bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical characteristics and prognosis of pneumonia-related bloodstream infections in the intensive care unit: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Liu Yijie , Sun Ting , Cai Ying , Zhai Tianshu , Huang Linna , Zhang Qi , Wang Chunlei , Chen He , Huang Xu , Li Min , Xia Jingen , Gu Sichao , Guo Lingxi , Yang Bin , Wu Xiaojing , Lu Binghuai , Zhan Qingyuan
Published: September 2023

Background

Bloodstream infections (BSI) are one of the most severe healthcare-associated infections in intensive care units (ICU). However, there are few studies on pneumonia-related BSI (PRBSI) in the ICU. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and prognostic characteristics of patients with PRBSI in the ICU and to provide a clinical basis for early clinical identification.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data from patients with bacterial BSI in a single-center ICU between January 1, 2017, and August 31, 2020. Clinical diagnosis combined with whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was used to clarify the diagnosis of PRBSI, and patients with PRBSI and non-PRBSI were analyzed for clinical features, prognosis, imaging presentation, and distribution of pathogenic microorganisms.

Results

Of the 2,240 patients admitted to the MICU, 120 with bacterial BSI were included in this study. Thirty-two (26.7%) patients were identified as having PRBSI based on the clinical diagnosis combined with WGS. Compared to patients without PRBSI, those with PRBSI had higher 28-day mortality (81.3 vs.51.1%, p = 0.003), a higher total mortality rate (93.8 vs. 64.8%, p = 0.002), longer duration of invasive mechanical ventilation (median 16 vs. 6 days, p = 0.037), and prolonged duration of ICU stay (median 21 vs. 10 days, p = 0.004). There were no differences in other baseline data between the two groups, but patients with PRBSI had extensive consolidation on chest radiographs and significantly higher Radiographic Assessment of Lung Edema scores (mean 35 vs. 24, p < 0.001). The most common causative organisms isolated in the PRBSI group were gram-negative bacteria (n = 31, 96.9%), with carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria accounting for 68.8% (n = 22) and multidrug-resistant bacteria accounting for 81.3% (n = 26).

Conclusion

Pneumonia-related BSI is an important component of ICU-BSI and has a poor prognosis. Compared to non-PRBSI, patients with PRBSI do not have typical clinical features but have more severe lung consolidation lesions, and should be alerted to the possibility of their occurrence when combined with pulmonary gram-negative bacterial infections, especially carbapenem-resistant bacteria. Further multicenter, large-sample studies are needed to identify the risk factors for the development of PRBSI and prevention and treatment strategies.
Factors influencing community pharmacists’ knowledge about women’s issues in epilepsy
Authors: Jairoun Ammar Abdulrahman , Al-himyari Sabba Saleh , Shahwan Moyad , Hassan Nageeb , AL-Tamimi Saleh , Jairoun Maimona , Zyoud Saed H. , Alshehri Abdullah S. , Alkhanani Mustfa Faisal , Alhasani Reem Hasaballah , Alharbi Adnan S. , Alshehri Fahad S. , Ashour Ahmed M. , Alorfi Nasser M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Previous studies have highlighted instances where pharmacists lacked knowledge regarding women’s health issues related to epilepsy.

Objectives

To assess UAE community pharmacists’ knowledge, toward women’s issues in epilepsy.

Methods

a cross-sectional research method was employed. A team of seven pharmacy students in their final year visited a randomly selected sample of community pharmacies in the UAE and face-to-face interviews were conducted with the pharmacists using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire includes two parts; Eight questions designed to elicit data about the demographics of the study participants and 12 questions eliciting insights into the participants’ knowledge of women’s issues in epilepsy.

Results

A total of 412 community pharmacist were recruited in the study. The overall level of knowledge about women’s issues in epilepsy was good and the average knowledge score was 81% with a 95% confidence interval (CI) [79.1, 82.7%]. The results of multivariate analysis showed higher knowledge scores in chain pharmacies (OR 1.37; 95% CI 1.12–1.67), Chief pharmacists (OR 1.44; 95% CI 1.01–2.06), Pharmacists in charge (OR 3.46; 95% CI 2.7–4.45), pharmacists with 1–5 Years of experience (OR 2.87; 95% CI 1.71–4.82), pharmacists with 6–10 Years (OR 2.63; 95% CI 1.58–4.38), pharmacists with >10 years (OR 3.13; 95% CI 2.03–4.83), graduation form regional universities (OR 1.37; 95% CI 1.12–1.67), graduation form international universities (OR 1.73; 95% CI 1.36–2.20) and receiving a training on epilepsy (OR 1.36; 95% CI 1.12–1.67).

Conclusion

While the findings reveal an overall promising level of knowledge among community pharmacists regarding the issues faced by women with epilepsy, pinpointing which clinical and demographic factors have the most significant impact on this knowledge would permit the implementation of tailored educational interventions. Workshops and modules targeting the issues faced by women with epilepsy would further raise the knowledge and competence among community pharmacists in this area, ensuring better pharmaceutical care for this population.
Tracing a new path in the field of AI and robotics: mimicking human intelligence through chemistry. Part I: molecular and supramolecular chemistry
Authors: Gentili Pier Luigi , Stano Pasquale
Published: September 2023

Chemical Artificial Intelligence (CAI) is a brand-new research line that exploits molecular, supramolecular, and systems chemistry in wetware (i.e., in fluid solutions) to imitate some performances of human intelligence and promote unconventional robotics based on molecular assemblies, which act in the microscopic world, otherwise tough to be accessed by humans. It is undoubtedly worth spreading the news that AI researchers can rely on the help of chemists and biotechnologists to reach the ambitious goals of building intelligent systems from scratch. This article reports the first attempt at building a Chemical Artificial Intelligence knowledge map and describes the basic intelligent functions that can be implemented through molecular and supramolecular chemistry. Chemical Artificial Intelligence provides new tools and concepts to mimic human intelligence because it shares, with biological intelligence, the same principles and materials. It enables peculiar dynamics, possibly not accessible in software and hardware domains. Moreover, the development of Chemical Artificial Intelligence will contribute to a deeper understanding of the strict link between intelligence and life, which are two of the most remarkable emergent properties shown by the Complex Systems we call biological organisms.
Prior goal setting of SDGs based on the interaction correlation
Authors: Zhao Mingxi , Meng Zixiang , Xu Boda , Yu Dian , Wu Shu , Li Rende
Published: September 2023

For 2030, the Agenda for Sustainable Development sets out 17 goals for sustaining ecological and social growth, known as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which have mobilized countries around the world to integrate these goals into their national development strategies. However, the Agenda does not explain how these goals are interlinked, which limits their implementation. This paper therefore selects indicator data for 17 SDGs from the World Bank website for four groups of countries to estimate the network structure of the SDGs and the synergies and trade-offs between them, based on the Spearman coefficient. Based on this, the paper further uses a VAR model to identify priority targets among the SDGs and to predict the impact of achieving these targets 2 years earlier on other SDGs. It is found that the SDGs interact with each other in different historical periods, showing both synergies and trade-offs. And as the highest priority goal, the predictions in this paper suggest that SDG 6 has a strong positive impact on SDG 4 and SDG 8. This paper can help policy makers to allocate resources more effectively, maximize benefits, coordinate actions, adapt to future challenges and achieve global sustainable development goals.
Impact of Social Media Addiction on Social Behavior
Authors: Urooge Alishba Sadaf
Published: September 2023

This report is about impact of social media addiction on behavior of individuals currently in universities. Web compulsion and the ethical ramifications of introverted Internet conduct will be researched in this paper. An ever increasing number of individuals utilize the Internet in their day by day life. The study has been conducted using survey in my own university where I have used qualitative and quantitative feedback of students. Major findings in this report are the attitude of students towards this issue which is surprisingly Extra ordinary in good sense. Lamentably, the level of individuals who utilize the web unnecessarily likewise increments. The idea of Internet compulsion or obsessive utilization of the Internet is talked about in detail, and the attributes of Internet addicts are additionally outlined. The social (particularly the reserved) utilization of the Internet is talked about. It is contended that the conduct of Internet use is like day by day life social conduct. The accompanying practices are viewed as reserved Internet conduct the utilization of the Internet to complete unlawful exercises, for example, selling faked items or hostile explicit materials, the utilization of Internet to menace others (i.e., cyber bullying, for example, disseminating derogatory explanations against someone in particular, The utilization of Internet to swindle others, and the utilization of Internet to do illicit betting). The qualities of the ethical stages that are related with these introverted Internet practices are examined in detail.
Latest Trends in the Cybersecurity after the Solar Wind Hacking Attack
Authors: Akhtar Naveed , Aziz Omer , Hussain Tariq
Published: September 2023

That dominance, in any case, has gotten to be a risk. On Sunday, Solar Winds alarmed thousands of its clients that an “outside country state” had found a back entryway into its most well-known item, an instrument called Orion that makes a difference organizations screen blackouts on their computer systems and servers. The company uncovered that programmers snuck a malevolent code that gave them inaccessible get to customers’ systems into an upgrade of Orion. The hack started as early as Walk, Solar Winds conceded, giving the programmers bounty of time to get to the customers’ inside workings. The  breach was not found until the unmistakable cybersecurity company FireEye, which itself employments Solar Winds, decided it had experienced a breach through the program. FireEye has not freely faulted that breach on the Solar Winds hack, but it allegedly affirmed that was the case to the tech location Krebs On Security on Tuesday. FireEye depicted the malware’s bewildering capabilities, from at first lying torpid up to two weeks, to stowed away. That was December 13, 2020. FireEye gauges programmers to begin with picked up get to in Walk 2020. For about eight months, malevolent on-screen characters carted absent untold sums of touchy information from contaminated organizations — and the total scope of the breach is still unfolding. Despite Microsoft seizing the code’s command and control server (a common component in botnet assaults as well), a few security specialists think the assailants may still have get to the Solar Winds Orion program system. Others are conjecturing that these programmers cleared out behind extra, yet-to-be-seen malevolent code.
Intrusion Detection in Cyber Space Using Machine Learning Based Algorithm
Authors: Bashir Muhammad , Atique Muhammad , Rehman Saif Ur , Khalil Muhammad Ibrahim
Published: September 2023

Now a day, the fast growth of Internet access and the adoption of smart digital technology has resulted in new cybercrime strategies targeting regular people and businesses. The Web and social activities take precedence in most aspects of their lives, but also poses significant social risks. Static and dynamic analysis are inefficient in detecting unknown malware in standard threat detection approaches. Virus makers create new malware by modifying current malware using polymorphic and evasion tactics in order to fool. Furthermore, by utilizing selection of features techniques to identify more important features and minimizing amount of the data, these Machine Learning models' accuracy can be increased, resulting in fewer calculations. In the previous study traditional machine learning approaches were used to detect Malware. We employed Cuckoo sandbox, a malware detection and analysis system for detection and categorization, in this study we provide a Machine Learning based Intrusion analysis system to calculate exact and on spot Intrusion classification. We integrated feature extraction and component selection from the file, as well as selecting the much higher quality, resulting in exceptional accuracy and cheaper computing costs. For reliable identification and fine-grained categorization, we use a variety of machine learning algorithms. Our experimental results show that we achieved good, classified accuracy when compared to state-of-the-art approaches. We employed machine learning techniques such as K-Nearest Neighbor, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, and Decision Tree. Using the Random Forest classifier on 108 features, we attained the greatest accuracy of 99.37 percent. We also discovered that Random Forest outscored all other classic machine learning techniques during the procedure. These findings can aid in the exact and accurate identification of Malware families.
Country Level Social Aggression Using Computational Modelling
Authors: Iqbal Saqib , Siddiqui Ghazanfar Farooq , Hussain Lal
Published: September 2023

Computational modelling is emerging field to model the cognitive as well as social interactions between individual and society.  Aggression is social evil which is instance response and its impact last for long time. Different societies have different norms and values based on ecological, environmental and cultural attributes so aggression level also varies among individuals and societies. Current study is based on psychological and temporal aggressive behaviour different individuals and societies in same habitat. In this paper we have proposed a frame work to model human social and psychological behaviors. Results are based on simulation which are according to our assumptions.
Regularized Contrastive Masked Autoencoder Model for Machinery Anomaly Detection Using Diffusion-Based Data Augmentation
Authors: Zahedi Esmaeil , Saraee Mohamad , Masoumi Fatemeh Sadat , Yazdinejad Mohsen
Published: September 2023

Unsupervised anomalous sound detection, especially self-supervised methods, plays a crucial role in differentiating unknown abnormal sounds of machines from normal sounds. Self-supervised learning can be divided into two main categories: Generative and Contrastive methods. While Generative methods mainly focus on reconstructing data, Contrastive learning methods refine data representations by leveraging the contrast between each sample and its augmented version. However, existing Contrastive learning methods for anomalous sound detection often have two main problems. The first one is that they mostly rely on simple augmentation techniques, such as time or frequency masking, which may introduce biases due to the limited diversity of real-world sounds and noises encountered in practical scenarios (e.g., factory noises combined with machine sounds). The second issue is dimension collapsing, which leads to learning a feature space with limited representation. To address the first shortcoming, we suggest a diffusion-based data augmentation method that employs ChatGPT and AudioLDM. Also, to address the second concern, we put forward a two-stage self-supervised model. In the first stage, we introduce a novel approach that combines Contrastive learning and masked autoencoders to pre-train on the MIMII and ToyADMOS2 datasets. This combination allows our model to capture both global and local features, leading to a more comprehensive representation of the data. In the second stage, we refine the audio representations for each machine ID by employing supervised Contrastive learning to fine-tune the pre-trained model. This process enhances the relationship between audio features originating from the same machine ID. Experiments show that our method outperforms most of the state-of-the-art self-supervised learning methods. Our suggested model achieves an average AUC and pAUC of 94.39% and 87.93% on the DCASE 2020 Challenge Task2 dataset, respectively.
Abnormal Fetal Lung of Hoxa1−/− Piglets Is Rescued by Maternal Feeding with All-Trans Retinoic Acid
Authors: Chen Yixin , Zhou Haimei , Wu Huadong , Lu Wei , He Yuyong
Published: September 2023

Neonatal Hoxa1−/− piglets were characterized by dyspnea owing to the Hoxa1 mutation, and maternal administration with ATRA alleviated the dyspnea of neonatal Hoxa1−/− piglets. The purpose of this experiment was to explore how maternal ATRA administration rescued the abnormal fetal lungs of Hoxa1−/− piglets. Samples of the lungs were collected from neonatal Hoxa1−/− and non-Hoxa1−/− piglets delivered by sows in the control group, and from neonatal Hoxa1−/− piglets born by sows administered with ATRA at 4 mg/kg body weight on dpc 12, 13, or 14, respectively. These were used for the analysis of ELISA, histological morphology, immunofluorescence staining, immunohistochemistry staining, and quantitative real-time PCR. The results indicate that the Hoxa1 mutation had adverse impacts on the development of the alveoli and pulmonary microvessels of Hoxa1−/− piglets. Maternal administration with ATRA at 4 mg/kg body weight on dpc 14 rescued the abnormal lung development of Hoxa1−/− piglets by increasing the IFN-γ concentration (p < 0.05), airspace area (p < 0.01) and pulmonary microvessel density (p < 0.01); increasing the expression of VEGFD (p < 0.01), PDGFD (p < 0.01), KDR (p < 0.01), ID1 (p < 0.01), and NEDD4 (p < 0.01); and decreasing the septal wall thickness (p < 0.01) and the expression of SFTPC (p < 0.01) and FOXO3 (p < 0.01). Maternal administration with ATRA plays a vital role in rescuing the abnormal development of lung of Hoxa1−/− fetal piglets.
Unraveling Functional Dysphagia: A Game-Changing Automated Machine-Learning Diagnostic Approach
Authors: Zifan Ali , Lin Junyue , Peng Zihan , Bo Yiqing , Mittal Ravinder K.
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Dysphagia affects around 16% of the US population. Diagnostic tests like X-ray barium swallow and endoscopy are used initially to diagnose the cause of dysphagia, followed by high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM). If the above tests are normal, the patient is classified as functional dysphagia (FD), suggesting esophageal sensory dysfunction. HRM records only the contraction phase of peristalsis, not the distension phase. We investigated the utilization of esophageal distension–contraction patterns for the automatic classification of FD, using artificial intelligent shallow learners. (2) Methods: Studies were performed in 30 healthy subjects and 30 patients with FD. Custom-built software (Dplots 1.0) was used to extract relevant esophageal distension–contraction features. Next, we used multiple shallow learners, namely support vector machines, random forest, K-nearest neighbors, and logistic regression, to determine which had the best performance in terms of accuracy, precision, and recall. (3) Results: In the proximal segment, LR produced the best results, with accuracy of 91.7% and precision of 92.86%, using only distension features. In the distal segment, random forest produced accuracy of 90.5% and precision of 91.1% using both pressure and distension features. (4) Conclusions: Findings emphasize the crucial role of abnormality in the distension phase of peristalsis in FD patients.
Simulation and Analysis of Line 1 of Mexico City’s Metrobus: Evaluating System Performance through Passenger Satisfaction
Authors: Rodriguez Jose Pablo , Muñoz David F.
Published: September 2023

The Mexico City Metrobus is one of the most popular forms of public transportation inside the city, and since its opening in 2005, it has become a vital piece of infrastructure for the city; this is why the optimal functioning of the system is of key importance to Mexico City, as it plays a crucial role in moving millions of passengers every day. This paper presents a model to simulate Line 1 of the Mexico City Metrobus, which can be adapted to simulate other bus rapid transit (BRT) systems. We give a detailed description of the model development so that the reader can replicate our model. We developed various response variables in order to evaluate the system’s performance, which focused on passenger satisfaction and measured the maximum occupancy that a passenger experiences inside the buses, as well as the time that he spends in the queues at the stations. The results of the experiments show that it is possible to increase passenger satisfaction by considering different combinations of routes while maintaining the same fuel consumption. It was shown that, by considering an appropriate combination of routes, the average passenger satisfaction could surpass the satisfaction levels obtained by a 10% increase in total fuel consumption.
Quantification of Squalene and Lactic Acid in Hair Bulbs with Damaged Sheaths: Are They Metabolic Wastes in Alopecia?
Authors: Perinelli Diego Romano , Cambriani Alessandra , Antognini Gianluigi , Agostinacchio Gaetano , Marliani Andrea , Cespi Marco , Torregiani Elisabetta , Bonacucina Giulia
Published: September 2023

Alopecia is a pathological and multifactorial condition characterised by an altered hair growth cycle and ascribed to different pathogenic causes. Cell energetic imbalances in hair follicles occurring in this disorder could lead to the production of some “metabolic wastes”, including squalene and lactic acid, which could be involved in the clinically observed sheath damage. The aim of this work was the extraction and analytical quantification of squalene and lactic acid from hair bulbs of subjects with clinical alopecia in comparison with controls, using HPLC-DAD and HPLC-MS techniques. The analytical quantification was performed after a preliminary observation through a polarised optical microscope to assess sheath damage and morphological alterations in the cases group. A significantly larger amount of squalene was quantified only in subjects affected by alopecia (n = 31) and with evident damage to hair sheaths. For lactic acid, no statistically significant differences were found between cases (n = 21) and controls (n = 21) under the experimental conditions used. Therefore, the obtained results suggest that squalene can represent a metabolic and a pathogenic marker for some alopecia conditions.
Systematic Review of the Survival Outcomes of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Women with Malignant Ovarian Germ Cell Tumors
Authors: Sakaguchi-Mukaida Hitomi , Matsuzaki Shinya , Ueda Yutaka , Matsuzaki Satoko , Kakuda Mamoru , Lee Misooja , Deguchi Satoki , Sakata Mina , Maeda Michihide , Kakubari Reisa , Hisa Tsuyoshi , Mabuchi Seiji , Kamiura Shoji
Published: September 2023

Randomized clinical trials assessing the efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) for advanced epithelial ovarian cancer have predominantly included women with high-grade serous carcinomas. The response rate and oncological outcomes of NACT for malignant ovarian germ cell tumors (MOGCT) are poorly understood. This study aimed to examine the effects of NACT on women with MOGCT by conducting a systematic review of four public search engines. Fifteen studies were identified, and a further descriptive analysis was performed for 10 original articles. In those studies, most women were treated with a bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin regimen, and one to three cycles were used in most studies. Four studies comparing NACT and primary debulking surgery showed similar complete response rates (n = 2; pooled odds ratio [OR] 0.90, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.15–5.27), comparable overall survival (n = 3; 87.0–100% versus 70.0–100%), disease-free survival (n = 3; 87.0–100% versus 70.0–100%), recurrence rate (n = 1; OR 3.50, 95%CI 0.38–32.50), and adverse events rate from chemotherapy between the groups. In conclusion, NACT may be considered for the management of MOGCT; however, possible candidates for NACT use and an ideal number of NACT cycles remain unknown. Further studies are warranted to validate the efficacy of NACT in advanced MOGCT patients.
Gene Expressions and High Lymphocyte Count May Predict Durable Clinical Benefits in Patients with Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Mouritzen Mette T. , Ladekarl Morten , Hager Henrik , Mattesen Trine B. , Lippert Julie B. , Frank Malene S. , Nøhr Anne K. , Egendal Ida B. , Carus Andreas
Published: September 2023

Background: Not all patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Therefore, we aimed to assess the predictive potential of gene expression profiling (GEP), peripheral immune cell counts, and clinical characteristics. Methods: The primary endpoint of this prospective, observational study was a durable clinical benefit (DCB) defined as progression-free survival >6 months. In a subgroup with histological biopsies of sufficient quality (n = 25), GEP was performed using the nCounter® PanCancer IO 360 panel. Results: DCB was observed in 49% of 123 included patients. High absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) and absence of liver metastases were associated with DCB (OR = 1.95, p = 0.038 and OR = 0.36, p = 0.046, respectively). GEP showed clustering of differentially expressed genes according to DCB, and a strong association between PD-L1 assessed by GEP (CD274) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) was observed (p = 0.00013). The TGF-β, dendritic cell, and myeloid signature scores were higher for patients without DCB, whereas the JAK/STAT loss signature scores were higher for patients with DCB (unadjusted p-values < 0.05). Conclusions: ALC above 1.01 × 109/L and absence of liver metastases were significantly associated with DCB in ICI-treated patients with NSCLC. GEP was only feasible in 20% of the patients. GEP-derived signatures may be associated with clinical outcomes, and PD-L1 could be assessed by GEP rather than IHC.
Molecular Factors in PAD2 (PADI2) and PAD4 (PADI4) Are Associated with Interstitial Lung Disease Susceptibility in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Nava-Quiroz Karol J. , Rojas-Serrano Jorge , Pérez-Rubio Gloria , Buendia-Roldan Ivette , Mejía Mayra , Fernández-López Juan Carlos , Rodríguez-Henríquez Pedro , Ayala-Alcantar Noé , Ramos-Martínez Espiridión , López-Flores Luis Alberto , Del Ángel-Pablo Alma D. , Falfán-Valencia Ramcés
Published: September 2023

Around 50% of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients show some extra-articular manifestation, with the lung a usually affected organ; in addition, the presence of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) is a common feature, which is caused by protein citrullination modifications, catalyzed by the peptidyl arginine deiminases (PAD) enzymes. We aimed to identify single nucleotide variants (SNV) in PADI2 and PADI4 genes (PAD2 and PAD4 proteins, respectively) associated with susceptibility to interstitial lung disease (ILD) in RA patients and the PAD2 and PAD4 levels. Material and methods: 867 subjects were included: 118 RA-ILD patients, 133 RA patients, and 616 clinically healthy subjects (CHS). Allelic discrimination was performed in eight SNVs using qPCR, four in PADI2 and four in PADI4. The ELISA technique determined PAD2 and PAD4 levels in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples, and the population structure was evaluated using 14 informative ancestry markers. Results: The rs1005753-GG (OR = 4.9) in PADI2 and rs11203366-AA (OR = 3.08), rs11203367-GG (OR = 2.4) in PADI4 are associated with genetic susceptibility to RA-ILD as well as the ACTC haplotype (OR = 2.64). In addition, the PAD4 protein is increased in RA-ILD individuals harboring the minor allele homozygous genotype in PADI4 SNVs. Moreover, rs1748033 in PADI4, rs2057094, and rs2076615 in PADI2 are associated with RA susceptibility. In conclusion, in RA patients, single nucleotide variants in PADI4 and PADI2 are associated with ILD susceptibility. The rs1748033 in PADI4 and two different SNVs in PADI2 are associated with RA development but not ILD. PAD4 serum levels are increased in RA-ILD patients.
Recent Advances in the Raman Investigation of Structural and Optical Properties of Graphene and Other Two-Dimensional Materials
Authors: Politano Grazia Giuseppina , Versace Carlo
Published: September 2023

This research work presents our recent advancements in the study of graphene and other two-dimensional (2D) materials. This review covers studies on graphene oxide (GO) thin films deposited on various substrates, including titanium and silver thin films. The analysis reveals the role of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and the influence of film thickness and laser intensity on the observed Raman peaks. Investigations of a silver/GO/gold sandwich structure demonstrate the presence of sharp Raman modes attributed to localized surface plasmon resonances. This review also discusses the characterization of exfoliation-synthesized graphene nanoplatelet (GNPs) thin films and of single-layer graphene deposited via chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The optical properties of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) films are also explored. The utilization of micro-Raman spectroscopy provides valuable insights into the structural and optical properties of graphene and other 2D materials. These results hold the potential to drive advancements in various applications, such as electronics, photonics, and nanocomposites.
An Overview of CD133 as a Functional Unit of Prognosis and Treatment Resistance in Glioblastoma
Authors: Joyce Thomas , Jagasia Sarisha , Tasci Erdal , Camphausen Kevin , Krauze Andra Valentina
Published: September 2023

Biomarkers for resistance in Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) are lacking, and progress in the clinic has been slow to arrive. CD133 (prominin-1) is a membrane-bound glycoprotein on the surface of cancer stem cells (CSCs) that has been associated with poor prognosis, therapy resistance, and tumor recurrence in GBM. Due to its connection to CSCs, to which tumor resistance and recurrence have been partially attributed in GBM, there is a growing field of research revolving around the potential role of CD133 in each of these processes. However, despite encouraging results in vitro and in vivo, the biological interplay of CD133 with these components is still unclear, causing a lack of clinical application. In parallel, omic data from biospecimens that include CD133 are beginning to emerge, increasing the importance of understanding CD133 for the effective use of these highly dimensional data sets. Given the significant mechanistic overlap, prioritization of the most robust findings is necessary to optimize the transition of CD133 to clinical applications using patient-derived biospecimens. As a result, this review aims to compile and analyze the current research regarding CD133 as a functional unit in GBM, exploring its connections to prognosis, the tumor microenvironment, tumor resistance, and tumor recurrence.
Beyond Participation: Evaluating the Role of Patients in Designing Oncology Clinical Trials
Authors: Farah Eliya , Kenney Matthew , Kica Anris , Haddad Paul , Stewart David J. , Bradford John-Peter
Published: September 2023

Historically, subject matter experts and healthcare professionals have played a pivotal role in driving oncology clinical trials. Although patients have been key participants, their deliberate and active contribution to the design and decision-making process has been limited. This scoping review aimed to examine the existing literature to scope the extent of active patient engagement in the design of oncology clinical trials and its corresponding influence on trial outcomes. We conducted a systematic search using two databases, namely MEDLINE (Ovid) and EMBASE, to identify relevant studies exploring patient engagement in cancer-related clinical research design. We identified seven studies that met the eligibility criteria. The studies highlighted the benefits of active patient involvement, such as improved recruitment strategies, and the attainment of more patient-centered trial outcomes. The influence of patient involvement varied from tangible developments like patient-friendly resources to indirect impacts like improved patient experiences and potentially higher adherence to trial intervention. The future of clinical trials should prioritize patients’ values and perspectives, with regulatory bodies fostering these practices through clear guidelines. As the concept of patient centricity takes root in oncology research, the involvement of patients should evolve beyond mere participation.
Higher Education vs. Professional Opportunities: The Value of Ph.D. Studies
Authors: Fraguas-Sánchez Ana Isabel , Serrano Dolores R. , Medina Sánchez M. Ángeles , González-Burgos Elena
Published: September 2023

Background: The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is a doctoral research degree that represents the highest level of academic qualification awarded by universities. It is expected that professionals holding a Ph.D. degree can target higher-paying jobs. However, little is known about the real correlation between Ph.D. holders and professional career development. For the first time, a study was undertaken among Ph.D. graduates from the Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), one of the largest universities in Spain, to understand the value of the Ph.D. on students’ satisfaction and career prospects. Methods: An anonymous questionnaire, created through Google Forms with three sections (sociodemographic data, academic data about doctoral studies, and employment status), was sent to Ph.D. graduates from UCM between 2015 and 2022. Results: A total of 107 Ph.D. graduates participated in this study. Responders felt that the Ph.D. degree has positively impacted their soft skills development and capability for constant learning but has minimal impact on their overall employability, although the employment rate was 94%. Most of the jobs undertaken by the Ph.D. holders were linked to academic research areas and were located in Spain, with salaries ranging between 14,000 and 50,000 EUR. Conclusions: Universities should implement novel policies at the Ph.D. level to ensure students are not only exposed to the scientific environment but are also prepared and qualified for highly skilled jobs. It is key to creating a community along with the private sector and providing the necessary tools for fostering Ph.D. students’ satisfaction and career prospects.
Comparison of Least-Cost Pathways towards Universal Electricity Access in Somalia over Different Timelines
Authors: Sahlberg Andreas , Khavari Babak , Mohamed Ismail , Fuso Nerini Francesco
Published: September 2023

Access to electricity is a prerequisite for development, included in both the Agenda for Sustainable Development and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Still, universal access to electricity is elusive to large parts of the global population. In Somalia, approximately one-third of the population has access to electricity. The country is unique among non-island countries as it has no centralized grid network. This paper applies a geospatial electrification model to examine paths towards universal access to electricity in Somalia under different timelines and with regard to different levels of myopia in the modeling process. This extends the previous scientific literature on geospatial electrification modeling by studying the effect of myopia for the first time and simultaneously presenting the first geospatial electrification analysis focused on Somalia. Using the Open Source Spatial Electrification Tool (OnSSET), the least-cost electrification options towards 2030 and 2040, respectively, are compared. We find that under the shorter timeline, a deployment of mini-grids and stand-alone PV technologies alone provides the least-cost option under all but one scenario. However, under the longer timeline, the construction of a national transmission backbone would lower overall costs if there is high demand growth and/or low cost of centralized grid electricity generation. We also compare different levels of myopia in the modeling process. Here, OnSSET is first run directly until 2040, then in five-year time-steps and annual time-steps. We find that running the model directly until 2040 leads to the lowest costs overall. Running the model myopically leads to a sub-optimal, more costly technology mix, with a lock-in effect towards stand-alone systems. On the other hand, the myopic approach does provide additional insights into the development of the system over time. We find that longer-term planning favors the centralized grid network, whereas short-sighted myopic planning can lead to higher costs in the long term and a technology mix with a higher share of stand-alone PV.
Proposal for Repairable Silicon Solar Panels: Proof of Concept
Authors: El-Fayome Ehab , Zekry Abdel Halim , Abdelhamed Mohamed A. , EL-Shazly Ahmed , Abouelatta Mohamed , Shaker Ahmed , Saeed Ahmed
Published: September 2023

The long-term performance of traditional solar panels can be affected by various climate conditions, resulting in issues such as decreased power output, interconnector failure, and cell fracture. Unfortunately, traditional modules are not repairable, and often the entire unit must be replaced, even if the failure is due only to a single component. In this work, conventional encapsulation methods are investigated, and a novel solar panel design approach is introduced. This innovative approach enables easy and direct access to individual components, thereby enabling the convenient carrying out of repairs, upgrades, and modifications. The proposed module configuration is composed of a double-layer structure. The initial layer functions as a protective glass cover while the second layer is made up of solar cells that are attached to a printed circuit board (PCB) that can endure high temperatures. These two layers are combined within an aluminum frame that can be opened for accessibility. To test the effectiveness of this new encapsulation technique, an experimental study was conducted. It was revealed through this experimental study that the dark and illuminated current–voltage characteristics are not affected when applying the new encapsulation technique. Furthermore, a theoretical thermal analysis was conducted in order to compare the performance of the proposed module with that of a conventional module. According to the thermal analysis, the proposed encapsulation method should result in slightly higher thermal stress on the solar cells compared with conventional encapsulation. Nonetheless, the proposed methodology offers advantages in terms of reliability and reparability. Thus, implementing the presented design can help conserve natural resources and reduce production costs.
Effects of Table Grape Cultivars on Fruit Quality and Aroma Components
Authors: Wang Wan-Ni , Qian Yun-Hui , Liu Ruo-Han , Liang Tao , Ding Yin-Ting , Xu Xue-Lei , Huang Shan , Fang Yu-Lin , Ju Yan-Lun
Published: September 2023

The basic physical and chemical qualities, nutrition, aroma components, and sensory evaluation of 17 varieties of table grapes were studied. The quality evaluation system of different table grape varieties was preliminarily determined. Our results show that the soluble solid content in Ruby Seedless was 21.17%, which was higher than that of other varieties. The black varieties Aishenmeigui and Sweet Sapphire had the highest total phenol content. Aishenmeigui had high levels of tannin and vitamin C. In addition, the aroma contents in Meixiangbao, Ruby Seedless, and Shine-Muscat were higher than those in other varieties. Manicure Finger and Ruby Seedless had higher levels of C6 compounds. Moreover, the “Kyoho” series of grape Meixiangbao, Sunmmer Black, Jumeigui, Hutai 8 hao, and Black Beet were high in ester content, while Muscat varieties, including Zaoheibao, Aishenmeigui, Jumeigui, and Shine-Muscat were rich in terpene substances. Ruby Seedless, Shine-Muscat, and Heibaladuo had higher comprehensive scores in sensory evaluation. Hence, the comprehensive quality of Shine-Muscat, Ruby Seedless, and Aishenmeigui was better. These results may serve as references for determining the quality differences between table grape varieties.
Blockchain Revolutionizing in Emergency Medicine: A Scoping Review of Patient Journey through the ED
Authors: Wu Tzu-Chi , Ho Chien-Ta Bruce
Published: September 2023

Background: Blockchain technology has revolutionized the healthcare sector, including emergency medicine, by integrating AI, machine learning, and big data, thereby transforming traditional healthcare practices. The increasing utilization and accumulation of personal health data also raises concerns about security and privacy, particularly within emergency medical settings. Method: Our review focused on articles published in databases such as Web of Science, PubMed, and Medline, discussing the revolutionary impact of blockchain technology within the context of the patient journey through the ED. Results: A total of 33 publications met our inclusion criteria. The findings emphasize that blockchain technology primarily finds its applications in data sharing and documentation. The pre-hospital and post-discharge applications stand out as distinctive features compared to other disciplines. Among various platforms, Ethereum and Hyperledger Fabric emerge as the most frequently utilized options, while Proof of Work (PoW) and Proof of Authority (PoA) stand out as the most commonly employed consensus algorithms in this emergency care domain. The ED journey map and two scenarios are presented, exemplifying the most distinctive applications of emergency medicine, and illustrating the potential of blockchain. Challenges such as interoperability, scalability, security, access control, and cost could potentially arise in emergency medical contexts, depending on the specific scenarios. Conclusion: Our study examines the ongoing research on blockchain technology, highlighting its current influence and potential future advancements in optimizing emergency medical services. This approach empowers frontline medical professionals to validate their practices and recognize the transformative potential of blockchain in emergency medical care, ultimately benefiting both patients and healthcare providers.
CuCoMgAlOx Mixed Oxides as Selective Catalysts for the Hydrogenation of Furan Compounds
Authors: Kobzar Elena O. , Stepanova Liudmila N. , Nepomniashchii Aleksandr A. , Vasilevich Anastasia V. , Gulyaeva Tatiana I. , Trenikhin Mikhail V. , Lavrenov Aleksandr V.
Published: September 2023

Single phase CuCoMgAl-layered hydroxides were obtained by making fine adjustment to their composition through changing the (Co + Cu)/Mg = 0.5; 1; 2; 3 and Co/Cu = 0.5; 1; 2 ratios. The rise of Co/Cu in systems contributed to the increase in their thermal stability. CuCoMgAl-catalysts showed high selectivity of carbonyl group hydrogenation in furfural and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural. In furfural hydrogenation, the selectivity to furfuryl alcohol was more than 99%, and in 5-hydroxymethylfurfural hydrogenation, the selectivity to 2,5-hydroxymethyl furfural was 95%. The surface of the samples with different Co/Cu after calcination and reduction was the same and had a «core-shell» structure (TEM). «Core» consisted of Cu and Co metallic particles. «Shell» consisted of CuCoMgAlOx mixed no-stoichiometric spinel oxides. There was no sintering or change in size of the metallic particles after the reaction. For the sample with Co/Cu = 1, their phase composition after reaction remained unchangeable. The increase of Co/Cu led to the formation of an X-ray amorphous phase after the reaction. This suggests the decrease in structural stability of this sample. The obtained results prove the prospects of using bimetallic CoCu-systems for hydrogenation of furan aldehydes, and opens up new directions for further research and improvement.
Inhibition of HSP90 in Driver Oncogene-Defined Lung Adenocarcinoma Cell Lines: Key Proteins Underpinning Therapeutic Efficacy
Authors: Marrugal Ángela , Ferrer Irene , Quintanal-Villalonga Álvaro , Ojeda Laura , Pastor María Dolores , García-Luján Ricardo , Carnero Amancio , Paz-Ares Luis , Molina-Pinelo Sonia
Published: September 2023

The use of 90 kDa heat shock protein (HSP90) inhibition as a therapy in lung adenocarcinoma remains limited due to moderate drug efficacy, the emergence of drug resistance, and early tumor recurrence. The main objective of this research is to maximize treatment efficacy in lung adenocarcinoma by identifying key proteins underlying HSP90 inhibition according to molecular background, and to search for potential biomarkers of response to this therapeutic strategy. Inhibition of the HSP90 chaperone was evaluated in different lung adenocarcinoma cell lines representing the most relevant molecular alterations (EGFR mutations, KRAS mutations, or EML4-ALK translocation) and wild-type genes found in each tumor subtype. The proteomic technique iTRAQ was used to identify proteomic profiles and determine which biological pathways are involved in the response to HSP90 inhibition in lung adenocarcinoma. We corroborated the greater efficacy of HSP90 inhibition in EGFR mutated or EML4-ALK translocated cell lines. We identified proteins specifically and significantly deregulated after HSP90 inhibition for each molecular alteration. Two proteins, ADI1 and RRP1, showed independently deregulated molecular patterns. Functional annotation of the altered proteins suggested that apoptosis was the only pathway affected by HSP90 inhibition across all molecular subgroups. The expression of ADI1 and RRP1 could be used to monitor the correct inhibition of HSP90 in lung adenocarcinoma. In addition, proteins such as ASS1, ITCH, or UBE2L3 involved in pathways related to the inhibition of a particular molecular background could be used as potential response biomarkers, thereby improving the efficacy of this therapeutic approach to combat lung adenocarcinoma.
Blood Immunophenotypes of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Relationship with Disease Severity and Progression
Authors: Mendoza Nuria , Casas-Recasens Sandra , Olvera Núria , Hernandez-Gonzalez Fernanda , Cruz Tamara , Albacar Núria , Alsina-Restoy Xavier , Frino-Garcia Alejandro , López-Saiz Gemma , Robres Lucas , Rojas Mauricio , Agustí Alvar , Sellarés Jacobo , Faner Rosa
Published: September 2023

(1) The role of the immune response in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) remains controversial. We hypothesized that peripheral blood immune phenotypes will be different in IPF patients and may relate to the disease severity and progression. (2) Whole blood flow cytometry staining was performed at diagnosis in 32 IPF patients, and in 32 age- and smoking-matched healthy controls. Thirty-one IPF patients were followed up for one year and categorized as stable or progressors based on lung function, deterioration and/or death. At 18–60 months, immunophenotypes were characterized again. (3) The main results showed that: (1) compared to matched controls, at diagnosis, patients with IPF showed more neutrophils, CD8+HLA-DR+ and CD8+CD28− T cells, and fewer B lymphocytes and naïve T cells; (2) in IPF, circulating neutrophils, eosinophils and naïve T cells were associated with lung function abnormalities; (3) patients whose disease progressed during the 12 months of follow-up showed evidence of cytotoxic dysregulation, with increased CD8+CD28− T cells, decreased naïve T cells and an inverted CD4/CD8 ratio at baseline; and (4) blood cell alterations were stable over time in survivors. (4) IPF is associated with abnormalities in circulating immune cells, particularly in the cytotoxic cell domain. Patients with progressive IPF, despite antifibrotic therapy, present an over-activated and exhausted immunophenotype at diagnosis, which is maintained over time.