bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Approximation of homogenized coefficients in deterministic homogenization and convergence rates in the asymptotic almost periodic setting
Authors: Jäger Willi , Tambue Antoine , Woukeng Jean Louis
Published: June 2023

For a homogenization problem associated to a linear elliptic operator, we prove the existence of a distributional corrector and we find an approximation scheme for the homogenized coefficients. We also study the convergence rates in the asymptotic almost periodic setting, and we show that the rates of convergence for the zero-order approximation, are near optimal. The results obtained constitute a step towards the numerical implementation of results from the deterministic homogenization theory beyond the periodic setting. To illustrate this, numerical simulations based on finite volume method are provided to sustain our theoretical results.
Local Galerkin Method Based on the Moving Least Squares Approximation for Solving Delay Integral Equations Arisen from an Air Pollution Model
Authors: Hosseinian Alireza , Assari Pouria , Dehghan Mehdi
Published: June 2023

Mathematical models for measuring pollutants, by predicting the amount of air quality elements, play an important role to protect the human health. As one of these models, delay Volterra integral equations are applied to simulate a network of sensors with past memory to evaluate the emissions of pollutants in the air. This paper presents a computational method to solve these types of delay integral equations using the discrete Galerkin scheme together with the moving least squares (MLS) approach as basis. The MLS is an effective technique to estimate an unknown function which includes a locally weighted least squares polynomial fitting over a small set of all points. The composite Gauss–Legendre quadrature formula is utilized to compute integrals appearing in the proposed method. Since the scheme is constructed on a local scattered data approximation, its algorithm is attractive and easy to run on a computer with normal features. The error estimation and convergence rate of the method are provided. Finally, numerical examples illustrate the efficiency and accuracy of the new technique and confirm the theoretical results obtained in the error analysis.
Inflation and cosmological evolution with F(R,𝒢) gravity theory
Authors: Saha Dalia , Saha Jyoti Prasad , Sanyal Abhik Kumar
Published: June 2023

In the last decade Planck PR4 data together with ground-based experimental data such as BK18, BAO and CMB lensing tightened constraint of the tensor-to-scalar ratio, starting form [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text], while the spectral index lies within the range [Formula: see text]. Viability of modified gravity theories, proposed as alternatives to the dark energy issue, should therefore be tested in the light of such new result. Here, we explore [Formula: see text] gravity theory in regard to the early universe and show that it is not compatible with newly released constraints on [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] simultaneously. Further, it also fails to produce a feasible radiation-dominated era. It therefore questions the justification of using the model for resolving the cosmic puzzle.
Removal of heavy and toxic metals from wastewater using porphyrin-based covalent-organic frameworks: An emerging Field
Authors: Harvey Pierre D.
Published: June 2023

This mini-review assembles the current advances in the adsorption of heavy elements and toxic metals, namely Cr(VI), Mn(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Tc(VII), Cd(II), Re(VII), Pt(IV), Au(III), Hg(II), Pb(II), and U(VI), bromate ([Formula: see text]), and iodine ([Formula: see text] in water, as well as the visible-light-driven heterogeneous photocatalytic reduction of highly harmful metal ions into less hazardous or soluble metallic cations, mainly U(VI) + light [Formula: see text] U(IV) and Au(III) + light [Formula: see text] Au NPs, by the porous and highly colored porphyrin-based covalent-organic frameworks (COFs) in water.
Sn(IV)-corroles reversibly bind carboxylates in the axial position
Authors: Bak Helle Ø. , Cavigli Paolo , Bond Andrew , Brock-Nannestad Theis , Pittelkow Michael , Iengo Elisabetta
Published: June 2023

We present the synthesis of Sn(IV)-corrole complexes that bind to carboxylate moieties reversibly, via axial ligation. The systems have been predominantly characterized using 1H NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, and MALDI mass spectrometry. The dynamic nature of the Sn(IV)−O2CR bond has been studied in solution using 2D-NMR spectroscopy.
New Insights into the Microchannel Heat Sink with Cantor Fractal Structure by Using Simulated Annealing Algorithm
Authors: Wang Helin , Chen Xueye
Published: June 2023

Efficient microchannel cooling is the key to the development of microelectronics. The key to solving this problem is the geometry of the microchannel heat sink and the thermophysical properties of the fluid. We combined the cantor fractal principle with the microchannel heat sink to design a new type of three-dimensional microchannel structure. Thermal resistance is treated as a single objective function, and the simulated annealing process is utilized to minimize it and achieve satisfying results. When the Reynolds number (Re)[Formula: see text]100, the aspect ratio of the microchannel entrance ([Formula: see text]), the aspect ratio of the Cantor fractal baffle ([Formula: see text] and the ratio of the width of the entrance of the microchannel to the length of the mixing unit ([Formula: see text] are optimized. The important factors that affect the thermal resistance of the microchannel are the size and spacing of the baffle. Then the pressure drop and heat transfer under different Res were analyzed. The study found that the structure of the groove and baffle based on the cantor fractal principle will cause chaotic flow and greatly enhance the heat transfer performance. Compared with the reference microchannel, the comprehensive heat transfer coefficient PEC is greater than 1, the thermal resistance is reduced by 19.82%.
Enhanced Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Electrospun PA-6 Nanofibers by Embedding Alumina and Tungsten Carbide Particles
Authors: Karanian Seied Isa , Naeini Ali Hosseinian , Amirkhani Rasool , Gholampour Mahdi , Tavakoli Hasan
Published: June 2023

Electrospinning is a process in which solid fibers are prepared from polymer solution. In recent decades, studies have focused on improving the properties of electrospun nanofibers by exploring the possibilities of electrospinning different polymers. Two critical properties that have been studied in relation to this technique are thermal stability and mechanical properties. In this study, polyamide-6 (PA-6) nanofibers were prepared by embedding combinations of alumina and tungsten carbide particles. The morphology of the resulting hybrid nanofibers was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric (TGA) techniques, and tensile tests were performed to evaluate their mechanical properties. The results showed that the sample containing tungsten carbide with a weight ratio of 4:10 had the highest melting standard enthalpy. The analysis also revealed that hybrid fibers containing equal ratios of alumina and tungsten carbide, each with a weight ratio of 2:10, had higher degradation temperatures and melting enthalpy compared to other nanofibers. Tensile testing showed that nanofibrous mats containing tungsten carbide had higher Young’s modulus, PA-6 fibers.
Effect of Patch Interface Strengthening on Mechanical Properties of Epoxy/Carbon Fiber Sheet by Double-Sided Patching
Authors: Qian Changjiang , Wang Shuo , Wang Qi , Xue Hongqian , Zheng Hui
Published: June 2023

To repair the damage to the epoxy/carbon fiber laminate, a single-lap test was performed between sulfuric acid anodized aluminum plate and carbon fiber laminate to study the effect of the anodized layer on the interlaminar shear strength. Then, carbon fiber laminates were prepared by wet-laying method to simulate the damage caused by penetrating cracks, and double-sided adhesive sheets were made from 0.5[Formula: see text]mm thick 2024-T3 aluminum alloy and carbon fiber laminates to match the thickness and material of the simulated damage plate. The adhesive matrix used was E51 bisphenol-A epoxy resin with 1.5[Formula: see text]wt.% nanorubber added for modification and toughening. After double-sided patching, tensile tests were performed to investigate the effect of different materials on the tensile strength of double-sided adhesive patches. We observed SEM images of the fracture surface of the patch after tensile failure and analyzed the strengthening mechanisms of different material patches. The results show that the shear strength between the single-layer sulfuric acid anodized aluminum plate and the carbon fiber laminate is 9.792 MPa, which is 61.5% higher than the shear strength of the nonanodized aluminum plate. The tensile strength of the 2024-T3 aluminum patch specimen is 271.83 MPa, which is 48.43% and 23.97% higher than the perforated specimen without patch and the specimen with carbon fiber laminate patch, respectively, and reaches 72.56% of the undamaged carbon fiber laminate. The specimens with aluminum plate patches showed a maximum bending strength of 616.47 MPa, which increased by 70.83% compared to the 360.875 MPa of the perforated specimens. The maximum bending strength of the aluminum plate patch specimen reached 74.76% of that of the undamaged specimen. However, the maximum bending strength of the composite patch specimen is as high as 1101.9 MPa, far exceeding that of other samples. Due to the poor toughness of the sample, it cannot withstand large strains. The addition of 1.5[Formula: see text]wt.% nanorubber results in shear yield bands and induces silver grains to absorb a large amount of energy during stress deformation.
Mg-assisted reduced graphene oxide fabrication under microwave irradiation of a natural source of carbon
Authors: Chetibi Loubna , Hamana Djamel , Speranza Giorgio , Achour Slimane
Published: June 2023

Chemical reduction of graphene oxide to form reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is a long process that needs time and energy. In this work, we present a facile one-step method to produce rGO using a domestic microwave oven for 2 min. The chemical composition is studied by X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Raman and X-Ray diffraction (XRD) that confirm the formation of rGO. They reveal also the benifit effect of MgCl2 addition towards the rGO formation. Different amounts of MgCl2 are added to polyethylene glycol (PEG) and a natural source of carbon (glucose) is used to form rGO. The rGO yield is successfully enhanced by addition of MgCl2 low concentration. The oxygen concentration decreases with Mg addition which means that Mg atoms replaced oxygen or simply adsorbed at the edge sites. Moreover, carbon concentration increases with MgCl2 addition, which means that Mg acts as an activator of rGO formation. At high MgCl2 concentration, Mg(OH)2-rGO is formed and has a lot of applications.
China–EU Climate Complex Interdependence Amid COVID-19 and Geopolitical Tensions: Prospects for Future
Authors: Zaman Haadia
Published: June 2023

The world is facing multiple challenges: Climate change, biodiversity loss, and extreme environmental degradation. Moreover, it has entered a new era marked by greater instability and uncertainty, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia–Ukraine conflict, and other geopolitical tensions. Relations between China and the European Union (EU) cannot stay immune amid these changes. In order to achieve climate neutrality at an early date, despite having different political institutions, domestic priorities, economic systems, and diverse values, both Beijing and Brussels are managing their bilateral ties and leading international efforts at climate mitigation. However, escalating rifts, different perceptions, and opposing domestic and global approaches are undercutting the efficacy of their partnership. This paper aims to deeply evaluate their climate partnership based on a common stance of generating a low-carbon economy and green transition amid geopolitical tensions, great power rivalry, and post-pandemic uncertainty. With suitable vision and strong commitments, China and the EU recognize a “win–win” opportunity in the green transition. So, regardless of mounting pressures, there is a chance that China–EU relations will not deteriorate considerably. Although geopolitical circumstances might not allow for a smooth transition, both can still reap real benefits from a deep interdependence on certain key issues.
Multiple stages of continental rifting in Eastern Peninsular Malaysia: new insights from Jurassic–Cretaceous granitoids
Authors: Qian Xin , Bai Tianxing , Yu Yongqi , Mustapha Khairul Azlan , Sheldrick Thomas C. , Gan Chengshi , Wang Yuejun
Published: June 2023

Mesozoic granitoids in Peninsular Malaysia provide crucial information on the temporal–spatial relationship between the Tethyan and Palaeo-Pacific domains. This paper presents new ages and geochemical data for newly identified Jurassic–Cretaceous granites and meta-granites from East Malaya. These granitoids can be divided into three groups. Group 1 consists of high-K calc-alkaline granites and granodiorites (171–162 Ma) with variable
ε
Nd
(
t
) values of −7.4–+0.5, zircon
ε
Hf
(
t
) values of −7.4–+8.6, and high initial ratios for
206
Pb/
204
Pb (20.04–20.65),
207
Pb/
204
Pb (15.73–15.79) and
208
Pb/
204
Pb (39.80–40.20). The melting of metasedimentary rocks with a juvenile mafic component formed Group 1 samples. Group 2 granite porphyries (
c.
131 Ma) with A-type affinities and Group 3 granitic gneisses (
c.
130 Ma) with I-type affinities share similar
ε
Nd
(
t
) values (−7.2 to −5.5), zircon
ε
Hf
(
t
) values (−10.1–+6.5), and initial ratios for
206
Pb/
204
Pb (18.81–19.02),
207
Pb/
204
Pb (15.71–15.77) and
208
Pb/
204
Pb (38.95–39.59). Although Group 2 and 3 samples were derived from an ‘ancient’ meta-mafic source region, Group 2 shows evidence for the involvement of a juvenile mafic component. All these granitoids are akin to the Permian–Triassic igneous rocks in East Malaya. The Jurassic–Cretaceous igneous rocks in Eastern Peninsular Malaysia were formed during multiple stages of continental rifting in response to Palaeo-Pacific slab rollback pulses rather than by Tethyan evolutionary processes.

Supplementary material
: Data for the Middle Jurassic–Early Cretaceous granitoids of East Malaya are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.6689085

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Mesozoic and Cenozoic tectonics, landscape and climate change collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/topic/collections/mesozoic-and-cenozoic-tectonics-landscape-and-climate-change
Named Entity Recognition and Classification in Historical Documents: A Survey
Authors: Ehrmann Maud , Hamdi Ahmed , Pontes Elvys Linhares , Romanello Matteo , Doucet Antoine
Published: June 2023

After decades of massive digitisation, an unprecedented number of historical documents are available in digital format, along with their machine-readable texts. While this represents a major step forward with respect to preservation and accessibility, it also opens up new opportunities in terms of content mining and the next fundamental challenge is to develop appropriate technologies to efficiently search, retrieve, and explore information from this ‘big data of the past’. Among semantic indexing opportunities, the recognition and classification of named entities are in great demand among humanities scholars. Yet, named entity recognition (NER) systems are heavily challenged with diverse, historical, and noisy inputs. In this survey, we present the array of challenges posed by historical documents to NER, inventory existing resources, describe the main approaches deployed so far, and identify key priorities for future developments.
AMP: Total Variation Reduction for Lossless Compression via Approximate Median-based Preconditioning
Authors: Li Fenfang , Luo Huizhang , Wang Junqi , Li Yida , Tang Zhuo , Li Kenli
Published: June 2023

With the increasing scale of cloud computing applications of next-generation embedded systems, a major challenge that domain scientists are facing is how to efficiently store and analyze the vast volume of output data. Compression can reduce the amount of data that needs to be transferred and stored. However, most of the large datasets are in floating-point format, which exhibits high entropy. As a result, existing lossless compressors cannot provide enough performance for such applications. To address this problem, we propose a total variation reduction method for improving the compression ratio of lossless compressors (namely, FPC
+
and FPZIP
+
), which employs a median-based hyperplane to precondition the data. In particular, we first try to exploit the space-filling curve (SFC), a well-known technique to preserve data locality for a multi-dimensional dataset. We show and explain why a raw SFC, such as Hilbert and Z-order curves, cannot improve the compression ratio. Then, we explore the opportunity and theoretical feasibility of the proposed total variation reduction-based algorithm. The experiment results show the effectiveness of the proposed method. The compression ratios are improved up to 48.2% (20.6% on average) for FPZIP and 42.4% (18.4% on average) for FPC. Moreover, through observing the time composition of the proposed method, it is found that the median finding holds a high percentage of the execution time. Hence, we further introduce an approximate median finding algorithm, providing a linear-time overhead reduction scheme. The experiment results clearly demonstrate that this algorithm reduces execution time by an average of 56.7% and 40.7% compared to FPC
+
and FPZIP
+
, respectively.
Quantifying Volume Change in Porous Electrodes via the Multi-Species, Multi-Reaction Model
Authors: Garrick Taylor R. , Fernandez Miguel A. , Verbrugge Mark W. , Labaza Christine , Mollah Rafid , Koch Brian J. , Jones Matthew D. , Gao Jing , Gao Xiujie , Irish Nicholas
Published: June 2023

Automotive manufacturers are working to improve individual cell and overall pack design by increasing their performance, durability, and range, while reducing cost; and active material volume change is one of the more complex aspects that needs to be considered during this process. As the time from initial design to manufacture of electric vehicles is decreased, design work that used to rely solely on testing needs to be supplemented or replaced by virtual methods. As electrochemical engineers drive battery and system design using model-based methods, the need for coupled electrochemical/mechanical models that take into account the active material change utilizing physics based or semi-empirical approaches is necessary. In this study, we illustrated the applicability of a mechano-electrochemical coupled modeling method considering the multi-species, multi-reaction model as popularized by Verbrugge and Baker. To do this, validation tests were conducted using a computer-controlled press apparatus that can control the press displacement and press force with precision. The coupled MSMR volume change model was developed and its applicability to graphite and NMC cells was illustrated. The increased accuracy of the model considering the coupled MSMR volume change approach shows in the importance of accounting for individual gallery volume change behavior on cell level predictions.
BRCA1-specific machine learning model predicts variant pathogenicity with high accuracy
Authors: Khandakji Mohannad , Habish Hind Hassan Ahmed , Abdulla Nawal Bakheet Salem , Kusasi Sitti Apsa Albani , Abdou Nema Mahmoud Ghobashy , Al-Mulla Hajer Mahmoud M. A. , Al Sulaiman Reem Jawad A. A. , Bu Jassoum Salha M. , Mifsud Borbala
Published: June 2023

Identification of novel BRCA1 variants outpaces their clinical annotation which highlights the importance of developing accurate computational methods for risk assessment. Therefore our aim was to develop a BRCA1-specific machine learning model to predict the pathogenicity of all types of BRCA1 variants and to apply this model and our previous BRCA2-specific model to assess BRCA variants of uncertain significance (VUS) among Qatari patients with breast cancer. We developed an XGBoost model that utilizes variant information such as position frequency and consequence as well as prediction scores from numerous in silico tools. We trained and tested the model with BRCA1 variants that were reviewed and classified by the Evidence-Based Network for the Interpretation of Germline Mutant Alleles (ENIGMA) consortium. In addition we tested the model’s performance on an independent set of missense variants of uncertain significance with experimentally determined functional scores. The model performed excellently in predicting the pathogenicity of ENIGMA-classified variants (accuracy: 99.9%) and in predicting the functional consequence of the independent set of missense variants (accuracy: 93.4%). Moreover it predicted 2 115 potentially pathogenic variants among the 31 058 unreviewed BRCA1 variants in the BRCA exchange database. Using two BRCA-specific models we did not identify any pathogenic BRCA1 variants among those found in patients in Qatar but predicted four potentially pathogenic BRCA2 variants, which could be prioritized for functional validation.
Sulfonated Polyphenylene-Based Multiblock Membranes with Fluorine Moiety for Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Wijaya Farid , Woo Seunghee , Kim Suyeon , Chon Minji , Kim Jonghak , Lee Hyerin , Kim Hansung , Lee Hyejin , Shin Dongwon , Bae Byungchan
Published: June 2023

Sulfonated poly(phenylene-co-arylene ether sulfone) multiblock copolymers are synthesized via Colon’s nickel-mediated cross-coupling reaction and are investigated as a proton-exchange membrane fuel cell. To investigate the influence of the fluorine moieties on the membrane properties, two different membranes are prepared, one containing a fluorinated hydrophobic poly(arylene ether) block (6F polymer membrane) and a nonfluorinated biphenyl (BP) polymer membrane. The proton transport, morphology, mechanical properties, and oxidative stabilities of the membranes are examined in relation to the ion-exchange capacity (IEC). 6F polymer membranes show superior proton conductivity and oxidative stability (results of Fenton’s oxidative stability and hydrogen peroxide exposure tests) compared with the BP polymer membranes. In water at 25°C, 6F and BP polymer membranes with IEC 2.0 meq g–1 exhibit proton conductivity of 0.11 S cm–1 with 6F having 16% lower water uptake than BP polymer. Meanwhile, at 30% RH and 80°C, 6F-X5Y9-(2.0) exhibits proton conductivity of 0.0026 S cm–1 that almost 50% higher than BP-X5Y7-(2.0) with 0.0018 S cm–1, while at 90% RH and 80°C, both polymers have an almost similar value of 0.10 S cm–1. Oxidative stability with the Fenton test under harsh conditions demonstrates that 6F-X5Y9-(2.0) has an extent degradation of 26%, almost 19% lower than BP-X5Y7-(2.0) with 32%, and the hydrogen peroxide exposure test demonstrates that 6F has 50% lower extent of degradation than BP with 5 and 9%, respectively. Fuel cell performance test at 80°C and 100% RH show that 6F-X5Y9-(2.0) exhibits a current density of 1.6 A cm–2 at 0.6 V (hydrogen/air) and outperforms Nafion-NR211 and BP-X5Y7-(2.0), 1.4 A cm–2 and 1.2 A cm–2, respectively. Undoubtedly, incorporating fluorinated moieties could enhance proton transport properties and oxidative stability favorable for fuel cell application.
Unpredictable Malnutrition and Short-Term Outcomes after Single Anastomosis Sleeve Ileal (SASI) Bypass in Obese Patients
Authors: Kamal Ayman , El Azawy Mahmoud , Hassan Tarik A. A.
Published: June 2023

Background/Introduction. The single anastomosis sleeve ileal (SASI) bypass is a novel metabolic/bariatric surgery operation based on minigastric bypass operation and Santoro’s operation. Objectives. The aim of this study is to present the clinical outcomes of SASI bypass as a treatment alternative for patients with morbid obesity. Methods. This study was a prospective follow-up of morbidly obese patients who underwent SASI bypass at Helwan University Hospital between March 1, 2019, and March 2020. The surgical procedure involved sleeve gastrectomy, followed by the anastomosis of the ileum, which was brought and hand-sewn 4 cm length side to side with the antrum, at a distance of 250 cm from the ileocecal valve. The data collected for the study included the resolution of comorbidities, incidence of gallstones, and one-year morbidity. Results. The mean age of the studied patients (n = 30) was 44.13 ± 8.9 years. The mean BMI of the studied patients was 47.3 ± 7.6 kg/ht2. All patients were morbidly obese for an average of 24 years. Postoperatively, 48% of the patients (n = 13) developed gallstones (GS), and the formation of GS was significantly higher in patients with longer durations of obesity (

P

 = 0.009) and rapid weight loss. There was a significant decrease in the incidence of GS after 12 months postoperatively (

P

 < 0.05). 63% of the patients (n = 19) had malnutrition, and 15 cases required revision due to the fear of further weight loss. Revision and malnutrition were significantly higher among male patients than female patients and among patients with longer durations of obesity (

P

 ≤ 0.001). Conclusion. The SASI bypass may be an effective bariatric and metabolic surgery that can achieve satisfactory weight loss and improvement in medical comorbidities. However, our study highlights the potential risks of severe malnutrition and unpredictable weight loss; patient selection and duration of obesity may play a role in mitigating these risks.
Optimal Solution of Peer-to-Peer and Peer-to-Grid Trading Strategy Sharing between Prosumers with Grid-Connected Photovoltaic/Wind Turbine/Battery Storage Systems
Authors: Azaroual Meryeme , Hermann Djeudjo Temene , Ouassaid Mohammed , Bajaj Mohit , Maaroufi Mohamed , Alsaif Faisal , Alsulamy Sager
Published: June 2023

This paper presents an energy management peer-to-peer (P2P) and peer-to-grid (P2G) trading strategy for power sharing between prosumers with grid-connected photovoltaic/wind turbine/battery storage systems. The optimal results are obtained using the “Fmincon” solver due to its ability to solve large-scale optimization problems. Two prosumers sectors are considered in this study that is the residential and commercial. The results show that for the residential consumer side, the load is satisfied by the energy from the grid, its own renewable energy system (RES), and the energy from the commercial consumer side RES during the first off-peak period (00:00 AM to 05:00 AM). During the peak pricing period (17:00 PM to 22:00 PM), the load is satisfied by the residential consumer’s battery and the commercial consumer’s battery, and no energy is bought from the grid due to the high price. Furthermore, 37.69% and 39.40% cost savings for residential and commercial, respectively, and a reduction of the bill by $42.26/day and $42.97154/day, respectively, are recorded. Significant grid energy savings for the developed P2P/P2G trading for prosumers and maximum daily cost savings are achieved compared to existing cases such as P2G only and P2P only. Finally, the residential consumer can achieve a greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions reduction of 141.88 kgCO2-eq and 176.99 kgCO2-eq net savings, while the commercial consumer can achieve 122.34 kgCO2-eq GHG emissions mitigation and 196.53 kgCO2-eq net savings.
Management of Liver Hydatid Cysts: A Retrospective Analysis of 293 Surgical Cases from Southern Iran
Authors: Erfani Amirhossein , Shahriarirad Reza , Eskandarisani Mehrdad , Rastegarian Mohammad , Sarkari Bahador
Published: June 2023

Background. The current study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic features and complications of liver hydatid cyst in patients who underwent surgery for cystic echinococcosis (CE) in Fars province, southern Iran. Methods. A total of 293 patients who underwent surgery for liver hydatid cyst from 2004 to 2018 in Fars province, southern Iran, were retrospectively evaluated. The clinical records of patients were reviewed, and the demographic and clinical characteristics of each patient were assessed. Results. Of the total of 293 cases, 178 (60.9%) were females and 115 (39.1%) were males. The mean age of the subjects was 37.22 (±20.55) years. The mean size of the liver hydatid cyst was 9.18 (±4.365) cm. Of the 293 patients studied, 227 (77.4%) had hydatid cysts only in the liver, while 55 (9.4%) had both liver and lung cysts. More than half of the liver cysts (65.9%) were located in the right portion of the liver (segment 5 to 8). Of the 293 cases, 52 (17.7%) underwent radical surgery, while 241 (82.3%) underwent conservative surgery. Recurrence of hydatid cyst was recorded in 46 (15%) of cases. Patients who were treated with radical surgery in comparison with those who had conservative surgery had a lower recurrence rate but a longer duration of hospital stay (

P
<
0.05

). Conclusion. Recurrence remains as one of the major challenges in the management of hydatid cyst. Radical surgery reduces the chance of recurrence, although this procedure increases the length of hospital stay.
Table S1 and S2 from The African-Centric P47S Variant of TP53 Confers Immune Dysregulation and Impaired Response to Immune Checkpoint Inhibition
Authors: Stieg David C , Parris Joshua L.D. , Yang Tyler Hong Loong , Mirji Gauri , Reiser Sarah Kim , Murali Nivitha , Werts Madison , Barnoud Thibaut , Lu David Y , Shinde Rahul S , Murphy Maureen E , Claiborne Daniel T
Published: June 2023

Table S1 and Table S2
Data from The African-Centric P47S Variant of TP53 Confers Immune Dysregulation and Impaired Response to Immune Checkpoint Inhibition
Authors: Stieg David C , Parris Joshua L.D. , Yang Tyler Hong Loong , Mirji Gauri , Reiser Sarah Kim , Murali Nivitha , Werts Madison , Barnoud Thibaut , Lu David Y , Shinde Rahul S , Murphy Maureen E , Claiborne Daniel T
Published: June 2023

Abstract
The tumor suppressor TP53 is the most frequently mutated gene in cancer and is mutationally inactivated in fifty percent of sporadic tumors. Inactivating mutations in TP53 also occur in Li Fraumeni syndrome (LFS). In addition to germline mutations in TP53 in LFS that completely inactivate this protein, there are many more germline mutant forms of TP53 in human populations that partially inactivate this protein: we call these partially inactivating mutations “hypomorphs”. One of these hypomorphs is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) that exists in 6-10% of Africans and 1-2% of African Americans, which changes proline at amino acid 47 to serine (Pro47Ser; P47S). We previously showed that the P47S variant of p53 is intrinsically impaired for tumor suppressor function, and that this SNP is associated with increased cancer risk in mice and humans. Here we show that this SNP also influences the tumor microenvironment, and the immune microenvironment profile in P47S mice is more pro-tumorigenic. At basal levels, P47S mice show impaired memory T cell formation and function, along with increased anti-inflammatory (so-called “M2”) macrophages. We show that in tumor-bearing P47S mice, there is an increase in immunosuppressive myeloid-derived suppressor cells and decreased numbers of activated dendritic cells, macrophages, and B cells, along with evidence for increased T cell exhaustion in the tumor microenvironment. Finally, we show that P47S mice demonstrate an incomplete response to anti-PD-L1 therapy. Our combined data suggest that the African-centric P47S variant leads to both intrinsic and extrinsic defects in tumor suppression.
Differentiating Cerebral Toxoplasmosis and Tumor Recurrence by Thallium-201 Single-Photon Emission Computerized Tomography in a 28-Year-Old Female with Astrocytoma
Authors: Dela Vega Mia Patrice , Opinaldo Paul Vincent , Batara Julette Marie
Published: June 2023

Cerebral toxoplasmosis is an opportunistic infection that, by itself, is difficult to differentiate from cerebral neoplasms by conventional neuroimaging. It rarely occurs concurrently in patients with a primary brain tumor but when it does, it makes diagnosis and management more difficult. This is a case of a 28-year-old female, diagnosed with a right frontal pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma with several recurrences, treated with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Three years from diagnosis, the patient was readmitted for generalized body weakness, fever, and a decrease in sensorium. A repeat cranial magnetic resonance imaging showed multiple enhancing lesions in both cerebral hemispheres and in the posterior fossa. Serum toxoplasma IgM and IgG antibody titers were elevated. Single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) with thallium-201 did not show increased tracer uptake in these lesions, favoring toxoplasmosis over tumor recurrence. The patient was treated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole with significant improvement. This is a rare account of cerebral toxoplasmosis arising in the setting of astrocytoma. This is also the first case report to demonstrate the value of thallium-201 SPECT in differentiating central nervous system infection from tumor recurrence, which is pivotal in management. More studies exploring the use of thallium-201 SPECT in distinguishing central nervous system infections from glioma and other malignant tumors should be undertaken to maximize this imaging modality in neuro-oncology practice.
Granulomatous Pigmented Purpuric Dermatosis in a Patient with (Inactive) Myasthenia Gravis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Dhekariyapak Apirada , Wattanakrai Penpun
Published: June 2023

Granulomatous pigmented purpuric dermatosis (GPPD) is a rare histologic variant of pigmented purpuric dermatosis (PPD) characterized by dermal histiocyte-rich interstitial infiltration with or without granuloma formation in addition to the other typical features of PPD. GPPD was previously observed more frequently to affect Asians and was reported to be associated with dyslipidemia. However, our literature search of 45 documented GPPD cases revealed an increasing prevalence in Caucasians in addition to dyslipidemia and associated autoimmune diseases. To date, etiopathogenesis of GPPD is unknown but may involve dyslipidemia, genetic and immunological factors such as autoimmune dysregulation or a sarcoidal reaction associated with C. acnes. GPPD is usually persistent and recalcitrant to treatments. We report a case of GPPD in a 57-year-old Thai woman with underlying myasthenia gravis who presented with a pruritic eruption on both lower legs. After treatment with 0.05% clobetasol propionate cream and oral colchicine, the lesion improved with marked flattening and disappeared with residual postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. We provide a literature review of the epidemiology, etiopathogenesis, concomitant comorbidities, clinical symptoms, dermatoscopic features, and treatments of GPPD.
Treatment Response of Sacrococcygeal Chordoma to Palliative Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy: A Case Report
Authors: Ho Bryan Shihan , Nei Wen Long
Published: June 2023

Chordomas are rare and locally aggressive tumours that arise from embryonic remnants of the notochord, with a predilection for the skull base, mobile spine, and sacrum. Sacral or sacrococcygeal chordomas can be particularly difficult to manage because of their large size at presentation and involvement of adjacent organs and neural structures. Although the recommended definitive therapy for such tumours is either en bloc resection with or without adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) or definitive fractionated RT with charged particle therapy, older and/or less-fit patients may not necessarily be accepting of said approaches due to the potential morbidities and challenging logistic requirements. Here, we report a case of a 79-year-old male presenting with intractable lower limb pain and neurologic deficits due to a large de novo sacrococcygeal chordoma. The patient was successfully treated with a 5-fraction course of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), given with palliative intent, with complete relief of his symptoms achieved approximately 21 months after RT and without the development of any iatrogenic toxicities. In view of this case, ultra-hypofractionated SBRT may be a suitable option for the palliation of large de novo sacrococcygeal chordomas for selected patients to reduce their symptom burden and improve their quality of life.
Pulmonary Veno-Occlusive Disease after Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Hamada Takashi , Takahashi Hiromichi , Nakagawa Masaru , Nukariya Hironao , Ito Shun , Endo Toshihide , Kurihara Kazuya , Koike Takashi , Iizuka Kazuhide , Ohtake Shimon , Ichinohe Takashi , Maebayashi Toshiya , Miura Katsuhiro , Hatta Yoshihiro , Nakamura Hideki
Published: June 2023

Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD) is an extremely rare condition in oncology practice. Although PVOD is clinically similar to pulmonary arterial hypertension, the conditions differ in terms of pathophysiology, management, and prognosis. This report discusses the case of a 47-year-old woman who developed dyspnea and fatigue after high-dose cyclophosphamide chemotherapy and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for relapsed lymphoma. The patient exhibited tachycardia, tachypnea, and hypotension, but other findings in the physical examination were unremarkable. The imaging studies showed no evidence of pulmonary embolism, but multiple ground-glass opacities and bilateral pleural effusions were observed on chest high-resolution computed tomography scans. In the right heart catheterization study, the mean pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance were 35 mm Hg and 5.93 Wood units, respectively, with a normal pulmonary capillary wedge pressure of 10 mm Hg. Pulmonary function tests revealed a remarkable reduction in the percentage predicted value of diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide to 31%. Lymphoma progression, collagen diseases, infectious diseases such as human immunodeficiency virus or parasitic infections, portal hypertension, and congenital heart disease were carefully excluded as these are also capable of causing pulmonary arterial hypertension. Thereafter, we reached a final diagnosis of PVOD. The patient was treated with supplemental oxygen and a diuretic during 1 month of hospitalization, which relieved her right heart overload symptoms. Herein, we present the patient’s clinical course and diagnostic workup because misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment can lead to unfavorable outcomes in patients with PVOD.
Cholestasis-Associated Pulmonary Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Tissue Fibrosis: The Protective Role of the Biogenic Amine Agmatine
Authors: Ommati MOHAMMAD MEHDI , Niknahad Hossein , Najibi Asma , Arjmand Abdollah , Alidaee Sepideh , Mazloomi Sahra , Ahmadi Parinaz , Ghiasvand Alireza , Javadi Maral , Yazdani Jamal , Sabouri Samira , Rezaei Heresh , Azarpira Negar , Heidari Reza
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Cholestasis is the stoppage of bile flow, leading to the accumulation of potentially cytotoxic bile components in the liver. These cytotoxic molecules affect many organs. Cholestasis-induced lung injury is a severe complication that could lead to tissue fibrosis and respiratory distress. Substantial evidence indicates the role of oxidative stress and inflammatory response in the pathogenesis of cholestasis-associated pulmonary damage. Agmatine (AGM; 1-amino-4-guanidinobutane) is a biogenic amine endogenously synthesized in the human body. This amine provides potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Methods: In the current study, a series (six C57BL/6J male mice/group) of bile duct-ligated (BDL) animals were monitored at scheduled intervals (7, 14, and 28 days after the BDL operation) to ensure inflammatory response in their lung tissue (by analyzing their bronchoalveolar lavage fluid [BALF]). It was found that the level of inflammatory cells, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and IgG in the BALF reached their maximum level on day 28 after the BDL surgery. Therefore, other research groups were selected as follows: 1) Sham-operated (2.5 mL/kg normal saline, i.p., for 28 consecutive days), 2) BDL, 3) BDL + AGM (1 mg/kg/day, i.p., for 28 consecutive days), and 4) BDL + AGM (10 mg/kg/day, i.p., for 28 consecutive days). Then, the BALF was monitored at scheduled time intervals (7, 14, and 28 days post-BDL). Results: It was found that pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β), bile acids, bilirubin, and inflammatory cells (monocytes, neutrophils, and lymphocytes) were significantly increased in the BALF of BDL mice. Moreover, biomarkers of oxidative stress were significantly increased in the pulmonary tissue of cholestatic animals. Lung tissue histopathological changes, tissue collagen deposition, and increased TGF-β were also detected. It was found that AGM significantly ameliorated cholestasis-induced lung injury. Conclusion: The effects of AGM on inflammatory indicators, oxidative stress biomarkers, and tissue fibrosis seem to play a pivotal role in its protective properties.
Temporary Severe Neutropenia during Administration of Atezolizumab: A Novel Case Report
Authors: Kanno Ryota , Saito Yoshitaka , Takekuma Yoh , Asahina Hajime , Sugawara Mitsuru
Published: June 2023

Here, we describe a case of temporary severe neutropenia after atezolizumab monotherapy and its treatment course. Atezolizumab monotherapy was introduced as a 6th-line treatment for a man in his late 60s, who was diagnosed with stage Ⅳ lung adenocarcinoma. The first treatment cycle was administered during hospitalization, and the patient presented with a fever of 37.8°C on the first day. The fever resolved after the administration of acetaminophen and naproxen, and the white blood cell count, neutrophil count, and other white blood cell fractions were normal. However, grade 3 leukopenia and grade 4 neutropenia appeared at the beginning of the third cycle, and treatment was discontinued. After treatment, monocyte count in the leukocyte fraction increased from approximately 10% to 25.6%. Lenograstim 100 μg subcutaneous injection and oral levofloxacin 500 mg once daily were started of onset of neutropenia, and he was hospitalized the next day. Laboratory findings upon admission showed a significant improvement to 5,300/µL for leukocytes and 3,376/µL for neutrophils. Lenograstim was discontinued, with no further decrease in the neutrophil count. Atezolizumab therapy was resumed, and there was no further reduction in leukocyte, neutrophil, or leukocyte fractions over about a 2-year period. Concomitant drugs were maintained during the atezolizumab treatment, suggesting that they did not induce neutropenia. In conclusion, we observed temporary severe neutropenia during atezolizumab monotherapy. Neutrophil recovery with cautious monitoring has enabled longer efficacy. We should consider temporary symptom occurrence in cases of haematological immune-related adverse events.
Life-Threatening Hyperkalemia following Low-Dose Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole: A Case Report
Authors: Katagiri Hikaru , Sato Nobuhiro , Inoue Yukinori , Muto Koji , Tanaka Hiroko , Hirose Yasuo
Published: June 2023

Hyperkalemia is a known adverse effect of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, usually occurring at high doses. However, fatal hyperkalemia at low doses has rarely been reported. We present the case of an 80-year-old Japanese woman who experienced a cardiac arrest due to severe hyperkalemia after starting low-dose trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. This case suggests that trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole can cause severe hyperkalemia and sudden death, even at low doses. When trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is administered, even at low doses, periodic monitoring of electrolyte levels is necessary, with the interval depending on concomitant medications and renal function.
A Rare Case of Duodenal Metastasis from Lobular Breast Cancer: From Diagnosis to Surgery
Authors: Barbieri Erika , Caraceni Giulia , Gentile Damiano , Gavazzi Francesca , Zerbi Alessandro , Tinterri Corrado
Published: June 2023

Gastrointestinal tract breast cancer (BC) metastases represent a rare event and generally originate from the lobular subtype. Duodenal involvement was rarely described in previous case series. Abdominal symptoms are extremely unspecific and misleading. Diagnosis is challenging, and it consists of a few mandatory steps from radiological examinations to histological and immunohistochemical analyses. Here, we presented the clinical case of a 54-year-old postmenopausal woman who was hospitalized for vomiting and jaundice, presenting increased level of liver enzymes and minimal main bile duct and choledocus dilatation at abdominal ultrasonography. She underwent breast-conserving surgery and axillary lymph node dissection for stage IIIB lobular BC, 5 years before. Metastatic infiltration of the duodenal bulb originating from lobular BC was proven histologically, through fine-needle aspiration during endoscopic ultrasonography. Treatment was established after multidisciplinary team evaluation, based on the clinical status and prognosis of the patient. Pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed, and final histological examination confirmed the secondary localization of lobular BC, infiltrating the duodenal and gastric wall, pancreas parenchyma, and surrounding tissues. No metastatic lymph nodes were found. After surgery, the patient underwent first line of adjuvant systemic treatment with fulvestrant and ribociclib. After a follow-up of 21 months, the patient was in good clinical condition, without signs of locoregional or distant recurrence. This report stressed on the importance of a tailored therapeutic approach. Although systemic therapy generally represents the preferred option, surgery should not be excluded if an oncological radical resection can be performed achieving acceptable locoregional disease control.
Necrosis of Pedunculated Lipofibroma by Nab-Paclitaxel
Authors: Kokubu Hiraku , Nakanishi Takeshi , Kato Takeshi , Fujimoto Noriki
Published: June 2023

We present a rare phenomenon of a soft tumor hanging on the woman’s left upper arm that underwent necrosis from the distal aspect during chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer. The benign tumor, pedunculated lipofibroma, originally had normal color for 10 years and then became necrotic when she was treated with gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel. Necrosis stopped in conjunction with chemotherapy cessation. Dermatologists must remember that nab-paclitaxel could develop necrosis of a skin tumor.