AIM： To evaluate and compare the expression profiles of CXCL12 （SDF-1）, CCL19 （MIP-3β）, CCL20 （MIP-3a） and CCL21 （6Ckine, Exodus2） and their receptors on RNA and protein levels in hepatocellular carcinoma （...AIM： To evaluate and compare the expression profiles of CXCL12 （SDF-1）, CCL19 （MIP-3β）, CCL20 （MIP-3a） and CCL21 （6Ckine, Exodus2） and their receptors on RNA and protein levels in hepatocellular carcinoma （HCC） versus colorectal liver metastases （CRLM） and to elucidate their impact on the carcinogenesis and progression of malignant liver diseases. METHODS： Chemokine expression was analyzed by RT-PCR and ELISA in 11 cases of HCC specimens and in 23 cases of CRLM and corresponding adjacent nontumorous liver tissues, respectively. Expressions of their receptors CXCR4, CCR6 and CCR7 were analyzed by RT- PCR and Western blot analysis in the same cases of HCC and CRLM. RESULTS： Significant up-regulation for CCL20/CCR6 was detected in both cancer types. Moreover, CCL20 demonstrated significant overexpression in CRLM in relation to the HCC tissues. Being significantly up-regulated only in CRLM, CXCR4 displayed an aberrant expression pattern with respect to the HCC tissues. CONCLUSION： Correlation of CXCR4 expression with CRLM suggests CXCR4 as a potential predictive factor for CRLM. High level expression of CCL20 and its receptor CCR6 in HCC and CRLM with marked up-regulation of CCL20 in CRLM in relation to HCC tissues indicates involvement of the CCL20/CCR6 ligand-receptor pair in the carcinogenesis and progression of hepatic malignancies.展开更多
AIM： To investigate the expression profile of IL-8 in inflammatory and malignant colorectal diseases to evaluate its potential role in the regulation of colorectal cancer （CRC） and the development of colorectal liv...AIM： To investigate the expression profile of IL-8 in inflammatory and malignant colorectal diseases to evaluate its potential role in the regulation of colorectal cancer （CRC） and the development of colorectal liver metastases （CRLM）.METHODS： IL-8 expression was assessed by quantitative real-time PCR （Q-RT-PCR） and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA） in resected specimens from patients with ulcerative colitis （UC, n = 6） colorectal adenomas （CRA, n = 8）, different stages of colorectal cancer （n = 48） as well as synchronous and metachronous CRLM along with their corresponding primary colorectal tumors （n = 16）.RESULTS： IL-8 mRNA and protein expression was significantly up-regulated in all pathological colorectal entities investigated compared with the corresponding neighboring tissues. However, in the CRC specimens IL-8 revealed a significantly more pronounced overexpression in relation to the CRA and UC tissues with an average 30-fold IL-8 protein up-regulation in the CRC specimens in comparison to the CRA tissues. Moreover, [L-8 expression revealed a close correlation with tumor grading. Most interestingly, IL-8 up-regulation was most enhanced in synchronous and metachronous CRLM, if compared with the corresponding primary CRC tissues. Herein, an up to 80-fold IL-8 overexpression in individual metachronous metastases compared to normal tumor neighbor tissues was found.CONCLUSION： Our results strongly suggest an association between IL-8 expression, induction and progression of colorectal carcinoma and the development of colorectal liver metastases.展开更多
The dynamics of the reshocked multi-mode Richtmyer-Meshkov instability is investigated using 513 × 257^2 three-dimensional ninth-order weighted essentially nonoscil- latory shock-capturing simulations. A two-mode...The dynamics of the reshocked multi-mode Richtmyer-Meshkov instability is investigated using 513 × 257^2 three-dimensional ninth-order weighted essentially nonoscil- latory shock-capturing simulations. A two-mode initial perturbation with superposed ran- dom noise is used to model the Mach 1.5 air/SF6 Vetter-Sturtevant shock tube experiment. The mass fraction and enstrophy isosurfaces, and density cross-sections are utilized to show the detailed flow structure before, during, and after reshock. It is shown that the mixing layer growth agrees well with the experimentally measured growth rate before and after reshock. The post-reshock growth rate is also in good agreement with the prediction of the Mikaelian model. A parametric study of the sensitivity of the layer growth to the choice of amplitudes of the short and long wavelength initial interfacial perturbation is also pre- sented. Finally, the amplification effects of reshock are quantified using the evolution of the turbulent kinetic energy and turbulent enstrophy spectra, as well as the evolution of the baroclinic enstrophy production, buoyancy production, and shear production terms in the enstrophy and turbulent kinetic transport equations.展开更多
High-frequency ultrasound imaging can provide exquisite visualizations of tissue to guide minimally invasive procedures.Here,we demonstrate that an all-optical ultrasound transducer,through which light guided by optic...High-frequency ultrasound imaging can provide exquisite visualizations of tissue to guide minimally invasive procedures.Here,we demonstrate that an all-optical ultrasound transducer,through which light guided by optical fibers is used to generate and receive ultrasound,is suitable for real-time invasive medical imaging in vivo.Broad-bandwidth ultrasound generation was achieved through the photoacoustic excitation of a multiwalled carbon nanotube-polydimethylsiloxane composite coating on the distal end of a 300-μm multi-mode optical fiber by a pulsed laser.The interrogation of a high-finesse Fabry–Pérot cavity on a single-mode optical fiber by a wavelength-tunable continuous-wave laser was applied for ultrasound reception.This transducer was integrated within a custom inner transseptal needle(diameter 1.08 mm;length 78 cm)that included a metallic septum to acoustically isolate the two optical fibers.The use of this needle within the beating heart of a pig provided unprecedented realtime views(50 Hz scan rate)of cardiac tissue(depth:2.5 cm;axial resolution:64μm)and revealed the critical anatomical structures required to safely perform a transseptal crossing:the right and left atrial walls,the right atrial appendage,and the limbus fossae ovalis.This new paradigm will allow ultrasound imaging to be integrated into a broad range of minimally invasive devices in different clinical contexts.展开更多
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming organizational dynamics, and revolutionizing corporate leadership practices. This research paper delves into the question of how AI influences corporate leadership, examini...Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming organizational dynamics, and revolutionizing corporate leadership practices. This research paper delves into the question of how AI influences corporate leadership, examining both its advantages and disadvantages. Positive impacts of AI are evident in communication, feedback systems, tracking mechanisms, and decision-making processes within organizations. AI-powered communication tools, as exemplified by Slack, facilitate seamless collaboration, transcending geographical barriers. Feedback systems, like Adobe’s Performance Management System, employ AI algorithms to provide personalized development opportunities, enhancing employee growth. AI-based tracking systems optimize resource allocation, as exemplified by studies like “AI-Based Tracking Systems: Enhancing Efficiency and Accountability.” Additionally, AI-powered decision support, demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, showcases the capability to navigate complex challenges and maintain resilience. However, AI adoption poses challenges in human resources, potentially leading to job displacement and necessitating upskilling efforts. Managing AI errors becomes crucial, as illustrated by instances like Amazon’s biased recruiting tool. Data privacy concerns also arise, emphasizing the need for robust security measures. The proposed solution suggests leveraging Local Machine Learning Models (LLMs) to address data privacy issues. Approaches such as federated learning, on-device learning, differential privacy, and homomorphic encryption offer promising strategies. By exploring the evolving dynamics of AI and leadership, this research advocates for responsible AI adoption and proposes LLMs as a potential solution, fostering a balanced integration of AI benefits while mitigating associated risks in corporate settings.展开更多
This study highlights drought characteristics and the many responses to drought stresses employed by Turkana pastoralists of northwestern Kenya. Multiple data sources, including socioeconomic interviews with 302 house...This study highlights drought characteristics and the many responses to drought stresses employed by Turkana pastoralists of northwestern Kenya. Multiple data sources, including socioeconomic interviews with 302 households, focus group discussions, and informal interviews with pastoralists were used to capture various aspects of drought and drought adaptation and coping practices.Standardized precipitation index derived from long-term rainfall data obtained from the Kenya Meteorological Service was used to quantify different degrees of drought intensity between 1950 and 2012. Results revealed that extreme drought events were increasingly frequent, and have impacted negatively on pastoral livelihoods. In order to adapt to or cope with climatic anomalies, households are using a variety of strategies. In addition to the traditional short-term coping mechanisms, the long-term adaptation strategies used include diversification of livelihood sources; livestock mobility to track forage and water resources;diversification of herd composition to benefit from the varied drought and disease tolerance, as well as fecundity of diverse livestock species; and sending children to school for formal education as a long term investment expected to pay back through income from employment. Policies anddevelopment interventions that reduce risks, diminish livelihood constraints, and expand opportunities for increased household resilience to drought are critical complements to the existing pastoral strategies.展开更多
AIM： To analyze the results and complications of intraoperative enteroscopy （IOE） by investigating a series of selected patients with bleeding suspected to originate from the small intestine. METHODS： Eighty-one p...AIM： To analyze the results and complications of intraoperative enteroscopy （IOE） by investigating a series of selected patients with bleeding suspected to originate from the small intestine. METHODS： Eighty-one patients （mean age： 65 years） including 40 males （49.4%） and 41 females （50.6%） with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding underwent IOE between 1990 and 2004. The patients were identified from a database and data were selected from the patients＇ charts retrospectively. All the patients had undergone at least one non-diagnostic esophagogastroduodenoscopy, colonoscopy, standard enteroscopy and a negative abdominal ultrasound scan before IOE. RESULTS： The median minimal hemoglobin level in the patients was 59＋15g/L and 72.8% of the patients required transfusion of packed erythrOoltes previously. A bleeding source was detected in 68 （84%） of the patients during IOE. Angiodysplasiae were found in 44 patients （54.3%） and 9 patients （11.1%） were affected by ulcers in the small intestine. A tumor in the small intestine was detected in another 6 patients. The treatment consisted of argon-plasma-coagulation, surgical suture or limited resection in most of the patients. CONCLUSION： Intra-operative enteroscopy is still used for the diagnosis of suspected small bowel bleeding. Recent developments such as wireless capsule endoscopy and double balloon enteroscopy, may lead to the replacement of IOE in the future.展开更多
AIM： To evaluate the influence of preoperative FOLFOX chemotherapy on CCL20/CCR6 expression in liver metastases of stage IV colorectal cancer （CRC） patients.（/7 = 53） and in patients who did not receive FOLFOX ch...AIM： To evaluate the influence of preoperative FOLFOX chemotherapy on CCL20/CCR6 expression in liver metastases of stage IV colorectal cancer （CRC） patients.（/7 = 53） and in patients who did not receive FOLFOX chemotherapy prior to liver surgery （n = 29）. RESULTS： Of the 53 patients who received FOLFOX, time to liver surgery was n〈 1 mo in 14 patients, 〈 1 year in 22 patients and 〉 1 year in 17 patients, respectively. In addition, we investigated the proliferation rate of CRC cells in liver metastases in the different patient groups. Both CCL20 and CCR6 mRNA and protein ex- pression levels were significantly increased in patients who received preoperative FOLFOX chemotherapy ~〈 12 mo before liver surgery （P 〈 0.001） in comparison to patients who did not undergo FOLFOX treatment. Further, proliferation of CRLM cells as measured by Ki-67 was increased in patients who underwent FOLFOX treat- ment. CCL20 and CCR6 expression levels were significantly increased in CRLM patients who had undergone preoperative FOLFOX chemotherapy. CONCLUSION： This chemokine/receptor up-regulation could lead to increased proliferation/migration through an autocrine mechanism which might be used by surviving metastatic cells to escape cell death caused by FOLFOX.展开更多
Objectives To analyze the clinical profile,adequacy of treatment with rivaroxaban and outcomes in octogenarians with atrial fibrillation(AF),taking rivaroxaban in clinical practice.Methods Observational and non-interv...Objectives To analyze the clinical profile,adequacy of treatment with rivaroxaban and outcomes in octogenarians with atrial fibrillation(AF),taking rivaroxaban in clinical practice.Methods Observational and non-interventional study that included AF adults recruited from 79 Spanish centers,anticoagulated with rivaroxaban ≥ 6 months before being included.Data were analyzed according to age(≥ 80 vs.< 80 years) at baseline.Results Out of 1433 patients,453(31.6%) were octogenarians at baseline.Compared to younger patients,octogenarians had more comorbidities,higher CHA2DS2-VASc(4.5 ± 1.3 vs.3.0 ± 1.4;P < 0.001) and HAS-BLED scores(2.0 ± 1.0 vs.1.4 ± 1.0;P < 0.001).Overall,the dose of rivaroxaban was adequately prescribed in 83.4% of patients,but more frequently in the younger population(71.1% vs.89.1%;P = 0.039).After a mean follow-up of 2.2 ± 0.6 years,annual rates of stroke + systemic embolism + transient ischemic attack,MACE,cardiovascular death and major bleeding were 1.03%,1.24%,1.03% and 1.75%,respectively,in octogenarian patients.Except for progressive heart failure death and major bleeding,rates of outcomes in octogenarians were similar compared to younger patients.In octogenarians,the concomitant use of antiplatelet agents and non-severe dementia were independently associated with the development of ischemic stroke,whereas previous coronary revascularization and heart failure with MACE,and higher HAS-BLED score with major bleeding.Conclusions In clinical practice,around one third of patients taking rivaroxaban are octogenarians.These patients have many comorbidities and a high thromboembolic risk.Despite that,rates of adverse events remain low.Rivaroxaban is adequately prescribed in the majority of octogenarians.展开更多
The parasitic hydrogen evolution reaction(HER)in the negative half-cell of vanadium redox flow batteries(VRFBs)causes severe efficiency losses.Thus,a deeper understanding of this process and the accompanying bubble fo...The parasitic hydrogen evolution reaction(HER)in the negative half-cell of vanadium redox flow batteries(VRFBs)causes severe efficiency losses.Thus,a deeper understanding of this process and the accompanying bubble formation is crucial.This benchmarking study locally analyzes the bubble distribution in thick,porous electrodes for the first time using deep learning-based image segmentation of synchrotron X-ray micro-tomograms.Each large three-dimensional data set was processed precisely in less than one minute while minimizing human errors and pointing out areas of increased HER activity in VRFBs.The study systematically varies the electrode potential and material,concluding that more negative electrode potentials of-200 m V vs.reversible hydrogen electrode(RHE)and lower cause more substantial bubble formation,resulting in bubble fractions of around 15%–20%in carbon felt electrodes.Contrarily,the bubble fractions stay only around 2%in an electrode combining carbon felt and carbon paper.The detected areas with high HER activity,such as the border subregion with more than 30%bubble fraction in carbon felt electrodes,the cutting edges,and preferential spots in the electrode bulk,are potential-independent and suggest that larger electrodes with a higher bulk-to-border ratio might reduce HER-related performance losses.The described combination of electrochemical measurements,local X-ray microtomography,AI-based segmentation,and 3D morphometric analysis is a powerful and novel approach for local bubble analysis in three-dimensional porous electrodes,providing an essential toolkit for a broad community working on bubble-generating electrochemical systems.展开更多
Poor bone quality is a major factor in skeletal fragility in elderly individuals.The molecular mechanisms that establish and maintain bone quality,independent of bone mass,are unknown but are thought to be primarily d...Poor bone quality is a major factor in skeletal fragility in elderly individuals.The molecular mechanisms that establish and maintain bone quality,independent of bone mass,are unknown but are thought to be primarily determined by osteocytes.We hypothesize that the age-related decline in bone quality results from the suppression of osteocyte perilacunar/canalicular remodeling(PLR),which maintains bone material properties.We examined bones from young and aged mice with osteocyte-intrinsic repression of TGFβsignaling(TβRII^(ocy−/−))that suppresses PLR.The control aged bone displayed decreased TGFβsignaling and PLR,but aging did not worsen the existing PLR suppression in male TβRII^(ocy−/−)bone.This relationship impacted the behavior of collagen material at the nanoscale and tissue scale in macromechanical tests.The effects of age on bone mass,density,and mineral material behavior were independent of osteocytic TGFβ.We determined that the decline in bone quality with age arises from the loss of osteocyte function and the loss of TGFβ-dependent maintenance of collagen integrity.展开更多
Deepfake technology can be used to replace people’s faces in videos or pictures to show them saying or doing things they never said or did. Deepfake media are often used to extort, defame, and manipulate public opini...Deepfake technology can be used to replace people’s faces in videos or pictures to show them saying or doing things they never said or did. Deepfake media are often used to extort, defame, and manipulate public opinion. However, despite deepfake technology’s risks, current deepfake detection methods lack generalization and are inconsistent when applied to unknown videos, i.e., videos on which they have not been trained. The purpose of this study is to develop a generalizable deepfake detection model by training convoluted neural networks (CNNs) to classify human facial features in videos. The study formulated the research questions: “How effectively does the developed model provide reliable generalizations?” A CNN model was trained to distinguish between real and fake videos using the facial features of human subjects in videos. The model was trained, validated, and tested using the FaceForensiq++ dataset, which contains more than 500,000 frames and subsets of the DFDC dataset, totaling more than 22,000 videos. The study demonstrated high generalizability, as the accuracy of the unknown dataset was only marginally (about 1%) lower than that of the known dataset. The findings of this study indicate that detection systems can be more generalizable, lighter, and faster by focusing on just a small region (the human face) of an entire video.展开更多
In search of an experimental route to produce linear arrays of spins without the use of nanotechnological tools, we have doped Nb<sub>28</sub>O<sub>70</sub> with small amounts of transition met...In search of an experimental route to produce linear arrays of spins without the use of nanotechnological tools, we have doped Nb<sub>28</sub>O<sub>70</sub> with small amounts of transition metal oxides (TM;in this case Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>) or rare-earth oxides<sub>3</sub>, and investigated the location of the alien metal (Fe in this case) in the structure. Previous AC magnetic susceptibility measurements at low temperatures have been consistent with the formation of arrays of TM magnetic moments along the widely spaced columns parallel to the crystallographic b-axis in the Nb<sub>28</sub>O<sub>70</sub> structure. To obtain further details about the TM distribution, the previous investigation has been extended now to include a room-temperature Mössbauer spectroscopic analysis of the Fe-doped material. The data are consistent with the presence of low-spin Fe<sup>3+</sup> ions in both octahedral and tetrahedral coordinations of oxygens, and confirm (as suggested in the previous work) that Fe also interchanges positions with Nb ions located at tetrahedrally coordinated sites in the columns of the structure.展开更多
The services and solutions offered by cloud computing continue to grow, just as the number of organizations relying on the service. Cloud computing has become prevalent in the financial services industry, where 83% of...The services and solutions offered by cloud computing continue to grow, just as the number of organizations relying on the service. Cloud computing has become prevalent in the financial services industry, where 83% of financial services institutions identified cloud computing as a primary element of their infrastructure. Although there are specific benefits of cloud computing that organizations rely on such as access to critical services and lower costs, there is the possibility that cloud computing will create costs for organizations. The purpose of the study was to present an intensive review of the benefits and threats by investigating resilience and stability of the organizations in financial services industry that use cloud computing as their primary element of infrastructure. Data collected from the interview was used to answer original research questions, which are: How are organizations in the financial services industry resilient when faced with threats or losses associated with the use of cloud computing in their organization? How do organizations in the financial services industry maintain stability when faced with threats or losses associated with the use of cloud computing in their organization? The study supports the advancement of knowledge by identifying the threats and losses that occur due to the use of cloud computing, and organizations understand common threats and thus implement proper mitigation.展开更多
文摘AIM： To evaluate and compare the expression profiles of CXCL12 （SDF-1）, CCL19 （MIP-3β）, CCL20 （MIP-3a） and CCL21 （6Ckine, Exodus2） and their receptors on RNA and protein levels in hepatocellular carcinoma （HCC） versus colorectal liver metastases （CRLM） and to elucidate their impact on the carcinogenesis and progression of malignant liver diseases. METHODS： Chemokine expression was analyzed by RT-PCR and ELISA in 11 cases of HCC specimens and in 23 cases of CRLM and corresponding adjacent nontumorous liver tissues, respectively. Expressions of their receptors CXCR4, CCR6 and CCR7 were analyzed by RT- PCR and Western blot analysis in the same cases of HCC and CRLM. RESULTS： Significant up-regulation for CCL20/CCR6 was detected in both cancer types. Moreover, CCL20 demonstrated significant overexpression in CRLM in relation to the HCC tissues. Being significantly up-regulated only in CRLM, CXCR4 displayed an aberrant expression pattern with respect to the HCC tissues. CONCLUSION： Correlation of CXCR4 expression with CRLM suggests CXCR4 as a potential predictive factor for CRLM. High level expression of CCL20 and its receptor CCR6 in HCC and CRLM with marked up-regulation of CCL20 in CRLM in relation to HCC tissues indicates involvement of the CCL20/CCR6 ligand-receptor pair in the carcinogenesis and progression of hepatic malignancies.
文摘AIM： To investigate the expression profile of IL-8 in inflammatory and malignant colorectal diseases to evaluate its potential role in the regulation of colorectal cancer （CRC） and the development of colorectal liver metastases （CRLM）.METHODS： IL-8 expression was assessed by quantitative real-time PCR （Q-RT-PCR） and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA） in resected specimens from patients with ulcerative colitis （UC, n = 6） colorectal adenomas （CRA, n = 8）, different stages of colorectal cancer （n = 48） as well as synchronous and metachronous CRLM along with their corresponding primary colorectal tumors （n = 16）.RESULTS： IL-8 mRNA and protein expression was significantly up-regulated in all pathological colorectal entities investigated compared with the corresponding neighboring tissues. However, in the CRC specimens IL-8 revealed a significantly more pronounced overexpression in relation to the CRA and UC tissues with an average 30-fold IL-8 protein up-regulation in the CRC specimens in comparison to the CRA tissues. Moreover, [L-8 expression revealed a close correlation with tumor grading. Most interestingly, IL-8 up-regulation was most enhanced in synchronous and metachronous CRLM, if compared with the corresponding primary CRC tissues. Herein, an up to 80-fold IL-8 overexpression in individual metachronous metastases compared to normal tumor neighbor tissues was found.CONCLUSION： Our results strongly suggest an association between IL-8 expression, induction and progression of colorectal carcinoma and the development of colorectal liver metastases.
基金performed under the auspices of the U.S.Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344
文摘The dynamics of the reshocked multi-mode Richtmyer-Meshkov instability is investigated using 513 × 257^2 three-dimensional ninth-order weighted essentially nonoscil- latory shock-capturing simulations. A two-mode initial perturbation with superposed ran- dom noise is used to model the Mach 1.5 air/SF6 Vetter-Sturtevant shock tube experiment. The mass fraction and enstrophy isosurfaces, and density cross-sections are utilized to show the detailed flow structure before, during, and after reshock. It is shown that the mixing layer growth agrees well with the experimentally measured growth rate before and after reshock. The post-reshock growth rate is also in good agreement with the prediction of the Mikaelian model. A parametric study of the sensitivity of the layer growth to the choice of amplitudes of the short and long wavelength initial interfacial perturbation is also pre- sented. Finally, the amplification effects of reshock are quantified using the evolution of the turbulent kinetic energy and turbulent enstrophy spectra, as well as the evolution of the baroclinic enstrophy production, buoyancy production, and shear production terms in the enstrophy and turbulent kinetic transport equations.
基金the European Research Council(ERC-2012-StG,Proposal 310970 MOPHIM)an Innovative Engineering for Health award from the Wellcome Trust(WT101957)+4 种基金Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council(EPSRC)(NS/A000027/1)the EPSRC and European Union project FAMOS(FP7 ICT,Contract 317744)by National Institute for Health Research University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centrethe National Institute for Health Research Bartsthe London Biomedical Research Unit.
文摘High-frequency ultrasound imaging can provide exquisite visualizations of tissue to guide minimally invasive procedures.Here,we demonstrate that an all-optical ultrasound transducer,through which light guided by optical fibers is used to generate and receive ultrasound,is suitable for real-time invasive medical imaging in vivo.Broad-bandwidth ultrasound generation was achieved through the photoacoustic excitation of a multiwalled carbon nanotube-polydimethylsiloxane composite coating on the distal end of a 300-μm multi-mode optical fiber by a pulsed laser.The interrogation of a high-finesse Fabry–Pérot cavity on a single-mode optical fiber by a wavelength-tunable continuous-wave laser was applied for ultrasound reception.This transducer was integrated within a custom inner transseptal needle(diameter 1.08 mm;length 78 cm)that included a metallic septum to acoustically isolate the two optical fibers.The use of this needle within the beating heart of a pig provided unprecedented realtime views(50 Hz scan rate)of cardiac tissue(depth:2.5 cm;axial resolution:64μm)and revealed the critical anatomical structures required to safely perform a transseptal crossing:the right and left atrial walls,the right atrial appendage,and the limbus fossae ovalis.This new paradigm will allow ultrasound imaging to be integrated into a broad range of minimally invasive devices in different clinical contexts.
文摘Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming organizational dynamics, and revolutionizing corporate leadership practices. This research paper delves into the question of how AI influences corporate leadership, examining both its advantages and disadvantages. Positive impacts of AI are evident in communication, feedback systems, tracking mechanisms, and decision-making processes within organizations. AI-powered communication tools, as exemplified by Slack, facilitate seamless collaboration, transcending geographical barriers. Feedback systems, like Adobe’s Performance Management System, employ AI algorithms to provide personalized development opportunities, enhancing employee growth. AI-based tracking systems optimize resource allocation, as exemplified by studies like “AI-Based Tracking Systems: Enhancing Efficiency and Accountability.” Additionally, AI-powered decision support, demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, showcases the capability to navigate complex challenges and maintain resilience. However, AI adoption poses challenges in human resources, potentially leading to job displacement and necessitating upskilling efforts. Managing AI errors becomes crucial, as illustrated by instances like Amazon’s biased recruiting tool. Data privacy concerns also arise, emphasizing the need for robust security measures. The proposed solution suggests leveraging Local Machine Learning Models (LLMs) to address data privacy issues. Approaches such as federated learning, on-device learning, differential privacy, and homomorphic encryption offer promising strategies. By exploring the evolving dynamics of AI and leadership, this research advocates for responsible AI adoption and proposes LLMs as a potential solution, fostering a balanced integration of AI benefits while mitigating associated risks in corporate settings.
基金funded by African Climate Change Fellowship ProgramGlobal Change for System Analysis, Research & Training—ACCFP/START+1 种基金support from the Red Cross/Red Crescent Climate Center/STARTUnited Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) under Climate and Development Knowledge Network small grant
文摘This study highlights drought characteristics and the many responses to drought stresses employed by Turkana pastoralists of northwestern Kenya. Multiple data sources, including socioeconomic interviews with 302 households, focus group discussions, and informal interviews with pastoralists were used to capture various aspects of drought and drought adaptation and coping practices.Standardized precipitation index derived from long-term rainfall data obtained from the Kenya Meteorological Service was used to quantify different degrees of drought intensity between 1950 and 2012. Results revealed that extreme drought events were increasingly frequent, and have impacted negatively on pastoral livelihoods. In order to adapt to or cope with climatic anomalies, households are using a variety of strategies. In addition to the traditional short-term coping mechanisms, the long-term adaptation strategies used include diversification of livelihood sources; livestock mobility to track forage and water resources;diversification of herd composition to benefit from the varied drought and disease tolerance, as well as fecundity of diverse livestock species; and sending children to school for formal education as a long term investment expected to pay back through income from employment. Policies anddevelopment interventions that reduce risks, diminish livelihood constraints, and expand opportunities for increased household resilience to drought are critical complements to the existing pastoral strategies.
文摘AIM： To analyze the results and complications of intraoperative enteroscopy （IOE） by investigating a series of selected patients with bleeding suspected to originate from the small intestine. METHODS： Eighty-one patients （mean age： 65 years） including 40 males （49.4%） and 41 females （50.6%） with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding underwent IOE between 1990 and 2004. The patients were identified from a database and data were selected from the patients＇ charts retrospectively. All the patients had undergone at least one non-diagnostic esophagogastroduodenoscopy, colonoscopy, standard enteroscopy and a negative abdominal ultrasound scan before IOE. RESULTS： The median minimal hemoglobin level in the patients was 59＋15g/L and 72.8% of the patients required transfusion of packed erythrOoltes previously. A bleeding source was detected in 68 （84%） of the patients during IOE. Angiodysplasiae were found in 44 patients （54.3%） and 9 patients （11.1%） were affected by ulcers in the small intestine. A tumor in the small intestine was detected in another 6 patients. The treatment consisted of argon-plasma-coagulation, surgical suture or limited resection in most of the patients. CONCLUSION： Intra-operative enteroscopy is still used for the diagnosis of suspected small bowel bleeding. Recent developments such as wireless capsule endoscopy and double balloon enteroscopy, may lead to the replacement of IOE in the future.
文摘AIM： To evaluate the influence of preoperative FOLFOX chemotherapy on CCL20/CCR6 expression in liver metastases of stage IV colorectal cancer （CRC） patients.（/7 = 53） and in patients who did not receive FOLFOX chemotherapy prior to liver surgery （n = 29）. RESULTS： Of the 53 patients who received FOLFOX, time to liver surgery was n〈 1 mo in 14 patients, 〈 1 year in 22 patients and 〉 1 year in 17 patients, respectively. In addition, we investigated the proliferation rate of CRC cells in liver metastases in the different patient groups. Both CCL20 and CCR6 mRNA and protein ex- pression levels were significantly increased in patients who received preoperative FOLFOX chemotherapy ~〈 12 mo before liver surgery （P 〈 0.001） in comparison to patients who did not undergo FOLFOX treatment. Further, proliferation of CRLM cells as measured by Ki-67 was increased in patients who underwent FOLFOX treat- ment. CCL20 and CCR6 expression levels were significantly increased in CRLM patients who had undergone preoperative FOLFOX chemotherapy. CONCLUSION： This chemokine/receptor up-regulation could lead to increased proliferation/migration through an autocrine mechanism which might be used by surviving metastatic cells to escape cell death caused by FOLFOX.
文摘Objectives To analyze the clinical profile,adequacy of treatment with rivaroxaban and outcomes in octogenarians with atrial fibrillation(AF),taking rivaroxaban in clinical practice.Methods Observational and non-interventional study that included AF adults recruited from 79 Spanish centers,anticoagulated with rivaroxaban ≥ 6 months before being included.Data were analyzed according to age(≥ 80 vs.< 80 years) at baseline.Results Out of 1433 patients,453(31.6%) were octogenarians at baseline.Compared to younger patients,octogenarians had more comorbidities,higher CHA2DS2-VASc(4.5 ± 1.3 vs.3.0 ± 1.4;P < 0.001) and HAS-BLED scores(2.0 ± 1.0 vs.1.4 ± 1.0;P < 0.001).Overall,the dose of rivaroxaban was adequately prescribed in 83.4% of patients,but more frequently in the younger population(71.1% vs.89.1%;P = 0.039).After a mean follow-up of 2.2 ± 0.6 years,annual rates of stroke + systemic embolism + transient ischemic attack,MACE,cardiovascular death and major bleeding were 1.03%,1.24%,1.03% and 1.75%,respectively,in octogenarian patients.Except for progressive heart failure death and major bleeding,rates of outcomes in octogenarians were similar compared to younger patients.In octogenarians,the concomitant use of antiplatelet agents and non-severe dementia were independently associated with the development of ischemic stroke,whereas previous coronary revascularization and heart failure with MACE,and higher HAS-BLED score with major bleeding.Conclusions In clinical practice,around one third of patients taking rivaroxaban are octogenarians.These patients have many comorbidities and a high thromboembolic risk.Despite that,rates of adverse events remain low.Rivaroxaban is adequately prescribed in the majority of octogenarians.
基金financial support through a KekuléPh.D.fellowship by the Fonds der Chemischen Industrie(FCI)support from the China Scholarship Council(No.202106950013)。
文摘The parasitic hydrogen evolution reaction(HER)in the negative half-cell of vanadium redox flow batteries(VRFBs)causes severe efficiency losses.Thus,a deeper understanding of this process and the accompanying bubble formation is crucial.This benchmarking study locally analyzes the bubble distribution in thick,porous electrodes for the first time using deep learning-based image segmentation of synchrotron X-ray micro-tomograms.Each large three-dimensional data set was processed precisely in less than one minute while minimizing human errors and pointing out areas of increased HER activity in VRFBs.The study systematically varies the electrode potential and material,concluding that more negative electrode potentials of-200 m V vs.reversible hydrogen electrode(RHE)and lower cause more substantial bubble formation,resulting in bubble fractions of around 15%–20%in carbon felt electrodes.Contrarily,the bubble fractions stay only around 2%in an electrode combining carbon felt and carbon paper.The detected areas with high HER activity,such as the border subregion with more than 30%bubble fraction in carbon felt electrodes,the cutting edges,and preferential spots in the electrode bulk,are potential-independent and suggest that larger electrodes with a higher bulk-to-border ratio might reduce HER-related performance losses.The described combination of electrochemical measurements,local X-ray microtomography,AI-based segmentation,and 3D morphometric analysis is a powerful and novel approach for local bubble analysis in three-dimensional porous electrodes,providing an essential toolkit for a broad community working on bubble-generating electrochemical systems.
文摘Poor bone quality is a major factor in skeletal fragility in elderly individuals.The molecular mechanisms that establish and maintain bone quality,independent of bone mass,are unknown but are thought to be primarily determined by osteocytes.We hypothesize that the age-related decline in bone quality results from the suppression of osteocyte perilacunar/canalicular remodeling(PLR),which maintains bone material properties.We examined bones from young and aged mice with osteocyte-intrinsic repression of TGFβsignaling(TβRII^(ocy−/−))that suppresses PLR.The control aged bone displayed decreased TGFβsignaling and PLR,but aging did not worsen the existing PLR suppression in male TβRII^(ocy−/−)bone.This relationship impacted the behavior of collagen material at the nanoscale and tissue scale in macromechanical tests.The effects of age on bone mass,density,and mineral material behavior were independent of osteocytic TGFβ.We determined that the decline in bone quality with age arises from the loss of osteocyte function and the loss of TGFβ-dependent maintenance of collagen integrity.
文摘Deepfake technology can be used to replace people’s faces in videos or pictures to show them saying or doing things they never said or did. Deepfake media are often used to extort, defame, and manipulate public opinion. However, despite deepfake technology’s risks, current deepfake detection methods lack generalization and are inconsistent when applied to unknown videos, i.e., videos on which they have not been trained. The purpose of this study is to develop a generalizable deepfake detection model by training convoluted neural networks (CNNs) to classify human facial features in videos. The study formulated the research questions: “How effectively does the developed model provide reliable generalizations?” A CNN model was trained to distinguish between real and fake videos using the facial features of human subjects in videos. The model was trained, validated, and tested using the FaceForensiq++ dataset, which contains more than 500,000 frames and subsets of the DFDC dataset, totaling more than 22,000 videos. The study demonstrated high generalizability, as the accuracy of the unknown dataset was only marginally (about 1%) lower than that of the known dataset. The findings of this study indicate that detection systems can be more generalizable, lighter, and faster by focusing on just a small region (the human face) of an entire video.
文摘In search of an experimental route to produce linear arrays of spins without the use of nanotechnological tools, we have doped Nb<sub>28</sub>O<sub>70</sub> with small amounts of transition metal oxides (TM;in this case Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>) or rare-earth oxides<sub>3</sub>, and investigated the location of the alien metal (Fe in this case) in the structure. Previous AC magnetic susceptibility measurements at low temperatures have been consistent with the formation of arrays of TM magnetic moments along the widely spaced columns parallel to the crystallographic b-axis in the Nb<sub>28</sub>O<sub>70</sub> structure. To obtain further details about the TM distribution, the previous investigation has been extended now to include a room-temperature Mössbauer spectroscopic analysis of the Fe-doped material. The data are consistent with the presence of low-spin Fe<sup>3+</sup> ions in both octahedral and tetrahedral coordinations of oxygens, and confirm (as suggested in the previous work) that Fe also interchanges positions with Nb ions located at tetrahedrally coordinated sites in the columns of the structure.
文摘The services and solutions offered by cloud computing continue to grow, just as the number of organizations relying on the service. Cloud computing has become prevalent in the financial services industry, where 83% of financial services institutions identified cloud computing as a primary element of their infrastructure. Although there are specific benefits of cloud computing that organizations rely on such as access to critical services and lower costs, there is the possibility that cloud computing will create costs for organizations. The purpose of the study was to present an intensive review of the benefits and threats by investigating resilience and stability of the organizations in financial services industry that use cloud computing as their primary element of infrastructure. Data collected from the interview was used to answer original research questions, which are: How are organizations in the financial services industry resilient when faced with threats or losses associated with the use of cloud computing in their organization? How do organizations in the financial services industry maintain stability when faced with threats or losses associated with the use of cloud computing in their organization? The study supports the advancement of knowledge by identifying the threats and losses that occur due to the use of cloud computing, and organizations understand common threats and thus implement proper mitigation.
