bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing cytotoxicity: a comparative analysis of biodegradable and conventional 3D-printing materials post-steam sterilization for surgical guides
Authors: Gielisch Matthias W , Thiem Daniel G E , Ritz Ulrike , Bösing Christoph , Al-Nawas Bilal , Kämmerer Peer W
Published: October 2024

Introduction. Ecological concerns and the depletion of petroleum resources have driven the exploration of biodegradable 3D-printing materials derived from bio-renewable sources, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). This study aimed to compare the potential cytotoxic effects of a biodegradable PLA/PHA blend filament, a conventional photopolymer (MED610), and a combination of MED610 with a support material (SUP705) before and after steam sterilization in vitro, with a focus on their application in the production of surgical guides. Materials and Methods. PLA/PHA, MED610, and SUP705 (both in their pure and steam-sterilized forms; n = 6 per group) were assessed for their cytotoxic effects on human fibroblasts using the neutral red uptake assay. Positive controls included zinc diethyldithiocarbamate and zinc dibutyldithiocarbamate, while high-density polyethylene served as a negative control. A stock solution of the extraction medium was used as the vehicle control (VC). Results. Significant differences in cell viability were observed between pure PLA/PHA (1.2 ± 0.24) and MED610 (0.94 ± 0.08) (p = 0.005). However, both materials exhibited non-cytotoxicity, with cell viability exceeding 70% compared to VCs. SUP705 (0.58 ± 0.42) demonstrated significantly reduced cell viability compared to PLA/PHA (p = 0.001) and MED610 (p = 0.007). After steam sterilization, no significant difference in cell viability was noted between MED610 (1.0 ± 0.08) and PLA/PHA (1.2 ± 0.25) (p = 0.111). While both materials remained non-cytotoxic after sterilization, SUP705 (0.60 ± 0.45) exhibited cytotoxic effects compared to MED610 (p = 0.006) and PLA/PHA (p < 0.001). Steam sterilization did not induce significant cytotoxic effects in the investigated materials (p = 0.123). Conclusion. Pure and steam-sterilized PLA/PHA and MED610 were not cytotoxic, supporting their potential use in the production of surgical guides. However, the observed cytotoxicity of SUP705 suggests caution in scenarios requiring sterile conditions, as the removal of support material from complex printed parts may be challenging. The consideration of PLA/PHA is recommended in such settings to ensure biocompatibility.
Lithium-containing 45S5 Bioglass-derived glass-ceramics have antioxidant activity and induce new bone formation in a rat preclinical model of type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Gomez Gramajo Fátima , Rivoira María A , Rodríguez Valeria , Vargas Gabriela , Vera Mesones Rosa , Zago María P , Boccaccini Aldo R , Gorustovich Alejandro
Published: October 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been associated with complications that affect the skeletal system, such as alterations in bone repair, osteoporosis, and an increased risk of fractures. In this context, the use of biomaterials able to promote osteogenic differentiation and, at the same time, limit the oxidative stress induced by DM offers a novel perspective to ensure the repair of diabetic bone tissue. Since lithium (Li) has been recently identified as a biologically active ion with osteogenic and antioxidant properties, the localized and controlled release of Li ions from bioactive glass-ceramic materials represents a promising therapeutic alternative for the treatment of bone lesions in DM. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential osteogenic and antioxidant effects of glass-ceramic microparticles derived from a 45S5-type bioactive glass (Bioglass) containing (% by weight) 45% SiO2, 24.5% Na2O, 24.5% CaO, and 6% P2O5, in which Na2O was partially substituted by 5% of Li2O (45S5.5Li), in an experimental model of type 1 DM (DM1). The results obtained demonstrate, for the first time, that both 45S5 and 45S5.5Li glass-ceramic microparticles possess antioxidant activity and stimulate bone formation in vivo both under physiological conditions and under experimental DM1 in rats. In this sense, they would have potential application as inorganic osteogenic agents in different strategies of bone tissue regenerative medicine.
Leveraging synthetic assimilation of remote sensing with the National Water Model (NWM) to improve above-normal flow prediction in ungauged basins
Authors: Fang Shiqi , Johnson J Michael , Sankarasubramanian A
Published: October 2024

Effective flood prediction supports developing proactive risk management strategies, but its application in ungauged basins faces tremendous challenges due to limited/no streamflow record. This study investigates the potential for integrating streamflow derived from synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data and U.S. National Water Model (NWM) reanalysis estimates to develop improved predictions of above-normal flow (ANF) over the coterminous US. Leveraging the SAR data from the Global Flood Detection System to estimate the antecedent conditions using principal component regression, we apply the spatial-temporal hierarchical model (STHM) using NWM outputs for improving ANF prediction. Our evaluation shows promising results with the integrated model, STHM-SAR, significantly improving NWE, especially in 60% of the sites in the coastal region. Spatial and temporal validations underscore the model’s robustness, with SAR data contributing to explained variance by 24% on average. This approach not only improves NWM prediction, but also uniquely combines existing remote sensing data with national-scale predictions, showcasing its potential to improve hydrological modeling, particularly in regions with limited stream gauges.
Future photovoltaic potential in India: navigating the interplay between air pollution control and climate change mitigation
Authors: Ghosh Sushovan , Ganguly Dilip , Dey Sagnik , Chowdhury Subhojit Ghoshal
Published: October 2024

India has set ambitious solar energy targets to meet its climate commitments. However, climate change, already evident in the country, poses significant challenges to solar power generation. Therefore, assessing the impact of climate change on future photovoltaic potential in India is essential. This study evaluates the mid-century (2041–2050) solar photovoltaic potential across Indian power grids using CMIP6 models under two scenarios: SSP2-4.5 (moderate climate action with intermediate air pollution) and SSP5-8.5 (weak climate action with strong air pollution control). The results indicate that the nationally averaged photovoltaic potential is projected to decrease by −2.3 ± 0.6% (SSP5-8.5) to −3.3 ± 0.9% (SSP2-4.5) compared to the 1985–2014 baseline, primarily due to reduced radiation and increased temperatures. Additionally, cell temperatures are expected to rise by 1.5 ± 0.13 °C (SSP2-4.5) to 2 ± 0.11 °C (SSP5-8.5), leading to efficiency losses and additional 18 ± 5 d under SSP2-4.5 (26 ± 3 d under SSP5-8.5) of efficiency de-rating, particularly in solar-rich regions. This translates to a loss of 600 ± 160 GWh under SSP2-4.5 and 840 ± 100 GWh under SSP5-8.5, based on the solar generation status of 2023–24. Overall, SSP5-8.5 projects a smaller reduction in photovoltaic potential, it also predicts greater temperature-induced efficiency losses compared to SSP2-4.5, due to aerosol direct effect and weak climate action. Finally, this assessment highlights the need for combined climate and pollution mitigation efforts to boost India’s photovoltaic potential and secure a sustainable, resilient energy future.
Crop-raiding by wildlife and cropland abandonment as feedback from nature-based solutions: lessons from case studies in China and Nepal
Authors: Zhang Qi , Hu Jing , Graybill Sophia A , Moody Aaron , Bista Rajesh , Bilsborrow Richard E , Song Conghe
Published: October 2024

Conservation efforts under the nature-based solutions (NbS) framework aim at better management of ecosystems and improvement of human well-being. Policies targeting forest-based livelihoods align well with the NbS principles, but their social-ecological outcomes are often confounded by complex human-environment interactions. In this study, we identify one major feedback effect of the ecosystem dynamic on people’s livelihoods based on datasets collected from two study areas in China and Nepal. Our methodology integrates satellite remote sensing, household surveys, and statistical models to investigate households’ cropland abandonment decisions under the influence of crop-raiding by wildlife. Results show that cropland parcels that have experienced crop-raiding are more likely to be abandoned in the following years. The more damage the crops have suffered on a given parcel, the more likely it is that the parcel will be abandoned. Parcels in proximity to natural forests, farther away from the house location, and with poorer access to paved roads bear a higher risk of being abandoned. These effects are robust and consistent after controlling for multiple parcel features and household characteristics at different levels and using the dataset from each study area separately. We conclude that policymakers need to consider this undesirable feedback of the ecological system to the livelihoods of local people to better achieve co-benefits for ecosystems and human society.
Legendre transforms for type An and Bn

V

-systems
Authors: Feigin Misha , Kaminski Leo , Strachan Ian A B
Published: October 2024

The Witten–Dijkgraaf–Verlinde–Verlinde (WDVV) equations have a rich structure related to the theory of Frobenius manifolds, with many known families of solutions. A Legendre transformation is a symmetry of the WDVV equations, introduced by Dubrovin. We explicitly compute the results of a Legendre transformation applied to An
- and Bn
-type multi-parameter rational solutions, relating them to known and new trigonometric solutions.
Robustly packaged lithium niobate resonator-based temperature sensor
Authors: Yang Liu , Zhuang Yongyong , Zhang Yifan , Yan Haochen , Zhang Hao , Zhang Yaojing , Zhang Shuangyou , Liu Xin , Hu Qingyuan , Xu Zhuo , Del’Haye Pascal , Wei Xiaoyong
Published: October 2024

Whispering gallery mode (WGM) resonators with high optical quality factor (Q) are sensitive to environment changes and are used in various sensing applications. We have developed a high-precision temperature sensor using a compactly packaged lithium niobate WGM resonator. This sensor offers a sensitivity of 34.38 pm °C−1 and a high resolution of up to

5

.6
×
1

0

−

4

°C. It is portable with high Q, making it suitable for using outside the laboratory. The device is also resilient to changes in humidity, enhancing its practicality.
A multi-dimensional modulation format for spectral efficiency improvement of PPM system and its BER performance analysis in free-space optical communication
Authors: Luo Shutian , Miao Maoke , Li Xiaofeng
Published: October 2024

In order to improve the spectral efficiency of pulse position modulation (PPM) systems in free-space optical (FSO) communication, a novel multi-dimensional modulation format is proposed in this paper, which is based on the combination of polarization-division-multiplexed quadrature phase shift keying (PDM-QPSK, or PQ), intensity shift keying (ISK) and PPM, and it can be termed as PQ-ISK-PPM. We illustrate the modulation principle and describe the block diagrams of the transceiver. We also mathematically derive the bit error rate (BER) expressions of PQ-ISK-PPM format in the atmospheric turbulence channel. Through analysis and numerical simulation, we find that the spectral efficiency, BER performance and power sensitivity of PQ-ISK-PPM format are superior to those of previous PPM-based multi-dimensional modulation format. In addition, the modulation order and turbulence intensity can affect the BER performance of PQ-ISK-PPM format. Moreover, we also find that the constant modulus algorithm equalization can improve the BER performance of PQ-ISK-PPM format in turbulence conditions.
Design of a calibratable optical antenna system based on ring array light source
Authors: Zhou Lei , Cao Yabin , Zhong Liang , Liu Jianing , Yang Huajun , Jiang Ping
Published: October 2024

This study presents a multi-wavelength, multi-channel, and high-capacity optical antenna system. This approach is intended to allow parallel transmission with many channels and wavelengths by employing a ring array of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers, with reception accomplished via a ring detector array. The system employs spatially multiplexed techniques to send the target with numerous independent signals at the same time, effectively increasing bandwidth and reducing signal interference. The method used in this design provides benefits such as effective decreasing losses caused by blocking and removing aberrations. To overcome the spatial alignment difficulty caused by the array light source’s tiny beam size during long-distance transmission, this study introduces a high-precision acquisition, pointing, and tracking system as a reverse communication channel. The system’s wide beam can be used to align the installation of optical antenna equipment and facilitate information transmission.
Enhancing UV photodetection sensitivity via pulsed laser optimization in SnO2:WO3/Si nanostructures
Authors: Aldaghri Osamah
Published: October 2024

This manuscript investigates the deposition of tin oxide (SnO2)-doped tungsten trioxide (WO3) films on silicon (Si) substrate using a pulsed laser deposition technique for ultraviolet (UV) photodetection. The structural, optical, morphological, electrical, and photodetector properties of SnO2-doped WO3 films were extensively investigated. The optical characteristics, studied using UV–vis spectroscopy, reveal a tunable optical bandgap ranging from 2.85 eV to 2.25 eV with increasing laser energy, which is consistent with the findings obtained from photoluminescence analysis. Raman spectroscopy demonstrates three vibration modes at 319.80, 603.30, and 866.20 cm−1. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images display spherical nanoparticles with average diameters of 43.90, 47.55, and 62.20 nm for 140, 180, and 220 mJ, respectively. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements indicate an increase in the thin film grain size, roughness surface, and root mean square at higher laser energies (140, 180, and 220 mJ). Under illumination conditions, the photodetector gives a considerable amount of photocurrent (0.5 mA), which increases with higher laser energies. The proposed geometry demonstrates an excellent photo-response within a wavelength range of 350–550 nm, mainly at 420 nm. The optimized device illuminated with a laser energy of 220 mJ exhibits a response and recovery time of 352 ms and 737 ms, respectively, highlighting its potential for efficient and responsive applications.
Green biogenic synthesis of magnetite nanoparticles from indigenous Banksia Ashbyi leaf for enhanced sonochemical dye degradation
Authors: Halim A F M Fahad , Poinern Gérrard Eddy Jai , Fawcett Derek , Anguelov Nikolay , Sharma Rupam , Chapman Peter , Feng Yuanyuan
Published: October 2024

Developing alternative green and sustainable technologies to prevent, reduce, and remove toxic dyes present in effluent generated by the textile industry is of global importance. In this study, magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (MNPs) were successfully synthesized using a co-precipitation method that used Indigenous Banksia Ashbyi (BA) leaf extract in varying amounts (BA-MNP 1 to BA-MNP 4), to modulate particle size and size distribution. The formation of the MNPs was confirmed by a range of characterization techniques that included UV–visible spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning (FIBSEM) and high-resolution transmission (HRTEM) electron microscopy. The presence of the Fe–O bond located at 551 cm−1 in the FTIR spectra and XRD analysis of the samples confirmed the formation of crystalline MNPs. FIBSEM and HRTEM images of the BA-MNP 4 sample confirmed the MNPs were spherical (18 ± 5 nm) and tended to agglomerate. Moreover, UV–visible spectrophotometry revealed a board absorption band and an optical band-gap energy of 2.65 eV. The catalytic activity of BA-MNP 4 samples towards the degradation of a commercially available navy-blue RIT dye (BRD) were investigated under three operational senarios: 1) ultrasonic irradiation (US) + BRD; 2) BA-MNP 4 + BRD, and 3) US + BRD + BA-MNP 4. The investigation found there was an additive effect when US (80 W) was used in conjunction with BA-MNP 4 s during the dye degradation process. With no US, the BA-MNP 4 sample only achieved a dye degradation of 52% in 25 min. However, over the same period of time with US, the BA-MNP 4 sample achieved a dye degradation of 89.92%. In addition, kinetic modelling found the combined US and BA-MNP 4 process followed a pseudo-first-order kinetic model.
A new Q-band comb-based multi-channel microwave Doppler backward scattering diagnostic developed on the HL-3 tokamak
Authors: TONG 佟 Ruihai 瑞海 , ZHOU 周 Yu 宇 , ZHONG 钟 Wulyu 武律 , WEN 闻 Jie 杰 , SHI 石 Zhongbing 中兵 , ZOU 邹 Xiaolan 晓岚 , LIANG 梁 Anshu 桉树 , YANG 杨 Zengchen 曾辰 , JIANG 蒋 Min 敏 , YU 余 Xin 鑫 , SHEN 沈 Yuqi 宇奇
Published: October 2024

The Doppler backscattering (DBS) diagnostic is widely used to measure the localized density fluctuations and the propagation velocity of turbulent structures. Microwave is launched at a frequency that approaches a cutoff layer in the plasma at an angle oblique to the cutoff layer. A new Q-band multichannel DBS system based on a comb generator has been designed and tested for application on the HL-3 tokamak. With the comb generator and heterodyne scheme, the stability and flexibility of the new DBS system are improved. The new DBS diagnostic has a high output power (~ 10 dBm), good power flatness (< 5 dB in Q-band), and frequency stability, and the inter-frequency separation is tunable remotely. This article introduces the system design, laboratory test results, and initial experimental results from the HL-3 tokamak. With the help of the newly developed multichannel DBS, the turbulence information can be studied with high temporal and spatial resolution.
From text to insights: leveraging NLP to assess how landscape features shape tourist perceptions and emotions toward traditional villages
Authors: Shen Huaheng , Aziz Nor Fadzila , Liu Jiali , Huang Menglan , Yu Lingyun , Yang Rong
Published: October 2024

Understanding tourist perceptions and the relationship between landscape features and emotional attitudes in traditional village is crucial for sustainable development. However, quantifying these perceptions over vast spatiotemporal scales is challenging. Additionally, there is a paucity of knowledge on which landscape features influence tourist perceptions within varied samples on a spatial scale. In this study, we analyzed 39,130 online reviews of 57 traditional Chinese villages from 2018 to 2023. Utilizing Word2Vec and machine learning techniques, we identified 14 key landscape feature indicators. These were quantitatively scored using expert evaluations, and their relationship to tourists’ emotional attitudes was determined through linear regression analysis. The analysis revealed that architectural elements, service facilities, convenience, and sanitation are positively associated with tourists’ emotional attitudes towards traditional villages. Contrary to expectations, the frequency of landscape feature mentions did not correlate significantly with emotional attitudes, challenging traditional assumptions about the visibility of landscape features and their impact.
Investigations on the influence of thickness and preform structure on the mechanical performance of novel textile composites with woven Kevlar® fabric reinforcement and poly methylmethacrylate (Elium®) matrix
Authors: Bandaru Aswani Kumar , Gobikannan T , Pawar Suryappa Jayappa , Pichandi Subramani
Published: October 2024

Elium (novel methyl methacrylate (MMA)) resin is a liquid thermoplastic resin curable at room temperature and a possible replacement for epoxies. The main objective of this work is to evaluate the mechanical characteristics of novel Kevlar fabric reinforced Elium composites with different thicknesses. The plain-woven structure Kevlar/Elium laminates were manufactured with 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm thicknesses through vacuum-assisted resin infusion moulding, where 8 and 12 layers of woven fabrics were used, respectively. The effect of laminate thickness was measured in terms of mechanical (tensile, flexural, shear, and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA)) and physical (density and fibre volume fraction (FVF)) characteristics. The density of the laminates was found in the range of 1.18–1.31 g cm−3. FVF was 50.69 and 52.27% for 1.5 and 2.5 mm thick laminates, respectively. The composite with 1.5 mm thickness exhibited the highest tensile strength (667.9 MPa) and flexural strength of 330.7 MPa. Conversely, the highest interlaminar shear strength measured for 2.5 mm thick laminate is 16.5 MPa. The DMA analysis recorded the highest storage and loss modulus for 2.5 mm thickness laminates. The fractography analysis confirmed the quantified experimental observation of excessive interface debonding and delamination. Elium composites may be suitable for high-end structural applications, including marine and aircraft structures.
Investigating the potential of graphene-doped nickel lanthanum ferrites for supercapacitor electrode material
Authors: Akbar Hassan , Akram Muhammad Salman , Ali Asghar , Subhan Javed Muhammad
Published: October 2024

Based on the demand for intensive research of supercapacitor electrode materials, graphene-doped nickel lanthanum ferrites (NiLaFe2O3) have been synthesized to explore their potential and unique properties of their electrochemical performance. The graphene is synthesized using the Hummers method and then doped into NiLaFe2O3 using a hydrothermal method. The graphene-doped NiLaFe2O3 is characterized by x-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy to analyze its structural and morphological properties. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and UV analysis are performed to explore the molecular structure and band gap of the material, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy analysis is performed to envision the ultrastructure of the composite at nanometer-scale resolution. Finally, the electrochemical performance of the graphene-doped NiLaFe2O3 is calculated by making electrodes. The slurry for the electrode material is prepared using polyvinylidene fluoride and activated carbon. The evaluation of electrochemical performance is carried out using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and galvanostatic charge–discharge measurements.
Enhancing performance through friction welding of dissimilar aluminium 2014 and 7075 hybrid metal-matrix composite: insights into material characterization, crystallographic texture, and mechanical properties
Authors: Pandian Vasanthakumar , Kannan Sekar
Published: October 2024

Welding high-strength, age-hardenable aluminium alloys from the 2XXX and 7XXX series poses challenges when using fusion-based welding processes. Common issues such as hydrogen porosity, hot cracking, stress corrosion cracking, and solidification cracking can lead to a reduction in mechanical properties due to the loss of strengthening precipitates and alloying elements. Consequently, friction stir welding (FSW) has emerged as a promising solid-state welding technique for joining dissimilar aluminium alloys and composites, particularly in aerospace applications where a combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and other desirable properties is required. This study investigates the FSW of dissimilar aluminium alloys, specifically AA2014 and a hybrid metal-matrix composite of AA7075 reinforced with silicon carbide and graphite particles. The microstructural and mechanical properties of the welded joints were characterized, revealing an average grain size of 2.39 μm ± 1.2 in the stir zone (SZ). A high angle grain boundary volume fraction of 47.25% was observed in the SZ, compared to 2.01% in the AA7075 composite and 15.03% in the AA2014 base metal. The presence of shear textures and the distribution of cube, S, and H textures indicate a homogeneous mixing of the base materials and a high shear strain rate during welding. The hardness of the SZ increased by 13%, and the ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation of the joint were measured at 251 MPa, 183 MPa, and 6.44%, respectively. The flexural strength of the joints improved significantly, with the CW13 sample showing a 67% increase compared to CW1. The dissimilar joint CW13, welded at 12.5 mm min−1, achieved a maximum joint efficiency of 95%.
Micro water energy harvesting system based on tubular triboelectric nanogenerator
Authors: Tan Xiangyu , Na Zhimin , Zhuo Ran , Zhou Fangrong , Wang Dibo , Zhu Longchang , Wu Haoying
Published: October 2024

Constructing a micro-water energy-harvesting system for the power supply of micro-nano sensors in pipeline liquid transmission networks is of great significance. In this study, a micro water energy harvesting system based on a tubular triboelectric nanogenerator was designed, which achieves efficient energy harvesting and conversion by directly collecting the charge of the friction layer without the electrostatic induction effect. First, the working principle of the liquid–solid triboelectric nanogenerator is analyzed based on multi-physic coupling, and the potential distribution in the charge transfer process is analyzed. Second, the effects of liquid flow, pipe length, inner diameter, and material on the output characteristics of the triboelectric nanogenerator were investigated. Finally, the load power supply characteristics of the triboelectric nanogenerator were presented. The output characteristics of the liquid–solid triboelectric nanogenerator were proportional to the flow rate and inversely proportional to the inner diameter of the pipe. The output power of the liquid–solid triboelectric nanogenerator can be charged and stored by the capacitor through the rectifier bridge, and at least 30 LED lamp beads can be driven at a flow rate of 650 ml·min-1. This research has the potential to be applied to the construction of self-powered liquid-state monitoring intelligent sensors in pipeline networks.
Unsupervised end-to-end training with a self-defined target
Authors: Liu Dongshu , Laydevant Jérémie , Pontlevy Adrien , Querlioz Damien , Grollier Julie
Published: October 2024

Designing algorithms for versatile AI hardware that can learn on the edge using both labeled and unlabeled data is challenging. Deep end-to-end training methods incorporating phases of self-supervised and supervised learning are accurate and adaptable to input data but self-supervised learning requires even more computational and memory resources than supervised learning, too high for current embedded hardware. Conversely, unsupervised layer-by-layer training, such as Hebbian learning, is more compatible with existing hardware but does not integrate well with supervised learning. To address this, we propose a method enabling networks or hardware designed for end-to-end supervised learning to also perform high-performance unsupervised learning by adding two simple elements to the output layer: winner-take-all selectivity and homeostasis regularization. These mechanisms introduce a ‘self-defined target’ for unlabeled data, allowing purely unsupervised training for both fully-connected and convolutional layers using backpropagation or equilibrium propagation on datasets like MNIST (up to 99.2%), Fashion-MNIST (up to 90.3%), and SVHN (up to 81.5%). We extend this method to semi-supervised learning, adjusting targets based on data type, achieving 96.6% accuracy with only 600 labeled MNIST samples in a multi-layer perceptron. Our results show that this approach can effectively enable networks and hardware initially dedicated to supervised learning to also perform unsupervised learning, adapting to varying availability of labeled data.
Associations between amyloid-β load and cognition in cerebrovascular disease beyond cerebral amyloid angiopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of positron emission tomography studies
Authors: Zhang Jie , Price Cathy J , Zhao Ke , Tang Yuanyuan , Zhong Shuchang , Lou Jingjing , Ye Xiangming , Liang Feng
Published: October 2024

Background

There is growing interest in the comorbidity of vascular and neurodegenerative pathologies in patients with cerebrovascular disease (CVD) beyond cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). However, the relationship between amyloid-β and vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) remains debated.

Objective

To investigate the association between VCI and amyloid-β deposition in non-CAA CVD patients.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO and CENTRAL databases were systematically searched. Observational studies, including case–control and cohort studies, associating cognitive scores with amyloid load measured by positron emission tomography were selected. Meta-analyses were performed to assess the strength of amyloid–cognition associations across CVD subtypes and cognitive domains. A random-effects model using the inverse variance method was used, with heterogeneity evaluated by Q-statistics and I2 statistics. Meta-regression analyses were conducted to examine the influence of moderators, and publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger’s test. All statistical analyses were performed using StataMP 18.

Results

Twenty-seven eligible studies encompassing 2894 participants were included. Among non-CAA CVD patients, global cognitive performance was significantly lower in those with higher amyloid-β deposition (standardized mean difference = −0.43, P < 0.001). The correlation strength varied across cognitive domains (executive function: r = −0.41; language: r = −0.36; memory: r = −0.29; all P < 0.001). The correlation was significant in patients with subcortical vascular disease (r = −0.43, P < 0.001) but not post-stroke patients (r = −0.19, P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Amyloid-β load is associated with cognitive decline in non-CAA CVD patients. This is more pronounced in patients with subcortical vascular disease than in post-stroke patients. Executive function is the most susceptible domain in VCI when the level of amyloid-β increases.
Evaluation of hand–arm vibration (HAV) exposure among groundskeepers in the southeastern United States
Authors: Chen Nathan , Yang Seunghyeon , Oh Jonghwa
Published: October 2024

Objective

The objectives of this study were to evaluate daily hand–arm vibration (HAV) exposure among groundskeepers, characterize power tools used, and estimate lifetime cumulative HAV exposure dose.

Methods

Seventeen groundskeepers and ten office workers employed at two US southeasterrn institutions were recruited as a target exposure group and a reference group, respectively. A 6-d exposure assessment of HAV was scheduled, and vibration dosimeters were used to obtain daily vibration exposure value, A(8). Information on power tools used and corresponding operation duration was recorded to assign the real-time vibration data collected from the dosimeters for tool characterization in terms of vibration total value (ahv) and frequency. Lifetime cumulative exposure dose, ahv-lifetime, was determined using ahv for all tools used and lifetime exposure duration obtained through a questionnaire.

Results

The individual groundskeepers’ average A(8) ranged from 0.8 to 2.6 and from 1.0 to 2.6 m/s2 for the right hand and left hands, respectively. Among 11 power tools used by the groundskeepers, grass trimmers contributed the most to the vibration exposure. The average ahv of the individual tools ranged from 8.0 (chainsaws) to 1.9 m/s2 (seating mowers and handheld blowers) for the right hand and from 6.4 (push mowers) to 1.4 m/s2 (backpack blowers) for the left hand. The highest acceleration peak of grass trimmers, edgers, backpack blowers, pole saws, riding blowers, and hedgers was observed between 100 and 200 Hz while riding mowers, seating mowers, push mowers, and chainsaws showed the highest acceleration peak at lower frequencies (≤63.5 Hz). The groundskeepers’ average ahv-lifetime was 76,520.6 and 61,955.5 h m/s2 for the right and left hands, respectively. The average ahv-lifetime of office workers was 2,306.2 and 2,205.8 h m/s2 for the right and left hands, respectively, which was attributed to personal hobby activities.

Conclusion

Three groundskeepers’ average A(8) reached 2.5 m/s2, the Action Limit recommended by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). The highest contribution to the vibration exposure was observed during grass trimmer operations with a major acceleration peak at 100 Hz. The groundskeepers’ ahv-lifetime was 33 and 28 times higher for the right and left hands, respectively, than the office workers.
A consensus-based classification workflow to determine genetically inferred ancestry from comprehensive genomic profiling of patients with solid tumors
Authors: Wallen Zachary D , Nesline Mary K , Pabla Sarabjot , Gao Shuang , Vanroey Erik , Hastings Stephanie B , Ko Heidi , Strickland Kyle C , Previs Rebecca A , Zhang Shengle , Conroy Jeffrey M , Jensen Taylor J , George Elizabeth , Eisenberg Marcia , Caveney Brian , Sathyan Pratheesh , Ramkissoon Shakti , Severson Eric A
Published: October 2024

Disparities in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes based on self-identified race and ethnicity (SIRE) are well documented, yet these variables have historically been excluded from clinical research. Without SIRE, genetic ancestry can be inferred using single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) detected from tumor DNA using comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP). However, factors inherent to CGP of tumor DNA increase the difficulty of identifying ancestry-informative SNPs, and current workflows for inferring genetic ancestry from CGP need improvements in key areas of the ancestry inference process. This study used genomic data from 4274 diverse reference subjects and CGP data from 491 patients with solid tumors and SIRE to develop and validate a workflow to obtain accurate genetically inferred ancestry (GIA) from CGP sequencing results. We use consensus-based classification to derive confident ancestral inferences from an expanded reference dataset covering eight world populations (African, Admixed American, Central Asian/Siberian, European, East Asian, Middle Eastern, Oceania, South Asian). Our GIA calls were highly concordant with SIRE (95%) and aligned well with reference populations of inferred ancestries. Further, our workflow could expand on SIRE by (i) detecting the ancestry of patients that usually lack appropriate racial categories, (ii) determining what patients have mixed ancestry, and (iii) resolving ancestries of patients in heterogeneous racial categories and who had missing SIRE. Accurate GIA provides needed information to enable ancestry-aware biomarker research, ensure the inclusion of underrepresented groups in clinical research, and increase the diverse representation of patient populations eligible for precision medicine therapies and trials.
CompariPSSM: a PSSM–PSSM comparison tool for motif-binding determinant analysis
Authors: Tsitsa Ifigenia , Krystkowiak Izabella , Davey Norman E
Published: October 2024

Motivation

Short linear motifs (SLiMs) are compact functional modules that mediate low-affinity protein–protein interactions. SLiMs direct the function of many dynamic signalling and regulatory complexes playing a central role in most biological processes of the cell. Motif-binding determinants describe the contribution of each residue in a motif-containing peptide to the affinity and specificity of binding to the motif-binding partner. Motif-binding determinants are generally defined as a motif consensus pattern or a position-specific scoring matrix (PSSM) encoding quantitative preferences. Motif-binding determinant comparison is an important motif analysis task and can be applied to motif annotation, classification, clustering, discovery and benchmarking. Currently, binding determinant comparison is generally performed by analysing consensus similarity; however, this ignores important quantitative information in both the consensus and non-consensus positions.

Results

We have created a new tool, CompariPSSM, that quantifies the similarity between motif-binding determinants using sliding window PSSM–PSSM comparison and scores PSSM similarity using a randomisation-based probabilistic framework. The tool has been benchmarked on curated data from the eukaryotic linear motif database and experimental data from proteomic peptidephage display. CompariPSSM can be used for peptide classification to validate motif classes, peptide clustering to group functionally related conserved disordered regions, and benchmarking experimental motif discovery methods.

Availability and implementation

CompariPSSM is available at https://slim.icr.ac.uk/projects/comparipssm.
Value of projectional imaging relative to cross-sectional imaging to assess catheter tip position in the superior vena cava: evaluation of reader variability
Authors: Gullo Giuseppe , Rotzinger David Christian , Frossard Pierre , Colin Anaïs , Saliou Guillaume , Qanadli Salah Dine
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The cavo-atrial junction (CAJ) is the most appropriate central venous catheters CVC tip location to reduce complications. Among chest X-ray (CXR) landmarks for tips assessment, only the pericardial reflection lies in the same plane as the vascular structures. We aimed to evaluate the observer variability to determine tip positioning on CXR, using CT as a gold standard.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 107 CT scans of patients with port catheters (January–December 2021). The tip to CAJ distance (DCAJ) was measured on both projectional (PJ) and cross-sectional (CS) CT images by 2 × 2 observers (within and between evaluations). Observational statistics included paired t-tests, repeatability coefficients (RC), and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), with data visualized using Bland-Altman plots.

Results

All ICC were >0.9, indicating excellent reliability. The mean difference between observers comparing CS and PJ was 0.13 ± 0.80 cm (P = .10) with outer 95% confidence limits of 1.92 cm and −2.17 cm and an RC of 1.79 cm.

Conclusion

CXR provides a reliable method for CVC tip localization, though assessment variability is ±2 cm.

Advances in knowledge

CXR assessment of CVC tips shows both intra- and inter-individual variability, due to challenges in identifying the CAJ and catheter tip . While considering the 3 cm anatomical zone around the CAJ acceptable, operators should be aware of the 2 cm variability resulting from CXR assessment. To account for this variability and avoid the risk of positioning the tip beyond 3 cm from the CAJ, operators should reduce the CXR-based acceptable zone to 1 cm around the CAJ, impacting approximately 30% of procedures.
Classifying histopathological growth patterns for resected colorectal liver metastasis with a deep learning analysis
Authors: Höppener Diederik J , Aswolinskiy Witali , Qian Zhen , Tellez David , Nierop Pieter M H , Starmans Martijn , Nagtegaal Iris D , Doukas Michail , de Wilt Johannes H W , Grünhagen Dirk J , van der Laak Jeroen A W M , Vermeulen Peter , Ciompi Francesco , Verhoef Cornelis
Published: October 2024

Background

Histopathological growth patterns are one of the strongest prognostic factors in patients with resected colorectal liver metastases. Development of an efficient, objective and ideally automated histopathological growth pattern scoring method can substantially help the implementation of histopathological growth pattern assessment in daily practice and research. This study aimed to develop and validate a deep-learning algorithm, namely neural image compression, to distinguish desmoplastic from non-desmoplastic histopathological growth patterns of colorectal liver metastases based on digital haematoxylin and eosin-stained slides.

Methods

The algorithm was developed using digitalized whole-slide images obtained in a single-centre (Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, the Netherlands) cohort of patients who underwent first curative intent resection for colorectal liver metastases between January 2000 and February 2019. External validation was performed on whole-slide images of patients resected between October 2004 and December 2017 in another institution (Radboud University Medical Center, the Netherlands). The outcomes of interest were the automated classification of dichotomous hepatic growth patterns, distinguishing between desmoplastic hepatic growth pattern and non-desmoplatic growth pattern by a deep-learning model; secondary outcome was the correlation of these classifications with overall survival in the histopathology manual–assessed histopathological growth pattern and those assessed using neural image compression.

Results

Nine hundred and thirty-two patients, corresponding to 3.641 whole-slide images, were reviewed to develop the algorithm and 870 whole-slide images were used for external validation. Median follow-up for the development and the validation cohorts was 43 and 29 months respectively. The neural image compression approach achieved significant discriminatory power to classify 100% desmoplastic histopathological growth pattern with an area under the curve of 0.93 in the development cohort and 0.95 upon external validation. Both the histopathology manual–scored histopathological growth pattern and neural image compression-classified histopathological growth pattern achieved a similar multivariable hazard ratio for desmoplastic versus non-desmoplastic growth pattern in the development cohort (histopathology manual score: 0.63 versus neural image compression: 0.64) and in the validation cohort (histopathology manual score: 0.40 versus neural image compression: 0.48).

Conclusions

The neural image compression approach is suitable for pathology-based classification tasks of colorectal liver metastases.
Partisan Politics in Finland
Authors: Wass Hanna , Tukiainen Janne , Ylisalo Juha , Nieminen Jeremias , Hirvonen Salomo , Isotalo Veikko
Published: October 2024

Traditionally, the Finnish party system has involved a high level of fragmentation yet remarkable stability, consensual decision-making, ideologically broad government coalitions, and mostly modest levels of polarization between parties or voters. These features suggest a limited effect of the party composition of government on economic policy. However, based on studies on close local elections, parliamentary speech, and party manifestos, we argue that the link between party politics and policy outcomes likely plays a role in Finland. Most analyses have examined the extent to which the characteristics of local politicians within the parties affect policy outcomes. These studies show that occupation, education, experience, competence, and residential location of local politicians strongly affect local policies, indicating that, in general, politics matters for policy. We also discuss how consensual national politics may have contributed to the recent success of the populist challenger Finns Party. As a new major player, the party has emphasized the role of sociocultural issues and especially affective polarization, which represents a considerable paradigm shift from the catch-all party policies typical of Finland for many decades. It is thus possible that the link between politics and policy will become more pronounced in the future, motivating further research.
Demographic ageing: an opportunity to rethink economy, society and regions
Authors: Warner Mildred E , Zhang Xue , Guillemot Jonathan
Published: October 2024

Ageing is often depicted negatively, but we challenge passive views, suggesting that an “active ageing” agenda requires rethinking economy, urban form and societal responses. We present demographic trends in ageing, migration and urbanization across global regions. Building from psychological theories of ageing regarding disengagement and continuity, we argue for an adjustment response at the societal level to address needed structural changes in economy, social policy and regional planning. These adjustments should prioritize well-being and purpose over economic growth; social policy that links household, informal and formal care and new approaches to urban and regional planning that remake cities for all ages. Ageing requires new paradigms. These societal adjustments will permit new approaches that could build a more inclusive world.
Wind effects on individual male and female Bactrocera jarvisi (Diptera: Tephritidae) tracked using harmonic radar
Authors: Welty Peachey Allysen M , Moses Ethan R , Johnson Adesola J , Lehman Meredith G M , Yoder James M , De Faveri Stefano G , Cheesman Jodie , Manoukis Nicholas C , Siderhurst Matthew S
Published: October 2024

Wind affects the movement of most volant insects. While the effects of wind on dispersal are relatively well understood at the population level, how wind influences the movement parameters of individual insects in the wild is less clear. Tephritid fruit flies, such as Bactrocera jarvisi, are major horticultural pests worldwide and while most tephritids are nondispersive when host plants are plentiful, records exist for potentially wind-assisted movements up to 200 km. In this study, harmonic radar (HR) was used to track the movements of both male and female lab-reared B. jarvisi in a papaya field. Overall flight directions were found to be correlated with wind direction, as were the subset of between-tree movements, while within-tree movements were not. Furthermore, the effect of wind direction on fly trajectories varied by step-distance but not strongly with wind speed. Mean path distance, step distance, flight direction, turning angle, and flight propensity did not vary by sex. Both male and female movements are well fit by 2-state hidden Markov models further supporting the observation that B. jarvisi move differently within (short steps with random direction) and between (longer more directional steps) trees. Data on flight directionality and step-distances determined in this study provide parameters for models that may help enhance current surveillance, control, and eradication methods, such as optimizing trap placements and pesticide applications, determining release sites for parasitoids, and setting quarantine boundaries after incursions.