bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global health, planetary health, One Health: conceptual and ethical challenges and concerns
Authors: Missoni Eduardo
Published: May 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic has dramatically shown the level of interconnectedness of the human population, the direct relation between human health and the ecosystem, as well as the enormous ethical challenges required for a global response. Relatedly, society has been directly confronted by issues of ‘Global health,’ both in terms of awareness of health conditions and health systems resiliency all around the world, as well as in terms of governance of the worldwide response and its implications at national and local levels. While Global health is often used as a cosmetic label for neocolonial approaches, it is really an interdisciplinary approach consisting of the interaction between globalization and the determinants of health. Thus, it involves the ecosystem and its transformation and implies a systemic ‘One Health’ decolonized approach in the definition of its strategies. The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the inequities and the limits of the current hegemonic Global health system governance; calling for ethics to provide a renewed, comprehensive, inclusive, and decolonized conceptualization of Global health.
Black-Box Testing and Auditing of Bias in ADM Systems
Authors: Krafft Tobias D. , Hauer Marc P. , Zweig Katharina
Published: May 2024

For years, the number of opaque algorithmic decision-making systems (ADM systems) with a large impact on society has been increasing: e.g., systems that compute decisions about future recidivism of criminals, credit worthiness, or the many small decision computing systems within social networks that create rankings, provide recommendations, or filter content. Concerns that such a system makes biased decisions can be difficult to investigate: be it by people affected, NGOs, stakeholders, governmental testing and auditing authorities, or other external parties. Scientific testing and auditing literature rarely focuses on the specific needs for such investigations and suffers from ambiguous terminologies. With this paper, we aim to support this investigation process by collecting, explaining, and categorizing methods of testing for bias, which are applicable to black-box systems, given that inputs and respective outputs can be observed. For this purpose, we provide a taxonomy that can be used to select suitable test methods adapted to the respective situation. This taxonomy takes multiple aspects into account, for example the effort to implement a given test method, its technical requirement (such as the need of ground truth) and social constraints of the investigation, e.g., the protection of business secrets. Furthermore, we analyze which test method can be used in the context of which black box audit concept. It turns out that various factors, such as the type of black box audit or the lack of an oracle, may limit the selection of applicable tests. With the help of this paper, people or organizations who want to test an ADM system for bias can identify which test methods and auditing concepts are applicable and what implications they entail.
What is the Space for “Place” in Social Studies of Astronomy?
Authors: Velho Raquel , Gastrow Michael , Mason Caroline , Ulguim Marina , Sikhosana Yoliswa
Published: May 2024

All large-scale telescope facilities are constructed within a geographical, social, historical, and political context that includes nested layers at the global, national, and local levels. However, discussions about the geographic siting of astronomy facilities, for example, the communities in which they are embedded or the interactions between the facility and its locale, are uncommon in social science studies of astronomy, and no extant review focused on this gap in the literature. In this literature review and discourse analysis, we explore the ways in which research about astronomy facilities and their local communities has emerged, and the extent to which it focuses on the Global South. We find that literature addressing the social and policy aspects of astronomy facilities has an emphasis on the Global North. However, literature addressing host communities has an emphasis on the Global South. Broadly, the discourses related to host communities in the Global South have emerged from reflections on the controversies related to large-scale telescopes in Hawai’i, Chile, and South Africa. One common theme linking these discourses is that a focus on benefits at the national and international levels obscures a range of problematic power dynamics and outcomes at the local level. The notion of the Global South as an ‘empty space’ in which astronomical observation does not constitute impactful action amongst local communities, is challenged by discourses that centre local contexts, and challenged by discourses that employ conceptual frameworks with a focus on revealing power dynamics.
The ilv2 gene, encoding acetolactate synthase for branched chain amino acid biosynthesis, is required for plant pathogenicity by Leptosphaeria maculans
Authors: Chong Nicholas F. , Van de Wouw Angela P. , Idnurm Alexander
Published: May 2024

Background

Control of blackleg disease of canola caused by the fungus Leptosphaeria maculans relies on strategies such as the inhibition of growth with fungicides. However, other chemicals are used during canola cultivation, including fertilizers and herbicides. There is widespread use of herbicides that target the acetolactate synthase (ALS) enzyme involved in branched chain amino acid synthesis and low levels of these amino acids within leaves of Brassica species. In L. maculans the ilv2 gene encodes ALS and thus ALS-inhibiting herbicides may inadvertently impact the fungus.

Methods and results

Here, the impact of a commercial herbicide targeting ALS and mutation of the homologous ilv2 gene in L. maculans was explored. Exposure to herbicide had limited impact on growth in vitro but reduced lesion sizes in plant disease experiments. Furthermore, the mutation of the ilv2 gene via CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing rendered the fungus non-pathogenic.

Conclusion

Herbicide applications can influence disease outcome, but likely to a minor extent.
Expression of CD44 is associated with aggressiveness in seminomas
Authors: Labropoulou Vasiliki T. , Manou Dimitra , Ravazoula Panagiota , Alzahrani Fatimah Mohammed , Kalofonos Haralabos P. , Theocharis Achilleas D.
Published: May 2024

Background

Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) exhibit diverse biological and pathological features and are divided in two main types, seminomas and nonseminomatous germ cell tumors (NSGCTs). CD44 is a cell surface receptor, which is highly expressed in malignancies and is implicated in tumorigenesis affecting cell-matrix interactions and cell signaling.

Methods and results

Here, we examined the expression of CD44 in tumor cell lines and in patients’ material. We found that CD44 is over-expressed in TGCTs compared to normal tissues. Immunohistochemical staining in 71 tissue specimens demonstrated increased expression of CD44 in some patients, whereas CD44 was absent in normal tissue. In seminomas, a high percentage of tumor and stromal cells showed cytoplasmic and/or cell surface staining for CD44 as well as increased staining for CD44 in the tumor stroma was found in some cases. The increased expression of CD44 either in tumor cells or in stromal components was associated with tumor size, nodal metastasis, vascular/lymphatic invasion, and disease stage only in seminomas. The increased stromal expression of CD44 in TGCTs was positively associated with angiogenesis.

Conclusions

CD44 may exhibit diverse biological functions in seminomas and NSGCTs. The expression of CD44 in tumor cells as well as in tumor stroma fosters an aggressive phenotype in seminomas and should be considered in disease treatment.
Cross-centroid ripple pattern for facial expression recognition
Authors: Verma Monu , Vipparthi Santosh Kumar
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we propose a new feature descriptor Cross-Centroid Ripple Pattern (CRIP) for facial expression recognition. CRIP encodes the transitional pattern of a facial expression by incorporating a cross-centroid relationship between two ripples located at radius r1 and r2 respectively. These ripples are generated by dividing the local neighborhood region into subregions. Thus, CRIP has the ability to preserve macro and microstructural variations in an extensive region, which enables it to deal with side views and spontaneous expressions. Furthermore, gradient information between cross centroid ripples provides strength to capture prominent edge features in active patches: eyes, nose, and mouth, that define the disparities between different facial expressions. Cross-centroid information also provides robustness to irregular illumination. Moreover, CRIP utilizes the averaging behavior of pixels at subregions that yields robustness to deal with noisy conditions. The performance of the proposed descriptor is evaluated on seven comprehensive expression datasets consisting of challenging conditions such as age, pose, ethnicity, and illumination variations. The experimental results show that our descriptor consistently achieved a better accuracy rate as compared to existing state-of-the-art approaches.
Generalized fused Lasso for grouped data in generalized linear models
Authors: Ohishi Mineaki
Published: May 2024

Generalized fused Lasso (GFL) is a powerful method based on adjacent relationships or the network structure of data. It is used in a number of research areas, including clustering, discrete smoothing, and spatio-temporal analysis. When applying GFL, the specific optimization method used is an important issue. In generalized linear models, efficient algorithms based on the coordinate descent method have been developed for trend filtering under the binomial and Poisson distributions. However, to apply GFL to other distributions, such as the negative binomial distribution, which is used to deal with overdispersion in the Poisson distribution, or the gamma and inverse Gaussian distributions, which are used for positive continuous data, an algorithm for each individual distribution must be developed. To unify GFL for distributions in the exponential family, this paper proposes a coordinate descent algorithm for generalized linear models. To illustrate the method, a real data example of spatio-temporal analysis is provided.
Monitoring of mammal and bird species in an urban ecological park using environmental DNA metabarcoding
Authors: Sohn Heejung , Song Youngkeun
Published: May 2024

Monitoring species distribution and abundance accurately and efficiently are vital for conservation efforts. Next-generation sequencing and DNA metabarcoding using environmental DNA (eDNA) allow for the simultaneous identification of multiple species in one sample, enabling swift biodiversity assessment in complex ecosystems. However, most eDNA studies focus on aquatic organisms and ecosystems.This study’s main objective was to use eDNA metabarcoding to monitor mammal and bird species in an urban ecological park. The chosen study site was Gildong Ecological Park, Seoul, South Korea, with a total area of 80,000 m² divided into three marsh area, a forested mountain area, and a rural experience learning center. Water sampling occurred five times from August to September, yielding 65 samples from three park sections. We employed MiMammal and MiBird primers targeting mitochondrial 12 S to investigate mammals and birds, serving as pivotal biological indicators within urban ecosystems.Metabarcoding revealed the presence of 73% (11/15) and 67% (represented 67% of the total 6268 individual) of the dominant mammalian and avian species, respectively, known to inhabit the park, compared to the results of traditional surveys. The mountain samples (1.51) and marsh samples (2.32) had significantly different median read counts when including all species; however, the same comparison within each taxonomic group yielded no statistically significant differences. Though we detected species differences using eDNA across summer, autumn, and winter monitoring, no statistically significant differences were found among seasons within the park. However, the park’s area is relatively small for detecting variations in eDNA. This might be because there is a lot of animal activity throughout the study site and/or a limited influence of microhabitats. These results could provide valuable insights for using eDNA to monitor animals in urban ecological parks.
The distribution and abundance of woody invasive alien plants in small towns in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Seboko Tshepiso Collen , Ruwanza Sheunesu , Shackleton Charlie
Published: May 2024

Invasive alien plants (IAPs) are rapidly increasing around the world, mainly due to land transformation, climate change, and urbanisation. Whilst urban areas are highly susceptible to invasion by IAPs, crucial information on the distribution and abundance of woody invaders in small towns is limited. Here, we determined the distribution and abundance of woody IAPs across different suburbs and land use types in 12 small towns in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. We enumerated 38 427 individual woody IAPs, and their abundance and distribution varied across surveyed towns. Although species such as Melia azedarach, Pinus elliotti, Jacaranda mimosifolia, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, and Ligustrum lucidum were the most distributed, species density varied across towns. More than half of the woody IAPs were identified in affluent (56%) suburbs compared to the townships (23%), Central business district (CBD) (16%), and low-income housing neighbourhoods (5%). There were significant differences in woody IAPs distribution across different land use types, with more than half (54%) found in the residential areas compared to road verges (32%) and public urban green spaces (14%). Some socio-economic and environmental predictors such as town population, mean temperature, unemployment rate, and Gross domestic product (GDP) showed significant and positive correlations with woody IAPs species richness and density. Our findings suggest an uneven spatial distribution and diversity of woody IAPs across the different small towns, suburbs, and land use types in the region. It is recommended that small towns in South Africa need financial and human resources support to effectively manage IAPs.
Wastewater Treatment Sludge and Agricultural Wastes: Management by Composting Process
Authors: Ucaroglu Selnur , Atalay Yusuf
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to investigate the compostability of wastewater treatment sludge and evaluate the effects on compost quality of adding cotton gin waste and peanut shell. For this purpose, treatment sludge was mixed with cotton gin waste in the ratios of 60:40 in M1 reactor and 80:20 in M2 reactor, while in M3 and M4 reactors, treatment sludge was mixed with peanut shell in the same proportions. The highest temperatures were reached in reactors M2 (65.2 °C) and M4 (68.7 °C) where 80% treatment sludge was added. These reactors also experienced the highest organic matter losses of 42.2% and 31.5%, respectively. It can be stated that a faster microbial decomposition and stabilization occurred in these reactors. It can be said that the composting process may be a preferable method for the management of treatment sludge and agricultural wastes. Furthermore, the outcomes of the study can serve the food industry and agriculture sector through effective bioconversion of organic waste.

Graphical Abstract
Preparation and preliminary evaluation of a tritium-labeled allosteric P2X4 receptor antagonist
Authors: Nagel Jessica , Törmäkangas Olli , Kuokkanen Katja , El-Tayeb Ali , Messinger Josef , Abdelrahman Aliaa , Bous Christiane , Schiedel Anke C. , Müller Christa E.
Published: May 2024

P2X4 receptors are ATP-gated cation channels that were proposed as novel drug targets due to their role in inflammation and neuropathic pain. Only few potent and selective P2X4 receptor antagonists have been described to date. Labeled tool compounds suitable for P2X4 receptor binding studies are lacking. Here, we present a novel allosteric P2X4 receptor antagonist possessing high potency in the low nanomolar range. We describe its tritium-labeling resulting in the P2X4-selective radiotracer [3H]PSB-OR-2020 with high specific activity (45 Ci/mmol; 1.67 TBq/mmol). A radioligand binding assay was developed using human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cell membranes recombinantly expressing the human P2X4 receptor. Competition binding studies with structurally diverse P2X4 receptor antagonists revealed different allosteric binding sites indicating that the new class of P2X4 receptor antagonists, to which PSB-OR-2020 belongs, interacts with an unprecedented allosteric site. [3H]PSB-OR-2020 may become a useful tool for research on P2X4 receptors and for promoting drug development.
Self-rated health, epigenetic ageing, and long-term mortality in older Australians
Authors: Li Danmeng Lily , Hodge Allison M. , Southey Melissa C. , Giles Graham G. , Milne Roger L. , Dugué Pierre-Antoine
Published: May 2024

Self-rated health (SRH) is a subjective indicator of overall health based on a single questionnaire item. Previous evidence found that it is a strong predictor of mortality, although the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Epigenetic age is an objective, emerging biomarker of health, estimated using DNA methylation data at hundreds of sites across the genome. This study aimed to assess the overlap and interaction between SRH and epigenetic ageing in predicting mortality risk. We used DNA methylation data from 1059 participants in the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study (mean age: 69 years) to calculate three age-adjusted measures of epigenetic ageing: GrimAge, PhenoAge, and DunedinPACE. SRH was assessed using a five-category questionnaire item (“excellent, very good, good, fair, poor”). Cox models were used to assess the associations of SRH, epigenetic ageing, and their interaction, with all-cause mortality over up to 17 years of follow-up (Ndeaths = 345). The association of SRH with mortality per category increase was HR = 1.29; 95%CI: 1.14–1.46. The association was slightly attenuated after adjusting for all three epigenetic ageing measures (HR = 1.25, 95%CI: 1.10–1.41). A strong gradient was observed in the association of GrimAge (Pinteraction = 0.006) and DunedinPACE (Pinteraction = 0.002) with mortality across worsening SRH strata. For example, the association between DunedinPACE and mortality in participants with “excellent” SRH was HR = 1.02, 95%CI: 0.73–1.43 and for “fair/poor” HR = 1.72, 95%CI: 1.35–2.20. SRH and epigenetic ageing were synergistic risk factors of mortality in our study. These findings suggest that consideration of subjective and objective factors may improve general health assessment, which has implications for the ongoing development of molecular markers of ageing.
Ultrasound segmentation analysis via distinct and completed anatomical borders
Authors: Duque Vanessa Gonzalez , Marquardt Alexandra , Velikova Yordanka , Lacourpaille Lilian , Nordez Antoine , Crouzier Marion , Lee Hong Joo , Mateus Diana , Navab Nassir
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Segmenting ultrasound images is important for precise area and/or volume calculations, ensuring reliable diagnosis and effective treatment evaluation for diseases. Recently, many segmentation methods have been proposed and shown impressive performance. However, currently, there is no deeper understanding of how networks segment target regions or how they define the boundaries. In this paper, we present a new approach that analyzes ultrasound segmentation networks in terms of learned borders because border delimitation is challenging in ultrasound.

Methods

We propose a way to split the boundaries for ultrasound images into distinct and completed. By exploiting the Grad-CAM of the split borders, we analyze the areas each network pays attention to. Further, we calculate the ratio of correct predictions for distinct and completed borders. We conducted experiments on an in-house leg ultrasound dataset (LEG-3D-US) as well as on two additional public datasets of thyroid, nerves, and one private for prostate.

Results

Quantitatively, the networks exhibit around 10% improvement in handling completed borders compared to distinct borders. Similar to doctors, the network struggles to define the borders in less visible areas. Additionally, the Seg-Grad-CAM analysis underscores how completion uses distinct borders and landmarks, while distinct focuses mainly on the shiny structures. We also observe variations depending on the attention mechanism of each architecture.

Conclusion

In this work, we highlight the importance of studying ultrasound borders differently than other modalities such as MRI or CT. We split the borders into distinct and completed, similar to clinicians, and show the quality of the network-learned information for these two types of borders. Additionally, we open-source a 3D leg ultrasound dataset to the community https://github.com/Al3xand1a/segmentation-border-analysis.
Efficacy of 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for detecting renal cell carcinoma in patients with end-stage renal disease
Authors: Hirasawa Hiromi , Taketomi-Takahashi Ayako , Katsumata Natsumi , Higuchi Tetsuya , Sekine Yoshitaka , Suzuki Kazuhiro , Kaneko Yoriaki , Hiromura Keiju , Fukushima Yasuhiro , Tsushima Yoshito
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Dialysis patients are at an increased risk of developing renal cell carcinoma (RCC); however, differentiating between RCC and benign cysts can sometimes be difficult using modalities, such as computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography. 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET)/CT efficiently detects malignant tumors; however, physiological accumulation of FDG in the kidney limits its efficacy in detecting renal tumors. However, in patients with severely impaired renal function, the renal accumulation of FDG is decreased, possibly improving the detection of renal malignancies in this patient population. This study evaluated the usefulness of FDG-PET/CT as a screening tool for detecting RCC in patients with end-stage renal disease.

Materials and methods

This prospective study recruited 150 participants from 2012 to 2016 who were on dialysis or underwent renal transplantation and were on dialysis until transplantation. FDG-PET/CT was performed to screen for RCC. Three radiologists independently evaluated the images. No protocol was defined for the additional management of positive examinations, leaving decisions to the discretion of each participant. Negative examinations were observed until the end of 2019.

Results

In total, 150 participants (mean age, 58 ± 13 years; 105 men) underwent FDG-PET/CT. Twenty patients (13.4%) were diagnosed as positive. Fifteen patients underwent additional examinations and/or procedures, and RCC was found in seven patients. Of the four patients who underwent surgical resection, the pathological results were clear cell RCC in one, papillary RCC in one, and acquired cystic disease-associated RCC in two. Two participants were diagnosed with RCC on bone biopsy, and one was diagnosed on dynamic CT but opted for observation. The sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive value were 100%, 93.9%, and 100%, respectively.

Conclusion

FDG-PET/CT was useful for detecting RCC in patients with end-stage renal disease. Our findings show the potential use of FDG-PET/CT as a screening tool for RCC in this patient population.
Runx2 Suppresses Astrocyte Activation and Astroglial Scar Formation After Spinal Cord Injury in Mice
Authors: Lu Leilei , Ye Jiazong , Yi Dafa , Qi Tengfei , Luo Tong , Wu Silei , Yang Liangliang , Li Lei , Zhang Hongyu , Chen Daqing
Published: May 2024

After spinal cord injury, astrocytes undergo a reactive process and form an astroglial scar, which impedes the regeneration of axons. The role of Runx2 in promoting the transformation of astrocytes in the central nervous system is well-established. However, it remains unclear whether Runx2 also plays a role in the development of astroglial scar, and the precise underlying mechanism has yet to be identified. Recently, our study using cell culture and animal models has demonstrated that Runx2 actually suppresses astrocyte activation and the formation of astroglial scar following injury. The initial results demonstrated an increase in the expression of Runx2 in astrocytes following in vivo injury. Subsequently, the overexpression of Runx2 resulted in the inhibition of astrocyte activation, reduction in the total area of astroglial scar, and restoration of neural function after 14 days of injury. However, these effects were reversed by CADD522. These findings indicate that Runx2 could potentially serve as a therapeutic intervention for spinal cord injury (SCI). Furthermore, our findings suggest that the Nuclear-matrix-targeting signal (NMTS) of Runx2 is associated with its effect. In summary, the study’s results propose that targeting Runx2 may be a promising treatment approach for reactive astrocytes and astroglial scar in the recovery of SCI.

Graphical Abstract
Assessing the Washing Fastness and Environmental Impact of Various Reduction Clearing Processes on High-Performance Polyetherimide (PEI) Fabrics
Authors: Kalayci Ece , Avinc Ozan
Published: May 2024

PEI fibers are considered a high-performance type of fiber, known for their exceptional heat resistance and mechanical strength. These fibers, made of polyetherimide (PEI) polymer, have a completely amorphous structure, and can be dyed with disperse dyes, similar to how polyester fibers are dyed. This study focused on the reduction clearing process after dyeing PEI fibers with disperse dyes and examined various clearing agents used in both alkaline and acidic conditions, assessing how different concentrations, temperatures, and durations of reduction clearing processes affected the PEI samples. The main goal was to find the best reduction clearing parameters for disperse-dyed PEI samples, taking into account environmental impact, fabric durability, and color fastness. Analytical techniques like chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD5), total organic carbon (TOC), and carbon footprint analysis were used for evaluation. The study revealed that most disperse-dyed PEI fibers require a reduction clearing process, with few exceptions. It is important to note that clearing with sulfuric acid-based agents or in acidic conditions may slightly reduce the fiber’s strength. On the other hand, the study identified that utilizing a solution containing 2 g/l sodium dithionite and 4 g/l NaOH for 30 min at 70 °C resulted in the least strength loss. Similarly, when considering the environmental impact, this same reduction clearing process was found to have the least detrimental effects based on COD, BOD5, TOC, and carbon footprint analyses. The data collection process was thoroughly documented throughout the study.
Evaluating Hydrogeomorphic Condition Across Ecosystem States in a Non-tidal, Brackish Peat Marsh of the Florida Coastal Everglades, USA
Authors: Lamb-Wotton Lukas , Troxler Tiffany G. , Coronado-Molina Carlos , Davis Stephen E. , Gann Daniel , Ishtiaq Khandker S. , Malone Sparkle L. , Olivas Paulo , Rudnick David T. , Sklar Fred H.
Published: May 2024

Emergent marsh and open water have been identified as alternate stable states in tidal marshes with large, relative differences in hydrogeomorphic conditions. In the Florida coastal Everglades, concern has been raised regarding the loss of non-tidal, coastal peat marsh via dieback of emergent vegetation and peat collapse. To aid in the identification of alternate stable states, our objective was to characterize the variability of hydrogeomorphic and biologic conditions using a field survey and long-term monitoring of hydrologic and geomorphic conditions across a range of vegetated (emergent, submerged) and unvegetated (open water) communities, which we refer to as “ecosystem states,” in a non-tidal, brackish peat marsh of the coastal Everglades. Results show (1) linear relationships among field-surveyed geomorphic, hydrologic, and biologic variables, with a 35-cm mean difference in soil surface elevation between emergent and open water states, (2) an overall decline in soil elevation in the submerged state that was related to cumulative dry days, and (3) a 2× increase in porewater salinity during the dry season in the emergent state that was also related to the number of dry days. Coupled with findings from previous experiments, we propose a conceptual model that describes how seasonal hydrologic variability may lead to ecosystem state transitions between emergent and open water alternate states. Since vegetative states are only moderately salt tolerant, as sea-level rise pushes the saltwater front inland, the importance of continued progress on Everglades restoration projects, with an aim to increase the volume of freshwater being delivered to coastal wetlands, is the primary management intervention available to mitigate salinization and slow ecosystem state shifts in non-tidal, brackish peat marshes.
A new prognostic model based on gamma-delta T cells for predicting the risk and aiding in the treatment of clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wu Yaqian , Yao Mengfei , Wu Zonglong , Ma Lulin , Liu Cheng
Published: May 2024

Background

ccRCC is the prevailing form of RCC, accounting for the majority of cases. The formation of cancer and the body's ability to fight against tumors are strongly connected to Gamma delta (γδ) T cells.

Methods

We examined and analyzed the gene expression patterns of 535 individuals diagnosed with ccRCC and 72 individuals serving as controls, all sourced from the TCGA-KIRC dataset, which were subsequently validated through molecular biology experiments.

Results

In ccRCC, we discovered 304 module genes (DEGRGs) that were ex-pressed differentially and linked to γδ T cells. A risk model for ccRCC was constructed using 13 differentially DEGRGs identified through univariate Cox and LASSO regression analyses, which were found to be associated with prognosis. The risk model exhibited outstanding performance in both the training and validation datasets. The comparison of immune checkpoint inhibitors and the tumor immune microenvironment between the high- and low-risk groups indicates that immunotherapy could lead to positive results for low-risk patients. Moreover, the inhibition of ccRCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion was observed in cell culture upon knocking down TMSB10, a gene associated with different types of cancers.

Conclusions

In summary, we have created a precise predictive biomarker using a risk model centered on γδ T cells, which can anticipate clinical results and provide direction for the advancement of innovative targeted therapies.
Detection of environmental DNA of finless
porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis) in Osaka Bay,
Japan
Authors: Hashimoto Nagisa , Iwata Takashi , Kihara Natsumi , Nakamura Kiyomi , Sakata Masayuki K. , Minamoto Toshifumi
Published: May 2024

Finless porpoises (Neophocaena
asiaeorientalis) currently face population decline caused by
significant human activities and are categorized as endangered on the International
Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List; however, information on their
habitats is currently insufficient. Although conducting visual surveys to determine
the distribution of cetaceans is common, visual observation of finless porpoises is
challenging owing to their specific morphological and ecological characteristics. In
this study, we developed an environmental DNA (eDNA) assay for species-specific
detection of finless porpoises. To test the utility of the assay, we conducted a
visual survey in parallel with an eDNA survey by collecting water samples from 50
sites throughout Osaka Bay. We visually found a finless porpoise at one location and
detected eDNA at nine sites, including sites near the visual observation site and
those with rare sightings of finless porpoises. Therefore, in this study, we suggest
that the use of eDNA analysis for distribution surveys of finless porpoises will
enable more efficient surveys. The proposed eDNA technique can not only be applied
to the distribution surveys finless porpoises but also to those of other cetacean
species.
Who Should Be Running Ahead? The Roles of Two Types of Entrepreneurship in China’s Regional Economies
Authors: Zhang Ying , van Stel André
Published: May 2024

One of the most important transitions of China from a centrally planned economy to a market-based economy was the emergence of entrepreneurship in two different forms of private enterprise, viz., getihu and siyingqiye. Getihu firms are legally restricted to a household ownership structure and a firm size upper limit. Siyingqiye firms do not face these restrictions but are more costly to set up. Using a unique database for 31 Chinese regions over the period 1997–2009, we investigate the economic antecedents of regional rates of getihu and siyingqiye, and to what extent these antecedents are in line with the “entrepreneurial” or the “managed” economy as per Audretsch and Thurik (Audretsch and Thurik, Journal of Evolutionary Economics 10:17–34, 2000, Audretsch and Thurik, Industrial and Corporate Change 10:267–315, 2001). We find that particularly the antecedents of regional siyingqiye rates are in line with the “entrepreneurial” economy in the sense that regional economies that are more conducive to knowledge production and knowledge spillovers have higher rates of siyingqiye firms. Overall, our analysis suggests that both types of entrepreneurship play important but distinct roles in stimulating China’s economic development.
Modification-fair cluster editing
Authors: Froese Vincent , Kellerhals Leon , Niedermeier Rolf
Published: May 2024

The classic Cluster Editing problem (also known as Correlation Clustering) asks to transform a given graph into a disjoint union of cliques (clusters) by a small number of edge modifications. When applied to vertex-colored graphs (the colors representing subgroups), standard algorithms for the NP-hard Cluster Editing problem may yield solutions that are biased towards subgroups of data (e.g., demographic groups), measured in the number of modifications incident to the members of the subgroups. We propose a modification fairness constraint which ensures that the number of edits incident to each subgroup is proportional to its size. To start with, we study Modification-Fair Cluster Editing for graphs with two vertex colors. We show that the problem is NP-hard even if one may only insert edges within a subgroup; note that in the classic “non-fair” setting, this case is trivially polynomial-time solvable. However, in the more general editing form, the modification-fair variant remains fixed-parameter tractable with respect to the number of edge edits. We complement these and further theoretical results with an empirical analysis of our model on real-world social networks where we find that the price of modification-fairness is surprisingly low, that is, the cost of optimal modification-fair solutions differs from the cost of optimal “non-fair” solutions only by a small percentage.
Hydrothermal carbonization of sugar beet pulp: optimization and characterization
Authors: Yıldız Uzun Zeynep
Published: May 2024

In this study, the optimum hydrothermal conditions of sugar beet pulp were investigated by Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Central Composite Design (CCD). The hydrochar obtained from sugar beet pulp (SBP) was optimized for maximum yield and carbon content. Process conditions were chosen with reaction temperatures of 200–240 °C, residence time 60–150 min, and biomass to water ratio of 1:3–1:10. The yield and carbon content of the hydrochar varied with the process parameters. In order to obtain hydrochar with the highest yield and carbon content in optimization, the reaction temperature should be 220.74 °C, the biomass to water ratio should be 1:3, and the residence time should be 95.58 min. High heating value, energy and mass yield, and energy densification ratio of sugar beet pulp and hydrochar were also investigated. The products were characterized using FT-IR, SEM, and ultimate analysis techniques. The Coats-Redfern method was used to estimate the kinetic parameters of the combustion processes. The activation energy values of SBP and SBP-HC products were calculated as 13.88 and 11.46 kJ/mol, respectively. The kinetic data were used to determine the thermodynamic parameters (ΔH, ΔG, and ΔS). As a result, the properties of hydrochar produced from sugar beet pulp under optimum conditions have been extensively investigated and the results have shown that hydrochar has potential for use in different areas.
Effect of Barley and Oat Consumption on Immune System, Inflammation and Gut Microbiota: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Cortijo-Alfonso María-Engracia , Romero María-Paz , Macià Alba , Yuste Silvia , Moralejo Marian , Rubió-Piqué Laura , Piñol-Felis Carme
Published: May 2024

Purpose of Review

The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the effects of whole grain Avena sativa and Hordeum vulgare L., or their isolated fractions, on immune and inflammatory functions, as well as their influence on gut microbiota. A structured literature search was undertaken in line with PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the effects of oats or barley consumption in adults and reported ≥ 1 of the following: C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-2, IL-8, IL-18, lipopolysacharide binding protein (LBP) or gut microbiota-related outcomes, were included.

Recent Findings

A total of 16 RCTs were included, among which 6 studies recruited metabolically at-risk population, including individuals with overweight and obesity, metabolic syndrome or hypercholesterolemia. Additionally, 3 trials involved young healthy population, 5 trials targeted older individuals (aged over 50 years), and 2 studies encompassed populations with other disease states. A total of 1091 individuals were included in the evaluation of short-term (up to 14 days) and long-term (beyond 14 days, up to 90 days) supplementation with oats or barley-based products. 9 studies measured inflammatory biomarkers and 5 of them reported significant reductions, specifically in long-term studies. Notably, no evidence of anti-inflammatory benefits was found in healthy individuals, whereas studies involving metabolically at-risk populations showed promising reductions in inflammation. 13 studies measured the impact on gut microbiota, and collectively suggest that oats and barley food products can influence the composition of gut microbiota, associated in some cases with metabolic improvements.

Oats and barley consumption may confer anti-inflammatory effects in metabolically at-risk populations and influence gut microbiota outcomes. However, no anti-inflammatory benefits were observed in healthy individuals. Results from this systematic review suggests caution in interpreting findings due to limited trials and variations in interventions and health conditions.
Loa loa and Mansonella perstans infections in non-endemic countries: a narrative review
Authors: Alladio Francesca , Buonfrate Dora , Scarso Salvatore , Bisoffi Zeno , Gobbi Federico
Published: May 2024

Purpose of Review

Loiasis and mansonellosis are filarial infections potentially causing a relevant impact on morbidity and mortality. In non-endemic countries, there is poor awareness on these conditions, and clinical management is not standardized. Aim of this work is to review current evidence on cases diagnosed in non-endemic areas, in order to guide clinical management.

Recent Findings

In non-endemic areas, a wider range of symptoms and signs have been reported for both infections, compared to endemic areas. Diagnostic tools include parasitological tests, serology and molecular methods, each one potentially playing a different role (i.e. for screening, determination of microfilarial load, etc). Treatment is not standardized, and first-line drugs might not be available everywhere.

Loiasis and mansonellosis can be diagnosed in non-endemic countries; here we comment on strategies for screening, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up in clinical practice.
Experimental study and numerical simulation of the impact of under-sleeper pads on the dynamic and static mechanical behavior of heavy-haul railway ballast track
Authors: Chi Yihao , Xiao Hong , Wang Yang , Zhang Zhihai , Nadakatti Mahantesh M.
Published: May 2024

Laying the under-sleeper pad (USP) is one of the effective measures commonly used to delay ballast degradation and reduce maintenance workload. To explore the impact of application of the USP on the dynamic and static mechanical behavior of the ballast track in the heavy-haul railway system, numerical simulation models of the ballast bed with USP and without USP are presented in this paper by using the discrete element method (DEM)—multi-flexible body dynamic (MFBD) coupling analysis method. The ballast bed support stiffness test and dynamic displacement tests were carried out on the actual operation of a heavy-haul railway line to verify the validity of the models. The results show that using the USP results in a 43.01% reduction in the ballast bed support stiffness and achieves a more uniform distribution of track loads on the sleepers. It effectively reduces the load borne by the sleeper directly under the wheel load, with a 7.89% reduction in the pressure on the sleeper. Furthermore, the laying of the USP changes the lateral resistance sharing ratio of the ballast bed, significantly reducing the stress level of the ballast bed under train loads, with an average stress reduction of 42.19 kPa. It also reduces the plastic displacement of ballast particles and lowers the peak value of rotational angular velocity by about 50% to 70%, which is conducive to slowing down ballast bed settlement deformation and reducing maintenance costs. In summary, laying the USP has a potential value in enhancing the stability and extending the lifespan of the ballast bed in heavy-haul railway systems.
Temperature control by simulated adaptive layer times in powder bed fusion processes
Authors: Behrens Christoph , Ostermann Niklas , Sehrt Jan T. , Ploshikhin Vasily
Published: May 2024

In this work, a simulation-based thermal management model for metal parts produced through powder bed fusion (PBF) is proposed. PBF is an additive manufacturing technique that employs a high-energy beam to selectively melt and fuse powder particles layer by layer. The productivity and efficiency of PBF processes can be significantly increased using multi-laser systems with larger build volumes. However, this approach affects the parts thermal history, which can significantly impact their mechanical properties, microstructure, and defects. To address this issue, an algorithm has been developed to calculate adaptive cooling times reaching predefined temperatures at the end of each layer. The algorithm is used in a fast thermal process simulation using layer lumping. The simulation model is applied to a modern multi-laser machine, and the effectiveness of the adaptive cooling times and minimal layer times is evaluated. The results indicate that lower maximum temperatures can be achieved in less manufacturing time with adaptive cooling times than with minimal layer times. However, the significant increase in manufacturing time highlights the need for active cooling systems to utilize multi-laser machines fully. In summary, this paper presents a significant contribution to the field of additive manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of thermal management in ensuring the quality and performance of metal parts produced through PBF.
Integrated attitude—orbit control of solar sail with single-axis gimbal mechanism
Authors: Chujo Toshihiro , Watanabe Kei , Takao Yuki
Published: May 2024

A new attitude control method for solar sails is proposed using a single-axis gimbal mechanism and three-axis reaction wheels. The gimbal angle is varied to change the geometrical relationship between the force due to solar radiation pressure (SRP) and the center of mass of the spacecraft, such that the disturbance torque is minimized during attitude maintenance for orbit control. Attitude maneuver and maintenance are performed by the reaction wheels based on the quaternion feedback control method. Even if angular momentum accumulates on the reaction wheels due to modelling error, it can also be unloaded by using the gimbal to produce suitable torque due to SRP. In this study, we analyzed the attitude motion under the reaction wheel control by linearizing the equations of motion around the equilibrium point. Further, we newly derived the propellent-free unloading method based on the analytical formulation. Finally, we constructed the integrated attitude-orbit control method, and its validity was verified in integrated attitude-orbit control simulations.
Optimization of batch process parameters for chromium (VI) removal from synthetic wastewater using eggshell–clay composite
Authors: Talukder Prashanta , Sultana Razia , Naim Mustafizur Rahman , Turzo Plabon Islam , Naher Umme Habiba Bodrun
Published: May 2024

In this study, a biodegradable spherical adsorbent bead was developed from eggshell (ES) and Bijoypur clay (BC) for the removal of hexavalent chromium from synthetic tannery wastewater. This Eggshell–Clay polymer composite (ES–BC) was made by incorporating them with PVA and alginate. To analyze the morphology and chemical composition of the adsorbent before and after the chromium adsorption, SEM, FTIR, XRD, and EDX were used. The impact of adsorption parameters such as adsorbent dosage (0.67–2.23 g/L), pH of the solution (1.5–9), contact time (10–240 min), initial Cr (VI) concentration (25–100 ppm), and solution temperature (25–65 °C), percentage clay in ES-BC adsorbent (0–40%) for Cr (VI) adsorption were investigated. The optimum value for adsorbent dosage, pH, contact time, initial Cr concentration, temperature, and clay to eggshell ratio was found 1.17 g/L, 1.5, 150 min, 58.2 ppm, 25 °C, and 80/20% respectively. The isotherm model was well-fitted to the Freundlich isotherm suggesting heterogeneous adsorption in multilayer on surface. The adsorption kinetics followed pseudo-second-order kinetics supporting the chemisorption process. Moreover, a decrease in enthalpy (H°) and negative Gibbs free energy (G°) with increased temperature indicated exothermic and spontaneous reaction. Therefore, this research investigated that the composite may serve as a viable option for treating Cr (VI) containing tannery effluent.
Impact of arsenate on the growth and metabolism of cyanobacterial strains isolated from gold-mining areas
Authors: Obuekwe Ifeyinwa S. , Vaz Marcelo G. M. V. , Veloso Renato , Mello Jaime V. , Ogugbue Chimezie J.
Published: May 2024

Four cyanobacterial strains isolated from arsenic (As) contaminated area in Minas Gerais, Brazil namely: Pseudanabaena spp. CCM-UFV063 and CCM-UFV065, Tolypothrix sp CCM-UFV067, and Desmonostoc sp. CCM-UFV070 were grown on BG-11 and BG-110 culture media respectively supplemented with di-sodium hydrogen arsenate heptahydrate (As5+) at concentrations of 0, 1, 10, 100, 1000 and 5000 mg L−1. The growth was measured by means of optical density daily for seven (7) days. Contents of chlorophyll a, carbohydrates, protein, and amino acids were also evaluated. Fluorescence Spectroscopy and ICP-OES were used to quantify As in cells. The cellular growth, based on OD750nm, was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in 5000 mg L−1 As. Chlorophyll a, carbohydrates and protein contents were significantly (P < 0.05) lowest in 5000 mg L−1 As. Amino Acid content of studied cyanobacteria varied and were higher in higher As concentrations except for Pseudanabaena sp. CCM-UFV065. Similarly, As cells accumulation was dependent on concentration and showed the order of 5000 mg L−1 > 1000 mg L−1 > 100 mg L−1 > 10 mg L−1 > 1 mg L−1 All studied cyanobacteria showed ability to absorb As(V) especially Pseudanabaena sp. CCM-UFV065 and could all be potential isolates for bioremediation of As-contaminated waters.