bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Correlates of Resource Insecurity Among Older Black or African Americans with HIV in Ohio
Authors: Ramirez Yanil V. , Saltos Gisella M. Drouet , Crawford Timothy N.
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Resource insecurity is a social determinant of health that can impact people with HIV (PWH), in particular older African Americans (AA) or blacks with HIV. The purpose of this study was to identify resource insecurities among older Blacks or AA PWH specifically related to food and housing. Secondary focus was to find associations between resource insecurity and substance use history, stigma, and various forms of discrimination.

Methods

Eligible participants (N = 52) of this cross-sectional study were 50 years old or older, identified as Black or AA, diagnosed with HIV, and living in Ohio. Food insecurity was assessed using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale and housing insecurity was defined as not having stable housing. Resource insecurity was categorized into food and housing secure, food or housing insecure, and food and housing insecure.

Results

Almost half (48.1%) of participants reported housing insecurity, with approximately 58.0% experiencing food insecurity, and 38.5% facing both. Current substance use, particularly opiates, showed significant association with resource insecurity (OR = 5.54; 95% CI = 1.91–17.30). Moreover, experiences of everyday (OR = 1.19; 95% CI = 1.10–1.30) or major forms (OR = 1.75; 95% CI = 1.33–2.39) of discrimination, as well as HIV stigma (OR = 1.24; 95% CI = 1.01–1.55), were also linked to increased odds of resource insecurity among participants.

Conclusions

Findings highlight how social factors contribute to resource insecurity among older AA PWH. Understanding the factors offers insight for targeted intervention in the fight against HIV transmission.
Neoplasia follicolare della tiroide non invasiva con caratteristiche nucleari di tipo papillare (NIFTP): un’entità clinica di tutto rispetto
Authors: Gambale Carla , Minaldi Elisa , Elisei Rossella
Published: September 2024

Sommario

La definizione di neoplasia follicolare della tiroide non invasiva con caratteristiche nucleari di tipo papillare (NIFTP), oltre al cambio di denominazione, ha implicato la declassificazione di tali lesioni da maligne a benigne. NIFTP appare ecograficamente simile alle lesioni benigne o a basso rischio di malignità e presenta spesso citologia indeterminata. Per definizione, il NIFTP non può essere BRAFV600E mutato, per cui la ricerca delle mutazioni di BRAF è necessaria per escluderne la diagnosi. Il rigoroso rispetto dei criteri diagnostici (assenza di infiltrazione della capsula tumorale, assenza di mutazioni di BRAF, assenza di strutture papillari) è fondamentale per evitare errori diagnostici e il riscontro inatteso di metastasi. Una volta certi che si tratta di un NIFTP, la gestione postoperatoria deve essere analoga a quelle delle lesioni benigne.
An efficient extension of three-step optimal iterative scheme into with memory and its stability
Authors: Kumar Nishant , Cordero Alicia , Jaiswal J. P. , Torregrosa Juan R.
Published: September 2024

In this research paper, a novel approach is presented to solving nonlinear equations by modifying an existing optimal eight-order method. The proposed method introduces a three-step iterative process with memory, aiming to enhance the convergence rate without requiring additional function evaluations. To achieve this acceleration, the method incorporates a combination of a single parameter and double self-accelerating parameters. The values of these parameters are estimated using a Hermite interpolating polynomial technique. By leveraging this estimation approach, the convergence order of the original iterative method without memory is increased from eight to eleven. The paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the proposed method through numerous examples. These examples serve to support the theoretical findings and demonstrate its stability and the superior convergence rate achieved by the three-step with memory approach.
Vom Symptom zur Diagnose: Nykturie
Authors: Cermak Stefanie , Brunaiova Lujza
Published: September 2024

Die Nykturie ist eines der häufigsten Symptome in der urologischen Praxis. Die Prävalenz der Nykturie steigt mit dem Alter. In Anbetracht der aktuellen demografischen Situation ist davon auszugehen, dass die Prävalenz und somit Relevanz im klinischen Alltag weiter ansteigen. Die Nykturie kann durch verschiedene Ursachen bedingt sein, die unterschiedliche Organsysteme betreffen. Eine genaue Definition der Nykturie sowie die Identifikation der führenden Ätiologie sind entscheidend für eine zielführende Therapie und die Linderung der Symptome. Eine enge Zusammenarbeit zwischen Hausärzten, Urologen und Ärzten anderer Fachdisziplinen ist hierfür unerlässlich. Nykturiespezifische Fragebögen können bei der Diagnosestellung helfen und eine Einschätzung des Einflusses auf die Lebensqualität ermöglichen. Bei der Therapieentscheidung sollte der Einfluss der Nykturie auf die Lebensqualität berücksichtigt werden. Es ist wichtig, realistische Erwartungen zu vermitteln und Patienten darüber aufzuklären, dass die therapeutischen Möglichkeiten der Nykturie begrenzt sein können.
Delayed neurological deficit due to a medially misplaced thoracic pedicle screw during adolescent idiopathic scoliosis correction: a complication 6 years in the making
Authors: Suggala Sudhir , Dyess Garrett A. , Darbin Olivier , Menger Richard P.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Neurological deficits developing years after pedicle screw misplacement is a rare phenomenon. Here, we report level IV evidence of a previously asymptomatic medial thoracic pedicle screw resulting in paraparesis after a motor vehicle accident.

Methods

A 21-year-old male presented with acute onset of paraparesis following a motor vehicle collision. Six years prior this incident, the patient underwent a thoracolumbar fusion T4-L4 for AIS performed by an outside orthopedic surgeon. CT scan and CT myelogram illustrated decreased spinal canal diameter and cord compression from a medial T8 pedicle screw.

Results

Surgical removal of the misplaced pedicle screw resulted in a gradual complete recovery sustained over a period of 2 years. This case is compared to those reported in the literature review between 1981 and 2019 concerning delayed neurological deterioration related to misplaced pedicle screw.

Conclusion

This case reports a delayed neurological deficit implicating a misplaced pedicle screw. This phenomenon remains rare since 5 cases were reported in the literature over the last 4 decades. It calls into focus the need for confirmation of safe instrumentation during the intraoperative period. It also illustrates the potential difficult decision-making in regard to asymptomatic misplaced instrumentation.

Level of evidence

IV
A hydrogen sulphide-releasing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, ATB-346, significantly attenuates human myometrial contractions
Authors: Mijušković Ana , Wray Susan , Arrowsmith Sarah
Published: September 2024

Background

Spontaneous preterm birth is the leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Tocolytics are drugs used to inhibit uterine contractions in cases of imminent preterm birth, however, few are effective in stopping labour once initiated and all have side effects. Combination approaches involving drugs that target multiple signalling pathways that regulate contractions may increase efficacy, reduce dosage and improve tolerability. Both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and hydrogen sulphide (H2S)-releasing compounds can reduce myometrial contractions. In a novel approach we evaluated the tocolytic properties of ATB-346–a H2S-releasing derivative of the NSAID naproxen, shown clinically to reduce pain and inflammation in arthritis.

Methods

Using organ baths, paired strips of human myometrium were exposed to increasing concentrations of ATB-346, or equimolar concentrations (10µM and 30µM) of the parent drug, naproxen, or the H2S-releasing moiety, 4-hydroxy-thiobenzamide (TBZ), alone. The ability of ATB-346 versus the individual components of ATB-346 to decrease ex vivo spontaneous contractions was investigated, and the potency was compared to a known H2S donor, Na2S.

Results

Acute application of Na2S produced a concentration-dependent decrease in force amplitude and force integral (area under the curve) of contraction. ATB-346 produced a more profound decrease in contraction compared to equimolar concentrations of naproxen or TZB alone and was more potent than the equivalent concentration of Na2S.

Conclusions

ATB-346 exhibits potent tocolytic properties in human myometrium. These exciting results call for further exploration of ATB-346, with a view to repurposing this or similar drugs as novel therapies for delaying preterm labour.
Computational aspects of the geometric mean of two matrices: a survey
Authors: Bini Dario A. , Iannazzo Bruno
Published: September 2024

Algorithms for the computation of the (weighted) geometric mean G of two positive definite matrices are described and discussed. For large and sparse matrices the problem of computing the product $$y=Gb$$

y
=
G
b

, and of solving the linear system $$Gx=b$$

G
x
=
b

, without forming G, is addressed. An analysis of the conditioning is provided. Substantial numerical experimentation is carried out to test and compare the performances of these algorithms in terms of CPU time, numerical stability, and number of iterative steps.
The role of radiomics analysis in the assessment of renal nodules on CT
Authors: Zannotti Alice , Borgheresi Alessandra , Mariotti Francesco , Giacomelli Gloria , Tola Elisabetta , Cesari Elisa , Marchegiani Marzia , Sternardi Francesca , Cimadamore Alessia , Agostini Andrea , Galosi Andrea Benedetto , Giovagnoni Andrea
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To develop a radiomics model for the characterization of renal nodules on CT.

Methods

Patients who underwent surgical resection of renal nodules, with preoperative CT (LightSpeed VCT, GE) with contrast agent (Iopamidol 370; 1.5 ml/kg) and availability of a histopathological report, were retrospectively included. Renal lesions were segmented by two radiologists in consensus, in the arterial phase on the axial section with greater diameter. The radiomics analysis was performed with validated software (PyRadiomics on Syngo.via Frontier, Siemens) by applying normalization, resampling (1,1,1), setting bin width (15), and applying padding (2). The extracted features were used for training and testing machine learning models (random forest and support vector machine (end point: clear cell carcinoma, ccRCC).

Results

45 patients were included (mean age 56 years; 34/45 ccRCC). SVM e RF models obtained an AUC of 0.84 and accuracy of 0.87 and 0.80, respectively, in the testing phase.

Conclusion

Radiomics analysis is feasible and effective in the characterization of renal lesions on CT.
Impact of a tracheal aspirate culture diagnostic test stewardship intervention in a tertiary care PICU
Authors: Chiotos Kathleen , Lee Giyoung , Sydney Guy , Woods-Hill Charlotte , Wolfe Heather , Stinson Hannah R. , Piccione Joseph , Blumenthal Jennifer , Keim Garrett , Li Yun , Traynor Danielle , Dudhia Aaditya , Doll Ashlee , Harris Rebecca , Gerber Jeffrey
Published: September 2024

Objective:

To assess the impact of a diagnostic test stewardship intervention focused on tracheal aspirate cultures.

Design:

Quality improvement intervention.

Setting:

Tertiary care pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

Patients:

Mechanically ventilated children admitted between 9/2018 and 8/2022.

Methods:

We developed and implemented a consensus guideline for obtaining tracheal aspirate cultures through a series of Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles. Change in culture rates and broad-spectrum antibiotic days of therapy (DOT) per 100 ventilator days were analyzed using statistical process control charts. A secondary analysis comparing the preintervention baseline (9/2018–8/2020) to the postintervention period (9/2020–8/2021) was performed using Poisson regression.

Results:

The monthly tracheal aspirate culture rate prior to the COVID-19 pandemic (9/2018–3/2020) was 4.6 per 100 ventilator days. A centerline shift to 3.1 cultures per 100 ventilator days occurred in 4/2020, followed by a second shift to 2.0 cultures per 100 ventilator days in 12/2020 after guideline implementation. In our secondary analysis, the monthly tracheal aspirate culture rate decreased from 4.3 cultures preintervention (9/2018–8/2020) to 2.3 cultures per 100 ventilator days postintervention (9/2020–8/2021) (IRR 0.52, 95% CI 0.47–0.59, P < 0.01). Decreases in tracheal aspirate culture use were driven by decreases in inappropriate cultures. Treatment of ventilator-associated infections decreased from 1.0 to 0.7 antibiotic courses per 100 ventilator days (P = 0.03). There was no increase in mortality, length of stay, readmissions, or ventilator-associated pneumonia postintervention.

Conclusion:

A diagnostic test stewardship intervention was both safe and effective in reducing the rate of tracheal aspirate cultures and treatment of ventilator-associated infections in a tertiary PICU.
El Estado disperso: Relaciones ciudadanía-Estado en el Ecuador durante la pandemia COVID-19
Authors: Hill Michael D. , Fernández-Salvador Consuelo , Navarrete Mateo , Cuito Emilia
Published: September 2024

Este artículo teoriza las relaciones entre la ciudadanía y el Estado ecuatoriano durante el primer año y medio de la pandemia COVID-19. Basado en una metodología cualitativa de entrevistas, las perspectivas de los participantes revelan relaciones contradictorias con el gobierno características de los estados de seguridad neoliberales, pero también de patrones (pos)coloniales persistentes de exclusión racista y clasista: por un lado, un sentido de abandono del Estado, particularmente en salud pública y educación; y por otro lado, la fuerza represiva del Estado en su uso de medidas militares y policiales y de estados de excepción. Proponemos el término estado disperso para referirnos a estas tendencias opuestas de simultánea ausencia y presencia estatal. Argumentamos que las respuestas ciudadanas a la ausencia estatal incluyen cierta aceptación del retorno de las funciones educativas y sanitarias a comunidades, hogares e individuos, provocando de todas maneras nuevas formas de adaptación y creatividad cultural. En cuanto a la presencia represiva del Estado, los participantes expresaron apoyo considerable hacia medidas estatales autoritarias, frecuentemente justificadas por discursos esencialistas sobre el carácter de la ciudadanía nacional.
Adaptive finite element methods
Authors: Bonito Andrea , Canuto Claudio , Nochetto Ricardo H. , Veeser Andreas
Published: September 2024

This is a survey of the theory of adaptive finite element methods (AFEMs), which are fundamental to modern computational science and engineering but whose mathematical assessment is a formidable challenge. We present a self-contained and up-to-date discussion of AFEMs for linear second-order elliptic PDEs and dimension d > 1, with emphasis on foundational issues. After a brief review of functional analysis and basic finite element theory, including piecewise polynomial approximation in graded meshes, we present the core material for coercive problems. We start with a novel a posteriori error analysis applicable to rough data, which delivers estimators fully equivalent to the solution error. They are used in the design and study of three AFEMs depending on the structure of data. We prove linear convergence of these algorithms and rate-optimality provided the solution and data belong to suitable approximation classes. We also address the relation between approximation and regularity classes. We finally extend this theory to discontinuous Galerkin methods as prototypes of non-conforming AFEMs, and beyond coercive problems to inf-sup stable AFEMs.
Optimal experimental design: Formulations and computations
Authors: Huan Xun , Jagalur Jayanth , Marzouk Youssef
Published: September 2024

Questions of ‘how best to acquire data’ are essential to modelling and prediction in the natural and social sciences, engineering applications, and beyond. Optimal experimental design (OED) formalizes these questions and creates computational methods to answer them. This article presents a systematic survey of modern OED, from its foundations in classical design theory to current research involving OED for complex models. We begin by reviewing criteria used to formulate an OED problem and thus to encode the goal of performing an experiment. We emphasize the flexibility of the Bayesian and decision-theoretic approach, which encompasses information-based criteria that are well-suited to nonlinear and non-Gaussian statistical models. We then discuss methods for estimating or bounding the values of these design criteria; this endeavour can be quite challenging due to strong nonlinearities, high parameter dimension, large per-sample costs, or settings where the model is implicit. A complementary set of computational issues involves optimization methods used to find a design; we discuss such methods in the discrete (combinatorial) setting of observation selection and in settings where an exact design can be continuously parametrized. Finally we present emerging methods for sequential OED that build non-myopic design policies, rather than explicit designs; these methods naturally adapt to the outcomes of past experiments in proposing new experiments, while seeking coordination among all experiments to be performed. Throughout, we highlight important open questions and challenges.
A Novel Surface Energy Balance Method for Thermal Inertia Studies of Terrestrial Analogs
Authors: Koeppel Ari H. D. , Edwards Christopher S. , Edgar Lauren A. , Nowicki Scott , Bennett Kristen A. , Gullikson Amber , Piqueux Sylvain , Eifert Helen , Chapline Daphne , Rogers A. Deanne
Published: September 2024

Surface thermal inertia derived from satellite imagery offers a valuable tool for remotely mapping the physical structure and water content of planetary regolith. Efforts to quantify thermal inertia using surface temperatures on Earth, however, have consistently yielded large uncertainties and suffered from a lack of reproducibility. Unlike dry or airless bodies, Earth's abundant water and dense atmosphere lead to dynamic thermophysical conditions that are a greater challenge to model than on a world like Mars. In this work, an approach was developed using field experiments to inform and fine‐tune a thermophysical model of terrestrial sediment and calculate an inherent thermal inertia value with higher precision and less initial knowledge of the sediment than has previously been achieved remotely on Earth. A thermal inertia derived for a basaltic tephra site in Northern Arizona was replicated within 1% between different field seasons, demonstrating reproducibility. Model‐derived values were validated in situ by two different thermophysical field probes to within 8% of the measured mean values. Analog studies such as this hold the promise of improved interpretations of surface materials on Mars, and an accurate thermal model for Earth is the key step to enabling translation between the two worlds.
Strong Effects of Chorus Waves on Radiation Belts Expected for Future Magnetic Superstorms
Authors: Santolík Ondřej , Shprits Yuri , Kolmašová Ivana , Wang Dedong , Taubenschuss Ulrich , Turčičová Marie , Hanzelka Miroslav
Published: September 2024

Processes in the radiation belts under extreme geomagnetic conditions involve the interplay between acceleration and loss processes, both of which can be caused by wave‐particle interactions. Whistler mode waves play a critical role in these interactions, and up to now their properties during extreme events remained poorly sampled and understood. We employ extensive databases of spacecraft observations to specify their distribution. We show that under extreme geomagnetic conditions, lower‐band whistler mode chorus waves have a net effect of accelerating ultra‐relativistic electrons, which results in an increase of fluxes at multi‐MeV energies by several orders of magnitude. During future magnetic superstorms, the radiation levels in the outer zone could therefore experience a substantial increase beyond what has been previously observed during the space age.
Evolution of the Antarctic Ice Sheet Over the Next Three Centuries From an ISMIP6 Model Ensemble
Authors: Seroussi Hélène , Pelle Tyler , Lipscomb William H. , Abe‐Ouchi Ayako , Albrecht Torsten , Alvarez‐Solas Jorge , Asay‐Davis Xylar , Barre Jean‐Baptiste , Berends Constantijn J. , Bernales Jorge , Blasco Javier , Caillet Justine , Chandler David M. , Coulon Violaine , Cullather Richard , Dumas Christophe , Galton‐Fenzi Benjamin K. , Garbe Julius , Gillet‐Chaulet Fabien , Gladstone Rupert , Goelzer Heiko , Golledge Nicholas , Greve Ralf , Gudmundsson G. Hilmar , Han Holly Kyeore , Hillebrand Trevor R. , Hoffman Matthew J. , Huybrechts Philippe , Jourdain Nicolas C. , Klose Ann Kristin , Langebroek Petra M. , Leguy Gunter R. , Lowry Daniel P. , Mathiot Pierre , Montoya Marisa , Morlighem Mathieu , Nowicki Sophie , Pattyn Frank , Payne Antony J. , Quiquet Aurélien , Reese Ronja , Robinson Alexander , Saraste Leopekka , Simon Erika G. , Sun Sainan , Twarog Jake P. , Trusel Luke D. , Urruty Benoit , Van Breedam Jonas , van de Wal Roderik S. W. , Wang Yu , Zhao Chen , Zwinger Thomas
Published: September 2024

The Ice Sheet Model Intercomparison Project for CMIP6 (ISMIP6) is the primary effort of CMIP6 (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project–Phase 6) focusing on ice sheets, designed to provide an ensemble of process‐based projections of the ice‐sheet contribution to sea‐level rise over the twenty‐first century. However, the behavior of the Antarctic Ice Sheet beyond 2100 remains largely unknown: several instability mechanisms can develop on longer time scales, potentially destabilizing large parts of Antarctica. Projections of Antarctic Ice Sheet evolution until 2300 are presented here, using an ensemble of 16 ice‐flow models and forcing from global climate models. Under high‐emission scenarios, the Antarctic sea‐level contribution is limited to less than 30 cm sea‐level equivalent (SLE) by 2100, but increases rapidly thereafter to reach up to 4.4 m SLE by 2300. Simulations including ice‐shelf collapse lead to an additional 1.1 m SLE on average by 2300, and can reach 6.9 m SLE. Widespread retreat is observed on that timescale in most West Antarctic basins, leading to a collapse of large sectors of West Antarctica by 2300 in 30%–40% of the ensemble. While the onset date of retreat varies among ice models, the rate of upstream propagation is highly consistent once retreat begins. Calculations of sea‐level contribution including water density corrections lead to an additional ∼10% sea level and up to 50% for contributions accounting for bedrock uplift in response to ice loading. Overall, these results highlight large sea‐level contributions from Antarctica and suggest that the choice of ice sheet model remains the leading source of uncertainty in multi‐century projections.
Chromosome X-wide association study in case control studies of pathologically confirmed Alzheimer’s disease in a European population
Authors: Simmonds Emily , Leonenko Ganna , Yaman Umran , Bellou Eftychia , Myers Amanda , Morgan Kevin , Brookes Keeley , Hardy John , Salih Dervis , Escott-Price Valentina
Published: September 2024

Although there are several genome-wide association studies available which highlight genetic variants associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), often the X chromosome is excluded from the analysis. We conducted an X-chromosome-wide association study (XWAS) in three independent studies with a pathologically confirmed phenotype (total 1970 cases and 1113 controls). The XWAS was performed in males and females separately, and these results were then meta-analysed. Four suggestively associated genes were identified which may be of potential interest for further study in AD, these are DDX53 (rs12006935, OR = 0.52, p = 6.9e-05), IL1RAPL1 (rs6628450, OR = 0.36, p = 4.2e-05; rs137983810, OR = 0.52, p = 0.0003), TBX22 (rs5913102, OR = 0.74, p = 0.0003) and SH3BGRL (rs186553004, OR = 0.35, p = 0.0005; rs113157993, OR = 0.52, p = 0.0003), which replicate across at least two studies. The SNP rs5913102 in TBX22 achieves chromosome-wide significance in meta-analysed data. DDX53 shows highest expression in astrocytes, IL1RAPL1 is most highly expressed in oligodendrocytes and neurons and SH3BGRL is most highly expressed in microglia. We have also identified SNPs in the NXF5 gene at chromosome-wide significance in females (rs5944989, OR = 0.62, p = 1.1e-05) but not in males (p = 0.83). The discovery of relevant AD associated genes on the X chromosome may identify AD risk differences and similarities based on sex and lead to the development of sex-stratified therapeutics.
Comparing efficacies of various papain-based enzyme agents and 2.4% sodium hypochlorite gel in chemomechanical caries removal: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Alsayed M. H. D. Baraa , Karkoutly Mawia , Achour Hassan , Abboud Souad
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacies of Papacarie Duo gel, Brix 3000, Selecti-Solve gel, 2.4% sodium hypochlorite gel, and conventional rotary-mechanical method in caries removal and to evaluate the patient comfort.

Methods

It was a single-blinded, randomized, parallel-group, active-controlled trial with five arms. It was conducted at the Department of Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics, Damascus University. Seventy-five specimens were randomly allocated into five groups: chemomechanical caries removal (CMCR) using Selecti-Solve gel (G1), BRIX3000 (G2), Papacarie DUO gel (G3), or 2.4% sodium hypochlorite gel (G4), and caries excavation using conventional rotary-mechanical method (G5) (control group). The trial considered healthy patients aged 18–40. Permanent molars with class I carious lesions extending to the middle third of dentin with no pulpal and/or periodontal pathology were included. The efficacy of caries removal was considered the primary outcome measure, and the secondary outcome measures were treatment time, volumetric measurement of the cavity, and pain assessment.

Results

The majority (73.30%) of cases from BRIX3000 and conventional rotary-mechanical method groups showed complete caries removal (p = 0.982). The mean time of caries removal was the highest (17.45 ± 4.42) in the 2.4% sodium hypochlorite gel group (p < 0.05), and the lowest (6.33 ± 1.69) was in the conventional rotary-mechanical method group (p < 0.05). The mean cavity volume was the highest (18.97 ± 9.76) in the Papacarie DUO gel group, and the lowest (14.87 ± 4.76) was in the 2.4% sodium hypochlorite gel group (p = 0.506). The conventional rotary-mechanical group exhibited the highest mean score (5.40 ± 1.72) of pain (p < 0.05). However, the mean score (2.67 ± 1.11) of pain reported reduced in the BRIX3000 group.

Conclusions

CMCR agents could be a potential substitute for conventional rotary instrumentation methods, taking into account the long working time.
Bone targeted nano-drug and nano-delivery
Authors: Wu Yilun , Sun Bing , Tang Ying , Shen Aining , Lin Yanlin , Zhao Xiaohui , Li Jingui , Monteiro Michael J. , Gu Wenyi
Published: September 2024

There are currently no targeted delivery systems to satisfactorily treat bone-related disorders. Many clinical drugs consisting of small organic molecules have a short circulation half-life and do not effectively reach the diseased tissue site. This coupled with repeatedly high dose usage that leads to severe side effects. With the advance in nanotechnology, drugs contained within a nano-delivery device or drugs aggregated into nanoparticles (nano-drugs) have shown promises in targeted drug delivery. The ability to design nanoparticles to target bone has attracted many researchers to develop new systems for treating bone related diseases and even repurposing current drug therapies. In this review, we shall summarise the latest progress in this area and present a perspective for future development in the field. We will focus on calcium-based nanoparticle systems that modulate calcium metabolism and consequently, the bone microenvironment to inhibit disease progression (including cancer). We shall also review the bone affinity drug family, bisphosphonates, as both a nano-drug and nano-delivery system for bone targeted therapy. The ability to target and release the drug in a controlled manner at the disease site represents a promising safe therapy to treat bone diseases in the future.
Targeting Fascin1 maintains chondrocytes phenotype and attenuates osteoarthritis development
Authors: Yang Panpan , Xiao Yun , Chen Liangyu , Yang Chengliang , Cheng Qinwei , Li Honghao , Chen Dalin , Wu Junfeng , Liao Zhengquan , Yang Changsheng , Wang Chong , Wang Hong , Huang Bin , Ke Ee , Bai Xiaochun , Li Kai
Published: September 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritic disease, and phenotypic modification of chondrocytes is an important mechanism that contributes to the loss of cartilage homeostasis. This study identified that Fascin actin-bundling protein 1 (FSCN1) plays a pivotal role in regulating chondrocytes phenotype and maintaining cartilage homeostasis. Proteome-wide screening revealed markedly upregulated FSCN1 protein expression in human OA cartilage. FSCN1 accumulation was confirmed in the superficial layer of OA cartilage from humans and mice, primarily in dedifferentiated-like chondrocytes, associated with enhanced actin stress fiber formation and upregulated type I and III collagens. FSCN1-inducible knockout mice exhibited delayed cartilage degeneration following experimental OA surgery. Mechanistically, FSCN1 promoted actin polymerization and disrupted the inhibition of Decorin on TGF-β1, leading to excessive TGF-β1 production and ALK1/Smad1/5 signaling activation, thus, accelerated chondrocyte dedifferentiation. Intra-articular injection of FSCN1-overexpressing adeno-associated virus exacerbated OA progression in mice, which was mitigated by an ALK1 inhibitor. Moreover, FSCN1 inhibitor NP-G2-044 effectively reduced extracellular matrix degradation in OA mice, cultured human OA chondrocytes, and cartilage explants by suppressing ALK1/Smad1/5 signaling. These findings suggest that targeting FSCN1 represents a promising therapeutic approach for OA.
Single-cell and spatial proteo-transcriptomic profiling reveals immune infiltration heterogeneity associated with neuroendocrine features in small cell lung cancer
Authors: Jin Ying , Wu Yuefeng , Reuben Alexandre , Zhu Liang , Gay Carl M. , Wu Qingzhe , Zhou Xintong , Mo Haomin , Zheng Qi , Ren Junyu , Fang Zhaoyuan , Peng Teng , Wang Nan , Ma Liang ,   Lungevity PANSHI Initiative Consortium, Wu Yuefeng , Fan Yun , Song Hai , Zhang Jianjun , Chen Ming
Published: September 2024

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive pulmonary neuroendocrine malignancy featured by cold tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), limited benefit from immunotherapy, and poor survival. The spatial heterogeneity of TIME significantly associated with anti-tumor immunity has not been systemically studied in SCLC. We performed ultra-high-plex Digital Spatial Profiling on 132 tissue microarray cores from 44 treatment-naive limited-stage SCLC tumors. Incorporating single-cell RNA-sequencing data from a local cohort and published SCLC data, we established a spatial proteo-transcriptomic landscape covering over 18,000 genes and 60 key immuno-oncology proteins that participate in signaling pathways affecting tumorigenesis, immune regulation, and cancer metabolism across 3 pathologically defined spatial compartments (pan-CK-positive tumor nest; CD45/CD3-positive tumor stroma; para-tumor). Our study depicted the spatial transcriptomic and proteomic TIME architecture of SCLC, indicating clear intra-tumor heterogeneity dictated via canonical neuroendocrine subtyping markers; revealed the enrichment of innate immune cells and functionally impaired B cells in tumor nest and suggested potentially important immunoregulatory roles of monocytes/macrophages. We identified RE1 silencing factor (REST) as a potential biomarker for SCLC associated with low neuroendocrine features, more active anti-tumor immunity, and prolonged survival.
Effects of electric vehicle charging stations on the economic vitality of local businesses
Authors: Zheng Yunhan , Keith David R. , Wang Shenhao , Diao Mi , Zhao Jinhua
Published: September 2024

Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) are essential for promoting cleaner transportation by facilitating electric vehicle recharging. This study explores their broader economic impact on nearby businesses, analyzing data from over 4000 EVCS and 140,000 business establishments in California. Results show that installing one EVCS boosts annual spending at a nearby establishment by 1.4% ($1,478) in 2019 and 0.8% ($404) from January 2021 to June 2023. The effect is more pronounced when a point of interest (POI) is within 100 meters of an EVCS, with spending increasing by 2.7% in 2019 and 3.2% from January 2021 to June 2023 for that POI. Public EVCS tend to attract higher-income, exploratory visitors, and local residents. Moreover, they notably enhance businesses in underprivileged areas, defined as disadvantaged and/or low-income areas designated by both California and Justice40, indicating the importance of expanding EVCS in such communities. This study highlights EVCS as drivers of local economic growth and stresses the economic benefits of multi-host EVCS setups.
Sex differences in functional cortical organization reflect differences in network topology rather than cortical morphometry
Authors: Serio Bianca , Hettwer Meike D. , Wiersch Lisa , Bignardi Giacomo , Sacher Julia , Weis Susanne , Eickhoff Simon B. , Valk Sofie L.
Published: September 2024

Differences in brain size between the sexes are consistently reported. However, the consequences of this anatomical difference on sex differences in intrinsic brain function remain unclear. In the current study, we investigate whether sex differences in intrinsic cortical functional organization may be associated with differences in cortical morphometry, namely different measures of brain size, microstructure, and the geodesic distance of connectivity profiles. For this, we compute a low dimensional representation of functional cortical organization, the sensory-association axis, and identify widespread sex differences. Contrary to our expectations, sex differences in functional organization do not appear to be systematically associated with differences in total surface area, microstructural organization, or geodesic distance, despite these morphometric properties being per se associated with functional organization and differing between sexes. Instead, functional sex differences in the sensory-association axis are associated with differences in functional connectivity profiles and network topology. Collectively, our findings suggest that sex differences in functional cortical organization extend beyond sex differences in cortical morphometry.
Engineered dissipation to mitigate barren plateaus
Authors: Sannia Antonio , Tacchino Francesco , Tavernelli Ivano , Giorgi Gian Luca , Zambrini Roberta
Published: September 2024

Variational quantum algorithms represent a powerful approach for solving optimization problems on noisy quantum computers, with a broad spectrum of potential applications ranging from chemistry to machine learning. However, their performances in practical implementations crucially depend on the effectiveness of quantum circuit training, which can be severely limited by phenomena such as barren plateaus. While, in general, dissipation is detrimental for quantum algorithms, and noise itself can actually induce barren plateaus, here we describe how the inclusion of properly engineered Markovian losses after each unitary quantum circuit layer allows for the trainability of quantum models. We identify the required form of the dissipation processes and establish that their optimization is efficient. We benchmark the generality of our proposal in both a synthetic and a practical quantum chemistry example, demonstrating its effectiveness and potential impact across different domains.
Coassembly and binning of a twenty-year metagenomic time-series from Lake Mendota
Authors: Oliver Tiffany , Varghese Neha , Roux Simon , Schulz Frederik , Huntemann Marcel , Clum Alicia , Foster Brian , Foster Bryce , Riley Robert , LaButti Kurt , Egan Robert , Hajek Patrick , Mukherjee Supratim , Ovchinnikova Galina , Reddy T. B. K. , Calhoun Sara , Hayes Richard D. , Rohwer Robin R. , Zhou Zhichao , Daum Chris , Copeland Alex , Chen I-Min A. , Ivanova Natalia N. , Kyrpides Nikos C. , Mouncey Nigel J. , del Rio Tijana Glavina , Grigoriev Igor V. , Hofmeyr Steven , Oliker Leonid , Yelick Katherine , Anantharaman Karthik , McMahon Katherine D. , Woyke Tanja , Eloe-Fadrosh Emiley A.
Published: September 2024

The North Temperate Lakes Long-Term Ecological Research (NTL-LTER) program has been extensively used to improve understanding of how aquatic ecosystems respond to environmental stressors, climate fluctuations, and human activities. Here, we report on the metagenomes of samples collected between 2000 and 2019 from Lake Mendota, a freshwater eutrophic lake within the NTL-LTER site. We utilized the distributed metagenome assembler MetaHipMer to coassemble over 10 terabases (Tbp) of data from 471 individual Illumina-sequenced metagenomes. A total of 95,523,664 contigs were assembled and binned to generate 1,894 non-redundant metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) with ≥50% completeness and ≤10% contamination. Phylogenomic analysis revealed that the MAGs were nearly exclusively bacterial, dominated by Pseudomonadota (Proteobacteria, N = 623) and Bacteroidota (N = 321). Nine eukaryotic MAGs were identified by eukCC with six assigned to the phylum Chlorophyta. Additionally, 6,350 high-quality viral sequences were identified by geNomad with the majority classified in the phylum Uroviricota. This expansive coassembled metagenomic dataset provides an unprecedented foundation to advance understanding of microbial communities in freshwater ecosystems and explore temporal ecosystem dynamics.
Chromosome-level genome assembly of predatory Arma chinensis
Authors: Fu Luyao , Lin Changjin , Xu Wenyan , Cheng Hongmei , Liu Dianyu , Ma Le , Su Zhihan , Yan Xiaoyu , Dong Xiaolin , Liu Chenxi
Published: September 2024

Arma chinensis is a natural enemy that preys on various species and can suppress agricultural and forest pests in the orders Lepidoptera and Coleoptera. Here, we aimed to determine the genome of A. chinensis assembled at the chromosome-level using PacBio and Hi-C technologies. The assembled genome was 986 Mb, with a contig N50 of 2.40 Mb, scaffold N50 of 134.98 Mb, and BUSCO completeness of 96.10%. Hi-C data aided in anchoring the assembly onto seven chromosomes. A sequence of ~ 496.2 Mb was annotated as a repeat element, constituting 51.15% of the genome. We functionally annotated 84.79% of 20,853 predicted protein-encoding genes. This high-quality A. chinensis genome provides a novel genomic resource for future research on Pentatomidae insects.
Overtrust in AI Recommendations About Whether or Not to Kill: Evidence from Two Human-Robot Interaction Studies
Authors: Holbrook Colin , Holman Daniel , Clingo Joshua , Wagner Alan R.
Published: September 2024

This research explores prospective determinants of trust in the recommendations of artificial agents regarding decisions to kill, using a novel visual challenge paradigm simulating threat-identification (enemy combatants vs. civilians) under uncertainty. In Experiment 1, we compared trust in the advice of a physically embodied versus screen-mediated anthropomorphic robot, observing no effects of embodiment; in Experiment 2, we manipulated the relative anthropomorphism of virtual robots, observing modestly greater trust in the most anthropomorphic agent relative to the least. Across studies, when any version of the agent randomly disagreed, participants reversed their threat-identifications and decisions to kill in the majority of cases, substantially degrading their initial performance. Participants’ subjective confidence in their decisions tracked whether the agent (dis)agreed, while both decision-reversals and confidence were moderated by appraisals of the agent’s intelligence. The overall findings indicate a strong propensity to overtrust unreliable AI in life-or-death decisions made under uncertainty.
Skin cancer classification leveraging multi-directional compact convolutional neural network ensembles and gabor wavelets
Authors: Attallah Omneya
Published: September 2024

Skin cancer (SC) is an important medical condition that necessitates prompt identification to ensure timely treatment. Although visual evaluation by dermatologists is considered the most reliable method, its efficacy is subjective and laborious. Deep learning-based computer-aided diagnostic (CAD) platforms have become valuable tools for supporting dermatologists. Nevertheless, current CAD tools frequently depend on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) with huge amounts of deep layers and hyperparameters, single CNN model methodologies, large feature space, and exclusively utilise spatial image information, which restricts their effectiveness. This study presents SCaLiNG, an innovative CAD tool specifically developed to address and surpass these constraints. SCaLiNG leverages a collection of three compact CNNs and Gabor Wavelets (GW) to acquire a comprehensive feature vector consisting of spatial–textural–frequency attributes. SCaLiNG gathers a wide range of image details by breaking down these photos into multiple directional sub-bands using GW, and then learning several CNNs using those sub-bands and the original picture. SCaLiNG also combines attributes taken from various CNNs trained with the actual images and subbands derived from GW. This fusion process correspondingly improves diagnostic accuracy due to the thorough representation of attributes. Furthermore, SCaLiNG applies a feature selection approach which further enhances the model’s performance by choosing the most distinguishing features. Experimental findings indicate that SCaLiNG maintains a classification accuracy of 0.9170 in categorising SC subcategories, surpassing conventional single-CNN models. The outstanding performance of SCaLiNG underlines its ability to aid dermatologists in swiftly and precisely recognising and classifying SC, thereby enhancing patient outcomes.
Synthesis of nanogeopolymer adsorbent and its application and reusability in the removal of methylene blue from wastewater using response surface methodology (RSM)
Authors: Abdel Hamid E. M. , Aly H. M. , El Naggar K. A. M.
Published: September 2024

Organic dyestuff are mostly toxic compounds that pose serious dangers to the environment. Adsorption using low-cost adsorbents is the most favorable method for its economic aspects. Recently, geopolymers have been introduced as an effective adsorbent for dyes and heavy metals. In this investigation, the synthesis of geopolymers from fired brick waste (Homra) was studied with full characterization using X-ray Diffraction, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, Energy dispersive X-ray, Scanning electron microscope tests and Transmission electron microscopy. The synthesized nano-Homra geopolymer (NHGP) was then subjected to the removal of one of the most used basic dyes, Methylene Blue (MB). Adsorption optimization was applied using Response surface methodology to study dye adsorption by the synthesized nano-geopolymer. The independent variables studied were: temperature, contact time, and concentration of dye in the elimination process, which were varied in the range of (25–60 ℃), (10–180 min), and (20–300 mg/L) respectively. The results obtained from ANOVA indicated that the maximum removal efficiency of 95% and adsorption capacity of 80.65 mg/g at a temperature of 59 ℃, contact time of 163 min, and an initial concentration of 254 mg/L. The results showed that the data obtained from the adsorption of MB onto NHGP was compatible with the Pseudo second order (R2 = 0.9838) and Langmuir isotherm model (R2 = 0.9882).
Chemical short-range order increases the phonon heat conductivity in a refractory high-entropy alloy
Authors: Mora-Barzaga Geraudys , Urbassek Herbert M. , Deluigi Orlando R. , Pasinetti P. Marcelo , Bringa Eduardo M.
Published: September 2024

We study the effects of the chemical short-range order (SRO) on the thermal conductivity of the refractory high-entropy alloy HfNbTaTiZr using atomistic simulation. Samples with different degrees of chemical SRO are prepared by a Monte Carlo scheme. With increasing SRO, a tendency of forming HfTi and TiZr clusters is found. The phonon density of states is determined from the velocity auto-correlation function and chemical SRO modifies the high-frequency part of the phonon density of states. Lattice heat conductivity is calculated by non-equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations. The heat conductivity of the random alloy is lower than that of the segregated binary alloys. Phonon scattering by SRO precipitates might be expected to reduce scattering times and, therefore, decrease thermal conductivity. We find that, in contrast, due to the increase of the conductivity alongside SRO cluster percolation pathways, SRO increases the lattice heat conductivity by around 12 %. This is expected to be a general result, extending to other HEAs.
Quantifying trade-offs between therapeutic efficacy and resistance dissemination for enrofloxacin dose regimens in cattle
Authors: Chandra Deb Liton , Timsina Archana , Lenhart Suzanne , Foster Derek , Lanzas Cristina
Published: September 2024

The use of antimicrobial drugs in food-producing animals contributes to the selection pressure on pathogenic and commensal bacteria to become resistant. This study aims to evaluate the existence of trade-offs between treatment effectiveness, cost, and the dynamics of resistance in gut commensal bacteria. We developed a within-host ordinary differential equation model to track the dynamics of antimicrobial drug concentrations and bacterial populations in the site of infection (lung) and the gut. The model was parameterized to represent enrofloxacin treatment for bovine respiratory disease (BRD) caused by Pastereulla multocida in cattle. Three approved enrofloxacin dosing regimens were compared for their effects on resistance on P. multocida and commensal E. coli: 12.5 mg/kg and 7.5 mg/kg as a single dose, and 5 mg/kg as three doses. Additionally, we explored non-FDA-approved regimes. Our results indicated that both 12.5 mg/kg and 7.5 mg/kg as a single dose scenario increased the most the treatment costs and prevalence of P. multocida resistance in the lungs, while 5 mg/kg as three doses increased resistance in commensal E. coli bacteria in the gut the most out of the approved scenarios. A proposed non-FDA-approved scenario (7.5 mg/kg, two doses 24 h apart) showed low economic costs, minimal P. multocida, and moderate effects on resistant E. coli. Overall, the scenarios that decrease P. multocida, including resistant P. multocida did not coincide with those that decrease resistant E. coli the most, suggesting a trade-off between both outcomes. The sensitivity analysis suggests that bacterial populations were the most sensitive to drug conversion factors into plasma ($${\beta}$$
β
), elimination of the drug from the colon ($$\vartheta$$
ϑ
), fifty percent sensitive bacteria (P. multocida) killing effect ($${\text{L}}_{\text{s50}}$$

L
s50

), fifty percent of bacteria (E. coli) above ECOFF killing effect ($${\text{C}}_{\text{r50}}$$

C
r50

), and net drug transfer rate in the lung ($$\gamma$$
γ
) parameters.