bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New directions in pass-and-swap queues
Authors: Dorsman Jan-Pieter , Gardner Kristen
Published: July 2024

Recently, driven by redundancy systems and matching systems, there has been renewed interest in models with product form stationary distributions. By a “product form,” we mean that the stationary distribution can be expressed as a product of terms, each of which corresponds to a job in the system. Given the recent discovery of many such systems, it is natural to ask: how broad is this class of systems? In this paper, we consider extensions and generalizations of the recently-proposed pass-and-swap queue, which has a product-form stationary distribution. We make three main contributions. First, we identify sufficient conditions under which pass-and-swap queues can be connected in a closed network, while still preserving the product form. Second, we identify dimensions along which the pass-and-swap system can be extended while preserving the product-form stationary distribution. At the same time, we also identify cases in which generalizing the pass-and-swap queue causes the product-form nature of the stationary distribution to break. Finally, we identify questions that remain open and present a road map for future study.
FSSDroid: Feature subset selection for Android malware detection
Authors: Polatidis Nikolaos , Kapetanakis Stelios , Trovati Marcello , Korkontzelos Ioannis , Manolopoulos Yannis
Published: July 2024

Android malware has become an increasingly important threat to individuals, organizations, and society, posing significant risks to data security, privacy, and infrastructure. As malware evolves in sophistication and complexity, the detection and mitigation of these malicious software instances have become more challenging and time consuming since the required number of features to identify potential malware can be very high. To address this issue, we have developed an effective feature selection methodology for malware detection in Android. The critical concern in the field of malware detection is the complexity of algorithms and the use of features that are used to detect malware. The present paper delivers a methodology for pre-processing datasets to select the most optimal features that will allow detecting malware, while maintaining very high accuracy. The proposed methodology has been tested on two real world datasets and the results indicate that the number of features is significantly reduced from 489 to between 19 and 28 for the first dataset and from 9503 to between 9 and 27 for the second dataset, whilst the accuracy is maintained as if all features were used.
Polar metabolomics using trichloroacetic acid extraction and porous graphitic carbon stationary phase
Authors: Day Francesca , O’Sullivan Justin , Ramzan Farha , Pook Chris
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Accurately identifying and quantifying polar metabolites using untargeted metabolomics has proven challenging in comparison to mid to non-polar metabolites. Hydrophilic interaction chromatography and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry are predominantly used to target polar metabolites.

Objectives

This study aims to demonstrate a simple one-step extraction combined with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) that reliably retains polar metabolites.

Methods

The method involves a MilliQ + 10% trichloroacetic acid extraction from 6 healthy individuals serum, combined with porous graphitic carbon liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS). The coefficient of variation (CV) assessed retention reliability of polar metabolites with logP as low as − 9. QreSS (Quantification, Retention, and System Suitability) internal standards determined the method's consistency and recovery efficiency.

Results

The method demonstrated reliable retention (CV < 0.30) of polar metabolites within a logP range of − 9.1 to 5.6. QreSS internal standards confirmed consistent performance (CV < 0.16) and effective recovery (70–130%) of polar to mid-polar metabolites. Quality control dilution series demonstrated that ~ 80% of annotated metabolites could be accurately quantified (Pearson’s correlation coefficient > 0.80) within their concentration range. Repeatability was demonstrated through clustering of repeated extractions from a single sample.

Conclusion

This LC–MS method is better suited to covering the polar segment of the metabolome than current methods, offering a reliable and efficient approach for accurate quantification of polar metabolites in untargeted metabolomics.
Numerical model for solid-like and fluid-like behavior of granular flows
Authors: Wang Yadong , Wu Wei
Published: July 2024

We propose a constitutive model for both the solid-like and fluid-like behavior of granular materials by decomposing the stress tensor into quasi-static and collisional components. A hypoplastic model is adopted for the solid-like behavior in the quasi-static regime, while the viscous and dilatant behavior in the fluid-like regime is represented by a modified $$\mu (I)$$

μ
(
I
)

rheology model. This model effectively captures the transition between solid-like and fluid-like flows. Performance and validation of the proposed model are demonstrated through numerical simulations of element tests.
Radiomics of pituitary adenoma using computer vision: a review
Authors: Zilka Tomas , Benesova Wanda
Published: July 2024

Pituitary adenomas (PA) represent the most common type of sellar neoplasm. Extracting relevant information from radiological images is essential for decision support in addressing various objectives related to PA. Given the critical need for an accurate assessment of the natural progression of PA, computer vision (CV) and artificial intelligence (AI) play a pivotal role in automatically extracting features from radiological images. The field of “Radiomics” involves the extraction of high-dimensional features, often referred to as “Radiomic features,” from digital radiological images. This survey offers an analysis of the current state of research in PA radiomics. Our work comprises a systematic review of 34 publications focused on PA radiomics and other automated information mining pertaining to PA through the analysis of radiological data using computer vision methods. We begin with a theoretical exploration essential for understanding the theoretical background of radionmics, encompassing traditional approaches from computer vision and machine learning, as well as the latest methodologies in deep radiomics utilizing deep learning (DL). Thirty-four research works under examination are comprehensively compared and evaluated. The overall results achieved in the analyzed papers are high, e.g., the best accuracy is up to 96% and the best achieved AUC is up to 0.99, which establishes optimism for the successful use of radiomic features. Methods based on deep learning seem to be the most promising for the future. In relation to this perspective DL methods, several challenges are remarkable: It is important to create high-quality and sufficiently extensive datasets necessary for training deep neural networks. Interpretability of deep radiomics is also a big open challenge. It is necessary to develop and verify methods that will explain to us how deep radiomic features reflect various physics-explainable aspects.

Graphical abstract
Radiogenomics as an Integrated Approach to Glioblastoma Precision Medicine
Authors: Sanchez Isabella , Rahman Ruman
Published: July 2024

Purpose of Review

Isocitrate dehydrogenase wild-type glioblastoma is the most aggressive primary brain tumour in adults. Its infiltrative nature and heterogeneity confer a dismal prognosis, despite multimodal treatment. Precision medicine is increasingly advocated to improve survival rates in glioblastoma management; however, conventional neuroimaging techniques are insufficient in providing the detail required for accurate diagnosis of this complex condition.

Recent Findings

Advanced magnetic resonance imaging allows more comprehensive understanding of the tumour microenvironment. Combining diffusion and perfusion magnetic resonance imaging to create a multiparametric scan enhances diagnostic power and can overcome the unreliability of tumour characterisation by standard imaging. Recent progress in deep learning algorithms establishes their remarkable ability in image-recognition tasks. Integrating these with multiparametric scans could transform the diagnosis and monitoring of patients by ensuring that the entire tumour is captured. As a corollary, radiomics has emerged as a powerful approach to offer insights into diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and tumour response through extraction of information from radiological scans, and transformation of these tumour characteristics into quantitative data. Radiogenomics, which links imaging features with genomic profiles, has exhibited its ability in characterising glioblastoma, and determining therapeutic response, with the potential to revolutionise management of glioblastoma.

The integration of deep learning algorithms into radiogenomic models has established an automated, highly reproducible means to predict glioblastoma molecular signatures, further aiding prognosis and targeted therapy. However, challenges including lack of large cohorts, absence of standardised guidelines and the ‘black-box’ nature of deep learning algorithms, must first be overcome before this workflow can be applied in clinical practice.
A blockchain architecture with smart contracts for an additive symbiotic network - a case study
Authors: Ferreira Inês A. , Palazzo Guido , Pinto António , Pinto Pedro , Sousa Pedro , Godina Radu , Carvalho Helena
Published: July 2024

Adopting innovative technologies such as blockchain and additive manufacturing can help organisations promote the development of additive symbiotic networks, thus pursuing higher sustainable goals and implementing circular economy strategies. These symbiotic networks correspond to industrial symbiosis networks in which wastes and by-products from other industries are incorporated into additive manufacturing processes. The adoption of blockchain technology in such a context is still in a nascent stage. Using the case study method, this research demonstrates the adoption of blockchain technology in an additive symbiotic network of a real-life context. The requirements to use a blockchain network are identified, and an architecture based on smart contracts is proposed as an enabler of the additive symbiotic network under study. The proposed solution uses the Hyperledger Fabric Attribute-Based Access Control as the distributed ledger technology. Even though this solution is still in the proof-of-concept stage, the results show that adopting it would allow the elimination of intermediary entities, keep available tracking records of the resources exchanged, and improve trust among the symbiotic stakeholders (that do not have any trust or cooperation mechanisms established before the symbiotic relationship). This study highlights that the complexity associated with introducing a novel technology and the technology’s immaturity compared to other data storage technologies are some of the main challenges related to using blockchain technology in additive symbiotic networks.
On the Shape of Hypersurfaces with Boundary Which Have Zero Fractional Mean Curvature
Authors: Onoue Fumihiko
Published: July 2024

We consider compact hypersurfaces with boundary in $${\mathbb {R}}^N$$

R

N

that are the critical points of the fractional area introduced by Paroni et al. (Commun Pure Appl Anal 17:709–727, 2018). In particular, we study the shape of such hypersurfaces in several simple settings. First we consider the critical points whose boundary is a smooth, orientable, closed manifold $$\Gamma $$
Γ
of dimension $$N-2$$

N
-
2

and lies in a hyperplane $$H \subset {\mathbb {R}}^N$$

H
⊂

R

N

. Then we show that the critical points coincide with a smooth manifold $${\mathcal {N}}\subset H$$

N
⊂
H

of dimension $$N-1$$

N
-
1

with $$\partial {\mathcal {N}}= \Gamma $$

∂
N
=
Γ

. Second we consider the critical points whose boundary consists of two smooth, orientable, closed manifolds $$\Gamma _1$$

Γ
1

and $$\Gamma _2$$

Γ
2

of dimension $$N-2$$

N
-
2

and suppose that $$\Gamma _1$$

Γ
1

lies in a hyperplane H perpendicular to the $$x_N$$

x
N

-axis and that $$\Gamma _2 = \Gamma _1 + d \, e_N$$

Γ
2

=

Γ
1

+
d

e
N

($$d >0$$

d
>
0

and $$e_N = (0,\cdots ,0,1) \in {\mathbb {R}}^N$$

e
N

=

(
0
,
⋯
,
0
,
1
)

∈

R

N

). Then, assuming that $$\Gamma _1$$

Γ
1

has a non-negative mean curvature, we show that the critical points do not coincide with the union of two smooth manifolds $${\mathcal {N}}_1 \subset H$$

N
1

⊂
H

and $${\mathcal {N}}_2 \subset H + d \, e_N$$

N
2

⊂
H
+
d

e
N

of dimension $$N-1$$

N
-
1

with $$\partial {\mathcal {N}}_i = \Gamma _i$$

∂

N
i

=

Γ
i

for $$i \in \{1,2\}$$

i
∈
{
1
,
2
}

. Moreover, the interior of the critical points does not intersect the boundary of the convex hull in $${\mathbb {R}}^N$$

R

N

of $$\Gamma _1$$

Γ
1

and $$\Gamma _2$$

Γ
2

, while this can occur in the codimension-one situation considered by Dipierro et al. (Proc Am Math Soc 150:2223–2237, 2022). We also obtain a quantitative bound which may tell us how different the critical points are from $${\mathcal {N}}_1 \cup {\mathcal {N}}_2$$

N
1

∪

N
2

. Finally, in the same setting as in the second case, we show that, if d is sufficiently large, then the critical points are disconnected and, if d is sufficiently small, then $$\Gamma _1$$

Γ
1

and $$\Gamma _2$$

Γ
2

are in the same connected component of the critical points when $$N \ge 3$$

N
≥
3

. Moreover, by computing the fractional mean curvature of a cone whose boundary is $$\Gamma _1 \cup \Gamma _2$$

Γ
1

∪

Γ
2

, we also obtain that the interior of the critical points does not touch the cone if the critical points are contained in either the inside or the outside of the cone.
Towards a cyberbullying detection approach: fine-tuned contrastive self-supervised learning for data augmentation
Authors: Al-Harigy Lulwah M. , Al-Nuaim Hana A. , Moradpoor Naghmeh , Tan Zhiyuan
Published: July 2024

Cyberbullying on social media platforms is pervasive and challenging to detect due to linguistic subtleties and the need for extensive data annotation. We introduce a Deep Contrastive Self-Supervised Learning (DCSSL) model that integrates a Natural Language Inference (NLI) dataset, a fine-tuned sentence encoder, and data augmentation to enhance the understanding of cyberbullying's nuanced semantics and offensiveness. The DCSSL model effectively captures contextual dependencies and the varied semantic implications inherent in cyberbullying instances, addressing the limitations of manual data annotation processes when compared against established models such as BERT and Bi-LSTM. Our proposed model registers a significant improvement, achieving a macro average F1 score of 0.9231 on cyberbullying datasets, highlighting its applicability in environments where manual annotation is impractical or unavailable.
Review of management of primary oesophagogastric cancers in East Asian versus Western countries
Authors: Chaganti Raja , Wong Mark
Published: July 2024

Oesophagogastric cancers are amongst the commonest cancers world-wide and this commentary explores the current state of curative management for primary oesophagogastric cancers and highlights the differences in treatment approaches between Eastern and Western countries. This commentary also examines the reasons behind these differences including variations in epidemiology, screening programs, surgical techniques and neoadjuvant/ adjuvant therapy and makes suggestions on future treatment approaches.
Enhancing Water Pollution Management Through a Comprehensive Fractional Modeling Framework and Optimal Control Techniques
Authors: Ebrahimzadeh Asiyeh , Jajarmi Amin , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: July 2024

Water pollution poses a significant threat to public health, particularly in developing nations. This study aims to enhance our understanding of water pollution transmission dynamics by introducing a novel mathematical model within a general fractional framework. The model offers a comprehensive analysis, including assessing solution feasibility and the stability of equilibrium points. To effectively implement this model, we develop an efficient numerical scheme based on the trapezoidal method. Furthermore, we conduct a thorough error discussion and convergence analysis. Notably, we devise and evaluate a new strategy to effectively tackle the associated fractional optimal control problem concerning water pollutant transmission. Applying this approach to a real case demonstrates its substantial impact, notably in reducing non-soluble contaminants within the water transmission system.
FPGA hardware kit for remote training platforms
Authors: Alhammami Muhammad
Published: July 2024

This paper outlines the development of a Hardware Development Kit (HDK) for a remote training platform on FPGA Devices designed to provide university students pursuing degrees in electronic and informatics engineering (at the bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels) with the tools they need to learn and develop systems related to artificial intelligence, digital signal processing, image processing, digital systems, integrated and embedded systems using an FPGA chip. Through the internet or a local network, students can engage with the platform to conduct engineering experiments. The HDK is equipped with a Raspberry Pi, a screen, a camera, and LEDs to facilitate the transfer of experiment results and to aid in assessing the validity of lab experiment execution. The Raspberry Pi plays a crucial role in the HDK, providing control and monitoring, remote access, data processing, user interface, and integration with other possible systems.
Endovascular embolization of a biliary–digestive loop bleeding
Authors: Vincenzi Matteo , Rigoni Benedetta , Manuppelli Carla , Mazzoli Matteo , Balestriero Giovanni
Published: July 2024

Delayed massive hemorrhage after biliary surgery is a severe complication and carries a high mortality rate. Upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract bleeding is usually managed endoscopically. However, the presence of altered anatomy following hepato-biliary surgery does preclude endoscopic exploration of the anastomoted loop. In our case of hemorrhage from biliodigestive anastomosis, CT angiography provides accurate information about the presence of active bleeding and its source. We present a case of bleeding from a biliary–digestive loop. The patient exhibited several bleeding risk factors, notably cirrhosis and dual antiplatelet therapy. Furthermore, the site of bleeding, the biliarydigestive loop, had experienced a fistula with a hepatic abscess 2 years earlier, following percutaneous thermoablation. Endovascular embolization with microparticles 300–500 µm and one microcoil 2mx4cm proved to be a safe and effective treatment in this high-risk patient with persistent bleeding. Developments in interventional radiology equipment and techniques, such as low-profile catheter systems and advanced embolic agents, validate embolization as a suitable therapeutic option.
High-dose vitamin D supplementation in multiple sclerosis: a systematic review of clinical effects and future directions
Authors: Aderinto Nicholas , Olatunji Gbolahan , Kokori Emmanuel , Ogieuhi Ikponmwosa Jude , Babalola Emmanuel Adetola , Samuel Owolabi , Abraham Israel Charles , Mimi Julia Kwape , Oyesomi Aminnah , Adebayo Yewande Abigail , Egbunu Emmanuel , Ayodeji Akinmeji , Omoworare Oluwatobi Taiwo
Published: July 2024

Vitamin D deficiency is common in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. This review explores the potential benefits and limitations of high-dose vitamin D supplementation in MS management. We reviewed relevant literature on the effects of high-dose vitamin D supplementation on relapse rates, disability progression, quality of life, and MRI markers of disease activity in MS patients. Additionally, we discussed the mechanisms by which vitamin D might influence MS, potential adverse effects, and future research directions. Studies suggest that high-dose vitamin D supplementation may reduce relapse rates and improve MRI markers of disease activity in MS. However, the evidence for its impact on disability progression and quality of life remains inconclusive. Vitamin D’s immunomodulatory properties are well-documented, and its potential for neuroprotection and neurogenesis warrants further investigation. High-dose vitamin D supplementation holds promise as a complementary or disease-modifying therapy for MS. However, further robust research is required to solidify its role in clinical practice. Exploring vitamin D’s multifaceted effects on the immune system, neuroprotection, and neurogenesis paves the way for novel therapeutic strategies to improve the lives of individuals with MS.
Deciphering the Mechanism of Better Predictions of Regional LSTM Models in Ungauged Basins
Authors: Yu Qiang , Jiang Liguang , Schneider Raphael , Zheng Yi , Liu Junguo
Published: July 2024

Prediction in ungauged basins (PUB) is a concerning hydrological challenge, prompting the development of various regionalization methods to improve prediction accuracy. The long short‐term memory (LSTM) model has gained popularity in rainfall‐runoff prediction in recent years and has proven applicable in PUB. Prior research indicates that incorporating static attributes in the training of regional LSTM models could improve performance in PUB. However, the underlying reasons for this enhancement have received limited exploration. This study aims to explore the role of static attributes in the training of the regional LSTM model. It is assumed that the regional LSTM model can induce streamflow generation mechanisms with the incorporation of static attributes and apply certain streamflow generation mechanisms to ungauged catchments based on their attributes. To this end, a grouping‐based training strategy is proposed, that is, training and validating regional LSTM models on catchments with similar streamflow generation mechanisms within predefined groups. The training strategies of regional LSTM models, either incorporated with static catchment attributes or based on classification, are conducted in 363 catchments. Results demonstrate a high level of consistency in the enhancement achieved by the two training strategies. Specifically, 192 and 216 catchments exhibit enhancement compared to traditionally trained models without inclusion of attributes, with 132 catchments showing improvement under both training strategies. Furthermore, the findings indicate consistent spatial patterns and attribute distributions of enhanced catchments, as well as the notable improvement in reproducing low flow‐related hydrological signatures.
Four-Billion-Year-Old Zircons May Contain Our Earliest Evidence of Fresh Water
Authors: Scharping Nathaniel
Published: July 2024

Australian crystals hint at fresh water, as well as land rising above Earth’s Hadean ocean.
Tracing Millions of Years of Geologic Stress in the Andean Plateau
Authors: Scharping Nathaniel
Published: July 2024

Paleostress modeling shows how a region of the Andean Plateau was uplifted and formed beginning more than 20 million years ago.
The Influence of Extratropical Ocean on the PNA Teleconnection: Role of Atmosphere‐Ocean Coupling
Authors: Mori Masato , Tokinaga Hiroki , Kosaka Yu , Nakamura Hisashi , Taguchi Bunmei , Tatebe Hiroaki
Published: July 2024

The Pacific/North American (PNA) pattern is a major low‐frequency variability in boreal winter. A recent modeling study suggested that PNA variability increases through extratropical atmosphere‐ocean coupling, but the effect was not fully extracted due to a particular experimental design. By comparing coupled and two sets of uncoupled large‐ensemble global model simulations, here we show that the PNA‐induced horseshoe‐shaped sea‐surface temperature (SST) anomaly in the North Pacific returns a non‐negligible influence on the PNA itself. Its magnitude depends on the presence or absence of atmosphere‐ocean coupling. The coupling accounts for ∼16% of the PNA variance, while the horseshoe‐shaped SST anomaly explains only 5% under the uncoupled condition. The coupling reduces the damping of available potential energy by modulating turbulent heat fluxes and precipitation, magnifying the PNA variance. Precipitation processes in the extratropics as well as tropics are therefore important for realistically representing PNA variability and thereby regional weather and climate.
Assessing the Response Mechanisms of Elevated CO2 Concentration on Various Forms of Nitrogen Losses in the Golden Corn Belt
Authors: Zhang Yingqi , Han Yiwen , Wen Na , Qi Junyu , Zhang Xiaoyu , Marek Gary W. , Srinivasan Raghavan , Feng Puyu , Liu De Li , Hu Kelin , Chen Yong
Published: July 2024

Nitrogen (N) loss is a significant source of water quality pollution in alluvial watersheds. However, the mechanisms linking N loss and elevated CO2 concentration (eCO2) are not well recognized. In this study, we comprehensively calibrated the SWAT model equipped with a dynamic CO2 input and response module to investigate the response mechanisms between multiform N losses and eCO2 in a representative large‐scale watershed. Results revealed nitrate loss under eCO2 exceeding 100% in some upstream zones under the SSP5‐8.5 scenario (P < 0.05) compared to the constant CO2 concentration. This was directly related to the great increase in hydrological variables, which were the carriers of N losses, and the intensive inputs of N fertilizer. Results also found that nitrate leaching was greater than the other two processes for future periods, peaking at 309.3%, as compared to the baseline period. The findings suggested reducing fertilizer inputs by 10%–20% was promising, especially for reducing nitrate loss through runoff and leaching by up to 17.7% and 12.2%. This study explored the mechanisms of increased N loss in response to eCO2 and provided scientific evidence for early warning and making decisions to improve water quality at a large watershed scale.
Sex-differential testosterone response to long-term weight loss
Authors: Brzozowska Malgorzata M. , Bliuc Dana , Mazur Artur , Baldock Paul A. , Eisman John A. , Greenfield Jerry R. , Center Jacqueline R.
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Obesity-associated gonadal dysfunction is a common comorbidity in patients seeking weight loss interventions. We examined the incremental effect of weight loss on gonadal axes in men and women over 3 years. Changes in sex hormones were compared between dietary intervention (Diet) and bariatric procedures: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). Additional analysis assessed changes in corticotropic, somatotropic and thyroid axes after weight loss interventions.

Methods

This prospective, observational study included 61 adults with Body Mass Index >30 kg/m2, mean age 51 (SD = 11) years. Endocrine parameters were measured at baseline and at 6 timepoints over 36-months.

Results

For each 1 kg of weight lost, between baseline and 36 months, total testosterone increased by 0.6% (95% CI: 0.2%, 1.0%, p = 0.002) in males and decreased by 0.8% (95% CI: −1.4%, −0.3%, p = 0.003) in females. These changes remained statistically significant when controlled for age and for menopausal status in females. At 36 months, in comparison with Diet, RYGB women had lower total testosterone by 54% (95% CI: −90%, −17%, p = 0.004), reduced free androgen index (FAI) by 65% (95% CI; −114%, −17%, p = 0.009) while SG had reduced FAI by 39% (95% CI; −77%, 0%, p = 0.05). No such differences between groups were noted for male subjects. Adrenocorticotropic hormone declined by 0.3% (95% CI: 0.0, −0.5%, p = 0.05), insulin-like growth factor-1 increased by 0.4% (95% CI; 0.2%, 0.7%, p = 0.005), without such thyrotrophin change for each 1 kg of weight loss, for entire cohort, over 36 months.

Conclusions

The testosterone changes observed in this study were proportional to the amount of weight loss. In females, reduction in androgens was independent of age and menopausal status and more pronounced after bariatric procedures. This study finding warrants further clinical research to explore an impact of androgen reduction on functional and cognitive status in postmenopausal women. The observed changes in pituitary hormones may contribute to the metabolic benefits of bariatric surgery.
Selenium concentrations in expressed human milk: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ish Shalom Ohad , Lubetzky Ronit , Mimouni Francis B. , Mandel Dror
Published: July 2024

Background

We aimed to systematically review articles that reported selenium (Se) concentrations in human milk (HM).

Methods

using PRISMA guidelines we searched MEDLINE and Embase using the terms “human milk and Selenium”. All clinical trials and systematic reviews were retrieved.

Results

Out of 1141 articles, we reviewed 76 full-text articles, excluding 26. Thus, 50 articles were included in meta-analyses. Most studies (N = 31) did not specify whether milk was from mothers of preterm (PT) or fullterm (T) infants. In the other 19 studies, 1 examined PT-EHM, 15 T-EHM, and 3 both PT-EHM and T-EHM. In most studies, Se concentrations were highest in colostrum or until 3 months of lactation, then declined. Metaanalyzed means of PT-EHM or T-EHM provide estimates of Se intake a little higher than those reported to date, but still lower than current recommendations of intake.

Conclusion

This study provides clinicians with useful estimates of Se intake in breast-fed infants.
Polygenic prediction of major depressive disorder and related traits in African ancestries UK Biobank participants
Authors: Kanjira S. C. , Adams M. J. , Jiang Y. , Tian C. ,   23andMe Research Team, Lewis C. M. , Kuchenbaecker K. , McIntosh A. M.
Published: July 2024

Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) over-represent European ancestries, neglecting all other ancestry groups and low-income nations. Consequently, polygenic risk scores (PRS) more accurately predict complex traits in Europeans than African Ancestries groups. Very few studies have looked at the transferability of European-derived PRS for behavioural and mental health phenotypes to Africans. We assessed the comparative accuracy of depression PRS trained on European and African Ancestries GWAS studies to predict major depressive disorder (MDD) and related traits in African ancestry participants from the UK Biobank. UK Biobank participants were selected based on Principal component analysis clustering with an African genetic similarity reference population, MDD was assessed with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI). PRS were computed using PRSice2 software using either European or African Ancestries GWAS summary statistics. PRS trained on European ancestry samples (246,363 cases) predicted case control status in Africans of the UK Biobank with similar accuracies (R2 = 2%, β = 0.32, empirical p-value = 0.002) to PRS trained on far much smaller samples of African Ancestries participants from 23andMe, Inc. (5045 cases, R² = 1.8%, β = 0.28, empirical p-value = 0.008). This suggests that prediction of MDD status from Africans to Africans had greater efficiency relative to discovery sample size than prediction of MDD from Europeans to Africans. Prediction of MDD status in African UK Biobank participants using GWAS findings of likely causal risk factors from European ancestries was non-significant. GWAS of MDD in European ancestries are inefficient for improving polygenic prediction in African samples; urgent MDD studies in Africa are needed.
RhoA-mediated G12-G13 signaling maintains muscle stem cell quiescence and prevents stem cell loss
Authors: Peng Yundong , Du Jingjing , Li Rui , Günther Stefan , Wettschureck Nina , Offermanns Stefan , Wang Yan , Schneider Andre , Braun Thomas
Published: July 2024

Multiple processes control quiescence of muscle stem cells (MuSCs), which is instrumental to guarantee long-term replenishment of the stem cell pool. Here, we describe that the G-proteins G12-G13 integrate signals from different G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) to control MuSC quiescence via activation of RhoA. Comprehensive screening of GPCR ligands identified two MuSC-niche-derived factors, endothelin-3 (ET-3) and neurotensin (NT), which activate G12-G13 signaling in MuSCs. Stimulation with ET-3 or NT prevented MuSC activation, whereas pharmacological inhibition of ET-3 or NT attenuated MuSC quiescence. Inactivation of Gna12-Gna13 or Rhoa but not of Gnaq-Gna11 completely abrogated MuSC quiescence, which depleted the MuSC pool and was associated with accelerated sarcopenia during aging. Expression of constitutively active RhoA prevented exit from quiescence in Gna12-Gna13 mutant MuSCs, inhibiting cell cycle entry and differentiation via Rock and formins without affecting Rac1-dependent MuSC projections, a hallmark of quiescent MuSCs. The study uncovers a critical role of G12-G13 and RhoA signaling for active regulation of MuSC quiescence.
Optical frequency domain imaging (OFDI) represents a novel technique for the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis
Authors: Cox Laurence , Schulz Christopher B. , Slaven James , Gounder Pav , Arunothayaraj Sandeep , Alsanjari Osama , Cockburn James , Wright David A. , Oliphant Huw , Rajak Saul
Published: July 2024

Background/Objectives

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is an inflammatory vascular disease in which prompt and accurate diagnosis is critical. The efficacy of temporal artery biopsy (TAB) is limited by ‘skip’ lesions and a delay in histological analysis. This first-in-man ex-vivo study aims to assess the accuracy of optical frequency domain imaging (OFDI) in diagnosing GCA.

Subjects/Methods

29 TAB samples of patients with suspected GCA were submerged in 0.9% sodium chloride and an OFDI catheter was passed through the lumen to create cross-sectional images prior to histological analysis. The specimens were then preserved in formalin for histological examination. Mean intimal thickness (MIT) on OFDI was measured, and the presence of both multinucleate giant cells (MNGCs) and fragmentation of the internal elastic lamina (FIEL) was assessed and compared with histology, used as the diagnostic gold standard.

Results

MIT in patients with/without histological evidence of GCA was 0.425 mm (±0.43) and 0.13 mm (±0.06) respectively compared with 0.215 mm (±0.09) and 0.135 mm (±0.07) on OFDI. MIT measured by OFDI was significantly higher in patients with histologically diagnosed arteritis compared to those without (p = 0.0195). For detecting FIEL and MNGCs, OFDI had a sensitivity of 75% and 28.6% and a specificity of 100% and 77.3% respectively. Applying diagnostic criteria of MIT > 0.20 mm, or the presence of MNGCs or FIEL, the sensitivity of detecting histological arteritis using OFDI was 91.4% and the specificity 94.1%.

Conclusions

OFDI provided rapid imaging of TAB specimens achieving a diagnostic accuracy comparable to histological examination. In-vivo imaging may allow imaging of a longer arterial section.
Resistant hypertension: diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment a clinical consensus statement from the Thai hypertension society
Authors: Chattranukulchai Pairoj , Roubsanthisuk Weranuj , Kunanon Sirisawat , Kotruchin Praew , Satirapoj Bancha , Wongpraparut Nattawut , Sunthornyothin Sarat , Sukonthasarn Apichard
Published: July 2024

Resistant hypertension (RH) includes hypertensive patients with uncontrolled blood pressure (BP) while receiving ≥3 BP-lowering medications or with controlled BP while receiving ≥4 BP-lowering medications. The exact prevalence of RH is challenging to quantify. However, a reasonable estimate of true RH is around 5% of the hypertensive population. Patients with RH have higher cardiovascular risk as compared with hypertensive patients in general. Standardized office BP measurement, confirmation of medical adherence, search for drug- or substance-induced BP elevation, and ambulatory or home BP monitoring are mandatory to exclude pseudoresistance. Appropriate further investigations, guided by clinical data, should be pursued to exclude possible secondary causes of hypertension. The management of RH includes the intensification of lifestyle interventions and the modification of antihypertensive drug regimens. The essential aspects of lifestyle modification include sodium restriction, body weight control, regular exercise, and healthy sleep. Step-by-step adjustment of the BP-lowering drugs based on the available evidence is proposed. The suitable choice of diuretics according to patients’ renal function is presented. Sacubitril/valsartan can be carefully substituted for the prior renin-angiotensin system blockers, especially in those with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. If BP remains uncontrolled, device therapy such as renal nerve denervation should be considered. Since device-based treatment is an invasive and costly procedure, it should be used only after careful and appropriate case selection. In real-world practice, the management of RH should be individualized depending on each patient’s characteristics.
Study on the crystallographic orientation dependent electrochemical corrosion rates of aluminum and its binary alloys
Authors: Jin Haini , Sui Yudong , Yu Xiaohua , Zhou Hao , Feng Jing , Jiang Yehua
Published: July 2024

This paper provides a study for crystallographic orientation-dependent corrosion rate of aluminum employing an ab initio model with inputs from first-principles calculations. Results showed that the sequence of corrosion rate is in the order of (111) < (410) < (331) < (221) < (321) < (211) < (110) < (100) < (210) < (320) < (310) < (311) for aluminum. The predicted corrosion current densities for (111), (110), and (100) surfaces are in general agreement with the experimental results. The alloying effects were further investigated employing this model with results validated via the polarization curves of alloyed aluminum.
Template-based copying in chemically fuelled dynamic combinatorial libraries
Authors: Kriebisch Christine M. E. , Burger Ludwig , Zozulia Oleksii , Stasi Michele , Floroni Alexander , Braun Dieter , Gerland Ulrich , Boekhoven Job
Published: July 2024

One of science’s greatest challenges is determining how life can spontaneously emerge from a mixture of molecules. A complicating factor is that life and its molecules are inherently unstable—RNA and proteins are prone to hydrolysis and denaturation. For the de novo synthesis of life or to better understand its emergence at its origin, selection mechanisms are needed for unstable molecules. Here we present a chemically fuelled dynamic combinatorial library to model RNA oligomerization and deoligomerization and shine new light on selection and purification mechanisms under kinetic control. In the experiments, oligomers can only be sustained by continuous production. Hybridization is a powerful tool for selecting unstable molecules, offering feedback on oligomerization and deoligomerization rates. Moreover, we find that templation can be used to purify libraries of oligomers. In addition, template-assisted formation of oligomers within coacervate-based protocells changes its compartment’s physical properties, such as their ability to fuse. Such reciprocal coupling between oligomer production and physical properties is a key step towards synthetic life.
Melting at the base of a terrestrial magma ocean controlled by oxygen fugacity
Authors: Lin Yanhao , Ishii Takayuki , van Westrenen Wim , Katsura Tomoo , Mao Ho-Kwang
Published: July 2024

Heat delivered from accretionary impacts is thought to have led to extensive melting of early Earth’s silicate mantle, resulting in a deep magma ocean covering the surface. The mantle’s oxygen fugacity is thought to have increased over accretion and core formation due to increasingly oxidated impactors and lower mantle self-oxidation, but the influence of this on the solidus of deep primitive mantle materials has not been well constrained. Here we assess the effect of oxygen fugacity on conditions at the bottom of a magma ocean by experimentally determining the solidus of mantle pyrolite at pressures of 16–26 GPa at high oxygen fugacities. We find that over this pressure range, the solidus in experiments conducted under oxidizing conditions is at least 230–450 °C lower than in experiments conducted under more reducing conditions. Assuming constant magma ocean temperature, this would imply a magma ocean floor that deepens by about 60 km for each log unit increase in mantle oxygen fugacity. The strong influence of oxygen fugacity on mantle melting suggests that models of early Earth thermal evolution and geochemical models of core formation should be reassessed.
DiasMorph: a dataset of morphological traits and images of Central European diaspores
Authors: Dayrell Roberta L. C. , Begemann Lina , Ott Tankred , Poschlod Peter
Published: July 2024

We present DiasMorph, a dataset of images and traits of diaspores from 1,442 taxa in 519 genera, and 96 families from Central Europe, totalling 94,214 records. The dataset was constructed following a standardised and reproducible image analysis method. The image dataset consists of diaspores against a high-contrast background, enabling a simple and efficient segmentation process. The quantitative traits records go beyond traditional morphometric measurements, and include colour and contour features, which are made available for the first time in a large dataset. These measurements correspond to individual diaspores, an input currently unavailable in traits databases, and allow for several approaches to explore the morphological traits of these species. Additionally, information regarding the presence and absence of appendages and structures both in the images and diaspores of the assessed taxa is also included. By making these data available, we aim to encourage initiatives to advance on new tools for diaspore identification, further our understanding of morphological traits functions, and provide means for the continuous development of image analyses applications.
A dataset of topographic correction coefficients for shortwave downward radiation over the Pan-Third Pole
Authors: Xian Yuyang , Wang Tianxing , Du Yihan , Letu Husi , Qi Jianbo , Li Dahui
Published: July 2024

Prevalent Shortwave downward radiation (SWDR) estimates assume a flat surface, neglecting topographic effects and leading to significant errors in mountainous regions. We introduce SWDR topography correction coefficients (TCCs), based on the mountain radiative transfer model tailored for the Pan-Third Pole region. This dataset effectively bridges the disparities between flat-surface SWDR and rugged-surface SWDR, forming part of the Long-term Earth System spatiotemporally Seamless Radiation budget dataset (LessRad). Validation results using a three-dimensional radiative transfer model demonstrate the efficacy of this method in correcting solar direct radiation, sky diffuse radiation, and SWDR under diverse conditions. At a spatial resolution of 2.5 arc-minutes, the correction accuracy for solar direct radiation is characterized by a coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.998, a relative root mean square error (rRMSE) of 2.4%, and a relative bias (rbias) of 0.8%. For sky diffused radiation, an R² of 0.965, a rRMSE of 1.2%, and a rbias of −0.8%. SWDR corrections under clear and cloudy skies also show high accuracy, demonstrating the robustness of the TCCs approach.
IRAK4 is an immunological checkpoint in neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ménoret Antoine , Agliano Federica , Karginov Timofey A. , Hu Xiangyou , Vella Anthony T.
Published: July 2024

The search for dementia treatments, including treatments for neuropsychiatric lupus (NPSLE), has not yet uncovered useful therapeutic targets that mitigate underlying inflammation. Currently, NPSLE’s limited treatment options are often accompanied by severe toxicity. Blocking toll-like receptor (TLR) and IL-1 receptor signal transduction by inhibiting interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 4 (IRAK4) offers a new pathway for intervention. Using a pre-clinical NPSLE model, we compare lupus-like B6.MRL-Faslpr (MRL) mice with B6.MRL-Faslpr-IRAK4 kinase-dead (MRL-IRAK4-KD) mice, which are were less prone to ‘general’ lupus-like symptoms. We demonstrate that lupus-prone mice with a mutation in the kinase domain of IRAK4 no longer display typical lupus hallmarks such as splenomegaly, inflammation, production of hormones, and anti-double-stranded (ds)DNA antibody. water maze behavioral testing, which measures contextual associative learning, revealed that mice without functional IRAK4 displayed a recovery in memory acquisition deficits. RNA-seq approach revealed that cytokine and hormone signaling converge on the JAK/STAT pathways in the mouse hippocampus. Ultimately, the targets identified in this work may result in broad clinical value that can fill the significant scientific and therapeutic gaps precluding development of cures for dementia.
Enhancing collective entanglement witnesses through correlation with state purity
Authors: Jiráková Kateřina , Černoch Antonín , Barasiński Artur , Lemr Karel
Published: July 2024

This research analyzes the adverse impact of white noise on collective quantum measurements and argues that such noise poses a significant obstacle for the otherwise straightforward deployment of collective measurements in quantum communications. Our findings then suggests addressing this issue by correlating outcomes of these measurements with quantum state purity. To test the concept, a support vector machine is employed to boost the performance of several collective entanglement witnesses by incorporating state purity into the classification task of distinguishing entangled states from separable ones. Furthermore, the application of machine learning allows to optimize specificity of entanglement detection given a target value of sensitivity. A response operating characteristic curve is reconstructed based on this optimization and the area under curve calculated to assess the efficacy of the proposed model. Finally, we test the presented approach on an experimental dataset of Werner states.
The association of breast cancer patients survival and prior menopausal hormone therapy in women with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Hosio Mayu , Urpilainen Elina , Hautakoski Ari , Arffman Martti , Sund Reijo , Ahtikoski Anne , Puistola Ulla , Jukkola Arja , Läärä Esa , Karihtala Peeter
Published: July 2024

We investigated the association of prediagnostic use of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) with breast cancer survival among women with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The study cohort was identified from a Finnish nationwide diabetes database, and consisted of women with T2D, who were diagnosed with breast cancer between 2000 and 2011 (n = 3189). The patients were classified according to their previous MHT use: systemic MHT, local MHT, and no history of any MHT. The cumulative mortality from breast cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and other causes in three MHT groups was described by the Aalen-Johansen estimator. The cause-specific mortality rates were analyzed by Cox models, and adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated for the use of MHT. The breast cancer mortality appeared to be lower among systemic MHT users (HR 0.49, 95% Cl 0.36–0.67) compared with non-users of MHT. The mortality from cardiovascular diseases and from other causes of death was found to be lower among systemic MHT users, (HR 0.49, 95% Cl 0.32–0.74), and (HR 0.51, 95% Cl 0.35–0.76), respectively. In conclusion, prediagnostic systemic MHT use is associated with reduced breast cancer, cardiovascular, and other causes of mortality in women with T2D.