bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the Role of Testing Coverage in the Software Reliability Assessment
Authors: Kumar Sudeep , Aggarwal Anu G. , Gupta Ritu
Published: April 2023

To assure the reliability and quality of the final product, testing is an essential and crucial part in the software development cycle. During this process, fault correction/detection activities are carried out to increase the reliability of the software. The non-homogeneous Poisson Process (NHPP) is the basis of the investigated software reliability growth models (SRGMs), which are based on the supposition that the number of faults found is affected by the amount of code covered during testing and that the amount of code covered during testing depends on the testing effort expended. This research takes into consideration several testing coverage functions: exponential, delayed S-shaped and logistic distributions, to propose three SRGMs that are based on testing efforts. For testing effort expenditure Weibull distribution has been employed. Two real failure datasets have been utilised to validate the proposed models, and their performance is evaluated using four goodness-of-fit metrics, including predictive ratio risk (PRR), coefficient of determination (R^2 ), predictive power (PP) and mean square error (MSE). Sensitivity analysis of cost requirement-based release time of software for exponential function has been done by using a genetic algorithm, which minimized the overall cost of the software subject to the requirement for reliability.
Novel Solution for Time-fractional Klein-Gordon Equation with Different Applications
Authors: Kashyap Manju , Singh S. Pratap , Gupta Surbhi , Mehta Purnima Lala
Published: April 2023

In this paper, for the first time, the Laplace Homotopy Perturbation Method (LHPM), which is the coupling of the Laplace transform and the Homotopy Perturbation Method, is employed to solve non-linear time-fractional Klein-Gordon (TFKG) equations. In other words, for the first time in literature, LHPM is used to solve non-linear TFKG equations. First of all, the procedure of LHPM on TFKG with Caputo fractional derivative is developed. Further, the developed approach of LHPM on TFKG is used for two different examples. This in turn proves the versatile nature of the proposed method. In addition, the validity of the approach is proved by comparing the numerical solutions of both examples with their exact solution. Finally, the comparison of relative errors calculated in each example proves the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed method on TFKG equations.
Disturbances in the ocular surface microbiome by perioperative antimicrobial eye drops
Authors: Hotta Fumika , Eguchi Hiroshi , Kuwahara Tomomi , Nakayama-Imaohji Haruyuki , Shimomura Yoshikazu , Kusaka Shunji
Published: April 2023

We aimed to elucidate the effects of antimicrobial eye drops used in the perioperative period of ophthalmic surgery on the ocular surface microbiome by metagenomic analysis. Twenty-eight eyes from 15 patients (mean age 74.1 years) with no history of eye drop use within 3 months before cataract surgery were included in this study. Gatifloxacin eye drops were used in all patients in the perioperative period. The antimicrobial eye drops were started 3 days before surgery. They were discontinued after conjunctival sac specimen collection for 2 weeks after the surgery. Conjunctival sac specimens were collected to investigate the alterations in the ocular surface microbiome by meta-16S analysis targeting the V3-V4 region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. Principal coordinate analysis showed that the bacterial composition tended to be different before and 2 and 4 weeks after surgery. Individual observations on six eyes showed that the bacterial composition at 12 weeks after surgery was closer to that before surgery than to that at 4 weeks after surgery in two eyes, while the bacterial composition in the remaining four eyes was different at various time points. Before surgery, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Bacteroidetes were predominant; however, 2 weeks after surgery, the proportion of Proteobacteria increased and that of Firmicutes decreased. A similar trend was noticed 4 weeks after surgery, although antibacterial eye drops had been discontinued 2 weeks after surgery. The Shannon–Weaver coefficient showed a decreasing trend at 2-, 4-, and 12-weeks post operation compared to that before operation. The diversity of the microbiome decreased significantly at 2- and 4-weeks after surgery when compared to that before surgery (p < 0.05). The ocular surface microbiome is easily disrupted by antimicrobial eye drops, and it needs recovery time. In such cases, the ocular surface microbiome is presumed to contain many antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. In some cases, it may not recover, and a new microbiome is formed.
There are too many kids with special educational needs
Authors: Taberner Joanne E.
Published: April 2023

Over recent decades, special educational needs (SEN) policy and practice in the UK have been in flux as a succession of governments vacillates with competing social, political and economic agendas. The simultaneous pursuit of educational standards, inclusion and equity has created a fragmented system, as well as cognitive and ethical dilemmas for schools. Moreover, a divisive ‘corporation’ and lucrative SEN industry have been established, contributing to unsustainable growth of the SEN populace and political angst around SEN overidentification. Indeed, the extant literature suggests that for every pupil correctly diagnosed with SEN, another is misdiagnosed, diverting resources from pupils with genuine needs.
LncRNAs signatures associated with cuproptosis predict the prognosis of endometrial cancer
Authors: Qi Shiyuan , Feng Huiyan , Li Xiaomao
Published: April 2023

Background: Endometrial cancer (UCEC) is the sixth most common cancer in women, and although surgery can provide a good prognosis for early-stage patients, the 5-year overall survival rate for women with metastatic disease is as low as 16%. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are thought to play an important role in tumor progression. Cuproptosis is a recently discovered form of cell death in which copper binds directly to the lipoacylated component of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. The aggregation of these copper-bound listed mitochondrial proteins and the loss of Fe-S cluster proteins trigger proteotoxic stress, which leads to cell death. Therefore, the aim of this work was to investigate the role of Cuproptosis-related LncRNAs signaling in clinical prognostic prediction and immunotherapy, as well as the relationship between tumor mutation burden.

Methods: Genomic, clinical and mutational data of endometrial cancer patients were presented in the TCGA database, and cuproptosis-related genes obtained from related studies. Coexpression analysis and Cox regression analysis were used to construct prognostic features. Patients were divided into high risk group and low risk group, and then ROC, survival rate, risk curve, principal component analysis, independent prognostic analysis and clinical subgroup model validation were performed to observe the prognostic value of characteristics. Subsequently, the GO and genomic KEGG enrichment and immune-related functions of LncRNAs as well as the tumor mutation burden were analyzed.

Results: In 548 UCEC case data, we identified five associated LncRNAs co-expressed with cuproptosis genes, and we found that high-risk patients had poorer overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and higher mortality. Independent prognostic analysis, ROC showed that the LncRNAs associated with cuproptosis could accurately predict the prognosis of patients. Enrichment analysis revealed that the biological functions of LncRNAs were related to tumorigenesis. We also discovered suppression of immune-related functions in high-risk patients with oncogene mutations, higher tumor mutation burden in low-risk patients, and longer overall survival in patients with higher tumor mutation burden.

Conclusion: The identification of five LncRNAs associated with cuproptosis can accurately predict the prognosis of patients with endometrial cancer, and may provide a new perspective for clinical application and immunotherapy.
Decreased mannan-binding lectin level in adults with hypopituitarism; dependence on appropriate hormone replacement therapies
Authors: Matusiak Aleksandra E. , Stępniak Jan , Lewiński Andrzej , Karbownik-Lewińska Małgorzata
Published: April 2023

Background

Mannan-binding lectin (MBL) is a main component of the lectin pathway of the complement system. Although there are some studies showing links between endocrine and immune systems, the ones concerning hypopituitarism are limited. The aim of this study was to check whether there is any association between blood MBL level and pituitary hormone deficiencies and whether this relationship is affected by appropriate hormone replacement therapies.

Methods

One hundred and twenty (120) inpatients, aged 18-92, were divided into two main groups, i.e. control individuals (21/120) and patients with pituitary diseases (99/120). The latter were diagnosed either with hypopituitarism (n=42) or with other pituitary diseases (not causing hypopituitarism) (n=57). Additionally, hypopituitary patients on appropriate replacement therapies (compensated hypopituitarism) were compared to patients on inappropriate replacement therapies (non-compensated hypopituitarism). Several parameters in blood serum were measured, including MBL level, pituitary and peripheral hormones and different biochemical parameters.

Results

Serum MBL level was significantly lower in patients with hypopituitarism comparing to controls (1358.97 ± 244.68 vs. 3199.30 ± 508.46, p<0.001) and comparing to other pituitary diseases (1358.97 ± 244.68 vs. 2388.12 ± 294.99, p=0.015) and this association was confirmed by univariate regression analysis. We evaluated the distribution of patients with relation to MBL level; there was a clear difference in this distribution between control individuals (among whom no subjects had MBL level <500 ng/mL) and patients with hypopituitarism (among whom 43% of patients had MBL level <500 ng/mL). Moreover, patients with non-compensated hypopituitarism had lower mean and median MBL levels comparing to patients with compensated hypopituitarism (1055.38 ± 245.73 vs. 2300.09 ± 579.93, p=0.027; 488.51 vs. 1951.89, p=0.009, respectively) and this association was confirmed in univariate regression analysis. However, mean and median MBL levels in patients with compensated hypopituitarism vs. controls did not differ significantly (2300.09 ± 579.93 vs. 3199.30 ± 508.46, p=0.294; 1951.90 vs. 2329.16; p=0.301, respectively).

Conclusion

Hypopituitarism in adults is associated with a decreased blood concentration of mannan-binding lectin, a phenomenon which does not exist in hypopituitary patients on the appropriate hormone replacement therapies. Therefore measurement of mannan-binding lectin level in patients with hypopituitarism may be considered as a parameter contributing to adjust optimal doses of hormone replacement therapies.
Remission outcomes in severe eosinophilic asthma with mepolizumab therapy: Analysis of the REDES study
Authors: Pavord Ian , Gardiner Frances , Heaney Liam G. , Domingo Christian , Price Robert G. , Pullan Alison , Oppenheimer John , Brusselle Guy , Nagase Hiroyuki , Chupp Geoffrey , Pizzichini Emilio , Bañas-Conejero David , Howarth Peter
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Clinical remission as a multicomponent treatment goal in severe asthma is being explored in clinical practice. This post hoc analysis used data from the REDES study to assess the proportion of patients with severe eosinophilic asthma achieving our multicomponent definitions of clinical remission after 1 year of mepolizumab treatment.

Methods

The real-world, retrospective observational REDES study enrolled patients with severe eosinophilic asthma who were newly prescribed mepolizumab and with ≥12 months of medical records pre-enrolment. Multicomponent clinical remission was defined as: oral corticosteroid (OCS)-free; exacerbation-free; asthma control test (ACT) score ≥20; and with or without post-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 second ≥80%. Baseline characteristics were also assessed in those who did/did not achieve clinical remission.

Results

37% and 30% of patients with severe eosinophilic asthma met our proposed three- and four-component on-treatment clinical remission definitions; an increase from 2% and 3% at baseline. Most frequently achieved individual components of clinical remission were: OCS-free; ACT score ≥20. For patients fulfilling the multicomponent clinical remission definitions, at baseline we observed higher blood eosinophil counts, better ACT scores and lung function, lower maintenance OCS use, and a slightly lower rate of prior exacerbations versus those who did not.

Discussion

Clinical remission is a realistic target in clinical practice for a subset of patients with severe eosinophilic asthma receiving mepolizumab. Further studies are required to elucidate whether features linked to the underlying endotype can help predict treatment outcomes, increase rates of clinical remission, and potentially modify disease progression.
Thymus antibody-secreting cells: once forgotten but not lost
Authors: Pioli KimAnh Trang , Pioli Peter Dion
Published: April 2023

Antibody-secreting cells are essential contributors to the humoral response. This is due to multiple factors which include: 1) the ability to secrete thousands of antibodies per second, 2) the ability to regulate the immune response and 3) the potential to be long-lived. Not surprisingly, these cells can be found in numerous sites within the body which include organs that directly interface with potential pathogens (e.g., gut) and others that provide long-term survival niches (e.g., bone marrow). Even though antibody-secreting cells were first identified in the thymus of both humans and rodents in the 1960s, if not earlier, only recently has this population begun to be extensively investigated. In this article, we provide an update regarding the current breath of knowledge pertaining to thymus antibody-secreting cells and discuss the potential roles of these cells and their impact on health.
Highly sensitive quantitative phase microscopy and deep learning aided with whole genome sequencing for rapid detection of infection and antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Ahmad Azeem , Hettiarachchi Ramith , Khezri Abdolrahman , Singh Ahluwalia Balpreet , Wadduwage Dushan N. , Ahmad Rafi
Published: April 2023

Current state-of-the-art infection and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) diagnostics are based on culture-based methods with a detection time of 48–96 h. Therefore, it is essential to develop novel methods that can do real-time diagnoses. Here, we demonstrate that the complimentary use of label-free optical assay with whole-genome sequencing (WGS) can enable rapid diagnosis of infection and AMR. Our assay is based on microscopy methods exploiting label-free, highly sensitive quantitative phase microscopy (QPM) followed by deep convolutional neural networks-based classification. The workflow was benchmarked on 21 clinical isolates from four WHO priority pathogens that were antibiotic susceptibility tested, and their AMR profile was determined by WGS. The proposed optical assay was in good agreement with the WGS characterization. Accurate classification based on the gram staining (100% recall for gram-negative and 83.4% for gram-positive), species (98.6%), and resistant/susceptible type (96.4%), as well as at the individual strain level (100% sensitivity in predicting 19 out of the 21 strains, with an overall accuracy of 95.45%). The results from this initial proof-of-concept study demonstrate the potential of the QPM assay as a rapid and first-stage tool for species, strain-level classification, and the presence or absence of AMR, which WGS can follow up for confirmation. Overall, a combined workflow with QPM and WGS complemented with deep learning data analyses could, in the future, be transformative for detecting and identifying pathogens and characterization of the AMR profile and antibiotic susceptibility.
Heterogeneity of glycan biomarker clusters as an indicator of recurrence in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Wisniewski Luke , Braak Samuel , Klamer Zachary , Gao ChongFeng , Shi Chanjuan , Allen Peter , Haab Brian B.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Outcomes following tumor resection vary dramatically among patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). A challenge in defining predictive biomarkers is to discern within the complex tumor tissue the specific subpopulations and relationships that drive recurrence. Multiplexed immunofluorescence is valuable for such studies when supplied with markers of relevant subpopulations and analysis methods to sort out the intra-tumor relationships that are informative of tumor behavior. We hypothesized that the glycan biomarkers CA19-9 and STRA, which detect separate subpopulations of cancer cells, define intra-tumoral features associated with recurrence.

Methods

We probed this question using automated signal thresholding and spatial cluster analysis applied to the immunofluorescence images of the STRA and CA19-9 glycan biomarkers in whole-block sections of PDAC tumors collected from curative resections.

Results

The tumors (N = 22) displayed extreme diversity between them in the amounts of the glycans and in the levels of spatial clustering, but neither the amounts nor the clusters of the individual and combined glycans associated with recurrence. The combined glycans, however, marked divergent types of spatial clusters, alternatively only STRA, only CA19-9, or both. The co-occurrence of more than one cluster type within a tumor associated significantly with disease recurrence, in contrast to the independent occurrence of each type of cluster. In addition, intra-tumoral regions with heterogeneity in biomarker clusters spatially aligned with pathology-confirmed cancer cells, whereas regions with homogeneous biomarker clusters aligned with various non-cancer cells.

Conclusion

Thus, the STRA and CA19-9 glycans are markers of distinct and co-occurring subpopulations of cancer cells that in combination are associated with recurrence. Furthermore, automated signal thresholding and spatial clustering provides a tool for quantifying intra-tumoral subpopulations that are informative of outcome.
Pulmonary blastoma treatment response to anti-PD-1 therapy: a rare case report and literature review
Authors: Xie Yalin , Su Ning , Li Chaoxia , Lei An , Li Lei , Zou Jianjun , Cen Wencang , Hu Jinxing
Published: April 2023

Pulmonary blastoma (PB) is a rare and invasive malignancy of the lungs with a poor prognosis. Although the mainstay treatment of PB is surgery, and radiotherapy and chemotherapy have been reported, no standard therapy exists for patients inoperable in advanced stages. Moreover, little is known about driver mutation status and immunotherapy efficacy. This paper presents a male patient diagnosed with classic biphasic PB using CT-guided lung biopsy pathology and immunohistochemistry. The patient’s symptoms included cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, hemoptysis, and hypodynamia. The primary focus of this paper is to discuss the impact of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy on PB. The patient experienced progression-free survival (PFS) of over 27 months following sintilimab second-line anti-PD-1 therapy. The patient has currently survived for nearly 40 months with a satisfactory quality of life.
Evaluation of an autonomous smart system for optimal management of fertigation with variable sources of irrigation water
Authors: Imbernón-Mulero Alberto , Maestre-Valero José F. , Martínez-Alvarez Victoriano , García-García Francisco J. , Jódar-Conesa Francisco J. , Gallego-Elvira Belén
Published: April 2023

Modern irrigation technologies and tools can help boost fertigation efficiency and sustainability, particularly when using irrigation water of varying quality. In this study, a high-tech irrigation head using a new fertigation optimization tool called NutriBalance, which is designed to manage feed waters of different qualities, has been evaluated from technical and economic perspectives. NutriBalance computes the optimal fertigation dose based on specific data about the equipment, the crop, the irrigation water, and the fertilizers available, in order to enable autonomous and accurate water and fertilizer supply. The system was trialed in a grapefruit orchard irrigated with fresh and desalinated water for several values of crop nutritional requirements and considering different fertilizer price scenarios. The results showed the good interoperability between the tool and the irrigation head and the nearly flawless ability (error below 7% for most ions) of the system to provide the prescribed fertigation with different combinations of irrigation water. Fertilizer savings of up to 40% were achieved, which, for the lifespan of the equipment, were estimated to correspond to around 500 EUR/ha/year. The results of this study can encourage the adoption of novel technologies and tools by farmers.
The relationships among Taiwanese youth’s polychronicity, multitasking behavior and perceived learning performance in online learning
Authors: Luo Yi Fang , Kang Seokmin , Yang Shu Ching , Lu Chia Mei
Published: April 2023

Background

The advancement of digital technology implies the importance of polychronic learning. Since polychronicity is not equivalent to multitasking behavior, they need to be considered separately. However, less research has been explored on how polychronicity is related to multitasking behavior in the educational field.

Objective

To explore the relationships among polychronicity, multitasking behavior and learning performance (including knowledge acquisition and learning satisfaction) in an online learning environment.

Methods

The relationship among variables was analyzed from 865 responses obtained from a questionnaire survey, and independent sample t tests and SEM analysis were used to examine the research hypotheses.

Results

College students showed a higher frequency of multitasking behavior, time tangibility and scheduling preference, and learning satisfaction in multitasking online learning environments than high school students. Additionally, college students were different from high school students on the paths of involvement with people to multitasking behavior (Δ χ2= 5.42, p = 0.02) and scheduling preference to learning satisfaction (Δχ2 = 9.54, p = 0.002).

Conclusion

The relationship among polychronicity, multitasking behavior and perceived learning performance in an online learning environment varies by student educational stage.
Does inclusive leadership affect the organizational socialization of newcomers from diverse backgrounds? The mediating role of psychological capital
Authors: Dai Xinxing , Fang Yangchun
Published: April 2023

Introduction

This paper aims to explore the influence of inclusive leadership on the organizational socialization of newcomers from diverse backgrounds, as mediated by psychological capital.

Methods

Structural equation model was used by Mplus 8.3 to analyze the effect of inclusive leadership and psychological capital on organizational socialization. This study used the 1,000 bootstrap replications method and the mediating path effect test to find out the mediating effect of psychological capital between the relationship of inclusive leadership and organizational socialization.

Results

The result found that (1) inclusive leadership positively affects newcomers’ organizational culture, interpersonal relationships,socialization into organizational politics and can improve employees’ job competence. (2) Psychological capital plays an intermediary role between inclusive leadership and the organizational culture, interpersonal relationships and socialization into organizational politics and job competence. Inclusive leaders improve newcomers’ psychological capital by encouraging and recognizing their diversity, tolerating their mistakes. It can increase new generation of newcomers’ resilience, self-efficacy and optimism. Individuals with high psychological capital are more likely to integrate into the organizational culture and increase their interaction with colleagues and then are more likely to integrate into the organization.

Discussion

Organizations should encourage leaders to develop inclusive leadership behaviors to foster newcomer socialization. In an inclusive leadership context, newcomers have high levels of psychological capital that promote their organizational socialization. Inclusive leadership is crucial for helping newcomers from diverse backgrounds to integrate into organizations.
Differences in Demographic, Risk, and Protective Factors in a Clinical Sample of Children who Experienced Sexual Abuse Only vs. Poly-victimization
Authors: Racine Nicole , Zhu Jenney , Hartwick Cailey , Madigan Sheri
Published: April 2023

Children exposed to child sexual abuse (CSA) vary considerably with regards to their presenting concerns and treatment needs. One factor creating heterogeneity amongst children experiencing CSA is their history of experiencing other victimizations (i.e., poly-victimized or not). However, little is known about risk factors for poly-victimization as well as differences in protective factors among these two groups. Additionally, there is currently limited understanding of whether poly-victimization is associated with greater trauma symptoms in children exposed to CSA and being seen for trauma treatment. Using a clinical sample of 117 children who were sexually abused (64 CSA only and 53 poly-victimized) ranging from age 3–18 years, the current study examined demographic characteristics, abuse characteristics, trauma symptoms, and protective factors using casefile review methodology. After accounting for other risk factors, parental abuse history and protective factors were significantly associated with child poly-victimization status. Children exposed to poly-victimization were more likely to have financial concerns χ(1,115)2 = 4.16, p = 0.04, parents with abuse histories χ(1,117)2 = 8.93, p = 0.003, and parents with histories of mental health or substance use difficulties χ(1,117)2 = 4.02, p = 0.045. Although cumulative trauma symptoms scores were higher for children who were poly-victimized compared to CSA only, t(115) = −2.24, p = 0.03, multiple regression analyses showed that poly-victimization status was not significantly associated with child trauma symptoms after accounting for other demographic and abuse characteristics. Assessing and understanding the extent to which children exposed to CSA have experienced other forms of maltreatment is critical for identifying children who may be most at risk of poor outcomes.
The effect of garden use on quality of life and behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia in people living with dementia in nursing homes: a systematic review
Authors: Velde-van Buuringen Melanie van der , Hendriks-van der Sar Rosalie , Verbeek Hilde , Achterberg Wilco P. , Caljouw Monique A. A.
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Considering the importance of going outside in a natural environment for people in general, and people living with dementia in particular, we want to unravel the aspects by which garden use affects quality of life (QoL) and behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) in people living with dementia in nursing homes.

Design

Systematic review.

Setting and participants

People living with dementia in nursing homes.

Methods

This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Eight electronic bibliographic databases were searched (May 2022). Quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods studies describing the effect of garden use on QoL, BPSD, or other outcomes related to QoL or BPSD in people living with dementia in nursing homes were included. The methodological quality of individual studies was assessed with the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) and a narrative synthesis of the results was performed.

Results

After screening title and abstract (N = 498), and full-text assessment (N = 67), 19 publications were included. These described 17 studies and three types of interventions: (1) interventions regarding the evaluation of effects of specifically designed nursing home gardens, (2) participation of the people living with dementia in outside activities, and (3) other interventions, for example, garden visits and different seasons.

Conclusions and implications

Overall, first studies appear to suggest positive effects of garden use on QoL, BPSD, or other outcomes related to QoL or BPSD (stress, sleep, and mood) in people living with dementia in nursing homes. However, consensus regarding measurements and key outcomes, taking into account the physical, social, and organizational aspects when designing the garden use intervention, is necessary for the reliable evaluation of these interventions.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=283267, identifier: CRD42021283267.
Effect of a Soil-Applied Humic Ameliorative Amendment on the Yield Potential of Switchgrass Panicum virgatum L. Cultivated under Central European Continental Climate Conditions
Authors: Tóth Štefan , Dupľák Štefan
Published: April 2023

The yield potential of switchgrass was verified by testing seven cultivars in a small-scale experiment carried out from 2018 to 2022 on Gleyic Fluvisol under Central European conditions. The treatments are as follows: pre-sowing (i/HA) soil humic preparation Humac AGRO (based on leonardite) with an ameliorative dose of 1000.0 kg ha−1 or (ii/NPK) basic nutrition with a dose of 220.0 kg ha−1 NPK; an annual dose of 70 kg ha−1 N was applied to both treatments (HA, NPK) and compared to (iii/UC) untreated control. A dry matter (DM) yield of 9.02 t ha−1 was achieved in the total average, which varied from 0.05 t ha−1 to 60.64 t ha−1. The yield was affected mainly by years (F-ratio 106.64), then by nutrition (F-ratio 79.03), followed by cultivars (F-ratio 56.87), and finally by replications (F-ratio 0.00). Switchgrass productivity increased according to the utility year; however, the driest year (2020—388 mm, 2021—372 mm, and 2022—288 mm) changed the order of the three full utility years (12.44, 19.13, and 7.73 t ha−1 DM, respectively). HA gives the highest DM yield of 13.69 t ha−1 on average with values of 9.19 and 4.19 for NPK and UC, respectively. The cultivars order was EG 1101 ˃ BO Master ˃ EG 1102 ˃ Kanlow ˃ Alamo ˃ Carthage ˃ NJ Ecotype (21.15, 12.48, 8.14, 7.70, 6.34, 4.47, and 2.89 t ha−1 DM when ranking average yield or 60.64, 45.20, 29.92, 29.15, 17.87, 9.86, and 5.93 t ha−1 DM when ranking maximal yields).
Recent Advances in Multiplexed Wearable Sensor Platforms for Real-Time Monitoring Lifetime Stress: A Review
Authors: Kim Heena , Song Jaeyoon , Kim Sehyeon , Lee Suyoung , Park Yejin , Lee Seungjun , Lee Seunghee , Kim Jinsik
Published: April 2023

Researchers are interested in measuring mental stress because it is linked to a variety of diseases. Real-time stress monitoring via wearable sensor systems can aid in the prevention of stress-related diseases by allowing stressors to be controlled immediately. Physical tests, such as heart rate or skin conductance, have recently been used to assess stress; however, these methods are easily influenced by daily life activities. As a result, for more accurate stress monitoring, validations requiring two or more stress-related biomarkers are demanded. In this review, the combinations of various types of sensors (hereafter referred to as multiplexed sensor systems) that can be applied to monitor stress are discussed, referring to physical and chemical biomarkers. Multiplexed sensor systems are classified as multiplexed physical sensors, multiplexed physical–chemical sensors, and multiplexed chemical sensors, with the effect of measuring multiple biomarkers and the ability to measure stress being the most important. The working principles of multiplexed sensor systems are subdivided, with advantages in measuring multiple biomarkers. Furthermore, stress-related chemical biomarkers are still limited to cortisol; however, we believe that by developing multiplexed sensor systems, it will be possible to explore new stress-related chemical biomarkers by confirming their correlations to cortisol. As a result, the potential for further development of multiplexed sensor systems, such as the development of wearable electronics for mental health management, is highlighted in this review.
Electrophysiological Evidence for Interhemispheric Connectivity and Communication in Young Human Infants
Authors: Bornstein Marc H. , Mash Clay , Romero Roberto , Gandjbakhche Amir H. , Nguyen Thien
Published: April 2023

Little is known empirically about connectivity and communication between the two hemispheres of the brain in the first year of life, and what theoretical opinion exists appears to be at variance with the meager extant anatomical evidence. To shed initial light on the question of interhemispheric connectivity and communication, this study investigated brain correlates of interhemispheric transmission of information in young human infants. We analyzed EEG data from 12 4-month-olds undergoing a face-related oddball ERP protocol. The activity in the contralateral hemisphere differed between odd-same and odd-difference trials, with the odd-different response being weaker than the response during odd-same trials. The infants’ contralateral hemisphere “recognized” the odd familiar stimulus and “discriminated” the odd-different one. These findings demonstrate connectivity and communication between the two hemispheres of the brain in the first year of life and lead to a better understanding of the functional integrity of the developing human infant brain.
Prediction of Deterioration Level of Heritage Buildings Using a Logistic Regression Model
Authors: Chen Si , Chen Jingjing , Yu Jiming , Wang Tao , Xu Jian
Published: April 2023

Chinese historical and cultural villages are known for numerous vernacular architectural heritages of a wide-ranging, widely distributed, and artificially intensive nature. In order to efficiently and rapidly conduct targeted conservation for heritage buildings, the prediction of the deterioration level of heritage buildings is a key prerequisite. In that respect, it is of the utmost importance to investigate the influence of different elements, such as the age and type of heritage building, on the deterioration of heritage buildings. This paper presents the feasibility of using logistic regression models to establish a heritage damage prediction and thereby confirm the buildings’ deterioration level. The model results show that age, type, style, and value play important roles in predicting the deterioration level of heritage buildings. Meanwhile, the correlation between the judging factors of heritage buildings and the deterioration level of the damage has also been revealed, which is expected to support subsequent conservation and restoration.
Analysis of Electricity and Water Consumption in Existing Mosque Buildings in the UAE
Authors: AlAli Mariam , Mattar Yara , Alzaim Mhd Amer , Beheiry Salwa
Published: April 2023

According to the World Economic Forum, the building sector is responsible for 40% of global energy consumption and 33% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and this is expected to increase due to population growth and the subsequent impact on the environment, economy and health. To tackle the problem, countries have set new construction codes, policies and regulations for the construction of new buildings in an effort to make them greener. However, there is a need to enhance the status of the existing buildings, especially mosques, as they are the main contributors to energy usage and water consumption in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Therefore, this research seeks to fill this gap, aiming to evaluate the energy usage and water consumption practices employed in the existing mosque buildings within the UAE and to provide recommendations for improving the sustainability of mosques, with a focus on the environmental and economic pillars. The methodology relies mainly on data collected from 146 existing mosque buildings that have undergone energy saving audits across the UAE. Descriptive statistical analysis is performed to analyze the data from the period of 2018–2019 in order to determine the most significant factors related to energy inefficiency in existing mosque buildings in the UAE and to determine the most cost-effective and energy-saving corrective measures for energy and water conservation. The findings further enhance the standard of experience for mosque visitors (social aspect); reduce energy bill expenses, providing an acceptable return on investment from the proposed energy conservation measures for stakeholders (economic); and reduce the overall energy consumption, which can reduce the total CO2 emissions from mosque buildings (environmental).
STAT3 Inhibition Attenuates MYC Expression by Modulating Co-Activator Recruitment and Suppresses Medulloblastoma Tumor Growth by Augmenting Cisplatin Efficacy In Vivo
Authors: Rohrer Kyle A. , Song Heyu , Akbar Anum , Chen Yingling , Pramanik Suravi , Wilder Phillip J. , McIntyre Erin M. , Chaturvedi Nagendra K. , Bhakat Kishor K. , Rizzino Angie , Coulter Don W. , Ray Sutapa
Published: April 2023

MB is a common childhood malignancy of the central nervous system, with significant morbidity and mortality. Among the four molecular subgroups, MYC-amplified Group 3 MB is the most aggressive type and has the worst prognosis due to therapy resistance. The present study aimed to investigate the role of activated STAT3 in promoting MB pathogenesis and chemoresistance via inducing the cancer hallmark MYC oncogene. Targeting STAT3 function either by inducible genetic knockdown (KD) or with a clinically relevant small molecule inhibitor reduced tumorigenic attributes in MB cells, including survival, proliferation, anti-apoptosis, migration, stemness and expression of MYC and its targets. STAT3 inhibition attenuates MYC expression by affecting recruitment of histone acetyltransferase p300, thereby reducing enrichment of H3K27 acetylation in the MYC promoter. Concomitantly, it also decreases the occupancy of the bromodomain containing protein-4 (BRD4) and phosphoSer2-RNA Pol II (pSer2-RNAPol II) on MYC, resulting in reduced transcription. Importantly, inhibition of STAT3 signaling significantly attenuated MB tumor growth in subcutaneous and intracranial orthotopic xenografts, increased the sensitivity of MB tumors to cisplatin, and improved the survival of mice bearing high-risk MYC-amplified tumors. Together, the results of our study demonstrate that targeting STAT3 may be a promising adjuvant therapy and chemo-sensitizer to augment treatment efficacy, reduce therapy-related toxicity and improve quality of life in high-risk pediatric patients.
Epigenetic Modifications in Prostate Cancer Metastasis and Microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Shouyi , Shen Tao , Zeng Yu
Published: April 2023

The gradual evolution of prostate tissue from benign tumor to malignant lesion or distant metastasis is driven by intracellular epigenetic changes and the tumor microenvironment remodeling. With the continuous study of epigenetic modifications, these tumor-driving forces are being discovered and are providing new treatments for cancer. Here we introduce the classification of epigenetic modification and highlight the role of epigenetic modification in tumor remodeling and communication of the tumor microenvironment.
Gene Fusion Detection in NSCLC Routine Clinical Practice: Targeted-NGS or FISH?
Authors: Pecciarini Lorenza , Brunetto Emanuela , Grassini Greta , De Pascali Valeria , Ogliari Francesca Rita , Talarico Anna , Marra Giovanna , Magliacane Gilda , Redegalli Miriam , Arrigoni Gianluigi , Lazzari Chiara , Gregorc Vanesa , Bulotta Alessandra , Doglioni Claudio , Cangi Maria Giulia
Published: April 2023

The ability to identify the broadest range of targetable gene fusions is crucial to facilitate personalized therapy selection for advanced lung adenocarcinoma (LuADs) patients harboring targetable receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) genomic alterations. In order to evaluate the most effective testing approach for LuAD targetable gene fusion detection, we analyzed 210 NSCLC selected clinical samples, comparing in situ (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization, FISH, and ImmunoHistoChemistry, IHC) and molecular (targeted RNA Next-Generation Sequencing, NGS, and RealTime-PCR, RT-PCR) approaches. The overall concordance among these methods was high (>90%), and targeted RNA NGS was confirmed to be the most efficient technique for gene fusion identification in clinical practice, allowing the simultaneous analysis of a large set of genomic rearrangements at the RNA level. However, we observed that FISH was useful to detect targetable fusions in those samples with inadequate tissue material for molecular testing as well as in those few cases whose fusions were not identified by the RNA NGS panel. We conclude that the targeted RNA NGS analysis of LuADs allows accurate RTK fusion detection; nevertheless, standard methods such as FISH should not be dismissed, as they can crucially contribute to the completion of the molecular characterization of LuADs and, most importantly, the identification of patients as candidates for targeted therapies.
Oxidative Stress in Postmenopausal Women with or without Obesity
Authors: Leanza Giulia , Conte Caterina , Cannata Francesca , Isgrò Camilla , Piccoli Alessandra , Strollo Rocky , Quattrocchi Carlo Cosimo , Papalia Rocco , Denaro Vincenzo , Maccarrone Mauro , Napoli Nicola , Sardanelli Anna Maria
Published: April 2023

Oxidative stress, a key mediator of cardiovascular disease, metabolic alterations, and cancer, is independently associated with menopause and obesity. Yet, among postmenopausal women, the correlation between obesity and oxidative stress is poorly examined. Thus, in this study, we compared oxidative stress states in postmenopausal women with or without obesity. Body composition was assessed via DXA, while lipid peroxidation and total hydroperoxides were measured in patient’s serum samples via thiobarbituric-acid-reactive substances (TBARS) and derivate-reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) assays, respectively. Accordingly, 31 postmenopausal women were enrolled: 12 with obesity and 19 of normal weight (mean (SD) age 71.0 (5.7) years). Doubled levels of serum markers of oxidative stress were observed in women with obesity in women with obesity compared to those of normal weight (H2O2: 32.35 (7.3) vs. 18.80 (3.4) mg H2O2/dL; malondialdehyde (MDA): 429.6 (138.1) vs. 155.9 (82.4) mM in women with or without obesity, respectively; p < 0.0001 for both). Correlation analysis showed that both markers of oxidative stress increased with an increasing body mass index (BMI), visceral fat mass, and trunk fat percentage, but not with fasting glucose levels. In conclusion, obesity and visceral fat are associated with a greater increase in oxidative stress in postmenopausal women, possibly increasing cardiometabolic and cancer risks.
TGFβ and the Tumor Microenvironment in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Waldner Maximilian J. , Neurath Markus F.
Published: April 2023

Growing evidence supports an important role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC). Resident cells such as fibroblasts or immune cells infiltrating into the TME maintain continuous crosstalk with cancer cells and thereby regulate CRC progression. One of the most important molecules involved is the immunoregulatory cytokine transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ). TGFβ is released by various cells in the TME, including macrophages and fibroblasts, and it modulates cancer cell growth, differentiation, and cell death. Mutations in components of the TGF pathway, including TGFβ receptor type 2 or SMAD4, are among the most frequently detected mutations in CRC and have been associated with the clinical course of disease. Within this review, we will discuss our current understanding about the role of TGFβ in the pathogenesis of CRC. This includes novel data on the molecular mechanisms of TGFβ signaling in TME, as well as possible strategies for CRC therapy targeting the TGFβ pathway, including potential combinations with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Active Pharmacovigilance Study: A Follow-Up Model of Oral Anti-Cancer Drugs under Additional Monitoring
Authors: Carvalho da Silva Sofia Pinto , Jesus Mafalda , Roque Fátima , Herdeiro Maria Teresa , Costa e Sousa Rita , Duarte Ana Paula , Morgado Manuel
Published: April 2023

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are responsible for almost 5% of hospital admissions, making it necessary to implement different pharmacovigilance strategies. The additional monitoring (AM) concept has been highlighted and intended to increase the number of suspected ADRs reported, namely in medicines with limited safety data. A prospective, descriptive study of active pharmacovigilance (AP) was conducted between 2019 and 2021 in the Local Health Unit of Matosinhos (LHUM) (Porto, Portugal). A model of AP for medicines under AM, namely oral antineoplastic agents, was designed. Follow-up consultations were performed, and adverse events (AEs) data were collected. The overall response to the treatment was evaluated through the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1 criteria. A total of 52 patients were included in the study, and 14 antineoplastic drugs under AM were analyzed. Of the total number of patients included, only 29 developed at least one type of toxicity. Hematological disorders were the most reported suspected ADR. However, only four patients interrupted their treatment due to toxicity. After 12 months of treatment, most patients had disease progression, which was the main reason for therapy discontinuation. This AP model played an important role in the early detection of AEs and, consequently, contributed to better management of them. Increasing the number of suspected ADR reports is crucial for drugs with limited safety data.
High-Speed Variable Polynomial Toeplitz Hash Algorithm Based on FPGA
Authors: Huang Si-Cheng , Huang Shan , Yin Hua-Lei , Ma Qing-Li , Yin Ze-Jie
Published: April 2023

In the Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network, authentication protocols play a critical role in safeguarding data interactions among users. To keep pace with the rapid advancement of QKD technology, authentication protocols must be capable of processing data at faster speeds. The Secure Hash Algorithm (SHA), which functions as a cryptographic hash function, is a key technology in digital authentication. Irreducible polynomials can serve as characteristic functions of the Linear Feedback Shift Register (LFSR) to rapidly generate pseudo-random sequences, which in turn form the foundation of the hash algorithm. Currently, the most prevalent approach to hardware implementation involves performing block computations and pipeline data processing of the Toeplitz matrix in the Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) to reach a maximum computing rate of 1 Gbps. However, this approach employs a fixed irreducible polynomial as the characteristic polynomial of the LFSR, which results in computational inefficiency as the highest bit of the polynomial restricts the width of parallel processing. Moreover, an attacker could deduce the irreducible polynomials utilized by an algorithm based on the output results, creating a serious concealed security risk. This paper proposes a method to use FPGA to implement variational irreducible polynomials based on a hashing algorithm. Our method achieves an operational rate of 6.8 Gbps by computing equivalent polynomials and updating the Toeplitz matrix with pipeline operations in real-time, which accelerates the authentication protocol while also significantly enhancing its security. Moreover, the optimization of this algorithm can be extended to quantum randomness extraction, leading to a considerable increase in the generation rate of random numbers.