bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Differences in minimal disease knowledge of keratoconus patients: results from an international survey
Authors: Baenninger Philipp B , Romano Vito , Figueiredo Francisco C , Pradhan Sayali P , Vohra Vishal , Jeng Bennie H , Iselin Katja C , Murphy Conor C , Kaufmann Claude , Thiel Michael A , Bachmann Lucas M 
Published: May 2023

Background/aimsThe objective of this multicentre, multinational, prospective study was to assess the level of basic understanding that individuals with keratoconus possessed about their condition.MethodsWe recruited 200 active keratoconus patients who were under regular review, and cornea specialists established a standard of ‘minimal keratoconus knowledge’ (MKK) that included an understanding of the definition, risk factors, symptoms and treatment options for the condition. We collected data from each participant regarding their clinical characteristics, highest level of education, (para)medical background and experiences with keratoconus within their social circle, and calculated the percentage of MKK attained by each patient.ResultsOur findings revealed that none of the participants met the MKK standard, with the average MKK score being 34.6% and ranging from 0.0% to 94.4%. Furthermore, our study showed that patients with a university degree, previous surgical intervention for keratoconus or affected parents had a higher MKK. However, age, gender, disease severity, paramedical knowledge, disease duration and best-corrected visual acuity did not significantly affect the MKK score.ConclusionsOur study demonstrates a concerning lack of basic disease knowledge among keratoconus patients in three different countries. The level of knowledge exhibited by our sample was only one-third of what cornea specialists would typically anticipate from patients. This highlights the need for greater education and awareness campaigns surrounding keratoconus. Further research is needed to determine the most efficient approaches for enhancing MKK and subsequently improving the management and treatment of keratoconus.
Dual TLR9 and PD-L1 targeting unleashes dendritic cells to induce durable antitumor immunity
Authors: Fernandez-Rodriguez Laura , Cianciaruso Chiara , Bill Ruben , Trefny Marcel P , Klar Richard , Kirchhammer Nicole , Buchi Mélanie , Festag Julia , Michel Sven , Kohler Rainer H , Jones Elham , Maaske Andre , vom Berg Johannes , Kobold Sebastian , Kashyap Abhishek S , Jaschinski Frank , Dixon Karen O , Pittet Mikael J , Zippelius Alfred 
Published: May 2023

BackgroundAlthough immune checkpoint inhibitors have been a breakthrough in clinical oncology, these therapies fail to produce durable responses in a significant fraction of patients. This lack of long-term efficacy may be due to a poor pre-existing network linking innate and adaptive immunity. Here, we present an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-based strategy that dually targets toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1), aiming to overcome resistance to anti-PD-L1 monoclonal therapy.MethodsWe designed a high-affinity immunomodulatory IM-TLR9:PD-L1-ASO antisense oligonucleotide (hereafter, IM-T9P1-ASO) targeting mouse PD-L1 messenger RNA and activating TLR9. Then, we performedin vitroandin vivostudies to validate the IM-T9P1-ASO activity, efficacy, and biological effects in tumors and draining lymph nodes. We also performed intravital imaging to study IM-T9P1-ASO pharmacokinetics in the tumor.ResultsIM-T9P1-ASO therapy, unlike PD-L1 antibody therapy, results in durable antitumor responses in multiple mouse cancer models. Mechanistically, IM-T9P1-ASO activates a state of tumor-associated dendritic cells (DCs), referred to here as DC3s, which have potent antitumor potential but express the PD-L1 checkpoint. IM-T9P1-ASO has two roles: it triggers the expansion of DC3s by engaging with TLR9 and downregulates PD-L1, thereby unleashing the antitumor functions of DC3s. This dual action leads to tumor rejection by T cells. The antitumor efficacy of IM-T9P1-ASO depends on the antitumor cytokine interleukin-12 (IL-12), produced by DC3s, andBatf3, a transcription factor required for DC development.ConclusionsBy simultaneously targeting TLR9 and PD-L1, IM-T9P1-ASO amplifies antitumor responses via DC activation, leading to sustained therapeutic efficacy in mice. By highlighting differences and similarities between mouse and human DCs, this study could serve to develop similar therapeutic strategies for patients with cancer.
Is it time for a paradigmatic shift in relation to healthcare in the UK? A reflection
Authors: Saunders Karen , Sakel Mohamed , Cooper Cary L 
Published: May 2023

ContextConflict is a driver of change and unions representing professional groups across the National Health Service (NHS) are currently engaged in direct conflict with the government. For the first time in the history of the NHS, healthcare professionals have taken industrial strike action. Junior doctors and consultant physicians are currently engaged in their respective union ballots and indicative poll surveys regarding potential strike action in the future. In the wake of such widespread industrial action, we have taken time to think deeply about the confronting challenges and issues and offer this reflection as an opportunity to redefine and re-frame an unsustainable healthcare system into one that is the best it can be in terms of fit for purpose.Insights and resource signpostingWe present the current context with a reflective framework table focused on ‘What do we do well? What is not done so well? What could some possible ideas and solutions be? and How could this change be supported?’We outline how a culture of well-being could be strategically and operationally introduced into the NHS workplace using research-based evidence and practical tools supported by expert guidance.
Surveillance of Mpox Cases Attending Sexual Health Services in England (SOMASS): design, implementation and initial findings from the SOMASS data collection tool, 2022
Authors: Charles Hannah , Prochazka Mateo , Murray Judith , Sexual Health Liaison Group UKHSA , Soni Suneeta , Haddow Lewis , Beets Katie , Pilkington Victoria , Low Nicola , Candfield Sophie , Jones Rachael , Bleiker Tanya , Dewsnap Claire , Phillips Matt , Phillips David 
Published: May 2023

ObjectivesWe aimed to design and implement a data collection tool to support the 2022 mpox (monkeypox) outbreak, and to describe clinical and epidemiological data from individuals with mpox attending sexual health services (SHSs) in England.MethodsThe UK Health Security Agency and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV established the Surveillance of Mpox Cases Attending Sexual Health Services in England (SOMASS) system.Descriptive data were collected via a secure web-based data collection tool, completed by SHS clinicians following consultation with individuals with suspected mpox. Data were collected on patient demographics, clinical presentation and severity, exposures and behavioural characteristics.ResultsAs of 17 November 2022, 276 SOMASS responses were submitted from 31 SHSs in England.Where recorded, most (245 of 261; 94%) individuals identified as gay, bisexual or men who have sex with men (GBMSM), of whom two-thirds were HIV negative (170 of 257; 66%) and taking HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (87 of 140; 62%), with a median age of 37 years (IQR: 30–43). Where known, thirty-nine per cent (63 of 161) had a concurrent sexually transmitted infection (STI) at the time of their mpox diagnosis.For 46% of individuals (127 of 276), dermatological lesions were the initial symptom. Lesions were mostly asymmetrical and polymorphic, predominately affecting the genital area and perianal areas.Nine per cent (24 of 276) of individuals were hospitalised. We report an association between receptive anal intercourse among GBMSM and proctitis (27 of 115; 24% vs 7 of 130; 5%; p<0.0001), and the presence of perianal lesions as the primary lesion site (46 of 115; 40% vs 25 of 130; 19%; p=0.0003).ConclusionsWe demonstrate multidisciplinary and responsive working to develop a robust data collection tool, which improved surveillance and strengthened the knowledge base. The SOMASS tool will allow data collection if mpox resurges in England. The model for developing the tool can be adapted to facilitate the preparedness and response to future STI outbreaks.
Risk factors for poorer respiratory outcomes in adolescents and young adults born preterm
Authors: Smith Elizabeth F , Hemy Naomi R , Hall Graham L , Wilson Andrew C , Murray Conor P , Simpson Shannon J 
Published: May 2023

RationaleThe respiratory outcomes for adult survivors of preterm birth in the postsurfactant era are wide-ranging with prognostic factors, especially those encountered after the neonatal period, poorly understood.ObjectivesTo obtain comprehensive ‘peak’ lung health data from survivors of very preterm birth and identify neonatal and life-course risk factors for poorer respiratory outcomes in adulthood.Methods127 participants born ≤32 weeks gestation (64%, n=81 with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), initially recruited according to a 2 with-BPD:1 without-BPD strategy), and 41 term-born controls completed a lung health assessment at 16–23 years, including lung function, imaging and symptom review. Risk factors assessed against poor lung health included neonatal treatments, respiratory hospitalisation in childhood, atopy and tobacco smoke exposure.Measurements and main resultsYoung adults born prematurely had greater airflow obstruction, gas trapping and ventilation inhomogeneity, in addition to abnormalities in gas transfer and respiratory mechanics, compared with term. Beyond lung function, we observed greater structural abnormalities, respiratory symptoms and inhaled medication use. A previous respiratory admission was associated with airway obstruction; mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity z-score was −0.561 lower after neonatal confounders were accounted for (95% CI −0.998 to –0.125; p=0.012). Similarly, respiratory symptom burden was increased in the preterm group with a respiratory admission, as was peribronchial thickening (6% vs 23%, p=0.010) and bronchodilator responsiveness (17% vs 35%, p=0.025). Atopy, maternal asthma and tobacco smoke exposure did not influence lung function or structure at 16–23 years in our preterm cohort.ConclusionsEven after accounting for the neonatal course, a respiratory admission during childhood remained significantly associated with reduced peak lung function in the preterm-born cohort, with the largest difference seen in those with BPD. A respiratory admission during childhood should, therefore, be considered a risk factor for long-term respiratory morbidity in those born preterm, especially for individuals with BPD.
Effects of plasma treatments on the surface wettability properties of PTFE polymeric films
Authors: Al-Yousef Haifa A. , Atta A. , Abdeltwab E. , Atta M.R , Abdel-Hamid M. M. 
Published: May 2023

A cold cathode plasma source is constructed for modifying PTFE surface characteristics. The source was easily built, had a consistent plasma discharge medium and acceleration system. A cylindrical Langmuir probe is also used to evaluate plasma parameters like density, temperature or even plasma potential. This probe is designed to be moveable so that it may approach any desired position in the plasma volume. The influences of nitrogen pressure and probe-cathode gap on plasma parameters were investigated. The electron temperature [Formula: see text] fluctuated from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]eV as the pressure rises from 0.2 to 0.4[Formula: see text]mbar. Further, by increasing the cathode-probe gap from 0.4 to 2[Formula: see text]cm, the electron densities increased from [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]cm[Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]cm[Formula: see text]. Furthermore, the contact angles, work of adhesion and surface free-energy of pristine as well as irradiated PTFE films, were estimated. The results demonstrated that by extending the plasma exposure duration from 0 to 12[Formula: see text]min, the water contact angle is lowered from 82.2∘ to 30.5∘. At these conditions, the work of adhesion is raised from 81.9 to 134.1[Formula: see text]mJ/m2, as the surface free energy is increased from 29.8 to 71.8[Formula: see text]mJ/m2.
The relationship between sleep quality and gait in people with multiple sclerosis: A pilot study
Authors: Abedalaziz Wlla , Al-Sharman Alham , Aburub Aseel , Latrous Mariem Syrine , Esser Patrick , Dawes Helen , El-Salem Khalid , Khalil Hanan 
Published: May 2023

Background: Gait deficits are common among people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Therefore, investigating factors that may influence walking in PwMS is important. Previous studies in older adults and other neurological populations demonstrated the relationship between sleep quality and gait performance. Despite the fact that the prevalence of poor sleep quality is very high among PwMS, little is known about the effect of sleep quality on gait among PwMS. Objective: This study aimed to explore the relationship between sleep quality and gait performance in PwMS. Methods: Forty-one PwMS participated in the study between February 2019 and December 2019. Participants were asked to walk at a self-selected speed over 10[Formula: see text]m with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) attached over the back. Walking speed, step length (left and right), and step time were calculated. Sleep was estimated objectively using a wrist-worn triaxle-accelerometer; the derived parameters were sleep efficiency (SE) and the number of awakening after sleep onset (NASO). Results: SE significantly correlated with step length ([Formula: see text]). Furthermore, the NASO significantly correlated with gait speed ([Formula: see text]), and step-time ([Formula: see text]). These correlations remained significant even after adjusting for age and disease duration. Conclusion: We observed that when corrected for disease duration and age there were relationships between NASO and SE to gait parameters; these observations warrant further investigations.
Global geological mapping of Venus and the twenty-first-century legacy of William Smith: identification of challenges and opportunities for future research and exploration
Authors: Head James W. , Ivanov Mikhail A. , Basilevsky Alexander T. 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Geological mapping principles have been applied across planet Earth since William Smith's initial 1815 map. During the Space Age, these principles were applied to smaller moons and planets, appropriately adjusted for remote conditions and data, and revealing ‘one plate planets’ recording Earth's missing chapters. Yet what of Venus, Earth's ‘twin’, shrouded in opaque clouds? How can these geological mapping principles be applied to address fundamental questions of planetary history? We outline how Venus's geological mapping over the last 35 years has proceeded towards a successively integrated more global picture that has revealed a surface and history unlike Earth or the smaller planetary bodies! The current 1 : 10 M global geological map documents geological units that all formed in the last
c.
20% of Venus's history. The oldest, Fortunian, involved intense deformation and building of thicker crust (tessera). The Guineverian featured near-global emplacement of vast volcanic plains. The Atlian saw prominent rift zones and large shield volcanoes. The three major phases of activity provide a basis for assessing the geological, atmospheric and geodynamical processes operating earlier in Venus's history that led to the preserved record, raising a series of questions to be investigated in the coming decade by an international armada of Venus missions.
História da ciência: de onde vem, para onde vai
Authors: Reis José 
Published: May 2023

(1º parágrafo do artigo)
A quem penetra hoje, pela primeira vez, o território da História da Ciência, ou das Ciências, como preferem alguns (HC), talvez cause estra-nheza a aparente instransigência de certos grupos que a ela se dedicam. Mas esta situação é natural num ramo de conhecimento que vai aceleradamente passando da fase de coleta de material e seu tratamento por assim dizer bruto para uma outra, em que pesquisadores já diferenciados para esse estudo específico começam a revolvê-lo em busca de explicações mais profundas do que as que satisfizeram nas primeiras abordagens. Atravessa-se um momento de algumas totais negações, de ardorosas profissões de fé. Recente panorama das correntes que se cruzam nesse revolto mar descortina-se no volume organizado por Teich e Young em homenagem a J. Needham, cuja magistral obra de história comparada da ciência e da tecnologia ao mesmo tempo inspira e re-flete o crescimento quer dos objetivos quer da profundidade dos estudos históricos da ciência em suas múltiplas relações.
Diffusion-Weighted Imaging Lesion Reversal in Older Patients With Stroke Treated With Mechanical Thrombectomy
Authors: Scopelliti Giuseppe , Benzakoun Joseph , Ben Hassen Wagih , Bretzner Martin , Bricout Nicolas , Puy Laurent , Turc Guillaume , Boulouis Grégoire , Oppenheim Catherine , Naggara Olivier , Cordonnier Charlotte , Henon Hilde , Pasi Marco 
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND:
Diffusion-weighted imaging lesion reversal (DWIR) is frequently observed after mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke, but little is known about age-related differences and impact on outcome. We aimed to compare, in patients <80 versus ≥80 years old, (1) the effect of successful recanalization on DWIR and (2) the impact of DWIR on functional outcome.

METHODS:
We retrospectively analyzed data of patients treated for an anterior circulation acute ischemic stroke with large vessel occlusion in 2 French hospitals, who underwent baseline and 24-hour follow-up magnetic resonance imaging, with baseline DWI lesion volume ≥10 cc. The percentage of DWIR (DWIR%), was calculated as follows: DWIR%=(DWIR volume/baseline DWI volume)×100. Data on demographics, medical history, and baseline clinical and radiological characteristics were collected.

RESULTS:

Among 433 included patients (median age, 68 years), median DWIR% after mechanical thrombectomy was 22% (6–35) in patients ≥80, and 19% (interquartile range, 10–34) in patients <80 (
P
=0.948). In multivariable analyses, successful recanalization after mechanical thrombectomy was associated with higher median DWIR% in both ≥80 (
P
=0.004) and <80 (
P
=0.002) patients. In subgroup analyses performed on a minority of subjects, collateral vessels status score (n=87) and white matter hyperintensity volume (n=131) were not associated with DWIR% (
P
>0.2). In multivariable analyses, DWIR% was associated with increased rates of favorable 3-month outcomes in both ≥80 (
P
=0.003) and <80 (
P
=0.013) patients; the effect of DWIR% on outcome was not influenced by the age group (
P
interaction=0.185)

CONCLUSIONS:
DWIR might be an important and nonage-dependent effect of arterial recanalization, as it seems to beneficially impact 3-month outcomes of both younger and older subjects treated with mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke and large vessel occlusion.
“Um…, It’s Really Difficult to… Um… Speak Fluently”: Neural Tracking of Spontaneous Speech
Authors: Agmon Galit , Jaeger Manuela , Tsarfaty Reut , Bleichner Martin G. , Zion Golumbic Elana 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Spontaneous real-life speech is imperfect in many ways. It contains disfluencies and ill-formed utterances and has a highly variable rate. When listening to spontaneous speech, the brain needs to contend with these features in order to extract the speaker’s meaning. Here, we studied how the neural response is affected by four specific factors that are prevalent in spontaneous colloquial speech: (1) the presence of fillers, (2) the need to detect syntactic boundaries in disfluent speech, and (3) variability in speech rate. Neural activity was recorded (using electroencephalography) from individuals as they listened to an unscripted, spontaneous narrative, which was analyzed in a time-resolved fashion to identify fillers and detect syntactic boundaries. When considering these factors in a speech-tracking analysis, which estimates a temporal response function (TRF) to describe the relationship between the stimulus and the neural response it generates, we found that the TRF was affected by all of them. This response was observed for lexical words but not for fillers, and it had an earlier onset for opening words vs. closing words of a clause and for clauses with slower speech rates. These findings broaden ongoing efforts to understand neural processing of speech under increasingly realistic conditions. They highlight the importance of considering the imperfect nature of real-life spoken language, linking past research on linguistically well-formed and meticulously controlled speech to the type of speech that the brain actually deals with on a daily basis.
Digital Disruption and Rethinking the ‘Script’ of Peace Mediation
Authors: Aggestam Karin , Hedling Elsa 
Published: May 2023

Summary
This article focuses on the quest for digitalisation in peace mediation and to the extent to which digital disruption is reshaping its practices. While digitalisation in the wider field of diplomacy has seen dramatic changes in its practices, peace mediation is a ‘latecomer’. The article explores the constitutive effects on specific norms and practices of peace mediation and identifies opportunities as well as the restraining and even counterproductive effects of digitalisation. Digital technologies, tools and social media platforms are mapped to assess their roles and impact on key practices and to critically analyse the digitalisation of peace mediation. Moreover, a content analysis of international strategic policy documents and central frameworks relevant for international peacebuilding operations is conducted, which shows that digitalisation has taken place gradually and cautiously. Since there are few theoretical and empirical studies on the digitalisation of peace mediation, the article concludes by suggesting three directions to be taken in future research.