bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geometrical restoration of a late Neoproterozoic depositional framework and an intrabasinal unconformity in the Laurentian margin Dalradian Supergroup, Grampian Highlands, Scotland
Authors: Leslie A. G. , Krabbendam M. , Thomas C. W. , Banks C. J. , Clarke S. M.
Published: February 2024

Restoring primary depositional frameworks from orogenic settings is challenging. To demonstrate a robust determination of original, but now highly deformed, depositional frameworks and their first-order sequence-stratigraphy, we analyse the Dalradian succession of Tyndrum–Glen Lyon (Breadalbane) in the southwestern Grampian Highlands of Scotland. In Breadalbane, several distinctive Appin and Argyll group Dalradian formations are absent. Omission has been attributed to ductile shearing on the Boundary Slide structure, during the Grampian Orogeny (
c.
470 Ma). Alternatively, we restore and describe a primary depositional framework and widely developed intra-Dalradian basin unconformity in Breadalbane, preserved in the relatively low-strain lower limb of the Grampian D
2
Ben Lui Syncline. On this unconformity, locally distinctive strata of the Easdale Subgroup, and more regionally typical strata of the Crinan Subgroup, were deposited directly on strata of the Lochaber Subgroup. Northeastward loss of strata of the Ballachulish, Blair Atholl and Islay subgroups, observed SW of Tyndrum, contrasts with gradual reappearance of correlative units northeastwards from Glen Lyon. Onlap and/or overstep relationships are well preserved; although strain is enhanced locally along pronounced stratal or rheological contrasts, the stratigraphical framework remains essentially intact. Our Scotland-wide analysis of the Dalradian depositional framework recognizes other probable basin-scale unconformities that locally influenced patterns of superimposed orogenic deformation.
An Optimal Edge-weighted Graph Semantic Correlation Framework for Multi-view Feature Representation Learning
Authors: Gao Lei , Guo Zheng , Guan Ling
Published: February 2024

In this article, we present an optimal edge-weighted graph semantic correlation (EWGSC) framework for multi-view feature representation learning. Different from most existing multi-view representation methods, local structural information and global correlation in multi-view feature spaces are exploited jointly in the EWGSC framework, leading to a new and high-quality multi-view feature representation. Specifically, a novel edge-weighted graph model is first conceptualized and developed to preserve local structural information in each of the multi-view feature spaces. Then, the explored structural information is integrated with a semantic correlation algorithm, labeled multiple canonical correlation analysis (LMCCA), to form a powerful platform for effectively exploiting local and global relations across multi-view feature spaces jointly. We then theoretically verified the relation between the upper limit on the number of projected dimensions and the optimal solution to the multi-view feature representation problem. To validate the effectiveness and generality of the proposed framework, we conducted experiments on five datasets of different scales, including visual-based (University of California Irvine (UCI) iris database, Olivetti Research Lab (ORL) face database, and Caltech 256 database), text-image-based (Wiki database), and video-based (Ryerson Multimedia Lab (RML) audio-visual emotion database) examples. The experimental results show the superiority of the proposed framework on multi-view feature representation over state-of-the-art algorithms.
Instance-level Adversarial Source-free Domain Adaptive Person Re-identification
Authors: Qu Xiaofeng , Liu Li , Zhu Lei , Nie Liqiang , Zhang Huaxiang
Published: February 2024

Domain adaption (DA) for person re-identification (ReID) has attained considerable progress by transferring knowledge from a source domain with labels to a target domain without labels. Nonetheless, most of the existing methods require access to source data, which raises privacy concerns. Source-free DA has recently emerged as a response to these privacy challenges, yet its direct application to open-set pedestrian re-identification tasks is hindered by the reliance on a shared category space in existing methods. Current source-free DA approaches for person ReID still encounter several obstacles, particularly the divergence-agnostic problem and the notable domain divergence due to the absent source data. In this article, we introduce an Instance-level Adversarial Mutual Teaching (IAMT) framework, which utilizes adversarial views to tackle the challenges mentioned above. Technically, we first elaborately develop a variance-based division (VBD) module to segregate the target data into instance-level subsets based on their similarity and dissimilarity to the source using the source-trained model, implicitly tackling the divergence-agnostic problem. To mitigate domain divergence, we additionally introduce a dynamic adversarial alignment (DAA) strategy, aiming to enhance the consistence of feature distribution across domains by employing adversarial instances from the target data to confuse the discriminators. Experiments reveal the superiority of the IAMT over state-of-the-art methods for DA person ReID tasks, while preserving the privacy of the source data.
Novel Carbon Nanotubes/Gold Nanoparticles Modified Carbon Paste Electrochemical Sensor for Antazoline Determination in Aqueous Humor
Authors: Rostom Yasmin , Hussein Ola G. , Mahmoud Amr M. , Abdelkawy Mohamed , Rezk Mamdouh R. , Ahmed Dina A.
Published: February 2024

Antazoline (ANT) is a H1 histamine receptor antagonist having anticholinergic properties used to decrease nasal congestion. It is found in eye drops usually in combination with either tetryzoline (TET)or xylometazoline (XLO). In this work, a novel electrochemical sensor based on carbon paste electrode (CPE) is developed for simple, rapid, sensitive, and selective determination of antazoline in pure form, different pharmaceutical formulations and in presence of aqueous humor. CPE is modified with nanoparticles multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composite and further decorated with gold nanoparticles using amperometric electrodeposition technique to attain Au-NP@MWCNT/CPE for enhancing sensor sensitivity. Linearity is divided into two linear segments and found to be 2 × 10–7− 2 × 10−6(1st Linear segment) and 2 × 10–6− 2 × 10−5(2nd Linear segment) with limit of detection and quantification of 1.77 × 10−7and 5.37 × 10−7, respectively. High sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility of the modified electrode towards determination of antazoline have promoted its applicability in different dosage forms and in rabbit aqueous humor. This method has noticeable potential applications in quality control, pharmacokinetic studies, and routine determination of antazoline drug in binary pharmaceutical formulations.
Low-Temperature Characterization of a Nonaqueous Liquid Electrolyte for Lithium Batteries
Authors: Hickson Darby T. , Im Julia , Halat David M. , Karvat Aakash , Reimer Jeffrey A. , Balsara Nitash P.
Published: February 2024

Rechargeable batteries exhibit poor performance at low temperatures due to sluggish ion transport through the electrolytic phase. Ion transport is governed by three transport parameters—conductivity, diffusion coefficient, and the cation transference number with respect to the solvent velocity—and the thermodynamic factor. Understanding how these parameters change with temperature is necessary for designing improved electrolytes. In this work, we combine electrochemical techniques with electrophoretic NMR to determine the temperature dependence of these parameters for a liquid electrolyte, LiTFSI salt dissolved in tetraglyme between −20 and 45 °C. At colder temperatures, all species in the electrolyte tend to move more slowly due to increasing viscosity, which translates to a monotonic decrease in conductivity and diffusion coefficient with decreasing temperature. Surprisingly, we find that the field-induced velocity of solvent molecules at a particular salt concentration is a nonmonotonic function of temperature. The cation transference number with respect to the solvent velocity thus exhibits a complex dependence on temperature and salt concentration. The measured thermodynamic and transport properties are used to predict concentration gradients that will form in a lithium-lithium symmetric cell under a constant applied potential as a function of temperature using concentrated solution theory. The calculated steady current at −20 °C is lower than that at 45 °C by roughly two orders of magnitude.
Research on Sodium Storage Performance of Cu and Mg Doped P2 Type Layered Oxide Cathode Materials
Authors: Duan Yu , Ma Zi-han , Li Lili , Su Guanqiao , Bao Shuo , Lu Jin-lin
Published: February 2024

The P2-type Ni–Mn-based oxide cathode materials have drawbacks such as the Jahn-Teller effect and crystal phase transition under high pressure. In this study, Cu and Mg modifications were introduced to inhibit the P2–O2 phase transition and increase the lattice spacing, thereby reducing the resistance of sodium ion de-embedding and intercalation to improve the overall electrochemical performance of the battery. A series of P2-type Na0.67Ni0.33−xMn0.67CuxO2 and Na0.67Ni0.33−xMn0.67MgxO2 cathode materials were synthesized through solid-state reaction. Cu substitution significantly alters the structural stability and electrochemical properties. In the voltage range from 1.5 V to 4.2 V and at 0.1 C, the initial discharge specific capacity of Na0.67Ni0.18Mn0.67Cu0.15O2 was 167 mAh·g−1, with 86 mAh·g−1 remaining after 100 cycles at 1 C. Additionally, a high discharge specific capacity of 207 mAh·g−1 was achieved with 0.075 Mg doping, suggesting that part of O2− participated in the internal electrochemical reaction. Furthermore, the rate performance of Na0.67Ni0.28Mn0.67Mg0.05O2 was found to be the best. This phenomenon was attributed to the inactive Mg2+ retaining more Na+ in the interlayer, inhibiting crystal structure transformation and Jahn-Teller distortion. The larger radius of Mg2+ increased the layer spacing, widened the Na+ de-embedding channels, and increased the diffusion coefficient.
A simple and effective genotyping workflow for rapid detection of CRISPR genome editing
Authors: Wang Lingxiang , Wang Jiale , Feng Dongfeng , Wang Bin , Jahan-Mihan Yasmin , Wang Ying , Bi Yan , Lim DoYoung , Ji Baoan
Published: February 2024

This study presents a streamlined, cost-effective genotyping workflow for clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) edited mouse models, focusing on trypsinogen genes. It simplifies initial F0 mouse screening using PCR and Sanger sequencing without needing exact sequences. For F1 mice, precise editing is identified through Sanger sequencing and algorithm decoding. The workflow includes a novel PCR strategy for distinguishing homozygous and heterozygous statuses in subsequent generations, effective for small deletions, multiple-gene knockouts, and knockins.
Assessment of Violence during COVID-19 among Reproductive Age Women in Arsi Zone, South East Ethiopia
Authors: Agero Gebi , Bedane Kelil Haji , Segni Mesfin Tafa , Kaso Abdene Weya , Ayato Aman Nebi , Bedada Dida Batu , Mieso Akalu Ermias
Published: February 2024

Background. Preventive measures, like staying at home during lockdown, are mandatory during the COVID-19 pandemic. Particularly as a result of staying at home, violence against women is beginning to increase in correlation with these measures. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of violence against women of reproductive age during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Arsi Zone. Methods. A community-based cross-sectional study design was employed from February 15 to March 30, 2021. A multistage sampling technique was used to recruit 1458 women aged 15-49 years old. Data entry was performed using Epi info-7 and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. A logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with violence against women at p value <0.05 and AOR values with 95% CI. Results. The prevalence of violence against women during COVID-19 was 51.1% (95% CI 48.5-53.7%). Psychological violence (31.8%) and controlling behavior violence (29.3%) were the leading types of violence followed by economic (20.2%) and sexual violence (15.6%). Respondents who had monthly income of <1000 birr (AOR = 1.72; 95% CI, 1.18, 2.51), 1001-2000 birr (AOR = 2.22; 95% CI, 1.51, 3.27), 2001-3000 birr (AOR = 1.91; 95% CI, 1.26, 2.91), and 3001-4000 birr (AOR = 2.03; 95% CI, 1.31, 3.14), quarreled with their partner’s family (AOR=3.36; 95% CI: 2.14–5.30), witnessed chilhood family violence (AOR=2.34; 95% CI: 1.81–3.02), and decisions made on the household issue by husband only (AOR=2.62; 95% CI: 2.01–3.41) or wife only (AOR=1.99; 95% CI: 1.33–2.98) were significantly associated with violence against women. In addition, we found that participants whose partners cannot read and write (AOR=2.63; 95% CI: 1.19– 5.81), drink alcohol (AOR=2.78; 95% CI: 2.10–3.76), chew chat (AOR=3.27; 95% CI: 2.21–4.85), ever fighting or aggressive with other men (AOR=2.73; 95% CI: 1.51–4.95), and partners’ families taking part in the decision making (AOR=2.32; 95% CI: 1.49–3.62) were also associated with violence against women. Conclusions. One in every two women was the victim of any form of violence in the study area. Hence, empowering women’s economic status and enhancing community-based health education for males on behavioral lifestyle modification were required to prevent violence against women.
A Custom Backbone UNet Framework with DCGAN Augmentation for Efficient Segmentation of Leaf Spot Diseases in Jasmine Plant
Authors: V. Shwetha , Bhagwat Arnav , Laxmi Vijaya , Shrivastava Sakshi
Published: February 2024

Leaf blight spot disease, caused by bacteria and fungi, poses a considerable threat to commercial plants, manifesting as yellow to brown color spots on the leaves and potentially leading to plant mortality and reduced agricultural productivity. The susceptibility of jasmine plants to this disease emphasizes the necessity for effective detection methods. In this study, we harness the power of a deep convolutional generative adversarial network (DCGAN) to generate a dataset of jasmine plant leaf disease images. Leveraging the capabilities of DCGAN, we curate a dataset comprising 10,000 images with two distinct classes specifically designed for segmentation applications. To evaluate the effectiveness of DCGAN-based generation, we propose and assess a novel loss function. For accurate segmentation of the leaf disease, we utilize a UNet architecture with a custom backbone based on the MobileNetV4 CNN. The proposed segmentation model yields an average pixel accuracy of 0.91 and an mIoU (mean intersection over union) of 0.95. Furthermore, we explore different UNet-based segmentation approaches and evaluate the performance of various backbones to assess their effectiveness. By leveraging deep learning techniques, including DCGAN for dataset generation and the UNet framework for precise segmentation, we significantly contribute to the development of effective methods for detecting and segmenting leaf diseases in jasmine plants.
Isolation and Identification of Effective Probiotics on Drug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Strains and Their Biofilms
Authors: Abbasi Zahra , Ghasemi Seyed Mahdi , Ahmadi Yasaman , Shokri Dariush
Published: February 2024

Introduction. This study aimed to identify, assess, and isolate strong lactobacilli demonstrating broad antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity against drug-resistant strains of Acinetobacter baumannii. Additionally, the mechanism of inhibition of these organisms was to be determined. Methods. Over a 6-month period (from December 2021 to June 2022), 53 clinical A. baumannii strains were collected from clinical samples. Twenty probiotic strains were isolated from local dairy products. Antibacterial activity of Lactobacillus strains’ cell-free supernatant (CFS) was identified using the agar well diffusion method and the microbroth dilution test. Anti-biofilm effect was performed by the microtiter plate assay. The MTT assay was also used to look into the probiotics’ cytotoxic effects on the L929 fibroblast cell line. Results. During the 6-month period, 53 clinical A. baumannii strains were obtained and identified. Out of 20 lactobacillus strains, the CFS of a lactobacillus strain (named L9) showed an inhibitory effect against all A. baumannii strains. Using the broth microdilution method, it was shown that the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of CFS extracts of L9 strains against A. baumannii strains were both ¼ mg/mL. The result of the anti-biofilm showed that the selected probiotic could inhibit biofilm formation. The most common organic acid produced by all Lactobacillus strains, according to the HPLC method, was lactic acid, which was followed by acetic acid. The L929 fibroblast cell line was used in the cytotoxicity assay, which revealed that 100% of the cells in the L929 fibroblast cell line survived treatment with successive doses of CFSs for a full day. Conclusion. The probiotic strain isolated from local yogurt in this study showed potential anti-biofilm and antimicrobial properties against all drug-resistant Acinetobacter isolates. Given the increasing interest in probiotic microorganisms based on their high health benefits, further studies are recommended on the mechanisms of action between probiotics and A. baumannii strains to find new solutions for biological control and treatment of these infections without the use of antibiotics.
Agricultural Sustainability in a Mining Context: An Empirical Inquest in Hemgir Block of Odisha, India
Authors: Mishra Chhayakanta , Jena Damodar , Parida Nishith Ranjan , Rout Padmalochan , Dibiat Nibal
Published: February 2024

Agricultural sustainability plays an important role in improving air, water, soil, and the general environment around the world. The concept of sustainability depends primarily on economic, environmental, and social aspects. These aspects vary by region and type of crop grown, and the environment in which it is grown, so they usually work together to standardize agricultural sustainability. Mining has widespread effects on agriculture especially in the Hemgir block of Odisha, India, which has serious implications for agricultural sustainability, especially for small and marginal farmers. Current research involves designing a structural equation model (SEM) to assess the relationships between indicators that measure agricultural sustainability in the Hemgir block. Primary data were collected from 112 paddy farmers in Hemgir block to assess environmental, social, and economic interactions. The study found that there was a significant and positive correlation between environmental and economic indicators. One of the important things to learn from this study is to help stakeholders and the agricultural sector to understand the interrelationships between specific indicators. The government also needs to emphasize the environmental aspect and facilitate social and economic‐focused handholding support.
A Protective Role of Canonical Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway in Pathogenic Bacteria-Induced Inflammatory Responses
Authors: Jiang Zhongjia , Zhou Weiping , Tian Xing , Zou Peng , Li Ning , Zhang Chunmeng , Li Yanting , Liu Guangyan
Published: February 2024

Inflammation is a complex host defensive response against various disease-associated pathogens. A baseline extent of inflammation is supposed to be tightly associated with a sequence of immune-modulated processes, resulting in the protection of the host organism against pathogen invasion; however, as a matter of fact is that an uncontrolled inflammatory cascade is the main factor responsible for the host damage, accordingly suggesting a significant and indispensable involvement of negative feedback mechanism in modulation of inflammation. Evidence accumulated so far has supported a repressive effect of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway on microbial-triggered inflammation via diverse mechanisms, although that consequence is dependent on the cellular context, types of stimuli, and cytokine environment. It is of particular interest and importance to comprehend the precise way in which the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is activated, due to its essential anti-inflammatory properties. It is assumed that an inflammatory milieu is necessary for initiating and activating this signaling, implying that Wnt activity is responsible for shielding tissues from overwhelming inflammation, thus sustaining a balanced physiological condition against bacterial infection. This review gathers the recent efforts to elucidate the mechanistic details through how Wnt/β-catenin signaling modulates anti-inflammatory responses in response to bacterial infection and its interactions with other inflammatory signals, which warrants further study for the development of specific interventions for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Further clinical trials from different disease settings are required.
Toxoplasmosis Behind Bars: One Health Approach on Serosurvey Dynamics and Associated Risk Factors for Women Inmates, Correctional Officers, and In‐Prison Feral Cats
Authors: Luís Brucinski Pinto Gabriel , Alvares Santarém Vamilton , Ribeiro Juliano , Teixeira de Souza Filho Roberto , Alves de França Danilo , Nunes de Moraes Gustavo , Kosloski Jully , Meneguelli Biondo Leandro , Giuffrida Rogério , Langoni Hélio , Bach Kmetiuk Louise , Welker Biondo Alexander
Published: February 2024

Brazil holds the third highest general and fifth female incarcerated population worldwide. Despite the incarceration ecosystem that may favor the spreading of zoonotic diseases, particularly when unattended animals are present, no comprehensive study has focused on toxoplasmosis dynamics in such environment. Accordingly, the present study has aimed to serologically assess anti‐Toxoplasma gondii (IgG) antibodies by indirect immunofluorescent antibody test in inmates, correctional officers, and feral cats at the Women’s State Penitentiary of Parana, southern Brazil. In overall, 230/506 (45.5%; CI 95%: 41.2–49.8) incarcerated women, 31/91 (34.1%; 95% CI: 25.2–44.3) correctional officers, and 23/39 (59.0%; CI 95%: 43.2–72.9) cats were seropositive to anti‐T. gondii antibodies. Logistic regression revealed that seropositivity likelihood increased with consumption of raw meat (p = 0.040) and decreased with elementary educational level (p = 0.001). No statistical difference was found comparing seropositivity between inmates and correctional officers (p = 0.057). As women inmates have been considered among the most vulnerable groups in disease morbidity and mortality, seropositivity observed herein may be directly related to vulnerability and high T. gondii oocyst exposure dispersed in cat feces during incarceration.
Adrenocortical Carcinoma with a Renal Vein Thrombus Extending to the Inferior Vena Cava Successfully Resected with the Left Kidney and Distal Pancreatectomy: A Case Report
Authors: Miyata Takashi , Sannomiya Yuta , Nagayama Taigo , Kin Ryosuke , Nishiki Hisashi , Hashimoto Akifumi , Kaida Daisuke , Fujita Hideto , Ueda Nobuhiko , Takamura Hiroyuki
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is an extremely rare and aggressive tumor, and its clinical characteristics are poorly defined because of its rarity. Case Presentation: We report a 64-year-old man who presented with upper abdominal pain and weight loss. Computed tomography revealed a 15 cm left adrenal tumor compressing the pancreas ventrally and a tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava (IVC) originating from the left renal vein. Positron emission tomography-computed tomography revealed 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake only in the tumor and tumor thrombus, and radical surgery was planned. Intraoperatively, the tumor was visible on the posterior stomach wall, and the tumor adhered to the pancreas and left kidney. We excised the tumor with part of the pancreas and the left kidney and excised the thrombus from the IVC after clamping. The final diagnosis was ACC, tumor-node-metastasis grade T3N1M0, stage III. The patient received chemotherapy and radiotherapy postoperatively; however, two liver metastases appeared 6 months after surgery. Chemotherapy was continued, and no exacerbation of the liver metastases was observed. Posterior segment resection of the liver was performed 16 months after the initial surgery. Conclusion: This report of a rare case of ACC involving the pancreas with tumor thrombus extension to the IVC stresses that this combination of conditions does not preclude radical surgery. However, more data are needed regarding chemotherapy and radiotherapy, as well as relapse treatment, and further research on ACC is essential for a favorable prognosis.
Infusion-Related Reactions Induced by Cadonilimab (PD-1/CTLA-4 Bispecific Antibody): Seven Case Reports
Authors: Liang Weiting , Guo Zhijun , Zhang Yunhui , Yang Ning , Guo Chenchen , Liu Tao , Huang Hongbing , Chen Zhuojia
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Cadonilimab (AK104) is an innovative human programmed cell death-1 (PD-1)/cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) bispecific antibody. Compared with the combination therapy of PD-1 and CTLA-4 blockers, less cellular toxicity of cadonilimab was significantly manifested. As one of the characteristic adverse effects of cadonilimab, infusion-related reactions (IRRs) represent fever, chills, rash, decreased blood pressure, and other symptoms. Case Presentation: Here, we documented seven cases of IRRs after the administration of cadonilimab. The symptoms of IRRs were relieved after the discontinuation of cadonilimab and the administration of diphenhydramine, dexamethasone, and cimetidine. Notably, 3 patients were able to tolerate the subsequent cadonilimab therapy under the pretreatment. Conclusion: In this study, we discovered that cadonilimab-related IRRs might be lessened or prevented by administering medication and the proper pretreatment and lowering the infusion rate.
Cytokine-Mediated Molecular Pathophysiology of Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Narrative Review
Authors: Melchor Julian , Prajapati Stuti , Pichardo Rita O. , Feldman Steven R.
Published: February 2024

Background: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the skin that mainly affects the apocrine gland-rich intertriginous areas. The disease manifests as painful nodules, abscesses, and pus-filled tunnels, which can severely impact patient’s quality of life. While diagnosis is clinical, successful treatment options for this condition are limited. There has been an increase in research and clinical trials focusing on biomarkers and cytokines for clinical use. Understanding the potential biomarkers and cytokines implicated in HS pathogenesis may allow efficacious and safe treatment options. Summary: A literature review was conducted on nine biomarkers and cytokines. IL-1, IL-10, IL-17, IL-23, TNF-α, YKL-40, G-CSF, NOD2, and the complement system were identified due to their potential clinical utilization and pathophysiological involvement in HS. Key Messages: With further research expanding our understanding of the pathophysiology of HS and the roles these cytokines and biomarkers play, there is potential for utilization as diagnostic markers or development of antagonists against these specific agents for HS management.
Maligner Pleuraerguss: FDG-PET verbessert klinische Einordnung
Authors: Stanzel Franz
Published: February 2024

Background: The confirmation of malignant pleural effusions (MPE) requires an invasive procedure. Diagnosis can be difficult and may require repeated thoracentesis or biopsies. F18Fluorodeoxyglucose-Positron Emission Tomography (FDG-PET) can characterize the extent of malignant involvement in areas of increased uptake. Patterns of uptake in the pleura may be sufficient to obviate the need for further invasive procedures. Methods: This is a retrospective review of patients with confirmed malignancy and suspected MPE. Patients who underwent diagnostic thoracentesis with cytology and contemporaneous FDG-PET were identified for analysis. Some underwent confirmatory pleural biopsy. The uptake pattern on FDG-PET underwent blinded review and was categorized based on the pattern of uptake. Results: One hundred consecutive patients with confirmed malignancy, suspected MPE and corresponding FDG-PET scans were reviewed. MPE was confirmed in 70 patients with positive pleural fluid cytology or tissue pathology. Of the remaining patients, 15 had negative cytopathology, 14 had atypical cells and 1 had reactive cells. Positive uptake on FDG-PET was noted in 76 patients. The concordance of malignant histology and positive FDG-PET occurred in 58 of 76 patients (76%). Combining histologically confirmed MPE with atypical cytology, positive pleural FDG-PET uptake had a positive predictive value of 91% for MPE. An encasement pattern had a 100% PPV for malignancy. Conclusion: Positive FDG-PET pleural uptake represents an excellent method to identify MPE, especially in patients with an encasement pattern. This may eliminate the need for additional invasive procedures in some patients, even when initial pleural cytology is negative.
Implementation of a Multidimensional Strategy to Reduce Post-PCI Bleeding Risk
Authors: Price Andrea L. , Amin Amit P. , Rogers Susan , Messenger John C. , Moussa Issam D. , Miller Julie M. , Jennings Jonathan , Masoudi Frederick A. , Abbott J. Dawn , Young Rebecca , Wojdyla Daniel M. , Rao Sunil V.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The American College of Cardiology Reduce the Risk: PCI Bleed Campaign was a hospital-based quality improvement campaign designed to reduce post-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) bleeding events. The aim of the campaign was to provide actionable evidence-based tools for participants to review, adapt, and adopt, depending upon hospital resources and engagement.

METHODS:

We used data from 8 757 737 procedures in the National Cardiovascular Data Registry between 2015 and 2021 to compare patient and hospital characteristics and bleeding outcomes among campaign participants (n=195 hospitals) and noncampaign participants (n=1384). Post-PCI bleeding risk was compared before and after campaign participation. Multivariable hierarchical logistic regression was used to determine the adjusted association between campaign participation and post-PCI bleeding events. Prespecified subgroups were examined.

RESULTS:

Campaign hospitals were more often higher volume teaching facilities located in urban or suburban locations. After adjustment, campaign participation was associated with a significant reduction in the rate of bleeding (bleeding: adjusted odds ratio, 0.61 [95% CI, 0.53–0.71]). Campaign hospitals had a greater decrease in bleeding events than noncampaign hospitals. In a subgroup analysis, the reduction in bleeding was noted in non–ST-segment–elevation acute coronary syndrome and ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction patients, but no significant reduction was seen in patients without acute coronary syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS:

Participation in the American College of Cardiology Reduce the Risk: PCI Bleed Campaign was associated with a significant reduction in post-PCI bleeding. Our results underscore that national quality improvement efforts can be associated with a significant impact on PCI outcomes.
Sex Differences in Receipt of Bystander Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Considering Neighborhood Racial and Ethnic Composition
Authors: Blewer Audrey L. , Starks Monique A. , Malta‐Hansen Carolina , Sasson Comilla , Ong Marcus Eng Hock , Al‐Araji Rabab , McNally Bryan F. , Viera Anthony J.
Published: February 2024

Background

Bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (B‐CPR) and defibrillation for out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) vary by sex, with women being less likely to receive these interventions in public. It is unknown whether sex differences persist when considering neighborhood racial and ethnic composition. We examined the odds of receiving B‐CPR stratified by location and neighborhood. We hypothesized that women in predominantly Black neighborhoods will have a lower odds of receiving B‐CPR.

Methods and Results

We conducted a retrospective study using the Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival (CARES). Neighborhoods were classified by census tract. We modeled the odds of receipt of B‐CPR (primary outcome), automatic external defibrillation application, and survival to hospital discharge (secondary outcomes) by sex. CARES collected 457 621 arrests (2013–2019); after appropriate exclusion, 309 662 were included. Women who had public OHCA had a 14% lower odds of receiving B‐CPR (odds ratio [OR], 0.86 [95% CI, 0.82–0.89]), but effect modification was not seen by neighborhood (
P
=not significant). In predominantly Black neighborhoods, women who had public OHCA had a 13% lower odds of receiving B‐CPR (adjusted OR, 0.87 [95% CI, 0.76–0.98]) and 12% lower odds of receiving automatic external defibrillation application (adjusted OR, 0.88 [95% CI, 0.78–0.99]). In predominantly Hispanic neighborhoods, women who had public OHCA were less likely to receive B‐CPR (adjusted OR, 0.83 [95% CI, 0.73–0.96]) and less likely to receive automatic external defibrillation application (adjusted OR, 0.74 [95% CI, 0.64–0.87]).

Conclusions

Women with public OHCA have a decreased likelihood of receiving B‐CPR and automatic external defibrillation application. Findings did not differ significantly according to neighborhood composition. Despite this, our work has implications for considering strategies to reduce disparities around bystander response.
Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Variability and the Impact on Pregnancy Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wilson Milly G. , Bone Jeffrey N. , Mistry Hiten D. , Slade Laura J. , Singer Joel , von Dadelszen Peter , Magee Laura A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Long‐term (visit‐to‐visit) blood pressure variability (BPV) and heart rate variability (HRV) outside pregnancy are associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Given the limitations of relying solely on blood pressure level to identify pregnancies at risk, long‐term (visit‐to‐visit) BPV or HRV may provide additional diagnostic/prognostic counsel. To address this, we conducted a systematic review to examine the association between long‐term BPV and HRV in pregnancy and adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes.

Methods and Results

Databases were searched from inception to May 2023 for studies including pregnant women, with sufficient blood pressure or heart rate measurements to calculate any chosen measure of BPV or HRV. Studies were excluded that reported short‐term, not long‐term, variability. Adjusted odds ratios were extracted. Eight studies (138 949 pregnancies) reporting BPV met our inclusion criteria; no study reported HRV and its association with pregnancy outcomes. BPV appeared to be higher in women with hypertension and preeclampsia specifically, compared with unselected pregnancy cohorts. Greater BPV was associated with significantly more adverse pregnancy outcomes, particularly maternal (gestational hypertension [odds ratio range, 1.40–2.15], severe hypertension [1.40–2.20]), and fetal growth (small‐for‐gestational‐age infants [1.12–1.32] or low birth weight [1.18–1.39]). These associations were independent of mean blood pressure level. In women with hypertension, there were stronger associations with maternal outcomes but no consistent pattern for perinatal outcomes.

Conclusions

Future work should aim to confirm whether BPV could be useful for risk stratification prospectively in pregnancy, and should determine the optimal management path for those women identified at increased risk of adverse outcomes.
Influence of Time to Achieve Target Systolic Blood Pressure on Outcome After Intracerebral Hemorrhage: The Blood Pressure in Acute Stroke Collaboration
Authors: Wang Xia , Yang Jie , Moullaali Tom J. , Sandset Else Charlotte , Woodhouse Lisa J. , Law Zhe Kang , Arima Hisatomi , Butcher Kenneth S. , Delcourt Candice , Edwards Leon , Gupta Salil , Jiang Wen , Koch Sebastian , Potter John , Qureshi Adnan I. , Robinson Thompson G. , Al-Shahi Salman Rustam , Saver Jeffrey L. , Sprigg Nikola , Wardlaw Joanna , Anderson Craig S. , Sakamoto Yuki , Bath Philip M. , Chalmers John ,   The Blood Pressure in Acute Stroke (BASC) Investigators
Published: February 2024

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate whether an earlier time to achieving and maintaining systolic blood pressure (SBP) at 120 to 140 mm Hg is associated with favorable outcomes in a cohort of patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage.

METHODS:

We pooled individual patient data from randomized controlled trials registered in the Blood Pressure in Acute Stroke Collaboration. Time was defined as time form symptom onset plus the time (hour) to first achieve and subsequently maintain SBP at 120 to 140 mm Hg over 24 hours. The primary outcome was functional status measured by the modified Rankin Scale at 90 to 180 days. A generalized linear mixed models was used, with adjustment for covariables and trial as a random effect.

RESULTS:

A total of 5761 patients (mean age, 64.0 [SD, 13.0], 2120 [36.8%] females) were included in analyses. Earlier SBP control was associated with better functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale score, 3–6; odds ratio, 0.98 [95% CI, 0.97–0.99]) and a significant lower risk of hematoma expansion (0.98, 0.96–1.00). This association was stronger in patients with bigger baseline hematoma volume (>10 mL) compared with those with baseline hematoma volume ≤10 mL (0.006 for interaction). Earlier SBP control was not associated with cardiac or renal adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our study confirms a clear time relation between early versus later SBP control (120–140 mm Hg) and outcomes in the one-third of patients with intracerebral hemorrhage who attained sustained SBP levels within this range. These data provide further support for the value of early recognition, rapid transport, and prompt initiation of treatment of patients with intracerebral hemorrhage.
Developments in analytical techniques for mycotoxin determination: an update for 2022-23
Authors: Tittlemier S.A. , Cramer B. , DeRosa M.C. , Dzuman Z. , Malone R. , Maragos C. , Suman M. , Sumarah M.W.
Published: February 2024

This review summarises developments published in the period from mid-2022 to mid-2023 on the analysis of a variety of matrices for mycotoxins. Important developments in all aspects of mycotoxin determination, from sampling and quality assurance/quality control of analytical results, to the various detection and quantitation technologies ranging from single mycotoxin biosensors to comprehensive instrumental methods are presented and discussed. This non-exhaustive summary and associated discussion covers such technology as chromatography with targeted or non-targeted high resolution mass spectrometry, detection other than mass spectrometry such as fluorescence or diode array detection, biosensors, as well as assays using alternatives to antibodies. This collaborative critical review intends to guide readers to relevant research by briefly presenting the most important developments in mycotoxin determination published in the past year. This review also relays limitations of the presented methodologies, in order to provide a thorough assessment of the analytical developments.
Biased Knowers, Biased Reasons, and Biased Philosophers
Authors: Veber Michael
Published: February 2024

In Bias: A Philosophical Study, Thomas Kelly offers a response to epistemological skepticism grounded in his account of bias. According to Kelly, the classic argument for skepticism is best understood as an attempt to show that our commonsense beliefs are biased against the skeptic. Kelly grants that this is true but argues that biased beliefs can still be knowledge. I offer two objections. First, if we are applying Kelly’s theory of bias to skepticism, it is best to think of the skeptic’s challenge to be that our anti-skeptical beliefs are based on what we know to be biased reasons. Kelly has not shown that this sort of bias is compatible with knowledge. Second, Kelly’s approach to the problem of skepticism is an example of what I have called “unambitious epistemology.” And, for that reason, it is not a satisfactory answer to skepticism.
Increased Variability in Pigeons Exposed to a Peak Procedure with Gaps and Distractors with Intervals of Different Duration
Authors: Barrón Erick , García-Leal Óscar , Camarena Héctor O. , Buritica Jonathan
Published: February 2024

Several studies have assessed the insertion of a gap or a distractor in a peak procedure. A rightward shift in the peak time has been consistently reported in both cases. The Time-Sharing Model (TSM) explains this effect as a disruption in the timing mechanism caused by the distribution of attentional resources when these events are presented concurrently with the timing task. According to the model, subjective time decays during the presence of a distractor or gap, resulting in the observed rightward shift, regardless of the distractor’s proportion within the interval. Recent research suggests that changes in performance during timing tasks may be influenced by motivational factors and alternative behaviors rather than disruptions in the timing mechanism. Motivational hypotheses propose a dissociation between certain observed behaviors and the underlying timing mechanisms, indicating that the rightward shift in peak time may be attributed to increased latency in initiating timing behaviors. Consequently, stimuli that reduce likelihood of emitting timing behaviors may have distinct effects on intervals of different durations. To assess these effects, we manipulated the duration and proportion of gaps and distractors within the same procedure, aiming to determine if alternative behaviors evoked by the stimuli or the decay memory proposed by the TSM can account for the observed effects. Our data do not fully support the assumptions of the TSM, and the results suggests the importance of an integrative timing model that considers different components of the performance of subjects in timing tasks.
Edible black ant Smith (Carebara vidua) as human food – A systematic review
Authors: Siddiqui S.A. , Ho L.-H. , Adimulam S.C. , Nagdalian A. , Yudhistira B. , Castro-Muñoz R. , Ibrahim S.A.
Published: February 2024

Meeting food security is one of the major global challenges to ensure sufficient supply of food for current and future generations, considering increasing population growth and climate change issues. Consequently, the consumption of edible insects as an alternative food source has recently gained global attention for combating global food insecurity. The present review aims to provide information on the recent progress in consumption of edible black ant Smith, particularly Carebara vidua, as the main focus. The global consumption record of edible black ant Smith and consumer acceptance as well as the strategies used to increase consumer acceptance of eating edible black ant smith were proposed. In addition, the bioecology of black ant Smith was covered in this review. Further, details are provided in this review on the benefits to health, economy, and environment of practicing eating edible insects such as black ant Smith. Focus on the potential uses of Carebara vidua as a food ingredient in culinary cuisine and their safety concerns from rearing until processing were highlighted. The SCOPUS database was analysed using bibliometric software to understand the connections between recent scientific outputs and ant as human food thoroughly. BioRender software was used to create scientific figures. It is noteworthy to highlight that black ant smith contains high protein and micronutrient, especially iron and zinc are higher than that of plant-, animal-based food, and seafood that contribute significantly to meeting the daily protein and mineral intake amount for human. Moreover, the exhibition of antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of edible black ant smith suggests that it can be used as a future functional ingredients for food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics purposes. Hence, edible black ant smith is promising as an alternative and potential source of food or medicine for sustainable food security.
A new species of long-legged flies with a brief review and key to species of the genus Wheelerenomyia Meunier from Eocene Baltic amber (Diptera: Dolichopodidae)
Authors: GRICHANOV IGOR YA.
Published: February 2024

A new species Wheelerenomyia negrobovi sp. nov., is described and illustrated from the late Eocene Baltic amber. The genus is placed in the extant subfamily Sciapodinae and includes 13 recognized species, all from Baltic amber. A key to species of this genus is proposed. The following new synonyms are proposed: Wheelerenomyia eocenica Meunier, 1907 = Nematoproctus subparvus Meunier, 1916, syn. nov.; Wheelerenomyia originaria (Meunier, 1907) = Amesorhaga quadrispinosa Negrobov & Selivanova, 2003, syn. nov.; Wheelerenomyia parva (Meunier, 1907) = Nematoproctus parvulus Meunier, 1907, syn. nov.
Supplement to the Burmese (Myanmar) amber checklist and bibliography, 2023
Authors: ROSS ANDREW J.
Published: February 2024

This is a supplement to the Burmese (Myanmar) amber checklist and bibliography covering taxa described or recorded during 2023, plus a couple of earlier records that were missed previously. Up to the end of 2023, 2,781 species have been recorded from Kachin amber, of which 244 were named in 2023; 16 species have been recorded from older Hkamti amber (six were named in 2023), of which two are known from both Hkamti and Kachin amber. Another four species were named in 2023, though it is uncertain whether they are in Kachin or Hkamti amber. In total 253 species were named from Cretaceous amber from Myanmar in 2023.
A new species of dustywings (Neuroptera: Coniopterygidae) from mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber
Authors: JOUAULT CORENTIN , ENGEL MICHAEL S.
Published: February 2024

speciesThe family Coniopterygidae, commonly known as dustywings, occupies a distinctive niche within the Neuroptera, as they are the smallest members of this order (Grimaldi & Engel, 2005; Engel et al., 2018). Characterized by forewing lengths seldom surpassing 5 mm, with a few exceptions (Liu & Lu, 2017), this family has achieved a remarkable speciosity, with approximately 570 extant species scattered across diverse habitats globally (Oswald & Machado, 2018).
When rare click beetles were not that rare: Cretaceous Cerophytidae Latreille, 1834 (Coleoptera) from Siberia
Authors: TELNOV DMITRY , PERKOVSKY EVGENY E. , VASILENKO DMITRY V. , KUNDRATA ROBIN
Published: February 2024

Cerophytidae, commonly known as rare click beetles, represent one of the more basal lineages of the beetle superfamily Elateroidea, with a rather diverse fossil record in the Mesozoic. Four fossil species of this group were previously described from the Cretaceous of Siberia. Here, we redescribe Aphytocerus communis Zherichin, 1977 based on newly found amber specimens from Yantardakh (Taimyr Peninsula). We were able to locate and herein discuss the type specimens of two Mesozoic Siberian cerophytids, Baissophytum convexum Chang, Kirejtshuk & Ren, 2011 and Baissopsis ampla (Chang, Kirejtshuk & Ren, 2011), which were described from the Lower Cretaceous Zaza Formation in Transbaikalia. We compare them with A. communis and discuss the morphology of all three genera, and with Brachycerophytum cretaceum Yu, Ślipiński & Pang, 2019 from Burmese amber.
Synopsis of the Darwin wasp Chirotica Förster, 1869 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Phygadeuontinae) in Brazil
Authors: LIMA ADRIANE G. M. , FERNANDES DANIELL R. R.
Published: February 2024

The Darwin wasp genus Chirotica Förster, 1869 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae, Phygadeuontinae) is poorly represented in Brazilian entomological collections, with only three previously described species. Herein, four new species are described and illustrated: C. juquia sp. nov., C. maraca sp. nov., C. mariua sp. nov. and C. nigra sp. nov.. Four other species are recorded for the first time for Brazil: Chirotica brevilabris Townes, 1983, C. pothina (Marshall, 1982), C. bruchii (Brèthes, 1904) and C. stangei Townes, 1983. New morphological characters, comparative diagnoses, distribution maps and an illustrated key to the Brazilian species are also provided.