bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the move: Influence of animal movements on count error during drone surveys
Authors: Schultz Emma A. , Ellison‐Neary Natasha , Boudreau Melanie R. , Street Garrett M. , Jones Landon R. , Evans Kristine O. , Iglay Raymond B.
Published: September 2024

The use of remote sensing to monitor animal populations has greatly expanded during the last decade. Drones (i.e., Unoccupied Aircraft Systems or UAS) provide a cost‐ and time‐efficient remote sensing option to survey animals in various landscapes and sampling conditions. However, drone‐based surveys may also introduce counting errors, especially when monitoring mobile animals. Using an agent‐based model simulation approach, we evaluated the error associated with counting a single animal across various drone flight patterns under three animal movement strategies (random, directional persistence, and biased toward a resource) among five animal speeds (2, 4, 6, 8, 10 m/s). Flight patterns represented increasing spatial independence (ranging from lawnmower pattern with image overlap to systematic point counts). Simulation results indicated that flight pattern was the most important variable influencing count accuracy, followed by the type of animal movement pattern, and then animal speed. A  awnmower pattern with 0% overlap produced the most accurate count of a solitary, moving animal on a landscape (average count of 1.1 ± 0.6) regardless of the animal's movement pattern and speed. Image overlap flight patterns were more likely to result in multiple counts even when accounting for mosaicking. Based on our simulations, we recommend using a lawnmower pattern with 0% image overlap to minimize error and augment drone efficacy for animal surveys. Our work highlights the importance of understanding interactions between animal movements and drone survey design on count accuracy to inform the development of broad applications among diverse species and ecosystems.
Long‐term monitoring of a population of greater horseshoe bat emphasises the importance of a pest beetle prey on demographic trends
Authors: Mammola Stefano , Pastorino Alberto , Debernardi Paolo , Patriarca Elena , Garzoli Laura
Published: September 2024

The global decline in insect biomass has far‐reaching implications for terrestrial and freshwater food webs, impacting species reliant on insects as a crucial component of their diet. This issue extends to species traditionally considered agricultural pests, such as the common cockchafer Melolontha melolontha. In the race to combat cockchafers through collection, insecticide use, and other control methods, the repercussions of their numerical fluctuations on predators, including species of high conservation importance like bats, have been largely overlooked. Drawing on 31‐years of monitoring data for a greater horseshoe bat Rhinolophus ferrumequinum population in the Aosta Valley (Western Italian Alps), we investigated whether annual fluctuations in bat counts are influenced by cockchafer availability and weather conditions. Despite an overall positive trend in bat abundance, we observed pronounced annual fluctuations, mostly driven by cockchafer availability rather than variations in temperature and precipitation. Furthermore, we found a significant association between cockchafer availability and the median date of birth and birth rate of bats. Births occurred approximately 5 days earlier in cockchafer flight years, with earlier births also linked to warmer spring temperatures and higher numbers of warm days in April. Moreover, the ratio pups/older bats was 0.56 in cockchafer flight years, compared to 0.47 in other years. Our results underscore the importance of considering predator–prey dynamics when examining the long‐term population trends of species of conservation concern. We recommend implementing restrictions on the use of chemicals and other potentially harmful practices that may diminish prey abundance or quality, including that of species considered as agricultural pests. In designing conservation strategies, a delicate balance should be struck between the current interests of farmers and the overarching goal of preserving biodiversity against potential future threats.
The relation between socioeconomic status and invasive haemodynamics at evaluation for advanced heart failure
Authors: Larsson Johan E. , Kristensen Søren Lund , Deis Tania , Warming Peder E. , Schou Morten , Køber Lars , Boesgaard Søren , Rossing Kasper , Gustafsson Finn
Published: September 2024

Aims

Socioeconomic deprivation is a risk marker for worse prognosis in patients with heart failure (HF), and a potential barrier to referral for advanced HF evaluation. The relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and invasive haemodynamics in patients undergoing evaluation for advanced HF therapies is unknown.

Methods

We combined a consecutive clinical registry of patients evaluated for advanced HF with patient‐level data on SES (household income, education, workforce status, cohabitant status and distance from home to tertiary HF centre) derived from nationwide registries. Using this information, the cohort was divided into groups of low‐, medium‐ and high degree of socioeconomic deprivation. The associations between SES and invasive haemodynamics were explored with multiple linear regression adjusted for age and sex.

Results

A total of 631 patients were included. The median age was 53 years, and 23% were women. Patients in the highest income quartile versus the lowest (Q4 vs. Q1) were older (median age 57 vs. 50 years) and more often male (83% vs. 67%), both P < 0.001. Increasing household income (per 100 000 Danish kroner,1 EUR = 7.4 DKK) was associated with lower pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) [−0.18 mmHg, 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.36 to −0.01, P = 0.036] but not significantly associated with central venous pressure (CVP) (−0.07 mmHg, 95% CI −0.21 to 0.06, P = 0.27), cardiac index (−0.004 L/min/m2, 95% CI −0.02 to 0.01, P = 0.60), or pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) (−0.003 Wood units, 95% CI −0.37 to 0.16, P = 0.84). Comparing the most deprived with the least deprived group, adjusted mean PVR was higher (0.35 Wood units, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.68, P = 0.04), but PCWP (0.66 mmHg, 95% CI −1.49 to 2.82, P = 0.55), CVP (−0.26 mmHg, 95% CI −1.76 to 1.24, P = 0.73) and cardiac index (−0.03 L/min/m2, 95% CI −0.22 to 0.17, P = 0.78) were similar.

Conclusions

Most haemodynamic measurements were similar across layers of SES. Nevertheless, there were some indications of worse haemodynamics in patients with lower household income or a high accumulated burden of socioeconomic deprivation. Particular attention may be warranted in socioeconomically deprived patients to ensure timely referral for advanced HF evaluation.
Synthesis and Characterization of Diarylgermanethione and Diarylgermaneselenone
Authors: Chen Yizhen , Tan Gengwen
Published: September 2024

Lewis acid/base‐free diarylgermanethione 3 and diarylgermaneselenone 4 were synthesized through reactions of a heteroleptic diarylgermylene with elemental sulfur and selenium, respectively. They were fully characterized by structural, spectroscopic and computational methods. Germanethione underwent 1,2‐addition with AlMe3 at the Ge=S double to give Ge(IV) compound 5. The chalcogen atoms in 3 and 4 could coordinate to copper halide to yield Cu(I) complexes 6 and 7, respectively.
Synthesis of SulfoCy5‐ and SulfoCy7‐αGalCer Probes as Chemical Tools for Investigating the Uptake of Liposomal αGalCer Conjugates by Antigen Presenting Cells
Authors: Romanò Cecilia , Mark Lund Philip , Wei Peng , Jiang Hao , Stoll Chloé , Clausen Mads H.
Published: September 2024

α‐Galactosylceramide (αGalCer) is a synthetic glycolipid that, when loaded into the CD1d receptor of antigen presenting cells, activates iNKT cells to coordinate the generation of both innate and adaptive immune responses. In vaccines, the αGalCer adjuvant is generally delivered in liposomes, but interestingly, little is known about the intracellular fate of αGalCer‐antigen conjugates resulting in the absence of clear “design rules” for this type of compounds and their formulations. To unravel the uptake mechanism of liposomal αGalCer conjugates and understand the fate of its components, we synthesized sulfoCy7‐αGalCer 1 and sulfoCy5‐αGalCer 2. The fluorescent probes were obtained from a linker‐functionalized αGalCer, which was then modified with sulfoCy7/sulfoCy5. After formulation in liposomes, the cellular presentation was studied in a murine dendritic cell line using fluorescence imaging and flow cytometry. Imaging indicates that liposomes loaded with sulfoCy5‐αGalCer are taken up by DC2.4 cells in a heterogeneous and concentration‐dependent manner. Additionally, fluorescence antibody staining confirms that αGalCer is ultimately presented by CD1d receptors, but importantly is cleaved from sulfoCy5 before reaching the cell surface. These results validate our synthetic probes as useful in mechanistic studies of the uptake of αGalCer‐antigen conjugates as shown here for DC2.4 cells.
Imaged Capillary Isoelectric Focusing Coupled to High‐Resolution Mass Spectrometry (icIEF‐MS) for Cysteine‐Linked Antibody–Drug Conjugate (ADC) Heterogeneity Characterization Under Native Condition
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxi , Wu Gang , Du Min , Bo Tao , Chen Tong , Huang Tiemin
Published: September 2024

Native mass spectrometry (nMS) is a cutting‐edge technique that leverages electrospray ionization MS (ESI‐MS) to investigate large biomolecules and their complexes in solution. The goal of nMS is to retain the native structural features and interactions of the analytes during the transition to the gas phase, providing insights into their natural conformations. In biopharmaceutical development, nMS serves as a powerful tool for analyzing complex protein heterogeneity, allowing for the examination of non‐covalently bonded assemblies in a state that closely resembles their natural folded form. Herein, we present an imaged capillary isoelectric focusing–MS (icIEF–MS) workflow to characterize cysteine‐linked antibody–drug conjugate (ADC) under native conditions. Two ADCs were analyzed: a latest generation cysteine‐linked ADC polatuzumab vedotin and the first FDA‐approved cysteine‐linked ADC brentuximab vedotin. This workflow benefits from a recently developed icIEF system that is MS‐friendly and capable of directly coupling to a high‐sensitivity MS instrument. Results show that the icIEF separation is influenced by both drug payloads and the post‐translational modifications (PTMs), which are then promptly identified by MS. Overall, this native icIEF–MS method demonstrates the potential to understand and control the critical quality attributes (CQAs) that are essential for the safe and effective use of ADCs.
Seizure prophylaxis in pneumococcal meningitis, cohort study
Authors: Guillem Lluïsa , Hernández‐Pérez Guillermo , Berbel Damaris , Pelegrín Ivan , Falip Mercè , Cabellos Carmen
Published: September 2024

Objective

Our aim was to assess seizure development as a complication of pneumococcal meningitis and its possible prevention with antiseizure medication prophylaxis.

Methods

Antiseizure medication (ASM) prophylaxis has been practiced for a long time at our center. We assessed all cases of community‐acquired pneumococcal meningitis admitted from January 2010 to April 2021 recorded in our prospective database and conducted further retrospective studies.

Results

Of the 86 cases recorded, 21 (24.4%) developed acute symptomatic seizures, more than half of which (11/21; 52.4%) before admission. Seizure development increased the need for orotracheal intubation and intensive care unit admission, while also lengthening hospital stays and suggesting more risk of death and disability at discharge [adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 3.13; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1–9.8]. Of the 74 patients eligible for ASM prophylaxis, 64 received it and 10 did not. ASM prophylaxis seemed effective in preventing seizure development, as only six seizure events were recorded in 64 patients with ASM prophylaxis (9.4%) compared with four in the 10 patients without prophylaxis (40%). Its preventive capacity was especially notable when administered within 4 h of admission. Differences in mortality did not reach statistical significance. Adverse effects were rare.

Significance

Seizure development is a common complication in pneumococcal meningitis and is associated with increased risks of Intensive Care Unit admission, orotracheal intubation, and longer hospital stays. ASM prophylaxis may be effective in blocking seizure development in patients with preventable seizures and may be associated with better prognosis. Further studies are now warranted.

Plain Language Summary

Infection of the meninges (the covering of the brain) due to the common bacteria S pneumoniae, used to be a fatal disease before the introduction of antibiotics and corticoids. Thanks to these drugs, more people survive this disease but, due to the frequent complications, they may have several sequelae. Seizures are a common complication. Our study suggests that they might be prevented by using antiseizure drugs which may reduce both severity and hospital stay.
Functions of immunologically active peptides and their roles in intestinal inflammation
Authors: Wang Litong , Li Yi , Huang Kunlun , Wang Qin , He Xiaoyun
Published: September 2024

Immunologically active peptides are a class of peptides with immune functions such as enhancing body immunity, regulating cell growth and differentiation, migration, chemotaxis, neurotransmission, and inducing apoptosis of tumor cells. They have many features, such as small molecular weight, strong stability, high biological activity, easy to adjust the structure accurately, and easy to synthesize. Exploring the mechanism of action of immunologically active peptides can help the modification and development of immunologically active peptides. In this article, the functional properties of immunologically active peptides are described from the perspectives of structural classification of immunologically active peptides and regulatory mechanisms. The relationship between structure and function and the application of different mechanisms in diseases are reviewed, focusing on the role in intestinal inflammation.
Enhanced gelation of sturgeon frozen surimi via egg white: Exploring the role of endogenous serine protease inhibition
Authors: Tong Lu , Ding Ning , Zhou Meng , Zhang Yan , Hong Hui , Luo Yongkang , Tan Yuqing
Published: September 2024

The degradation of frozen sturgeon surimi can be attributed to the endogenous serine protease. This study was first to examine the impact of egg whites on the frozen sturgeon surimi's gel properties from the perspective of inhibiting endogenous serine protease. The protease activity of egg whites group (CA + EW group, consisting of 4% egg whites and cryoprotectants) was 45.15% lower than that of cryoprotectants group (CA group, consisting of 3% sucrose, 3% sorbitol, and 0.3% sodium tripolyphosphate) at 12 weeks. From the results of inhibition kinetics, serine protease was inhibited by both anticompetitive and noncompetitive inhibition modes. Molecular docking analysis indicated that egg white achieves this inhibitory effect through ionic interactions and hydrogen bonding with serine protease. However, this inhibitory effect was absent when the freezing period was extended to 24 weeks. Compared with CA group, the CA + EW group exhibited 54.76% and 4.59% increase in gel strength and water‐holding capacity, and 32.42% reduction in cooking loss after 24 weeks of freezing. Egg whites also impeded water migration and enhanced the density and smoothness of the gel microstructure, reducing protein aggregation. These results indicated that egg whites serve a dual function: inhibiting serine protease and filling the gel network within 12 weeks, mitigating protein aggregation and ice crystal formation over 24 weeks. This study elucidated the mechanism underlying the impact of egg white on endogenous serine protease in sturgeon surimi during long‐term freezing, laying a theoretical foundation for the industrialization of sturgeon surimi.
From small‐scale studies to an encompassing view: Inhibiting inflammation and clinically relevant enzymes with various extracts of Primula vulgaris using in vitro and in silico techniques
Authors: Kurt‐Celep Inci , Nilofar  , Cetiz Mehmet Veysi , Zheleva‐Dimitrova Dimitrina , Gevrenova Reneta , Celep Engin , Sinan Kouadio Ibrahime , Yildiztugay Evren , Ferrante Claudio , Zengin Gokhan
Published: September 2024

The genus Primula holds great importance as a source of traditional remedies in various folk medicine systems. In the present study, we investigated the chemical composition and biological properties of different extracts (ethyl acetate, ethanol, ethanol/water, and water) of aerial parts and rhizomes of Primula vulgaris. To determine the chemical profile, the extracts were analyzed using ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography‐high‐resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐HRMS) technique and flavonoids were a major group in this profile. The antioxidant capacity was demonstrated by in vitro chemical tests and in general the ethanol/water extract was found to be the most potent. Enzyme inhibition was studied against various enzymes and ethanol and ethanol/water extracts were more active than others. To assess the anti‐inflammatory potential of the extracts at the molecular level, human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In vitro experiments showed that the levels of nuclear factor kappa B (NFKB), receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE), activator protein‐1 (AP‐1), interleukin 6 (IL‐6), interleukin 17 (IL‐17) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐alpha were significantly reduced after treatment with the tested extracts. In addition, the extracts showed an inhibitory effect on the enzymes collagenase, elastase, and hyaluronidase, which are involved in the inflammatory process and destabilization of the extracellular matrix (ECM). P. vulgaris has been observed to modulate matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) synthesis by decreasing the concentration of cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) during LPS‐induced inflammation. This study also examined the molecular binding and dynamic behavior of various enzymes and proteins associated with skin and infections using ligands derived from the tested extracts. Simulations with AutoDock Vina V1.1.2 and GROMACS 2023.1 showed that isoquercetin in particular showed superior performance in interactions with hyaluronidase. These findings are important for the development of potential therapeutic strategies for skin health and infection control. In summary, P. vulgaris can be considered as an important source of natural bioactive compounds for the development of effective health‐promoting applications in nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics
Yeast protein‐derived γ‐glutamyl peptides prepared by transpeptidation reaction exhibit a pronounced taste‐enhancing effect
Authors: Liu Jiaying , Fu Yu , Ma Liang , Dai Hongjie , Wang Hongxia , Chen Hai , Zhu Hankun , Yu Yong , Liu Xin , Liu Zhengfang , Zhang Yuhao
Published: September 2024

A high‐salt diet can induce hypertension, so salt reduction can prevent hypertension. γ‐Glutamyl peptides (GGPs) have obvious taste‐enhancing effects, while their contents in natural foods are relatively low. Yeast protein rich in Glu/Gln is a good precursor for the preparation of GGPs. In this study, yeast protein‐derived GGPs were prepared through hydrolysis and transpeptidation reactions, followed by sensory evaluation and E‐tongue analysis. Peptide sequences were identified by LC−MS/MS and screened for molecular docking. The optimal reaction conditions were hydrolysis for 4 h, enzyme concentration of 16 U/g, and transpeptidation for 4 h. GGPs could increase salt and umami intensity by 60.78% and 40.93% based on sensory evaluation, 22.52%, and 16.40% according to E‐tongue analysis. Fifteen γ‐glutamyl peptides with different peptide lengths were selected for molecular docking. Molecular docking confirmed their binding to calcium‐sensing receptors (CaSr) through hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interaction, while interaction between CaSR receptor and γ‐glutamyl di‐, tri‐, and oligo‐peptides varied in binding energy. The stimulation received by CaSR lasted a longer time and varied in intensity. It was further proved that the flavor of mixed peptides has a layered sense and can give people a rich taste experience. Overall, yeast protein‐derived GGPs can enhance salt and umami taste, which can reduce salt usage without compromising taste.
Volatility of Volatility and VIX Forecasting: New Evidence Based on Jumps, the Short‐Term and Long‐Term Volatility
Authors: Qiao Gaoxiu , Cui Wanmei , Zhou Yijie , Liang Chao
Published: September 2024

This study explores VIX forecasting by proposing a novel model to characterize the volatility of volatility based on high‐frequency VIX. Specifically, the decomposed jumps, the short‐ and long‐term volatility of VIX realized volatility obtained through wavelet analysis are considered by integrating the HAR‐DJI‐GARCH with GARCH‐MIDAS model. Empirical results show superior performance over competing models, with enhanced predictive accuracy under four non‐parametric jumps. The model's effectiveness is further validated by adjusting prediction windows, wavelet levels, examining VIX term structure, varying the significance level of jump test, and through the assessment of its economic significance.
Plasmodium falciparum genetic diversity; implications for malaria control in Ethiopia: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Abriham Zufan Y. , Belew Aysheshim K. , Baffa Lemlem D. , Mengistu Berhanu , Gasahw Moges , Mohammod Esmeal A. , Agimas Muluken C. , Sisay Mekonnen , Angaw Dessie A.
Published: September 2024

Background

In malaria endemic regions, Plasmodium falciparum infection is characterized by variable genetic diversity at different settings. The parasite's various forms are found at varied frequency in different geographic areas. Understanding malaria parasite diversity and transmission is vital to evaluate control interventions. The aim of this study was under taken to determine the status of P. falciparum genetic diversity and MOI in different regions of Ethiopia.

Methods

Relevant publications were identified from electronic databases such as; PubMed, EMBASE, Google scholar and Google. Besides, an online search was done using the above databases for all articles published in English on genetic diversity of P. falciparum in Ethiopia. STATA software was used for data analysis. The pooled estimates were calculated using random effect model. The summary estimates were presented using forest plots and tables.

Results

A total of 11 studies were included in the systematic review. However, only 8, 10 and 2 studies were included for Pfmsp‐1, Pfmsp‐2 and glurp gene meta‐analysis, respectively. However, the meta‐analysis result showed that the pooled prevalence of Pfmsp‐1, msp‐2 and glurp gene were 84% for both msp‐1/2% and 51%, respectively. The pooled prevalence of msp‐1 gene was higher in Amhara followed by Oromia region and lower in SNNPR while, for msp‐2 gene the pooled prevalence was higher in Benshangul gumez region. Among the allelic family of msp‐1 and msp‐2 genes, MAD20 (34%) and FC27 (44%) were the most predominant respectively.

Conclusion

Based on the review, there is evidence of the presence of high genetic diversity of P. falciparum parasites in Ethiopia, suggesting that malaria transmission remain high and that strengthened control efforts are needed. The approaches and methods used for investigation of diversified parasites have similarity between studies and should use advanced molecular techniques, like microsatellite, to assess the genetic diversity of P. falciparum for better results.
SIAH3 is frequently epigenetically silenced in cancer and regulates mitochondrial metabolism
Authors: Deutschmeyer Verena E. , Schlaudraff Nico A. , Walesch Sara K. , Moyer Janine , Sokol Anna M. , Graumann Johannes , Meissner Wolfgang , Schneider Marc , Muley Thomas , Helmbold Peter , Schwinn Markus , Richter Antje M. , Schmitz M. Lienhard , Dammann Reinhard H.
Published: September 2024

Of the seven in absentia homologue (SIAH) family, three members have been identified in the human genome. In contrast to the E3 ubiquitin ligase encoding SIAH1 and SIAH2, little is known on the regulation and function of SIAH3 in tumorigenesis. In this study, we reveal that SIAH3 is frequently epigenetically silenced in different cancer entities, including cutaneous melanoma, lung adenocarcinoma and head and neck cancer. Low SIAH3 levels correlate with an impaired survival of cancer patients. Additionally, induced expression of SIAH3 reduces cell proliferation and induces cell death. Functionally, SIAH3 negatively affects cellular metabolism by shifting cells form aerobic oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. SIAH3 is localized in the mitochondrion and interacts with proteins involved in mitochondrial ribosome biogenesis and translation. We also report that SIAH3 interacts with ubiquitin ligases, including SIAH1 or SIAH2, and is degraded by them. These results suggest that SIAH3 acts as an epigenetically controlled tumor suppressor by regulating cellular metabolism through the inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation.
Enhanced Cherenkov radiation in twisted hyperbolic Van der Waals crystals
Authors: Hu Hao , Lin Xiao , Hu Guangwei , Garcia‐Vidal Francisco J. , Luo Yu
Published: September 2024

Cherenkov radiation in artificial structures experiencing strong radiation enhancements promises important applications in free‐electron quantum emitters, broadband light sources, miniaturized particle detectors, etc. However, the momentum matching condition between swift electrons and emitted photons generally restricts the radiation enhancement to a particular momentum. Efficient Cherenkov radiation over a wide range of momenta is highly demanded for many applications but still remains a challenging task. To this end, we explored the interaction between swift electrons and twisted hyperbolic Van der Waals crystals and observed enhanced Cherenkov radiation at the flatband resonance frequency. We show that, at the photonic magic angle of the twisted crystals, the electron momentum, once matching with that of the flatband photon, gives rise to a maximum energy loss (corresponding to the surface phonon generation), one‐order of magnitude higher than that in conventional hyperbolic materials. Such a significant enhancement is attributed to the excitation of flatband surface phonon polaritons over a broad momentum range. Our findings provide a feasible route for highly directional free‐electron radiation and radiation shaping.
Inducing select/reject control in a matching‐to‐sample procedure with observing response: Effects on stimulus equivalence
Authors: Grisante Priscila Crispillho , Tomanari Gerson Yukio
Published: September 2024

This study investigated a three‐choice matching‐to‐sample procedure with an observing‐response requirement to induce select and reject control during baseline training and examined their effects on the formation of equivalence classes. The study involved four girls, aged 8 to 10 years, who participated in a computer‐based task that alternated between conditions designed to induce select and reject control by requiring observing responses to display the stimuli. In the select‐control condition, the correct stimulus was revealed first on at least 75% of the trials, increasing the likelihood of selecting the correct stimulus without seeing the incorrect ones. In contrast, in the reject‐control condition, the correct stimulus was revealed third on at least 75% of the trials, forcing the display of both incorrect stimuli. This procedure successfully generated both select and reject control, which increased progressively with the accuracy during baseline training trials. Select control was more prominent than reject control, but both led to the formation of equivalence classes. This finding suggests that reject control does not hinder control by the correct stimulus.
Augmented histopathology: Enhancing colon cancer detection through deep learning and ensemble techniques
Authors: Gowthamy J , Ramesh S. S. Subashka
Published: September 2024

Colon cancer poses a significant threat to human life with a high global mortality rate. Early and accurate detection is crucial for improving treatment quality and the survival rate. This paper presents a comprehensive approach to enhance colon cancer detection and classification. The histopathological images are gathered from the CRC‐VAL‐HE‐7K dataset. The images undergo preprocessing to improve quality, followed by augmentation to increase dataset size and enhance model generalization. A deep learning based transformer model is designed for efficient feature extraction and enhancing classification by incorporating a convolutional neural network (CNN). A cross‐transformation model captures long‐range dependencies between regions, and an attention mechanism assigns weights to highlight crucial features. To boost classification accuracy, a Siamese network distinguishes colon cancer tissue classes based on probabilities. Optimization algorithms fine‐tune model parameters, categorizing colon cancer tissues into different classes. The multi‐class classification performance is evaluated in the experimental evaluation, which demonstrates that the proposed model provided highest accuracy rate of 98.84%. In this research article, the proposed method achieved better performance in all analyses by comparing with other existing methods.

Research Highlights

Deep learning‐based techniques are proposed.

DL methods are used to enhance colon cancer detection and classification.

CRC‐VAL‐HE‐7K dataset is utilized to enhance image quality.

Hybrid particle swarm optimization (PSO) and dwarf mongoose optimization (DMO) are used.

The deep learning models are tuned by implementing the PSO‐DMO algorithm.
Assessment of the biliary branching pattern of the caudate lobe in perihilar cholangiocarcinoma using ENBD‐CT cholangiography
Authors: Akita Masayuki , Yanagimoto Hiroaki , Tsugawa Daisuke , Sofue Keitaro , Gon Hidetoshi , Komatsu Shohei , Toyama Hirochika , Kido Masahiro , Ajiki Tetsuo , Fukumoto Takumi
Published: September 2024

Background

Preoperative recognition of the anatomy of caudate biliary branches is important for the safe and complete resection of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHC). In the present study, we identified these branches using an endoscopic nasobiliary drainage tube (ENBD).

Methods

Between January 2012 and October 2022, 89 patients with suspected PHC underwent computed tomographic (CT) cholangiography through ENBD and caudate biliary branching patterns were examined. Multidetector raw CT (MDCT) scans on 85 patients with PHC without biliary drainage were also investigated. The caudate biliary branches detected by each modality were evaluated.

Results

ENBD‐CT cholangiography detected 206 caudate branches (2.44 branches/patient), while MDCT identified 62 branches (0.78 branches/patient). ENBD‐CT cholangiography showed that 89 caudate branches drained into the left hepatic duct (LHD), 87 into the posterior hepatic duct (Bpost), and 30 into the right hepatic duct. LHD and Bpost were the common roots of the caudate branches. Some branches (20%) joined the contralateral hepatic duct across the left–right border, but not the anterior hepatic duct or infraportal‐type Bpost.

Conclusions

ENBD‐CT cholangiography clearly showed the caudate biliary branches in patients with PHC after biliary drainage.
The Study of Reaction of Hexafluoro‐1,4‐Napthoquinone With Substituted 5‐Aminopyrazoles
Authors: Kudryavtseva Ekaterina N. , Lichitsky Boris V. , Komogortsev Andrey N. , Milyutin Constantine V. , Tretyakov Evgeny V.
Published: September 2024

For the first time, the interaction of perfluoro‐1,4‐naphthoquinone with various 5‐aminopyrazoles was investigated. It was shown that three types of products can be obtained depending on the structure of starting aminopyrazole. For all examples, the substitution of one fluorine atom in quinone moiety was observed. Wherein, in most cases, the starting aminopyrazoles act as a C‐nucleophile leading to 2‐(5‐aminopyrazol‐4‐yl)‐3,5,6,7,8‐pentafluoronaphthalene‐1,4‐diones. At the same time substrates unsubstituted at ring nitrogen atom regiospecifically react at aminogroup resulting in the formation of 2,5,6,7,8‐pentafluoro‐3‐((pyrazol‐5‐yl)amino)naphthalene‐1,4‐diones. Besides that, the absence of steric hindrance in the pyrazole unit allowed us to direct the process at nitrogen atom in Position 2 and synthesize zwitter‐ionic 3‐(5‐aminopyrazol‐2‐ium‐2‐yl)‐5,6,7,8‐tetrafluoro‐1,4‐dioxo‐1,4‐dihydronaphthalen‐2‐olates. The structures of two types of obtained products were confirmed by x‐ray analysis.
Exploring the effects of Merkel cell polyomavirus T antigens expression in REH and MCC13 cells by methylome and transcriptome profiling
Authors: Macamo Amanda , Liu Dan , Färber Martina , Borman Felix , van den Oord Joost , Winnepenninckx Véronique , Klufah Faisal , Chteinberg Emil , zur Hausen Axel
Published: September 2024

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive skin cancer with a tripled incidence in the US and Europe over the past decade. Around 80% of MCC is linked to Merkel cell polyomavirus, but the cell of origin remains unknown. We stably introduced Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV)‐sT) and LT antigens to MCC13 and REH cell lines, analyzing DNA methylation and gene transcriptional regulation. Gene ontology analysis assessed MCPyV effects, and integrative analysis correlated gene expression and methylation. Expression patterns were compared with 15 previously sequenced primary MCCs. We found that MCPyV‐LT induces DNA methylation changes in both cell lines, while MCPyV‐sT only affected REH cells. Greater gene expression changes are observed in MCC13 cells, with upregulated genes associated with cellular components and downregulated genes related to biological processes. Integrative analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEG) and differentially methylated regions (DMR) of REH cell lines revealed that no genes were commonly methylated and differentially expressed. The study compared DEGs and DMG in MCC13 and REH cells to overlapping genes in MCPyV‐positive cell lines (MKL1, MKL2, and WaGa), identifying hypomethylated genes in the gene body and hypermethylated genes at TSS1500. GO analysis of the two cell lines showed that MCPyV‐TAs can downregulate genes in MHC‐I pathways; this downregulation offers a target that can be used to create novel and efficient MCC immunotherapy approaches. Finally, it was confirmed that MCPyV‐LT controls gene expression in MCC tissues using an integrative investigation of DNA methylation and gene expression.
Delay in Time to Adjuvant Chemotherapy and its Impact on Oncological Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Optimal Cytoreductive Surgery for Advanced Ovarian Cancer: Analysis of 1480 Cases From the Indian HIPEC Registry
Authors: SP Somashekhar , C Rohit Kumar , KR Ashwin , Y Ramya , N Arun Kumar , Fernandez Aaron Marian , Ahuja Vijay
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives

The impact of delay in initiation of adjuvant chemotherapy following optimal CRS in different settings of treatment for advanced ovarian cancer needs to be studied with special reference to CRS HIPEC.

Methods

The 1480 advanced EOC patients underwent optimal CRS, followed by adjuvant chemotheraphy, with or without intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy in Normothermic or Hyperthermic form. Interval between the day of surgery and start of adjuvant chemotherapy and its impact on outcome was analyzed.

Results

CRS, CRS with IP or HIPEC was done in 400, 480, and 600 patients respectively. Median interval of starting adjuvant chemotherapy was 32 days CRS group, 34 days CRS + IP group and 41 days CRS + HIPEC group. Delay in chemotherapy impacted on recurrence free survival (RFS) in CRS + IV group (36 vs. 17 months: p = 0.02) and some impact in CRS + IP group (38 vs. 28 months; P 0.78) and no impact on CRS + HIPEC group (35 vs. 32 months; p = 0.17).

Conclusions

Delay in starting adjuvant chemotherapy adversely affects RFS in patients undergoing optimal CRS alone. However, the delay didn't have an impact in the CRS + HIPEC group. Well‐designed clinical studies are required to evaluate the impact of single dose of HIPEC.
Efficacy of Alexandrite Laser in the Treatment of Pigmented Actinic Keratoses: A Pivotal Study
Authors: Bighetti Stefano , Zane Cristina , Zerbinati Nicola , Arisi Mariachiara , Caravello Simone , Maione Vincenzo , Calzavara‐Pinton Piergiacomo , Bettolini Luca
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Pigmented actinic keratoses (PAKs), a pigmented variant of actinic keratosis, present diagnostic challenges due to their resemblance to both benign and malignant lesions. Conventional therapies have inconsistent outcomes and may cause undesirable side effects. This study investigates the efficacy of the Alexandrite laser, a pulsed laser with selective melanin absorption, for PAK treatment. Through dermoscopic analysis pretreatment, it aims to identify predictive patterns for better treatment outcomes.

Materials and Methods

Patients with PAKs were enrolled in a multicenter study, receiving standardized Alexandrite laser therapy. Detailed dermoscopic evaluations were conducted pretreatment. The Physician's Global Assessment (PGA) and Target Lesion Pigmentation (TLP) scales measured treatment efficacy.

Results

The study included 50 patients with 60 PAKs. Following treatment, there was a statistically significant reduction in TLP scores, particularly in lesions with pigmented pseudo‐networks and gray‐brownish dots, which were linked to improved outcomes. No adverse effects were reported, suggesting the safety and tolerability of the laser treatment.

Conclusion

The Alexandrite laser emerges as a promising modality for the management of PAK pigmentation, with specific dermoscopic patterns being indicative of a favorable response. This study reinforces the critical importance of dermoscopic expertise in the selection and optimization of treatment for PAKs. Future research should focus on comparative studies with different lasers or combination therapies to develop a more comprehensive treatment framework for PAKs.
Investigating the Impact of Pore Size and Specification on Soft Tissue Ingrowth in 3D‐Printed PEEK Material
Authors: Zhang Zibo , Li Zenghuai , Wang Donglai , Feng Jiangang , Feng Qi
Published: September 2024

Bone pelvis tumor resection and reconstruction is a complex surgical procedure that poses challenges in soft tissue reconstruction despite advancements in stabilizing pelvic structure. This study aims to investigate the potential of using Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) material in repairing and reconstructing soft tissues surrounding pelvic implants. Specifically, the study focuses on exploring the effectiveness of 3D printed porous PEEK material in promoting cell growth and adhesion. The interaction between PEEK materials with different pore sizes (200, 400, 600 µm) and different specifications (through‐hole (T)/non‐through‐hole (C)) is evaluated by cell experiments and animal experiments. The soft tissue ingrowth potential of PEEK materials is evaluated by cell growth and adhesion observation. The findings indicate that PEEK material, particularly the T400 variant, exhibits stronger interaction with muscle tissue compared to its interaction with bone and fibrous tissue. The moderately sized pores present in the T400 material facilitate enhanced cell adhesion and penetration, thereby promoting cell growth and differentiation. PEEK materials with through‐hole structures show promise for applications involving the repair and reconstruction of soft tissues and muscle tissue. The study provides valuable insights into the development and application of biomedical materials, specifically PEEK, contributing to the advancement of pelvic tumor resection and reconstruction techniques.
Optical Surface Roughness Estimation Using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Maxa Jacob , Nowottnick Mathias
Published: September 2024

A system for analysing steel plates is presented for an application in the wind power industry. The objective of the system is to assess the surface roughness as a preliminary step for the application of an anti‐corrosion coating. A number of noncontact sensor systems were considered, with the laser triangulation scanner proving to be the optimal solution. The samples are analysed in a test stand and the roughness is measured with this optical system. At the same time, the surface is recorded with a CMOS camera. An AI model is created from the sensor fusion of both systems, which can classify individual segments of the surface as well or poorly blasted. In the following step, the surface roughness is estimated as the Rz parameter by another AI model. An error of less than 6 μm is achieved.
Multi‐site collaborative forecasting of regional visibility based on spatiotemporal convolutional network
Authors: Tian Wei , Lin Chen , Wu Yunlong , Jin Cheng , Li Xin
Published: September 2024

Regional visibility forecasting encounters challenges due to data imbalance, temporal non‐linearity and the consideration of multi‐scale spatial factors. To tackle these challenges, this study introduces a novel approach for collaborative multi‐site visibility forecasting based on spatiotemporal convolutional networks. Firstly, we preprocess the ERA5 reanalysis dataset and ground observation dataset, standardizing the spatiotemporal dimensions. We employ correlation coefficient analysis to select relevant meteorological factors. Subsequently, we create a spatiotemporal convolutional network model (TCN_GCN), which combines the power of temporal convolutional network (TCN) and graph convolutional network (GCN). Additionally, a weighted loss function is incorporated, accounting for the distribution of visibility values. The model is trained with multi‐site data, enabling it to learn spatiotemporal visibility patterns across various sites. This empowers the model to generate multi‐site visibility forecasts, thereby significantly improving regional visibility forecasting accuracy. Using 50 meteorological stations in Fujian Province, China, as a case study, we assess the model's predictions using key metrics such as mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE) and coefficient of determination (R2). The experimental results demonstrate that the inclusion of both temporal and spatial features leads to a substantial enhancement in model prediction performance. The TCN_GCN model outperforms other deep learning methods in multi‐site visibility forecasting, highlighting its effectiveness and superiority in improving regional visibility forecasting accuracy.
High‐resolution CMIP6 analysis highlights emerging climate challenges in alpine and Tibetan Tundra zones
Authors: Fallah Bijan , Rostami Masoud , Didovets Iulii , Dong Zhiwen
Published: September 2024

We employ a high‐resolution Köppen climate classification dataset to examine shifts in Tundra zones within the Alps and Asia. Our analysis shows substantial reductions in Tundra areas by the mid‐21st century under different Shared. Socioeconomic pathways (SSP1‐2.6, SSP3‐7.0, SSP5‐8.5). Tundra zones in the Alps and the Tibetan Plateau are crucial for their unique climates and role as water reservoirs. Characterized by short, mild summers and long, severe winters, these zones are vital for the glaciers and perennial snow. The projected climate instability may significantly reduce alpine snow cover by mid‐century with irreversible consequences. A 2°C temperature increase from the 1981–2010 baseline could eliminate the Tundra climate in the Alps and reduce it by over 70% in Asia. This is particularly concerning given that rivers from the Tibetan Plateau sustain nearly 40% of the global population.
Reconstructing and analyzing the invariances of low‐dose CT image denoising networks
Authors: Eulig Elias , Jäger Fabian , Maier Joscha , Ommer Björn , Kachelrieß Marc
Published: September 2024

Background

Deep learning‐based methods led to significant advancements in many areas of medical imaging, most of which are concerned with the reduction of artifacts caused by motion, scatter, or noise. However, with most neural networks being black boxes, they remain notoriously difficult to interpret, hindering their clinical implementation. In particular, it has been shown that networks exhibit invariances w.r.t. input features, that is, they learn to ignore certain information in the input data.

Purpose

To improve the interpretability of deep learning‐based low‐dose CT image denoising networks.

Methods

We learn a complete data representation of low‐dose input images using a conditional variational autoencoder (cVAE). In this representation, invariances of any given denoising network are then disentangled from the information it is not invariant to using a conditional invertible neural network (cINN). At test time, image‐space invariances are generated by applying the inverse of the cINN and subsequent decoding using the cVAE. We propose two methods to analyze sampled invariances and to find those that correspond to alterations of anatomical structures.

Results

The proposed method is applied to four popular deep learning‐based low‐dose CT image denoising networks. We find that the networks are not only invariant to noise amplitude and realizations, but also to anatomical structures.

Conclusions

The proposed method is capable of reconstructing and analyzing invariances of deep learning‐based low‐dose CT image denoising networks. This is an important step toward interpreting deep learning‐based methods for medical imaging, which is essential for their clinical implementation.
Highly accelerated non‐contrast‐enhanced time‐resolved 4D MRA using stack‐of‐stars golden‐angle radial acquisition with a self‐calibrated low‐rank subspace reconstruction
Authors: Zhao Tianrui , Tang Jianing , Krumpelman Chase , Moum Sarah J. , Russin Jonathan J. , Ansari Sameer A. , Chen Zhifeng , Feng Li , Yan Lirong
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To develop a highly accelerated non‐contrast‐enhanced 4D‐MRA technique by combining stack‐of‐stars golden‐angle radial acquisition with a modified self‐calibrated low‐rank subspace reconstruction.

Methods

A low‐rank subspace reconstruction framework was introduced in radial 4D MRA (SUPER 4D MRA) by combining stack‐of‐stars golden‐angle radial acquisition with control‐label k‐space subtraction‐based low‐rank subspace modeling. Radial 4D MRA data were acquired and reconstructed using the proposed technique on 12 healthy volunteers and 1 patient with steno‐occlusive disease. The performance of SUPER 4D MRA was compared with two temporally constrained reconstruction methods (golden‐angle radial sparse parallel [GRASP] and GRASP‐Pro) at different acceleration rates in terms of image quality and delineation of blood dynamics.

Results

SUPER 4D MRA outperformed the other two reconstruction methods, offering superior image quality with a clear background and detailed delineation of cerebrovascular structures as well as great temporal fidelity in blood flow dynamics. SUPER 4D MRA maintained excellent performance even at higher acceleration rates.

Conclusions

SUPER 4D MRA is a promising technique for highly accelerating 4D MRA acquisition without comprising both temporal fidelity and image quality.