bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Labeling Intercomparison of Retrogressive Thaw Slumps by a Diverse Group of Domain Experts
Authors: Nitze Ingmar , Van der Sluijs Jurjen , Barth Sophia , Bernhard Philipp , Huang Lingcao , Kizyakov Alexander , Lara Mark J. , Nesterova Nina , Runge Alexandra , Veremeeva Alexandra , Ward Jones Melissa , Witharana Chandi , Xia Zhuoxuan , Liljedahl Anna K.
Published: October 2024

Deep‐learning (DL) models have become increasingly beneficial for the detection of retrogressive thaw slumps (RTS) in the permafrost domain. However, comparing accuracy metrics is challenging due to unstandardized labeling guidelines. To address this, we conducted an experiment with 12 international domain experts from a broad range of scientific backgrounds. Using 3 m PlanetScope multispectral imagery, they digitized RTS footprints in two sites. We evaluated label uncertainty by comparing manually outlined RTS labels using Intersection‐over‐Union (IoU) and F1 metrics. At the Canadian Peel Plateau site, we see good agreement, particularly in the active parts of RTS. Differences were observed in the interpretation of the debris tongue and the stable vegetated sections of RTS. At the Russian Bykovsky site, we observed a larger mismatch. Here, the same differences were documented, but several participants mistakenly identified non‐RTS features. This emphasizes the importance of site‐specific knowledge for reliable label creation. The experiment highlights the need for standardized labeling procedures and definition of their scientific purpose. The most similar expert labels outperformed the accuracy metrics reported in the literature, highlighting human labeling capabilities with proper training, site knowledge, and clear guidelines. These findings lay the groundwork for DL‐based RTS monitoring in the pan‐Arctic.
Cassava disease detection using a lightweight modified soft attention network
Authors: Dosset Arailym , Dang L. Minh , Alharbi Faisal , Habib Shabana , Alam Nur , Park Han Yong , Moon Hyeonjoon
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Cassava is a high‐carbohydrate crop that is at risk of viral infections. The production rate and quality of cassava crops are affected by several diseases. However, the manual identification of diseases is challenging and requires considerable time because of the lack of field professionals and the limited availability of clear and distinct information. Consequently, the agricultural management system is seeking an efficient and lightweight method that can be deployable to edged devices for detecting diseases at an early stage. To address these issues and accurately categorize different diseases, a very effective and lightweight framework called CDDNet has been introduced. We used MobileNetV3Small framework as a backbone feature for extracting optimized, discriminating, and distinct features. These features are empirically validated at the early intermediate stage. Additionally, we modified the soft attention module to effectively prioritize the diseased regions and enhance significant cassava plant disease‐related features for efficient cassava disease detection.

RESULTS

Our proposed method achieved accuracies of 98.95%, 97.03%, and 98.25% on Cassava Image Dataset, Cassava Plant Disease Merged (2019–2020) Dataset, and the newly created Cassava Plant Composite Dataset, respectively. Furthermore, the proposed technique outperforms previous state‐of‐the‐art methods in terms of accuracy, parameter count, and frames per second values, ultimately making the proposed CDDNet the best one for real‐time processing.

CONCLUSION

Our findings underscore the importance of a lightweight and efficient technique for cassava disease detection and classification in a real‐time environment. Furthermore, we highlight the impact of modified soft attention on model performance. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Next‐Generation Sequencing Methods for Near‐Real‐Time Molecular Epidemiology of HIV and HCV
Authors: Horsburgh Bethany A. , Walker Gregory J. , Kelleher Anthony , Lloyd Andrew R. , Bull Rowena A. , Giallonardo Francesca Di
Published: October 2024

The World Health Organisation has set targets of reducing the transmission of new hepatitis C (HCV) infections by 90%, and ending human immunodeficiency virus‐1 (HIV) as a public health threat, by 2030. To achieve this, efficient and timely viral surveillance, and effective public health interventions, are required. Traditional epidemiological methods are largely dependent on the recognition of incident cases with symptomatic illness; acute HIV and HCV infections are commonly asymptomatic, which may lead to delays in the recognition of such new infections. Instead, for these viruses, molecular epidemiology may improve the detection of, and response to, clusters of viral transmission. Molecular epidemiology using historical datasets has highlighted key populations that may have benefitted from a timely intervention. Similar analyses performed on contemporary samples are needed to underpin the 2030 targets, but this requires the generation of a cohesive dataset of viral genome sequences in near‐real‐time. To generate such data, methodologies harnessing next‐generation sequencing (NGS) should be utilised. Here we discuss the opportunity presented by NGS for public health surveillance of HIV and HCV, and discuss three methods that can generate sequences for such analysis. These include full‐length genome amplification, utilised for analysis of HCV in the research space; tiling PCR, which was the method of choice for many diagnostic laboratories in the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic; and bait‐capture hybridisation, which has been utilised in local HIV outbreaks. These techniques could be applied for near‐real‐time HIV and HCV surveillance, informing public health strategies that will be key to achieving 2030 targets.
A Machine Learning–Based Ergonomic Assessment of Wireless Hand Control System for Lower‐Limb Disabled Tractor Operators and Abled Female Agricultural Workers
Authors: Hota Smrutilipi , Tewari V. K.
Published: October 2024

Tractor being the most used power source for agricultural operations needs hand control (HC) and foot control (FC) to maneuver it. FCs restrict lower‐limb disabled agricultural workers from participating in tractor operation, and high requirement of actuation forces to operate FCs may create overexertion and early fatigue to female agricultural workers. Therefore, a sensor‐based HC system has been developed to assist them in tractor operation with minimal actuating force. This study focuses on ergonomic assessment of the HC system to assess the suitability for the abled and disabled agricultural workers, including physiological, psychophysical, and muscle fatigue parameters. Heart rate (HR) of abled male and female, and disabled male and female was observed in the range of 83–118, 85–117, 93–118, and 92–114 beats/min, respectively, during tractor operation. Energy expenditure rate (EER) during tractor operation with FCs (9.7–17.4 kJ/min) was observed higher than with the HC system (7.3–16.5 kJ/min). Body parts discomfort was observed highest for the right hand of all the subjects (4.9–5.3) and maximum overall discomfort was experienced by abled females during the operation with FCs (5.4) as they have to exert higher force. The root mean square (RMS) value of the electromyography signal obtained for extensor digitorum muscle was found to be higher for all the subjects and with both HC and FC (abled male, 17.37–40.43 µV; abled female, 14.76–45.29 µV; disabled male, 15.49–40.23 µV; disabled female, 30.32–54.29 µV) than other upper arm muscles middle deltoid, flexor carpi radialis, and brachioradialis. Muscle workload for all the selected muscles of all the subjects was observed within the recommended limit during the tractor operation with a developed HC system (< 30%). Categorization of overall discomfort rating (ODR) of the subjects using HR, EER, and RMS through machine learning algorithms such as k‐nearest neighbor (KNN), random forest classifier, and support vector machine predicted the ODR with accuracies in the range of 77%–83%. KNN algorithm was found to be most accurate with prediction accuracy of 83%. The developed HC system provides assistantship to the lower‐limb disabled agricultural workers (1%–100% disability of lower limbs) and allows female workers to operate the tractor with minimal physical exertion.
A DFT and Microkinetic Study of Propylene Selective Oxidation on Cu2O(111) Surface with O2: Chlorinum Effect
Authors: Song Yangyang , Zhao Fangyuan , Tian Peng , Zhang Ke , Xie Zean , Wang Guichang , Zhao Zhen
Published: October 2024

Spin‐polarized density functional theory (DFT) +U calculation was performed to study propylene selective oxidation on Cu2O(111) and Cl−Cu2O(111) surfaces. The mechanism included two pathways: the allylic hydrogen stripping (AHS) pathway and the epoxidation pathway, and acrolein, propylene oxide (PO), propanal and acetone can be formed. The calculated results found that the C3H6*+OO*→OOMMP2*→PO* route can be regarded as the preferred formation route of PO on these two surfaces. On clean surface, acrolein can be regarded as the main product, then other products selectivity follows: acetone>PO>propanal. On Cl−Cu2O(111) surface, acrolein was also the main product, and the apparent activation energy of acrolein (1.97 eV) was approximated to the apparent activation energy of PO (2.04 eV), other products selectivity follows: PO>propanal>acetone, which means that the selectivity of PO can be improved by the effect of Cl. Microkinetic simulation confirm that PO selectivity can be elevated qualitatively, and found that OOMMP2*→PO2*+O* is the rate determining step on pure surface and C3H6*+OO*→OOMMP2* is the rate controlling step on the doped−Cl surface. From this work, it can be found the O−O bond in O2 can be activated effectively by the presence of Cl, enhancing the selectivity of PO.
Substituent Regulating Porphyrin Derivatives for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Sun Meng , Fan Xiaocao , Guo Shukui , Nui Xueying , Tian Li , Wang Airong , Wang Renjie , Chen Wenxi , Cui Chengxing
Published: October 2024

Porphyrin and its derivatives have been seen as a type of potential organic photocatalyst for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. Substituent regulation as a simple method can effectively regulate the photoelectric characteristic of organic semiconductors. Herein, we designed three porphyrin derivatives attached with different substituents (PP‐NH2, PP‐OH and PP‐COOH). Through a facile substituent optimization strategy, the photoelectric properties of these porphyrin derivatives show an obvious difference, which leads an optimized photocatalytic hydrogen evolution efficiency. The porphyrin derivative with carboxyl presents a reduced impedance, and a better charge separation. Compared to the amino group, PP‐COOH with carboxyl, achieved a high hydrogen evolution rate of 2.20 mmol g−1 h−1 (over 20 times than that of PP‐NH2). Moreover, enhanced stability was observed in PP‐COOH rather than PP‐OH, because of the lower HOMO energy level. And the ionization of carboxyl in water negatively charges the porphyrin derivatives and forms a relatively stable sol. This result further increases the operation stability of PP‐COOH, during photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. This study presents a promising design strategy for long‐lifetime photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution.
Physical‐Matched Nanoplatelets Boost Heterogeneous Thrombi Targeting Through Self‐Adaptive Deformation for Thrombolysis and Endothelial Repairing
Authors: Zhang Junhui , Hu Fan , Zhang Junzhe , Xie Jing , Wang Zhiyu , Lv Linwen , Liang Haojun , Liu Qiuyang , Chen Ranran , Li Hao , Su Wenxi , Yan Ruyu , Chen Ziteng , Wang Zhijie , Tang Hongyu , Chang Ya‐nan , Li Juan , Chen Jun , Shen Minghua , Xing Gengmei , Chen Kui
Published: October 2024

The heterogeneity of thrombi in terms of composition, structure, and blood rheology parameters presents a challenge for effective thrombus‐targeting drug delivery. To address this, a self‐adaptive nano‐delivery system, termed D‐PLT, is developed. It consists of platelet membrane‐cloaked deformable mesoporous organic silicon dioxide nanocomposite, enabling it to respond to the challenge of the heterogeneity of thrombi in arteries and veins. The system exhibits progressive targeting, with the ability to target arterial and venous thrombosis and damaged blood vessels. D‐PLT physically matches the pore structure of the thrombus by undergoing varied deformation, leading to advanced targeting and enrichment of arterial and venous thrombus. When co‐loaded with the thrombolytic drug urokinase (UK) and the endothelium‐protecting agent atorvastatin calcium (AT), the system improves rapid vascular opening of arterial and venous thrombosis in 90 min and provides up to 7 days of durable thrombolysis and recovery from endothelial dysfunction in vivo. This self‐adaptive delivery system offers a promising strategy to overcome thrombus heterogeneity.
I−/I3− Conversion‐Activated and Stabilized Bipedal‐Redox Bis(dimethylthiocarbamyl) Sulfide Cathode for High‐Performance Zinc‐Organosulfide Batteries
Authors: Du Wenyan , Song Ziyang , Hu Chengmin , Zheng Xunwen , Lv Yaokang , Miao Ling , Gan Lihua , Liu Mingxian
Published: October 2024

Organosulfides are considered promising cathode materials for zinc batteries due to their merits of high‐density active sites and multielectron reactions, but often suffer from sluggish kinetics and limited electrochemical stability. Here organic iodide‐catalyzed is reported and stabilized multielectron‐redox bis(dimethylthiocarbamyl) sulfide (BS) cathode for superior zinc‐organosulfide batteries. Activated by 2e− I−/I3− conversion in 1‐methyl‐3‐propylimidazolium iodide (MPII)‐modulated electrolyte, the electron‐deficient structure of BS can stretch the electron cloud of two adjacent C═S bonds to form bipedal C─S bonds, affording high‐kinetics and stable 2e− Zn─S storage electrochemistry. This allows high accessibility of zincophilic dual C = S sites with a low activation energy, and stabilizes BS to fulfil anti‐dissolution in electrolyte. Consequently, Zn||BS battery with 4e− conversion‐coordination harvests high‐rate capacities (452 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1; 255 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1), high energy density (312 Wh kg−1) and ultralong life (30000 cycles), becoming the state‐of‐the‐art zinc batteries in all‐round metrics. This work constitutes a significant advance in developing high‐redox‐activity organosulfide materials and stand for a good starting point for advanced zinc batteries.
Energy‐Efficient Separation of Xylene Isomers through Stacked 1‐Aminopyrene Polymer Composite
Authors: Yan Boning , Xu Kang , Cao Yucai , Xu Xueru , Lei Ming
Published: October 2024

Developing high‐performance adsorbents for energy‐efficient separation of xylene isomers has important research and application value. Identification and separation of xylene isomers (PX, MX, and OX) at room temperature based on the different relative positions of two methyl groups on the benzene ring is an unprecedented attempt. Herein, 1‐aminopyrene polymer (PAP) is designed and electro‐synthesized composited with a supporting electrolyte as an adsorbent for the separation of xylene isomers using a multi‐stage dispersed liquid–solid adsorption process at room temperature. Each −NH−pyrene−NH− unit can form a force field to identify and discriminate xylene isomer through π–π interaction combined with −CH3···−NH− interactions of different strength, thereby achieving separation of PX, MX, and OX isomers by amplifying the slight differences in the adsorption capacity and diffusion rates. The density functional theory (DFT) simulations provide a more quantitative analysis of the adsorbate‐adsorbent interactions to illustrate PX > MX > OX order of adsorption selectivity. This study may offer an alternative strategy for the precise designing of energy‐efficient and adsorption‐based separation materials.
Recent advances in dual response molecular probes for biothiols
Authors: Mwafulirwa Master , Abdalla Khamis , Bian Wenhai , Wei Hongbei , Xu Liren , Yu Wanyi , Hui Zhang , Yang Qi , Sun Xiaolong
Published: October 2024

The detection of biothiols such as cysteine (Cys), homocysteine (Hcy), and glutathione (GSH) are critical for understanding their roles in biology and their involvement in various physiological and pathological processes. Recently, significant progress has been made in constructing fluorescent probes capable of detecting and visualizing biothiols. This review provides an in‐depth look at the latest advancements in simultaneous and selective molecular probes, focusing on developments over the last 5 years. We examine design techniques, sensing mechanisms, and imaging methods to assess their effectiveness and responsiveness to thiols. Additionally, we discuss the prevailing challenges and offer recommendations to address them.
Near‐Infrared II Fluorescence Imaging Highlights Tumor Angiogenesis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma with a VEGFR‐Targeted Probe
Authors: Chen Jiali , Li Shiying , Zhou Qi , Zhao Xingyang , Fan Zhijin , Lo Hsuan , Nie Liming
Published: October 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is typically characterized by rich vascularity, with angiogenesis playing a crucial role in its growth and invasion. Molecular imaging of specific receptors in blood vessels is crucial in HCC diagnosis. In particular, in vivo imaging utilizing the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) window offers improved tissue penetration, reduced light scattering, and lower autofluorescence. Despite the great potential of the NIR‐II window, developing safe and effective probes to provide better imaging performance for HCC is urgently needed. In this study, NIR‐II imaging integrated with a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)‐targeted probe generated by combining a VEGFR‐targeted peptide with indocyanine green (ICG) is used to characterize HCC‐related angiogenesis at a resolution of 56.0 µm. For the first time, liver metabolic curves and parameters of liver function reserve (LFR) are obtained by fitting NIR‐II fluorescence signals with high spatiotemporal resolution, showing significant differences between HCC mice and controls. Moreover, unlike ICG, the targeting probe has a targeted effect on blood vessels in vivo. The tumor‐to‐normal (T/N) ratio in NIR‐II imaging reaches up to 3.30 after post‐injection of the targeting probe. The results indicate that the VEGFR‐targeted probe is a powerful tool for NIR‐II fluorescence imaging to enhance early diagnosis of HCC.
Inside the crucible: Resistance and resilience in a decade of crisis and change for English teachers in Myanmar
Authors: Wong Mary Shepard
Published: October 2024

Myanmar has experienced more upheaval and crisis in the past decade than perhaps any of the other nations currently members of the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN). The impact of the twin crises of COVID and the February 1, 2021 military coup, on the heels of massive educational reforms in Myanmar, has created a crucible in which teachers are forging a new vision of education that is more just, inclusive, and critical. Educators, and most notably English language teachers, have joined others to claim agency in this process, demonstrating resilience during and after the COVID crisis, resistance to the military junta following the coup, and innovation in reimagining and reforming pedagogy and education. This article focuses on the English language educators of Myanmar, drawing from interviews that the author conducted in Myanmar every 2 years from 2015 to 2024. Four of the five data sets have been examined in previously published studies (Wong, 2017; Wong et al., 2019; Wong et al., 2024; Wong & Kareng, 2023). The research questions for this study are the following: (1) How did the experience of the twin crises of COVID and the 2021 coup impact English language educators in Myanmar in terms of their identity, agency, and pedagogy? (2) What can we learn about resistance and resilience in crises from the experience of these educators over the past decade? This retrospective multisite, multiyear study of “snapshots” of teachers in Myanmar before, during, and after the two major events of COVID and the coup provides valuable insights on how the crucible of crisis can lead to transformations in who we are (our identity), how we respond (our agency), and what and how we teach (our pedagogy).
Using water walks as a research method to gather data in water‐related social research
Authors: Holstead Kirsty , Grecksch Kevin , Bonner James , Major Laura , Robertson Donald
Published: October 2024

Water walks are a research method to collect qualitative data conducted in motion with water or water‐related infrastructure. The water walk has a range of benefits and is gaining popularity, yet few resources exist for those interested in the method. There is a need to consolidate existing understanding and insights across disciplines and areas of study. This way, the water walk, its applications, and specificities are accessible to and can be critically appraised by diverse researchers and research participants. We respond by offering an entry point for those interested in using water walks in data collection and providing an inclusionary and concise examination of the research method. First, we conceptualize and position our interpretation and use of water walks and the proposed benefits. Second, we discuss the practical and ethical aspects of the method. Third, we examine four water walks from our research according to three planes of variation, including (i) who leads the walk, (ii) the mode of walking, and (iii) the approach to engaging with water during the walk. These planes of variation allow others to embrace water walks as part of a research craft that can be molded to diverse research questions and designs, always with reflection vigor and commitment to their participants at the core. We argue that researchers must take a critical approach to water walks and contextualize the method in relation to the wider socio‐political landscape within which our relationship with water, and how we (can) move around and engage with it, is shaped.

This article is categorized under:

Water and Life > Methods

Human Water > Water Governance

Human Water > Value of Water
Storm Ciarán – synoptic evolution and warning strategy of the intense mid‐latitude windstorm affecting parts of Northwest Europe on 1/2 November 2023
Authors: Keates Steven , Suri Dan
Published: October 2024

Storm Ciarán affected northern France, the Channel Islands and the United Kingdom as an intense North Atlantic depression on 1/2 November 2023, bringing damaging winds, large waves, heavy rain and an intense convective development spawning a tornado on Jersey. Amidst an extended period of stormy weather across Northwest Europe, Storm Ciarán was probably the most significant windstorm to affect the Channel Islands and northern France since the Great Storm of 1987 or Storm Lothar in 1999. Here we explore the storm’s evolution, forecasting strategies and challenges and climatological context from the perspective of Met Office operational meteorologists.
Global and regional climate in 2023
Authors: Sandford Caroline , Dunn Robert , Titchner Holly , Kendon Mike , Rayner Nick , Morice Colin , Palmer Matthew , McCarthy Mark , Kaye Neil
Published: October 2024

2023 was the warmest year on record with a global mean temperature of 1.45 ± 0.12 degC above pre‐industrial levels, surpassing the previous record (from 2016) by 0.17 degC. The onset of El Niño in early July was accompanied by record‐breaking land and sea‐surface temperatures, with June to September all exceeding previous monthly temperature records, and July and August being the hottest months on record. Sea‐surface temperatures have attained record highs for all months since March 2023 and Antarctic sea ice reached record lows throughout the year.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of valvular surgery in high‐ and low‐ to middle‐income countries: A scoping review
Authors: Mlambo Vongai , Hyles Kelly , Wang Songnan , Lin Yihan
Published: October 2024

Background

Global disparities in valvular surgery services exist. Cost‐effectiveness analysis (CEA) and cost‐utility analysis can be used to guide national investment decisions. This scoping review aims to synthesize economic evaluations for valvular surgery by income settings and provide recommendations.

Methods

A systematic literature review identified primary CEAs or CUAs in English comparing surgical management strategies for valvular heart disease. MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Business Source Complete were searched using keywords “valvular surgery,” “valve disease,” “cost‐effectiveness,” and “cost‐benefit analysis”. Articles comparing outcomes or costs only were excluded. Search results were uploaded and screened on COVIDENCE. Variables from eligible articles were charted in a spreadsheet.

Results

Twenty articles were eligible, six from low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) and 14 from high‐income countries (HICs). In HICs, the top conditions were degenerative aortic valve disease (7/14) and mitral valve disease (4/14) compared to congenital (2/6) and rheumatic heart diseases (2/6) in LMICs. HICs evaluated new technologies and techniques, whereas LMICs compared different valve types or surgery versus no intervention. Most articles used published studies (12/20) or databases (7/20) to conduct their CEA and quality‐adjusted life years was the most common effectiveness measure (12/20). Comparator interventions were cost‐effective in all LMIC articles and in 8/14 for HICs.

Conclusion

Economic evaluations are mostly conducted in HICs and for adult conditions. More analyses in LMICs are needed. This can be facilitated by maintaining databases, documenting costs, and implementing quality of life assessments.
Grasping AI Entanglements: Digital Feminism and Generative AI
Authors: Slotte Dufva Tomi
Published: October 2024

Current machine learning models are advertised to create complex, lifelike or painterly images from diverse inputs, such as text, sketches or photos. These models can be seen as a continuation to the recent years’ developments within artificial intelligence. In this article, I aim to broaden the discussion around machine learning, art, aesthetics and ethics. How do these algorithms change the way we create and think of images? How, then, does it change our aesthetics? Furthermore, as many of these models require substantial amounts of resources, I am interested in how cost, both ecological and economic, affects our comprehension and use of these technologies. The chapter builds on digital feminism and feminist phenomenology, and moves towards deepening the discussion around artificial intelligence, creativity and the arts.
Help Me Help You: The Dilemma of Collaboration Between Expert Employees and Chatbots
Authors: Čaić Martina , Ciuchita Robert , Chiorazzo Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

Chatbots have received increased attention in research and practice, especially in business-to-consumer (B2C) settings. The role of chatbots in business-to-business (B2B) is less explored (e.g., speed of customer service via chatbots in industrial settings). In this research, we probe the employee perspective of interacting with chatbots, focusing on collaboration and customer support. We do so through an illustrative B2B case drawing on interviews with expert customer service employees and business customers. We synthesize our findings using the People–Process–Technology (PPT) framework of organizational change. In doing so, we explore the importance of the interplay between the customer service employee and chatbot and impacts on the employees and end-customers’ experience. We uncover a double-edged sword: employees need to collaborate with chatbots to help them better help the employee, but collaborating with chatbots may negatively impact experts’ job-related sense of worth (e.g., employees feeling less competent and skilled).
Glycan diversity in ovarian cancer: Unraveling the immune interplay and therapeutic prospects
Authors: Wolters-Eisfeld Gerrit , Oliveira-Ferrer Leticia
Published: October 2024

Ovarian cancer remains a formidable challenge in oncology due to its late-stage diagnosis and limited treatment options. Recent research has revealed the intricate interplay between glycan diversity and the immune microenvironment within ovarian tumors, shedding new light on potential therapeutic strategies. This review seeks to investigate the complex role of glycans in ovarian cancer and their impact on the immune response. Glycans, complex sugar molecules decorating cell surfaces and secreted proteins, have emerged as key regulators of immune surveillance in ovarian cancer. Aberrant glycosylation patterns can promote immune evasion by shielding tumor cells from immune recognition, enabling disease progression. Conversely, certain glycan structures can modulate the immune response, leading to either antitumor immunity or immune tolerance. Understanding the intricate relationship between glycan diversity and immune interactions in ovarian cancer holds promise for the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. Immunotherapies that target glycan-mediated immune evasion, such as glycan-based vaccines or checkpoint inhibitors, are under investigation. Additionally, glycan profiling may serve as a diagnostic tool for patient stratification and treatment selection. This review underscores the emerging importance of glycan diversity in ovarian cancer, emphasizing the potential for unraveling immune interplay and advancing tailored therapeutic prospects for this devastating disease.
Vuv/vis absorption spectroscopy of different PAHs
Authors: Maddii Fabiani Lorenzo , Reiker Tobias , Zacharias Helmut
Published: October 2024

The present study provides new solid-phase absorption data of different Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAHs) molecules in the Far Ultraviolet (FUV) and UV/Visible regions. Two features of interstellar extinction curves fall in this region: the FUV rise and the UV bump. Here, thin films of PAHs were prepared by means of the spin coating method onto a transparent substrate, and their solid phase absorption spectra were recorded. Spectra of isolated molecules simulated by Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory (TD-DFT) calculations were also produced for comparison. The results fit quite well with the FUV rise but not with the UV bump. Given the scarcity of FUV experimental absorption data of PAHs in the literature and especially in solid phase, these results are also interesting for reference for other studies ranging from thin films applications to interstellar medium models.
Effect of kegel pelvic floor muscle exercise on improving urinary disorder in rectum cancer patients after rectal surgery: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Shah-abadi Mehran Ebrahimi , Pak Haleh , Kazemeini Alireza , Najari Dorsa , Tafti Seyed Mohsen Ahmadi , Keramati Mohammad Reza , Keshvari Amir , Fazeli Mohammad Sadegh , Behboudi Behnam
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Postoperative urinary dysfunction poses a significant challenge for rectal cancer patients. While pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) has shown promise in other contexts, its efficacy following rectal cancer surgery remains uncertain.

Results

A clinical trial involving 79 rectal cancer patients found that initiating Kegel exercises post-surgery led to significant improvements in urinary symptoms compared to standard care. Adherence to exercises correlated with symptom reduction, with no reported adverse events. We have defined the main outcome of our study as the improvement in urinary function scores post-surgery. Effectiveness is considered as any statistically significant improvement in these scores.

Conclusion

Early initiation of Kegel exercises shows promise in alleviating postoperative urinary dysfunction in rectal cancer patients. Further research is needed to optimize postoperative care protocols and enhance patient outcomes.
Analysis of virulence factors in extracellular vesicles secreted by Naegleria fowleri
Authors: Rodríguez-Mera Itzel Berenice , Rojas-Hernández Saúl , Barrón-Graciano Karla Alejandra , Carrasco-Yépez María Maricela
Published: October 2024

Naegleria fowleri is the etiological agent of primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rapidly progressive acute and fulminant infection that affects the central nervous system, particularly of children and young adults, which has a mortality rate greater than 95%, and its symptomatologic similarity with other meningitis caused by virus or bacteria makes it difficult to make a quick and timely diagnosis that prevents the progression of the infection. It is necessary to know the antigenic determinants as well as the pathogenicity mechanisms of this amoeba to implement strategies that allow for better antiamoebic therapeutic and diagnostic targets that directly impact the health sector. Therefore, the aim of this work was to analyze some virulence factors as part of extracellular vesicle (EV) cargo secreted by N. fowleri. The EV secretion to the extracellular medium was evaluated in trophozoites fixed and incubated with anti-N. fowleri antibody while molecular identification of EV cargo was performed by SDS-PAGE, Western blot, and RT-PCR. Our results showed that N. fowleri secretes a wide variety of vesicle sizes ranging from 0.2 to > 2 μm, and these EVs were recognized by antibodies anti-Naegleropore B, anti-19 kDa polypeptide band, anti-membrane protein Mp2CL5, anti-protease cathepsin B, and anti-actin. Furthermore, these vesicles were localized in the trophozoites cytoplasm or secreted into the extracellular medium. Specifically in relation to small vesicles, our purified exosomes were recognized by CD63 and Hsp70 markers, along with the previously mentioned proteins. RT-PCR analysis was made through the isolation of EVs from N. fowleri trophozoite culture by concentration, filtration, and ultracentrifugation. Interestingly, we obtained PCR products for Nfa1, NPB, Mp2CL5, and CatB genes as part of exosomes cargo. This suggests that the molecules identified in this work could play an important role in communication as well as in infectious processes caused by this amoeba. Therefore, the study and characterization of the pathogenicity mechanisms, as well as the virulence factors released by N. fowleri remains a key point to provide valuable information for the development of therapeutic treatments, vaccine design, or biomarkers for a timely diagnosis against infections caused by protozoa.
First successful in-situ LA-ICPMS U–Pb dating of recrystallized, metamorphic sulfate constraints deformation phases on western Crete, Greece
Authors: Ring Uwe , Albert Richard , Beranoaguirre Aratz , Fassoulas Charalampos , Gerdes Axel
Published: October 2024

We report three U–Pb sulfate ages from the recently identified Intra-PQ Thrust within the Phyllite–Quartzite (PQ) Nappe of the Ionian high-pressure belt of the external Hellenides in the eastern Mediterranean. Crosscutting relations show that a distinct pressure-solution laminae/microlithon fabric is the oldest deformation structure. Two analyses of sulfate minerals that are part of this structure yielded indistinguishable dates, with a weighted average of 20.03 ± 5.96 Ma. The crosscutting fabric with alteration halos of the sulfate provided a date of 9.37 ± 4.64 Ma. The initial 207Pb/206Pb ratios are ~ 0.40 and thus distinctively lower than the terrestrial model lead isotope ratio of 0.84 for the calculated ages. This can only be explained if the dated sulfate precipitated from a fluid enriched in radiogenic 206Pb, probably sourced by the surrounding country rock through (partial) dissolution of older U-rich minerals. The dates of ~ 20 Ma agree with recently reported fault-gouge ages of 26–21 Ma from the Intra-PQ Thrust. The study demonstrates, for the first time, the possibility of dating sulfate minerals in metamorphosed rocks applying the U–Pb system.

Graphical abstract
Drivers of nest site selection and breeding success in an Alpine ground-nesting songbird
Authors: Rime Yann , Korner Pius , Helm Barbara , Müller Thomas , Amrhein Valentin , Liechti Felix , Meier Christoph M.
Published: October 2024

Birds breeding in high-Alpine habitats must select a suitable breeding site and achieve successful reproduction within a restricted time. During four breeding seasons, we monitored nest sites of the Northern Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe), a high-Alpine long-distance migrant. We investigated how ecological factors predicted the selection of a site for nesting within the home range, using conditional logistic regression. Birds preferred south-exposed productive pastures on gentle slopes, interspersed with non-vegetated ground and human-made rockpiles. The direct vicinity of conspecific nests was avoided, as were shrubby or north-exposed areas. We investigated if habitat also influenced breeding success. We analysed the impact of environmental factors on breeding success, which was primarily driven by predation. The probability of the brood fledging successfully decreased on north-exposed slopes or on areas with low coverage of non-vegetated ground. The vicinity of conspecific nests did not have a clear effect. Further, we describe how breeding success varied within and between years. Within years, replacement broods had a higher breeding success. The apparent absence of variation in breeding success between years and a delay of the breeding period in the year with late spring onset suggest a high level of tolerance with respect to inter-annual variation of meteorological conditions. Since the preferred habitat is still widely available in the Alps and given the negative population trends in Western Europe, the Alpine range might serve as a refuge for the Northern Wheatear, as long as low-intensity management and heterogenous habitats are maintained.
A survey of recent approaches to form understanding in scanned documents
Authors: Abdallah Abdelrahman , Eberharter Daniel , Pfister Zoe , Jatowt Adam
Published: October 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive survey of over 100 research works on the topic of form understanding in the context of scanned documents. We delve into recent advancements and breakthroughs in the field, with particular focus on transformer-based models, which have been shown to improve performance in form understanding tasks by up to 25% in accuracy compared to traditional methods. Our research methodology involves an in-depth analysis of popular documents and trends over the last decade, including 15 state-of-the-art models and 10 benchmark datasets. By examining these works, we offer novel insights into the evolution of this domain. Specifically, we highlight how transformers have revolutionized form-understanding techniques by enhancing the ability to process noisy scanned documents with significant improvements in OCR accuracy. Furthermore, we present an overview of the most relevant datasets, such as FUNSD, CORD, and SROIE, which serve as benchmarks for evaluating the performance of the models. By comparing the capabilities of these models and reporting an average improvement of 10–15% in key form extraction tasks, we aim to provide researchers and practitioners with useful guidance in selecting the most suitable solutions for their form understanding applications.
Observed Aspects of Mate Value and Sociosexuality Account for Mate Preferences: Data from a Large, Representative Study from Czechia
Authors: Csajbók Zsófia , Štěrbová Zuzana , Jonason Peter K. , Jelínková Lucie , Binter Jakub , Havlíček Jan
Published: October 2024

While there is substantial research on what people want in their romantic and sexual partners, much of this work focuses on WEIRD, youthful samples, fails to consider the role of undesirable characteristics (i.e., things people do not want in partners) at all, or in conjunction with desirable characteristics (i.e., things people do want in partners), and may be overly reliant on psychometric approaches to pivotal variables in mating psychology like mate value and sociosexuality. In a nationally representative (online) sample of 2280 people from Czechia (aged between 18 and 50 years old), we examined linear and quadratic age, education, and self-perceived mate value (desirability) effects on the desired levels in mate choice of eight undesirable and seven desirable characteristics in men and women in relation to ostensible metrics of mate value. Self-perceived mate value alone explained little variance (men 1%, women 2%), while all mate value and mating strategy indicators together explained little variance of mate preferences and aversions (men 3%, women 5%). Desirable characteristics were better explained by mate value than undesirable ones. Our results are in line with evolutionary predictions suggesting that women are more demanding. Also, more qualities to offer correlate with more expectations in a partner.
Discrete-time hybrid control with risk-sensitive discounted costs
Authors: Blancas-Rivera Rubén , Jasso-Fuentes Héctor
Published: October 2024

This paper studies discrete-time hybrid control problems where the controller’s payoff function follows a risk-sensitive discounted model. The associated discount factor can depend on state and action variables, which can even take values of zero or one. We prove the existence of optimal control policies under two different hypotheses. The following technique is the dynamic programming method, where we characterize the minimum cost as the solution of the so-called dynamic programming equations and find the above optimal policies through these equations. We illustrate our theory with practical examples involving inventory-manufacturing systems, and pollution management.
The Foresight Response to Money Pumps Refuted in Words of One Syllable
Authors: Gustafsson Johan E.
Published: October 2024

I show, in words of one block of sound, that, while those whose likes form a loop could stop some wealth pumps if they now did what they would like most based on what they thought they would do next, there are wealth pumps they could not stop in that way.
Microbial carbon utilization in a boreal lake under the combined pressures of brownification and eutrophication: insights from a field experiment
Authors: Jones Kevin , Liess Antonia , Sjöstedt Johanna
Published: October 2024

Climate and land use changes can increase terrestrial runoff to aquatic systems, leading to brownification and eutrophication in northern boreal lakes. Brownification may boost bacterial respiration and production, while eutrophication can enhance primary production and algal blooms. However, their combined effects on basal producers and bacterial carbon utilization are less understood. This study explores the combined impacts of the two stressors: brownification and eutrophication on microbial dynamics in Lake Bolmen. Utilizing a field mesocosm experimental design, treatments received different combinations of organic matter (OM) and inorganic nutrients to simulate predicted future scenarios. Results showed that OM additions significantly increased bacterial production and respiration, regardless of nutrient additions. Nutrient additions enhanced bacterial production but did not affect respiration. Both nutrients and OM stimulated bacterial growth efficiency. Labile carbon from DOM was the main driver of higher bacterial respiration and short-term production increases. Fluorescence data indicated that the combination of brownification and eutrophication led to higher terrestrial DOM utilization than each stressor alone. The study suggests that future boreal lakes may become more heterotrophic, thus increasing CO2 release. These findings highlight the complex interactions between DOM and nutrients and underscore the importance of considering multiple stressors in lake management and mitigation strategies.
Windmills of the Minds: A Hopping Algorithm for Fermat’s Two Squares Theorem
Authors: Chan Hing Lun
Published: October 2024

Fermat’s two squares theorem asserts that a prime one more than a multiple of 4 is a sum of two squares. There are many proofs of this gem in number theory, including a remarkable one-sentence proof by Don Zagier based on two involutions on a finite set built from such a prime. Applying the two involutions alternatively leads to an iterative algorithm to find the two squares for the prime. Moreover, a detailed analysis of the computation reveals that it is possible to jump through the iteration nodes, leading to a better hopping algorithm. Here is a formalisation of Zagier’s proof, deriving the involutions using windmill patterns. Theories developed for the formal proof are used to establish the correctness of both algorithms.
Total Positivity and Accurate Computations Related to q-Abel Polynomials
Authors: Khiar Y. , Mainar E. , Royo-Amondarain E. , Rubio B.
Published: October 2024

The attainment of accurate numerical solutions of ill-conditioned linear algebraic problems involving totally positive matrices has been gathering considerable attention among researchers over the last years. In parallel, the interest of q-calculus has been steadily growing in the literature. In this work the q-analogue of the Abel polynomial basis is studied. The total positivity of the matrix of change of basis between monomial and q-Abel bases is characterized, providing its bidiagonal factorization. Moreover, well-known high relative accuracy results of Vandermonde matrices corresponding to increasing positive nodes are extended to the decreasing negative case. This further allows to solve with high relative accuracy several algebraic problems concerning collocation, Wronskian and Gramian matrices of q-Abel polynomials. Finally, a series of numerical tests support the presented theoretical results and illustrate the goodness of the method where standard approaches fail to deliver accurate solutions.
Learning to see the world in which we live
Authors: Alweiss Lilian
Published: October 2024

This article pays heed to Klaus Held’s work by focusing on his last book Die Geburt der Philosophie bei den Griechen. The article shows that the book brings together two central themes that occupied Held throughout. First, how the birth of philosophy coincides with the birth of the polis (the political world) and second, how the pre-Socratics gave philosophical credence to the world in which we live, a world which Husserl later calls the “life world.” Through a novel and unorthodox reading of Parmenides, Held shows that the option is not between two paths: the path of truth and the path of doxa. Instead Parmenides shows that there is only one path: The path of truth is the path of doxa. It is this insight that allows Held to argue that philosophy needs to pay heed to the world in which we live. This is the world as it appears and matters to us. Held thus believes that we learn from the pre-Socratics that the ecological crisis we face today of philosophical significance.
Homeownership Decisions in the Bust
Authors: Fischer Marcel , Khorunzhina Natalia , Marx Julie
Published: October 2024

We study the transition in and out of homeownership during the 2008 housing market bust, using detailed micro-level data covering the entire Danish population. We document that homeownership decisions for certain groups of households are cyclical. Households which are affected more by falling house prices reduced their likelihood of acquiring a home during the bust more than other households. These households are characterized by lower levels of net worth, lower income, less education, are singles, and younger. Combined with younger households abandoning homeownership more during the bust, the bust contributed to a significant inter-generational shift in homeownership from younger to older households.