bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-modal person re-identification using fused local effective features and multi-scale features
Authors: Lu Lihui , Wang Rifan , Chen Zhencong , Chen Jiaqi
Published: August 2024

The main research objective of cross-modal person re-identification is to retrieve matching images of the same person from image repositories in both modalities, given visible light or infrared images of individuals. Due to the significant modality gap between pedestrian images, the task of person re-identification faces considerable challenges. To address this issue, a method is proposed that utilizes the fusion of local effective features and multi-scale features. First, images are transformed into pseudo-infrared images through data augmentation and then a dual-stream network is designed using ResNet50_IBN for feature extraction. Subsequently, pedestrian features extracted from different layers are fused at multiple scales to alleviate feature loss caused during the convolution process. Finally, the model is supervised using global features and local effective features to address issues related to cluttered backgrounds and varying pedestrian positions in images. The proposed method is experimentally validated on the current mainstream cross-modal person re-identification datasets SYSU-MM01 and RegDB, demonstrating improvements in Rank-1 and mAP metrics compared to current state-of-the-art algorithms.
Why are (financialised) workers becoming more resigned and conformist and less claimant? Empirical evidence from Portugal
Authors: Barradas Ricardo
Published: August 2024

The deregulation and flexibilisation of labour relations has been on the active neoliberal agenda of policymakers all over the world, including in Portugal. Against this backdrop, labour conditions have been worsening since the 1970s and 1980s, and workers have progressively lost some labour rights, which is noticeable in stagnant (or falling) wages, the rise of personal income inequalities, the proliferation of atypical work, the increase of precariousness, the surge of emotional abuse in the workplace, the deterioration of work–life balance and the spread of informal work. Nonetheless, workers have evidenced higher resignation and conformism and lower claimant behaviour in order to demand higher wages and better labour conditions, which is visible in the strong reduction in strike activity in the last four decades. In this article the author argues that workers’ financialisation and indebtedness levels restrain their demands for higher wages and better labour conditions due to the fear of decreasing their income and losing their jobs and the consequent risks of default. The article aims to assess the relationship between workers’ financialisation and indebtedness levels and their strike activity by performing a time-series econometric analysis focused on Portugal during the period 1979–2021. It is found that workers’ financialisation and indebtedness levels have a negative effect on strike activity in Portugal, both in the short term and in the long term, especially on strike volume and strike duration, and indeed have been one of the main drivers behind the decline of strike activity in Portugal in the last four decades.
The Exodus of Moldova: Understanding the Migration Dilemma
Authors: Bogdan Ludmila
Published: August 2024

This paper explores Moldovas unique context within migration studies, highlighting its potential to enhance theoretical frameworks on migration. Despite its small size, Moldova has a significant portion of its population working abroad, offering insights into both migration and immobility. The study examines Moldova's dual migratory flows toward the European Union (EU) and Russia, influenced by cultural, historical, and economic ties. Contrary to conventional views, the context of Moldova reveals that financial accessibility and robust social networks do not always result in increased migration aspirations in migration decisions. It also addresses the interconnected issues of human trafficking and migration, emphasizing often-overlooked social dimensions. Positioning Moldova as a valuable “migration laboratory,” this study aims to generate academic interest and propose new research directions to refine migration theories.
Trailblazer devolution deals: The next oxymoron in the policy litany of sub-national governance in England?
Authors: Morphet Janice , Denham John
Published: August 2024

Here, we examine the continuing UK centralising trend for local government in England and the effects of changing accountabilities through the pathway of devolution narratives. We set out the key characteristics of policy change since 1992 and then analyse the most recently announced model Trailblazer Devolution Deals (TDD) single settlements for Mayoral Combined Authorities announced in the UK Budget 2023. We consider how far these TDD confer more devolution on CAs through the proposed creation of a single settlement for an integrated budget within the context of two previous government initiatives that were focused on the same approach, Government Offices for the Regions (GoRs) (1994–2010) and Total Place (2009–2011). We consider what occurred in practice and reflect on their demise as examples of institutions established by the UK government’s approach to transitional territorialism. We conclude with the view that these initiatives represent devolution in name only (DINO).
Absence of BOLD adaptation in chronic fatigue syndrome revealed by task functional MRI
Authors: Schönberg Laura , Mohamed Abdalla Z , Yu Qiang , Kwiatek Richard A , Del Fante Peter , Calhoun Vince D , Shan Zack Y
Published: August 2024

Neurological symptoms are central to Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), yet its underlying neurophysiological mechanisms remain elusive. We examined a neglected aspect of task-based functional MRI, focusing on how blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) signals alter during cognitive tasks in ME/CFS. This prospective observational study utilised MRI scans on ME/CFS participants and healthy controls (HCs) with sedentary lifestyles (ACTRN12622001095752). Participants completed two blocks of a Symbol Digit Modalities Test, with 30 trials per block split into two sets. The fMRI signal changes between blocks and sets were compared within and between groups. Thirty-four ME/CFS participants (38 years ± 10; 27 women) and 34 HCs (38 ± 10; 27 women), were evaluated. In the second task block, ME/CFS participants exhibited increased activation in the right postcentral gyrus, contrasting with decreased activation in multiple regions in HCs. These results were further confirmed by significantly higher bilateral dynamic changes (2nd vs 1st set) in the motor, sensory and cognitive cortex in ME/CFS compared to HCs and significant correlations between those changes in the left primary motor cortex with fatigue severities. BOLD adaptation, potentially improving energy economy, was absent in ME/CFS, which may provide an underlying neurophysiological process in ME/CFS.
Student Experiences With Peer Review and Revision for Writing-to-Learn in a Chemistry Course Context
Authors: Finkenstaedt-Quinn Solaire A. , Milne Safron L. , Petterson Michael N. , Chen Jasen , Shultz Ginger V.
Published: August 2024

Peer review is useful for providing students with formative feedback, yet it is used less frequently in STEM classrooms and for supporting writing-to-learn (WTL). While research indicates the benefits of incorporating peer review into classrooms, less research is focused on students’ perceptions thereof. Such research is important as it speaks to the mechanisms whereby peer review can support learning. This study examines students’ self-reported approaches to and perceptions of peer review and revision associated with WTL assignments implemented in an organic chemistry course. Students responded to a survey covering how they approached peer review and revision and the benefits they perceived from participating in each. Findings indicate that the assignment materials guided students’ approaches during both peer review and revision. Furthermore, students described various ways both receiving feedback from their peers and reading their peers’ drafts were beneficial, but primarily connected their revisions to receiving feedback.
Large language models and community legal centres: Could chatbots help reduce Australia’s justice gap?
Authors: Cesta Will
Published: August 2024

This article considers the extent to which chatbots based on large language models could reduce unmet demand for services offered by Australian community legal centres. It argues that while chatbots developed to streamline intake processes and assist lawyers with research and document preparation are unlikely to significantly reduce Australia’s justice gap, client-facing legal information chatbots have the potential to do so. However, realising this potential involves solving numerous problems, including uncertainty about how Australia’s Legal Profession Uniform Law applies to autonomous software systems and the risk that hallucinations of large language models will mislead clients.
Postoperative outcomes and trends in computer-navigated and robotic-assisted total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Piple Amit S , Wang Jennifer C , Hill William , Chen Matthew S , Gettleman Brandon S , Liu Kevin C , Heckmann Nathanael D , Christ Alexander B
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

As the volume of technology-assisted total hip arthroplasty (THA) increases, there is a need to characterise the outcomes of robotic-assisted (RA) and computer-navigated (CN) THA. The goal of this study was to assess outcomes and opioid consumption following CN-THA and RA-THA compared to conventionally-instrumented (CON) THA.

Methods:

The Premier Database was queried for all patients who underwent primary, elective THA from 2015-2020. Patients were divided into 3 groups: CN, RA, or CON-THA. Yearly usage trends were assessed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess the 90-day risk of postoperative complications. Opioid consumption was reported in morphine milligram equivalents (MME) for postoperative days (POD) 0 and 1.

Results:

Overall, 474,707 elective THAs were identified (95.7% CON, 2.1% CN, 2.2% RA. After accounting for confounders, CN-THA patients were at decreased risk for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) (aOR: 0.55, p < 0.001) and dislocation (aOR 0.45, p < 0.001), but increased risk for blood transfusion (aOR 1.97, <0.001) compared to CON-THA. RA-THA patients were at decreased risk of dislocation (aOR:0.66, p < 0.001) but increased risk for transfusion (aOR 1.20, p < 0.001), prosthesis breakage (aOR 3.88, p < 0.001), and periprosthetic fracture (aOR 1.72, p < 0.001). Opioid consumption for CN-THA patients was lower on POD1 and lower for RA-THA patients POD0 and 2 compared to CON-THA.

Discussion:

CN-THA was associated with reduced rates of PJI and dislocation, but increased rates of blood transfusion while RA-THA was associated with decreased rates of dislocation, but increased rates of blood transfusion, prosthesis complications, and periprosthetic fracture compared to CON-THA. Technology-assisted THA was associated with lower postoperative opioid consumption.
Attractive infrastructure and ideological challenge as reasons for retention of rural teachers / Infraestructura atractiva y desafío ideológico como factores de retención del profesorado rural
Authors: Yao Wenwen , Zhen Ying
Published: August 2024

This case study was aimed at assessing the factors influencing the motivation for hiring and retaining rural schoolteachers using the example of Chinese educational practice. To achieve the goal, a survey was conducted among teachers of rural schools in China ( n = 119). The survey evaluated: factors affecting teachers’ decisions to continue teaching in a rural school; factors that determine teachers’ willingness to work in a rural school; factors of rural schoolteachers’ satisfaction with their workplace environment, as closely related to their retention. Analysis of the portion of the questionnaire evaluating factors that influenced teachers’ decisions to work in a rural school (Cronbach’s alpha = .608) and satisfaction with the workplace environment as a retention motivator for a rural school (Cronbach’s alpha = .807) suggests a fairly strong internal consistency of the above drivers. This implies that the factors contributing to more successful teacher recruitment are not the same as the factors affecting the long-term decision to stay in a rural school. Though a teacher can be hired by leveraging available social capital, community and classroom are important contributors to retaining such teachers in the workplace. The study postulates the need for sustainable teaching staff for rural schools and contributes to the literature on the assessment of teacher recruitment and retention factors in rural areas.
LGBTIQ+ tourist motivations and memorable destination experience: The moderating effect of gender identity and sexual orientation
Authors: Alguero-Boronat Mar , Moliner-Tena Miguel Angel , Rodríguez-Artola Rosa María
Published: August 2024

This research delves into the impact of LGBTIQ+ communities’ motivations on the memorable destination experiences of 517 queer travellers. The primary goal is to unravel the influence of motivational factors (with special attention to LGBTIQ+ motivations) on the creation of memorable destination experiences, with a specific focus on scrutinising the moderating effects of gender identity and sexual orientation. It systematically examines both the homogeneity and heterogeneity within the spectrum of LGBTIQ+ tourists. The quantitative analysis of data, collected through an online questionnaire, reveals a notable consistency in tourist motivations regarding sexual orientations, and some diversity in represented gender identities. Pull LGBTIQ+ motivations do not exert a significant influence nor impact on the memorable experiences of queer tourists. By exploring the dynamics of LGBTIQ+ travellers, this study contributes significantly to our understanding of their motivations, shedding light on both commonalities and distinctions within LGBTIQ+ communities.
Bolt-loosening detection in offshore wind turbines’ jacket-type supports
Authors: Valdez Rhandall , Palacios Edwin , Tutivén Christian , Vidal Yolanda
Published: August 2024

Offshore wind turbines are large structures that operate in harsh marine environments and are susceptible to structural damage over time. Continuous monitoring of wind turbine’s structural health is crucial for early damage detection and prevention of catastrophic failures. This study proposes a methodology for the detection of bolt loosening in the jacket support structure of offshore wind turbines. Bolt connections can self-loosen over time due to dynamic loading and vibrations of the turbine structure, and if left undetected, this loosening can lead to joint fatigue and failure. Visual inspections have limitations for detecting bolt loosening, especially in hard-to-access areas such as submerged parts. Vibration-based structural health monitoring enables continuous automated detection. This work uses vibration data acquired from a laboratory model of a downscaled wind turbine under various simulated healthy and damaged conditions. The methodology uses principal component analysis to transform the data and calculate the Mahalanobis distance of the new measurements with respect to a baseline healthy data set. Distances that exceed a statistically determined threshold indicate abnormal behavior and damage. One key advantage of the proposed technique is that it only requires vibration data from the undamaged (healthy) structure to establish the baseline model and thresholds. The vibration data under damaged conditions are used exclusively for testing the methodology and demonstrating its performance. In fact, the technique shows excellent detection accuracy for incipient bolt-loosening damage with minimal false alarms.
Xylazine in the Unregulated Drug Market: An Integrative Review of Its Prevalence, Health Impacts, and Detection and Intervention Challenges in the United States
Authors: Kyei Evans F. , Kyei Grace K. , Ansong Rockson , Boakye Charles K. , Asamoah Ernest
Published: August 2024

Xylazine, a veterinary sedative, has emerged as a concerning element in the landscape of substance use in the United States. This integrative review synthesizes evidence from a systematic examination of 14 selected studies conducted between 2008 and 2023. The primary objective is to comprehensively understand the epidemiology and prevalence of xylazine use, particularly its involvement in drug-related deaths, regional variations, national impact, co-occurrence with opioids, and challenges associated with detection and intervention. The results underscore stark regional disparities in xylazine prevalence. West Virginia and Miami-Dade County have experienced alarming surges in xylazine-involved drug-related deaths. Nationally, its influence extends beyond regional boundaries, predominantly affecting white males in the Northeast. The co-occurrence of xylazine with opioids, especially fentanyl and heroin, significantly amplifies the risks of fatal overdoses. Detecting xylazine presents formidable challenges due to its frequent presence alongside other substances, necessitating enhanced surveillance and more effective detection methods. User perspectives emerge as pivotal, emphasizing the importance of user-informed harm reduction strategies. In conclusion, this review has significant policy implications. Tailored, region-specific strategies are imperative to address the diverse prevalence of xylazine use. A nationwide response is indispensable, prioritizing harm reduction initiatives, enhanced detection methods, and active user engagement. The multifaceted nature of the xylazine issue requires comprehensive approaches to mitigate its profound risks effectively. Policymakers are urged to consider regional disparities and the co-occurrence of xylazine with opioids when crafting targeted interventions. Immediate, user-informed harm reduction is vital to address the evolving landscape of xylazine use in the United States.
Optimum analysis of inclined angle of mixing blades in planetary mixer based on discrete element method
Authors: Lu Wenmin , Chen Shumei , Zheng Jinan , Fu Xinyuan , Fu Guohua , Zhong Jia , Li Qingyang , Zhen Zhuangbin
Published: August 2024

Based on production practice, it is known that the mixing scraper is an important mechanical part that the planetary mixer directly contacts with the concrete. Its structural shape will directly affect the mixing effect of the mixer, and the inclination angle of the mixing scraper is one of the most important factors affecting the mixing efficiency of the mixer. In this paper, based on the discrete element numerical analysis method, a three-dimensional simulation model of the vertical axis planetary concrete mixer is established, and the concrete mixing process is simulated, and the inclination angle of the mixing scraper is optimized based on the simulation results. An automatic precast concrete mixing experiment platform was built, and the simulation results were verified experimentally. The research results show that the experimental data and the simulation results are very consistent, which verifies the accuracy of the discrete element dynamics simulation model. It can be seen from the simulation and experimental results that the mixing efficiency of the mixer is the highest when the inclination angle of the mixing blade is 45°, and the number of collisions between different types of material particles in the mixing tank is the highest.
Experiences of participation in people with intellectual disability, in relation to service support received, and views from professionals in the field of disability
Authors: Öhrvall Ann-Marie , Wennberg Birgitta , Käcker Pia , Lidström Helene
Published: August 2024

Purpose: to describe experiences of people with intellectual disability of participating in the cognitive adapted annual national user survey of social services, and their perception of participation in the municipalities’ improvement work. Additionally, social service professionals’ views of opportunities to involve people with intellectual disability in improvement work based on survey results. Methods: Focus groups of people with intellectual disability and individual interviews with professionals were conducted and analysed, using content analysis. Results: People with intellectual disability expressed they felt listened to, and supported in expressing their views, but there was discrepancy between their and professionals’ perceptions of whether their views were considered, and if they were involved in the improvement process. Conclusions: Evaluating services received from social services is important, expressed by people with intellectual disability and professionals, but improvement is needed to feed back results to social services clients, and to involve them in the improvement process.
Diagnostic value of a deep learning-based hyoid bone tracking model for aspiration in patients with post-stroke dysphagia
Authors: Ryu Yeong Hwan , Kim Ji Hyun , Kim Dohhyung , Kim Seo Young , Lee Seong Jae
Published: August 2024

Objective

Hyoid bone movement is potentially related to aspiration risk in post-stroke dysphagia (PSD) patients but is difficult to assess quantitatively. This study aimed to measure the distance of hyoid bone movement more efficiently and accurately using a deep learning model and determine the clinical usefulness of the model in PSD patients.

Methods

This study included 85 patients with PSD within 6 months from onset. Patients were grouped into an aspiration group ( n = 35) and a non-aspiration group ( n = 50) according to the results of a videofluoroscopic swallowing study. Hyoid bone movement was tracked using a deep learning model constructed with the BiFPN-U-Net(T) architecture. The maximum distance of hyoid bone movement was measured horizontally ( Hmax), vertically ( Vmax), and diagonally ( Dmax).

Results

Compared with the non-aspiration group, the aspiration group showed significant decreases in hyoid bone movement in all directions. The area under the curve of Vmax was highest at 0.715 with a sensitivity of 0.680 and specificity of 0.743. The Vmax cutoff value for predicting aspiration risk was 1.61 cm. The success of oral feeding at the time of discharge was significantly more frequent when hyoid movement was equal to or larger than the cutoff value although no significant relationship was found between hyoid movement and other clinical characteristics.

Conclusion

Hyoid bone movement of PSD patients can be measured quantitatively and efficiently using a deep learning model. Deep learning model-based analysis of hyoid bone movement seems to be useful for predicting aspiration risk and the possibility of resuming oral feeding.
Analysis of the Effect of Family Socioeconomic Background on Human Resource Development Characteristics and Job Satisfaction
Authors: Roh Kyung Ran , Kim Eun Bee
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of family socioeconomic background on university rankings, efforts in VETs, and job satisfaction of university graduates. The family socioeconomic background and mediation potential, which are independent variables, are identified through university rankings to identify mechanisms that affect job satisfaction that may appear to college graduates, and political and practical implications for strengthening job satisfaction are presented. An analysis was conducted using panel data from the Graduate Occupational Mobility Survey, obtained from the Korea Employment Information Service. The data analysis was performed using SPSS21.0 and AMOS22.0. Consequently, the following conclusions were drawn. First, the family socioeconomic background significantly impacts job satisfaction. Second, the influence of family socioeconomic background on job satisfaction is further amplified with university rankings as a parameter. Third, the level of influence of family socioeconomic background on job satisfaction did not change according to the characteristics of VET participation as a mediator. The threat of human labor replaced by technology, the possibility of creating new industries and new jobs, and the diversification of employment types such as platform labor are accelerating with the advent of the 4th Industrial Revolution. Our study of the subjective perception of individual occupations could provide a driving force for maintaining jobs in the long run and leading to success in this changing labor market.
Sex differences in the patterns of police contact during childhood and adolescence: A population-based study of 79,446 Australian young people
Authors: Whitten Tyson , Tzoumakis Stacy , Green Melissa J , Laurens Kristin R , Harris Felicity , Carr Vaughan J , Dean Kimberlie
Published: August 2024

This study provides the first Australian epidemiological evidence of sex differences in patterns of contact with police during childhood and adolescence. Using population-based data for 79,446 young people in the New South Wales Child Development Study, we report that one-in-four had contact with police by their 17th birthday. Boys were generally more likely than girls to have contact with police, especially as a person of interest, while girls were more likely to have contact as a victim of sexual assault and of harassment. However, prior to the age of 10 years, the rate of police contact was higher for girls, whereas from age 10 through 16 years, the rate of contact was greater for boys. Consideration of the location of incidents did not significantly affect the general pattern of higher rates of police contact in boys, although girls were more likely to have police contact as a victim or witness in educational facilities and in residential premises. Overall, this research demonstrates that young people's contact with police is common, suggesting that law enforcement might adopt a sex-specific and trauma-informed response in their interactions with young people.
Proposals for revised International Working Group–European LeukemiaNet criteria for anemia response in myelofibrosis
Authors: Tefferi Ayalew , Barosi Giovanni , Passamonti Francesco , Hernandez-Boluda Juan-Carlos , Bose Prithviraj , Döhner Konstanze , Ellis Martin , Gangat Naseema , Garcia Jacqueline S. , Gisslinger Heinz , Gotlib Jason , Guglielmelli Paola , Gupta Vikas , Harrison Claire , Hexner Elizabeth O. , Hobbs Gabriela S. , Kiladjian Jean-Jacques , Koschmieder Steffen , Kroger Nicolaus , Kuykendall Andrew T. , Loscocco Giuseppe G. , Mascarenhas John , Masarova Lucia , Mesa Ruben , Mora Barbara , Odenike Olatoyosi , Oh Stephen T. , Pardanani Animesh , Patel Anand , Pemmaraju Naveen , Rambaldi Alessandro , Rampal Raajit , Sirhan Shireen , Szuber Natasha , Talpaz Moshe , Vachhani Pankit J. , Vannucchi Alessandro M. , Barbui Tiziano
Published: August 2024

With emerging new drugs in myelofibrosis (MF), a robust and harmonized framework for defining the severity of anemia and response to treatment will enhance clinical investigation and facilitate interstudy comparisons. Accordingly, the lead authors on the 2013 edition of the International Working Group–European LeukemiaNet (IWG-ELN) response criteria in MF were summoned to revise their document with the intent to (1) account for gender-specific differences in determining hemoglobin levels for eligibility criteria; (2) revise the definition of transfusion-dependent anemia (TDA) based on current restrictive transfusion practices; and (3) provide a structurally simple and easy to apply response criteria that are sensitive enough to detect efficacy signals (minor response) and also account for major responses. The initial draft of the 2024 IWG-ELN proposed criteria was subsequently circulated around a wider group of international experts and their feedback incorporated. The proposed articles include new definitions for TDA (≥3 units in the 12 weeks before study enrollment) and hemoglobin thresholds for eligibility criteria (<10 g/dL for women and <11 g/dL for men). The revised document also provides separate (TDA vs non-TDA) and graded (major vs minor response) response criteria while preserving the requirement for a 12-week period of screening and observation on treatment.
Activated platelets retain and protect most of their factor XIII-A cargo from proteolytic activation and degradation
Authors: Sang Yaqiu , Lee Robert H. , Luong Annie , Katona Éva , Whyte Claire S. , Smith Nicholas L. , Mast Alan E. , Flick Matthew J. , Mutch Nicola J. , Bergmeier Wolfgang , Wolberg Alisa S.
Published: August 2024

Platelet factor XIII-A (FXIII-A) is a major cytoplasmic protein (∼3% of total), representing ∼50% of total circulating FXIII. However, mobilization of FXIII-A during platelet activation is not well defined. To determine mechanisms mediating the retention vs release of platelet FXIII-A, platelets from healthy humans and mice (F13a1−/−, Fga−/−, Plg−/−, Stim1fl/flPf4-Cre, and respective controls) were stimulated with thrombin, convulxin plus thrombin, or calcium ionophore (A23187), in the absence or presence of inhibitors of transglutaminase activity, messenger RNA (mRNA) translation, microtubule rearrangement, calpain, and Rho GTPase. Platelet releasates and pellets were separated by (ultra)centrifugation. FXIII-A was detected by immunoblotting and immunofluorescence microscopy. Even after strong dual agonist (convulxin plus thrombin) stimulation of human platelets, >80% platelet FXIII-A remained associated with the platelet pellet. In contrast, essentially all tissue factor pathway inhibitor, another cytoplasmic protein in platelets, was released to the supernatant. Pellet-associated FXIII-A was not due to de novo synthesis via platelet F13A1 mRNA. The proportion of platelet FXIII-A retained by vs released from activated platelets was partly dependent on STIM1 signaling, microtubule rearrangement, calpain, and RhoA activation but did not depend on the presence of fibrinogen or plasminogen. Immunofluorescence microscopy confirmed the presence of considerable FXIII-A within the activated platelets. Although released FXIII-A was cleaved to FXIII-A∗ and could be degraded by plasmin, platelet-associated FXIII-A remained uncleaved. Retention of substantial platelet-derived FXIII-A by activated platelets and its reduced susceptibility to thrombin- and plasmin-mediated proteolysis suggest platelet FXIII-A is a protected pool with biological role(s) that differs from plasma FXIII.
Value of elastography in characterization of solid renal masses
Authors: Abbassy Ahmed Hazem , Emara Ayah Adel , Barsoum Nadine Rashad , El Shorbagy Galal Mohamed
Published: August 2024

Background

Solid renal masses often come to light as incidental findings during abdominal ultrasound examinations. Once detected, determining whether a renal mass is benign or malignant becomes imperative for informed decision-making regarding management and treatment strategies. In this investigation, the aim was to explore the diagnostic efficacy of real-time strain sonoelastography in assessing solid renal masses.

Methods

This prospective research was steered on 26 individuals diagnosed with a solid renal mass, as endorsed by pathological analysis after surgical removal or biopsy. Elastography was performed on all patients. The measurement of strain index values for tissues was achieved by placing regions of interest of equal or near-equal size on both the tumor (A) and the adjacent normal renal cortex (B).

Results

Strain elastography showed no correlation with patient’s age, size of mass and probe to mass distance with p > 0.05 all. Sensitivity analysis showed that strain index can significantly predict malignant renal masses (P = 0.003) using a cut-off point 2, with 92.9% area under curve, 95.2% sensitivity, 80% specificity, 80% negative predictive value, 95.2% positive predictive value, and overall diagnostic accuracy 92.3%. Strain index > 2 was an independent predictor for malignant renal masses (P = 0.025), odds ratio 7.29 when adjusting for other risk factors. Malignant renal masses were significantly higher strain index compared to benign lesions with (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Strain elastography is a valuable technique for distinguishing between malignant and benign solid renal tumors. Benign lesions have lower strain index values compared to malignant ones, making the strain index a useful screening tool for distinguishing between benign and malignant renal masses using cut-off point 2.
Maptcha: an efficient parallel workflow for hybrid genome scaffolding
Authors: Bhowmik Oieswarya , Rahman Tazin , Kalyanaraman Ananth
Published: August 2024

Background

Genome assembly, which involves reconstructing a target genome, relies on scaffolding methods to organize and link partially assembled fragments. The rapid evolution of long read sequencing technologies toward more accurate long reads, coupled with the continued use of short read technologies, has created a unique need for hybrid assembly workflows. The construction of accurate genomic scaffolds in hybrid workflows is complicated due to scale, sequencing technology diversity (e.g., short vs. long reads, contigs or partial assemblies), and repetitive regions within a target genome.

Results

In this paper, we present a new parallel workflow for hybrid genome scaffolding that would allow combining pre-constructed partial assemblies with newly sequenced long reads toward an improved assembly. More specifically, the workflow, called , is aimed at generating long scaffolds of a target genome, from two sets of input sequences—an already constructed partial assembly of contigs, and a set of newly sequenced long reads. Our scaffolding approach internally uses an alignment-free mapping step to build a $$\langle $$
⟨
contig,contig$$\rangle $$
⟩
graph using long reads as linking information. Subsequently, this graph is used to generate scaffolds. We present and evaluate a graph-theoretic “wiring” heuristic to perform this scaffolding step. To enable efficient workload management in a parallel setting, we use a batching technique that partitions the scaffolding tasks so that the more expensive alignment-based assembly step at the end can be efficiently parallelized. This step also allows the use of any standalone assembler for generating the final scaffolds.

Conclusions

Our experiments with on a variety of input genomes, and comparison against two state-of-the-art hybrid scaffolders demonstrate that is able to generate longer and more accurate scaffolds substantially faster. In almost all cases, the scaffolds produced by are at least an order of magnitude longer (in some cases two orders) than the scaffolds produced by state-of-the-art tools. runs significantly faster too, reducing time-to-solution from hours to minutes for most input cases. We also performed a coverage experiment by varying the sequencing coverage depth for long reads, which demonstrated the potential of to generate significantly longer scaffolds in low coverage settings ($$1\times $$

1
×

–$$10\times $$

10
×

).
The multi-tissue gene expression and physiological responses of water deprived Peromyscus eremicus
Authors: Blumstein Danielle , MacManes Matthew
Published: August 2024

The harsh and dry conditions of desert environments have resulted in genomic adaptations, allowing for desert organisms to withstand prolonged drought, extreme temperatures, and limited food resources. Here, we present a comprehensive exploration of gene expression across five tissues (kidney, liver, lung, gastrointestinal tract, and hypothalamus) and 19 phenotypic measurements to explore the whole-organism physiological and genomic response to water deprivation in the desert-adapted cactus mouse (Peromyscus eremicus). The findings encompass the identification of differentially expressed genes and correlative analysis between phenotypes and gene expression patterns across multiple tissues. Specifically, we found robust activation of the vasopressin renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) pathways, whose primary function is to manage water and solute balance. Animals reduced food intake during water deprivation, and upregulation ofPCK1highlights the adaptive response to reduced oral intake via its actions aimed at maintained serum glucose levels. Even with such responses to maintain water balance, hemoconcentration still occurred, prompting a protective downregulation of genes responsible for the production of clotting factors while simultaneously enhancing angiogenesis which is thought to maintain tissue perfusion. In this study, we elucidate the complex mechanisms involved in water balance in the desert-adapted cactus mouse,P. eremicus. By prioritizing a comprehensive analysis of whole-organism physiology and multi-tissue gene expression in a simulated desert environment, we describe the complex response of regulatory processes.
A simple and effective method for simulating nested exchangeable correlated binary data for longitudinal cluster randomised trials
Authors: Bowden Rhys A. , Kasza Jessica , Forbes Andrew B.
Published: August 2024

Background

Simulation is an important tool for assessing the performance of statistical methods for the analysis of data and for the planning of studies. While methods are available for the simulation of correlated binary random variables, all have significant practical limitations for simulating outcomes from longitudinal cluster randomised trial designs, such as the cluster randomised crossover and the stepped wedge trial designs. For these trial designs as the number of observations in each cluster increases these methods either become computationally infeasible or their range of allowable correlations rapidly shrinks to zero.

Methods

In this paper we present a simple method for simulating binary random variables with a specified vector of prevalences and correlation matrix. This method allows for the outcome prevalence to change due to treatment or over time, and for a ‘nested exchangeable’ correlation structure, in which observations in the same cluster are more highly correlated if they are measured in the same time period than in different time periods, and where different individuals are measured in each time period. This means that our method is also applicable to more general hierarchical clustered data contexts, such as students within classrooms within schools. The method is demonstrated by simulating 1000 datasets with parameters matching those derived from data from a cluster randomised crossover trial assessing two variants of stress ulcer prophylaxis.

Results

Our method is orders of magnitude faster than the most well known general simulation method while also allowing a much wider range of correlations than alternative methods. An implementation of our method is available in an R package .

Conclusions

This simulation method is the first to allow for practical and efficient simulation of large datasets of binary outcomes with the commonly used nested exchangeable correlation structure. This will allow for much more effective testing of designs and inference methods for longitudinal cluster randomised trials with binary outcomes.
On-admission serum 25(OH)D level and mortality within one year in older patients
Authors: Abel Nadav , Stern Felicia , Tal Sari
Published: August 2024

Background

Mounting evidence suggests that vitamin D deficiency is associated with a higher risk of many chronic non-skeletal, age-associated diseases as well as mortality.

Aim

To determine, in older patients aged ≥ 80, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its association with comorbidity, laboratory tests, length of stay and mortality within one year from blood withdrawal on admission to acute geriatrics ward.

Methods

We retrospectively surveyed electronic hospital health records of 830 older patients. The recorded data included patient demographics (e.g., age, sex, stay duration, readmissions number, death within one year from blood withdrawal on admission), medical diagnoses, laboratory results, including 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], and medications. We compared the characteristics of the patients who survived to those who died within one year.

Results

On admission, in 53.6% patients, vitamin D levels were lower than 50 nmol/L, and in 32%, the levels were ≤ 35 nmol/L. Persons who died were likely to be older, of male sex, were likely to be admitted for pneumonia or CHF, were likely to have lower level of albumin or hemoglobin, lower level of vitamin D or higher vitamin B12 and higher level of creatinine, were also likely to have had a lengthier hospitalization stay, a greater number of hospitalizations in the last year, a higher number of comorbidities, to have consumption of ≥5 drugs or likely to being treated with insulin, diuretics, antipsychotics, anticoagulants or benzodiazepines. Higher age, male sex, on-admission CHF, higher number of drugs, lower albumin, higher vitamin B12, vitamin D < 50 nmol/L, and consumption of antipsychotics and anticoagulants – were predictors of mortality.

Conclusion

Hypovitaminosis D is predictive of mortality in older patients within one year from hospitalization in the acute geriatric ward, but a causal relationship cannot be deduced. Nevertheless, older patients in acute care settings, because of their health vulnerability, should be considered for vitamin D testing. In the acutely ill patients, early intervention with vitamin D might improve outcomes. Accurate evaluation of mortality predictors in this age group patients may be more challenging and require variables that were not included in our study.
Exploring the relationship between gut microbiota and breast cancer risk in European and East Asian populations using Mendelian randomization
Authors: Lin Wei , Gu Chenghao , Chen Zheyin , Xue Shihang , Wu Haiyan , Zeng Liuhai
Published: August 2024

Background

Several studies have explored the potential link between gut microbiota and breast cancer; nevertheless, the causal relationship between gut microbiota and breast cancer remains unclear.

Methods

We utilized summary statistics from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of the gut microbiome from the MiBioGen project with summary data from GWAS on breast cancer from the FinnGen consortium and the IEU database, with the IEU data sourced from the Biobank Japan. Preliminary statistical analyses were conducted using inverse variance weighting (IVW), supplemented by various sensitivity analysis methods, including MR-Egger regression, weighted median, weighted mode, simple median, and simple mode, to ensure the robustness of our findings. Heterogeneity and pleiotropy were assessed to avoid misleading conclusions caused by unconsidered confounders or non-specific effects of genetic variants, ensuring that the results reflect a genuine causal relationship.

Results

In European populations, four types of gut microbiota were associated with breast cancer. The genus Erysipelatoclostridium was positively associated with the risk of breast cancer, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.21 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.083–1.358), false discovery rate (FDR) = 0.0039. The class Coriobacteriia, order Coriobacteriales, and family Coriobacteriaceae, which belong to the same phylogenetic system, showed a consistent inversely association with breast cancer risk, with an OR of 0.757 (95% CI 0.616–0.930), FDR = 0.0281. In East Asian populations, three types of gut microbiota were related to breast cancer. The Eubacterium ruminantium group was positively associated with breast cancer risk, with an OR of 1.259 (95% CI 1.056–1.499), FDR = 0.0497. The families Porphyromonadaceae and Ruminococcaceae were inversely associated with breast cancer risk, with ORs of 0.304 (95% CI 0.155–0.596), FDR = 0.0005, and 0.674 (95% CI 0.508–0.895), FDR = 0.03173, respectively. However, these two taxa had limited instrumental variables, restricting the statistical power and potentially affecting the interpretation of the results.

Conclusion

This MR analysis demonstrated a probable causal link between specific gut microbiota and breast cancer. This study, through Mendelian randomization analysis comparing European and East Asian populations, reveals that gut microbiota may influence breast cancer risk differently across populations, providing potential directions for developing targeted prevention and treatment methods.
Diagnostic efficacy of [99mTc]Tc-PSMA SPECT/CT for prostate cancer: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Qi , Ketteler Svea , Bagheri Shamim , Ebrahimifard Ali , Luster Markus , Librizzi Damiano , Yousefi Behrooz H.
Published: August 2024

Background

Prompt and accurate diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) is of paramount importance for effective treatment planning. While Gallium-68 labeled prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) has proven efficacy in detecting PCa, limited availability poses challenges. As a potential alternative, [99mTc]Tc-PSMA single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/computed tomography (CT) holds promise. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of [99mTc]Tc-PSMA SPECT/CT for prostate cancer.

Methods

A comprehensive search of PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE, Scopus, Ovid, and Web of Science databases was conducted until July 2024. Sensitivity and specificity data were extracted to assess the diagnostic accuracy of [99mTc]Tc-PSMA SPECT/CT, while the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool was used to evaluate study quality. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA 18, with MetaDisc 1.4 employed to detect threshold effects. Diagnostic accuracy indicators, including sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), negative likelihood ratio (LR-), and positive likelihood ratio (LR+), were pooled. The area under the curve (AUC) of the combined model was calculated using summary receiver-operating characteristic (SROC) curves.

Results

Seven studies meeting the inclusion criteria were identified from an initial pool of 1467 articles, with no publication bias observed. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and AUC of [99mTc]Tc-PSMA SPECT/CT were found to be 0.89 (95% CI, 0.84–0.93), 0.92 (95% CI, 0.67–0.99), and 0.93 (95% CI, 0.90–0.95), respectively. Additionally, the comprehensive diagnostic odds ratio, diagnostic score, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio were calculated as 95.24 (95% CI, 17.30-524.41), 4.56 (95% CI, 2.85–6.26), 11.35 (95% CI, 2.31–55.71), and 0.12 (95% CI, 0.08–0.18), respectively.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that [99mTc]Tc-PSMA SPECT/CT exhibits favorable diagnostic performance for prostate cancer and can provide valuable supplementary information, particularly in regions and settings where [68Ga]Ga-PSMA PET/CT availability is limited, such as remote areas. These results highlight the potential of [99mTc]Tc-PSMA SPECT/CT as a valuable tool in the diagnosis and management of prostate cancer, warranting further investigation and validation in larger patient cohorts.