bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immune Determinants of Viral Clearance in Hospitalised COVID-19 Patients: Reduced Circulating Naïve CD4+ T Cell Counts Correspond with Delayed Viral Clearance
Authors: Zlei Mihaela , Sidorov Igor A. , Joosten Simone A. , Heemskerk Mirjam H. M. , Myeni Sebenzile K. , Pothast Cilia R. , de Brouwer Caroline S. , Boomaars-van der Zanden A. Linda , van Meijgaarden Krista E. , Morales Shessy T. , Wessels Els , Janse Jacqueline J. , Goeman Jelle J. , Cobbaert Christa M. , Kroes Aloys C. M. , Cannegieter Suzanne C. , Roestenberg Meta , Visser Leonardus G. , Kikkert Marjolein , Feltkamp Mariet C. W. , Arbous Sesmu M. , Staal Frank J. T. , Ottenhoff Tom H. M. , van Dongen Jacques J. M. , Roukens Anna H. E. , de Vries Jutte J. C. ,   in collaboration with BEAT-COVID,   in collaboration with LUMC COVID
Published: September 2022

Virus-specific cellular and humoral responses are major determinants for protection from critical illness after SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, the magnitude of the contribution of each of the components to viral clearance remains unclear. Here, we studied the timing of viral clearance in relation to 122 immune parameters in 102 hospitalised patients with moderate and severe COVID-19 in a longitudinal design. Delayed viral clearance was associated with more severe disease and was associated with higher levels of SARS-CoV-2-specific (neutralising) antibodies over time, increased numbers of neutrophils, monocytes, basophils, and a range of pro-inflammatory cyto-/chemokines illustrating ongoing, partially Th2 dominating, immune activation. In contrast, early viral clearance and less critical illness correlated with the peak of neutralising antibodies, higher levels of CD4 T cells, and in particular naïve CD4+ T cells, suggesting their role in early control of SARS-CoV-2 possibly by proving appropriate B cell help. Higher counts of naïve CD4+ T cells also correlated with lower levels of MIF, IL-9, and TNF-beta, suggesting an indirect role in averting prolonged virus-induced tissue damage. Collectively, our data show that naïve CD4+ T cell play a critical role in rapid viral T cell control, obviating aberrant antibody and cytokine profiles and disease deterioration. These data may help in guiding risk stratification for severe COVID-19.
Lung Organoids as Model to Study SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Peng Li , Gao Li , Wu Xinya , Fan Yuxin , Liu Meixiao , Chen Jingjing , Song Jieqin , Kong Jing , Dong Yan , Li Bingxue , Liu Aihua , Bao Fukai
Published: September 2022

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has become a global pandemic and has severely affected socio-economic conditions and people’s life. The lung is the major target organ infected and (seriously) damaged by SARS-CoV-2, so a comprehensive understanding of the virus and the mechanism of infection are the first choices to overcome COVID-19. Recent studies have demonstrated the enormous value of human organoids as platforms for virological research, making them an ideal tool for researching host–pathogen interactions. In this study, the various existing lung organoids and their identification biomarkers and applications are summarized. At the same time, the seven coronaviruses currently capable of infecting humans are outlined. Finally, a detailed summary of existing studies on SARS-CoV-2 using lung organoids is provided and includes pathogenesis, drug development, and precision treatment. This review highlights the value of lung organoids in studying SARS-CoV-2 infection, bringing hope that research will alleviate COVID-19-associated lung infections.
Pathophysiology and Therapy of Associated Features of Migraine
Authors: Villar-Martinez Maria Dolores , Goadsby Peter J.
Published: September 2022

Migraine is a complex and debilitating disorder that is broadly recognised by its characteristic headache. However, given the wide array of clinical presentations in migraineurs, the headache might not represent the main troublesome symptom and it can even go unnoticed. Understanding migraines exclusively as a pain process is simplistic and certainly hinders management. We describe the mechanisms behind some of the most disabling associated symptoms of migraine, including the relationship between the central and peripheral processes that take part in nausea, osmophobia, phonophobia, vertigo and allodynia. The rationale for the efficacy of the current therapeutic arsenal is also depicted in this article. The associated symptoms to migraine, apart from the painful component, are frequent, under-recognised and can be more deleterious than the headache itself. The clinical anamnesis of a headache patient should enquire about the associated symptoms, and treatment should be considered and individualised. Acknowledging the associated symptoms as a fundamental part of migraine has permitted a deeper and more coherent comprehension of the pathophysiology of migraine.
Optic Neuritis in Multiple Sclerosis—A Review of Molecular Mechanisms Involved in the Degenerative Process
Authors: Ciapă Manuela Andreea , Șalaru Delia Lidia , Stătescu Cristian , Sascău Radu Andy , Bogdănici Camelia Margareta
Published: September 2022

Multiple sclerosis is a central nervous system inflammatory demyelinating disease with a wide range of clinical symptoms, ocular involvement being frequently marked by the presence of optic neuritis (ON). The emergence and progression of ON in multiple sclerosis is based on various pathophysiological mechanisms, disease progression being secondary to inflammation, demyelination, or axonal degeneration. Early identification of changes associated with axonal degeneration or further investigation of the molecular processes underlying remyelination are current concerns of researchers in the field in view of the associated therapeutic potential. This article aims to review and summarize the scientific literature related to the main molecular mechanisms involved in defining ON as well as to analyze existing data in the literature on remyelination strategies in ON and their impact on long-term prognosis.
Toxicity, Safety, and Efficacy Studies on Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from Decidua basalis in Wistar Albino Rats by Intravenous and Subcutaneous Routes
Authors: Subramani Priya , Kannaiyan Jaianand , Khare Saurabh , Balaji Paulraj , A. Oyouni Atif Abdulwahab , S. Aljohani Saad Ali , Alsulami Mishal Olayan , Al-Amer Osama M. , R. Alzahrani Othman , A. Altayar Malik , Allah Alsulami Afrah Awadh , Veeramani Veeramanikandan
Published: September 2022

Ex vivo expanded decidua-basalis(DB)-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) obtained from single donors have demonstrated therapeutic benefits in in vitro and in vivo studies. In this report, the intravenous and subcutaneous administration of DB-MSCs obtained from five healthy donors was assessed considering clinical grade proliferation, accessibility, and toxic effects in Wistar albino rats. The ability of the obtained DB-MSCs for differentiating, as well as their expression of several cell surface markers and immunomodulatory activities, were all assessed. Clinical standard proliferated cells were administered to animals intravenously and subcutaneously in a series of preclinical models in order to assess their in vivo toxicity, general safety, and tumorigenic possibilities. We established that DB cells exhibit structural and functional traits with MSCs. At various doses supplied intravenously or subcutaneously, the research showed no fatality, abnormal response to therapy, or substantial pathological modifications in the rats. Furthermore, there was no indication of prenatal damage in the same animal species when the rats were repeatedly treated with DBMSCs. Thus, DBMSCs were demonstrated to be non-toxic, non-teratogenic, and non-tumorigenic. To determine whether they can be administrated to human patients without risk, more investigation is recommended.
Coastal Flood Risks and the Business Community: Stakeholders’ Perception in Malta
Authors: Spiteri Daniel , Gauci Ritienne
Published: September 2022

Resilience of coastal communities is increasingly required to adjust to the effects of climate change and its coast-related threats. Climate change is a major global threat to the environment, economy, and health of urban coastal lowlands. Flooding risks from both rising sea levels and increases in the frequency and severity of storm surges are considered to be amongst the most threatening consequences associated with climate change. The aim of this study was to assess the levels of socio-economic preparedness of low-lying urbanized towns in Malta for the impacts of coastal flooding through the triangulation of stakeholders’ participation from three sectors: the business community, local councils, and specialized experts from the governmental and private sectors. The study also included field collection of elevation data for each locality to capture the businesses’ distribution in relation to their height above sea level along the urban waterfront. One-way analysis of variance and NVivo were used to test and compare the business owners’ responses and the experts’ feedback, respectively. The main findings from the business community suggest that there are no long-term contingency plans or strategies in place to address potential flooding impacts from rising sea levels and storm surges, and that the risks of driving owners out of business is high. From the feedback received by the local councils, it was observed that all of them significantly lack the physical and financial resources to effectively manage long-term coastal flooding within their locality, forcing them to completely rely on central government for any future needs caused by the impact of coastal flooding. From a central government perspective, it seems that all interviewed experts operate within a fragmented governance model, and mainly adhere to the set of responsibilities aligned with their respective roles within such a governance model. This evidence of governance disconnect requires more horizontal and vertical integration of cross-sectoral strategies to address coastal flooding, within the broader framework of integrated coastal zone management as established by the Mediterranean ICZM protocol.
Novel Technology for Enamel Remineralization in Artificially Induced White Spot Lesions: In Vitro Study
Authors: Voina Cosma Lavinia Luminita , Moldovan Marioara , Muntean Alexandrina , Olteanu Cristian Doru , Chifor Radu , Badea Mindra Eugenia
Published: September 2022

The enamel white spot lesion is a common complication of orthodontic treatment with a high prevalence. This research aims to create an artificially induced white spot lesion, evaluate three different commercial products in terms of visual appeal, mineral reestablishment, and roughness, and determine which material can recover the initial structure. We created an artificially induced white spot lesion in extracted teeth. The materials used in the study were peptide p11-4 (CurodontTM Repair, Credentis AG), bioactive glass toothpaste (Biomin F, BioMin Technologies Limited), and local fluoridation (Tiefenfluorid, Humanchemie) in conjunction with low-level laser therapy (LLLT). To objectively assess the surface, the roughness, mineral content, and esthetic were measured. The roughness increased with a median difference of −0.233 µm in the bioactive glass group; the color parameter delta L decreased dramatically with a median difference of 5.9–6.7; and the cervical third increased the Ca-P mineral content above the starting stage. Each material contributed significantly to enamel consolidation, with peptide therapy providing the most encouraging results.
Synthesis of Biomolecule Functionalized Biocompatible Silver Nanoparticles for Antioxidant and Antibacterial Applications
Authors: Han Kiseok , Sathiyaseelan Anbazhagan , Saravanakumar Kandasamy , Wang Myeong-Hyeon
Published: September 2022

The silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using quercetin (Qn) for enhanced antioxidant and antibacterial activity. The quercetin-mediated silver nanoparticles (Qn-AgNPs) were characterized by different analytical methods. The Qn-AgNPs showed maximum absorbance at 420 nm in the UV-visible spectrum. The hydrodynamic size of 92.91 ± 0.65 d.nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.27 ± 0.006, and negative zeta potential of −31.36 ± 0.28 mV were measured for Qn-AgNPs. TEM analysis indicated that Qn-AgNPs were found to be homogeneous spherical particles without agglomeration. The capping of Qn and crystalline properties of Qn-AgNPs was confirmed by FTIR and XRD analysis, respectively. At a minimum concentration, Qn-AgNPs substantially inhibited the growth of bacterial pathogens, while it did not show toxicity in HEK293 cells or red blood cells and chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). Hence, the present results suggested that Qn could be a potent compound for the synthesis of Qn-AgNPs with promising antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
A Cost-Effective Long-Wave Infrared Detector Material Based on Graphene@PtSe2/HfSe2 Bidirectional Heterostructure: A First-Principles Study
Authors: Zhang Jianzhi , Huang Hongfu , Peng Junhao , Li Chuyu , Dong Huafeng , Kong Sifan , Xie Yiyuan , Wu Runqian , Wen Minru , Wu Fugen
Published: September 2022

The Graphene@PtSe2 heterostructure is an excellent long-wave infrared detection material. However, the expensive cost of PtSe2 prevents its widespread use in infrared detection. In this paper, Hf was used to partially replace Pt to form Graphene@(PtSe2)n(HfSe2)4−n (n = 1, 2, and 3) bidirectional heterostructures consisting of graphene and lateral PtSe2/HfSe2 composites based on first-principles calculations. Then, the new bidirectional heterostructures were compared with heterostructures formed by graphene with pure MSe2 (M = Pt, Hf). It was found that the band gaps of the bidirectional heterostructures were between those of Graphene@PtSe2 and Graphene@HfSe2. Among these heterostructures, the Graphene@(PtSe2)3(HfSe2)1 bidirectional heterostructure has almost the same optical absorption properties in the infrared wavelength region of 1.33~40 µm as the Graphene@PtSe2 heterostructure, and it improves the absorption in the near-infrared wavelength region of 0.75~1.33 µm. Such a designment may bring the material costs down (since PtSe2 costs approximately five times more than HfSe2). This study on the designment of the bidirectional Graphene@(PtSe2)3(HfSe2)1 heterostructure also illustrates a cost-effective design method for Pt-based IR detectors.
The Synthesis, Crystal Structure, DFT Calculations and Optical Properties of Orcinolic Derivatives as OH− Indicators
Authors: Wannalerse Boontana , Kwanmuang Paradee , Jansukra Piangkwan , Pinchaipat Bussaba , Duangthongyou Tanwawan , Hasin Panitat , Songsasen Apisit , Chainok Kittipong , Suramitr Songwut
Published: September 2022

The structures of 2-(3-hydroxy-5-methylphenoxy)-N-(4-nitrophenyl)acetamide), B1, and 2-(3-hydroxy-5-methylphenoxy)-N-(4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)acetamide, B2, are crystallized in the crystal symmetry of the monoclinic structure and in the space group of P21/c. For the different structures of B1 and B2, B1 displays an absolute planarity conformation with torsion angles of 172.2–179.1. The two molecules of B1 are linked by a hydrogen bond of N–H…O–N–O, where a hydrogen atom of amide is bound to an oxygen atom of the nitro-substituted group. In the case of B2, the molecules are connected to each other through the hydrogen bonding interaction of C=O…H–O. DFT calculations reveal that the transition from HOMO to LUMO of B1 and B2 shows the absorption bands B1 and B2 at 314 and 240 nm, respectively. Upon the addition of an OH− ion, the absorption bands of B1 and B2 shift to a longer wavelength than the original bands of B1 and B2. According to the 1H-NMR results, the NH proton of B1 and B2 disappears due to the deprotonation process. The methylene group and aromatic region move to upfield shift when adding an OH− ion.
Growing Teratoma Syndrome with Synchronous Gliomatosis Peritonei during Chemotherapy in Ovarian Immature Teratoma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Li Sijian , Su Na , Jia Congwei , Zhang Xinyue , Yin Min , Yang Jiaxin
Published: September 2022

Coexistent growing teratoma syndrome (GTS) and gliomatosis peritonei (GP) arising during chemotherapy of ovarian immature teratoma (IMT) is extremely rare and can be misdiagnosed as recurrent or progressive disease. We present a 33-year-old woman diagnosed with GTS with synchronous GP during chemotherapy of IMT. She underwent ovarian cystectomy due to ovarian immature teratoma and chemotherapy were administered. The α-fetoprotein (AFP) concentration decreased from 28.7 ng/mL to normal after the second cycle. Four days after the third cycle of chemotherapy, ultrasound and CT revealed an 8-cm mass with negative tumor markers in the pouch of Douglas. An exploratory laparotomy was conducted, and a smooth round cystic-solid 8-cm mass was noted in the pouch of Douglas. Extensive peritoneal seeding glial nodules were also observed on the surface of the uterus, peritoneum, and omentum. The patient underwent a partial omentectomy, intact resection of the tumor, and resection of most of the glial nodules. Postoperative pathology demonstrated a pure mature cystic teratoma component in the mass, as well as diffuse GP involving the uterine serosa, peritoneum, and omentum; this diagnosis of GTS with synchorous GP should be considered in IMT patients with mass newly identified during chemotherapy while tumor markers are normal after treatment.
The Diagnostic Value of PI-RADS v2.1 in Patients with a History of Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
Authors: Liu Jiazhou , Pan Shihang , Dong Liang , Wu Guangyu , Wang Jiayi , Wang Yan , Qian Hongyang , Dong Baijun , Pan Jiahua , Zhu Yinjie , Xue Wei
Published: September 2022

To explore the diagnostic value of the Prostate Imaging–Reporting and Data System version 2.1 (PI-RADS v2.1) for clinically significant prostate cancer (CSPCa) in patients with a history of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), we conducted a retrospective study of 102 patients who underwent systematic prostate biopsies with TURP history. ROC analyses and logistic regression analyses were performed to demonstrate the diagnostic value of PI-RADS v2.1 and other clinical characteristics, including PSA and free/total PSA (F/T PSA). Of 102 patients, 43 were diagnosed with CSPCa. In ROC analysis, PSA, F/T PSA, and PI-RADS v2.1 demonstrated significant diagnostic value in detecting CSPCa in our cohort (AUC 0.710 (95%CI 0.608–0.812), AUC 0.768 (95%CI 0.676–0.860), AUC 0.777 (95%CI 0.688–0.867), respectively). Further, PI-RADS v2.1 scores of the peripheral and transitional zones were analyzed separately. In ROC analysis, PI-RADS v2.1 remained valuable in identifying peripheral-zone CSPCa (AUC 0.780 (95%CI 0.665–0.854; p < 0.001)) while having limited capability in distinguishing transitional zone lesions (AUC 0.533 (95%CI 0.410–0.557; p = 0.594)). PSA and F/T PSA retain significant diagnostic value for CSPCa in patients with TURP history. PI-RADS v2.1 is reliable for detecting peripheral-zone CSPCa but has limited diagnostic value when assessing transitional zone lesions.
Outcome of Reoperation for Local Recurrence Following En Bloc Resection for Bone Giant Cell Tumor of the Extremity
Authors: Tsukamoto Shinji , Mavrogenis Andreas F. , Hindiskere Suraj , Honoki Kanya , Kido Akira , Fujii Hiromasa , Masunaga Tomoya , Tanaka Yasuhito , Chinder Pramod S. , Donati Davide Maria , Errani Costantino
Published: September 2022

En bloc resection is typically performed to treat giant cell tumors of bone (GCTB), particularly when curettage can be challenging owing to extensive bone cortex destruction with soft tissue extension. Few reports have addressed the clinical outcomes after reoperation for local recurrence in patients with GCTB who underwent en bloc resection. In this multicenter retrospective study, we investigated local recurrence, distant metastasis, malignant transformation, mortality, and limb function in patients treated for local recurrence following en bloc resection for GCTB. Among 205 patients who underwent en bloc resection for GCTB of the extremities between 1980 and 2021, we included 29 with local recurrence. En bloc resection was performed for large tumors with soft tissue extension, pathological fractures with joint invasion, complex fractures, and dispensable bones, such as the proximal fibula and distal ulna. Local re-recurrence, distant metastasis, malignant transformation, and mortality rates were 41.4% (12/29), 34.5% (10/29), 6.9% (2/29), and 6.9% (2/29), respectively. The median Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score was 26 (interquartile range, 23–28). The median follow-up period after surgery for local recurrence was 70.1 months (interquartile range, 40.5–123.8 months). Local recurrence following en bloc resection for GCTB could indicate an aggressive GCTB, necessitating careful follow-up.
Current Status of 68Ga-Pentixafor in Solid Tumours
Authors: Hadebe Bawinile , Sathekge Machaba Michael , Aldous Colleen , Vorster Mariza
Published: September 2022

Chemokine receptor CXCR4 is overexpressed in neoplasms and its expression is related to tumour invasion, metastasis and aggressiveness. 68Ga-Pentixafor is used to non-invasively image the expression of CXCR4 in tumours and has been widely used in haematological malignancies. Recent evidence shows that therapies targeting CXCR4 can increase the chemosensitivity of the tumour as well as inhibit tumour metastasis and aggressiveness. 68Ga-Pentixafor has shown promise as an elegant radiotracer to aid in the selection of patients whose tumours demonstrate CXCR4 overexpression and who therefore may benefit from novel therapies targeting CXCR4. In addition, its therapeutic partners 177Lu- and 90Y-Pentixather have been investigated in the treatment of patients with advanced haematological malignancies, and initial studies have shown a good treatment response in metabolically active lesions. 68Ga-Pentixafor in solid tumours complements 18F-FDG by providing prognostic information and selecting patients who may benefit from therapies targeting CXCR4. This review summarises the available literature on the potential applications of 68Ga-Pentixafor in solid tumours.
Chronic Kidney Disease Prevalence in Patients with Colorectal Cancer Undergoing Surgery
Authors: Kozlowski Leszek , Bielawska Katarzyna , Zhymaila Alena , Malyszko Jolanta
Published: September 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common and mortal disease. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the relatively common comorbidity among cancer patients affecting the available therapy and outcomes. However, data on prevalence of CKD in patients with CRC undergoing surgery is limited. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of CKD in a cohort of 560 consecutive patients with CRC undergoing surgical treatment with curative intent. Neoadjuvant therapy in a form of radiotherapy or radiochemotherapy was administered before the surgery in 67 patients and in 86 patients, respectively. Results: CKD was reported in 10%, diabetes in 25%, and hypertension in 60%, while anemia was reported in 47%. The patients with CKD were more likely to be older and anemic with higher serum CRP, which reflects a general inflammatory state. Relative to patients without this therapy, patients undergoing neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy were older, had significantly lower eGFR and albumin, and higher creatinine, aspartate aminotransferase and INR, before the surgery. All CKD patients, except two, were older than 65 years of age. Conclusions: In order to ensure the best possible outcomes, CKD should be diagnosed and treated appropriately in oncology patients to prevent complications, so they may continue their therapy with the least interruption or discontinuation of treatment.
Deep Learning for Automatic Detection of Periodic Limb Movement Disorder Based on Electrocardiogram Signals
Authors: Urtnasan Erdenebayar , Park Jong-Uk , Lee Jung-Hun , Koh Sang-Baek , Lee Kyoung-Joung
Published: September 2022

In this study, a deep learning model (deepPLM) is shown to automatically detect periodic limb movement syndrome (PLMS) based on electrocardiogram (ECG) signals. The designed deepPLM model consists of four 1D convolutional layers, two long short-term memory units, and a fully connected layer. The Osteoporotic Fractures in Men sleep (MrOS) study dataset was used to construct the model, including training, validating, and testing the model. A single-lead ECG signal of the polysomnographic recording was used for each of the 52 subjects (26 controls and 26 patients) in the MrOS dataset. The ECG signal was normalized and segmented (10 s duration), and it was divided into a training set (66,560 episodes), a validation set (16,640 episodes), and a test set (20,800 episodes). The performance evaluation of the deepPLM model resulted in an F1-score of 92.0%, a precision score of 90.0%, and a recall score of 93.0% for the control set, and 92.0%, 93.0%, and 90.0%, respectively, for the patient set. The results demonstrate the possibility of automatic PLMS detection in patients by using the deepPLM model based on a single-lead ECG. This could be an alternative method for PLMS screening and a helpful tool for home healthcare services for the elderly population.
Impact of Staining Methods and Human Factors on Accuracy of Manual Reticulocyte Enumeration
Authors: Pan Lin-Lin , Yu Hsiu-Chen , Lee Ching-Hui , Hung Kuo-Chuan , Tsai I-Ting , Sun Cheuk-Kwan
Published: September 2022

Although peripheral blood reticulocyte enumeration reflects bone marrow functional integrity, which is important for differential diagnosis of hematological diseases, the factors affecting its accuracy have not been adequately addressed. Using 100 consecutive venous blood samples being processed with four supravital staining techniques [i.e., brilliant cresyl blue (BCB), new methylene blue (NMB), and BCB/NMB with Liu’s stain] for reticulocyte enumeration, two technologists (senior vs. junior) conducted microscopic counting. The results were compared with those obtained with an automated system (Sysmex XE-5000) that served as the standard. The aims of this study were to identify (1) the technique that gave the most reliable outcome, and (2) possible human factors (i.e., seniority, repeated counting) that may affect the counting results. Analysis showed least bias (i.e., deviation from automated counting) associated with BCB staining, followed by NMB. In addition, the senior observer exhibited a higher bias in counting compared with their junior counterpart. Repeated counting also correlated with a higher rate of bias. Nevertheless, inter-observer consistency was high (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.95) and inter-/intra-observer variations were non-significant (both p > 0.05). Our results supported the use of BCB stain for reticulocyte enumeration and the reliability of manual counting despite the involvement of human factors, which had negligible impacts on the final outcomes.
Imaging Features of Intratumoral Injection of NBTXR3 for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Lymph Node Metastases
Authors: Ginat Daniel Thomas , Juloori Aditya , Vivar Omar I. , Farber Leonard A. , Gooi Zhen , Rosenberg Ari J.
Published: September 2022

NBTXR3 nanoparticle injection is a relatively novel radioenhancer for treatment of various cancers. CT scans following NBTXR3 injection of metastatic lymph nodes from head and neck squamous cell carcinoma were reviewed in a small series of patients. The radioenhancing appears as hyperattenuating, with a mean attenuation of the injected material of 1516 HU. The material was found to leak beyond the margins of the tumor in some cases.
An Underrated Diagnosis of Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Ciortescu Irina , Nemteanu Roxana , Hincu Corina , Gheorghe Liliana , Plesa Alina
Published: September 2022

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (Wilkie’s syndrome) is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction caused by a congenital or acquired reduction of the aorto-mesenteric angle leading to duodenal compression. We present the case of a 51-year-old female patient with a previous history of breast cancer. She was admitted to the Emergency Department with acute onset of recurrent vomiting, intense abdominal pain especially in the epigastric region, and abdominal distension. The ultrasound showed an absence of lower abdominal quadrants with an enlarged and distended stomach reaching the pelvis. The computer tomography scans confirmed the diagnosis of superior mesenteric artery syndrome. Conservative management was implemented, and using a nasogastric tube, and upped endoscopy approximately 4000 mL of fluid were aspirated with clinical improvement shortly after. The patient resumed a high-calorie diet and five months later, the patient was completely asymptomatic.
Giant Paratesticular Liposarcoma: Molecular Characterization and Management Principles with a Review of the Literature
Authors: Pavone Giuliana , Romano Chiara , Martorana Federica , Motta Lucia , Salvatorelli Lucia , Zanghì Antonio Maria , Magro Gaetano , Vigneri Paolo
Published: September 2022

Paratesticular liposarcomas are extremely rare malignant tumors originating from fat tissues, with an often-challenging diagnosis. We present here the case of a 76-year-old man with a giant paratesticular liposarcoma, initially misdiagnosed as a scrotal hernia. After two years, the progressively enlarging mass underwent surgical resection, and a diagnosis of well-differentiated liposarcoma (lipoma-like subtype) was made. Post-operative treatments were not indicated, and the patient remains relapse free. Next generation sequencing performed on the neoplastic tissue showed co-amplification of MDM2 and CDK4. These alterations are molecular hallmarks of well-differentiated liposarcomas and corroborate the histological diagnosis. Clinical and molecular features of the presented case are in line with the majority of previously published experiences. In conclusion, the presence of a liposarcoma should be taken into account during the diagnostic workup of scrotal masses, in order to minimize the rate of misdiagnosis and improper management. Molecular analysis may support histological characterization of these rare entities and potentially disclose novel therapeutic targets.
Chronic Kidney Disease in Balkan Countries—A Call to Action for Timely Diagnosis and Monitoring
Authors: Mitić Igor , Laganović Mario , Marinova Ivelina , Gancheva Nina , Nakić Valentina , Melentijevic Dragana , Paskalev Emil , Vajd Rajko , Škoberne Andrej
Published: September 2022

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious illness with important consequences for patients and health systems. Estimation of prevalence and incidence, especially in early stages, is difficult due to a lack of epidemiological studies and consolidated registries. In general, the disease awareness is low, and thus CKD is not timely diagnosed in most cases. Robust screening programs are not implemented in Eastern European countries. A panel consisting of Primary Care Physicians and Nephrologists from Bulgaria, Croatia, Serbia, and Slovenia virtually met in December 2021 to discuss current CKD awareness and diagnostic approaches in the Balkan area The meeting resulted in specific calls to action in the region to improve the number and quality of epidemiology studies and the level of awareness among patients and medical communities, as well as implementation of screening programs in high-risk populations. Collaboration between specialists was acknowledged as a crucial driver for optimal management of patients with CKD. Joint efforts are required to persuade healthcare authorities to establish specific policies for better care of kidney patients.
Symmetry-Breaking Bifurcations of the Information Bottleneck and Related Problems
Authors: Parker Albert E. , Dimitrov Alexander G.
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we investigate the bifurcations of solutions to a class of degenerate constrained optimization problems. This study was motivated by the Information Bottleneck and Information Distortion problems, which have been used to successfully cluster data in many different applications. In the problems we discuss in this paper, the distortion function is not a linear function of the quantizer. This leads to a challenging annealing optimization problem, which we recast as a fixed-point dynamics problem of a gradient flow of a related dynamical system. The gradient system possesses an SN symmetry due to its invariance in relabeling representative classes. Its flow hence passes through a series of bifurcations with specific symmetry breaks. Here, we show that the dynamical system related to the Information Bottleneck problem has an additional spurious symmetry that requires more-challenging analysis of the symmetry-breaking bifurcation. For the Information Bottleneck, we determine that when bifurcations occur, they are only of pitchfork type, and we give conditions that determine the stability of the bifurcating branches. We relate the existence of subcritical bifurcations to the existence of first-order phase transitions in the corresponding distortion function as a function of the annealing parameter, and provide criteria with which to detect such transitions.
Simultaneous Maximum Likelihood Estimation for Piecewise Linear Instrumental Variable Models
Authors: Liu Shuo Shuo , Zhu Yeying
Published: September 2022

Analysis of instrumental variables is an effective approach to dealing with endogenous variables and unmeasured confounding issue in causal inference. We propose using the piecewise linear model to fit the relationship between the continuous instrumental variable and the continuous explanatory variable, as well as the relationship between the continuous explanatory variable and the outcome variable, which generalizes the traditional linear instrumental variable models. The two-stage least square and limited information maximum likelihood methods are used for the simultaneous estimation of the regression coefficients and the threshold parameters. Furthermore, we study the limiting distribution of the estimators in the correctly specified and misspecified models and provide a robust estimation of the variance-covariance matrix. We illustrate the finite sample properties of the estimation in terms of the Monte Carlo biases, standard errors, and coverage probabilities via the simulated data. Our proposed model is applied to an education-salary data, which investigates the causal effect of children’s years of schooling on estimated hourly wage with father’s years of schooling as the instrumental variable.
Coevolutionary Dynamics with Global Fields
Authors: Cosenza Mario G. , Herrera-Diestra José L.
Published: September 2022

We investigate the effects of external and autonomous global interaction fields on an adaptive network of social agents with an opinion formation dynamics based on a simple imitation rule. We study the competition between global fields and adaptive rewiring on the space of parameters of the system. The model represents an adaptive society subject to global mass media such as a directed opinion influence or feedback of endogenous cultural trends. We show that, in both situations, global mass media contribute to consensus and to prevent the fragmentation of the social network induced by the coevolutionary dynamics. We present a discussion of these results in the context of dynamical systems and opinion formation dynamics.
Robust Multiple Importance Sampling with Tsallis φ-Divergences
Authors: Sbert Mateu , Szirmay-Kalos László
Published: September 2022

Multiple Importance Sampling (MIS) combines the probability density functions (pdf) of several sampling techniques. The combination weights depend on the proportion of samples used for the particular techniques. Weights can be found by optimization of the variance, but this approach is costly and numerically unstable. We show in this paper that MIS can be represented as a divergence problem between the integrand and the pdf, which leads to simpler computations and more robust solutions. The proposed idea is validated with 1D numerical examples and with the illumination problem of computer graphics.
Multimodal Fake-News Recognition Using Ensemble of Deep Learners
Authors: Al Obaid Abdulhameed , Khotanlou Hassan , Mansoorizadeh Muharram , Zabihzadeh Davood
Published: September 2022

Social networks have drastically changed how people obtain information. News in social networks is accompanied by images and videos and thus receives more attention from readers as opposed to traditional sources. Unfortunately, fake-news publishers often misuse these advantages to spread false information rapidly. Therefore, the early detection of fake news is crucial. The best way to address this issue is to design an automatic detector based on fake-news content. Thus far, many fake-news recognition systems, including both traditional machine learning and deep learning models, have been proposed. Given that manual feature-extraction methods are very time-consuming, deep learning methods are the preferred tools. This study aimed to enhance the performance of existing approaches by utilizing an ensemble of deep learners based on attention mechanisms. To a great extent, the success of an ensemble model depends on the variety of its learners. To this end, we propose a novel loss function that enforces each learner to attend to different parts of news content on the one hand and obtain good classification accuracy on the other hand. Also, the learners are built on a common deep-feature extractor and only differ in their attention modules. As a result, the number of parameters is reduced efficiently and the overfitting problem is addressed. We conducted several experiments on some widely used fake-news detection datasets. The results confirm that the proposed method consistently surpasses the existing peer methods.
Dynamic Multiscale Information Spillover among Crude Oil Time Series
Authors: An Sufang
Published: September 2022

This study investigated information spillovers across crude oil time series at different time scales, using a network combined with a wavelet transform. It can detect the oil price, which plays an important role in the dynamic process of spillovers, and it can also analyze the dynamic feature of systematic risk based on entropy at different scales. The results indicate that the network structure changes with time, and the important roles of an oil price can be identified. WTI and Brent act as important spillover transmitters, and other prices are important spillover receivers at a scale. With the increase in time scale, both the number of neighbors and the importance of spillovers of Brent and WTI as spillover transmitters show downward trends. The importance for spillovers of China–Shengli and Dubai as spillover receivers shows a downward trend. This paper provides new evidence for explaining WTI and Brent as global benchmark oil prices. In addition, systematic risk is time-varying, and it is smaller at short-term scale than at long-term scale. The trend of systematic risk is also discussed when typical oil-related events occur. This paper provides a new perspective for exploring dynamic spillovers and systematic risk that offers important implications for policymakers and market investors.
Integrated Power Systems for Oil Refinery and Petrochemical Processes
Authors: Sladkovskiy Dmitry A. , Murzin Dmitry Yu.
Published: September 2022

This perspective describes different schemes of power systems integration for various process technology in oil refining and petrochemistry with a focus on distillation. An overview is given of different methods of gas turbines and turboexpanders. Application of the organic Rankine cycle is considered for distillation processes, especially for unconventional schemes, which are integrated into the main process as stand-alone ones, as well when the working fluid of an energy system is a process stream per se. Despite a more complex structure and potential interference with the main process, such schemes are advantageous in terms of more efficient equipment utilization. Integration of turboexpanders in separation processes and in reactor units can improve energy generation efficiency 2–3 fold compared with traditional schemes of energy generation from fossil feedstock. From the economic viewpoint for distillation columns, total annual costs can be decreased by ca. 5–15% with the specific costs of additional generated electricity being very close to the costs of a heating utility.
Geothermal Source Exploitation for Energy Saving and Environmental Energy Production
Authors: Vicidomini Maria , D’Agostino Diana
Published: September 2022

Many European and some other developed countries have addressed the use of geothermal energy systems as a renewable source of energy worthy of investment and development. Geothermal energy is a non-intermittent and potentially inexhaustible source that can be used for energy saving and environmental energy production, as well as to provide heating and cooling to buildings, by increasing the energy efficiency of conventional systems. This editorial paper collects the most significant and recent studies, dealing with geothermal source exploitation, the possible role of geothermal systems in the building retrofit measures, the use of shallow geothermal sources, and specific aspects of systems that exploit geothermal energy.
End-of-Life Management and Recycling on PV Solar Energy Production
Authors: Papamichael Iliana , Voukkali Irene , Jeguirim Mejdi , Argirusis Nikolaos , Jellali Salah , Sourkouni Georgia , Argirusis Christos , Zorpas Antonis A.
Published: September 2022

The demand for clean energy is strongly related with many European and other global legislations and directives [...]
Gaussian Decline Curve Analysis of Hydraulically Fractured Wells in Shale Plays: Examples from HFTS-1 (Hydraulic Fracture Test Site-1, Midland Basin, West Texas)
Authors: Weijermars Ruud
Published: September 2022

The present study shows how new Gaussian solutions of the pressure diffusion equation can be applied to model the pressure depletion of reservoirs produced with hydraulically multi-fractured well systems. Three practical application modes are discussed: (1) Gaussian decline curve analysis (DCA), (2) Gaussian pressure-transient analysis (PTA) and (3) Gaussian reservoir models (GRMs). The Gaussian DCA is a new history matching tool for production forecasting, which uses only one matching parameter and therefore is more practical than hyperbolic DCA methods. The Gaussian DCA was compared with the traditional Arps DCA through production analysis of 11 wells in the Wolfcamp Formation at Hydraulic Fracture Test Site-1 (HFTS-1). The hydraulic diffusivity of the reservoir region drained by the well system can be accurately estimated based on Gaussian DCA matches. Next, Gaussian PTA was used to infer the variation in effective fracture half-length of the hydraulic fractures in the HFTS-1 wells. Also included in this study is a brief example of how the full GRM solution can accurately track the fluid flow-paths in a reservoir and predict the consequent production rates of hydraulically fractured well systems. The GRM can model reservoir depletion and the associated well rates for single parent wells as well as for arrays of multiple parent–parent and parent–child wells.
Photovoltaic Energy Storage System Based on Bidirectional LLC Resonant Converter Control Technology
Authors: Xie Di , Wang Liangliang , Zhang Zhi , Wang Shoumo , Kang Longyun , Yao Jigang
Published: September 2022

Bidirectional DC/DC converters are widely adopted in new energy power generation systems. Because of the low conversion efficiency and non-isolation for conventional, bidirectional DC/DC converters in the photovoltaic energy storage complementary system, this paper proposes a bidirectional isolation LLC converter topology, with compensating inductance for the energy storage system; it has excellent characteristics, such as wide input voltage range and soft switching in full-load range. First, an AC equivalent model based on the fundamental wave equivalent method is established to derive the voltage gain. Meanwhile, a small signal model is also built to design a reasonably closed-looped controller. Finally, the improved bidirectional LLC resonant converter is applied to the photovoltaic energy storage complementary system. The correctness and feasibility for the bidirectional LLC converter topology under the proposed charging and discharging control strategy of the DC bus are verified by simulation and experimental results.
An Empirical Investigation of Ecological Footprint Using Nuclear Energy, Industrialization, Fossil Fuels and Foreign Direct Investment
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Jahanger Atif , Makhdum Muhammad Sohail Amjad , Radulescu Magdalena , Balsalobre-Lorente Daniel , Jianu Elena
Published: September 2022

The G-7 economies comprise a few of the global, mainly economically developed countries. On the other hand, in conjunction with these high economic development performances, the ecological behaviors in G-7 anions have concurrently provoked to elevate deep apprehensions among the stakeholders. Therefore, the present research aims to empirically investigate the environmental influences of nuclear energy, industrialization, fossil fuel energy, and foreign direct investment (FDI) in the G-7 nations between 1991 and 2018. After checking the cross-sectional dependency, this study employed the first-generation ((full modified ordinary least square (FMOLS), dynamic ordinary least square (DOLS)) and second-generation (Driscoll and Kraay (D-K), feasible generalized least square (FGLS)) approaches for robust and reliable findings. The findings explore that nuclear energy production is ineffective in curbing the figure of ecological footprints in the long-run. Moreover, the industrialization process and fossil fuel energy consumption reduce environmental quality in the G-7 economies. More to the point, the empirical findings recommend that these nations can renovate their industrial production procedures in an eco-friendly behavior they can experience an unsoiled deployment of the energy transition. Similarly, the FDI also degrades environmental eminence in the long-run. This validates the pollution haven hypothesis in the G-7 countries. Based on these results, this study suggests the G-7 nations should reduce the production of nuclear energy levels, the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy production in the industrial sector, reduce fossil fuel-based foreign investment, and assimilate ecological welfare strategies within their development planning.
Advances in Sustainable Development: Technological and Economic Overview
Authors: Zhironkin Sergey
Published: September 2022

Today, science faces the problem of rethinking the incentives for the transition to sustainable development, including the expansion of the “green” economy, renewable energy and recycling of materials, in keeping with the fact that not all the goals set by global organizations in this area [...]