bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primal and dual mixed-integer least-squares: distributional statistics and global algorithm
Authors: Teunissen P. J. G. , Massarweh L.
Published: June 2024

In this contribution we introduce the dual mixed-integer least-squares problem and study it in relation to its primal counterpart. The dual differs from the primal formulation in the order in which the integer ambiguity vector$$a \in {\mathbb {Z}}^{n}$$a∈Znand baseline vector$$b \in {\mathbb {R}}^{p}$$b∈Rpare estimated. As not the ambiguities, but rather the entries ofbare usually the parameters of interest, the attractiveness of the dual formulation stems from its direct computation ofb. It is shown that this potential advantage relies on the ease with which an implicit integer least-squares problem of the dual can be solved. For the convoluted cases, we introduce two methods of simplifying approximations. To be able to describe their quality, we provide a complete distributional analysis of their estimators, thus allowing users to judge whether or not the approximations are acceptable for their application. It is shown that this approach implicitly introduces a new class of admissible integer estimators of which we also determine the pull-in regions. As the dual function is shown to lack convexity, special care is required to be able to compute its global minimizer$${\check{b}}$$bˇ. Our proposed method, which has finite termination with a guaranteed$$\epsilon $$ϵ-tolerance, is constructed from combining the branch-and-bound principle, with a special convex-relaxation of the dual, to which the projected-gradient-descent method is applied to obtain the required bounds. Each of the method’s three constituents are described, whereby special emphasis is given to the construction of the required continuously differentiable, convex lower bounding function of the dual.
Transarterial Radioembolization (TARE) Global Practice Patterns: An International Survey by the Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology Society of Europe (CIRSE)
Authors: Keane Grace , Lam Marnix , Braat Arthur , Bruijnen Rutger , Kaufmann Nathalie , de Jong Hugo , Smits Maarten
Published: June 2024

Purpose

An international survey was conducted by the Cardiovascular Interventional Radiological Society of Europe (CIRSE) to evaluate radioembolization practice and capture opinions on real-world clinical and technical aspects of this therapy.

Materials and Methods

A survey with 32 multiple choice questions was sent as an email to CIRSE members between November and December 2022. CIRSE group member and sister societies promoted the survey to their local members. The dataset was cleaned of duplicates and entries with missing data, and the resulting anonymized dataset was analysed. Data were presented using descriptive statistics.

Results

The survey was completed by 133 sites, from 30 countries, spanning 6 continents. Most responses were from European centres (87/133, 65%), followed by centres from the Americas (22/133, 17%). Responding sites had been performing radioembolization for 10 years on average and had completed a total of 20,140 procedures over the last 5 years. Hepatocellular carcinoma treatments constituted 56% of this total, colorectal liver metastasis 17% and cholangiocarcinoma 14%. New sites had opened every year for the past 20 years, indicating the high demand for this therapy. Results showed a trend towards individualized treatment, with 79% of responders reporting use of personalized dosimetry for treatment planning and 97% reporting routine assessment of microsphere distribution post-treatment. Interventional radiologists played an important role in referrals, being present in the referring multi-disciplinary team in 91% of responding centres.

Conclusion

This survey provides insight into the current state of radioembolization practice globally. The results reveal the increasing significance placed on dosimetry, evolving interventional techniques and increased technology integration.

Graphical Abstract
Higher-Order Network Interactions Through Phase Reduction for Oscillators with Phase-Dependent Amplitude
Authors: Bick Christian , Böhle Tobias , Kuehn Christian
Published: June 2024

Coupled oscillator networks provide mathematical models for interacting periodic processes. If the coupling is weak, phase reduction—the reduction of the dynamics onto an invariant torus—captures the emergence of collective dynamical phenomena, such as synchronization. While a first-order approximation of the dynamics on the torus may be appropriate in some situations, higher-order phase reductions become necessary, for example, when the coupling strength increases. However, these are generally hard to compute and thus they have only been derived in special cases: This includes globally coupled Stuart–Landau oscillators, where the limit cycle of the uncoupled nonlinear oscillator is circular as the amplitude is independent of the phase. We go beyond this restriction and derive second-order phase reductions for coupled oscillators for arbitrary networks of coupled nonlinear oscillators with phase-dependent amplitude, a scenario more reminiscent of real-world oscillations. We analyze how the deformation of the limit cycle affects the stability of important dynamical states, such as full synchrony and splay states. By identifying higher-order phase interaction terms with hyperedges of a hypergraph, we obtain natural classes of coupled phase oscillator dynamics on hypergraphs that adequately capture the dynamics of coupled limit cycle oscillators.
Long-term climatological trends driving the recent warming along the Angolan and Namibian coasts
Authors: Tomety Folly Serge , Illig Serena , Ostrowski Marek , Awo Founi Mesmin , Bachèlery Marie-Lou , Keenlyside Noel , Rouault Mathieu
Published: June 2024

The coastal regions off Angola and Namibia are renowned for their highly productive marine ecosystems in the southeast Atlantic. In recent decades, these regions have undergone significant long-term changes. In this study, we investigate the variability of these long-term changes throughout the annual cycle and explore the underlying mechanisms using a 34-year (1982–2015) regional ocean model simulation. The results reveal a clear seasonal dependence of sea surface temperature (SST) trends along the Angolan and Namibian coasts, with alternating positive and negative trends. The long-term warming trend in the Angolan coastal region is mainly explained by a pronounced warming trend in the austral spring and summer (November-January), while the decadal trend off Namibia results from a counterbalance of an austral winter cooling trend and an austral summer warming trend. A heat budget analysis of the mixed-layer temperature variations shows that these changes are explained by a long-term modulation of the coastal currents. The Angolan warming trend is mainly explained by an intensification of the poleward coastal current, which transports more warm equatorial waters towards the Angolan coast. Off Namibia, the warming trend is attributed to a reduction in the northwestward Benguela Current, which advects cooler water from the south to the Namibian coast. These changes in the coastal current are associated with a modulation of the seasonal coastal trapped waves that are remotely-forced along the equatorial waveguide. These long-term changes may have significant implications for local ecosystems and fisheries.
The Merensky-Bastard interval at Hackney, eastern Bushveld Complex: results of a combined Sr–Nd-isotopic investigation
Authors: Magson Justine , Roelofse Frederick , Bybee Grant , Bolhar Robert
Published: June 2024

The Merensky and Bastard reefs of the Bushveld Complex occur within what has been called a transitional macro-unit along the boundary of the Critical and Main zones. The transitional unit is characterised by a geochemical hiatus recording distinct inflections in mineral chemistry and isotopic compositions. Previously these inflections in mineral chemistry and changes in isotopic compositions were attributed mostly to the influx of a magma that was compositionally distinct from the resident magma and that was parental to the Main Zone of the complex. Sr-isotopic variations across this interval have been particularly well-studied, but despite this, little consensus exists regarding the petrogenesis and metallogenesis of this economically important interval. Here we report whole-rock Sr–Nd-isotopic, major- and trace element geochemical and mineral chemical data across the Merensky-Bastard interval as intersected by borehole BH8172 on the farm Hackney in the eastern Bushveld Complex. Variations in whole-rock Cr/MgO values and initial Sr isotopic ratios across the interval are consistent with the results of previous studies that argued for the co-accumulation of minerals from compositionally and isotopically distinct magmas, of Critical and Main Zone lineages, respectively. In our model, a magma of Critical Zone affinity enters the chamber causing erosion along the chamber floor. Orthopyroxene and plagioclase crystallise from the Critical Zone magma to form the Merensky Reef, as suggested by high whole-rock Cr/MgO ratios (> 80) and unradiogenic Sr-isotopic compositions (87Sr/86Sri < 0.7068). A plagioclase-laden magma of Main Zone affinity subsequently intruded the chamber as a basal flow, elevating the resident Critical Zone magma. Plagioclase within the former floated, forming a solid raft onto which the Bastard Reef was deposited, a model that is entirely consistent with density considerations and an upward increase in the An-content of plagioclase as observed in the anorthositic package between the Merensky and Bastard reefs. From a metallogenetic viewpoint, this would imply that the Main Zone could not have been the source of the PGEs within the Merensky Reef.
Studies on the effect of curcumin and quercetin in the liver of male albino rats exposed to gamma irradiation
Authors: El-Hady Amr M. Abd , Azzoz Rady M. , Soliman Saeed M. , Abdelrahman Ibrahim Y. , Khalil Wafaa M. , Ali Said A.
Published: June 2024

Ionizing radiation produces deleterious effects on living organisms. The present investigation has been carried out to study the prophylactic as well as the therapeutic effects of treated rats with quercetin (Quer) and curcumin (Cur), which are two medicinal herbs known for their antioxidant activities against damages induced by whole-body fractionated gamma irradiation. Exposure of rats to whole-body gamma irradiation induced a significant decrease in erythrocyte (RBC), leukocyte (WBCs), platelet count (Plt), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), hematocrit (Hct %), mean erythrocyte hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and mean erythrocyte volume (MCV); a high increase in plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS); a nonsignificant statistical decrease in the mean value of serum glutathione (GSH); a significant increase in plasma alanine transferase (ALT), aspartate transferase (AST), alkaline phosphates (ALP), serum total protein, serum total cholesterol levels, total triglycerides levels, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels; and with marked histological changes and structural changes measured by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). Applying both quercetin and curcumin pre- and postexposure to gamma radiation revealed a remarkable improvement in all the studied parameters. The cellular damage by gamma radiation is greatly mitigated by the coadministration of curcumin and quercetin before radiation exposure.
Liver cancer from the perspective of single-cell sequencing: a review combined with bibliometric analysis
Authors: Ji Yanwei , An Qi , Wen Xinyu , Xu Zhou , Xia Zhengyuan , Xia Zhongyuan , Hu Qinyong , Lei Shaoqing
Published: June 2024

Background

Liver cancer (LC) is a prevalent malignancy and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Extensive research has been conducted to enhance patient outcomes and develop effective prevention strategies, ranging from molecular mechanisms to clinical interventions. Single-cell sequencing, as a novel bioanalysis technology, has significantly contributed to the understanding of the global cognition and dynamic changes in liver cancer. However, there is a lack of bibliometric analysis in this specific research area. Therefore, the objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of the knowledge structure and research hotspots in the field of single-cell sequencing in liver cancer research through the use of bibliometrics.

Method

Publications related to the application of single-cell sequencing technology to liver cancer research as of December 31, 2023, were searched on the web of science core collection (WoSCC) database. VOSviewers, CiteSpace, and R package “bibliometrix” were used to conduct this bibliometric analysis.

Results

A total of 331 publications from 34 countries, primarily led by China and the United States, were included in this study. The research focuses on the application of single cell sequencing technology to liver cancer, and the number of related publications has been increasing year by year. The main research institutions involved in this field are Fudan University, Sun Yat-Sen University, and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Frontiers in Immunology and Nature Communications is the most popular journal in this field, while Cell is the most frequently co-cited journal. These publications are authored by 2799 individuals, with Fan Jia and Zhou Jian having the most published papers, and Llovet Jm being the most frequently co-cited author. The use of single cell sequencing to explore the immune microenvironment of liver cancer, as well as its implications in immunotherapy and chemotherapy, remains the central focus of this field. The emerging research hotspots are characterized by keywords such as 'Gene-Expression', 'Prognosis', 'Tumor Heterogeneity', 'Immunoregulation', and 'Tumor Immune Microenvironment'.

Conclusion

This is the first bibliometric study that comprehensively summarizes the research trends and developments on the application of single cell sequencing in liver cancer. The study identifies recent research frontiers and hot directions, providing a valuable reference for researchers exploring the landscape of liver cancer, understanding the composition of the immune microenvironment, and utilizing single-cell sequencing technology to guide and enhance the prognosis of liver cancer patients.
Health-related quality of life of children with X-linked hypophosphatemia in Germany
Authors: Klein Martin , Obermaier Michael , Mutze Helena , Wilden Sophia Maria , Rehberg Mirko , Schlingmann Karl Peter , Schmidt Dorothee , Metzing Oliver , Hübner Angela , Richter-Unruh Anette , Kemper Markus J. , Weitz Marcus , Wühl Elke , Jorch Norbert , Patzer Ludwig , Freiberg Clemens , Heger Sabine , Ziviknjak Miroslav , Schnabel Dirk , Haffner Dieter ,   on behalf of the German Society for Pediatric Nephrology (GPN) and the German Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology and Diabetology (DGPAED)
Published: June 2024

Background

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is a rare inherited phosphate-wasting disorder associated with bone and dental complications. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is reduced in XLH patients on conventional treatment with phosphate supplements and active vitamin D, while information on patients treated with burosumab is rare.

Methods

HRQoL was assessed in 63 pediatric XLH patients participating in a prospective, observational study and patient registry in Germany using the KIDSCREEN-52 survey instrument and standardized qualitative interviews.

Results

The median age of the XLH patients was 13.2 years (interquartile range 10.6 – 14.6). At the time of the survey, 55 (87%) patients received burosumab and 8 (13%) conventional treatment. Forty-six patients (84%) currently being treated with burosumab previously received conventional treatment. Overall, HRQoL was average compared to German reference values (mean ± SD: self-report, 53.36 ± 6.47; caregivers’ proxy, 51.33 ± 7.15) and even slightly above average in some dimensions, including physical, mental, and social well-being. In general, XLH patients rated their own HRQoL higher than their caregivers. In qualitative interviews, patients and caregivers reported that, compared with conventional therapy, treatment with burosumab reduced stress, bone pain, and fatigue, improved physical health, and increased social acceptance by peers and the school environment.

Conclusions

In this real-world study in pediatric XLH patients, HRQoL was average or even slightly above that of the general population, likely due to the fact that the vast majority of patients had their treatment modality switched from conventional treatment to burosumab resulting in improved physical health and well-being.

Graphical abstract
Promoting clinical reasoning in undergraduate Family Medicine curricula through concept mapping: a qualitative approach
Authors: Fonseca Marta , Marvão Pedro , Rosado-Pinto Patrícia , Rendas António , Heleno Bruno
Published: June 2024

Clinical reasoning is a crucial skill for physicians, enabling them to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application. The gap between basic sciences and clinical practice persists as a challenge, with traditional teaching methods yet to effectively bridge it. Concept maps (CMs), visual tools for organizing and connecting knowledge, hold promise for enhancing clinical reasoning in the undergraduate medical curriculum. However, further research is required to ascertain if CMs facilitate clinical reasoning development in medical students transitioning from basic sciences to clinical practice. This study aims to delineate how CMs can facilitate clinical reasoning in patients with multimorbidity within undergraduate Family Medicine curricula, as perceived by students and tutors, and to understand the implementation process and resources required. This exploratory qualitative study formed a part of an action research project. While introducing an educational intervention to 5th-year medical students, we conducted a qualitative evaluation. Subsequently, semi-structured group interviews were conducted with students, and a focus group was conducted with tutors. Three main educational impacts were identified: integration of clinical information, support for patient management and care plan, and collaborative learning. Key aspects for successful CM implementation included clear instructions for map construction, using user-friendly software, allocating sufficient time for the task, encouraging group discussion of CMs, and incorporating tutor feedback. CMs are pedagogical tools that facilitate clinical information integration and support management and treatment plans, helping students better understand multimorbidity patients and promoting some components of clinical reasoning in undergraduate medical education.
Exploring of miR-155-5p, miR-181b-5p, and miR-454-3p Expressions in Circulating Cell-Free RNA: Insights from Peripheral Blood of Uveal Malignant Melanoma Patients
Authors: Masoumeh Hassani , Tunay Doğan , Demet Ödemiş Akdeniz , Samuray Tuncer , Hülya Yazıcı
Published: June 2024

The identification of novel non-invasive biomarkers is imperative for the early diagnosis and monitoring of malignant melanoma. The objective of this study is to examine the expression levels of miR-155-5p, miR-181b-5p, and miR-454-3p in circulating cell-free RNA obtained from plasma samples of the 72 uveal malignant melanoma patients and to compare these levels with those of 72 healthy controls. The analysis showed that the expression level of the miR-181b-5p has increased 9.25 fold, and expression level of miR-155-5p has increased 6.67 fold, and miR-454-3p expression level has increased 4.14 fold in the patient group compared with the levels in the healthy control group (p = 0.005). It was found that the high expression levels of the three miRNAs were statistically significant in patients compared with in the healthy control group. The statistical evaluations between miRNA expression levels and clinical data showed that miR-155-5p had significant association with radiation therapy (p = 0.040), and miR-454-3p showed a significant association with smoking and alcohol use respectively (p = 0.009, and p = 0.026). The significantly elevated expression levels of miR-181b-5p, miR-155-5p, and miR-454-3p in the circulating cell-free RNA of plasma from uveal melanoma patients, in comparison to those in the healthy control group, suggest the potential usefulness of these biomarkers for both early diagnosis and disease monitoring. However, more extensive and future studies are needed to use these molecules in early diagnosis and disease monitoring.
The Manganari's Legacy: an atlas of the Black Sea, Drawn from Nature
Authors: Constantinescu Stefan , Budileanu Marius
Published: June 2024

This article delves into the historical and cartographic significance of the Manganari Atlas, a monumental work that marked a pivotal moment in the maritime cartography of the Black Sea during the nineteenth century. Originating from the Russian Empire's strategic desire to enhance navigation and assert its presence in the Black Sea, the atlas represents not only a technical achievement in mapping but also a cultural and political artifact of its time. Through a meticulous analysis of the atlas, this study highlights the challenges encountered in its creation, the technical innovations employed, and the political motivations driving its development. The atlas is examined not merely as a collection of maps but as a synthesis of the cultural, linguistic, and geopolitical landscape of the era, reflecting the Russian Empire's aspirations. The panoramic images by Kukharevsky are particularly noted for their potential to aid in coastal geomorphological studies and the reconstruction of various geographical landscapes. The article also addresses the necessity of understanding the technical aspects of cartography for accurate analysis and comparison of historical maps.
Aphakia treatment with sutureless scleral fixation or retropupillary iris-claw intraocular lens implantation: visual acuity, anterior segment and keratometry outcomes
Authors: Toptan Müslüm , Yilmaz Omer Faruk , Oguz Halit
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Evaluation of anterior segment parameters using the Scheimpflug corneal topography 1 year after surgery in patients who underwent sutureless scleral fixation intraocular lens (SFIOL) implantation using the modified Yamane technique and retropupillary iris-claw intraocular lens (RPIOL) implantation.

Methods

A total of 60 eyes from 57 patients who underwent sutureless SFIOL implantation and 57 eyes from 52 patients who underwent RPIOL implantation were included. Anterior chamber depth (ACD), anterior chamber angle (ACA), anterior chamber volume (ACV), anterior–posterior corneal astigmatism, and keratometric values were assessed using the Scheimpflug corneal topography (Pentacam HR, Germany).

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in postoperative UCVA and BCVA between the sutureless SFIOL and the RPIOL group (p = 0.236, p = 0.293, respectively). While there was no statistically significant difference in postoperative IOP between the two groups (p = 0.223), a statistically significant decrease in IOP was observed in both groups (p < 0.001). While there was no statistical difference between the sutureless SFIOL group and the RPIOL group in terms of spherical value (p = 0.441) and spherical equivalence (p = 0.237), there was a statistically significant difference in cylindrical value (p < 0.001). While there was a statistical difference in anterior astigmatism (p < 0.001), there was no statistical difference in posterior astigmatism (p = 0.405). There was no statistical difference in terms of ACV, ACD, and ACA between the sutureless SFIOL and the RPIOL group (p = 0.812, p = 0.770, p = 0.401, respectively).

Conclusion

In this study, although there was a statistical difference in cylindrical value and anterior corneal astigmatism between the sutureless SFIOL and RPIOL groups, vision was not affected. According to this study, sutureless SFIOL and RPIOL are two successful methods in terms of visual acuity, anterior segment, and keratometry outcomes in aphakic patients after phacoemulsification.
An Economic Framework for Creating AI-Augmented Solutions Across Countries Over Time
Authors: Kim Jin Sik , Yeo Jinsoo , Jain Hemant
Published: June 2024

This paper examines the potential for collaboration between countries with differential resource endowments to advance AI innovation and achieve mutual economic benefits. Our framework juxtaposes economies with a comparative advantage in AI-capital and those with a comparative advantage in tech-labor, analyzing how these endowments can lead to enhanced comparative advantages over time. Through the application of various production functions and the use of Edgeworth boxes, our analysis reveals that strategic collaboration based on comparative advantage can yield Pareto improvements for both developed and developing countries. Nonetheless, this study also discusses the challenges of uneven benefit distribution, particularly the risk of “brain drain” from developing nations. Contributing to the discourse on the economics of AI and international collaboration, this study highlights the importance of thoughtful strategic planning to promote equitable and sustainable AI development worldwide.
A comprehensive experimental and DFT analysis on thermoelectric properties of Sb, Te co-doped Bi2Se3 polycrystals
Authors: Puthran Suchitra , Hegde Ganesh Shridhar , Prabhu A. N. , Mishra Vikash , Yang Tzu-Yi , Kuo Y. K.
Published: June 2024

As tellurides and selenides of Bismuth are extensively used thermoelectric materials in the low-temperature range with refrigeration application, A concerted effort is put forth to boost the ZT by co-doping the pristine Bi2Se3 with antimony (Sb) on cation end and tellurium (Te) on anion side of the compound. The double sintered solid-state reaction method is employed in the preparation of Bi2Se3 and (Bi1−xSbx)2Se2.7Te0.3 polycrystalline pellets, with x = 0.02, 0.04, and 0.06. The sample exhibits a rhombohedral structure with the space group of R $$\overline{3 }$$

3
¯

m. FESEM and EDAX analysis are used to confirm surface morphology and elemental composition of the produced samples. The thermoelectric measurements for the pristine and co-doped samples were conducted by the physical property measurement system as well as a considerable increase in the Seebeck coefficient of − 115 µV/K is observed for 0.02 doping of the Sb which is 4.2 times greater than as for pristine (S = − 28 µV/K). Higher concentration doping (x = 0.04, 0.06) has not reflected any Seebeck coefficient advancement. In contrast, the lowest total thermal conductivity at a low-temperature regime (< 50 K) is observed for x = 0.06 doping concentration which at near room temperature increases beyond the pristine thermal conductivity; whereas, x = 0.02, 0.04 doping concentration shows a decrement in total thermal conductivity at low, at room temperature region the values are almost equivalent to that of pristine. The co-doped samples’ electrical resistivity is substantially less than pristine sample. The highest power factor of 3 × 10–4 µW/mK2 is obtained for the x = 0.02 sample. The highest ZT value for the x = 0.02 sample is almost 28 times more than a pristine sample. We conducted a study where we combined experimental and DFT methods to investigate thermoelectric properties incorporated into pristine and doped with antimony and tellurium on Bi2Se3. We have employed this combination to investigate the partial density of states, Seebeck coefficient, power factor using the Boltzmann transport equation. Theoretical thermoelectric data were derived and compared to experimental observations. Hence, using combined experimental and theoretical investigations helps to predict with higher accuracy of thermoelectric properties of semiconducting materials.
Enhanced photocatalytic abilities of innovative NbTaZrMoW high-entropy alloys (HEAs): a comparative analysis with its high entropy oxide (HEO) counterpart
Authors: Zakir O. , Guler O. , Idouhli R. , Nayad A. , Khadiri M. E. , Guler S. H. , Abouelfida A. , Dikici B.
Published: June 2024

The photocatalytic performance of high entropy alloy (HEA) and its oxide form (high entropy oxide, HEO) have been evaluated in this study. The HEA, composed of Nb, Ta, Zr, Mo, and W powders, was synthesized through a mechanical alloying process for 120 h. This process was carried out under a high-purity Ar atmosphere to prevent oxidation. Subsequently, the HEA was converted into HEO via a mechano-thermal oxidation method 900 °C for 12 h. The photocatalytic activity of both oxidized and non-oxidized samples was systematically evaluated by degradation of methyl blue (MB) under UV irradiation. Electron dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to investigate the structural and chemical features of the alloys. Furthermore, BET surface area analysis and Zeta potential measurements were conducted to understand the alloys’ surface properties and stability in aqueous solutions. The results showed that the HEA has a remarkable photodegradation performance of around 58.77% which is two times higher than that observed with the HEO.

Graphical abstract
Knock-Out of ACY-1 Like Gene in Spodoptera litura Supports the Notion that FACs Improve Nitrogen Metabolism
Authors: Maruoka Tsuyoshi , Shirai Yu , Daimon Takaaki , Fujii Rei , Dannoura Masako , Seidl-Adams Irmgard , Mori Naoki , Yoshinaga Naoko
Published: June 2024

Volicitin [N-(17-hydroxylinolenoyl)-L-glutamine] and N-linolenoyl-L-glutamine were originally identified in the regurgitant of Spodoptera exigua larvae. These fatty acid amino acid conjugates (FACs) are known to be elicitors that induce plants to release volatile compounds which in turn attract natural enemies of the larvae such as parasitic wasps. FAC concentrations are regulated by enzymatic biosynthesis and hydrolysis in the intestine of Lepidoptera larvae. It has been proposed that FAC metabolism activates glutamine synthetase and plays an important role in nitrogen metabolism in larvae. In this study, we identified candidate genes encoding a FACs hydrolase in Spodoptera litura using genomic information of various related lepidopteran species in which FACs hydrolases have been reported. We analyzed the importance of FAC hydrolysis on caterpillar performance with CRISPR/Cas9 knock outs. Larvae of strains with an inactive FACs hydrolase excreted FACs in their feces. They absorbed 30% less nitrogen from the diet compared to WT caterpillars resulting in a reduction of their body weight of up to 40% compared to wild type caterpillars. These results suggest that the hydrolysis of FACs is an important metabolism for insects and that FACs are important for larval growth.
The Value of Researcher Reflexivity in the Coproduction of Public Policy: A Practical Perspective
Authors: Cinamon Nair Yamini , Fabian Mark
Published: June 2024

Coproduction of public policy involves bringing together technical experts, practitioners, and people with lived experience of that policy to collaboratively and deliberatively codesign it. Coproduction can leverage different ways of knowing and evaluative perspectives on a policy area to enhance the legitimacy and efficaciousness of policymaking. This article argues that researcher reflexivity is crucial for getting the most out of coproduction ethically and epistemically. By reflecting on our positionality, habitus, and biases, we can gain new insights into how we affect the research design, production and analysis of data, and communication of findings. This reflexivity helps to disrupt power dynamics that underly research and policymaking, helping to realise the radical potential of coproduction to democratise practice, empower citizens, and make research more relational. We demonstrate the value of reflexivity through an analysis of our work coproducing a theory of thriving in financial hardship in partnership with the UK national anti-poverty charity Turn2us. We contextualise our advocacy for reflexivity within the practical realities of advancing coproduction in the UK today.
The Weighted p-Norm Weight Set Decomposition for Multiobjective Discrete Optimization Problems
Authors: Helfrich Stephan , Prinz Kathrin , Ruzika Stefan
Published: June 2024

Many solution algorithms for multiobjective optimization problems are based on scalarization methods that transform the multiobjective problem into a scalar-valued optimization problem. In this article, we study the theory of weighted $$p$$
p
-norm scalarizations. These methods minimize the distance induced by a weighted $$p$$
p
-norm between the image of a feasible solution and a given reference point. We provide a comprehensive theory of the set of eligible weights and, in particular, analyze the topological structure of the normalized weight set. This set is composed of connected subsets, called weight set components which are in a one-to-one relation with the set of optimal images of the corresponding weighted $$p$$
p
-norm scalarization. Our work generalizes and complements existing results for the weighted sum and the weighted Tchebycheff scalarization and provides new insights into the structure of the set of all Pareto optimal solutions.
Sinusoidal oscillator parametrically forced to robust hyperchaotic states: the lumpkin case
Authors: Petrzela Jiri , Polak Ladislav
Published: June 2024

The objective of this paper is to showcase the capability of the conventional circuit structure known as the Lumpkin oscillator, widely employed in practical applications, to operate in robust chaotic or hyperchaotic steady states. Through numerical analysis, we demonstrate that the generated signals exhibit a significant level of unpredictability and randomness, as evidenced by positive Lyapunov exponents, approximate entropy, recurrence plots, and other indicators of complex dynamics. We establish the structural stability of strange attractors through design and practical construction of a flow-equivalent fourth-order chaotic oscillator, followed by experimental measurements. The oscilloscope screenshots captured align well with the plane projections of the approximate solutions derived from the underlying mathematical models.
Evaluation of 21 different media on shoot regeneration in 11 cultivars of citrus using juvenile tissue
Authors: Meira Filipe Sathler , Shao Min , Niedz Randall P. , Thomson James G.
Published: June 2024

Citrus is one of the most important global fruit crops, with oranges accounting for more than half the total production. Citrus can be genetically engineered for improved traits, but the process is severely limited by shoot regeneration rates, especially in commercial varieties. Although standardizing a transformation protocol is difficult due to genotype and season dependencies, use of an optimal mineral nutrient basal culture medium increases the success of recovering transgenic Citrus cells. The purpose of this study is to improve shoot regeneration from juvenile tissue in multiple Citrus genotypes. Explants of 11 Citrus cultivars were regenerated in 21 published media to determine the optimal media for each genotype. The number of shoots from juvenile tissue were counted 90 days after the explants were first cultured. The type of basal medium strongly affected the rates of shoot regeneration from Citrus juvenile tissue, and the effectiveness was negatively correlated with the level of ammonium. For each Citrus grouping, optimized media formulations were determined, and potential improvements were predicted. In general, medium R7100 appeared to be the most effective for regeneration of the Citrus genotypes tested.
Generalisable sensor-free frustration detection in online learning environments using machine learning
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Mustaneer , Ollington Robert , Yeom Soonja , Ollington Nadia
Published: June 2024

Learning can generally be categorised into three domains, which include cognitive (thinking), affective (emotions or feeling) and psychomotor (physical or kinesthetic). In the learner model, acknowledging the affective aspects of learning is important for a range of learner outcomes, including motivation, persistence, and engagement. Learners’ affective states can be detected using physical (e.g. cameras) and physiological sensors (e.g., EEG) in online learning. Although these detectors demonstrate high accuracy, they raise privacy concerns for learners and present challenges in deploying them on a large scale to larger groups of students or in classroom settings. Consequently, researchers have designed an alternative method that can recognise students’ affective states at any point during online learning from their interaction with a computer-based learning platform (i.e. intelligent tutoring systems) without using any sensors. Existing sensor-free affect detectors however, are less accurate and not directly generalisable to other domains and systems. This research focuses on developing generalisable sensor-free affect detectors to identify students’ frustration during online learning using machine learning classifiers. The detectors were built by identifying minimal optimal features associated with frustration from the high-dimensional feature space through a series of experiments on a real-world students’ affective dataset, which are generalisable across various learning platforms and domains. To evaluate their accuracy and generalisability, the detectors’ performance was validated on two independent datasets collected from different educational institutions. The experimental results show that cost-sensitive Bayesian classifiers can achieve higher affect detection accuracies with a small number of generalisable features compared to other classifiers.
Systematic Review of Long Term Sinonasal Outcomes in CRSwNP after Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: A call for Unified and Standardized Criteria and Terms
Authors: Rodriguez-Van Strahlen Camilo , Arancibia Claudio , Calvo-Henriquez Christian , Mullol Joaquim , Alobid Isam
Published: June 2024

Purpose of Review

To present current evidence in long-term (> 5 years) results after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) focusing on Patients Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) and other sinonasal outcomes while assessing the role of ESS in the treatment of CRSwNP, and identifying outcomes which affect the results of ESS and defining recommendations for future studies.

Recent Findings

Long-term results of ESS in CRSwNP can be branched in PROMs and other objective measurements. Despite the heterogeneity of reported outcomes make it difficult to perform comparisons and meta-analysis, ESS improves PROMs, including symptoms, QOL and olfaction. Objectives outcomes such as NPS, LMS, type of surgery, or recurrence and revision surgery don’t have a clear role in long-term results. Clustering patients suggest asthma, N-ERD, allergy, eosinophil count and IL-5 could have a role in predicting recurrence and severe disease.

Long-term studies of CRSwNP treated with ESS are scarce. There is a significant need to standardize the report of results. The use of tools as SNOT-22, NPS, validated smell tests, defined criteria for disease recurrence and control and ESS extension in a unified systematic way could allow better comparisons between treatments in the new era of biologics.
Is There a Role for SGLT2 Inhibitors in Patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease?
Authors: Siddiqui Rehma , Obi Yoshitsugu , Dossabhoy Neville R. , Shafi Tariq
Published: June 2024

Purpose of Review

Chronic kidney disease and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) are well-established risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of mortality in the dialysis population. Conventional therapies, such as statins, blood pressure control, and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade, have inadequately addressed this cardiovascular risk, highlighting the unmet need for effective treatment strategies. Sodium–glucose transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have demonstrated significant renal and cardiovascular benefits among patients with type 2 diabetes, heart failure, or CKD at risk of progression. Unfortunately, efficacy data in dialysis patients is lacking as ESKD was an exclusion criterion for all major clinical trials of SGLT2 inhibitors. This review explores the potential of SGLT2 inhibitors in improving cardiovascular outcomes among patients with ESKD, focusing on their direct cardiac effects.

Recent Findings

Recent clinical and preclinical studies have shown promising data for the application of SGLT2 inhibitors to the dialysis population. SGLT2 inhibitors may provide cardiovascular benefits to dialysis patients, not only indirectly by preserving the remaining kidney function and improving anemia but also directly by lowering intracellular sodium and calcium levels, reducing inflammation, regulating autophagy, and alleviating oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress within cardiomyocytes and endothelial cells.

This review examines the current clinical evidence and experimental data supporting the use of SGLT2 inhibitors, discusses its potential safety concerns, and outlines ongoing clinical trials in the dialysis population. Further research is needed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitor use among patients with ESKD.
Multi-Dimensional Healthy Aging Interventions: Evidence from an Age-Friendly Community Program in Italy
Authors: Lucifora Claudio , Villar Elena
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we evaluate a pre-pandemic multi-dimensional healthy aging program promoted by an Italian private Foundation to provide new insights on interventions that address both health and social needs within an age-friendly community framework. Using propensity score matching and linear regression models, with specific controls for individuals’ self-selection into the program, we compare lifestyles, physical health, mental conditions, and healthy life expectancy of subjects enrolled into the program with those of similar, but non-enrolled, subjects. Our main finding is that, to be more effective, healthy aging interventions should target the key dimensions of aging - physical, mental, and social - in a holistic approach. Indeed, we show that the multi-dimensionality of the healthy aging intervention under study - the contemporaneous target of older adults’ physical, mental, and social health - is crucial in improving both quantity and quality of life.
Estimating Biogeochemical Rates Using a Computationally Efficient Lagrangian Approach
Authors: Gross Edward , Holleman Rusty , Kimmerer Wim , Kraus Tamara , Bergamaschi Brian , Burdick-Yahya Scott , Senn David
Published: June 2024

Nutrient concentrations in many estuaries have increased over the past century due to increases in wastewater discharge and increased agricultural intensity, contributing to multiple environmental problems. Numerous biogeochemical and physical processes in estuaries influence nutrient concentrations during transport, resulting in complex spatial and temporal variability and challenges identifying predominant processes and their rates. Mechanistic models which require these rates to quantify biogeochemical processes become complex and difficult to calibrate as the number of processes and parameters grows, owing to the high dimensionality of the parameter space and the computational cost of simultaneously modeling the transport and transformations of constituents. We developed a modeling approach that decouples transport from transformations, enabling fast, data-driven exploration of the parameter space. The approach extracted information including water age, cumulative exposure to specific habitats, and mean water depth exposure from a hydrodynamic model. Using this information, a biogeochemical model was implemented to predict ammonium and nitrate concentrations in a Lagrangian frame. The model performed each simulation in milliseconds on a laptop computer, allowing the fitting of rate parameters for key transformations by optimization. The optimization used fixed station nitrate observations and the model was then validated against high-resolution mapping observations of ammonium and nitrate. The results suggest that the observed spatial and temporal variation can be largely represented with five transformation processes and their associated rates. Dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) losses occurred only in shallow vegetated areas in the model, highlighting that biogeochemical processes in these areas should be included in DIN models.
Unveiling cystinosis in India
Authors: Heroor Aniruddh , Verma Anshuman , Achanta Divya Sree , Edward Deepak Paul , Ramappa Muralidhar
Published: June 2024

Background

Cystinosis, a rare autosomal recessive disease, stems from genetic alterations in the CTNS gene, leading to a malfunction of lysosomal ‘cystinosin’ protein. This dysfunction causes intracellular cystine accumulation, resulting in nephropathic and ocular abnormalities. Cystinosis is relatively rare in Asian countries, partly due to underreporting and lack of awareness, and cases often lack sufficient genetic evidence to support their diagnosis. This study presents a descriptive case series involving four Indian patients with cystinosis, elucidating clinical and genetic aspects.

Methods

All four patients underwent comprehensive ophthalmic evaluations. The corneal cystine crystal (CCC) score was determined using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) and in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM). Genetic testing was performed using whole exome sequencing (WES).

Results

Corneal crystal deposition, a hallmark of cystinosis, was evident in all cases. Systemic analysis revealed manifestations such as polyuria, bony abnormalities, growth retardation, hypothyroidism, and developmental delay. Genetic testing in two patients identified a homozygous pathogenic variant c.18_21delGACT (p.Thr7PhefsX7) in the CTNS gene, previously reported to cause cystinosis in different ethnic populations.

Conclusions

Our case series sheds light on underrepresented cases of cystinosis in the Indian population. The rarity of this condition poses diagnostic challenges, leading to delayed or inaccurate diagnoses. AS-OCT can serve as a viable alternative to IVCM for assessing corneal crystal density status in cystinosis. Timely recognition and management are crucial in preventing complications, and the inclusion of genetic testing can expedite cystinosis diagnosis.
Transcriptional dysregulation and insights into clinical implications in melanoma
Authors: Shen Chen , Chen Mengjiao , Nian Xuanbingning , Li Jun , Tao Juan
Published: June 2024

Melanoma, a highly prevalent cancer worldwide, exhibits remarkable diversity and plasticity, with the adverse prognosis of advanced melanoma remaining a focal point of investigation. Despite the emergence of novel drugs and combination therapies improving patient outcomes, challenges such as drug resistance and incomplete mechanistic understanding persist. Transcriptional programs play a pivotal role in determining the characteristics of both normal and tumour cells, with their dysregulation of these programs being a hallmark of melanoma. Abnormalities in transcription regulation not only impact the characteristics of melanoma cells but also influence the tumor’s metabolism and immune microenvironment, forming a complex network in tumours. Thus, understanding these changes comprehensively is crucial for unravelling the mechanisms underlying melanoma initiation, progression, response to targeted and immune therapies, and treatment resistance. This review primarily explores the transcriptional features in normal melanocytes and melanoma cells, emphasizing their profound impact on cell metabolism and immune evasion. Furthermore, the plasticity of melanoma cells and its relationship with treatment resistance and metastasis are highlighted, emphasizing the importance of targeting dysregulated transcriptional factors and pathways. Finally, potential clinical implications in targeting transcriptional abnormalities are highlighted, particularly in metastatic or treatment-resistant melanomas. This comprehensive overview aims to contribute to the advancement of melanoma research and the development of precise and effective treatments.