bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-Scale Dilation With Residual Fused Attention Network for Low Dose CT Noise Artifact Reductions
Authors: Freire Kevin
Published: September 2024

Medical Imaging has been a growing topic in computer vision for its life-saving applications. Medical professionals rely on good quality images of their medical scans in order to correctly identify tumors or other anomalies. Recent studies have shown that Computed Tomography (CT) scans have great results using high radiations for their X-Rays. CT Scans produce more than half the radiation exposure from medical use, which results in problems for long-term use of these expensive machines. Some solutions have involved reducing the radiation dose; however, that leads to noise artifacts making the Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) images unreliable for diagnosis. In this study, a Multi-scale Dilation with Residual Fused Attention (MD-RFA) deep neural network is proposed, more specifically a network with an integration with a multi-scale feature mapping, spatial- and channel-attention module to enhance the quality of LDCT images. Further, the multiscale image mapping uses a series of dilated convolution layers, which promotes the model to capture hierarchy features of different scales. The attention modules are combined in a parallel connection and are described as boosting attention fusion blocks (BAFB) that are then stacked on top of one another, creating a residual connection known as boosting module groups (BMG). The network is designed through a series of experiments that evaluate how certain modifications affect performance. The model is optimized using an integration of mean-squared error (MSE) loss, perceptual loss via ResNet50V2-net, and Structural Dissimilarity (DSSIM) loss. Through an ablation experiment, these functions show that it could effectively prevent edge over-smoothing, improve image texture, and preserve structural details. Finally, comparative experiments show that the proposed network outperforms state-of-the-art denoising models such as Block Matching and 3D Filtering (BM3D), Markovian-based patch generative adversarial network (patch-GAN) Dilated Residual network with Edge detection (DRL-E-MP), and Fused Attention Module with Dilated Residual Learning (FAM-DRL).
A Spatial Exploratory Approach for Assessing Impacts of Urban Sprawl and Coastal Erosion: An Investigation of the Atlantic Iberian Coast
Authors: Bibi Lana
Published: September 2024

Portugal and part of Spain's shorelines lie on the Atlantic Ocean, facing coastal erosion in parallelism with urban encroachment. As a result, there are concerns regarding the endangerment of livelihood and landmass dilemma. Most studies regarding these issues are conducted by the UN or conservation agencies with a specific focus on Southern European coasts on the Mediterranean Sea. To investigate the validity of these concerns and supplement on existing reports, this study conducts a multi-temporal comparative analysis of the four cities (Tavira, Faro, Huelva, and Ayamonte) found on the coasts of Portugal and Spain, by integrating and utilizing open-source satellite imagery (i.e Landsat) and generating a land-use and landcover (LULC) change detection analysis. This is used to assess areas at risk and track significant changes that might be occurring over the last 40 years (1981 to 2021). 
Mass Timber in the Steel City: Assessing the Application of Multi-Family Mass Timber Housing in Hamilton
Authors: Reason Blake
Published: September 2024

Multi-family mass timber housing presents an opportunity to address Canada’s housing and climate change crises. This innovative, sustainable building process presents financial, environmental, and health benefits through adoption into the urban realm. Despite this, building code limitations, technological concerns, and industry norms have limited its use in Ontario. This paper assesses the potential for mass timber use in projects across the housing spectrum in Hamilton, based on existing technology and current policy conditions. The research consisted of an extensive literature review, local policy scan, and case study analysis, specifically grounding application in Hamilton’s Centre District. It was found that using mass timber can directly support Hamilton’s housing and climate action solutions, but may require policy changes, knowledge-sharing partnerships, and bolstered funding opportunities to do so. Based on the findings, rationale and recommendations were provided for local planning staff and policymakers to address the challenges in developing multi-family mass timber housing in Hamilton Centre.
Risk Management Analysis of Hospital Management Information System (SIMRS) at ABC Hospital using ISO 31000
Authors: Muhammad Aminudidin Yafie  , Budhi Setianto  , Agus Aan Addriansyah  , Susanto Fajar Annas
Published: September 2024

A hospital is a health institution that serves as a center for providing care and treatment to individuals who are ill. To ensure optimal service delivery, the regulations of the Indonesian Ministry of Health mandate that every hospital in Indonesia must implement and manage the development of a Hospital Management Information System (SIMRS). ABC Hospital, a private institution, has been utilizing SIMRS since 2002. Risk management at ABC Hospital follows a structured approach encompassing five stages: communication and consultation, context determination, and risk assessment, which includes risk identification, analysis, evaluation, treatment, and monitoring. The results of this risk analysis enable ABC Hospital to prevent and minimize risks while addressing them according to their impact and priority. Based on research findings: (1) Governance management in the SIMRS unit at ABC Hospital aligns with the requirements of ISO 31000:2018; (2) Potential risks identified include the absence of certain features in the SIMRS program and inconsistent application of existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs); (3) The hospital's SIMRS faces 27 risks, categorized into 9 low risks, 3 moderate risks, and 15 high risks; (4) To mitigate these risks, it is recommended that procedures be strengthened and the existing application programs be enhanced.
Measurement of User Satisfaction for SIBISA Application at TK ABA 1 Buduran Sidoarjo with The EUCS method
Authors: Suyatno Dwi Fatrianto , Ardhini Warih Utami  , Rahadian Bisma
Published: September 2024

The SIBISA (Sistem Informasi Billing Siswa) application is utilized by parents at ABA1 Kindergarten in Buduran. Developed in 2022 by lecturers from the Informatics Engineering department, this application is designed to help schools manage financial records, particularly those related to tuition fees and other incidental expenses. The End User Computing Satisfaction (EUCS) method is one approach used to evaluate user satisfaction with information systems, including the SIBISA application. This method assesses various factors that influence user satisfaction, such as application performance, ease of use, and reliability.
Notably, the SIBISA application is integrated with WhatsApp, facilitating easier communication between parents and the school. After nearly a year of use, our group conducted a user satisfaction survey using the EUCS method to gauge the application's effectiveness. The results indicate that overall user satisfaction with the SIBISA application is at the "Quite Satisfied" level, meaning users generally find the application satisfactory. The analysis confirms that all five hypotheses—accuracy, content, ease of use, format, and timeliness—positively influence user satisfaction with the SIBISA application.
How to Find Gap Analysis in Undergraduate User Satisfaction Through a Tracer Study
Authors: Nerisafitra Paramitha , Martini Dwi Endah Susanti  , Ronggo Alit  , Aditya Prapanca
Published: September 2024

Undergraduate alumni play a crucial role in shaping the educational process at higher education institutions. Therefore, it is essential to continuously assess the satisfaction of graduate users to gauge their level of contentment. This research aims to measure graduate user satisfaction through gap analysis by comparing user expectations with the actual performance of graduates based on the five dimensions of the SERVQUAL model. The study combines the Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI), which calculates satisfaction gaps, with Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA), used to map the five dimensions of service quality and prioritize improvements. The results indicate that the graduate user satisfaction index is 78%, placing it in the "satisfied" category. Satisfaction is particularly high in the dimensions of reliability and empathy. However, several variables show a gap between high user expectations and underperformance, particularly in the areas of assurance and responsiveness.
improving Pain mAnagement for childreN and young people attendeD by Ambulance (PANDA): protocol for a realist review.
Authors: Nicholls Georgie , Eaton Georgette , Ortega Marishona , Sumera Kacper , Baliousis Michael , Hodgson Jessica , Laparidou Despina , Siriwardena Aloysius Niroshan , Leighton Paul , Redsell Sarah , Lord Bill , Bujor Tatiana , Whitley Gregory Adam
Published: September 2024

Background Each year in England, 450,000 children and young people (CYP) under 18 years of age are transported by ambulance to emergency departments. Approximately 20% of these suffer acute pain caused by illness or injury. Pain is a highly complex sensory and emotional experience. The intersection between acute pain, unwell CYP and the unpredictable pre-hospital environment is convoluted. Studies have shown that prehospital pain management in CYP is poor, with 61% of those suffering acute pain not achieving effective pain relief (abolition or reduction of pain score by 2 or more out of 10) when attended by ambulance. Consequences of poor acute pain management include altered pain perception, post-traumatic stress disorder and the development of chronic pain. This realist review will aim to understand how ambulance clinicians can provide improved prehospital acute pain management for CYP. Methods A realist review will be conducted in accordance with the Realist And Meta-narrative Evidence Syntheses: Evolving Standards (RAMESES) guidance. A five-stage approach will be adopted; 1) Developing an Initial Programme Theory (IPT): develop an IPT with key stakeholder input and evidence from informal searching; 2) Searching and screening: conduct a thorough search of relevant research databases and other literature sources and perform screening in duplicate; 3) Relevance and rigour assessment: assess documents for relevance and rigour in duplicate; 4) Extracting and organising data: code relevant data into conceptual “buckets” using qualitative data analysis software; and 5) Synthesis and Programme Theory (PT) refinement: utilise a realist logic of analysis to generate context-mechanism-outcome configurations (CMOCs) within and across conceptual “buckets”, test and refine the IPT into a realist PT. Conclusion The realist PT will enhance our understanding of what works best to improve acute prehospital pain management in CYP, which will then be tested and refined within a realist evaluation. Registration PROSPERO Registration: CRD42024505978
The Agrarian Economy of the Region in the Context of Responding to The Challenges of the Time: The Potential of University Science, The Relevance of Scientific Schools, The Vision of the Future
Authors:   Doctor of Economic Sciences, Professor of the Department of Management and Marketing, Omsk State Agrarian University, Russia, Fedorovich Stukach Victor , Aleksandrovna Anikina Nadezhda ,   Doctor of Economic Sciences. Ph.D., Russia, Viktorovna Shumakova Oksana ,   Doctor of Economics Sci., Professor, Rector of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of High-er Education Omsk State Agrarian University, Russia
Published: September 2024

The paper pursues the goal: at a specific object of observation, the scientific school of the regional agrarian university, to consider the prospects in the context of responding to the challenges of the time, characterized by turbulence of world economic relations. Working hypothesis: based on measuring and assessing the potential of the scientific school, to identify the relevance of research, the state and priorities in the scientific support of the agrarian economy. Assets are completed scientific developments, publications based on materials 38 defended dissertations, 49 monographs, 19 educational publications for the period of functioning of the school. Materials published in the period 2000-2023 in the library systems RePEc and the Russian National Electronic Library Elibrary. The method of content analysis determined the demand for scientific products, the use of resources Publications that aroused the greatest interest among consumers of scientific products (readers) identified sensitive research for the agrarian economy form the basis for planning scientific research. Topics of dissertation and final qualification works are formed in accordance with the priorities of the socioeconomic policy of the region and the scientific and pedagogical activities of the university. The significance of the research is that the methodology for analyzing the information of scientometric systems for assessing the potential of scientific schools, choosing promising areas of development is proposed and demonstrated. The work is addressed to research and educational organizations, teachers and students of agricultural educational institutions, practitioners of the sphere of production, employees of public administration.
Ứng phó với biến đổi khí hậu cấp địa phương: nghiên cứu điển hình tại thành phố Hà Nội
Authors: Nguyễn Kim Hoàng
Published: September 2024

Biến đổi khí hậu đang ngày càng trở nên nghiêm trọng, ảnh hưởng lớn đến các đô thị, đặc biệt là tại các thành phố lớn như Hà Nội. Do đó, nghiên cứu này đánh giá các biện pháp ứng phó với biến đổi khí hậu tại địa phương và xác định các yếu tố thúc đẩy hoặc cản trở việc thực hiện các kế hoạch này tại Hà Nội. Nghiên cứu với dữ liệu từ các báo cáo về việc thực hiện kế hoạch ứng phó với biến đổi khí hậu, đặc biệt tập trung vào các mục tiêu đã hoàn thành trước năm 2020 của thành phố Hà Nội. Phương pháp nghiên cứu áp dụng khung phân tích của Shirai & Baba (2014), được điều chỉnh cho phù hợp với bối cảnh Việt Nam. Kết quả nghiên cứu chỉ ra rằng bản chất của các biện pháp ứng phó được thể hiện thông qua tính cụ thể và đồng lợi ích, cam kết của lãnh đạo địa phương, và năng lực thể chế của chính quyền địa phương là những yếu tố chính thúc đẩy việc thực hiện các kế hoạch hành động về khí hậu ở Hà Nội.
Peningkatan Kompetensi Profesional Guru Melalui Digitalisasi Pembelajaran di Pendidikan Menengah Kejuruan
Authors: Ridoh Ahmad , Aminuddin Fattachul Huda , Wiyoko Tri , Putra Yogi Irdes , Putra Thomas Adrino , Azwan M.
Published: September 2024

Inovasi penggunaan media teknologi oleh guru MGMP mata pelajaran kejuruan dalam pembelajaran masih tergolong rendah, karena minimnya pelatihan dan pengalaman guru untuk berinovasi dalam mengajar. Sehingga perlu adanya kegiatan pengabdian yang bertujuan untuk meningkatan kompetensi guru melalui digitalisasi pembelajaran dengan menekankan pada pemanfaatan teknologi dan platform digital pembelajaran. Kegiatan ini dilakasnakan pada bulan Agustus di kampus II Universitas Muhammadiyah Muara Bungo. Pelaksanaan kegiatan pengabdian ini memnggunakan metode service learning dengan membagi tiga tahapan yiatu perencanaan, pelaksanaan dan evaluasi. Hasil pengabdian peningkatan kompetensi profesional guru melalui digitalisasi pembelajaran telah dilakasanakan dengan memberikan pelatihan media canva dan media elearning menggunakan moodle. Pelatihan yang diberikan dapat meningkatkan pemahaman dan keterampilan guru dalam mengoperasikan canva dan moodle. Evaluasi dalam pelatihan menunjukkan adanya manfaat yang diperoleh guru untuk dapat diterapkan disekolah serta dapat meningkatkan profesionalitas guru dari aspek penguasaan teknologi dan informasi.
Edukasi Kesehatan Tentang Tuberkulosis Pada Kader Surabaya Hebat Puskesmas Putat Jaya Surabaya
Authors: Sajuni Sajuni , Ikawaty Risma , Purnamayanti Anita
Published: September 2024

Tuberkulosis merupakan penyakit infeksi yang diakibatkan oleh kuman Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tuberkulosis merupakan penyakit yang jika tidak ditangani dengan benar akan mengakibatkan kondisi yang jauh lebih sulit yaitu adanya kuman tuberculosis yang kebal terhadap antibiotik dan semakin mempersulit pengobatannya. Kader Surabaya Hebat memegang peranan penting dalam memutus rantai penularan Tuberkulosis.  Puskesmas Putat Jaya memiliki sebanyak 1500 Kader Surabaya Hebat, dan baru separuh jumlah kader yang telah mendapat pengetahuan mengenai Tuberkulosis, sehingga dilakukan pengabdian edukasi kepada Kader Surabaya Hebat pada Puskesmas Putat Jaya untuk meningkatkan pengetahuan para kader mengenai Tuberkulosis. Pengabdian dilakukan selama kurang lebih 3 jam pada tanggal 23 Maret 2024 dengan jumlah peserta sebanyak 48 Kader Surabaya Hebat. Metode pengabdian ini adalah edukasi pemberian penjelasan mengenai Tuberkulosis disertai diskusi. Didapatkan peningkatan pengetahuan signifikan sebelum dan sesudah edukasi.
Examining Psychological and Physical Distance and Ethical Leadership During a Pandemic: A Two-Sample Study of the Effects on Ratings of Crisis Leader Effectiveness, Well-Being, and Improved Business-Related Outcomes
Authors: McCombs Kate , Williams Ethlyn , Pillai Raj , Lowe Kevin
Published: September 2024

Amid the challenges posed by COVID-19, this research focuses on the role of ethical leadership in shaping perceptions of crisis leaders’ effectiveness, personal well-being, and business-related outcomes. In this two-sample study, we contrast political leadership at the highest level examining the ethical leadership of a distal executive (President Biden) and a proximal executive (CEO leadership) – advancing literature about why top management ethical leadership matters, the importance of moral and duty-based views, and distal or proximal leadership. This research expands our understanding of ethical leadership and prompts rethinking leadership roles, echoing the urgency to prioritize ethical leadership given its profound impact.
Legislative differentiation: reconciling uniformity and diversity in EU legislation
Authors:   , Hübner Michael
Published: September 2024

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Product Quality and Service Quality on Purchase Decisions for Fashion Products Online Through Perceived Risk in Social Commerce
Authors: Haekal Azwar
Published: September 2024

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Mina tillgängliga vuxna
Authors: Lago Lina , Bertills Karin , Elvstrand Helene
Published: September 2024

Denna text ingår i ett temanummer om ULF-projektet Tillgängliga lärmiljöer. I denna ram-text beskrivs arbetssätt och gemensamma resultat från projektet som visar hur relationen mellan skolans vuxna och elever är central för skolans sociala tillgänglighet vilket i sin tur ses som viktigt för elevers lärande.
Foot shape assessment techniques for orthotic and footwear applications: a methodological literature review
Authors: Danckaers Femke , Stanković Kristina , Huysmans Toon , Booth Brian G. , Sijbers Jan
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Foot shape assessment is important to characterise the complex shape of a foot, which is in turn essential for accurate design of foot orthoses and footwear, as well as quantification of foot deformities (e.g., hallux valgus). Numerous approaches have been described over the past few decades to evaluate foot shape for orthotic and footwear purposes, as well as for investigating how one’s habits and personal characteristics influence the foot shape. This paper presents the developments reported in the literature for foot shape assessment.

Method

In particular, we focus on four main dimensions common to any foot assessment: (a) the choice of measurements to collect, (b) how objective these measurement procedures are, (c) how the foot measurements are analyzed, and (d) other common characteristics that can impact foot shape analysis.

Results

For each dimension, we summarize the most commonly used techniques and identify additional considerations that need to be made to achieve a reliable foot shape assessment.

Discussion

We present how different choices along these two dimensions impact the resulting foot assessment, and discuss possible improvements in the field of foot shape assessment.
Finite element analysis and in vitro tests on endurance life and durability of composite bone substitutes
Authors: Seraji Amir Abbas , Nahavandi Reza , Kia Amir , Rabbani Doost Ahad , Keshavarz Vahid , Sharifianjazi Fariborz , Tavamaishvili Ketevan , Makarem Dorna
Published: September 2024

Bone structures facilitate the regeneration and repair of bone tissue in regions where it has been damaged or destroyed, either temporarily or permanently. Therefore, the bone’s fatigue strength and durability are crucial to its efficacy and longevity. Several variables, such as the construct’s material qualities, design, and production procedure, loading and unloading cycles, and physiological conditions influence the endurance life of bone constructs. Metals, ceramics, and polymers are all routinely utilized to create bone substitutes, and each of these materials has unique features that might affect the fatigue strength and endurance life of the final product. The mechanical performance and capacity to promote bone tissue regeneration may be affected by the scaffold’s design, porosity, and pore size. Researchers employ mechanical testing under cyclic loading circumstances as one example of an experimental approach used to assess bone construction endurance. These analyses can give us important information about the stress-strain behavior, resistance to multiple loading cycles, and fatigue strength of the new structure. Predicting the endurance life of the developed construct may also be possible with the use of simulations and numerical analyses. Hence, in order to create reliable and efficient constructs for bone tissue engineering, it is crucial to understand their fatigue strength and durability. The purpose of this study is to analyze the effective parameters for fatigue strength of bone structures and to gather the models and evaluations utilized in endurance life assessments.
Enhancing the high-spin reactivity in C–H bond activation by Iron (IV)-Oxo species: insights from paclitaxel hydroxylation by CYP2C8
Authors: Yue Dongxiao , Hirao Hajime
Published: September 2024

Previous theoretical studies have revealed that high-spin states possess flatter potential energy surfaces than low-spin states in reactions involving iron(IV)-oxo species of cytochrome P450 enzymes (P450s), nonheme enzymes, or biomimetic complexes. Therefore, actively utilizing high-spin states to enhance challenging chemical transformations, such as C–H bond activation, represents an intriguing research avenue. However, the inherent instability of high-spin states relative to low-spin states in pre-reaction complexes often hinders their accessibility around the transition state, especially in heme systems with strong ligand fields. Counterintuitively, our investigation of the metabolic hydroxylation of paclitaxel by human CYP2C8 using a hybrid quantum mechanics and molecular mechanics (QM/MM) approach showed that the high-spin sextet state exhibits unusually high stability, when the reaction follows a secondary reaction pathway leading to 6β-hydroxypaclitaxel. We thoroughly analyzed the factors contributing to the enhanced stabilization of the high-spin state, and the knowledge obtained could be instrumental in designing competent biomimetic catalysts and biocatalysts for C–H bond activation.
Human breast milk isolated lactic acid bacteria: antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activity on the Galleria mellonella burn wound model
Authors: Guarnieri Antonio , Venditti Noemi , Cutuli Marco Alfio , Brancazio Natasha , Salvatore Giovanna , Magnifico Irene , Pietrangelo Laura , Falcone Marilina , Vergalito Franca , Nicolosi Daria , Scarsella Franco , Davinelli Sergio , Scapagnini Giovanni , Petronio Petronio Giulio , Di Marco Roberto
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Managing burn injuries is a challenge in healthcare. Due to the alarming increase in antibiotic resistance, new prophylactic and therapeutic strategies are being sought. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of live Lactic Acid Bacteria for managing burn infections, using Galleria mellonella larvae as an alternative preclinical animal model and comparing the outcomes with a common antibiotic.

Methods

The antimicrobial activity of LAB isolated from human breast milk was assessed in vitro against Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853. Additionally, the immunomodulatory effects of LAB were evaluated in vivo using the G. mellonella burn wound infection model.

Results and discussion

In vitro results demonstrated the antimicrobial activity of Lactic Acid Bacteria against P. aeruginosa. In vivo results show that their prophylactic treatment improves, statistically significant, larval survival and modulates the expression of immunity-related genes, Gallerimycin and Relish/NF-κB, strain-dependently. These findings lay the foundation and suggest a promising alternative for burn wound prevention and management, reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance, enhancing immune modulation, and validating the potential G. mellonella as a skin burn wound model.
Variation and significance of serum microRNA-21 level in pediatric pulmonary artery hypertension associated with congenital heart disease
Authors: Shen Yanming , Liao Dongshan , Shangguan Wenlin , Chen Liangwan
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study strives to the variation and significance of microRNA-21 (miR-21) in children with congenital heart disease (CHD)-related pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH).

Methods

Children with CHD (n = 179) were selected as subjects, including 101 children without PAH and 78 children with PAH. All children underwent general data collection, laboratory examination, echocardiography and cardiac catheterization. After detection of serum miR-21 expression, the predictive value and the impacts of serum miR-21 for PAH and postoperative critical illness were analyzed.

Results

Serum creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB), B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and miR-21 were elevated, but ejection fraction (EF) and cardiac index (CI) were decreased in the CHD-PAH group. Serum miR-21 assisted in predicting PAH in CHD children, with the area under curve (AUC) of 0.801 (95% CI of 0.735∼0.857), a cut-off value of 2.56, sensitivity of 73.08, and specificity of 72.28%. Serum miR-21 in children with CHD-PAH was correlated with clinicopathological indicators such as systolic pulmonary artery pressure, mean pulmonary arterial pressure, BNP and CI. Serum miR-21 helped predict the development of postoperative critical illness in children with CHD-PAH, with an AUC of 0.859 (95% CI: 0.762–0.927, cut-off value: 4.55, sensitivity: 69.57%, specificity: 92.73%). Increased serum miR-21 was an independent risk factor of postoperative critical illness in children with CHD-PAH.

Conclusion

Serum miR-21 was upregulated in children with CHD-PAH, which may serve as a predictive biomarker for the onset of PAH and postoperative critical illness in CHD children.
Lipoprotein(a) as a novel biomarker for predicting adverse outcomes in ischemic heart failure
Authors: Zhang Biyang , Xu Yinxiao , Huang Xin , Sun Tienan , Ma Meishi , Chen Zheng , Zhou Yujie
Published: September 2024

Background

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). However, the association between Lp(a) and adverse outcomes in patients with ischemic heart failure (IHF) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum Lp(a) levels and the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in IHF patients.

Methods

In this single-center, retrospective cohort study, 1,168 IHF patients who underwent elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were enrolled. Patients were divided into four groups based on Lp(a) quartiles. The primary endpoint was MACE, defined as a composite of all-cause mortality, non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), and any revascularization. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the association between Lp(a) quartiles and adverse outcomes. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) curve were constructed to explore the nonlinear relationship between Lp(a) levels and MACE risk. Subgroup analyses were performed to investigate the association in different subgroups.

Results

The incidence of MACE increased significantly across Lp(a) quartiles (Quartile 4 vs. Quartile 1: 46.4% vs. 22.9%, P < 0.001). After adjusting for confounding factors, the highest Lp(a) group remained independently associated with an increased risk of MACE (HR, 95% CI: 2.28, 1.69–3.07, P < 0.001, P for trend <0.001), all-cause mortality (HR, 95% CI: 2.33, 1.54–3.54, P < 0.001, P for trend = 0.01), and any revascularization (HR, 95% CI: 2.18, 1.35–3.53, P = 0.002, P for trend = 0.001). The RCS model demonstrated a nonlinear positive relationship between Lp(a) levels and MACE risk. Subgroup analysis revealed a significant interaction with body mass index (BMI), with a more pronounced association observed in patients with higher BMI (P for interaction <0.001).

Conclusion

Elevated Lp(a) levels were independently associated with an increased risk of MACE, mortality, and revascularization in IHF patients, with a stronger effect in obese individuals.
Casual effects of type 1 diabetes mellitus on site-specific digestive cancers: a Mendelian randomisation analysis
Authors: Zhao Jinli , Li Wenjin , Chen Libo , Li Mingyong , Deng Weiming
Published: September 2024

Objective

Despite several observational studies attempting to investigate the potential association between type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and the risk of digestive cancers, the results remain controversial. The purpose of this study is to examine whether there is a causal relationship between T1DM and the risk of digestive cancers.

Methods

We conducted a Mendelian randomisation (MR) study to systematically investigate the effect of T1DM on six most prevalent types of digestive cancers (oesophageal cancer, stomach cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, biliary tract cancer, pancreatic cancer, and colorectal cancer). A total of 1,588,872 individuals were enrolled in this analysis, with 372,756 being the highest number for oesophageal cancer and 3,835 being the lowest for pancreatic cancer. Multiple MR methods were performed to evaluate the causal association of T1DM with the risk of six site-specific cancers using genome-wide association study summary data. Sensitivity analyses were also conducted to assess the robustness of the observed associations.

Results

We selected 35 single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with T1DM as instrumental variables. Our findings indicate no significant effect of T1DM on the overall risk of oesophageal cancer (OR= 0.99992, 95% CI: 0.99979-1.00006, P= 0.2866), stomach cancer (OR=0.9298,95% CI: 0.92065-1.09466, P= 0.9298), hepatocellular carcinoma (OR= 0.99994,95% CI: 0.99987-1.00001, P= 0.1125), biliary tract cancer (OR=0.97348,95% CI: 0.8079-1.1729, P= 0.7775)), or pancreatic cancer (OR =1.01258, 95% CI: 0.96243-1.06533, P= 0.6294). However, we observed a causal association between T1DM and colorectal cancer (OR=1.000, 95% CI: 1.00045-1.0012, P<0.001), indicating that T1DM increases the risk of colorectal cancer. We also performed sensitivity analyses, which showed no heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy. For the reverse MR from T1DM to six digestive cancers, no significant causal relationships were identified.

Conclusions

In this MR study with a large number of digestive cancer cases, we found no evidence to support the causal role of T1DM in the risk of oesophageal cancer, stomach cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, biliary tract cancer, or pancreatic cancer. However, we found a causal positive association between T1DM and colorectal cancer. Further large-scale prospective studies are necessary to replicate our findings.
Stress hyperglycemia is associated with poor prognosis in critically ill patients with cardiogenic shock
Authors: Tian Jing , Zhou Tao , Liu Zijuan , Dong Yan , Xu Hongyang
Published: September 2024

Background

Stress hyperglycemia is now more common in intensive care unit (ICU) patients and is strongly associated with poor prognosis. Whether this association exists in critically ill patients with cardiogenic shock (CS) is unknown. This study investigated the prognostic relationship of stress hyperglycemia on critically ill patients with CS.

Methods

We included 393 critically ill patients with CS from the MIMIC IV database in this study and categorized the patients into four groups based on quartiles of Stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR). We assessed the correlation between SHR and mortality using restricted cubic spline analysis and Cox proportional hazards models. The primary outcomes observed were ICU mortality and hospitalization mortality.

Results

The mean age of the entire study population was 68 years, of which 30% were male (118 cases). There was no significant difference between the four groups in terms of age, gender, BMI, and vital signs (P>0.05). There was an increasing trend in the levels of lactate (lac), white blood cell count (WBC), glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (AST), glucose and Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) from group Q1 to group Q2, with the greatest change in patients in group Q4 (P<0.05) and the patients in group Q4 had the highest use of mechanical ventilation, the longest duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU stay and hospital stay. After adjusting for confounders, SHR was found to be strongly associated with patient ICU mortality, showing a U-shaped relationship.

Conclusion

In critically ill patients with CS, stress hyperglycemia assessed by SHR was significantly associated with patient ICU mortality.
Predicting short-term energy usage in a smart home using hybrid deep learning models
Authors: Ou Ali Imane Hammou , Agga Ali , Ouassaid Mohammed , Maaroufi Mohamed , Elrashidi Ali , Kotb Hossam
Published: September 2024

The forecasting of home energy consumption is a crucial and challenging topic within the realm of artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced energy management in smart grids (SGs). The primary goal of this study is to provide accurate energy consumption forecasts for a smart home. Two deep learning models are implemented: ConvLSTM, which combines convolutional operations with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), and the CNN-LSTM model, which synergizes Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and LSTM networks. Both hybrid models offer a comprehensive approach to modeling complex relationships in spatial and temporal patterns. Additionally, two baseline models—LSTM and CNN—are employed for comparative analysis. Utilizing real data from a smart home in Houston, Texas, the results demonstrate that both the hybrid models deliver highly accurate predictions for energy consumption. However, the ConvLSTM model outperforms all proposed models, improving predictions in terms of mean absolute percentage error by 4.52%, 9.59%, and 10.53% for 1 day, 3 days, and 6 days in advance, respectively.
Pharmaceutical consumption in human and veterinary medicine in Germany: potential environmental challenges
Authors: Abdallah Mies , Bethäuser Jenny , Tettenborn Felix , Hein Arne , Hamann Melanie
Published: September 2024

Pharmaceutical usage in both human and veterinary medicine contributes substantially to societal wellbeing. However, concerns regarding its environmental impacts are increasing. Despite global awareness, a substantial knowledge gap exists in Germany and several other countries regarding pharmaceutical residues, hindering comprehensive environmental risk assessments. This study aims to bridge this gap by analyzing veterinary pharmaceutical consumption in livestock farming in Germany and comparing it with human pharmaceutical usage, subsequently correlating these findings with environmental data on pharmaceutical residues to conduct a straightforward analysis of the environmental risk posed on non-target entities such as soil, water bodies, and microorganisms. Data from 129 agricultural farms in Germany were utilized to comprehensively analyze veterinary pharmaceutical usage. Extrapolation to national levels estimates a substantial quantity of active substances used, particularly antibiotics and electrolytes. Comparison with human pharmaceutical usage highlights differences in substance prevalence and usage patterns. Environmental correlations indicate a considerable presence of pharmaceutical residues in Germany, with notable distinctions between human and veterinary sources. In the environmental risk analysis, significant differences are evident between individual active substances within the same substance group. The study underscores the importance of addressing pharmaceutical residue impacts on the environment and emphasizes the necessity of comprehensive data for informed decision-making and environmental management strategies.
Pathological mechanisms and crosstalk among various cell death pathways in cardiac involvement of systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Wei Jingjing , Wang Aolong , Li Bin , Li Xingyuan , Yu Rui , Li Haitao , Wang Xinlu , Wang Yongxia , Zhu Mingjun
Published: September 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prevalent autoimmune disease primarily characterized by the involvement of multiple systems and organs. Cardiovascular disease is the primary cause of mortality in patients with SLE, though the mechanisms underlying the increased cardiovascular risk in SLE patients remain unclear. Recent studies indicate that abnormal activation of programmed cell death (PCD) signaling and the crosstalk among various forms of cell death are critical in the immunopathogenesis of SLE. Furthermore, apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, NETosis, and ferroptosis are recognized as key cellular processes in the pathogenesis of SLE and are closely linked to cardiac involvement. This review uniquely explores the intricate crosstalk between apoptosis, necroptosis, and other cell death pathways, discussing their roles and interactions in the pathogenesis of cardiac involvement in SLE. Investigating the interplay between PCD signaling and cardiac involvement in SLE in understanding the disease’s underlying mechanisms and offers opportunities for new therapeutic interventions. The integration of precision medicine and innovative strategies targeting these complex pathways holds promise for enhancing the treatment prospects of SLE with cardiac involvement.
Compression behaviour of Q355 steel angles with local defect at bolt holes
Authors: Zhang Jinglu , He An , Liu Yu , Kang Shao-Bo
Published: September 2024

This paper presents experimental and numerical studies on compression behaviour of equal-leg steel angles with bolted connection and subjected to local defect at the bolt hole. To simulate corrosion, a mechanical cutting method was used in the experimental test to increase the diameter of bolt holes, and a total of 18 steel angles were investigated in the study. The parameters considered included the slenderness and the diameter of bolt holes. The slendernesses of steel angles were 80 and 140, and the diameter of bolt holes ranged from 21.5 to 27.5 mm. Additionally, numerical models were established for the steel angles. The accuracy of the numerical model was verified by comparing experimental data with numerical results. Based on the validated numerical model, a parametric analysis was conducted to quantitatively assess the influences of the slenderness and the diameter of bolt holes on the load capacity of specimens against global buckling. Experimental and numerical results showed that the defect at the bolt hole affected the load capacity of specimens when the diameter of the bolt hole was increased to 27.5 mm and the slenderness was not greater than 100.
A rhesus macaque intragastric challenge model for evaluating the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of live-attenuated Shigella dysenteriae 1 vaccine candidates
Authors: Ruamsap Nattaya , Imerbsin Rawiwan , Khanijou Patchariya , Gonwong Siriphan , Oransathit Wilawan , Barnoy Shoshana , Venkatesan Malabi M. , Chaudhury Sidhartha , Islam Dilara
Published: September 2024

Shigellosis remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in Asia and Africa, where it is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among children. Despite the urgent need, the development of a licensed Shigella vaccine has been hindered, partly due to the lack of suitable animal models for preclinical evaluation. In this study, we used an intragastric adult rhesus macaque challenge model to evaluate the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of five live-attenuated Shigella dysenteriae 1 vaccine candidates, all derived from the 1617 parent strain. The vaccine strains included WRSd1, a previously tested candidate with deletions in virG(icsA), stxAB, and fnr, and four other strains—WRSd2, WRSd3, WRSd4, and WRSd5—each containing deletions in virG and stxAB, but retaining fnr. Additionally, WRSd3 and WRSd5 had further deletions in the Shigella enterotoxin gene senA and its paralog senB, with WRSd5 having an extra deletion in msbB2. Rhesus monkeys were immunized three times at two-day intervals with a target dose of 2 × 1010 CFU of the vaccine strains. Thirty days after the final immunization, all monkeys were challenged with a target dose of 2 × 109 CFU of the S. dysenteriae 1 1617 wild-type strain. Safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy were assessed through physical monitoring and the evaluation of immunologic and inflammatory markers following immunization and challenge. Initial doses of WRSd1, WRSd3, and WRSd5 led to mild adverse effects, such as vomiting and loose stools, but all five vaccine strains were well tolerated in subsequent doses. All strains elicited significant IgA and IgG antibody responses, as well as the production of antibody-secreting cells. Notably, none of the vaccinated animals exhibited shigellosis symptoms such as vomiting or loose/watery stool post-challenge, in stark contrast to the control group, where 39% and 61% of monkeys exhibited these symptoms, respectively. The aggregate clinical score used to evaluate Shigella attack rates post-challenge revealed a 72% attack rate in control animals, compared to only 13% in vaccinated animals, indicating a relative risk reduction of 81%. This study highlights the potential of this NHP model in evaluating the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of live-attenuated Shigella vaccine candidates, offering a valuable tool for preclinical assessment before advancing to Phase 1 or more advanced clinical trials.
VGLUT2 may improve cognitive function in depressed rats by protecting prefrontal cortex neurons
Authors: Liu Longfei , Hu Yongxue , Shan Qing , Li Peifan , Ma Tianpei , Wang Yiming
Published: September 2024

Objective

Depression may be accompanied by cognitive impairment, but its pathogenesis remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the protective effects of fluoxetine on behavioral performance and prefrontal cortex neuronal damage in rats with depression-associated cognitive impairment, based on the observation of VGLUT2 protein expression.

Methods

Forty-five SPF-grade male SD rats were randomly divided into three groups (n = 15): normal control group (CON), depression group (DD), and fluoxetine group (DD + F). The CON group was reared normally, while the DD and DD + F groups underwent chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) combined with social isolation to induce a depression-related cognitive dysfunction model. After modeling, the DD + F group was treated with fluoxetine (10 mg/kg, ig) for 14 days. Behavioral tests were performed to assess changes in mood, cognition, learning, and social abilities. Histopathological observations were made to examine pathological changes, neuronal apoptosis, ultrastructure, and dendritic spine density in the prefrontal cortex. The concentration, relative expression level, and mRNA expression of VGLUT2 protein were also measured. Finally, a correlation analysis was performed between the relative expression level and mRNA expression of VGLUT2 protein and the pathological changes in neurons.

Results

Compared to the CON group, the DD group exhibited decreased body weight, anhedonia, increased behavioral despair, reduced locomotor activity and spontaneous exploratory behavior, impaired spatial learning and memory, and decreased social interaction and social cognitive ability. Pathological damage was observed in the prefrontal cortex, with neuronal apoptosis, ultrastructural damage, and reduced neuroplasticity. The concentration, relative expression, and mRNA expression levels of VGLUT2 protein were decreased. Following fluoxetine intervention, the above behavioral phenotypes improved; pathological damage showed varying degrees of recovery; and the concentration, relative expression, and mRNA expression levels of VGLUT2 protein increased. Finally, there was a significant correlation between VGLUT2 protein expression and pathological changes in the prefrontal cortex.

Conclusion

After 28 days of CUMS combined with isolation rearing, rats exhibited impairments in mood, cognition, learning, and social abilities, with neuronal damage and decreased VGLUT2 protein levels in the prefrontal cortex. Following fluoxetine intervention, VGLUT2 protein expression increased, neuronal repair in the prefrontal cortex occurred, depressive-like behavior improved, and cognitive learning and social abilities were restored.
Biphasic response of human iPSC-derived neural network activity following exposure to a sarin-surrogate nerve agent
Authors: Bogguri Chandrakumar , George Vivek Kurien , Amiri Beheshta , Ladd Alexander , Hum Nicholas R. , Sebastian Aimy , Enright Heather A. , Valdez Carlos A. , Mundhenk T. Nathan , Cadena Jose , Lam Doris
Published: September 2024

Organophosphorus nerve agents (OPNA) are hazardous environmental exposures to the civilian population and have been historically weaponized as chemical warfare agents (CWA). OPNA exposure can lead to several neurological, sensory, and motor symptoms that can manifest into chronic neurological illnesses later in life. There is still a large need for technological advancement to better understand changes in brain function following OPNA exposure. The human-relevant in vitro multi-electrode array (MEA) system, which combines the MEA technology with human stem cell technology, has the potential to monitor the acute, sub-chronic, and chronic consequences of OPNA exposure on brain activity. However, the application of this system to assess OPNA hazards and risks to human brain function remains to be investigated. In a concentration-response study, we have employed a human-relevant MEA system to monitor and detect changes in the electrical activity of engineered neural networks to increasing concentrations of the sarin surrogate 4-nitrophenyl isopropyl methylphosphonate (NIMP). We report a biphasic response in the spiking (but not bursting) activity of neurons exposed to low (i.e., 0.4 and 4 μM) versus high concentrations (i.e., 40 and 100 μM) of NIMP, which was monitored during the exposure period and up to 6 days post-exposure. Regardless of the NIMP concentration, at a network level, communication or coordination of neuronal activity decreased as early as 60 min and persisted at 24 h of NIMP exposure. Once NIMP was removed, coordinated activity was no different than control (0 μM of NIMP). Interestingly, only in the high concentration of NIMP did coordination of activity at a network level begin to decrease again at 2 days post-exposure and persisted on day 6 post-exposure. Notably, cell viability was not affected during or after NIMP exposure. Also, while the catalytic activity of AChE decreased during NIMP exposure, its activity recovered once NIMP was removed. Gene expression analysis suggests that human iPSC-derived neurons and primary human astrocytes resulted in altered genes related to the cell’s interaction with the extracellular environment, its intracellular calcium signaling pathways, and inflammation, which could have contributed to how neurons communicated at a network level.