bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The first report of SARS-CoV-2 genome in the groundwater of Tehran, Iran: A call to action for public health
Authors: Hosseinian Seyed Mahdi , Hosseini Seyed Masoud , Rashno Paria Barooni , Kazemian Shabnam , Nadalian Bahareh , Azimirad Masoumeh , Yadegar Abbas , Mirjalali Hamed , Nabati Kambiz , Sadeghi Amir , Zali Mohammad Reza , Mohebbi Seyed Reza
Published: September 2024

A pandemic of acute respiratory disease referred to as COVID-19 has been caused by the highly infectious and transmissible Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which threatened human health. Although the SARS-CoV-2 RNA has been found in wastewater from numerous regions in different countries due to fecal shedding of infected individuals, there is still little information available regarding how prevalent it is in other water matrices especially groundwater, where some areas still rely on it to supply drinking water, irrigation of farmlands, and other purposes. This study attempted to assess the presence of this virus genome in groundwater samples in Tehran, Iran. These samples were collected seasonally from 12 sites over 2 years period (2021–2023). At first, a virus adsorption-elution (VIRADEL) concentration procedure was tested utilizing an avian coronavirus (infectious bronchitis virus, IBV) as a process control followed by RNA extraction. Subsequently, SARS-CoV-2 was quantified using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) to detect the E and S genes. As a result, SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in 1 out of 96 groundwater samples with a concentration of 2/53 × 103 and 3/16 × 103 genome copies/l for E and S genes, respectively. Furthermore, the SARS-CoV-2 positive sample was subjected to semi-nested PCR targeting the partial S gene, followed by direct sequencing, phylogenetic and mutation analysis. BA.1 Omicron was the only identified variant during this study. These findings show how important water-based epidemiology is to monitor SARS-CoV-2 at the community-level and subsequent human exposure, even when COVID-19 prevalence is low.
Exceptional response to pembrolizumab in HER2-positive gallbladder carcinoma with high tumor mutational burden
Authors: Sasaki Akinori , Nakajima Satoru , Motomura Yasuaki
Published: September 2024

Patients with advanced cholangiocarcinoma, including gallbladder cancer, typically have a poor prognosis owing to limited effective chemotherapy options. The field of genotype-directed therapy in patients with cholangiocarcinoma is advancing. However, limited clinical data are currently available to evaluate the efficacy of molecularly targeted therapy. Herein, we report the case of a 67-year-old man diagnosed with human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)-positive and tumor mutation burden-high (TMB-H) cholangiocarcinoma. The HER2-positive and TMB-H characteristics were identified using comprehensive genomic profiling after showing resistance to gemcitabine and S-1 therapy. In the absence of clinical trials for HER2-positive cancer at that time, the patient was treated with pembrolizumab, which is used for TMB-H solid tumors in clinical practice. After receiving pembrolizumab, the patient experienced significant shrinkage in the primary tumor and liver metastases. Thus far, the patient has been receiving pembrolizumab for approximately 10 months. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing the efficacy of pembrolizumab in a patient with cholangiocarcinoma harboring both HER2-positive and TMB-H.
MRI Hippocampus Differential Response to Donepezil vs Placebo in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Systematic Review of Four Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Ismail Youssef A. , Haitham Youssef , Walid Mohammad , Mohamed Hazim , El-Satar Youssef M. Abd
Published: September 2024

Background
Donepezil, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (AChEI), is an FDA-approved drug to treat these neurodegenerative diseases, e.g., Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). AChEIs are able to stabilize or slow decline in cognition, function, and behavior.
Objective
To investigate whether Donepezil is able to significantly reduce the rate of hippocampal (Hip) atrophy in neurodegenerative diseases.
Methods
We followed the PRISMA statement guidelines during the preparation of this systematic review. We searched in MEDLINE (PubMed), CENTRAL (Cochrane Library, November 2023), SCOPUS, and Web of Science and included randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing 10 mg donepezil-treated with donepezil-untreated (placebo) and/without control in terms of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) follow up visits’ results.
Results
A total of four studies out of 174 met our inclusion criteria (599 participants; donepezil = 281, placebo = 318), two of them were ADs and the others were MCIs. 323 participants were female (represent 53.92% of included study population). Follow up between baseline and endpoint results was 12 months. Available outcome data cover reduction of hippocampal atrophy rate in patients with neurodegenerative diseases, but data on several outcome dimensions were either unavailable or not consistently reported across all studies. Results concluded from studies been conducted on MCI patients were statistically insignificant (P > 0.05) annual percentage of change (APC) of Hip volume at 12 months compared to placebo, but studies on AD patients indicated statistically significant APC of Hip volume at 24 and 50 weeks (P < 0.001), but one of these studies also reported no significant difference in neuropsychological performance between treatment groups.
Conclusion
The findings of this review suggest that donepezil reducing hippocampal atrophy rate was statistically insignificant for MCI and statistically significant for AD, but its clinical significance is questionable until further investigations. It is also important to note that while the data provided insights into the impact of donepezil, there were limitations, such as incomplete reporting of outcome dimensions in some studies.
Study on the mechanical properties of prefabricated assembled cover arch reinforcements in tunnels
Authors: Lin Zhi , Feng Wanlin , Chen Xiang , Yang Hongyun , Fan Guoyu
Published: September 2024

The prefabricated assembled cover arch reinforcement method offers rapid construction and high quality, effectively addressing the challenges of cast-in-place cover arch reinforcement used in tunnel linings in mountainous areas of China. This study investigated the mechanical performance of prefabricated assembled arches in tunnels through model tests and numerical simulations. The results indicate that joint opening and deflection, as well as their change rates, increase with eccentric distance. There is a roughly linear relationship between joint opening and deflection with increasing load. At an eccentric distance of + 0.2 m, the peak stress appears on the outside of the joint, with a valley on the inside, and stress concentration at bolt holes. The application of bolt preloading enhances the joint's stress performance. Furthermore, the stiffness of the lining and soil significantly impacts the mechanical response of the cover arch, with peak stress mainly observed at the foot of the cover arch and the handhole of the joint.
Large language model non-compliance with FDA guidance for clinical decision support devices
Authors: Weissman Gary , Mankowitz Toni , Kanter Genevieve
Published: September 2024

Large language models (LLMs) show considerable promise for clinical decision support (CDS) but none is currently authorized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a CDS device. We evaluated whether two popular LLMs could be induced to provide unauthorized, device­like CDS, in violation of FDA’s requirements. We found that LLM output readily produced device­like decision support across a range of scenarios despite instructions to remain compliant with FDA guidelines.
Differential effects of itaconate and its esters on the glutathione and glucose metabolism of cultured primary rat astrocytes
Authors: Watermann Patrick , Kalsi Gurleen Kaur , Dringen Ralf , Arend Christian
Published: September 2024

Itaconate is produced as endogenous metabolite by decarboxylation of the citric acid cycle intermediate cis-aconitate. As itaconate has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, this substance is considered as potential therapeutic drug for the treatment of inflammation in various diseases including traumatic brain injury and stroke. To test for potential adverse effects of itaconate on the viability and metabolism of brain cells, we investigated whether itaconate or its membrane permeable derivatives dimethyl itaconate (DI) and 4-octyl itaconate (OI) may affect the basal glucose and glutathione (GSH) metabolism of cultured primary astrocytes. Acute exposure of astrocytes to itaconate, DI or OI in concentrations of up to 300 µM for up to 6 h did not compromise cell viability. Of the tested substances, only OI stimulated aerobic glycolysis as shown by a time- and concentration-dependent increase in glucose-consumption and lactate release. None of the tested itaconates affected the pentose-phosphate pathway-dependent reduction of WST1. In contrast, both DI and OI, but not itaconate, depleted cellular GSH in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. For OI this depletion was accompanied by a matching increase in the extracellular GSH content that was completely prevented in the presence of the multidrug resistance protein 1 (Mrp1)-inhibitor MK571, while in DI-treated cultures GSH was depleted both in cells and medium. These data suggest that OI stimulates Mrp1-mediated astrocytic GSH export, while DI reacts with GSH to a conjugate that is not detectable by the GSH assay applied. The data presented demonstrate that itaconate, DI and OI differ strongly in their effects on the GSH and glucose metabolism of cultured astrocytes. Such results should be considered in the context of the discussed potential use of such compounds as therapeutic agents.
Sarcoglycans are Enriched at the Neuromuscular Junction in a Nerve-Dependent Manner
Authors: Riera Carles Sanchez , Gloriani Michela , Cheli Bianca , D'Ercole Chiara , Ruggieri Veronica , Cosentino Marianna , Pineda Mireia Serrat , Lozanoska-ochser Biliana , Grassi Francesca , Bouche Marina , Madaro L
Published: September 2024

Sarcoglycanopathies are heterogeneous proximo-distal diseases presenting severe muscle alterations. These diseases are caused by mutations in genes coding for one of the four sarcoglycan transmembrane proteins, which form the sarcoglycan complex (SGC). Little is known about the different roles of the SGC beyond the dystrophin glycoprotein complex (DGC) structural role. Here, we show that SGC proteins are enriched at the post-synaptic membrane of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). Using a mouse model lacking the beta-sarcoglycan subunit, we describe for the first time that the loss of the SGC in the NMJ area results in alterations of pre- and postsynaptic membrane, as well as a significant reduction of membrane potential. Moreover, using different denervated wild-type mouse models, we demonstrate that enrichment of sarcoglycans within the NMJ occurs only after innervation, suggesting a nerve-dependent sarcoglycan expression. Altogether, our findings suggest that pathological decline should no longer be understood only in terms of sarcolemma damage but also in terms of sarcoglycans' participation in the NMJ. Henceforth, our work paves the way for the identification of new mechanisms involving sarcoglycans and new approaches for the treatment of sarcoglycanopathies.
Comparison of the euploidy rate in preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy cycles following progestin-primed versus gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Wang Lu , Wang Jing Yun , Zhang Yuan , Qian Chen , Wang Xiao Hui , Ng Ernest Hung Yu , Ai Ai , Chen Zhi Qin
Published: September 2024

Background
Progestins can block endogenous luteinizing hormone secretion from the pituitary gland and have shown similar efficacy in terms of collecting competent oocytes and embryos; however, some inconsistencies have been proposed by the previous papers regarding the quality of oocytes and embryos obtained with the use of progestins. This study aimed to compare the euploidy rate between women treated with progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) and the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol.
Methods
This is a prospective randomized study of 240 infertile women undergoing PGT-A between August 2021 and July 2023. Infertile women with advanced maternal age (38–45 years), recurrent pregnancy loss (≥ 2 or 3 consecutive miscarriages), and repeated implantation failure (≥ 4 embryos replaced or ≥ 2 blastocysts replaced without success) undergoing PGT-A cycles were included. Women were randomly assigned into the PPOS group (n = 120) or the antagonist group (n = 120) according to a computer-generated randomization list. Dydrogesterone 20 mg per day was given from the start of ovarian stimulation until the trigger day in the PPOS group. In the antagonist group, an antagonist 0.25mg was given daily from the sixth day of ovarian stimulation until the trigger day. The primary outcome measure was the euploidy rate, defined as the number of euploid blastocysts per injected oocyte.
Results
No significant differences were observed in the demographic and ovarian stimulation characteristics between the two groups. The euploidy rate was comparable between the PPOS and antagonist group (12.5% vs 16.0% respectively, P > 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the two groups in positive pregnancy test, clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or live birth rates per transfer in the first frozen embryo transfer cycles.
Conclusion
Both PPOS and antagonist protocols had similar euploidy rates in PGT-A cycles.
Trial registration:
Clinicaltrials. gov identifier: NCT04989348 (https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/). Trial registration date: Clinicaltrials. gov: 30 July 2021.
WITHDRAWN: Structural modelling and probabilistic seismic assessment of existing long-span precast industrial buildings
Authors: CAPACCI LUCA , Lago Bruno Dal
Published: September 2024

Precast concrete frame structures constitute the major a relevant construction technology of the industrial built heritage within the Italian territory. Most of these buildings were designed neglecting seismic actions or according to obsolete seismic design criteria associated with much lower hazard than currently recognised standards. Indeed, the most industrialised areas spread over the Italian territory were declared seismically active since less than 20 years. Thus, governmental bodies, academies, and technical communities are currently engaged in evaluating the seismic risk associated with existing precast structures designed with older code provisions. This paper focuses on the assessment of the seismic performance of industrial buildings, with specific attention on a long-span flat-roof typology representative of modern technologies. Buildings located in areas representative of moderate, average, and high seismic hazard over the Italian territory were designed following an archetype existing building by applying the design criteria of the standards in force after 1996. The seismic performance of the buildings is investigated by several structural analysis techniques such as modal response analysis, non-linear static pushover analysis, and non-linear time-history analysis with a multi-stripe approach. The flexibility of the horizontal diaphragm and the interaction of the resisting frame with the cladding system, including a series of panel-support uncoupled columns, are addressed by exploring progressively advanced modelling strategies up to a detailed assembly comprising explicit modelling of roof members, peripheral panels, and all the related connections. In addition to the non-linear modelling of the column elements, the non-linear behaviour of dowel beam-to-column and slab-to-beam connections, as well as strap tie-back and bracket bearing panel-to-frame connections, is modelled with lumped plasticity approach employing non-linear constitutive laws calibrated on the basis of experimental evidence. Based on the result population from multi-stripe analysis, failure rates are assessed for the three reference sites and for different engineering demand parameters encompassing performance levels from usability preventing damage to global collapse. The results are site-dependant, and the need for retrofit of these typical precast systems is deemed to be urgent for both buildings designed in areas of average and high seismicity.
TikTok (Mis)information: An Assessment of the Understandability and Accuracy of Educational Social Media Content about Contraception
Authors: Coleman Julianna K. , Haas-Kogan Maetal E. , Pelletier Andrea , Stoddard Rachel E. , Johnson Natasha R. , Beatini Julia R. , Sun Nora Y. , Keuroghlian Alex S. , Bartz Deborah
Published: September 2024

Background
Contraception knowledge and attitudes are largely formed from conversations within one’s social network. More recently, this network has expanded to include social media. As the most used social media platform, we aimed to assess popular contraception videos on TikTok for content understandability and accuracy.
Methods
This is a secondary analysis of the most viewed, contraception-specific TikTok videos that were previously coded as containing educational messaging in a content-analysis study. We assessed videos for understandability and actionability using the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Materials (PEMAT-A/V) instrument and for currency, relevance, authority, accuracy, and purpose (CRAAP) using modified instrument within the health information education literature.
Results
The 174 videos with educational content scored as understandable but not actionable in PEMAT-A/V assessment, with videos created by healthcare providers (HCPs) scoring higher than those by non-HCPs in six of eleven domains of understandability. Videos overall scored well in relevance and purpose within the CRAAP assessment. Videos created by HCP’s (n = 99) scored higher than those by non-HCPs (n = 75) in relevance (p < 0.001), authority (p < 0.001), accuracy (p < 0.001), and purpose (p < 0.001). Regarding video engagement, of all video views, 79.2% were of HCP-created videos and 20.8% were of non-HCP videos.
Discussion
Much of the contraceptive educational messaging on TikTok is understandable, relevant, and accurate, though these metrics differ between videos created by HCPs as compared to other creators. The videos created by HCP also had greater metrics of engagement. Given this, we encourage HCPs to use social media to better inform its users.
Evaluation of the Methodology for Seismic Analysis of Elevated Water Tanks Using Different International Codes of Practice
Authors: Eraky Atef , essam khaled , Salama Abdallah
Published: September 2024

Elevated water tanks (EWTs) are considered crucial structures, especially in regions with high seismic activity. Their importance lies in supplying water and combating fires during and after earthquakes, necessitating designs robust enough for anticipated seismic hazards. The European Code 8, ACI 350.3-06, and ASCE 7–16 are among the international codes and standards that are evaluated in this paper for the seismic analysis of EWTs. The response spectrum approach is used in these standards to calculate the seismic characteristics of the tanks. Using ANSYS Software, this study investigates finite element (FE) models of elevated water tanks at varying fill levels, accounting for the water sloshing effect to validate the methodologies adopted in various international codes of practice. A time history analysis is conducted under seismic loads. Peak responses of shear force and bending moment at the tank's base are investigated for the different cases. The results show that the sloshing effect on the water's free surface is a critical factor in tank analysis and design and that existing international codes may not offer precise seismic response predictions for EWTs, especially under diverse fill conditions. The FE analysis shows that seismic responses are not always highest with a fully-filled tank, contrary to international codes predictions.
Flexibly Tunable Dual-mode Semiconductor Laser based on Amplified Feedback
Authors: Chen Huibin , You Zhenyu , Xu Kaize
Published: September 2024

We propose and fabricate a monolithically integrated dual-mode semiconductor laser (DML) based on optical amplified feedback, where the adjustable optical self-injection feedback could induce dual-wavelength lasing, and the sub-millimeter total cavity length provides access to be microwave source. When keeping the injection current of semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) be constant, inject different current for the segment of distributed feedback laser (DFB), we have achieved tunable microwave signal with different ranges of 10 GHz and 18 GHz respectively, which significantly simplifies the system configuration and reduces the footprint, power consumption and cost. Besides, through a special current injection scheme for the two-segment semiconductor laser, whole wavelength tuning with fixed wavelength spacing can also be realized. It provides a convenient and low-cost photonic solution for flexible and tunable microwave sources.
Land subsidence near Hanford and Corcoran, California, from Cryosat-2 altimetry and Sentinel-1A SAR imagery
Authors: Wei Shiang-Hung , Hwang Cheinway
Published: September 2024

This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the Cryosat-2 (C2) altimeter as a tool for land subsidence monitoring. The study area is near Hanford and Corcoran, California, where land subsidence can affect the stability and alignment of rail infrastructure, potentially leading to increased maintenance costs and safety concerns. We analyzed vertical land displacements from 2010 to 2018 using C2 altimeter data corrected for waveform contamination, as well as two years of Sentinel-1A (S1A) Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) imagery. Our findings show that subsidence rates from C2 data reach up to 27 cm/year, consistent with GPS-derived rates within a few cm/year. The Small Baseline Subset (SBAS) technique applied to S1A imagery yields significant subsidence, exceeding 18 cm/year in the southeast of Corcoran. Correlations between vertical displacements and environmental factors were examined using GRACE-derived equivalent water heights and rainfall data, revealing coefficients of 0.635 and 0.608, respectively, which indicate strong relationships between groundwater depletion and surface elevation changes. These results emphasize the complex interactions between subsidence, climatic factors, and groundwater management. Our study integrates distributed sensors such as altimetry, SAR imagery and GPS to monitor land subsidence, providing crucial information to mitigate subsidence risks and ensure the stability of vital infrastructure projects such as the California High-Speed Rail.
LSTM-based Recurrent Neural Network Predicts Influenza-like-illness in Variable Climate Zones
Authors: Amendolara Alfred , Gowans Christopher , Barton Joshua , Payne Andrew , Sant David
Published: September 2024

Background
Influenza virus is responsible for a recurrent, yearly epidemic in most temperate regions of the world. Flu has been responsible for a high disease burden in recent years, despite the confounding presence of SARS-CoV-2. However, the mechanisms behind seasonal variance in flu burden are not well understood. This study seeks to expand understanding of the impact of variable climate regions on seasonal flu trends. To that end, three climate regions have been selected. Each region represents a different ecological zone and provides different weather patterns.
Methods
A Long short-term memory (LSTM)-based recurrent neural network was used to predict influenza-like-illness trends for three separate locations: Hawaii, Vermont, and Nevada. Flu data were gathered from the Center for Disease Control as weekly influenza-like-illness (ILI) percentages. Weather data were collected from Visual Crossing and included temperature, wind speed, UV index, solar radiation, precipitation, and humidity. Data were prepared and the model was trained as described previously.
Results
All three regions showed strong seasonality of flu trends with Hawaii having the largest absolute ILI values. Temperature showed a moderate negative correlation with ILI in all three regions (Vermont = -54, Nevada = -0.56, Hawaii = -0.44). Humidity was moderately correlated in Nevada (0.47) and weakly correlated with ILI in Hawaii (0.22). Vermont ILI did not correlate with humidity. Precipitation and wind speed were weakly correlated in all three regions. Solar radiation and UV index showed moderate correlation in Vermont (-0.33, -0.36) and Nevada (-0.5263, -0.55), but only a weak correlation in Hawaii (-0.15, -0.18). When trained on the complete data sets, baseline model performances for all three datasets at + 1 week were equivalent. Models trained on one region and used to predict cross-regional data performed uniformly and equivalent to baseline.
Conclusions
Results indicate that climate variables were weak to moderate predictors in all regions. Initial modeling attempts revealed acceptable and uniform performance in all regions. When cross-regional predictions were made, performance remained uniform across all regions, implying that climate patterns may be more important than absolute climate values. Additionally, this data suggests that climate may not be as influential on flu trends as population-level human factors.
Unveiling the drivers of tropical Indian Ocean warming through machine learning-assisted surface wind
Authors: Guo Weihao , Zhang Rongwang , Wang Xin , Wang Chunzai , Li Xiaofeng , Han Weiqing , Zhang Lei
Published: September 2024

The tropical Indian Ocean has experienced pronounced warming trends in recent decades, with dynamical processes recognized as key drivers. However, the role of thermodynamic processes remains uncertain due to discrepancies in surface wind-induced heat flux across existing datasets. Here, we utilize a machine learning algorithm to integrate in-situ observations and satellite data, yielding a reliable surface wind dataset and corresponding air-sea heat flux spanning from 1950–2019 with a horizontal resolution of 1°×1°. Our analysis reveals a weakening of surface wind over the tropical Indian Ocean since 1950, supported by variations in sea surface height and thermocline depth. Consequently, thermodynamic processes associated with surface wind-induced heat flux promote warming in the eastern tropical Indian Ocean, accounting for 45% of the contributions of dynamical processes. These findings challenge reanalysis results but are aligned with state-of-the-art models, underscoring that the significance of thermodynamic processes is substantially underestimated by current reanalysis datasets.
Faraday rotation effect in a one-dimensional photonic crystal containing the Weyl semimetal Co3Sn2S2
Authors: Roumi Bita , Fallahi Vahid , Abdi-Ghaleh Reza
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we propose to use the Weyl semimetal- Co3Sn2S2 embedded between two Bragg reflectors to attain the Faraday rotation without an external magnetic field in the mid-infrared region. Our results show high optical transmittance peak of 60% and a corresponding Faraday rotation angle of approximately − 34˚ over the wavelength spectrum 7000–8000 nm. The increased Faraday rotation angle originated through the localization of the light inside the defect layer. We also explore how ambient temperature affects the transmission light intensity and the Faraday rotation angle, revealing that both can be modulated by the temperature-dependent conductivity of the Weyl semimetal. Furthermore, the impact of varying Co3Sn2S2 thicknesses on the transmission intensity and the Faraday rotation is investigated. It is observed that, with the increase in the thicknesses of Co3Sn2S2, the transmission intensity decreases while the Faraday rotation angle increases. Lastly, the influence of the number of layers on transmission intensity response and the corresponding Faraday rotation is investigated. The results show that an increase in the number of layers leads to a reduction in peak intensity and an augmentation in the Faraday rotation angle, which also shifts towards the shorter wavelengths.
Surface Defect Detection Algorithm for Printed Circuit Boards Based on SRG-DETR
Authors: Zhou Zhuguo , Lu Yujun , Lv Liye
Published: September 2024

Defect detection in printed circuit boards (PCBs) presents significant challenges due to the small size of defect targets, high false detection rates, and difficulties in model deployment. We propose an advanced defect detection method based on SRG-DETR model to address these issues. This method first introduces a star operation into the backbone network of the model, thereby significantly improving the model's ability to capture global information from defect images and substantially enhancing the inference speed. Secondly, an explicit attenuation mechanism and two-dimensional spatial prior knowledge are integrated into the neck network, enhancing the model's capacity to capture fine details and semantic information of PCB surface defects. Finally, GSConv is employed to improve network efficiency and reduce its size, facilitating easier deployment. Comparative experiments on a public PCB dataset demonstrate that our algorithm increases mAP by 3.8% and precision by 2.9%. Moreover, the computation amount is reduced by 59.5%, resulting in a compact size of 14.4 MB and achieving 95.1 FPS. These improvements meet the demands for real-time detection and deployment in industrial cameras.
Porous carbons with complex 3D geometries via selective laser sintering of whey powder
Authors: Montes-Morán Miguel , Llamas-Unzueta Raúl , Reguera-García Alejandro , Menéndez J. Angel
Published: September 2024

In addition to the inherent limitations of carbons to melt or flow, a vast majority of carbon precursors deforms during carbonisation, with stereolithography of thermoset resins being the preferred technology for 3D printing of carbons. An alternative is now presented with the possibility of using a melting-based technology, selective laser sintering (SLS), to fabricate 3D structures that withstand carbonisation. The key factor that makes this happen is whey powder, a natural, abundant and cheap by-product of the dairy industry. When heating the whey powder with a laser at 180-200 ºC for a few seconds, whey particles sinter, and 3D structures are obtained layer-by-layer. Carbonisation of the sintered whey structures brings about 3D porous carbons with excellent mechanical properties that preserve the SLS printed form albeit an isotropical shrinkage. Melanoidins are identified as responsible for both the sintering and the thermoset behaviour during carbonisation of the whey powder.
Embracing Complexity in the Characterisation and Tracking of Neurodevelopment (ECCaToN): A Transdiagnostic Protocol
Authors: Madericova Karin , Talcott Joel B
Published: September 2024

Background.
Neurodiverse diagnoses (NDs) are currently assessed through a variety of educational and/or medical pathways, all of which typically derive categorical diagnoses based on traditional diagnostic classification systems. However, converging research evidence has shown that this conventional approach inadequately captures the individual variation and overlaps that are commonly observed across NDs in their underlying dimensions. The purpose of this study is to build upon the emerging quantitative research framework, through adopting a transdiagnostic dimensional approach to characterising the complexity of the cognitive and affective dimensions that underpin broadly sampled NDs.
Methods.
A cohort of approximately 200 individuals (aged 16–50), who had been referred for assessment and/or sought help from support services for suspected or previously diagnosed developmental differences, is being recruited using convenience sampling. The cognitive domains of executive function, language, attention, processing speed and memory are being assessed using the National Institute of Health (NIH) Cognition Toolbox©. A mental health battery consisting of the Extended Strengths and Weaknesses Assessment of Normal Behaviour (E-SWAN), Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and Emotion Regulation Skills Questionnaire (ERSQ) is being administered to provide additional information on the internalising, externalising and emotion regulation dimensions of the affective difficulties that commonly co-occur with NDs. Data reduction techniques, clustering and dynamic network modelling, will be used to identify and explore the interactions between data-driven transdiagnostic clusters of individual cognitive and mental health profiles.
Discussion
. This study protocol allows for the exploration of developmental difficulties that cut across diagnostic boundaries, offering the potential to more precisely characterise the mechanisms underlying the complexity of NDs (in terms of co-occurring conditions, between-diagnosis overlaps and individual variation), beyond that offered by traditional case-control study designs. Ultimately, transdiagnostic research may provide the opportunity to identify individual areas of need that may serve as targets for future interventions, and potentially aid in enhancing diagnostic sensitivity to a variety of NDs.
Highly enhanced room-temperature single-atom catalysis of two-dimensional organic-inorganic multiferroics Cr(half-fluoropyrazine) for CO oxidation
Authors: Li Shunfang , Zhang Feixiang , Wang Panshuo , Zhu Yandi , Shi Jinlei , Pang Rui , Ren Xiaoyan
Published: September 2024

In modern chemistry, the development of highly efficient room-temperature catalysts is of great significance and remains a long-standing challenge in various typical reactions. Here, we theoretically demonstrate that the two-dimensional (2D) multiferroic, Cr(half-fluoropyrazine) [Cr(h-fpyz)2], is a promising single-atom catalyst (SAC) operating at room-temperature for CO oxidation. The rate-limiting barrier is merely 0.33 eV, leading to a reaction rate (i.e., 2.86×106 s−1) of five orders of magnitude higher than its monoferroic derivative [Cr(pyz)2], due to the synergetic effects of two aspects. First, the more flexible ligand rotations in Cr(h-fpyz)2 facilitate the activation of O2 molecule, simultaneously enhancing the charge transfer and spin-accommodation process. Second, on Cr(h-fpyz)2, O2 adsorption induces a distinctly lower local positive electric field, reducing the electrostatic repulsion of the polar CO molecule. These findings may also pave the way for establishing highly efficient SAC platforms based on 2D multiferroics where multidegree of freedom (e.g. spin, polarity) synergistically matter.
Oxidative stress induces intervertebral ECM remodelling, elevated tissue stiffness and idiopathic-like scoliosis
Authors: Ciruna Brian , Pumputis Patrick , Xu Ran , Gopaul Josh , Panahifar Arash , Erfani Vida , Gennip Jenica Van , Eames B , Fakhari Nikan , Baranger Jerome , Lebel David , Villemain Olivier
Published: September 2024

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most prevalent paediatric spine disorder, developing in the absence of obvious congenital or physiological defects. Patient genetic sequencing and mouse functional studies have demonstrated association of musculoskeletal collagen variants and cartilaginous extracellular matrix (ECM) defects in a subset of cases. However, the underlying biological causes of AIS are poorly understood, thus treatment options remain limited to physical bracing or invasive corrective surgery. Here we interrogate the biological causes of scoliosis in zebrafish preclinical models of AIS. We demonstrate that neuroinflammation-associated reduction-oxidation (redox) imbalance induces cell stress and collagen remodelling defects within intervertebral segments of the developing spine. Mutant spines are consequently stiffer, as measured by shear wave elastography, and exhibit deformations of intervertebral structures. Remarkably, both elevated spine stiffness and intervertebral ECM phenotypes are detectable prior to scoliosis onset in zebrafish models, suggesting a causal relationship, and can be suppressed by antioxidant treatment. Together, our studies implicate oxidative stress-induced intervertebral deformations in the pathogenesis of AIS and identify elevated spine stiffness and redox imbalance as plausible first-in-kind prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Anoctamin 1 directs early radial glia fate towards somatostatin interneurons via GABA signaling
Authors: Hong Gyu-Sang
Published: September 2024

Neurogenesis and interneuron integration are crucial for maintaining cortical circuit functionality. In the medial ganglionic eminences (MGE), ventral radial glia (vRG) predominantly generates somatostatin-expressing (SST+) interneurons through direct neurogenesis in the neocortex. However, the mechanism guiding vRG to asymmetrically divide and produce either SST+ interneuron or intermediate progenitor (IP) remains unclear. This study identifies a novel subpopulation of vRG, characterized by the expression of Anoctamin 1/TMEM16a (ANO1), a Ca2+-activated Cl− channel predominantly found in Fabp7+/Sox2+ vRGs. ANO1 deficiency significantly reduces vRG proliferation, disrupting the ratio of SST+ interneuron to IP, and correlates with changes in the number of parvalbumin-expressing interneurons. Electrophysiological recordings from E12.5 brain slices reveal that ANO1 modulates GABA-dependent Ca2+ influx via Orai1. This regulation is essential for directing the production of SST+ interneuron or IP during mouse forebrain development. Our findings provide novel insights into the Ca2+ regulatory mechanisms mediated by ion channels, underlying early neural development.
Enhancing genetic association power in endometriosis through unsupervised clustering of clinical subtypes identified from electronic health records
Authors: Verma Shefali , Guare Lindsay , Humphrey Leigh Ann , Rush Margaret , Pollie Meredith , Jaworski James , Akerele Alexis , Luo Yuan , Weng Chunhua , Wei Wei-Qi , Kottyan Leah , Jarvik Gail , Elhadad Noémie , Zondervan Krina , Missmer Stacey , Vujkovic Marijana , Edwards Digna Velez , Senapati Suneeta
Published: September 2024

Endometriosis is a complex and heterogeneous condition affecting 10% of reproductive-age women, and yet, it often goes undiagnosed for several years. Limited observed heritability (7%) of large genetic association studies may be attributable to underlying heterogeneity of disease mechanisms. Therefore, we conducted this study to investigate genetic associations across sub-phenotypes of endometriosis. We performed unsupervised clustering of 4,078 women with endometriosis based on known endometriosis risk factors, symptoms, and concomitant conditions. The clusters were characterized by examining electronic health record (EHR) data and comprehensive chart reviews. We then performed genetic association for each cluster with 39 endometriosis-associated loci (Total endometriosis cases = 12,350). We identified five sub-phenotype clusters: (1) pain comorbidities, (2) uterine disorders, (3) pregnancy complications, (4) cardiometabolic comorbidities, and (5) EHR-asymptomatic. Bonferroni significant loci included PDLIM5 for the cluster 1, GREB1 for cluster 2, WNT4 for cluster 3, RNLS for cluster 4, and ABO for cluster 5. The difference in associations between the groups suggests complex and varied genetic mechanisms of endometriosis and its symptoms. This study enhances our understanding of the clinical patterns of endometriosis sub-phenotypes, showcasing the innovative approach employed to investigate this complex disease.
“Having a guideline isn’t actually enough”. Knowledge mobilisation for translating evidence-based guidelines into practice. Lessons from using the Normalisation Process Theory to understand adherence to guidance on MgSO4 in preterm labour
Authors: Pithara-McKeown Christalla , Stone Tracey , Treloar Emma , Donovan Jenny , Luyt Karen , Redwood Sabi
Published: September 2024

Background
The administration of magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) in preterm labour is an evidence-based intervention recommended by the United Kingdom’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to prevent neurological damage to the infant. However, uptake varies across UK maternity units. We used findings from implementation research in England, Scotland and Wales to explore knowledge mobilisation as a mechanism for improving adherence to clinical guidance.
Methods
Data were collected using semi-structured interviews for a process evaluation of the PReCePT (Preventing Cerebral Palsy in Pre-Term Labour) National Programme, the PReCePT cRCT study, and a study investigating MgSO4 guidance implementation in Scotland and Wales. Normalisation Process Theory informed data collection and analysis. Data were analysed using the framework method.
Results
Interviews with 68 strategic and clinical leads and implementers from the three nations suggested that despite evidence being necessary and important for policy decision-making, clinical leadership intervention decisions were motivated by audit data and benchmarking. Implementation success was impaired by degrees of silo working and rigid role boundaries, alongside differences in implementers’ ability to mobilise social-cognitive resources (e.g. commitment by maternity, neonatal and obstetric teams), and social-structural resources such as staff capacity, articulated workflows, and culture.
Cross-organisational, diverse and collaborative communities of practice (CoP) rooted in distributed leadership created a nexus between national and regional leadership, patient group representatives, implementers i.e. clinical leads and champions, and perinatal clinical teams. They provided a platform for CoP participants to build relationships and share knowledge, and together negotiate meaning, co-design implementation plans, share operational enablers such as strategies and products, and assess progress. Where training opportunities were provided alongside mentoring and peer support, CoP created implementation resource i.e. capacity and capability within the perinatal system. Backfill funding for champions and protected time away from clinical duties were required to enable participation, especially for champions in resource-poor settings.
Conclusions
Opportunities to participate in collaborative, diverse, cross-organisational CoPs where learning and innovation can be co-created, shared, and spread across the perinatal ecosystem, can help address disparities in clinical teams’ ability to implement evidence-based interventions. Participation relies on backfill funding for champions, and a system-wide commitment to improvement.
Acute Pancreatitis in the Context of Hypercalcemia: Unveiling Multiple Myeloma
Authors: HK Jayasooriya , PGCS Bowatte , NPNB Pathirana
Published: September 2024

Background
Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory condition of the pancreas, commonly triggered by gallstones or alcohol consumption. Hypercalcemia, although rare, is a recognized cause of AP, accounting for 1.5% to 8% of cases, typically due to primary hyperparathyroidism. Multiple myeloma (MM), a hematological malignancy characterized by clonal plasma cell proliferation, is an uncommon source of hypercalcemia and an even rarer cause of AP. While MM generally presents with anemia, bone pain, and renal impairment, hypercalcemia-induced AP as an initial manifestation is highly unusual and poses diagnostic challenges with meticulous clinical judgement.
Case Presentation
A 62-year-old male presented with severe epigastric pain radiating to the back, accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Laboratory tests revealed anemia, renal impairment, and elevated serum calcium levels. Imaging confirmed AP, while common causes like gallstones were excluded. Despite normal parathyroid hormone levels and no obvious bone metastases, an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) raised suspicion for a hematological malignancy. Initial investigations, including serum protein electrophoresis and urine testing for Bence Jones protein, were inconclusive. However, a bone marrow biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of MM as the underlying cause of hypercalcemia-induced AP.
Conclusion
This case underscores the diagnostic complexity of hypercalcemia-induced AP, particularly when it is secondary to an uncommon cause like MM. Clinicians should consider MM in patients with unexplained hypercalcemia, even when initial tests are inconclusive, to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment, which are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Antimicrobial activity and phytochemical screening of ethanol extracts of six traditionally used medicinal plants in East Amhara, Ethiopia
Authors: Girmay Birhan , Mohammed Toyba , Getachew Aweku , Yeshanew Solomon , Habtamu Asmamaw , Agumas
Published: September 2024

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant challenge to global health, necessitating the exploration of alternative treatments, particularly from natural sources. This study thus aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and phytochemical profiles of six traditional medicinal plants from East Amhara in Ethiopia against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi.
Methods: Ethanol crude extracts of Myrtus communis, Ziziphus spina-christi, Euclea racemosa, Syzygium guineense, Carissa spinarum, and Senna singueanawere prepared using a 1:10 (w/v) ratio cold maceration extraction technique. Antibacterial activity was assessed via the agar disk diffusion assay method, whereas Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) were carried out by broth dilution method. Furthermore, phytochemical screenings of the extracts were conducted to identify secondary metabolites according to the respective protocols and operational manuals.
Results: The findings indicated a dose-dependent antibacterial effect across all the tested plant species. M. communis exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity against S. aureus (22.33±1.2 mm inhibition zone) followed by C. spinarum (18.61± 0.33 mm). Regarding the antibacterial effects against S. typhi, M. communis, and C. spinarumagain produced the first and second highest activity; 17.01±0.58 mm and 16.62±0.33 mm zone of inhibition respectively. The lowest antibacterial activity against S. aureus was recorded by the extract of S. singueana (14.61±0.33 mm), whereas, the extract of E. racemosa (13.30±0.33 mm) produced the weakest activity against S. typhi. The lowest MIC values (6.25 mg/ml) were also noted for M. communisagainst both bacterial strains, indicating potent antibacterial properties. Furthermore, phytochemical screening revealed the presence of multiple bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, phenolics, terpenoids, saponins, steroids, glycosides, and anthraquinones among the tested extracts.
Conclusion: The study validates the antimicrobial potential of the selected medicinal plants, supported by their diverse phytochemical profiles. M. communis and C. spinarumwere found to cause potent antibacterial activity. The present study thus suggests that extracts of the leaves of these plant species may serve as valuable sources for developing new antimicrobial agents. Further investigation into their active compounds is also warranted to enhance therapeutic applications.