bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Al composition and diameter effect on AlxGa1-xAs nanowire photocathodes via first-principles calculations with DFT+U method
Authors: Diao Yu , Xia Sihao
Published: September 2024

Utilizing first-principles calculations with DFT+U method, the structural, electronic and optical behaviors of AlxGa1-xAs nanowire photocathodes modulated by Al composition and diameter are systematically investigated. The findings reveal that the structural stability of AlxGa1-xAs nanowires is progressively enhanced as either the Al composition or the wire diameter increases. Additionally, the charge transfer in nanowires induced by altering the Al composition is significantly greater than that caused by varying wire diameter. Wurtzite AlxGa1-xAs nanowire is a direct bandgap material. Moreover, the continuously reduced bandgap resulting from an increase in diameter confirms the size effect of the nanowire. In addition, the introduction of DFT+U method presents an accurate theoretical bandgap with higher efficiency. The error of the bandgap between predication and experimental results is less than 4% in the case of bulk AlxGa1-xAs. The optical property of AlxGa1-xAs nanowire is more susceptible to the influence of wire diameter compared to that of Al composition. Furthermore, the optical absorption spectrums exhibit a slight blueshift and a redshift with increasing Al composition and wire diameter, respectively. This study is anticipated to provide theoretical support for the design of optoelectronic devices based on AlxGa1-xAs nanowires.
Numerical investigation of saline gravity currents with different water depth and salinity based on the lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Xu Keqin , Liao Jianghua , Yang Shengfa , Wu Peng , Hu Jiang
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we used Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) to simulate the motion of saline gravity currents, considering different cases of water depth and salinity, aiming to evaluate the reliability of the LBM model and investigate the longitudinal properties of the gravity currents. The study in this paper was divided into two phases. The first phase explained the basic principles and the implementation process of the numerical model. By comparing the simulation results with laboratory experimental data, it was found that the simulation results were in good agreement with the laboratory experiments. The second phase of the study simulated the saline gravity currents with different water depths and salinities. It was observed that, due to the increasing density gradient, the front velocity of dense current increased with rising water depth and saltwater salinity, and the intensity of turbulence at the interface was enhanced.
Heat transfer performance of MHD [Ag+Gr+GO/H2O]t ternary nanofluid squeezing flow between two parallel plates in a porous medium with variable viscosity and brownian motion
Authors: Venkateswarlu B , Joo Sang Woo , Narayana P V Satya , Metwally Ahmed Sayed M
Published: September 2024

A novel notion in the realm of research is that ternary nanofluid presents itself as a cutting-edge concept showcasing enhanced heat transfer capabilities when pitted against hybrid nanofluids as well as traditional nanofluids. These ternary nanofluids are employed for boosting thermal conductivity in cooling systems, thereby enhancing energy efficiency in electronics and industrial operations. This research aims to investigate the dynamic viscosity variations within a three-component nanofluid comprising Ag, Gr, and GO nanoparticles suspended in water enclosed between dual parallel plates with entropy generation. The examination encompasses the impact of viscous dissipation, thermophoresis, and Brownian motion occurrences within the energy equation, along with considering chemical reactions in the concentration equation. Techniques of similarity are utilized to transform the complex nonlinear partial differential equations into a collection of ordinary differential equations. The necessary equations that arise are attempted through the utilization of the Runge–Kutta-Fehlberg technique in combination with a shooting method. The research examines graphs and tables to study the effects of new factors on velocity, temperature, concentration, and engineering measures. The outcome of the finding shows that the magnetic field and suction cause a greater decrease in [Ag/H2O]n nanofluid velocity, while an increased squeezing limit elevates [Ag+Gr+GO/H2O]t ternary nanofluid velocity. Increasing thermophoresis and Brownian motion enhance temperature in ternary nanofluid, but [Ag/H2O]n nanofluid concentration diminishes with chemical reaction. Entropy production intensifies in ternary nanofluids due to higher radiation and Brinkman numbers. The magnetic field increases the skin friction of ternary nanofluids by 3.4% at both plates but it decreases by 4.12 more in nanofluids because of alterations in the viscosity factor. Heat transfer decreases by 3.05% at the lower plate but increases by 6.01% at the upper plate in ternary nanofluids due to heat production and thermophoresis. An increase of 3.95% in mass transfer rate is observed in the ternary nanofluid at the lower plate but a decrease of 2.06% is noted at the upper plate due to thermophoresis and Brownian motion. The discoveries illuminate the possibilities of ternary nanofluids to boost thermal conductivity and maximize energy efficiency across a range of industrial applications.
Partial loopholes free device-independent quantum random number generator using IBM’s quantum computers
Authors: Yadav Abhishek , Mishra Sandeep , Pathak Anirban
Published: September 2024

Random numbers form an intrinsic part of modern day computing with applications in a wide variety of fields, and quantum systems due to their intrinsic randomness form a suitable candidate for generation of true random numbers that can also be certified. In this work, we have demonstrated the use of cloud based quantum computers to develop a partially loophole free device-independent quantum random number generator (QRNG). The generated random numbers have been tested for their source of origin through experiments based on the testing of Clauser, Horne, Shimony, and Holt (CHSH) inequality through available IBM quantum computers. The performance of each quantum computer against the CHSH test has been plotted and characterized. Further, efforts have been made to close as many loopholes as possible to produce device-independent quantum random number generators. This study will help provide new directions for the development of self-testing and semi-self-testing random number generators using quantum computers.
On sequences of convex records in the plane
Authors: Godrèche Claude , Luck Jean-Marc
Published: September 2024

Convex records have an appealing purely geometric definition. In a sequence of d-dimensional data points, the nth point is a convex record if it lies outside the convex hull of all preceding points. We specifically focus on the bivariate (i.e. two-dimensional) setting. For iid (independent and identically distributed) points, we establish an identity relating the mean number

⟨

R
n

⟩

of convex records up to time n to the mean number

⟨

N
n

⟩

of vertices in the convex hull of the first n points. By combining this identity with extensive numerical simulations, we provide a comprehensive overview of the statistics of convex records for various examples of iid data points in the plane: uniform points in the square and in the disk, Gaussian points and points with an isotropic power-law distribution. In all these cases, the mean values and variances of Nn
and Rn
grow proportionally to each other, resulting in the finite limit Fano factors FN
and FR
. We also consider planar random walks, i.e. sequences of points with iid increments. For both the Pearson walk in the continuum and the Pólya walk on a lattice, we characterise the growth of the mean number

⟨

R
n

⟩

of convex records and demonstrate that the ratio

R
n

/

⟨

R
n

⟩

keeps fluctuating with a universal limit distribution.
AMI water meters deliver end-use water and financial savings in leaky households: experimental evidence from California
Authors: Rupiper Amanda M , Good Robert T , Ackerman Jonathan , Gregory Jack , Jessoe Katrina K , Loge Frank J
Published: September 2024

Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) for residential water consumption is exploding globally giving water utilities the ability to improve their water tracking, billing, and distribution systems’ leak detection. With AMI, utilities have also gained the opportunity to provide real-time high-resolution water consumption information to their customers to induce conservation. Using a randomized controlled trial we find that on average homes that install AMI and receive conservation based messaging significantly reduce water consumption by 5.24 gallons per household per day beyond savings already obtained from home water reports. Of the estimated water savings we attribute 92.8% to leak reduction. While the payback period from the deployment of AMI meters and treatment in all homes is over 41 years, homes that experience leaks realize financial savings of $60/year and a treatment payback period of four years. This is because treatment did not induce water or financial savings in homes without leaks. These findings indicate that even on top of existing conservation programs, AMI messaging that targets end-user leaks could result in significant water savings, economic benefits to end-users, and advance conservation goals.
Experimental study on tribological properties of PTFE and glass reinforced PTFE-C15 for skid transport of heavy structures
Authors: Gunes Cihan , Makaraci Murat
Published: September 2024

Efficient transportation requires minimal frictional resistance. Skidding has become an alternative method of transporting heavy structures in recent years. The static coefficient of friction plays an important role in determining whether the piston force in the thrust direction is sufficient to counteract the horizontal frictional force caused by the structure’s weight. This study aimed to determine various static coefficient of friction values for PolyTetraFluoroEthylene (PTFE) and glass-reinforced PTFE-C15 materials on steel skids. The research presents the influence of lubrication and the reduction of surface roughness on the static coefficient of friction. We designed six combinations of experiments for 10 repetitions for PTFE and PTFE-C15 under dry, oiled, and oil lubrication with added weight conditions. An inclined plane method was used to investigate and compare the coefficients of friction values of pure PTFE and glass-reinforced PTFE-C15 materials on a steel surface. The steel surface roughness was reduced by grinding to an average Ra value of 2.8 to minimize adhesion, which created a vacuum effect during the test. The application of added weight onto the specimens overcame the vacuum effect. PTFE-C15 in oil lubrication with added weight demonstrated the lowest coefficient of friction. However, it is noteworthy that pure PTFE had better performance than PTFE-C15 when both were oil-lubricated. These results provide essential data for precise engineering calculations to determine the required piston force and total number of pistons for loading heavy structures.
Synthesis of metal powders via reduction of carbonates in self-stirred autoclave
Authors: Bai Liuyang , Qu Linmin , Fu Huitan , Yang Zongxian
Published: September 2024

Commercial carbonates were used as the metal sources for synthesis of metal powders, and a self-stirred autoclave device was proposed to accelerate the complete reduction of carbonates. Fluent software was employed to simulate the system and analyze the distribution of the solution and particles in the autoclave, Ni and Cu powders were synthesized to verify the experiment’s feasibility. Results indicate that sufficient mixing of reactants, solvents, and intermediate products is maintained in the improved self-stirred autoclave throughout the reaction process, facilitating the full reduction of carbonates and enhancing the uniformity of metal powders. Additionally, because basic carbonates can neutralize the hydrogen ions produced by the reduction reaction, and thus Ni powders can be synthesized without NaOH added, which is beneficial for controlling particle morphology and saving reaction time. Well-dispersed Ni and Cu powders were synthesized via the present route, which is possible to promote the reduction preparation of ultrafine metal powders for other insoluble and slightly soluble metal salts.
Comparison of Monte Carlo tally techniques for dosimetry in a transmission-type x-ray tube
Authors: Feng Chen-Ju , Lin Chin-Hsiung , Wu Shu-Wei , Luo Shih-Yong , Yang Ya-Ru , Lee Chao-Hua , Tseng Shao-Chun , Lee Shen-Hao , Hsu Shih-Ming , Wu Chin-Hui
Published: September 2024

This study discussed comparing result accuracy and time cost under different tally methods using MCNP6 for a novel transmission x-ray tube which was designed for the Auger electron yield with specific material (e.g. iodine). The assessment included photon spectrum, percent depth dose, mass-energy absorption coefficient corresponding to air and water, and figure of merit comparison. The mean energy of in-air phantom was from 41.8 keV (0 mm) to 40.9 keV (100 mm), and the mean energy of in-water phantom was from 41.41 keV (0 mm) to 45.2 keV (100 mm). The specific dose conversion factors based mass-energy absorption coefficient corresponding to different materials was established and the difference was less than 2% for the dose conversion of FMESH comparing to measurement data. FMESH had better figure of merit (FOM) than the F6 tally for the dose parameter assessment, which mean the dose calculation that focused on the superficial region could be assessed with more calculation efficiency by FMESH tally for this novel transmission x-ray tube. The results of this study could help develop treatment planning system (TPS) to quickly obtain the calculated data for phase space data establishment and heterogeneous correction under different physical condition settings.
Influence of silver nanoparticles on enhancing performance of optical absorption property in a perovskite solar cell
Authors: Soemphol Chaiyong , Dasri Thananchai
Published: September 2024

This report presents a mostly numerical investigation of solar absorptance enhancement in PSCs through solving partial differential equations. The designed structural device comprised five layers of the transparent conducting contact (ITO), the electron transport layer (TiO2), the active layer (CH3NH3PBI3) embedding with plasmonic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), the hole transporting layer (NiO), and the back reflectors (Ag). The calculation results showed that the device performance was highly dependent on the particle size of AgNP, structural formation and the location of the AgNPs. Overall, the optimum particle radius was

r
=
10

nm
,

located at the middle of the activated layer

z
=
0

nm

,

a 2-dimensional array of

2
×
2

particles per unit cell and an interparticle distance of

4

nm

were achieved for the AgNPs in the active layer (AL) of the PSCs with the highest optical enhancement of

η
=
1.24
.
The Sense-Data Language and External World Skepticism
Authors: Warren Jared
Published: September 2024

The central project of early modern philosophy was to build a theory of the world starting from the data of conscious sensory experience—sense data. Attempts to avoid this project usually argue that the very idea of sense data is confused. But the sense-data way of talking, the sense-data language, can be defended using ideas from contemporary metaontology. We can adopt a sense-data framework that vindicates the traditional claims of sense-data theories and leads to plausible theories of perception and color. Yet when we do, we face the traditional problem of external world skepticism, head-on. Fortunately, this challenge can be met: it is rational to believe in the external world as the best explanation of the many patterns in our sense-data. Here I argue for these points and end with a plea for analytic empiricism—a traditional sense-data version of empiricism that uses all of the tools of analytic philosophy.
I Feel Your Pain: Acquaintance and the Limits of Empathy
Authors: Atiq Emad H , Duncan Matt
Published: September 2024

The kind of empathy that is communicated through expressions like “I feel your pain” is important, but peculiar. For it seems to require something perplexing and elusive: sharing another’s experience. In this chapter, we clarify how empathy, in the regimented sense of sharing another’s pain, is possible and why it is important. Central to our account is the concept of being acquainted with—that is, directly aware of—pain. Explaining how empathy is both possible and important involves clarifying the nature of acquaintance: its limits, epistemic role, and motivational significance. We argue that agents have both epistemic and moral reasons to share other people’s pain because pain-sharing is the source of a species of character-building knowledge that we have no other way of accessing except through acquaintance with pain.
Précis of Reality+
Authors: Chalmers David J
Published: September 2024

Reality+ is intended as a work of technophilosophy. Inspired by Patricia Churchland’s concept of neurophilosophy, technophilosophy is a two-way interaction between philosophy and technology: philosophy sheds light on technology, technology sheds light on philosophy. Reality+ applies a technophilosophical treatment to issues about virtual reality (VR). It asks philosophical questions about virtual reality: e.g. are virtual worlds real worlds? It also uses VR to address many traditional questions about reality: e.g. what is the nature of reality, and what can we know about it? The central thesis of Reality+ is virtual reality is genuine reality. This breaks down into three central theses: one metaphysical, one epistemological, and one value-theoretic: 1. Objects and events in virtual reality are real and not illusory; 2. We can’t know we’re not living in a virtual reality; 3. We can live a meaningful life in virtual reality.
The Simulation Hypothesis, Social Knowledge, and a Meaningful Life
Authors: Helton Grace
Published: September 2024

In Reality+: Virtual Worlds and the Problems of Philosophy, David Chalmers takes up several questions concerning the simulation hypothesis and virtual reality more generally. He argues, among other things, that: if we are living in a full-scale simulation, we would still enjoy broad swathes of knowledge about non-psychological entities, and our lives might still be deeply meaningful. I explore more generally the value of non-social knowledge versus social knowledge for a meaningful life, where non-social knowledge is empirical knowledge that is not dependent on other minds and social knowledge is empirical knowledge that is dependent on other minds. I argue that in general, the value of social knowledge for a meaningful life dramatically swamps the value of non-social knowledge for a meaningful life. This is the social swamping view.
Why Virtual Worlds Aren’t Real: How Phenomenal Intentionality Constrains Mental Reference
Authors: Horgan Terry
Published: September 2024

In Reality+, David Chalmers defends the bold and provocative claim that virtual worlds are real. This chapter argues, contra Chalmers, that virtual worlds are quite radically unreal. The key claims are as follows. First, the most fundamental kind of mental intentionality is phenomenal intentionality, fully constituted by the phenomenal character of an agent’s phenomenally conscious experiences. Second, phenomenal intentionality places heavy reference-eligibility constraints on the singular and predicative reference-purporting constituents of an agent’s beliefs. Third, when an agent is in a simulation, vastly many of the agent’s beliefs about its ambient environment are governed by phenomenally constituted reference-eligibility constraints that come nowhere close to being satisfied. Hence, fourth, virtual worlds are thoroughly unreal.
Hospital-initiated palliative care interventions for adults with frailty: findings from a systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Sharratt Phoebe , Zacharias Antony , Nwosu Amara Callistus , Gadoud Amy
Published: September 2024

Background

Adults with frailty have palliative care needs [1] but have disproportionately less access to palliative care services [2]. Frailty affects ~4000 patients admitted to hospital per day in the UK [3], making the hospital admission a unique opportunity to assess palliative care needs and deliver interventions.

Objectives

Synthesise the evidence regarding hospital palliative care (HPC) for patients with frailty. Narratively analyse the evidence regarding methods used to identify palliative care needs; types of palliative care interventions studied; and whether HPC improves outcomes.

Methods

Systematic literature review and narrative synthesis of experimental, observational and systematic review articles investigating palliative care interventions for hospitalised adults aged ≥65 years with frailty. Electronic search of five databases from database inception to 30 January 2023. Included studies analysed using narrative synthesis according to Popay et al [4].

Results

15 465 titles retrieved, 12 included. Three studies detailed how they identified palliative care needs; all three used prognostication e.g. the ‘surprise question’. Most papers (10/12) investigated specialist palliative care interventions. These interventions addressed a wider range of care needs than non-specialist interventions. Evidence suggested an improvement in some symptom burden and healthcare utilisation outcomes following HPC.

Conclusion

Prognostication was the main method of identifying palliative care needs, rather than individuals’ specific needs. Specialist palliative care interventions were more holistic, indicating that non-specialist palliative care approaches may benefit from specialist team input. Despite suggestions of improvement in some outcomes with palliative care, heterogenous evidence prevented establishment of conclusive effects.
Medication management information priorities of people living with dementia and their carers: a scoping review
Authors: Clough Alexander J , Gnjidic Danijela , Cross Amanda J , Jokanovic Natali , Watson Karen , Wesson Jacqueline , Beshara Stephanie , Cheng Justin , Sawan Mouna J
Published: September 2024

Background

People living with dementia and their carers often experience difficulties in effectively managing medications and have indicated they lack necessary support, information and guidance. Recognising the medication management information needs of this population is an important first step in addressing these issues.

Objectives

To identify the priorities for information on medication management expressed by people living with dementia and their carers.

Methods

A scoping review with systematic search was conducted from inception to 12 May 2023 for any original studies that reported the information needs of people living with dementia and their carers (informal, i.e. unpaid or within an existing relationship) regarding medication management. Two authors independently screened the abstracts, full-texts and extracted data. Study characteristics were described descriptively, and themes of information need were extracted using an iterative approach.

Results

Of the 11 367 records screened, 35 full-texts were included. All studies (n = 35) involved carers, with 17 also including people living with dementia. Most studies (n = 30) were conducted in the community and used qualitative methods (n = 32). Five major themes of information need were identified: critical medication information; medication effects; medication indication(s); disease progression and impact on medications; and safe and appropriate administration of medications. People living with dementia and their carers indicated they need more medication management information generally and want it simple, tailored and relevant.

Conclusions

This review highlights the key medication information priorities for people living with dementia and their carers and will help guide the provision of medication management guidance and development of new information resources.
Effects of Preanalytical Sample Collection and Handling on Comprehensive Metabolite Measurements in Human Urine Biospecimens
Authors: Braisted John , Henderson Theresa , Newman John W , Moore Steven C , Sampson Joshua , McClain Kathleen , Ross Sharon , Baer David J , Mathé Ewy A , Zanetti Krista A
Published: September 2024

Epidemiology studies evaluate associations between the metabolome and disease risk. Urine is a common biospecimen used for such studies due to its wide availability and non-invasive collection. Evaluating the robustness of urinary metabolomic profiles under varying preanalytical conditions is thus of interest. Here we evaluate the impact of sample handling conditions on urine metabolome profiles relative to the gold standard condition (no preservative, no refrigeration storage, single freeze thaw). Conditions tested included the use of borate or chlorhexidine preservatives, various storage and freeze/thaw cycles. We demonstrate that sample handling conditions impact metabolite levels, with borate showing the largest impact with 125 of 1048 altered metabolites (adjusted P < 0.05). When simulating a case–control study with expected inconsistencies in sample handling, we predicted the occurrence of false positive altered metabolites to be low (< 11). Predicted false positives increased substantially (≥63) when cases were simulated to undergo alternate handling. Finally, we demonstrate that sample handling impacts on the urinary metabolome were markedly smaller than those in serum. While changes in urine metabolites incurred by sample handling are generally small, we recommend implementing consistent handling conditions and evaluating robustness of metabolite measurements for those showing significant associations with disease outcomes.
Evaluation of direct and transgenerational influences of salinity on germination and early seedling growth in an edible halophyte, Crithmum maritimum
Authors: Martins-Noguerol Raquel , Gallego-Tévar Blanca , Pérez-Ramos Ignacio M , Matías Luis , Davy Anthony J , Cambrollé Jesús
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

Crithmum maritimum is a wild, edible halophyte with large potential as a cash crop for salinized soils. However, its tolerance during seed germination appears to be highly site-specific and contradictory, whereas little is known on salinity tolerance during early seedling growth. This study aimed to characterize variation in the responses of germination and early seedling growth in diverse C. maritimum populations along the southwest Iberian coast. Specifically, we sought to distinguish between direct salinity effects and those influenced by the salinity of maternal environments.

Methods

Physicochemical properties, including salinity of maternal environments, were assessed across diverse habitats. A total of 3480 seeds from 58 mother plants were utilized. Seeds were subjected to germination assays under various salinity treatments (0–500 mM NaCl), with subsequent monitoring of germination parameters. Non-germinated seeds were tested for recovery germination, and viability was assessed using a tetrazolium test. Of germinated seeds, 1160 seedlings were monitored for survival and early growth metrics. General Linear Models were used to analyse the effects of salinity and maternal environmental influence on germination and early growth.

Key Results

Despite reduced and delayed germination under salinity, seeds showed remarkable tolerance up to 150 mM, surpassing prior reports, with consistent viability up to 500 mM, indicating substantial salinity-induced dormancy. Seedling growth was more sensitive to continued treatment; no plants survived above 150 mM. The salinity experienced by maternal plants had only a marginal effect on germination but significantly contributed to reduce seedling biomass production, both above and below ground.

Conclusions

This study highlights the significance of maternal salinity on early growth in C. maritimum, emphasizing the species’ resilience to salt stress during germination and recovery. These insights are crucial for optimizing cultivation techniques and informing research on other halophytes in saline environments.
Executive Functions are Independently Associated with Cognitive Dispersion in HIV Disease
Authors: Penheiro Romeo , Webber Troy A , Kiselica Andrew M , Woods Steven Paul
Published: September 2024

Objective

People with HIV (PWH) can demonstrate elevated cognitive intraindividual variability (IIV-dispersion) that is associated with everyday functioning problems. Higher IIV-dispersion is theorized to reflect lapses in executive aspects of cognitive control, but few studies have directly evaluated this possibility.

Method

72 PWH completed the Cogstate and clinical measures of executive functions, psychomotor speed, and episodic memory. IIV-dispersion was calculated with the coefficient of variation (CoV) from six age-adjusted Cogstate subtest scores.

Results

Multiple regression showed that the three domain-level cognitive predictors explained 8% of the variance in Cogstate CoV (p = .03). Within this model, poorer executive functions were moderately associated with higher Cogstate CoV (p = .01), but the psychomotor and episodic memory domains were not (ps > .05).

Conclusions

Findings align with cognitive theory in demonstrating IIV-dispersion is uniquely associated with independent measures of executive functions among PWH. Future experimental and mechanistic studies are needed to determine the precise executive aspects of IIV-dispersion.
NetMIM: network-based multi-omics integration with block missingness for biomarker selection and disease outcome prediction
Authors: Zhu Bencong , Zhang Zhen , Leung Suet Yi , Fan Xiaodan
Published: September 2024

Compared with analyzing omics data from a single platform, an integrative analysis of multi-omics data provides a more comprehensive understanding of the regulatory relationships among biological features associated with complex diseases. However, most existing frameworks for integrative analysis overlook two crucial aspects of multi-omics data. Firstly, they neglect the known dependencies among biological features that exist in highly credible biological databases. Secondly, most existing integrative frameworks just simply remove the subjects without full omics data to handle block missingness, resulting in decreasing statistical power. To overcome these issues, we propose a network-based integrative Bayesian framework for biomarker selection and disease outcome prediction based on multi-omics data. Our framework utilizes Dirac spike-and-slab variable selection prior to identifying a small subset of biomarkers. The incorporation of gene pathway information improves the interpretability of feature selection. Furthermore, with the strategy in the FBM (stand for ”full Bayesian model with missingness”) model where missing omics data are augmented via a mechanistic model, our framework handles block missingness in multi-omics data via a data augmentation approach. The real application illustrates that our approach, which incorporates existing gene pathway information and includes subjects without DNA methylation data, results in more interpretable feature selection results and more accurate predictions.
A high-dimensional omnibus test for set-based association analysis
Authors: Yang Haitao , Wang Xin , Zhang Zechen , Chen Fuzhao , Cao Hongyan , Yan Lina , Gao Xia , Dong Hui , Cui Yuehua
Published: September 2024

Set-based association analysis is a valuable tool in studying the etiology of complex diseases in genome-wide association studies, as it allows for the joint testing of variants in a region or group. Two common types of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)–disease functional models are recognized when evaluating the joint function of a set of SNP: the cumulative weak signal model, in which multiple functional variants with small effects contribute to disease risk, and the dominating strong signal model, in which a few functional variants with large effects contribute to disease risk. However, existing methods have two main limitations that reduce their power. Firstly, they typically only consider one disease–SNP association model, which can result in significant power loss if the model is misspecified. Secondly, they do not account for the high-dimensional nature of SNPs, leading to low power or high false positives. In this study, we propose a solution to these challenges by using a high-dimensional inference procedure that involves simultaneously fitting many SNPs in a regression model. We also propose an omnibus testing procedure that employs a robust and powerful P-value combination method to enhance the power of SNP-set association. Our results from extensive simulation studies and a real data analysis demonstrate that our set-based high-dimensional inference strategy is both flexible and computationally efficient and can substantially improve the power of SNP-set association analysis. Application to a real dataset further demonstrates the utility of the testing strategy.
PELMI: Realize robust DNA image storage under general errors via parity encoding and local mean iteration
Authors: Cao Ben , Wang Kun , Xie Lei , Zhang Jianxia , Zhao Yunzhu , Wang Bin , Zheng Pan
Published: September 2024

DNA molecules as storage media are characterized by high encoding density and low energy consumption, making DNA storage a highly promising storage method. However, DNA storage has shortcomings, especially when storing multimedia data, wherein image reconstruction fails when address errors occur, resulting in complete data loss. Therefore, we propose a parity encoding and local mean iteration (PELMI) scheme to achieve robust DNA storage of images. The proposed parity encoding scheme satisfies the common biochemical constraints of DNA sequences and the undesired motif content. It addresses varying pixel weights at different positions for binary data, thus optimizing the utilization of Reed–Solomon error correction. Then, through lost and erroneous sequences, data supplementation and local mean iteration are employed to enhance the robustness. The encoding results show that the undesired motif content is reduced by 23%–50% compared with the representative schemes, which improves the sequence stability. PELMI achieves image reconstruction under general errors (insertion, deletion, substitution) and enhances the DNA sequences quality. Especially under 1% error, compared with other advanced encoding schemes, the peak signal-to-noise ratio and the multiscale structure similarity address metric were increased by 10%–13% and 46.8%–122%, respectively, and the mean squared error decreased by 113%–127%. This demonstrates that the reconstructed images had better clarity, fidelity, and similarity in structure, texture, and detail. In summary, PELMI ensures robustness and stability of image storage in DNA and achieves relatively high-quality image reconstruction under general errors.
Clinical implementation and evaluation of stereotactic liver radiotherapy in inspiration breath-hold using nasal high-flow therapy and surface guidance
Authors: Hazelaar Colien , Canters Richard , Kremer Kirsten , Lubken Indra , Vaassen Femke , Buijsen Jeroen , Berbée Maaike , van Elmpt Wouter
Published: September 2024

Objective

To evaluate 2 years of clinical experience with markerless breath-hold liver stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) using noninvasive nasal high-flow therapy (NHFT) for breath-hold prolonging and surface guidance (SGRT) for monitoring.

Methods

Heated and humidified air was administered via a nasal cannula (40 L/min, 80% oxygen, 34 °C). Patients performed voluntary inspiration breath-holds with visual feedback. After a training session, 4-5 breath-hold CT scans were acquired to delineate an internal target volume (ITV) accounting for inter- and intra-breath-hold variations. Patients were treated in 3-8 fractions (7.5-20 Gy/fraction) using SGRT-controlled beam-hold. Patient setup was performed using SGRT and CBCT imaging. A posttreatment CBCT was acquired for evaluation purposes.

Results

Fifteen patients started the training session and received treatment, of whom 10 completed treatment in breath-hold. Half of all 60-second CBCT scans were acquired during a single breath-hold. The average maximum breath-hold duration during treatment ranged from 47 to 108 s. Breath-hold ITV was on average 6.5 cm³/30% larger (range: 1.1-23.9 cm³/5%-95%) than the largest GTV. Free-breathing ITV based on 4DCT scans was on average 16.9 cm³/47% larger (range: −2.3 to 58.7 cm3/−16% to 157%) than the breath-hold ITV. The average 3D displacement vector of the area around PTV for the posttreatment CBCT scans was 5.0 mm (range: 0.7-12.9 mm).

Conclusions

Liver SBRT in breath-hold using NHFT and SGRT is feasible for the majority of patients. An ITV reduction was observed compared to free-breathing treatments. To further decrease the PTV, internal anatomy-based breath-hold monitoring is desired.

Advances in knowledge

Noninvasive NHFT allows for prolonged breath-holding during surface-guided liver SBRT.
Ultrasound-based grading of carpal tunnel syndrome: a comparative study of cross-sectional area and shear wave elastography at different wrist joint angles
Authors: Zou Qijiu , Guo Xiaoli , Ni Xuejun , Chen Xiaoyang , Xu Cheng , Yin Yifei , Huang Chen
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a prevalent neuropathy where accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment planning. This study introduces a novel approach for CTS grading using ultrasound, specifically through the analysis of the cross-sectional area (CSA) and shear wave elastography (SWE) of the median nerve in various wrist positions.

Methods

Our research involved subjects from outpatient clinics, diagnosed with CTS through nerve conduction studies (NCS), and a control group of healthy individuals. High-frequency ultrasound and SWE measurements were conducted in 3 wrist positions: straight, 45° extension, and 45° flexion.

Results

The key findings revealed significant differences in median nerve CSA and SWE values between the CTS and control groups across all wrist positions, with notable variances in SWE values correlating with wrist positioning. SWE demonstrated enhanced sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing between mild, moderate, and severe CTS, especially at 45° wrist flexion. In contrast, CSA measurements were limited in differentiating between the varying severity stages of CTS.

Conclusions

The study concludes that SWE, particularly at 45° wrist flexion, provides a more precise diagnostic benchmark for CTS severity grading than CSA. This advancement in non-invasive diagnostic methodology not only aids in accurate CTS grading but also has significant implications in formulating tailored treatment strategies, potentially reducing the reliance on more invasive diagnostic methods like NCS.

Advances in knowledge

This study marks a significant advancement in the ultrasound diagnosis of CTS. It particularly highlights the importance of applying SWE technology across various wrist joint angles, offering a new diagnostic benchmark. This discovery provides data support and additional insights for achieving an early consensus on ultrasound-based grading diagnosis of CTS.
Risk factor-targeted abdominal aortic aneurysm screening: systematic review of risk prediction for abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Musto Liam , Smith Aiden , Pepper Coral , Bujkiewicz Sylwia , Bown Matthew
Published: September 2024

Background

This systematic review aimed to investigate the current state of risk prediction for abdominal aortic aneurysm in the literature, identifying and comparing published models and describing their performance and applicability to a population-based targeted screening strategy.

Methods

Electronic databases MEDLINE (via Ovid), Embase (via Ovid), MedRxiv, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched for papers reporting or validating risk prediction models for abdominal aortic aneurysm. Studies were included only if they were developed on a cohort or study group derived from the general population and used multiple variables with at least one modifiable risk factor. Risk of bias was assessed using the Prediction model Risk Of Bias ASsessment Tool. A synthesis and comparison of the identified models was undertaken.

Results

The search identified 4813 articles. After full-text review, 37 prediction models were identified, of which 4 were unique predictive models that were reported in full. Applicability was poor when considering targeted screening strategies using electronic health record-based populations. Common risk factors used for the predictive models were explored across all 37 models; the most common risk factors in predictive models for abdominal aortic aneurysm were: age, sex, biometrics (such as height, weight, or BMI), smoking, hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia, and history of heart disease. Few models had undergone standardized model development, adequate external validation, or impact evaluation.

Conclusion

This study identified four risk models that can be replicated and used to predict abdominal aortic aneurysm with acceptable levels of discrimination. None of the models have been validated externally.
Efficient object detector via dynamic prior and dynamic feature fusion
Authors: Zhang Zihang , Liu Yuling , Zhou Zhili , Yang Gaobo , Wu Q M Jonathan
Published: September 2024

Sparse R-CNN is a new paradigm of object detection, which predicts objects in a sparse way. However, there are some limitations in Sparse R-CNN. One is the presence of weak prior information caused by fixed learnable proposal boxes and features across different images, necessitating excessive iterations for the model to refine its predictions; the other is the inadequate exploitation of multi-scale information, leading to the sub-optimal detection performance. Thus, building upon Sparse R-CNN, we propose an efficient detector that incorporates dynamic prior and dynamic feature fusion, called $D^{2}$-Det. In particular, for the dynamic prior part, a prior information generator module dynamically generates proposal features and boxes as the dynamic prior for different images to alleviate the inference-inefficient iterative refinement process of predictions, and we further propose the class scores decoupling method to reduce the computation overhead. Furthermore, for the dynamic feature fusion part, we develop a novel lightweight multi-scale feature fusion module, which dynamically aggregates features from all layers for each proposal box, enabling adaptive feature fusion and improving detection precision by nearly 2 AP. Experiments show that $D^{2}$-Det can achieve 46.6 AP on COCO 2017 with fewer computations for the backbone ResNet50, surpassing most of the state-of-the-art detectors.
Intrusion detection based on hybrid metaheuristic feature selection
Authors: Zhang Fengjun , Huang Lisheng , Shi Kai , Zhai Shengjie , Lan Yunhai , Li Qinghua
Published: September 2024

The multidimensional features of network flows are the main data source for intrusion detection, but excessively low-value features generate accuracy and efficiency challenges. Researchers have used redundant feature reduction to simplify intrusion detections, and feature selection algorithms are beginning to be widely used. This paper presents a novel hybrid feature selection algorithm, CSA-FPA, which combines both a crow search algorithm and a flower pollination algorithm. In this method, properties such as local pollination and the levy flight of FPA are used to balance the global search and local search efficiencies, and parameters such as group distance and probability thresholds are introduced to customize the model’s appearance. The simulation results on the UNSW-NB15 and CIC-IDS2017 datasets show that the proposed CSA-FPA method achieves better detection accuracies than previous algorithms. Using the proposed feature selection method, the AdaBoost classifier achieved a detection accuracy of 99.14% on the CIC-IDS2017 dataset and 97.98% on the UNSW-NB15 dataset.
Review: Risk Stratification of Patients With Ulcerative Colitis for Treatment With Tofacitinib
Authors: Danese Silvio , Panés Julian , Dubinsky Marla , Guo Xiang , Yndestad Arne , Schreiber Stefan , Chaparro María
Published: September 2024

Lay Summary

Higher age (65 years or over), long-term smoking, or a previous cardiovascular event (such as heart attack) should be considered safety risks when considering treatment with tofacitinib versus tumor necrosis factor inhibitors for people with ulcerative colitis.
Activation of β3-adrenergic receptor by mirabegron prevents aortic dissection/aneurysm by promoting lymphangiogenesis in perivascular adipose tissue
Authors: Zhang Ze-Bei , Cheng Yu-Wen , Xu Lian , Li Jia-Qi , Pan Xin , Zhu Min , Chen Xiao-Hui , Sun Ai-Jun , Lin Jing-Rong , Gao Ping-Jin
Published: September 2024

Aims

β3-Adrenergic receptor (β3-AR) is essential for cardiovascular homoeostasis through regulating adipose tissue function. Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of aortic dissection and aneurysm (AD/AA). Here, we aim to investigate β3-AR activation-mediated PVAT function in AD/AA.

Methods and results

Aortas from patients with thoracic aortic dissection (TAD) were collected to detect β3-AR expression in PVAT. ApoE−/− and β-aminopropionitrile monofumarate (BAPN)-treated C57BL/6 mice were induced with Angiotensin II (AngII) to simulate AD/AA and subsequently received either placebo or mirabegron, a β3-AR agonist. The results demonstrated an up-regulation of β3-AR in PVAT of TAD patients and AD/AA mice. Moreover, activation of β3-AR by mirabegron significantly prevented AngII-induced AD/AA formation in mice. RNA-sequencing analysis of adipocytes from PVAT revealed a notable increase of the lymphangiogenic factor, vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C), in mirabegron-treated mice. Consistently, enhanced lymphangiogenesis was found in PVAT with mirabegron treatment. Mechanistically, the number of CD4+/CD8+ T cells and CD11c+ cells was reduced in PVAT but increased in adjacent draining lymph nodes of mirabegron-treated mice, indicating the improved draining and clearance of inflammatory cells in PVAT by lymphangiogenesis. Importantly, adipocyte-specific VEGF-C knockdown by the adeno-associated virus system restrained lymphangiogenesis and exacerbated inflammatory cell infiltration in PVAT, which ultimately abolished the protection of mirabegron on AD/AA. In addition, the conditional medium derived from mirabegron-treated adipocytes activated the proliferation and tube formation of LECs, which was abrogated by the silencing of VEGF-C in adipocytes.

Conclusion

Our findings illustrated the therapeutic potential of β3-AR activation by mirabegron on AD/AA, which promoted lymphangiogenesis by increasing adipocyte-derived VEGF-C and, therefore, ameliorated PVAT inflammation.