bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BLIMP1 and NR4A3 transcription factors reciprocally regulate antitumor CAR T cell stemness and exhaustion
Authors: Jung In-Young , Narayan Vivek , McDonald Sierra , Rech Andrew J. , Bartoszek Robert , Hong Gwanui , Davis Megan M. , Xu Jun , Boesteanu Alina C. , Barber-Rotenberg Julie S. , Plesa Gabriela , Lacey Simon F. , Jadlowsky Julie K. , Siegel Donald L. , Hammill Dana M. , Cho-Park Park F. , Berger Shelley L. , Haas Naomi B. , Fraietta Joseph A.
Published: November 2022

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have not induced meaningful clinical responses in solid tumors. Loss of T cell stemness, poor expansion capacity, and exhaustion during prolonged tumor antigen exposure are major causes of CAR T cell therapeutic resistance. Single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis of CAR T cells from a first-in-human trial in metastatic prostate cancer identified two independently validated cell states associated with antitumor potency or lack of efficacy. Low expression of
PRDM1
, encoding the BLIMP1 transcription factor, defined highly potent
TCF7
[encoding T cell factor 1 (TCF1)]–expressing CD8
+
CAR T cells, whereas enrichment of
HAVCR2
[encoding T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 (TIM-3)]–expressing CD8
+
T cells with elevated
PRDM1
was associated with poor outcomes.
PRDM1
knockout promoted
TCF7
-dependent CAR T cell stemness and proliferation, resulting in marginally enhanced leukemia control in mice. However, in the setting of
PRDM1
deficiency, a negative epigenetic feedback program of nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT)–driven T cell dysfunction was identified. This program was characterized by compensatory up-regulation of
NR4A3
and other genes encoding exhaustion-related transcription factors that hampered T cell effector function in solid tumors. Dual knockout of
PRDM1
and
NR4A3
skewed CAR T cell phenotypes away from TIM-3
+
CD8
+
and toward TCF1
+
CD8
+
to counter exhaustion of tumor-infiltrating CAR T cells and improve antitumor responses, effects that were not achieved with
PRDM1
and
NR4A3
single knockout alone. These data underscore dual targeting of
PRDM1
and
NR4A3
as a promising approach to advance adoptive cell immuno-oncotherapy.
Draft Genomes of 75
Vibrio
Isolates from Retail Mollusks Collected in Canada between 2014 and 2018
Authors: Teixeira Januana S. , Dussault Forest , Hoover Emily , Shay Julie A. , Weedmark Kelly , Banerjee Swapan K.
Published: November 2022

Vibrio
spp. isolated from fresh retail mollusk samples were selected for sequencing based on their antimicrobial resistance burden. The
de novo
genomes include those for
Vibrio alginolyticus
(
n
= 48),
V. diabolicus
(
n
= 15),
V. parahaemolyticus
(
n
= 3),
V. cholerae
(
n
= 2),
V. metoecus
(
n
= 1),
V. vulnificus
(
n
= 1),
V. fluvialis
(
n
= 1), and unidentified
Vibrio
spp. (
n
= 4).
spa
Typing of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Based on Whole-Genome Sequencing: the Impact of the Assembler
Authors: Mollerup Sarah , Worning Peder , Petersen Andreas , Bartels Mette Damkjær
Published: November 2022

spa
typing of methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) is widely used by clinicians, infection control workers, and researchers both in local outbreak investigations and as an easy way to communicate and compare MRSA types between laboratories and countries. Traditionally,
spa
types are determined by Sanger sequencing, but in recent years a whole-genome sequencing (WGS)-based approach has become increasingly used.
Supplemental Material: Magmatic record of changing Cordilleran plate-boundary conditions—Insights from Lu-Hf isotopes in the Mojave Desert
Authors: Howard K.A. , al. et
Published: November 2022

Item 1: Sample descriptions and U-Pb age. Item 2: Zircon analytical procedures. Item 3: Lu-Hf isotope calculations. Item 4: U-Pb age plots. Item 5: Whole-rock chemistry of samples. Item 6: U-Th-Pb isotopic analyses. Item 7: Lu-Hf isotopic analyses.
Supplemental Material: Identifying sources of non-unique detrital age distributions through integrated provenance analysis: An example from the Paleozoic Central Colorado Trough
Authors: Smith T.M. , al. et
Published: November 2022

Item A: Details for methods and results. Item B: Detrital zircon U-Pb data. Item C: Detrital zircon U-Pb data from REE analyses (for selected Cambrian grains). Item D: Igneous zircon U-Pb data from REE analyses. Item E: Detrital and igneous zircon REE data. Item F: Detrital and igneous zircon Hf isotope data. Item G. Paleocurrent data. Item H: Sandstone petrography data. Item I: Igneous zircon cathodoluminescence images.    
Pragmatic and open science-based solution to a current problem in the reporting of living systematic reviews
Authors: Metzendorf Maria-Inti , Weibel Stephanie , Reis Stefanie , McDonald Steve
Published: November 2022

Living systematic reviews (LSRs) are an increasingly common approach to keeping reviews up to date, in which new relevant studies are incorporated as they become available, so as to inform healthcare policy and practice in a timely manner. While journal publishers have been exploring the publication of LSRs using different updating and publishing approaches, readers cannot currently assess if the evidence underpinning a published LSR is up to date, as neither the search details, the selection process, nor the list of identified studies is made available between the publication of updates. We describe a new method to transparently report the living evidence surveillance process that occurs between published LSR versions. We use the example of the living Cochrane Review on nirmatrelvir combined with ritonavir (Paxlovid) for preventing and treating COVID-19 to illustrate how this can work in practice. We created a publicly accessible spreadsheet on the Open Science Framework platform, linking to the living Cochrane Review, that details the search and study selection process, enabling readers to track the progress of eligible ongoing or completed studies. Further automation of the evidence surveillance process should be explored.
Efficacy and safety of human-derived neural stem cell in patients with ischaemic stroke: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Xie Chong , Wang Kan , Peng Jing , Jiang Xianguo , Pan Shuting , Wang Liping , Wu Yifan , Guan Yangtai
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Stroke is the most common cause of neurological disability in adults worldwide. Neural stem cell (NSC) transplantation has shown promising results as a treatment for stroke in animal experiments. The pilot investigation of stem cells in stroke phase 1 and phase 2 trials showed that transplantation of the highest dose (20 million cells) was well tolerated. Preliminary clinical benefits have also been observed. However, the trials were open-label and had a small sample size. Furthermore, human NSCs (hNSCs) were intracerebrally implanted, and some serious adverse events were considered to be related to the surgical procedure. Therefore, we plan to conduct a double-blinded, randomised controlled trial to test the safety and efficacy of intranasal injection of hNSCs.

Methods and analysis

This single-centre, randomised, double-blinded, parallel-controlled trial will be conducted in China. Sixty patients with ischaemic stroke who met the qualification criteria will be randomly divided into two groups: the NSCs and control groups. All participants will receive intranasal administration of hNSCs or placebo for 4 consecutive weeks. Patients will be followed up at baseline and at 4, 12, 24 and 48 weeks after intervention. The primary outcome is the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score (4, 12, 24 weeks after intervention). Secondary outcomes include the modified Rankin scale, Barthel index, Mini-Mental State Examination score (4, 12, 24 weeks after intervention) and cranial MRI changes (24 and 48 weeks after intervention). All adverse events will be recorded during the study period.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Ren Ji Hospital (2018-009). All subjects will provide informed consent. The results will be accessible in peer-reviewed publications and will be presented at academic conferences.

Trial registration

ChiCTR1900022741; Chinese Clinical Trial Registry.
Effect of price on the decision to experiment with cigarette smoking among Gambian children: a survival analysis using the Gambia 2017 Global Youth Tobacco Survey data
Authors: Dare Chengetai , Cham Bai , Boachie Micheal Kofi , Gitonga Zachary , D'Alessandro Umberto , Walbeek Corne
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To investigate the relationship between cigarette prices and smoking experimentation among children in the Gambia, and thereby expanding the evidence base of the likely impact of excise taxes on cigarette demand in low-income and middle-income countries.

Design

A survival analysis using the Gambia 2017 Global Youth Tobacco Survey data.

Setting

The Gambia.

Participants

The survey sample was 12 585 youths, aged 12–17 years, but our analysis was restricted to 11 030 respondents with information on smoking status.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Our outcome variable was smoking experimentation defined as the first time the respondent smoked (at least part of) a cigarette.

Results

A 1% increase in the price of cigarettes reduces the probability to experiment with smoking by 0.7%. We also found that children are more likely to experiment with smoking if they have at least one smoking parent, friends who smoke and see teachers who smoke. The probability to experiment with cigarette smoking increases with age and is higher among boys than girls.

Conclusion

There is strong evidence that increasing excise taxes can play an effective role in discouraging children from experimenting with cigarette smoking. Considering the relatively low excise tax burden in the Gambia, the government should consider substantially increasing the excise tax burden.
Efficacy of neuromuscular electrical stimulation with combined low and high frequencies on body composition, peripheral muscle function and exercise tolerance in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing haemodialysis: a protocol for a randomised, double-blind clinical trial
Authors: Moraes Igor Gutierrez , Brito Camila Porto , Francisco Davi de Souza , Faria Larissa Martinez , Luders Claudio , de Brito Christina May Moran , Yamaguti Wellington Pereira
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) as an adjunctive strategy to increase isolated muscular strength or endurance has been widely investigated in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing haemodialysis (HD). However, the efficacy of combined low and high frequencies, to improve both muscular strength and endurance, is unknown. This trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of this combined NMES strategy in this population.

Methods and analysis

This is a randomised controlled trial with blinded assessments and analysis. A total of 56 patients with CKD undergoing HD will be recruited and randomised to an NMES protocol. The evaluations will be performed on three different days at baseline and after 24 sessions of follow-up. Assessments will include the background, insulin-like growth factor, lactate measurement, malnutrition and inflammation score evaluation, an electrical bioimpedance examination, global muscular evaluation by means of the Medical Research Council scale, handgrip strength evaluation, muscular isokinetic evaluation of lower limbs, 6 min step test performance and quality of life (QoL) questionnaire with emphasis on physical function. The patients will be allocated in one of the following four groups: 1) combined low and high frequencies; 2) low frequency; 3) high frequency; and 4) sham stimulation with minimal intensity to generate only sensory perception (with no visible contraction). In all groups, the intensity throughout the session will be the highest tolerated by patient (except for control group). The primary endpoint is the change of peripheral muscle function (muscular strength and endurance). The secondary endpoints will be the changes of body composition; muscle trophism; exercise tolerance; QoL; and nutritional, inflammatory, and metabolic markers. The findings of this study are expected to provide valuable knowledge on how to optimise the NMES intervention, with improvements in both muscle strength and endurance.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol has been approved by the Ethics Committee on Research with Humans of Hospital Sírio-Libanês (approval no. 24337707). Written informed consent will be obtained from each participant. The results of the study will be published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT03779126
Impact of mobile phones on HIV public stigma: a cross-sectional and pseudo-panel analysis from Ghana
Authors: Iacoella Francesco , Gassmann Franziska , Tirivayi Nyasha
Published: November 2022

Objective

HIV-related stigma still remains a major barrier to testing and a significant burden for people living with HIV (PLWH) in sub-Saharan Africa. This paper investigates how mobile phone ownership can influence HIV-related stigma.

Design

This is an observational study using both cross-sectional and pseudo-panel data. Analysis is conducted at both community and individual levels.

Setting

The analysis is run for the country of Ghana using data from 2008 and 2014.

Participants

Individual-level and household-level data were obtained from Ghana’s Demographic and Health Survey.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The analysis measures the impact of mobile phone ownership on prejudice against people with HIV. Secondary outcomes are knowledge of HIV, which is included as a mediating element.

Results

Community-level analysis finds that a 10% increase in the share of mobile phone owners reduces the prevalence of discriminatory attitudes towards PLWH/AIDS by up to 3%. Results are consistent at the individual level. Additionally, mobile phone-enabled HIV knowledge is found to mediate about 26% of the effect of mobile phones on public stigma.

Conclusions

These findings shed light on the role played by access to mobile technology on HIV-related stigma and discrimination and can support the development of future awareness raising and health communication campaigns in Ghana and other West African countries.
Geometric uncertainty in intracranial aneurysm rupture status discrimination: a two-site retrospective study
Authors: Hellmeier Florian , Brüning Jan , Berg Philipp , Saalfeld Sylvia , Spuler Andreas , Sandalcioglu Ibrahim Erol , Beuing Oliver , Larsen Naomi , Schaller Jens , Goubergrits Leonid
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Assessing the risk associated with unruptured intracranial aneurysms (IAs) is essential in clinical decision making. Several geometric risk parameters have been proposed for this purpose. However, performance of these parameters has been inconsistent. This study evaluates the performance and robustness of geometric risk parameters on two datasets and compare it to the uncertainty inherent in assessing these parameters and quantifies interparameter correlations.

Methods

Two datasets containing 244 ruptured and unruptured IA geometries from 178 patients were retrospectively analysed. IAs were stratified by anatomical region, based on the PHASES score locations. 37 geometric risk parameters representing four groups (size, neck, non-dimensional, and curvature parameters) were assessed. Analysis included standardised absolute group differences (SADs) between ruptured and unruptured IAs, ratios of SAD to median relative uncertainty (MRU) associated with the parameters, and interparameter correlation.

Results

The ratio of SAD to MRU was lower for higher dimensional size parameters (ie, areas and volumes) than for one-dimensional size parameters. Non-dimensional size parameters performed comparatively well with regard to SAD and MRU. SAD was higher in the posterior anatomical region. Correlation of parameters was strongest within parameter (sub)groups and between size and curvature parameters, while anatomical region did not strongly affect correlation patterns.

Conclusion

Non-dimensional parameters and few parameters from other groups were comparatively robust, suggesting that they might generalise better to other datasets. The data on discriminative performance and interparameter correlations presented in this study may aid in developing and choosing robust geometric parameters for use in rupture risk models.
Protocol for an open randomised controlled trial investigating Fibrin Glue in Skin grafts for Skin cancer (FiGSS)
Authors: Paw Ekta , Vangaveti Venkat , Zonta Mark , Heal Clare
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Skin cancer is a common disease in the tropics, and oncological resection typically requires reconstruction with skin grafts. Fibrin glue, initially established as a haemostatic agent, has been studied extensively as an adhesive for skin grafts in burns. This study aims to investigate the use of fibrin as an adhesive for split skin grafts in skin cancers.

Methods and analysis

The study design is a prospective randomised controlled trial with the aim of investigating the impact of two different methods of split skin graft fixation. The intervention of fibrin glue will be compared with the control of staples or sutures. The trial will be conducted at two sites, a public hospital and a private hospital in Townsville, Australia, over a 24-month period with 334 participants to be recruited. Consecutive patients presenting for skin excisions and grafting will be eligible to participate in this study. Randomisation will be on the level of the patient. The primary outcome is graft take based on wound healing at 1 month. Secondary outcomes will be pain on dressing changes and operative time.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by The Townsville University Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee. Findings will be disseminated in conference presentations and journals and through online electronic media.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12618000484246.
Rates of perceived medical errors and its correlation with work-related factors and personal distress among emergency physicians in China: a national cross-sectional study
Authors: Yan Shijiao , Wang Jing , Yin Xiaoxv , Lv Chuanzhu , Wu Jianxiong , Jiang Nan , Chen Zhenyuan , Mu Ketao , Zhang Guopeng , Gong Yanhong
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Medical errors are a global concern, and specifically, EDs are at considerable risk for medical errors. Few studies focus on the healthcare provider’s self-perceived medical errors in hospitals, let alone the ED. Hence, this study explored perceived medical errors and their correlation with work-related factors and personal distress among physicians in EDs in China.

Methods

From July 2018 to August 2018, a national web-based cross-sectional study was conducted. The link to the web-based questionnaire was posted on the emergency physicians’ working platform, inviting Chinese licensed emergency physicians to participate anonymously in this survey. Our outcome of interest, medical errors, was investigated using self-reporting methods. Occupational stress was assessed using the Chinese version of the Effort-Reward Imbalance scale. The Patient Health Questionnaire, the subscale of the 10-item Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, the subscale of the validated Leiden Quality of Work Questionnaire and the 10-item Generalised Self-efficacy Scale were used to assess personal distress. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors significantly associated with perceived medical errors.

Results

A sample of 10 457 emergency physicians completed the survey. Almost half (43.63%) of physicians reported self-perceived medical errors during the previous 3 months. The rate of workplace verbal aggression, effort-reward imbalance and depressive symptoms were 81.81%, 78.39% and 35.71%, respectively. Medical errors were more likely to be reported among chief physicians, and those who reported the department was short-staffed for physicians, and who experienced workplace verbal aggression and intense work stress. Medical errors were significantly associated with negative affect and lower self-efficacy.

Conclusion

Self-perceived medical errors are prevalent among physicians working in EDs and are associated with their workplace environment and personal distress. Targeted interventions are required to reduce physicians’ workload and improve their working environment. Accounting for healthcare providers’ distress is imperative for reducing the incidence of medical errors and improving their health.
Spread of local anesthetics after erector spinae plane block: an MRI study in healthy volunteers
Authors: Sørenstua Marie , Zantalis Nikolaos , Raeder Johan , Vamnes Jan Sverre , Leonardsen Ann-Chatrin Linqvist
Published: November 2022

Background

Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is a truncal fascial block with a disputed mechanism and anatomical site of effect. This study aimed to perform a one-sided ESPB and use MRI to investigate the spread of the local anesthetic (LA) and the corresponding cutaneous loss of sensation to pinprick and cold.

Methods

Ten volunteers received a right-sided ESPB at the level of the seventh thoracic vertebra (Th7), consisting of 30 mL 2.5 mg/mL ropivacaine with 0.3 mL gadolinium. The primary outcome was the evaluation of the spread of LA on MRI 1-hour postblock. The secondary outcome was the loss of sensation to cold and pinprick 30–50 min after the block was performed.

Results

All volunteers had a spread of LA on MRI in the erector spinae muscles and to the intercostal space. 9/10 had spread to the paravertebral space and 8/10 had spread to the neural foramina. 4/10 volunteers had spread to the epidural space. One volunteer had extensive epidural spread as well as contralateral epidural and foraminal spread. Four volunteers had a loss of sensation both posterior and anterior to the midaxillary line, while six volunteers had a loss of sensation only on the posterior side.

Conclusion

We found that LA consistently spreads to the intercostal space, the paravertebral space, and the neural foramina after an ESPB. Epidural spread was evident in four volunteers. Sensory testing 30–50 min after an ESPB shows highly variable results, and generally under-represents what could be expected from the visualized spread on MRI 60 min after block performance.

Trial registration number

NCT05012332.
Ion energy distribution of plasma ions of a hollow cathode discharge in Ar + N$$_2$$ and Ar + O$$_2$$ gas mixtures
Authors: Hippler Rainer , Cada Martin , Hubicka Zdenek
Published: November 2022

A hollow cathode discharge with a Ti cathode and a positively biased ring anode was operated in Ar + N$$_2$$

2

or Ar + O$$_2$$

2

gas mixtures. The energy distribution of plasma ions is investigated with the help of energy-resolved mass spectrometry. Singly and doubly charged Ar$$^+$$

+

and Ar$$^{2+}$$

2
+

ions and molecular N$$_2^+$$

2
+

or O$$_2^+$$

2
+

ions are the most abundant ionic species. The kinetic energy of all plasma ions is enhanced by a positive anode voltage.

Graphical abstract
Compositions with Constant Weighted Extended Tree Transducers
Authors: Blattmann Malte , Maletti Andreas
Published: November 2022

Conjecture 11 of [Lagoutte, Maletti: Survey — Weighted extended top-down tree transducers — Part III: Composition. Proc. AFCS, LNCS 7020, p. 272–308, Springer 2011] is confirmed. It is demonstrated that the composition of a constant weighted extended tree transducer with a linear weighted top-down tree transducer can be computed by a single weighted extended tree transducer. Whereas linearity and the top-down property are syntactic, the constant property is semantic. The decidability of the constant property is investigated in several restricted settings.
Actions of tame abelian product groups
Authors: Allison Shaun , Shani Assaf
Published: November 2022

A Polish group G is tame if for any continuous action of G, the corresponding orbit equivalence relation is Borel. When [Formula: see text] for countable abelian [Formula: see text], Solecki [Equivalence relations induced by actions of Polish groups, Trans. Amer. Math. Soc. 347 (1995) 4765–4777] gave a characterization for when G is tame. In [L. Ding and S. Gao, Non-archimedean abelian Polish groups and their actions, Adv. Math. 307 (2017) 312–343], Ding and Gao showed that for such G, the orbit equivalence relation must in fact be potentially [Formula: see text], while conjecturing that the optimal bound could be [Formula: see text]. We show that the optimal bound is [Formula: see text] by constructing an action of such a group G which is not potentially [Formula: see text], and show how to modify the analysis of [L. Ding and S. Gao, Non-archimedean abelian Polish groups and their actions, Adv. Math. 307 (2017) 312–343] to get this slightly better upper bound. It follows, using the results of Hjorth et al. [Borel equivalence relations induced by actions of the symmetric group, Ann. Pure Appl. Logic 92 (1998) 63–112], that this is the optimal bound for the potential complexity of actions of tame abelian product groups. Our lower-bound analysis involves forcing over models of set theory where choice fails for sequences of finite sets.
The probability of events for stochastic parabolic equations
Authors: Lv Guangying , Wei Jinlong
Published: November 2022

In this short paper, we focus on the blowup phenomenon of stochastic parabolic equations. We first discuss the probability of the event that the solutions keep positive. Then, the blowup phenomenon in the whole space is considered. The probability of the event that the solutions blow up in finite time is given. Lastly, we obtain the probability of the event that blowup time of stochastic parabolic equations larger than or less than the deterministic case.
Rate of homogenization for fully-coupled McKean–Vlasov SDEs
Authors: Bezemek Zachary William , Spiliopoulos Konstantinos
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we consider a fully-coupled slow–fast system of McKean–Vlasov stochastic differential equations with full dependence on the slow and fast component and on the law of the slow component and derive convergence rates to its homogenized limit. We do not make periodicity assumptions, but we impose conditions on the fast motion to guarantee ergodicity. In the course of the proof we obtain related ergodic theorems and we gain results on the regularity of Poisson type of equations and of the associated Cauchy problem on the Wasserstein space that are of independent interest.
LONG-RANGE CONNECTIONS, REAL-WORLD NETWORKS AND RATES OF DIFFUSION
Authors: ARAÚJO TANYA , MENDES R. VILELA
Published: November 2022

Long-range connections play an essential role in dynamical processes on networks, on the processing of information in biological networks, on the structure of social and economical networks and in the propagation of opinions and epidemics. Here, we review the evidence for long-range connections in real-world networks and discuss the nature of the nonlocal diffusion arising from different distance-dependent laws. Particular attention is devoted to the characterization of diffusion in finite networks for moderate large times and to the comparison of distance laws of exponential and power type.
Structurally Controllable Hay-Slag-Based Porous Carbons for Supercapacitor and CO2 Adsorption Applications
Authors: Min Jiayu , Zhu Jiayi , Bi Yutie , Ren Hongbo
Published: November 2022

Biomass-derived porous carbon materials were selectively and controllably prepared by carbonization of hay slag (HS) and activation with ZnCl2 combined with Mg(NO[Formula: see text]H2O. The prepared porous carbon materials had an apparent multi-pore structure and a large specific surface area. In a 6[Formula: see text]mol/L KOH with a current density of 0.25[Formula: see text]A/g, the specific capacitance of the prepared sample was 220[Formula: see text]F/g. Further study showed that the optimal pore size range of porous carbon materials for electrode preparation was 0.8–1.2[Formula: see text]nm. At the same time, the porous carbon material had a good adsorption capacity for CO2, and the adsorbent performance was 3.09[Formula: see text]mmol/g at 0∘C and 1 bar. Adsorbents with the pore size range of 0.5–0.8[Formula: see text]nm had the best CO2 adsorption performance. This integrated strategy study expanded biomass-derived porous carbon materials with controllable pore structures to match different application strategies.
Unimodular f(𝒢,T) gravity
Authors: Dog̃ru Melis Ulu , Aydın Hüseyin , Taṣer Dog̃ukan
Published: November 2022

In this study, unimodular [Formula: see text] gravity is proposed as an alternative theory of gravity. Field equations of unimodular [Formula: see text] gravity are suggested. The field equation and their solutions are obtained for exponential expansion and power-law expansion models. Energy conditions of unimodular [Formula: see text] gravity are defined by using Raychaudhuri equations. Energy conditions for exponential expansion and power-law expansion models are investigated. Hubble parameter and deceleration parameter are calculated by considering power-law expansion model and obtained solutions. It has been shown that both deceleration parameter and Hubble parameter are compatible with the current observational data.
Blockchain-empowered Federated Learning: Challenges, Solutions, and Future Directions
Authors: Zhu Juncen , Cao Jiannong , Saxena Divya , Jiang Shan , Ferradi Houda
Published: November 2022

Federated learning is a privacy-preserving machine learning technique that trains models across multiple devices holding local data samples without exchanging them. There are many challenging issues in federated learning, such as coordinating participants’ activities, arbitrating their benefits, and aggregating models. Most existing solutions employ a centralized approach, in which a trustworthy central authority is needed for coordination. Such an approach incurs many disadvantages, including vulnerability to attacks, lack of credibility, and difficulty in calculating rewards. Recently, blockchain was identified as a potential solution for addressing the abovementioned issues. Extensive research has been conducted, and many approaches, methods, and techniques have been proposed. There is a need for a systematic survey to examine how blockchain can empower federated learning. Although there are many surveys on federated learning, few of them cover blockchain as an enabling technology. This work comprehensively surveys challenges, solutions, and future directions for blockchain-empowered federated learning (BlockFed). First, we identify the critical issues in federated learning and explain why blockchain provides a potential approach to addressing these issues. Second, we categorize existing system models into three classes: decoupled, coupled, and overlapped, according to how the federated learning and blockchain functions are integrated. Then we compare the advantages and disadvantages of these three system models, regard the disadvantages as challenging issues in BlockFed, and investigate corresponding solutions. Finally, we identify and discuss the future directions, including open problems in BlockFed.
The Development and Consequences of Red Blood Cell Alloimmunization
Authors: Arthur Connie M. , Stowell Sean R.
Published: November 2022

While red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is the most common medical intervention in hospitalized patients, as with any therapeutic, it is not without risk. Allogeneic RBC exposure can result in recipient alloimmunization, which can limit the availability of compatible RBCs for future transfusions and increase the risk of transfusion complications. Despite these challenges and the discovery of RBC alloantigens more than a century ago, relatively little has historically been known regarding the immune factors that regulate RBC alloantibody formation. Through recent epidemiological approaches, in vitro–based translational studies, and newly developed preclinical models, the processes that govern RBC alloimmunization have emerged as more complex and intriguing than previously appreciated. Although common alloimmunization mechanisms exist, distinct immune pathways can be engaged, depending on the target alloantigen involved. Despite this complexity, key themes are beginning to emerge that may provide promising approaches to not only actively prevent but also possibly alleviate the most severe complications of RBC alloimmunization.
Lung Cell Atlases in Health and Disease
Authors: Adams Taylor S. , Marlier Arnaud , Kaminski Naftali
Published: November 2022

The human lung cellular portfolio, traditionally characterized by cellular morphology and individual markers, is highly diverse, with over 40 cell types and a complex branching structure highly adapted for agile airflow and gas exchange. While constant during adulthood, lung cellular content changes in response to exposure, injury, and infection. Some changes are temporary, but others are persistent, leading to structural changes and progressive lung disease. The recent advance of single-cell profiling technologies allows an unprecedented level of detail and scale to cellular measurements, leading to the rise of comprehensive cell atlas styles of reporting. In this review, we chronical the rise of cell atlases and explore their contributions to human lung biology in health and disease.
Groundwater Level Forecasting in the Jakarta Groundwater Basin
Authors: Nur Andi Agus , Ruswandi Dani
Published: November 2022

Groundwater is an important source of fresh water worldwide. Jakarta, the capital city of the Republic of Indonesia, is a large city with a population of more than 10 million and the center of the country’s economy and urban development. However, Jakarta has many challenges related to groundwater management. Changes in well GWL serve as a direct indicator of the effects of groundwater evolution, and GWL time series usually contain important information about aquifer dynamics. Therefore, water managers and engineers must model and predict GWL, identify and measure groundwater resources, and maintain a balance between supply and demand. Measuring and analyzing the groundwater table (GWL) of an aquifer are an important and valuable activity in the management of groundwater resources, and information on GWL variability can be used to determine groundwater availability. Accurate and reliable groundwater level estimation is very important because it provides important information about the quantitative groundwater status of an aquifer. The main advantage of AI models is their ability to reproduce nonlinear and complex processes without a full understanding of the underlying physics. As a result, the use of AI techniques in GWL modeling continues to grow, attracting the attention of scientists around the world. Using a nonlinear autoregressive network with extrinsic input (NARX) with a timestep of 14 days, this study is aimed at predicting the volatility of Jakarta’s GWL. Based on the research results, both JKT-01 and JKT-03 show a linear downward trend. On the other hand, JKT-02 and JKT-04 show a stable linear trend. GWL increases the linear trend of JKT-05. Variable results are generated by model performance. Model performance (

R

) varied between 0.2 and 0.9 during the training phase and between 0.2 and 0.9 during the validation phase. The overall performance of the model varies from 0.3 to 0.9. The diverse lithology and high pumping capacity in Jakarta are the reasons for the different modeling results. Forecasts for 14 days (14 timesteps) show that GWL remains constant at certain well locations, while GWL decreases at other locations. This is a consideration that stakeholders can consider to reduce the small effect of the daily GWL pattern as a result of NARX modeling.
Physicochemical Equivalence and Quality Assessment of Various Brands of Gastro-Resistant Omeprazole Capsules in the Kumasi Metropolis
Authors: Osei Yaa Asantewaa , Oppong Boakye Elvis , Bayor Marcel T. , Akuffo Owusu Frederick William
Published: November 2022

The proliferation of counterfeit and poor-quality drugs is a major public health problem, especially in developing countries such as Ghana where there are inadequate resources to effectively monitor their prevalence. Most of these drugs, which are counterfeited, are drugs, which are in high demand and will reap huge profits for the unscrupulous people who engage in such activities. The introduction of Omeprazole as one of the first-line therapies in the management of peptic and duodenal ulcers in the treatment guidelines of Ghana has resulted in many generics being introduced onto the market. The pharmaceutical quality of fifteen randomly sampled Omeprazole capsule brands in the Kumasi metropolis was assessed using the innovator brand as a comparator to confirm their suitability for patient use and to provide data for drug regulatory agencies in Ghana concerning poor quality omeprazole brands. All the sampled brands complied with the official specifications for identification with good primary and secondary packaging characteristics. Ninety-four (94%) of the sampled brands passed the uniformity of weight test. All the brands (n = 16) representing 100% passed the disintegration tests. Sixty percent (60%) of the sampled brands passed the drug content test. Ten brands (66.7%) met the specification for in vitro dissolution test. From f2 analysis, the dissolution profiles of only five brands (31%) were similar to that of the reference brand which indicated that they could be used interchangeably in clinical practice. Conclusively, ten out of the fifteen sampled brands were of good quality and only five could be used as a substitute for the innovator. Thus, regulatory agencies will need to strengthen their postmarket surveillance to ensure that generic brands of good quality are allowed onto the market.
Monitoring of Single-Phase Induction Motor through IoT Using ESP32 Module
Authors: Shukla Abhinab , Shukla S. P. , Chacko S. T. , Mohiddin Md. Khaja , Fante Kinde Anlay
Published: November 2022

The condition monitoring of rotating machines for critical applications plays an important role in reducing downtime. With Industry 4.0, the role of IoT in online condition monitoring of electrical machines has gained considerable significance. The main aim of the paper is the use of IoT for online monitoring of motor parameters like current, temperature, vibration, and humidity and observing its online trending using a web server. Data can be accessed in form of graphs and widgets by visiting the web page. The advantage of this project is the real-time monitoring of the motor from any remote area and in case of any abnormality operating personnel can take necessary steps for preventing complete breakdown. The proposed work can help industry people in online monitoring of motors and in the future work can be extended for fault prediction and classification.
DIM-Based Random Number Generation Using Quantum Noise Resources
Authors: Wi Hansaem , Lee Seyoon , Yi Okyeon
Published: November 2022

Currently, unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) or drones are in service in various industrial fields, and each UAS operator establishes and operates their own independent drone system. These individual drone systems interact only with their own components without any integrated management. As the number of UASs is increasing due to the expansion of the drone industry, standardized operation is required. Therefore, to integrate and manage existing drone systems, the Federal Aviation Administration and National Aeronautics and Space Administration devised UAS Traffic Management (UTM). The drone identity module (DIM), which is being developed as a drone identification device, securely stores the remote identification (RID) of each drone and performs a cryptographic operation to secure information between the drone and UTM infrastructure. The DIM performs cryptographic authentication protocols to achieve cryptographic identification and authentication with the UTM infrastructure, which requires random numbers. Modern cryptographic systems rely on difficult computations, and an environment capable of generating secure cryptographic random numbers must be configured to provide high computational costs to attackers. In this paper, we explain the need for random numbers in the DIM, analyze random number generators used in related drone-based studies, and analyze the characteristics of noise resource generation devices that can be used in existing drone systems. Subsequently, based on the analysis results, existing methods are used to generate random numbers in the DIM, and limitations are derived. To overcome these limitations, we propose a method of generating random numbers in the DIM using quantum noise resources. For our proposal, we conduct an analysis of the physical specifications of noise resource generation devices, DIM prototypes, and quantum noise resource generators in existing drone systems, and we present the results of NIST 800-90B entropy measurement using data collected from quantum random number generators.
Nonreceptor Tyrosine Kinase c-Abl-Mediated PHB2 Phosphorylation Aggravates Mitophagy Disorder in Parkinson’s Disease Model
Authors: Zhang Yongjiang , Wu Jiannan , Jin Weina , Shen Mengmeng , Yin Shiyi , Lai Xiaoyi , Ma Hongxia , Jiang Menghan , Sun Dongxue , Yan Junqiang
Published: November 2022

Mitophagy and oxidative stress play important roles in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Dysregulated mitophagy exacerbates mitochondrial oxidative damage; however, the regulatory mechanism of mitophagy is unclear. Here, we provide a potential mechanistic link between c-Abl, a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase, and mitophagy in PD progression. We found that c-Abl activation reduces the interaction of prohibitin 2 (PHB2) and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) and decreases the expressive level of antioxidative stress proteins, including nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), NADPH quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO-1), and the antioxidant enzyme heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium- (MPP+-) lesioned SH-SY5Y cells. Importantly, we found that MPP+ can increase the expression of phosphorylated proteins at the tyrosine site of PHB2 and the interaction of c-Abl with PHB2. We showed for the first time that PHB2 by changing tyrosine (Y) to aspartate (D) at site 121 resulted in impaired binding of PHB2 and LC3 in vitro. Moreover, silencing of PHB2 can decrease the interaction of PHB2 and LC3 and exacerbate the loss of dopaminergic neurons. We also found that STI 571, a c-Abl family kinase inhibitor, can decrease dopaminergic neuron damage and ameliorate MPTP-induced behavioral deficits in PD mice. Taken together, our findings highlight a novel molecular mechanism for aberrant PHB2 phosphorylation as an inhibitor of c-Abl activity and suggest that c-Abl and PHB2 are potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of individuals with PD. However, these results need to be further validated in PHB2 Y121D mice.
Atrophic Papulosis
Authors: Robert Marie , Hot Arnaud
Published: November 2022

Background: Atrophic papulosis (AP) is a rare obliterating vasculopathy characterized by specific skin lesions. The etiology and the pathophysiology of the disease remain unclear. The treatment is still empirical, while the malignant form of the disease is associated with a poor prognosis. Summary: The underlying pathogenesis of AP includes three mechanisms with vasculopathy, coagulopathy, and endothelial dysfunction. Benign and malignant forms of AP are described. The benign form is confined to the skin. The pathognomonic skin lesions evolve over time and are large papules with an atrophic porcelain-white center and an erythematous rim. However, systemic involvement can occur months or years after the initial skin features. In this latter case, the associated mortality is very high with a mortality rate of over 65% in some series. Gastrointestinal involvement and central nervous system infarctions are the most frequent causes of death. Treatment is empirical with the use of antiplatelet therapy, anticoagulants, steroids, intravenous immunoglobulins, and immunosuppressive agents. Recent evidence shows that eculizumab, a complement inhibitor, is the most effective therapy in malignant AP with gastrointestinal involvement of the disease and should be combined with treprostinil to prevent relapse.
Effect of Respiratory Events on Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients Treated with Long-Term Noninvasive Ventilation
Authors: Kleiven Anne Louise , Markussen Heidi Øksnes , Skjønsberg Ole Henning , Janssens Jean-Paul , Aarrestad Sigurd
Published: November 2022

Background: Long-term noninvasive ventilation (NIV) can increase or maintain health-related quality of life (HRQoL) for patients with chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure (CHRF). Evidence from studies systematically assessing how NIV-specific factors influence HRQoL is limited. Objectives: The objective of this study was to describe HRQoL measured by the Severe Respiratory Insufficiency Questionnaire (SRI) in patients with CHRF treated with long-term NIV and to analyze the associations between HRQoL and hypoxemia, hypercapnia, and respiratory events such as apneas, hypopneas (AHI), and patient ventilator asynchrony (PVA) occurring during long-term NIV. Methods: We included sixty-seven stable patients with established long-term NIV due to neuromuscular disease or thoracic cage disorders in a prospective cross-sectional study at Oslo University Hospital. Patients answered the SRI and underwent daytime arterial blood gases, nocturnal pulse oximetry, sleep polygraphy, and nocturnal transcutaneous CO2. Results: The mean global SRI for 62 patients was 64.8 ± 14.5, with the highest score in SRI Social Relationships (79.5 ± 15.6). There were no differences in HRQoL between the different patient groups. Compliant patients had a significantly higher score in SRI Attendant and Sleep. Residual nocturnal hypoxemia affected both the subscale SRI “Respiratory Complaints” and SRI “Attendant Symptoms and Sleep.” Persisting daytime hypercapnia, nocturnal hypoventilation, and high AHI affected the subscale SRI “Anxiety” negatively, while frequent PVA was associated with a lower score in SRI “Physical Function.” Conclusion: In a group of patients with long-term NIV, undesired respiratory events during NIV are associated with lower HRQoL in several of the SRI subscales. We suggest designing interventional studies to confirm the possible relationship between HRQoL and respiratory events during long-term NIV.