bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Tai Chi Chuan on Older Adults’ Balance: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bertolini Rafael , Vercelino Rafael , Ferreira Luis Fernando , Telles da Rosa Luis Henrique
Published: September 2024

Background: Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) is considered a mind and body practice of Chinese origin, considered as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity by UNESCO, and recommended by the World Health Organization as a therapeutic approach to prevent falls. Objective: To assess the effects of TCC on older adult’s balance. Methods: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials was conducted by two independent reviewers using the ROB2 tool to assess the risk of bias under the following databases: PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, PEDro, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, and LILACS. A meta-analysis of the selected articles for the dynamic and static balance criteria was conducted in a population of older adults (over 65 years) with publications from 2010 to 2024. Results: Eighteen randomized clinical trials fulfilled the criteria. TCC improves dynamic balance in the timed up and go and gait speeds tests, and static balance in the single-leg test and functional reach test when compared with the control group in the meta-analysis. Adverse events were found in only one study, and the training parameters were heterogeneous. Conclusion: TCC improves older adults with both dynamic and static balance. The results of the parameters indicate a direction in which TCC is prescribed for clinical practice with minimal or no risk of adverse effects.
Skeletal Loading: Lean and Bone Mass Development in Young Elite Male Gymnasts, Swimmers, and Nonathletes Aged 6–24 Years
Authors: Gannon Lisa , Hind Karen
Published: September 2024

Background: Exercise optimizes peak bone mass accrual, particularly if the loading is high magnitude and distributed in abnormal directions. Little is known about the influence of early intense training in sport during peak bone mass accrual, especially in boys. Methods: Ninety-eight males aged 6–24 years (gymnasts, swimmers, and controls) completed the bone-specific physical activity questionnaire and a 7-day exercise diary. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry determined bone mineral properties of the total body (less head) and lumbar spine (LS, L1–L4) and total lean mass. Subgroup analyses were conducted for juniors (prepubescent), adolescents (11–16 y), and seniors (17–24 y). Results: Lean mass was positively associated with total body less head and LS bone outcomes in all 3 age groups (R2 = .632–.770, P < .05), and bone-specific physical activity questionnaire scores were associated with LS bone mineral density in adolescents and seniors (R2 = .440 and .591, P < .05). Senior gymnasts had significantly higher LS bone mineral density (in grams per square centimeter) and Z-scores than swimmers (P = .004) and controls (P = .012). Conclusions: Elite gymnastics is associated with superior peak bone mass accrual in young males. The benefits appear more pronounced during young adulthood compared with prepuberty, potentially reflecting an extended time course for bone adaptation.
Oscillatory-Quality of sleep spindles links brain state with sleep regulation and function
Authors: Blanco-Duque Cristina , Bond Suraya A. , Krone Lukas B. , Dufour Jean-Phillipe , Gillen Edward C. P. , Purple Ross J. , Kahn Martin C. , Bannerman David M. , Mann Edward O. , Achermann Peter , Olbrich Eckehard , Vyazovskiy Vladyslav V.
Published: September 2024

Here, we characterized the dynamics of sleep spindles, focusing on their damping, which we estimated using a metric called oscillatory-Quality (o-Quality), derived by fitting an autoregressive model to electrophysiological signals, recorded from the cortex in mice. The o-Quality of sleep spindles correlates weakly with their amplitude, shows marked laminar differences and regional topography across cortical regions, reflects the level of synchrony within and between cortical networks, is strongly modulated by sleep-wake history, reflects the degree of sensory disconnection, and correlates with the strength of coupling between spindles and slow waves. As most spindle events are highly localized and not detectable with conventional low-density recording approaches, o-Quality thus emerges as a valuable metric that allows us to infer the spread and dynamics of spindle activity across the brain and directly links their spatiotemporal dynamics with local and global regulation of brain states, sleep regulation, and function.
Convergent evolution of monocyte differentiation in adult skin instructs Langerhans cell identity
Authors: Appios Anna , Davies James , Sirvent Sofia , Henderson Stephen , Trzebanski Sébastien , Schroth Johannes , Law Morven L. , Carvalho Inês Boal , Pinto Marlene Magalhaes , Carvalho Cyril , Kan Howard Yuan-Hao , Lovlekar Shreya , Major Christina , Vallejo Andres , Hall Nigel J. , Ardern-Jones Michael , Liu Zhaoyuan , Ginhoux Florent , Henson Sian M. , Gentek Rebecca , Emmerson Elaine , Jung Steffen , Polak Marta E. , Bennett Clare L.
Published: September 2024

Langerhans cells (LCs) are distinct among phagocytes, functioning both as embryo-derived, tissue-resident macrophages in skin innervation and repair and as migrating professional antigen-presenting cells, a function classically assigned to dendritic cells (DCs). Here, we demonstrate that both intrinsic and extrinsic factors imprint this dual identity. Using ablation of embryo-derived LCs in the murine adult skin and tracking differentiation of incoming monocyte-derived replacements, we found intrinsic intraepidermal heterogeneity. We observed that ontogenically distinct monocytes give rise to LCs. Within the epidermis, Jagged-dependent activation of Notch signaling, likely within the hair follicle niche, provided an initial site of LC commitment before metabolic adaptation and survival of monocyte-derived LCs. In the human skin, embryo-derived LCs in newborns retained transcriptional evidence of their macrophage origin, but this was superseded by DC-like immune modules after postnatal expansion. Thus, adaptation to adult skin niches replicates conditioning of LC at birth, permitting repair of the embryo-derived LC network.
A cardioviral 2C-ATP complex structure reveals the essential role of a conserved arginine in regulation of cardioviral 2C activity
Authors: He Qing-Yi , Zhao Hai-Fan , Meng Liang , Geng Zhi , Gao Zeng-Qiang , Qi Xin-Yu , Dong Yu-Hui , Zhang Heng
Published: September 2024

2C is a highly conserved picornaviral non-structural protein with ATPase activity and plays a multifunctional role in the viral life cycle as a promising target for anti-picornavirus drug development. While the structure–function of enteroviral 2Cs have been well studied, cardioviral 2Cs remain largely uncharacterized. Here, an endogenous ATP molecule was identified in the crystal structure of 2C from encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV, Cardiovirus A). The ATP is bound into the ATPase active site with a unique compact conformation. Notably, the γ-phosphate of ATP directly interacts with Arg311 (conserved in cardioviral 2Cs), and its mutation significantly inhibits the ATPase activity. Unexpectedly, this mutation remarkably promotes 2C self-oligomerization and viral replication efficiency. Molecular dynamic simulations showed that the Arg311 side chain is highly dynamic, indicating it may function as a switch between the activation state and the inhibition state of ATPase activity. A hexameric ring model of EMCV 2C full length indicated that the C-terminal helix may get close to the N-terminal amphipathic helices to form a continuous positive region for RNA binding. The RNA-binding studies of EMCV 2C revealed that the RNA length is closely associated with the RNA-binding affinities and indicated that the substrate may wrap around the outer surface of the hexamer. Our studies provide a biochemical framework to guide the characterization of EMCV 2C and the essential role of arginine in cardioviral 2C functions.

IMPORTANCE

Encephalomyocarditis virus (Cardiovirus A) is the causative agent of the homonymous disease, which may induce myocarditis, encephalitis, and reproductive disorders in various mammals. 2C protein is functionally indispensable and a promising target for drug development involving broad-spectrum picornaviral inhibitors. Here, an endogenous ATP molecule with a unique conformation was discovered by a combination of protein crystallography and high-performance liquid chromatography in the encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV) 2C structure. Biochemical and structural characterization analysis of EMCV 2C revealed the critical role of conserved Arg311 in ATPase activity and self-oligomerization of EMCV 2C. The viral replication kinetics and infectivity study suggested that the residue negatively regulated the infectivity titer and virus encapsulation efficiency of EMCV and is, therefore, crucial for 2C protein to promote viral replication. Our systemic structure–function analysis provides unique insights into the function and regulation mechanism of cardioviral 2C protein.
Enterococcus faecalis
: an overlooked cell invader
Authors: Archambaud Cristel , Nunez Natalia , da Silva Ronni A. G. , Kline Kimberly A. , Serror Pascale
Published: September 2024

Enterococcus faecalis
and
Enterococcus faecium
are human pathobionts that exhibit a dual lifestyle as commensal and pathogenic bacteria. The pathogenic lifestyle is associated with specific conditions involving host susceptibility and intestinal overgrowth or the use of a medical device. Although the virulence of
E. faecium
appears to benefit from its antimicrobial resistance,
E. faecalis
is recognized for its higher pathogenic potential.
E. faecalis
has long been considered a predominantly extracellular pathogen; it adheres to and is taken up by a wide range of mammalian cells, albeit with less efficiency than classical intracellular enteropathogens. Carbohydrate structures, rather than proteinaceous moieties, are likely to be primarily involved in the adhesion of
E. faecalis
to epithelial cells. Consistently, few adhesins have been implicated in the adhesion of
E. faecalis
to epithelial cells. On the host side, very little is known about cognate receptors, except for the role of glycosaminoglycans during macrophage infection. Several lines of evidence indicate that
E. faecalis
internalization may involve a zipper-like mechanism as well as a macropinocytosis pathway. Conversely,
E. faecalis
can use several strategies to prevent engulfment in phagocytes. However, the bacterial and host mechanisms underlying cell infection by
E. faecalis
are still in their infancy. The most recent striking finding is the existence of an intracellular lifestyle where
E. faecalis
can replicate within a variety of host cells. In this review, we summarize and discuss the current knowledge of
E. faecalis
–host cell interactions and argue on the need for further mechanistic studies to prevent or reduce infections.
Clinical and pathogen features of COVID-19-associated infections during an Omicron strain outbreak in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Cheng Lin-ling , Li Zheng-tu , Wu Hong-kai , Li Feng , Qiu Ye , Wang Tao , Peng Hui , Liu: Zi-hao , Huang Pan-rui , Zhou Lu , Gao Li-fen , Huang Hui-ju , Zhang Bin , Deng Xi-long , Chen Xin , Ye Feng , Liu Xiao-qing , Guan Wei-jie , Li Yue-ping , Li Yi-min , Li Shi-yue , Zhong Nan-shan
Published: September 2024

Although the Omicron variant has been associated with greater transmissibility and tropism of the upper respiratory tract, the clinical and pathogenic features of patients infected with the Omicron variant during an outbreak in China have been unclear. Adults with COVID-19 were retrospectively enrolled from seven medical centers in Guangzhou, China, and clinical information and specimens ( BALF, sputum, and throat swabs) from participants were collected. Conventional detection methods, metagenomics next-generation sequencing (mNGS), and other methods were used to detect pathogens in lower respiratory tract samples. From December 2022 to January 2023, we enrolled 836 patients with COVID-19, among which 56.7% patients had severe/critical illness. About 91.4% of patients were infected with the Omicron strain (BA.5.2). The detection rate of possible co-infection pathogens was 53.4% by mNGS, including
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(16.3%),
Aspergillus fumigatus
(12.2%), and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(11.8%). The co-infection rate was 19.5%, with common pathogens being
Streptococcus pneumoniae
(11.5%),
Haemophilus influenzae
(9.2%), and
Adenovirus
(6.9%). The superinfection rate was 75.4%, with common pathogens such as
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(26.1%) and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(19.4%).
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(27.1%% vs 6.1%,
P
< 0.001),
Aspergillus fumigatus
(19.6% vs 5.3%,
P
= 0.001),
Acinetobacter baumannii
(18.7% vs 4.4%,
P
= 0.001),
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(16.8% vs 7.0%,
P
= 0.024),
Staphylococcus aureus
(14.0% vs 5.3%,
P
= 0.027), and
Streptococcus pneumoniae
(0.9% vs 10.5%,
P
= 0.002) were more common in severe cases. Co-infection and superinfection of bacteria and fungi are common in patients with severe pneumonia associated with Omicron variant infection. Sequencing methods may aid in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of pathogens.

IMPORTANCE

Our study has analyzed the clinical characteristics and pathogen spectrum of the lower respiratory tract associated with co-infection or superinfection in Guangzhou during the outbreak of the Omicron strain, particularly after the relaxation of the epidemic prevention and control strategy in China. This study will likely prompt further research into the specific issue, which will benefit clinical practice.
SGLT-2i associated diabetic ketoacidosis in the setting of cardiogenic shock
Authors: Guzner Alex , Downs Ian , Cruz Daniel , Kaneshiro Casey , Donangelo Ines
Published: September 2024

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening complication of diabetes mellitus. Sodium-glucose co-transport inhibitors (SGLT-2i), a treatment for type 2 diabetes, have demonstrated a survival benefit in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Many patients with HFrEF have been started on SGLT-2i and sometimes transitioned off insulin due to improved glycaemic control. SGLT-2i have demonstrated an association with DKA. Here, we present a case of simultaneous cardiogenic shock and DKA in the setting of recent transition from insulin to an SGLT-2i. DKA in conjunction with decompensated heart failure is a combination that will likely occur more frequently as SGLT-2i use becomes more widespread in patients with HFrEF, and its identification and management require special considerations. Volume status, potassium management and recognition of DKA in these patients must be approached differently than in other cases of DKA.
Reducing maternal infection after assisted vaginal birth in a diverse and deprived population
Authors: Williamson Megan , Newnham Amy , Corrin India , Saxena Dolly , Bilagi Ashwini , Emovon Emmanuel , Leung Elaine YL
Published: September 2024

Postpartum maternal sepsis is a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. A single dose of prophylactic antibiotics following assisted vaginal births has been shown to significantly reduce postpartum maternal infection in a landmark multicentre randomised controlled trial, which led to its national recommendation. This project aimed to improve the local implementation of prophylactic antibiotics following assisted vaginal births to reduce postnatal maternal infections.

Using a prospectively collated birth register, data were collected retrospectively on prophylactic antibiotics administration and postnatal maternal infection rates after assisted vaginal births at the Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals National Health Service Trust in North-West Birmingham of the UK. The data were collected from routinely used electronic health records over three audit cycles (n=287) between 2020 and 2023.

A mixed-method approach was used to improve the use of prophylactic antibiotics: (1) evidence-based journal clubs targeting doctors in training, (2) presentations of results after all three audit cycles at our and (3) expedited a formal change of local guidelines to support prophylactic antibiotics use.

Prophylactic antibiotic administration increased from 13.2% (December 2021) to 90.7% (July 2023), associated with a reduction in maternal infection rates (18.2% when prophylaxis was given vs 22.2% when no prophylaxis was given). However, we observed a gradual increase in the overall postnatal maternal infection rates during the project period.

Our repeat audit identified prophylactic antibiotics were regularly omitted after deliveries in labour ward rooms (59.3%), compared with 100% of those achieved in theatre. After further interventions, prophylactic antibiotics administration rates were comparable between these clinical areas (>90%) in 2023.

Together, we have demonstrated a simple set of interventions that induced sustainable changes in practice. Further evaluation of other modifiable risk factors and infection rates following all deliveries is warranted in view of the gradual increase in the overall postnatal maternal infection rates.
Cangrelor for emergent carotid stenting during stroke thrombectomy: a comparative analysis versus glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors or aspirin monotherapy
Authors: Pop Raoul , Finitsis Stephanos Nikolaos , Marnat Gaultier , Derraz Imad , Cognard Christophe , Calviere Lionel , Caroff Jildaz , Clarençon Frédéric , Delvoye François , Consoli Arturo , Lapergue Bertrand , Gory Benjamin
Published: September 2024

Background

Periprocedural antiplatelet treatment is a key determinant for the risk–benefit balance of emergent carotid artery stenting (eCAS) during stroke endovascular treatment (EVT). We aimed to assess the safety and efficacy profile of cangrelor compared with glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (GPIIb/IIIa) inhibitors or aspirin monotherapy.

Methods

Data were extracted from the Endovascular Treatment in Ischemic Stroke (ETIS) registry, a prospective nationwide observational registry of stroke EVT in France. Included patients were treated with eCAS for anterior circulation tandem lesions between January 2015 and June 2023 and received periprocedural treatment with cangrelor, GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors or aspirin monotherapy. The primary outcome was functional outcome at 90 days, assessed by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Secondary outcomes included intracranial recanalization, hemorrhagic transformation and carotid stent patency at day 1.

Results

Of the 1687 patients treated, 384 met the inclusion criteria: 91 received cangrelor, 77 received GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors and 216 aspirin monotherapy. Cangrelor was associated with a negative shift in the distribution of mRS scores compared with GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors (aOR 0.48, 95% CI 0.25 to 0.94, P=0.033). Compared with aspirin, cangrelor improved carotid stent patency at day 1 (aOR 4.00, 95% CI 1.19 to 14.29, P=0.025) but showed no significant differences in clinical outcomes. There were no differences in outcomes between full dose and low dose cangrelor. GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors demonstrated higher odds of functional independence (aOR 2.56, 95% CI 1.08 to 6.25, P=0.033) compared with aspirin.

Conclusions

This registry-based study indicates a potential trend towards lower odds of favorable clinical outcomes with cangrelor treatment compared with GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors. However, these findings should be interpreted with caution due to potential selection bias and warrant further research for validation.
Development of a multivariable prediction model for progression of systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease
Authors: Kuwana Masataka , Avouac Jerôme , Hoffmann-Vold Anna-Maria , Smith Vanessa , Toenges Gerrit , Alves Margarida , Distler Oliver
Published: September 2024

Objective

To develop a multivariable model for predicting the progression of systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) over 52 weeks.

Methods

We used logistic regression models to analyse associations between candidate predictors assessed at baseline and progression of SSc-ILD (absolute decline in forced vital capacity (FVC) % predicted >5% or death) over 52 weeks in the placebo group of the SENSCIS trial. Analyses were performed in the overall placebo group and in a subgroup with early and/or inflammatory SSc and/or severe skin fibrosis (<18 months since first non-Raynaud symptom, elevated inflammatory markers, and/or modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS) >18) at baseline. Model performance was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

In the overall placebo group (n=288), the performance of the final multivariable model for predicting SSc-ILD progression was moderate (apparent AUC: 0.63). A stronger model, with an apparent AUC of 0.75, was developed in the subgroup with early and/or inflammatory SSc and/or severe skin fibrosis at baseline (n=155). This model included diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLco) % predicted, time since first non-Raynaud symptom, mRSS, anti-topoisomerase I antibody status and mycophenolate use.

Conclusion

Prediction of the progression of SSc-ILD may require different approaches in distinct subgroups of patients. Among patients with SSc-ILD and early and/or inflammatory SSc and/or severe skin fibrosis, a nomogram based on a multivariable model may be of value for identifying patients at risk of short-term progression.
Resolving a sorites paradox: how large is a small population?
Authors: Reed J. Michael , McCoy Earl D.
Published: September 2024

Theoretically, small, isolated populations should not persist. Empirically, this predication appears to be supported in some cases and contradicted in others. Although small population size is a central concept in conservation biology, it is not defined consistently in a biologically meaningful way. Its definition can be arbitrary (e.g., population sizes associated with quasi-extinction risk), driven by Allee thresholds, or assumed tied to minimum viable population size. Published values of small populations range from 20 to 100 000 individuals. Here, we review the concept of small population size, including how one might identify it using risk-based and recovery-based approaches, both of which define smallness functionally. Ideally, we want an approach that is both predictive and practical, but it is not clear that both can be had. We emphasize the important effects of density and dispersion on the risk and performance of populations, effects that tend to be ignored. We suggest that small applied to biological populations is a multifaceted concept, and that no single definition is likely to capture all the complexity. In which case, neither risk-based methods of identifying small populations nor recovery-based methods alone will suffice. We propose a framework that offers several definitions of small population size based on function (i.e., behavior of the population), each of which is sufficient for defining a small population. From expected smallest to largest estimated threshold population size: (1) The population’s behavior is dominated by demographic stochasticity. (2) The population has crossed an Allee threshold, exhibiting negative growth because of a behavioral mechanism inherent in the species. (3) The population has declined to the minimum persistent population size as revealed by a stochastic, simulation model, omitting threats and mitigation. (4) The population is unresponsive to threat mitigation. Although this method results in a designation of small populations that is both functional and biologically meaningful, the systematic study of the dynamics of small populations across taxa, and across density and dispersion within taxa, will create a more nuanced understanding of extinction risk. Ultimately, developing a predictive, recovery-based understanding of small-population dynamics will help link the small-population and declining-population paradigms, and improve species management planning.
Possible wormholes in f(R) gravity sourced by solitonic quantum wave and cold dark matter halos and their repulsive gravity effect
Authors: Errehymy Abdelghani , Khedif Youssef , Donmez Orhan , Daoud Mohammed , Myrzakulov Kairat , Bekov Sabit
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we present new generalized wormhole (WH) solutions within the context of f(R) gravity. Specifically, we focus on f(R) gravitational theories formulated in the metric formalism, with our investigation centered on a power-law form represented by $$f(R) = \epsilon R^{\chi }$$

f

(
R
)

=
ϵ

R
χ

. Here, $$\epsilon $$
ϵ
is an arbitrary constant, and $$\chi $$
χ
is a real number. Notably, this form possesses the advantageous property of reducing to Einstein gravity when $$\epsilon =1$$

ϵ
=
1

and $$\chi =1$$

χ
=
1

. To obtain these novel WH solutions, we establish the general field equations for any f(R) theory within the framework of Morris–Thorne spacetime, assuming metric coefficients that are independent of time. By utilizing an anisotropic matter source and a specific type of energy density associated with solitonic quantum wave (SQW) and cold dark matter (CDM) halos, we calculate two distinct WH solutions. We thoroughly investigate the properties of the exotic matter (ExoM) residing within the WH geometry and analyze the matter contents through energy conditions (ECs). Both analytical and graphical methods are employed in this analysis to examine the validity of different regions. Notably, the calculated shape functions for the WH geometry satisfy the necessary conditions in both scenarios, emphasizing their reliability. Our investigations into specific parameter ranges in both scenarios revealed the presence of ExoM. This ExoM is characterized by an energy–momentum tensor that violates the null energy condition (NEC) and, consequently, the weak energy condition as well, in the vicinity of the WH throats. Furthermore, we investigated the repulsive effect of gravity and discovered that its presence results in a negative deflection angle for photons following null geodesics. Importantly, we observed that the deflection angle consistently exhibits negative values across all $$r_0$$

r
0

values in both scenarios, indicating the manifestation of the repulsive gravity effect. Finally, we compare the obtained WH solutions utilizing both distributions, as well as the f(R) power-law-like models, in order to assess the feasibility of energetic configurations for WHs within SQW and CDM systems.
NANOGrav and other PTA signals and PBH from the modified Higgs inflation
Authors: Cheung Kingman , Ouseph C. J. , Tseng Po-Yan
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the classical Higgs inflation model with a modified Higgs potential featuring a dip. We examine the implications of this modification on the generation of curvature perturbations, stochastic gravitational wave production, and the potential formation of primordial black holes (PBHs). Unlike the classical model, the modified potential allows for enhanced power spectra and the existence of PBHs within a wide mass range $$1.5\times 10^{20}$$

1.5
×

10
20

 g–$$9.7\times 10^{32}$$

9.7
×

10
32

 g. We identify parameter space regions that align with inflationary constraints and have the potential to contribute significantly to the observed dark matter content. Additionally, the study explores the consistency of the obtained parameter space with cosmological constraints and discusses the implications for explaining the observed excess in gravitational wave PTA signals, particularly in the NANOGrav experiment. Overall, this investigation highlights the relevance of the modified Higgs potential in the classical Higgs inflation model, shedding light on the formation of PBHs, the nature of dark matter, and the connection to gravitational wave observations.
Electromagnetic wave propagation in Eddington-inspired Born–Infeld gravity space-time with topological defects
Authors: Kurbah M. G. , Ahmed F.
Published: September 2024

In this study, we focus on examining the characteristics of electromagnetic fields within a curved space-time background under the framework of Eddington-inspired Born–Infeld (EiBI) gravity, in the presence of a global monopole. We derived Maxwell’s vacuum field equations in this curved spacetime and obtained a set of linear differential equations for the electric and magnetic fields. After decoupling these equations, we solved for the analytical solutions of both the electric and magnetic fields using special functions. We then extended our analysis to the same EiBI-gravity framework, this time incorporating a cosmic string. Following a similar approach, we derived the first-order differential equations governing the electric and magnetic fields and obtained their analytical solutions using special functions. Our findings demonstrate significant influences of the global monopole, cosmic string, and the Eddington parameters on the behavior of electromagnetic waves in this curved space-time configuration with topological defects, resulting in notable deviations from the Minkowski flat space case.
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia classification using persistent homology
Authors: Shah Waqar Hussain , Baloch Abdullah , Jaimes-Reátegui Rider , Iqbal Sohail , Fatima Syeda Rafia , Pisarchik Alexander N.
Published: September 2024

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is a prevalent form of childhood blood cancer characterized by the proliferation of immature white blood cells that rapidly replace normal cells in the bone marrow. The exponential growth of these leukemic cells can be fatal if not treated promptly. Classifying lymphoblasts and healthy cells poses a significant challenge, even for domain experts, due to their morphological similarities. Automated computer analysis of ALL can provide substantial support in this domain and potentially save numerous lives. In this paper, we propose a novel classification approach that involves analyzing shapes and extracting topological features of ALL cells. We employ persistent homology to capture these topological features. Our technique accurately and efficiently detects and classifies leukemia blast cells, achieving a recall of 98.2% and anF1-score of 94.6%. This approach has the potential to significantly enhance leukemia diagnosis and therapy.
More on bilinearization of supersymmetric coupled dispersionless (SUSY-CD) integrable system
Authors: Mirza Arifa , ul Hassan Mahmood
Published: September 2024

We study the bilinearization of [Formula: see text] Supersymmetric Coupled Dispersionless (SUSY-CD) integrable system by introducing transformations defined in terms of bosonic and fermionic superfields. From the bosonic and fermionic superfield bilinear equations, we obtain the superfield soliton solutions of SUSY-CD integrable system.
Computational analysis of pulsatile blood flow and heat transport dynamics in middle cerebral artery aneurysms in different body physiologies
Authors: Hai Tao , Rajab Husam , Jasim Dheyaa J. , Singh Pradeep Kumar , Al-Hussainy Ali Fawzi , Hussein Abbas Hameed Abdul , Hasan Dheyaa Flayih , Mushtaq Hiba , Idan Ameer Hassan , Singh Narinderjit Singh Sawaran
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive hemodynamic evaluation of two endovascular techniques for treating cerebral aneurysms. Using the finite volume method, we simulated pulsatile blood flow and heat transport dynamics in two saccular aneurysms of varying sizes and shapes. We assessed hemodynamic factors under two coiling conditions with different porosities and deformation stages to identify the most effective treatment for each case. Our computational analysis reveals that stent and coiling applications are more efficient for aneurysms with low-sac volume. Notably, stent placement proves to be more effective than coiling in treating saccular aneurysms. Our findings indicate that stent-induced deformation sufficiently diverts the main blood flow, thereby reducing the risk of aneurysm rupture near the ostium region.
Constraints of a two-matrix model and two-supereigenvalue models
Authors: Zhu Yu-Sen , Wang Lu-Yao , Wang Rui , Zhang Chun-Hong
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we reinvestigate a two-matrix model with three sets of coupling constants and derive two series of constraints. One series of the constraint operators yield the exact [Formula: see text] algebra. Other constraints are derived from the higher-order total derivatives which are associated with the free fermion point of the Calogero system. We further construct the two-supereigenvalue models and derive their super-Virasoro constraints.
LSTM-based Customer Preference Identification and Prediction in Customer Online Reviews
Authors: Zhang Ruijie , Wang Zhiyi , Wang Keqin , Li Junming , Zhang Kailong , Xia Weili
Published: September 2024

With the development of internet platforms, consumers increasingly rely on online product reviews during the shopping process. Customer online reviews can guide product design and provide valuable insights for businesses. Therefore, analyzing customer online reviews has become a research hotspot. However, existing studies suffer from some limitations, including the lack of fine-grained sentiment analysis and word clustering analysis. To address these issues, this study proposes a method based on Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) for identifying and predicting customer preferences, aiming to provide more accurate information support for product design improvement personnel. This research first conducts data collection, preprocessing, and word vector computation. Subsequently, dictionary and sentiment labels are extracted. Based on a topic clustering system, sentiment labels are quantified for polarity classification, and sentiment scores and importance values are calculated as evaluation metrics for customer preference data. The preference-identified data are then applied to an LSTM prediction model, and the dataset is partitioned accordingly. Finally, the trained model is used for LSTM-based prediction of importance values and sentiment scores. The research results demonstrate that this method can accurately predict product preferences based on dynamic online reviews.
A Large Language Model-Based Autonomous Scoring Method for Subjective Question Answering under English Context
Authors: Wen Ximeng , Fu Xinggan
Published: September 2024

Scoring of subjective question answering costs much human labor in realistic applications. To deal with this issue, we propose to leverage the powerful semantic comprehension capability of the transformer-Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT)-integrated model, and propose a large language model-based autonomous scoring method for subjective question-answering in the English context. First, a pretrained BERT structure is used to extract features from question sentences, obtaining vector representations of each word. Then, these vectors are input into the transformer encoder to obtain the semantic representation for the whole sentence. Next, the semantic content of subjective questions based on the context can be realized. Finally, we divide the student’s answers into different scoring intervals to obtain the final rating result. Besides, we compared the scoring results with other methods and used the Kaggle competition published dataset, NLPCC DBQA dataset, Text Retrieval Conference QA (TrecQA) dataset, and WikiQA dataset. The experimental results show that our proposal performs well in subjective English question scoring. Compared with traditional manual scoring, this method has achieved significant improvements in scoring efficiency and accuracy. In addition, we also conducted comparative experiments to demonstrate the effectiveness and applicability of the proposal. Through the powerful capabilities of the transformer-BERT-integrated model, the proposed model can accurately capture students’ writing ability and English proficiency.
High-energy head-on particle collisions near event horizons: Classification of scenarios
Authors: Ovcharenko H. V. , Zaslavskii O. B.
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we consider head-on collisions of two particles near the event horizon. Particle 1 is outgoing, particle 2 is ingoing. We elucidate the conditions when the energy [Formula: see text] in the center of mass frame can grow unbounded. In doing so, we dispel some misconceptions popular in the literature on high energy collisions near black holes and carry out clear distinction when such a collision happens near a black hole and when this occurs near a white one. If the proper time between the horizon and an arbitrary point outside it for particle 1 is finite, we deal with a white hole. If it is infinite, we deal with a black hole. Particles can be either free or experience the action of a finite force. Our results are complementary to those for the standard BSW effect when particles move in the same direction. The results rely on classification of particles developed in our previous work Ovcharenko and Zaslavskii [Phys. Rev. D 108 (2023) 064029]. The aforementioned article performed the first step towards a building classification of all possible high energy collisions near black/white hole for different types of horizons and nonzero force. In this paper, we perform the second step.
Complementarities in R&D and Innovation Decisions: An Enquiry on an Extensive Sample of Latin American Companies
Authors: Carboni Oliviero A. , Russu Paolo
Published: September 2024

This study uses an extensive sample of company data referring to seven Latin American countries to analyze the potential influence of simultaneity and heterogeneity in determining decisions to commit to R&D and innovation outputs. First, the analysis focuses on the decisions about spending on in-house and external research. Second, the outcomes of three different innovations: process, product, and organizational. Choices were considered simultaneously by employing a multivariate probit estimation model. In so doing, the enquiry considered the possible systematic interdependencies among the decisions. The results indicate that the two R&D decisions are interdependent. However, a different picture emerged in relation to innovation outputs, in which the correlations coefficients were small with unexpected signs. This may indicate a structural weakness of the technological production system in Latin America, wherein the synergies, complementarities, and complex relationships usually involved in the process of innovation are not fully developed.
The neighborhood version of the hyper Zagreb index of trees
Authors: Dehgardi Nasrin
Published: September 2024

Topological indices are numeric quantities that describes the topology of molecular structure in mathematical chemistry. One of these indices is the neighborhood version of the hyper Zagreb index, [Formula: see text]. The neighborhood version of the hyper Zagreb index is expressed as the sum over all pairs of adjacent vertices [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] of the terms [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the neighborhood degree sum of the vertex [Formula: see text] which is the sum of degrees of all of its neighboring vertices. In this paper, we show that over all simple connected graphs, the path graph [Formula: see text] has the minimum value of [Formula: see text] and the complete graph [Formula: see text] has the maximum value of [Formula: see text]. Also, we give the minimum value of this index within the set of trees with given vertices number and maximum vertex degree and specify the minimal trees.
A Visual Feature Mismatch Detection Algorithm for Optical Flow-Based Visual Odometry
Authors: Li Ruichen , Shen Han , Wang Linan , Liu Congyi , Yi Xiaojian
Published: September 2024

Camera-based visual simultaneous localization and mapping (VSLAM) algorithms involve extracting and tracking feature points in their front-ends. Feature points are subsequently forwarded to the back-end for camera pose estimation. However, the matching results of these feature points by optical flow are prone to visual feature mismatches. To address the mentioned problems, this paper introduces a novel visual feature mismatch detection algorithm. First, the algorithm calculates pixel displacements for all feature point pairs tracked by the optical flow method between consecutive images. Subsequently, mismatches are detected based on the pixel displacement threshold calculated by the statistical characteristics of tracking results. Additionally, bound values for the threshold are set to enhance the accuracy of the filtered matches, ensuring its adaptability to different environments. Following the filtered matches, the algorithm calculates the fundamental matrix, which is then used to further refine the filtered matches sent to the back-end for camera pose estimation. The algorithm is seamlessly integrated into the state-of-the-art VSLAM system, enhancing the overall robustness of VSLAM. Extensive experiments conducted on both public datasets and our unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) validate the performance of the proposed algorithm.
Mathematical Modeling of Bird Murmurations
Authors: Thompson J. Michael T.
Published: September 2024

Self-motivated collective motions, which superficially seem to be in violation of the second law of thermodynamics by decreasing entropy, arise throughout physics, chemistry and biology. A well-known example in a petri dish is the spontaneous emergence of spiral waves in the so-called Belousov–Zhabotinski reaction. In biology, morphogenesis is another example in the differential development of bone and muscle in a growing organism. Collective motion is also found in various bird and animal systems where long-range information exchange is obtained by vision, and we here focus on the spectacular synchronized flying of flocks starlings in what are called murmurations. Recent work has shown how the birds can achieve this by focusing on dark-to-light edges in their distant view of the far-off flying birds. Averaging unit vectors that point at these edges defines, with other clues, their instantaneous flight instructions.
Evaluating the MreB-Binding Prospects of Proposed Antibacterial Peptides through Molecular Modeling and Simulations
Authors: Awuni Elvis
Published: September 2024

Bacterial infection and resistance continue to pose a threat to global health. Antibacterial peptides have been proposed as next-generation therapeutics to address this threat owing to their reduced susceptibility to resistance. The interprotofilament interface of the bacterial actin MreB is a prospective target for peptide-based antibiotics to impede MreB polymerization into the double protofilaments required for function. Unfortunately, there have been no reports of inhibitors of MreB targeting the interprotofilament interface. In this study, molecular modeling and simulation strategies were used to assess the MreB-binding prospects of four proposed antiMreB peptides to identify leads for the design and development of peptide-based antibiotics. The PEP-FOLD server was employed to predict the structures of the peptides, followed by structural refinement using the ModRifner server. Subsequently, the HADDOCK server was used to predict the mode of binding of each peptide to the interprotofilament interface of MreB. Furthermore, the predicted peptide-MreB complexes were subjected to molecular dynamics simulations, identifying Pep4 and Pep7 as hits. The results showed that Pep4 and Pep7 remained stably bound to the interprotofilament interface of MreB for up to 100 ns of simulation time. In addition to demonstrating the possibility of binding to the interprotofilament interface of MreB to disrupt MreB–MreB interactions, Pep4 and Pep7 also showed the ability to impede the ATP-dependent conformational change and dynamics of MreB required for polymerization into double protofilaments. Collectively, the results suggest that Pep4 and Pep7 are potential inhibitors or leads for the design, discovery and development of peptide-based MreB-targeting antibiotics.
The Choreographer-Performer Continuum: A Diffraction Tool to Illuminate Authorship in More Than Human Co-Performances
Authors: Bomba Federico , Menéndez-Blanco María , Grigis Paolo , Cremaschi Michele , De Angeli Antonella
Published: September 2024

The design of robust and trustworthy Generative AI (GenAI) requires a deep understanding of the agencies emerging from human interactions with them. To contribute to this goal, we retrospectively studied an art project involving a visual artist, a computer scientist, an artistic director, and a generative model (GPT-2). The model was fine-tuned with trip reports describing the experience of eating psychedelic mushrooms. Building on agential realism, we analysed the co-performance between the artist and the model as their agency moved along the choreographer-performer continuum. Results reveal ontological surprises, leading to the proposal of
entangled authorship
to de-individualise the production of knowledge from a More Than Human perspective. The paper illustrates how art can expose different forms of relationships, challenging the idea of GenAI as just a tool that simplifies or replaces human labour. We conclude by emphasising the transformational potential of GenAI for novel modes of engagement between humans and machines.
Efficient Convex Optimization Requires Superlinear Memory
Authors: Marsden Annie , Sharan Vatsal , Sidford Aaron , Valiant Gregory
Published: September 2024

We show that any memory-constrained, first-order algorithm which minimizesd-dimensional, 1-Lipschitz convex functions over the unit ball to 1/poly(d) accuracy using at most d1.25 - δbits of memory must make at least\(\tilde{\Omega }(d^{1 + (4/3)\delta })\)first-order queries (for any constant\(\delta \in [0, 1/4]\)). Consequently, the performance of such memory-constrained algorithms are at least a polynomial factor worse than the optimal Õ(d) query bound for this problem obtained by cutting plane methods that use Õ(d2) memory. This resolves one of the open problems in the COLT 2019 open problem publication of Woodworth and Srebro.
Distributed Recommendation Systems: Survey and Research Directions
Authors: Cai Qiqi , Cao Jian , Xu Guandong , Zhu Nengjun
Published: September 2024

With the explosive growth of online information, recommendation systems have become essential tools for alleviating information overload. In recent years, researchers have increasingly focused on centralized recommendation systems, capitalizing on the powerful computing capabilities of cloud servers and the rich historical data they store. However, the rapid development of edge computing and mobile devices in recent years has provided new alternatives for building recommendation systems. These alternatives offer advantages such as privacy protection and low-latency recommendations. To leverage the advantages of different computing nodes, including cloud servers, edge servers, and terminal devices, researchers have proposed recommendation systems that involve the collaboration of these nodes, known as distributed recommendation systems. This survey provides a systematic review of distributed recommendation systems. Specifically, we design a taxonomy for these systems from four perspectives and comprehensively summarize each study by category. In particular, we conduct a detailed analysis of the collaboration mechanisms of distributed recommendation systems. Finally, we discuss potential future research directions in this field.