bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variation in species and functional composition of octocorals and zoantharians across a tropical to temperate environmental gradient in the Indo-Pacific
Authors: Otis Nori , Reimer James D. , Kawamura Iori , Kise Hiroki , Mizuyama Masaru , Obuchi Masami , Sommer Brigitte , McFadden Catherine S. , Beger Maria
Published: April 2024

Global warming causes functional shifts and reorganisation in marine communities through range shifts to high-latitude reefs and cnidarian bleaching mortality in the tropics. Such changes threaten the integrity and structure of marine communities, especially as foundational and associated species are reduced or lost. However, comparatively little is known about the extent of range shifts and their ecological consequences for the overlooked components of marine ecosystems, such as octocorals and zoantharians (O + Z) on shallow coral reefs. As these groups play a crucial part in building complexity and sustaining life in reef communities, functional shifts in these taxa may cascade through the entire ecosystem, but these processes have not been quantified. Here, we examined the environmental drivers and functional consequences of spatial variation in octocoral and zoantharian communities across 27 sites in southern Japan, spanning from tropical to warm-temperate waters. We collated a trait database for 42 entities (species, genus, and family level identifications) of octocorals and zoantharians and calculated functional diversity and functional richness to measure functional compositional change. We identified five functional groups according to their trait similarities and identified how their abundances respond to changing environmental factors with general additive models (GAMs). We found functional shifts among octocorals and zoantharians across the tropical to temperate thermal gradient, with the abundances of two functional groups best explained by gradients in minimum sea surface temperature. Non-linear relationships between the functional groups and thermal gradients imply a more intricate relationship than expected, suggesting other non-temperature-based drivers, e.g., nitrogen or pH levels might also play an important role. Only functional group richness and species richness showed significant correlations with latitude, whilst functional diversity and functional richness did not. Our results indicate that octocoral and zoantharian communities and functionality potentially undergo shifts with clear community compositional changes, influenced by climate change across environmental gradients. However, the taxonomy and identification of these taxa remain difficult, and information on functional traits is often sparse or not species-specific, indicating a clear need for further basic zoological and ecological work on octocorals and zoantharians.
Protein intake and cancer: an umbrella review of systematic reviews for the evidence-based guideline of the German Nutrition Society
Authors: Kühn Tilman , Kalotai Nicole , Amini Anna M. , Haardt Julia , Lehmann Andreas , Schmidt Annemarie , Buyken Anette E. , Egert Sarah , Ellinger Sabine , Kroke Anja , Lorkowski Stefan , Louis Sandrine , Schulze Matthias B. , Schwingshackl Lukas , Siener Roswitha , Stangl Gabriele I. , Watzl Bernhard , Zittermann Armin , Nimptsch Katharina ,   on behalf of the German Nutrition Society
Published: April 2024

Purpose

It has been proposed that a higher habitual protein intake may increase cancer risk, possibly via upregulated insulin-like growth factor signalling. Since a systematic evaluation of human studies on protein intake and cancer risk based on a standardised assessment of systematic reviews (SRs) is lacking, we carried out an umbrella review of SRs on protein intake in relation to risks of different types of cancer.

Methods

Following a pre-specified protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42018082395), we retrieved SRs on protein intake and cancer risk published before January 22th 2024, and assessed the methodological quality and outcome-specific certainty of the evidence using a modified version of AMSTAR 2 and NutriGrade, respectively. The overall certainty of evidence was rated according to predefined criteria.

Results

Ten SRs were identified, of which eight included meta-analyses. Higher total protein intake was not associated with risks of breast, prostate, colorectal, ovarian, or pancreatic cancer incidence. The methodological quality of the included SRs ranged from critically low (kidney cancer), low (pancreatic, ovarian and prostate cancer) and moderate (breast and prostate cancer) to high (colorectal cancer). The outcome-specific certainty of the evidence underlying the reported findings on protein intake and cancer risk ranged from very low (pancreatic, ovarian and prostate cancer) to low (colorectal, ovarian, prostate, and breast cancer). Animal and plant protein intakes were not associated with cancer risks either at a low (breast and prostate cancer) or very low (pancreatic and prostate cancer) outcome-specific certainty of the evidence. Overall, the evidence for the lack of an association between protein intake and (i) colorectal cancer risk and (ii) breast cancer risk was rated as possible. By contrast, the evidence underlying the other reported results was rated as insufficient.

Conclusion

The present findings suggest that higher total protein intake may not be associated with the risk of colorectal and breast cancer, while conclusions on protein intake in relation to risks of other types of cancer are restricted due to insufficient evidence.
Non-invasive biomarkers for spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) through phase-contrast MRI
Authors: Wolf Katharina , Volz Florian , Lützen Niklas , Mast Hansjoerg , Reisert Marco , Rahal Amir El , Fung Christian , Shah Mukesch J. , Beck Jürgen , Urbach Horst
Published: April 2024

Background and objective

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is an underdiagnosed disease. To depict the accurate diagnosis can be demanding; especially the detection of CSF–venous fistulas poses many challenges. Potential dynamic biomarkers have been identified through non-invasive phase-contrast MRI in a limited subset of SIH patients with evidence of spinal longitudinal extradural collection. This study aimed to explore these biomarkers related to spinal cord motion and CSF velocities in a broader SIH cohort.

Methods

A retrospective, monocentric pooled-data analysis was conducted of patients suspected to suffer from SIH who underwent phase-contrast MRI for spinal cord and CSF velocity measurements at segment C2/C3 referred to a tertiary center between February 2022 and June 2023. Velocity ranges (mm/s), total displacement (mm), and further derivatives were assessed and compared to data from the database of 70 healthy controls.

Results

In 117 patients, a leak was located (54% ventral leak, 20% lateral leak, 20% CSF–venous fistulas, 6% sacral leaks). SIH patients showed larger spinal cord and CSF velocities than healthy controls: e.g., velocity range 7.6 ± 3 mm/s vs. 5.6 ± 1.4 mm/s, 56 ± 21 mm/s vs. 42 ± 10 mm/s, p < 0.001, respectively. Patients with lateral leaks and CSF–venous fistulas exhibited an exceptionally heightened level of spinal cord motion (e.g., velocity range 8.4 ± 3.3 mm/s; 8.2 ± 3.1 mm/s vs. 5.6 ± 1.4 mm/s, p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

Phase-contrast MRI might become a valuable tool for SIH diagnosis, especially in patients with CSF–venous fistulas without evidence of spinal extradural fluid collection.
Characteristics and outcomes of cancer patients admitted to intensive care units in cancer specialized hospitals in China
Authors: Liu Wensheng , Zhou Dongmin , Zhang Li , Huang Mingguang , Quan Rongxi , Xia Rui , Ye Yong , Zhang Guoxing , Shen Zhuping ,   the Cancer Critical Care Medicine Committee of the Chinese Anti-Cancer Association
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Standard intensive care unit (ICU) admission policies and treatment strategies for patients with cancer are still lacking. To depict the current status of admission, characteristics, and outcomes of patients with cancer in the ICU.

Methods

A multicenter cross-sectional study was performed from May 10, 2021 to July 10, 2021, in the ICU departments of 37 cancer-specialized hospitals in China. Clinical records of all admitted patients aged ≥ 14 years and ICU duration > 24 h with complete data were included. Demographic information, clinical history, severity score at admission, ICU critical condition diagnosis and treatment, ICU and in-hospital outcomes and 90 days survival were also collected. A total of 1455 patients were admitted and stayed for longer than 24 h. The most common primary cancer diagnoses included lung, colorectal, esophageal, and gastric cancer.

Results

Patients with lung cancer were admitted more often because of worsening complications that occurred in the clinical ward. However, other cancer patients may be more likely to be admitted to the ICU because of postoperative care. ICU-admitted patients with lung or esophageal cancer tended to have more ICU complications. Patients with lung cancer had a poor overall survival prognosis, whereas patients with colorectal cancer appeared to benefit the most according to 90 days mortality rates.

Conclusion

Patients with lung cancer require more ICU care due to critical complications and the overall survival prognosis is poor. Colorectal cancer may benefit more from ICU management. This information may be considered in ICU admission and treatment strategies.
Prevotella intermedia boosts OSCC progression through ISG15 upregulation: a new target for intervention
Authors: Qin Yao , Li Zhiyuan , Liu Ting , Ma Jingjing , Liu Hong , Zhou Yifan , Wang Shuai , Zhang Lei , Peng Qiao , Ye Pei , Duan Ning , Wang Wenmei , Wang Xiang
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Periodontitis-associated bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum, are closely linked to the risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Emerging studies have indicated that another common periodontal pathogen, Prevotella intermedia (P. intermedia), is enriched in OSCC and could affect the occurrence and progression of OSCC. Our aim is to determine the effects of P. intermedia on the progression of OSCC and the role of antibiotics in reversing these effects.

Methods

In this study, a murine xenograft model of OSCC was established, and the mice were injected intratumorally with PBS (control group), P. intermedia (P.i group), or P. intermedia combined with an antibiotic cocktail administration (P.i + ABX group), respectively. The effects of P. intermedia and ABX administration on xenograft tumor growth, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis were investigated by tumor volume measurement and histopathological examination. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to investigate the changes in serum cytokine levels. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was adopted to analyze the alterations in the levels of inflammatory cytokines and infiltrated immune cells in OSCC tissues of xenograft tumors. Transcriptome sequencing and analysis were conducted to determine differential expression genes among various groups.

Results

Compared with the control treatment, P. intermedia treatment significantly promoted tumor growth, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis, markedly affected the levels of inflammatory cytokines, and markedly altered M2 macrophages and regulatory T cells (Tregs) infiltration in the tumor microenvironment. However, ABX administration clearly abolished these effects of P. intermedia. Transcriptome and immunohistochemical analyses revealed that P. intermedia infection increased the expression of interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15). Correlation analysis indicated that the expression level of ISG15 was positively correlated with the Ki67 expression level, microvessel density, serum concentrations and tissue expression levels of inflammatory cytokines, and quantities of infiltrated M2 macrophages and Tregs. However, it is negatively correlated with the quantities of infiltrated CD4+ and CD8+ T cells.

Conclusion

In conclusion, intratumoral P. intermedia infection aggravated OSCC progression, which may be achieved through upregulation of ISG15. This study sheds new light on the possible pathogenic mechanism of intratumoral P. intermedia in OSCC progression, which could be a prospective target for OSCC prevention and treatment.
Private measures, random walks, and synthetic data
Authors: Boedihardjo March , Strohmer Thomas , Vershynin Roman
Published: April 2024

Differential privacy is a mathematical concept that provides an information-theoretic security guarantee. While differential privacy has emerged as a de facto standard for guaranteeing privacy in data sharing, the known mechanisms to achieve it come with some serious limitations. Utility guarantees are usually provided only for a fixed, a priori specified set of queries. Moreover, there are no utility guarantees for more complex—but very common—machine learning tasks such as clustering or classification. In this paper we overcome some of these limitations. Working with metric privacy, a powerful generalization of differential privacy, we develop a polynomial-time algorithm that creates a private measure from a data set. This private measure allows us to efficiently construct private synthetic data that are accurate for a wide range of statistical analysis tools. Moreover, we prove an asymptotically sharp min-max result for private measures and synthetic data in general compact metric spaces, for any fixed privacy budget $$\varepsilon $$
ε
bounded away from zero. A key ingredient in our construction is a new superregular random walk, whose joint distribution of steps is as regular as that of independent random variables, yet which deviates from the origin logarithmically slowly.
The last 1100 years of activity of La Fossa caldera, Vulcano Island (Italy): new insights into stratigraphy, chronology, and landscape evolution
Authors: Di Traglia Federico , Pistolesi Marco , Bonadonna Costanza , Rosi Mauro
Published: April 2024

A detailed study of past eruptive activity is crucial to understanding volcanic systems and associated hazards. We present a meticulous stratigraphic analysis, a comprehensive chronological reconstruction, thorough tephra mapping, and a detailed analysis of the interplay between primary and secondary volcanic processes of the post-900 AD activity of La Fossa caldera, including the two main systems of La Fossa volcano and Vulcanello cones (Vulcano Island, Italy). Our analyses demonstrate how the recent volcanic activity of La Fossa caldera is primarily characterized by effusive and Strombolian activity and Vulcanian eruptions, combined with sporadic sub-Plinian events and both impulsive and long-lasting phreatic explosions, all of which have the capacity to severely impact the entire northern sector of Vulcano island. We document a total of 30 eruptions, 25 from the La Fossa volcano and 5 from Vulcanello cones, consisting of ash to lapilli deposits and fields of ballistic bombs and blocks. Volcanic activity alternated with significant erosional phases and volcaniclastic re-sedimentation. Large-scale secondary erosion processes occur in response to the widespread deposition of fine-grained ash blankets, both onto the active cone of La Fossa and the watersheds conveying their waters into the La Fossa caldera. The continuous increase in ground height above sea level, particularly in the western sector of the caldera depression where key infrastructure is situated, is primarily attributed to long-term alluvial processes. We demonstrate how a specific methodological approach is key to the characterization and hazard assessment of low-to-high intensity volcanic activity, where tephra is emitted over long time periods and is intercalated with phases of erosion and re-sedimentation.
Inductive Freeness of Ziegler’s Canonical Multiderivations
Authors: Hoge Torsten , Röhrle Gerhard
Published: April 2024

Let

$${{\mathscr {A}}}$$

A

be a free hyperplane arrangement. In 1989, Ziegler showed that the restriction

$${{\mathscr {A}}}''$$

A

′
′

of

$${{\mathscr {A}}}$$

A

to any hyperplane endowed with the natural multiplicity

$$\kappa $$

κ

is then a free multiarrangement

$$({{\mathscr {A}}}'',\kappa )$$

(

A

′
′

,
κ
)

. The aim of this paper is to prove an analogue of Ziegler’s theorem for the stronger notion of inductive freeness: if

$${{\mathscr {A}}}$$

A

is inductively free, then so is the multiarrangement

$$({{\mathscr {A}}}'',\kappa )$$

(

A

′
′

,
κ
)

. In a related result we derive that if a deletion

$${{\mathscr {A}}}'$$

A

′

of

$${{\mathscr {A}}}$$

A

is free and the corresponding restriction

$${{\mathscr {A}}}''$$

A

′
′

is inductively free, then so is

$$({{\mathscr {A}}}'',\kappa )$$

(

A

′
′

,
κ
)

—irrespective of the freeness of

$${{\mathscr {A}}}$$

A

. In addition, we show counterparts of the latter kind for additive and recursive freeness.
Effects of empagliflozin in patients with chronic kidney disease from Japan: exploratory analyses from EMPA–KIDNEY
Authors: Nangaku Masaomi , Herrington William G. , Goto Shinya , Maruyama Shoichi , Kashihara Naoki , Ueki Kohjiro , Wada Jun , Watada Hirotaka , Nakashima Eitaro , Lee Ryonfa , Massey Dan , Mayne Kaitlin J. , Tomita Aiko , Haynes Richard , Hauske Sibylle J. , Kadowaki Takashi
Published: April 2024

Background

EMPA–KIDNEY assessed the effects of empagliflozin 10 mg once daily vs. placebo in 6609 patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) at risk of progression, including 612 participants from Japan.

Methods

Eligibility required an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of ≥ 20 < 45; or ≥ 45 < 90 ml/min/1.73m2 with a urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) of ≥ 200 mg/g. The primary outcome was a composite of kidney disease progression (end-stage kidney disease, a sustained eGFR decline to < 10 ml/min/1.73m2 or ≥ 40% from randomization, or renal death) or cardiovascular death. In post-hoc analyses, we explored the effects of empagliflozin in participants from Japan vs. non-Japan regions, including additional models assessing whether differences in treatment effects between these regions could result from differences in baseline characteristics.

Results

Japanese participants had higher levels of albuminuria and eGFR than those from non-Japan regions. During a median of 2.0 year follow-up, a primary outcome occurred in 432 patients (13.1%) in the empagliflozin group and in 558 patients (16.9%) in the placebo group (hazard ratio [HR], 0.72, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 0.64–0.82; P < 0.0001). Among the participants from non-Japan regions, there were 399 vs. 494 primary outcomes (0.75, 0.66–0.86), and 33 vs. 64 (0.49, 0.32–0.75; heterogeneity p = 0.06) in Japan. Results were similar when models explicitly considered treatment interactions with diabetes status, categories of eGFR/uACR, and recruitment in Japan (heterogeneity p = 0.08). Safety outcomes were broadly comparable between the two groups, and by Japanese status.

Conclusions

Empagliflozin safely reduced the risk of “kidney disease progression or cardiovascular death” in patients with CKD, with consistent effects in participants from Japan.
Effects of 1-week inpatient multidisciplinary care for chronic kidney disease prior to outpatient collaborative care
Authors: Okuno Natsuko , Kado Hiroshi , Segawa Hiroyoshi , Hatta Tsuguru
Published: April 2024

Background

Multidisciplinary care for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) has been reported to be effective in preventing deterioration of renal function and avoiding hemodialysis induction using a central venous catheter.

Methods

We included 171 patients who received dialysis at our department between October 2014 and June 2017. Patients were divided into two groups: an inpatient group who received inpatient multidisciplinary care for CKD (educational hospitalization) prior to outpatient collaborative care from their family physician and nephrologist, and a non-inpatient group who did not receive such care. We compared factors related to dialysis induction.

Results

There was no significant difference in eGFR between the groups at the start of observation. The mean time from the start of observation to dialysis induction (inpatient group vs. non-inpatient group; 40.8 ± 2.8 vs. 23.9 ± 3.0 months, respectively; P < 0.001) and the rate of hemodialysis induction using a central venous catheter (22.5 vs. 47.1%, respectively; P = 0.002) were significantly different between the groups. Survival analysis showed that the time to dialysis induction was significantly longer in the inpatient group (P = 0.0001). Multivariate analysis revealed that educational hospitalization (odds ratio = 0.30 [95% CI 0.13, 0.67]) was significantly associated with hemodialysis induction using a central venous catheter.

Conclusion

Educational hospitalization prior to outpatient collaborative care is beneficial for preventing hemodialysis induction using a central venous catheter and postponing dialysis induction.
Circulating galectin-3 level association with cardiovascular risk factors during peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Yang Xuerui , Yang Jun , Zeng Youjia , Peng Ling , Liu Xingzheng , Mo Jinying , Wang Taifen , Yao Yutong , Zheng Yihou , Song Gaofeng
Published: April 2024

Objective

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents the primary cause of mortality in patients afflicted with end-stage renal disease and undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD) treatment. Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a molecule known to exhibit a correlation with CVD mortality garners considerable interest. The objective of this study was to explore the potential association between serum Gal-3 levels and other CVD risk factors among PD patients.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, a total of 114 PD patients with a minimum of 3 months of PD treatment were enrolled. Serum Gal-3 levels were quantified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The data of patients with Gal-3 levels higher and lower than 26.744 pg/ml were compared using Mann–Whitney U tests or t tests. Pearson’s correlation or Spearman’s correlation analysis and multivariate regression were used to assess the associations between the known risk factors for CVD and Gal-3.

Results

In comparison to the inter-group baseline data, the low Gal-3 group exhibited a higher glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Gal-3 levels correlate positively with PD duration, B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15), interventricular septal thickness in diastolic (IVST), and left ventricular mass index (LVMI). Conversely, Gal-3 exhibited a negative correlation with albumin levels. Multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated a positive correlation between Gal-3 levels and BNP, GDF-15, PD duration, IVST and LVMI. Gal-3 levels were negatively correlated with albumin levels.

Conclusions

Gal-3 was strongly associated with BNP, GDF-15, IVST and LVMI in patients undergoing PD treatment. Prospective studies should be carried out to determine whether Gal-3 can be a promising biomarker in predicting increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events in PD patients.
Healthcare resource utilisation and direct medical cost for individuals with 5q spinal muscular atrophy in Sweden
Authors: Sejersen Thomas , Graham Sophie , Ekström Anne-Berit , Kroksmark Anna-Karin , Kwiatkowska Marta , Ganz Michael L. , Justo Nahila , Gertow Karl , Simpson Alex
Published: April 2024

Background

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare, progressive, neuromuscular disorder. Recent advances in treatment require an updated assessment of burden to inform reimbursement decisions.

Objectives

To quantify healthcare resource utilisation (HCRU) and cost of care for patients with SMA.

Methods

Cohort study of patients with SMA identified in the Swedish National Patient Registry (2007–2018), matched to a reference cohort grouped into four SMA types (1, 2, 3, unspecified adult onset [UAO]). HCRU included inpatient admissions, outpatient visits, procedures, and dispensed medications. Direct medical costs were estimated by multiplying HCRU by respective unit costs. Average annual HCRU and medical costs were modelled for SMA versus reference cohorts to estimate differences attributable to the disease (i.e., average treatment effect estimand). The trajectory of direct costs over time were assessed using synthetic cohorts.

Results

We identified 290 SMA patients. Annualised HCRU was higher in SMA patients compared with reference cohorts. Highest risk ratios were observed for inpatient overnight stays for type 1 (risk ratio [RR]: 29.2; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 16.0, 53.5) and type 2 (RR: 23.3; 95% CI: 16.4,33.1). Mean annual direct medical costs per patient for each year since first diagnosis were greatest for type 1 (€114,185 and SMA-attributable: €113,380), type 2 (€61,876 and SMA-attributable: €61,237), type 3 (€45,518 and SMA-attributable: €44,556), and UAO (€4046 and SMA-attributable: €2098). Costs were greatest in the 2–3 years after the first diagnosis for all types.

Discussion and conclusion

The economic burden attributable to SMA is significant. Further research is needed to understand the burden in other European countries and the impact of new treatments.
Polyharmonic hypersurfaces into complex space forms
Authors: Balado-Alves José Miguel
Published: April 2024

We characterize homogeneous hypersurfaces in complex space forms which arise as critical points of a higher order energy functional. As a consequence, we obtain existence and non-existence results for $$\mathbb{C}\mathbb{P}^n$$

C

P

n

and $$\mathbb{C}\mathbb{H}^n$$

C

H

n

, respectively. Moreover, we study the stability of biharmonic hypersurfaces and compute the normal index for a large family of solutions.
Application High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography with Controlled Eluent Velocity to Determine Fingerprints of Various Poplar Species Buds Extracts: Optimization of Operating Variables
Authors: Hałka-Grysińska Aneta , Polak Beata , Warianek Dominika , Pobłocka-Olech Loretta , Krauze-Baranowska Mirosława , Dzido Tadeusz H.
Published: April 2024

The study used the prototype device enabling the development of isocratic and gradient thin-layer chromatograms with controlled eluent velocity to obtain fingerprints of extracts from buds of various poplar species. This equipment can deliver an eluent to virtually any place on the adsorbent layer of the chromatographic plate. Moreover, the composition of a mobile phase can be easily modified even when the chromatogram is developing. This paper shows the effect of various operating variables of the prototype in a normal phase system, e.g., eluent velocity and composition, on the chromatographic behavior of the mixture. The prototype’s results were compared to conventional TLC development in horizontal DS chambers. The UV light (366 nm) was used to detect the solute zones and document both systems. The results prove that the prototype device has great potential in plant material standardization. The mobile phase gradient improves the separation of the bands of strongly retained solutes. Additionally, this fact does not enhance the blurring of low-retained bands.
Adaptive hybrid local–global sampling for fast informed sampling-based optimal path planning
Authors: Faroni Marco , Pedrocchi Nicola , Beschi Manuel
Published: April 2024

This paper improves the performance of RRT$$^*$$

∗

-like sampling-based path planners by combining admissible informed sampling and local sampling (i.e., sampling the neighborhood of the current solution). An adaptive strategy regulates the trade-off between exploration (admissible informed sampling) and exploitation (local sampling) based on online rewards from previous samples. The paper demonstrates that the algorithm is asymptotically optimal and has a better convergence rate than state-of-the-art path planners (e.g., Informed-RRT$$^*$$

∗

) in several simulated and real-world scenarios. An open-source, ROS-compatible implementation of the algorithm is publicly available.
A pre-whitening with block-bootstrap cross-correlation procedure for temporal alignment of data sampled by eddy covariance systems
Authors: Vitale Domenico , Fratini Gerardo , Helfter Carole , Hortnagl Lukas , Kohonen Kukka-Maaria , Mammarella Ivan , Nemitz Eiko , Nicolini Giacomo , Rebmann Corinna , Sabbatini Simone , Papale Dario
Published: April 2024

The eddy covariance (EC) method is a standard micrometeorological technique for monitoring the exchange rate of the main greenhouse gases across the interface between the atmosphere and ecosystems. One of the first EC data processing steps is the temporal alignment of the raw, high frequency measurements collected by the sonic anemometer and gas analyser. While different methods have been proposed and are currently applied, the application of the EC method to trace gases measurements highlighted the difficulty of a correct time lag detection when the fluxes are small in magnitude. Failure to correctly synchronise the time series entails a systematic error on covariance estimates and can introduce large uncertainties and biases in the calculated fluxes. This work aims at overcoming these issues by introducing a new time lag detection procedure based on the assessment of the cross-correlation function (CCF) between variables subject to (i) a pre-whitening based on autoregressive filters and (ii) a resampling technique based on block-bootstrapping. Combining pre-whitening and block-bootstrapping facilitates the assessment of the CCF, enhancing the accuracy of time lag detection between variables with correlation of low order of magnitude (i.e. lower than $$-1$$

-
1

) and allowing for a proper estimate of the associated uncertainty. We expect the proposed procedure to significantly improve the temporal alignment of the EC time-series measured by two physically separate sensors, and to be particularly beneficial in centralised data processing pipelines of research infrastructures (e.g. the Integrated Carbon Observation System, ICOS-RI) where the use of robust and fully data-driven methods, like the one we propose, constitutes an essential prerequisite.
Leukocytospermia does not negatively impact outcomes in in vitro fertilization cycles with intracytoplasmic sperm injection and preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy: findings from 5435 cycles
Authors: Gill Pavan , Puchalt Nicolas Garrido , Molinaro Thomas , Werner Marie , Seli Emre , Hotaling James , Cheng Philip
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To investigate whether leukocytospermia (defined as the presence of ≥ 1 × 106 white blood cells/mL) affects clinical and embryologic outcomes in in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study including 5425 cycles between January 2012 to December 2021 at a single large university-affiliated fertility clinic. The primary outcome was live birth rate (LBR).

Results

The prevalence of leukocytospermia was 33.9% (n = 1843). Baseline characteristics including female age, BMI, AMH, Day 3 FSH, and male partner’s age were similar in cycles with and without leukocytospermia. The LBR after the first euploid embryo transfer was similar in those with and without leukocytospermia (62.3% vs. 63% p = 0.625). Secondary outcomes including clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), sustained implantation rate (SIR), fertilization (2PN) rate, blastulation rate, and aneuploidy rate were also evaluated. The CPR (73.3% vs 74.9%, p = 0.213) and SIR (64.6% vs. 66%, p = 0.305) were similar in both groups. The 2PN rate was also similar in both groups (85.7% vs. 85.8%, p = 0.791), as was the blastulation rate per 2PN (56.7% vs. 57.5%, p = 0.116). The aneuploidy rate was not significantly different between groups (25.7% vs 24.4%, p = 0.053). A generalized estimation equation with logistic regression demonstrated that the presence leukocytospermia did not influence the LBR (adjusted OR 0.878; 95% CI, 0.680–1.138).

Conclusion

Leukocytospermia diagnosed just prior to an IVF cycle with PGT-A does not negatively impact clinical or embryologic outcomes.
Integrated approach to assessing strength in slag-based geopolymer mortars: experimental study and modeling with advanced techniques
Authors: KILIÇARSLAN Serhat , BINGOL Şinasi
Published: April 2024

The study consists of two main parts. In the initial phase, a variety of slag-based geopolymer mortars with different activator concentrations were prepared. These mortars underwent curing in both water and air environments for periods of 3, 7, 28, and 90 days, after which their compressive strength was evaluated at the conclusion of each curing interval. The second phase of the study is dedicated to the development of innovative models for estimating the compressive strength based on the data gathered. To achieve this, a range of techniques including multi-gene genetic programming (MGGP), artificial neural networks (ANN), XGBoost, SVM-Gauss, long short-term memory (LSTM), and convolutional neural networks (CNN) were employed to formulate a model capable of estimating compressive strength accurately. The study made use of various performance evaluation metrics such as mean squared error (MSE), root mean squared error (RMSE), R-squared, mean absolute error (MAE), and scatter index (SI) to assess the precision of the MGGP method in evaluating slag-based geopolymer mortars under both water and air curing conditions. The findings indicate that the equations generated by the MGGP method exhibit a high level of precision when juxtaposed with experimental outcomes. This research endeavors to enhance the prediction of compressive strength in geopolymer mortars, a subject that has garnered significant interest in scholarly literature.
Diet and physical activity behaviors: how are they related to illness perceptions, coping, and health-related quality of life in young people with hereditary cancer syndromes?
Authors: Rising Camella J. , Huelsnitz Chloe O. , Shepherd Rowan Forbes , Klein William M. P. , Sleight Alix G. , Wilsnack Catherine , Boyd Patrick , Feldman Alexandra E. , Khincha Payal P. , Werner-Lin Allison
Published: April 2024

Individuals with inherited cancer syndromes, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS), may be motivated to adopt health-protective behaviors, such as eating more fruits and vegetables and increasing physical activity. Examining these health behaviors among young people with high lifetime genetic cancer risk may provide important insights to guide future behavioral interventions that aim to improve health-related quality of life (HRQOL). We used a self-regulatory framework to investigate relationships among diet and physical activity behaviors and psychosocial constructs (e.g., illness perceptions, coping, HRQOL) in adolescents and young adults (AYAs; aged 15–39 years) with LFS. This longitudinal mixed-methods study included 57 AYAs aged 16–39 years at enrollment), 32 (56%) of whom had a history of one or more cancers. Participants completed one or two telephone interviews and/or an online survey. We thematically analyzed interview data and conducted regression analyses to evaluate relationships among variables. AYAs described adopting healthy diet and physical activity behaviors to assert some control over health and to protect HRQOL. More frequent use of active coping strategies was associated with greater reported daily fruit and vegetable intake. Greater reported physical activity was associated with better quality of psychological health. Healthy diet and physical activity behaviors may function as LFS coping strategies that confer mental health benefits. Clinicians might emphasize these potential benefits and support AYAs in adopting health behaviors that protect multiple domains of health. Future research could use these findings to develop behavioral interventions tailored to AYAs with high genetic cancer risk.
Welfare Subjectivism, Sophistication, and Procedural Perfectionism
Authors: Ishida Shu
Published: April 2024

Welfare subjectivists face a dilemma. On the one hand, traditional subjectivist theories—such as the desire-fulfillment theory—are too permissive to account for the well-being of typical mature human beings. On the other hand, more “refined” theories—such as the life-satisfaction theory—are too restrictive to account for the well-being of various welfare subjects, including newborns, those with profound cognitive impairments, or non-human animals. This paper examines a class of welfare subjectivism that addresses this dilemma with sensitivity to the diversity in welfare subjects. First, the most-sophisticated-attitude view (MSA) is introduced. MSA holds that an object, $$x$$
x
, is good for a subject, $$S$$
S
, in proportion to the strength of $$S$$
S
’s pro-attitude towards $$x$$
x
if and only if the pro-attitude at issue is $$S$$
S
’s most sophisticated type. Typically, the well-being of typical mature human beings is assessed in terms of one’s authentic whole-life satisfaction, whereas that of human newborns is assessed in terms of something less sophisticated such as pleasure. MSA offers the rationale for this difference based on an underexplored version of perfectionism: procedural perfectionism. Next, provided that MSA may involve an implausibly strong claim, this paper examines two moderate variations of MSA that accept the partial relevance of less sophisticated types of valenced attitude. Finally, it is illustrated how MSA and its variations have plausible implications regarding the well-being of enhanced or dis-enhanced people.
Automation of MKID Simulations for Array Building with AEM (Automated Electromagnetic MKID Simulations)
Authors: McAleer Cáthal , Creaner Oisin , Bracken Colm , Ulbricht Gerhard , De Lucia Mario , Piercy Jack , Ray Tom
Published: April 2024

Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors (MKIDs) are photon detectors comprised of superconducting LC resonators with unique resonant frequencies corresponding to their geometrical structure. As each pixel has its own geometry, electromagnetic simulations by hand of every pixel in a kilo-pixel array are impractical. Simulating fewer pixels and interpolating in between risks reduced pixel yield in arrays due to overlapping resonant frequencies. We introduce a new software called AEM (Automated Electromagnetic MKID simulations) that automates the construction and simulation of every simulated MKID pixel in an array according to specified resonant frequencies and a Qc range. We show automated designs to have an increased pixel yield (avoiding loses due to interpolation completely), increased accuracy in resonance frequency and Qc values when compared to interpolated structures. We also demonstrate a simulated trial of AEM for 100 MKIDs between 4 and 8 GHz to produce MKIDs with accuracies of ± 0.2 MHz with a runtime of 10 h 45 min.
Preformulation studies of levonorgestrel
Authors: Ridichie Amalia , Ledeţi Adriana , Sbârcea Laura , Rusu Gerlinde , Muntean Cornelia , Cîrcioban Denisa , Peter Francisc , Ledeţi Ionuţ
Published: April 2024

Levonorgestrel, also called the morning-after pill, is a synthetic progestogen presenting structural similarities with progesterone. It is mostly used for its contraceptive effect in the form of intrauterine devices, subcutaneous implants, patches, dragées, tablets, coated tablets and orodispersible tablets being the first contraceptive that was used containing only a derivative of progestogen. Because of its wide use and various pharmaceutical formulations, it is necessary to evaluate the presence of any potential interactions between the active pharmaceutical ingredient and pharmaceutical excipients in the development of new formulations which possess increased stability and shelf life. The purpose of this study was to assess if there are any interactions between levonorgestrel and several excipients used in the pharmaceutical field, having different roles in the development of solid formulations. The studies were carried out on binary mixtures containing levonorgestrel and excipient. For the formation of the binary mixture, each excipient was used in a 1:1 mass ratio with the substance of pharmaceutical interest, levonorgestrel and the instrumental investigation results were compared to the ones of the pure active pharmaceutical ingredient and excipients. Alongside thermal analysis (TG/DTG/DSC), ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and PXRD analysis were used to evaluate the occurrence of possible interactions. For a more accurate interpretation of the obtained results, statistical calculations were performed, namely obtaining the value of the correlation coefficient. The results show the lack of a chemical interaction between levonorgestrel and microcrystalline cellulose, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, calcium lactate pentahydrate, α-lactose monohydrate and talc. In the case of the physical mixtures which contain as excipients: aspartame and magnesium stearate a chemical interaction is observed at ambient temperature and when heated. Regarding the binary mixtures which contain mannitol, starch and colloidal silicon dioxide at ambient temperature no chemical interaction is observed, but when heated it can be noticed the existence of a chemical interaction between levonorgestrel and those excipients. As concerns the BM between LNG and PVP, precautions should be taken into consideration, due to the possibility of a chemical interaction even at ambient temperature.
Dapagliflozin promotes browning of white adipose tissue through the FGFR1-LKB1-AMPK signaling pathway
Authors: Lv Yue , Zhao Chengrui , Jiang Qiuyan , Rong Yilin , Ma Mingfeng , Liang Lili , Li Weiping , Zhang Jiuxuan , Xu Ning , Wu Huiwen
Published: April 2024

Background

Obesity is associated with a wide variety of metabolic disorders that impose significant burdens on patients and society. The “browning” phenomenon in white adipose tissue (WAT) has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy to combat metabolic disturbances. However, though the anti-diabetic drug dapagliflozin (DAPA) is thought to promote “browning,” the specific mechanism of this was previously unclear.

Methods

In this study, C57BL/6 J male mice were used to establish an obesity model by high-fat diet feeding, and 3T3-L1 cells were used to induce mature adipocytes and to explore the role and mechanism of DAPA in “browning” through a combination of in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Results

The results show that DAPA promotes WAT "browning" and improves metabolic disorders. Furthermore, we discovered that DAPA activated "browning" through the fibroblast growth factor receptors 1-liver kinase B1-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase signaling pathway.

Conclusion

These findings provide a rational basis for the use of DAPA in treating obesity by promoting the browning of white adipose tissue.
A rare KMT2A::CBL transcript in an acute monoblastic leukemia patient with an unfavorable outcome
Authors: Yu Jinglei , Song Fengmei , Zhang Mingming , Xiao Pingnan , Feng Jingjing , Hong Ruimin , Hu Yongxian , Huang He , Wei Guoqing
Published: April 2024

Background

Lysine [K] methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A, previously known as MLL) gene rearrangements are common in acute leukemias of various lineages and are associated with features such as chemotherapy resistance and rapid relapse. KMT2A::CBL is a rare fusion of unknown pathogenesis generated by a unique interstitial deletion of chromosome 11 that has been reported across a wide age range in both acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. The leukemogenic effect of the KMT2A::CBL rearrangement and its association with clinical prognosis have not been well clarified.

Methods and results

We report the case of a 64-year-old female who was diagnosed with acute monoblastic leukemia (M5a) and who acquired the rare KMT2A::CBL fusion. The patient received multiple cycles of therapy but did not achieve remission and eventually succumbed to severe infection and disease progression. Additionally, we characterized the predicted KMT2A-CBL protein structure in this case to reveal the underlying leukemogenic mechanisms and summarized reported cases of hematological malignancies with KMT2A::CBL fusion to investigate the correlation of gene rearrangements with clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

This report provides novel insights into the leukemogenic potential of the KMT2A::CBL rearrangement and the correlation between gene rearrangements and clinical outcomes.
Psychosocial Factors Associated with Cognitive Function in Prostate Cancer Survivors on Hormonal Treatments: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pembroke Lorna , Sherman Kerry A. , Francis Heather , Dhillon Haryana M. , Gurney Howard , Gillatt David
Published: April 2024

Hormonal treatments (HT) for prostate cancer (e.g., androgen deprivation therapy) yield clinical and survival benefits, yet adverse cognitive changes may be a side effect. Since psychosocial factors are largely modifiable, interventions targeting these factors may help mitigate these adverse cognitive effects. This systematic review aimed to identify a range of psychosocial factors associated with cognitive function in individuals with prostate cancer undergoing HT and to determine whether these factors mitigate or exacerbate this effect. Applying PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search of relevant databases conducted in September 2023 using terms related to prostate cancer, hormone therapy, and cognitive outcomes was undertaken. The search yielded 694 unique abstracts, with 11 studies included for analysis examining the relationship between cognitive function and the following psychosocial factors: psychological distress, fatigue, insomnia, and coping processes. Findings were mixed with only two studies reporting significant associations between cognitive performance with fatigue and depression. Three studies that included measures of perceived cognitive function identified associations with depression, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, illness threat appraisals, and coping styles. However, no studies found evidence for an association between self-reported and objective measures of cognitive functioning. Evidence regarding the association of interpersonal factors is lacking. Moreover, whether these factors mitigate or exacerbate the effect of HT on cognitive function still needs to be determined. Overall, the research exploring the association between psychosocial factors and cognitive function in prostate cancer survivors undergoing HT is still in its infancy. Further research is required to optimize the implementation of neuropsychological interventions for prostate cancer survivors.