bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast unconditional reset and leakage reduction in fixed-frequency transmon qubits
Authors: Chen Liangyu , Fors Simon , Yan Zixian , Ali Anaida , Abad Tahereh , Osman Amr , Moschandreou Eleftherios , Lienhard Benjamin , Kosen Sandoko , Li Hang-Xi , Shiri Daryoush , Liu Tong , Hill Stefan , Amin Abdullah-Al , Rehammar Robert , Dahiya Mamta , Nylander Andreas , Rommel Marcus , Roudsari Anita Fadavi , Caputo Marco , Grönberg Leif , Govenius Joonas , Dobsicek Miroslav , Giannelli Michele , Kockum Anton , Bylander Jonas , Tancredi Giovanna
Published: November 2024

The realization of fault-tolerant quantum computing requires the execution of quantum error-correction (QEC) schemes, to mitigate the fragile nature of qubits. In this context, to ensure the success of QEC, a protocol capable of implementing both qubit reset and leakage reduction is highly desirable. We demonstrate such a protocol in an architecture consisting of fixed-frequency transmon qubits pair-wise coupled via tunable couplers -- an architecture that is compatible with the surface code. We use tunable couplers to transfer any undesired qubit excitation to the readout resonator of the qubit, from which this excitation decays into the feedline. In total, the combination of qubit reset, leakage reduction, and coupler reset takes only 83ns to complete. Our reset scheme is fast, unconditional, and achieves fidelities well above 99%, thus enabling fixed-frequency qubit architectures as future implementations of fault-tolerant quantum computers. Our protocol also provides a means to both reduce QEC cycle runtime and improve algorithmic fidelity on quantum computers.
Sex differences in the functional network underpinnings of psychotic-like experiences in children
Authors: Dhamala Elvisha , Chopra Sidhant , Ooi Leon , Rubio Jose , Yeo Thomas , Malhotra Anil , Holmes Avram
Published: November 2024

Psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) include a range of sub-threshold symptoms of psychosis which may not necessarily indicate the presence of psychiatric illness. While not all youth who report PLEs develop psychosis, many will develop other psychiatric illnesses during adolescence and adulthood, suggesting PLEs may represent early markers of poor mental health. Here, we sought to determine the neurobiological correlates of PLEs and evaluate the extent to which they differ across the sexes using a sex-specific brain-based predictive modeling approach. The ABCD Study includes a large community-based sample of children and adolescents who were assessed on a comprehensive set of neuroimaging, behavioral, developmental, and psychiatric batteries. For these analyses, we considered a sample of 5,260 children (2,571 females; ages 9-10) from the baseline timepoint with complete imaging and behavioral data. Brain-based predictive models were used to quantify sex-specific associations between functional connectivity and PLE Total and PLE Distress scores. Assigned males reported more PLEs (2.55±3.54) and greater resulting distress (5.84±10.06) relative to females (2.31±3.43 Total and 5.74±10.40 Distress scores). Functional connectivity was significantly associated with PLE Total and Distress scores in both females (prediction accuracy, rTotal=0.09, pFDR<0.01 and rDistress=0.08, pFDR <0.01) and males (rTotal= 0.10, pFDR <0.01 and rDistress=0.11, pFDR <0.01). Functional connections associated with Total and Distress scores were highly similar within females (cosine distance, d=0.04) and males (d=0.04) and considerably different across the sexes (d total=0.54, d distress= 0.55). PLEs were associated with functional connections across dispersed cortical and non-cortical networks in females, whereas in males, they were primarily associated with connections within limbic, temporal parietal, somato/motor, and visual networks. These results suggest that early transdiagnostic markers of psychopathology may be distinct across the sexes, further emphasizing the need to consider sex in psychiatric research as well as clinical practice.
What is Known about Gestational Weight Gain in Chinese Twin Pregnancies? A Scoping Review
Authors: Hu Ye , Li Yao , Wang Xiaojie , Zhang Ye
Published: November 2024

Background: The number of twin pregnancies has gradually increased over the last three decades. Twin pregnancies are more prone to pregnancy-related complications for both mother and baby. Gestational weight gain is an important modifiable factor in optimising adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, there is a gap in the range of gestational weight gain for twin pregnancies in China. Therefore, this scoping review aims to synthesise the existing evidence on the optimal range of gestational weight gain for twin pregnancies in China and the association between perinatal outcomes and gestational weight gain.
Methods: A scoping review of research on gestational weight gain in Chinese twins up to 2024 was undertaken. Studies for review were identified through systematic searches of three English electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science) and three Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang, and SinoMed). Studies were included if they investigated weight gain during pregnancy in Chinese twin pregnant women. Data were extracted, tabulated, and analysed comprehensively. Literature selection and data extraction were performed independently by two reviewers.
Results: Twelve studies proposed recommended ranges for Chinese twin pregnant women using the interquartile range method. Most of these gestational weight gain ranges were lower than the 2009 IOM guidelines. Eight studies validated the plausibility of gestational weight gain by comparing the risk of maternal and neonatal outcomes within and outside the recommended range. Seven of them found that their proposed gestational weight gain ranges were appropriate for Chinese women with twin pregnancies, as adverse perinatal outcomes were at increased risk when weight gain was outside the proposed range.
Conclusions: There is no consensus on the optimal range of weight gain for Chinese twin pregnant women. As a next step, researchers should reach a consensus on gestational weight gain by conducting a multicentre and large-sample study and then explore interventions to control inappropriate weight gain to help pregnant women avoid adverse perinatal outcomes.
Investigating the Use of Multiple Representations in University Courses on Quantum Technologies
Authors: Rexigel Eva , Bley Jonas , Arias Alda , Qerimi Linda , Küchemann Stefan , Kuhn Jochen , Widera Artur
Published: November 2024

The field of Quantum Information Science and Technology (QIST) education presents unique challenges for both students and educators, such as the necessity of understanding abstract properties of quantum systems. To provide a more intuitive understanding of quantum systems, a multitude of qubit representations have been developed in recent years. Given the diversity of the field, a specific representation may be more suitable in one content area of than in another. Consequently, the choice of representation may vary considerably depending on the course orientation. However, no exhaustive analysis has been conducted into the differences between the representation of single- and multi-qubit systems in higher education QIST courses. Furthermore, the factors which influence the selection of a suitable representation remain open. To close this gap, we conducted an online survey with 25 educators at different German and Austrian universities on their use of representations in QIST-related courses. The results confirm the pivotal role of mathematical formalism in QIST education regardless of the specific course characteristics but also reveal an untapped potential for enhancing student learning through the intentional and comprehensive use of multiple external representations (MERs), especially in the case of multi-qubit systems. The findings are discussed within the context of the field of QIST and current insights into learning with MERs.
Effect of the composition of block copolypeptides on their biocompatibility and anti-bacterial activities
Authors: Cheng Ying-Jung , Jiang Yi-Sheng , Huang Cheng-Rung , Chen Chang-Shi , Jan Jeng-Shiung
Published: November 2024

The improper use of antibiotics in patients around the world increased the risk of multidrug-resistant bacterial infection and become a serious global health threat. Although many natural anti-bacterial peptides have been discovered, the low bioavailability of natural anti-bacterial peptides limited their therapeutic effect. Hence, it is necessary to develop customized synthetic anti-bacterial polypeptides. Although poly(L-Lysine) (PLL) is well known to exhibit anti-bacterial properties, the positively charged PLL reduced viability of mammalian cells by disrupting cell membrane. The tethering of hydrophobic peptide segments onto PLL might be able to not only circumvent this problem but also improve their antibacterial activity. The experimental data showed that the hydrophobic peptide segments played an important role on the biocompatibility and antibacterial activity of the block polypeptides. Among them, linear and 3-armed poly(L-Lysine)-block-poly(L-Alanine) block copolypeptides showed excellent biocompatibility and antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Shigella flexneri (S. flexneri). The in vivoexperiments confirmed that the polypeptides could protect Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) from bacterial infection, evidenced by the prolonged lifespan in the presence of polypeptides. Our results showed that these polypeptides could be potential candidates for treating bacterial infections.
Changes in chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment in gastrointestinal cancer survivors using multidomain assessments: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Saita Kazuya , Tanabe Kazuaki , Hamai Yoichi , Yamauchi Masami , Kaneko Fumiko , Mikami Yukio , Okamoto Wataru , Okada Morihito , Ohdan Hideki , Okamura Hitoshi
Published: November 2024

Purpose: Risk factors for cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) are diverse; neuroimaging instruments are recommended to complement subjective and objective cognitive assessments. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a multidomain assessment protocol for CRCI in gastrointestinal cancer survivors.
Methods: Twenty-four patients with gastrointestinal cancer scheduled for chemotherapy and 24 healthy controls were recruited. The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-cognitive function (FACT-Cog) was used to assess subjective cognitive functions. Objective cognitive function was assessed using the trail-making test, auditory verbal learning test (AVLT), and verbal fluency test. Cerebral hemodynamic changes in the prefrontal cortex were measured using portable functional near-infrared spectroscopy (P-NIRS). Assessments were conducted at baseline and six-month follow-up.
Results: Thirty-eight participants were included in the analysis. There was a statistically significant difference in AVLT-delayed recall (p=0.002) in the chemotherapy group compared with the healthy control group, but no significant difference in either group for other cognitive assessments. The chemotherapy group exhibited reduced activity in the left frontal pole at six months post-treatment compared to baseline (p=0.018).
Conclusions: Gastrointestinal cancer survivors who receive chemotherapy may exhibit poorer delayed recall of memory functions than healthy individuals. Monitoring prefrontal cortical hemodynamics using P-NIRS during cognitive tasks is feasible for clinical application and understanding CRCI symptoms.
Implications for Cancer Survivors: This multidomain assessments ars translatable to clinical practice and useful for other cancers. Furthermore, It can lead to a deeper understanding of the impact of depressive symptoms and declining motivation on the cognitive function of cancer survivors.
cfGWAS reveal genetic basis of cell-free DNA features
Authors: Zhu Huanhuan , Zhang Yan , Zeng Shuang , Li Linxuan , Ou Rijing , Zhang Xinyi , Li Xiameizi , Lin Ying , Wang Yu , Lin Yu , Xu Chuang , Wang Lin , Zeng Guodan , Zeng Jingyu , Li Lingguo , Jia Yongjian , Luo Fei , Yang Meng , Hu Yuxuan , Xiao Han , Xu Xun , Wang Jian , Zhou Aifen , Zhang Haiqiang , Jin Xin
Published: November 2024

cfDNA consists of degraded DNA fragments released into body fluids. Its genetic and pathological information makes it useful for prenatal testing and early tumor detection. However, the mechanisms behind cfDNA biology are largely unknown. In this study, for the first time, we conducted a GWAS study to explore the genetic basis of cfDNA end motif frequencies, termed cfGWAS, in 28,016 pregnant women. We identified 23 study-wide significant loci, including well-known cfDNA-related genes DFFB and DNASE1L3, and numerous novel genes potentially involved in cfDNA biology, including PANX1 and DNASE1L1. The findings were further verified through three independent GWAS studies and experimental validation in knockout mice and cell lines. Subsequent analyses revealed strong causal relationships of leukocytes, especially neutrophils, on cfDNA features. In summary, we present the first cfGWAS, revealing the genetic basis of cfDNA biology from genome-wide scale. Novel knowledge uncovered by this study promises to revolutionize liquid biopsy technology and potential new drug targeted for certain disease. Given that millions cfDNA whole genome sequencing data have been generated from clinical testing, the potential of this paradigm is enormous.
Association between cardiometabolic index and hypertension: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2020
Authors: Yan Zefeng , Zhao Jinxin , Chen Congzhe , Wang Yu , Zhang Ying
Published: November 2024

Objective Cardiometabolic index (CMI) is a well promising indicator for predicting obesity-related diseases, but its predictive value for hypertension is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between CMI and hypertension and to evaluate the predictive value of CMI for hypertension.Methods This was a cross-sectional study with a sample size of 7897 U.S. adults with hypertension sourced from the NHANES 2017–2020. CMI was calculated by multiplying the ratio of triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) by waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to systematically evaluate the relationship between CMI and hypertension. To determine whether there was a linear or nonlinear relationship between CMI and hypertension by restricted cubic spline regression.The subgroup analyses were conducted in order to scrutinize the reliability and robustness of the relationship between CMI and hypertension across different subgroups.Results The average age of the 7897 participants was 50.98 years, with males accounting for 48.4% and females 51.6%. Subjects with higher CMI exhibited a significantly increased risk of hypertension. The odds ratio (OR) for a 1-standard-deviation increase in CMI was 3.38(2.69–4.23) after adjusting for various confounding factors. Further subgroup analysis showed that there were significant additive interactions between CMI and hypertension risk in gender, waist circumference(WC), HDL-C, TG and glycohemoglobin ( p for interaction < 0.05). Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis identified one significant inflection points: the point at 0.4934. Individuals with a CMI level below 0.4934 had a low risk of developing hypertension. Conclusions: CMI was strongly and positively associated with the risk of hypertension and can be a reference predictor for hypertension. High CMI had excellent diagnostic performance for hypertension, which can enable important clinical value for early identification and screening of hypertension.
Randomized Trial of Occlusive Wrap for Heat Loss Prevention in Preterm Infants: Neurodevelopmental Outcome
Authors: Vincer Michael J. , Reilly Maureen C. , Vohra Sunita , Rac Valeria E. , Bhaloo Zafira , Dunn Michael , Ferrelli Karla , Kiss Alex , Wimmer John , Zayack Denise , Soll Roger
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: Heat loss in the delivery room in very preterm infants is associated with increased mortality, hypothermia and other adverse outcomes. The Heat Loss Preventions (HeLP) trial was designed to address these outcomes and resulted in a significant reduction of hypothermia but not a reduction in mortality. The HeLP follow-up trial was designed to determine whether application of occlusive wrap applied immediately after birth reduces adverse long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes at 18-24 months corrected gestational age in very preterm infants.
STUDY DESIGN: The original HeLP trial was a randomized controlled trial of very preterm infants (< 28 weeks gestation) placed at birth in occlusive wrap (wrap group) or not placed in occlusive wrap (control group). The HeLP follow-up trial was the later assessment of these infants enrolled in the HeLP trial to determine the composite outcome of death or neurodevelopmental disability at 18-24 month corrected gestational age.
RESULTS: There were 356 infants eligible for follow-up from the randomized controlled HeLP trial with a loss to follow-up of 116/356 (32.6%). The primary outcome occurred in 82/113 in the wrap group and 80/127 in the control group (p=0.149, Fisher’s exact). Because of the large loss to follow-up rate, this unadjusted odds ratio was 1.55 (95% confidence interval=0.90-2.69) while the adjusted odds ratio (adjusted for major predictors of the outcome) was virtually unchanged at 1.52 (95% confidence interval=0.83-2.80). Secondary outcomes in the wrap versus control group were: cerebral palsy 9/70 versus 5/87 (p=0.204, Fisher’s exact), Mental Developmental Index (MDI) < 85 (Bayley Scales) 30/53 versus 33/67 (p=0.538, Fisher’s exact), blindness at 0/68 versus 1/86 (p>0.999, Fisher’s exact) and deafness 5/70 versus 6/87 (p>0.999, Fisher’s exact). No difference was noted in prescription glasses, 7/70 in the wrap group versus 2/87 in the control group (p=0.085, Fisher’s exact).
CONCLUSION:Use of polyethylene occlusive wrap after birth in very preterm infants was associated with similar death or long-term neurodevelopmental disability rate.
Clinical Trials Registry: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00607464
Identification of IGFBP-2 gene polymorphism and its association with performance traits in Large White Yorkshire pigs
Authors: Solanki Rohit , Dhaka S. S. , RATWAN POONAM , Singh Mohit , Kumar Manoj
Published: November 2024

Piggery promises distinct qualities like early maturity, high fecundity, produces up to 8–12 piglets in each farrowing, high feed conversion efficiency etc. that make it low-cost profitable enterprise. The objective of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity in Large White Yorkshire pigs based on variations in IGFBP-2 gene. A total of 100 blood samples were collected from the pigs and polymorphism was explored in IGFBP-2 gene using PCR-RFLP technique. A 245 bp fragment in intron 2 of IGFBP-2 gene was amplified using PCR. Amplified PCR products of IGFBP-2 gene was digested using MspI restriction enzymes. In this study, polymorphic patterns were revealed for the IGFBP-2 gene. Two types of genotypes i.e. CC (55 and 190 bp) and CT (55, 190 and 245 bp) were observed for the targeted loci of intron 2 of IGFBP-2 gene. CC genotype was found to be dominant with frequency as 0.88. Frequencies of ‘C’ and ‘T’ alleles were 0.94 and 0.06 in Large White Yorkshire pigs. Results of Chi-squares test showed that the targeted locus of IGFBP-2 gene was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (p < 0.05) in screened pig population. The CT genotyped animals had significantly higher litter size at birth (8.83 ± 0.46) and litter weight at birth (9.98 ± 0.42 kg) as compared to homozygous CC genotyped pigs. A total of 13 samples of intron 2 region of IGFBP-2 gene were sequenced and on comparison of sequencing results with reference sequence of Duroc cross (BV727778), one SNP was found at g. 278T > C locus and there was change in nucleotide at one position i.e. g. 171 A > G (Transition). In conclusion, favored genotypes of the IGFBP-2 gene may be propagated further in Large White Yorkshire pigs through breeding programmes. There is need to explore the association of identified SNPs with production and reproduction traits in large sample size of Large White Yorkshire pigs.
Tryptophan-induced transcriptomic changes in the European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) are highly dependent on neuroendocrine-immune conditions
Authors: Peixoto Diogo , Carvalho Inês , Robledo Diego , Machado Marina , Pereiro Patricia , Figueras Antonio , Azeredo Rita , Costas Benjamín
Published: November 2024

In European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax), dietary tryptophan (TRP) surplus has a notable modulatory effect on the hypothalamic–pituitary–interrenal axis under chronic stress and acute inflammation, affecting cortisol levels and neuroendocrine- and immune-related gene expression. A transcriptomic approach (RNA-seq) was applied to head-kidney samples of fish submitted to confinement stress and/or acute inflammation to uncover the biological mechanisms behind these effects. Undisturbed seabass fed dietary TRP supplementation showed an up-regulation of various innate immune functions, contrasting previous studies which indicated mainly a TRP regulatory role. Upon bacterial injection, TRP-fed fish showed a transcriptomic profile similar to their counterparts fed on control diet, indicating TRP’s inability to modulate immune mechanisms under bacterial challenge. Under confinement stress, TRP-fed fish exhibited a molecular profile similar to unstressed control fish, highlighting TRP’s role in mitigating stress. However, combining dietary TRP supplementation with confinement stress and immune stimulation by bacterial inoculation resulted in a unique molecular profile. Stressed fish fed TRP did not show the restorative effect of immune stimulation on carbohydrate metabolism and showed downregulated genes related to glycolysis and glycogenolysis. Additionally, transcription upregulation in these fish after bacterial injection included terms related to serine and steroid metabolism (carboxyl ester lipase 2), indicating tryptophan-induced changes in lipid mobilization in the head-kidney, potentially affecting cortisol synthesis and other hormones.
A Local De-insulation Method and Its Application in Neural Microneedle Array
Authors: Pei Weihua , Zhao Xin , Wei Chunrong , Zhu Deguang , Yang Xiaowei , Han Guowei , Ning Jin , Gui Qiang , Tang Rongyu , Wang Yijun , Zhou Jingfeng , Geng Zhaoxin
Published: November 2024

Silicon-based neural microneedle arrays, such as the Utah Array, have demonstrated excellent performance in chronic recordings from the cerebral cortex. Unlike planar thin-film electrodes with recording sites arranged on the surface of a silicon film, the recording sites of microneedle arrays are located at the tips of three-dimensional needles, which significantly complicates the fabrication process required for single-neuron recordings. To address this challenge, we develop a local de-insulation method for microneedle recording electrodes that eliminates the need for etching: the microneedle tips are encapsulated in a controllable-thickness protective layer, followed by deposition of a Parylene-C insulation layer. By optimizing the adhesion and shape of the insulation material on both the protective layer and the electrode shaft, we were able to precisely control the quality of the removed insulated layers, resulting in consistent tip exposure. Experimental results show that the non-uniformity of the exposed microneedle recording sites in the silicon-based neural microelectrode arrays (each has 10×10 array) fabricated using this method is 2.32 ± 0.57%, Furthermore, the arrays exhibited high stability and reliability in both mechanical performance and electrical characteristics. They are achieving a spike signal-to-noise ratio of up to 28 when tested in vivo. This fabrication technique provides a valuable method for the development of high-performance neural microelectrode array.
Effective Studies of bio-derived free radical polymerizable hydroxyl functional Macromonomer for replacement of Hydroxyl Ethyl Methacrylate (HEMA) in acrylic polyols and their Polyurethane-Urea Coatings
Authors: SHAIK ALLAUDDIN , Nehete Kiran Kumar , Shyamroy Subarna
Published: November 2024

The present work to study the impact of substituting the HEMA monomer in the synthesis of acrylic polyols with a bio-based free radical hydroxyl functional macromonomer derived from castor oil (CO). It also evaluates the coating properties of the resulting polyurethanes (PUs) in comparison to conventional acrylic polyols (AP-HEMA) derived from HEMA. To achieve this, castor oil was first reacted with maleic anhydride (MA) to produce the castor oil-derived free radical polymerizable hydroxyl functional macromonomer (COMA). Subsequently, castor oil-based acrylic hybrid polyols were synthesized using acrylate monomers, specifically methyl methacrylate (MMA) and butyl acrylate (BA), along with varying weight percentages of COMA through a conventional radical copolymerization process. The successful replacement of HEMA with COMA in the acrylic polymerization was confirmed through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, hydroxyl value analysis, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The acrylic hybrid polyols derived from castor oil exhibit reduced viscosity, lower glass transition temperature (Tg), and diminished molecular weight when compared to AP-HEMA. Both types of resins, namely the castor oil-based and AP-HEMA, underwent further reaction with Isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) at an OH: NCO ratio of 1:1.6, resulting in isocyanate-terminated polyurethane pre-polymers. The Tg of the castor oil-based acrylic hybrid polyurethane coating films was observed to be lower than that of petroleum-derived HEMA-based acrylic polyols, demonstrating enhanced performance in terms of contact angle, water resistance, flexibility, adhesion, and abrasion resistance. The overall findings suggest that the bio-derived free radical polymerizable hydroxyl functionality possesses a polymerization tendency within the conventional acrylic polymerization framework, indicating its potential as a substitute for the HEMA monomer in the synthesis of acrylic polyols, thereby yielding high solid content resins suitable for high-performance polyurethane coating applications.
Clinical Outcomes of Immunosuppressive Therapy in Patients with Seronegative Anti- PLA2R Antibodies and PLA2R-Related Membranous Nephropathy
Authors: Wu Di , Liu Wen , Su Zhihang , Li Kaiting , Xue Rui , Hu Haofei , Wan Qijun
Published: November 2024

Background
Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) is an autoimmune disease characterized by anti-PLA2R antibodies, which are linked to disease activity, prognosis, and relapse. While guidelines recommend immunosuppressive treatment for high antibody levels, the impact on PLA2R-negative patients remains unclear.
Methods
This study included 133 patients with positive histological PLA2R antigen and baseline serum anti-PLA2R antibody data. ELISA measured serum anti-PLA2R antibody levels. Renal biopsy specimens were analyzed by light microscopy, immunofluorescence, and electron microscopy. Statistical analyses included t-tests, non-parametric tests, and Cox proportional hazard models to assess predictors of clinical outcomes.
Results
Among the 133 patients, 84 (63.2%) were SAb+/GAg+, and 49 (36.8%) were SAb-/GAg+. The SAb+/GAg + group exhibited more severe clinical features compared to the SAb-/GAg + group. In the SAb-/GAg + group, 67.3% received conservative treatment, while 32.7% underwent immunotherapy. The complete remission (CR) rate was significantly higher in the SAb-/GAg + group (67.35% vs. 33.33%, P < 0.001), with higher CR rates at 12, 24, and 36 months. The SAb-/GAg + group also had a lower relapse rate (12.24% vs. 36.90%, P = 0.002). Immunotherapy improved overall remission rates (100.00% vs. 75.76%, P = 0.041) but was associated with higher relapse rates (31.25% vs. 3.03%, P = 0.011). Cox regression analysis showed immunotherapy significantly predicted urinary protein remission (HR 3.92, 95% CI 1.58–9.70, P = 0.003).
Conclusion
Early immunosuppressive therapy in PLA2R-related membranous nephropathy patients with severe baseline clinical manifestations can predict urine protein remission, even if they are serum anti-PLA2R antibody-negative. Close monitoring of antibody levels over 3–6 months is recommended for these patients, particularly those with persistent or worsening proteinuria. This approach helps identify candidates for timely immunosuppressive therapy rather than opting for a wait-and-see strategy.
Clinical trial number:
not applicable.
Unified Interest Point Detection and Description for Perspective and Fisheye Images
Authors: Xu Jian , Han Dewei , Li Kang , Li Junjie , Ma Zhaoyuan
Published: November 2024

Keypoint detection and descriptor matching are essential in tasks like feature matching, object tracking, and 3D reconstruction. While CNN-based methods have advanced these areas, most focus on perspective projection cameras, with limited consideration of fisheye cameras, which introduce significant distortion. Conventional keypoint methods have failed on fisheye images, causing camera models to underperform in hybrid setups. This paper proposes a robust keypoint detection and description method under a hybrid camera model, addressing challenges in mixed camera systems. Given the lack of fisheye datasets, we employed viewpoint and projection transformations for data augmentation. Inspired by SuperPoint, we introduced a fisheye distortion model to generate training data. Using nearest neighbor (NN) matching, our method outperforms Su-perPoint on the Hpatches dataset and excels in hybrid image-matching tasks.
The mosquitocidal activity of isoxazoline derivatives afoxolaner, lotilaner and fluralaner are not affected by mosquito sugar or antibiotic treatment
Authors: Soré Harouna , Guelbeogo Wamdaogo Moussa , Zongo Soumanaba , Bolscher Judith M. , Ouedraogo Nicolas , Gansane Adama , Bousema Teun , Collins Katharine A. , Dechering Koen J.
Published: November 2024

Long-lasting insecticidal nets and indoor residual sprays have played a major role in significantly reducing the burden of malaria. However, the management of mosquitoes resistant to current insecticides continues to be challenging. A promising new strategy is drug-based vector control where drugs are administered to vector hosts rendering the host blood toxic to mosquitoes ¾ thereby reducing mosquito lifespan, fecundity and onward transmission of pathogens. Afoxolaner, fluralaner and lotilaner are isoxazoline derivatives widely used as systemic insecticides for ectoparasite control in companion animals. Here, the mosquitocidal activity of these compounds against Anopheles gambiae s.s, Anopheles coluzzii, Aedes aegypti and Anopheles funestus mosquitoes was evaluated. The effect of antibiotic treatment and different carbohydrates in artificial nectar meals on isoxazoline activity was also investigated. All isoxazolines tested showed rapid killing with little difference in susceptibility between different species and genera of mosquitoes. Fluralaner showed the most potent mosquitocidal effects with IC50 values ranging from 44 to 87 nM when mortality was assessed at 24h post-feeding. Addition of the antibiotic cocktail or variations in sugar diet did not affect isoxazoline potency. In conclusion, data indicate potent and rapid mosquitocidal effects of isoxazolines that are likely unaffected by mosquito sugar feeding behaviour and microbiome dynamics.
Zero-Shot LLM-based Visual Acuity Extraction: A Pilot Study
Authors: Satheakeerthy Shrirajh , Jesudason Daniel , Bahrami Bobak , Bacchi Stephen , Lee Yong Min , Casson Robert , Sun Michelle , Chan WengOnn
Published: November 2024

Introduction
Visual acuity (VA) and intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements are crucial indicators of ocular health. However, the documentation of these vital parameters in clinical notes often lacks standardisation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using of large language models (LLMs) for automated extraction of VA and IOP data from unstructured ophthalmology clinic notes.
Method
Outpatient clinic notes from the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Ophthalmology department were analysed using a 70 billion parameter LLaMA-3 model in a zero-shot learning approach. Nine data points per eye were extracted, including various VA measurements, IOP, and measurement methods. Results were compared to expert-verified ground truth data.
Results
Sixty-nine outpatient clinic notes were collected. Locally deployed LLM analysis of clinic notes was feasible. High accuracy was observed in extracting best corrected VA and IOP (above 90% for both eyes). Performance varied for other measurements, with lower accuracy for uncorrected VA (67–75%) and challenges in interpreting ambiguous documentation. The model struggled to identify assumed uncorrected VA cases, highlighting issues which may correlate with documentation clarity.
Conclusion
This study has demonstrated that it is feasible to deploy a LLM locally to extract VA data from free-text notes. However, the accuracy of extracted data was lacking in several domains. These performance issues highlight that further research is required to optimise the accuracy of the retrieved data.
Public Stigma against HIV-infected pregnant women and their newborns in maternal and pediatric medical care settings in Guangdong province
Authors: Gao Shuang , Guo Shuaijun , Lu Jianjun , Cai Min , Xu Huifang , Liu Fenghua , Hu Fang
Published: November 2024

Background
Public stigma towards people living with HIV (PLWH) in healthcare settings remain to be a key barrier to optimal health service. This study examined the individual, interpersonal, community and societal factors contributing to public stigma against HIV-infected pregnant women and their newborns by healthcare workers.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in 1592 healthcare facilities providing maternal and pediatric medical care in Guangdong Province. A total of 22899 healthcare workers providing service for pregnant women or newborns completed an online questionnaire in November 2021. Based on Corrigan’s stigma theory and the social-ecological model, data was collected on discrimination, prejudices, stereotypes as well as individual, interpersonal, community/societal factors. Structural equation model was used to examine influencing factors of healthcare workers’ discrimination.
Results
High levels of discrimination (6.8–67.5%), prejudices (24.9–77.3%) and stereotypes (14.4–78.0%) were reported among healthcare workers. The proposed structural equation model fitted the data well (χ2/df ratio = 51.797; RMSEA = 0.047; GFI = 0.919). The standardized coefficients of prejudices and stereotypes on discrimination were 0.31 (p < 0.05) and 0.23 (p < 0.05), respectively. However, prejudices (p = 0.069) were not directly associated with stereotypes. The standardized coefficients of HIV-related knowledge, experiencing secondary stigma related to caring for PLWH and health facility policies and procedures on discrimination were − 0.13 (p < 0.05), 0.02 (p < 0.05) and 0.17 (p < 0.05), respectively.
Conclusions
HIV-related discrimination, prejudices and stereotypes against HIV-infected pregnant women and their newborns among healthcare workers are prevalent. These findings suggest the need for health administrative departments to implement anti-discrimination interventions focused on modifying behaviors among healthcare workers. Emphasis should be placed on individual and interpersonal levels, including the provision of educational opportunities, appropriate training, and psychological support.
From Liver to Heart: Insights on Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease and Cardiovascular Outcomes, A Decade of Data from National Survey
Authors: Choday Silpa , Zahdeh Tamer , Paul Kang , Reynolds Justin , Wong Robert
Published: November 2024

Background: Alcohol associated liver disease (AALD) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) represent significant health burdens worldwide. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the association between AALD and CVD outcomes including heart failure (HF) which was incompletely understood.
Methods: The current study utilizes data from the National Health and Nutrition and Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2011 - 2020; using a stratified, multistage probability cluster design. AALD in the NHANES was defined using clinical laboratory data and self-reported alcohol use, among which fibrosis-4 score of >2.67. CVD was defined as participants who self-reported heart failure, coronary artery disease or stroke. Data from NHANES were combined with death certificate data from the National Center of health Statistics from the National Death Index to ascertain mortality rates. All models were adjusted for potential confounding variables such as age, gender, race/ethnicity, education, income/poverty ratio, insurance, smoking, body mass index, systolic/diastolic blood pressure, and diabetes status. Analysis is conducted using weighted, logistic and cox linear regression.
Results: The initial sample included 23,206 participants aged 20 and older, with recorded cardiovascular status and AST/ALT levels. After excluding participants with hepatitis B, hepatitis C, metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease, and pregnant patients, the final unweighted sample size was 13,413. Participants reporting AALD had a higher percentage of college degrees (p<0.001) and were more likely to be daily smokers. Asians exhibited the highest rates of AALD compared to other demographics (p<0.001). Those with AALD also had higher mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as elevated fasting glucose levels (p<0.001). Comorbidities such as heart failure (HF), stroke, and coronary artery disease (CAD) were prevalent. The mortality rate among AALD participants with CVD was 25%, compared to 3% among those without CVD (p<0.001). After adjusting for potential confounding variables, no statistically significant associations were found between AALD status and HF or CAD. However, a clinically significant increase in the odds of stroke was observed within the AALD group (p<0.001).
Conclusions: Our findings indicate Asians have the highest rates of AALD. There is an increased prevalence of AALD with HF, CAD and stroke, and a significant increase in mortality with stroke.
Spatiotemporal distribution and seismic interaction of very-low-frequency earthquakes in the northern Ryukyu Trench
Authors: Nakamura Mamoru , Kuo Ban-Yuan , Lin Pei-Ying Patty , Kodaira Shuichi , Ishihara Yasushi
Published: November 2024

Slow earthquakes play a crucial role in understanding stress accumulation and release along plate interfaces in subduction zones. The northern Ryukyu Trench, where the Philippine Sea Plate subducts northwestward beneath the Eurasian Plate, experienced a major earthquake in 1911 and is currently regarded as a low-seismicity area (LSA). Understanding the seismic activity in this region, particularly the relationship between very-low-frequency earthquakes (VLFEs) and regular seismic events, is crucial for understanding subduction zone dynamics. We investigated the spatial and temporal distribution of VLFE activity in the northern Ryukyu Trench using broadband ocean-bottom seismometers deployed around Amami Island between September 2018 and June 2019. Our analysis, employing the envelope correlation method, revealed that VLFE activity is primarily concentrated northeast of Amami Island, an area characterized by low regular earthquake activity, with the distribution of VLFEs spatially segregated from that of regular earthquakes. Furthermore, we observed earthquake swarm activity at the edges of the LSA in the northern Ryukyu Trench following VLFE activity. In November 2018, intense VLFE activity northeast of Amami Island migrated northeastward, which was followed by a regular earthquake swarm at the edge of this LSA. Following VLFE activity in January 2019, additional seismic activity, including foreshocks, occurred at the edges of this LSA approximately one month later. The spatial segregation of VLFEs and regular earthquakes suggests that VLFE activity may be influenced by the migration of high-pressure fluids within the subducted slab. This migration appears to trigger related time-delayed seismic activity, similar to mechanisms observed in other subduction zones such as Hikurangi. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for understanding the coupling state of subduction zones and associated fluid dynamics, which is essential for evaluating seismic hazards in LSAs.
A novel role for Neurog2 in MYCN driven neuroendocrine plasticity of prostate cancer
Authors: Vizeacoumar Franco , Walke Prachi , Price Jared , Vizeacoumar Frederick , Joseph Nickson , Maranda Vincent , Chowdhury Bari , Patel Jay , Zhang Yue , Dong He , New Lara , Ganapathysamy Ashtalakshmi , Gong Li Hui , Elhasasna Hussain , Bhanumathy Kalpana , Wu Yuliang , Freywald Andrew , Krishnan Anand
Published: November 2024

Neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) presents a formidable clinical challenge owing to its aggressive progression and resistance to conventional therapies. A key driver of NEPC is the overexpression of MYCN, a well-established oncogene associated with neuroendocrine tumors. However, efforts to directly inhibit the N-Myc protein encoded by this gene have resulted in limited success, thereby hindering therapeutic advancements. To overcome this obstacle, we conducted unbiased genome-wide screening using isogenic prostate cancer cell lines to identify the synthetic vulnerabilities of MYCN. Among the identified candidates, NEUROG2 emerged as a significant candidate. Neurog2 is a proneural transcription factor (PTF) known for its role in developmental processes and trans-differentiation of adult cells. Our findings demonstrate that Neurog2 depletion does not affect non-malignant cells, but significantly suppresses the growth of MYCN-overexpressing cells and tumors in orthotopic NEPC models. Furthermore, our observations indicate that the Neurog2-mediated regulation of PTFs can facilitate NEPC development. Thus, targeting Neurog2 holds promise as an effective therapeutic strategy for MYCN-overexpressing NEPC.
Static and dynamic mechanical properties of 3D-printed clear resin with embedded orthodontic metal wire
Authors: Zhang Junjing , Zhang Yuqiang , Tsoi James Kit Hon , Yang Yanqi , Cho Kiho
Published: November 2024

Background
Current 3D printing materials limit the mechanical properties of directly 3D-printed clear dental aligners. This study aimed to evaluate the mechanical properties of direct 3D-printed clear resin embedded with orthodontic wire under different surface treatments to provide a new integration method for orthodontic appliances and treatment.
Methods
Samples were prepared with stainless-steel wire and direct 3D-printing clear resin. The different surface treatments were applied to the wires and divided into three groups: control (C), sandblasting (S), sandblasting and acid etching (SA), and then the surface characteristics were analyzed. Static and dynamic mechanical tests were performed to measure interfacial shear strength (IFSS), elastic modulus, tensile strength, and stress relaxation.
Results
The average roughness and surface morphology of stainless-steel wires exhibited significant differences (P < 0.001) when applying different surface treatments. Sandblasting and acid-etching significantly affected IFSS, improving the adhesion by a factor of 5 from 5.71 MPa to 28.84 MPa. The elastic modulus and tensile strength increased significantly in the 3D-printed resin embedded with the wire group compared to the 3D-printed pure resin group but did not change significantly between the different surface treatments of the wire. The sandblasting and acid-etching group produced higher residual stress than the other three groups in the 6 hours and cyclic stress relaxation.
Conclusion
This study presents the development of 3D-printed clear dental aligners with embedded metal wires for orthodontic treatment. Surface treatment of orthodontic metal wire through sandblasting and acid etching improves the bond between the wire and 3D printing clear resin, thereby improving the static and dynamic mechanical properties of directly 3D-printed clear resin appliances. The developed process and device can offer an integrated solution that enables advanced orthodontic treatments by providing stabilized orthodontic forces.
Robust Biometric Recognition via InformationBottleneck Multi-Modal Feature Fusion
Authors: Shen Yan , Yang Xiaoxu , Liu Xu , Wan Jiashan , Xia Na
Published: November 2024

In recent years, multimodal biometric technology has gained attention due to its enhanced security and accuracy. Compared to unimodal recognition, multimodal feature-based recognition significantly improves accuracy. However, the data differences between various biometric traits (such as face, fingerprint, finger vein, and iris) have introduced two main challenges:1) The presence of considerable redundancy within individual modality information, which weakens classification performance.2) Significant modality imbalance leads to an over-reliance on single modality features, causing other modality information to be overlooked, resulting in overfitting and potential degradation in system performance and security vulnerabilities in multimodal biometric authentication.To address these problems, we first draw inspiration from the information bottleneck principle and design a fusion-based information bottleneck method. This method aims to retain relevant information across multiple modalities while minimizing redundancy, thereby enhancing multimodal representation learning performance. Secondly, We employ feature distribution visualization to elucidate the causes of modality imbalance in the model and propose an adaptive strategy to dynamically discard features from different modalities to mitigate modality imbalance.Finally, we conducted experiments on multiple datasets, and our results demonstrate that our method achieves optimal performance on various datasets, including CASIA, Iris-Fingerprint, and NUPT-FPV, and effectively reduces modality imbalance.
Method optimization, validation and assessment of pesticide residues in table grapes marketed in Islamabad, Pakistan
Authors: Muhammad Rashid , Rafique Nazia , Taj Touqeer , Mehboob Farrakh
Published: November 2024

Two different strategies QuEChERS AOAC 2007.01 and QuEChERS EU-15662 for the extraction of pesticide residues from grapes were compared. The QuEChERS EU-15662 method demonstrated optimal recoveries for 21 pesticides during the extraction step. For the clean-up process, florisil, PSA, and activated charcoal were compared using d-SPE. Among these sorbents, PSA exhibited the most favorable recoveries. The method validation results indicates recoveries for the majority of the studied pesticides fell within the acceptable range of 70–120%, with % RSD values consistently below 20%. The LOD for various pesticides ranged from 0.027 to 0.09 mg/kg, while the LOQ ranged from 0.085 to 0.21 mg/kg. Matrix effect was less than 20% for all the studied pesticides. The validated method was applied to analyze sixteen samples collected from the local fruit market. Four (25%) samples were found to be contaminated with imidacloprid, acetamiprid, and tebuconazole. Traces of thiacloprid, azoxystrobin, and hexaconazole were also detected in these four positive samples. However, in all samples, the identified residues were below the MRLs prescribed by the EU.