bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Over-reliance on water infrastructure can hinder climate resilience in pastoral drylands
Authors: Piemontese Luigi , Terzi Stefano , Di Baldassarre Giuliano , Menestrey Schwieger Diego A. , Castelli Giulio , Bresci Elena
Published: February 2024

Extreme droughts are affecting millions of livestock farmers in sub-Saharan Africa, causing water shortages, famines, migration and fatalities. The construction of new small water infrastructures (SWIs), such as deep wells and boreholes, is increasingly supported by climate resilience programmes of non-governmental organizations and national governments to improve water availability for agro-pastoralists, especially as an emergency response to extreme droughts. Although the short-term benefits of SWI are clear, their potential cumulative impact and their long-term effects on the resilience of dryland communities remain unclear. Here, building on in-depth anthropological literature from five key African drylands, we model post-drought pastoralists’ dynamics related to SWI. We show that while developing new SWI releases water shortages in the short term, it can erode traditional adaptation practices without adequate governance. We further illustrate how our model captures early quantitative signals of resilience loss in dryland Angola. This indicates that poorly governed water development in African drylands can be a limiting factor for the long-term resilience of pastoral communities facing a range of social, demographic, economic and climate challenges.
Hydrogen storage and geo-methanation in a depleted underground hydrocarbon reservoir
Authors: Hellerschmied Cathrine , Schritter Johanna , Waldmann Niels , Zaduryan Artur B. , Rachbauer Lydia , Scherr Kerstin E. , Andiappan Anitha , Bauer Stephan , Pichler Markus , Loibner Andreas P.
Published: February 2024

Coupling of power-to-gas processes with underground gas storage could effectively allow surplus electricity to be stored for later use. Depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs could be used as stores, but practical experience of hydrogen storage in such sites is limited. Here we present data from a field trial that stored 119,353 m3 of hydrogen admixed to natural gas in a depleted hydrocarbon reservoir. After 285 days, hydrogen recovery was 84.3%, indicating the process’s technical feasibility. Additionally, we report that microbes mediated hydrogen conversion to methane. In laboratory experiments studying mesocosms that mimic real reservoirs, hydrogen and carbon dioxide were converted to methane (0.26 mmol l−1 h−1 evolution rate) reproducibly over 14 cycles in 357 days. This rate theoretically allows 114,648 m3 of methane per year to be produced in the test reservoir (equivalent to ~1.08 GWh). Our research demonstrates the efficiency of hydrogen storage and the importance of geo-methanation in depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs.
AndroDex: Android Dex Images of Obfuscated Malware
Authors: Aurangzeb Sana , Aleem Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Taimoor , Loukas George , Sakellari Georgia
Published: February 2024

With the emergence of technology and the usage of a large number of smart devices, cyber threats are increasing. Therefore, research studies have shifted their attention to detecting Android malware in recent years. As a result, a reliable and large-scale malware dataset is essential to build effective malware classifiers. In this paper, we have created AndroDex: an Android malware dataset containing a total of 24,746 samples that belong to more than 180 malware families. These samples are based on .dex images that truly reflect the characteristics of malware. To construct this dataset, we first downloaded the APKs of the malware, applied obfuscation techniques, and then converted them into images. We believe this dataset will significantly enhance a series of research studies, including Android malware detection and classification, and it will also boost deep learning classification efforts, among others. The main objective of creating images based on the Android dataset is to help other malware researchers better understand how malware works. Additionally, an important result of this study is that most malware nowadays employs obfuscation techniques to hide their malicious activities. However, malware images can overcome such issues. The main limitation of this dataset is that it contains images based on .dex files that are based on static analysis. However, dynamic analysis takes time, therefore, to overcome the issue of time and space this dataset can be used for the initial examination of any .apk files.
A biological ocean data reformatting effort
Authors: Baldry Kimberlee , Johnson Robert , Strutton Peter G. , Boyd Philip W.
Published: February 2024

Biological ocean data collected from ships find reuse in aggregations of historical data. These data are heavily relied upon to document long term change, validate satellite algorithms for ocean biology and are useful in assessing the performance of autonomous platforms and biogeochemical models. Existing aggregate products have largely been restricted to the surface ocean, omit physical data or have limited biological data. We present the first version of a BIOlogical ocean data reforMATting Effort (BIO-MATE) to begin to fill a gap in subsurface bio-physical data aggregates in a reproducible way. BIO-MATE uses open-source R software that reformats openly sourced published datasets from oceanographic voyages. These reformatted biological and physical data from underway sensors, profiling sensors, pigments analysis and particulate organic carbon analysis are stored in an interoperable BIO-MATE data product for easy access and use. Specific QA/QC protocols can now be easily applied to the BIO-MATE data product to support a variety of surface and subsurface applications.
Ambient air pollutants and breast cancer stage in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Khorrami Zahra , Pourkhosravani Mohsen , Karamoozian Ali , Jafari-Khounigh Ali , Akbari Mohammad Esmaeil , Rezapour Maysam , Khorrami Reihaneh , Taghavi-Shahri Seyed Mahmood , Amini Heresh , Etemad Koorosh , Khanjani Narges
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to examine the impacts of single and multiple air pollutants (AP) on the severity of breast cancer (BC). Data of 1148 diagnosed BC cases (2008–2016) were obtained from the Cancer Research Center and private oncologist offices in Tehran, Iran. Ambient PM10, SO2, NO, NO2, NOX, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, m-xylene, p-xylene, o-xylene, and BTEX data were obtained from previously developed land use regression models. Associations between pollutants and stage of BC were assessed by multinomial logistic regression models. An increase of 10 μg/m3 in ethylbenzene, o-xylene, m-xylene, and 10 ppb of NO corresponded to 10.41 (95% CI 1.32–82.41), 4.07 (1.46–11.33), 2.89 (1.08–7.73) and 1.08 (1.00–1.15) increase in the odds of stage I versus non-invasive BC, respectively. Benzene (OR, odds ratio = 1.16, 95% CI 1.01–1.33) and o-xylene (OR = 1.18, 1.02–1.38) were associated with increased odds of incidence of BC stages III & IV versus non-invasive stages. BC stage I and stage III&IV in women living in low SES areas was associated with significantly higher levels of benzene, ethylbenzene, o-xylene, and m-xylene. The highest multiple-air-pollutants quartile was associated with a higher odds of stage I BC (OR = 3.16) in patients under 50 years old. This study provides evidence that exposure to AP is associated with increased BC stage at diagnosis, especially under premenopause age.
Mechanical characterization & regression analysis of Calamus rotang based hybrid natural fibre composite with findings reported on retrieval bending strength
Authors: Lokesh K. S. , Shrinivasa Mayya D. , Yashwanth H. L. , Sharanya I. S. , Nikam Hrithika , Channa Keshava Reddy K. L. , Kumar Shashank
Published: February 2024

Research on Bio-based natural fiber material promoted the development of reinforcement and expand their possible structural applications. In this study, fibers are extracted from the stem of Calamus rotang (common rattan-Indian Species). Further, the fiber is processed to get novel hybrid combinations with glass fibers by manual hand lay-up technique. Three sets of samples were prepared for the different volume fractions of 60:40, 30:30:30, and 60:32:8 of glass fiber/epoxy as neat composite sample (NCS), a hybrid combination of C. rotang /glass fiber with epoxy as modified reinforced composite sample (MRCS) and glass fiber/epoxy with calamus stem powder as modified matrix composite sample (MMCS) respectively. Mechanical tests including tensile, flexural, impact, and ILSS tests are conducted as per ASTM Standards. Comparative studies have been done to evaluate the effect of novel species of C. rotang on mechanical properties with neat GFRP composites. Addition to this regression analysis has been carried out to achieve the experimental correlation for tensile and bending tests. Microstructural analysis for all the tested samples has been done to assess the fracture mode. Novel findings on retrieval bending strength for MMCS has been reported for the first time for composite materials. Study proves that novel species have a significant impact on the basic properties of materials.
Application of DSO algorithm for estimating the parameters of triple diode model-based solar PV system
Authors: Kumari P. Ashwini , Basha C. H. Hussaian , Puppala Rajendhar , Fathima Fini , Dhanamjayulu C. , Chinthaginjala Ravikumar , Mohammad Faruq , Khan Baseem
Published: February 2024

Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) technology advancements are primarily aimed at decarbonizing and enhancing the resiliency of the energy grid. Incorporating SPV is one of the ways to achieve the goal of energy efficiency. Because of the nonlinearity, modeling of SPV is a very difficult process. Identification of variables in a lumped electric circuit model is required for accurate modeling of the SPV system. This paper presents a new state-of-the-art control technique based on human artefacts dubbed Drone Squadron Optimization for estimating 15 parameters of a three-diode equivalent model solar PV system. The suggested method simulates a nonlinear relationship between the P–V and I–V performance curves, lowering the difference between experimental and calculated data. To evaluate the adaptive performance in every climatic state, two different test cases with commercial PV cells, RTC France and photo watt-201, are used. The proposed method provides a more accurate parameter estimate. To validate the recommended approach's performance, the data are compared to the results of the most recent and powerful methodologies in the literature. For the RTC and PWP Photo Watt Cell, the DSO technique has the lowest Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 6.7776 × 10–4 and 0.002310324 × 10–4, respectively.
Real-time prediction of bladder urine leakage using fuzzy inference system and dual Kalman filtering in cats
Authors: Qasemi Amirhossein , Aminian Alireza , Erfanian Abbas
Published: February 2024

The use of electrical stimulation devices to manage bladder incontinence relies on the application of continuous inhibitory stimulation. However, continuous stimulation can result in tissue fatigue and increased delivered charge. Here, we employ a real-time algorithm to provide a short-time prediction of urine leakage using the high-resolution power spectrum of the bladder pressure during the presence of non-voiding contractions (NVC) in normal and overactive bladder (OAB) cats. The proposed method is threshold-free and does not require pre-training. The analysis revealed that there is a significant difference between voiding contraction (VC) and NVC pressures as well as band powers (0.5–5 Hz) during both normal and OAB conditions. Also, most of the first leakage points occurred after the maximum VC pressure, while all of them were observed subsequent to the maximum VC spectral power. Kalman-Fuzzy method predicted urine leakage on average 2.2 s and 1.6 s before its occurrence and an average of 2.0 s and 1.1 s after the contraction started with success rates of 94.2% and 100% in normal and OAB cats, respectively. This work presents a promising approach for developing a neuroprosthesis device, with on-demand stimulation to control bladder incontinence.
Wind- and rain-driven macroplastic mobilization and transport on land
Authors: Mellink Yvette A. M. , van Emmerik Tim H. M. , Mani Thomas
Published: February 2024

Wind and rain are considered main drivers for mobilization and transport of macroplastics on land, yet there is a lack of empirical data that quantifies this. We present lab experiment results on land-based macroplastic mobilization and transport. We placed four types of macroplastics on terrains with varying surface roughness and slope angles, and exposed them to changing wind speeds and rain intensities. In general, we find that the mobilization probability and transport velocity of macroplastics strongly depend on the combination of the terrain characteristics and material properties. At Beaufort 3, 100% of the plastic bags were mobilized, whereas for the other plastic types less than 50% were mobilized. We found 1.4 (grass) to 5 times (paved surface) higher mobilization probabilities on land than assumed by existing plastic transport models. Macroplastic transport velocities were positively correlated with wind speed, but not with rain intensity. This suggests that macroplastics are not transported on land by rain unless surface runoff develops that can bring the macroplastics afloat. Macroplastic transport velocities were, driven by wind, 1.9 and, driven by rain, 4.9 times faster on paved surfaces than on grass. This study enhances our understanding of land-based macroplastic transport and provides an empirical basis for models.
cnnImpute: missing value recovery for single cell RNA sequencing data
Authors: Zhang Wenjuan , Huckaby Brandon , Talburt John , Weissman Sherman , Yang Mary Qu
Published: February 2024

The advent of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology has revolutionized our ability to explore cellular diversity and unravel the complexities of intricate diseases. However, due to the inherently low signal-to-noise ratio and the presence of an excessive number of missing values, scRNA-seq data analysis encounters unique challenges. Here, we present cnnImpute, a novel convolutional neural network (CNN) based method designed to address the issue of missing data in scRNA-seq. Our approach starts by estimating missing probabilities, followed by constructing a CNN-based model to recover expression values with a high likelihood of being missing. Through comprehensive evaluations, cnnImpute demonstrates its effectiveness in accurately imputing missing values while preserving the integrity of cell clusters in scRNA-seq data analysis. It achieved superior performance in various benchmarking experiments. cnnImpute offers an accurate and scalable method for recovering missing values, providing a useful resource for scRNA-seq data analysis.
Assessment of perceived dengue risk and prevention practices among youth in Bangladesh
Authors: Siddique Abu Bakkar , Omi Nishat Tamanna , Rasel Sayed Mohammad , Hoque Sayeda Samira Binte , Rahman Naimur , Sarker Sanjida , Ghosh Ankon , Ahmed Imtiaz , Akash Yeasin , Ahmed Ayesha , Sikder Md. Tajuddin
Published: February 2024

Dengue fever is a global public health concern, especially in countries like Bangladesh. This study examines youth perceived dengue risk, and preventive practices, providing valuable insights into their behavior regarding this mosquito-borne disease. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken in various regions of the Dhaka district in Bangladesh. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 1,358 participants using convenience sampling, spanning the period from September 2 to October 10, 2023. A semi-structured questionnaire covered informed consent, socio-demographic data, and questions about perceived dengue risk scale (12 items), and prevention practice (13 items). Participants’ mean age was 22.02 ± 1.58 years. The average scores for perceived dengue risk, and prevention practices were found to be 51.39 ± 12.01 (out of 96), and 55.57 ± 14.55 (out of 104) respectively. Previous dengue history, history of other vector-borne diseases, gender, educational level, father's educational qualification, employment status, adequate sleep duration, father's occupation, etc. are factors associated with higher risk and prevention practices regarding dengue. The research underscores the importance of tailoring prevention strategies for different demographics, raising awareness, and promoting active engagement in preventive measures. These insights are crucial for developing effective public health policies and campaigns to combat dengue.
A planar tracking strategy based on multiple-interpretable improved PPO algorithm with few-shot technique
Authors: Wang Xiao , Ma Zhe , Cao Lu , Ran Dechao , Ji Mingjiang , Sun Kewu , Han Yuying , Li Jiake
Published: February 2024

Facing to a planar tracking problem, a multiple-interpretable improved Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO) algorithm with few-shot technique is proposed, namely F-GBQ-PPO. Compared with the normal PPO, the main improvements of F-GBQ-PPO are to increase the interpretability, and reduce the consumption for real interaction samples. Considering to increase incomprehensibility of a tracking policy, three levels of interpretabilities has been studied, including the perceptual, logical and mathematical interpretabilities. Detailly speaking, it is realized through introducing a guided policy based on Apollonius circle, a hybrid exploration policy based on biological motions, and the update of external parameters based on quantum genetic algorithm. Besides, to deal with the potential lack of real interaction samples in real applications, a few-shot technique is contained in the algorithm, which mainly generate fake samples through a multi-dimension Gaussian process. By mixing fake samples with real ones in a certain proportion, the demand for real samples can be reduced.
Increased specificity of Fasciola hepatica excretory-secretory antigens combining negative selection on hydroxyapatite and salt precipitation
Authors: Ubeira Florencio M. , González-Warleta Marta , Martínez-Sernández Victoria , Castro-Hermida José Antonio , Paniagua Esperanza , Romarís Fernanda , Mezo Mercedes
Published: February 2024

A single and rapid method to obtain an antigenic fraction of excretory-secretory antigens (ESAs) from Fasciola hepatica suitable for serodiagnosis of fascioliasis is reported. The procedure consists in the negative selection of F. hepatica ESAs by hydroxyapatite (HA) chromatography (HAC; fraction HAC-NR) followed by antigen precipitation with 50% ammonium sulphate (AS) and subsequent recovery by means of a Millex-GV or equivalent filter (Fi-SOLE fraction). Tested in indirect ELISA, the Fi-SOLE antigens detected natural infections by F. hepatica with 100% sensitivity and 98.9% specificity in sheep, and 97.7% sensitivity and 97.7% specificity in cattle, as determined by ROC analysis. The SDS-PAGE and proteomic nano-UHPLC-Tims-QTOF MS/MS analysis of fractions showed that the relative abundance of L-cathepsins and fragments thereof was 57% in fraction HAC-NR and 93.8% in fraction Fi-SOLE. The second most abundant proteins in fraction HAC-NR were fatty-acid binding proteins (11.9%). In contrast, free heme, and heme:MF6p/FhHDM-1 complexes remained strongly bond to the HA particles during HAC. Interestingly, phosphorylcholine (PC)-bearing antigens, which are a frequent source of cross-reactivity, were detected with an anti-PC mAb (BH8) in ESAs and fraction HAC-NR but were almost absent in fraction Fi-SOLE.
Characterization of enhancer activity in early human neurodevelopment using Massively Parallel Reporter Assay (MPRA) and forebrain organoids
Authors: Capauto Davide , Wang Yifan , Wu Feinan , Norton Scott , Mariani Jessica , Inoue Fumitaka , Crawford Gregory E. , Ahituv Nadav , Abyzov Alexej , Vaccarino Flora M.
Published: February 2024

Regulation of gene expression through enhancers is one of the major processes shaping the structure and function of the human brain during development. High-throughput assays have predicted thousands of enhancers involved in neurodevelopment, and confirming their activity through orthogonal functional assays is crucial. Here, we utilized Massively Parallel Reporter Assays (MPRAs) in stem cells and forebrain organoids to evaluate the activity of ~ 7000 gene-linked enhancers previously identified in human fetal tissues and brain organoids. We used a Gaussian mixture model to evaluate the contribution of background noise in the measured activity signal to confirm the activity of ~ 35% of the tested enhancers, with most showing temporal-specific activity, suggesting their evolving role in neurodevelopment. The temporal specificity was further supported by the correlation of activity with gene expression. Our findings provide a valuable gene regulatory resource to the scientific community.
Choice of DNA extraction method affects stool microbiome recovery and subsequent phenotypic association analyses
Authors: Fernández-Pato Asier , Sinha Trishla , Gacesa Ranko , Andreu-Sánchez Sergio , Gois Milla F. Brandao , Gelderloos-Arends Jody , Jansen Dianne B. H. , Kruk Marloes , Jaeger Martin , Joosten Leo A. B. , Netea Mihai G. , Weersma Rinse K. , Wijmenga Cisca , Harmsen Hermie J. M. , Fu Jingyuan , Zhernakova Alexandra , Kurilshikov Alexander
Published: February 2024

The lack of standardization in the methods of DNA extraction from fecal samples represents the major source of experimental variation in the microbiome research field. In this study, we aimed to compare the metagenomic profiles and microbiome–phenotype associations obtained by applying two commercially available DNA extraction kits: the AllPrep DNA/RNA Mini Kit (APK) and the QIAamp Fast DNA Stool Mini Kit (FSK). Using metagenomic sequencing data available from 745 paired fecal samples from two independent population cohorts, Lifelines-DEEP (LLD, n = 292) and the 500 Functional Genomics project (500FG, n = 453), we confirmed significant differences in DNA yield and the recovered microbial communities between protocols, with the APK method resulting in a higher DNA concentration and microbial diversity. Further, we observed a massive difference in bacterial relative abundances at species-level between the APK and the FSK protocols, with > 75% of species differentially abundant between protocols in both cohorts. Specifically, comparison with a standard mock community revealed that the APK method provided higher accuracy in the recovery of microbial relative abundances, with the absence of a bead-beating step in the FSK protocol causing an underrepresentation of gram-positive bacteria. This heterogeneity in the recovered microbial composition led to remarkable differences in the association with anthropometric and lifestyle phenotypes. The results of this study further reinforce that the choice of DNA extraction method impacts the metagenomic profile of human gut microbiota and highlight the importance of harmonizing protocols in microbiome studies.
Small fibre pathology, small fibre symptoms and pain in fibromyalgia syndrome
Authors: Marshall Anne , Rapteas Leandros , Burgess Jamie , Riley David , Anson Matthew , Matsumoto Kohei , Bennett Amanda , Kaye Stephen , Marshall Andrew , Dunham James , Fallon Nicholas , Zhao Sizheng S. , Pritchard Anne , Goodson Nicola , Malik Rayaz A. , Goebel Andreas , Frank Bernhard , Alam Uazman
Published: February 2024

A proportion of people with fibromyalgia demonstrate small fibre pathology (SFP). However, it is unclear how SFP directly relates to pain phenomenology. Thirty-three individuals with FMS and ten healthy volunteers underwent assessment of SFP and sensory phenotyping using corneal confocal microscopy, validated questionnaires and quantitative sensory testing (QST). Corneal nerve fibre length was used to stratify participants with fibromyalgia into with SFP [SFP+] and without SFP [SFP−]. SFP was detected in 50% of the fibromyalgia cohort. Current pain score and QST parameters did not differ between SFP+ and SFP−. Mechanical pain sensitivity (MPS) demonstrated a significant gain-of-function in the SFP− cohort compared to healthy-volunteers (p = 0.014, F = 4.806, η2 = 0.22). Further stratification revealed a cohort without structural SFP but with symptoms compatible with small fibre neuropathy symptoms and a significant gain in function in MPS (p = 0.020 Chi-square). Additionally, this cohort reported higher scores for both depression (p = 0.039, H = 8.483, η2 = 0.312) and anxiety (p = 0.022, F = 3.587, η2 = 0.293). This study confirms that SFP is present in a proportion of people with fibromyalgia. We also show that in a proportion of people with fibromyalgia, small fibre neuropathy symptoms are present in the absence of structural SFP. Greater mechanical pain sensitivity, depression and anxiety are seen in these individuals.
Comparative analysis of patellar tendon, achilles tendon and plantar fascia structure in indoor and outdoor football players: a novel cross-sectional pilot study
Authors: Romero-Morales Carlos , Berzosa-Rojo Álvaro , Di Luca-Calabrese Daniel , Vázquez-González Sergio , Abuín-Porras Vanesa , Jaén-Crespo Gonzalo , García-Sanz Fernando , Pareja-Galeano Helios
Published: February 2024

Different sport modalities were associate with tendon adaptation or even tendon disturbances, such as volleyball, soccer or basketball. Purpose: the aim of the present study was to determine de difference between indoor and outdoor football players on patellar tendon (PT), Achilles tendon (AT), plantar fascia (FP) and Hoffa’s fat pad thickness assessed with ultrasound imaging (USI). A cross-sectional study was developed with a total sample of 30 soccer players divided in two groups: outdoor group (n = 15) and indoor group (n = 15). The thickness of PT, AT, PF and Hoffa’s fat pad has been assessed with USI. Hoffa’s fat pad reported significant differences for the left side between groups (P = 0.026). The rest of variables did not show any significant difference (P < 0.05). The ultrasonography assessment of the thickness of the PT, AT and PF did not show differences between outdoor and indoor football players. Hoffa’s fat pad resulted showed a significant decrease for outdoor soccer players with respect futsal players. Thus, it can be considered that the load stimuli received in both soccer players were not enough to produce structural adaptations in PT, AT and PF tissues.
Intravenous immunoglobulin for patients with unexplained recurrent implantation failure: a 6-year single center retrospective review of clinical outcomes
Authors: Peero Einav Kadour , Banjar Shorooq , Khoudja Rabea , Ton-leclerc Shaonie , Beauchamp Coralie , Benoit Joanne , Beltempo Marc , Dahan Michael H. , Gold Phil , Kadoch Isaac Jacques , Jamal Wael , Laskin Carl , Mahutte Neal , Phillips Simon , Sylvestre Camille , Reinblatt Shauna , Mazer Bruce D. , Buckett William , Genest Genevieve
Published: February 2024

The effectiveness of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) for patients with unexplained recurrent implantation failure (uRIF) remains debated. We retrospectively analysed outcomes of uRIF patients treated with IVIg compared to a separate control uRIF cohort within our center (01/2014–12/2021). Primary outcomes included live birth, miscarriage, or transfer failure. We documented IVIg side effects and maternal/fetal outcomes. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess for association of IVIg exposure with outcomes and adjust for confounders. The study included 143 patients, with a 2:1 ratio of controls to patients receiving IVIg treatment. Patient characteristics were similar between groups. There was higher live birth rate (LBR) in patients receiving IVIg (32/49; 65.3%) compared to controls (32/94; 34%); p < 0.001). When stratifying patients into moderate and severe uRIF (respectively 3–4 and $$\ge$$
≥
5 previous good quality blastocyst transfer failures), only patients with severe uRIF benefited from IVIg (LBR (20/29 (69%) versus 5/25 (20%) for controls, p = 0.0004). In the logistic regression analysis, IVIg was associated with higher odds of live birth (OR 3.64; 95% CI 1.78–7.67; p = 0.0004). There were no serious adverse events with IVIg. IVIg can be considered in well selected patients with $$\ge$$
≥
5 previous unexplained, high quality blastocyst transfer failures. A randomized controlled trial is needed to confirm these findings.
Resource analysis and modifications of quantum computing with noisy qubits for elliptic curve discrete logarithms
Authors: Ha Jinyoung , Lee Jonghyun , Heo Jun
Published: February 2024

We estimate the number of physical qubits and execution time by decomposing an implementation of Shor’s algorithm for elliptic curve discrete logarithms into universal gate units at the logical level when surface codes are used. We herein also present modified quantum circuits for elliptic curve discrete logarithms and compare our results with those of the original quantum circuit implementations at the physical level. Through the analysis, we show that the use of more logical qubits in quantum algorithms does not always lead to the use of more physical qubits. We assumed using rotated surface code and logical qubits with all-to-all connectivity. The number of physical qubits and execution time are expressed in terms of bit length, physical gate error rate, and probability of algorithm failure. In addition, we compare our results with the number of physical qubits and execution time of Shor’s factoring algorithm to assess the risk of attack by quantum computers in RSA and elliptic curve cryptography.
Development of a short-term nutritional risk prediction model for hepatocellular carcinoma patients: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yu Jiaxiang , Soh Kim Lam , He Liping , Wang Pengpeng , Cao Yingjuan
Published: February 2024

Malnutrition in patients is associated with reduced tolerance to treatment-related side effects and higher risks of complications, directly impacting patient prognosis. Consequently, a pressing requirement exists for the development of uncomplicated yet efficient screening methods to detect patients at heightened nutritional risk. The aim of this study was to formulate a concise nutritional risk prediction model for prompt assessment by oncology medical personnel, facilitating the effective identification of hepatocellular carcinoma patients at an elevated nutritional risk. Retrospective cohort data were collected from hepatocellular carcinoma patients who met the study's inclusion and exclusion criteria between March 2021 and April 2022. The patients were categorized into two groups: a normal nutrition group and a malnutrition group based on body composition assessments. Subsequently, the collected data were analyzed, and predictive models were constructed, followed by simplification. A total of 220 hepatocellular carcinoma patients were included in this study, and the final model incorporated four predictive factors: age, tumor diameter, TNM stage, and anemia. The area under the ROC curve for the short-term nutritional risk prediction model was 0.990 [95% CI (0.966–0.998)]. Further simplification of the scoring rule resulted in an area under the ROC curve of 0.986 [95% CI (0.961, 0.997)]. The developed model provides a rapid and efficient approach to assess the short-term nutritional risk of hepatocellular carcinoma patients. With easily accessible and swift indicators, the model can identify patients with potential nutritional risk more effectively and timely.
Analysing environmental opinion using highly customisable visualisation tools to understand citizens’ attitudes and barriers
Authors: Calvo Luz , Terrado Marta , Pérez-Montoro Mario , Vélez Diana F. , Cucchietti Fernando
Published: February 2024

Knowledge of public opinion is key to understanding citizens' attitudes towards environmental policies. However, large polls and surveys generate complex datasets from which it is not always easy to draw conclusions. In addition, tailor-made solutions for analysing public opinion face the challenge of handling too many layers of information, which can easily lead to an overwhelming user experience and impair decision-making. Service design methodologies can support the design of ad hoc visualisation tools focused on user needs. We presentOp-e-nion, a case study of a visualisation tool for the analysis of public opinion regarding environmental issues, aimed at administrations and public institutions. The involvement of experts from different fields allowed for the identification of the main metrics necessary to target the least engaged socio-demographic groups as well as the barriers that limited their environmental actions. Experts also highlighted useful aspects of the design process and the final prototype to help them define more effective campaigns and policies to address social challenges and promote citizen action. An innovative step was introduced in the methodology by involving non-state actors in the evaluation of the tool, ensuring problem detection and enhancing the sustainability of the final product. Important aspects for the visualisation of multi-categorical data included simplifying the interaction with the tool while prioritising relevant information, and using highly customizable visualisations to answer specific user requirements and changing needs (i.e. analytical vs. managerial tasks). Improved visualisations of public opinion data will, in turn, better support the development of policies shaped by citizens’ concerns.
Kinship practices at the early bronze age site of Leubingen in Central Germany
Authors: Penske Sandra , Küßner Mario , Rohrlach Adam B. , Knipper Corina , Nováček Jan , Childebayeva Ainash , Krause Johannes , Haak Wolfgang
Published: February 2024

With the beginning of the Early Bronze Age in Central Europe ~ 2200 BC, a regional and supra-regional hierarchical social organization emerged with few individuals in positions of power (chiefs), set apart by rich graves with extensive burial constructions. However, the social organization and stratification within the majority of people, who represent the non-elite, remain unclear. Here, we present genome-wide data of 46 individuals from the Early Bronze Age burial ground of Leubingen in today’s Germany, integrating archaeological, genetic and strontium isotope data to gain new insights into Early Bronze Age societies. We were able to reconstruct five pedigrees which constitute the members of close biological kinship groups (parents and their offspring), and also identify individuals who are not related to individuals buried at the site. Based on combined lines of evidence, we observe that the kinship structure of the burial community was predominantly patrilineal/virilocal involving female exogamy. Further, we detect a difference in the amount of grave goods among the individuals buried at Leubingen based on genetic sex, age at death and locality but see no difference in the types of grave goods.
Macrolide and lincosamide resistance of Streptococcus agalactiae in pregnant women in Poland
Authors: Kamińska Dorota , Ratajczak Magdalena , Nowak-Malczewska Dorota M. , Karolak Justyna A. , Kwaśniewski Marek , Szumala-Kakol Anna , Dlugaszewska Jolanta , Gajecka Marzena
Published: February 2024

Knowing about the antibiotic resistance, serotypes, and virulence-associated genes of Group B Streptococcus for epidemiological and vaccine development is very important. We have determined antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, serotype, and virulence profiles. The antibiotic susceptibility was assessed for a total of 421 Streptococcus agalactiae strains, isolated from pregnant women and neonates. Then, 89 erythromycin and/or clindamycin-resistant strains (82 isolates obtained from pregnant women and seven isolates derived from neonates) were assessed in detail. PCR techniques were used to identify the studied strains, perform serotyping, and assess genes encoding selected virulence factors. Phenotypic and genotypic methods determined the mechanisms of resistance. All tested strains were sensitive to penicillin and levofloxacin. The constitutive MLSB mechanism (78.2%), inducible MLSB mechanism (14.9%), and M phenotype (6.9%) were identified in the macrolide-resistant strains. It was found that macrolide resistance is strongly associated with the presence of the ermB gene and serotype V. FbsA, fbsB, fbsC, scpB, and lmb formed the most recurring pattern of genes among the nine surface proteins whose genes were analysed. A minority (7.9%) of the GBS isolates exhibited resistance to lincosamides and macrolides, or either, including those that comprised the hypervirulent clone ST-17. The representative antibiotic resistance pattern consisted of erythromycin, clindamycin, and tetracycline resistance (71.9%). An increase in the fraction of strains resistant to macrolides and lincosamides indicates the need for monitoring both the susceptibility of these strains and the presence of the ST-17 clone.
Kaempferol mitigates reproductive dysfunctions induced by Naja nigricollis venom through antioxidant system and anti-inflammatory response in male rats
Authors: Adeyi Akindele Oluwatosin , Ajisebiola Babafemi Siji , Sanni Akanni Abubakar , Oladele Johnson Olaleye , Mustapha Abdur-Rahman Kolawole , Oyedara Omotayo Opemipo , Fagbenro Olukunle Silas
Published: February 2024

Naja nigricollis Venom (NnV) contains complex toxins that affects various vital systems functions after envenoming. The venom toxins have been reported to induce male reproductive disorders in envenomed rats. This present study explored the ameliorative potential of kaempferol on NnV-induced male reproductive toxicity. Fifty male wistar rats were sorted randomly into five groups (n = 10) for this study. Group 1 were noted as the control, while rats in groups 2 to 5 were injected with LD50 of NnV (1.0 mg/kg bw; i.p.). Group 2 was left untreated post envenomation while group 3 was treated with 0.2 ml of polyvalent antivenom. Groups 4 and 5 were treated with 4 and 8 mg/kg of kaempferol, respectively. NnV caused substantial reduction in concentrations of follicle stimulating hormone, testosterone and luteinizing hormone, while sperm motility, volume and counts significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in envenomed untreated rats. The venom enhanced malondialdehyde levels and substantially decreased glutathione levels, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities in the testes and epididymis of envenomed untreated rats. Additionally, epididymal and testicular myeloperoxidase activity and nitric oxide levels were elevated which substantiated severe morphological defects noticed in the reproductive organs. However, treatment of envenomed rats with kaempferol normalized the reproductive hormones with significant improvement on sperm functional parameters. Elevated inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers in testis and epididymis were suppressed post kaempferol treatment. Severe histopathological lesions in the epididymal and testicular tissues were ameliorated in the envenomed treated groups. Results highlights the significance of kaempferol in mitigating reproductive toxicity induced after snakebite envenoming.
Improving the accuracy of bone mineral density using a multisource CBCT
Authors: Hu Yuanming , Xu Shuang , Li Boyuan , Inscoe Christina R. , Tyndall Donald A. , Lee Yueh Z. , Lu Jianping , Zhou Otto
Published: February 2024

Multisource cone beam computed tomography CBCT (ms-CBCT) has been shown to overcome some of the inherent limitations of a conventional CBCT. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of ms-CBCT for measuring the bone mineral density (BMD) of mandible and maxilla compared to the conventional CBCT. The values measured from a multi-detector CT (MDCT) were used as substitutes for the ground truth. An anthropomorphic adult skull and tissue equivalent head phantom and a homemade calibration phantom containing inserts with varying densities of calcium hydroxyapatite were imaged using the ms-CBCT, the ms-CBCT operating in the conventional single source CBCT mode, and two clinical CBCT scanners at similar imaging doses; and a clinical MDCT. The images of the anthropomorphic head phantom were reconstructed and registered, and the cortical and cancellous bones of the mandible and the maxilla were segmented. The measured CT Hounsfield Unit (HU) and Greyscale Value (GV) at multiple region-of-interests were converted to the BMD using scanner-specific calibration functions. The results from the various CBCT scanners were compared to that from the MDCT. Statistical analysis showed a significant improvement in the agreement between the ms-CBCT and MDCT compared to that between the CBCT and MDCT.
Direct observation and measurement of circumlental space and its relation to anterior chamber angle characteristics in iridotomized phakic eyes with primary angle closure disease
Authors: Liang Zhiqiao , Yang Kangyi , Lv Kun , Ma Yao , Chen Xuanzhu , Ren Zeqin , Liang Yong , Hou Xianru , Wu Huijuan
Published: February 2024

Primary angle closure disease (PACD) is a major cause of blindness worldwide. It has a high prevalence in East Asia, especially in China, which leads to a higher incidence of blindness than open-angle glaucoma. The aim of this study was to directly observe the circumlental space (CLS) in laser peripheral iridotomized eyes with PACD and to determine whether this structure plays a role in the pathogenesis of PACD. Fifty eyes of 50 patients with PACD, who had received laser peripheral iridotomy performed with neodymium:yttrium–aluminum-garnet were recruited from glaucoma clinics from March 2021 to May 2022, including 17 primary angle closure suspect (PACS), 16 primary angle closure (PAC) and 17 primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG). They were classified into two groups based on whether the ciliary process and the crystalline lens equator were in contact using slit-lamp photograph: the attached group and the unattached group. The demographic, clinical characteristics and anterior segment parameters measured from ultrasound biomicroscopy were compared between the attached group and the unattached group. Thirty-three eyes were assigned to the attached group and 17 eyes belonged to the unattached group. In the unattached group, the mean CLS was 0.10 ± 0.07 mm. No significant differences were identified between the different diagnosis groups in age, sex, best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, white-to-white, axial length, central corneal thickness, anterior chamber depth, flat keratometry, steep keratometry or iridotomy diameter (p > 0.05). The unattached group had shorter trabecular-ciliary process distance (p = 0.021) and larger ciliary process area (p = 0.001) compared with the attached group. Small CLS and its potential effect (partial ciliary block) might be considered as one of the mechanisms of PACD.
Sub-anesthetic dose of esketamine decreases postoperative opioid self-administration after spine surgery: a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Zheng Hongyu , Zhang Peng , Shi Shengnan , Zhang Xue , Cai Qiang , Gong Xingrui
Published: February 2024

The use of intraoperative sub-anesthetic esketamine for postoperative analgesia is controversial. In this study, the impact of sub-anesthetic esketamine on postoperative opioid self-administration was determined. Patients who underwent spinal surgery with patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) from January 2019 to December 2021 were respectively screened for analysis. Postoperative PCA was compared between patients who received a sub-anesthetic esketamine dose and patients who were not treated with esketamine (non-esketamine group) with or without propensity score matching. Negative binomial regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with postoperative PCA. Patients who received intraoperative sub-anesthetic esketamine self-administered less PCA (P = 0.001). Azasetron, esketamine, and dexamethasone lowered the self-administration of PCA (IRR with 95% confidential interval, 0.789 [0.624, 0.993]; 0.581 [0.458, 0.741]; and 0.777 [0.627, 0.959], respectively). Fixation surgery and drinking were risk factors for postoperative PCA (1.737 [1.373, 2.188] and 1.332 [1.032, 1.737] for fixation surgery and drinking, respectively). An intraoperative sub-anesthetic dose of esketamine decreases postoperative opioid self-administration. Azasetron and dexamethasone also decrease postoperative opioid consumption. The study is registered atwww.chictr.org.cn(ChiCTR2300068733).
A Ka-band one-dimensional beam scanning leaky-wave antenna based on liquid crystal
Authors: Hou Shunhu , Fang Shengliang , Wang Yangyang , Wang Mengtao , Wang Yuxin , Tian Jinlong , Feng Junhao
Published: February 2024

Fixed frequency beam-scanning leaky-wave antennas have been a focus of attention for many scholars in recent years, and numerous related results have been obtained. However, these antennas suffer from several issues such as small beam-scanning range, low gain, and unsatisfactory impedance matching. To address these problems, this paper proposes a microstrip line (ML) antenna unit based on liquid crystal (LC) materials etched Complementary Split Ring Resonator (CSRR). In a first-of-its-kind approach, the substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) structure and the ML transmission structure are combined to present the SIW-ML transmission structure. The antenna operates in the Ka-band with excellent resonance characteristics at 34.7 GHz, and the S11 parameters are below − 13 dB in the frequency range of 30–40 GHz, indicating outstanding impedance matching. By arranging 56 antenna units, a periodic leaky-wave antenna is created, enabling fixed-frequency beam-scanning at 34.7 GHz. Experimental results show that the antenna can achieve scanning of angles between − 53° and + 60° with a gain of up to 12.63 dB. Once single-beam scanning is achieved, a method combining LC and discrete amplitude weighting technique, as well as multi-beam theory, is proposed for multi-beam study. Experimental results reveal that the designed 56-unit beam-scanning antenna can effectively realize beam scanning in two directions.
A retinoid analogue, TTNPB, promotes clonal expansion of human pluripotent stem cells by upregulating CLDN2 and HoxA1
Authors: Nath Suman C. , Babaei-Abraki Shahnaz , Meng Guoliang , Heale Kali A. , Hsu Charlie Y. M. , Rancourt Derrick E.
Published: February 2024

Enzymatic dissociation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) into single cells during routine passage leads to massive cell death. Although the Rho-associated protein kinase inhibitor, Y-27632 can enhance hPSC survival and proliferation at high seeding density, dissociated single cells undergo apoptosis at clonal density. This presents a major hurdle when deriving genetically modified hPSC lines since transfection and genome editing efficiencies are not satisfactory. As a result, colonies tend to contain heterogeneous mixtures of both modified and unmodified cells, making it difficult to isolate the desired clone buried within the colony. In this study, we report improved clonal expansion of hPSCs using a retinoic acid analogue, TTNPB. When combined with Y-27632, TTNPB synergistically increased hPSC cloning efficiency by more than 2 orders of magnitude (0.2% to 20%), whereas TTNPB itself increased more than double cell number expansion compared to Y-27632. Furthermore, TTNPB-treated cells showed two times higher aggregate formation and cell proliferation compared to Y-27632 in suspension culture. TTNPB-treated cells displayed a normal karyotype, pluripotency and were able to stochastically differentiate into all three germ layers both in vitro and in vivo. TTNBP acts, in part, by promoting cellular adhesion and self-renewal through the upregulation of Claudin 2 and HoxA1. By promoting clonal expansion, TTNPB provides a new approach for isolating and expanding pure hPSCs for future cell therapy applications.