bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FMSA: a meta-learning framework-based fast model stealing attack technique against intelligent network intrusion detection systems
Authors: Fan Kaisheng , Zhang Weizhe , Liu Guangrui , He Hui
Published: August 2023

Intrusion detection systems are increasingly using machine learning. While machine learning has shown excellent performance in identifying malicious traffic, it may increase the risk of privacy leakage. This paper focuses on implementing a model stealing attack on intrusion detection systems. Existing model stealing attacks are hard to implement in practical network environments, as they either need private data of the victim dataset or frequent access to the victim model. In this paper, we propose a novel solution called Fast Model Stealing Attack (FMSA) to address the problem in the field of model stealing attacks. We also highlight the risks of using ML-NIDS in network security. First, meta-learning frameworks are introduced into the model stealing algorithm to clone the victim model in a black-box state. Then, the number of accesses to the target model is used as an optimization term, resulting in minimal queries to achieve model stealing. Finally, adversarial training is used to simulate the data distribution of the target model and achieve the recovery of privacy data. Through experiments on multiple public datasets, compared to existing state-of-the-art algorithms, FMSA reduces the number of accesses to the target model and improves the accuracy of the clone model on the test dataset to 88.9% and the similarity with the target model to 90.1%. We can demonstrate the successful execution of model stealing attacks on the ML-NIDS system even with protective measures in place to limit the number of anomalous queries.
An exploratory cohort study of serum estradiol, testosterone, osteoprotegerin, interleukin-6, calcium, and magnesium as potential biomarkers of cervical spondylosis
Authors: Igwe Augustine Asiduba , Onyeso Ogochukwu Kelechi , Adandom Israel , Onyeso Kelechi Mirabel , Anyachukwu Canice Chukwudi , Awosoga Oluwagbohunmi A. , Ezema Charles Ikechukwu , Okoye Goddy Chuba
Published: August 2023

Background

Exploration of biomarkers for debilitating diseases such as cervical spondylosis is important to revolutionize clinical diagnosis and management of such conditions. The study aimed to determine the correlation between neck pain and disability and serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), osteoprotegerin (OPG), estradiol (E2), testosterone (TES), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) among individuals with symptomatic cervical spondylosis.

Methods

This study was a cohort design. The participants were new referrals to two Nigerian physical therapy clinics. Participants’ neck pain intensity (PI), neck disability index (NDI), IL-6, OPG, E2, TES, Ca, and Mg were measured at baseline and after 13 weeks of follow-up. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent samplesttest, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple linear regression.

Results

Forty individuals aged 52.40 ± 8.60 years participated in the study. Women had significantly higher levels of IL-6 (t =  − 2.392,p = 0.026), OPG (t =  − 3.235,p = 0.005), E2 (t =  − 6.841,p = 0.001), but lower TES (t = 17.776,p = 0.001). There were no significant sex differences in PI and NDI. There were significant correlations between PI and OPG (r = 0.385,p < 0.001), NDI and OPG (r = 0.402,p < 0.001), and IL-6 (r = 0.235,p = 0.036). Significant predictors of PI were OPG (β = 0.442,p < 0.001) and E2 (β =  − 0.285,p = 0.011), and NDI were OPG (β = 0.453,p < 0.001), E2 (β =  − 0.292,p = 0.005), and IL-6 (β = 0.225,p = 0.024).

Conclusion

High serum levels of IL-6 and OPG were associated with cervical spondylosis severity. However, high serum levels of E2 and TES correlated with lesser severity. Moreover, TES inversely correlated with the proinflammatory cytokines.
A retrospective cohort study on prognostic factors and anti-thrombotic therapy and its correlation with disease outcome in patients of COVID-19
Authors: Prajapati Manthan , Oza Madhav , Bhagat Mansi , Rathod Mrudangsinh M. , Marwadi Mehul Ramanbhai
Published: August 2023

Background

Since the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), many studies have been conducted on clinical features, laboratory parameters, treatment, and anticoagulation therapy. However, there is a scarcity of studies investigating the relationship between prognostic parameters, anti-thrombotic agents, and their impact on disease outcomes within the regional population. A complete analysis of all the factors related to the prognostic, risk, therapies are important to identify the possible interpretation of the disease progression. To find out the utilization of antithrombotic therapy in patients of coronavirus disease 2019 and to study the correlation of antithrombotic therapy and prognostic factors with survival and non-survival.

Methods

In this retrospective study we included data of coronavirus disease 2019 positive patients who aged more than 18 with or without comorbidities, non-pregnant. We collected data of 768 patients from the medical record department of a tertiary care hospital. For the collected cohort data, we applied descriptive analysis and contingency analysis to find any difference between the surviving and non-surviving group of patients.

Results

We found that compared to survivors, the age was higher in non-surviving patients. Non-surviving patients had higher D-dimer, C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and Ferritin levels than survival. The coagulation profile was changed in the non-surviving group. Further conducting contingency analysis, we found the critical role of anti-thrombotic agents in the outcome of the disease. We found that one anti-thrombotic agent has a varied result over another. Co-morbidities were found to be a significant factor for the outcome of the disease; as we analysed, we found diabetes mellitus and hypertension in most non-survivors.

Conclusion

We found that many prognostic factors were more important in finding the disease progression and can help in the administration of a particular anti-thrombotic therapy.
Classical bovine spongiform encephalopathy and chronic wasting disease: two sides of the prion coin
Authors: Haley Nicholas J. , Richt Juergen A.
Published: August 2023

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are a group of progressive and ultimately fatal neurologic diseases of man and animals, all resulting from the propagated misfolding of the host’s normal cellular prion protein. These diseases can be spontaneous, heritable, anthropogenic/iatrogenic, or in some cases horizontally transmissible, and include such notable TSEs as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) of cattle and chronic wasting disease (CWD) of cervids. Although they are both unequivocally protein misfolding disorders, they differ markedly in their pathogenesis, transmissibility, and zoonotic potential. While the BSE epidemic has largely abated over the past three decades following global feed bans on ruminant meat and bone meal, CWD, which is readily transmitted through various forms of excreta, has rapidly expanded from its original endemic zone to encompass much of North America, along with recently identified foci in Scandinavia. Most importantly, although the classical form of BSE has proven transmissible to humans consuming contaminated beef or beef products, so far there have been no conclusive reports on the zoonotic transmission of CWD to humans. The underlying basis for these differences – whether host or agent directed – are not well understood, though may be due to inherent differences in the three-dimensional structure of the misfolded BSE or CWD prion proteins or the expression levels and tissue distribution of respective cellular prion proteins. With the uncontrolled geographic spread of CWD, it is imperative that we improve our understanding of the factors governing prion disease pathogenesis, transmission, and zoonotic potential.
Compassion apps for better mental health: qualitative review
Authors: de Krijger Eva , Bohlmeijer Ernst T. , Geuze Elbert , Kelders Saskia M.
Published: August 2023

Background

There is increasing empirical evidence for the positive mental health effects of compassion-based interventions. Although numerous smartphone apps offering compassion-based interventions (‘compassion apps’) are now available for the general public, the quality of these apps has not yet been reviewed. A qualitative review of existing compassion apps serves as a crucial first step toward testing the efficacy of these apps, by identifying good-quality compassion apps that might be worth the investment of a scientific trial.

Aims

The current study focuses on reviewing the quality of existing compassion apps.

Method

Existing compassion apps were identified through searches in the Google Play Store and App Store. The 24 included apps were reviewed on their quality by using the Mobile App Rating Scale, and on their consistency with current evidence by comparing them to existing and studied compassion-based interventions.

Results

Of the 24 included apps, eight were identified that met the criteria of being consistent with existing and studied compassion-based interventions, and acceptable to good overall quality. The other 16 apps failed to meet one or both of these criteria.

Conclusions

Good-quality compassion apps are available, but many of the available apps fail to meet certain quality criteria. In particular, many apps failed to offer sufficient relevant and correct information, or failed to offer this information in an entertaining and interesting way. It is recommended that future compassion apps are based on a clear definition of compassion, offer evidence- and theory-based exercises and implement tools for increasing engagement.
Association Between Free Fatty Acids and Cardiometabolic Risk in Coronary Artery Disease: Results From the PROMISE Study
Authors: Yuan Deshan , Xu Na , Song Ying , Zhang Zheng , Xu Jingjing , Liu Zhenyu , Tang Xiaofang , Han Yaling , Chen Yan , Zhang Yongzhen , Zhu Pei , Guo Xiaogang , Wang Zhifang , Liu Ru , Wang Qingsheng , Yao Yi , Feng Yingqing , Zhao Xueyan , Yuan Jinqing
Published: August 2023

Context

The association between free fatty acids (FFAs) and unfavorable clinical outcomes has been reported in the general population. However, evidence in the secondary prevention population is relatively scarce.

Objective

We aimed to examine the relationship between FFA and cardiovascular risk in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

This study was based on a multicenter cohort of patients with CAD enrolled from January 2015 to May 2019. The primary outcome was all-cause death. Secondary outcomes included cardiac death and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), a composite of death, myocardial infarction, and unplanned revascularization.

Results

During a follow-up of 2 years, there were 468 (3.0%) all-cause deaths, 335 (2.1%) cardiac deaths, and 1279 (8.1%) MACE. Elevated FFA levels were independently associated with increased risks of all-cause death, cardiac death, and MACE (all P < .05). Moreover, When FFA were combined with an original model derived from the Cox regression, there were significant improvements in discrimination and reclassification for prediction of all-cause death (net reclassification improvement [NRI] 0.245, P < .001; integrated discrimination improvement [IDI] 0.004, P = .004), cardiac death (NRI 0.269, P < .001; IDI 0.003, P = .006), and MACE (NRI 0.268, P < .001; IDI 0.004, P < .001). Notably, when stratified by age, we found that the association between FFA with MACE risk appeared to be stronger in patients aged ≥60 years compared with those aged <60 years.

Conclusion

In patients with CAD, FFAs are associated with all-cause death, cardiac death, and MACE. Combined evaluation of FFAs with other traditional risk factors could help identify high-risk individuals who may require closer monitoring and aggressive treatment.
Trabecular Bone Score as a More Sensitive Tool to Evaluate Bone Involvement in MEN1-related Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Song An , Chen Rong , Guan Wenmin , Yu Wei , Yang Yi , Wang Jiajia , Nie Min , Jiang Yan , Li Mei , Xia Weibo , Xing Xiaoping , Wang Ou
Published: August 2023

Context

The skeletal involvement of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1-related primary hyperparathyroidism (MHPT) is not exactly the same as that of sporadic primary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT). Trabecular bone score (TBS) as a texture parameter has been reported to reflect trabecular bone damage.

Objective

This study aimed to compare the clinical characteristics, especially the skeletal involvement, between patients with MHPT and SHPT.

Methods

The clinical characteristics were retrospectively collected in 120 patients with MHPT and compared with 360 patients with SHPT in the same period. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry were conducted in some patients with MHPT, in whom bone mineral density (BMD) and calculated TBS derived from lumbar spine dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry images were compared with those of patients with SHPT.

Results

Although the duration of disease in the MHPT group was longer, the age at hospital visit was significantly lower than that in the SHPT group (43.5 [interquartile range, 31.5-52.0] vs 52.0 [interquartile range, 40.5-61.0], P < .001). The proportion of skeletal involvement in the MHPT group was significantly lower. However, in the subgroup of MHPT cases (n = 86) with data of BMD, there was no significant difference in skeletal involvement from SHPT cases matched for gender and age. Although the BMD and TBS in the lumbar spines of patients with MHPT were lower than those of patients with SHPT (BMD: 0.91 ± 0.18 g/cm2 vs 1.01 ± 0.17 g/cm2; TBS: 1.22 ± 0.14 vs 1.29 ± 0.11, P < .001). According to TBS, among 34 patients with MHPT with normal BMD, 15 patients had bone microstructure damage.

Conclusion

The cancellous bone microarchitecture was more severely damaged in patients with MHPT according to TBS, which suggested that TBS could be a sensitive supplemental index in addition to BMD to identify bone-involvement risk in patients with MHPT.
Early-onset tufting enteropathy in HAI-2-deficient mice is independent of matriptase-mediated cleavage of EpCAM
Authors: Szabo Roman , Kawaguchi Makiko , Kataoka Hiroaki , Bugge Thomas H.
Published: August 2023

Congenital tufting enteropathy (CTE) is a life-threatening intestinal disorder resulting from loss-of-function mutations in EPCAM and SPINT2. Mice deficient in Spint2, encoding the protease inhibitor HAI-2, develop CTE-like intestinal failure associated with a progressive loss of the EpCAM protein, which is caused by unchecked activity of the serine protease matriptase (ST14). Here, we show that loss of HAI-2 leads to increased proteolytic processing of EpCAM. Elimination of the reported matriptase cleavage site strongly suppressed proteolytic processing of EpCAM in vitro and in vivo. Unexpectedly, expression of cleavage-resistant EpCAM failed to prevent intestinal failure and postnatal lethality in Spint2-deficient mice. In addition, genetic inactivation of intestinal matriptase (St14) counteracted the effect of Spint2 deficiency in mice expressing cleavage-resistant EpCAM, indicating that matriptase does not drive intestinal dysfunction by excessive proteolysis of EpCAM. Interestingly, mice expressing cleavage-resistant EpCAM developed late-onset intestinal defects and exhibited a shortened lifespan even in the presence of HAI-2, suggesting that EpCAM cleavage is indispensable for EpCAM function. Our findings provide new insights into the role of EpCAM and the etiology of the enteropathies driven by Spint2 deficiency.
Validation and Clinical Utility of a Prediction Model for the Risk of Upstaging to Invasive Breast Cancer After a Biopsy Diagnosis Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
Authors: Meurs Claudia J. C. , van Bekkum Sara , van Rosmalen Joost , Menke-Pluijmers Marian B. E. , Siesling Sabine , Westenend Pieter J.
Published: August 2023

Background

This study aimed to validate the DCIS-upstage model, a previously developed model to predict the risk of upstaging to invasive breast cancer in patients with biopsy-proven ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) in a more recent cohort and to assess the model’s clinical utility.

Methods

The model was validated in a registry cohort (n = 2269) and in an institution cohort (n = 302). A calibration plot was made, followed by a decision curve analysis (DCA). The model’s area under the curve (AUC) was compared with the AUC of another published model and with the AUCs of new models using the risk factors of the DCIS-upstage model and additional risk factors.

Results

The DCIS-upstage model had an AUC of 0.67 at development; in the validation, the AUC was 0.65 in the registry cohort and 0.73 in the institution cohort. The DCA showed that the model has clinical utility. The other published model had an AUC of 0.66 in the institution cohort. Adding risk factors to the DCIS-upstage model slightly increased the AUC.

Conclusions

The DCIS-upstage prediction model is valid in other cohorts. The model has clinical utility and may be used to select patients with biopsy-proven DCIS for sentinel lymph node biopsy.
ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΑ ΣΑΜΟΥΗΛ – ΑΝΝΑ ΚΑΤΣΙΓΙΑΝΝΗ – ΓΙΑΝΝΗΣ ΠΑΠΑΘΕΟΔΩΡΟΥ, Εισαγωγικό σημείωμα
Authors: Κατσιγιάννη Άννα , Παπαθεοδώρου Γιάννης , Σαμουήλ Αλεξάνδρα
Published: August 2023

Εισαγωγικό σημείωμα στο αφιέρωμα: Ο Αίγαγρος και Ο Φοίνιξ. Διακαλλιτεχνικές και διεπιστημονικές προσεγγίσεις στο έργο του Ανδρέα Εμπειρίκου και του Νίκου Εγγονόπουλου
ΤΑΜΑΡΑ Μ. ΚΟΣΤΙΤΣ ΠΑΧΝΟΓΛΟΥ, Ο άνθρωπος απέναντι στην εξουσία: Οι περιπτώσεις των ηρώων του Κάφκα και του Φραγκιά
Authors: Κόστιτς Παχνόγλου Τάμαρα Μ.
Published: August 2023

A man against the authorities: The case of the literary characters of Kafka and Frangias
The topic of power, as well as the ways of its manifestation, has always been relevant and has occupied the attention of many authors. In this paper, we have dealt with a comparative analysis of the representation of the theme of power and its influence on literary characters in the works of two writers - Franz Kafka and Andreas Frangias. The work of Andreas Frangias, precisely because of his approach to the topic of power, which seems prophetic today, is attracting the attention of a growing number of literary scholars in Greece and abroad. It is believed that Franz Kafka had an important influence on his views, and that is the reason why we chose these two writers for the analysis. Although Kafka’s work was created at the beginning of the twentieth century, and Frangias’ during the second half, the topic of power is largely represented in the literary opus of both, but the approaches to this topic are diverse and worth studying. In addition, the question raised by Michel Foucault about whether or not the power can be identified with violence is also the subject of this paper. While analyzing the reactions of the characters to violence, we tried to show the extent to which the two writers equate the notion of power with violence. The analysis showed that the success of the authorities in achieving their intentions largely depends on the reaction of those to whom the violence is directed – they can react in the expected way, but they can also greatly surprise with their attitude and reaction. They can completely surrender to the role of a victim, which is a frequent choice of Kafka’s characters, but they can also, despite the price they will probably have to pay, choose consistency for themselves and freedom, following the example of Andreas Frangias’ characters. The messages about power and the mechanisms of its action that Kafka and Frangias want to send are the same – the authorities use unpredictable mechanisms, they are covert and constantly active, they trie to deceive and rule the mind. Not all people are able to rebel, and many do not think it is necessary. Although they deal with the same topic, Kafka’s work exudes pessimism, surrendering and powerlessness, while Frangias’ optimism, a call to preserve freedom, authenticity and hope. The opinion of most critics that Frangias wrote under Kafka’s great influence, in most cases, proved to be incorrect.
Evidence-based research impact praxis: Integrating scholarship and practice to ensure research benefits society
Authors: Jensen Eric A. , Reed Mark , Jensen Aaron M. , Gerber Alexander
Published: August 2023

Effective research impact development is essential to address global challenges. This commentary highlights key issues facing research impact development as a nascent professional field of practice. We argue that those working on research impact should take a strategic, ‘evidence-based’ approach to maximize potential research benefits and minimize potential harms. We identify key features of evidence-based good practice in the context of research impact work. This includes integrating relevant research and theory into professional decision-making, drawing on a diversity of academic disciplines offering pertinent insights. Such an integration of scholarship and practice will improve the capacity of research impact work to make a positive difference for society. Moving the focus of research impact work to earlier stages in the research and innovation process through stakeholder engagement and anticipatory research can also boost its effectiveness. The research impact evidence base should be combined with the right kind of professional capacities and practical experience to enhance positive impact. Such capacities need to be developed through relevant education and training, for example, in participatory methods and social inclusion. Such training for research impact work needs to forge strong links between research impact scholarship and practice. Finally, there is a need for improvements in the evidence base for research impact to make it more practically useful.
Devonian–Carboniferous extension and Eurekan inversion along an inherited WNW–ESE-striking fault system in Billefjorden, Svalbard
Authors: Koehl Jean-Baptiste P. , Allaart Lis , Noormets Riko
Published: August 2023

Background: The Billefjorden area in central Spitsbergen hosts thick Lower–lowermost Upper Devonian, late–post-Caledonian collapse deposits presumably deformed during the Late Devonian Svalbardian Orogeny. These rocks are juxtaposed against Proterozoic basement rocks along the Billefjorden Fault Zone and are overlain by uppermost Devonian–early Permian deposits of the Billefjorden Trough, a N–S-trending Carboniferous rift basin bounded by the Billefjorden Fault Zone.

Methods: We interpreted seismic reflection (also depth-converted), bathymetric, and exploration well data.

Results: The data show abundant Early Devonian, WNW–ESE-striking (oblique-slip) normal faults segmenting the Billefjorden Trough, and a gradual decrease in tectonic activity from the Early Devonian (collapse phase) to early Permian (post-rift phase). Early Devonian–Middle Pennsylvanian WNW–ESE-striking faults were mildly reactivated and overprinted and accommodated strain partitioning and decoupling in the early Cenozoic. This resulted in intense deformation of Lower Devonian sedimentary rocks and in the formation of bedding-parallel décollements, e.g., between the Lower Devonian Wood Bay and the uppermost Pennsylvanian–lowermost Permian Wordiekammen formations. This suggests that intense deformation within Devonian rocks in Dickson Land can be explained by Eurekan deformation alone. Eurekan deformation also resulted in the formation of WNW–ESE- and N–S- to NNE–SSW-trending, kilometer-wide, open folds such as the Petuniabukta Syncline, and in inversion and/or overprinting of Early Devonian to Early Pennsylvanian normal faults by sinistral-reverse Eurekan thrusts. WNW–ESE-striking faults merge at depth with similarly trending and dipping ductile shear zone fabrics in Proterozoic basement rocks, which likely formed during the Timanian Orogeny.

Conclusions: A NNE-dipping shear zone, which is part of a large system of Timanian thrusts in the Barents Sea, controlled the formation of WNW–ESE-striking Devonian–Mississippian normal faults and syn-tectonic sedimentary rocks in Billefjorden. Eurekan strain partitioning and decoupling suggest that the Svalbardian Orogeny did not occur in Svalbard.
Finanzas de nuestro café: hacia el proyecto de la empresa cafetera
Authors: Rubiano-Lizarazo María Juliana , Cañón Talero Ana Lucía , Astudillo Rodas Angela María , Barragán Nelly , Cuéllar Marina , Barragán Elsa , Urrea Myriam , Triana Bertilda , Rivera Juan Pablo , Barrera Yolanda , García Yaned , Bolaños Enriqueta , Alfonso Bejarano Jose Miguel , Rojas Aracely , Méndez Norberto , Caicedo Roberney , Reinoso Flor , Oviedo Lorena
Published: August 2023

El propósito de la cartilla es que usted como caficultor lleve un registro de las actividades relacionadas con su finca y su hogar. Para crecer como empresa cafetera y manejar de manera más adecuada las finanzas del hogar es importante organizar y planificar el uso del dinero durante el transcurso del año. Esta información le será útil para tomar mejores decisiones sobre la administración de sus ingresos (entradas), gastos (salidas), inversiones, deudas y mecanismos de ahorro. Hacerles un seguimiento a las entradas y salidas es importante para un hogar cafetero, pues con esta información sabrá si realmente está obteniendo ganancias o pérdidas y, de esta manera, podrá tomar mejores decisiones productivas en su finca o en el interior de su hogar
Insults, offensive language, and taboo words in court interpreting in Spain: A corpus study of interpreted renditions by higher education students
Authors: Ivy Hunt-Gómez Coral
Published: August 2023

The court interpreter’s performance is integral to ensuring a fair trial. When dealing with insults, offensive language, and taboo words it is especially important to interpret renditions accurately and completely, as uttered insults or other expressions of verbal violence may be considered an aggravating factorof an offence, or they may in themselvesconstitute the offence of defamation [injuria] or defamatory allegation of a criminal offence [calumnia] under the Spanish Criminal Code. An experimental study was carried out in order to test the hypothesis that students with a good language and interpreting skills are unable to interpret this type of rendition in a court setting. A corpus was created compiling the renditions of 46 higher education students while they did the interpreting exercises from a collection of specific teaching materials based on the use of audiovisual recordings of real criminal trials (Hunt-Gómez, 2013). There were 123 renditions per student, with a total number of 5,658 renditions, of which only those containing insults, offensive language, or taboo words were analysed, transcribed, and categorised according to the student’s ability to convey meaning and to express the intensity of the original message. Results showed that dealing with impolite or taboo language was an added difficulty for students, despite their command of both their working languages and interpreting techniques. Consequently, interpreting training should include specific exercises in order to trigger students to produce a pragmatic equivalent when dealing with these types of renditions so that future interpreters are equipped with the appropriate strategies when faced with real-life situations.
Going for a job. Part 2/2: the interview itself
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: August 2023

Part one (BJHCA, June 2023) of this two-part series addressed the job-application process, with an emphasis on preparation. In this second article, attending an interview will be discussed. Attending for interviews can be anxiety-provoking, but there are many ways of approaching the interview, both beforehand and on the day.

Preparation can help make you feel more confident. The article addresses pre-interview, interview and post-interview matters. The ‘STAR’ technique is discussed; this is one approach that can help you to articulate your responses at interview.
Opportunities and challenges with antibiotic use
Authors: Pantaleon Lucas
Published: August 2023

Antibiotic guidelines and consensus statements exist in veterinary medicine, but practitioners’ awareness of these guidelines is generally poor. Use and prescription of antibiotics is still, in some cases, based on anecdotal evidence or old dogmas. Antibiotics are an essential, scarce resource that must be used judiciously in order to preserve them for future generations. Education of the veterinary care team and pet owners about the issues with antibiotic resistance needs to be a fundamental aspect of stewardship. Understanding that antibiotic resistance is a global One Health issue that needs multidisciplinary collaboration to be addressed is paramount.
Research progress on reactive oxygen species production mechanisms in tumor sonodynamic therapy
Authors: Dong He-Qin , Fu Xiao-Feng , Wang Min-Yan , Zhu Jiang
Published: August 2023

In recent years, because of the growing desire to improve the noninvasiveness and safety of tumor treatments, sonodynamic therapy has gradually become a popular research topic. However, due to the complexity of the therapeutic process, the relevant mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated. One of the widely accepted possibilities involves the effect of reactive oxygen species. In this review, the mechanism of reactive oxygen species production by sonodynamic therapy (SDT) and ways to enhance the sonodynamic production of reactive oxygen species are reviewed. Then, the clinical application and limitations of SDT are discussed. In conclusion, current research on sonodynamic therapy should focus on the development of sonosensitizers that efficiently produce active oxygen, exhibit biological safety, and promote the clinical transformation of sonodynamic therapy.
Combining the age-male-albumin-bilirubin-platelets score and shear wave elastography stratifies carcinogenic risk in hepatitis C patients after viral clearance
Authors: Masaoka Rion , Gyotoku Yoshinori , Shirahashi Ryosaku , Suda Toshikuni , Tamano Masaya
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

The treatment of hepatitis C with direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) produces a high rate of sustained virological response (SVR) with fewer adverse events than interferon (IFN) therapy with a similar effect in inhibiting carcinogenesis as IFN therapy. The age-male-albumin-bilirubin-platelets (aMAP) score is useful for stratifying the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis patients, and the velocity of shear waves (Vs) measured by shear wave elastography has also been shown to be useful for diagnosing the level of fibrotic progression in hepatitis C and predicting carcinogenic risk. Combining these two may improve the prediction of carcinogenic risk.

AIM

To determine whether combining the aMAP score with Vs improves carcinogenic risk stratification in medium-to-high-risk hepatitis C patients.

METHODS

This retrospective, observational study involved hepatitis C patients treated with DAAs who achieved SVR. Vs was measured before treatment (baseline), at the end of treatment (EOT), and 12 wk (follow-up 12) and 24 wk (follow-up 24) after treatment. The patients were followed for at least six months after EOT to determine whether cancer developed. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify factors contributing to hepatic carcinogenesis. The diagnostic performances of clinical parameters for predicting the presence of hepatocellular carcinoma were evaluated using receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 279 patients (mean age 65.9 years, 118 males, 161 females) were included in the analysis. Multiple regression analysis was performed with carcinogenesis as the target variable and alanine aminotransferase, platelets, α-fetoprotein, Vs, and the Fib-4 index as explanatory variables; only Vs was found to be significant (P = 0.0296). The cut-off value for Vs for liver carcinogenesis calculated using the ROC curve was 1.53 m/s. Carcinoma developed in 2.0% (3/151) of those with Vs < 1.53 m/s and in 10.5% (9/86) of those with Vs ≥ 1.53 m/s.

CONCLUSION

In hepatitis C patients after SVR, combining the aMAP score and Vs to stratify the risk of carcinogenesis is more efficient than uniform surveillance of all patients.
Pathological complete response to neoadjuvant alectinib in unresectable anaplastic lymphoma kinase positive non-small cell lung cancer: A case report
Authors: Wang Lu-Ming , Zhao Peng , Sun Xu-Qi , Yan Feng , Guo Qian
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

The development of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has remarkably improved the prognosis of patients with ALK-positive advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Alectinib, the second-generation ALK-TKI, has been approved as first-line treatment for advanced or metastatic NSCLC patients with ALK rearrangement. Neoadjuvant therapy can achieve tumor downstaging and eradicate occult lesions in patients with potentially resectable disease. Whether neoadjuvant alectinib can be a conversion therapy in ALK-positive advanced NSCLC patients remains unclear.

CASE SUMMARY

A 41-year-old man was pathologically diagnosed with locally advanced ALK-positive stage IIIB NSCLC. Alectinib was prescribed to induce tumor downstaging and facilitate the subsequent surgical resection. The tumor was successfully downstaged and pathological complete response was achieved. Left upper lobectomy with mediastinal lymphadenectomy was performed after tumor downstaging. The patient has continued to receive alectinib as adjuvant therapy during postoperative follow-up with a recurrence-free survival of 29 mo as of writing this report.

CONCLUSION

This case sheds light on the feasibility and safety of alectinib as a neoadjuvant treatment for stage IIIB NSCLC patients with ALK rearrangement. Its efficacy needs to be validated in prospective clinical trials.
Sample-distribution-matching-based transfer learning for QoT estimation in optical networks
Authors: Gu Zhiqun , Qin Tangze , Zhou Yuhang , Zhang Jiawei , Ji Yuefeng
Published: August 2023

Machine learning has been introduced to estimate the quality of transmission (QoT) of lightpaths to meet the reliability of optical network transmission. In the early deployment phase of optical networks, it is difficult to collect enough training samples due to the insufficient lightpaths and monitoring equipment, which makes the estimation models inaccurate. Transfer learning (TL) has been demonstrated as a promising technology for improving the accuracy of estimation models. The main idea of the TL method is pre-training the QoT estimation model with the source domain samples, and then using a few target domain samples to fine-tune the models, which are named fine-tuning samples. However, there are many differences in sample distribution between the source and target domain networks, and more fine-tuning samples to train the TL models are required. Thus, how to improve the accuracy of TL-based QoT estimation models with few samples needs to be examined. This paper proposes a sample-distribution-matching-based transfer learning (SDMbTL) method to perform an accurate QoT estimation with fewer samples. The proposed SDMbTL method designs the sample distribution matching model to filter source domain samples to match the distribution of the target domain samples, which makes the pre-training model more suitable for target networks. We also propose three different matching algorithms to accommodate the discriminative features to be matched. The simulation results demonstrate that the performance of the proposed estimation models outperforms the traditional TL models, saving more than 28.5% of fine-tuning samples.
Out-of-core diffraction algorithm using multiple SSDs for ultra-high-resolution hologram generation
Authors: Lee Jaehong , Kim Duksu
Published: August 2023

The diffraction calculation is critical in computer-generated holography (CGH). However, it becomes a performance bottleneck when generating ultra-high-resolution holograms due to limited physical memory space. We propose a novel out-of-core (OOC) diffraction algorithm that utilizes multiple solid-state drives (SSDs) to address this issue. Our method employs the implicit diffraction approach and exploits its even-odd separation characteristic to utilize multiple SSDs optimally. We implement our algorithm on two machines, each with four SSDs, and compare it with prior OOC diffraction methods and a RAID-based solution. Our approach achieves up to 2.43 times higher performance than prior OOC methods for large-scale diffraction calculations, with continued performance improvement observed by adding more SSDs. Additionally, our method reduces the generation time for ultra-high-resolution holograms (200K × 200K) by 38% compared to the prior OOC method with multiple SSDs. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of our algorithm for extreme-scale CGH.
Fine-scale vertical relationships between environmental conditions and sound scattering layers in the Southwestern Tropical Atlantic
Authors: Assunção Ramilla , Lebourges-Dhaussy Anne , da Silva Alex C. , Roudaut Gildas , Ariza Alejandro , Eduardo Leandro N. , Queiroz Syumara , Bertrand Arnaud
Published: August 2023

Ocean dynamics initiate the structure of nutrient income driving primary producers, and these, in turn, shape the distribution of subsequent trophic levels until the whole pelagic community reflects the physicochemical structure of the ocean. Despite the importance of bottom-up structuring in pelagic ecosystems, fine-scale studies of biophysical interactions along depth are scarce and challenging. To improve our understanding of such relationships, we analyzed the vertical structure of key oceanographic variables along with the distribution of acoustic biomass from multi-frequency acoustic data (38, 70, and 120 kHz) as a reference for pelagic fauna. In addition, we took advantage of species distribution databases collected at the same time to provide further interpretation. The study was performed in the Southwestern Tropical Atlantic of northeast Brazil in spring 2015 and autumn 2017, periods representative of canonical spring and autumn conditions in terms of thermohaline structure and current dynamics. We show that chlorophyll-a, oxygen, current, and stratification are important drivers for the distribution of sound scattering biota but that their relative importance depends on the area, the depth range, and the diel cycle. Prominent sound scattering layers (SSLs) in the epipelagic layer were associated with strong stratification and subsurface chlorophyll-a maximum. In areas where chlorophyll-a maxima were deeper than the peak of stratifications, SSLs were more correlated with stratification than subsurface chlorophyll maxima. Dissolved oxygen seems to be a driver in locations where lower oxygen concentration occurs in the subsurface. Finally, our results suggest that organisms seem to avoid strong currents core. However, future works are needed to better understand the role of currents on the vertical distribution of organisms.
Whole exome data prioritization unveils the hidden weight of Mendelian causes of male infertility. A report from the first Italian cohort
Authors: Quarantani Gioia , Sorgente Anna , Alfano Massimo , Pipitone Giovanni Battista , Boeri Luca , Pozzi Edoardo , Belladelli Federico , Pederzoli Filippo , Ferrara Anna Maria , Montorsi Francesco , Moles Anna , Carrera Paola , Salonia Andrea , Casari Giorgio
Published: August 2023

Almost 40% of infertile men cases are classified as idiopathic when tested negative to the current diagnostic routine based on the screening of karyotype, Y chromosome microdeletions and CFTR mutations in men with azoospermia or oligozoospermia. Rare monogenic forms of infertility are not routinely evaluated. In this study we aim to investigate the unknown potential genetic causes in couples with pure male idiopathic infertility by applying variant prioritization to whole exome sequencing (WES) in a cohort of 99 idiopathic Italian patients. The ad-hoc manually curated gene library prioritizes genes already known to be associated with more common and rare syndromic and non-syndromic male infertility forms. Twelve monogenic cases (12.1%) were identified in the whole cohort of patients. Of these, three patients had variants related to mild androgen insensitivity syndrome, two in genes related to hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, and six in genes related to spermatogenic failure, while one patient is mutant in PKD1. These results suggest that NGS combined with our manually curated pipeline for variant prioritization and classification can uncover a considerable number of Mendelian causes of infertility even in a small cohort of patients.
Variations in echolocation click characteristics of finless porpoise in response to day/night and absence/presence of vessel noise
Authors: Ogawa Mayu , Kimura Satoko S.
Published: August 2023

Small odontocetes produce echolocation clicks to feed and navigate, making it an essential function for their survival. Recently, the effect of vessel noise on small odontocetes behavior has attracted attention owing to increase in vessel activities; however, the effects of the surrounding environmental factor, vessel noise, and day/night on echolocation click characteristics have not been well studied. Here, we examined the effects of vessel noise and day/night on variations in echolocation clicks and click trains parameters. Passive acoustic monitoring of on-axis echolocation clicks produced by free-ranging finless porpoises (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis sunameri) was performed at two sites in Japan, Seto Inland Sea and Mikawa Bay, in June–September 2021 and March–August 2022, using A-tag and SoundTrap 300HF. Generalized Linear Model was used to elucidate the effect of vessel noise, day/night, and surrounding environmental factors (water temperature, synthetic flow velocity, and noise level) on echolocation click and click train parameters. Echolocation click and click train parameters were strongly affected by day/night, whereas the absence/presence vessel noise did not exhibit statistically significant influence. Particularly, -3 dB bandwidth was wider, click duration was shorter, and inter-click intervals in a train were shorter at night, which may facilitate information processing at night, thereby compensating for the lack of visual information. The interaction between day/night and the absence/presence of vessel noise affected the source level of finless porpoises, with higher levels observed in the absence of vessel noise during the daytime compared to other conditions at the site with low vessel traffic. Overall, these results suggest that echolocation clicks by finless porpoise were likely to fluctuate to adapt with surrounding complex environmental conditions, especially day/night.
Spatio-temporal comprehensive measurement of China’s agricultural green development level and associated influencing factors
Authors: Cheng Liang , Gao Yulong , Dai Xinglong
Published: August 2023

Green development is an inevitable trend in the modernization of agriculture and rural areas, and promoting the green development of agriculture has always been an important measure for China’s sustainable growth. However, due to the influence of diverse regional environments and the wide range of landscapes in China, a largely agricultural country, China is facing ongoing challenges in improving the overall level of agricultural green development and narrowing regional differences, which has recently garnered worldwide attention. This study aims to measure and analyze the agricultural green development level of 30 provinces in China (Tibet, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan are not included in the target areas of this research due to a lack of data). Here, we applied GIS technology, an entropy-TOPSIS (technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution) model, quantitative analysis methods such as global spatial autocorrelation analysis, coldspot and hotspot analysis, and a spatial Durbin model to construct measurement models and index systems, after which we performed a comprehensive spatiotemporal analysis of China’s agricultural green development level. Furthermore, the present study also analyzed the factors that influence agricultural green development in China. The present study demonstrated that: (i) between 2005 and 2020, China’s overall level of agricultural green development exhibited a fluctuating upward trend, with significant improvement and enhancement in most provinces. However, the overall level of China’s agricultural green development remains low, and differences at the provincial level are particularly prominent, with the main regions displaying the following descending development pattern: Eastern > Central > Western regions. (ii) The level of China’s agricultural green development shows clear signs of spatial aggregation, characterized by spatial dependence and heterogeneity. Although this phenomenon is gradually weakening over time, the high levels of agricultural green development in the eastern regions and low levels in the western regions are likely to persist in the near future. (iii) Green agricultural structure, technology supply, agricultural mechanization level, and arable land area are the key factors influencing China’s level of agricultural green development. Among these factors, technology supply, agricultural mechanization level, and arable land area have the largest direct impact, whereas green agricultural structure has a positive spatial spillover effect on the level of agricultural green development. Technology supply has both a positive direct impact and a negative indirect impact on the level of agricultural green development. Therefore, further improving technology supply and agricultural mechanization level can directly promote China’s agricultural green development.
Electrocardiogram and echocardiography findings and the outcomes of patients with myocardial infarction: Retrospective study in tertiary care hospitals in Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Tsega Wondale , Awoke Worku , Sendekie Ashenafi Kibret , Dagnew Ephrem Mebratu , Bayih Habtamu
Published: August 2023

Background

Myocardial infarction (MI) is diagnosed when there is a rise in cardiac biomarkers along with supportive evidence in the form of typical symptoms, suggestive electrocardiographic (ECG) changes, or imaging evidence of a new loss of viable myocardium or a new regional wall motion abnormality. The data regarding the use of ECG and echocardiography (Echo) findings and their impact on mortality are still lacking in Ethiopia. This study assessed the utilization of ECG and Echo findings and outcomes of patients with MI in tertiary care hospitals in Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients with MI who were admitted to the adult intensive care units (ICUs) of two selected hospitals between January 2018 and July 30, 2021. Data was entered and analyzed using the SPSS 25 software. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between in-hospital mortality and other variables. A P-value < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Among the 203 participants, 67.5% were male, and the mean age of the participants was 59 (13.8). Around two-thirds (66.5%) of patients had STEMI and a regional all-motion abnormality. More than half (54.1%) of the cases were in the anteroapical region. For MI, there was a 23.2% inconsistency between ECG and Echo findings. The rate of in-hospital mortality for patients with MI was 23%. Pulmonary hypertension [AOR = 7.8, 95% CI: 1.72–34.93], inferobasal regional wall motion abnormality [AOR = 7.9, 95% CI: 1.340–46.093], Killip’s classes III and IV [AOR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.103–6.314], infection [AOR = 3.2, 95% CI: 1.108–10.65], and ischemic stroke [AOR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.091–5.222] were significantly associated with in-hospital mortality compared with their counterparts.

Conclusions

The mortality of patients with MI in this study was higher than in other reports. Killip’s class, pulmonary hypertension, infection, ischemic stroke, and inferobasal regional wall motion abnormalities were significantly associated with the in-hospital mortality of the patients with MI. There was a higher degree of inconsistency between ECG and Echo findings. The treatment of patients with MI should be tailored to their specific risk factors and causes.