bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diverse Cellular Tropisms and Immune Responses during Beta-Coronavirus Infections in Human Bronchial Epithelial Organoids
Authors: Choi Young Ki , Park Dongbin , Kim Se-Mi , JANG HOBIN , Kim Kanghee , Ji Ho young , Yang Heedong , Kwon Woohyun , Kang Yeonglim , Hwang Suhee , Kim Hyunjoon , Lee Joo-Yeon
Published: October 2023

The lower respiratory system serves as the primary target and barrier for beta-coronavirus (beta-CoV) infections. We investigated the interactions between four distinct beta-CoVs [HCoV-OC43, SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 (Omicron)] in human bronchial epithelial (HBE) organoids using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). Our findings revealed diverse viral tropisms: SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 mainly infected ciliated cells, while HCoV-OC43 and MERS-CoV preferred club and goblet cells, respectively. Notably, genes encoding the host receptor BSG (CD147) and proteases (TMPRSS2, cathepsin B/D, and SPCS1) associated with beta-CoV infections were upregulated by all four virus infections, particularly in club cells. Transcriptomic profiling showed that these viruses commonly induced inflammation via TNF-α/NF-кB signaling and reduced interferon responses. However, host-defense pathways like the unfolded protein response, ER-related calcium regulation, and oxidative stress response exhibited cell-type and virus-dependent regulations. Notably, in contrast to SARS-CoV infection, HCoV-OC43 infected cells induce the upregulation of IFNα-related interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) particularly in club and goblet cells, potentially suppressing viral replication despite widespread infection. Taken together, our study redefines our understanding of beta-CoVs cellular tropism and highlights the intricate interplay between these cells and the host's immune defense mechanisms.
Analysis of the china tuberculosis incidence study from 2004 to 2019 and association with GDP per capita: A Frontier Analysis
Authors: Lv Hengliang , Li Xuan , Zhang Xin , Wang Longhao , Zhang Xueli , Bai Junzhu , You Shumeng , Zhang Wenyi , Xu Yuanyong
Published: October 2023

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) continues to pose a considerable social and economic burden, with China currently ranking as the third highest in terms of TB burden globally. This study examined the variations in TB incidence across different provinces in China between 2004 and 2019, while analyzing its relationship with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita. The objective is to provide more precise insights to aid the formulation of effective policies for TB prevention and control in China.
Method: The TB data utilized in this study was obtained from the Data-centre of China Public Health Science. To analyze the temporal trends of TB incidence rate from 2004 to 2019, joinpoint regression analysis was employed. In order to estimate the overall level of spatial autocorrelation, global spatial autocorrelation was utilized, and local indicators of spatial association were employed to assess the impact of individual locations on the magnitude of the global statistic and to identify the location and types of clusters. Additionally, to assess the relationship between the incidence of TB and GDP per capita, Pearson's test and frontier analysis were adopted.
Results: The analysis revealed a consistent decline in TB incidence from 2004 to 2019(APC = -3.2, P < 0.001), with the highest incidence occurring in spring and the lowest in December each year. Significant global spatial autocorrelation existed in the TB incidence rate from 2004 to 2019 (all P < 0.005) with the Moran’s I index ranging from 0.1926 to 0.5319. The western regions of China primarily exhibited a high incidence, forming the high-high cluster, whereas Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, and Jiangsu consistently belonged to the low-low cluster throughout the study period. We discovered a correlation between TB incidence and per capita GDP, and some regions with inadequate TB control, such as Tibet, Xinjiang, Qinghai and Guizhou, etc provinces, exhibited higher incidence rates that given GDP per capita.
Conclusion: Tibet, Xinjiang, Qinghai and Guizhou, etc show a larger TB burden compared to other regions with similar GDP per capita, which requires further exploring how to control TB in a satisfactory situation with limited capital investment and health resources.
A Real-World Cohort Study of First-Line Afatinib in Patients with EGFR-Mutant Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in Vietnam
Authors: Pham Cam Phuong , Nguyen Thi Thai Hoa , Do Anh Tu , Nguyen Tuan Khoi , Hoang Thi Anh Thu , Le Tuan Anh , Vuong Dinh Thy Hao , Nguyen Dac Nhan Tam , Dang Van Khiem , Nguyen Thi Oanh , Pham Van Luan , Vo Thi Huyen Trang , Do Hung Kien , Vu Ha Thanh , Trinh Le Huy , Nguyen Khac Dung , Nguyen Hoang Gia , Truong Cong Minh , Pham Tran Minh Chau , Pham Van Thai , Nguyen Thi Thuy Hang , Nguyen Minh Hai , Nguyen Thi Bich Phuong
Published: October 2023

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and side effects of first-line afatinib treatment in a real-world setting in Vietnam.
Methods: This retrospective study was conducted across nine hospitals in Vietnam. Advanced epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who received afatinib as first-line therapy between April 2018 and June 2022 were included, and patient medical records were reviewed. Key outcomes were overall response rate (ORR), time-to-treatment failure (TTF), and tolerability.
Results: A total of 343 patients on first-line afatinib were eligible for the study. EGFR exon 19 deletion (Del19) alone was detected in 46.9% of patients, L858R mutation alone in 26.3%, and other uncommon EGFR mutations, including compound mutations, in 26.8%. Patients with brain metastases at baseline were 25.4%. Patients who received 40 mg, 30 mg, and 20 mg as starting doses of afatinib were 58.6%, 39.9%, and 1.5%, respectively. The ORR was 78.1% in the overall population, 82.6% in the Del19 mutation subgroup, 73.3% in the L858R mutation subgroup, and 75.0% in the uncommon mutation subgroup (p>0.05). The univariate and multivariate analyses indicate that the ORR increased when the starting dose was 40 mg compared to starting doses below 40 mg (83.9% vs 74.3%, p=0.034). The median TTF (mTTF) was 16.7 months (CI 95%: 14.8 – 18.5) in all patients, with a median follow-up time of 26.2 months. The mTTF was longer in patientsin the common EGFR mutation subgroup (Del19/L858R) than in those in the uncommon mutation subgroup (17.5 vs 13.8 months, p=0.045) and in those without versus with brain metastases at baseline (17.5 vs 15.1 months, p=0.049). There were no significant differences in the mTTF between subgroups based on the starting dose of 40 mg and <40 mg (16.7 vs 16.9 months, p>0.05). The most common treatment-related adverse events (any grade/grade ≥3) were diarrhea (55.4%/3.5%), rash (51.9%/3.2%), paronychia (35.3%/5.0%), and stomatitis (22.2%/1.2%).
Conclusions: Afatinib demonstrated clinical effectiveness and good tolerability in Vietnamese EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients. In our real-world setting, administering a starting dose below 40 mg might result in a reduction in ORR; however, it might not have a significant impact on TTF.
Urban Heat Island and Electrical Load Estimation Using Machine Learning in Metropolitan Area of Rio de Janeiro
Authors: França Gutemberg Borges , de Almeida Vinícius Albuquerque , de Lucena Andrews José , Peres Leonardo de Faria , Velho Haroldo Fraga de Campos , de Almeida Manoel Valdonel , Pimentel Gilberto Gomes , Cardozo Karine do Nascimento , Belém Liz Barreto Coelho , de Miranda Vitor Fonseca Vieira Vasconcelos , Ferreira Leonardo de Brito , Maciel Álvaro de Souza Andrade , Santos Fillipi Archetti dos
Published: October 2023

We developed a daily electrical load forecasting model for the State of Rio de Janeiro and a monthly model for each Light concessionaire substation in the Metropolitan Area of Rio de Janeiro (MARJ). The data used are 1) daily National System Operator (ONS) electrical load data respecting to State of Rio de Janeiro for four years (2017–2020); 2) the monthly electrical load of 84 Light substations for 11 years (2010–2020); 3) the maximum, minimum, and mean air temperature. In addition, remotely sensed land-surface temperature (LST) based on Landsat data from 1984 to 2020 is used to restructure the current meteorological network on MARJ based on the disposition of the Light substations. Using cross-validation, we performed 500 daily and 500 monthly training-testing experiments of five regressive machine learning-based algorithms. Results for daily-ONS and monthly-Light loads show average correlations (hindcast in parentheses) of the fitted models of 0.85 ± 0.09 (0.83 ± 0.07) and 0.89 ± 0.05 (0 .91 ± 0.06), respectively. The model's Mean Average of Error (MAE) values correspond to a percentage error of about 4.03% (daily) and 4.83% (monthly). According to the monthly electrical load behavior revealed, when the temperature changes from 23 to 26℃ at MARJ, it rises roughly from 1.92x10⁶ ± 67227.4 kWh to 2.70x10⁶ ± 90198.5 kWh. We performed a cluster analysis based on the locations of 1) the 18 meteorological stations currently installed, 2) the 84 Light electrical load substations, and 3) the urban heat island cores. Results reveal seven locations where new meteorological stations should be installed to model the electrical load with higher spatial resolution in MARJ.
Using a dual metabolomics strategy to investigate the mechanism of intragastric local pancreatic hypothermia in rats with acute pancreatitis
Authors: Yu Fang , Tang Zhanhong , Li Xiang , Zhang Xingwen , Tan Zheng , Chen Yun , Liu Xinyu , Liu Lilei
Published: October 2023

Background
Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disease that causes pancreatic autodigestion, and severe AP (SAP) is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Thus, a rapid approach that reverses harmful symptoms when patients with AP arrive at the emergency room is required.
Methods
We investigated the effect and mechanism of intragastric hypothermia on AP using a dual metabolomics strategy to detect metabolites and metabolic pathways. ELISA and immunohistochemistry with western blotting were used to measure serum amylase levels and cytokine expression, respectively, in sham operation, AP, and acute pancreatitis hypothermia (APH) rat models.
Results
Compared with the AP group, the APH group exhibited decreased amylase levels and decreased expression of cytokines after surgery. Moreover, 289 differential metabolites and three main metabolic pathways (ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, pentose and glucuronate interconversion, and tryptophan metabolism) were identified in the APH and AP groups.
Conclusions
Intragastric local hypothermia intervention reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines and reduced the level of blood amylase and pancreatic pathological damage in rats with AP. This study provides a theoretical reference for the intervention of local hypothermia in the stomach in early pancreatitis.
Objective evaluation of the round window access in computed tomography for cochlear implantation
Authors: Amernik Katarzyna , Mielnik Michał , Gostyński Marcin , Dzięciołowska-Baran Edyta
Published: October 2023

Objective
The aim of this study was to determine what kind of radiological parameters are the best for assessing RW approach for CI surgery.
Material and Methods
Patients undergoing cochlear implantation between 2015 and 2022 were eligible for the study. Radiological assessment was performed according to parameters proposed in literature. Clinical assessment was made intraoperative. The difference in the assessment of accessibility to the round window niche and the round window membrane (RWN - RWM) indicated the clinical assessment of the size of the overhang over the round window.
Results
Computed tomography images of 57 ears in 52 patients were analyzed in terms of round window access. The study group included 26 women and 26 men, ranging in age from 1 year to 80 years, with a mean age of 36.2. In clinical assessment RW visibility was rated as 5 after removal of the bony overhang in 69% of patients. Cochlear access through the round window was performed in 39 patients, extended access through the round window in 13 cases and cochleostomy in 5 patients. Statistically significant correlations describing RW access were found for parameters proposed by Chen and by us. From parameters describing bony overhang of the RW positive correlation was found for Sarafaz and Mehanna parameters.
Conclusion
Radiological measurements describing access to the RW, determining the angle based on the anatomy of the posterior wall of the auditory canal and the position of the facial nerve, are of the highest value.
Clinical relevance statement
In the future, the use of algorithms for CT evaluation and robotic surgery will require parameters for assessing RW access to plan surgical access and the type of electrodes. The parameters proposed by various authors are summarized, which allows us to assess their usefulness in further clinical practice.
Switch of innate to adaptative immune responses in the brain of patients with Alzheimer’s disease correlates with tauopathy progression
Authors: Costa Marcos
Published: October 2023

Neuroinflammation is a key feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this work, I analyze single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) data obtained from the brain of patients with AD and show evidence supporting a switch from an innate to an adaptative immune response during tauopathy progression, with both disease-associated microglia (DAM) and CD8 + T cells becoming more frequent at advanced Braak stages.
Navigating the future of Alzheimer's care in Ireland - A service model for disease-modifying therapies in small and medium-sized healthcare systems
Authors: Leroi Iracema , Dolphin Helena , Dinh Rachel , Foley Tony , Kennelly Sean , Kinchin Irina , O'Caoimh Rónán , O’Dowd Sean , O’Philbin Laura , O’Reilly Susan , Trepel Dominic , Timmons Suzanne
Published: October 2023

Background
A new class of antibody-based drug therapy with the potential for disease modification is becoming available for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the complexity of drug eligibility, administration, cost, and safety of disease modifying therapies (DMTs) necessitates adopting new models of treatment and care pathways. A working group was convened to consider the implications of and health system readiness for DMTs for AD.
Aims
To describe a service model for the detection, diagnosis, and management of early AD in the Irish context and to provide a template for similar small-medium size healthcare ecosystems.
Methods
A series of facilitated workshops with a multidisciplinary working group, including Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) members, was carried out. This informed a series of recommendations for the implementation of new DMTs using an evidence-based conceptual framework for health system readiness based on (1) material resources and structures and (2) human and institutional relationships, values, and norms.
Findings:
We describe a hub-and-spoke model, which utilises the existing dementia care ecosystem as outlined in the Model of Care, with Regional Specialist Memory Services acting as central hubs and Memory Assessment and Support Services functioning as spokes for less central areas. We provide criteria for DMT referral, eligibility, administration, and ongoing monitoring. We propose that this model is replicable for other healthcare systems of comparable size and scope.
‘Enough is Enough’: A Mixed Methods Study on the Key Factors Driving UK NHS Nurses’ Decision to Strike
Authors: Sanfey Daniel
Published: October 2023

Background
The UK National Health Service (NHS) is one of the largest employers in the world and employs around 360,000 registered nurses. Following a protracted pay dispute in December 2022 NHS nurses engaged in industrial action resulting in the largest nurse strikes in the 74-year history of the NHS. Initially it appeared these strikes were a direct consequence of pay disputes but evidence suggests that the situation was more complex. This study aimed to explore what the key factors were in driving UK NHS nurses’ decision to strike.
Methods
A convergent parallel mixed methods design was used. The study was conducted throughout the UK and involved participants who were nurses working for the NHS who voted in favour of strike action. Data collection involved the use of an online survey completed by 468 nurses and 13 semi-structured interviews. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for quantitative data analysis and a process of inductive thematic analysis for the qualitative data. The quantitative and qualitative data were analysed separately and then integrated to generate mixed methods inferences.
Results
The quantitative findings showed that patient safety, followed by staff shortages, pay, and unmanageable work demands were the most important factors encouraging nurses’ decision to strike. The qualitative findings served to further the understanding of these factors particularly in relation to participants’ perception of the NHS and the consequences of inadequate pay and staff shortages. Three overarching and overlapping themes represented the qualitative findings: Save our NHS, Money talks, and It’s untenable. Integration of the findings showed a high level of concordance between the two data sets and suggest that the factors involved are interconnected and inextricably linked.
Conclusions
The UK NHS is a challenging and demanding work environment in which the well-being of its patients is dependent on the well-being of those who care for them. Concerns relating to patient welfare, the nursing profession and the NHS played a large part in driving UK NHS nurses’ decision to strike. In order to address these concerns a focus on recruitment and retention of nurses in the NHS is needed.
WITHDRAWN: Rohingya Women’s Knowledge about Pregnancy Termination in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh: A Community-Based Study in Four Camps
Authors: Moore Ann M. , Afsana Kaosar , Mondal Pragna Paramita , Tignor Mira , Mulhern Octavia , Hussain Rubina , Hossain Altaf
Published: October 2023

Background: In 2017, approximately 770,000 Rohingya people were forcibly displaced from Myanmar and fled to Bangladesh and are currently residing in camps in Cox’s Bazar. Myanmar has a restrictive abortion law; in Bangladesh, menstrual regulation (MR) is legally allowed on demandup to 12 weeks after a woman’s last menstrual period. Little is known about how displaced Rohingya women are managing unintended pregnancies in Bangladesh.
Methods: We collected data on women’s knowledge of abortion-related services in the camps for displaced people through a multistage random sample household survey with ever-married women of reproductive age (n=1173) sampled from four camps. One woman per household was selected; the survey was conducted in Rohingya and lasted approximately an hour and twenty minutes.
Results: 52% of respondents in this sample knew of both pills and surgical methods to end a pregnancy while 23% had heard of neither method. 92% of respondents knew that health facilities provide MR. Only one-third knew that MR can be provided up to 11-12 weeks post last menstrual period with most respondents thinking that the maximum gestational age at which MR could be provided was eight weeks or less. Ease of access and long wait times at facilities were the primary reasons that respondents thought a woman might prefer to get pills to terminate a pregnancy somewhere other than a health facility. Being unmarried was the most common reason respondents though women could end a pregnancy legally. Reasons that respondents thought women should be able to end a pregnancy that they thought were not currently allowed reasons were when there are marital problems and when the woman gets pregnant from an extramarital affair. Ninety-nine percent believe a husband’s consent should be required for a woman to end a pregnancy.
Conclusions: While knowledge about availability of pregnancy termination services from health facilities and trust in health facilities is high, there is room for improvement on education about gestational ages at which MR is legal and reasons for being able to access MR. Husband’s role in women’s healthcare underscores the importance of including men in health education and access in this context.
Correct stimulation of CD28H arms NK cells against tumor cells
Authors: HASPOT Fabienne , Duplouye Pierre , Leau Raphaëlle , Huchet Virgnie , Nerrière-Daguin Véronique , Martinet Bernard , Danger Richard , Braudeau Cécile , Josien Régis , Blancho Gilles
Published: October 2023

Tumor evasion has recently been associated with a new member of the B7 family, HHLA2, mostly overexpressed on PDL1neg tumors. HHLA2 can either induce a costimulation signal when binding to CD28H or inhibition by binding to KIR3DL3 on T and NK cells. Given the broad distribution of CD28H on NK cells and its depicted role, we compare in this study two monoclonal antibodies targeting this new NK cell engager. We show that targeting CD28H at a specific epitope not only strongly activates Ca2+ flux but also results in NK cell activation. CD28H-activated NK cells further display increased cytotoxic activities against hematopoietic cell lines and bypass HHLA2 and HLA-E inhibitory signals. Additionally, scRNASeq analysis of clear cell kidney cancer cells (ccRCC) reveals that HHLA2+ ccRCC tumors are infiltrated with CD28H+NK cells which thus could be targeted by finely chosen anti-CD28H Abs.
Physiotherapists’ assessment of psychosocial factors in individuals with musculoskeletal pain: A scoping review
Authors: Alqarni Abdullah
Published: October 2023

This study aims to review physiotherapists’ practice in assessing psychosocial factors in individuals with musculoskeletal pain. A comprehensive electronic search was conducted on May 2022 in four databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Scopus. Two reviewers independently screened retrieved studies for potential inclusion in the review. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers using a standardized extraction form. A total of 15 studies were included. Physiotherapists assessed musculoskeletal pain using the biomedical model, with little consideration of the assessment of psychosocial factors. Although physiotherapists were aware of the importance of assessment of the psychosocial factors, those factors were not routinely assessed in clinical practice. In general, some physiotherapists have informally assessed the psychosocial factors during patients’ interviews\dialogues, while others rely on gut feelings during patients’ interviews to identify psychosocial factors. Formal screening of psychosocial factors using validated questionnaires was not part of the routine clinical practice of physiotherapists. Multiple factors were described to be the barriers to such assessment including lacked education in assessing psychosocial factors, the need for skills and training on such assessment, and insufficient treatment session duration.
Acute common peroneal nerve injury after posterior lumbar decompression surgery
Authors: Wang Peng Wei , Chung Ming Hsuan , Hueng Dueng Yuan , Hsia Chung Ching
Published: October 2023

Background
Spine surgery is a prevalently performed procedure. Some authors have proposed an age-related surge in surgical and general complications. During spine surgery, patients are placed in positions that are not physiologic, would not be tolerated for prolonged periods by the patient in the awake state, and may lead to complications. Understanding these uncommon complications and their etiology is pivotal to prevention and necessary.
Case presentation
The patient is a 76-year-old woman referred to the outpatient department of neurosurgery in February 2022 by her physiatrist with a chief complaint of chronic low back pain in the left leg. Lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging revealed degenerative disc disease and posterior disc bulging at the levels of L2/3 ~ L5/S1 with compression of the thecal sac. After receiving anti-inflammatory medication, nerve block and caudal block, her symptoms persisted. She was referred to a neurosurgeon for surgical intervention. We diagnosed spinal stenosis with left L3 and L4 radiculopathy, and elective decompression surgery was scheduled a few days later. We performed discectomies at L2/3 and L3/4 and left unilateral laminotomy at L2 and L3 for bilateral decompression. Following an uneventful surgery, the patient was extubated, and her left leg pain improved, but pain over the right outer calf with drop foot developed. A second lumbar MRI the next day revealed no evidence of recurrent disc herniation or epidural hematoma. Then, she received nerve conduction velocity and needle electromyogram on postoperative day 2, and the studies indicated right common peroneal nerve entrapment neuropathy. After medication with steroids and foot splint use, right leg pain improved. However, weak dorsiflexion of the right ankle persisted. We referred this patient to a physiatrist and OPD for follow-up after discharge.
Conclusion
PPNI is most commonly caused by peripheral nerve ischemia due to abnormal nerve lengthening or pressure and can be exacerbated by systemic hypotension. Any diseases affecting microvasculature and anatomical differences may contribute to nerve injury or render patients more susceptible to nerve injury. Prevention and early detection and intervention are paramount to reducing PPNI and associated adverse outcomes. The use of intraoperative neuromonitoring theoretically allows the surgical team to detect and intervene in impending PPNI during surgery.
A Posteriori Error Estimation for Model Order Reduction of Parametric Systems
Authors: Feng Lihong , Chellappa Sridhar , Benner Peter
Published: October 2023

This survey discusses a posteriori error estimation for model order reduction of parametric systems, including linear and nonlinear, time-dependent and steady systems. We focus on introducing the error estimators we have proposed in the past few years and comparing them with the most related error estimators from the literature. For a clearer comparison, we have translated some existing error bounds proposed in function spaces into the n-dimensional complex coordinate space and provide the corresponding proofs. Some new insights into our proposed error estimators are explored. Moreover, we review our newly proposed error estimator for nonlinear time-evolution systems, which is applicable to reduced-order models solved by arbitrary time-integration solvers. Our recent work on multi-fidelity error estimation is also briefly discussed. Finally, we derive a new inf-sup-constant-free output error estimator for nonlinear time-evolution systems. Numerical results for two examples show the robustness of the new error estimator.
A Microwave-Based Method for Early Detection of Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Anand Aditi , Vaidyam Amrutha , Chandrasekar Adithya , Chandrashekar Atthin , Chi Alan , Groneck Adam , Luo Jiayu , Huene Christin , Lucas Alec , Cacciapuoti Lorenzo
Published: October 2023

We propose a microwave-based method for the early detection of Congestive heart failure (CHF). The proposed method is based on the prevalence of pulmonary edema accompanying CHF. Current approaches based on chest radiographs can only detect relatively high levels of pulmonary edema, limiting their efficacy for early diagnosis. We observe that microwaves passing through the thoracic cavity would experience significantly higher attenuation in the presence of fluid. Our detection method consists of a microwave source in the form of a two-dimensional array of low-power emitters placed on one side of the thoracic cavity, a corresponding array of receivers on the other side, and signal processing to compute the attenuation of microwaves as they pass through the body. We develop an electromagnetic simulation model to evaluate the proposed method and apply it to compute microwave attenuation in the absence and presence of various levels of pulmonary edema. Our experiments suggest that the method is sensitive to even mild and moderate levels of pulmonary edema that are difficult to detect using current first-line diagnostic methods. Our work makes a case for microwave-based detection as a safe, low-cost diagnostic method for CHF at earlier stages where there is a good potential for improved patient outcomes.
Evaluating the Disaster Preparedness of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Facilities: A Cross-Sectional Investigation in Iran
Authors: Beyramijam Mehdi , aminizadeh Mohsen , Akbari-Shahrestanaki Yousof , khankeh Hamidreza
Published: October 2023

Introduction: The preparedness of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) plays a crucial role in managing and reducing health disaster risks. This study was conducted to assess the disaster preparedness of EMS facilities in Iran, using a nationally reliable tool. Methods A total of 52 EMS facilities in Iran were chosen for assessment in a cross-sectional study conducted through a census approach and their preparedness was evaluated to respond to emergencies and disasters. Results During the evaluation of the initial five hazards at each EMS center, a total of 31 hazards were recognized. Earthquakes, road traffic accidents, and floods were the most commonly cited by the majority of the EMS facilities. The results indicated that the majority of EMS facilities in Iran exhibit a moderate level of overall disaster preparedness. Additionally, when assessing the preparedness of EMS facilities across key domains of the research tool, it was observed that EMS facilities have average preparedness in all areas, except for "Coordination and Cooperation " and "surge capacity". The results of the independent t-test revealed a statistically significant difference in the mean disaster preparedness scores between two groups of EMS facilities: one group that had conducted training courses (maneuvers) in the past year and another group that had not undergone any training courses (p = 0.001)." Nonetheless, the Pearson correlation analysis failed to reveal a significant relationship between the variable "the number of exercises(drill) conducted in the past year" and the facility's mean overall disaster preparedness score (r = 0.270, n = 52, P = 0.061). Conclusion The findings from this study indicated that a majority of EMS facilities in Iran are exposed to potential hazards such as earthquakes, floods, traffic collisions, droughts, and epidemics. Furthermore, the investigations revealed that while Iranian EMS facilities generally exhibit a moderate level of preparedness to respond to emergencies and disasters, additional endeavors are required to enhance preparedness in the domains of coordination and cooperation, and surge capacity.
Estimating hourly air temperature in an Amazon-Cerrado transitional forest in Brazil using machine learning regression models
Authors: Maionchi Daniela , Gonçalves Junior , Balista Fabio , Junior Walter , de Paulo Sergio , de Paulo Iramaia , Biudes Marcelo
Published: October 2023

Air temperature holds significant importance in microclimate and environmental health studies, playing a crucial role in weather regulation. There is a need to develop a reliable model capable of accurately capturing air temperature variations. In this study, we focused on the Amazon-Cerrado transitional forest, constructing a robust predictive model for hourly temperature fluctuations. This forest, situated approximately 50 km northwest of Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brazil, is a transitional area, making it important to investigate its climatic behavior and ecosystems. We estimated air temperature using machine learning techniques such as Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, Multilayer Perceptron, and Support Vector Regressor, aiming to evaluate the most effective models based on relevant metrics. Performance assessments were conducted during both dry and rainy seasons to verify their adaptability. The top-performing Random Forest model demonstrated Willmott and Spearman indexes above 0.97. The air relative humidity, solar radiation, and volumetric soil water content were identified as the most important features, evaluated with Willmott and Spearman indexes above 0.95 in a model with such dimensionality reduction. These results underscore the efficacy of machine learning techniques in accurately estimating air temperature.
Evaluating the Portable X-ray Fluorescence Reliability for Metal(loid)s Detection and Soil Contamination Status
Authors: Alqattan Zain Alabdain , Artiola Janick F. , Walls Dan , Ramírez-Andreotta Mónica D.
Published: October 2023

Environmental Justice (EJ) communities may experience barriers that can prevent soil monitoring efforts and knowledge transfer. To address this gap, this study compared two analytical methods: portable X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (pXRF, less time and costs) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS, “gold standard”). Surface soil samples were collected from yards and gardens in three counties in Arizona, USA (N=124) and public areas in Troy, New York, USA (N=33). Statistical calculations, i.e., two-sample t-tests, Bland-Altman plots, and a two-way ANOVA indicated no significant difference for As, Ba, Ca, Cu, Mn, Pb, and Zn concentrations except for Ba in the two-sample t-test. Iron, Ni, Cr, and K were statistically different for Arizona soils and V, Ni, Fe and Al concentrations were statistically different for New York soils. To assess the degree of contamination, a pollution load index (PLI), enrichment factors (EF), and geo-accumulation index (Igeo) were calculated for both methods using U.S. Geological Survey soils data. The PLI were >1, indicating pollution across the two states. Between pXRF and ICP-MS, the Igeo and EF in Arizona had similar degree of soil contamination for most elements except Zn in garden and Pb in yard, respectively. In New York, the Igeo of As, Cu, and Zn differed by an order of magnitude between the two methods. The results of this study demonstrate that pXRF is a reliable method for the inexpensive and rapid analysis of As, Ba, Ca, Cu, Mn, Pb, and Zn. Thus, EJ communities may use pXRF to screen large numbers of soil samples for several environmentally relevant contaminants to protect environmental public health.
Abnormal resting-state functional connectivity in subregions of amygdala in adults and adolescents with major depressive disorder
Authors: Guan Lin , Liu Rui , Zhou Jingjing , Wang Yun , Feng Yuan , Liu Jing , Zhou Yuan , Wang Gang , Chen Xu
Published: October 2023

Background: The atypical symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adolescents suggest there may be differences in the pathophysiology between adolescents and adults with MDD. There is limited knowledge about the resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) of amygdala subregions in MDD patients of different age groups, despite amygdala is believed to be critical in the pathophysiology.
Methods: In the current study, 65 adolescents (46 with MDD and 19 controls) and 91 adults (35 with MDD and 56 controls) were recruited. A seed-based functional connectivity analysis was performed for each of the amygdala subregions. A 2×2 ANOVA was used to analyze the main effect of age, diagnosis, and their interaction on the rsFC of each subregion.
Results: Significant main effect of age was revealed in the rsFC of bilateral centromedial (CM) subregions and right laterobasal (LB) subregion with several brain regions in the limbic system and frontoparietal network. Significant main effect of diagnosis showed MDD patients of different age showed a higher connectivity than controls between the right LB and left middle frontal gyrus (MFG).
Conclusions: The rsFC of specific amygdala subregions with brain regions in limbic system and frontoparietal network is affected by age, indicating a distinct amygdala connectivity profile in adolescents. The decreased rsFC between the right LB and the left MFG in both adolescents and adults with MDD could potentially serve as a biomarker for early diagnosis of MDD.
Characterization of Porous Cellulose Triacetate Derived from Kapok Fibres (Ceiba pentandra) as a Tool to Enhance Crude Oil Absorption
Authors: Alessandro Larsen , Chan Eric Wei Chiang , Jaafar Juhana , Beardall John , Soo Michelle Oi Yoon
Published: October 2023

Kapok fibre is a natural fibre obtained from the seed pods of the kapok tree (Ceiba pentandra). Cellulose triacetate (CTA) is a cellulose derivative in which hydroxyl groups of cellulose were converted into acetyl groups. In this study, high purity cellulose was extracted from kapok fibres and was converted to CTA. The produced CTA showed a high degree of substitution (DS) (2.9) by titration, which was confirmed by 1H- and 13C-NMR. CTA was soluble in non-polar chloroform and the conversion of hydroxyl groups into acetyl groups was confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscoy (FTIR). From Thermogravimetric Analysis-Differential Scanning Calorimetry (TGA-DSC) results, CTA is thermally more stable than delignified kapok fibre where at the same time, CTA needed more energy to crystallize. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) showed the decrease in crystallinity of CTA compared to delignified kapok fibre due to the presence of acetyl groups. Visually, CTA produced is irregular in shape and porous. 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR were used to confirm the CTA produced by looking at the molecular conformation. CTA from kapok exhibited stability in higher temperature, is porous and less crystalline than unmodified cellulose. CTA significantly increased the porosity of PVDF membranes, thereby enhancing its oil absorption capacities and suggesting that CTA is suitable as an additive to improve the properties of a membrane that is specifically designed for oil spill remediation.
Lateral Density Distributions of Cherenkov Photons at Different Altitudes
Authors: Li Xinlong , Chen Tianlu , Feng Youliang , Zhou Qingqian
Published: October 2023

Astrophysical very high energy (VHE) gamma-rays (with energies > 30 GeV) are believed to result almost exclusively from the interactions of populations of highly relativistic particles with ambient matter or photon ﬁelds. The study of these VHE photons therefore allows us to examine the processes of particle acceleration in the Universe, and the extreme environments in which they occur. Gamma-rays are also highly directional, making them useful for studying the origin, acceleration, propagation, and composition of cosmic rays. This study uses the Monte Carlo method to simulate the process of extensive air showers being initiated when primary incident γ-rays interact with the atmosphere. The ultimate goal is to investigate and analyze the properties and lateral density distributions of Cherenkov light at different altitudes. The simulation considers various energies and zenith angles. The results show that a hump in the lateral density distribution of Cherenkov light is a distinctive feature of a γ-initiated shower, with the hump becoming less prominent at higher energy levels and altitudes. These significant findings not only facilitate better fitting of experimental data obtained from actual extensive air showers but also assist with estimating readings from detectors, thus advancing our understanding of these processes.
Sensory Manipulation as a Countermeasure to Robot Teleoperation Delays: System and Evidence
Authors: Du Jing , Vann William , Zhou Tianyu , Ye Yang , Zhu Qi
Published: October 2023

In the realm of robotics and automation, robot teleoperation, which facilitates human-machine interaction in distant or hazardous settings, has surged in significance. A persistent issue in this domain is the delays between command issuance and action execution, causing negative repercussions on operator situational awareness, performance, and cognitive load. These delays, particularly in long-distance operations, are difficult to mitigate even with the most advanced computing advancements. Current solutions mainly revolve around machine-based adjustments to combat these delays. However, a notable lacuna remains in harnessing human perceptions for an enhanced subjective teleoperation experience. This paper introduces a novel approach of sensory manipulation for induced human adaptation in delayed teleoperation. Drawing from motor learning and rehabilitation principles, it is posited that strategic sensory manipulation, via altered sensory stimuli, can mitigate the subjective feeling of these delays. The focus is not on introducing new skills or adapting to novel conditions; rather, it leverages prior motor coordination experience in the context of delays. The objective is to reduce the need for extensive training or sophisticated automation designs. A human-centered experiment involving 41 participants was conducted to examine the effects of modified haptic cues in teleoperations with delays. These cues were generated from high-fidelity physics engines using parameters from robot-end sensors or physics engine simulations. The results underscored several benefits, notably the considerable reduction in task time and enhanced user perceptions about visual delays. Real-time haptic feedback, or the anchoring method, emerged as a significant contributor to these benefits, showcasing reduced cognitive load, bolstered self-confidence, and minimized frustration. Beyond the prevalent methods of automation design and training, this research underscores induced human adaptation as a pivotal avenue in robot teleoperation. It seeks to enhance teleoperation efficacy through rapid human adaptation, offering insights beyond just optimizing robotic systems for delay compensations.
Tumor-associated macrophages-related gene signature for prediction of prognosis and immunotherapy response in head and neck squamous carcinomas
Authors: Li Jinyun , Ni Shumin , Ye Meng , Lou Pengrong , Zhou Chongchang , Ren Yuan
Published: October 2023

Purpose
The immune cells that infiltrate the tumor microenvironment most frequently are tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Increasing evidence has shown the positive correlation of TAMs with poor outcomes in human cancers. Yet, only a small number of studies have revealed the unique TAM characteristic in HNSCC. The development of a TAM-related forecasting model in HNSCC was the main aim of this research.
Methods
The Tumor Immune Single-cell Hub single-cell RNA-seq database was searched to investigate the putative TAM-related genes in HNSCC. Using non-negative matrix factorization, the HNSCC sub-cluster based on TAM-related gene expression was identified. The functional categories of the TAM-related genes were characterized via gene ontology, KEGG signaling pathway, and immune-related functions analyses. Next, using information from The Cancer Genome Atlas, LASSO and Cox regression analyses were performed to establish the TMA-related prognostic model. This model was then verified using information from Gene Expression Omnibus, and a nomogram was then developed. Immunophenoscore and pRRophetic were used to predict the patient's response to immunotherapy and chemotherapy drugs.
Results
We constructed a 12 TAM-related signature risk model, as well as nomograms, and then the risk model was employed to classify HNSCC patients into low- and high-risk groups. The high-risk patients recorded an unfavorable disease-specific survival, progression-free survival, and overall survival. Additionally, patients in the high-risk group demonstrated worse immunotherapy response and sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs contrasted with those in the low-risk group.
Conclusion
In summary, the 12-TAM-related signature could predict the prognosis of HNSCC individuals accurately and may offer fresh perspectives on clinical applications and immunotherapy.
Study on the relationship between serum iodine malnutrition and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies
Authors: Song Qiuyi , Xu Tingting , Wang Yu , Wei Hongyan , Chen Yanting , Fang Fang , Cui Tingkai , Pan Ziyun , Guo Xiaohui , Chen Wen , Shen Jun , Zhang Wanqi , Tan Long
Published: October 2023

Iodine deficiency results in elevated thyroglobulin (Tg) concentrations, with high iodine Tg being more immunogenic than low iodine Tg. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum iodine concentration and thyroglobulin autoantibody (TgAb) levels under different iodine nutritional statuses. Demographic information was collected from 1,482 participants through a questionnaire. Blood and spot urine were collected to measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), TgAb, thyroid anti-peroxidase antibody (TPOAb), total iodine (StI), serum non-protein-bound iodine (snPBI), urine iodine (UIC), creatinine (UCr). The median UIC and StI were 146.46 µg/L and 74.85 µg/L, respectively. A linear relationship was observed between StI, snPBI, and sPBI (P < 0.001). The 90% medical reference values for StI, snPBI, and sPBI were 50.74-120.66 µg/L, 21.86–52.87 µg/L, and 19.65–77.92 µg/L, respectively. The positive rate of TgAb was significantly higher in women than in men (P < 0.001). Both low and high levels of snPBI and sPBI were associated with an increased risk of elevated TgAb levels. In women, the risk of positive TgAb in the group below the reference value of snPBI (OR = 2.079, 95%CI: 1.166, 3.705) and sPBI (OR = 2.578, 95%CI: 1.419, 4.684) was higher. In men, the risk of positive TgAb in the group below the reference value of StI was higher (OR = 3.395, 95%CI: 1.286, 8.962). Iodine might influence TgAb levels by altering the iodine content of Tg, thus contributing to the development of autoimmune thyroid disorders.
Age affects lateral spurring after pediatric humerus lateral condyle fractures: A retrospective cohort study Authorship
Authors: Liu Tao , Yang Fang , Dong Chuan , Li Yuancheng , Liu Yu , Yin Xing , Han Saiping , Zhou Wei , Li Nan
Published: October 2023

Background:
Lateral spurring is frequently observed after lateral condyle fractures of the humerus in children. Despite its frequent recognition, few previous studies have defined this phenomenon, explored a correlation with any fracture or treatment characteristics, nor assessed its clinical significance.
Methods:
Information of 146 lateral condyle fractures in children from June 2015 to September 2021 were retrospectively analyzed and an database was established. Lateral spurring was defined as a bony overgrowth over the lateral aspect of the lateral condyle resulting in imaging irregularity on radiography. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent risk factors for lateral spurring, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the impact of independent risk factors.
Results:
Among the 146 fractures identified, 6.6% were treated with cast immobilization, 93.4% with open reduction and internal fixation, and none with closed reduction and percutaneous pinning. In total, 110(75.3%) patients developed a lateral spur, age was identified as an independent risk factor for lateral spurring(P<0.001), and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.806(95% confidence interval [CI] 0.729-0.883, P<0.001). At age 61.5 months, the Youden index reached its maximum with a sensitivity of 86.1% and specificity of 65.5%, Patients with age less than 61.5 months had a higher lateral spurring, the Relative Prevalence (RP) was 1.70.
Conclusions:
The development of lateral spurring closely correlates with patient age, the incidence of lateral spurring decreases with age, the incidence of lateral spurring was higher in patients younger than 61.5 months. The presence of a lateral spur after an LCF of the humerus does not influence the function or the appearance of the elbow.
Level of Evidence:
Level Ⅳ— retrospective study.