bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence for Complex Interplay between Quorum Sensing and Antibiotic Resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Sikdar Rakesh , Elias Mikael H.
Published: October 2022

Quorum sensing (QS) is a cell-density-dependent communication system used by a wide range of bacteria to coordinate behaviors. Strategies pertaining to the interference in QS are appealing approaches to control microbial behaviors that depend on QS, including virulence and biofilms.
SARS-CoV-2: Challenges in Reconverting Diagnostic Laboratories to Combat the Pandemic
Authors: Barrera Saldaña Hugo Alberto , Rivera Santiago Carolina , Rodríguez Palacios Raúl
Published: October 2022

Rearranging our diagnostic laboratories to improve the fight against a new unexpected, unpredictable, and sudden public health threat demanded that we move quickly to redesign not only the laboratory processes but also the distribution of space, personnel activities, and fluxes of material coming in and out. We also had to work closely with governmental health authorities to gain their trust in our technical competence.
IFIT3 Is Increased in Serum from Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection and Promotes the Anti-HBV Effect of Interferon Alpha via JAK-STAT2
In Vitro
Authors: Xu Siyi , Huang Jinlan , Xun Zhen , Li Shiqi , Fu Ya , Lin Ni , Wu Wennan , Chen Tianbin , Liu Can , Ou Qishui
Published: October 2022

Our study contributes new insights into the understanding of the functions and roles of interferon-induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeats 3 (IFIT3), which is one of the interferon-stimulated genes induced by hepatitis B virus infection in human hepatocytes and hepatocarcinoma cells, and may help to identify targeted genes promoting the efficacy of interferon alpha.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields Disrupt Staphylococcus epidermidis Biofilms and Enhance the Antibiofilm Efficacy of Antibiotics
Authors: Juncker Ryan B. , Lazazzera Beth A. , Billi Fabrizio
Published: October 2022

Antibiotic resistance and biofilm infections are major issues in health care because of the lack of a successful treatment modality and poor patient outcomes. These infections are a particular issue following orthopedic surgery or trauma wherein an infection may form on an orthopedic implant or patient’s bone.
25-Hydroxycholesterol Mediates Cholesterol Metabolism to Restrict Porcine Deltacoronavirus Infection via Suppression of Transforming Growth Factor β1
Authors: Zhang Jialu , Yang Guanghui , Wang Xuefei , Zhu Yaohong , Wang Jiufeng
Published: October 2022

As an emerging enteropathogenic coronavirus in pigs, porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) causes giant economic loss in the pig industry because of lethal diarrhea and possesses the potential for transmission from animals to humans. Several pieces of evidence have suggested the antiviral potential of cholesterol-25-hydroxylase and importance of cholesterol in viral infection.
Invasive Streptococcal Infection Can Lead to the Generation of Cross-Strain Opsonic Antibodies
Authors: de Neergaard Therese , Bläckberg Anna , Ivarsson Hanna , Thomasson Sofia , Kumra Ahnlide Vibha , Chowdhury Sounak , Khakzad Hamed , Bahnan Wael , Malmström Johan , Rasmussen Magnus , Nordenfelt Pontus
Published: October 2022

The bacterium
Streptococcus pyogenes
is a common cause of both mild and severe human diseases resulting in substantial morbidity and mortality each year. No vaccines are available, and our understanding of the antibody response to this human pathogen is still incomplete.
Antibiotic Treatment during Gestation Enhances Susceptibility to Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Offspring
Authors: Nyangahu Donald D. , Plumlee Courtney R. , Brown Bryan P. , Feng Colin , Havyarimana Enock , Cohen Sara B. , Urdahl Kevin B. , Jaspan Heather B.
Published: October 2022

The composition of the pioneer microbiota that colonize the infant gut are determined by the mother. Polymyxin B-induced changes in the maternal microbiota during pregnancy impact the offspring gut microbiota but not vaccine-specific CD4 T cell response. However, when infected with
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, offspring born to mothers with an altered gut microbiota are susceptible to infection compared to those born to mothers not exposed to antibiotics.
Lignin Metabolism by Selected Fungi and Microbial Consortia for Plant Stimulation: Implications for Biologically Active Humus Genesis
Authors: Rehman Jalil Ur , Joe Eun-Nam , Yoon Ho Young , Kwon Sumin , Oh Min Seung , Son Eun Ju , Jang Kyoung-Soon , Jeon Jong-Rok
Published: October 2022

Structurally stable humic substances (HSs) in soils are tightly associated with soil fertility, and it is thus important to understand how soil HSs are naturally formed. It is believed that microbial metabolism on plant matter contributes to natural humification, but detailed microbial species and their metabolisms inducing humic functionality (e.g., direct plant stimulation) need to be further investigated.
Intraoperative discovery of melanosis coli during emergent bowel resection for perforation
Authors: Hubbard Grant , Prusko Ryan , Christopher Jordan , Russ Ronald , Chlysta Walter
Published: October 2022

A patient was taken to the operating room with a presumptive diagnosis of necrotic small bowel and colon. During the procedure, it was noted that she had black mucosa throughout the colon. Several factors suggested viable colonic tissue, and the decision was made to not resect the colon as originally planned. Final pathology of the specimen would later reveal melanosis coli, an ultimately benign diagnosis. Further questioning of the patient found that she had taken a herbal laxative supplement containing several components which are known to cause melanosis coli. We hope that this case report will serve as a reminder to surgeons and clinicians to remember melanosis coli as a clinical entity when confronted with blackened or darkened colonic mucosa. On review of available literature, we identified other cases in which melanosis coli was discovered intraoperatively, and we propose a number of factors to support intraoperative decision making.
Modelling ready-made spectacle coverage for children and adults using a large global database
Authors: Chan Ving Fai , Wright David M , Mavi Sonia , Dabideen Reshma , Smith Mike , Sherif Alan , Congdon Nathan
Published: October 2022

Background/aims

To model the suitability of conventional ready-made spectacles (RMS) and interchangeable-lens ready-made spectacles (IRMS) with reference to prescribing guidelines among children and adults using a large, global database and to introduce a web-based application for exploring the database with user-defined eligibility criteria.

Methods

Using refractive power and interpupillary distance data for near and distance spectacles prescribed to children and adults during OneSight clinics in 27 countries, from 2 January 2016 to 19 November 2019, we modelled the expected suitability of RMS and IRMS spectacle designs, compared with custom-made spectacles, according to published prescribing guidelines.

Results

Records of 18 782 presbyopic adult prescriptions, 70 619 distance adult prescriptions and 40 862 paediatric prescriptions were included. Globally, 58.7%–63.9% of adults could be corrected at distance with RMS, depending on the prescribing cut-off. For presbyopic adult prescriptions, coverage was 44.1%–60.9%. Among children, 51.8% were eligible for conventional RMS. Coverage for all groups was similar to the above for IRMS. The most common reason for ineligibility for RMS in all service groups was astigmatism, responsible for 27.2% of all ineligible adult distance prescriptions using the strictest cut-off, 31.4% of children’s prescriptions and 28.0% of all adults near prescriptions globally.

Conclusion

Despite their advantages in cost and convenience, coverage delivered by RMS is limited under current prescribing guidelines, particularly for children and presbyopic adults. Interchangeable designs do little to remediate this, despite extending coverage for anisometropia. Our free application allows users to estimate RMS coverage in specific target populations.
Fungal microbiome (mycobiome) and virome of the lacrimal sac in patients with PANDO: the lacriome paper 5
Authors: Ali Mohammad Javed
Published: October 2022

Purpose

To study the fungal microbiome (mycobiome) and the virome of the lacrimal sacs in patients with primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO).

Methods

A prospective study was performed on 10 consecutive samples of the lacrimal sac contents obtained from patients with PANDO. The samples were obtained from the lacrimal sacs under endoscopy guidance and immediately transported on ice to the laboratory. Following DNA extraction and library preparation, a whole shotgun metagenome sequencing was performed on the Illumina platform (NOVASEQ 6000). The fungal internal transcript spacer analysis was performed using the PIPITS v2.7 . The viral taxonomy profiling was performed using Kraken2 against the virus database.

Results

The taxonomic hit distribution across the lacrimal sac samples showed rich fungal diversity (4 phyla, 12 classed, 21 families and 26 genera). The major phyla wereAscomycotaandBasidiomycota,and the key genera identified wereAlternaria, Hyphopichia, Malassezia, AspergillusandEpicoccum. The virome analysis identified 13 phyla, 15 classes and 27 families. The viruses were commonly from the familiesPoxviridae, Retroviridae, SiphoviridaeandMyoviridae,Poxviridaebeing the most prevalent family. The BeAn 58058 virus, a member of thePoxviridaefamily, was the most abundant in all the samples.

Conclusion

The present study is the first whole metagenome sequencing exclusively of the fungal microbiome and virome from the lacrimal sacs of patients with PANDO. The lacrimal sacs harbour diverse fungal and viral communities with distinct ecosystem dynamics. Further studies of their functions and interactions with the hosts would provide valuable insights.
ExtendedKnee Controlprogramme lowers weekly hamstring, knee and ankle injury prevalence compared with an adductor strength programme or self-selected injury prevention exercises in adolescent and adult amateur football players: a two-armed cluster-randomised trial with an additional comparison arm
Authors: Lindblom Hanna , Sonesson Sofi , Torvaldsson Kalle , Waldén Markus , Hägglund Martin
Published: October 2022

Objective

To evaluate the preventive efficacy of an extended version of theKnee Controlinjury prevention exercise programme (IPEP) compared with an adductor strength programme and to a comparison group using a self-selected IPEP in amateur adolescent and adult male and female football players.

Methods

Two-armed cluster-randomised trial with an additional non-randomised arm. All 251 amateur teams (players 14–46 years) in one regional football district were approached. Teams meeting inclusion criteria were randomised to (1) extendedKnee Controlor (2) an adductor strength programme. Teams already using an IPEP were allocated to a comparison group and received no new intervention. Players responded to weekly questionnaires about football exposures and injuries during a 7-month season.

Results

Seventeen teams in the extendedKnee Control, 12 in the adductor and 17 in the comparison group participated, with 502 players. For the primary outcomes, no difference in injury incidence in three lower-limb injury locations combined (hamstring, knee and ankle) was seen between extendedKnee Controland the adductor group, whereas extendedKnee Controlhad 29% lower incidence than the comparison group (incidence rate ratio 0.71, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.98). No between-group differences in groin injury incidence were seen. The weekly injury prevalence rates in the three lower limb locations combined (hamstring, knee and ankle) were 17% lower (prevalence rate ratio (PRR) 0.83, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.00) and 26% lower (PRR 0.74, 95% CI 0.63 to 0.87) in extendedKnee Controlcompared with the adductor and comparison groups, respectively.

Conclusion

No difference in injury incidence was seen between the extendedKnee Controland the adductor programme whereas extendedKnee Controlreduced injury incidence by nearly one-third compared with a self-selected IPEP. Players in extendedKnee Controlhad lower injury prevalence compared with an adductor or self-selected IPEP.

Trial registration number

NCT04272047; Clinical trials.
Endometrial cancer: molecular classification and future treatments
Authors: Corr Bradley , Cosgrove Casey , Spinosa Daniel , Guntupalli Saketh
Published: October 2022

The treatment for endometrial cancer is rapidly evolving with the development of molecular analysis and novel strategies. Surgical resection, cytotoxic chemotherapy, endocrine or hormonal treatment, and radiation have been the staples of treatment for decades. However, precision based approaches for tumours are rapidly becoming a part of these strategies. Biomarker driven treatments are now a part of primary and recurrent treatment algorithms. This review aims to describe the current state of molecular analysis and treatment for endometrial cancer as well as to elucidate potential approaches for the near future.
Lessons learnt from the implementation of new models of care delivery through alliance governance in the Southern health region of New Zealand: a qualitative study
Authors: Gurung Gagan , Jaye Chrystal , Gauld Robin , Stokes Tim
Published: October 2022

Objectives

To explore the process of implementation of the primary and community care strategy (new models of care delivery) through alliance governance in the Southern health region of New Zealand (NZ).

Design

Qualitative semistructured interviews were undertaken. A framework-guided rapid analysis was conducted, informed by implementation science theory—the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.

Setting

Southern health region of NZ (Otago and Southland).

Participants

Eleven key informants (Alliance Leadership Team members and senior health professionals) who were involved in the development and/or implementation of the strategy.

Results

The large number of strategy action plans and interdependencies of activities made implementation of the strategy complex. In the inner setting, communication and relationships between individuals and organisations were identified as an important factor for joint and integrated working. Key elements of a positive implementation climate were not adequately addressed to better align the interests of health providers, and there were multiple competing priorities for the project leaders. A perceived low level of commitment from the leadership of both organisations to joint working and resourcing indicated poor organisational readiness. Gaps in the implementation process included no detailed implementation plan (reflected in poor execution), ambitious targets, the lack of a clear performance measurement framework and an inadequate feedback mechanism.

Conclusions

This study identified factors for the successful implementation of the PCSS using an alliancing approach in Southern NZ. A key enabler is the presence of a stable and committed senior leadership team working through high trust relationships and open communication across all partner organisations. With alliances, partnerships and networks increasingly held up as models for integration, this evaluation identifies important lessons for policy makers, managers and services providers both in NZ and internationally.
Expanded hemodialysis: a new concept of renal replacement therapy
Authors: Jonny Jonny , Teressa Maria
Published: October 2022

Expanded hemodialysis (HDx) is an innovation that can increase the effectiveness of hemodialysis. The dialysis process is expected to promote more uremic toxins removal without causing significant hypoalbuminemia using the medium cut-off (MCO) membrane or also known as the high retention onset membrane. Compared with conventional membranes such as those of low-flux hemodialysis, high-flux hemodialysis, and hemodiafiltration, the MCO membrane in HDx is considered to be the closest to the physiology of the glomerular membrane. Several studies have shown the use of the MCO membrane in HDx provides clinical benefits and better outcome although further studies are needed to assess the long-term effect and greater impact for dialysis patients.
First-in-human phase I/II, open-label study of the anti-OX40 agonist INCAGN01949 in patients with advanced solid tumors
Authors: Davis Elizabeth J , Martin-Liberal Juan , Kristeleit Rebecca , Cho Daniel C , Blagden Sarah P , Berthold Dominik , Cardin Dana B , Vieito Maria , Miller Rowan E , Hari Dass Prashanth , Orcurto Angela , Spencer Kristen , Janik John E , Clark Jason , Condamine Thomas , Pulini Jennifer , Chen Xuejun , Mehnert Janice M
Published: October 2022

Background

OX40 is a costimulatory receptor upregulated on antigen-activated T cells and constitutively expressed on regulatory T cells (Tregs). INCAGN01949, a fully human immunoglobulin G1κ anti-OX40 agonist monoclonal antibody, was designed to promote tumor-specific immunity by effector T-cell activation and Fcγ receptor-mediated Treg depletion. This first-in-human study was conducted to determine the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of INCAGN01949.

Methods

Phase I/II, open-label, non-randomized, dose-escalation and dose-expansion study conducted in patients with advanced or metastatic solid tumors. Patients received INCAGN01949 monotherapy (7–1400 mg) in 14-day cycles while deriving benefit. Safety measures, clinical activity, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamic effects were assessed and summarized with descriptive statistics.

Results

Eighty-seven patients were enrolled; most common tumor types were colorectal (17.2%), ovarian (8.0%), and non-small cell lung (6.9%) cancers. Patients received a median three (range 1–9) prior therapies, including immunotherapy in 24 patients (27.6%). Maximum tolerated dose was not reached; one patient (1.1%) receiving 350 mg dose reported dose-limiting toxicity of grade 3 colitis. Treatment-related adverse events were reported in 45 patients (51.7%), with fatigue (16 (18.4%)), rash (6 (6.9%)), and diarrhea (6 (6.9%)) being most frequent. One patient (1.1%) with metastatic gallbladder cancer achieved a partial response (duration of 6.3 months), and 23 patients (26.4%) achieved stable disease (lasting >6 months in one patient). OX40 receptor occupancy was maintained over 90% among all patients receiving doses of ≥200 mg, while no treatment-emergent antidrug antibodies were detected across all dose levels. Pharmacodynamic results demonstrated that treatment with INCAGN01949 did not enhance proliferation or activation of T cells in peripheral blood or reduce circulating Tregs, and analyses of tumor biopsies did not demonstrate any consistent increase in effector T-cell infiltration or function, or decrease in infiltrating Tregs.

Conclusion

No safety concerns were observed with INCAGN01949 monotherapy in patients with metastatic or advanced solid tumors. However, tumor responses and pharmacodynamic effects on T cells in peripheral blood and post-therapy tumor biopsies were limited. Studies evaluating INCAGN01949 in combination with other therapies are needed to further evaluate the potential of OX40 agonism as a therapeutic approach in patients with advanced solid tumors.

Trial registration number

NCT02923349.
‘Please help me, I am so miserable!’: sexual health, emotions and counselling in teen and young adult problem pages in late 1980s Ireland
Authors: Kelly Laura
Published: October 2022

In 1984, the Irish Family Planning Association (IFPA) established a youth group comprised of young volunteers aged between 16 years and 20 years. The IFPA was responding to a perceived need for sexual health advice for young people in the absence of any formal sex education in Irish schools. The group established a telephone helpline and, from late 1987, was commissioned to provide advice columns for two Irish magazines for young people calledHot PressandFresh. The advice columns run by the IFPA youth group provided an important educational and counselling service for young people on matters relating to sexual health and relationships. Letters to the two magazines also attest to a significant degree of ignorance around sexual and reproductive health among young people and the prevalence of risk taking with regard to contraception. Moreover, the letters were often frank and deeply honest about the feelings and emotions experienced by the letter writer. Replies to the letter writers from the IFPA group were sensitive and empathetic, but clear and unambiguous, highlighting the team’s approaches to sexual health counselling and ‘risk’ which were modelled on approaches by British groups such as the Samaritans, Grapevine and Brook. Drawing on the uncatalogued letters received by the youth group, as well as the published replies in the magazine advice columns, this article will shed light on the key sexual health concerns of young Irish people in the late 1980s. Ultimately, it will examine what these queries reveal about the impact of Ireland’s social and moral climate on teenagers’ emotional health. More broadly, the letters to these magazines illuminate the stigma, shame and silences around these issues in 1980s’ Ireland, and highlight the importance of magazines as a source of communication and an outlet for young people to express their emotions relating to sexuality, relationships and sexual health.
Performance of QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus assays in paediatric tuberculosis: a multicentre PTBNET study
Authors: Buonsenso Danilo , Noguera-Julian Antoni , Moroni Rossana , Hernández-Bartolomé Angel , Fritschi Nora , Lancella Laura , Cursi Laura , Soler-Garcia Aleix , Krüger Renate , Feiterna-Sperling Cornelia , Sali Michela , Lo Vecchio Andrea , Scarano Sara , Hernanz Lobo Alicia , Espiau Maria , Soriano-Arandes Antonio , Cetin Benhur Sirvan , Brinkmann Folke , Ozere Iveta , Baquero-Artigao Fernando , Tsolia Maria , Milheiro Silva Tiago , Bustillo-Alonso Matilde , Martín Nalda Andrea , Mancini Margherita , Starshinova Anna , Ritz Nicole , Velizarova Svetlana , Ferreras-Antolín Laura , Götzinger Florian , Bilogortseva Olga , Chechenyeva Vira , Tebruegge Marc , Santiago-García Begoña
Published: October 2022

Rationale

In 2016, a new interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) was introduced, QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus), claimed to have improved sensitivity in active tuberculosis (TB).

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the performance of QFT-Plus, compared with previous generation IGRAs and the tuberculin skin test (TST), in children with TB in Europe.

Methods

Multicentre, ambispective cohort study within the Paediatric Tuberculosis Network European Trials Group (ptbnet), a dedicated paediatric TB research network comprising >300 members, capturing TB cases <18 years-of-age diagnosed between January 2009 and December 2019.

Measurements and main results

1001 TB cases from 16 countries were included (mean age (IQR) 5.6 (2.4–12.1) years). QFT-Plus was performed in 358, QFT Gold in-Tube (QFT-GIT) in 600, T-SPOT.TBin 58 and TST in 636 cases. The overall test sensitivities were: QFT-Plus 83.8% (95% CI 80.2% to 87.8%), QFT-GIT 85.5% (95% CI 82.7% to 88.3%), T-SPOT.TB77.6% (95% CI 66.9% to 88.3%) and TST (cut-off ≥10 mm) 83.3% (95% CI 83.3% to 86.2%). There was a trend for tests to have lower sensitivity in patients with miliary and/or central nervous system (CNS) TB (73.1%, 70.9%, 63.6% and 43.5%, respectively), and in immunocompromised patients (75.0%, 59.6%, 45.5% and 59.1%, respectively).

Conclusions

The results indicate that the latest generation IGRA assay, QFT-Plus, does not perform better than previous generation IGRAs or the TST in children with TB disease. Overall, tests performed worse in CNS and miliary TB, and in immunocompromised children. None of the tests evaluated had sufficiently high sensitivity to be used as a rule-out test in children with suspected TB.
Application and prospects of robotic surgery in children: a scoping review
Authors: Shen Lei Ting , Tou Jinfa
Published: October 2022

As an innovative minimally invasive surgical technology, robot-assisted surgery (RAS) has greatly improved the accuracy and safety of surgery through the advantages of three-dimensional magnification, tremor filtering, precision and flexibility, and has been carried out by an increasing number of surgeries. In recent years, robots have been gradually applied to children, bringing new ideas and challenges to pediatric surgeons. This review will describe the advantages and limitations of robotic surgery in children, summarize its application in pediatric surgery, and provide an outlook. It is believed that clinicians should actively carry out RAS under the premise of rigorously ensuring surgical indications and strive to improve the efficacy of surgical treatment for children.
Effects of injection parameters on CRDI-equipped stationary diesel engine fuelled with neat biodiesel mix derived from waste feedstocks
Authors: Anto Alosius M. , Thomai Pushparaj , Sharma Vikas , Chandrasekaran Bharathi
Published: October 2022

This present work deals with the effects of injection parameters such as pilot-main injection mass ratio and dwell time on combustion, performance, and emission characteristics of a diesel engine. A single cylinder diesel engine is used in this research work with the flexibilities to modify different variables via open electronic control unit. Biodiesel mix (BDM) used in the present work is derived from waste feedstocks of used cooking oil and chicken fat. Throughout the experiment, engine load and speed were maintained constantly at 4.51 brake mean effective pressure and 1500 rpm, respectively. Different pilot mass ratios (10%, 20%, and 30%) and dwell times (20° crank angle (CA), 30° CA, and 40° CA) were tested and results were compared with conventional mode combustion. The results indicated that the pilot injections helped to reduce the ignition lag period and also shortened the combustion duration. The highest brake thermal efficiency of 34.78% was identified with the lowest pilot mass of 10%. According to the results, increased dwell time decreased the oxides of nitrogen emissions but increased the hydrocarbon emissions. The experiment revealed that BDM made of waste feedstocks could be an effective alternative for engine applications with optimized engine operating conditions.
Integer Weighted Automata on Infinite Words
Authors: Halava Vesa , Harju Tero , Niskanen Reino , Potapov Igor
Published: October 2022

In this paper we combine two classical generalisations of finite automata (weighted automata and automata on infinite words) into a model of integer weighted automata on infinite words and study the universality and the emptiness problems under zero weight acceptance. We show that the universality problem is undecidable for three-state automata by a direct reduction from the infinite Post correspondence problem. We also consider other more general acceptance conditions as well as their complements with respect to the universality and the emptiness problems. Additionally, we build a universal integer weighted automaton with fixed transitions. This automaton has an additional integer input that allows it to simulate any semi-Thue system.
Regulatory Focus, Level of Mental Construct and Entrepreneurial Career Choice Among Master Students in Abidjan
Authors: N’Guessan Pierre Tovi
Published: October 2022

This study examines the relationship between regulatory focus, level of mental constructs and entrepreneurial choice among students. One hundred and forty students enrolled in the Master of Law, Criminology, and Psychology, aged between 20 and 30 years of which 70 promotional and 70 preventive responded to the questionnaires of the regulative focus (Higgins et al., 2001), the identification of action (Vallacher and Wegner, 1989) and the entrepreneurial choice constructed on the basis of that of Jaskiewicz et al. (2016). The results indicate, on the one hand, that the regulatory focus and the level of mental construct significantly influence the entrepreneurial choice and, on the other hand, that abstract preventive students choose entrepreneurship more compared to concrete promotional ones. These results, explained by Trope’s theories of regulatory focus and construct level, suggest that regardless of regulatory focus, if one succeeds in stimulating an abstract mental construct level in students then one can help them prepare for entrepreneurship.
Action2Score: An Embedding Approach to Score Player Action
Authors: Jang Junho , Woo Ji Young , Kim Huy Kang
Published: October 2022

Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) is one of the most successful game genres. MOBA games such as League of Legends have competitive environments where players race for their rank. In most MOBA games, a player's rank is determined by the match result (win or lose). It seems natural because of the nature of team play, but in some sense, it is unfair because the players who put a lot of effort lose their rank just in case of loss and some players even get free-ride on teammates' efforts in case of a win. To reduce the side-effects of the team-based ranking system and evaluate a player's performance impartially, we propose a novel embedding model that converts a player's actions into quantitative scores based on the actions' respective contribution to the team's victory. Our model is built using a sequence-based deep learning model with a novel loss function working on the team match. We showed that our model can evaluate a player's individual performance fairly and analyze the contributions of the player's respective actions.
Escaping the Privacy Paradox: Evaluating the Learning Effects of Privacy Policies With Serious Games
Authors: Stellmacher Carolin , Ternieten Jette , Soroko Daria , Schöning Johannes
Published: October 2022

Privacy Policies inform users about how their personal data is managed while fulfilling the obligatory requirements. Past studies have shown that users often do not read privacy policies, cannot comprehend the long and complex policy documents, and resort to providing their consent without knowledge. To enable users to make an informed decision, we explored serious games as a new medium to improve their understanding of privacy policies. In a mobile escape room game, users engage with the data collection and processing by solving different puzzles. We validated the game concept in a user study by comparing it to a conventional textual policy. Our findings show that the game promoted greater information recall in users. However, a trade-off seems to exist between frustration, duration and understanding. We show strategies for turning a privacy policy into game elements for a mobile escape room game and incorporating privacy information into different puzzles. We recommend that the choice of a privacy policy format should vary in a case-by-case scenario and should accommodate different target audiences.
Policies of Misconduct: A Content Analysis of Codes of Conduct for Online Multiplayer Games
Authors: Grace Thomas D. , Larson Ian , Salen Katie
Published: October 2022

In this paper we searched the websites of 60 popular online multiplayer games to locate their codes of conduct and then performed a content analysis on 32 unique codes of conduct. Our analysis consisted of a two-cycle coding process including initial coding, and then pattern coding for clustering categories and themes together. Our aim was to better understand how game companies include codes of conduct on their websites and what content they include in the codes of conduct. The two-cycle coding process identified five main themes: (1) game company values, (2) expectations of players, (3) bad behaviors and rules, (4) moderation practices, and finally (5) document structure. Our findings suggest that codes of conduct are routinely inaccessible, if present at all, and that codes of conduct are often framed around punitive legal language that reflect policies of misconduct rather than expressing communal values and expectations. Our findings can help contribute towards community management in online games and make codes of conduct more accessible for all stakeholders in online gaming communities. We have also provided design recommendations and a design process that should help guide game companies looking to create value focused codes of conduct.
Emerging Technologies in K–12 Education: A Future HCI Research Agenda
Authors: Van Mechelen Maarten , Smith Rachel Charlotte , Schaper Marie-Monique , Tamashiro Mariana , Bilstrup Karl-Emil , Lunding Mille , Graves Petersen Marianne , Sejer Iversen Ole
Published: October 2022

This systematic mapping review sheds light on how emerging technologies have been introduced and taught in various K–12 learning settings, particularly with regard to artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), the internet of things (IoT), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR). These technologies are rapidly being integrated into children's everyday lives, but their functions and implications are rarely understood due to their complex and distributed nature. The review provides a rigorous overview of the state of the art based on 107 records published across the fields of human-computer interaction, learning sciences, computing education, and child–computer interaction between 2010 and 2020. The findings show the urgent need on a global scale for inter- and transdisciplinary research that can integrate these dispersed contributions into a more coherent field of research and practice. The article presents nine discussion points for developing a shared agenda to mature the field. Based on the HCI community's expertise in human-centred approaches to technology and aspects of learning, we argue that the community is ideally positioned to take a leading role in the realisation of this future research agenda.
Adoption of ACPS in Nuclear Reactor Analysis
Authors: Castagna Christian , Cancila Daniela , Cammi Antonio
Published: October 2022

Nuclear power plants are a paramount example of critical cyber-physical systems. Some of the current researches in nuclear reactor analysis concern the degree of acceptable uncertainty of the whole system. Some difficulties arise from weaving fields of different disciplines, such as computer science (e.g. embedded software and hardware), mechatronics (e.g. sensors and actuators) and physics (e.g. neutronics and thermal-hydraulics). To complicate the scenario further, each field demands different disciplines, competencies and different teams. In this short paper, we highlight the importance of the cross-fertilization of different disciplines in the nuclear reactor domain and we investigate emerging methods to control uncertainty in the nuclear reactor design.
M2OS for Arduino Uno
Authors: Aldea Rivas Mario , Perez Tijero Hector
Published: October 2022

This paper presents the current status of the porting of M2OS to the Arduino Uno board. M2OS is a small realtime operating system targeted to microcontrollers with very tight memory constraints. M2OS provides support for a simple Ada tasking model based on nonpreemptive one-shot tasks. The paper puts special emphasis on the adaptation of the standard Arduino core library to be used by Ada applications running on M2OS.
A Study on Self‐Consolidate Concrete in Experimental Reinforced‐Concrete Beam Column Structures with Alccofine and Steel Fiber
Authors: Vimal Arokiaraj G. , Elangovan G.
Published: October 2022

This paper discusses the concept of self‐consolidating concrete mix with Alccofine‐1203, superplasticizer, viscosity modification agent, crimped steel fiber on the RC beam column joint. Totally, eight reinforced‐concrete (RC) column joints with M25 grade concrete were considered in this study. Out of eight RC beam column joints, two beam column joints served as Alccofine, two beam column joint specimens served as Alccofine 5%, two beam column joint specimens served as Alccofine‐10%, and two beam column joint specimens served as Alccofine‐15%. All the RC beam column joint specimens were tested under the compression until failure in the loading frame of 2000 kN capacity. The test results of Alccofine‐10% showed the higher loading capacity than that of Alccofine‐5% and Alccofine‐15% in self‐consolidating concrete RC beam column joints. The percentage of superplasticizer, viscosity modification agent, and crimped steel fiber is maintained. Nonlinear finite element analysis (FEA) to analyse the beam column joint through nonlinear finite element modelling (NLFEM) and the modelling results were compared from the experimental results. The results obtained through ANSYS modelling show good agreement with the experimented results. The deflection ductility of experimental results shows 1.57, and the predicted deflection ductility shows 1.59 in beam column joint with Alccofine‐10%. ANSYS software is validated as appropriate software to predict the study parameters of self‐consolidation concrete in beam column joints.
Immediate Effect in the Retina and Choroid after 650 nm Low-Level Red Light Therapy in Children
Authors: Yang Weiming , Lin Feng , Li Meiyan , Wei Ruoyan , Zhou Jiaqi , Zhou Xingtao
Published: October 2022

Introduction: The objective of this study was to investigate the changes in the retina and choroid of children after 650 nm low-level red light therapy (LLRLT). Methods: In this prospective study, 25 subjects in the Shanghai Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University were included from August 2021 to September 2021. One eye was randomly selected to receive LLRLT for 3 min. Swept-source optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography were used to measure retinal fovea perfusion density (RFPD), retinal fovea thickness (RFT), choroidal fovea blood flow (CFBF), and choroidal fovea thickness (CFT) before LLRLT, 5 min and 1 h after LLRLT. Baseline characteristics between LLRLT and non-LLRLT eyes were compared. Changes in the retinal and choroidal parameters were analyzed by ANCOVA models. SAS software was used for data analysis. The difference was considered statistically significant if p < 0.05. Results: There was no difference in baseline characteristics between LLRLT eyes and non-LLRLT eyes. The RFPD in LLRLT eyes significantly increased 5 min after LLRLT, and the increment was 1.70 ± 0.83% (p = 0.0389). The RFPD significantly decreased from 5 min to 1 h after LLRLT with a mean of −2.62 ± 0.86% decrement (p = 0.0031). The RFPD levels returned to baseline at 1 h after LLRLT (p = 0.8646). However, compared with insignificant RFPD changes in non-LLRLT eyes, there was no significant difference in RFPD changes at any sampling point. No significant changes in RFT, CFBF, and CFT were found in LLRLT eyes at each sampling point. Conclusion: Although 3 min of LLRLT has no effect on the choroid, it may cause a short-term transient increase in RFPD. It will provide theoretical support for the role of LLRLT in myopia control.
Stabilization of liquid level in a tank system based on fuzzy logic controller
Authors: Ilyas Muhammad , Shah Syed Ali Raza , Rauf Arshad , Khalil Yousaf , Ayaz Muhammad
Published: October 2022

Process industry needed a fast executed automatic control system capable of handling uncertain, vague problems and nonlinear control variables. Liquid level control is one of the emerging control problems getting the interest of technical experts in the area of control. This paper is based on a fuzzy logic control strategy to maintain and stabilize the liquid level in a tank system that deals with pumping of liquid in tanks as well as regulating liquid level and pushing off the liquid into another tank. Fuzzy controller attains optimum performance by eliminating perturbation in steady state and vanishing the overshoot as compared to proportional, integral, and derivative (PID) controller. The proposed fuzzy logic controller shows minimal steady error as compared to PID controller. The defuzzification of the proposed scheme is based on the centroid method to obtain optimum results. The settling time is nearly 50 second while using fuzzy logic control as compared to 80 seconds in PID control strategy. The overshoot observed is minimal, nearly less than 1% using a fuzzy logic control scheme.
The use and significance of machine learning to screening COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sarfraz Nadeem , Rehman Faisal , Zahid Ammara
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 virus was first seen in 2019 December in China and rapidly spread all over the world and millions of people are infected with this virus. This disease has sited the entire world in dangerous circumstances. At the start of this virus, it was a very serious matter in China but now it is being observed all over the world. The virus is life-threatening, and other public who are affected by previous diseases or those people whose age is more than 60 are more affected by this virus. The healthcare and drug industries have tried to find a treatment. While machine learning (ML) algorithms are largely applied in other areas, at this time every health care unit has to want to use ML techniques to find and predict, tracking, screening, spread COVID-19, and try to find the treatment of it. we show what is the journey of ML to find and track the COVID-19 virus and also observing it from a screening and detecting the COVID-19 virus. We show how much research has been done yet to detection of COVID-19 and which algorithm of machine learning is best for the detection and screening of the COVID-19.
Comparing New York Heart Association Class and Patient-Reported Outcomes Among Patients Hospitalized for Heart Failure
Authors: Cosiano Michael F. , Vista Andrew , Sun Jie-Lena , Alhanti Brooke , Harrington Josephine , Butler Javed , Starling Randall C. , Mentz Robert J. , Greene Stephen J.
Published: October 2022

Background:

Alignment between clinician-reported New York Heart Association (NYHA) class compared and patient-reported outcomes among patients hospitalized for heart failure is unclear.

Methods:

ASCEND-HF (Acute Study of Clinical Effectiveness of Nesiritide in Decompensated Heart Failure) was a global randomized trial comparing nesiritide versus placebo among patients hospitalized for heart failure, irrespective of ejection fraction. Among patients with complete baseline data for NYHA class and the patient-reported EuroQOL-5 dimensions ([EQ-5D], both utility index and visual analog scale), levels of each scale were mapped across 4 prespecified categories “best” to “worst.” Minor and moderate-severe discordance were defined as NYHA class and EQ-5D differing by 1 level and ≥2 levels, respectively. Multivariable models assessed factors independently associated with moderate-severe discordance, and associations between discordance and clinical outcomes.

Results:

Among 5741 patients, concordance, minor discordance, and moderate-severe discordance between NYHA class and EQ-5D utility index occurred in 22%, 40%, and 38% of patients, respectively. For NYHA class and EQ-5D visual analog scale, this categorization occurred in 29%, 48%, and 23%. Discordance was more often due to disproportionately higher EQ-5D score (78% of discordance cases with utility index, and 70% with visual analog scale). NYHA class IV, higher EQ-5D scores, race, and geographic region were among patient factors independently associated with moderate-severe discordance. Magnitude of discordance was not associated with clinical outcomes; however, EQ-5D utility index disproportionately worse than NYHA class was associated with increased 180-day mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 1.27 [95% CI, 1.01–1.60];
P
=0.04).

Conclusions:

In a global trial cohort of patients hospitalized for heart failure, the majority of patients exhibited discordance between clinician-reported NYHA class and patient-reported health status. Multiple patient factors were independently associated with moderate-severe discordance, and patients who perceived their health status as worse than the clinician’s perception had higher mortality.

Registration:
URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT00475852.
Efficacy and Safety of an Investigational Single-Course CRISPR Base-Editing Therapy Targeting
PCSK9
in Nonhuman Primate and Mouse Models
Authors: Lee Richard G. , Mazzola Anne Marie , Braun Maurine C. , Platt Colin , Vafai Scott B. , Kathiresan Sekar , Rohde Ellen , Bellinger Andrew M. , Khera Amit V.
Published: October 2022

Background:

VERVE-101 is an investigational in vivo CRISPR base-editing medicine designed to alter a single DNA base in the
PCSK9
gene, permanently turn off hepatic protein production, and thereby durably lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. We test the efficacy, durability, tolerability, and potential for germline editing of VERVE-101 in studies of nonhuman primates and a murine F1 progeny study.

Methods:

Cynomolgus monkeys were given a single intravenous infusion of a vehicle control (n=10) or VERVE-101 at a dose of 0.75 mg/kg (n=4) or 1.5 mg/kg (n=22) with subsequent follow-up up to 476 days. Two studies assessed the potential for germline editing, including sequencing sperm samples from sexually mature male nonhuman primates treated with VERVE-101 and genotyping offspring from female mice treated with the murine surrogate of VERVE-101 (VERVE-101mu).

Results:

Liver biopsies 14 days after dosing noted mean
PCSK9
editing of 46% and 70% in monkeys treated with VERVE-101 at 0.75 and 1.5 mg/kg, respectively. This translated into mean reductions in blood PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9) of 67% and 83% and reductions of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol of 49% and 69% at the 0.75 and 1.5 mg/kg doses, respectively, assessed as time-weighted average change from baseline between day 28 and up to 476 days after dosing. Liver safety monitoring noted a transient rise in alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase concentrations after infusion that fully resolved by day 14 with no accompanying change in total bilirubin. In a subset of monkeys necropsied 1 year after dosing, no findings related to VERVE-101 were identified on macroscopic and histopathologic assessment of the liver and other organs. In the study to assess potential germline editing of male nonhuman primates, sperm samples collected after VERVE-101 dosing showed no evidence of
PCSK9
editing. Among 436 offspring of female mice treated with a saturating dose of VERVE-101mu, the
PCSK9
edit was transmitted in 0 of 436 animals.

Conclusions:

VERVE-101 was well tolerated in nonhuman primates and led to 83% lower blood PCSK9 protein and 69% lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol with durable effects up to 476 days after dosing. These results have supported the initiation of a first-in-human clinical trial in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.