bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ОПТИМІЗАЦІЯ АДАПТИВНИХ РАДІОСИСТЕМ ІЗ ВИКОРИСТАННЯМ АЛГОРИТМІВ ШІ та MН
Authors: ВАСИЛЬКІВСЬКИЙ Микола , НІКІТОВИЧ Діана , ГРАБЧАК Назарій , ЯКУБІВСЬКА Наталя
Published: July 2023

Досліджено мережі 6G із більш гнучким розподіленням спектру за рахунок використання не тільки спектру, але й часу та інших мережевих ресурсів. Це може бути досягнуто за допомогою нових технологій, таких як програмована метаповерхня і мережеве управління ресурсами (NRM). Розглянуто особливості забезпечення більш гнучкого розподілу спектру у 6G за рахунок використання методів неортогонального частотного розміщення (NFT), які дозволяють кільком користувачам використовувати один і той же канал без взаємних перешкод. Визначено можливість використання інших технологій, таких як когнітивне радіо, що дозволяє мережі динамічно реагувати на зміни у середовищі і адаптуватися до потреб користувачів.

Розглянуто особливості розподілу мережі на сегменти, який став важливим елементом системи 5G для підтримки різних викликів мережевого трафіку та забезпечення різних рівнів сервісу для різних користувачів. Проте, системи 6G зосередяться на ще більш гнучкому та ефективному розподілі мережі на сегменти, з використанням технологій віртуалізації та контейнерів. Досліджено ефективне використання ресурсів мережі, більш точне розподілення трафіку та забезпечення кращого рівня сервісу для кожного користувача, незалежно від його місцезнаходження із застосуванням технології віртуалізації, яка дозволить забезпечити більш простий та швидкий доступ до мережевих ресурсів та забезпечить швидку та ефективну реакцію на змінні вимоги користувачів.

Визначено, що інтегрування між наземними та стільниковими мережами дійсно може підвищити цінність мереж 6G за рахунок створення більш гнучкої та ефективної мережевої інфраструктури, що зможе забезпечувати широкий спектр послуг і додаткові можливості для мобільних користувачів. Наземні мережі зазвичай використовуються для передачі великих обсягів даних та надання послуг з низькою затримкою. Стільникові мережі, з іншого боку, забезпечують мобільність та широкий охоплюють районів. Інтеграція цих мереж може дозволити використовувати переваги обох мереж, забезпечуючи високу пропускну здатність та низьку затримку, а також мобільність та широке охоплення зони покриття. Обгрунтовано, що інтеграція мереж може забезпечити більш ефективне використання ресурсів мережі, зокрема краще використання різних радіочастотних діапазонів та зниження витрат на інфраструктуру, підтримку мережі та обслуговування користувачів.
Paleoradiological study on two infants dated to the 17th and 18th centuries
Authors: Sernesi Gabriele , Petrella Enrico , Ventura Luca , Gruppioni Girgio , Luiselli Donata , Cilli Elisabetta , Canalini Adele , Traversari Mirko
Published: July 2023

During an excavation campaign in the Church of the Conversion of Saint Paul in Roccapelago (North Italy), a hidden crypt was discovered, which yielded the remains of more than 400 individuals. The crypt was used as a cemetery by the inhabitants of the village of Roccapelago between the 16th and 18th centuries. Along the north side of the crypt, an area apparently separated from the rest of the burials was found, bordered by stones, where several burials of newborns and infants were concentrated. From here, five fabric rolls containing bones were recovered, and it was decided not to carry out destructive analyses, allocating the two best examples to a thorough radiological investigation to try to define the type of burial and the complete biological profile of the infant. The two rolls, subjects of this study, can be dated archaeologically between the 17th and 18th centuries. CT analysis shows a varied group of bones with a fairly good state of conservation. The paleoradiological study carried out had the primary objective of avoiding the destruction of the two rolls, ensuring their conservation; but at the same time, providing essential data to understand their nature, defining the biological profile and the type of deposition.
Beyond the ‘Last Phenomenology’: Rhythmic Modulations in Gilles Deleuze’sThe Logic of Sensation
Authors: Campbell Iain
Published: July 2023

This article reconstructs Gilles Deleuze’s engagement with phenomenology, and with the phenomenological problematic of sensation, in his Francis Bacon: The Logic of Sensation. Considering Deleuze’s adoption, from the phenomenology of art, of notions of sensation and rhythm, it examines how Deleuze complexifies these phenomenological notions by aligning them with his profoundly non-phenomenological notion of the body without organs, as well as with the concepts of modulation and the diagram. In mapping Deleuze’s complexification of rhythm and his development of a logic of rhythmic modulation, this article shows how Deleuze immanently refines an approach to working beyond phenomenology, through phenomenology.
The abscopal effect of immune-radiation therapy in recurrent and metastatic cervical cancer: a narrative review
Authors: Ollivier Luc , Moreau Bachelard Camille , Renaud Emmanuelle , Dhamelincourt Estelle , Lucia Francois
Published: July 2023

Despite human papillomavirus vaccination and screening, in about 5% of cases, cervical cancer (CC) is discovered at an initial metastatic stage. Moreover, nearly one-third of patients with locally advanced CC (LACC) will have a recurrence of their disease during follow-up. At the stage of recurrent or metastatic CC, there are very few treatment options. They are considered incurable with a very poor prognosis. For many years, the standard of care was the combination of platinum-based drug and paclitaxel with the possible addition of bevacizumab. The most recent years have seen the development of the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) (pembrolizumab, cemiplimab and others) in patients with CC. They have shown long term responses with improved overall survival of patients in 1st line (in addition to chemotherapy) or 2nd line (as monotherapy) treatment. Another emerging drug is tisotumab vedotin, an antibody-drug conjugate targeting tissue factor. Radiation therapy (RT) often has a limited palliative indication in metastatic cancers. However, it has been observed that RT can induce tumor shrinkage both in distant metastatic tumors beyond the radiation field and in primary irradiated tumors. This is a rarely observed phenomenon, called abscopal effect, which is thought to be related to the immune system and allows a tumor response throughout the body. It would be the activation of the immune system induced by the irradiation of cancer cells that would lead to a specific type of apoptosis, the immunogenic cell death. Today, there is a growing consensus that combining RT with ICIs may boost abscopal response or cure rates for various cancers. Here we will review the potential abscopal effect of immune-radiation therapy in metastatic cervical cancer.
Insulinoma in pediatric tuberous sclerosis complex: a case report
Authors: Librandi Katia , Grimaldi Serena , Catalano Silvia , Moro Francesco , Vallero Stefano Gabriele , Spada Marco , Porta Francesco
Published: July 2023

Background

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare multisystemic disorder. This genetically determined disease is characterized by highly variable clinical expression, including epilepsy as a common feature. Seizures can also occur as a manifestation of symptomatic hypoglycemia. The latter could be caused by an insulinoma, whose association to TSC has already been debated. In TSC-associated tumors, dysregulation of the mTOR pathway is believed to be present, leading to significant impacts on cellular metabolism, growht, and proliferation. To date, the association between TSC and insulinoma has been reported in 11 adults. Here, we present the first case of a pediatric patient with TSC diagnosed with an insulinoma and review the existing literature on this topic.

Case presentation

A 11-year-old female with TSC presented with seizures unresponsive to standard therapy. Further investigation revealed that these seizures were caused by hypoglycemia. Subsequent evaluation led to the diagnosis of a pancreatic insulinoma, which was surgically removed. Following the procedure, the patient was free from seizures.

Conclusions

In individuals with TSC, the recurrence of epileptiform episodes throughout their lifetime, especially if previously well controlled with antiepileptic therapy, should raise suspicion for hypoglycemic events. These events may potentially be associated with the presence of an insulinoma. Further research and increased awareness are necessary to gain a better understanding of the association between TSC and insulinomas, and to guide clinical management strategies.
Antibiotic resistance in Italian poultry meat production chain: a one-health perspective comparing antibiotic free and conventional systems from the farming to the slaughterhouse
Authors: Ferri Gianluigi , Buonavoglia Alessio , Farooq Muhammad , Festino Anna Rita , Ruffini Fausto , Paludi Domenico , Di Francesco Cristina E. , Vergara Alberto , Smoglica Camilla
Published: July 2023

In this study a multidisciplinary approach was applied in order to determine the diffusion of resistant bacteria and selected antibiotic resistance genes in antibiotic-free and conventional broiler farms. Litter samples coming from the two farming types and surface sponges obtained from carcasses at slaughterhouse level were screened by end-point PCR targeting specific resistance for tetracycline, ampicillin, sulfonamide, aminoglycoside, carbapenem, nitrofurantoin, vancomycin, quinupristin-dalfopristin, lincomycin, linezolid, chloramphenicol molecules. Microbiological investigations were conducted from the carcasses to determine phenotypical and genetic resistance patterns from pathogenic and commensal Gram-negative and Gram-positive strains. At farm level, catA1, sul2, blaTEM and aadA2 genes were amplified in all samples, while from carcasses the most representative genes were sul2, blaTEM, along with the vatD, relative to quinupristin-dalfopristin resistance. Gram-negative isolates included Aeromonas, Salmonella, Proteus spp. And Escherichia coli, while the Gram-positive were represented by Enterococcus strains. Phenotypical and genetic analysis revealed multidrug resistance patterns in Salmonella, E. coli and Serratia isolates, followed by the Enterococcus species. The comparison between antibiotic-free and conventional farming systems showed some difference regarding the distribution of resistance genes at farm level but no significance was obtained comparing the phenotypical resistance profiles of bacterial strains from both groups of samples, suggesting a poor influence of farming model on the diffusion of antibiotic resistance in poultry meat production chain.
Bilan environnemental de la loi ICPE
Authors: Heidelberger Alain
Published: July 2023

La loi ICPE a largement réussi en quarante ans à faire diminuer fortement les émissions industrielles dans l’air et dans l’eau en France. Par comparaison, les villes et les transports tendent à devenir les sources prépondérantes de pollution. Une voie importante de progrès de la loi ICPE consisterait à prendre en compte les matières recyclées comme vecteurs de diffusion potentielle des polluants. Ces constats sont à peu près transposables à l’ensemble de l’Union européenne, à ceci près qu’à cet échelon, les centrales thermiques et autres grandes installations de combustion émettent à elles seules plus de 90% du SOx et du NOx rejeté par l’ensemble des industries. Un plan spécial pour ce secteur paraît indispensable. Enfin, il est grand temps que le législateur prenne en compte l’efficacité environnementale des efforts prescrits.
Influência da estiagem e inundação na ocorrência de monogenéticos de Hoplias malabaricus (Bloch, 1794) em rios da Amazônia ocidental
Authors: Silva Ronaldo , Melo Henrique , Santos Jocilene , Keppeler Erlei Cassiano , Meneguetti Dionatas , Virgilio Lucena Rocha
Published: July 2023

As monogeneas são em sua maioria ectoparasitos, e por estarem em contato direto com o ambiente sofrem forte influência dos fatores bióticos e abióticos. Assim, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a influência da estiagem, inundação e dos fatores ambientais na fauna de monogenéticos de Hoplias malabaricus, Bloch, 1794. As coletas dos peixes e das variáveis físico-químicas foram feitas em duas microbacias em uma região da Amazônia Ocidental, nos períodos de estiagem e inundação. Em laboratório, os peixes foram medidos, pesados, e sua fauna de monogenéticos foi avaliada. Foram feitas análises no tegumento, narinas e brânquias dos espécimes de peixes, e os monogeneas encontrados foram fixados, avaliados e identificados. As variáveis ambientais dos ambientes foram mesuradas com auxílio de uma sonda multiparametros e as análises de químicas foram feitas em laboratório a partir das amostradas de águas obtidas nos ambientes. Durante o período de estiagem o número de ectoparasitos foi maior em relação ao período de inundação. Onde nesse período, os índices de prevalência, intensidade média e abundância média foram maiores para as espécies de Urocleidoides sp. e U. cuiabai. Os resultados também mostraram similaridade na composição de espécies de monogenéticos entre os ambientes no período de estiagem. Já a correlação mostrou que as variáveis oxigênio dissolvido, nitrato, nitrogênio total, temperatura, Amônia e zinco apresentaram relação com a ocorrência de monogenéticos nos ambientes. Assim, pode-se concluir, que os monogenéticos foram influenciados pelo período de estiagem, no qual as variáveis físicas (temperatura e oxigênio) e as químicas (compostos nitrogenados e zinco) contribuíram para a ocorrência desses organismos, assim essas informações indicam que esses ectoparasitos podem ser influenciados por fatores ambientais e sazonais.
Implementasi Digital Marketing untuk Pemberdayaan Industri Kreatif Jemaat Gereja Toraja di Lembang Ma’dong, Kecamatan Dende’ Piongan, Toraja Utara
Authors: Serdianus Serdianus , Toding Novita
Published: July 2023

Abstract: The community's creative industry in the form of handicrafts is often unable to compete with outside products. This is due to the lack of utilization of digital media in marketing. The purpose of this research is to apply digital marketing in improving the creative industry of the community in Lembang Ma'dong. The research approach used in this study is qualitative through the application of digital marketing to increase promotion and sales of ampa'. Data collection techniques are observation and interview. Data analysis refers to the theory of Miles and Huberman which includes data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. SWOT analysis was also used to analyze the achievements in implementing digital marketing for ampa' handicrafts. The results showed that there was a significant increase in sales of ampa' handicrafts by congregational members of Gereja Toraja in Lembang Ma'dong. In conclution, digital marketing has become a way to empower the congregation economy in Lembang Ma’dong specifically in selling their handicrafts.
Keywords: ampa’, church, congregation, empower, Ma’dong, mats, marketing, society.  
Abstrak: Industri kreatif masyarakat berupa kerajinan tangan seringkali kalah bersaing dengan produk-produk luar. Hal ini disebabkan kurangnya pemanfaatan media digital dalam pemasaran. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menerapkan digital marketing dalam meningkatkan industri kreatif masyarakat khususnya anggota gereja Toraja di Lembang Ma’dong. Pendekatan penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah kualitatif melalui penerapan digital marketing untuk meningkatkan promosi dan penjualan ampa’. Teknik pengumpulan data adalah observasi dan wawancara. Analisis data mengacu pada teori Miles dan Huberman yang mencakup reduksi data, displai data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Analisis SWOT juga digunakan untuk menganalisis pencapaian dalam penerapan digital marketing bagi kerajinan tangan ampa’. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ada peningkatan signifikan dalam penjualan kerajinan tangan pengrajin ampa’ khususnya anggota jemaat gereja Toraja di Lembang Ma’dong. Dengan demikian, digital marketing telah menjadi salah satu cara untuk pemberdayaan jemaat di Lembang Ma’dong, secara khusus dalam memasarkan hasil kerajinan tangan mereka. 
Kata Kunci: ampa’, gereja, jemaat, Ma’dong, pemasaran, pemberdayaan, tikar.
Fine-Kinney-Based Occupational Risk Assessment using Pythagorean Fuzzy AHP-COPRAS for the Lifting Equipment in the Energy Distribution and Investment Sector
Authors: Satıcı Suleyman Recep , Mete Süleyman
Published: July 2023

The initial risk assessment, especially when using a risk score system, is the main step in a risk assessment process that comes after determining the scope of the risks and assessment. Risk assessment frequently employs the Fine-Kinney method, a comprehensive strategy for quantitative assessments that helps keep risks under check. A risk score (RS) is defined using the standard version of Fine-Kinney by mathematically multiplication of probability (P), exposure (E), and consequence (C) parameters. The Fine-Kinney-based risk evaluation approach has the disadvantage of not accounting for the relationships among the risk parameters' interaction and determining the risk precedence of work-related hazards. Hence, to decrease the negative effects of increasing risks, a new hazard evaluation system for occupational health and safety (OHS) is necessary. In this paper, a novel approach is proposed for integrating Fine–Kinney-based occupational hazard evaluation and AHP-COPRAS for the energy distribution and investment sector under the Pythagorean fuzzy environment. Lifting equipment in energy distribution and investment sector case study is used to demonstrate the practicality and efficacy of the suggested integrated approach. To verify the novel method to risk assessment, a comparative study and sensitivity analysis are also provided. As a result, using the benefit of Pythagorean fuzzy sets, which more effectively express uncertainty, the integrated approach yields more logical conclusions for assessing work-related hazards in the energy distribution and investment sector.
Non-Linear Extended Filter with Near Unit-Gain Feedback Loop Yields High Quality, Fast Maximum Entropy CT Reconstruction
Authors: Jarisch Wolfram
Published: July 2023

We're pioneering a novel method in interventional CT radiography, designed to streamline the process of CT down to utilizing a mere six projections. Nonetheless, a phenomenon akin to unfiltered backprojection's object blurring was noted as the number of projections increased. This observation prompted us to explore the efficacy of high-pass projection data filtering, an element intrinsic to filtered backprojection (FBP) type reconstruction. We successfully computed the Maximum Entropy (MENT) estimate in an efficient manner by integrating the definition for MENT (Cover & Thomas; 2006) with non-linear filtering, comparable to the extended Kalman filter (Dan Simon; 2006). This reformulated approach replaces the formerly used multiplicative operations with logarithmic and exponential data transformations.

To accelerate the reconstruction process, we implemented progressive resolutions. This involves initially preparing smaller-sized (condensed) projections to a scale of single pixels and commencing with a singular voxel for the initial reconstruction iterations. In producing these condensed projections, we maintained the white projection measurement noise. Consequently, as the reconstruction escalates in resolution, the main source of estimation noise originates from the high(er)-resolution projections.

The efficacy of our methodology was validated in both parallel and cone-beam reconstruction, thereby inciting an in-depth analysis of the estimation process. The iterative cycle, which incorporates projection, backprojection, and intermediate non-linear data transformations, mirrors the data flow within a nonlinear extended Kalman filter (eKF), suggesting the comparable strategy. Our new approach has a wide range of applications and is capable of encompassing all FBP-type algorithms. Within the filter model we utilized the progressive resolution recursively, beginning with the selected projection resolution, followed by a state estimate in the extended filter, and finally the MENT object density estimate. A loop gain marginally below unity, sustained even during the final iterations, still assists effectively in compensating minimal residual projection measurement errors.
UPAYA DALAM MENINGKATKAN KEDISIPLINAN PESERTA DIDIK SDN CIBUNGUR 1 MELALUI PROGRAM LATE VEST AND GOODNESS PROJECT
Authors: Farhan Farhan Alamsyah Moch Yunus , Reksa Adya Pribadi  , Farhan Alamsyah Moch Yunus
Published: July 2023

Pengertian disiplin menurut Depdiknas (2001) adalah suatu sikap konsisten dalam melakukan sesuatu. Menurut pandangan ini disiplin sebagai suatu konsisten dalam melakukan sesuatu. Menurut pandangan ini disiplin sebagai Sikap yang taat terhadap sesuatu aturan yang menjadi kesepakatan atau telah menjadi ketentuan, sedangkan pengertian disipilin menurut Hasibuan adalah suatu sikap menghormati dan menghargai suatu peraturan yang berlaku, baik secara tertulis maupun tidak tertulis serta sanggup menjalankannya dan tidak menolak untuk menerima sanksi-sanksi apabila dia melanggar tugas dan wewenang yang diberikan kepadanya. Dari dua pengertian diatas dapat disimpulkan bahwa kedisiplinan adalah wujud sadar pengendalian emosi terhadap peraturan yang berlaku dan mau menerima konsekuensi apabila melakukan sesuatu yang menyalahi wewenang atau aturan yang ada. Kedisiplinan akan berdampak positif bagi perkembangan karakter peserta didik karena pembiasaan budaya tertib dan disiplin sedari dini akan menumbuhkan hal yang positif baik pada masa kini maupun masa mendatang. Kedisiplinan yang diberikan kepada peserta didik bukan semata-mata pemaksaan, akan tetapi pembelajaran yang akan menumbuhkan karakter kuat pada diri peserta didik sehingga mereka dapat menjadi murid yang memiliki Jiwa yang kuat dan pantang menyerah. Seperti sekolah-sekolah yang lain, SDN 1 CIBUNGUR juga memberikan peraturan kedisiplinan bagi peserta didik pada saat mereka disekolah. Untuk peningkatan kedisiplinan di SDN 1 CIBUNGUR ini, seluruh dan saya sebagai mahasiswa sepakat bekerja sama dan bergotong royong memberikan rambu-rambu kedisiplinan bagi murid SDN 1 CIBUNGUR 1 pada saat mereka berada disekolah. Salah satu program tersebut adalah Late Vest and Goodness Project. Program ini bertujuan untuk melatih pembiasaan disiplin kepada murid dan mengoptimalkan kebaikan yang dilakukan setiap hari. Rompi terlambat dikenakan kepada murid apabila mereka terlambat kesekolah, sedangkan proyek kebaikan adalah kegiatan yang mereka lakukan untuk menciptakan kebaikan dari dalam dirinya dan lingkungan sekitar. Konsekuensi yang ditanggung apabila mereka terlambat ke sekolah adalah melakukan proyek kebaikan bagi dirinya atau lingkungan sekitar, contohnya membaca kitab suci sesuai dengan agama yang dianut mereka, menyapu atau membersihkan sampah yang berserakan disekitaran halaman sekolah, membersihkan kaca, menyiram bunga dan sebagainya, intinya adalah kegiatan tersebut mencerminkan kegiatan yang positif yang dilakukan oleh murid sebagai konsekuensi datang terlambat kesekolah.
Effect of different washing conditions on the removal efficiency of selected compounds in biopolymers
Authors: Kruta Konstanze , Fischer Jörg , Denifl Peter , Paulik Christian
Published: July 2023

Recycling of plastic materials is a key sustainability topic. Hence, the scope of this study is to evaluate the potential of this purification step for achieving high-purity recyclates via mechanical recycling. In this study, the focus is set on the revalorization of poly(3-hydroxy butyrate) and poly(3-hydroxy butyrate-co-3-hydroxy valerate)—two biobased and biodegradable polymers that have properties similar to those of polyolefins and are therefore possible eco-friendly alternatives. Specifically, the washing process as an important part of polymer recycling processes is evaluated regarding different washing conditions on a laboratory scale. For this purpose, several virgin polymers were contaminated with volatile organic compounds that differed in functionality and molecular weight. Regarding contamination, concentration correlates with contamination time. Moreover, the contamination degree was found to be higher for polar contaminants since polar compounds show higher compatibility with the polymer. General beneficial effects of higher temperatures and longer washing times were observed. The choice of washing medium was relevant for different polarities of the contaminants. At higher process temperatures, material degradation occurred. Hence, recyclers have to pay attention to the difference in the interaction between impurities and the polymer and to the degradation of the polymer during recycling and the subsequent formation of degradation products. Since these biopolymers display comparable properties to polyolefins, great potential in packaging applications is apparent. Moreover, the method of analyzing the removal efficiency of volatile organic compounds via washing can be applied to all recyclable polymers.
Mathematical modelling of the interactive dynamics of wild and Microsporidia MB-infected mosquitoes
Authors: Mfangnia Charlène N. T. , Tonnang Henri E. Z. , Tsanou Berge , Herren Jeremy
Published: July 2023

A recent discovery highlighted that mosquitoes infected with Microsporidia MB are unable to transmit the Plasmodium to humans. Microsporidia MB is a symbiont transmitted vertically and horizontally in the mosquito population, and these transmission routes are known to favor the persistence of the parasite in the mosquito population. Despite the dual transmission, data from field experiments reveal a low prevalence of MB-infected mosquitoes in nature. This study proposes a compartmental model to understand the prevalence of MB-infected mosquitoes. The dynamic of the model is obtained through the computation of the basic reproduction number and the analysis of the stability of the MB-free and coexistence equilibria. The model shows that, in spite of the high vertical transmission efficiency of Microsporidia MB, there can still be a low prevalence of MB-infected mosquitoes. Numerical analysis of the model shows that male-to-female horizontal transmission contributes more than female-to-male horizontal transmission to the spread of MB-infected mosquitoes. Moreover, the female-to-male horizontal transmission contributes to the spread of the symbiont only if there are multiple mating occurrences for male mosquitoes. Furthermore, when fixing the efficiencies of vertical transmission, the parameters having the greater influence on the ratio of MB-positive to wild mosquitoes are identified. In addition, by assuming a similar impact of the temperature on wild and MB-infected mosquitoes, our model shows the seasonal fluctuation of MB-infected mosquitoes. This study serves as a reference for further studies, on the release strategies of MB-infected mosquitoes, to avoid overestimating the MB-infection spread.
Transplantation of fibrin-thrombin encapsulated human induced neural stem cells promotes functional recovery of spinal cord injury rats through modulation of the microenvironment
Authors: Liu Sumei , Liu Baoguo , Li Qian , Zheng Tianqi , Liu Bochao , Li Mo , Chen Zhiguo
Published: July 2023

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202402000-00039/inline-graphic1/v/2023-07-19T141749Z/r/image-tiff

Recent studies have mostly focused on engraftment of cells at the lesioned spinal cord, with the expectation that differentiated neurons facilitate recovery. Only a few studies have attempted to use transplanted cells and/or biomaterials as major modulators of the spinal cord injury microenvironment. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of microenvironment modulation by cell graft on functional recovery after spinal cord injury. Induced neural stem cells reprogrammed from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and/or thrombin plus fibrinogen, were transplanted into the lesion site of an immunosuppressed rat spinal cord injury model. Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan score, electrophysiological function, and immunofluorescence/histological analyses showed that transplantation facilitates motor and electrophysiological function, reduces lesion volume, and promotes axonal neurofilament expression at the lesion core. Examination of the graft and niche components revealed that although the graft only survived for a relatively short period (up to 15 days), it still had a crucial impact on the microenvironment. Altogether, induced neural stem cells and human fibrin reduced the number of infiltrated immune cells, biased microglia towards a regenerative M2 phenotype, and changed the cytokine expression profile at the lesion site. Graft-induced changes of the microenvironment during the acute and subacute stages might have disrupted the inflammatory cascade chain reactions, which may have exerted a long-term impact on the functional recovery of spinal cord injury rats.
Can a diagnosis of Leiomyosarcoma soft palate be missed in the era of commoner oral carcinomas? - Rare case report and review of literature
Authors: Kumar Naina , Gothwal Ravindra Singh , Lakhera Kamal Kishore , Chatterjee Aishwarya , Singh Suresh , Sharma Raj Govind , Patel Pinakin
Published: July 2023

Leiomyosarcomas (LMSs) of the head and neck are an extremely rare entity. Of all smooth muscle tumors, 4%–10% occur in the head and neck and only 0.06% in the oral cavity. Because of its infrequency, it has been associated with both delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis. Here, we report the clinicopathological findings of a case of primary LMS of the soft palate in a 42-year-old male patient with an emphasis on the judicious use of ancillary diagnostic modalities to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. Intraorally, LMSs present as painless, lobulated, fixed masses of the submucosal tissues in middle-aged or older individuals. The treatment modalities and lymph nodal dissection criteria are dissimilar to more common oral carcinomas. Hence, definitive diagnosis is necessary.
The clinical impacts of lymphocyte-to-C-reactive protein ratio for esophageal cancer patients who receive curative treatment
Authors: Aoyama Toru , Nagasawa Shinnosuke , Nakazono Masato , Segami Kenki , Tamagawa Hiroshi , Tamagawa Ayako , Hara Kentaro , Oshima Takashi , Yukawa Norio , Masuda Munetaka , Rino Yasushi
Published: July 2023

Background:

We investigated the impact of the lymphocyte-to-C-reactive protein ratio (LCR) on esophageal cancer survival and recurrence after curative treatment.

Patients and Methods:

This study included 89 patients who underwent curative surgery followed by adjuvant treatment for esophageal cancer between 2008 and 2018. The risk factors for overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were identified.

Results:

LCR of 12,177 was regarded to be the optimal critical point of classification considering the 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival rates. The OS rates at 3 and 5 years after surgery were 33.2% and 29.9% in the LCR low group, respectively, and 74.0% and 60.9% in the LCR high group, which amounted to a statistically significant difference (P = 0.001). The RFS rates at 3 and 5 years after surgery were 25.3% and 21.7% in the LCR low group, respectively, and 52.1% and 47.4% in the LCR high group, which amounted to a statistically significant difference (P = 0.001). A multivariate analysis demonstrated that the LCR was a significant independent risk factor for both the OS and RFS.

Conclusion:

LCR was a risk factor for survival in patients who underwent curative treatment for esophageal cancer. It is necessary to develop the effective plan of the perioperative care and the surgical strategy according to the LCR.
Predictors of cardiac dose sparing in deep inspiratory breath-hold technique for radiation of left breast cancer patients
Authors: Nagpal Puneet , Pruthi Deep Shankar , Shanmugam Prabakar , Pandey Manish Bhushan , Singh Harpreet
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

Radiation therapy to left breast cancer patients results in significant exposure to heart resulting in long-term cardiac morbidity. This exposure can be reduced by performing deep inspiratory breath-hold (DIBH) technique, however, patient selection criteria or predictive parameters are not routinely used which can identify patients who will have significant benefit with this technique. This study intends to find and use these predictive parameters measured on free-breathing (FB) simulation scan which can help to select such patients so as to develop our institutional protocol.

Methods:

A total of 35 patients of left breast cancer postsurgery were recruited in the study. All patients underwent 2–3 sessions of DIBH coaching followed by planning computed tomography scan in both FB phase and DIBH phase. Various anatomical parameters such as cardiac contact distance parasagittal (CCDps), CCD axial, heart–chest distance (HCD), and D were measured on FB scan and were correlated with a mean heart dose achieved in DIBH scan.

Results:

Dose to normal structures, namely heart and lung, was drastically reduced for DIBH scan over FB scan. V5, V10, and V20 of heart also followed a similar reduction. The mean dose to heart in FB scan was 5.34 Gy, while in DIBH scan, it was 2.79 Gy which was statistically significant. Among all the parameters measured, CCDps and D had a statistically significant positive correlation with the mean heart dose in DIBH phase while HCD had a negative correlation which was statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Cardiac parameters on FB scan such as CCDps, HCD, and D predict the patients with usual cardiac risk who will benefit most with DIBH techniques setting an arbitrarily cutoff value.
Effects of physical exercise on rehabilitation of cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy
Authors: Malik Yusuf , Sen Jayeeta , Mishra Anand , Bhandari Virendra
Published: July 2023

Background:

According to the World Health Organization and American Cancer Society, cancer survivors should involve in mild-to-moderate intensity exercises and consume vegetarian diet. These lifestyle alterations show improvement in cancer recurrence, risk reduction, and quality of life (QOL).

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to study the effect of physical activity on health/behavioural changes among adult cancer survivors.

Materials and Methods:

The study is randomized controlled trial which included 100 patients (Group A – Exercise group – 50 patients and Group B – Control group – 50 patients). Assessment of cardiopulmonary fitness, endurance, and QOL was done.

Results:

Significant improvement in pulse rate, SpO2 and endurance, mental health, and social dimension was found in exercising group with no significant improvement in spiritual dimension.

Conclusion:

Remodelling the lifestyle by diet adjustment, strength training, and exercises alters the incidence and prognosis of cancer.
Improvement of quality of life in a family of a child with asthma after using the Written Asthma Action Plan (WAAP)
Authors: Bansal Eshita , Mehra Shuchi , Bhalla Kapil
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Asthma is a common childhood disease that leads to impairment of quality of life (QOL) of both the children affected by the disease and their caregivers. Management of asthma includes pharmacotherapy along with education about asthma and its self-management, which is most often given verbally. There is limited evidence regarding the benefits of using a written asthma action plan (WAAP) that has been improved using pictorial representation.

Objective:

The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a WAAP in improving the QOL of children with bronchial asthma and also of their caregivers. It also educates the patients and families about various triggers and danger signs of an acute attack of asthma.

Methods:

This was an interventional study with the aim of improving the quality of asthma management. Children of age group 7–17 years in whom the diagnosis of asthma was made and those parents and children who could read and answer the questionnaire (mini-PAQLQ and PACQLQ) were included in the study. Subjects were randomized into Case and Control groups. The intervention was to give the randomly selected patients (Case group) an individualized WAAP along with standard asthma care to both groups. Both groups were followed up to assess and record variations in the quality of life.

Results:

The P value was highly significant in the following parameters post-intervention: missed doses of controller medication (P value = 0.001), need for rescue medication (<0.001), ACT score (0.001), total PAQLQ (<0.001), and PACQLQ (<0.001) score. Though statistical significance was not established, improvement was also observed in the number of unscheduled OPD visits (P value = 0.082) and hospitalization events (P value = 0.554).

Conclusion:

On being provided with the WAAP, the frequency of acute asthma events, treatment compliance, and QOL improved. There was a significant increase in the primary outcomes-PAQLQ and PACQLQ scores. Significant improvement in the secondary outcomes-number of missed school days, missed doses of controller medication, need for rescue medication, and ACT score was also observed.
Ocular involvement—An unusual initial presentation of chronic myeloid leukemia: A case report
Authors: Khurana Mittali , Singh Anupam , Pal Himani , Gupta Arvind K. , Kumar Barun
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients frequently exhibit systemic symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal discomfort, weight loss, and fever but rarely can have atypical initial presentation in the form of ophthalmic manifestations, which can precede the diagnosis of the primary malignancy. We describe a case of a 29-year-old male who presented in our ophthalmology out-patient department (OPD) with complaints of painless, diminution of vision, which was sudden in onset in right eye (RE) and loss of vision in left eye (LE) for four and seven days, respectively. There had been a history of loss of weight and appetite for the past 2 months. The visual acuity (VA) recorded was finger counting two meters in RE and perception of light in LE with an inaccurate projection of rays in both eyes (BE). The anterior segment evaluation of both eyes (BE) was normal. Fundus revealed multiple elevated yellow subretinal lesions with exudative detachment in the RE and no view in the LE. Ultrasound-Brightness (USG B) scan in the LE revealed multiple hyperreflective echoes likely vitreous hemorrhage. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed subretinal hyperreflectivity with surrounding edema in RE suggestive of leukemic infiltrates. On further systemic investigations, chronic myeloid leukemia-chronic phase (CML-CP) was detected; hence, the diagnosis of RE exudative retinal detachment (RD) and LE vitreous hemorrhage with CML-CP was made. Ophthalmic involvement is more often seen in acute than chronic leukemia, which makes the diagnosis challenging. We describe a unique case of a young patient with CML-CP who initially presented with ocular involvement preceding systemic diagnosis. This case report illustrates the importance of a primary care physician or an ophthalmologist in the early diagnosis and prompt management of hematological malignancy, as ophthalmic manifestations may be a rare initial presenting feature in CML-CP. These conditions require urgent referral to a hematologist by a primary care physician in the view of early commencement of therapy.
Perceptions regarding child care and perinatal depression during COVID-19 pandemic – A cross-sectional community-based survey from Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Prithviraj Manoj , Mittal Mahima , Kharya Pradip , Joshi Hari Shanker , Bhardwaj Anchala
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

High levels of stress among pregnant women have been reported during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic because of various infection-related and lockdown measures. Concerns about safe delivery, breastfeeding, and child care may increase the risk of depression in vulnerable women during the perinatal period.

Aim:

To study the perceptions regarding child care and prevalence of perinatal depression during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional community-based survey was conducted among 750 lactating mothers post delivery between September 2020 and February 2021 in 51 districts of Uttar Pradesh. A convenient purposive sampling technique was used. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect the socio-demographic details and perceptions regarding child care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Assessment of depression symptoms was performed with the help of patient health questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9).

Results:

A total of 440 participants were suffering from some form of depression symptoms; the majority had mild depression. Depression was found to be higher among homemakers and young mothers (age <25 years). Depression was found in more than 40% of the respondents who felt fear of COVID infection during breast feeding and hospital stay. Similarly, more than 50% of the respondents who feared unavailability of timely health services and social ignorance had depression. More than 60% of the mothers who did not have any knowledge about safe breast-feeding and child care practices had some form of depression, and the results were statistically significant.

Conclusions:

Perinatal depression is highly prevalent during the ongoing pandemic. Hence, regular screening, psychoeducation, awareness regarding safe breast feeding, and child care practices are recommended.
Chest computed tomography in coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia subjects: Call for judicious use
Authors: Karami Vahid , Moazen Javad , Arianezhad Ali , Khajehrezaei Soraya , Sharifi Mostafa
Published: July 2023

Since the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, there has been an unprecedented increase in the number of patients undergoing chest computed tomography (CT). More than 689 million cases have been infected by COVID-19 worldwide till date, of whom many were subjected to CT scanning. Several national and international bodies recommended against the routine use of chest CT for COVID-19 cases. However, evidence points to overuse. This review attempts to briefly describe when and why a chest CT is clinically indicated for COVID-19 patients to judicious use and enhance the benefit–risk ratio.
Effect of different framework materials on stresses induced at the implant/bone interface in all-on-four implant treatment concept
Authors: Sayed Ahmed M. , Abdelazim Ibrahim A.
Published: July 2023

Background and aim

Treatment of mandibular edentulous ridge with all-on-four treatment concept is a reliable choice. However, the framework material may affect the stresses transmitted to the implant and bone.

The aim of the study was to compare stresses transferred to implant–bone interface on using glass fiber-reinforced composite (GFRC), zirconia (Zr), titanium (Ti) and poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) as framework materials.

Patients and methods

Three-dimensional finite element model of completely edentulous mandible restored with four implants (two axial anterior implants and two posterior implants 30° distally tilted) connected with a framework of different materials (Zr, Ti, GFRC, and PEEK) was constructed. A unilateral axial load of 250 N was applied at the distal end of the cantilever and the resultant von Mises stresses at implant–bone interface were calculated.

Results

The lowest von Mises stresses at implant/crestal bone area was recorded with Zr framework followed by Ti then GFRC while the highest von Mises stresses were recorded with PEEK framework.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, it could be concluded that the stiffer framework material transmits more stresses to the implants. The stress distribution of GFRC, as a framework material, is better than PEEK.
Prevalence of early childhood caries and associated factors among a group of preschool children in El-Gharbia Governorate
Authors: Mahmoud Abdallah Samaa W. S. , El Hendawy Fatma A. E. , El Dosoky Ahmed I.
Published: July 2023

Background

Early childhood caries (ECC) is considered one of the most prevalent diseases in young children. It is a public health problem with oral and general consequences that adversely affects the quality of child life. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ECC among preschool aged children in Gharbia Governorate and its related risk factors.

Patients and methods

A cross-sectional study conducted among 2700 Egyptian children 3–6 years old, a stratified cluster sampling methods was utilized to choose the enrolled children, a consent and a self-administered questionnaire about sociodemographic characteristics, dental service, dietary and oral hygiene behaviors applied to parents before the dental examination. The study approved by Research Ethics Committee at Faculty of Dentistry, Tanta University.

Results

The prevalence of ECC among preschool aged children in Gharbia Governorate was (68.5%), it was higher in older children and in rural areas. Data revealed associations between prevalence of ECC and sex, mother education and family income. As well using bottle at bed time and drinking soda or juice were significant factors. Brushing frequency especially at bed time, parent believes about the important of brushing their children teeth also were significant factors.

Conclusions

This study showed high prevalence of ECC in the study population. ECC prevalence was associated with age, sex, family socioeconomic status, drinking soda or juice, night bottle feeding and teeth brushing. Results reveal the need for new preventive strategies to increase awareness about ECC, promoting good oral hygiene practices and enhancing mothers' knowledge of oral health.
Effect of two cleansing materials on hardness and surface roughness of conventional and three-dimensional printed denture base materials
Authors: El-Olimy Gehan , Salem Amel
Published: July 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two different cleansing materials on the hardness and surface roughness of conventional and three-dimensional (3D) printed denture base materials.

Materials and methods

A total of 140 specimens were tested for surface hardness and surface roughness. The samples of each denture base type (n = 70) were randomly divided into seven subgroups each of them = 10 samples. The first subgroup was stored in distilled water. Second, third, and fourth subgroups were immersed for 18, 36, and 54 days in Corega denture cleanser, respectively. Fifth, sixth, and seventh subgroups were immersed for 18, 36, and 54 days in Aloe vera, respectively.

Results

The roughness of the 3D printed denture base material was significantly lower than that of the conventional denture base material. While the hardness of the 3D printed denture base material was significantly higher than that of the conventional denture base material. For the two types of cleaning agents used, there was a nonsignificant difference in hardness of 3D printed and conventional denture base materials immersed in Corega or Aloe vera. There was a significant difference in the surface roughness of 3D printed and conventional denture base materials immersed in Corega and Aloe vera.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this in vitro study, it was concluded that 3D printed denture base material exhibited significantly more favorable surface roughness and hardness compared to the conventional denture base material. Disinfection by immersion using Corega produced higher surface roughness values than using Aloe vera. While Corega and Aloe vera caused nonsignificant damage to the hardness of the conventional and 3D printed denture base materials.

Clinical implications

Aloe vera gel for disinfecting 3D printed and conventional denture base materials is suggested to maintain a smooth surface of the denture base. Printing denture bases is recommended because of its high hardness and low roughness could be achieved.