as effective as an anti-inflammatory but safer in terms of OHT incidence than standard care 1-month dexamethasone 0.1%.