bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation de la version francophone de l’Échelle d’Effort Physique
Authors: St-Denis Bianca , Beaudry Simon , Boisgontier Matthieu P. , Cheval Boris , Maltagliati Silvio
Published: September 2024

Objectif : Pour mieux expliquer l’engagement dans l’activité physique, la Physical Effort Scale (PES) a récemment été développée. L’objectif de la présente étude était de valider la version francophone de cette échelle (PES-FR). Méthodologie : Après traduction de l’échelle originale, la validité structurelle et de construit de la PES-FR a été examinée dans un échantillon de 362 étudiants canadiens francophones (62 % de femmes, Mâge = 20 ans). La stabilité temporelle de l’échelle a été testée dans un second échantillon (n = 101, 79 % de femmes, Mâge = 21 ans) ayant complété deux fois le questionnaire avec sept jours d’écart. Résultats : La structure en deux facteurs de la PES-FR a été soutenue, avec une dimension d’approche et une dimension d’évitement. Les deux sous-échelles présentent une cohérence interne élevée (α = 0,86 pour l’approche et α = 0,89 pour l’évitement). La validité convergente et la validité discriminante ont été confirmées par des corrélations entre l’approche et l’évitement avec plusieurs variables motivationnelles. La validité concurrente de l’échelle a été soutenue par des associations entre le niveau habituel d’activité physique et les tendances d’approche (r = 0,35) et d’évitement (r = −0,21). La stabilité temporelle a aussi été confirmée dans le second échantillon. Conclusions : La PES-FR est un outil fiable et valide pour mesurer les différences individuelles dans l’évaluation de l’effort physique. Les implications pratiques sont discutées au regard des enjeux de promotion de l’activité physique.
NT-pro-BNP Level is Related to Left Ventricular Remodeling in
Patients With Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Wu Tao , Xu Chenxiao , Tang Lu , Wu Xi , Peng Pengfei , Yue Xun , Cheng Wei , He Shuai , Li Lei , Chen Yucheng , Ren Yan , Sun Jiayu
Published: September 2024

Aims To assess the relationship between the left ventricular remodeling
parameters of cardiac magnetic resonance and NT-pro-BNP in patients with primary
aldosteronism (PA).

Methods Seventy-four PA and 39 essential hypertension patients were
prospectively recruited and underwent cardiac magnetic resonance. Plasma
NT-pro-BNP was measured before patients underwent cardiac magnetic resonance.
Left ventricular remodeling parameters were defined as left ventricular function
parameters, T1 mapping parameters, and strain parameters. Differences in
continuous variables between two groups were analyzed using Student’s t-test or
Mann–Whitney U test. Differences in categorical variables between two groups
were analyzed by chi-squared test. Spearman’s correlation and linear regression
were used to analyze the relationships between left ventricular remodeling
parameters and plasma NT-Pro-BNP level. P<0.05 was considered as
statistically significant.

Results Patients with PA demonstrated higher NT-pro-BNP [86.0 (49.5,
145.5) vs. 45.0 (28.5, 73.5) pg/mL, P=0.001] and Native T1 (1227±41 vs. 1206±43
ms, P=0.015) level than essential hypertension patients. Compared to patients
with normal NT-pro-BNP levels, those with abnormal levels demonstrated different
left ventricular remodeling parameters. NT-pro-BNP level was independently
related to native T1 (β=0.316, P=0.006), extracellular volume (β=0.419,
P<0.001), short-axis global circumferential strain (β=0.429, P<0.001),
four-chamber global longitudinal strain (β=0.332, P=0.002), and four-chamber
global radial strain (β=-0.334, P=0.004) in patients after adjusting for
baseline characteristics.

Conclusions NT-pro-BNP level was related to left ventricular remodeling
parameters derived from cardiac magnetic resonance in patients with PA. This
result implies that clinicians should pay attention to NT-pro-BNP assessment in
patients with PA in routine clinical assessment.
Comparison of Patient-Reported Quality of Life Following Direct-to-Implant Prepectoral and Subpectoral Breast Reconstruction Using BREAST-Q: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Dyrberg Diana L , Dalaei Farima , Sollie Martin , Bille Camilla , Koudahl Vibeke , Sørensen Jens A , Thomsen Jørn B
Published: September 2024

Background Direct-to-implant breast reconstruction (DIR) is becoming more and more accepted. There is a lack of high-quality studies assessing differences in patient-reported quality of life (QoL) between different implant placement methods. The aim of this randomized controlled (clinical) trial was to compare QoL between women reconstructed by sub- or prepectoral implant placement.

Methods We included women over 18 years eligible for DIR. Patients were randomly assigned to reconstruction by subpectoral or prepectoral implant placement. Assessment of QoL and patient satisfaction was made using the BREAST-Q questionnaire for postmastectomy breast reconstruction and compared between the sub- and prepectoral reconstructed groups preoperatively and after 3 and 12 months of follow-up.

Results A total of 42 women were allocated to sub- or prepectoral reconstruction with 21 patients in each group. There were no differences in patient characteristics between groups. Regarding all the selected BREAST-Q scales: (1) satisfaction with the reconstructed breast, (2) satisfaction with the breast implant, (3) satisfaction with the overall outcome, (4) psychosocial well-being, (5) sexual well-being, and (6) physical well-being—we found no significant differences between the two groups. Assessing each group independently we found, that in both groups sexual well-being improved after surgery postoperatively compared to the preoperative scores.

Conclusion We found high satisfaction and QoL following both sub- and prepectoral breast reconstruction. We found no significant differences between groups suggesting both methods for DIR can be used. Despite our high-quality data, a larger sample size and longer postoperative follow-up are needed to further investigate the differences in QoL between sub- and prepectoral breast reconstruction.
Synthesis of 5-(4-Formylphenyl)barbituric Acid to Access Enolizable Chromophoric Barbituric Acids
Authors: Schade Alexander
Published: September 2024

Barbituric acids mono-substituted at the 5-position show keto–enol tautomerism. In the keto form, conjugation to an aryl substituent is interrupted due to the sp³-hybridized carbon atom at the 5-position of barbituric acid. The enol form generates a conjugated π-system to the aryl substituent and acts as an electron-donating group. If the aryl substituent is electron-deficient, a push-pull system is generated that shows typical UV/Vis absorption. These types of compounds are difficult to access synthetically due to their intrinsic convertibility. The synthesis of barbituric acids with a 4-formylphenyl functionality at the 5-position is reported. This compound, 5-(4-formylphenyl)barbituric acid, could be used to introduce extended π-systems with electron-withdrawing groups in great variety by simple condensation reactions. We demonstrate this by a Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons reaction that forms the enolizable dye (E)-5-(4-(4-nitrostyryl)phenyl)barbituric acid.
Structure-Based Virtual Screening and Protein–Protein Docking Analysis of ERBB2 and Associated Proteins for Pediatric Cancer Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Almazroea Abdulhadi
Published: September 2024

Introduction The Erythroblastosis Oncogene B homolog 2 (ERBB2) protein, also known as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), is a key player in cancer growth, especially in neuroblastoma and gastric cancers. Targeting ERBB2 has led to successful therapies, making it an important focus in cancer research with the potential to improve treatment for HER2-positive cancers.

Objective The primary goal of this research is to employ a multifaceted computational approach to identify potential drug candidates targeting ERBB2. We aim to combine virtual screening, protein–protein docking, and functional partner prediction to provide insights into the molecular interactions and potential efficacy of the identified compounds. Additionally, we intend to assess the safety profiles of these compounds using advanced toxicity prediction tools.

Materials and Methods Relevant protein sequence and structural data for ERBB2 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) were sourced from publicly available databases. Potential inhibitors from the Enamine and LifeChemicals databases were identified through virtual screening using AutoDock Vina. Functional partners of ERBB2 were explored using STRING, KEGG, and REACTOME servers. The identified compounds were subjected to toxicity prediction using the ProTox-II server.

Results Virtual screening led to the selection of 10 compounds with favorable binding energies (–8.346 to –6.296 kcal/mol) and specific amino acid interactions (Thr5, Arg412, Leu414, and Ser441) with the receptor. On the other hand, EGFR was identified as the best functional partner for ERBB2. The EGFR residues Gln408, Lys463, Phe412, and Asp436 found key residues for the complex formation. The toxicity prediction analysis revealed that the majority of compounds exhibited acceptable safety profiles, although a subset of compounds showed lower prediction scores, suggesting the need for further consideration.

Conclusion This comprehensive computational approach, integrating virtual screening, protein–protein docking, functional partner identification, and toxicity prediction, offers a systematic framework for efficient drug discovery. The identification of potential lead compounds targeting ERBB2, with emphasis on both binding affinity and safety, underscores the significance of such an approach in streamlining the drug development process. By prioritizing compounds with promising efficacy, functional relevance, and acceptable toxicity profiles, this study advances our understanding of potential therapeutic agents, enhancing the likelihood of successful translation from computational predictions to real-world drug candidates.
Coexistence of 21 Hydroxylase Deficiency and Autoimmune Adrenalitis: A Case Report
Authors: Trimeche Oumeyma , Minf Fatma , Salah Dhoha Ben , Frikha Hamdi , Elleuch Mouna , Kacem Faten Hadj , Charfi Nadia , Boujelbene Khouloud , Mnif Mouna , Rekik Nabila , Abid Mohamed
Published: September 2024

21-Hydroxylase deficiency (21 OHD) is the most common cause of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Despite its relative frequency, many aspects of this disease are understudied. The aim of our case report was to highlight the association between nonclassic CAH (NCCAH) and autoimmunity, and to encourage future research to explore the possible cause-and-effect relationship between CAH and tumorigenesis. Here, we report the case of a 41-year-old woman with a history of nonclassic 21 OHD, who demonstrated typical signs of acute adrenal insufficiency. As it is well known, this is an unusual presentation of NCCAH and therefore a panel of laboratory and radiological exams were conducted in order to determine the associated etiology of the adrenal insufficiency, which revealed to be autoimmune adrenalitis. Another striking particularity of our case is the coexistence of NCCAH and cutaneous T lymphoma in our patient, which to our knowledge has never been reported in literature. This case illustrates the need to scrutiny for the etiology of adrenocortical crisis in the setting of NCCAH. It also emphasizes the possible associations between NCCAH and autoimmunity in one hand and neoplasms on the other hand.
Challenges in Targeting the “Crosstalks” in Cancer Cachexia
Authors: Vallathol Dilip Harindran , Warrier Arun R.
Published: September 2024

Cancer cachexia syndrome is characterized by involuntary weight loss which usually occurs in advanced malignancies. The pathogenicity of this syndrome is multifactorial, due to a complex interaction of tumor and host factors. The syndrome is closely related to the prognostication of malignancies. Several research works are in progress to target the major effectors of cancer cachexia syndrome. This letter is a nutshell on the current status of the cancer cachexia syndrome—the crosstalks and potential therapeutic targets.
Understanding Cancer Epidemiology in Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Ranta Randhir Singh , Sharma Sakshi , Chauhan Manoj
Published: September 2024

Objective This study investigated the distribution of cancer cases across different age groups, sexes, and regions in Himachal Pradesh, India, with the aim of informing targeted public health strategies.

Materials and Methods Cancer incidence data were collected from various age groups, sexes, and blocks.

Statistical Analysis Chi-square tests were used to assess the significance of differences in cancer patient distribution according to age, sex, and region.

Results Cancer incidence increased with age, peaking in the 58 to 67 years age group. The highest number of patient was reported, particularly among individuals aged 38 years and above. Minimal cases were observed in the youngest age groups (< 17 and 18–27 years), while a significant increase was noted in the middle age groups (28–57 years). Cancer cases were nearly equally distributed between males (50.1%) and females (49.9%). A chi-square value of 180.18 indicated a statistically significant difference in cancer incidence according to age and sex. Gender-specific trends revealed higher cancer incidences in females during middle age (28–57 years) and in males during older age (58 years and above). The highest number of cases was 18.1%, followed by 14.7 and 14.6%, while the lowest incidence was 1.5%.

Conclusion The present study underscores the need for comprehensive and targeted public health strategies to manage cancer burdens effectively. Focusing on high-incidence regions and ensuring equitable health care access for all genders can improve cancer outcomes and reduce mortality rates associated with the disease.
Splenic and Liver Elastography in Prediction of Esophageal Varices and Variceal Severity in Patients with Chronic Liver Disease: A Diagnostic Validation Study
Authors: Panthee Trilochan , Nandolia Khanak K. , Sharma Pankaj , Patnaik Itish , Chauhan Udit
Published: September 2024

Objective The aim of this study was to assess the value of shear wave elastography (SWE) to predict the presence of esophageal varices (EVs) and to predict high-grade EV in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD).

Methods A cross-sectional observational study was conducted. One hundred twenty-one CLD patients were recruited. Liver stiffness (LS) and splenic stiffness (SS) were measured using SWE.

Results Evaluation of LS is superior to SS in predicting the presence of EV. Evaluation of SS is more valuable than LS in grading EV.

Conclusion LS and SS have good diagnostic performance in predicting and grading varices. SWE is simple to incorporate into standard ultrasonography assessments in patients with CLD. SWE can be used as an adjunct to upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to screen and monitor CLD patient.
‘A Reputation to Protect’: Sport-Team Reputation as a Strategic Source of Brand Equity
Authors: Mishra Abhishek , Yousaf Anish , Gannon Martin
Published: September 2024

This study investigates how sports team reputation shapes brand equity through consumers’ relationship satisfaction, life satisfaction, and commitment. Data were collected from India in two stages, with 523 responses used to test relationships among constructs via structural equation modelling. Barring the effects of social responsibility and financial soundness on relationship satisfaction and the effect of life satisfaction on team brand equity, all hypothesised relationships were significant. Self-congruity also positively moderated relationship satisfaction outcomes, including sport-team heritage, spectator orientation, and management style dimensions. The study’s findings provide important insights for managers, highlighting the crucial role of a strong reputation in building consumer-team loyalty. Our research suggests that marketing strategies should focus on enhancing consumer self-identification by involving fans in on-field and off-field successes to foster meaningful connections.
Accreditation as a lever for change in the development of the collaborative practitioner in the Australian health system
Authors: Kent Fiona , Cardiff Lynda , Clark Bronwyn , Gustavs Julie , Jolly Brian , Maundu Josephine , Wilkinson Glenys , Meiklejohn Sarah
Published: September 2024

Objective Patient expectations in the Australian healthcare system are for coordinated, collaborative practice. There is a need for education institutions, health services, accreditation authorities, and consumers to work together to achieve this goal. As part of a larger body of work, we sought to understand how these stakeholders contribute to the development of collaborative healthcare practice. Method Nineteen focus groups were conducted in 2022 with 84 participants consisting of education providers (n = 62), consumers (n = 10), representatives from the Health Profession’s Education Standing Group (n = 8), and health service practitioners (n = 4). Framework analysis was initially undertaken to understand facilitators of, and barriers to, collaborative practice and learning. In a secondary analysis, the themes were re-organised according to the Bolman and Deal domains of organisational practice, to make explicit the structural, human resource, political, and symbolic factors deemed useful for re-imaging a process for learning about and incentivising collaborative practice. Results There are multiple factors across healthcare settings that both facilitate and challenge the development of collaborative practice. Co-location of professions and participation in formal interprofessional processes such as team meetings and handovers facilitated learning collaborative practice, although traditional cultures which perpetuate siloed models of healthcare, power differentials between the professions, funding structures, and information sharing limited opportunities. The ‘value’ of collaborative practice was facilitated through both consistent curriculum messages throughout health professional courses and positive role modelling. Conclusions Education institutions, health service practitioners, accreditation authorities, and consumers can work together to facilitate the development of collaborative practice through attention to policy and processes, curriculum activities, student participation, health service activities and practice, and resource allocation.
Low-voltage organic field-effect transistors by using solution-processable high-κ inorganic-polymer hybrid dielectrics
Authors: Rong Bin , Zhao Wei , Liao Yi , Zhang Yixiao , Zhu Yangyang , Shi Wei , Wei Bin
Published: September 2024

Organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) incorporating hybrid high-κ inorganic Al2O3 and polymer dielectrics, including polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polystyrene (PS), or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), through solution-processing techniques were fabricated. The analyses revealed that the high surface energy and hydrophilicity property of Al2O3 and PVA, and the relatively hydrophobic property of PS surface, hindered the performance of corresponding OFETs. The Al2O3/PMMA-based OFET achieved the optimized performance, with a threshold voltage of −2.7 V, a hole carrier mobility of 0.056 cm2/Vs, and a current on/off ratio of 1.0 × 104 at a low operating voltage of −5 V. Through analyzing the characteristics of leakage current, capacitance, contact resistance, and trap density of OFETs, we found that the PMMA-engaged films possessed the optimized electrical properties. The introduction of PMMA eliminated the interfacial trapping, thereby lowering the threshold voltage and enhancing the performance of the device. The COMSOL Multiphysics simulation was conducted to confirm the physical mechanism. The strategy of utilizing Al2O3/PMMA hybrid dielectric could simultaneously ensure the low operating voltage and good performance of OFET, while guaranteeing the low leakage current by the thick PMMA.
The effect of oxidation on tribology behavior of nickel-graphite coated stainless steel SS420
Authors: Shirvani Kourosh , Taheri Morteza , Ebrahimi Tahere
Published: September 2024

The main solution to the challenge of maintaining maximum sealing in the compressor section of each gas turbine is the use of abradable coatings. These coatings have a double duty, including (a) maintaining the lagging and (b) protecting the tips of the rotor blades. Choosing the type of abradable coating primarily depends on the service temperature of the coating. Nickel-graphite (Ni-G) coating is a good choice for use up to 480 °C and, or steel/sub-alloy rotor blades. In this research, the Ni-G coating was applied by the flame spraying method of Ni-G powder with a thickness of about 250 μm on an SS420 stainless steel substrate. The effect of the composition of the bonding layer was also investigated using two compositions, Ni-5Al and NiCrAlY. Obtaining the knowledge of applying Ni-G coating by flame spraying, identifying the structural and compositional characteristics of the coating (through optical and electron metallography), and the effect that oxidation can have on the tribological behavior of the coating were among the goals of this project. The best conditions for spraying the Ni-G coating were achieved an oxygen gas pressure of 6 bar, oxygen flow rate of 18 L min−1, acetylene pressure of 1.5 bar, acetylene flow rate of 24 L min−1, and the distance between the gun head and the sample surface was 22 cm. The results showed that placing the coating in oxidizing conditions increases its coefficient of friction. The increase in the coefficient of friction was attributed to the formation of oxide shells on the surface of the coating after 500 h of exposure to oxidation conditions. Corresponding to the higher coefficient of friction, the oxidized coating showed a decrease in wear resistance as a result of oxidation. This result can show the decrease in abradable of this coating with increasing service time.
Extracting the crystal electric field levels of Ce-4f1 states in CeB6 by atomic multiplet simulations
Authors: Wang Yue , Wu Qi-Yuan , Chen Cheng , Miao Lin
Published: September 2024

The crystal electric field (CEF) is vital in defining the low-energy electronic structure of lanthanide compound, and thus very essential in understanding the many-body physics of the strongly correlated 4 f electrons. Many efforts have been made to determine the low-energy electronic structure of the intrinsically correlated material CeB6 and its derived compounds. In this paper, we performed atomic multiplet (AM) simulations on the Ce-4f1 states in CeB6 and directly fitted them with previously reported resonant inelastic x-ray scattering spectroscopy (RIXS). The simulation results suggest that the discrepancy of excitations energies extracted from Raman spectroscopy and RIXS is a result of intrinsic varied crystal electric field strength, which can be reconciled by considering the enhanced CEF by eliminating the insulating scenario.
Parametric optimization and energy loss analysis of a solar thermophotonic energy converter
Authors: Fan Chao , Wei Xueling , Liao Tianjun
Published: September 2024

In the present work, the model of a solar thermophotonic energy converter (STEC) is established, of which the energy balance constraint equations at both the hot and cold sides are numerically solved to uncover the dependencies of the operating temperatures of the light emitting diode (LED) and photovoltaic (PV) cell on thermal, electrical, and structural parameters. For a given band-gap 0.36 eV of the semiconductor and a concentrated factor 20 of the concentrator, the LED’s bias voltage and the PV cell’s output voltage are optimized to achieve a local maximum efficiency 13% of the STEC. Furthermore, the conditions are optimized to attain an overall maximum efficiency of 15.94%. The distributions of energy losses are presented to reveal the underlying loss mechanisms. The results obtained in this work can provide theoretical guidance for the efficient utilization of solar energy.
Investigation of compressive strength of primitive geometries printed through the fused deposition modeling technique with different path patterns
Authors: Yousefi Navid , Hashemi Ramin , Sedighi Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a material-extrusion-based technique used primarily for rapid prototyping and sometimes for an actual servicing part. In the FDM technique, input parent materials are commercial polymers. FDM also has some manufacturing parameters, and the raster pattern significantly affects the mechanical performance of the FDM products. Due to its intrinsic nature, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is widely used in many industries, such as automobiles, medicine, etc. Producing the primitive geometry and selecting the proper infill pattern is challenging. Therefore, the current research paper investigates the effects of various infill patterns on the compressive performance of the three geometries (sphere, 3-side, and 4-side pyramids) printed through the FDM technique out of ABS material. The compressive experiments were conducted on the printed samples and load-displacement curves were evaluated. The results reveal that the concentrate path pattern in the sphere samples has the highest compressive failure load (40127 N). Also, the compressive failure loads in the 3-side and 4-side pyramids fabricated with a 45°/−45° raster pattern are 30444 N and 44396 N, respectively. Finally, comprehensive discussions about the obtained results are stated.
Photon blockade in a double-transmon system with ultrastrong coupling
Authors: Tian 田 Tian 甜 , Zhu 朱 Xianhe 先和 , Tian 田 Xi 茜
Published: September 2024

The circuit quantum electrodynamics (QED) system has brought us into an ultrastrong and deep coupling regime in the light–matter interaction community, in which the quantum effect has attracted significant interest. In this study, we theoretically investigated the photon blockade phenomenon in a double-transmon system operating in an ultrastrong coupling regime. We considered the effect of the counter-rotating wave terms in the interaction Hamiltonian and derived the master equation in the eigenpresentation. We found that photon blockade occurred in only one of the eigenmodes, and the counter-rotating wave terms enhanced the blockade by reducing the minimum value of the second-order correlation function. This study will be beneficial for the design of single-photon devices in circuit QED systems, especially in the ultrastrong coupling regime.
SM-GMVAE: an intelligent model for defect quantification evaluation based on few ultrasonic signals
Authors: Li Zhifeng , Liu Xiaojian , Li Runchen , Song Shaoheng , Liu Weihua , Song Yaqin
Published: September 2024

The conventional defect quantification evaluation approaches based on machine learning requires massive amounts of labelled defect signals, which is expensive and time-consuming works. This paper proposed a novel Similarity Metric Gaussian Mixture Variational Auto-Encoder (SM-GMVAE) model, which enables quantify defect with few labelled defect signals. The SM-GMVAE model is designed based on few-shot learning, which includes two modules: feature extraction (FE) module and similarity metric (SM) module. The FE module is designed to extract the feature of defect signal via the Variational Auto-Encoder (VAE). The SM module is used to measure the similarity of two defect signals based on the Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM). Moreover, sparse filtering techniques are used to enhance the sparsity of the features in the SM module. To validate proposed model, some specimens with four various depth defects are designed and fabricated for ultrasonic non-destructive testing experiments. A dataset with defects of different depths is established to compare proposed model with other methods. Our method obtains state-of-the-art experimental results with few labelled defect signals. Different from many published papers, our model is trained with few labelled data, which is more close to engineering practical application than other evaluation model trained using large numbers of labelled data. In other words, the developed approach can realize more complex defect evaluation tasks (such as: size, location, shapes, etc) at very low data labelling cost.
A novel dual-band defected ground structure wearable microstrip patch antenna for breast tumor detection in biomedical applications
Authors: Gour Sonam , Rathi Amit , Rawal Pallav
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a dual-band, low-profile wearable antenna for detecting breast tumors in biomedical applications. The antenna is designed on the FR4 substrate with an optimized dimension of 32 × 27.5 × 0.61 mm3. The compact rectangular patch is miniaturized by cutting the rectangular slots on the front side. The partial ground structure is used for moving the resonance frequency in the ISM band region and for giving the tripping result of the return loss. A breast phantom is created between the transmitter and receiver for detecting the tumor in the phantom model. The different sizes and positions of the tumor in the breast phantom provide different values of the return loss. The final optimized design of the antenna is operated at 2.43 GHz and 3.32 GHz with −35 and −24 return losses respectively. It has been observed from the simulated and measured results that the antenna has a negligible difference between the reflected coefficient, radiation pattern and gain. Afterward, the antenna is also checked for biocompatibility, which represents its good performance. The on-body analysis of the antenna represents a minor variation in the results. The Specific Absorption Ratio (SAR) value of the antenna is in the acceptable range as defined for the wearable device. It is a promising compact wearable antenna that can be used in biomedical applications.
Plug-in charging or electric roads? Powering U.S. long-haul heavy-duty trucks in 2050
Authors: Yeow Lih Wei , Posen I Daniel , MacLean Heather L
Published: September 2024

Pervasive plug-in fast chargers and/or electrified roadways (eRoads) might address the limited range, long recharging times, and reliance on greenhouse gas (GHG)-intensive, costly, and heavy batteries associated with electrifying long-haul heavy-duty trucks (HDTs). While these large-scale interventions shift environmental and cost burdens onto infrastructure, there is a lack of studies investigating how eRoads affect system-level GHG emissions, costs, material use, and peak electric grid power demands. We compare these aspects for the case of electrifying U.S long-haul HDTs (Class 8) in 2050 powered by combinations of plug-in fast chargers and eRoads. Our model accounts for battery downsizing, energy consumption, and truck operation patterns in quantifying life cycle impacts of batteries, plug-in chargers, eRoads, and hourly truck electricity demand. We find that plug-in fast chargers and eRoads reduce annualized 2050 HDT life cycle GHG emissions by 8% to 14% compared to using long-range batteries, which in turn have at least 50% lower emissions than diesel trucks. Conductive rails, overhead lines, and wireless eRoads (amortized across light- and heavy-duty vehicles) have lower system-wide costs than long-range batteries, plug-in fast chargers, or diesel trucks. Cost savings from smaller batteries, lower energy use and avoided recharging time offset high eRoads capital costs. While eRoads can reduce both system-level GHG and costs compared to diesel trucks, these reductions are sensitive to eRoads capital costs and losses from wireless power transfer and air resistance. eRoads require less lithium (87%) and copper (67%) than long-range batteries but increase regional peak power demands by up to 32%. Efficient wireless power transfer and aerodynamic pantographs enhance eRoads’ GHG and cost advantages, which may diminish if future batteries are more energy-dense, cheaper, or less GHG intensive. If successfully deployed, eRoads present opportunities for tighter integration between the transportation and electricity infrastructure systems, enabling optimized charging strategies to lower GHG emissions and costs.
Fraud: The Evolving Threat
Authors: Betts Michael J , Eshelby Laura , Whitehouse-Hayes David
Published: August 2024

This chapter provides an overview of the emerging face of fraud, explained through the use of ‘fraudster personas’. The chapter draws on insights from tackling fraud during the global Covid-19 pandemic. It explores the range of methods used to commit fraud including the ever-increasing use of technology and digital enablers. It examines a range of fraud typologies focusing on the key enablers and vulnerabilities. It provides insight that counter fraud professionals can adopt to respond to fraud threats. It explores the factors around why fraud is more visible and recognized as a national security threat. It reviews the theories of fraud, and challenges their relevance in the twenty-first century. It suggests new models that could be adopted by the counter fraud professional. The chapter explains why investigation is just one of the many tools that may be deployed to counter fraud.
Methodological Approaches to Structural Change: Epidemiology and the Case for Reparations
Authors: Lawrence Jourdyn A , Shi Joy , Jahn Jaquelyn L , Himmelstein Kathryn E W , Feldman Justin M , Bassett Mary T
Published: September 2024

Scholars, activists, and policymakers have long called for reparations – a process of repair and restitution for harm and injustices done – to descendants of enslaved Africans in the U.S. as a structural intervention to address historic and ongoing injustices. However, there has been very limited epidemiologic work examining reparations. We explore some of the epidemiologic benefits and challenges of using causal inference frameworks to model reparations as an example of a large-scale, structural intervention that pushes the limits of what is considered “well-defined” and may violate key identification assumptions. Finally, we weigh these methodological limitations with the utility of assessing public health implications of reparations policies and conclude by discussing implications for future epidemiologic research.
Enteropathway: the metabolic pathway database for the human gut microbiota
Authors: Shiroma Hirotsugu , Darzi Youssef , Terajima Etsuko , Nakagawa Zenichi , Tsuchikura Hirotaka , Tsukuda Naoki , Moriya Yuki , Okuda Shujiro , Goto Susumu , Yamada Takuji
Published: September 2024

The human gut microbiota produces diverse, extensive metabolites that have the potential to affect host physiology. Despite significant efforts to identify metabolic pathways for producing these microbial metabolites, a comprehensive metabolic pathway database for the human gut microbiota is still lacking. Here, we present Enteropathway, a metabolic pathway database that integrates 3269 compounds, 3677 reactions, and 876 modules that were obtained from 1012 manually curated scientific literature. Notably, 698 modules of these modules are new entries and cannot be found in any other databases. The database is accessible from a web application (https://enteropathway.org) that offers a metabolic diagram for graphical visualization of metabolic pathways, a customization interface, and an enrichment analysis feature for highlighting enriched modules on the metabolic diagram. Overall, Enteropathway is a comprehensive reference database that can complement widely used databases, and a tool for visual and statistical analysis in human gut microbiota studies and was designed to help researchers pinpoint new insights into the complex interplay between microbiota and host metabolism.
CAIM: coverage-based analysis for identification of microbiome
Authors: Acheampong Daniel A , Jenjaroenpun Piroon , Wongsurawat Thidathip , Kurilung Alongkorn , Pomyen Yotsawat , Kandel Sangam , Kunadirek Pattapon , Chuaypen Natthaya , Kusonmano Kanthida , Nookaew Intawat
Published: September 2024

Accurate taxonomic profiling of microbial taxa in a metagenomic sample is vital to gain insights into microbial ecology. Recent advancements in sequencing technologies have contributed tremendously toward understanding these microbes at species resolution through a whole shotgun metagenomic approach. In this study, we developed a new bioinformatics tool, coverage-based analysis for identification of microbiome (CAIM), for accurate taxonomic classification and quantification within both long- and short-read metagenomic samples using an alignment-based method. CAIM depends on two different containment techniques to identify species in metagenomic samples using their genome coverage information to filter out false positives rather than the traditional approach of relative abundance. In addition, we propose a nucleotide-count–based abundance estimation, which yield lesser root mean square error than the traditional read-count approach. We evaluated the performance of CAIM on 28 metagenomic mock communities and 2 synthetic datasets by comparing it with other top-performing tools. CAIM maintained a consistently good performance across datasets in identifying microbial taxa and in estimating relative abundances than other tools. CAIM was then applied to a real dataset sequenced on both Nanopore (with and without amplification) and Illumina sequencing platforms and found high similarity of taxonomic profiles between the sequencing platforms. Lastly, CAIM was applied to fecal shotgun metagenomic datasets of 232 colorectal cancer patients and 229 controls obtained from 4 different countries and 44 primary liver cancer patients and 76 controls. The predictive performance of models using the genome-coverage cutoff was better than those using the relative-abundance cutoffs in discriminating colorectal cancer and primary liver cancer patients from healthy controls with a highly confident species markers.
Graph neural networks are promising for phenotypic virtual screening on cancer cell lines
Authors: Vishwakarma Sachin , Hernandez-Hernandez Saiveth , Ballester Pedro J
Published: September 2024

Artificial intelligence is increasingly driving early drug design, offering novel approaches to virtual screening. Phenotypic virtual screening (PVS) aims to predict how cancer cell lines respond to different compounds by focusing on observable characteristics rather than specific molecular targets. Some studies have suggested that deep learning may not be the best approach for PVS. However, these studies are limited by the small number of tested molecules as well as not employing suitable performance metrics and dissimilar-molecules splits better mimicking the challenging chemical diversity of real-world screening libraries. Here we prepared 60 datasets, each containing approximately 30 000–50 000 molecules tested for their growth inhibitory activities on one of the NCI-60 cancer cell lines. We conducted multiple performance evaluations of each of the five machine learning algorithms for PVS on these 60 problem instances. To provide even a more comprehensive evaluation, we used two model validation types: the random split and the dissimilar-molecules split. Overall, about 14 440 training runs aczross datasets were carried out per algorithm. The models were primarily evaluated using hit rate, a more suitable metric in VS contexts. The results show that all models are more challenged by test molecules that are substantially different from those in the training data. In both validation types, the D-MPNN algorithm, a graph-based deep neural network, was found to be the most suitable for building predictive models for this PVS problem.
Summer days: research culture and the neuroscience of taking a break
Authors: Spires-Jones Tara L
Published: September 2024

Our editor discusses taking a vacation without a computer and some neuroscience evidence supporting the need for work–life balance.
Temporal dynamics of post-feminist narratives: boundaries of empowerment in female-focused car ads (1967–2021)
Authors: Humeres Mónica , Farías Catalina
Published: September 2024

This study critically examines post-feminism through a 50-year analysis of car advertising targeted at women in Chile. It explores feminism’s evolving significance in media culture, aiming to establish a comparative framework to identify changes and consistencies in feminist-themed media discourses over different periods. Using a qualitative approach, we analyzed 74 ads from a women’s magazine from 1967 to 2021. The results reveal changing gender role discourses, showing a nuanced interplay between progressive components and neo-conservative principles across historical periods. The evolution of female-focused advertising within post-feminist narratives depicts portrayals of women isolated or alongside family, highlighting individuality but implying limited representations of collective empowerment. The findings underscore the need to analyze media messages aimed at women in shifting temporal contexts. We argue that analytical frameworks must critically assess the progression, or lack thereof, in women’s (misleading) emancipation amidst the transitions from commodity feminism to post-feminism and femvertising.
“Instagram is like a karela”: transnational digital queer politics and online censorship and surveillance in India
Authors: Kanchan Tanvi
Published: September 2024

This article explores transnational queer political flows and negotiations in Indian queer/trans communities on Instagram, situating this in its limits and restrictions as a public sphere that is corporate- and state-governed and subject to conditions of profitability, censorship, regulation, and algorithmic disciplining. Using insights from 23 in-depth interviews with queer/trans women and non-binary Instagram users and community organizers across India, I argue that binaries of Western/Indigenous, global/local, authentic/inauthentic are insufficient to understand Indian queer digital politics. I instead explore the political utility of agentic reclamations and negotiations of queer/trans identity by marginal queer/trans users. At the same time, drawing on participant experiences of content moderation, censorship, and corporate and state surveillance, I examine how the potentials of Instagram as a site to mediate articulations of a radical politics of queer liberation are restricted, thwarted, and reconfigured by platform design and policing.
382. NUMBER OF LYMPH NODES RESECTED IS ASSOCIATED WITH OVERALL SURVIVAL IN PATHOLOGICALLY NODE-NEGATIVE ESOPHAGEAL CANCER
Authors: Bolger Jarlath , Darling Gail , Yeung Jonathan
Published: September 2024

Background

Lymphadenectomy is a key part of curative resection of esophageal cancer, with multiple quality assurance systems suggesting a minimum of 15 lymph nodes should be resected and subjected to pathological examination. Nevertheless, whether the absolute number of nodes resected is a surrogate marker for quality in surgery and staging, or has therapeutic benefit is debated. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of lymphadenectomy on survival in patients with resected pathologically node-negative disease (both treated and untreated with neoadjuvant therapy).

Methods

A review of our institutional prospectively maintained database was conducted from 2010-2020 inclusive. Inclusion criteria were patients undergoing esophagectomy for esophageal cancer aged 18+ who consented to data inclusion. Exclusion criteria were patients undergoing resection for benign disease, patients with Siewert III tumours undergoing gastrectomy or extended total gastrectomy, patients undergoing re-operative surgery, or patients where final pathology was not available. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed as appropriate.

Results

195 patients (49%) had pathologically node negative disease, with median lymph node count of 25. 47% of patients were clinically node positive, but pathologically node negative following neoadjuvant therapy. On univariable survival analysis, number of nodes resected was a significant predictor of overall survival (HR 0.96, 0.93-0.98, p=0.001). On multivariable analysis, R status (HR 4.9, 1.2-21.1, p=0.03), number of nodes resected (HR 0.97, 0.94-0.99, p=0.02) and prior cN+ status (HR 2.28, 1.16-4.49, p=0.02) were predictors of overall survival. Patients with cN0, (y)pN0 disease had improved overall survival compared with cN+, (y)pN0 (median not reached vs 43.4 months, p=0.04).

Conclusion

Lymphadenectomy is a key part of resection of esophageal cancer. In pathologically node negative patients, the extent of lymphadenectomy remains a key predictor of overall survival. Conversion from clinically node positive to pathologically node negative disease is associated with worse outcomes compared to clinically and pathologically node negative disease. Even in early stage cancer, a thorough, multi-field lymphadenectomy should be encouraged.
407. MICRONUTRIENT INSUFFICIENCY AFTER SURGERY FOR OESOPHAGOGASTRIC NEOPLASMS: A PROSPECTIVE INTERVENTION STUDY CALLED THE VITAMIN STUDY
Authors: Van Der Velden Ariadne Lisa , Bartz Sam SI , Vermeer Thomas A , Bluijssen Kick JEM , van der Zijden Charlène J , Blonk Lotte , Boerma Evert-Jan G , Stoot Jan HMB , Gisbertz Suzanne S , Belgers Eric HJ , Wijnhoven Bas PL , Leers Mathie PG , Sosef Meindert N , Vijgen Guy HEJ
Published: September 2024

Background

Oesophageal and gastric cancer have major impact on nutritional status and quality of life (QoL). Preoperative malnutrition is reported in 42–80%. However, studies investigating postoperative nutritional status are scarce and postoperative identification and treatment of micronutritional deficiencies are currently lacking in (inter-)national guidelines. The aim of this study is to identify micronutrient deficiencies after surgery for oesophagogastric neoplasms and target them by supplementation.

Methods

This is a recently closed multicenter trial in the Netherlands. Patients receive a tailormade multivitamin supplement which differs per group and a calcium supplement. Baseline measurements consist of blood withdrawal, faecal elastase-1 (FE-1) analysis, QoL questionnaires and dietary behaviour. After 6 (T=1), 12 (T=2) and 24 (T=3) months from baseline, measurements are repeated, and a supplement questionnaire is added. The primary objective is micronutrient deficiency (yes/no). Secondary objectives include occurrence and symptoms of exocrine pancreas insufficiency (EPI) and QoL.

Results

Inclusion spanned from December 2021 to December 2023. Preliminary results from 95 patients are available, whereby 68 patients underwent oesophagectomy and 27 gastrectomy. Of these, 55 patients received 6 months of supplementation (T=1). At T=0, 77.0% had at least one micronutrient deficiency. Identified deficiencies are shown in table 1. Deficiencies were more common in patients undergoing gastrectomy compared to those undergoing oesophagectomy (88.0% vs. 72.1%). Reduced FE-1 (<200 mg/kg) was found in 22.2% at baseline and 26.7% at T=1. 16.7% experienced EPI symptoms at baseline, which resolved at follow-up.

Conclusion

The most common micronutrient deficiencies decreased substantially after 6 months of supplementation. The follow-up extends until November 2024. Routine monitoring and supplementation could potentially be implemented in standard postoperative care for gastric and oesophageal cancer.