bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prognostic Significance of EGFR and TGF-α Expression in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Junping , Antisdel Jastin , Reheman Aikebaier , Lin Zhonghao , Yu Yongqiang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: The prognosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is overshadowed by distant metastasis and local failure.
Methods: The expression of EGFR and TGF-α were assessed in tumor samples from 51 patients of NPC. The patients were followed-up for 5 years.
Results: 29 out of 51 NPC cases (56.86%) exhibited EGFR expression, while TGF-α expression was observed in 26 out of 51 tumors (50.98%). Among those with EGFR positivity, 62.07% (18 out of 29) succumbed to the disease, contrasting with only 27.27% (6 out of 22) mortality among patients lacking EGFR staining. Similar trends were observed with TGF-α expression.
A robust association was established between EGFR/TGF-α positivity and patient mortality (p<0.005). And the rates of EGFR and TGF-α staining in the undifferentiated tumor group were significantly higher compared to the well-differentiated group (p<0.005).
Conclusions: These findings underscore the utility of EGFR and TGF-α expression as markers for assessing illness progression and outcomes.
A multiplex PCR system for the detection and quantification of four genetically modified soybean events
Authors: He Yuxuan , Dong Liming , Yan Wei , Xing Zhenjuan , Xia Wei , Li Congcong , Long Likun , Li Feiwu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Within the legal framework of a quantitative labeling system for GM events in multiple countries, it is essential to accurately identify and quantitatively analyze specific GM transformation event. This study has established qualitative and quantitative multiplex detection methods for four authorized GM soybean events, enabling precise identification of target GM ingredients in mixed samples with as little as 0.1% (w/w). Additionally, the optimal systems could be compatible with the 3-plex digital PCR platform for quantification. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) are 20 copies and 10 copies, respectively. Furthermore, the 3-plex digital PCR methods are compatible with droplet-based digital PCR platforms and original real-time PCR. They allow for higher throughput and increased sensitivity in the identification and quantification of GM soybean events. These findings provide robust technical support for regulatory oversight within the biotechnology industry.
Predictors of brain metastases in patients with oligometastatic solid tumours treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy
Authors: Fan Kevin Yijun , Jerzak Katarzyna Joanna , Kumar Sudhir , Moravan Veronika , Said Badr Id , Das Sunit , Louie Alexander V. , Soliman Hany , Sahgal Arjun , Chen Hanbo 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose:
In patients with oligometastatic disease (OMD) treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), those who develop brain metastases (BrM) may have poor outcomes. We aimed to investigate variables associated with BrM development in this population.
Methods:
Patients with ≤ 5 extracranial metastases from solid tumors treated with SBRT from 2008–2016 at Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Centre were included. We investigated the association between covariates and CIBrM (cumulative incidence of BrM) using Fine-Gray analysis, and progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) using Cox regression. We investigated the association between extracranial progression and CIBrM using time-based conditional analysis.
Results:
Among 404 patients, the most common primary sites were lung, colorectal, prostate, breast and kidney. Median follow-up was 49 months. Median PFS was 25 months. Median OS was 70 months. 58 patients developed BrM, and 5-year CIBrM was 16%. On multivariable analysis, number of extracranial metastases, location of metastases, total planning target volume (PTV), and time from primary diagnosis to OMD were not associated with CIBrM, although several of these variables were associated with extracranial PFS and OS. Primary site was associated with CIBrM, with colorectal and prostate cancer associated with lower CIBrM compared to lung cancer. Widespread extracranial progression (≥ 5 sites) within 24, 36, 48 and 60 months of OMD diagnosis was independently associated with higher CIBrM.
Conclusion:
In patients with OMD treated with SBRT, baseline variables related to extracranial disease burden and distribution were not associated with BrM development, while primary site and widespread extracranial progression were associated with BrM development.
A Machine Vision-Based Measurement Method for the Concentricity of Automotive Brake Piston Components
Authors: Weinan Ge , Qinghua Li , Wanting Zhao , Tiantian Xu , Shihong Zhang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The stability and reliability of the brake system are critically affected by the concentricity error of automotive brake piston components. Traditional contact-based concentricity measurement methods are inefficient. To address the issue of low detection efficiency, a non-contact concentricity measurement method based on the combination of machine vision and image processing technology is proposed in this paper. In this method, an industrial camera is utilized to capture images of the measured part's end face from the top of the spring. Edge contours are extracted through image preprocessing algorithms, the outer circle center is calculated, and the inner circle center is fitted. Finally, the concentricity error is calculated using the coordinates of the two circle centers. Experimental results show that, compared to a coordinate measuring machine(CMM), this method has a maximum error of only 0.0393mm and an average measurement time of just 3.9s. It significantly improves measurement efficiency and meets the industry's demand for automated inspection. The experiments verified the feasibility and effectiveness of this method in practical engineering applications, providing reliable technical support for the online inspection of automotive brake piston components. Additionally, this method can be applied to the concentricity measurement of other complex stepped shaft parts.
Baseline Toxicity for the invasive populations of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda in different districts of Jammu region
Authors: Bali Ranjana 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Spodoptera frugiperda has invaded Jammu and colonized its populations mainly in sub-tropical regions of Jammu since 2020. This initial discovery served as a stark warning sign, signalling the potential threat posed by this invasive pest to the agricultural landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. The emergence of fall armyworm in Parwah village quickly escalated into a widespread phenomenon, akin to a spark igniting a firestorm, spreading rapidly across the maize-growing districts of Jammu and Kashmir. The insidious nature of fall armyworm allowed it to permeate through various regions of different districts, causing widespread devastation among farmers and their maize crops. Its rapid spread cause havoc among farmers and they start using Chemical spray to control the pest, which shall lead to resistance evolution. In this research, we collected four populations of the pest from Kathua, Samba, Jammu and Rajouri districts of Jammu and Kashmir and tested their susceptibilities to Chloropyrifos, cypermethrin, profenopos and lambdacyhalothrin (total 4 insecticides) in the laboratory. Based on the susceptible baseline calculated from the Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) population, NBAIR, Bangalore. The results of 24, 48 and 72 hours after treatment in present study indicated that chloropyrifos and cypermethrin insecticides showed higher resistance compared to λ-cyhalothrin and profenofos insecticides. Based on the studies of insecticide usage pattern major maize growing districts of Jammu region found as high insecticide resistance area comprising of Kathua, Samba districts, moderate insecticide resistance comprising of Jammu, while low insecticide resistance found in fall armyworm population of Rajouri.
Police perpetrated male child sexual abuse in Bangladeshi street-connected boys
Authors: Siddik Md Abu Bakkar 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The street-connected adolescents in Bangladesh are one of the most vulnerable demographics. Given the characteristics of their living environment, it is probable that they may experience various sorts of mistreatment, including physical and sexual assault, perhaps even at the hands of law enforcement. The objective of this research was to investigate the lived experiences of street-connected adolescents who have been subjected to sexual assault by policemen. A total of 11 boys participated in this qualitative research. The researchers used applied thematic analysis, a method that adheres to the principles of qualitative description, to identify significant themes after the interview. The study revealed four main themes: physical abuse, sexual abuse, repetitive abuse, and forceful oral and penetration sexual assault. Additionally, it has been shown that the police perpetrators used their position of power to engage in the sexual abuse of adolescents. To protect street-connected youth from sexual abuse by perpetrators, the government must implement appropriate measures. The police department should press charges against those engaged in this crime and provide specialized training for policemen who interact with street-connected young people.
Physico-chemical mechanics as a tool for solving problems of pulp and paper production
Authors: Ермолинский В. Г. , Ковалева О. П. 
Published: August 2024

В настоящее время основной задачей многих инвестиционных программ развития целлюлозно-бумажных предприятий является как снижение уровня загрязнения окружающей среды, так и повышение качества выпускаемой продукции, в том числе и на предприятиях, внедривших элементы наилучших доступных технологий. Анализ результатов многочисленных исследований показывает, что эффективность технологий целлюлозы для химической переработки и для производства бумаги, а также высокий уровень и стабильность качества искусственных волокон, изделий из бумаги и картона могут быть достигнуты только при условии учёта специфики процессов структурообразования в дисперсных системах, дисперсионной средой в которых является вода. Кажущийся дуализм в поведении воды сформировался под влиянием различных точек зрения на природу связей в структуре целлюлозных волокон и изделий из них. В теоретических основах физико-химии полимеров воде отводится роль пластификатора, а в основах физико-химической механики воду рассматривают как коагулянт в дисперсной системе. В статье рассматриваются состояние и перспективы применения теоретических воззрений научных школ физико-химии полимеров и физико-химической механики дисперсных систем при модернизации целлюлозно-бумажной и текстильной промышленности.
Currently, the main objective of many investment programs for the development of pulp and paper enterprises is both to reduce the level of environmental pollution and to improve the quality of products, including at enterprises that have introduced elements of the best available technologies. Analysis of the results of numerous studies shows that the effectiveness of cellulose technologies for chemical processing and for paper production, as well as the high level and stability of the quality of artificial fibers, paper and cardboard products can be achieved only if the specifics of the processes of structure formation in dispersed systems in which the dispersion medium is water are taken into account. The apparent dualism in the behavior of water was formed under the influence of different points of view on the nature of the bonds in the structure of cellulose fibers and products made from them. In the theoretical foundations of the physico-chemistry of polymers, water is assigned the role of a plasticizer, and in the fundamentals of physico-chemical mechanics, water is considered as a coagulant in a dispersed system. The article discusses the state and prospects of applying the theoretical views of scientific schools of polymer physics and chemistry and physico-chemical mechanics of dispersed systems in the modernization of the pulp and paper and textile industries.
The using of endoscopic technology in children with petrous bone cholesteatoma
Authors: Diab Kh. M. , Daikhes N. A. , Paschinina O. A. , Garashchenko T. I. , Panina O. S. , Kokhanyuk S. V. , Safarova P. A. 
Published: August 2024

Introduction. Endoscopic ear surgery is a promising treatment for petrous bone cholesteatoma in children. Endoscopic assistance provides better visualization and the ability to manipulate in hidden areas of the formed cavity and facilitate the removal of cholesteatoma matrix from hard-to-reach areas.Aim. o systematize the accumulated knowledge about the clinical presentations of cholesteatoma of the temporal bone pyramid in children, review the modern methods of treatment and possible complications, and assess the necessity of applying endoscopic imaging devices to monitor hard-to-reach places in the temporal bone pyramid.Materials and methods. The results of surgical treatment of petrous bone cholesteatoma (PBC) in the immediate and long-term postoperative periods in children were assessed. The study included 26 children aged 8 to 18 years (average age 13.1), 21 boys and 5 girls. Dynamic follow-up after surgery was at least two years. The function of facial muscles was assessed using the House – Brackmann scale before and after surgery after 6 months, and a pure-tone audiogram was performed before and after surgery after 6 months. The approaches, options for completing the operation, complications, and relapse rates are presented.The discussion of the results. In the postoperative period, 2 people (7.7%) had normal hearing according to audiometry results, 1 (3.8%) had I degree of hearing loss, 5 (19.2%) had II degree of hearing loss, 6 (23.0%), III degree of hearing loss, in 7 (27.0%) IV degree of hearing loss, in 5 (19.2%) deafness. Function in the postoperative period was normal in 15 (57.0%) and from House – Brackmann grades II to VI in 11 (43.0%). Recurrence of cholesteatoma was detected in eight patients (30.0%) after 1–2 years.Conclusion. In children, early diagnosis of cholesteatoma of the petrous bone is important to prevent the risk of complications. The use of endoscopic assistance when removing cholesteatoma of the petrous bone provides advantages: the ability to remove the cholesteatoma matrix in hidden areas, provides a larger viewing angle and control of these areas, thereby minimizing the risks of intraoperative complications, allowing for maximum sanitization of the pathological process.
Optimal therapy for acute respiratory viral infections in infants and pre-primary children
Authors: Malanicheva T. G. , Ziatdinova N. V. , Gataullina G. S. 
Published: August 2024

Aim. To study the effectiveness of a combined immunomodulatory drug consisting of complex immunoglobulin preparation and recombinant interferon-α2b in children of the first three years.Materials and methods. There were examined 55 children with acute respiratory viral infection of the upper respiratory tract from 2 months to 3 years. Of these, the main group consisted of 30 children receiving, as part of complex therapy, a combined immunomodulatory drug (Kipferon) in the form of rectal suppositories for children under one year old – 1 suppository per day, for children over one year old – 1 suppository twice a day for 5–7 days. The comparison group included 25 children receiving symptomatic therapy for acute respiratory viral infection, which did not differ in the compared groupsResults. It was revealed that the prescription of a combined immunomodulatory drug leads to a positive clinical effect in 90.0% of cases. While taking the drug, there is a more rapid relief of fever and symptoms of intoxication, as well as local inflammatory manifestations of acute respiratory viral infection (hyperemia of the pharynx, rhinitis, cough), which led to a shortening of the duration of the disease by 1.3 times and a reduction in the need for antibiotics by 2.4 times.Discussion. The results of the study, which showed significant advantages of including a combined immunomodulatory drug in the acute respiratory viral infection treatment regimen, are comparable with the available literature data.Conclusions. Considering the high clinical efficacy and safety of the combined immunomodulatory drug Kipferon, it can be recommended for widespread practical use in acute respiratory viral infections of the upper respiratory tract in young children.
Regional power duration curve model for ungauged intermittent river basins
Authors: Alakbar Turan , Burgan Halil Ibrahim 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT
Hydropower is a sustainable and renewable energy source that can serve as a practical and economically viable solution to the future possible energy crisis and climate change scenarios. Moreover, it possesses a higher energy density compared to other alternative renewable energy sources such as solar, wind energy, etc. In order to determine the potential of hydropower, long-term observed hydrometeorological data of streamflow, precipitation, etc. are crucial. This study investigates a new power duration curve (PDC) methodology. Basin characteristics such as drainage area and basin relief with meteorological data as precipitation are used for regional models in the application. The classification based on geographical locations is made for regional models. Six models based on equation type were utilized to determine the optimal regional model. Absolute errors of cease-to-flow point estimates ranging from 0.01 to 11.49% were observed. The model provided successful results according to Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency which is widely used in hydrological studies very close to 1 and higher than 0.87 except for one streamflow gauging station therewithal all other calculated performance metrics. It is observed that power and cease-to-flow point estimates of intermittent rivers can be obtained with a new PDC model based on basin characteristics.
Evaluation of specific retention, specific yield, and storage-dependent drainability efficiency in a coastal milieu via geo-electrical technology
Authors: Udosen Ndifreke I. , George Nyakno J. 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

The aim of this research was the application of geo-electrical technology in the determination of specific retention, specific yield, and storage-dependent drainability efficiency within a major coastal milieu in Nigeria. This improves on past work where expensive and time-intensive pumping tests were employed to determine specific retention and specific yield. In addition to the determination of these key aquifer geo-kinetic properties, other important aquifer characteristics such as aquifer potentiality, protectivity, and vulnerability to contamination within this major coastal system were determined. Geo-electrical technology employed Wenner and Schlumberger arrays to undertake Vertical Electrical Soundings (VES) and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) surveys and results obtained were constrained by ground truth from lithological logs. Results from the electrical resistivity surveys indicated that the lithological strata comprised motley topsoil, coarse sand, fine sand, and sandy clay. Measures of specific yield and specific retention were generated as secondary geo-electrical indices. Specific yield intersected with specific retention at 73% storage-dependent drainability efficiency (SDE), indicating that this percentage must be exceeded for optimal groundwater extraction from the rock matrix's pore spaces during pumping. Aquifer transmissivity measures indicated high aquifer potentiality; longitudinal conductance measures indicated poor aquifer protectivity implying increased vulnerability of the aquifer to contamination.
Investigating incomplete mixing models in cross junctions under real-world conditions of water distribution networks
Authors: Yousefian Reza , Duchesne Sophie , Schwarz Pierre-Olivier 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Questions have been raised about the correctness of water quality models with complete mixing assumptions in cross junctions of water distribution systems. Recent developments in the mixing phenomenon within cross junctions of water distribution networks (WDNs) have heightened the need for evaluating the existing incomplete mixing models under real-world conditions. Therefore, in this study, two cross junctions with pipe diameters of 100 × 100 × 100 × 100 mm and 150 × 150 × 150 × 150 mm were employed in laboratory experiments to evaluate six existing incomplete mixing models for 25 flow rate scenarios ranging between 1.5 and 3.0 L/s. It was observed that within the same flow rate scenario, the degree of mixing in a cross junction with a pipe relative roughness of 6.00 × 10−5 (pipe diameter of 25 mm) was higher than that in a cross junction with a pipe relative roughness of 3.00 × 10−5 (pipe diameter of 50 mm) and smaller. Considering the real-world size of pipes in evaluating the incomplete mixing models showed that two incomplete mixing models, AZRED and the one by Shao et al., had the best accordance with the results of the laboratory experiments.
Revitalisasi Fungsi Perpustakaan Perguruan Tinggi: Upaya Peningkatan Kualitas Layanan dan Pembelajaran
Authors: Syukrinur Syukrinur 
Published: August 2024

AbstrakTulisan ini membahas fungsi perpustakaan dalam meningkatkan kualitas layanan dan pembelajaran. Perpustakaan memegang peranan penting dalam proses pembelajaran. Ia merupakan pusat sarana akademis yang menyediakan koleksi yang relevan dalam proses pembelajaran. Perpustakaan menjalankan fungsinya sebagai pusat sumber belajar bagi para pemustaka. Kehadiran teknologi informasi telah membawa perubahan fungsi perpustakaan dimana ia memberikan peluang yang besar bagi pemustaka dalam akses informasi. Fungsi-fungsi perpustakaan baik fungsi pendidikan, penelitian dan informasi serta revitalisasi fungsi perpustakaan tersebut akibat perkembangan teknologi informasi dielaborasi dalam tulisan ini.Kata Kunci: Fungsi Perpustakaan, Sumber Informasi, Pembelajaran AbstractThis paper discusses the function of the library in improving the quality of service and learning. The library plays an important role in the learning process. It is a center for academic facilities that provide collections that are relevant in the learning process. The library performs its function as a learning resource center for users. The presence of information technology has changed the function of the library where it provides great opportunities for users to access information. The functions of the library, includingeducational, research and information functions as well as the revitalization of these library functions as a result of developments in information technology, are elaborated in this paper. Keywords: Library function, Information Source, LearningPembelajaran