bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Espacios cardioprotegidos en México: acciones para prevenir la muerte súbita cardiaca. Una postura de profesionales de la salud
Authors: Martínez-Duncker R David , Urzúa-González Agustín Ramiro , Aguilera-Mora Luisa Fernanda , Laínez-Zelaya José S , Álvarez de la Cadena-Sillas Jorge , Celaya-Cota Manuel de Jesús , González-Cruz Erik H , Delgado Elisa , Campos-Nonato Ismael , Denova-Gutiérrez Edgar , Cruz-Valdez Aurelio , Cossio-Aranda Jorge Eduardo , Guerra-López Arturo , Enciso-Muñoz José Manuel , Sánchez-Arreola Luis Daniel , Magaña-Serrano José Antonio , Díaz-Aguilera Miguel Ángel , Gómez-Álvarez Enrique , Oseguera-Moguel Jorge , Barquera Simón , Sifuentes-Osornio José , Lazcano Ponce Eduardo C
Published: October 2023

La muerte súbita cardiaca es un problema de salud pública a nivel mundial. Aunque su incidencia no es conocida, se estima que causa hasta 50% de la mortalidad de origen cardíaco y hasta 20% de la mortalidad total en los adultos. En México, estimaciones previas sugieren que causa en promedio 33 000 muertes al año; sin embargo, los datos no son precisos. La  mitad de los eventos por muerte súbita cardiaca se deben a un paro cardiaco súbito extrahospitalario que, de no ser atendido oportunamente, deriva en una muerte súbita cardiaca. Por tanto, la capacidad de responder pronta y adecuadamente a estos eventos con las maniobras y equipos necesarios mejora la sobrevida de las víctimas. Para atender este problema, en algunos estados del país se han creado espacios cardioprotegidos que permiten realizar maniobras de reanimación cardiopulmonar y desfibrilación cardiaca de acceso público oportunamente. Como objetivo, los profesionales de la salud establecen la importancia de implementar espacios cardioprotegidos y crear políticas públicas al respecto en todo el país.
A Sequential Feature-Based Rate of Penetration Representation Prediction Method by Attention Long Short-Term Memory Network
Authors: Cheng Zhong , Zhang Fuqiang , Zhang Liang , Yang Shuopeng , Wu Jia , Li Tiantai , Liu Ye
Published: October 2023

In the petroleum and gas industry, optimizing cost-effectiveness remains a paramount objective. One of the key challenges is enhancing predictive models for the rate of penetration (ROP), which are intricately tied to the delicate interplay between significant parameters and drilling efficiency. Recent research has hinted at the potential of temporal and sequential elements in drilling, but a detailed exploration and understanding of these dynamics remain underdeveloped.

Addressing this research gap, our primary innovation is not just the introduction of a model but rather the employment of the attention-based long short-term memory (LSTM) network as a tool to deeply analyze the role of sequential features in ROP prediction. Beyond merely applying the model, we furnish a robust foundation for sequential analysis, detailing data processing methods and laying out comprehensive data analytics guidelines for such temporal assessments. The utilization of the LSTM network, in this context, ensures meticulous capture of real-time drilling data nuances, providing insights that are both profound and actionable.

Through empirical evaluations with real-world data sets, we accentuate the vital importance of time-sequential dynamics in refining ROP predictions. Our methodological approach, tailored for the oilfield domain, is both rigorous and illuminating, achieving an R2 score of 0.95 and maintaining a relative error under 10%. This effort goes beyond simply proposing a new predictive mechanism. It establishes the centrality of sequential analysis in the drilling process, charting a course for future research and operational optimization in the petroleum and gas sector. We not only offer enhanced modeling strategies but also pioneer insights that can shape the next frontier of industry advancements.
The mental health of elite-level coaches: A systematic scoping review
Authors: Frost Joshua , Walton Courtney C. , Purcell Rosemary , Fisher Krista , Gwyther Kate , Kocherginsky Michael , Rice Simon M.
Published: October 2023

Background: Elite-level coaches are exposed to multiple performance, organisational and personal stressors which may contribute towards reduced mental health and wellbeing. This systematic scoping review examined the current body of evidence to explore what is known about the mental health of elite-level coaches (i.e. wellbeing and mental ill-health), the risk and protective factors that influence coach mental health, and the relationship between mental health and coaching effectiveness.
Methods: The review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. A systematic search was undertaken and updated in September 2022 using six electronic databases.
Results: 12,376 studies were identified and screened, with 42 studies satisfying the inclusion criteria. Despite the paucity of high-quality research, findings indicated that 41% of the included studies examined themes connected to wellbeing, with 76% assessing the nature or prevalence of mental ill-health in elite-level coaches. Among studies exploring mental ill-health, coach burnout was the primary focus, while scant research examined symptoms associated with clinical disorders (e.g. anxiety and depression). Overall, psychological outcomes for elite-level coaches were shaped by risk and protective factors operating at the individual, interpersonal, organisational and societal level. Preliminary evidence was also found to suggest that poor mental health may contribute towards reduced coaching effectiveness. It is proposed that coaching effectiveness could therefore be employed as a ‘hook’ to engage elite-level coaches in greater consideration of their mental health needs.
Conclusion: Alongside the development of methodologically robust research, there is a need to examine dynamic individual (e.g. psychological skills), interpersonal (e.g. strong social supports) and organisational (e.g. workload) factors that aim to preserve the mental health and optimise the efficacy of elite-level coaches.
Assessing the impact of COVID-19 passes and mandates on disease transmission, vaccination intention, and uptake: A scoping review
Authors: Natalia Yessika Adelwin , Delporte Margaux , De Witte Dries , Beutels Philippe , Dewatripont Mathias , Molenberghs Geert
Published: October 2023

Purpose: Policymakers have struggled to maintain SARS-CoV-2 transmission at levels that are manageable to contain the COVID-19 disease burden while enabling a maximum of societal and economic activities. One of the tools that have been used to facilitate this is the so-called "COVID-19 pass". We aimed to document current evidence on the effectiveness of COVID-19 passes, distinguishing their indirect effects by improving vaccination intention and uptake from their direct effects on COVID-19 transmission measured by the incidence of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.
Methods: We performed a scoping review on the scientific literature of the proposed topic covering the period January 2021 to September 2022, in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines for scoping reviews.
Results: Out of a yield of 4,693 publications, 45 studies from multiple countries were retained for full-text review. The results suggest that implementing COVID-19 passes tends to reduce the incidence of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths due to COVID-19. The use of COVID-19 passes was also shown to improve overall vaccination uptake and intention, but not in people who hold strong anti-COVID-19 vaccine beliefs.
Conclusion: The evidence from the literature we reviewed tends to indicate positive direct and indirect effects from the use of COVID-19 passes. A major limitation to establishing this firmly is the entanglement of individual effects of multiple measures being implemented simultaneously.
COVID-19 Impact on Trade Flow as the World Adapts to the Pandemic
Authors: Sarwar Md. Rubaiyath , Goswami Gour Gobinda , Rahman Mostafizur , Ishita Ishrat Jahan , Audrey Noshin Nawal , Haque Irina
Published: October 2023

Studies from early 2020 show extensive impact of COVID-19 on global trade. These findings did not hold as the world trade made rebound despite the pandemic. Literature does not explain impact of COVID-19 over the pandemic period of 2020–2022 and does not consider pre-pandemic shock on trade. We compared trade performance of 32 of the world’s largest trading partners representing Asia-Oceania, Europe and Americas over 56 months from 2018–2022 in Gravity set-up using PPML as a primary estimator. Our findings show that COVID-19 pandemic does not impact global trade if we consider the pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 trades as of 2022. The world trade flow increased by 0.009% with COVID-19; exports increased by 0.11%, and imports increased by 0.07%. Trade flow, export and import also has positive direction with cases, deaths and vaccination. However, stringency measures of home have negative effect on trade flow and import from partners but positive effect on export to partners. Stringency measures of partner have negative effect on home countries’ trade flow with partner and home countries export to partner but have an insignificant effect on import from partner. Trade, export, and import declined in 2019 and 2020 but increased in 2021 and 2022 if 2018 is used as benchmark. The results suggest that Europe was the worst hit compared to Asia-Oceania, while America’s performance has been positive. We conclude that the pandemic impact is better assessed if we look at yearly effects, regional effects, along with stringency measures for partner and home country.
Genetic or pharmacological GHSR blockade has sexually dimorphic effects in rodents on a high-fat diet
Authors: Leggio Lorenzo , Leko Andras , Gregory-Flores Adriana , Marchette Renata , Gomez Juan , Vendruscolo Janaina , Repunte-Canonigo Vez , Chuong Vicky , Deschaine Sara , Whiting Kimberly , Jackson Shelley , Cornejo Maria , Perello Mario , You Zhi-Bing , Eckhaus Michael , Janda Kim , Zorman Barry , Sumazin Pavel , Koob George , Michaelides Michael , Sanna Pietro Paolo , Vendruscolo Leandro
Published: October 2023

The stomach-derived hormone ghrelin regulates essential physiological functions. The ghrelin receptor (GHSR) has ligand-independent actions, therefore, GHSR gene deletion may be a reasonable approach to investigate the role of this system in feeding behaviors and diet-induced obesity (DIO). Here we investigated the effects of a long-term (12 month) high-fat (HFD) versus regular diet on obesity-related measures in global GHSR-KO and wild type (WT) Wistar male and female rats. Our main findings were that the GHSR gene deletion protects against DIO and decreases food intake during HFD in male but not in female rats. GHSR gene deletion increased thermogenesis and brain glucose uptake in male rats and modified the effects of HFD on brain glucose metabolism in a sex-specific manner, as assessed with small animal positron emission tomography. RNA-sequencing was also used to show that GHSR-KO rats had upregulated expression of genes responsible for fat oxidation in brown adipose tissue. Central administration of a novel GHSR inverse agonist, PF-5190457, attenuated ghrelin-induced food intake, but only in male, not in female mice. HFD-induced binge-like eating was reduced by inverse agonism in both sexes. Our results support GHSR as a promising target for new pharmacotherapies for obesity.
A Simple, Green Pathway to Covalently Transform Perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) to an Insoluble Ester
Authors: Fortner John , Maisto Susanna , Hong Doris , Griffith Alexandra
Published: October 2023

Recently, the U.S. EPA proposed maximum poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contaminant levels (MCL) for drinking water, which would regulate perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) as an individual contaminant with a MCL of 4 ng/L (ppt). While several methods to treat PFAS, including PFOA, have been proposed, challenges remain regarding process efficiencies, stabilities, and unwanted byproducts. Herein, we report that in the presence of decanol alone, at concentrations allowing for non-aqueous phase emulsions, PFOA readily transforms into a stable, fluorinated ester (decylpentadecafluorooctanoate) near room temperature, via a simple esterification mechanism, with high yields (> 80%). The resulting large(r) molecular weight product precipitates out of solution due to significant decrease in solubility. The reaction is quantitatively described, over a range of conditions, via FTIR and 19F qNMR. Taken together, the reaction opens a new treatment paradigm for carboxylic-based PFAS, via a low-energy, green chemistry-based approach.
Polarized Speech on Online Platforms
Authors: Fulay Suyash , Roy Deb
Published: October 2023

While political polarization has increased as measured through surveys, currently we lack comprehensive, longitudinal, and ecologically valid measurement of the polarization of online political speech that spans social media platforms. Using language models, we analyze ~ 2.5 billion comments on Reddit and Twitter across ~ 1.7 million accounts from 2007–2023 and find that polarized speech has been rising on both platforms since their inception, with outgroup polarization levels higher on Twitter than Reddit. On Twitter, while U.S. politicians on the left have been consistently more polarized than everyday users, politicians on the right experienced the highest growth in polarization, overtaking journalists, media, and everyday users over the past four years. Today, politicians, the group listened to the most for their political rhetoric, are far more polarized than everyday users. Additionally, while polarized speech is typically lower for accounts with more followers, right-leaning political influencers are an exception to this trend, which may influence perceptions of polarization on the left versus the right. Polarization is more diffuse across users on Twitter than on Reddit, where it is localized to a few communities. Polarization also varies by topic, with right-leaning users twice as likely to use polarized rhetoric about immigration as left-leaning users while left-leaning users are somewhat more likely to be polarized around healthcare. Our large-scale analysis reveals previously unknown patterns of polarization across platforms, groups, and topics that will help us better contextualize polarized content and potentially intervene to reduce it.
Regulation of Natural Killer Cell TGF-β and AhR Signaling Pathways Via the Intestinal Microbiota is Critical for Host Defense Against Alcohol-Associated Bacterial Pneumonia
Authors: Samuelson Derrick ,   Daniel Villageliu1, Cunningham Kelly , Smith Deandra , Knoell Daren , Mandolfo Mason , Wyatt Todd
Published: October 2023

Alcohol use is an independent risk factor for the development of bacterial pneumonia due, in part, to impaired mucus-facilitated clearance, macrophage phagocytosis, and recruitment of neutrophils. Alcohol consumption is also known to reduce peripheral natural killer (NK) cell numbers and compromises NK cell cytolytic activity, especially NK cells with a mature phenotype. However, the role of innate lymphocytes, such as NK cells during host defense against alcohol-associated bacterial pneumonia is essentially unknown. We have previously shown that indole supplementation mitigates increases in pulmonary bacterial burden and improves pulmonary NK cell recruitment in alcohol-fed mice, which were dependent of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling. Employing a binge-on-chronic alcohol-feeding model we sought to define the role and interaction of indole and NK cells during pulmonary host defense against alcohol-associated pneumonia. We demonstrate that alcohol dysregulates NK cell effector function and pulmonary recruitment via alterations in two key signaling pathways. We found that alcohol increases transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling, while suppressing AhR signaling. We further demonstrated that NK cells isolated from alcohol-fed mice have a reduced ability to kill Klebsiella pneumoniae. NK cell migratory capacity to chemokines was also significantly altered by alcohol, as NK cells isolated from alcohol-fed mice exhibited preferential migration in response to CXCR3 chemokines but exhibited reduced migration in response to CCR2, CXCR4, and CX3CR1 chemokines. Together this data suggests that alcohol disrupts NK cell specific TGF-β and AhR signaling pathways leading to decreased pulmonary recruitment and cytolytic activity thereby increasing susceptibility to alcohol-associated bacterial pneumonia.
Research on Coordination of the Battery Closed-loop Supply Chain Considering CSR and Fairness Concerns in Third-Party Recycling Models
Authors: Zhang Zhenfang , Liang Huan
Published: October 2023

Due to the pressure of the ecological environment and government, it is incumbent for enterprises to take social responsibility (CSR). However, during the recycling process, awareness of equity concerns due to the distribution of benefits among members has intensified, and it is crucial to resolve channel conflicts and design a reasonable cooperation model to recycle used power batteries. Therefore, this paper constructs a closed-loop supply chain composed of power battery manufacturers, sellers and third-party recycling companies based on the consideration of stepwise utilization, and constructs different Stackelberg game models for whether the manufacturers assume CSR to study the impacts of the level of CSR as well as the degree of fairness concern on the decision-making of the channel participants. Finally, based on the negative impacts of fairness concerns, a cost-sharing contract is designed to effectively improve the relationship between supply chain members in order to achieve economic and environmental sustainability.
Inequality of global crop diversity changes from 1961 to 2020
Authors: Gu Baojing , Gong Xuerong , Ren Chenchen , Wang Chen , Xu Jianming
Published: October 2023

Crop diversity is vital for stability of food supply and sustainable agriculture, but limited understanding of its variability and driving mechanisms hampers effective management. Using data from 211 countries and over 60 years (1961-2020), here we show that global overall crop diversity increases while decline is found in one-third countries, and species evenness index decreases in half of global countries during the study period. Farm size, multiple cropping index, farmers’ income, and irrigation emerge as key drivers to elucidate inter-country variations. Farm size is the primary contributor, reducing approximately 5% of the global crop diversity from 1961 to 2020. Future scenarios project a 9% decline in crop diversity by 2050, while this decline trend would be reversed to increase 3-5% with lower inequalities among countries through better agricultural management. This is essential to increase the stability of agriculture for multiple UN sustainable development goals including hunger, poverty, and inequality.
Investigation of pediatric backscatter factor with an anthropomorphic phantom
Authors: Suebboonprathueng Thanakrit - , Asada Yasuki
Published: October 2023

Background
Entrance surface dose (ESD) is used to establish diagnostic reference levels (DRLs), which require a backscatter factor (BSF) for calculation. However, as no studies on pediatric BSF exist, adult BSF is currently used in pediatric ESD calculations.
Objective
The aim of this study was to derive a BSF using a pediatric phantom and conduct a comparison with BSFs derived from adult phantoms and existing data in general radiography.
Materials and methods
Incident air-kerma at the surface of a pediatric anthropomorphic phantom was measured using a set of optically stimulated luminescent dosimeters (OSLDs). Measurements were obtained using nanoDot OSLDs under different beam qualities and field sizes in three body regions, at a focal–surface distance of 100 cm. Air-kerma was measured using a set of nanoDots in the same positions in the absence of the phantom, and BSF was calculated using the two sets of data. The pediatric BSF values were compared with those obtained from adult phantom and existing data.
Results
BSF values were significantly lower for the pediatric phantom than for the adult phantom and were lowest in the chest (16%) under specific conditions and the greatest discrepancies of BSF values was found in PMMA tissue (19%) on every tube voltage when compared with the existing data.
Conclusion
Based on data obtained for the three body parts investigated, pediatric ESD should be calculated using human shaped pediatric anthropomorphic phantom rather than adult using adult and existing data.
Shared decision making and client-reported dose satisfaction in a longitudinal cohort receiving iOAT
Authors: Beaumont Scott , Magel Tianna , MacDonald Scott , Harrison Scott , Schechter Martin , Oviedo-Joekes Eugenia
Published: October 2023

Background:
Across different types of oral Opioid Agonist Treatment for people with Opioid Use Disorder, receiving a dose that meets their needs is associated with better outcomes. Evidence also shows patients are more likely to receive an “adequate dose” when their prescribers are involving them in decision making. Neither of these findings have been studied in the context of injectable Opioid Agonist Treatment, which is the purpose of this study.
Methods:
This study was a retrospective analysis of an 18-month prospective longitudinal cohort study of 131 people receiving injectable Opioid Agonist Treatment. In the 18-month study, observations were collected every two months for one year, and then once more at 18 months. At 6 months, participants were asked whether their dose was satisfactory to them (outcome variable). Generalized Estimating Equations were used, to account for multiple observations from each participant. The final multivariate model was built using a stepwise approach to determine variable inclusion.
Results:
545 participant-observations were included in the analysis. Participant observations were grouped by “dose is satisfactory” and “wants higher dose”. From unadjusted analyses, participants were less likely to report being satisfied with their dose if they: were Indigenous, had worse psychological or physical health problems, had ever attempted suicide, were younger when they first injected any drug, were a current smoker, felt troubled by drug problems, gave their medication a lower “drug liking” score, and felt that their doctor wasn’t including them in decisions the way they wanted to be. In the final multivariate model, all significant associations except for “current smoker” and “troubled by drug problems” were no longer significant after the addition of the “drug liking score”.
Conclusions:
Patients in injectable Opioid Agonist Treatment who are not satisfied with their dose are more likely to: be troubled by drug problems, be a current smoker, and report liking their medication less than dose-satisfied patients. Prescribers’ practicing shared decision-making can help patients achieve dose-satisfaction and possibly alleviate troubles from drug problems. Additionally, receiving a satisfactory dose may be dependent on patients being able to access an opioid agonist medication (and formulation) that they like.
Comparison of Postoperative Pain and Functionality in Patients Undergoing Fistulotomy and Seton for Anal Fistula
Authors: ŞAHİN Samet , Demirci İpar Selin , Yazkan Cenk , Dere Özcan , Kayılıoğlu Ilgaz , Özcan Önder
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Anal fistula is a common proctological disease characterized by a tunnel formation between the skin and the anal canal. Surgical intervention is often required for treatment. The study aimed to assess postoperative pain and functionality in patients undergoing either fistulotomy or seton application for anal fistula. Method: The study included patients undergoing fistulotomy or seton application. Pain and functionality were assessed using the WHODAS 2.0 and VAS scores before surgery and at 1 week and 1 month post-surgery. Data were analyzed using statistical methods. Results: Out of 144 patients, 125 were included in the study. Fistulotomy was performed in 54.4% of patients, while seton application was performed in 45.6%. Pain levels were significantly higher in the fistulotomy group at postoperative 1 week but significantly lower at postoperative 1 month compared to the seton group. WHODAS 2.0 results correlated with VAS scores, showing that pain affected functionality. Seton group patients experienced less pain in the first postoperative week, but pain increased in the first month due to the presence of setons. Loss of function in social life and human relations was higher in the seton group. Discussion: Anal fistulas are more prevalent in men, but this study found a higher ratio of women, possibly due to geographical differences or the small sample size. Pain levels and functionality were affected by the choice of surgical method. Fistulotomy patients experienced increased pain in the first week but improved over time, while seton patients had lower initial pain but more persistent discomfort. Setons can disrupt daily life and social activities. Surgeons should consider long-term pain and functionality when choosing between procedures.
Deep learning model to predict Ki-67 expression of breast cancer using digital breast tomosynthesis
Authors: Oba Ken , Adachi Maki , Kobayashi Tomoya , Takaya Eichi , Shimokawa Daiki , Fukuda Toshinori , Yagishita Kazuyo , Takahashi Kengo , Ueda Takuya , Tsunoda Hiroko
Published: October 2023

Background: To develop a deep learning (DL) model for digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) image to predict Ki-67 expression.Methods: The institutional review board approved this retrospective study and waived the requisite to obtain the informed consent from the patients. Initially, 499 patients (mean age of 50.5 years, ranging from 29 to 90 years) who were referred to our hospital suggestive of breast cancer were initially enrolled in this study. We selected 126 patients with pathologically confirmed breast cancer and measured Ki-67. Xception architecture was used for the DL model to predict Ki-67 expression. Diagnostic performance of the DL model was assessed by accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). The diagnostic performance was also assessed with sub-datasets divided by radiological characteristics of breast cancer.Results: The average accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and AUC were 0.856, 0.860, 0.654, 0.933, respectively. The AUC of the four sub-groups separated by radiological findings for the mass, calcification, distortion, and focal asymmetric density sub-dataset were 0.890, 0.750, 0.870, and 0.660, respectively.Conclusions: Our results suggest potential application of the DL model to predict the expression of Ki-67 using DBT, which may be useful in determining the treatment strategy for breast cancer preoperatively.
Assessment of global antimicrobial resistance campaigns conducted to alter public awareness and antimicrobial use behaviours: a rapid systematic review
Authors: Gilham Ellie , Pearce-Smith Nicola , Carter Vanessa , Ashiru-Oredope Diane
Published: October 2023

Introduction:
Public health campaigns with a well-defined outcome behaviour have been shown to successfully alter behaviour. However, the complex nature of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) creates challenges when evaluating campaigns aimed at raising awareness and changing behaviour related to antibiotic usage.
Aims:
This review aims to determine what campaigns have been conducted and which have been effective at improving awareness of antimicrobial resistance and changing behaviour around antimicrobial use in members of the public. It also sought to determine which outcome measures studies have used to assess campaign effectiveness.
Methods:
A systematic search of Ovid MEDLINE and Embase, was conducted in October 2022 using a predefined search strategy. Studies which were published between 2010 and September 2022 that outlined a campaign or invention aimed at the public and focusing on AMR or antibiotic usage were eligible for inclusion and studies which solely targeted healthcare professionals (HCP) were excluded.
Results:
Literature searches retrieved 6961 results. De-duplication and screening removed 6925 articles, five articles from grey literature and reference screening were included, giving a total of 41 studies and 30 unique interventions. There was a wide distribution of campaigns globally with the majority run in Europe (n=15) with most campaigns were conducted nationally (n=14). Campaigns tended to focus on adult members of the public (n=14) or targeted resources towards both the public and HCPs (n=13) and predominately assessed changes in knowledge of and/or attitudes towards AMR (n=16). Campaigns where an improvement was seen in their primary outcome measure tended to use mass media to disseminate information, targeted messaging towards a specific disease, and including the use of HCP-patient interactions.
Discussion:
This review provides some evidence that campaigns can significantly improve outcome measures relating to AMR and antibiotic usage. Despite a lack of homogeneity between studies some common themes emerged between effective campaigns. However, the frequent use of observational study designs makes it difficult to establish causation between the campaign and changes seen in the studies outcome measures. Therefore, the evaluation process needs to be embedded within the design process for future campaigns.
Autophagy inhibition in pancreatic cancer cells synergizes with immunotherapy via DC activation due to increased antigenicity and adjuvanticity
Authors: Nakata Kohei , Oyama Koki , Tsutsumi Chikanori , Hayashi Masataka , Zhang Bo , Mochida Yuki , Shinkawa Tomohiko , Zhong Pingshan , Date Satomi , Luo Haizhen , Kubo Akihiro , Higashijima Nobuhiro , Yamada Yutaka , Abe Toshiya , Ideno Noboru , Koikawa Kazuhiro , Iwamoto Chika , Ikenaga Naoki , Ohuchida Kenoki , Onishi Hideya , Morisaki Takashi , Kuba Keiji , Oda Yoshinao , Nakamura Masafumi
Published: October 2023

The effect of immune checkpoint inhibitors is extremely limited in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Dendritic cell (DC) paucity and dysfunction are major elements contributing to this immunosuppressive TME. Autophagy, a self-degradation process, has been proposed as a therapeutic target for PDAC; however, the effect of autophagy inhibition in cancer cells on the immunosuppressive TME, and particularly DCs, remains unclear. Here, we discovered that autophagy inhibition in cancer cells induced DC activation via the intracellular accumulation of tumor antigens and increased tumor adjuvanticity. Single-cell RNA-sequencing revealed that autophagy inhibition in cancer cells also induced CD8+ T cell exhaustion, characterized by high LAG3 expression. Moreover, a triplet therapy, comprising chloroquine, Flt3L, and an anti-LAG3 antibody, markedly reduced tumor growth in an orthotopic syngeneic PDAC mouse model. Thus, this therapeutic combination may be a promising candidate for treating PDAC by overcoming the immunosuppressive TME.
An Adversarial Environment Reinforcement Learning-driven Intrusion Detection Algorithm for Internet of Things
Authors: Mahjoub Chahira , Hamdi Monia , Alkanhel Reem , Mohamed Safa , Ejbali Ridha
Published: October 2023

The increasing prevalence of Internet of Things (IoT) systems has made them attractive targets for malicious actors. To address the evolving threats and the growing complexity of detection, there is a critical need to search for and develop new algorithms that are fast and robust in detecting and classifying dangerous network traffic. In this context, Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) is gaining recognition as a prospective solution in numerous fields as it enables autonomous agents to cooperate with their environment for decision-making without relying on human experts. This article presents a novel approach to intrusion detection in IoT systems through the utilization of an adversarial reinforcement learning (RL) algorithm, known for its exceptional predictive capabilities. The predictive process relies on a classifier, which is implemented as a streamlined and highly efficient neural network. Embedded within this classifier is a policy function, meticulously trained using an innovative RL model. Importantly, this model ensures that the environment’s behavior is dynamically fine-tuned simultaneously with the learning process, improving the overall effectiveness of the intrusion detection approach. The efficiency of our proposal was assessed using the Bot-IoT database, consisting of a mixture of legitimate IoT network traffic and simulated attack scenarios. Our scheme shows superior performance compared to existing ones. Therefore, our approach to IoT intrusion detection can be considered a valuable alternative to existing methods, capable of significantly improving the IoT systems’ security.
Insect-scale biped robots based on asymmetrical friction effect induced by magnetic torque
Authors: Zhao Jinsheng , Xin Chen , Zhu Jiaqi , Xia Neng , Hao Bo , Liu Xurui , Tan Yu , Yang Shihao , Wang Xin , Xue Junnan , Wang Qinglong , Lu Haojian , Zhang Li
Published: October 2023

Multimodal and controllable motions in complex terrain are of great importance for practical applications of insect-scale robots. Robust locomotion plays a particularly critical role. In this study, we reveal and define a locomotion mechanism for magnetic robots based on asymmetrical friction effect induced by magnetic torque. The defined mechanism overcomes the design constraints imposed by both robot and substrate structures, enabling the realization of multimodal locomotion on complex terrains. Drawing inspiration from human walking and running locomotion, we propose a biped robot based on the mechanism that not only exhibits rapid motions across substrates with varying friction coefficients but also achieves precise motions along patterned trajectories through programmed control. Furthermore, apart from its exceptional locomotive capabilities, the biped robot demonstrates remarkable robustness in terms of load-carrying and weight-bearing performance. The presented motion and mechanism herein introduce a novel concept for designing magnetic robots while offering extensive possibilities for practical applications in insect-scale robotics.
Effects of Musa textilis fiber loadings in physical-mechanical properties of recycled thermoplastic compounds
Authors: Muñoz-Acosta Freddy , Gaitán-Álvarez Johanna , Arias-Aguilar Dagoberto , Valverde Juan Carlos , Garro-Monge Giovanni , Mora-Molina Jesús
Published: October 2023

Developing composite materials has become an attractive option to incorporate thermoplastic waste into a circular economy model; for that thing, natural fibers are used to improve the properties of the biomaterial to be consistent with multiple industrial sectors. The study aimed to evaluate the compatibility of M. textilis fiber combined with recycled plastics such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) without a cross-linking agent by characterizing the physical-mechanical properties. PE and PP were reinforced with four fiber loadings (0 as a control, 10, 20, and 30%); the physical (density, thickness swelling, water absorption, and weight increment), mechanical (dynamic elastic modulus, static bending, and traction) and specific (specific elastic modulus and the specific flexural modulus) properties were evaluated, in addition to characterizing the failure point in traction test with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and degree of dissimilarity between treatments (thermoplastic x fiber loadings). Overall, these results suggest that reinforcement with M. textilis improved the mechanical properties between 5 and 15% concerning the control; the specific properties showed that the biomaterials have conditions for industrial-grade use; the most common failure point was coarse river line type associated with thermoplastics, while fiber loadings at 10 and 20% showed failures associated with interfacial free spaces. For its part, treatments with a 30% fiber loading showed better properties associated with resistance. However, it is recommended to restrict its use outdoors or in conditions with prolonged water contact. Finally, our results demonstrate that recycled thermoplastics reinforcement with M. textile fiber improves the biomaterial's properties, expanding its potential commercial use.
Preference of Pentalonia nigronervosa for infected banana plants tends to reverse after Banana buchy top virus acquisition
Authors: SAFARI Ignace MURHUBUBA , BRAGARD Claude , HANCE Thierry
Published: October 2023

Pentalonia nigronervosa Coquerel (Hemitera: Aphididae) is the vector agent of Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV), the most serious viral disease of banana (Musa spp) in the world. Before acquiring the virus, the vector is more attracted to infected banana plants thanks to increased emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Here, we test the hypothesis that BBTV acquisition directly modifies the preference of P. nigronervosa for infected banana plants, and if this change in behaviour could result from the alteration of the organs linked to the VOC detection or linked to the flight of the vector. We found that the preference of P. nigronervosa for infected banana plants reverses with virus acquisition in dessert banana, while it remains similar between healthy and infected banana plants before and after the acquisition of BBTV. At the same time, aphids reared on infected bananas had smaller forewing areas and hind tibia length than aphids reared on healthy bananas, while the number of secondary rhinaria on the antennae was lower on dessert banana reared aphids than plantain reared aphids, regardless of infection status. These results support the "Vector Manipulation Hypothesis - VMH" of pathogens to promote their spread. They have implications for the BBTV management.
Clinical characteristics of gastrointestinal stromal tumors with lymph node metastasis: a retrospective single-centre study
Authors: Guo Xiaodan , Huang Shaoqing , Yang Shaohua , Xia Yanzhe , Wu Chunhui , Cai Shirong , He Yulong , Zhou Xuefu , Zhang Xinhua
Published: October 2023

Background
Lymph node metastasis (LNM) of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) rarely occurs, and lymphadenectomy is not routinely performed in GIST resection. To date, the relevant characteristics and prognosis of GIST patients with LNM are not well known.
Methods
From January 2010 to December 2021, GIST patients who underwent lymph node resection were enrolled from a GIST referral centre. All patients were divided into either the LN- group (GISTs without LNM) or the LN + group (GISTs with LNM). The clinicopathological features and follow-up data were analysed. Propensity score matching (PSM) was conducted to reduce bias caused by confounders.
Results
Out of 1024 surgical patients, 198 patients (age, 52.23 ± 13.54 years; 56.6% males) underwent GIST resection with lymph node dissection for lymphadenopathy, and 17 patients had lymph node metastases (17/1024, 1.66%; 17/198, 8.59%). The LN + group had a higher mitotic count (P = 0.012) and a higher proportion of distant metastasis (P < 0.001) than the LN- group. After PSM, 28 patients were included (18 in LN- group and 10 in LN + group). The LN- group had both longer postoperative progression-free survival (PFS, not reached vs. 15.0 months, P = 0.002) and overall survival (OS) than the LN + group, but the difference in OS was not statistically significant (not reached vs. 35.0 months, P = 0.069).
Conclusions
The rate of LNM in GISTs is low. LNM may be a less common form of distant metastasis. Moreover, GIST with LNM has an unfavourable prognosis. Further studies are warranted to identify GISTs with lymph node involvement and the potential involved mechanism.
Microwave-induced high dispersion anchoring of MOFs on SiC surfaces: Built-in electric field dominated process
Authors: Gao Xin , Kou Zongliang , Liu Kai , Zhao Zhenyu , Li Hong
Published: October 2023

Microwave irradiation has emerged as a promising method for the preparation of highly dispersed metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) catalysts, which can improve their dispersion and catalytic efficiency. However, the underlying mechanism behind this "microwave effect" and the enhanced accessibility of anchored MOFs catalysts remain poorly understood. In this study, we employed microwave-absorbing SiC as a substrate material to enhance the specific recognition ability of MOFs precursors under microwave irradiation. The synthesized UIO-66-NH2@SiC catalyst was applied to the esterification reaction of cyclohexene. The catalyst with an anchored structure can achieve a conversion rate of 72% of cyclohexene. In comparison, the conversion rate obtained with pure MOFs as the catalyst was merely 63%. Subsequently, we proposed a mechanism of microwave-induced anchoring process, i.e. this process was attributed to the built-in electric field effect. To investigate this mechanism, we used a thermosensitive fluorescent material, Eu/Tb-MOF, to reveal that the microwave-induced anchoring of UIO-66-NH2 on the SiC surface does not originate from the commonly believed "hotspots". Instead, numerical simulations were conducted to analyze the electric field distribution, revealing that the electric field intensity between SiC particles was 7 times higher than in other regions. Furthermore, we validated the simulation results by using fluorescent powder as an electric field tracer with a thin film of naphthalene diamide. Our findings demonstrate that electric fields can be employed to control the approach of metal ions towards a functionalized SiC ceramic surface, leading to spontaneous and irreversible immobilization when the metal ions make contact with the surface. Overall, our research provides a theoretical foundation for understanding the microwave-assisted synthesis of anchored catalysis materials.
Changes in Vitamin D Biomarkers According to the Cause-Glomerular Filtration Rate Albuminuria Classification in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Lee Seunghye , Cho Min-Chul , Kim Jin Hyun , Jung Sehyun , Jeon Hyejin , Jang Hani , Chang Se-Ho , Kim Hyun-Jung
Published: October 2023

Background
Monitoring the vitamin D status is vital for managing mineral and bone disorders (MBDs) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The CKD classification based on cause of CKD, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and albuminuria (CGA) is crucial for managing patients with CKD, yet no study has explored their association with various vitamin D biomarkers. Our study aims to investigate changes in vitamin D biomarkers based on CKD cause, estimated GFR (eGFR), and albuminuria levels.
Methods
We prospectively analyzed blood and urine samples from 206 patients with CKD stages G2–G5. After classifying each group according to the presence or absence of diabetes, eGFR, and severity of albuminuria, the differences in various vitamin D biomarkers in each group were compared.
Results
Among patients with diabetic kidney disease, those with diabetic nephropathy showed significantly lower levels of 24,25(OH)2D and bioavailable 25(OH)D compared to those without. When classified according to eGFR, patients with a low eGFR had significantly lower mean levels of 24,25(OH)2D and VMR, but the change in all 25(OH)D markers was not significant. In patients with diabetes, all 25(OH)D markers significantly decreased as albuminuria worsened, whereas in patients without diabetes, only bioavailable 25(OH)D showed a significant association with albuminuria.
Conclusions
Changes in vitamin D markers differed according to the CGA classification. However, as was a small-scale study, large-scale studies with a longer follow-up are necessary.
Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition: its impact on lymph node metastasis in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ghantous Yasmine , Nashef Aysar , Abdol-Elraziq Murad , Sudri Shiran , Araidy Shareef , Abu-Elnaaj Imad
Published: October 2023

Background: Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) enables tumor cell invasion and metastasis. Many studies have demonstrated EMT's critical role in lymph node metastasis in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). During EMT, epithelial cancer cells lose intercellular adhesion and apical-basal polarity and acquire mesenchymal properties like motility and invasiveness. A major feature of EMT is cadherin switching, involving downregulation of E-cadherin and upregulation of N-cadherin. The TGF-β/SMAD pathway can also induce EMT. We aimed to evaluate EMT markers as predictors of lymph node metastasis in OSCC.
Methods: We performed genetic profiling of 159 primary OSCCs from TCGA, analyzing expression of EMT markers including cadherin switch genes (CDH1, CDH2), TGF-β/SMAD pathway genes, SNAIL, and keratins. Samples were divided into high (stage III-IV) and low (stage I-II) grade groups. Differential expression analysis was performed.
Results: TGF-β/SMAD pathway genes like SMAD6 were upregulated in high-grade tumors. N-cadherin and SNAIL2 were overexpressed in node-positive tumors. Keratins were downregulated in these groups.
Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate EMT marker expression correlates with lymph node metastasis in OSCC. Developing therapies targeting regulators like N-cadherin may prevent metastasis and improve outcomes. Further research is warranted to elucidate EMT signaling in OSCC progression.
Impact of Surface Heterogeneity Induced Secondary Circulations on the Atmospheric Boundary Layer
Authors: Paleri Sreenath , Wanner Luise , Sühring Matthias , Desai Ankur , Mauder Matthias , Metzger Stefan
Published: October 2023

We explore the evolution and impacts of surface heterogeneity induced secondary circulations on the atmospheric boundary layer through coupled diurnal large eddy simulations (LES) of the CHEESEHEAD19 field campaign. The heterogeneity induced circulations were diagnosed using time and ensemble averaging. Quasi-stationary and persistent circulations were set up in the daytime ABL that span the entire mixed layer height (zi). Their variation in time and space are presented. The simulated near surface dispersive flux contribution for both the heat and moisture fluxes were 10-15% of the total daytime surface fluxes for the convective boundary layer (CBL) simulations. In the wind shear driven, near neutral ABL, the near surface contribution of dispersive heat fluxes remained at 10-15% of total surface fluxes while the dispersive moisture flux contributions were lower than 5%. These magnitudes are the same order of magnitude as the expected surface energy budget residuals. In CBL, wavelengths ~ the effective surface heterogeneity length scales at ~ 3zi contribute the most to the heterogeneity induced transport. This scale analysis supports prior work over the study domain on scaling tower measured fluxes by including low frequency contributions.This study underscores the role of ABL static stability, the ABL height and surface heterogeneity length scales in modulating the contributions from secondary circulations and supports ongoing parameterisation efforts to include their contribution in tower measured surface energy imbalance. This conceptual framework can also be extended to include the effects of sub-grid land surface heterogeneity in numerical weather prediction and climate models and further exploring scale-aware scaling methodologies.