bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in epigenetic alterations of chronic lymphocytic leukemia: from pathogenesis to treatment
Authors: Zhang Xin , Wang Hua , Zhang Ya , Wang Xin
Published: March 2024

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a heterogeneous disease with alterations in genetic expression and epigenetic modifications. In recent years, the new insight into epigenetics in the pathogenesis of CLL has been developed considerably, including DNA methylation, histone modification, RNA methylation, non-coding RNAs as well as chromatin remodeling. Epigenetic modification regulates various processes such as stem cell biology, cell growth, and tumorigenesis without altering gene sequence. Growing evidence indicates that the disturbance of gene expression profiles which were regulated by epigenetic modifications exerts vital roles in the development and progress in CLL, which provides novel perspectives to explore the etiology of CLL. In addition, the integration with epigenetic therapeutic targets and the in-depth understanding of epigenetic therapy contribute to develop new therapeutic strategies for CLL. Herein, the present review discusses the advances of epigenetic alterations in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and prognostic assessment of CLL patients and also highlights existing and emerging agents targeting epigenetic regulators.
Use of tryptic peptide MALDI mass spectrometry imaging to identify the spatial proteomic landscape of colorectal cancer liver metastases.
Authors: Li Celine Man Ying , Briggs Matthew T. , Lee Yea-Rin , Tin Teresa , Young Clifford , Pierides John , Kaur Gurjeet , Drew Paul , Maddern Guy J. , Hoffmann Peter , Klingler-Hoffmann Manuela , Fenix Kevin
Published: March 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. CRC liver metastases (CRLM) are often resistant to conventional treatments, with high rates of recurrence. Therefore, it is crucial to identify biomarkers for CRLM patients that predict cancer progression. This study utilised matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) in combination with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to spatially map the CRLM tumour proteome. CRLM tissue microarrays (TMAs) of 84 patients were analysed using tryptic peptide MALDI-MSI to spatially monitor peptide abundances across CRLM tissues. Abundance of peptides was compared between tumour vs stroma, male vs female and across three groups of patients based on overall survival (0-3 years, 4-6 years, and 7+ years). Peptides were then characterised and matched using LC-MS/MS. A total of 471 potential peptides were identified by MALDI-MSI. Our results show that two unidentified m/z values (1589.876 and 1092.727) had significantly higher intensities in tumours compared to stroma. Ten m/z values were identified to have correlation with biological sex. Survival analysis identified three peptides (Histone H4, Haemoglobin subunit alpha, and Inosine-5’-monophosphate dehydrogenase 2) and two unidentified m/z values (1305.840 and 1661.060) that were significantly higher in patients with shorter survival (0-3 years relative to 4-6 years and 7+ years). This is the first study using MALDI-MSI, combined with LC-MS/MS, on a large cohort of CRLM patients to identify the spatial proteome in this malignancy. Further, we identify several protein candidates that may be suitable for drug targeting or for future prognostic biomarker development.
Circulating Bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9) as a new biomarker for noninvasive stratification of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Yang Yuchen , Gu Meihong , Wang Wei , Li Shan , Lu Jinlai , Sun Qinjuan , Hu Miao , Zhong Lan
Published: March 2024

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is closely related to metabolic syndrome (MetS). Bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9) is an essential factor in glucose, lipid and energy metabolism. This study aims to investigate whether BMP9 can serve as a serological marker for the severity of NAFLD or MetS. Blood samples, clinical data and FibroTouch test were collected from consecutively recruited 263 individuals in Shanghai East hospital. All the participants were divided into three groups: the healthy controls, nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) group and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) at-risk group according to the results of FibroTouch test and liver function. Serum BMP9 levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum BMP9 levels were positively correlated with transaminase, triglyceride, fasting plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and uric acid while it showed a downward trend as the increasing number of MetS components. Furthermore, it differentiated NASH at-risk (58.13 ± 2.82 ng/L) from the other groups: healthy control (70.32 ± 3.70 ng/L) and NAFL (64.34 ± 4.76 ng/L) (p < 0.0001). Controlled attenuation parameter of liver fat and liver stiffness measurement were negatively correlated with BMP9 levels, while high-density lipoprotein levels were positively correlated. The risk of developing NAFLD increased along with elevated serum BMP9 and BMI, and a significantly higher risk was observed in men compared to women. BMP9 should be considered a protective factor for the onset and development of NAFLD, as well as a promising biomarker for the severity of the NAFLD and MetS.
A model-based reference architecture for complex assistive systems and its application
Authors: Michael Judith , Shekhovtsov Volodymyr A.
Published: March 2024

Complex assistive systems providing human behavior support independent of the age or abilities of users are broadly used in a variety of domains including automotive, production, aviation, or medicine. Current research lacks a common understanding of which architectural components are needed to create assistive systems that use models at runtime. Existing descriptions of architectural components are focused on particular domains, consider only some parts of an assistive system, or do not consider models at runtime. We have analyzed common functional requirements for such systems to be able to propose a set of reusable components, which have to be considered when creating assistive systems that use models. Such components constitute a reference architecture that we propose within this paper. To validate the proposed architecture, we have expressed the architectures of two assistive systems from different domains, namely assistance for elderly people and assistance for operators in smart manufacturing in terms of compliance with such architecture. The proposed reference architecture will facilitate the creation of future assistive systems.
The pine bark beetle Ips acuminatus: an ecological perspective on life-history traits promoting outbreaks
Authors: Papek Eva , Ritzer Elisabeth , Biedermann Peter H. W. , Cognato Anthony I. , Baier Peter , Hoch Gernot , Kirisits Thomas , Schebeck Martin
Published: March 2024

The bark beetle Ips acuminatus is an important pest in pine-dominated forests of Eurasia. Recently, the frequency of I. acuminatus outbreaks and mortality of host trees have increased, most likely as a result of climate change-related alterations in environmental conditions. Therefore, detailed information on the species’ natural history is essential to understand its potential to damage forests and to apply sustainable management measures. We provide a comprehensive overview on the life history of I. acuminatus, focusing on traits that might explain outbreaks and the ability to cause tree mortality. We review its importance for European forestry, outbreak behavior, host plant usage, reproductive biology, temperature-dependent development, diapause and overwintering behavior, and interactions with fungi, bacteria, nematodes and other arthropods. Interestingly, I. acuminatus has a strong nutritional dependency on the fungus Ophiostoma macrosporum, underlined by the presence of a prominent oral mycetangium, a spore-carrying organ, in females, which is not known for other Ips species. Moreover, I. acuminatus can reproduce sexually and asexually (pseudogamy). Additionally, information on the species’ evolutionary past provides valuable insights into the origin of certain traits. We present a phylogeny of the genus Ips and examine selected life-history traits in an evolutionary context. Together with its sister species Ips chinensis, I. acuminatus forms a separate clade within Ips. The ancestor of Ips bark beetles originated about 20 million years ago and was a pine-colonizing species inhabiting the Holarctic. Finally, open fields of research are identified to guide future work on this ecologically and economically important pine bark beetle.
Do Miniature Eye Movements Affect Neurofeedback Training Performance? A Combined EEG-Eye Tracking Study
Authors: Kober Silvia Erika , Wood Guilherme , Schuster Sarah , Körner Christof
Published: March 2024

EEG-based neurofeedback is a prominent method to modulate one’s own brain activity in a desired direction. However, the EEG signal can be disturbed by artifacts, e.g., eye movements, which can consequently confound the neurofeedback performance. Involuntary miniature eye movements can be hardly detected by conventional EEG correction methods such as recording the electro-oculogram (EOG) and subtracting EOG activity from the EEG signal. However, such miniature eye movements can influence EEG activity, especially in the Gamma frequency range, enormously. In the present study, we investigated whether power in different EEG frequencies can be effectively modulated by self-control of brain signals during neurofeedback training and/or whether changes in EEG power are provoked by miniature eye movements during the training. To this end, 24 participants performed one session of SMR and one session of Gamma neurofeedback training. Additionally, in each training session sham feedback was performed. An eye tracker was used to detect miniature eye movements (< 1°) during neurofeedback training. About two thirds of the participants were able to increase their SMR power over the course of NF training, while one third was able to increase Gamma power. Generally, miniature eye movements induced a strong Gamma power increase. The number of eye movements also increased numerically over the course of the NF training. However, we did not find a significant relationship with the NF training performance. This is a first indication that miniature saccades do not affect NF training performance, but should not be neglected during NF training. Our results have to be confirmed in future studies.
Unraveling microbial processes involved in carbon and nitrogen cycling and greenhouse gas emissions in rewetted peatlands by molecular biology
Authors: Gios Emilie , Verbruggen Erik , Audet Joachim , Burns Rachel , Butterbach-Bahl Klaus , Espenberg Mikk , Fritz Christian , Glatzel Stephan , Jurasinski Gerald , Larmola Tuula , Mander Ülo , Nielsen Claudia , Rodriguez Andres F. , Scheer Clemens , Zak Dominik , Silvennoinen Hanna M.
Published: March 2024

Restoration of drained peatlands through rewetting has recently emerged as a prevailing strategy to mitigate excessive greenhouse gas emissions and re-establish the vital carbon sequestration capacity of peatlands. Rewetting can help to restore vegetation communities and biodiversity, while still allowing for extensive agricultural management such as paludiculture. Belowground processes governing carbon fluxes and greenhouse gas dynamics are mediated by a complex network of microbial communities and processes. Our understanding of this complexity and its multi-factorial controls in rewetted peatlands is limited. Here, we summarize the research regarding the role of soil microbial communities and functions in driving carbon and nutrient cycling in rewetted peatlands including the use of molecular biology techniques in understanding biogeochemical processes linked to greenhouse gas fluxes. We emphasize that rapidly advancing molecular biology approaches, such as high-throughput sequencing, are powerful tools helping to elucidate the dynamics of key biogeochemical processes when combined with isotope tracing and greenhouse gas measuring techniques. Insights gained from the gathered studies can help inform efficient monitoring practices for rewetted peatlands and the development of climate-smart restoration and management strategies.
Biological functions and dysfunctions: a selected dispositions approach
Authors: Hundertmark Fabian , van den Bos Marlene
Published: March 2024

Justin Garson has recently argued that proper functions are proximal activities of traits selected by phylogenetic or ontogenetic selection processes, and that traits are dysfunctional only if they cannot perform their proper functions for constitutional reasons. We partially agree with Garson, but reject the view that functions are proximal activities, as well as his account of dysfunctions. Instead, we propose our own theory that biological functions are selected dispositions and that a trait is dysfunctional in virtue of not having the dispositions for which it was selected. This account can explain both defects (or dysfunctions in Garson’s sense) and dysfunctions due to environmental factors. Moreover, it offers a neat way to explain the graduality of dysfunction.
Retrospective genetic testing (Traceback) in women with early-onset breast cancer after revised national guidelines: a clinical implementation study
Authors: Augustinsson Annelie , Loman Niklas , Ehrencrona Hans
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study focused on identifying a hereditary predisposition in women previously diagnosed with early-onset breast cancer through a retrospective outreach activity (Traceback). The objectives were to evaluate the possible clinical implementation of a simplified Traceback strategy and to identify carriers of pathogenic variants among previously untested women.

Methods

Three hundred and fifteen Traceback-eligible women diagnosed with breast cancer at 36–40 years in Southern Sweden between 2000 and 2019 were identified and offered an analysis of the genes ATM, BARD1, BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2, PALB2, RAD51C, and RAD51D through a standardized letter. Women who chose to participate were asked about their experiences through a questionnaire. The workload for the study personnel was measured and recorded.

Results

One hundred and seventy-six women underwent genetic testing and pathogenic variants were identified in 9.7%: ATM (n = 6), BARD1 (n = 1), BRCA1 (n = 3), CHEK2 (n = 5), and PALB2 (n = 2). Women with normal test results were informed through a standardized letter. Carriers of pathogenic variants were contacted by telephone and offered in-person genetic counseling. One hundred and thirty-four women returned the subsequent questionnaire. Most study participants were satisfied with both written pre- and post-test information and many expressed their gratitude. The extra workload as compared to routine clinical genetic counseling was modest (8 min per patient).

Conclusion

The insights from the participants’ perspectives and sentiments throughout the process support the notion that the Traceback procedure is a safe and an appreciated complement to routine genetic counseling. The genetic yield of almost 10% also suggests that the associated extra workload for genetic counselors could be viewed as acceptable in clinical implementation scenarios.
A Comprehensive Overview on Chemotherapy-Induced Cardiotoxicity: Insights into the Underlying Inflammatory and Oxidative Mechanisms
Authors: Nagy András , Börzsei Denise , Hoffmann Alexandra , Török Szilvia , Veszelka Médea , Almási Nikoletta , Varga Csaba , Szabó Renáta
Published: March 2024

While oncotherapy has made rapid progress in recent years, side effects of anti-cancer drugs and treatments have also come to the fore. These side effects include cardiotoxicity, which can cause irreversible cardiac damages with long-term morbidity and mortality. Despite the continuous in-depth research on anti-cancer drugs, an improved knowledge of the underlying mechanisms of cardiotoxicity are necessary for early detection and management of cardiac risk. Although most reviews focus on the cardiotoxic effect of a specific individual chemotherapeutic agent, the aim of our review is to provide comprehensive insight into various agents that induced cardiotoxicity and their underlying mechanisms. Characterization of these mechanisms are underpinned by research on animal models and clinical studies. In order to gain insight into these complex mechanisms, we emphasize the role of inflammatory processes and oxidative stress on chemotherapy-induced cardiac changes. A better understanding and identification of the interplay between chemotherapy and inflammatory/oxidative processes hold some promise to prevent or at least mitigate cardiotoxicity-associated morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors.
Insights into the Performance of Bimetallic Ru-Co/TiO2 Catalysts Carrying out a Low Temperature C3H8 Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Camposeco Roberto , Gómora-Herrera D. , Zanella Rodolfo
Published: March 2024

The performance of a set of bimetallic Ru-Co catalysts dispersed on the TiO2 anatase phase, synthesized by the co-deposition–precipitation with urea method, was tested in the CO2 production by the entire oxidation of C3H8. The presence of properly dispersed ruthenium nanoparticles on a Co/TiO2-anatase support was notably favorable for enhancing the C3H8 activity/selectivity. Likewise, an increase in the combined acidity (Brönsted and Lewis) was also observed, and the interaction between Ru0-CoOx species stabilized on TiO2 prompted the C3H8 oxidation at low temperature. The performance of bimetallic Ru-Co/TiO2 catalysts was enhanced by increasing Ru0 species and loading, showing more efficient C3H8 oxidation by the combination of Ru0-CoOx, as revealed by DRIFTS, XPS, H2-TPR, and HAADF-STEM characterization outcomes. The higher acidity of the catalysts containing Ru (1.5 wt%) and Co (3 wt%) as well as the reducibility enhancement of the Ru and Co species led to the best capacity of these catalysts for C3H8 oxidation to CO2 under the experimental conditions employed in this study.

Graphical Abstract
Evaluating Density Forecasts Using Weighted Multivariate Scores in a Risk Management Context
Authors: Cheng Jie
Published: March 2024

Scoring rules are commonly applied to assess the accuracy of density forecasts in both univariate and multivariate settings. In a financial risk management context, we are mostly interested in a particular region of the density: the (left) tail of a portfolio’s return distribution. The dependence structure between returns on different assets (associated with a given portfolio) is usually time-varying and asymmetric. In this paper, we conduct a simulation study to compare the discrimination ability between the well-established scores and their threshold-weighted versions with selected regions. This facilitates a comprehensive comparison of the performance of scoring rules in different settings. Our empirical applications also confirm the importance of weighted-threshold scores for accurate estimates of Value-at-risk and related measures of downside risk.
Teachers’ ICT in pedagogy: A case for mentoring and mirrored practice
Authors: Vandeyar Thirusellvan , Adegoke Oyebimpe Oluwatoyin
Published: March 2024

The rapid expansion of the knowledge society, due mainly to the ubiquity and access of information and communication technology (ICT), places a professional demand on teachers to acquire relevant knowledge to make use of technology in their classrooms. Thus, for teachers to effectively integrate ICT into their teaching repertoire, they must transform their pedagogical practices. In this regard, the quality of pre-service and in-service training is pivotal in preparing teachers for effective technology integration. Utilising a case study approach and Activity Theory principles as a theoretical lens, this study set out to explore the influence of ICT as a tool of instruction on the classroom practice of in-service teachers in Rwanda. Qualitative methods were employed to capture data through interviews, observations, and document analysis. Data was analysed using content analysis to understand in-service teachers’ constructions about learning through ICT and how it influenced their classroom practice. The investigation of the influence of ICT as an instructional tool to in-service teachers yielded unique patterns of their ICT learning-teaching experiences. The findings were two-fold. First, the ICT learning experiences of the in-service teachers changed their perspective towards teaching and learning with ICT in their own classrooms. Second, the teacher participants vicariously mirrored their lecturers’ use of ICT in their own classroom practice. This unintended experience created affordances for the in-service teacher trainees to not only learn ‘about’ ICT, but significantly ‘how to teach’ pedagogically with ICT. It is crucial for teacher trainees to experience the same type of learning environments they are expected to create in their own classrooms.
Countergradient turbulent transport in a plume with a crossflow
Authors: Fenton Daniel , Cimarelli Andrea , Mollicone Jean-Paul , van Reeuwijk Maarten , De Angelis Elisabetta
Published: March 2024

Direct numerical simulation of a turbulent forced buoyant plume in a crossflow is performed at a source Reynolds number $${\text{ Re }}_0=1000$$

Re

0

=
1000

, Richardson number $$\mathrm{{Ri}}_0=1$$

Ri
0

=
1

, Prandtl number $$\mathrm{{Pr}}=1$$

Pr
=
1

and source-to-crossflow velocity ratio $$R_0=1$$

R
0

=
1

. The instantaneous and temporally averaged flow fields are assessed in detail, providing an overview of the flow dynamics. The velocity, temperature and pressure fields are used together with enstrophy fields to describe qualitatively the evolution of the plume as it is swept downstream by the crossflow, and the mechanisms involved in its evolution are outlined. The plume trajectory is determined quantitatively in a number of ways, and it is shown that the central streamline and the centre of buoyancy of the plume differ significantly—as with jets in crossflow, the central streamline is seen to follow the top of the plume, whereas the centre of buoyancy, by definition, describes the plume as a whole. We then investigate the turbulence properties inside the plume; in particular the eddy viscosity and diffusivity are presented, which are significant parameters in turbulence modelling. Assessment of turbulence production demonstrates the presence of regions where turbulence kinetic energy is redistributed to the kinetic energy of the mean flow, implying a negative eddy viscosity within certain regions of the domain. Similarly, the observation that the buoyancy flux and buoyancy gradient are anti-parallel in specific regions of the flow implies a negative eddy diffusivity in said regions, which must be realised in models of such flows in order to capture the countergradient transport of thermal properties. A characteristic eddy viscosity and diffusivity are presented, and shown to be approximately constant in the fully developed regime, resulting in a constant characteristic turbulent Prandtl number, in turn signifying self-similarity.
Diabetes and the risk of bladder cancer subtypes in men and women: results from the Netherlands Cohort Study
Authors: van den Brandt Piet A.
Published: March 2024

Meta-analyses have shown modest positive associations between diabetes mellitus (DM) and bladder cancer risk, but results are heterogeneous. This might be due to lack of distinction between bladder cancer subtypes, between sexes, and possibly between Type 2 and Type 1 DM (T2DM and T1DM). The relationship of T2DM (and secondarily T1DM) characteristics with risk of bladder cancer subtypes (invasive versus noninvasive) was investigated in the Netherlands Cohort Study. In 1986, 120,852 men and women aged 55–69 years provided information on DM and lifestyle data. After 20.3 years of follow-up, multivariable case-cohort analyses were based on 1020 invasive and 1088 noninvasive bladder cancer cases, and 4267 subcohort members with complete data on DM and confounders. While T2DM was not associated with noninvasive bladder cancer, it was statistically significantly associated with invasive bladder cancer risk: the multivariable-adjusted was HR = 1.57 (95% CI 1.04–2.37), comparing participants with T2DM versus without DM. The association was only significant in women, and women showed a stronger association [HR = 2.19 (95% CI 1.10–4.34)] between T2DM and invasive bladder cancer than men [HR = 1.42 (95% CI 0.88–2.30)]; interaction by sex was nonsignificant. Associations were stronger positive in those whose age at diagnosis of T2DM was 55+ years, and in those diagnosed with T2DM less than five years before baseline. T2DM participants using antidiabetic medication had higher invasive bladder cancer risk than those without DM. Exploratory age-sex-adjusted analyses suggested a positive association between T1DM and invasive bladder cancer, but this was based on few cases. These findings suggest that T2DM and possibly T1DM are positively associated with invasive bladder cancer risk.
Automated workflows using Quantitative Colour Pattern Analysis (QCPA): a guide to batch processing and downstream data analysis
Authors: van den Berg Cedric P. , Condon Nicholas D. , Conradsen Cara , White Thomas E. , Cheney Karen L.
Published: March 2024

Animal and plant colouration presents a striking dimension of phenotypic variation, the study of which has driven general advances in ecology, evolution, and animal behaviour. Quantitative Colour Pattern Analysis (QCPA) is a dynamic framework for analysing colour patterns through the eyes of non-human observers. However, its extensive array of user-defined image processing and analysis tools means image analysis is often time-consuming. This hinders the full use of analytical power provided by QCPA and its application to large datasets. Here, we offer a robust and comprehensive batch script, allowing users to automate many QCPA workflows. We also provide a complimentary set of useful R scripts for downstream data extraction and analysis. The presented batch processing extension will empower users to further utilise the analytical power of QCPA and facilitate the development of customised semi-automated workflows. Such quantitatively scaled workflows are crucial for exploring colour pattern spaces and developing ever-richer frameworks for analysing organismal colouration accounting for visual perception in animals other than humans. These advances will, in turn, facilitate testing hypotheses on the function and evolution of vision and signals at quantitative and qualitative scales, which are otherwise computationally unfeasible.
Introducing UV–visible spectroscopy at high school level following the historical evolution of spectroscopic instruments: a proposal for chemistry teachers
Authors: Carpentieri Maria Antonietta , Domenici Valentina
Published: March 2024

Spectroscopy is a scientific topic at the interface between Chemistry and Physics, which is taught at high school level in relation with its fundamental applications in Analytical Chemistry. In the first part of the paper, the topic of spectroscopy is analyzed having in mind the well-known Johnstone’s triangle of chemistry education, putting in evidence the way spectroscopy is usually taught at the three levels of chemical knowledge: macroscopic/phenomenological, sub-microscopic/molecular and symbolic ones. Among these three levels, following Johnstone’s recommendations the macroscopic one is the most useful for high school students who learn spectroscopy for the first time. Starting from these premises, in the second part of the paper, we propose a didactic sequence which is inspired by the historical evolution of spectroscopic instruments from the first spectroscopes invented by Gustav Kirchhoff and Robert Bunsen in 1860 to the UV–vis spectrophotometers which became common since the 1960s. The idea behind our research is to analyze the conceptual advancements through the history of spectroscopy and to identify the key episodes/experiments and spectroscopic instruments. For each of them, a didactic activity, typically an experiment, is then proposed underlining the relevant aspects from the chemistry education point of view. The present paper is the occasion to reflect on the potentialities of an historical approach combined with a laboratorial one, and to discuss the role of historical instruments and related technological improvements to teach spectroscopy.
Is there a preferred time interval between gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist trigger and oocyte retrieval in GnRH antagonist cycles? A retrospective cohort of planned fertility preservation cycles
Authors: Ranit Hizkiyahu , Shmuel Herzberg , Ahlad Athavale , Shirley Greenbaum , Meny Harari , Tal Imbar , Assaf Ben-Meir , Chana Adler Lazarovits , Yaakov Bentov , Efrat Esh-Broder , Anat Hershko Klement
Published: March 2024

Background

The ideal time frame between gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist (GnRHa) trigger administration and oocyte retrieval in GnRH antagonist cycles has not been well studied. Our goal was to evaluate the effect of this time interval on oocyte yield and oocyte maturation rate in GnRH antagonist cycles designated for non-medical (“planned”) oocyte cryopreservation.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study including patients who underwent elective fertility preservation, using the GnRH antagonist protocol and exclusively triggered by GnRH-agonist. We focused on the effect of the trigger-to-retrieval time interval on oocyte yield and maturation rate, while also incorporating age, body mass index (BMI), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels, basal Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) levels, as well as the type and dosage of gonadotropin FSH medication.

Results

438 cycles were included. Trigger-to-retrieval time interval ranged from 32.03 to 39.92 h. The mean oocyte yield showed no statistically significant difference when comparing retrievals < 36 h (n = 240, 11.86 ± 8.6) to those triggered at ≥ 36 h (n = 198, 12.24 ± 7.73) (P = 0.6). Upon dividing the cohort into four-time quartiles, no significant differences in the number of retrieved oocytes were observed (P = 0.54). Multivariate regression analysis failed to reveal any significant associations between the interval and the aforementioned variables.

Conclusions

The GnRHa trigger to oocyte retrieval interval range in our cohort did not significantly affect oocyte yield and maturation rate.
A motif-based probabilistic approach for community detection in complex networks
Authors: Hajibabaei Hossein , Seydi Vahid , Koochari Abbas
Published: March 2024

Community detection in complex networks is an important task for discovering hidden information in network analysis. Neighborhood density between nodes is one of the fundamental indicators of community presence in the network. A community with a high edge density will have correlations between nodes that extend beyond their immediate neighbors, denoted by motifs. Motifs are repetitive patterns of edges observed with high frequency in the network. We proposed the PCDMS method (Probabilistic Community Detection with Motif Structure) that detects communities by estimating the triangular motif in the network. This study employs structural density between nodes, a key concept in graph analysis. The proposed model has the advantage of using a probabilistic generative model that calculates the latent parameters of the probabilistic model and determines the community based on the likelihood of triangular motifs. The relationship between observing two pairs of nodes in multiple communities leads to an increasing likelihood estimation of the existence of a motif structure between them. The output of the proposed model is the intensity of each node in the communities. The efficiency and validity of the proposed method are evaluated through experimental work on both synthetic and real-world networks; the findings will show that the community identified by the proposed method is more accurate and dense than other algorithms with modularity, NMI, and F1score evaluation metrics.
Stochastic Primal–Dual Hybrid Gradient Algorithm with Adaptive Step Sizes
Authors: Chambolle Antonin , Delplancke Claire , Ehrhardt Matthias J. , Schönlieb Carola-Bibiane , Tang Junqi
Published: March 2024

In this work, we propose a new primal–dual algorithm with adaptive step sizes. The stochastic primal–dual hybrid gradient (SPDHG) algorithm with constant step sizes has become widely applied in large-scale convex optimization across many scientific fields due to its scalability. While the product of the primal and dual step sizes is subject to an upper-bound in order to ensure convergence, the selection of the ratio of the step sizes is critical in applications. Up-to-now there is no systematic and successful way of selecting the primal and dual step sizes for SPDHG. In this work, we propose a general class of adaptive SPDHG (A-SPDHG) algorithms and prove their convergence under weak assumptions. We also propose concrete parameters-updating strategies which satisfy the assumptions of our theory and thereby lead to convergent algorithms. Numerical examples on computed tomography demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed schemes.
Proposal to Observe Transverse Sound in Normal Liquid $$^3$$He in Aerogel
Authors: Sharma Priya
Published: March 2024

In the Fermi liquid metallic state, a static local magnetic moment is induced on the application of a circularly polarized electromagnetic wave, via the inverse Faraday effect (IFE). The direction of this moment is along the direction of propagation of light, and the magnitude of the moment depends on the frequency of light, the temperature and various material parameters characteristic of the metal. I propose an analogous effect in the Fermi liquid state of $$^3$$

3

He. A static circulating current is induced when liquid $$^3$$

3

He is driven by a circularly polarized transverse acoustic wave. For liquid $$^3$$

3

He filled into aerogel, the coupled system supports a low-attenuation transverse sound mode. I estimate the magnitude of induced circulating currents for this system and find that these are within the range of experimental measurement in the low-attenuation regime. The axis of circulation is along the direction of propagation of the acoustic wave. I propose this analogue of the inverse Faraday effect as a scheme to experimentally demonstrate the propagation of transverse sound in $$^3$$

3

He-aerogel.
Many-Stage Optimal Stabilized Runge–Kutta Methods for Hyperbolic Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Doehring Daniel , Gassner Gregor J. , Torrilhon Manuel
Published: March 2024

A novel optimization procedure for the generation of stability polynomials of stabilized explicit Runge–Kutta methods is devised. Intended for semidiscretizations of hyperbolic partial differential equations, the herein developed approach allows the optimization of stability polynomials with more than hundred stages. A potential application of these high degree stability polynomials are problems with locally varying characteristic speeds as found for non-uniformly refined meshes and spatially varying wave speeds. To demonstrate the applicability of the stability polynomials we construct 2N-storage many-stage Runge–Kutta methods that match their designed second order of accuracy when applied to a range of linear and nonlinear hyperbolic PDEs with smooth solutions. These methods are constructed to reduce the amplification of round off errors which becomes a significant concern for these many-stage methods.
Reconstruction of the Ferromagnetic Hysteresis in the Rayleigh Regime by Means of Impedance Analysis of the Excitation Coil
Authors: Thieltges Sascha , Youssef Sargon , Hartmann Uwe
Published: March 2024

Ferromagnetic hysteresis measurements can be used to determine both magnetic and mechanical state variables that correlate with each other. Therefore, hysteresis measurements are suitable for mechanical material characterization. The application of standardized hysteresis measurement methods is complex and can only be used to a limited extent in an industrial environment. In this work, a BH (ferromagnetic hysteresis) curve is to be reconstructed on 22NiMoCr3-7 samples that are in different mechanically deformed states (different histories). The reconstruction of the hysteresis is performed by an impedance analysis of the H-field generating coil. The applied method demonstrates that the ferromagnetic hysteresis can be reconstructed by means of an impedance analysis and is sensitive to different states of plastical deformation.
What you see is what you get: the impact of blockchain technology transparency on consumers
Authors: Rapezzi Matilde , Pizzi Gabriele , Marzocchi Gian Luca
Published: March 2024

Blockchain technology (BT) represents a chance to bolster consumer responses toward retailers due to its ability to ensure transparency in each transaction within supply chain. Relying on signaling theory, we propose and test a theoretical model to examine BT effects. We test our theorizing in three experiments involving a total of 1995 participants. Our results suggest that retailer transparency elicited by BT fosters enhanced quality perceptions and retailer trust. As a result, consumers display higher future intentions toward the retailer. The findings illustrate that information quantity moderates the effects of transparency. Furthermore, the studies rule out interactivity and mental imagery as two possible alternative explanations of the effects of BT transparency. Our findings shed light on the importance of transparency in the supply chain in influencing consumer responses toward retailers and encourage retailers to consider in-store technologies such as BT that enable consumers to access such information.
Embodiment and regenerative implants: a proposal for entanglement
Authors: van Daal Manon , de Kanter Anne-Floor J. , Jongsma Karin R. , Bredenoord Annelien L. , de Graeff Nienke
Published: March 2024

Regenerative Medicine promises to develop treatments to regrow healthy tissues and cure the physical body. One of the emerging developments within this field is regenerative implants, such as jawbone or heart valve implants, that can be broken down by the body and are gradually replaced with living tissue. Yet challenges for embodiment are to be expected, given that the implants are designed to integrate deeply into the tissue of the living body, so that implant and body become one. In this paper, we explore how regenerative implants may affect the embodied experience of implant recipients. To this end, we take a phenomenological approach. First, we explore what insights the existing phenomenological and empirical literature on embodiment offers regarding the experience of illness and of living with regular (non-regenerative) implants and organ transplants. Second, we apply these insights to better understand how future implant recipients might experience living with regenerative implants. Third, we conclude that concepts and considerations from the existing phenomenological literature do not sufficiently address what it might be like to live with an implantable technology that, over time, becomes one with the living body. We argue that the interwovenness and intimate relationship of people living with regenerative implants should be understood in terms of ‘entanglement’. Entanglement allows us to explore the complexities of human-technology relations, acknowledging the inseparability of humans and implantable technologies. Our theoretical foundations regarding the role of embodiment may be tested empirically once more people will be living with regenerative implants.
Mitigating water pollution in a Portuguese river basin under climate change through agricultural sustainable practices
Authors: Ramião José Pedro , Pascoal Cláudia , Pinto Rute , Carvalho-Santos Cláudia
Published: March 2024

Sustainable agricultural practices have been extensively used to reduce water pollution; however, the effectiveness of these practices may be significantly affected by climate change. In this study, we assess the effectiveness of sustainable agricultural practices in reducing sediment and nutrient export to rivers under future climate conditions, using the Soil & Water Assessment Tool in a Portuguese river basin exposed to high levels of agricultural pollution. In our study, filter strips demonstrated a significant mitigation effect on sediment and nutrient increases under simulated climate change conditions, with maximum sediment export depletion reaching 65% and the highest nutrient export depletion observed at 35%. The implementation of multiple sustainable practices resulted in the highest depletions, with a notable 71% depletion in sediment export and a 35% depletion in nutrient export. Additionally, our research underscores the crucial role of filter strips and multiple sustainable agricultural practices in mitigating the projected rise in nutrient concentrations during summer, given the effect of climate change on river discharge. Further studies exploring sustainable agricultural practices across different climates and watersheds can improve our understanding of their effectiveness for adaptation to climate change.
Plant colonizers of a mercury contaminated site: trace metals and associated rhizosphere bacteria
Authors: Tiodar Emanuela D. , Chiriac Cecilia M. , Pošćić Filip , Văcar Cristina L. , Balázs Zoltan R. , Coman Cristian , Weindorf David C. , Banciu Manuela , Krämer Ute , Podar Dorina
Published: March 2024

Background and aims

Mercury (Hg) contamination poses severe human and environmental health risks. We aimed to evaluate the colonization of Hg-contaminated sites by native plants and the prokaryotic composition of rhizosphere soil communities of the dominant plant species.

Methods

A field study was conducted at a Hg-contaminated site in Romania. Metal concentrations in soil and plant samples were analyzed using portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. The prokaryotic composition of rhizosphere soil communities was determined through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and community functionality was predicted through PICRUSt2.

Results

Site-specific trace metal distribution across the site drove plant species distribution in the highly contaminated soil, with Lotus tenuis and Diplotaxis muralis associated with higher Hg concentrations. In addition, for the bacterial communities in the rhizosphere soil of D. muralis, there was no observable decrease in alpha diversity with increasing soil Hg levels. Notably, Actinomycetota had an average of 24% relative abundance in the rhizosphere communities that also tested positive for the presence of merA, whereas in the absence of merA the phylum’s relative abundance was approximately 2%. merA positive rhizosphere communities also displayed an inferred increase in ABC transporters.

Conclusions

The results suggest a dependence of species-wise plant survival on local trace metal levels in soil, as well as an intricate interplay of the latter with rhizosphere bacterial diversity. Knowledge of these interdependencies could have implications for phytoremediation stakeholders, as it may allow for the selection of plant species and appropriate soil microbial inoculates with elevated Hg tolerance.
Effectiveness of vaccination, travel load, and facemask use control strategies for controlling COVID Delta variant: the case of Sydney Metropolitan Area
Authors: Tabasi Maliheh , Najmi Ali , Miller Eric J. , MacIntyre C. Raina , Rashidi Taha H.
Published: March 2024

The Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2, specifically identified as B.1.617.2, is responsible for the severe outbreaks witnessed globally, including in various countries and cities, with Sydney Greater Metropolitan Area (Sydney GMA) being no exception. According to scientific studies, the Delta strain exhibits increased contagion and leads to a higher incidence of vaccine breakthrough cases, posing significant challenges to pandemic control efforts. In this study, we explore the efficacy of three fundamental control strategies—namely, vaccination rates, adherence to facemask usage, and the management of travel loads—in mitigating the spread of the disease and, consequently, eliminating the Delta variant pandemic in Sydney GMA. We employ an agent-based disease spread model to thoroughly investigate these strategies. Moreover, factorial MANOVA is utilised to assess the significance of variations in the impact of diverse compliance levels with the aforementioned control strategies on various attributes of the pandemic. As complete lockdowns and stringent travel regulations have the potential to induce physical and mental distress in individuals and economic crises for countries, our study examines the interactive effects of implementing control strategies to mitigate the necessity for a full lockdown. The simulation results suggest that suppressing a pandemic with similar characteristics to Delta variant of COVID is feasible with a vaccination rate of 80% or higher, as long as travel load and activity participation are maintained at pre-COVID levels. Alternatively, a more realistic and attainable combination of control measures—a vaccination rate of 60%, a facemask usage level of 60%, and a 50% compliance level for social distancing—demonstrates comparable efficacy, leading to effective pandemic control. Notably, the vaccination rate emerges as a more potent control strategy compared to others in the elimination of the disease within society.
Exploring the Interplay Between Equity Groups, Mental Health and Perceived Employability Amongst Students at a Public Australian University
Authors: Gill Chelsea , Todd James , Bennett Dawn , Gepp Adrian
Published: March 2024

This article explores the interplay between perceived employability (PE), mental health, and equity group membership amongst students at a large public urban university in Australia. The article reports from a study conducted between 2017 and 2022, during which students self-assessed their PE. Differences in PE by equity group membership were assessed using responses to structured fields in the questionnaire (n = 24,329). Custom measures were constructed using student responses to open-ended fields to proxy student wellbeing based on sentiment analysis and mention of mental health or synonymous terms (n = 12,819). Analyses included two-way tests of differences between groups and multivariate analyses considering the effect of equity group membership and mental health concerns on employability beliefs. Results indicate that students with a disability, with English as a second language, or with wellbeing concerns report lower perceived employability. Of all the PE dimensions, academic self-efficacy is most consistently affected by equity group membership and wellbeing concerns. Further, wellbeing concerns are more prevalent for students with disabilities. The findings strengthen support for policy and institutional initiatives focusing on student wellbeing in general but also specifically for equity groups that are already associated with poorer employability beliefs. In particular, students with disabilities appear to have poorer self-esteem and academic self-efficacy and are more likely to have mental health concerns.