bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disseminated Histoplasmosis and Presumptive CNS Toxoplasmosis-Associated Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome in a Patient with HIV/AIDS: A Case Report
Authors: Nicolás Laverde-Sudupe , Carr Erin , Bruno Velit-Rios , Maria Morel-Almonte , Guillermo Castro Jose
Published: November 2024

Background: Co-infections associated with Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome (IRIS) have been described in literature, however they constitute an uncommon finding in the medical community.
Case presentation: Here we report a rare case of a 55-year-old woman from Cuba with prior medical history of HIV/AIDS adherent to her Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) regimen, who was hospitalized in Miami because of fluid dysphagia, odynophagia and right-sided cervical lymphadenopathy. A prior biopsy of the right cervical lymph node performed in an outside hospital found evidence of non-caseating granulomas with budding yeast, which was later confirmed to be disseminated histoplasmosis by a positive (1-3)-β- glucan assay and Histoplasmosis urine antigen in this admission. Furthermore, after multiple imaging testing due to her clinical condition, a brain MRI demonstrated findings concerning for cerebral toxoplasmosis, which was supported by serology findings. Treatment with amphotericin B and TMP-SMX led to clinical and radiological improvement of this patient’s conditions, and she was discharged with an appointment for follow-up in the clinic.
Conclusion: This case highlights the complexities and challenges in managing opportunistic infections during immune recovery in HIV/AIDS patients on HAART, and emphasizes the necessity of continuous vigilant monitoring and having a broad differential diagnosis in this group of patients.
Patient satisfaction with health care service delivery in Primary Healthcare facilities in an arid and semi-arid context in Kenya
Authors: Opanga Yvonne , Barasa Chris , Sydney Jane , Mwangangi Mercy , Wangalwa Gilbert , Musombi Emmanuel , Ekal Lopodo , Ekiru Sarah , Lokoel Gilchrist , Mwanja Mark , Gikunda Aloise , Omogi Jarim , Arasio Anthony , Kiplimo Richard , Osembo Evans , Walumbe Risper , Memiah Peter , Ndirangu Meshack
Published: November 2024

Background: Patient satisfaction with services offered in primary healthcare (PHC) facilities is a critical factor for health outcomes especially in arid and semi-arid regions. These regions are characterized by static and migratory population necessitating differentiated primary healthcare models. This paper highlights patient satisfaction levels and its associated factors among patients attending public and faith-based organization PHC facilities in Turkana County.
Methods: The landscape analysis was conducted in Loima and Turkana Central sub-Counties. This study utilized client exit interviews to assess patient satisfaction as a measure of the quality of PHC services. Insights about daily hospital care and quality of care were assessed in PHC facilities. Patient satisfaction was measured by a single question that targeted 442 patients asking them to rate their overall satisfaction with PHC services. Factors associated with Patient satisfaction were analyzed using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression.
Results: The overall patient satisfaction with PHC services was high, with 95% of patients reporting to be satisfied. Over half (55%) and more than a third (37%) of the patients’ satisfaction with consultation and pharmacy services respectively. The satisfaction level was lowest for laboratory services (13%).15% reported to have paid for services. Two factors were significantly associated with patient satisfaction: willingness to recommend the facility to other people and means of transport used. Patients who would recommend the facility were more likely to be satisfied than those who would not (OR=8.86, p =0.005). Patients who used a motorbike were less likely to be satisfied than those who walked to the facility as their means of transport (OR=0.21, p=0.008).
Conclusion: Patient satisfaction with PHC services in Turkana County is influenced by social determinants factors linked to access to the PHC facilities. In such contexts, patient satisfaction can be improved by addressing gaps associated with location and distance of the facility, means of transport used to access PHC facilities and willingness to recommend the facility. These findings have implications for policy makers, health managers, and health workers and brings out the need to consider such factors in designing PHC service delivery models in similar settings.
Nanocarrier-Mediated Enhancement of Fusidic Acid’s Anti-Bacterial Activity: A Comparative Analysis of Its Niosomal and Liposomal Delivery Systems
Authors: Rehman Mujeeb-ur- , Inayat Seema , Arsala Hafiza , Hussain Saadat , Noreen Shagufta , Din Fakhar ud , Maharjan Rukesh
Published: November 2024

Biofilms are group of bacteria that are protected by a slimy layer. These biofilms are more resistant to antibiotics than individual bacteria which are the basic building blocks of biofilms. Researchers are actively introducing new treatments that are supposed to be more efficient in fighting biofilms and to be less toxic to the patient than the conventional antibiotics. Here in this study we propose the development of Fusidic acid (FA) loaded liposomes and niosomes to improve the anti-bacterial activity in-vitro against Staphylococcus aureus strains. The designed niosomes and liposomes of FA were smaller in size ranging from 116.4 to 274.2 nm displaying homogeneity in terms of size distribution with PdI 0 and zeta potential ranging from 20 to 60 mV. The nanoparticles were stable for 30 days irrespective of the storage condition, 4oC and Room temperature. SEM analysis confirmed spherical type nanoparticles and diameter of the nanoparticles were complementary with DLS (NanoZetaSizer) results. All types of nanoparticles showed higher entrapment of FA, particularly FA-Span-40 NPs showed %EE of 94%, rest of the nanoparticle showed %EE 85%. The niosomal and liposomal formulations of FA modified the biological behavior of the drug and provided better in vitro performance against S. aureus compared to the standard (FA). Span-40, Tween-20 and cationic liposomes MIC value (0.039 - 0.078 µg/mL) were effective and comparable with standard, FA (0.04 µg/mL). Furthermore, the effectiveness of antibacterial agents at a microscopic scale was carried out using AFM and SEM after contact of the niosomal-formulation with Staphylococcus aureus strains. Greater change in the structural and mechanical properties of biofilms was observed for tween-20, Span-40 niosomes, PEGylated and Cationic liposomes compared to control and standard FA showing efficacious antibacterial activity. The study demonstrates the designed nano formulations could be a useful strategy to enhance the efficacy of antimicrobials agents.
Kinematic Status of Bryan and Mobi-C Artificial Cervical Discs Post Cervical Hybrid Surgery: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Ma Yukun , Xiong Yang , Wang Ting , Yu Xing , Li Chuanhong , Meng Letian , Zhao He , Yang Yongdong , Zhao Dingyan , Wang Fengxian , Qu Yi
Published: November 2024

Objective: To examine the mid-term efficacy and imaging results of using the Mobi-C and Bryan after cervical hybrid surgery on 2-level cervical spondylolisthesis. To observe their postoperative changes and differences in the flexion-extension center of rotation (FE-COR) of the anterior cervical disc replacement (ACDR) segment.
Methods: Patients who underwent cervical hybrid surgery between June 2014 and June 2019 were included. The mJOA, NDI, and VAS scores were used to assess clinical outcomes and the FE-COR of the ACDR segment was measured. Pre-operative and 36 months’ radiographs were collected to compare the range of motion (ROM) in the total cervical spine, ACDR segmental ROM, and operated adjacent segmental ROM. The translation distance of the Mobi-C and Bryan was measured. The degree of disc degeneration in the adjacent segment and bony fusion of the ACDF segment were observed.
Results: eighty-one patients were included (40 cases in Mobi-C group and 41 cases in Bryan group). All patients have shown improvements in their post-operative mJOA, NDI, and VAS scores (P＜0.05). The C2-C7 ROM decreased in both groups (P<0.05). There was no significant decrease in ACDR segmental ROM and upper or lower adjacent segmental ROM compared with preoperatively (P>0.05). No significant difference were found between the two groups in the above ROM measurement (P＞0.05). For the Mobi-C group, the follow-up compared with pre-surgery showed statistical significance both in the FE-COR-X (44.86±7.70% vs. 57.13±8.45%, P<0.05) and FE-COR-Y (52.29±12.71% vs. 34.47±10.32, P<0.05). For the Bryan group, there was no significant difference at the follow-up in the FE-COR-X and FE-COR-Y compared with pre-surgery (P>0.05). No significant difference in the translation distance between the two groups was observed (P>0.05). All the ACDF segments were in a stable condition. Twenty-two out of 162 adjacent segments showed imaging ASD (9 cases in Mobi-C group and 13 cases in Bryan group). In the Mobi-C group, there were mild in 6 cases and moderate in 3 cases. In the Bryan group, there were mild in 8 cases and moderate in 5 cases.
Conclusions: The cervical hybrid surgery using both Mobi-C or Bryan artificial cervical discs can achieve satisfactory results. The FE-COR of Mobi-C segment will shift forward and downward. The FE-COR of Bryan segment is relatively closer to the pre-operative condition. Changes in the FE-COR after hybrid surgery in both the Mobi-C and Bryan segments might not affect clinical outcomes.
Reshaping the Undegraduate Curriculum Development and Delivery through Visual Analytics
Authors: Fatima Saman , Khan Rehan Ahmed , Arooj Mahwish
Published: November 2024

Background
Visual analytics, as a powerful tool, can aid in planning and implementing future changes to the curriculum mapping, thereby ensuring that medical education aligns with the ever-evolving needs of the healthcare system. However, there has been a lack of empirical studies exploring the potential benefits and methodologies of utilizing visual analytics to reshape medical education curricula. The study aimed to describe the use of visual analytics to analyse part of a curriculum for an undergraduate dental program.
Methods
A qualitative document analysis of the part of a curriculum for the undergraduate dental program at Bakhtawar Amin Medical and Dental College was conducted to identify flaws and propose improvements. The software ATLAS.ti version 9 was used to analyze the relationships among different components of the Behavioral Sciences subject. One-to-one interviews with subject specialists and medical education experts were conducted to gather insights and suggestions for fulfilling the gaps, improved curriculum redesign using visual analytics. Data triangulation was employed to bolster the validity and reliability of the findings.
Results
The results show eleven different aspects categorized into four major categories, identified after analysis of a part of the curriculum for an undergraduate dental program. ATLAS.ti facilitated the visualization of relationships between designed and delivered curricula including; (i) outcome discrepancies, (ii) alignment of learning outcomes and teaching methodologies, (iii) the relationship between learning outcomes and assessment, and (iv) a comprehensive gap analysis of learning outcomes, teaching methodologies and assessment.
Conclusion
The findings emphasize the importance of visual analytics in curriculum mapping. The application of visual analytics enables curriculum developers and educators to uncover hidden patterns in educational data and create a well-aligned curriculum that meets the evolving needs of the healthcare system. Further exploration of visual analytics in diverse educational contexts offers promising opportunities for research in the areas of health informatics, information technology, and medical education.
FcRγIIA attenuates cutaneous leishmaniasis by modulating Lyn, Fyn and SHP-1 activity
Authors: Hammi Ikram , Giron-Michel Julien , Riyad Myriam , Akarid Khadija , Arnoult Damien
Published: November 2024

Background
Leishmania is responsible for a neglected tropical disease affecting millions of people around the world and could potentially spread more due to climate change. Despite the complexity and effectiveness of the immune response, the parasite has developed many strategies to evade it and to take control of the host cell in favor of its replication. These evasion strategies start at earlier stages of the infection by hijacking immune receptors to silence the cellular response.
Methods
For in vivo studies, CD32a transgenic mice and the corresponding WT were infected with Leishmania major Friedlin strain. For in cellulo studies, BMDMs isolated from WT or CD32a transgenic mice, as well as differentiated control or CD32a knock down THP-1 were infected with 2 species of Leishmania, Leishmania major and Leishmania Tropica.
Results
We have investigated how Leishmania may use the Fc receptor FcγRIIA/CD32a and the signaling pathways downstream to evade the host immune response. In vivo, expression of FcγRIIA/CD32a accelerates the signs of inflammation but prevents the formation of necrotic lesions after Leishmania infection. In infected macrophages, the presence of FcγRIIA/CD32a does not affect the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines while the balance between ITAMa and ITAMi proteins is disturbed with an improved Fyn and Lyn activation. Unexpectedly, infection with Leishmania tropica but not Leishmania major triggered an intracytoplasmic processing of FcγRIIA/CD32a.
Conclusions
Our observations underscore the significance of FcγRIIA/CD32a in cutaneous leishmaniasis and its possible use as a therapeutic target.
Metabolomics analysis reveals resembling metabolites between humanized γδ TCR mice and human plasma
Authors: Michael Husheem , Weng Gene W. , Vallas Mikaela M. , Lovos Douglas , Chen Ellen , Sheiffele Paul , Weng Wei
Published: November 2024

Gamma delta (γδ) T cells, which reside in mucosal and epithelial tissues, are integral to immune responses and are involved in various cancers, autoimmune, and infectious diseases. To study human γδ T cells to a translational level, we developed γδ humanized TCR-T1 (HuTCR-T1) mice using our TruHumanization platform. We compared the metabolomic profiles from plasma samples of wild-type (WT), γδ HuTCR-T1 mice, and humans using UHPLC-MS/MS. Untargeted metabolomics and lipidomics were used to screen all detectable metabolites. Principal component analysis revealed that the metabolomic profiles of γδ HuTCR-T1 mice closely resemble those of humans, with a clear segregation of metabolites between γδ HuTCR-T1 and WT mice. Most humanized γδ metabolites were classified as lipids, followed by organic compounds and amino acids. Pathway analysis identified significant alterations in the metabolism of tryptophan, tyrosine, sphingolipids, and glycerophospholipids, shifting these pathways towards a more human-like profile. Immunophenotyping showed that γδ HuTCR-T1 mice maintained normal proportions of both lymphoid and myeloid immune cell populations, closely resembling WT mice, with only a few exceptions. These findings demonstrate that the γδ HuTCR-T1 mouse model exhibits a metabolomic profile that is remarkably similar to that of humans, highlighting its potential as a relevant model for investigating the role of metabolites in disease development and progression. This model also offers an opportunity to discover therapeutic human TCRs.
Prognostic impact of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in HER2+ metastatic breast cancer receiving first-line treatment
Authors: Salimbeni Beatrice Taurelli , Giudici Fabiola , Pescia Carlo , Giachetti Pier Paolo Berton , Scafetta Roberta , Zagami Paola , Marra Antonio , Trapani Dario , Esposito Angela , Scagnoli Simone , Cerbelli Bruna , Botticelli Andrea , Munzone Elisabetta , Fusco Nicola , Criscitiello Carmen , Curigliano Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

Breast cancer (BC) is a leading cause of death among women, with approximately 30% HER2-positive (HER2+). Although HER2-targeted therapies have improved outcomes for patients with HER2+ metastatic breast cancer (mBC), significant clinical challenges and prognostic variability remain. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) have emerged as prognostic and predictive biomarkers in various tumors, including BC, but their role in HER2+ mBC is poorly understood.
This multicentric retrospective cohort study evaluated the prognostic significance of TILs in 110 patients with HER2+ mBC treated with pertuzumab, trastuzumab, and taxane-based chemotherapy at two Italian institutes from June 2013 to May 2024.TILs were assessed on metastatic or primary tumor samples.
High TILs levels (> 5%) were independently associated with longer PFS and OS. TILs levels were higher in primary tumours than in metastases (p=0.009), with significant variation by metastatic site. These findings underscore the potential of TILs as prognostic biomarkers in HER2+ mBC, necessitating further prospective studies.
Analysis of Transient Heat Transfer in Geothermal Engineering: Effect of Seasonal Fluctuations in ATES Systems
Authors: Mohammadi Shahab , Brenner Gunther
Published: November 2024

We present analytical solutions of the transient heat transfer due to conduction in a planar and a cylindrical domain, representing simplified models for geothermal systems with or without seasonal periodic heat storage/extraction. The present analysis allows us to discuss the heat flux and the temperature distribution around a wellbore during a transient start-up phase and after reaching a quasi-steady state.Based on a suitable scaling, a thermal penetration length is derived for both, steady heat extraction and seasonal periodic heat storage/extraction. The influence of the completion properties and operation conditions on the heat transfer is examined. Using the present analytical data, numerical computational methods may be verified which is demonstrated for results obtained using a finite difference scheme. The present analytical method can be used to integrate a thermal borehole model into a numerical reservoir model.
Endurance Exercise Training Alters Lipidomic Profiles of Plasma and Eight Tissues in Rats: a MoTrPAC study
Authors: Ortlund Eric , Hou Zhenxin , Chen Chih-Yu , Gaul David , Zhang Tiantian , Moore Samuel , Liu Xueyun , Ivanova Anna , Maner-Smith Kristal , Newgard Christopher , Bodine Sue , Savage Evan , Bennett Alexis , Fernandez Facundo
Published: November 2024

Endurance exercise training (ExT) induces metabolic, structural, and functional adaptations via lipidomic modifications, yet the systematic elucidation of lipidome alterations in response to ExT remains incomplete. As a part of the Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium (MoTrPAC), we leveraged non-targeted and targeted lipidomics for the systematic discovery of lipid alterations in the brown adipose tissue, heart, hippocampus, kidney, liver, lung, skeletal muscle gastrocnemius, subcutaneous white adipose tissue, and plasma in response to 1, 2, 4 or 8 weeks of ExT in 6-month-old male and female Fischer-344 rats. This study demonstrates that these tissues, each with distinct lipidomic features, underwent dynamic, sexually dimorphic lipid remodeling. Exercise trained animals showed reduced whole-body adiposity and improved cardiorespiratory fitness, along with enhanced utilization of lipid stores and dynamic triacylglycerol remodeling compared to sedentary controls in all tissues except hippocampus. They also showed modifications in phospholipids, lysophospholipids, oxylipins, and ceramides in several tissues. Coordinated changes across tissues reflect systemic tissue communication, with liver-plasma-heart connection potentially playing a key role in systemic lipid metabolism during ExT. These data will improve our understanding of lipid-associated biological processes underlying the health-promoting benefits of ExT.
Optimizing Nutrient Management for Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum L.) in the Alfisols of Southern India through Modeling Soil, Plant, and Fertilizer Interactions
Authors: Rangaiah Krishna Murthy , Nagaraju Bhavya , Kasturappa Govinda , Kadappa Basavaraja Pujari , Narayanaswamy Uday Kumar Sugaturu , Sab Mohamed Saqeebulla Hussain , Veerabadraiah Gangamrutha Godekere , Srivast Sanjay , Dey Pradip
Published: November 2024

Achieving an optimal balance of nutrients is crucial for sustainable agriculture. In this context, soil test crop response (STCR) experiments on kodo millet were conducted from 2020–2022 to assess relationships between yield, soil, plant, and fertilizer nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) and calibrate optimum fertilizer doses for attaining yield targets. The Basic parameters, i.e., nutrient requirements, contributions of nutrients from fertilizers, soil, and organic manure were derived. The NPK nutrients required to produce one kg of grain yield were 0.049, 0.0047 and 0.035 kg, respectively, under the STCR NPK alone and 0.050, 0.0046 and 0.037 kg, respectively, under the STCR NPK + FYM approach. The STCR NPK + FYM approach for the targeted yield of 1700 kg ha–1 resulted in a higher grain yield (1710 kg ha–1), which was significantly greater than the general recommended dose and soil fertility rating approach. The developed STCR equations are valid, as the percent deviation of the grain yield from the targeted yield was within ± 10%. The implementation of the STCR approach not only surpassed the effects of the other fertilizer recommendation approaches in terms of grain yield but also increased NPK uptake, nutrient use efficiency and economic returns.
A novel SVD-UKFNN algorithm for predicting current efficiency of aluminum electrolysis
Authors: Fang Xiaoyan , Fei Xihong , Wang Kang , Fang Tian , Chen Rui
Published: November 2024

The optimal control of the aluminum electrolysis production process (AEFP) presents an enduring challenge in industrial operations, largely due to its inherent dynamic nonlinearity, multivariable complexity, and susceptibility to significant disturbances. These factors hinder the development of precise predictive models for dynamic current efficiency. To address these problems, this article proposes a novel singular value decomposition unscented Kalman filtering neural network (NSVD-UKFNN) to improve the predictive accuracy of current efficiency in aluminum electrolysis. The approach begins by constructing a dynamic prediction model within the UKFNN framework, utilizing artificial neural networks (ANNs) to capture complex system behaviors. Singular value decomposition (SVD) is then incorporated into the unscented Kalman filtering neural network (UKFNN) architecture to compute the prior matrix square root, thereby enhancing model stability. Finally, the state variable prediction variance is reformulated as an objective function and optimized through gradient descent, effectively reducing error accumulation during computations. Comparative experimental results demonstrate that the proposed SVD-UKFNN significantly outperforms several related frameworks in predicting current efficiency, showcasing its potential for broader industrial applications.
Spillover Effect of Workplace Politics on Work-Family Conflict: A Mediated Moderating Model
Authors: Sankar Jayendira P
Published: November 2024

Workplace politics are a crucial source of stress that negatively impacts employees and spills in the family. This study focused on understanding the spillover effect of workplace politics on work-family conflict through psychological distress as a mediator and work engagement as a moderator. Also, the study utilized work-home resources models to define the conceptual model. In addition, a quantitative cross-sectional study design has been used to collect the data from 426 respondents from full-time employees of IT-BPM companies. The partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the hypotheses. The results indicate that workplace politics is positively related to work-family conflict, and psychological distress is a significant positive mediation between workplace politics and work-family conflict. Moreover, work engagement satisfies the mediating effect of psychological distress on the relationship between workplace politics and work-family conflict.
Relationship between oral acid/burning sensation and gastroesophageal reflux -A prospective, single-centre cohort study
Authors: Liu Cong , Jin Hong , Wang Bin , Li Shujin , Ru Shiwei , Liu Xuechai , Zhang Jinfeng , Zhang Lili , zhao Wei
Published: November 2024

Aims: Oral acid/burning sensation is common but the mechanism is not elucidated. The aim of the study is to investigate the relationship between oral acid/burning sensation and gastroesophageal reflux.
Methods: From May to June 2023, 116 patients were enrolled consecutively at the endoscopy center of Tianjin Medical University. 20 patients with oral acid/burning sensation (symptom group) and 96 patients without oral acid/burning sensation (control group) underwent symptom questionnaire survey, salivary pepsin detection and electronic gastroscopy. The positive rate of salivary pepsin test, incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease, occurrence of reflux esophagitis under gastroscopy, and scores of anxiety and depression were compared between the two groups.
Results: The positive rate of salivary pepsin test in the symptom group was significantly higher than that in the control group (80% vs. 41.67%, P<0.05). The GERD Q score in the symptom group was also significantly higher than that in the control group (11(6~12) vs. 6(6~6), P<0.001). The incidence of GERD in the symptom group (60%) was slightly higher than that in the control group (37.5%), but there was no statistically significant difference. The incidence of oral acid/burning sensation in the non-elderly group was 23.8% (20/84), which was significantly higher than that in the elderly group (0% (0/56), P<0.05). The positive rate of salivary pepsin in the non-elderly group was significantly higher than that in the control group (80.0% vs. 50%, P=0.019). The degree of anxiety and depression in the symptom group was higher than that in the control group (GAD 7 score 5.40±4.39 vs. 2.06±2.59, P=0.001: PHQ 9 score 6.10±4.32 vs. 1.81±1.79, P<0.001).
Conclusion: The occurrence of acid/burning sensation in the mouth may be related to both gastroesophageal reflux, anxiety and depression.
A novel nomogram for estimating a high-risk result in the EndoPredict® test for estrogen receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast carcinoma.
Authors: Macarrón Víctor , Losantos-García Itsaso , Peláez-García Alberto , Yébenes Laura , Berjón Alberto , Frías Laura , Zamora Pilar , Sánchez-Méndez José Ignacio , Hardisson David
Published: November 2024

Background The EndoPredict® assay has been widely used in recent years to estimate the risk of distant recurrence and the absolute chemotherapy benefit for patients with estrogen (ER)-positive/ human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer. However, there are no well-defined criteria for selecting patients who may benefit from the test. The aim of this study was to develop a novel nomogram to estimate the probability of obtaining a high-risk EndoPredict® result in clinical practice.
Methods The study cohort comprises 348 cases of T1-3/N0-1a/M0 ER-positive/HER2-negative breast carcinoma. A multivariate analysis was conducted using a training cohort (n=270) based on clinicopathological features that demonstrated a statistically significant correlation with the EndoPredict® result in a univariate analysis. The predictive model was subsequently represented as a nomogram to estimate the probability of obtaining a high-risk result in the EndoPredict® assay. The predictive model was then validated using a separate validation cohort (n=78).
Results The clinicopathological features incorporated into the nomogram included tumor size, tumor grade, sentinel lymph node status, pN stage, and Ki67. The internal validation of the model yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.803 (95% CI = 0.751, 0.855) in the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for the training cohort, with an optimal sensitivity and specificity at a threshold of 0.536. The external validation yielded an AUC of 0.789 (95% CI = 0.689, 0.890) in its ROC curve, with optimal sensitivity and specificity achieved at a threshold of 0.393.
Conclusions This study presents, for the first time, the development of a clinically accessible nomogram designed to estimate the probability of obtaining a high-risk result in the EndoPredict® assay. The use of easily available clinicopathological features allows for the optimization of patient selection for the EndoPredict® assay, ensuring that those who would most benefit from undergoing the test are identified.
Seismicity clustering and source mechanism of deep-moderate earthquake in the Weeber Deep, South Molucca
Authors: Simanjuntak Andrean V H , Ansari Kutubuddin , Walo Janusz , Mase Lindung Z , Lubis Muhammad Z
Published: November 2024

The earthquake Mw 7.6 occurred on January 15, 2023, in the Tanimbar region, the southeastern part of Molucca, Indonesia, and generated a wide ground shaking around IV-VI MMI following several damages and early warning of the tsunami. The hypocenter was located deeper than the common slab contour, which may direct another blind tectonic system called intraslab. Here, we did a joint analysis by correlating the waveform inversion with hypocenter clustering to identify the responsible system and determine the current seismicity pattern. The final parameters for all earthquakes have an adequate uncertainty with lower than 3° and an average misfit < 0.5. The earthquake mechanism was resolved with NW–SE orientated in the thrust faulting mechanism which has an estimated moment magnitude Mw of 7.72 ± 0.02 and a depth of 108 ± 3 km. The solution mechanism comprises two planes of focal parameters i.e., 1st nodal plane has a strike of 102°, dip of 46° and rake of 61°, and the 2nd nodal plane has a strike of 320°, dip of 50° and rake of -116°. The centroid position was shifted 27 km to the south and 36 km to the north. The power spectral density shows a converged solution with uncertainty ± 3 km that can provide a better solution. The deviatoric percentage shows the dominant double-couple (DC) component with 93% while the Compensated Linear Vector Dipole (CLVD) is 7%. The study outcomes point out that the hidden intraslab beneath the collision between the Eurasian and the Australian plates will provide new insight and support to the recent tectonic system in the East Indonesia region. We utilized the nearest-neighborhood distance method for the seismicity measurements using a logarithmic scale (log10η) within the domain of space-time-depth-magnitude (STDM). The analysis revealed a clear relationship between these factors, indicating that seismic activity in the Tanimbar region follows a prominently unimodal pattern. This suggests a single kind of statistically dispersed earthquake in the area.
Precision Analysis and Prediction of Position-Dependent Structural Natural Frequencies in Five-Axis Cradle Machine Tools
Authors: Chan Tzu-Chi , Ullah Aman , Roy Badenta
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the dynamic behaviour of machine tool structures, focusing on the impact of structural changes on natural frequencies and machining performance. Variations in machine tool dynamics, such as natural frequency shifts, significantly affect tool stability and machining quality, particularly in high-performance cutting. Numerical model predicting natural frequency changes due to structural modifications was developed and validated experimentally. The model indicates that structural changes lead to variations in the different position values, which influence the natural frequency of the tool. In parallel, this research explores the structural integrity of 5-axis CNC machining centers, vital for advanced manufacturing. FEA program is used to establish natural frequencies and mode shapes, while experimental modal analysis (EMA) validated these results, with discrepancies of around 10%. A detailed spatial analysis revealed significant variations in deformation and natural frequency across different spindle positions, influencing rigidity and machining accuracy, especially for larger work pieces. The findings provide insights for optimizing machine tool design, enhancing performance, and paving the way for future research in improving structural integrity for advanced manufacturing systems.
Genetic diversity and population structure analysis of carob germplasm from Lebanon, Morocco and Spain: uncovering a potential asset for innovative breeding initiatives
Authors: Chami Mohamad Ali El , Palacios-Rodríguez Guillermo , Navarro-Cerrillo Rafael Mª , Chalak Lamis , Rey María-Dolores
Published: November 2024

Carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is a drought-resistant species endemic to the Mediterranean Basin. It has been cultivated for its highly nutritious edible fruit for centuries. Genetic diversity is considered one of the key requirements for the management and use of plant genetic resources. In this work, we evaluated the genetic diversity and population structure of 169 semi-natural carob individuals from Lebanon, Spain and Morocco based on nine EST-SSR (Expressed Sequence Tags-Simple Sequence Repeat) markers. The eight EST-SSR loci that were polymorphic produced 43 alleles, with Cesi_187 and Cesi_1187 being the most informative loci. The AMOVA and SAMOVA results revealed that most (> 80%) of the genetic variation was within populations, with the remaining < 20% corresponding to among population variability. STRUCTURE analysis suggested the presence of three clusters corresponding to each country; however, some individuals from Morocco and Spain shared the same genetic structure. The PCoA and discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) complemented the STRUCTURE results, contributing to a better understanding of the genetic differences among countries. Our findings may enhance the effectiveness of management and conservation strategies, and promote the use of these carob genetic resources in breeding and reforestation programs.
Genetic characteristics of endemic Prunus tomentosa in China based on microsatellites
Authors: Wan Tian , Zhou Jing , Yin Xin , An Feng , Qiao Bai-xue , Yan Zhuo-yang , Li Bao-yan , Zhou Tian-hua , Cai Yu-liang
Published: November 2024

Background
Prunus tomentosa Thunb. is a fruit tree native to China and has a wide natural distribution range. The germplasm resources are found in the six geographical regions of China and comprises a variety of ecological types. However, little is known about genetic diversity and population structure, with its abundant genetic information. nuclear simple sequence repeat markers, with biparentally inherited characteristics, is powerful for evaluating the genetic diversity of population. And P. tomentosa is an important and excellent plant material, with high adaptability to almost all soil types and climatic conditions. So the research contributed to not only proposing scientific conservation strategies of P. tomentosa but also developing P. tomentosa germplasm to breed novel cherry cultivar.
Results
A total of 822 germplasms from 40 populations were used for assessing the genetic diversity and population structure of P. tomentosa. The indicators of genetic diversity showed high values, including observable heterozygosity (0.546), expected heterozygosity (0.819), Shannon’s information index (I = 1.951), polymorphism information content (0.799). The populations displaying the greatest diversity—Gan-XlM, Shaan-HM, and Gan-ZhC. In addition, extensive genetic differentiation was detected. The genetic differentiation coefficient (FST) values calculated from heterozygosity and analysis of molecular variance were greater than 0.15. Gene flow was relatively stable (number of migrants [Nm] = 1.065). Mantel test analysis showed that there was a significant correlation (R2 = 0.065, P < 0.05) between the genetic distance and the geographical distance of the populations. Integrated cluster, structure, and principal component analysis indicated that the 40 populations were clustered into a Northwest Group and a Northeast Group. However, the Chuan-Aba, Xin-TKS, and Xin-ALR populations were clearly differentiated.
Conclusions
The P. tomentosa populations showed high or moderate polymorphism. The genetic differentiation within each population was higher than that between populations. There was a significant correlation between the genetic distance and the geographical distance. Based on genetic diversity and population differentiation levers, the most diverse populations - Gan-XlM, Shaan-HS, and Gan-PL from Gansu and Shaanxi provinces, should first be protected and applied to the innovation of cherry germplasm, followed by significantly differentiated populations, including Chuan-Aba, Ning-HlM, and Gan-PL.
Machine Learning-Driven Development of a Behaviour-Based Student Classification System (SCS-B) for Enhanced Educational Analytics
Authors: P SUNDARAVADIVEL , E.S Vinoth kumar
Published: November 2024

In Educational Data Mining, Educational Data Extraction and analysis, as well as learning analytics, it is very significant to evaluate the student’s performance in various aspects for enhancing the educational standards. The growth of students and achievement gap are assumed as the key maters for several educational institutes and universities worldwide. Hence, the educational sectors invest importantly in things to know the good and poor performances of students in attaining better results. In this regard, several methodologies are derived for predicting the student performances for intimating the concern panel to intervene earlier to enhance the overall results. With that note, this paper involves in developing Behaviour based Student Classification System (SCS-B), using machine learning technique. The model collects the student data set based on some questionnaires, providing significant to certain features of student academics and behaviours. Initially, data pre-processing is done with singular value decomposition, performs outlier detection and dimensionality reduction. Following, training process is carried out with genetic algorithm for avoiding local minimum.The findings indicate that the classifier yields superior classification accuracy while requiring minimal processing time for handling extensive student data.
Prospects of Analog In-Memory Computing using Ferroelectric Tunnel Junctions
Authors: Borg Mattias , Papadopoulos Christos , Guerin Alec , Athle Robin , Bastani Saeed
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to disrupt the way businesses and civil society operate, but the large energy usage for training and running AI compute models remains a pressing concern in terms of its sustainability. Analog in-memory computing (AIMC) hardware based on memristor devices is a promising route to significant energy-savings. Among the various memristor technologies, Ferroelectric Tunnel Junctions (FTJs) hold considerable promise for large scale AIMC. Their performance prospects remain to be fully assessed; therefore, we here evaluate the viability of FTJ memristors as compute units for AIMC. Based on the behavior of experimental TiN/HfZrO4/W FTJs we define three operating modes which we apply to standard AI tests and two real-world use cases: Image segmentation (YOLOv8) and natural language processing (BERT). We find that the inherent mechanism behind the analog state in FTJs limits the usable dynamic range and thus enforces strict control of noise. The best overall performance is obtained by constricting the dynamic range further and using ultrashort programming pulses (0.5 ns); on BERT matching the performance of digital hardware. We also present a more accessible approach, combining three FTJs, two of which are operated as binary memories, to achieve similar performance while also relaxing the requirements on data converter precision and level of noise. All in all, we here outline benefits and intrinsic challenges of FTJ-based AIMC systems, providing a blueprint for future experimental implementations.
Single-Atom Zr Promoter Boosts Oxygen Activation on Ceria-Supported Pt Catalysts
Authors: Wang Yong , Huang Weixin , Xu Hao , Lin Shih-Wei , Pham Hien , Zhang Rui , Jiang Dong , Zhang Zihao , DeLaRiva Andrew , Feng Shuxuan , Li Yixiao , Zhang Xinrui , Datye Abhaya , Chen Chih-Jung
Published: November 2024

Activation of surface lattice oxygen and chemisorbed oxygen on catalyst surfaces constitutes a pivotal step in heterogeneous oxidative catalysis. Herein, we report a strategy for enhancing oxygen activation by rational design of catalysts with single-atom promoters. Single-site Zr species in CeO2 (Zr1-CeO2) are synthesized using the atom-trapping method. The Zr1-CeO2-supported Pt catalyst exhibits enhanced catalytic performance over the CeO2-supported Pt catalyst in the oxidation of CO, C3H8, and C3H6, achieving significantly lower T50 values (temperature required to reach 50% conversion). This enhanced catalytic activity is attributed to the formation of an asymmetric Zr1-O-Ce structure, which favors the activation of the adjacent surface lattice oxygen and chemisorbed molecular oxygen. This work exemplifies that incorporating single-site atoms into oxide supports facilitates oxygen activation, providing new insights into the role of atomically dispersed promoters in heterogeneous catalysis.
Beyond Temperature: How the Heat Index 35 Shapes Environmental, Social, and Governance Standards
Authors: Drago Carlo , Leogrande Angelo
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the implications of high HI35 days, which increase the demand for water and energy supplies, overconsumption, and higher emissions induced by cooling demand. Socially, HI35 is associated with health morbidity and loss in labor productivity; hence, policies directed at protection of the well-being of the poor, such as improved access to health care and good working conditions, become increasingly relevant. Extreme heat, besides, accelerates resource competition that may further develop into a civil instability, which affects governance structures. The nation will be assisted in addressing the impacts brought forward by HI35 through resilient infrastructure policy, good governance practice, and sustainable resource management. This paper, therefore, concludes that integrated policy action in ESG will be urgently needed to address the risk from extreme heat and calls for adaptive strategies that move toward environmental sustainability, social equity, and effective governance. Finally, HI35 is helpful to guide policy responses against different and interwoven challenges of extreme heat on sustainable development.
JEL CODES: Q5, Q51, Q56, Q57, Q58.
Dose-Specific Modulation of MAPK Signaling by Bioactive Aromatic Extract of Onosma microcarpum During Distinct Phases of Wound Healing in a Rat Model
Authors: Shahrbabaki Ali Saberi , Amini Behnam , Ghorbani Mojtaba , Ghasemi Moein , khoushehmehr Sona M. , Rahmani Alireza , Azizi Hossein , Delnavazi Mohammad R.
Published: November 2024

Background: Wound healing progresses through phases of homeostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling, regulated by signaling pathways. The root extract of Onosma microcarpum (OM), traditionally used in Western Iran for wound care, contains bioactive compounds like alkannin, shikonin, and polyphenols, potentially enhancing healing. This study evaluates OM’s effect on signaling pathways in each healing phase.
Methods: Dried OM root was formulated into ointments, and male Wistar rats with excisional wounds were treated with OM (0.2% or 1%) or vehicle. Histological and gene expression analyses were conducted on days 3, 8, and 14, measuring inflammation, granulation, angiogenesis, and collagen formation. Cytokines (Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)), growth factors (Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)), and cell regulators (extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK)) were analyzed.
Results: OM at 0.2%, significantly modulated key pathways in wound healing. By day 3, OM reduced TNF-α (p = 0.003) and IL-1β (p = 0.008), decreasing inflammation and JNK activity (p = 0.009). On day 8, OM further reduced IL-6 (p = 0.002) and p38 MAPK (p = 0.005) while increasing TGF-β1 (p = 0.008) and PDGF (p = 0.001), promoting proliferation. By day 14, increased ERK (p = 0.008) and p38 MAPK (p = 0.002) activity facilitated tissue repair. Wounds treated with 0.2% OM showed better outcomes than 1%, with more organized collagen (score 3.0 ± 0.8 vs. 2.3 ± 0.4, p = 0.021), improved angiogenesis (3.4 ± 0.3 vs. 2.5 ± 0.7, p = 0.038), and higher wound closure (84 ± 7% vs. 64 ± 12%, p = 0.018).
Conclusion: OM enhances wound healing by targeting each phase: reducing early inflammation, promoting mid-phase fibroblast proliferation, and supporting collagen organization in remodeling. These targeted effects suggest OM’s therapeutic potential for wound repair.
Fire Smoke Elevated the Carbonaceous PM2.5 Concentration and Mortality Burden in the Contiguous U.S. and Southern Canada
Authors: Jin Zhihao , Ferrada Gonzalo A. , Zhang Danlu , Scovronick Noah , Fu Joshua S. , Chen Kai , Liu Yang
Published: November 2024

Despite emerging evidence on the health impacts of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from wildland fire smoke, the specific effects of PM2.5 composition on health outcomes remain uncertain. We developed a three-level, chemical transport model-based framework to estimate daily full-coverage concentrations of smoke-derived carbonaceous PM2.5, specifically Organic Carbon (OC) and Elemental Carbon (EC), at a 1 km2 spatial resolution from 2002 to 2019 across the contiguous U.S. (CONUS) and Southern Canada (SC). Cross-validation demonstrated that the framework performed well at both the daily and monthly levels. Modeling results indicated that increases in wildland fire smoke have offset approximately one-third of the improvements in background air quality. In recent years, wildland fire smoke has become more frequent and carbonaceous PM2.5 concentrations have intensified, especially in the Western CONUS and Southwestern Canada. Smoke exposure is also occurring earlier throughout the year, leading to more population being exposed. We estimated that long-term exposure to fire smoke carbonaceous PM2.5 is responsible for 7,462 and 259 non-accidental deaths annually in the CONUS and SC, respectively, with associated annual monetized damage of 68.4 billion USD for the CONUS and 1.97 billion CAD for SC. The Southeastern CONUS, where prescribed fires are prevalent, contributed most to these health impacts and monetized damages. Given the challenges posed by climate change for managing prescribed and wildland fires, our findings offer critical insights to inform policy development and assess future health burdens associated with fire smoke exposure.
Dynamic Contextual Neural Architectures for Adaptive Token Prediction in Large Language Models
Authors: Margarita Yosef , Beaumont Nathaniel , Thompson Paul , Aldridge Robert , White Anthony
Published: November 2024

The Dynamic Contextual Neural Architecture (DCNA) introduces a paradigm shift in language modeling through its adaptive mechanisms that align computational processes with the contextual complexities of input data. Empirical evaluations reveal that DCNA achieves a reduction in perplexity scores across diverse datasets, indicating enhanced predictive accuracy. Additionally, the model demonstrates decreased inference times and memory utilization, showing its computational efficiency. Notably, DCNA exhibits robustness to noisy inputs, maintaining consistent performance across varying noise levels, and showcases scalability across different hardware platforms, highlighting its versatility. These findings suggest that DCNA effectively addresses limitations inherent in traditional static models, offering a responsive and context-aware solution for advanced language processing tasks.