bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depth Estimation Based on MMwave Radar and Camera Fusion with Attention Mechanisms and Multi-Scale Features for Autonomous Driving Vehicles
Authors: Zhu Zhaohuan , Wu Feng , Sun Wenqing , Wu Quanying , Liang Feng , Zhang Wuhan
Published: December 2024

Depth estimation is a key technology in autonomous driving, as it provides an important basis for accurately detecting traffic objects and avoiding collisions in advance. To enhance depth estimation performance in complex traffic environments, this study proposes a depth estimation method in which point clouds and images obtained from MMwave radar and cameras are fused. Firstly, a residual network is established to extract the multi-scale features of the MMwave radar point clouds and the corresponding image obtained simultaneously from the same location. Correlations between the radar points and the image are established by fusing the extracted multi-scale features. A semi-dense depth estimation is achieved by assigning the depth value of the radar point to the most relevant image region. Secondly, a bidirectional feature fusion structure with additional fusion branches is designed to enhance the richness of feature information. The information loss during the feature fusion process is reduced, and the robustness of the model is enhanced. Finally, parallel channel and position attention mechanisms are used to enhance the feature representation of key areas in the fused feature map; the interference of irrelevant areas are suppressed, and the depth estimation accuracy is enhanced. Experimental results on the public dataset nuScenes show that, compared with the baseline model, the proposed method reduces the average absolute error (MAE) by 4.7%-6.3% and the root mean square error (RMSE) by 4.2%-5.2%.
A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis of Global Research Trends in Performance-Based in Structural Design
Authors: Abate Mistreselasie S. , Evangelista Ana Catarina Jorge , Tam Vivian WY
Published: December 2024

In the context of seismic hazard assessment and engineering design, a comprehensive understanding of local geological and geophysical factor is essential. However, previous studies have lacked crucial components such as local soil condition, ground response analysis, topographic influences, active fault characteristics,slip rates, groundwater behavior, and slope considerations. To ensure the accuracy of seismic hazard map of a country for the safe and cost-effective design of engineering structures in urban areas, a detailed analysis of these factors are imperative. Moreover, multidisciplinary investigations, such as logic tree considerations, are needed to enhance seismic hazard map. Consequently, the adoption of a performance based approach in structural design becomes an urgent necessity. Performance based approach allows engineers to design buildings to specified performance levels (IO, LS, CP) even without a reliable seismic hazard map. This approach is akin to a miracle for countries which doesn’t have reliable seismic hazard map. This study presents a systematic and comprehensive bibliometric analysis of academic literature pertaining to performance based design (PBD). By fostering collaborative efforts and expanding research networks, we aim to facilitate the development of coordinated initiatives within the field. Prefered Jouranals , Leading Countries, Leading Organizations and International institutions identified Utilizing the Scopus database. This study examined 3,469 PBD-related publications spanning from 1969 to 2023 using VOSviewer version 1.6.19, a bibliometric mapping and visualization software tool. The analysis of co-citations revealed that performance-based design serves as the primary theoretical foundation for structural design and analysis. Furthermore, through a co-word analysis, we tracked the evolution of research topics within the PBD domain over time. This investigation uncovered noteworthy trends, including the steady growth of research output, the increasing prominence of the term "PBD," and a focus on various types of performance based analyses.
HoLEP vs. TURP in Elderly Patients: Insights into Recovery, Complications, and Risk Factors
Authors: Bayraktar Necmi , Başeskioğlu Barbaros
Published: December 2024

Background: We compared the safety and efficacy of Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) and Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) in elderly men (aged ≥75 years) with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Methods: A retrospective analysis of 151 patients (HoLEP: 72; TURP: 79) was conducted. Preoperative and postoperative parameters, including prostate size, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), catheterization duration, hospital stay, and perioperative complications (incontinence and dysuria), were analyzed. Results: HoLEP significantly reduced catheterization (22 h vs. 50 h) and hospitalization times (1 d vs. 3 days) compared to TURP (p < 0.01). However, HoLEP was associated with longer operation times (81.89 min vs. 67.95 min; p < 0.01) and higher rates of dysuria (65.3% vs. 27.8%) and transient incontinence (27.8% vs. 8.9%; p < 0.001). Conclusion: HoLEP offers significant perioperative benefits over TURP, particularly in shortening recovery times; however, further investigation is required to address the higher rates of dysuria and incontinence. Although the retrospective design and surgeon experience constitute limitations, these findings underscore the need for prospective studies. The results support personalized surgical decision-making, emphasizing patient-specific factors such as BMI. These insights may help refine perioperative management and improve collaborative decision-making to enhance outcomes in elderly patients with BPH.
A Channel Processing FPGA Board for Building a Protection System of Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: Dang Tuan , Daumas Frédéric , Merieux Christophe
Published: December 2024

This paper presents our work in which we investigate an approach to use pure FPGA architecture to develop safety functions when designing a small, compact, and modular control system for a critical power generation process. We show that such an approach facilitates the Verification and Validation activities and contributes to satisfying the IEC 62566-2012 standard for the development of category A functions required in the instrumentation and control (I&C) of nuclear power plants. Our approach suggests the shift from traditional paradigm that uses microprocessors which are based on the Von NEUMANN architecture to build control systems such as Programmable Logic Controllers or Distributed Control Systems to new one that uses native HDL features to configure an FPGA circuit for the design and the development of I&C safety functions. This later paradigm offers several advantages such as, on the one hand, the development of functional simulations of the implemented features of the user application, so that verification of the specification can be carried out to ensure that the expected requirements are correctly understood and well specified by the users (application developers). And on the other hand, the parallel activation of independent functionalities which avoids the sequential processing of instructions inherent to the Von NEUMANN architecture.
Premio Nacional de Cuento, orgullosamente juarense
Authors: Salazar Mendoza Margarita
Published: December 2024

John Wesley Hardin Dedos Fríos es uno de los cinco pistoleros más famosos del Viejo Oeste del no tan lejano siglo XIX –entre los que se encuentran Billy The Kid y el mexicano Joaquín Murrieta–. Hardin escribió su autobiografía bajo el nombre de Vida de John Wesley Hardin, escrita por él mismo. Él es el protagonista del primer cuento del conjunto que integran el libro El hombre que mató a Dedos Fríos, de Elpidia García Delgado, y que recién obtuvo el Premio Nacional de Cuento Amparo Dávila, otorgado por el Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes.
¡El nueve ninguna se mueve! Paro Nacional de Mujeres
Authors: Báez Ayala Susana
Published: December 2024

El Paro de las Mujeres este 9 de marzo del 2020, constituye el parteaguas histórico a casi 30 años de que se iniciara la documentación de los asesinatos por violencia de género, con base en el trabajo de los grupos feministas en Ciudad Juárez.
Apuntes sobre poesía y poética
Authors: Montoya Castro Gildardo
Published: December 2024

Poesía y Poética intitulo estos apuntes, y de inmediato la memoria agradecida en la vivacidad del prodigio recordatorio me permite traer en mención una declaración del poeta y editor argentino Hugo Gola: “El poema testimonia, por medio del lenguaje, las íntimas palpitaciones del corazón humano y las irradia luego para que sean, eventualmente, compartidas por todos”; aseveración, la anterior, que es posible imbricar, creo, fundir con otra de ímpetu claridoso emitida por el poeta tabasqueño Carlos Pellicer, quien aﬁrma que “la poética es la impulsión misteriosa que nos permite realizar un poema”. Poesía y poética insisto, y no sé porqué razones la mano me lleva a escribir en este momento, un viejo vocablo que a más de uno provoca escozor o franco desdén irrisorio.
Analysis of Changes and Characteristics of Working Life Using the Working Life Table
Authors: Yang Won Chang , Kim Su-Beom , Lim Dar Oh , Song Soo Jin
Published: December 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to create a labor force life table and analyze the expected life expectancy by age, labor force participation rate, and reasons for leaving the workforce to identify the working period by age. Methods: The research method of this study was to use the life table (2008-2022) and the economically active population survey (2008-2023) published by Statistics Korea, and the life table (2022) and the economically active population survey (2022) published by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare of Japan as research data. The research method was to use the methodology of Wolfbein and Wool to create and compare life tables of Korean and Japanese labor forces. Results: From 2008 to 2023, the increase in life expectancy was 2.84 years for men and 6.13 years for women. The employment preparation period from 2008 to 2023 decreased by 0.25 years for men and 0.96 years for women. In 2022, the life expectancy of Korean men was 44.10 years and that of Japanese men was 45.64 years, a difference of 1.54 years, while that of Korean women was 35.68 years and that of Japanese women was 39.34 years. The participation rate of Korean men was 37.25% in the 15-19 age group and 29.52% in the 20-24 age group, while that of Japanese men was 50.8% in the 15-19 age group and 22.35% in the 20-24 age group. The participation rates of Korean women were 43.63% in the 15-19 age group and 24.31% in the 20-24 age group, and the participation rates of Japanese women were 51.82% in the 15-19 age group and 13.57% in the 20-24 age group. The dropout rate of Korean men increased to 13.76% in the 35-39 age group, and the dropout rate of Japanese men increased to 19.71% in the 45-49 age group. The dropout rate of Korean women increased to 12.0-12.36% in the 25-34 age group, and the labor dropout rate of Japanese women increased to 12.19-13.19% in the 25-34 age group. Conclusions: The labor force life expectancy was longer for men than for women from 2008 to 2023, and the labor force life expectancy increased more for women than for men. The difference in labor force life expectancy between men and women can be attributed to changes in employment patterns and social roles. It is thought that the cause is the policies of the Korean and Japanese governments to encourage women’s participation in economic activities among their policies to respond to the aging population.
Heterogeneity Modeling and Heterogeneity-Based Upscaling for Reservoir Characterization and Simulation
Authors: Madalimov M. , Li D. , Haynes B. , Yergaliyeva B. , Dair Y. , Ehighebolo I. T. , Ionescu C. L.
Published: December 2024

Reservoir heterogeneity is a key factor in modelling reservoir performance. Heterogeneity measures can be calculated for a given permeability field, but not straight forward to reverse the process. Detailed heterogeneity can be built into a fine-scale model but can be lost during upscaling to a coarse-scale, no matter which method is chosen from simple averaging to flow-based. This paper proposes a method of heterogeneity modeling and heterogeneity-based upscaling with the aim of solving these problems.

Unlike the traditional geostatistical method used to generate a permeability field that is not directly linked to a desired heterogeneity coefficient, the proposed method creates a heterogenous permeability field directly using LCC (Lorenz coefficient and curve). Using a given LCC as input, the expected heterogenous permeability field can be generated via the proposed steps and equations. Using the proposed heterogeneity-based upscaling method, the LCC defined from the fine-scale model can be preserved exactly during upscaling such that gas-oil-ratio and water-cut can be matched between the fine- and coarse-scale models without using pseudo functions.

The proposed method has been successfully applied in modelling a giant carbonate oil field in the Caspian Sea consisting of a matrix dominated platform and a fracture/karst dominated rim. Due to the field's complex geology and high H2S content, a dual porosity, dual permeability compositional model has been created to model compositional flow within/between matrix and fracture/karst initialized with an abnormally high reservoir pressure. The field surveillance data shows that reservoir heterogeneity (LCC) is a key component for the field reservoir characterization and simulation. The LCCs can be estimated from the cores and logs, but the challenge is how to preserve the characteristics of the LCCs during modeling, upscaling, HM, and Uncertainty Analysis (UA). Application of the new method has demonstrated its ability to overcome this challenge and has significantly improved the quality of the field's reservoir modeling, upscaling, HM, and UA. The fine-scale model LCCs were directly applied to calculate the coarse-scale permeability. The range of the LCCs estimated from cores and logs were used to generate a range of heterogeneous permeability fields for UA. Regional LCCs were adjusted based on the mismatches of GOR and/or water-cut and new heterogeneous permeability fields were generated to improve the HM quality.
The Factors that Influence Land conflict In Hargiesa Capital Of Somaliland
Authors: Said Ibrahim
Published: December 2024

Land conflict, an omnipresent challenge across Africa, finds a particularly poignant expression in Hargeisa, Somaliland, where the struggle for land has become a focal point of social discord and violence. This study explores the factors driving these conflicts, including expropriation, inheritance, commercialization, and urbanization. As Hargeisa grows, land has become a symbol of power and wealth, intensifying disputes that often result in homicides. Expropriation, frequently favoring those with political or economic influence, exacerbates tensions by marginalizing those with fewer resources. Inheritance conflicts have become more pronounced as rising land values turn customary practices into contentious legal battles. The commercialization and urbanization of land further disrupt traditional social orders, causing displacement and fostering resentment. Based on qualitative data from those involved in land disputes, this research highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions. Solutions must address the root causes of these conflicts through legal reforms, equitable land distribution, and community engagement. As Somaliland continues to develop, resolving these land conflicts is crucial for ensuring social justice and fostering communal harmony. The future stability of Hargeisa, and by extension Somaliland, depends on effective and inclusive land management strategies.
Risk factors and prognostic modeling in Cardiorenal Syndrome Type 2: a retrospective study of multicenter
Authors: Wang Bin , Zheng Xie , Fu Qinghui , Luo Xiaoqian , Pan Sijun
Published: December 2024

Background: Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) represents a complex interaction between heart failure and renal insufficiency, leading to progressive disease. Type 2 CRS is characterized by the development of renal dysfunction secondary to chronic cardiac disease. The prevalence of Type 2 CRS is substantial, af fecting up to 45-63% of patients admitted for chronic heart failure. Despite its high morbidity and mortality, there is a lack of robust diagnostic tools and prognostic models to guide clinical management.
Methods: This multicenter retrospective study included patients diagnosed with CRS type 2 based on the 2019 American Heart Association definition. Data were collected from electronic medical records of three hospitals between January 2021 and December 2023. Advanced statistical methods, including receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, univariate Kaplan-Meier (KM) analysis, and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression, were utilized to develop a nomogram for predicting patient prognosis.
Results: The study included 519 patients with CRS-2. Independent predictors of adverse outcomes included elevated serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels, decreased platelet count, elevated B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), and decreased oxygen partial pressure (PaO2). These findings suggest that close monitoring of these markers is essential in clinical practice to identify patients at high risk of adverse events early on.
Conclusion: Our study provides evidence that serum creatinine, BUN, platelet count, BNP, and PaO2 are independent predictors of adverse outcomes in patients with Type 2 CRS. These findings have important implications for clinical practice and emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to the management of this challenging condition.
Value of Combining Lung Ultrasound Score with Oxygenation and Functional Indices in Determining Weaning Timing for Critically Ill Pediatric Patients Running Title: Pulmonary ultrasound scoring for Critically Ill Pediatric Patients
Authors: Hao Ximeng , Duan Hongnian , Li Qiushuang , Wang Dan , Yin Xin , Di Zhiyan , Du Shanshan
Published: December 2024

Objective:This study aims to investigate the predictive effectiveness of bedside lung ultrasound score (LUS) in conjunction with rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI) and oxygenation index (P/F ratio) for weaning pediatric patients from mechanical ventilation.
Methods: This was a retrospective study. Eighty-two critically ill pediatric patients, who were admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and underwent mechanical ventilation from January 2023 to April 2024, were enrolled in this study. Prior to weaning, all patients underwent bedside LUS, with concurrent measurements of their RSBI and P/F ratio. Patients were followed up for weaning outcomes and categorized into successful and failed weaning groups based on these outcomes. Differences in clinical baseline data, LUS scores, RSBI, and P/F ratios between the two groups were compared. The predictive value of LUS scores and oxygenation indices for weaning outcomes was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the area under the curve (AUC).
Results: Out of the 82 subjects, 73 (89.02%) successfully weaned, while 9 (10.98%) failed. No statistically significant differences were observed in age, gender, BMI, and respiratory failure-related comorbidities between the successful and failed weaning groups (P>0.05). Compared to the successful weaning group, the failed weaning group exhibited longer hospital and intubation durations, higher LUS and RSBI, and lower P/F ratios, with statistically significant differences (P<0.05). An LUS score ≥15.5 was identified as the optimal cutoff for predicting weaning failure, with superior predictive power compared to RSBI and P/F ratios. The combined use of LUS and oxygenation indices for predicting weaning outcomes yielded a larger area under the curve, indicating higher predictive efficacy.
Conclusion:The LUSdemonstrates a high predictive value for the weaning outcomes of pediatric patients on mechanical ventilation.
Identification of major trauma using the simplified Abbreviated Injury Scale to estimate the Injury Severity Score: a diagnostic accuracy and validation study
Authors: Eidenbenz David , Gauss Tobias , Zingg Tobias , Darioli Vincent , Vallot Cécile , Carron Pierre-Nicolas , Bouzat Pierre , Ageron François-Xavier
Published: December 2024

Background: The Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) and Injury Severity Score (ISS) grade the severity of injuries and are useful for trauma audit and benchmarking. However, AIS coding is complex and requires specifically trained staff. A simple yet reliable scoring system is needed. The aim of this study was two-fold. First, to develop and validate a simplified AIS (sAIS) chart centred on the most frequent injuries for use by non-trained healthcare professionals. Second, to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the sAIS (index test) to calculate the simplifiedISS (sISS) to identify major trauma, compared with the reference AIS (rAIS) to calculate the reference ISS (rISS).
Methods: This retrospective study used data (2013-2014) from the Northern French Alps Trauma Registry (TRENAU) to develop and internally validate the sAIS. External validation was performed with data from the Trauma Registry of Acute Care (TRAC) of Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland (2019-2021). Both datasets comprised a random sample of 100 injured patients. Following the Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2015 guidelines, all patients completed the rAIS and the sAIS. The sISS and the rISS were calculated using the sAIS and the rAIS, respectively. Accuracy was evaluated with the mean difference between the sISS and the rISS and the Pearson correlation coefficient. A clinically relevant equivalence limit was set at ±4 ISS points. Precision was analyzed using Bland-Altmann plots with 95% limits of agreement.
Results: Accuracy was good. The mean ISS difference of 0.97 (95% CI, -0-03 to 1.97) in the internal validation dataset and -1.77 (95% CI, -3.04 to 0.50) in the external validation dataset remained within the equivalence limit. The Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.93 in the internal validation dataset (95% CI, 0.90 to 0.95) and 0.82 in the external validation dataset (95% CI, 0.75 to 0.88). The limits of agreement were wider than the predetermined relevant range.
Conclusions: The sAIS is accurate, but slightly imprecise in calculating the ISS. The development of this scale increases the possibilities to use a scoring system for severely injured patients in settings with a reduced availability of the AIS.
Trial registration: Retrospectively registered.
Liver Abscess and Splenic Infarction Due to Yersinia pseudotuberculosis bloodstream infection : A case report
Authors: Wang Yixun , Xiang Yanni , Lei Chao , Zheng Xiaxia , Wu Wen , Zhang ZhaoHui , qu xingguang
Published: December 2024

Background: Yersinia pseudotuberculosis is an emerging zoonotic intestinal pathogen that is transmitted primarily through contaminated food and water. Yersinia pseudotuberculosis infection is usually self-limited and usually manifests as gastroenteritis or "pseudoappendicitis", characterized by fever and abdominal pain; Bloodstream infection with Yersinia pseudotuberculosis is uncommon but can result in Multiple distant sites of infection, including liver, splenic and kidney abscesses , even hip and knee jiont , often with underlying immunodeficiency.
Case presentation: We present the case of a 40-year-old man who was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with intermittent fever for five days followed by worsening abdominal pain and distension one day after consuming contaminated food. Upon admission, the patient developed severe hypotension, quickly followed by signs of liver and kidney failure, progressing to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). In particular, the patient's abdominal CT showed signs of liver abscess and splenic infarction. He was treated with fluid resuscitation, broad-spectrum antibiotics, vasopressors, continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), and plasma exchange. Blood cultures and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) confirmed Yersinia pseudotuberculosisinfection. After 17 days of ICU treatment, the patient was transferred to the infectious disease department for further treatment for 14 days and was discharged. Three months after discharge, the patient had two follow-up visits and was in good condition.
Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the rare reported case of MODS, liver abscess, and splenic infarction caused by Y. pseudotuberculosisinfection.Timely use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and active organ function support are the keys to treatment. The lack of further progression of the liver abscess may indicate that the bacteria are not very virulent. Fortunately, the patient eventually recovered, and follow-up observation of the liver and spleen after discharge became important.
Temperature and pH dual dependent conformational transition of polyacrylic acid modified by dehydroabietic alcohol
Authors: Zhu Xiufang , Liu Weihao , AlMasoud Najla , Alomar Taghrid S. , Sun Jiuxiao , Fu Chao , Zhou Juying
Published: December 2024

A rosin derivative, dehydroabietic alcohol (DHAA), was synthetized and employed to graft onto polyacrylic acid (PAA) via the Steglich esterification reaction, forming a block copolymer consisting of the acrylic acid units and monomer units containing ester groups. The resulted dehydroabietic alcohol grafted polyacrylic acid (DHAA-graft-PAA) demonstrated enhanced pH and temperature sensitivities. The number ratio of the acrylic acid monomer units reacted with the DHAA and the un-reacted acrylic acid monomer units, was estimated by the NMR results. The number-average molecular weight of DHAA-graft-PAA was determined to be 9290 by an acid-base titration method. The optimal decomposition temperature of DHAA-graft-PAA measured using a thermogravimetric analyzer was approximately 289°C. The structural characteristics of the DHAA-PAA were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1HNMR). The conformational transition of the DHAA-PAA under different pH and temperature values was investigated. The scattering intensity experiments showed that 7.96 was a critical pH value and 5°C was a critical temperature. When the pH value was below 7.96, the degree of carboxyl group ionization in the polymer was decreased, leading to a repulsion between the carboxyl groups in the polymer chains and causing the chain contraction. When the temperature dropped to 5°C, the conformation transitioned from an extended state to a contracted state. This study demonstrates the intelligent applications for a novel pH and temperature sensitive polymer.
Single cell and spatial analysis of immune-hot and immune-cold tumours identifies fibroblast subtypes associated with distinct immunological niches and positive immunotherapy response
Authors: Jenkins Benjamin H , Tracy Ian , Rodrigues Maria Fernanda SD , Smith Melanie JL , Martinez Begoña R , Edmond Mark , Mahadevan Sangeetha , Rao Anjali , Zong Hailing , Liu Kai , Aggarwal Abhishek , Li Li , Diehl Lauri , King Emma V , Bates Jamie G , Hanley Christopher J , Thomas Gareth J
Published: December 2024

Cancer-associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) have emerged as critical regulators of anti-tumour immunity, with both beneficial and detrimental properties that remain poorly characterised. To investigate this, we performed single-cell and spatial transcriptomic analysis, comparing immune-hot and immune-cold HNSCC subgroups (human papillomavirus [HPV] + ve and HPV-ve tumours respectively). This identified six fibroblast subpopulations, including two with immunomodulatory gene expression profiles (IL-11 + inflammatory [i]CAF and fibroblastic reticular cell [FRC]-like). IL-11 + iCAF were spatially associated with inflammatory monocytes and regulated in vitro through synergistic activation of canonical NF-κB signalling by IL-1β and TNF-α. FRC-like were enriched in HPV + ve tumours, associated with CD4 T-cells and B-cells in tertiary lymphoid structures and regulated through non-canonical NF-κB signalling via lymphotoxin. Pan-cancer analysis revealed several 'iCAF’ subgroups present in both normal and cancer tissues; IL11 + iCAF were found in cancers from the gastrointestinal tract and transcriptomically distinct from iCAFs previously described in pancreatic and breast cancers with greater inflammatory properties; FRC-like fibroblasts, a rare phenotype but present in all tumour types, were associated with significantly better survival in patients receiving checkpoint immunotherapy. This work clarifies and expands current literature on immunomodulatory CAFs, highlighting links with important immunological niches.
Carboplatin in combination with etoposide for advanced small cell lung cancer complicated with idiopathic interstitial pneumonia: A single-arm phase II study
Authors: Matsumoto Masaru , Minegishi Yuji , Higa Katsuyuki , Fukuizumi Aya , Onda Naomi , Takeuchi Susumu , Miyanaga Akihiko , Gemma Akihiko , Seike Masahiro
Published: December 2024

Background: Acute exacerbation (AEx) of interstitial pneumonia is the most common lethal adverse event related to the pharmacological treatment of patients with lung cancer complicated with interstitial pneumonia. Although small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is linked to poor prognosis, it exhibits good response to chemotherapy. Few previous research studies have investigated the safety and efficacy of treatment for advanced SCLC complicated with idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP). We conducted a single-arm phase II study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of carboplatin plus etoposide for the treatment of patients with SCLC complicated with IIP.
Methods: Chemotherapy-naïve patients with advanced SCLC complicated with IIP were enrolled. Patients received carboplatin every 21–28 days at a dose of area under the curve 4–6 on day 1 and etoposide at a dose of 80–100 mg/m2 on days 1–3.
Results: Thirty-one patients were enrolled between December 2009 and December 2022. A median of four cycles of carboplatin plus etoposide were administered. Acute exacerbation of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia was not observed; the rate of AEx was 0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0–9.6%, p=0.038). The objective response rate was 83.9% (95% CI: 82.5–85.2). The median progression-free survival and overall survival were 5.9 (95% CI: 4.7–6.8) months and 14.0 (95% CI: 7.6–27.6) months, respectively. The 1-year survival rate was 61%.
Conclusions: The carboplatin plus etoposide treatment was tolerable and effective in SCLC patients complicated with IIP.
Innovative Time in Remission Assessment of Inflammation in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis-Associated Uveitis over 10-year follow-up
Authors: Gupta Vishali , Arora Atul , Jindal Ankur , Gupta Amod , Suri Deepti , Singh Surjit , Kozak Igor
Published: December 2024

Purpose
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis(JIA) is a leading cause of childhood uveitis resulting in severe ocular morbidity. Corticosteroids and Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs(DMARDs) are standard of care,with biological drugs reserved for refractory cases. Disease monitoring often focuses on recurrences, but subclinical inflammation between recurrences may cause significant ocular damage and maybe a better way of disease monitoring. We applied novel Time In Remission(TIR) analysis to assess the percentage of time spent inflammation-free over a specified time-frame, in a retrospective cohort of 20 children with JIA associated Uveitis followed-up for over a decade at a single centre.
Methods
Retrospective review of clinical records of patients with JIA-U. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, including visual acuity,uveitis activity and treatment given were analyzed. AC-time(duration of time anterior chamber had no cells) and Flare-time(duration of time anterior chamber had no flare) during follow-up was assessed to evaluate inflammation control.
Results
Twenty patients (40% male; Mean age: 9.43 ± 6.97 years) received treatment with topical steroids, cycloplegics and systemic DMARDs (Methotrexate 10-15mg/m2/week). 35%(7/20) of cases required additional biological therapy(Adalimumab 0.8 mg/kg biweekly) for managing recurrent inflammation(Mean recurrences:2.43 ± 1.4), initiated at 61.71 ± 42.9 months. Over 10-year follow-up, all patients had significant improvement in visual acuity(p = 0.001). Shifting to biological therapy resulted in improvement in AC-time(p = 0.035), Flare-time(p = 0.009) and reduction in topical steroid frequency(p = 0.002). On further comparing remission phase of 13 patients receiving DMARDs to 7 receiving biologics,we found that patients on biological therapy had lesser requirement of topical steroids(p = 0.001) and increased steroid-free period(p = 0.01).
Conclusion
TIR offers a novel method for monitoring ocular inflammation. Biological therapy offers superior inflammation control and reduces topical steroid dependence compared to conventional DMARDs.
Voices from the Amazon: Exploring Implementor and User Perceptions of Non-Invasive Malaria Diagnostics in Peru
Authors: Nussbaum Lauren , Ortega Emma , López E. Jennifer Ríos , S. Alfonso Simoné Vizcarra , López Jhonny J. Córdova , Calarco Serafina , Marbán-Castro Elena , Tetteh Kevin , Shilton Sonjelle , Morrison Amy C. , Fargnoli Vanessa , Paz-Soldán Valerie A.
Published: December 2024

Background
Malaria burden continues to be high in some regions of Peru, especially in the northern Amazon rainforest state of Loreto and the tropical coastal state of Tumbes. Novel malaria non-invasive diagnostic tools are being developed, and formative research in malaria endemic areas with community members and health professionals who would potentially use these devices is important for this process. The objective of this study was to examine acceptability and feasibility of four new malaria non-invasive diagnostic tools in development in two regions of Peru with significant malaria burden.
Methods
A series of focus group discussions and key informant interviews were conducted in Spanish to assess acceptability and ascertain questions and concerns regarding the non-invasive diagnostic tools. Focus group discussions were conducted with a range of community members (pregnant women, parents), professionals (health, education), and community leaders in Loreto. Key informant interviews were conducted with vector control authorities and health professionals from Loreto, Tumbes, and Lima.
Results
There was much initial enthusiasm about all non-invasive diagnostic tools. However, as discussions proceeded, high enthusiasm remained for two devices that were easy to use, acceptable for the communities they were intended for, feasible to carry in remote areas, and did not require new supplies nor generate trash: the skin scan and the skin odor test. The breath and saliva tests were considered less hygienic and were less acceptable to community members and health professionals due to concerns of disease transmission, as well as other environmental and cultural concerns. Health professionals felt the finger scan test and the skin odor test would be of high value to help triage community members in endemic sites, as well as for use in remote regions with difficult access to health facilities or labs.
Conclusions
Novel non-invasive malaria diagnostic tools can be valuable in malaria-endemic settings, particularly those with difficult terrain and limited access to health facilities and specialized laboratories. As manufacturers work towards evaluating the efficacy and effectiveness of these non-invasive diagnostic tools, international recommendations should be created to ensure their agile integration into national malaria programs.
Randomized Trial of Cold Plasma and Vitamin C Synergy: Effects on Skin Hydration and Wrinkle Reduction
Authors: Eskandari Najmeh , Ostovarpour Farzane , Zadeh Mohammad Ali Nilfrosh , Lotfi Mohammad Reza , Khani Mohammadreza , Amirkhani Mohammad Amir , Shokri Babak
Published: December 2024

As the skin ages, it naturally becomes drier and loses elasticity, resulting in wrinkles. Over time, the production of collagen and elastin in the skin decreases. Several methods exist for reducing skin wrinkles, including cold plasma technology. Plasma is an advanced treatment employed for skin rejuvenation and aesthetic enhancement. This technique can enhance skin appearance by boosting collagen and elastin production, thereby diminishing wrinkles. This study utilizes a FEDBD device for hand skin rejuvenation. The plasma treatment was administered over 8 sessions spanning 8 weeks. Skin analyses and laboratory tests such as elasticity, oxygenation, perfusion, tissue water index, and hemoglobin were performed before the plasma treatment, immediately after the treatment, at the fourth and eighth weeks of treatment, and six weeks post-final session. The findings of this study suggest that plasma can assist in cleansing the skin surface through the production of CO and OH. Additionally, an increase in the maintenance of skin hydration and enhanced oxygenation and perfusion was reported. The data reveal that, while vitamin C alone does not significantly improve skin elasticity, combining it with plasma treatments, particularly at 7.4 W, leads to a notable enhancement in skin elasticity over time that proves the synergy effect of cold plasma. The combination therapy is the most effective in improving skin elasticity compared to other treatments.
Assessing corporate transition plans using a production asset-based planning approach
Authors: Kampmann David , Rekker Saphira , Ruan Min , Shrimali Gireesh
Published: December 2024

Corporate transition plans (TPs) are increasingly seen as crucial components of assessing the compatibility and credibility of corporate commitments to meet climate targets. However, robust and transparent methods to assess the credibility of disclosed TPs are lacking. Here we propose a novel open-source methodology for assessing the credibility of corporate TPs based on asset-level data to estimate CO2 emission trajectories: the production asset-based planning approach (APA). We test this approach on a sample of ten electric utilities and ten steel companies and find that only three of the companies’ stated TPs are compatible with Paris-aligned benchmarks. We also find that 12% and 42% of existing carbon-intensive assets operated by electric utility and steel companies, respectively, will require reinvestment before 2030, posing significant carbon lock-in risk. Applying this method will ensure that TPs can be assessed in a robust manner and help drive CO2 emission reductions towards achieving the Paris climate target.
Enhancing biodiversity with circular food systems
Authors: Melges Felipe Cozim , Ripoll-Bosch Raimon , Veen G.F. (Ciska) , Hofmeijer Merel , Simon Wolfram , Apeldoorn Dirk van , Zanten Hannah Van
Published: December 2024

Food systems are largely responsible for today’s anthropogenic environmental impacts. Transitioning towards a circular food system is seen as a promising solution to reduce land use (LU) and greenhouse gas emissions (GHGe). But what about biodiversity? The aim of this paper was to assess the potential of enhancing biodiversity in circular European food systems. Two scenarios were assessed with a food systems optimization model: land sharing or sparing while producing healthy food. Our results show that both scenarios can enhance biodiversity while reducing GHGe. The land sparing scenario reduced LU by 81%, depicting great potential for rewilding. However, reduction of LU was achieved via intensification, decreasing agroecosystem’s biodiversity (0 biodiversity score). Conversely, land sharing increased biodiversity in agroecosystems (86% biodiversity score), and LU was maintaned. Both scenarios require to radically redesign today’s food system. Our results demonstrate circular food systems can help enhance biodiversity via land sparing or sharing.
Synthesis and in vitro oral anti-inflammatory activity of pH-sensitive baicalin liposomes
Authors: Wang Xueqing , Ma Yiyi , Liu Ying , Wu Boyue , Zhu Yu
Published: December 2024

In recent years, clinicians have faced significant challenges in applying baicalin. This issue primarily arises from its low solubility and brief half-life. Thus, developing new baicalin drug delivery system has become an urgent task to address this obstacle. Liposomes system has been regarded as promising drug carriers due to their low adverse effects, non-immunogenicity and biodegradability. This study explored the possibility of utilizing Dioleoyl phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) and Cholesteryl hemisuccinate (CHEMS) liposomes as nanocarriers loaded baicalin to exhibit anti-inflammatory in patients with periodontitis. In our research, the pH-sensitive baicalin liposomes (pH-Bai-Lips) were successfully prepared and characterized for the particle size, zeta potential, morphology, encapsulation efficiency, in vitro release study and acid responsiveness. The in vitro results indicated that pH-Bai-Lips could be promising carriers for periodontitis treatment due to efficient drug delivery and effective conditional response release performance.
Pain in Parkinson’s disease: Fluctuation and impact on quality of life
Authors: Mohamed Mahmoud Mohamed Abdelhamid , Elkhayat Naglaa Mohamed , Khater Shaimaa Sayed , El-Sudany Ayman Hassan , Mansour Alia H.
Published: December 2024

Background:
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disorder known for its motor and non-motor symptoms. Among the non-motor symptoms, pain is highly prevalent, significantly affecting patients' quality of life. Pain in PD can manifest in various forms, including musculoskeletal, dystonic, and neuropathic pain. Despite its high prevalence, pain in PD is often under-recognized and undertreated, necessitating further exploration of its characteristics and impact on quality of life. This study aims to assess the prevalence, types, and fluctuation of pain in PD patients and their relationship with motor and non-motor symptoms.
Methods:
This cross sectional study was conducted on 40 PD patients at Movement Disorders clinic in Ain Shams University . Data collection included demographic characteristics, medical history, and evaluation using standardized scales such as the King’s Parkinson’s Disease Pain Scale (KPPS), Movement Disorder Society–Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS), Non-Motor Symptoms Scale (NMSS), and the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39). The correlation between these scales and the severity of pain was analyzed.
Results:
The study revealed a statistically significant correlation between KPPS and the wearing-off phenomenon (R=0.349, p=0.027), highlighting the association between motor fluctuations and pain severity. However, no significant correlations were found between KPPS and other scales like NMSS, PSQI, MDS-UPDRS, or PDQ summary index. Pain was highly prevalent among PD patients, with musculoskeletal and fluctuation-related pain being the most common types.
Conclusion:
Pain is a frequent and impactful non-motor symptom in Parkinson's disease that substantially affects patients' quality of life. The correlation between pain and motor fluctuations such as wearing off suggests that optimizing dopaminergic therapy could help manage pain in PD. Further studies are recommended to explore the management strategies for pain in PD and its complex interaction with other non-motor symptoms.
Rethinking musical preferences: Introducing the Test of Attribute Preferences (TAP)
Authors: Grüning David Joachim , Fricke Kai , Rentfrow Peter Jason , Greenberg Yeshaya David M.
Published: December 2024

With the emergence of streaming services, the music industry and listening public have shifted away from the concept of genres, embracing the use of attributes instead. Why, then, do researchers still rely on genre-based measures to study musical preferences (e.g., the Short Test of Musical Preferences: STOMP)? One reason is the lack of tools to measure these attributes. To address this gap, we build on prior research on the Arousal-Valence-Depth (AVD) model of perception and preferences, leveraging a large sample (N = 11,633) to introduce the "Test of Attribute Preferences" (TAP). The 18-item TAP captures the three AVD domains and nine facets: A1: Energetic, A2: Calming, A3: Aggressive; V1: Happy, V2: Sad, V3: Danceable; and D1: Emotional Depth, D2: Cerebral, D3: Mystical. Additionally, we developed an extended 27-item measure (TAP-x) that includes three items for each facet and nine items for each domain. We demonstrate the reliability, factor structure convergence, and validity of the domains and facets using prior genre favorability and audio-based measures, along with their external correlates with personality characteristics and demographics. In summary, the TAP is a robust, genre-free, and user-friendly tool for measuring musical preferences, advancing the field beyond its reliance on genres.
Tofacitinib and budesonide treatment affect stemness and chemokine release in IBD patient-derived colonoids
Authors: Srid Arun , Bakke Ingunn , Gopalakrishnan Shreya , Osoble Nimo Mukhtar Mohamnud , Hammarqvist Emilie Prytz , Pettersen Henrik Peter Sahlin , Sandvik Arne Kristian , Østvik Ann Elisabet , Hansen Marianne Doré , Bruland Torunn
Published: December 2024

Restoration of the intestinal epithelial barrier is crucial for achieving mucosal healing, the therapeutic goal for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). During homeostasis, epithelial renewal is maintained by crypt stem cells and progenitors that cease to divide as they differentiate into mature colonocytes. Inflammation is a major effector of mucosal damage in IBD and has been found to affect epithelial stemness, regeneration and cellular functions. However, the impact of immune cell-modulating IBD drugs on epithelial homeostasis and repair is poorly understood. It is likely that these drugs will have distinct mechanisms of action (MOA) in intestinal epithelium relevant for homeostasis that will vary among patients. We investigated cellular effects of pan-Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor tofacitinib and the corticosteroid budesonide on uninflamed and TNF + Poly(I:C) stimulated human colon organoids (colonoids) from healthy donors and IBD-patients. Our findings reveal that although both tofacitinib and budesonide exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, tofacitinib increased colonoid size and proliferation during differentiation, and promoted epithelial stemness. In contrast, budesonide decreased colonoid size and showed no consistent effect on proliferation or stemness. Our study demonstrates the value of employing human colonoids to investigate how IBD drugs affect intestinal epithelial cells and inter-individual variations relevant to mucosal healing and personalized IBD treatment.