bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A generic multi-level framework for building term-weighting schemes in text classification
Authors: Tang Zhong
Published: July 2024

Term weighting is essential for text classification tasks, and thus various supervised term-weighting (STW) methods have been designed and presented in recent years, such as TF (term frequency)-IG (information gain), TF-MI (mutual information), TF-RF (relevance frequency), and TF-IDF (inverse document frequency)-ICSDF (inverse class space density frequency). Unlike other schemes, TF-IDF-ICSDF considers not only the local factor (i.e. TF) and the category factor (i.e. ICSDF) but also the global factor (i.e. IDF) in the weighting process. Hence, a natural question is whether IDF is really useful for improving the classification performance of STW schemes. To explore this issue, a generic multi-level framework composed of term-level, text-level, and category-level is first established, which corresponds to local factor, global factor, and category factor, respectively. Based on the generic multi-level framework, a new two-level STW method, TF-ICSDF, can be generated by removing the IDF from the TF-IDF-ICSDF scheme. Conversely, we also integrated the IDF with other two-level STW schemes (e.g. TF-IG, TF-MI, TF-RF) to obtain several three-level STW schemes. We verified the general classification performance of our proposed STW schemes on three open benchmark datasets. The results manifest that performance can usually be boosted if IDF is incorporated into the STW schemes, indicating that weighting terms utilizing the IDF factor could provide better text representation. Therefore, the generic multi-level framework and STW schemes we proposed are effective.
Transverse aortic constriction multi-omics analysis uncovers pathophysiological cardiac molecular mechanisms
Authors: Gjerga Enio , Dewenter Matthias , Britto-Borges Thiago , Grosso Johannes , Stein Frank , Eschenbach Jessica , Rettel Mandy , Backs Johannes , Dieterich Christoph
Published: July 2024

Time-course multi-omics data of a murine model of progressive heart failure (HF) induced by transverse aortic constriction (TAC) provide insights into the molecular mechanisms that are causatively involved in contractile failure and structural cardiac remodelling. We employ Illumina-based transcriptomics, Nanopore sequencing and mass spectrometry-based proteomics on samples from the left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV, RNA only) of the heart at 1, 7, 21 and 56 days following TAC and Sham surgery. Here, we present Transverse Aortic COnstriction Multi-omics Analysis (TACOMA), as an interactive web application that integrates and visualizes transcriptomics and proteomics data collected in a TAC time-course experiment. TACOMA enables users to visualize the expression profile of known and novel genes and protein products thereof. Importantly, we capture alternative splicing events by assessing differential transcript and exon usage as well. Co-expression-based clustering algorithms and functional enrichment analysis revealed overrepresented annotations of biological processes and molecular functions at the protein and gene levels. To enhance data integration, TACOMA synchronizes transcriptomics and proteomics profiles, enabling cross-omics comparisons. With TACOMA (https://shiny.dieterichlab.org/app/tacoma), we offer a rich web-based resource to uncover molecular events and biological processes implicated in contractile failure and cardiac hypertrophy. For example, we highlight: (i) changes in metabolic genes and proteins in the time course of hypertrophic growth and contractile impairment; (ii) identification of RNA splicing changes in the expression of Tpm2 isoforms between RV and LV; and (iii) novel transcripts and genes likely contributing to the pathogenesis of HF. We plan to extend these data with additional environmental and genetic models of HF to decipher common and distinct molecular changes in heart diseases of different aetiologies.

Database URL: https://shiny.dieterichlab.org/app/tacoma
Chronic Poor Sleep is Associated with Increased Disease Activity in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis: Prospective Observational Study in Japan
Authors: Oyama Hideaki , Moroi Rintaro , Sakuma Atsushi , Shimoyama Yusuke , Nagai Hiroshi , Naito Takeo , Shiga Hisashi , Kakuta Yoichi , Kinouchi Yoshitaka , Masamune Atsushi
Published: July 2024

Background and Aim

Although sleep disorders are associated with the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease, the causal relationship is unclear. Therefore, in this study we aimed to clarify the causal relationship between them.

Methods

We administered the Pittsburgh Sleep Questionnaire to participants during regular visits to evaluate their sleep condition, and prospectively observed the participants. Participants were divided into poor sleep and non-poor sleep groups according to their first and second questionnaire scores. We compared inflammatory bowel disease relapse rates between the two groups.

Results

The study population included 139 patients with inflammatory bowel disease, including 60 with chronic poor sleep. Disease relapse rate was significantly higher in the poor sleep group than in the non-poor sleep group [28.3% vs 8.9%; p = 0.0033]. Ulcerative colitis relapse rate was significantly higher in the poor sleep group than in the non-poor sleep group [34.5% vs 10.3%, p = 0.031]. Multivariate analysis identified chronic poor sleep as a clinical factor that affected inflammatory bowel disease relapse (odds ratio [OR] = 6.69, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.23–20.0, p = 0.0007] and ulcerative colitis relapse [OR = 8.89, 95% CI: 1.57–50.2, p = 0.014]. The Kaplan − Meier curve showed significantly lower cumulative treatment retention rates in the poor sleep group than in the non-poor sleep group [all patients, p = 0.0061; ulcerative colitis, p = 0.025].

Conclusions

Concomitant chronic poor sleep may have a negative influence on the disease activity in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, particularly in those with ulcerative colitis.
Surgical correction of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection to persistent left-sided superior vena cava: a case report
Authors: Tej Uday , Mishra Anand Kumar , Mittal Apeksha , Saini Kulbhushan , George Arun
Published: July 2024

Background

Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) to left superior vena cava (LSVC) is an extremely rare congenital heart disease, and its surgical management is very challenging.

Case summary

We report one such case of a 5-year-old south Asian male with double outlet right ventricle and unbalanced atrioventricular canal defect, where all the pulmonary veins were found opening into LSVC, which was then opening into the left side of the common atrium. Intraoperatively, the LSVC was transected just below the left internal jugular vein and left subclavian vein junction and left-sided bidirectional Glenn shunt done using 8 mm Dacron tube graft. Pulmonary veins were left draining through the LSVC into the common atrium. Right-sided Glenn shunt was completed as usual. Currently, the patient is year and half post-surgery and is doing well; school going on par with the peer group maintaining a room air saturation of 87%.

Discussion

Here, we report a successful surgical correction of TAPVC to LSVC in a child with univentricular physiology, however due to the paucity of data and rarity of such cases, optimal surgical management is yet to be defined.
Assessing cardiac mechanics through left ventricular haemodynamic forces
Authors: Aimo Alberto , Panichella Giorgia , Fabiani Iacopo , Garofalo Manuel , Fanizzi Angela Ilaria , Ragagnin Maddalena , Milazzo Alessandra , Zocchi Chiara , Del Franco Annamaria , Pedrizzetti Gianni , Olivotto Iacopo , Emdin Michele
Published: July 2024

Haemodynamic forces (HDFs), which represent the forces exchanged between blood and surrounding tissues, are critical in regulating the structure and function of the left ventricle (LV). These forces can be assessed on cardiac magnetic resonance or transthoracic echocardiography exams using specialized software, offering a non-invasive alternative for measuring intraventricular pressure gradients. The analysis of HDFs can be a valuable tool in improving our understanding of cardiovascular disease and providing insights beyond traditional diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. For instance, HDF analysis has the potential to identify early signs of adverse remodelling and cardiac dysfunction, which may not be detected by standard imaging methods such as bidimensional or speckle-tracking echocardiography. This review aims to summarize the principles of HDF analysis and to reappraise its possible applications to cardiac disorders.
FAQ: How do I estimate the output gap?
Authors: Canova Fabio
Published: July 2024

I investigate the properties of output gaps in New Keynesian dynamic stochastic general equilibrium models and study the relationship between theory-based quantities and the estimates obtained with standard approaches. Theoretical gaps display low-frequency variations, have similar frequency domain representations as potentials and are generally correlated with them. Potentials have important business cycle variability. Existing statistical approaches fail to recognise these features and generate distorted estimates. Gaps are best estimated with a polynomial filter. Explanations for the outcomes are given. I propose a statistical procedure reducing estimation biases.
Promoting successful healing of artificial trachea by intratracheal administration of basic fibroblast growth factor
Authors: Murata Yoshitake , Yutaka Yojiro , Fukui Takamasa , Hirata Rieko , Ibi Yumiko , Hidaka Yu , Yoshizawa Akihiro , Kishimoto Yo , Omori Koichi , Date Hiroshi
Published: July 2024

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the effect of intratracheal administration of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on tracheal healing following implantation of a novel layered polyglycolic acid (PGA) material to replace a critical-size defect in rat trachea.

METHODS

A critical-size defect in the rat cervical trachea was covered with PGA. Distilled water (DW) or 3.125, 6.25, 12.5 or 25 µg bFGF was administered into the trachea for 2 weeks (n = 6 for each of 5 groups). Regenerated areas of cilia, ciliary beat frequency and ciliary transport function (CTF) in the centre of the PGA were measured. To examine potential side effects of intratracheal administration of bFGF, the right lower lobe was pathologically evaluated.

RESULTS

All rats survived during the study period. Histological examination showed ciliated epithelization on the PGA material after 2 weeks. Bronchoscopy revealed stenosis due to granulation following administration of high concentrations of bFGF (12.5 and 25 µg). Compared with the DW group, groups administered 3.125, 6.25, 12.5 and 25 µg bFGF had significantly larger areas of regenerated cilia (15.2%, 27.0%, 41.3%, 33.1% and 31.0%, respectively; P = 0.00143), improved ciliary beat frequency (7.10, 8.18, 10.10, 9.50 and 9.50 Hz, respectively), and improved CTS (6.40, 9.54, 16.89, 16.41 and 14.29 µm/sec, respectively). Pathological examination of the right lower lobe revealed pulmonary fibrosis and hyperplasia with high concentrations of bFGF (12.5 and 25 µg).

CONCLUSIONS

Intratracheal administration of bFGF effectively promoted tracheal regeneration at an optimal dose of 6.25 µg following implantation of an artificial trachea.
‘Teaching Poetry is Like Having a Liquor Store on a Busy Corner’: An Interview with Robert Pinsky
Authors: Xerri Daniel
Published: July 2024

Three-time Poet Laureate Robert Pinsky is one of the US’ most important contemporary poets. In this interview, he talks about his formation as a poet and the status of poetry in contemporary culture. He also shares his views on the place of poetry in education, and on how teachers can play a vital role in engaging young people with the genre. Besides discussing the significance of the projects he devised as poet laureate, he uses his knowledge and experience as a poet and educator to explain how young people’s engagement with the reading and writing of poetry can best be enhanced.
May Measurement Month 2021: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Armenia
Authors: Zelveian Parounak , Hakobyan Zoya , Gharibyan Heghine , Melkonyan Arevik , Hayrumyan Samvel , Aroyan Siranush , Hazarapetyan Lusine , Grigoryan Svetlana , Beaney Thomas , Kerr Gabriele , Poulter Neil
Published: July 2024

Elevated blood pressure (BP) is a growing burden worldwide and is the leading cause of mortality and disability-adjusted life years all over the world. May Measurement Month (MMM) is a global initiative aimed to increase awareness of high BP initiated by the International Society of Hypertension, to identify individuals in need of improved hypertension care, and to improve BP screening worldwide. An opportunistic cross-sectional survey of volunteers aged ≥18 years was carried out in accordance with standard MMM protocol in 2021. The study was conducted in public areas, both indoor and outdoor, as well as in primary and secondary healthcare centres. A total of 5777 individuals (mean age 51.8 ± 16.1 years, 49.8% female) were screened. After imputation, 45.7% participants had hypertension and 43.7% of them were aware of their high BP. Of 2640 participants with hypertension, 887 (33.6%) were on antihypertensive treatment, of whom 32.4% were on single medication, 29.7% on two medications, and 37.9% on three or more. Only 42.2% of those on medication had controlled BP (<140/90 mmHg), whereas of the participants with hypertension overall, 14.2% had controlled BP. We found that the prevalence of inadequately treated hypertension remains high in Armenia and may represent a vital contributor to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases.
May Measurement Month 2021: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Albania
Authors: Draçini Xheladin , Çumashi Rudina , Qirjako Gentiana , Beaney Thomas , Kiru Gaia , Janssen-Telders Carolina , Fico Albana , Burazeri Genc
Published: July 2024

This article describes the May Measurement Month (MMM) 2021 campaign, which was the fourth time this annual hypertension screening campaign was conducted in Albania, a Mediterranean country in southeastern Europe. The MMM21 was conducted during the period of 28 September–30 November 2021, in 32 sites across several districts of Albania. Overall, 11 788 participants aged ≥18 years were included (63% women), with a mean age of 49.7 ± 14.9 years. Blood pressure (BP) was measured three times with Omron sphygmomanometers (model M3, Omron Healthcare, Kyoto, Japan), which are automatic upper arm BP monitors. Hypertension was defined as SBP ≥ 140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥ 90 mmHg (based on the mean of the second and third recordings for SBP and DBP, respectively) or on antihypertensive medication. Self-reported data included pre-existing conditions, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, COVID-19 testing, and use of contraception in women. Overall, 47.3% of screened participants had hypertension. Of those with hypertension, 70.1% were aware of their condition and 67.0% were on antihypertensive medication. About half (49.3%) of participants on antihypertensive medication had controlled BP (<140/90 mmHg). On average, BP was higher in those on antihypertensive medication and with increasing alcohol intake but lower in those with a history of stroke and those with higher levels of physical activity, previous positive COVID-19 test, and contraception use in women. In Albania, the MMM campaign continues to contribute to the early detection of hypertension among adults. Hence, it constitutes a valuable opportunistic screening instrument among other routine tools applied in the general Albanian population.
May Measurement Month 2021: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Georgia
Authors: Tsinamdzgvrishvili Bezhan , Gamkrelidze Amiran , Trapaidze Dali , Sturua Lela , Grdzelidze Nino , Abesadze Tamar , Mebonia Nana , Giuashvili Nia , Gogilashvili Nino , Chikovani Nino , Beaney Thomas , Kiru Gaia , Toopchiani Sima , Poulter Neil R
Published: July 2024

The annual global May Measurement Month screening campaign initiated by the International Society of Hypertension aims to raise awareness of raised blood pressure (BP) and in the absence of systematic screening is a useful surrogate indicating the size of the problem of hypertension in the general population in Georgia. May Measurement Month screening was carried out at 400 sites in Georgia in 2021, and more than 500 volunteers, including physicians (80%) and medical students (20%), carried out in the screening. Adults aged ≥18 years were recruited opportunistically, and three BP readings were measured, along with a questionnaire collecting information on demographics, lifestyle, and co- morbidities. Hypertension was defined as a systolic BP ≥ 140 mmHg or diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg, based on the mean of the second and third readings, or in those on antihypertensive medication. A total of 4935 individuals were screened, with a mean age of 53.6 years (SD 17.1). A total of 2836 (57.5%) were found to have hypertension, of whom 2441 (86.1%) were aware of their condition and 83.5% were on hypertensive medication. Of those on medication, 41.6% had their BP controlled (<140/90 mmHg). Of all participants with hypertension, 34.7% were controlled. May Measurement Month data highlight the scale of hypertension in Georgia, with low rates of control in those on medication. Educational interventions among the population and medical personnel to raise awareness of high BP and improve control rates are of high importance, which require strong advocacy among policy makers.
May Measurement Month 2021: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Kenya
Authors: Mbau Lilian , Gitura Bernard , Nguchu Hellen , Moraa Yubrine , Samia Bernard , Beaney Thomas , Toopchiani Sima , Poulter Neil R , Ogola Elijah
Published: July 2024

Hypertension is a major contributor to premature death and disability globally. The age-standardized prevalence of hypertension among adults aged 30–79 years is among the highest at 36%. Despite the availability of cost-effective interventions, awareness, treatment, and control rates remain low. To tackle this and raise awareness, the May Measurement Month (MMM) campaign was initiated by the International Society of Hypertension in 2017. This paper summarizes results from the 2021 MMM campaign. Screening was conducted in 22 sites across 7 counties. We aimed to take three blood pressure (BP) readings and corresponding heart rate measurements as per the standardized protocol. Where this was not achievable, at least one reading was taken. Other variables recorded included demographic data, risk factors, comorbidities, and history of COVID-19 infection. A total of 9738 individuals were screened, of whom 57% were female. After multiple imputations, 28.2% were hypertensive, of whom 45.9% were aware and 42.0% were on treatment. Of those on treatment, 50.3% were controlled, translating to control among only 21.1% of the total hypertensive population. Previous COVID-19 vaccinations were associated with lower systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP). Individuals who consumed alcohol one to three times a month had lower diastolic BP after adjustment for age, sex, and anti-hypertensive treatment. Among women, the use of hormonal contraceptives was associated with lower SBP and DBP after adjustment for age, sex, and anti-hypertensive treatment. Hypertension awareness, treatment, and control rates remain low, though trends from previous MMM campaigns in Kenya suggest steady improvement. The associations between COVID-19 vaccination and contraceptive use with lower BP warrant further investigation. Programmes such as MMM provide much needed data to track the progress towards reducing the burden of hypertension.
May Measurement Month 2021: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Kazakhstan
Authors: Mukhtarkhanova Dilyara , Poulter Neil R , Beaney Thomas , Kiru Gaia , Toopchiani Sima , Junusbekova Gulnara , Tundybayeva Meiramgul Kapsimetovna , Baglanova Lyazat , Leonovich Tatiana , Ismailov Eldar
Published: July 2024

The May Measurement Month (MMM) screening campaign initiated by the International Society of Hypertension aimed to assess the prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors to increase and improve population awareness of raised blood pressure (BP) and methods of prevention. The MMM is a cross-sectional survey of adults aged 18 years and over of both sexes who gave informed consent to participate in the survey and to have their BP measured. Kazakhstan participated in the campaign for the first time in 2021. Blood pressure was measured three times on a single occasion, and data on cardiovascular risk factors were collected. A total of 1763 respondents from 4 regions participated in the screening. The mean age was 41 ± 14.4 years; 31.5% of all participants were found to have hypertension, of whom 41.8% were aware, 34.0% on treatment, and only 15.8% controlled (<140/90 mmHg). Significant differences in these rates were found between age and sex groups. The screening campaign confirms low levels of awareness of hypertension and associated risk factors in the population in Kazakhstan and the need for annual screening and implementation of national hypertension control programmes.
Leadless pacemaker implantation via the internal jugular vein
Authors: Molitor Nadine , Saleem-Talib Shmaila , Ramanna Hemanth , Hofer Daniel , Breitenstein Alexander , Steffel Jan
Published: July 2024

Aims

Leadless pacemaker therapy was introduced to overcome lead- and pocket-related complications in conventional transvenous pacemaker systems. Implantation via the femoral vein, however, may not always be feasible. The aim of this study was to evaluate leadless pacemaker implantation using a jugular vein approach and compare it to the standard implantation via the femoral vein.

Methods and results

The records of the first consecutive 100 patients undergoing Micra™ leadless pacemaker implantation via the right internal jugular vein from two centres were included in this study. Peri-procedural safety and efficacy of the jugular approach were compared to the first 100 patients using a femoral implantation approach at the University Hospital Zurich. One hundred patients underwent successful implantation of a leadless pacemaker via the internal jugular vein (mean age, 81.18 ± 8.29, 60% males). Mean procedure time was 35.63 ± 10.29 min with a mean fluoroscopy time of 4.66 ± 5.16 min. The device was positioned at the inferior septum in 25 patients, at the high septum in 24 patients, and mid-septum in 51 patients. The mean pacing threshold was 0.56 ± 0.35 V at 0.24 ms pulse width with a sensed amplitude of 10.0 ± 4.4 mV. At follow-up, electrical parameters remained stable in all patients. Compared with femoral implantation, patients undergoing the jugular approach were of similar age and had similar comorbidities. Mean procedure (48.9 ± 21.0 min) and fluoroscopy times (7.7 ± 7.8 min, both P < 0.01) were shorter compared to the femoral approach. Electrical parameters were similar between the two approaches. There were only two complications during jugular veinous implantations (1 pericardial effusion and 1 dislocation), compared to 16 complications using the femoral approach (1 pericardial effusion, 2 femoral artery injuries, and 13 major groin haematomas).

Conclusion

The jugular approach may represent a safe and efficient alternative to femoral implantation of the Micra leadless pacemaker.
Relationship of Body Composition With Middle Cerebral Artery Hemodynamic Using Compositional Data Analysis in Middle-Age Adults From Toledo Study for Healthy Aging
Authors: Muñoz-Muñoz Miguel , Bond Bert , Sánchez-Martín Coral , Rodríguez-Gómez Irene , Weston Max , García-Aguirre Mikel , Morín-Martín María M , Alegre Luis M , Leal-Martín Javier , Alcazar Julian , Ara Ignacio , García-García Francisco José
Published: July 2024

Excess adipose tissue may promote chronic systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, causing endothelial damage. Early evidence indicates that obesity may be associated with poorer cerebral perfusion. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between body composition and cerebral hemodynamics. A total of 248 middle-aged adults (50–58 years old; 55% women) underwent a ramp test on a cycle-ergometer until volitional exhaustion. Gas exchange was assessed on a breath-by-breath basis. Mean middle cerebral artery velocity (MCAv) was measured using transcranial Doppler, and pulsatility index (PI) was calculated. Body composition was assessed by dual X-ray absorptiometry. Statistical analyses were performed using a compositional data approach including a 3-compartment model for body composition (trunk fat mass, extremities fat mass, and fat-free mass). The unadjusted models for the whole sample showed that trunk fat mass relative to other compartments was negatively associated with MCAvrest, MCAvmax, and gain, and positively associated with PImax; extremities fat mass relative to other compartments was positively associated with MCAvrest and MCAvmax, and negatively associated with PImax; and fat-free mass relative to other compartments was positively associated with PImax. These associations were sex-dependent, remaining in the women’s subgroup. However, after adjusting for confounders, these associations became nonsignificant, except for PImax in the whole sample and women’s subgroup. These findings suggest a possible association between cerebral hemodynamics and body composition in middle-aged adults, highlighting sex-specific differences. Moreover, our results indicate that higher trunk fat mass relative to other compartments may negatively affect cerebral hemodynamics, reducing MCAv and increasing PImax.
Transient electromagnetic inversion to image the shallow subsurface based on convolutional bidirectional long short-term memory neural networks
Authors: Shi Yu , Zhang Jifeng , You Xiran , Ma Ziben , Li Jiachen
Published: July 2024

The conventional transient electromagnetic inversion method has a low calculation speed and precision and is susceptible to falling into local minima, which does not meet the fine detection requirements of urban underground space. In this study, we proposed a novel inversion method based on convolutional bidirectional long short-term memory neural networks for shallow subsurface transient electromagnetic inversion. This network structure possessed strong spatial feature extraction capabilities and a proficient understanding of sequential data, thereby addressing the issues of slow conventional inversion computations and inadequate inversion accuracy. Utilizing the apparent resistivity from a three-layer model as the sample input and the real model as the target, the network was trained using batch normalization and dropout techniques to accelerate the convergence rate. The resulting model achieved real-time inversion speeds and high accuracy, with robust generalization capabilities and adaptability to new data. To assess the inversion performance, we used a novel 1-D inversion error calculation index, the correlation area loss error, for a more accurate measurement. Numerical simulation experiments showed that the proposed method required only 2.121 s to invert data from 100 observation points. The inversion efficiency was significantly superior to the conventional methods, maintaining excellent accuracy while effectively discerning subsurface electrical stratification in geophysics. Applying convolutional bidirectional long short-term memory neural networks to multidimensional and field data yielded results superior to those of conventional inversion, demonstrating the promising applicability and generalization of this approach. This study offers an efficient solution for shallow subsurface transient electromagnetic exploration and holds potential for application in other areas.
The Human Glycome Atlas project for cataloging all glycan-related omics data in human
Authors: Aoki-Kinoshita Kiyoko F , Akune-Taylor Yukie , Ando Hiromune , Angata Kiyohiko , Fujita Morihisa , Furukawa Jun-ichi , Kaji Hiroyuki , Kato Koichi , Kitajima Ken , Kizuka Yasuhiko , Matsui Yusuke , Nakajima Kazuki , Nishihara Shoko , Okajima Tetsuya , Sakamoto Kazuma , Sato Chihiro , Thaysen-Andersen Morten , Togayachi Akira , Yagi Hirokazu , Zappa Achille , Kadomatsu Kenji
Published: July 2024

The Human Glycome Atlas (HGA) Project was launched in April 2023, spearheaded by three Japanese institutes: the Tokai National Higher Education and Research System, the National Institutes of Natural Sciences, and Soka University. This was the first time that a field in the life sciences was adopted by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) for a Large-scale Academic Frontiers Promotion Project. This project aims to construct a knowledgebase of human glycans and glycoproteins as a standard for the human glycome. A high-throughput pipeline for comprehensively analyzing 20,000 blood samples in its first five years is planned, at which time an access-controlled version of a human glycomics knowledgebase, called TOHSA, will be released. By the end of the final tenth year, TOHSA will provide a central resource linking human glycan data with other omics data including disease-related information.
An expert opinion on rescuing atypically pronucleated human zygotes by molecular genetic fertilization checks in IVF
Authors: Capalbo Antonio , Cimadomo Danilo , Coticchio Giovanni , Ottolini Christian Simon
Published: July 2024

IVF laboratories routinely adopt morphological pronuclear assessment at the zygote stage to identify abnormally fertilized embryos deemed unsuitable for clinical use. In essence, this is a pseudo-genetic test for ploidy motivated by the notion that biparental diploidy is required for normal human life and abnormal ploidy will lead to either failed implantation, miscarriage, or significant pregnancy complications, including molar pregnancy and chorionic carcinoma. Here, we review the literature associated with ploidy assessment of human embryos derived from zygotes displaying a pronuclear configuration other than the canonical two, and the related pregnancy outcome following transfer. We highlight that pronuclear assessment, although associated with aberrant ploidy outcomes, has a low specificity in the prediction of abnormal ploidy status in the developing embryo, while embryos deemed abnormally fertilized can yield healthy pregnancies. Therefore, this universal strategy of pronuclear assessment invariably leads to incorrect classification of over 50% of blastocysts derived from atypically pronucleated zygotes, and the systematic disposal of potentially viable embryos in IVF. To overcome this limitation of current practice, we discuss the new preimplantation genetic testing technologies that enable accurate identification of the ploidy status of preimplantation embryos and suggest a progress from morphology-based checks to molecular fertilization check as the new gold standard. This alternative molecular fertilization checking represents a possible non-incremental and controversy-free improvement to live birth rates in IVF as it adds to the pool of viable embryos available for transfer. This is especially important for the purposes of ‘family building’ or for poor-prognosis IVF patients where embryo numbers are often limited.
Mitochondria as determinants of reproductive senescence and competence: implications for diagnosis of embryo competence in assisted reproduction
Authors: Yildirim Raziye Melike , Seli Emre
Published: July 2024

Mitochondria are commonly recognized as the powerhouses of the cell, primarily responsible for energy production through oxidative phosphorylation. Alongside this vital function, they also play crucial roles in regulating calcium signaling, maintaining membrane potential, and modulating apoptosis. Their involvement in various cellular pathways becomes particularly evident during oogenesis and embryogenesis, where mitochondrial quantity, morphology, and distribution are tightly controlled. The efficiency of the mitochondrial network is maintained through multiple quality control mechanisms that are essential for reproductive success. These include mitochondrial unfolded protein response, mitochondrial dynamics, and mitophagy. Not surprisingly, mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in infertility and ovarian aging, prompting investigation into mitochondria as diagnostic and therapeutic targets in assisted reproduction. To date, mitochondrial DNA copy number in oocytes, cumulus cells, and trophectoderm biopsies, and fluorescent lifetime imaging microscopy-based assessment of NADH and flavin adenine dinucleotide content have been explored as potential predictors of embryo competence, yielding limited success. Despite challenges in the clinical application of mitochondrial diagnostic strategies, these enigmatic organelles have a significant impact on reproduction, and their potential role as diagnostic targets in assisted reproduction is likely to remain an active area of investigation in the foreseeable future.
Identification of the M2 Macrophage-associated Gene THBS2 as a Predictive Marker for Inflammatory Cancer Transformation
Authors: Lin Jianxiu , Zuo Lugen , Yang Bolin , Yang Ran , Zhang Shuai , Zhang Zhaoyang , Tian Yun
Published: July 2024

Ulcerative colitis (UC)-induced colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) has a worse prognosis than sporadic colorectal cancer. And with the incidence of ulcerative colitis on the rise, it is critical to identify new therapeutic targets in time to stop the progression of inflammation to cancer. Through immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database analysis, we acquired the gene M2DEG, which is differentially expressed in M2 macrophages. The impact of M2DEG on the immune environment and clinical variables was confirmed through various data sets and actual tissue samples. Our findings indicate that patients with UC exhibiting reduced M2 macrophage infiltration tend to have more widespread disease, elevated endoscopic Mayo scores, and a higher probability of developing CAC. Through examining the string of M2DEG between UC and CAC, THBS2 emerged as a key marker. Elevated levels of THBS2 were notably linked to reduced overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (RFS), and this heightened THBS2 expression played a crucial role in the spread of tumors, as verified by immunohistochemical studies. To sum up, patients with UC exhibiting reduced M2 macrophage infiltration have a higher propensity for CAC development, making THBS2 a crucial focus for converting UC into CAC. Furthermore, identifying antibody analogues targeting THBS2 could potentially lower the likelihood of CAC transformation in patients with UC.
Qualitative modeling for representing the social-ecological system of the Groix–Belle-île offshore wind farm project
Authors: Thermes Maud , Fofack-Garcia Rhoda , Scotti Marco , Niquil Nathalie
Published: July 2024

The increasing numbers of offshore wind farm (OWF) projects question the impacts of such infrastructures on the social-ecological system (SES) in which they are to be constructed. Some answers can be given using qualitative modeling and loop analysis. We used participatory modeling to co-construct a qualitative model of the socio-ecosystem together with stakeholders of the APPEAL project. The goal of the project was to evaluate the potential impacts of the pilot OWF in the Groix–Belle-île region. Then, loop analysis was used to study the characteristics of the SES created by the setting-up of an OWF. We focused on the impacts of SES variables on each other by evaluating their effects through direct and indirect pathways. Pleasure boating appeared as one of the SES components prone to suffer from the OWF construction, whereas industrial tourism was likely to benefit from it. This article presents the methodology used to obtain such results, for it to be used in spatial planning or in citizen-science processes.
Path planning of substation inspection robot based on high-precision positioning and navigation technology
Authors: Du Zexu , Zhang Guoliang , Zhang Yi , Chen Jiangqi , Zhang Xi
Published: July 2024

Outdoor substation is an important part of power system. Substation inspection robot based on intelligent autonomous inspection system has become the research focus of substation unmanned inspection. In order to improve the positioning accuracy and speed of the system, a high-precision positioning algorithm of transformer detection robot is proposed in this paper. Tikhonov regularization is used to correct the pathological problem of the localization algorithm model. The observation amount of the receiver is increased by using four signals of a single base station with double frequency and double antenna, and the position is solved by using single difference carrier phase observation and the integer ambiguity is fixed. The input–output mapping of the neural network is designed according to the information acquisition and two-wheel angular velocity control of the detection robot. Using the hyperbolic tangent function as the activation function of MLP neural network, the MLP neural network with 32 neurons in each of the three hidden layers is determined. By optimizing reinforcement learning reward function, adding scoring rules, and reward parameters, this paper carries out the following simulation exploration work. The high-precision positioning algorithm of transformer inspection robot is compared with the existing algorithm, and the superiority of the algorithm is verified. The basic motion ability of the robot installed with the system was tested.
Battery state of charge estimation solution based on optimized Ah counting and online calibration strategy for electric vehicle
Authors: Zhou Kaiwen , Wang Xiyu , Li Yakun
Published: July 2024

State of charge (SOC) estimation is critical for electric vehicles (EVs); the typical solution is the ampere-hour (Ah) counting strategy + open circuit voltage (OCV) strategy as they are straightforward and easy to implement. However, this solution makes a significant SOC estimation error if the driver needs to drive long distances or in winter. This article aims to optimize the Ah counting strategy and propose an online SOC calibration strategy. For the former, we evaluate the effects of temperature, initial SOC, and current on the Coulomb efficiency and the impact of temperature and discharge current on the battery capacity and take them into account when estimating the battery SOC; for the latter, we conduct theoretical analysis and argue that after a while of small-current fluctuations in the battery, the OCV of the battery can be obtained based on the battery voltage, current, and direct current (DC) resistance, and can be calibrated online. We designed experiments to validate the proposed strategy. The experimental results show that the optimized Ah counting strategy does not pull away from the standard Ah counting strategy at room temperature or high temperature, which is because the effects of the Coulombic efficiency and the battery capacity can be canceled out, but the optimized Ah counting strategy has a better performance at low temperature, and vice versa for standard Ah counting performs poorly; for SOC online calibration, the OCV estimated online by the proposed strategy differs from the reference OCV by only 2 mV, and its performance is excellent. The solution proposed in this article can be applied to EVs to obtain better performance.
Digital screens in community pharmacy for public health messaging; a mixed-methods study
Authors: Ashcroft Naomi , Cooper Matthew , Nazar Hamde
Published: July 2024

Objectives

An independent evaluation was undertaken to investigate the perceived impact of installing digital screens in a group of community pharmacies as an approach to provide public health messaging.

Methods

Community pharmacy staff were interviewed prior to screen installation to investigate experience and perceptions of conventional public health campaigns using written materials. Staff were interviewed after the digital screen installation to investigate their opinions of the installation and its impact on public health delivery in the pharmacy. Patients and public representatives were recruited to visit the pharmacies and asked to complete a survey about what they observed and thought about the public health messaging. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Surveys consisted of open, closed, and rating questions. The results of which were descriptively analysed.

Key findings

Community pharmacy staff found paper-based campaigns work-intensive and created paper wastage. The digital screen installation was received positively by pharmacy staff and patient, and public representatives found them eye-catching and engaging. Staff were unable to report any conversations with members of the public triggered by the screens, but the patient and public volunteers were able to recall some of the health messages.

Conclusions

Digital messaging is common practice and digital screens are already in use in areas where patients and the public have conventionally been in attendance, e.g. GP surgeries. Digital screens in community pharmacy for public health messaging could be considered an inevitable progression for public health messaging given concerns about wastage and up-to-date information. The impact, however, on triggering healthier choices and lifestyles requires further investigation.
Female Genital Tract Host Factors and Tenofovir and Lamivudine Active Metabolites
Authors: Lantz Alyssa M , Kiweewa Matovu Flavia , Johnson Reilly , Isingel Esther , Nakalega Rita , Kabwigu Samuel , Beksinska Mags E , Nicol Melanie R
Published: July 2024

Background

We previously reported the effect of contraception on cervical tenofovir concentrations in Ugandan women with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Here we explored the role of cervicovaginal cytokines and drug metabolizing enzymes and transporters (DMETs) to elucidate female genital tract (FGT) drug disposition in a Ugandan cohort.

Methods

Cervicovaginal fluid and cervical biopsies were collected from Ugandan women with HIV receiving tenofovir/lamivudine-based therapy and intramuscular depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (n = 25), copper intrauterine device (cuIUD; n = 12), or condoms (n = 13) as contraception. Cytokines were measured in cervicovaginal fluid (CVF). Ectocervical tenofovir diphosphate (TFVdp), lamivudine triphosphate (3TCtp), and deoxyadenosine triphosphate (dATP)/deoxycytidine triphosphate (dCTP) concentrations and immune marker/DMET gene expression were measured in cervical biopsies.

Results

Cervical 3TCtp was not correlated with any CVF cytokines. Cervical TFVdp was correlated with IL-10, IL-7, and IL-17 in CVF. CCR5 mRNA expression in cervical biopsies was higher in cuIUD users versus condom users. Using multivariable linear regression, CVF IL-17, tissue dATP, plasma estradiol, and plasma tenofovir were all significant predictors of cervical TFVdp. Tissue dCTP and plasma lamivudine were significant predictors of cervical 3TCtp.

Conclusions

TFVdp concentrations in cervix appear to be influenced by local inflammation. In contrast, 3TCtp FGT exposure was not affected by genital inflammation or DMETs. CuIUD users have more immune cells present, which may in turn influence local TFVdp disposition.

Main Finding

We investigated changes in tenofovir diphosphate and lamivudine triphosphate due to the microbiome and inflammation. While lamivudine triphosphate was not affected by either, tenofovir diphosphate appeared to be affected by local inflammation. Specifically, Th17 cells may influence tenofovir disposition.
Struggle, Exit, “Resilience”—or How Precarious Workers Cope with Late Neoliberalism. Individual and Collective Agency of Female Migrant Domestic Workers in Spain
Authors: Hellgren Zenia
Published: July 2024

This article inquires the individual and collective agency of female migrant domestic workers in Spain. I use fieldwork conducted between 2013 and 2023 to examine the interplay between the migrant workers’ individual coping strategies, the claims-making strategies of the domestic workers’ trade union Sindihogar, and the structures they operate within and attempt to challenge. Drawing on contemporary research about precarious workers’ movements, I aim to explore to what extent this social movement union has the potential to reduce the power of structural constraints and increase the power of agency. Implicit is a broader, more provocative question: To what extent is substantial change possible within the current political-economic order, here defined as late neoliberalism? I found that while the movement’s community-building approach may empower activists at an individual level, there are significant structural barriers to its potential to accomplish change in terms of better job conditions for this highly precarious workforce. In addition, I suggest that an increasing focus on precarious workers’ “resilience” risks undermining narratives of structural transformation.
‘Hi Chatbot, let’s Talk about Politics!’ Examining the Impact of Verbal Anthropomorphism in Conversational Agent Voting Advice Applications (CAVAAs) on Higher and Lower Politically Sophisticated Users
Authors: Hankel Stef , Liebrecht Christine , Kamoen Naomi
Published: July 2024

During elections, millions of voters consult online Voting Advice Applications (VAAs) to gain insights into political party stances. However, voters often struggle to understand VAA statements. Previous studies show that incorporating a Conversational Agent (CA) that addresses voters’ inquiries about VAA statements enhances the users’ factual and perceived political knowledge, as well as their evaluation of the tool. The current paper reports on two experimental studies (n = 141; n = 164) delving into the prospect of enhancing these CAVAAs by investigating how the choice of an anthropomorphic communication style (Conversational Human Voice vs. formal) influences tool evaluation and political measures among users with higher and lower levels of political sophistication. Results suggest that especially lower politically sophisticated users could benefit from CAVAAs since they felt more informed to vote after using a CAVAA, and because they answered more factual knowledge questions correctly after using the anthropomorphic CAVAA. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Bringing “Religion as Such” to the City: Sacred History and Nation Branding in Contemporary Germany
Authors: Tzuberi Hannah
Published: July 2024

This article focuses on a multireligious building project named House of One in contemporary Berlin. Initiated in 2012 by a Protestant community at the center of Berlin, House of One consists of a synagogue, a church, a mosque, and a communal room. My central suggestion is that House of One is invested in a pluralist re-branding of (liberal) Protestantism, a rebranding that underlies the post-unification emergence of a new national German imaginary: out of “soil” marked as historically Christian spreads an “Abrahamic” future that transcends its particularity via its assumed ability to incorporate Islam and Judaism. Liberal, Christian-secularized norms and affects are thus being rearticulated in a language of religious pluralism, so that a normative, Christian-secularized category of religion can be extended to Christianity’s “monotheistic brothers.” Elaborations of this building project’s intended purpose, I argue, are thus animated by a broader question about the appropriate relation between religion and the state, and conjointly, between the self and culture at a moment in time in which hitherto normative, Christian-secularized assumptions concerning this relation are challenged. As such, the discursive representation that sustains the yet-to-be-built House of One is conducive to the making of a new national imaginary: it is driven both by the desire to renounce past evil through a recognition and inclusion of alterity into the body politic, as much as by the simultaneous de-politization and scrutinization of such alterity.