bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In tissue spatial single-cell metabolomics by coupling mass spectrometry imaging and immunofluorescences
Authors: Blanc Landry , Grelard Florent , Tuck Michael , Dartois Véronique , Peixoto Antonio , Desbenoit Nicolas
Published: March 2024

In this work, we introduce a multimodal imaging workflow that integrates Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MALDI-MSI) combined with Immunofluorescence (IF) microscopy to enhance in tissue spatial single-cell metabolomics. The workflow allows to correlate cell populations with associated small molecule distributions by conducting on the same tissue section MSI before IF staining, addressing tissue integrity challenges and joint image analysis.

To process MSI data with IF guidance, we propose an original and advanced computational strategy utilizing Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis, allowing to identify ions specific to targeted histological regions based on IF staining. Moreover, in a non-targeted strategy, we introduce a Spatial Coherence Measure (SCM) to distinguish genuine spatial patterns from noise within ion distributions, enhancing spatial metabolomics’ robustness. Then spatial clustering techniques are employed to group ions sharing similar spatial distribution to reveal histological structures, providing complementary insights into metabolite distributions. We validated our workflow mouse spleen section as this organ presents a spatially complex but well-detailed microenvironment.

In conclusion, our multimodal and computational workflow opens new frontiers for diverse biomedical research applications by promoting precise spatial metabolomics in tissue sections.
LncRNASnhg3Aggravates Hepatic Steatosis via PPARγ Signaling
Authors: Xie Xianghong , Gao Mingyue , Zhao Wei , Li Chunmei , Zhang Weihong , Yang Jiahui , Zhang Yinliang , Chen Enhui , Guo Yanfang , Guo Zeyu , Zhang Minglong , Ngowi Ebenezeri Erasto , Wang Heping , Wang Xiaoman , Zhu Yinghan , Wang Yiting , Li Xiaolu , Yao Hong , Yan Li , Fang Fude , Li Meixia , Qiao Aijun , Liu Xiaojun
Published: March 2024

LncRNAs are involved in modulating the individual risk and the severity of progression in metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD), but their precise roles remain largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the role of lncRNASnhg3in the development and progression of MASLD, along with the underlying mechanisms. The result showed thatSnhg3was significantly downregulated in the liver of high-fat diet-induced obesity (DIO) mice. Notably, palmitic acid promoted the expression ofSnhg3and overexpression ofSnhg3increased lipid accumulation in primary hepatocytes. Furthermore, hepatocyte-specificSnhg3deficiency decreased body and liver weight, alleviated hepatic steatosis and promoted hepatic fatty acid metabolism in DIO mice, whereas overexpression induced the opposite effect. Mechanistically,Snhg3promoted the expression, stability and nuclear localization of SND1 protein via interacting with SND1, thereby inducing K63-linked ubiquitination modification of SND1. Moreover,Snhg3decreased the H3K27me3 level and induced SND1-mediated chromatin loose remodeling, thus reducing H3K27me3 enrichment at thePparγ promoter and enhancingPparγ expression. The administration of PPARγ antagonist T0070907 improvedSnhg3-aggravated hepatic steatosis. Our study revealed a new signaling pathway,Snhg3/SND1/H3K27me3/PPARγ, responsible for MASLD and indicates that lncRNA-mediated epigenetic modification has a crucial role in the pathology of MASLD.
Deciphering the RNA-binding protein network during endosomal mRNA transport
Authors: Devan Senthil-Kumar , Shanmugasundaram Sainath , Müntjes Kira , Smits Sander HJ , Altegoer Florian , Feldbrügge Michael
Published: March 2024

Microtubule-dependent endosomal transport is crucial for polar growth, ensuring the precise distribution of cellular cargos such as proteins and mRNAs. However, the molecular mechanism linking mRNAs to the endosomal surface remains poorly understood. Here, we present a structural analysis of the key RNA-binding protein Rrm4 fromUstilago maydis. Our findings reveal a new type of MademoiseLLE domain featuring a seven-helical bundle that provides a distinct binding interface. A comparative analysis with the canonical MLLE domain of the poly(A)-binding protein Pab1 disclosed unique characteristics of both domains. Deciphering the MLLE binding code enabled prediction and verification of previously unknown Rrm4 interactors containing short linear motifs. Importantly, we demonstrated that the human MLLE domains, such as those of PABPC1 and UBR5, employed a similar principle to distinguish among interaction partners. Thus, our study provides unprecedented mechanistic insights into how structural variations in the widely distributed MLLE domain facilitates mRNA attachment during endosomal transport.

Significance

Polar growing cells, such as fungal hyphae and neurons, utilize endosomes to transport mRNAs along their microtubules. But how do these mRNAs precisely attach to endosomes? Our study addresses this question by investing the key mRNA transporter, Rrm4, in a fungal model microorganism. We uncovered new features of a protein-protein interaction domain that recognizes specific short linear motifs in binding partners. While this domain resembles one found in the poly(A)-binding protein, it exhibits distinct motif recognition. Deciphering the underlying binding code unveiled new interaction partners for Rrm4. The recognition system is used to form a resilient network of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and their interaction partners during endosomal transport. This principle is applicable to humans, highlighting its fundamental importance.
Hepatitis E virus infection upregulates ING5 expression invitroandvivo
Authors: Zhao Wanqiu , Xia Yueping , Li Tengyuan , Liu Huichan , Zhong Guo , Chen Dongxue , Yu Wenhai , Li Yunlong , Huang Fen
Published: March 2024

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the major pathogen of viral hepatitis. Immunocompromised individual infected by HEV is prone to chronic hepatitis and increases the risk of hepato-cellular carcinoma (HCC). Inhibitor of growth family member 5 (ING5) is a tumor suppressor gene, is low expressed in cancer tumor or cells. However, the underlying relationship between ING5 and HEV infection is unclear. In the present study acute and chronic HEV animal models were employed to explore the interaction between ING5 and HEV. Notably, the expression of ING5 was significantly increased both in the liver of acute HEV infected BALB/c mice and chronic HEV infected rhesus macaques. In addition, the relationship between HEV infection and ING5 expression was further identified in human hepatoma (HepG-2) cells. In conclusion, HEV infection strongly upregulated ING5 expression invivoand invitro, bearing significant implications in further understanding the pathogenic mechanism of HEV infection.
Egoviruses: distant relatives of poxviruses abundant in the gut microbiomes of humans and animals worldwide
Authors: Gaïa Morgan , Ruscheweyh Hans-Joachim , Eren A. Murat , Koonin Eugene V. , Sunagawa Shinichi , Krupovic Mart , Delmont Tom O.
Published: March 2024

Large and giant double-stranded DNA viruses within the phylumNucleocytoviricotaare diverse and prevalent in the environment where they substantially affect the ecology and evolution of eukaryotes1–4. Until now, these viruses were only sporadically found in the digestive system of vertebrates5–7. Here, we present the identification and genomic characterization of a proposed third order of viruses within the classPokkesviricetesthat currently consists of poxvirusesand asfuviruses8. Members of this newly identified order we provisionally named “Egovirales” are commonly in the digestive system of vertebrates worldwide and are abundant in >10% of livestock animals, >2% of humans, and wild animals. Egoviruses have linear genomes up to 467 kbp in length and likely form multilayered icosahedral capsids, similar to those of asfuviruses. However, phylogenetic analysis of conserved viral genes indicates that egoviruses are the sister group of poxviruses, with implications for capsid evolution. The diversity of egoviruses already far exceeds that of all known poxviruses and animal-associated asfuviruses. Phylogenetic analyses and patterns of virus distribution across vertebrates suggest that egoviruses can be either specialists or generalists associated with a single or multiple vertebrate species, respectively. Notably, one egovirus clade is human-specific, evolutionarily constrained, and spread across continents, demonstrating a long-term association betweenEgoviralesand the human population on the global scale. Egoviruses not only expand the ecological and evolutionary scope ofPokkesviricetes, but also represent the only diverse, widespread, and abundant group of double-stranded DNA viruses infecting eukaryotic cells in the digestive system of vertebrates.
Synthesis and crystal structure of tetramethyl (E)-4,4′-(ethene-1,2-diyl)bis(5-nitrobenzene-1,2-dicarboxylate)
Authors: Businski Artjom , Ta Thuy C. , Gindullis Niklas , Näther Christian , Herges Rainer
Published: March 2024

The title compound, C22H18N2O12, was obtained as a by-product during the planned synthesis of 1,2-bis(2-nitro-4,5-dimethyl phthalate)ethane by oxidative dimerization starting from dimethyl-4-methyl-5-nitro phthalate. To identify this compound unambiguously, a single-crystal structure analysis was performed. The asymmetric unit consists of half a molecule that is located at a centre of inversion. As a result of symmetry restrictions, the molecule shows an E configuration around the double bond. Both phenyl rings are coplanar, whereas the nitro and the two methyl ester groups are rotated out of the ring plane by 32.6 (1), 56.5 (2) and 49.5 (2)°, respectively. In the crystal, molecules are connected into chains extending parallel to the a axis by pairs of C—H...O hydrogen bonds that are connected into a tri-periodic network by additional C—H...O hydrogen-bonding interactions.
The joint effect of value diversity and emotional intelligence on team creativity: evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Nhu Ngoc , Nham Phong Tuan , Takahashi Yoshi
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between a team’s value diversity (VD) and creativity and investigate the moderating effect of emotional intelligence (EI) to explain inconsistent results regarding this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted a cross-sectional sequential study with 340 employees and tested the hypothesis in a laboratory setting with 180 undergraduate students.

Findings

EI had a moderating effect on the relationship between a team’s VD and creativity in that the relationship was positive among teams with high EI. However, the relationship tended to be negative in the long term among teams with low EI.

Practical implications

Managers should pay attention to how teams benefit from VD because it can help or harm team performance. By assigning people with different EI levels into suitable teams and providing EI interventions, organizations may manage affective consequences and enjoy more benefits of cognitive consequences resulting from VD.

Originality/value

No previous study has investigated the effect of a team’s EI in the relationship between VD and team creativity. Drawing on the categorization-elaboration model of diversity and affective events theory, through the present two-study design, we obtained data from multiple sources and improved limitations in measurements of previous studies, thereby broadening the literature by highlighting the dynamic relationship between a team’s EI, VD and creativity in the Vietnamese context.
Integrated quality 4.0 framework for quality improvement based on Six Sigma and machine learning techniques towards zero-defect manufacturing
Authors: Gonzalez Santacruz Elisa , Romero David , Noguez Julieta , Wuest Thorsten
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This research paper aims to analyze the scientific and grey literature on Quality 4.0 and zero-defect manufacturing (ZDM) frameworks to develop an integrated quality 4.0 framework (IQ4.0F) for quality improvement (QI) based on Six Sigma and machine learning (ML) techniques towards ZDM. The IQ4.0F aims to contribute to the advancement of defect prediction approaches in diverse manufacturing processes. Furthermore, the work enables a comprehensive analysis of process variables influencing product quality with emphasis on the use of supervised and unsupervised ML techniques in Six Sigma’s DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) cycle stage of “Analyze.”

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology employed a systematic literature review (SLR) based on PRISMA guidelines to develop the integrated framework, followed by a real industrial case study set in the automotive industry to fulfill the objectives of verifying and validating the proposed IQ4.0F with primary data.

Findings

This research work demonstrates the value of a “stepwise framework” to facilitate a shift from conventional quality management systems (QMSs) to QMSs 4.0. It uses the IDEF0 modeling methodology and Six Sigma’s DMAIC cycle to structure the steps to be followed to adopt the Quality 4.0 paradigm for QI. It also proves the worth of integrating Six Sigma and ML techniques into the “Analyze” stage of the DMAIC cycle for improving defect prediction in manufacturing processes and supporting problem-solving activities for quality managers.

Originality/value

This research paper introduces a first-of-its-kind Quality 4.0 framework – the IQ4.0F. Each step of the IQ4.0F was verified and validated in an original industrial case study set in the automotive industry. It is the first Quality 4.0 framework, according to the SLR conducted, to utilize the principal component analysis technique as a substitute for “Screening Design” in the Design of Experiments phase and K-means clustering technique for multivariable analysis, identifying process parameters that significantly impact product quality. The proposed IQ4.0F not only empowers decision-makers with the knowledge to launch a Quality 4.0 initiative but also provides quality managers with a systematic problem-solving methodology for quality improvement.
An efficient elastic full‐waveform inversion of multiple parameters with ocean‐bottom seismometer data
Authors: Huang Xinquan , Liu Yuzhu
Published: March 2024

Detailed knowledge of the subsurface elastic properties might provide much‐needed insight into the subduction‐zone structure and the estimation of reservoir parameters. Compressional and shear wave velocities can be inverted by elastic full‐waveform inversion using multicomponent ocean‐bottom seismometer data. However, this process is computationally intensive, requiring massive, repeated simulations scaling with the number of sources. Although source–receiver reciprocity can streamline elastic full‐waveform inversion, it cannot be applied by directly interchanging the positions of sources and ocean‐bottom seismometers. To reduce the computational cost, we develop a source–receiver reciprocal elastic full‐waveform inversion, in which the reciprocity in multicomponent data can be accomplished by transforming the data matching from the original geometry to a specific form under the reciprocal geometry. This approach significantly reduces computational costs from twice the number of sources, as seen in conventional elastic full‐waveform inversion, to a scale with the count of ocean‐bottom seismometers. The tests on synthetic data verify that the proposed reciprocal elastic full‐waveform inversion maintains accuracy while improving computational efficiency, and further application on the field data from East China Sea also showcases the efficiency of the proposed method, resulting in a speed‐up of 10 times.
How Do Prestigious Universities Remain at the Summit: A Bourdieusian View of their Business Models
Authors: Bocquet Rachel , Cotterlaz‐Rannard Gaëlle , Ferrary Michel
Published: March 2024

This study investigates how the specificity of a university business model supports the dominance and persistence of a handful of elite non‐profit universities, while considering the implications this phenomenon has on social responsibility. Despite their longstanding positions at the top of academia for over four decades, these universities often struggle to actively embrace social mobility, diversity and inclusion. The existing literature on business models lacks a comprehensive conceptualization that captures the ability of some institutions to establish and maintain their domination within non‐economic fields, such as higher education. Drawing on Bourdieu's framework and a unique dataset comprising 192 private non‐profit American universities, the study uncovers two fundamental mechanisms of accumulation and conversion of forms of capital (economic, social, cultural and symbolic) behind the perpetuation of dominance among non‐profit universities. This research contributes to both business model and higher education studies by introducing a novel conceptual tool for investigating the business models of non‐profit universities. Important managerial and social implications, including a call for leading non‐profit universities to enact socially responsible and diversifying measures, follows.
Safety and efficacy of a reduced frequency viral monitoring strategy for Epstein‐Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and BK polyomavirus post‐kidney transplant: A quality assurance initiative
Authors: Rampersad Christie , Kong William , Wiebe Chris , Balshaw Robert , Bullard Jared , Villalobos Armelle Perez Cortes , Trachtenberg Aaron , Shaw James , Karpinski Martin , Nickerson Peter W. , Ho Julie
Published: March 2024

Background

There is variability in recommended viral monitoring protocols after kidney transplant. In response to increased demand for laboratory testing during the COVID‐19 pandemic, the Transplant Manitoba Adult Kidney Program updated its monitoring protocols for cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV), and BK polyomavirus (BKV) to a reduced frequency.

Methods

This single‐center nested case‐control study evaluated 252 adult kidney transplant recipients transplanted from 2015 to 2021, with the updated protocols effective on March 19th 2020. Cases included recipients transplanted after the protocol update who developed CMV, EBV, and BKV DNAemia and were matched to controls with DNAemia transplanted prior to the protocol update. The primary outcome was the difference in maximum DNA load titers between cases and matched controls. Secondary outcomes included time to initial DNAemia detection and DNAemia clearance. Safety outcomes of tissue‐invasive viral disease were described.

Results

There were 216 recipients transplanted preupdate and 36 recipients postupdate. There was no difference between cases and controls in maximum or first DNA load titers for EBV, CMV, or BKV. Cases experienced earlier EBV DNAemia detection (26 (IQR 8, 32) vs. 434 (IQR 96, 1184) days, p = .005). Median follow‐up was significantly longer for recipients transplanted preupdate (4.3 vs. 1.3 years, p < .0001). After adjusting for follow‐up time, there was no difference in DNAemia clearance or tissue‐invasive viral disease.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that reduced frequency viral monitoring protocols may be safe and cost‐effective. This quality assurance initiative should be extended to detect longer‐term and tissue‐invasive disease outcomes.
Cardiac allograft vasculopathy in heart transplant recipients from hepatitis C viremic donors
Authors: Kadosh Bernard S. , Birs Antoinette S. , Flattery Erin , Stachel Maxine , Hong Kimberly N. , Xia Yuhe , Gidea Claudia , Aslam Saima , Razzouk Louai , Saraon Tajinderpal , Goldberg Randal , Rao Shaline , Pretorius Victor , Moazami Nader , Smith Deane E. , Adler Eric D. , Reyentovich Alex
Published: March 2024

Background

Recent studies suggest the transplantation of Hepatitis C (HCV) hearts from viremic donors is associated with comparable 1 year survival to nonviremic donors. Though HCV viremia is a known risk factor for accelerated atherosclerosis, data on cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) outcomes are limited. We compared the incidence of CAV in heart transplant recipients from HCV viremic donors (nucleic acid amplification test positive; NAT+) compared to non‐HCV infected donors (NAT−).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed annual coronary angiograms with intravascular ultrasound from April 2017 to August 2020 at two large cardiac transplant centers. CAV was graded according to ISHLT guidelines. Maximal intimal thickness (MIT) ≥ 0.5 mm was considered significant for subclinical disease.

Results

Among 270 heart transplant recipients (mean age 54; 77% male), 62 patients were transplanted from NAT+ donors. CAV ≥ grade 1 was present in 8.8% of the NAT+ versus 16.8% of the NAT‐ group at 1 year, 20% versus 28.8% at 2 years, and 33.3% versus 41.5% at 3 years. After adjusting for donor age, donor smoking history, recipient BMI, recipient, hypertension, and recipient diabetes, NAT+ status did not confer increased risk of CAV (HR.80; 95% CI.45–1.40, p = 0.43) or subclinical IVUS disease (HR.87; 95% CI.58–1.30, p = 0.49). Additionally, there was no difference in the presence of rapidly progressive lesions on IVUS.

Conclusion

Our data show that NAT+ donors conferred no increased risk for early CAV or subclinical IVUS disease following transplantation in a cohort of heart transplant patients who were treated for HCV, suggesting the short‐term safety of this strategy to maximize the pool of available donor hearts.
Assessing the influence of graft loss on 4‐year patient survival after simultaneous pancreas‐kidney transplantation: Kaplan–Meier versus Competing Risk Analysis model
Authors: Alfaro Villanueva Lucia Alejandra , Junior Roberto Meirelles , Rangel Érika Bevilaqua , Modelli Luis Gustavo , Viana Laila Almeida , Cristelli Marina Pontello , Requião‐Moura Lúcio , Foresto Renato Demarchi , Tedesco‐Silva Helio , Pestana José Medina
Published: March 2024

Background

Graft loss increases the risk of patient death after simultaneous pancreas‐kidney (SPK) transplantation. The relative risk of each graft failure is complex due to the influence of several competing events.

Methods

This retrospective, single‐center study compared 4‐year patient survival according to the graft status using Kaplan‐Meier (KM) and Competing Risk Analysis (CRA). Patient survival was also assessed according to five eras (Era 1: 2001–2003; Era 2: 2004–2006; Era 3: 2007–2009; Era 4: 2010–2012; Era 5: 2012–2015).

Results

Between 2000 and 2015, 432 SPK transplants were performed. Using KM, patient survival was 86.5% for patients without graft loss (n = 333), 93.4% for patients with pancreas graft loss (n = 46), 43.7% for patients with kidney graft loss (n = 16), and 25.4% for patients with pancreas and kidney graft loss (n = 37). Patient survival was underestimated using KM versus CRA methods in patients with pancreas and kidney graft losses (25.4% vs. 36.2%), respectively. Induction with lymphocyte depleting antibodies was associated with 81% reduced risk (HR.19, 95% CI.38–.98, p = .0048), while delayed kidney function (HR 2.94, 95% CI 1.09–7.95, p = .033) and surgical complications (HR 2.94, 95% CI 1.22–7.08, p = .016) were associated with higher risk of death. Four‐year patient survival increased from Era 1 to Era 5 (79% vs. 87.9%, p = .047).

Conclusion

In this cohort of patients, kidney graft loss, with or without pancreas graft loss, was associated with higher mortality after SPK transplantation. Compared to CRA, the KM model underestimated survival only among patients with pancreas and kidney graft losses. Patient survival increased over time.
Portrayals of Snow and Hermeneutics as an Early Childhood Educational Theory
Authors: Jardine David W.
Published: March 2024

This paper is a combination of a grandfather's musings over his grandson's drawings, combined with a reconsideration of hermeneutics as an early childhood educational theory.
Temperature trend and corporate cash holdings
Authors: Gounopoulos Dimitrios , Zhang Yu
Published: March 2024

We examine the causal impact of climate uncertainty on companies’ cash holdings using local temperature trends. We find a notable increase in cash reserves among companies in response to rising climate‐related risks. We also identify two significant channels through which climate uncertainty influences firms’ cash management: heightened environmental enforcement risk and increased physical risk. Furthermore, we observe that the positive effect of temperature trends on cash holdings is more pronounced for financially constrained firms and those with a lower level of environmental protection awareness. External financing through equity and debt issuance, as well as cost reduction strategies involving research and development and selling, general, and administrative activities, represent viable avenues for firms to bolster their cash reserves. However, financially constrained firms are less inclined to build up cash reserves through debt financing. Our findings underscore the precautionary nature of corporate cash policies and shed light on how temperature fluctuations can significantly shape corporate behavior.
The minerals of Jules Verne
Authors: Skrabec Quentin R.
Published: March 2024

Many rock and mineral collectors have roots in the movies and books of Jules Verne, such as Journey to the Centre of the Earth (1864). It seems only fitting that the mineral verneite was recently named after him, one of only three writers (Verne, Goethe and Theophrastus) to have a mineral named after them. Verne was an active amateur geologist, visiting sites throughout Europe. Of Verne's 80 novels, many have geological themes, subthemes or backgrounds second only to the sea. Like in his Journey to the Center of the Earth, Verne's lesser geological novels offer a remarkable literary guide to rocks, minerals and geology. Verne's geology‐based novels and writings are extensive and provide a means to re‐energize your childhood love of mineral collecting.
Relativizing Relativism? Variations on a Theme in Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis
Authors: Wahl Michael A.
Published: March 2024

While the rise of a ‘dictatorship of relativism’ was a longstanding concern for Joseph Ratzinger/Pope Benedict XVI, some commentators have suggested that—for better or for worse—the challenge posed by relativism appears to be less of a priority for Pope Francis. Indeed, Francis's remark, ‘Who am I to judge?’ appears to have become as much the defining soundbite for his papacy as the ‘dictatorship of relativism’ was for Benedict's. Contrary to these perceptions, this article argues that a critique of relativism is in fact a central aspect of Pope Francis's magisterium. Francis exhibits continuity with Benedict by amplifying his concerns about the danger of attempting to reconstruct reality according to human desire, but Francis also develops his predecessor's teaching by introducing the category of ‘practical relativism’. With this development, relativism cannot be dismissed as a theoretical problem that only plagues those who refuse to assent to the truth intellectually. The willingness to set aside the truth to which one assents when it proves inconvenient represents a more pernicious—precisely because more subtle—form of relativism that Francis argues must be rooted out, not by argument, but through self‐examination and the practice of solidarity.
RETRACTED: The impact of inflammatory biomarkers on amputation rates in patients with diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Xu Yun , Geng Ruina , Meng Xiangyu , Feng Zhipeng , Wang Xu , Zhang Guanying , Bai Liwei
Published: March 2024

Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFUs) are a major complication of diabetes, often leading to amputation. Understanding the relationship between haematological inflammatory markers and the incidence of amputation in DFU patients with infectious complications is crucial for improving management and outcomes. This retrospective study, conducted from May 2020 to October 2022, involved 109 patients with DFUs, categorised into amputation (AM) and non‐amputation (NAM) groups. Patients were evaluated for various factors, including demographic data, DFU duration, and blood parameters such as haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), haemoglobin (Hb), albumin (ALB), white blood cell count (WBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), procalcitonin (PCT), C‐reactive protein (CRP), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and lymphocyte‐to‐monocyte ratio (LMR). Statistical analyses were performed using independent sample t‐tests, Mann–Whitney U test and logistic regression. The univariate analysis showed no significant difference in BMI, DM duration or DFU duration between groups. However, significant differences were noted in PCT, Hb, ESR, ALB, HbA1c and WBC levels, and in inflammatory ratios (NLR, PLR and LMR). Multivariate logistic regression identified CRP, NLR and PLR as independent risk factors for amputation. The study highlights CRP, PLR and NLR as key independent risk factors for amputation in patients with DFUs. These easily obtainable markers from routine blood tests can effectively aid in predicting the risk of osteomyelitis and amputation, enhancing clinical decision making and patient care strategies.
Use of the Japanese gestational diabetes mellitus diagnostic strategy during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Japan: A questionnaire survey
Authors: Kasuga Yoshifumi , Miyakoshi Kei , Yokoyama Maki , Nakanishi Sayuri , Iwama Noriyuki , Ichikawa Raishi , Abiko Atsuko , Harashima Shinichi , Sugiyama Takashi
Published: March 2024

Aim

Some concerns exist that diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) may be missed when the simplified diagnostic criteria of the Japanese Society of Diabetes and Pregnancy (JSDP) for GDM (published during the COVID‐19 pandemic) are used. Moreover, limited data is available regarding how widespread these diagnostic criteria are used when managing GDM during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Therefore, this study aimed to determine how GDM diagnosis has changed during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Japan.

Methods

The changes in GDM diagnosis during the COVID‐19 pandemic were investigated using an online questionnaire to 2159 obstetric facilities in Japan. The questionnaire collected data on facility type, awareness of Japanese GDM diagnostic strategies, modifications to diagnostic methods for early and late GDM, and opinions on GDM management, with the pandemic divided into seven periods.

Results

We received responses from 593 facilities (27%). Approximately 90% of the facilities did not change their diagnostic process for early GDM or late GDM (occurring after 24 weeks gestation). However, during the COVID‐19 pandemic, 19 facilities discontinued the use of 75‐g oral glucose tolerance tests before 24 weeks of gestation, and 17 facilities discontinued it after 24 weeks of gestation, instead using the aforementioned Japanese GDM diagnostic strategy.

Conclusions

Although a limited number of facilities modified their diagnostic method in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, this study demonstrated that those that adjusted their diagnostic method primarily used the Japanese COVID‐19 GDM strategy by the JSDP.
To be, or not to be? Copyright general monitoring dilemma of online hosting audio‐visual platforms in China
Authors: Lu Yue
Published: March 2024

In China, a hosting audio‐visual platform does not bear a copyright general monitoring obligation. It bears a public law obligation to monitor content proactively and constantly to safeguard the governance objective of cybersecurity. Little literature has discovered that Chinese case law has shown a risk that this public law obligation can impose an actual copyright general monitoring obligation upon platforms. The crux lies in that the public law obligation weakens the rationale of the copyright no monitoring obligation that a platform cannot access and assess each piece of work proactively. Copyright general monitoring seems to be workable as a platform is given such an opportunity to access and evaluate each content upon the fulfillment of the public law obligation. It, however, is unjustifiable to create this copyright law obligation by transferring it from the public law obligation, as copyright monitoring is much more complicated and costly within China's online environment. Access to content does not necessarily indicate a platform's ability to figure out content's copyright authorization status. China should retain adopting the no copyright general monitoring obligation even considering that the public law obligation has been contextually emphasized as a mandatory obligation to platforms.
Application of Graphene-Based Derived Rice Husk Waste for Membrane Gas Separation Technologies: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ismail M. S. , Yusof N. , Yusop M. Z. M.
Published: March 2024

This study intends to comprehensively evaluate the application of graphene-based nanofillers obtained from rice husk waste in the field of membrane gas separation technologies. Graphene, owing to its distinctive structural characteristics, has emerged as a highly promising filler material for membrane fabrication in gas separation applications. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth evaluation of the diverse synthesis methods employed and the resulting properties of graphene obtained from rice husk waste materials, with an inclusive chemical mechanism of graphene formation from rice husk waste. Furthermore, this study reveals the inherent capabilities of graphene in enhancing the performance of membranes while also examining the influence of nanofillers on solubility selectivity. In conclusion, it is imperative to underline the need for additional research and development activities aimed at expanding the efficiency and scalability of the membrane fabrication process through the utilization of graphene nanofillers derived from rice husk waste.
Book Review Nanofiltration for Sustainability: Reuse, Recycle and Resource Recovery
Authors: Chun Ho Kah
Published: March 2024

The application of nanofiltration (NF) for sustainability in various industries was discussed in this recent published book. The sustainability of the NF was reviewed in terms of potential reuse, recycle, and resource recovery in the respective industry. Wide range of industries were covered in this book ranging from desalination, landfill leachate effluent, textile effluent, food industry effluent, agriculture effluent, heavy metals, and emerging organic contaminants. In addition, the book also considers the application of NF integrated with other technologies such as biological degradation, adsorption, Fenton, electrodialysis, ozonation, coagulation, and flocculation. The book could further explore the application of NF in energy sectors such as water treatment for power plants, carbon capture and sequestration, fuel cell technology, hydrogen purification, and energy storage. In short, the book offers a thorough discussion on the fundamentals of NF technology and its application towards sustainable developments.
The importance of naturalized quarries as amphibian breeding sites: a case study in central Spain
Authors: Gómez-Ramírez Fernando , Pérez Miguel Ángel , Caballero-Díaz Carlos , Sánchez-Montes Gregorio , Martinez-Solano Iñigo
Published: March 2024

Naturalized quarries can host rich amphibian communities, potentially playing an important role in local and regional population dynamics. Despite their importance for conservation, few studies have evaluated their potential to host large, viable populations and to connect breeding nuclei in neighboring areas, promoting long-term demographic resilience at the regional scale. We used photo-identification as a capture-mark-recapture method to estimate the population sizes and dispersal patterns of two amphibians of regional conservation concern (Pleurodeles waltl and Pelodytes punctatus), which breed in temporary ponds in an abandoned, naturalized quarry in SE Madrid (central Spain). We also surveyed all water bodies potentially harboring amphibian populations in an 80 km2 area centered in our study site to detect additional breeding nuclei of the two species. Both species are abundant in the core study site, with estimated population sizes of around 300 individuals in P. waltl and about 800 in P. punctatus. We recorded 23 accumulated displacements, ranging from 80 to 840 m, performed by 20 individuals of P. waltl captured on multiple occasions, but were unable to detect spatial displacements of P. punctatus during the study. Regional surveys confirmed the presence of P. waltl and/or P. punctatus in 7 additional locations, mostly quarries, at distances of 0.6-4.4 km from the study site. Our results show that temporary ponds in naturalized quarries can represent key assets for the long-term resilience of amphibian populations in areas where human action has resulted in extensive habitat fragmentation and loss.
Firms aim to capture carbon in the oceans
Authors: Service Robert F.
Published: March 2024

Schemes to process seawater may be cheaper than snagging carbon dioxide from the air
States in India survey caste membership
Authors: Chandrashekhar Vaishnavi
Published: March 2024

Censuses, the first in a century, chart social changes and shape affirmative action programs
Claudin18.2 expression and its clinicopathological feature in adenocarcinoma from various parts
Authors: Yan Pingping , Dong Yu , Zhang Fenfen , Zhen Tiantian , Liang Jiangtao , Shi Huijuan , Han Anjia
Published: March 2024

Aims

To clarify claudin18.2 expression and its clinicopathological features in various cancers, especially in lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry staining and fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) were performed to detect claudin18.2 expression andCLDN18gene rearrangement in adenocarcinoma from different organs.

Results

The results showed that claudin18.2 expression was found in 68% (27 of 40) of lung mucinous adenocarcinoma, 52% (16 of 31) of cholangiocarcinoma, 2% (10 of 423) of colorectal adenocarcinoma tissue microarray, 27% (6 of 22) of colorectal mucinous adenocarcinoma and 30% (3 of 10) of cervical adenocarcinoma, but not in all 39 cases of invasive breast adenocarcinoma by immunohistochemistry staining. There was significantly positive correlation between ratio of claudin18.2-positive carcinoma cells and staining intensity in lung mucinous adenocarcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. Claudin18.2 expression was much more in female patients than male patients with lung mucinous adenocarcinoma. In addition, cholangiocarcinoma with claudin18.2 expression was more aggressive and had perineural invasion. Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct and epithelial dysplasia of the adjacent bile in cholangiocarcinoma also showed claudin18.2 expression. All three cases of cervical adenocarcinoma with claudin18.2 expression were moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma including one human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated carcinoma, two non-HPV-associated and gastric-type carcinoma.CLDN18gene rearrangement was not found in all 22 cases with high claudin18.2 expression by FISH.

Conclusions

Our results suggest claudin18.2 might be a potential biomarker for targeted therapy on lung mucinous adenocarcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, colorectal mucinous adenocarcinoma and gastric-type cervical adenocarcinoma.
SHORTEST PATH DISTANCE AND HAUSDORFF DIMENSION OF SIERPINSKI NETWORKS
Authors: FAN JIAQI , XU JIAJUN , XI LIFENG
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we will study the geometric structure on the Sierpinski networks which are skeleton networks of a connected self-similar Sierpinski carpet. Under some suitable condition, we figure out that the renormalized shortest path distance is comparable to the planar Manhattan distance, and obtain the Hausdorff dimension of Sierpinski networks.
Optimal Design and Performance Evaluation of HMDV Inertial Suspension Based on Generalized Skyhook Control
Authors: Yang Xiaofeng , Zeng Shaocong , Liu Changning , Liu Xiaofu , Wang Zhipeng , Yang Yi
Published: March 2024

The hub motor driven vehicle (HMDV), due to the increase in unsprung mass and the influence of uneven electromagnetic radial forces from road excitations, results in the deterioration of body acceleration, significantly impacting ride comfort. This seriously impacts ride comfort. However, the inerter proves effective in reducing low-frequency vibrations in body acceleration, and skyhook control significantly enhances ride comfort. To fully exploit the benefits of the inerter, comprehensively elevate skyhook control performance, and effectively counteract the worsening of body acceleration caused by the hub motor, this study integrates skyhook control with an inertial suspension system. This integration markedly improves the suspension’s low-frequency isolation performance, thereby substantially enhancing vehicle ride comfort. Firstly, establish a quarter-vehicle dynamics suspension model based on the Switched Reluctance Motor (SRM) driven wheel motor system. Subsequently, confirm the constraints of two different generalized skyhook inertial suspension structures separately and optimize their parameters to determine the most suitable parameters for each structure. Finally, analyze the impact of these two suspension types on body acceleration to derive the optimal structure. Simulation results demonstrate that, compared to traditional suspensions, the optimized generalized skyhook inertial suspensions reduce the Root Mean Square (RMS) values of body acceleration and suspension working space by 18.8% and 22%, respectively. This reduction is particularly significant in the 0[Formula: see text]2[Formula: see text]Hz frequency range, effectively enhancing ride comfort. It also adequately validates the effective utilization of the advantages of inertial suspensions and skyhook control.
Utilizing Satellite Imagery to Predict Socioeconomic Indicators: A Study Conducted in Brazil
Authors: Silva Joao Pedro , Rodrigues Jose F.
Published: March 2024

The world has a considerable portion of its population living in vulnerable conditions, with about 47% of people living in poverty and approximately 9.3% in extreme poverty. To understand and face this problem, it is essential to have access to updated data on poverty and trace the socioeconomic profile of the population. In this context, Censuses and demographic surveys play a crucial role. However, conducting a Census in certain regions faces significant challenges, both in terms of cost and logistics. It is a complex process that demands significant resources and an extensive data collection effort throughout the national territories. Given the difficulties of collecting data in the traditional way, passively collected data sources, such as satellite imagery, may be an alternative way to measure these results. Therefore, we use computational techniques to combine nighttime and daytime satellite imagery to predict socioeconomic indicators. Our results demonstrate the efficacy of combining these features in predicting the average income and demographic density of cities across Brazil. In particular, the use of neural networks for inferring socioeconomic indicators has been demonstrated highly effective. This technique holds the potential to enhance our comprehension of the socioeconomic landscape in Brazil and provide technical means for the analysis of other countries that face difficulties in conducting Censuses. Our method has convincingly demonstrated that satellite images can be used and applied for socioeconomic purposes.
4D Facial Expression Diffusion Model
Authors: Zou Kaifeng , Faisan Sylvain , Yu Boyang , Valette Sebastien , Seo Hyewon
Published: March 2024

Facial expression generation is one of the most challenging and long-sought aspects of character animation, with many interesting applications. The challenging task, traditionally having relied heavily on digital craftspersons, remains yet to be explored. In this article, we introduce a generative framework for generating 3D facial expression sequences (i.e., 4D faces) that can be conditioned on different inputs to animate an arbitrary 3D face mesh. It is composed of two tasks: (1) learning the generative model that is trained over a set of 3D landmark sequences and (2) generating 3D mesh sequences of an input facial mesh driven by the generated landmark sequences. The generative model is based on a Denoising Diffusion Probabilistic Model (DDPM), which has achieved remarkable success in generative tasks of other domains. While it can be trained unconditionally, its reverse process can still be conditioned by various condition signals. This allows us to efficiently develop several downstream tasks involving various conditional generations, by using expression labels, text, partial sequences, or simply a facial geometry. To obtain the full mesh deformation, we then develop a landmark-guided encoder-decoder to apply the geometrical deformation embedded in landmarks on a given facial mesh. Experiments show that our model has learned to generate realistic, quality expressions solely from the dataset of relatively small size, improving over the state-of-the-art methods. Videos and qualitative comparisons with other methods can be found at
https://github.com/ZOUKaifeng/4DFM
. Code and models will be made available upon acceptance.
Marginal Nodes Matter: Towards Structure Fairness in Graphs
Authors: Han Xiaotian , Zhou Kaixiong , Wang Ting-Hsiang , Li Jundong , Wang Fei , Zou Na
Published: March 2024

In social network, a person located at the periphery region (marginal node) is likely to be treated unfairly when compared with the persons at the center. While existing fairness works on graphs mainly focus on protecting sensitive attributes (e.g., age and gender), the fairness incurred by the graph structure should also be given attention. On the other hand, the information aggregation mechanism of graph neural networks amplifies such structure unfairness, as marginal nodes are often far away from other nodes. In this paper, we focus on novel fairness incurred by the graph structure on graph neural networks, named structure fairness. Specifically, we first analyzed multiple graphs and observed that marginal nodes in graphs have a worse performance of downstream tasks than others in graph neural networks. Motivated by the observation, we propose Structural Fair Graph Neural Network (SFairGNN), which combines neighborhood expansion based structure debiasing with hop-aware attentive information aggregation to achieve structure fairness. Our experiments show SFairGNN can significantly improve structure fairness while maintaining overall performance in the downstream tasks.
Storage Systems: Organization, Performance, Coding, Reliability, and Their Data Processing, 1st Edition, October 13, 2021, Author: Alexander Thomasian
Authors: Thomasian A.
Published: March 2024

Textbooks on computer organization and architecture, operating systems, and databases do not sufficiently cover storage systems. This is especially so in view of rapid advances in storage technology in the form of flash and Storage Class Memories - SCMs and storage organizations such as datacentric and the DisAggregated Shared Everything - DASE.
Advancements in Mobile-Based Air Pollution Detection: From Literature Review to Practical Implementation
Authors: Sladojevic Srdjan , Arsenovic Marko , Nikolic Danilo , Anderla Andras , Stefanovic Darko
Published: March 2024

The aim of this paper is to investigate the effectiveness of combining mobile technologies and sensors to detect harmful particles in the air and address the problem of air pollution caused by traffic and exhaust emissions. The paper contains a systematic literature review of information technology research related to pollution detection in order to point out the main obstacles in the field and propose solutions. Furthermore, the paper presents the development of an Android smartphone-based real-time monitoring system that utilizes an external analog sensor board to acquire and evaluate physical measurements. The proposed system is calibrated for CO gas measurements, and it is compared with a commercial gas analyzer instrument. Results imply that the developed system is capable of detecting concentration levels in the air and that the accuracy is within the range of the industrial device’s accuracy.