bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of ocean deoxygenation between CMIP models and an observational dataset in the North Pacific from 1958 to 2005
Authors: Abe Yumi , Minobe Shoshiro
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the relationship between the observed and simulated dissolved oxygen (O2) inventory changes in the North Pacific by analyzing an observational dataset and the outputs of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 and 6 (CMIP5/6) between 1958 and 2005. A total of 204 ensembles from 20 models were analyzed. Many of the models in the North Pacific subarctic region have higher climatological O2 concentrations than observed at deeper water depths. Therefore, the negative trend of O2 inventories tends to be larger, and in fact, several model ensemble members have a larger negative trend in O2 inventories than observed. The variability among model ensemble members is more influenced by the uncertainty due to internal variability than by the uncertainty resulting from model dependency. An inter-model empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis revealed that the different simulated magnitudes of the negative O2 trend is closely associated with the first EOF mode, and ensemble members with strong negative trends are characterized by large oxygen reduction in the subarctic North Pacific, especially around the boundaries between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Okhotsk as well as the Bering Seas. The modeled strong O2 decrease in the subarctic North Pacific is consistent with the spatial pattern of the observed O2 trend. Further analysis of climate models indicated that the O2 decrease in the subarctic region was primarily caused by physical factors. This conclusion is supported by the significantly high correlation is present between the potential temperature and O2 inventory trend in the subarctic region, whereas an insignificant correlation coefficient is present between dissolved organic carbon and the O2 inventory trend. However, the observations have a larger ratio of O2 inventory trend to temperature trend than any of the ensembles, and thus the relationship between O2 and temperature change in the subarctic North Pacific seen in the CMIP5/6 simulations is not exact.
A multidisciplinary dermatology-gastroenterology-rheumatology (DER.RE.GA) unit for the care of patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases: analysis of the first 5 years from the dermatologist’s perspective
Authors: Brazzelli Valeria , Bobbio Pallavicini Francesca , Maggi Paolo , Chętko Łukasz , Isoletta Eugenio , Di Giuli Nicolò , Bonelli Alice , Fornaroli Valentina
Published: November 2023

Immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) constitute a heterogenous group of chronic and highly disabling conditions. The clinical challenges they often pose led to formation of numerous dermo-rheumatological interdisciplinary units around the world, which are reported to benefit their patients in various ways. The present paper describes our experience with a multidisciplinary dermatology-rheumatology-gastroenterology unit DERREGA at the IRCCS Foundation Policlinico San Matteo of Pavia over a period of 5 years of its activity (2017–2022). A digital database was created, containing the medical records of 146 patients referred to the dermatology unit only by rheumatologists or gastroenterologists belonging to the multidisciplinary unit DERREGA. Then, aspects such as demographics, initial basis of referral and final diagnosis among the patients were analyzed retrospectively. Patients were classified as either gastroenterological or rheumatological, and then categorized according to the specific basis of referral. Most of the gastroenterological patients (97%) were affected by inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Rheumatological patients were divided in three subgroups, including patients referred with vasculitis, arthropathies (undifferentiated arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and other arthritis) and other rheumatological diseases. Then, final diagnoses were evaluated in each group. Almost a third of IBD patients received a diagnosis of paradoxical psoriasis. Dermatological examination allowed diagnosis of minimal psoriasis based on Caspar criteria in over 70% of the patients admitted with undifferentiated arthritis. A multidisciplinary approach is suggested to provide more effective management of IMIDs and, specifically, from a dermatological perspective, allows for the diagnosis of minimal manifestations of psoriasis in patients with a provisional diagnosis of undifferentiated arthritis.
Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) simulation for dosage optimization of colistin and sitafloxacin, alone and in combination, against carbapenem-, multidrug-, and colistin-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Rodjun Vipavee , Montakantikul Preecha , Houngsaitong Jantana , Jitaree Kamonchanok , Nosoongnoen Wichit
Published: November 2023

To the best of our knowledge, to date, no study has investigated the optimal dosage regimens of either colistin or sitafloxacin against drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) infections by using specific parameters. In the current study, we aimed to explore the optimal dosage regimens of colistin and sitafloxacin, either in monotherapy or in combination therapy, for the treatment of carbapenem-, multidrug-, and colistin-resistant A. baumannii infections. A Monte Carlo simulation was applied to determine the dosage regimen that could achieve the optimal probability of target attainment (PTA) and cumulative fraction of response (CFR) (≥90%) based on the specific parameters of each agent and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the clinical isolates. This study explored the dosage regimen of 90, 50, 30, and 10 mL/min for patients with creatinine clearance (CrCL). We also explored the dosage regimen for each patient with CrCL using combination therapy because there is a higher possibility of reaching the desired PTA or CFR. Focusing on the MIC90 of each agent in combination therapy, the dosage regimen for colistin was a loading dose of 300 mg followed by a maintenance dose ranging from 50 mg every 48 h to 225 mg every 12 h and the dosage regimen for sitafloxacin was 325 mg every 48 h to 750 mg every 12 h. We concluded that a lower-than-usual dose of colistin based on specific pharmacokinetic data in combination with a higher-than-usual dose of sitafloxacin could be an option for the treatment of carbapenem-, multidrug-, and colistin-resistant. A. baumannii. The lower dose of colistin might show a low probability of adverse reaction, while the high dose of sitafloxacin should be considered. In the current study, we attempted to find if there is a strong possibility of drug selection against crucial drug-resistant pathogen infections in a situation where there is a lack of new antibiotics. However, further study is needed to confirm the results of this simulation study.
Reforestation regulated soil bacterial community structure along vertical profiles in the Loess Plateau
Authors: Wu Fan , Wang Yunqiang , Sun Hui , Zhou Jingxiong , Li Ruijie
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Reforestation is a widely used strategy for ecological restoration in areas facing ecological degradation. Soil bacteria regulate many functional processes in terrestrial ecosystems; however, how they respond to reforestation processes in surface and deep soils remains unclear.

Methods

Artificial Robinia pseudoacacia plantation with different stand ages (8, 22, and 32 years) in a typical fallow forest on the Loess Plateau was selected to explore the differential response of soil bacterial community to reforestation in different soil depths (surface 0–200 cm, middle 200–500 cm, and deep 500-100 cm). Soil bacterial diversity, community composition and the co-occurrence patterns, as well as the functions were analyzed.

Results and discussion

The results showed that alpha diversity and the presence of biomarkers (keynote species) decreased with the increasing soil depth, with a sharp reduction in family-level biomarker numbers in 500–1,000 cm depth, while reforestation had a positive impact on bacterial alpha diversity and biomarkers. Reforestation induced a more loosely connected bacterial community, as evidenced by an increase of 9.38, 22.87, and 37.26% in the average path length of the co-occurrence network in all three soil layers, compared to farmland. In addition, reforestation reduced the hierarchy and complexity but increased the modularity of the co-occurrence network in top and deep soil layers. Reforestation also led to enrichment in the relative abundance of functional pathways in all soil layers. This study sheds light on the strategies employed by deep soil bacteria in response to reforestation and underscores the significant potential of deep soil bacteria in terrestrial ecosystems, particularly in the context of human-induced environmental changes.
Refractory occipital neuralgia treatment with nerve decompression surgery: a case series
Authors: Austen William G. , Remy Katya , Packowski Kathryn , Hazewinkel Merel H. J. , Gfrerer Lisa , Mathew Paul G.
Published: November 2023

Background

The management of refractory occipital neuralgia (ON) can be challenging. Selection criteria for occipital nerve decompression surgery are not well defined in terms of clinical features and best preoperative medical management.

Methods

In total, 15 patients diagnosed with ON by a board-certified, fellowship-trained headache specialist and referred to a plastic surgeon for nerve decompression surgery were prospectively enrolled. All subjects received trials of occipital nerve blocks (NB), at least three preventive medications, and onabotulinum toxin (BTX) prior to surgery before referral to a plastic surgeon. Treatment outcomes included headache frequency (headache days/month), intensity (0–10), duration (h), and response to medication/injectable therapies at 12 months postoperatively.

Results

Preoperatively, median headache days/month was 30 (20–30), intensity 8 (8–10), and duration 24 h (12–24). Patients trialed 10 (±5.8) NB and 11.7 (±9) BTX cycles. Postoperatively, headache frequency was 5 (0–16) days/month (p < 0.01), intensity was 4 (0–6) (p < 0.01), and duration was 10 (0–24) h (p < 0.01). Median patient-reported percent resolution of ON headaches was 80% (70–85%). All patients reported improvement of comorbid headache disorders, most commonly migraine, and a reduction, discontinuation, or increased effectiveness of medications, NB and BTX.

Conclusion

All patients who underwent treatment for refractory ON by a headache specialist and plastic surgeon benefited from nerve decompression surgery in various degrees. The collaborative selection criteria employed in this study may be replicable in clinical practice.
Unraveling the complexities of programming neural adaptive deep brain stimulation in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Wilkins Kevin B. , Melbourne Jillian A. , Akella Pranav , Bronte-Stewart Helen M.
Published: November 2023

Over the past three decades, deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson’s disease (PD) has been applied in a continuous open loop fashion, unresponsive to changes in a given patient’s state or symptoms over the course of a day. Advances in recent neurostimulator technology enable the possibility for closed loop adaptive DBS (aDBS) for PD as a treatment option in the near future in which stimulation adjusts in a demand-based manner. Although aDBS offers great clinical potential for treatment of motor symptoms, it also brings with it the need for better understanding how to implement it in order to maximize its benefits. In this perspective, we outline considerations for programing several key parameters for aDBS based on our experience across several aDBS-capable research neurostimulators. At its core, aDBS hinges on successful identification of relevant biomarkers that can be measured reliably in real-time working in cohesion with a control policy that governs stimulation adaption. However, auxiliary parameters such as the window in which stimulation is allowed to adapt, as well as the rate it changes, can be just as impactful on performance and vary depending on the control policy and patient. A standardize protocol for programming aDBS will be crucial to ensuring its effective application in clinical practice.
Dual selections based knowledge transfer learning for cross-subject motor imagery EEG classification
Authors: Luo Tian-jian
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Motor imagery electroencephalograph (MI-EEG) has attracted great attention in constructing non-invasive brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) due to its low-cost and convenience. However, only a few MI-EEG classification methods have been recently been applied to BCIs, mainly because they suffered from sample variability across subjects. To address this issue, the cross-subject scenario based on domain adaptation has been widely investigated. However, existing methods often encounter problems such as redundant features and incorrect pseudo-label predictions in the target domain.

Methods

To achieve high performance cross-subject MI-EEG classification, this paper proposes a novel method called Dual Selections based Knowledge Transfer Learning (DS-KTL). DS-KTL selects both discriminative features from the source domain and corrects pseudo-labels from the target domain. The DS-KTL method applies centroid alignment to the samples initially, and then adopts Riemannian tangent space features for feature adaptation. During feature adaptation, dual selections are performed with regularizations, which enhance the classification performance during iterations.

Results and discussion

Empirical studies conducted on two benchmark MI-EEG datasets demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method under multi-source to single-target and single-source to single-target cross-subject strategies. The DS-KTL method achieves significant classification performance improvement with similar efficiency compared to state-of-the-art methods. Ablation studies are also conducted to evaluate the characteristics and parameters of the proposed DS-KTL method.
Cross-subject emotion EEG signal recognition based on source microstate analysis
Authors: Zhang Lei , Xiao Di , Guo Xiaojing , Li Fan , Liang Wen , Zhou Bangyan
Published: November 2023

Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals are very weak and have low spatial resolution, which has led to less satisfactory accuracy in cross-subject EEG-based emotion classification studies. Microstate analyses of EEG sources can be performed to determine the important spatiotemporal characteristics of EEG signals. Such analyses can be used to cluster rapidly changing EEG signals into multiple brain prototype topographies, fully utilizing the spatial information contained in the EEG signals and providing a neural representation for emotional dynamics. To better utilize the spatial information of brain signals, source localization analysis on the EEG signals was first conducted. Then, a microstate analysis on the source-reconstructed EEG signals is conducted to extract the microstate features of the data. We conducted source microstate analysis on the participant data from the odor-video physiological signal database (OVPD-II) dataset. The experimental results show that the source microstate feature topologies of different participants under the same emotion exhibited a high degree of correlation, which was proven by the analysis of microstate feature topographic maps and the comparison of two-dimensional feature visualization maps of the differential entropy (DE) and power spectral density (PSD). The microstate features represent more abstract emotional information and are more robust. The extracted microstate features were then used with the style transfer mapping method to transfer the feature data from the source domain to the target domain and were then used in support vector machines (SVMs) and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for emotion recognition. The experimental results show that the cross-subject classification accuracies of the microstate features in SVMs were 84.90 ± 8.24% and 87.43 ± 7.54%, which were 7.19 and 6.95% higher than those obtained with the PSD and 0.51 and 1.79% higher than those obtained with the DE features. In CNN, the average cross-subject classification accuracies of the microstate features were 86.44 and 91.49%, which were 7.71 and 19.41% higher than those obtained with the PSD and 2.7 and 11.76% higher than those obtained with the DE features.
The value of multimodal ultrasound in diagnosis of cervical lymphadenopathy: can real-time elastography help identify benign and malignant lymph nodes?
Authors: Tong Jiahui , Lin Ting , Wen Boping , Chen Peijun , Wang Ying , Yu Yuehui , Chen Menghan , Yang Gaoyi
Published: November 2023

Aim

To investigate the multimodal ultrasound(MMUS) features of cervical lymphadenopathy and to assess its value in the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant cervical lymph nodes.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 169 patients with cervical lymph node enlargement who attended Hangzhou Red Cross Hospital from March 2020 to October 2022. All patients underwent conventional ultrasound (CUS), contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), and real-time elastography (RTE), and were divided into training set and validation set. Univariate analysis was applied to screen out statistically significant parameters, and CUS model and MMUS model were constructed by multifactorial logistic regression analysis. The receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve was established, and the area under the curve (AUC) was used to compare CUS model with MMUS model to assess the value of MMUS.

Results

Of the cervical 169 lymph nodes in 169 patients included in the study. The 169 enrolled patients were divided into a training set (132 patients) and a validation set (37 patients). In the training set, univariate analysis showed statistically significant differences in long diameter/short diameter(L/S), border, margin, hilus, dermal medulla boundary, blood flow type, enhancement mode, enhancement type, and RTE score (all p< 0.05). Multifactor logistic analysis showed that L/S, blood flow type, enhancement mode and enhancement type were correlates of malignant lymph nodes (all p< 0.05). The comparison of AUC demonstrated that the discriminative ability of the MMUS model was superior to using the CUS model, both in the training set(p = 0.004) and validation set (p<0.001).

Conclusion

In this study, MMUS shows higher diagnostic efficiency than CUS. Ultrasound features such as L/S, blood flow type, mode of enhancement, type of enhancement are helpful in distinguishing benign and malignant lymphadenopathy. The addition of CEUS can greatly improve the sensitivity and specificity of ultrasonic diagnosis of malignant cervical lymph nodes. RTE score is of limited value in the diagnosis of malignant cervical lymph nodes.
Identification of sources of resistance to scald (Rhynchosporium commune) and of related genomic regions using genome-wide association in a mapping panel of spring barley
Authors: Hiddar Houda , Rehman Sajid , Belkadi Bouchra , Filali-Maltouf Abdelkarim , Al-Jaboobi Muamar , Verma Ramesh Pal Singh , Gyawali Sanjaya , Kehel Zakaria , Amri Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Barley is an important crop worldwide known for its adaptation to harsh environments and used in multiple forms as feed, food and beverages. Its productivity is affected by major abiotic and biotic stresses. Scald caused by hemibiotrophic fungus Rhynchosporium commune is a major foliar disease in many parts of the world. Host plant resistance is targeted by breeders to efficiently control this disease. An association mapping panel of 316 spring barley genotypes (AM2017) was screened for seedling resistance in greenhouse against three R. commune isolates and for adult plant resistance in three field locations in Morocco. The phenotyping results showed different numbers of entries with resistant and moderately resistant reactions at both seedling and adult plant stages. The reactions differed between the isolates with the highest percentage of resistant genotypes observed for isolate SC-S611 (49.4%) and highest percentage of susceptible genotypes (73.8%) for isolate SC-1122. At adult plant stage, the highest percentage of scald resistant genotypes (64.5%) was observed at Rommani site compared to 56% at Guich site and only 28.8% at Marchouch site. Seven genotypes were resistant at the seedling and adult plant stages. Genome wide association study (GWAS) revealed 102 MTA (15 QTL) at the seedling stage, and 25 MTA (12 QTL) associated with scald resistance at the adult plant stage. In addition, the sequences of 92 out of 102 at SRT, and 24 out of 25 significant SNP markers at APR were located in genomic regions enriched with functional proteins involved in diverse cellular processes including disease resistance. These markers span over all chromosomes with the majority of SNPs located on 3H and 7H. This study has verified 18 QTL reported in previous studies. In addition, it was successful in identifying new sources of resistance and novel genomic regions which could help in enhancing scald resistance in barley breeding programs.
Aesthetic preference in the production of image sequences
Authors: Monroy Ernesto , Orgs Guido , Sagiv Noam
Published: November 2023

Introduction

This research uses the production method to study aesthetic preference for sequences of human body postures. In two experiments, participants produced image sequences based on their aesthetic preferences, while we measured the visual aesthetic features displayed in the compositions.

Methods

In Experiment 1, participants created static image sequences based on their preferences. In Experiment 2, participants sorted images into apparent motion sequences they preferred to view.

Results

In Experiment 1, good continuation of successive bodies and body-like objects was the preferred order. In Experiment 2, participants preferred abstract images with local sequential symmetry and human body postures exhibiting global sequential symmetry.

Discussion

Our findings are compared to those of previous studies that employed the more widely used method of choice. Our experiments propose novel methods and conceptualizations for investigating aesthetic preferences for human body movement and other types of stimulus sequences.
The physiological basis of leader-follower roles in the dyadic alternating tapping task
Authors: Tomyta Kenta , Saito Natsuki , Ohira Hideki
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Cooperative and collaborative behaviors are important concepts for co-creative communication. One of the key elements for these behaviors is the leader-follower roles in human communication. Leaders are those who maintain their own pace and rhythm, on the contrary, followers are those who follow the pace and rhythm of the other. Well-coordinated leader-follower roles would produce better cooperative and collaborative behaviors, which could promote co-creative communication.

Methods

Here, to explore the physiological basis for the leader-follower roles, we conducted the dyadic alternating tapping task with electrocardiographic and electroencephalographic recordings. The task would be stable for modeling human communication in the laboratory because it includes timing control in tens of milliseconds and turn-taking. Given that human communications are complex and constantly fluctuating, this study estimated the degree of leader-follower with the state-space model. This model allowed us to calculate two parameters independently for estimating the degree of leader-follower of each participant: αSelf (degree of one’s tap(n) was explained by one’s tap(n-1)) and αPair (degree of one’s tap(n) was explained by one’s tap (n-1) and pair’s tap (n-1)).

Results

The result showed heart rate synchronization in the group in which both participants had high αPair. Also, the high-frequency component of heart rate variability was positively correlated with αPair. EEG analyses suggested the deactivation of the mirror neuron system (increasing φ1) in the participants with higher αSelf than lower ones. The activation of the mirror neuron system (increasing φ2) was shown in the participants with lower αPair than higher ones.

Discussion

These data of physiological basis for leader-follower roles could be useful for the constructivist approach to co-creative communication.
Using a web platform for equitable distribution of COVID-19 monoclonal antibodies: a case study in resource allocation
Authors: Leider Jonathon P. , Lim Sarah , DeBruin Debra , Waterman Alexandra T. , Smith Barbara , Ghimire Umesh , Huhtala Haley , Zirnhelt Zachary , Lynfield Ruth , Hick John L.
Published: November 2023

While medical countermeasures in COVID-19 have largely focused on vaccinations, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were early outpatient treatment options for COVID-positive patients. In Minnesota, a centralized access platform was developed to offer access to mAbs that linked over 31,000 patients to care during its operation. The website allowed patients, their representative, or providers to screen the patient for mAbs against Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) criteria and connect them with a treatment site if provisionally eligible. A validated clinical risk scoring system was used to prioritize patients during times of scarcity. Both an ethics and a clinical subject matter expert group advised the Minnesota Department of Health on equitable approaches to distribution across a range of situations as the pandemic evolved. This case study outlines the implementation of this online platform and clinical outcomes of its users. We assess the impact of referral for mAbs on hospitalizations and death during a period of scarcity, finding in particular that vaccination conferred a substantially larger protection against hospitalization than a referral for mAbs, but among unvaccinated users that did not get a referral, chances of hospitalization increased by 4.1 percentage points.
Effect of fenugreek seeds and Bacillus-based direct-fed microbials on the growth performance, blood biochemicals, and intestinal histomorphology of broiler chickens
Authors: Paneru Deependra , Tellez-Isaias Guillermo , Arreguin-Nava Margarita A. , Romano Nicholas , Bottje Walter G. , Asiamah Emmanuel , Abdel-Wareth Ahmed A. A. , Lohakare Jayant
Published: November 2023

Background

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the potential synergistic impact of the combination of fenugreek seeds (FS) and Bacillus-based direct-fed microbials (DFM) on growth performance, intestinal health, and hematological parameters of broiler chickens.

Methods

A total of 160 one-day-old (Ross 308) broiler chicks were randomly assigned to a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, with two levels of FS (0 and 5 g/kg) and two levels of Bacillus-DFM (0 and 0.1 g/kg), with five replicates of 8 birds each.

Results

The result showed that dietary supplementation of FS at 5 g/kg did not improve the growth performance of broilers but impaired the early growth performance by reducing body weight gain and increasing feed conversion ratio, which was recovered during finisher phase. Dietary supplementation of Bacillus-based DFM at 0.1 g/kg did not affect the performance variables but increased the feed conversion ratio. The interaction of fenugreek seeds and Bacillus-based DFM showed synergistic effects on growth performance during the later stages of production. However, antagonistic effects were observed on the blood parameters and the gut morphology.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that FS and DFM had different effects on the broiler health and production depending on the phase of production. The interaction between FS and DFM revealed synergistic effects on growth performance during the finisher phase, but antagonistic effects on blood parameters and gut morphology. Further studies are needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize the dosage and combination of FS and DFM for broiler health and production.
Prevalence of root fusion in canine maxillary second molar teeth using cone-beam computed tomography
Authors: Linder Kristin , MacGee Scott , Schultz Loren
Published: November 2023

This study evaluated the prevalence of root fusion in the right and left maxillary second molar teeth in dogs using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). A total of 180 dog CBCT scans, or a total of 360 maxillary second molar teeth, were analyzed in this study. Dogs were divided into weight categories of small (<10 kg), medium (10–25 kg), and large (>25 kg). Skull type (brachycephalic, mesocephalic, dolichocephalic) and sex were also recorded for each dog. Overall, 65% of maxillary second molar teeth had some type of root fusion. Of the teeth that had fusion, the only configuration represented was fusion of the distobuccal root with the palatal root. The most common root morphology overall (all dogs and both right and left maxillary second molar teeth included) was partial fusion (177/360, 49%). With the high prevalence of fused roots in maxillary second molar teeth in dogs found in this study, CBCT will help clinicians to more accurately assess a dog's anatomy and implications for treatment.
Assessment of the Spoilage Microbiota and the Growth Potential of Listeria monocytogenes in Minced Free-Range Chicken Meat Stored at 4 °C in Vacuum: Comparison with the Spoilage Community of Resultant Retail Modified Atmosphere Packaged Products
Authors: Tsafrakidou Panagiota , Sameli Nikoletta , Kakouri Athanasia , Bosnea Loulouda , Samelis John
Published: November 2023

Although current diet and nutrition trends in developed countries led the poultry industry to shift to alternative breeding/production methods, such as organic and free-range, limited data on the microbiology of alternative compared to conventional poultry meat products exist. Therefore, this study assessed the evolution and composition of the spoilage microbiota and the growth potential of inoculated (3 log cfu/g) Listeria monocytogenes in freshly minced free-range chicken meat stored at 4 °C in vacuum packages (VP; four batches) for 0, 3, 5, 7, and 10 days. Additionally, two VP batches were compared with their resultant retail products stored in modified atmosphere packages (MAP 30:70 CO2/N2) at 4 °C to detect potential differences with the MAP spoilage community described previously. The initial pH of the VP minces was 6.0–6.1, except for one mince, designated VP + AA, which had initial pH 5.8 and was found to contain ‘external’ 1.26% L-lactate and 0.24% acetate associated with a vinegar smell during storage. The rest of the VP batches contained on average 0.75% L-lactate and 0.02% acetate on day 0. After 7 days at 4 °C, L-lactate decreased by at least 3-fold in VP and over 5-fold in VP + AA vs. minor decreases in MAP. Acetate increased 2-fold in all batches. D-lactate (ca. 0.02% on day 0) increased by 4-fold in VP batches only. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) became the dominant spoilers in all samples. Only VP allowed a delayed 10-fold growth (>5.0 to 6.2 log cfu/g) of pseudomonads from day 7 to day 10 at 4 °C. Compared to VP, VP + AA and MAP retarded growth of LAB, pseudomonads, and enterobacteria by 1–2 log units, at final levels below 6.5, 4.5, and 3.0 log cfu/g, respectively. Enterococci, staphylococci, yeasts, and L. monocytogenes did not grow. Latilactobacillus sakei predominated in all spoiled VP batches (65.8% of 80 meat isolates) followed by Latilactobacillus fuchuensis (9.2%), Leuconostoc carnosum (6.6%), Carnobacterium divergens (6.6%), Latilactobacillus curvatus (5.3%), and Weissella koreensis (2.6%). VP + AA favored Latilactobacillus. Brochothrix thermosphacta was frequent in one VP batch. In conclusion, cold-stored (4 °C), minced, free-range chicken meat spoils more rapidly and offensively under VP than MAP or VP combined with acetate-containing (VP + AA) antimicrobial blends.
Layer-Resolved Mechanical Degradation of a Ni-Rich Positive Electrode
Authors: Gupta Priyank , Streb Moritz , Siddiqui Aamer , Klett Matilda , Lindbergh Göran , Gudmundson Peter
Published: November 2023

The effects of electrochemical aging on the mechanical properties of electrodes in lithium-ion batteries are challenging to measure and are largely unknown. Mechanochemical degradation processes occur at different scales within an electrode and understanding the correlation between the degradation of mechanical properties, electrochemical aging, and morphological changes is crucial for mitigating battery performance degradation. This paper explores the evolution of mechanical and electrochemical properties at the layer level in a Ni-rich positive electrode during the initial stages of electrochemical cycling. The investigation involves complementary cross-section analyses aimed at unraveling the connection between observed changes on both macroscopic and microscopic scales. The macroscopic constitutive properties were assessed using a U-shaped bending test method that had been previously developed. The compressive modulus exhibited substantial dependency on both the porous structure and binder properties. It experienced a notable reduction with electrolyte wetting but demonstrated an increase with cycling and aging. During the initial stages of aging, electrochemical impedance spectra revealed increased local resistance near the particle–electrolyte interface. This is likely attributable to factors such as secondary particle grain separation and the redistribution of carbon black. The swelling of particles, compression of the binder phase, and enhanced particle contact were identified as probable factors adding to the elevation of the elastic modulus within the porous layer as a result of cycling.
Key Determinants of Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions to Oncology Drugs
Authors: Zhou Yihan , Ding Shan
Published: November 2023

To overcome the epidemiological severity of cancer, developing effective treatments is urgently required. In response, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been revealed as a promising resolution for treatment-resistant cancers across the world. Yet, they have both advantages and disadvantages, bringing therapeutic benefits while simultaneously inducing toxicity, and in particular, immune-mediated adverse drug reactions (imADRs), to the human body. These imADRs can be pathogenic and sometimes lethal, hampering health prediction and monitoring following the provision of ICI treatment. Therefore, it is necessary to collectively identify the determinant factors that contribute to these imADRs induced by ICIs. This article evaluated treatment-, tumor-, and patient-related determinants, and indicated a research gap for future investigations on the pathogenic mechanism of imADRs and translational conversion of determinants into clinical biomarkers to aid pharmacovigilance and cancer therapies.
Characteristics of ABCC4 and ABCG2 High Expression Subpopulations in CRC—A New Opportunity to Predict Therapy Response
Authors: Kryczka Jakub , Boncela Joanna
Published: November 2023

Background: Our previous findings proved that ABCC4 and ABCG2 proteins present much more complex roles in colorectal cancer (CRC) than typically cancer-associated functions as drug exporters. Our objective was to evaluate their predictive/diagnostic potential. Methods: CRC patients’ transcriptomic data from the Gene Expression Omnibus database (GSE18105, GSE21510 and GSE41568) were discriminated into two subpopulations presenting either high expression levels of ABCC4 (ABCC4 High) or ABCG2 (ABCG2 High). Subpopulations were analysed using various bioinformatical tools and platforms (KEEG, Gene Ontology, FunRich v3.1.3, TIMER2.0 and STRING 12.0). Results: The analysed subpopulations present different gene expression patterns. The protein–protein interaction network of subpopulation-specific genes revealed the top hub proteins in ABCC4 High: RPS27A, SRSF1, DDX3X, BPTF, RBBP7, POLR1B, HNRNPA2B1, PSMD14, NOP58 and EIF2S3 and in ABCG2 High: MAPK3, HIST2H2BE, LMNA, HIST1H2BD, HIST1H2BK, HIST1H2AC, FYN, TLR4, FLNA and HIST1H2AJ. Additionally, our multi-omics analysis proved that the ABCC4 expression correlates with substantially increased tumour-associated macrophage infiltration and sensitivity to FOLFOX treatment. Conclusions: ABCC4 and ABCG2 may be used to distinguish CRC subpopulations that present different molecular and physiological functions. The ABCC4 High subpopulation demonstrates significant EMT reprogramming, RNA metabolism and high response to DNA damage stimuli. The ABCG2 High subpopulation may resist the anti-EGFR therapy, presenting higher proteolytical activity.
Activation of Adrenoceptor Alpha-2 (ADRA2A) Promotes Chemosensitization to Carboplatin in Ovarian Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Albanna Haya , Gjoni Alesia , Robinette Danielle , Rodriguez Gerardo , Djambov Lora , Olson Margaret E. , Hart Peter C.
Published: November 2023

Recurrence of ovarian cancer (OvCa) following surgery and standard carboplatin/paclitaxel first-line therapy signifies poor median progression-free survival (<24 months) in the majority of patients with OvCa. The current study utilized unbiased high-throughput screening (HTS) to evaluate an FDA-approved compound library for drugs that could be repurposed to improve OvCa sensitivity to carboplatin. The initial screen revealed six compounds with agonistic activity for the adrenoceptor alpha-2a (ADRA2A). These findings were validated in multiple OvCa cell lines (TYKnu, CAOV3, OVCAR8) using three ADRA2A agonists (xylazine, dexmedetomidine, and clonidine) and two independent viability assays. In all the experiments, these compounds enhanced the cytotoxicity of carboplatin treatment. Genetic overexpression of ADRA2A was also sufficient to reduce cell viability and increase carboplatin sensitivity. Taken together, these data indicate that ADRA2A activation may promote chemosensitivity in OvCa, which could be targeted by widely used medications currently indicated for other disease states.
Steroid-Induced Hyperglycemia and Its Effect on Outcomes of R-CHOP Chemotherapy for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Kristjanson Mark , Lambert Pascal , Decker Kathleen M. , Bruin Sonja , Tingey Elizabeth , Skrabek Pamela
Published: November 2023

Large doses of steroids are integral to R-CHOP, a first-line systemic therapy for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL). Patients on R-CHOP often develop clinically significant hyperglycemia from steroids. There is evidence of harms from steroid-induced hyperglycemia in the context of chemotherapy which are associated with a reduction in overall survival. The objective of our study was to characterize the effect of steroid-induced hyperglycemia on the outcomes of R-CHOP chemotherapy for DLBCL. Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of 188 patients with DLBCL treated with R-CHOP through CancerCare Manitoba (CCMB) from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2014. Patients diagnosed with DLBCL were identified using the Manitoba Cancer Registry. The CCMB electronic medical record was reviewed to examine the association between steroid-induced hyperglycemia and subsequent infection, including febrile neutropenic events and overall survival (OS). Results: Patients who developed hyperglycemia with steroid exposure became hyperglycemic during their first R-CHOP cycle. No significant differences in OS or rates of infection were found between euglycemic and hyperglycemic subjects. Conclusions: Patients destined to develop steroid-induced hyperglycemia declare themselves early in the course of steroid exposure. No statistically significant reduction in overall survival attributable to steroid-induced hyperglycemia was found.
Beyond Sterilization: A Comprehensive Review on the Safety and Efficacy of Opportunistic Salpingectomy as a Preventative Strategy for Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Zadabedini Masouleh Tahereh , Etchegary Holly , Hodgkinson Kathleen , Wilson Brenda J. , Dawson Lesa
Published: November 2023

Ovarian cancer (OC) is Canada’s third most common gynecological cancer, with an estimated 3000 new cases and 1950 deaths projected in 2022. No effective screening has been found to identify OC, especially the most common subtype, high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC), at an earlier, curable stage. In patients with hereditary predispositions such as BRCA mutations, the rates of HGSC are significantly elevated, leading to the use of risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy as the key preventative intervention. Although surgery has been shown to prevent HGSC in high-risk women, the associated premature menopause has adverse long-term sequelae and mortality due to non-cancer causes. The fact that 75% of HGSCs are sporadic means that most women diagnosed with HGSC will not have had the option to avail of either screening or prevention. Recent research suggests that the fimbrial distal fallopian tube is the most likely origin of HGSC. This has led to the development of a prevention plan for the general population: opportunistic salpingectomy, the removal of both fallopian tubes. This article aims to compile and review the studies evaluating the effect of opportunistic salpingectomy on surgical-related complications, ovarian reserve, cost, and OC incidence when performed along with hysterectomy or instead of tubal ligation in the general population.
Increased Abundance Coincides with Range Expansions and Phenology Shifts: A Long-Term Case Study of Two Noctuid Moths in Sweden
Authors: Betzholtz Per-Eric , Forsman Anders , Franzén Markus
Published: November 2023

Environmental and climatic changes are inducing population declines in numerous species. However, certain species demonstrate remarkable resilience, exhibiting both population growth and range expansion. This longitudinal study in Sweden carried out over two decades (2004–2023) examines the noctuid moths Mythimna albipuncta and Hoplodrina ambigua. Abundance and phenology data were gathered from three light traps in southeastern Sweden and integrated with distribution and phenology data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility. In M. albipuncta, the distribution area expanded from 7 to 76 occupied grids (60 km2) and the abundance increased from 7 to 6136 individuals, while in H. ambigua, the distribution area expanded from 1 to 87 occupied grids and the abundance increased from 0 to 6937 individuals, during the course of the study. Furthermore, a positive yearly association was observed between the number of occupied grids and light trap abundance for each species. We also found significant extensions in the adult flight periods of more than 100 days in both species. Light traps emerged as an effective monitoring tool, with light trap abundance as a reliable proxy for distribution changes. Our findings demonstrate that the studied species cope very well with environmental and climatic changes. Given their role as dominant links between primary producers and higher trophic levels, abundance and distribution shifts of these ecological engineers have the potential to cascade up and down in the ecosystem.
Stochastic Adder Circuits with Improved Entropy Output
Authors: Batelić Mateja , Stipčević Mario
Published: November 2023

Random pulse computing (RPC), the third paradigm along with digital and quantum computing, draws inspiration from biology, particularly the functioning of neurons. Here, we study information processing in random pulse computing circuits intended for the summation of numbers. Based on the information-theoretic merits of entropy budget and relative Kolmogorov–Sinai entropy, we investigate the prior art and propose new circuits: three deterministic adders with significantly improved output entropy and one exact nondeterministic adder that requires much less additional entropy than the previous art. All circuits are realized and tested experimentally, using quantum entropy sources and reconfigurable logic devices. Not only the proposed circuits yield a precise mathematical result and have output entropy near maximum, which satisfies the need for building a programmable random pulse computer, but also they provide affordable hardware options for generating additional entropy.
Novel Noise Injection Scheme to Guarantee Zero Secrecy Outage under Imperfect CSI
Authors: Ta Hien Q. , Cao Lam , Oh Hoon
Published: November 2023

The paper proposes a novel artificial noise (AN) injection strategy in multiple-input single-output multiple-antenna-eavesdropper (MISOME) systems under imperfect channel estimation at the legitimate channel to achieve zero secrecy outage probability under any circumstance. The zero secrecy outage is proved to always be achievable regardless of the eavesdropper’s number of antennas or location when the pair secrecy and codeword rates are chosen properly. The results show that when there is perfect channel state information, the zero-outage secrecy throughput increases with the transmit power, which is important for secrecy design. Additionally, an analysis of the secrecy throughput and secrecy energy efficiency gives further insight into the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
A Knowledge Graph Method towards Power System Fault Diagnosis and Classification
Authors: Li Cheng , Wang Bo
Published: November 2023

As the scale and complexity of electrical grids continue to expand, the necessity for robust fault detection techniques becomes increasingly urgent. This paper seeks to address the limitations in traditional fault detection approaches, such as the dependence on human experience, low efficiency, and a lack of logical relationships. In response, this study presents a cascaded model that leverages the Random Forest classifier in combination with knowledge reasoning. The proposed method exhibits a high efficiency and accuracy in identifying six basic fault types. This approach not only simplifies fault detection and handling processes but also improves their interpretability. The paper begins by constructing a power fault simulation model, which is based on the IEEE 14-bus system. Subsequently, a Random Forest classification model is developed and compared with other commonly used models such as Support Vector Machines (SVMs), k-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), and Naïve Bayes, using metrics such as the F1-score, accuracy, and confusion matrices. Our results reveal that the Random Forest classifier outperforms the other models, particularly in small-sample datasets, with an accuracy of 90%. Then, we apply knowledge mining technology to create a comprehensive knowledge graph of power faults. At last, we use the transE model for knowledge reasoning to enhance the interpretability to assist decision making and to validate its reliability.
Adsorption/Desorption Performances of Simulated Radioactive Nuclide Cs+ on the Zeolite-Rich Geopolymer from the Hydrothermal Synthesis of Fly Ash
Authors: Zheng Zhao , Yang Jun , Cui Maoxuan , Yang Kui , Shang Hui , Ma Xue , Li Yuxiang
Published: November 2023

The operation of nuclear power plants generates a large amount of low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste liquid. Zeolite-rich geopolymers, which are synthesized under hydrothermal conditions from industrial waste fly ash, can effectively immobilize radioactive nuclides. In this study, the synthesis law of zeolite-rich geopolymers and the adsorption/desorption performances of radioactive nuclide Cs+ were researched using XRD, SEM and ICP. The results show that the increase in curing temperatures and NaOH concentrations leads to the transformation of Y-type zeolite to chabazite and cancrinite at low NaNO3 concentrations. However, at high NaNO3 concentrations, NaOH above 2 M has no obvious effect on the phase transformation of the main zeolite of chabazite and cancrinite. In the adsorption and desorption experiment of Cs+ on the chabazite/garronite-rich geopolymer, it was found that the adsorption of Cs+ in the low initial concentration range is more suitable for the Freundlich equation, while the Langmuir equation fits in the adsorption process at the high initial concentration range. Moreover, the desorption kinetics of Cs+ are in good agreement with the pseudo-second-order rate equation. Thus, the adsorption of Cs+ on chabazite/garronite-rich geopolymers is controlled by both physical and chemical reactions, while desorption is a chemical process.