bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Assessment of NMR Probes for the Experimental Description of Protein Folding Pathways with High-Pressure NMR
Authors: Van Deuren Vincent , Yang Yin-Shan , de Guillen Karine , Dubois Cécile , Royer Catherine Anne , Roumestand Christian , Barthe Philippe
Published: July 2021

Multidimensional NMR intrinsically provides multiple probes that can be used for deciphering the folding pathways of proteins: NH amide and CαHα groups are strategically located on the backbone of the protein, while CH3 groups, on the side-chain of methylated residues, are involved in important stabilizing interactions in the hydrophobic core. Combined with high hydrostatic pressure, these observables provide a powerful tool to explore the conformational landscapes of proteins. In the present study, we made a comparative assessment of the NH, CαHα, and CH3 groups for analyzing the unfolding pathway of ∆+PHS Staphylococcal Nuclease. These probes yield a similar description of the folding pathway, with virtually identical thermodynamic parameters for the unfolding reaction, despite some notable differences. Thus, if partial unfolding begins at identical pressure for these observables (especially in the case of backbone probes) and concerns similar regions of the molecule, the residues involved in contact losses are not necessarily the same. In addition, an unexpected slight shift toward higher pressure was observed in the sequence of the scenario of unfolding with CαHα when compared to amide groups.
Deep Eutectic Solvents for the Valorisation of Lignocellulosic Biomasses towards Fine Chemicals
Authors: Scelsi Enrico , Angelini Antonella , Pastore Carlo
Published: July 2021

The growing demand for energy and materials in modern society pushes scientific research to finding new alternative sources to traditional fossil feedstocks. The exploitation of biomass promises to be among the viable alternatives with a lower environmental impact. Making biomass exploitation technologies applicable at an industrial level represents one of the main goals for our society. In this work, the most recent scientific studies concerning the enhancement of lignocellulosic biomasses through the use of deep eutectic solvent (DES) systems have been examined and reported. DESs have an excellent potential for the fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass: the high H-bond capacity and polarity allow the lignin to be deconvolved, making it easier to break down the lignocellulosic complex, producing a free crystallite of cellulose capable of being exploited and valorised. DESs offer valid alternatives of using the potential of lignin (producing aromatics), hemicellulose (achieving furfural) and cellulose (delivering freely degradable substrates through enzymatic transformation into glucose). In this review, the mechanism of DES in the fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass and the main possible uses for the valorisation of lignin, hemicellulose and cellulose were reported, with a critical discussion of the perspectives and limits for industrial application.
Unraveling the Complexity of HDL Remodeling: On the Hunt to Restore HDL Quality
Authors: Schoch Leonie , Badimon Lina , Vilahur Gemma
Published: July 2021

Increasing evidence has cast doubt over the HDL-cholesterol hypothesis. The complexity of the HDL particle and its proven susceptibility to remodel has paved the way for intense molecular investigation. This state-of-the-art review discusses the molecular changes in HDL particles that help to explain the failure of large clinical trials intending to interfere with HDL metabolism, and details the chemical modifications and compositional changes in HDL-forming components, as well as miRNA cargo, that render HDL particles ineffective. Finally, the paper discusses the challenges that need to be overcome to shed a light of hope on HDL-targeted approaches.
Forced Biomineralization: A Review
Authors: Ehrlich Hermann , Bailey Elizabeth , Wysokowski Marcin , Jesionowski Teofil
Published: July 2021

Biologically induced and controlled mineralization of metals promotes the development of protective structures to shield cells from thermal, chemical, and ultraviolet stresses. Metal biomineralization is widely considered to have been relevant for the survival of life in the environmental conditions of ancient terrestrial oceans. Similar behavior is seen among extremophilic biomineralizers today, which have evolved to inhabit a variety of industrial aqueous environments with elevated metal concentrations. As an example of extreme biomineralization, we introduce the category of “forced biomineralization”, which we use to refer to the biologically mediated sequestration of dissolved metals and metalloids into minerals. We discuss forced mineralization as it is known to be carried out by a variety of organisms, including polyextremophiles in a range of psychrophilic, thermophilic, anaerobic, alkaliphilic, acidophilic, and halophilic conditions, as well as in environments with very high or toxic metal ion concentrations. While much additional work lies ahead to characterize the various pathways by which these biominerals form, forced biomineralization has been shown to provide insights for the progression of extreme biomimetics, allowing for promising new forays into creating the next generation of composites using organic-templating approaches under biologically extreme laboratory conditions relevant to a wide range of industrial conditions.
Role of Standardized Plant Extracts in Controlling Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome—An Experimental Study
Authors: Haque Ijasul M. , Mishra Akhilesh , Kalra Bhupinder Singh , Chawla Shalini
Published: July 2021

Patients with alcohol use disorder experience alcohol withdrawal syndrome due to the sudden cessation of alcohol. This study was designed to evaluate the protective effect of Ashwagandha and Brahmi on alcohol withdrawal in rats. Thirty rats of either sex were taken and randomly divided into 6 groups (n = 5). Their normal diet was replaced by a modified liquid diet (MLD). Ethanol was added gradually except in the MLD group for a period of 21 days and withdrawn suddenly. Four treatment groups were administered Ashwagandha (3.75 mg of withanolide glycosides per kg body weight), Brahmi (10 mg of bacosides per kg body weight), Ashwagandha + Brahmi (3.75 mg withanolide glycosides + 10 mg bacosides per kg body weight) orally and diazepam (1 mg/kg body weight, i.p.) 45 min before alcohol withdrawal. Rats were assessed for behavioural changes (agitation score and stereotypic behaviour), anxiety and locomotor activity at 2nd and 6th hours of alcohol withdrawal. Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) kindling seizures were assessed at 6th hour of alcohol withdrawal. Ashwagandha and Brahmi alone and in combination significantly reduced the behavioural changes in alcohol withdrawal rats at 2nd hour and their combination in 6th hour. Ashwagandha and Brahmi suppressed PTZ kindling seizures effectively and improved locomotory activity at 2nd hour and 6th hour of alcohol withdrawal. Reduction in anxiety was significant among Ashwagandha at 2nd hour and the combination group at 2nd and 6th hour. The results were comparable to diazepam. Ashwagandha and Brahmi have beneficial effects in controlling the behavioural changes, anxiety and seizures in alcohol withdrawal symptoms in rats and improved locomotory activity.
From the Magic Bullet to Theragnostics: Certitudes and Hypotheses, Trying to Optimize the Somatostatin Model
Authors: Di Stasio Giuseppe Danilo , Buonomano Pasqualina , Travaini Laura Lavinia , Grana Chiara Maria , Mansi Luigi
Published: July 2021

The first “theragnostic model”, that of radioiodine, was first applied both in diagnosis and therapy in the 1940s. Since then, many other theragnostic models have been introduced into clinical practice. To bring about the closest pharmacokinetic connection, the radiocompound used for diagnosis and therapy should be the same, although at present this is rarely applicable. Today, a widely applied and effective model is also the “DOTA-Ga-68/Lu-177”, used with success in neuroendocrine tumors (NET). In this paper, we analyze the necessary steps from the in vitro evaluation of a target to the choice of radionuclide and chelate for therapy up to in vivo transition and clinical application of most employed radiocompounds used for theragnostic purposes. Possible future applications and strategies of theragnostic models are also highlighted.
Dynamic Stromal Alterations Influence Tumor-Stroma Crosstalk to Promote Pancreatic Cancer and Treatment Resistance
Authors: Murphy Kendelle J. , Chambers Cecilia R. , Herrmann David , Timpson Paul , Pereira Brooke A.
Published: July 2021

Many cancer studies now recognize that disease initiation, progression, and response to treatment are strongly influenced by the microenvironmental niche. Widespread desmoplasia, or fibrosis, is fundamental to pancreatic cancer development, growth, metastasis, and treatment resistance. This fibrotic landscape is largely regulated by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which deposit and remodel extracellular matrix (ECM) in the tumor microenvironment (TME). This review will explore the prognostic and functional value of the stromal compartment in predicting outcomes and clinical prognosis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We will also discuss the major dynamic stromal alterations that occur in the pancreatic TME during tumor development and progression, and how the stromal ECM can influence cancer cell phenotype, metabolism, and immune response from a biochemical and biomechanical viewpoint. Lastly, we will provide an outlook on the latest clinical advances in the field of anti-fibrotic co-targeting in combination with chemotherapy or immunotherapy in PDAC, providing insight into the current challenges in treating this highly aggressive, fibrotic malignancy.
Stereotactic Ablative Brachytherapy: Recent Advances in Optimization of Radiobiological Cancer Therapy
Authors: Xue Hui , Qiu Bin , Wang Hao , Jiang Ping , Sukocheva Olga , Fan Ruitai , Xue Lixiang , Wang Junjie
Published: July 2021

Brachytherapy (BT), a type of focal anti-cancer radiotherapy, delivers a highly focused radiation dose to localized tumors, sparing surrounding normal tissues. Recent technological advances have helped to increase the accuracy of BT and, thus, improve BT-based cancer treatment. Stereotactic ablative brachytherapy (SABT) was designed to improve the ablative effect of radiation, which was achieved via improved image guidance, and calculation of ablative dose, shorter treatment duration, and better organ preservation. Recently collected data characterized SABT as having the potential to cure various early-stage cancers. The method provides higher tumor control rate levels that were previously achievable only by surgical resection. Notably, SABT is suitable for application with unresectable malignancies. However, the pathological assessment of SABT irradiated tumors is limited due to difficulties in specimen acquisition. Prostate, lung, liver, and gynecological cancers are the most commonly reported SABT-treated malignancies. This study will give an overview of SABT, focusing on the advances in SABT optimization, and provide insights on the future benefits of the combined application of SABT with cancer immunotherapies.
Clinical Outcomes of Pencil Beam Scanning Proton Therapy in Locally Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Propensity Score Analysis
Authors: Kim Nalee , Noh Jae Myoung , Lee Woojin , Park Byoungsuk , Pyo Hongryull
Published: July 2021

This study compared the efficacy and safety of pencil beam scanning proton therapy (PBSPT) versus intensity-modulated (photon) radiotherapy (IMRT) in patients with stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We retrospectively reviewed 219 patients with stage III NSCLC who received definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy between November 2016 and December 2018. Twenty-five patients (11.4%) underwent PBSPT (23 with single-field optimization) and 194 patients (88.6%) underwent IMRT. Rates of locoregional control (LRC), overall survival, and acute/late toxicities were compared between the groups using propensity score-adjusted analyses. Patients treated with PBSPT were older (median: 67 vs. 62 years) and had worse pulmonary function at baseline (both FEV1 and DLCO) compared to those treated with IMRT. With comparable target coverage, PBSPT exhibited superior sparing of the lung, heart, and spinal cord to radiation exposure compared to IMRT. At a median follow-up of 21.7 (interquartile range: 16.8–26.8) months, the 2-year LRC rates were 72.1% and 84.1% in the IMRT and PBSPT groups, respectively (p = 0.287). The rates of grade ≥ 3 esophagitis were 8.2% and 20.0% after IMRT and PBSPT (p = 0.073), respectively, while corresponding rates of grade ≥ 2 radiation pneumonitis were 28.9% and 16.0%, respectively (p = 0.263). PBSPT appears to be an effective and safe treatment technique even for patients with poor lung function, and it does not jeopardize LRC.
Cytokine Storm Syndrome in SARS-CoV-2 Infections: A Functional Role of Mast Cells
Authors: Hafezi Bahareh , Chan Lily , Knapp Jason P. , Karimi Negar , Alizadeh Kimia , Mehrani Yeganeh , Bridle Byram W. , Karimi Khalil
Published: July 2021

Cytokine storm syndrome is a cascade of escalated immune responses disposing the immune system to exhaustion, which might ultimately result in organ failure and fatal respiratory distress. Infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 can result in uncontrolled production of cytokines and eventually the development of cytokine storm syndrome. Mast cells may react to viruses in collaboration with other cells and lung autopsy findings from patients that died from the coronavirus disease that emerged in 2019 (COVID-19) showed accumulation of mast cells in the lungs that was thought to be the cause of pulmonary edema, inflammation, and thrombosis. In this review, we present evidence that a cytokine response by mast cells may initiate inappropriate antiviral immune responses and cause the development of cytokine storm syndrome. We also explore the potential of mast cell activators as adjuvants for COVID-19 vaccines and discuss the medications that target the functions of mast cells and could be of value in the treatment of COVID-19. Recognition of the cytokine storm is crucial for proper treatment of patients and preventing the release of mast cell mediators, as impeding the impacts imposed by these mediators could reduce the severity of COVID-19.
Viral MicroRNAs Encoded by Nucleocapsid Gene of SARS-CoV-2 Are Detected during Infection, and Targeting Metabolic Pathways in Host Cells
Authors: Meng Fei , Siu Gilman Kit-Hang , Mok Bobo Wing-Yee , Sun Jiahong , Fung Kitty S. C. , Lam Jimmy Yiu-Wing , Wong Nonthaphat Kent , Gedefaw Lealem , Luo Shumeng , Lee Thomas M. H. , Yip Shea Ping , Huang Chien-Ling
Published: July 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are critical regulators of gene expression that may be used to identify the pathological pathways influenced by disease and cellular interactions. Viral miRNAs (v-miRNAs) encoded by both DNA and RNA viruses induce immune dysregulation, virus production, and disease pathogenesis. Given the absence of effective treatment and the prevalence of highly infective SARS-CoV-2 strains, improved understanding of viral-associated miRNAs could provide novel mechanistic insights into the pathogenesis of COVID-19. In this study, SARS-CoV-2 v-miRNAs were identified by deep sequencing in infected Calu-3 and Vero E6 cell lines. Among the ~0.1% small RNA sequences mapped to the SARS-CoV-2 genome, the top ten SARS-CoV-2 v-miRNAs (including three encoded by the N gene; v-miRNA-N) were selected. After initial screening of conserved v-miRNA-N-28612, which was identified in both SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2, its expression was shown to be positively associated with viral load in COVID-19 patients. Further in silico analysis and synthetic-mimic transfection of validated SARS-CoV-2 v-miRNAs revealed novel functional targets and associations with mechanisms of cellular metabolism and biosynthesis. Our findings support the development of v-miRNA-based biomarkers and therapeutic strategies based on improved understanding of the pathophysiology of COVID-19.
Hypoxia, Hypoxia-Inducible Factors and Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Foglia Beatrice , Novo Erica , Protopapa Francesca , Maggiora Marina , Bocca Claudia , Cannito Stefania , Parola Maurizio
Published: July 2021

Liver fibrosis is a potentially reversible pathophysiological event, leading to excess deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components and taking place as the net result of liver fibrogenesis, a dynamic and highly integrated process occurring during chronic liver injury of any etiology. Liver fibrogenesis and fibrosis, together with chronic inflammatory response, are primarily involved in the progression of chronic liver diseases (CLD). As is well known, a major role in fibrogenesis and fibrosis is played by activated myofibroblasts (MFs), as well as by macrophages and other hepatic cell populations involved in CLD progression. In the present review, we will focus the attention on the emerging pathogenic role of hypoxia, hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) and related mediators in the fibrogenic progression of CLD.
A Case of Tracheal Stenosis as an Isolated Form of Immunoproliferative Hyper-IgG4 Disease in a 17-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Gabrovska Natalia , Velizarova Svetlana , Spasova Albena , Kostadinov Dimitar , Yanev Nikolay , Shivachev Hristo , Rangelov Edmond , Pahnev Yanko , Antonova Zdravka , Kartulev Nikola , Terziev Ivan , Gabrovski Kaloyan
Published: July 2021

Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a lymphoproliferative disease which is described almost exclusively in adults. There are only a few pediatric patients who have been observed with this disorder. Here, we describe a rare case of IgG4-RD in a 17-year-old girl with a single manifestation—tracheal stenosis without previous intubation or other inciting event. She had mixed dyspnea and noisy and weakened breathing. Immunoproliferative hyper-IgG4 disease was diagnosed, based on elevated serum IgG4 and histological findings. Until now we have chosen to treat the girl only with corticosteroids with a good response so far. The general condition as well as the respiratory function are regularly monitored. The tracheal involvement of IgG4-RD is uncommon. Nonetheless, it is a manifestation that should be included in the differential diagnosis of tracheal stenosis.
Metagenomic Shotgun Sequencing Analysis of Canalicular Concretions in Lacrimal Canaliculitis Cases
Authors: Okajima Yukinobu , Suzuki Takashi , Miyazaki Chika , Goto Satoshi , Ishikawa Sho , Suzuki Yuka , Aoki Kotaro , Ishii Yoshikazu , Tateda Kazuhiro , Hori Yuichi
Published: July 2021

Lacrimal canaliculitis is a rare infection of the lacrimal canaliculi with canalicular concretions formed by aggregation of organisms. Metagenomic shotgun sequencing analysis using next-generation sequencing has been used to detect pathogens directly from clinical samples. Using this technology, we report cases of successful pathogen detection of canalicular concretions in lacrimal canaliculitis cases. We investigated patients with primary lacrimal canaliculitis examined in the eye clinics of four hospitals from February 2015 to July 2017. Eighteen canalicular concretion specimens collected from 18 eyes of 17 patients were analyzed by shotgun metagenomics sequencing using the MiSeq platform (Illumina). Taxonomic classification was performed using the GenBank NT database. The canalicular concretion diversity was characterized using the Shannon diversity index. This study included 18 eyes (17 patients, 77.1 ± 6.1 years): 82.4% were women with lacrimal canaliculitis; canalicular concretions were obtained from 12 eyes using lacrimal endoscopy and six eyes using canaliculotomy with curettage. Sequencing analysis detected bacteria in all samples (Shannon diversity index, 0.05–1.47). The following genera of anaerobic bacteria (>1% abundance) were identified: Actinomyces spp. in 15 eyes, Propionibacterium spp., Parvimonas spp. in 11 eyes, Prevotella spp. in 9 eyes, Fusobacterium spp. in 6 eyes, Selenomonas spp. in 5 eyes, Aggregatibacter spp. in 3 eyes, facultative and aerobic bacteria such as Streptococcus spp. in 13 eyes, Campylobacter spp. in 6 eyes, and Haemophilus spp. in 3 eyes. The most common combinations were Actinomyces spp. and Streptococcus spp. and Parvinomonas spp. and Streptococcus spp., found in 10 cases. Pathogens were identified successfully using metagenomic shotgun sequencing analysis in patients with canalicular concretions. Canalicular concretions are polymicrobial with anaerobic and facultative, aerobic bacteria.
Current Status of Mining, Modification, and Application of Cellulases in Bioactive Substance Extraction
Authors: Hu Yawei , Kang Guangbo , Wang Lina , Gao Mengxue , Wang Ping , Yang Dong , Huang He
Published: July 2021

Cellulases have been used to extract bioactive ingredients from medical plants; however, the poor enzymatic properties of current cellulases significantly limit their application. Two strategies are expected to address this concern: (1) new cellulase gene mining strategies have been promoted, optimized, and integrated, thanks to the improvement of gene sequencing, genomic data, and algorithm optimization, and (2) known cellulases are being modified, thanks to the development of protein engineering, crystal structure data, and computing power. Here, we focus on mining strategies and provide a systemic overview of two approaches based on sequencing and function. Strategies based on protein structure modification, such as introducing disulfide bonds, proline, salt bridges, N-glycosylation modification, and truncation of loop structures, have already been summarized. This review discusses four aspects of cellulase-assisted extraction. Initially, cellulase alone was used to extract bioactive substances, and later, mixed enzyme systems were developed. Physical methods such as ultrasound, microwave, and high hydrostatic pressure have assisted in improving extraction efficiency. Cellulase changes the structure of biomolecules during the extraction process to convert them into effective ingredients with better activity and bioavailability. The combination of cellulase with other enzymes and physical technologies is a promising strategy for future extraction applications.
Simulation Study on Centrifugal Spray Evaporation Characteristics and Process Optimization of Desulfurization Wastewater
Authors: Zhao Ning , Feng Yongxin , Li Debo , Li Zongkun
Published: July 2021

As an advanced treatment of desulfurization wastewater, centrifugal spray drying technology, which can achieve a zero liquid discharge target, has attracted wide attention and great interest in recent years. However, the results of previous studies were based on the laboratory-scale centrifugal spray dryer. In order to study the evaporation characteristics of desulfurization wastewater and the parameter optimization of the dryer, the evaporation model of wastewater droplets was established. The effects of parameters such as the angle of the deflectors, gas–liquid ratio and atomizer speed on droplet evaporation were studied by numerical simulation. The results show that with the increase in the angle of the deflectors, the swirl effect of flue gas flow field is more obvious and the time and axial distance required for the complete evaporation of the droplets are shorter. Reducing the gas–liquid ratio will make the average evaporation time longer. Moreover, a higher atomizer speed is helpful for the evaporation of the droplets. The optimum gas–liquid ratio and rotational speed are found to be 9300 m3/Nm3 and 16,000 rpm, respectively.
Homogenization of Maritime Pine Wood Color by Alkaline Hydrogen Peroxide Treatment
Authors: Mehats Jérémy , Castets Laurent , Grau Etienne , Grelier Stéphane
Published: July 2021

The color of maritime pine wood is a critical parameter for manufacturing high added value materials (wood flooring or wood paneling for indoor applications). Actually, the color inhomogeneity between heartwood (Hw) and sapwood (Sw) can lead to a depreciation of the wood value and, therefore, to financial losses for wood products companies. In this article, the development of a color homogenization process based on alkaline hydrogen peroxide chemistry was studied. Maritime pine heartwood and sapwood powders were used to facilitate the chemical characterizations and colorimetric analyses by the CIEL*a*b* system. Brighter materials were obtained after the treatment by reducing significantly the color difference. The chemical modifications of wood surface were characterized by infrared spectroscopy analyses. The color evolution of the material overtime was also studied thanks to an accelerated ageing under UV irradiation. It was demonstrated that even if a color reversion occurred by oxidation, the color remained homogeneous between heartwood and sapwood.
Seeded Growth of Type-II Na24Si136 Clathrate Single Crystals
Authors: Morito Haruhiko , Yamane Hisanori , Umetsu Rie Y. , Fujiwara Kozo
Published: July 2021

Type-II Na24Si136 clathrate octahedral single crystals surrounded by {111} facets were grown by evaporating Na from a molten mixture of Na4Si4 and Na9Sn4 at 823 K for 12 h. One of the obtained single crystals was used as a seed for the following single crystal growth of the type-II clathrate using the same method. The single crystal grown on the seed maintained the octahedral shape. The weight of the crystal grown with the seed was increased from 0.6 to 30.4 mg by repeating the seeded growth and was proportional to the surface area of the seed crystal.
Constitutive Equation for Flow Stress in Superalloy 718 by Inverse Analysis under Hot Forming in a Region of Precipitation
Authors: Park Hyung-Won , Kakiuchi Sosei , Kim Kyunghyun , Yanagida Akira , Yanagimoto Jun
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this study is to obtain a constitutive equation of high-accuracy flow stress in superalloy 718, which allows fabrication of highly reliable disks for gas turbine engines. Hot compression tests using superalloy 718 at deformation temperatures from 850 to 1100 °C, a 67% height reduction, and strain rates of 1, 10, and 25 s−1 were performed to investigate the flow stress behavior, which excludes environmental effects during hot working by inverse analysis. The effects of dynamic recrystallization and strain-induced dynamic precipitation on the flow stress were also investigated. The dynamically precipitated δ phases deformed at 1050 °C and γ″ phases deformed at 950 °C might affect the increase in the plastic modulus F1 and the decrease in the critical strain εc, deteriorating the accuracy of regression in terms of, for example, the strain rate sensitivity m and the temperature sensitivity A. A constitutive equation for a generalized flow curve for superalloy 718 is proposed by considering these effects.
The Usefulness of Spectral Mammography in Surgical Planning of Breast Cancer Treatment—Analysis of 999 Patients with Primary Operable Breast Cancer
Authors: Lorek Andrzej , Steinhof-Radwańska Katarzyna , Barczyk-Gutkowska Anna , Zarębski Wojciech , Paleń Piotr , Szyluk Karol , Lorek Joanna , Grażyńska Anna , Niemiec Paweł , Gisterek Iwona
Published: July 2021

Contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) is a promising, digital breast imaging method for planning surgeries. The study aimed at comparing digital mammography (MG) with CESM as predictive factors in visualizing multifocal-multicentric cancers (MFMCC) before determining the surgery extent. We analyzed 999 patients after breast cancer surgery to compare MG and CESM in terms of detecting MFMCC. Moreover, these procedures were assessed for their conformity with postoperative histopathology (HP), calculating their sensitivity and specificity. The question was which histopathological types of breast cancer were more frequently characterized by multifocality–multicentrality in comparable techniques as regards the general number of HP-identified cancers. The analysis involved the frequency of post-CESM changes in the extent of planned surgeries. In the present study, MG revealed 48 (4.80%) while CESM 170 (17.02%) MFMCC lesions, subsequently confirmed in HP. MG had MFMCC detecting sensitivity of 38.51%, specificity 99.01%, PPV (positive predictive value) 85.71%, and NPV (negative predictive value) 84.52%. The respective values for CESM were 87.63%, 94.90%, 80.57% and 96.95%. Moreover, no statistically significant differences were found between lobular and NST cancers (27.78% vs. 21.24%) regarding MFMCC. A treatment change was required by 20.00% of the patients from breast-conserving to mastectomy, upon visualizing MFMCC in CESM. In conclusion, mammography offers insufficient diagnostic sensitivity for detecting additional cancer foci. The high diagnostic sensitivity of CESM effectively assesses breast cancer multifocality/multicentrality and significantly changes the extent of planned surgeries. The multifocality/multicentrality concerned carcinoma, lobular and invasive carcinoma of no special type (NST) cancers with similar incidence rates, which requires further confirmation.
Are Semi-Quantitative Clinical Cultures Inadequate? Comparison to Quantitative Analysis of 1053 Bacterial Isolates from 350 Wounds
Authors: Serena Thomas E. , Bowler Philip G. , Schultz Gregory S. , D’souza Anna , Rennie Monique Y.
Published: July 2021

Early awareness and management of bacterial burden and biofilm is essential to wound healing. Semi-quantitative analysis of swab or biopsy samples is a relatively simple method for measuring wound microbial load. The accuracy of semi-quantitative culture analysis was compared to ‘gold standard’ quantitative culture analysis using 428 tissue biopsies from 350 chronic wounds. Semi-quantitative results, obtained by serial dilution of biopsy homogenates streaked onto culture plates divided into 4 quadrants representing occasional, light, moderate, and heavy growth, were compared to total bacterial load quantified as colony-forming units per gram (CFU/g). Light growth, typically considered an insignificant finding, averaged a clinically significant 2.5 × 105 CFU/g (SE = 6.3 × 104 CFU/g). Occasional growth (range: 102–106 CFU/g) and light growth (103–107 CFU/g) corresponded to quantitative values that spanned a 5-log range; moderate and heavy growth corresponded to a range of 4-log and 6-log, respectively, with a high degree of overlap in range of CFU/g per category. Since tissue biopsy and quantitative culture cannot be widely practiced and semi-quantitative analysis is unreliable, other clinically relevant approaches are required to determine wound bioburden and guide best management practices. Fluorescence imaging is a point-of-care technology that offers great potential in this field.
The Superior Laryngeal Nerve and Its Vulnerability in Surgeries of the Neck
Authors: Dekhou Antonio S. , Morrison Robert J. , Gemechu Jickssa M.
Published: July 2021

Anatomical considerations of the superior laryngeal nerve (SLN), a branch of the vagus, provides information to minimize the potential for iatrogenic intraoperative injury, thereby preventing motor and sensory dysfunctions of the larynx. The present study aims to assess the variation of the SLN and its relationship to the superior thyroid artery (STA) and superior laryngeal artery (SLA). The study was done on 35 formalin-fixed cadavers at Oakland University in 2018–2019. In our study, we found that out of 21 cadavers, 52.4% of the external laryngeal branches (ebSLN) are related posteromedial to the STA, while 47.6% are related anteromedial to it. Out of 14 cadavers, 64.3% of the internal laryngeal branches (ibSLN) are related superoposterior to the SLA, while 35.7% are inferoposterior to it. In most cases, the SLA crosses above the ebSLN while traveling to pierce the thyrohyoid membrane to reach the larynx. The data demonstrate that both the ebSLN and ibSLN display variation in their relationship with the STA and the SLA, respectively. Awareness of these variable relationships is critical for identification and isolation of these structures in order to prevent consequences of nerve injury, primarily a reduction in the highest attainable frequency of the voice and aspiration pneumonia.
Treating Postpartum Depression: What Do We Know about Brexanolone?
Authors: Ali Muneeza , Aamir Alifiya , Diwan Mufaddal Najmuddin , Awan Hashir Ali , Ullah Irfan , Irfan Muhammad , De Berardis Domenico
Published: July 2021

Postpartum depression (PPD) is defined as the onset of major depressive disorder in mothers, occurring during pregnancy or within 4 weeks post-delivery. With 7% of pregnancy-related death in the United States owing to mental health conditions, including PPD, and a global prevalence of 12%, PPD is a growing public health concern. In 2019, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved brexanolone, an exogenous analog of allopregnanolone, as the first ever drug to be specifically indicated for treating patients with PPD. This approval was preceded by an open-label study and three randomized placebo-controlled trials, each assessing the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of brexanolone, using mean Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) score reduction as the primary outcome. In each randomized controlled trial, the drug was administered as an intravenous infusion given over 60 h. Enrolled participants were followed up on days 7 and 30 to evaluate the sustained effect. A statistically significant reduction in mean HAM-D score compared to placebo was observed in all three studies, supporting brexanolone’s use in treating moderate-to-severe PPD. Therefore, this article attempts to briefly review the pharmacology of brexanolone, evaluate the latest available clinical data and outcomes concerning its use, reevaluate its position as a ‘breakthrough’ in managing PPD, and review the cost-related barriers to its worldwide standardized use.
Lymphocytes as a Biomarker of Frailty Syndrome: A Scoping Review
Authors: Navarro-Martínez Rut , Cauli Omar
Published: July 2021

Frailty is a geriatric syndrome characterized by a decrease in physiological reserve and reduced resistance to stress, as a result of an accumulation of multiple deficits in physiological systems. Frailty increases the vulnerability to adverse events and is associated with the aging process. Several studies show an association between frailty syndrome and altered blood lymphocyte levels, which is therefore potentially useful for monitoring interventions to improve or delay frailty. The main objective of this review is to provide an analysis of the current evidence related to changes in lymphocyte counts and their associations with frailty syndrome. To that end, the literature published in this field until March 2021 was in several databases: PubMed, SCOPUS, and Cochrane. Eighteen studies analyzed the association between lymphocyte counts, lymphocyte subtypes, and frailty syndrome. Eighteen studies were analyzed, and most of them reported associations. Interestingly, the association between frailty syndrome and lower lymphocytes counts appears in different clinical conditions. Further studies are needed to determine the sensitivity of lymphocyte counts and lymphocyte subtypes in the diagnosis and monitoring of frailty syndrome, and for this measure to be used as a biomarker of frailty status.
Development of UAV-Based PM2.5 Monitoring System
Authors: Jumaah Huda Jamal , Kalantar Bahareh , Halin Alfian Abdul , Mansor Shattri , Ueda Naonori , Jumaah Sarah Jamal
Published: July 2021

This paper proposes a UAV-based PM2.5 air quality and temperature-humidity monitoring system. The system includes an air quality detector comprising four Arduino sensor modules. Specifically, it includes a dust (DSM501A) sensor and a temperature and humidity (DHT11) sensor. The NEO-6M GPS module and DS3231 real-time module are also included for input visualization. A DIY SD card logging shield and memory module is also available for data recording purposes. The Arduino-based board houses multiple sensors and all are programmable using the Arduino integrated development environment (IDE) coding tool. Measurements conducted in a vertical flight path show promise where comparisons with ground truth references data showed good similarity. Overall, the results point to the idea that a light-weight and portable system can be used for accurate and reliable remote sensing data collection (in this case, PM2.5 concentration data and environmental data).
Financial Return Distributions: Past, Present, and COVID-19
Authors: Wątorek Marcin , Kwapień Jarosław , Drożdż Stanisław
Published: July 2021

We analyze the price return distributions of currency exchange rates, cryptocurrencies, and contracts for differences (CFDs) representing stock indices, stock shares, and commodities. Based on recent data from the years 2017–2020, we model tails of the return distributions at different time scales by using power-law, stretched exponential, and q-Gaussian functions. We focus on the fitted function parameters and how they change over the years by comparing our results with those from earlier studies and find that, on the time horizons of up to a few minutes, the so-called “inverse-cubic power-law” still constitutes an appropriate global reference. However, we no longer observe the hypothesized universal constant acceleration of the market time flow that was manifested before in an ever faster convergence of empirical return distributions towards the normal distribution. Our results do not exclude such a scenario but, rather, suggest that some other short-term processes related to a current market situation alter market dynamics and may mask this scenario. Real market dynamics is associated with a continuous alternation of different regimes with different statistical properties. An example is the COVID-19 pandemic outburst, which had an enormous yet short-time impact on financial markets. We also point out that two factors—speed of the market time flow and the asset cross-correlation magnitude—while related (the larger the speed, the larger the cross-correlations on a given time scale), act in opposite directions with regard to the return distribution tails, which can affect the expected distribution convergence to the normal distribution.
Configurational Entropy Relaxation of Silica Glass—Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Gedeon Ondrej
Published: July 2021

Vitreous silica was modelled using molecular dynamics (MD). The glass structure was transferred into an undirected graph and decomposed into disjoint structural units that were ideally mixed to calculate the configurational entropy. The Debye relaxation model was suggested to simulate the evolution of entropy during the cooling of the system. It was found that the relaxation of the configurational entropy of MD corresponds to the effective cooling rate of 6.3 × 106 Ks−1 and its extrapolation to 0.33 Ks−1 mimics the glass transition with Tg; close to the experimental value. Debye relaxation correctly describes the observed MD evolution of configurational entropy and explains the existence of freezing-in temperature and the shape of the curve in the transition region.
A New Approach to Examine Non-Linear and Mediated Growth and Convergence Outcomes of Cohesion Policy
Authors: Butkus Mindaugas , Maciulyte-Sniukiene Alma , Macaitiene Renata , Matuzeviciute Kristina
Published: July 2021

This paper contributes to a wide range of studies on Cohesion policy (CP) outcomes by proposing a new approach to directly examine its effect on convergence. We extended the non-linear specification of the conditional β-convergence model by introducing 2- and 3-way multiplicative terms and institutions as moderators not only for growth but also for convergence. By developing and calculating conditional slope coefficients and their standard errors, we found empirical evidence that institutional quality can scale down the diminishing marginal impact of funding and even trigger its increase. Our evidence regarding changes to disaggregation levels, programming period, and CP outcomes is robust. Our research findings suggest a redistribution of funds over the 2021–2027 period in favour of projects dedicated to enhancing institutional quality.
Assessing the Technology Self-Efficacy of Maritime Instructors: An Explorative Study
Authors: Sharma Amit , Nazir Salman
Published: July 2021

Maritime Education and Training (MET) is an integral part of the global maritime industry, playing an essential role in ensuring that the sector is supplied continuously with a skilled workforce. The successful outcomes of the educational content delivery in MET institutes depend, to a certain extent, on the maritime instructor’s ability to create conducive learning environments utilizing all of the resources available. The self-efficacy of maritime instructors in various facets, most notably their proficiency with the use of technology in classrooms, can lead to the introduction of transformative learning practices. Accurately measuring their self-reported technological proficiency could be the initial step in this direction. This study aimed to measure the self-reported technology proficiency of maritime instructors using an established and validated scale: Technology Proficiency Self-Assessment for the 21st century (TPSA-C21). The scale was administered, using an online survey, to a sample of MET instructors within Europe and the UK, with n = 62 valid responses received. Using descriptive statistics and the evaluation of the measurement model, the study highlighted the perceived level of proficiency of the MET instructors along dimensions such as email, world-wide web use, emerging tools, teaching with technology, integrated applications, and teaching with emerging technologies. The survey also measured the perceived level of technology integration for maritime instructors according to the Concerned-Based Adoption Model–Level of Use (CBAM–LoU) classification. The results indicate a potential area of improvement for maritime instructors with regard to their self-reported proficiency, namely in the dimension of teaching with emerging technology. The implications for the MET domain, the respondent demographics and the future research directions are discussed.
Temperament and Academic Achievement in Children: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nasvytienė Dalia , Lazdauskas Tomas
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to systematize the diverse and rather controversial findings of empirical research on the relationship between the temperament and academic achievement of school children, as well as to determine the average effect size between these variables. We included 57 original studies of published and unpublished research conducted in 12 countries between 1985 and 2019, with cumulative sample size of 79,913 (varying from 6333 to 14,126 for links between particular temperament dimensions and specific domains of achievement). A random-effects and mixed-effects model was fitted to the data for the central tendency of the temperament–achievement relation and for analyzing moderators, respectively. The high heterogeneity of studies was tackled by selected specific moderators, namely, education level, transition status, family’s socio-economic level, and sources of report on achievement and temperament. The main findings of this meta-analysis affirmed the positive association of effortful control (EC) and inverse relationship of negative affectivity (NA) with a child’s academic performance, together with no apparent trend of surgency (SU) in this relationship; additionally, the sources of report significantly moderated the link between temperament and academic achievement.
Sequence to Point Learning Based on an Attention Neural Network for Nonintrusive Load Decomposition
Authors: Yang Mingzhi , Li Xinchun , Liu Yue
Published: July 2021

Nonintrusive load monitoring (NILM) analyzes only the main circuit load information with an algorithm to decompose the load, which is an important way to help reduce energy usage. Recent research shows that deep learning has become popular for this problem. However, the ability of a neural network to extract load features depends on its structure. Therefore, more research is required to determine the best network architecture. This study proposed two deep neural networks based on the attention mechanism to improve the current sequence to point (s2p) learning model. The first model employs Bahdanau style attention and RNN layers, and the second model replaces the RNN layer with a self-attention layer. The two models are both based on a time embedding layer. Therefore, they can be better applied in NILM. To verify the effectiveness of the algorithms, we selected two open datasets and compared them with the original s2p model. The results show that attention mechanisms can effectively improve the model’s performance.
The Dimension of Phaseless Near-Field Data by Asymptotic Investigation of the Lifting Operator
Authors: Pierri Rocco , Leone Giovanni , Moretta Raffaele
Published: July 2021

In this paper, the question of evaluating the dimension of data space in an inverse source problem from near-field phaseless data is addressed. The study is developed for a 2D scalar geometry made up by a magnetic current strip whose square magnitude of the radiated field is observed in near non-reactive zone on multiple lines parallel to the source. With the aim of estimating the dimension of data space, at first, the lifting technique is exploited to recast the quadratic model as a linear one. After, the singular values decomposition of such linear operator is introduced. Finally, the dimension of data space is evaluated by quantifying the number of “relevant” singular values. In the last part of the article, some numerical simulations that corroborate the analytical estimation of data space dimension are shown.
Design of a MIMO Antenna with High Gain and Enhanced Isolation for WLAN Applications
Authors: Peng He , Zhi Ruixing , Yang Qichao , Cai Jing , Wan Yi , Liu Gui
Published: July 2021

A multi-input multi-output (MIMO) antenna for wireless local area network (WLAN) applications operating in 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz frequency bands is proposed in this paper. The proposed dual-band MIMO antenna is composed of two symmetrical radiation elements, and the isolation performance is improved by adopting parasitic elements and a defective ground plane. The measured reflection coefficients are less than −10 dB in the bandwidth range of 2.12–2.8 GHz and 4.95–6.65 GHz, respectively. The measurements show excellent isolation of −21 dB and −15 dB in both desired frequency bands, respectively. The total peak gain is greater than 4.8 dBi. The calculated envelope correlation coefficients (ECC), based on the measured S-parameters, are smaller than 0.01 and 0.024 in the lower and higher frequency bands, respectively. The dimension of the presented antenna occupies 50 × 40 × 1.59 mm3. It is suitable for IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n (2.4–2.4835 GHz, 5.15–5.35 GHz and 5.725–5.85 GHz) WLAN applications.
CNN-LSTM Prediction Method for Blood Pressure Based on Pulse Wave
Authors: Mou Hanlin , Yu Junsheng
Published: July 2021

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), which seriously threatens human health, can be prevented by blood pressure (BP) measurement. However, convenient and accurate BP measurement is a vital problem. Although the easily-collected pulse wave (PW)-based methods make it possible to monitor BP at all times and places, the current methods still require professional knowledge to process the medical data. In this paper, we combine the advantages of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, to propose a CNN-LSTM BP prediction method based on PW data. In detailed, CNN first extract features from PW data, and then the features are input into LSTM for further training. The numerical results based on real-life data sets show that the proposed method can achieve high predicted accuracy of BP while saving training time. As a result, CNN-LSTM can achieve convenient BP monitoring in daily health.