bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RNA sequencing comparing centenarian and middle‐aged women lymphoblastoid cell lines identifies age‐related dysregulated expression of genes encoding selenoproteins, heat shock proteins, CD99, and BID
Authors: Voinsky Irena , Goldenberg‐Bogner Ofir , Israel‐Elgali Ifat , Volkov Hadas , Puzianowska‐Kuźnicka Monika , Shomron Noam , Gurwitz David
Published: October 2024

Women typically live longer than men, and constitute the majority of centenarians. We applied RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐seq) of blood‐derived lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) from women aged 60‐80 years and centenarians (100‐105 years), validated the RNA‐seq findings by real‐time PCR, and additionally measured the differentially expressed genes in LCLs from young women aged 20‐35 years. Top RNA‐seq genes with differential expression between the age groups included three selenoproteins (GPX1, SELENOW, SELENOH) and three heat shock proteins (HSPA6, HSPA1A, HSPA1B), with the highest expression in LCLs from young women, indicating that young women are better protected from oxidative stress. The expression of two additional genes, BID encoding BH3‐interacting domain death agonist and CD99 encoding CD99 antigen, showed unique age dependence, with similar expression levels in young and centenarian women while exhibiting higher and lower expression levels, respectively, in LCLs from women aged 60‐80 years compared with the two other age groups. This age‐related differential expression of BID and CD99 suggests elevated inflammation susceptibility in middle‐aged women compared with either young or centenarian women. Our findings, once validated with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells and further cell types, may lead to novel healthy aging diagnostics and therapeutics.
Clinical usefulness of hybrid endoscopic submucosal dissection for T1b colorectal carcinomas ≤20 mm to ensure adequate vertical margins
Authors: Takehara Yudai , Yamashita Ken , Morimoto Shin , Tanino Fumiaki , Yamamoto Noriko , Kamigaichi Yuki , Tanaka Hidenori , Takigawa Hidehiko , Urabe Yuji , Kuwai Toshio , Arihiro Koji , Oka Shiro
Published: October 2024

Objective

To evaluate endoscopic resection strategies for cT1b colorectal carcinomas (CRCs) ≤20 mm to determine strategies that enable adequate vertical margins (VMs).

Methods

We enrolled 128 consecutive patients with cT1b colorectal carcinomas ≤20 mm resected by endoscopic mucosal resection or hybrid endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Tumor lifting conditions after submucosal injection were classified into type A (lifting, soft dome‐like), type B (lifting, hard trapezoid‐like), and non‐lifting (positive non‐lifting sign). Predictors of positive VMs (VM 1) and adequate VMs were identified.

Results

All non‐lifting tumors were resected by hybrid ESD and VMs were ≥500 µm. Vertical margin 1 tumors were only found in the endoscopic mucosal resection group, in which, the proportion of type B tumors with VM 1 was significantly higher than that of tumors with negative VMs (p < 0.01). Type A tumors showed no significant between‐group differences. Among type B tumors, the proportion of VMs ≥500 µm was significantly higher (p < 0.01) and the VM distance was significantly longer (p < 0.01) in the hybrid ESD group than in the endoscopic mucosal resection group.

Conclusions

Hybrid ESD can be selected for type B tumors to ensure adequate VMs.
CD24 regulates liver immune response and ameliorates acute hepatic injury through controlling hepatic macrophages
Authors: Zheng Jian , Xiao Jun , Fan Yatong , Zheng Honggang , Liu Hongyu , Xiang Jie , Hai Lei , Wang Yan , Zhang Xuejun
Published: October 2024

Liver injury releases danger‐associated molecular patterns, which trigger the immune response. CD24 negatively regulates the immune response by binding with danger‐associated molecular patterns, but the specific role of CD24 in modulating macrophage‐related inflammation during liver injury remains largely unexplored. Here, we aimed to investigate the mechanisms of macrophage CD24 in the development of liver injury. Our results show that CD24 expression is upregulated primarily in hepatic macrophages (HMs) during acute liver injury. CD24‐deficient mice exhibited more severe liver injury and showed a significantly higher frequency and number of HMs, particularly Ly6Chi monocyte‐derived macrophages. Mechanistically, the CD24‐Siglec‐G interaction plays a vital role in mitigating acute liver injury. CD24‐mediated inhibitory signaling in HMs primarily limits downstream NF‐κB and p38 MAPK activation through the recruitment of SHP1. Our work unveils the critical role of macrophage CD24 in negatively regulating innate immune responses and protecting against acute liver injury, thus providing potential therapeutic targets for liver‐associated diseases.
High–Field EPR Studies on Three Binuclear μ–Oxo–Bridged Iron(III) Complexes: Na4[Fe(edta)]2O ⋅ 3H2O, [Fe(phen)2(H2O)]2O(NO3)4 ⋅ 5H2O and [Fe(salen)]2O
Authors: Ozarowski Andrew
Published: October 2024

A High–Field, High–Frequency Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (HFEPR) study was performed on the binuclear μ–oxo bridged complexes Na4[Fe(edta)]2O ⋅ 3H2O, [Fe(phen)2(H2O)]2O(NO3)4 ⋅ 5H2O and [Fe(salen)]2O, where edtaH4 = ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, phen=1,10–phenanthroline and salenH2 is NN′–ethylenebis(salicylideneimine). The spin Hamiltonian parameters were determined for the thermally excited spin states with spin S=1, 2 and 3. The contributions to the zero–field splitting due to the local zero field splitting on individual iron ions and to the anisotropic metal–metal interactions were evaluated. Surprisingly large magnitudes of the anisotropic exchange interactions were found.
Nickel Bis(dithiolene) Complexes and Tetrathiafulvalenes from Sterically Hindered Di‐ and Tetra‐Substituted Dithiine‐dithiolo‐thione Precursors
Authors: Mroweh Nabil , Abhervé Alexandre , Auban‐Senzier Pascale , Pop Flavia , Avarvari Narcis
Published: October 2024

Three variants of 5,6‐dihydro‐1,4‐dithiin‐2,3‐(1’,3’‐dithiole‐2’‐thione) (dddt) bearing up to four substituents on the ethylene bridge have been obtained by hetero‐Diels‐Alder reaction. The substituted dddt derivatives have the advantage of providing modulation of the steric hindrance and stereogenic centres, and represent valuable intermediates for both tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) and metal‐dithiolene complexes. Within this work, disubstituted and tetrasubstituted dddt derivatives have been used for the synthesis of Ni(II) monoanionic and neutral complexes, as well as for tetra‐ and octa‐methylated EDT‐TTF and BEDT‐TTF (EDT=ethylenedithio, BEDT=bis(ethylenedithio)) derivatives. While the influence of the bulkiness and number of the substituents is observed in the solid state packing of both types of materials (complexes and TTF), the absence of the counterion in the case of the neutral complexes translated into increased intermolecular interactions between the donors and the formation of 1D and 2D layers. The two examples of tetrasubstituted TTF radical cation salts reported in here show semiconducting behaviour due to the formation of dimers and lateral interactions through the S atoms. Our findings highlight the importance of substitution on these type of dddt precursors and their potential for electroactive molecular materials.
Individuals From Higher Social Classes View Charitable Giving as a Solution to Societal Issues
Authors: Klebl Christoph , Chertavian Callum , Jetten Jolanda
Published: October 2024

Charitable giving is often seen as a flexible and efficient way to address societal issues. However, it has also been criticised for having the potential to undermine governmental responsibility for providing public services and leading to concentrations of power. Across three studies, we investigated whether high social class is linked to viewing charitable giving favourably and as fulfilling an important function in society. We found correlational (Studies 1 and 2; United Kingdom and Netherlands; N = 1613) and experimental (Study 3; United Kingdom; N = 400) evidence that high social class is linked to more favourable views of charitable giving. Social class, however, was not associated with preferences for policies aimed at promoting charitable giving over systemic policies when targeting specific social issues. These findings suggest that social class influences general attitudes towards philanthropy but does not consistently guide preferences for specific policies addressing social issues.
Comparison of MIB‐1‐Specific Membrane Staining in Hyalinising Trabecular Tumor Using Mainstream Automated Immunohistochemical Staining Platforms
Authors: Hong Bo , Xu Yanfei , Xiao Yufei , Yu Xiaoyan
Published: October 2024

Background

MIB‐1, a monoclonal antibody against Ki‐67, exhibits specific membrane staining in the immunohistochemistry of hyalinising trabecular tumor (HTT). This specific staining pattern is crucial in diagnosing HTT. Although manual immunohistochemical staining remains the established method for MIB‐1 staining, this process is complicated, inconsistent, and prone to false negatives.

Methods

This study aimed to explore whether the classical reaction pattern can be replicated by utilizing the current mainstream automated immunohistochemical staining platforms. Furthermore, we examined the effect of different conditions on staining efficiency and their value in clinical diagnosis assistance.

Results

Specimens obtained from eight and six cases of HTT and non‐HTT, respectively, from a single center were stained using the manual staining method and the Dako Autostainer Link 48 (AS48), Dako Omnis, Ventana BenchMark ULTRA, and Leica BOND‐III automated immunohistochemical staining platforms. The Autostainer Link 48 was found to be the most stable staining platform, while the BenchMark ULTRA with primary antibody incubation at room temperature (RT) and the Omnis platform with antigen retrieval at pH 9.0 were able to reproduce membrane‐positive staining for MIB‐1 in the HTT specimens.

Conclusions

Our results offer crucial reference value for clinical diagnostic assistance.
Role of hsa‐miR‐543‐KIF5C/CALM3 pathway in neuron differentiation of embryonic mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: An Dongmei , Wang Yangfan , Wang Xin
Published: October 2024

Background

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC‐MSCs) have the ability to differentiate into nerve cells, which offers promising options for treating neurodegenerative diseases.

Aim

To explore the important regulatory molecules of hUC‐MSCs differentiation into neurons.

Method

In this research, the neural differentiation of hUC‐MSCs was induced by a low‐serum DMSO/BHA/DMEM medium. The GEO database was used to retrieve the relevant datasets. The starBase and miEAA databases were used for bioinformatics analysis. RT‐qPCR was used to detect the hsa‐miR‐543 level and the mRNA levels of NSE, NeuN, NF‐M, KIF5C, and CALM3. The protein levels of KIF5C and CALM3 were checked by western blotting.

Results

The expression levels of NSE, NeuN, NF‐M, KIF5C, and CALM3 were elevated, while hsa‐miR‐543 was under‐expressed in neuro‐induced hUC‐MSCs. The increase in NSE, NeuN, and NF‐M mRNA levels induced by DMSO/BHA/DMEM was partially reversed by the knockdown of KIF5C and CALM3 in hUC‐MSCs. Moreover, the transfection of hsa‐miR‐543 mimic partially countered the DMSO/BHA/DMEM‐induced elevation in NSE, NeuN, NF‐M, KIF5C, and CALM3 mRNA levels.

Conclusion

KIF5C and CALM3 facilitated the neuronal differentiation of hUC‐MSCs, whereas hsa‐miR‐543 exerted an opposing effect by negatively regulating KIF5C and CALM3.
Advancing Native Mass Spectrometry Toward Cellular Biology
Authors: Saikusa Kazumi
Published: October 2024

Protein structure, including various post‐translational modifications and higher‐order structures, regulates diverse biological functions. Native mass spectrometry (native MS) is a powerful analytical technique used to determine the masses of biomolecules, such as proteins and their complexes, while preserving their native folding in solution. This method provides structural information on the composition of monomers or complexes and the stoichiometry of subunits within each complex, significantly contributing to protein structural analysis. Native MS has evolved to incorporate top–down approaches, enabling the characterization of proteoforms and non‐covalent interactions between metabolites or proteins and specific targets. This perspective highlights the advancements in native MS for intracellular proteins and protein complexes, and discusses future research directions toward cellular biology.
Concurrent Inter‐Model Spread of Boreal Winter Westerly Jet Meridional Positions Between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres in CMIP6 Models
Authors: Tang Li , Lu Riyu , Lin Zhongda , Lu Jian , Chen Ziming
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the inter‐model spread of climatological extratropical westerly jets in boreal winter, using the historical simulation of 52 Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6) models from 1851 to 2014. The results show that there is a substantial spread in the latitude of the upper‐tropospheric westerly jet across models, characterised by large inter‐model standard deviations to both the poleward and equatorward sides of the jet axis, although the multi‐model ensemble mean (MME) performs well in simulating meridional position of westerly jets. Furthermore, we detect the consistency of inter‐model jet position spread between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, based on the inter‐model empirical orthogonal function (EOF) decomposition and correlation of regional‐averaged zonal winds. Specifically, the models that simulate the westerly jets poleward/equatorward relative to the MME position in one hemisphere also tend to simulate the jets poleward/equatorward in the other hemisphere. Accordingly, we define a global jet spread index to depict the concurrence of jet shift in the two hemispheres. The results of inter‐model regression analyses based on this index indicate that the models positioning the jets poleward than the MME tend to simulate a wider Hadley Cell, a poleward‐shifted Ferrel Cell in the Southern Hemisphere, enhanced precipitation in the subtropics and suppressed precipitation in the tropics, and warmer sea surface temperatures in the subtropics and mid‐latitudes. The present results suggest that improving the simulation of jet positions in climate models requires a comprehensive consideration of thermal states in the tropics and subtropics/mid latitudes.
Exploring methodological approaches used in network meta‐analysis of psychological interventions: A scoping review
Authors: Boonpattharatthiti Kansak , Ruenin Garin , Kulwong Pun , Lueawattanasakul Jitsupa , Saechao Chintra , Pitak Panitan , Caldwell Deborah M. , Chaiyakunapruk Nathorn , Dhippayom Teerapon
Published: October 2024

Psychological interventions are complex in nature and have been shown to benefit various clinical outcomes. Gaining insight into current practices would help identify specific aspects that need improvement to enhance the quality of network meta‐analysis (NMA) in this field. This scoping review aimed to explore methodological approaches in the NMA of psychological interventions. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL in September 2023. We included NMAs of psychological interventions of randomized controlled trials that reported clinical outcomes. Three independent researchers assessed the eligibility and extracted relevant data. The findings were presented using descriptive statistics. Of the 1827 articles identified, 187 studies were included. Prior protocol registration was reported in 130 studies (69.5%). Forty‐six studies (24.6%) attempted to search for gray literature. Ninety‐four studies (50.3%) explicitly assessed transitivity. Nearly three‐quarters (143 studies, 76.5%) classified treatment nodes by the type of psychological intervention, while 13 studies (7.0%) did so by lumping different intervention types into more broader intervention classes. Seven studies (3.7%) examined active components of the intervention using component NMA. Only three studies (1.6%) classified interventions based on factors affecting intervention practices, specifically intensity, provider, and delivery platform. Meanwhile, 29 studies (15.5%) explored the influential effects of these factors using meta‐regression, subgroup analysis, or sensitivity analysis. The certainty of evidence was assessed in 80 studies (42.8%). The methodological approach in NMAs of psychological interventions should be improved, specifically in classifying psychological interventions into treatment nodes, exploring the effects of intervention‐related factors, and assessing the certainty of evidence.
Prescribing patterns amongst UK dermatologists for the treatment of alopecia areata, female pattern hair loss, and frontal fibrosing alopecia
Authors: Frewen John , Alsaadi Dalia , Asfour Leila , Belmo Sharon , Bryden Alyson , Champagne Caroline , Clayton Nicola , Cooke Nicola , Cummins Donna M. , Fairhurst David , Farrant Paul , Hale Gordan , Holmes Susan , Harries Thomas , Jones Ruth , Karanovic Sanja , Kaur Manjit R. , Meah Nekma , Mowbray Megan , Rao Archana , Rouhani Nasim , Salmon Nicola , Takwale Anita , Wade Martin , Wong Sharon , Zaheri Shirin , Al‐Nuaimi Yusur , Harries Matthew
Published: October 2024

Background

Therapeutic management of hair loss is frequently complicated by a lack of high‐quality evidence and reliant on the use of unlicensed therapies. Treatment decision‐making is predominantly based on expert opinion, local availability, personal experience, and cost, which make informed choices challenging for clinicians and patients in this area.

Objectives

The aims were to determine prescribing patterns amongst UK Dermatologists with a special interest in hair disorders, when treating mild‐moderate alopecia areata (AA), severe AA (including alopecia totalis/alopecia universalis), female pattern hair loss (FPHL) and frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA).

Methods

Consultant members of the British Hair and Nail society, a special interest group affiliated to the British Association of Dermatologists, were invited to participate from across the United Kingdom. Participants were questioned on their current prescribing patterns in both NHS and private practice, were asked to rank their first‐to‐fifth line treatments for each condition and highlight the treatment they perceive as most effective for each disorder.

Results

Twenty‐six Consultant Dermatologists completed the questionnaire, from twenty‐three institutions. For treatment of mild‐moderate AA, topical corticosteroids were used first line amongst 65% (n = 17) of respondents, and 82% (n = 23) reported that intralesional corticosteroids were the most effective treatment. For severe AA, oral corticosteroids were used first line amongst 38% (n = 10) of respondents, and 25% (n = 8) reported that oral corticosteroids were the most effective treatment. For FPHL, topical minoxidil was used first line amongst 84% (n = 25) of respondents, and 42% (n = 10) reported that oral minoxidil was the most effective treatment. For FFA, topical corticosteroids were used first line amongst 62% (n = 16) of respondents, and 37% (n = 14) reported that hydroxychloroquine was the most effective treatment.

Conclusions

This study reports real‐world prescribing practices amongst dermatologists treating common hair loss conditions. These results aim to support clinicians with decision making for managing hair loss conditions.
Snow removal cools a small dystrophic lake
Authors: Dugan H. A. , Ladwig R. , Schramm P. , Lottig N. R.
Published: October 2024

Limnological understanding of the role snow plays in under‐ice thermal dynamics is mainly based on studies of clear‐water lakes. Very little is known about the role snow plays in the thermal dynamics of dystrophic lakes. We conducted a whole lake experiment on a small, 8 m deep dystrophic bog lake in northern Wisconsin, where we removed all snowfall over two consecutive winters. Due to weather variability, only 1 year had predominantly black ice. Under these conditions, the lake rapidly cooled in early and mid‐winter, compared to snow covered conditions that insulated the lake from heat loss. The lake also rapidly gained heat in late winter resulting in isothermal conditions well in advance of ice‐off. These results show how water clarity modulates the influence of snow on under‐ice thermal dynamics, which is relevant to futures with snow droughts.
Inverse‐Designed Broadband Ultrathin Aperiodic Metacoatings Spanning from Deep Ultraviolet to Near Infrared
Authors: Chen Zhengai , Wen Zhengji , Wu Zhixuan , Gao Yanqing , Tan Chong , Deng Zhixiang , Li Xiaowen , Zhou Dongjie , Liu Feng , Hao Jiaming , Huang Zhiming , Dai Ning , Sun Yan
Published: October 2024

The ability to actively control broadband light absorption and reflection ranging from deep‐ultraviolet (DUV) to near‐infrared (NIR), is crucial for various optical and optoelectronic applications. Herein, a novel type of ultrathin, lithography‐free, and broadband aperiodic thin‐film metamaterial coatings (metacoatings) is inverse‐designed from DUV to NIR (190–1700 nm), which is composed of a series of deeply subwavelength tungsten oxide layers with graded refractive index profiles (by varying the deposited Ar gas pressures from 0.1 to 3.0 Pa) above an opaque aluminum layer. Experimental results show that these proposed aperiodic metacoatings can realize a transition from broadband strong absorption (as‐deposited state) to high reflection (annealed state) from visible (VIS) to NIR (400–1700 nm), through thermal annealing techniques. The aperiodic metacoatings have an overall thickness of just ≈200 nm, with angle‐insensitive up to 70° as well as are polarization‐independent. Furthermore, vivid structural colors can be generated by rearranging the aperiodic tungsten oxide layers and finally employed in color display applications. These aperiodic metacoatings offer a very promising platform for many applications such as broadband photodetectors, thermophotovoltaics, information encryption devices, etc.
Detailed Compositional and Structure–Property Analysis of Ethylene Oxide‐Propylene Oxide Triblock Copolymers
Authors: Róth Gergő , Nagy Tibor , Kuki Ákos , Novák Levente , Nyul Dávid , Zsuga Miklós , Kéki Sándor
Published: October 2024

The polyethylene oxide‐polypropylene oxide (PEO‐PPO) based triblock copolymers are notable amphiphilic copolymers with a diverse range of applications. The presence of homo‐, and/or diblock impurities in copolymers with PEO‐PPO‐PEO triblock has been demonstrated. This finding suggests that the samples are blends rather than pure triblock copolymers. Furthermore, copolymers with triblock copolymer content of 0 or less than 20% by molar percentage have been identified. The hydrophilic‐lipophilic balance (HLB) is also calculated based on the exact composition of the blends. The effect of HLB values and compositional data on the initial foam height (in casein solution), the surface tension, and the contact angle are investigated. The correlation coefficients for the PPO‐PEO‐PPO copolymers versus HLB values are found to be high, while those obtained for the PEO‐PPO‐PEO copolymers versus values of HLB are significantly lower. The lower correlation coefficients for the PEO‐PPO‐PEO samples can be attributed to the presence of homo‐ and diblock (co)polymer contaminants. In addition, a linear regression model has been constructed to find a mathematical relationship between the percentage of ethylene oxide, the average number of propylene oxide units, and the properties of the copolymer.
A 4‐Year Follow‐Up of Levodopa‐Entacapone‐Carbidopa Intestinal Gel Treatment in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Öthman Mezin , Nyholm Dag
Published: October 2024

Background

Levodopa‐entacapone‐carbidopa intestinal gel (LECIG) infusion was introduced to the Swedish market in 2019 for Parkinson's disease (PD) with motor fluctuations. Long‐term data are lacking.

Objectives

To study long‐term data on LECIG treatment.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of the first 24 patients receiving LECIG in Sweden from 2019 to 2023.

Results

Five of 24 (21%) patients discontinued LECIG because of side effects, mostly diarrhea. Eight of the 24 (33%) patients died while receiving LECIG. Eleven of 24 (46%) patients were still on LECIG. Median (range) for disease and treatment duration was 19 (9–30) and 3.6 (3.1–4.0) years, respectively, whereas health‐related quality of life scales showed median (interquartile range; n) Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire 8‐item summary index scores of 38 (4; n = 7), EuroQol 5D scores of 0.59 (0.17; n = 7), and EQ‐5D visual analogue scale scores of 65 (10; n = 7).

Conclusions

LECIG infusion is a viable treatment option for PD patients with motor fluctuations, for up to 4 years in our cohort.
Stability of planar diffusion wave for three‐dimensional bipolar Euler–Poisson system with time‐dependent over‐damping
Authors: Wu Qiwei , Hou Xiaofeng
Published: October 2024

This paper is concerned with the asymptotic behavior of the solution to the Cauchy problem for the three‐dimensional bipolar Euler–Poisson system with time‐dependent over‐damping. We prove that the Cauchy problem admits a unique global‐in‐time smooth solution that tends to the planar diffusion wave as time goes to infinity provided that the initial perturbation is sufficiently small. Moreover, we also obtain the convergence rate of the solution toward the planar diffusion wave. The proof is completed by the time‐weighted energy method.
UWB, compact, dual‐polarized antenna designed by tightly coupling technology
Authors: Chen Jiahao , Wen Mingchuan , Xue Jingkai , Chen Xing
Published: October 2024

This study explores tightly coupling technology applied in the design of an ultra‐wideband (UWB), compact, dual‐polarized antenna. The proposed design utilizes tightly coupling effects to achieve UWB performance, with a notable feature being its double‐dipole topology. This topology significantly reduces the difficulty of impedance matching across the ultra‐wide band. To suppress the significant edge effect that occurs in tightly coupled dipoles, coupled grounded posts are added to the surrounding dipoles, effectively attenuating edge reflections and significantly expanding the bandwidth to lower frequencies. A periodic patch superstrate is loaded above the dipoles to improve the impedance matching and radiation performance. A prototype was fabricated and measured, showing a bandwidth is 1.8–12.5 GHz (149.7%) with VSWR 2.2, fully covering the S, C, and X bands. The proposed antenna is printed on a thin substrate and its size is very small, only mm (), where the is the wavelength of the lowest operating frequency.
Report on the AAPM grand challenge on deep generative modeling for learning medical image statistics
Authors: Deshpande Rucha , Kelkar Varun A. , Gotsis Dimitrios , Kc Prabhat , Zeng Rongping , Myers Kyle J. , Brooks Frank J. , Anastasio Mark A.
Published: October 2024

Background

The findings of the 2023 AAPM Grand Challenge on Deep Generative Modeling for Learning Medical Image Statistics are reported in this Special Report.

Purpose

The goal of this challenge was to promote the development of deep generative models for medical imaging and to emphasize the need for their domain‐relevant assessments via the analysis of relevant image statistics.

Methods

As part of this Grand Challenge, a common training dataset and an evaluation procedure was developed for benchmarking deep generative models for medical image synthesis. To create the training dataset, an established 3D virtual breast phantom was adapted. The resulting dataset comprised about 108 000 images of size 512  512. For the evaluation of submissions to the Challenge, an ensemble of 10 000 DGM‐generated images from each submission was employed. The evaluation procedure consisted of two stages. In the first stage, a preliminary check for memorization and image quality (via the Fréchet Inception Distance [FID]) was performed. Submissions that passed the first stage were then evaluated for the reproducibility of image statistics corresponding to several feature families including texture, morphology, image moments, fractal statistics, and skeleton statistics. A summary measure in this feature space was employed to rank the submissions. Additional analyses of submissions was performed to assess DGM performance specific to individual feature families, the four classes in the training data, and also to identify various artifacts.

Results

Fifty‐eight submissions from 12 unique users were received for this Challenge. Out of these 12 submissions, 9 submissions passed the first stage of evaluation and were eligible for ranking. The top‐ranked submission employed a conditional latent diffusion model, whereas the joint runners‐up employed a generative adversarial network, followed by another network for image superresolution. In general, we observed that the overall ranking of the top 9 submissions according to our evaluation method (i) did not match the FID‐based ranking, and (ii) differed with respect to individual feature families. Another important finding from our additional analyses was that different DGMs demonstrated similar kinds of artifacts.

Conclusions

This Grand Challenge highlighted the need for domain‐specific evaluation to further DGM design as well as deployment. It also demonstrated that the specification of a DGM may differ depending on its intended use.
Metal artifact reduction method based on single spectral CT (MARSS)
Authors: Zhu Zijing , Zhou Haichuan , Zhang Huitao , Zhang Peng , Zhu Yining
Published: October 2024

Background

For patients with metal implants, computed tomography (CT) imaging results suffer from metal artifacts, which seriously affect image evaluation and even lead to misdiagnosis. Because spectral CT technology has the advantage of quantitative imaging, basis material decomposition, and so on, the current metal artifact reduction methods are utilizing spectral information to reduce metal artifacts with good results. However, they usually require projection data from multiple spectra or energy‐windows, which is difficult to realize in conventional CT.

Purpose

To satisfy the status quo, the aim of this work is to propose a metal artifact reduction (MAR) method based on single spectral CT (MARSS). By incorporating prior information, the average density of some base materials, and a constrained image reconstruction model is established. It forces the solution spaces of the materials to be discrete and finite, making the model easier to solve.

Methods

The MARSS method uses the idea of discrete tomography to establish a constrained reconstruction model. By incorporating priori knowledge, the constraint forces the solution spaces of some materials to be discrete, which can effectively downsize the solution space and reduce the ill‐posedness of this problem. Then, an iteration algorithm is developed to solve this model. This algorithm iterates alternately between reconstruction and discretization. It ensures that the solution spaces are discrete while the polychromatic projection of the reconstructed image converges to that of the scanned object.

Results

The MRASS method significantly reduces artifacts and restores structures near metal to a large extent. Unlike the comparison MAR methods, it effectively prevents the introduction of new artifacts and distortion of the structure.

Conclusions

The MARSS method can achieve MAR based on single spectral CT. Subjective and quantitative evaluation of the results show that the method significantly improves image quality compared to competing methods.
Combination of Exogenous Spermidine and Phosphocreatine Efficiently Improved the Quality and Antioxidant Capacity of Cryopreserved Boar Sperm and Reduced Apoptosis‐Like Changes
Authors: Li Jingchun , Wang Hechuan , Guo Minghui , Guo Qing , Li Yanbing
Published: October 2024

The low resistance of boar sperm to cryopreservation dictates that addition antioxidants and energetic substances to the diluent to improve sperm quality is necessary. This study evaluated the effect of spermidine and phosphocreatine in combination on the quality, antioxidant capacity, and antiapoptotic‐like changes capacity of cryopreserved boar sperm based on previous reports. The results showed that the combined application of spermidine and phosphocreatine significantly enhanced the motility, average path velocity, straight‐line velocity, curvilinear velocity, beat cross frequency, acrosome integrity, plasma membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity, and DNA integrity compared with the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, the combined application of spermidine and phosphocreatine significantly enhanced the total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase activity, glutathione peroxidase activity, and catalase activity while significantly decreasing malondialdehyde content and hydrogen peroxide content (p < 0.05). Western Blot analysis further showed that spermidine and phosphocreatine significantly decreased the expression of CASP3 and BAX and significantly enhanced the expression of BCL2 (p < 0.05); therefore, the combination of spermidine and phosphocreatine has potentially positive implications for improving the quality of cryopreserved boar sperm.
A novel perspective in stroke neuroprotection: Leveraging hypoxic pocket insights for studying preconditioning and postconditioning
Authors: Zhao Heng , Meng Yan , Li Sijie , Liu Guiyou , Ji Xunming
Published: October 2024

This perspective article delineates the significant role of hypoxic pockets—localized, transient reductions in cerebral oxygenation—and their implications for stroke neuroprotection strategies. It posits that preconditioning and postconditioning, through interventions like isoflurane, exercise, remote limb ischemic conditioning, can mitigate these hypoxic pockets, potentially protecting the brain against ischemic events. These strategies exploit the brain's intrinsic adaptive capabilities to resist ischemic damage, underscoring a novel avenue for enhancing recovery and prevention efforts. The study emphasizes the need for further exploration into optimizing these interventions to harness their full potential in combating stroke's debilitating effects, marking a pivotal shift towards targeted neuroprotective measures focused on cerebral microenvironmental optimization.
Selective Electrochemical Conversion of CO2 into Methane on Ag‐Decorated Copper Microsphere
Authors: Dahal Rabin , Srivastava Rohit , Prasad Bastakoti Bishnu
Published: October 2024

We synthesized the silver‐decorated copper microsphere via the hydrothermal method followed by photoreduction of silver ions. Sub 100 nm Ag nanoparticles anchored on the surface of Cu microspheres enhance the electrochemical performance and the selectivity of the CO2 reduction into CH4. Incorporating Ag nanoparticles onto Cu lowers the charge transfer resistance, enhancing the catalyst's conductivity and active site and increasing the rate of CO2 reduction. The faradaic efficiency of silver nanoparticles decorated copper microsphere for methane was 70.94 %, almost twice that of a copper microsphere (44 %). The electrochemical performance showed higher catalytic properties, stability, and faradaic efficiency of silver‐decorated copper microspheres.
U.S. foreign aid: Marketization, social responsibility, and economic returns
Authors: Mendez Laura
Published: October 2024

Aid has become a powerful asset for marketizing a donor's reputation under the guise of social responsibility. By fostering goodwill through capitalizing on their image as “good” donors, states enhance their competitive stance in global affairs over time. This paper examines U.S. foreign aid within the frameworks of social responsibility and the interplay between aid and trade. It assesses the policy gains the U.S. acquires through aid marketization, analyzing commercial returns from aid to 39 countries over 22 years. Employing the gravity equation and a Two‐Stage Least Square (2SLS) method with an instrumental variable approach, the research uncovers significant economic benefits. Findings reveal that U.S. foreign aid increases U.S. exports, with an average return of $8 in exports for every additional dollar spent on aid. This highlights the dual function of foreign aid in building goodwill and generating economic returns, particularly in the context of U.S. foreign policy.
Autonomic rehabilitation: Vagal and sympathetic impacts of modified occipitomastoid suture V‐spread
Authors: Miller Austin , Gustin Daniel , Wilson Jonathan , Johns Jeffery , Burch James , Fotopoulos Thomas , Garg Rahul , Vasauskas Audrey
Published: October 2024

Background

Autonomic rehabilitation using osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to stimulate the vagus nerve may be a good adjunct therapy by physiatrists who treat dysautonomia. Heart rate variability (HRV) may provide quantitative evidence for the benefits of OMT on autonomic nervous system function. Elevated HRV indicates optimal health and reduced mortality risk, whereas low HRV is associated with stress, pain, and chronic disease pathology.

Objective

To analyze the impact of modified occipitomastoid suture v‐spread OMT technique on vagal tone by measuring HRV.

Design

Within‐participant design with 5‐minute HRV measurement pre‐ and post‐OMT treatment.

Setting

Clinical examination suites.

Participants

Thirty healthy osteopathic medical students.

Interventions

A modified occipitomastoid suture v‐spread treating somatic dysfunction by osteopathic physicians trained in osteopathic neuromusculoskeletal medicine.

Main Outcome Measures

HRV variables related to vagal tone including root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD), percentage of successive normal sinus RR intervals >50 ms (pNN50), high frequency (HF), Parasympathetic Nervous System Index (PNSI), and Sympathetic Nervous System Index (SNSI). Repeated measures t‐test analyzed the difference in mean HRV values after OMT.

Results

There were statistically significant increases in each of the HRV measures after OMT. Participants had a mean (95% confidence interval) RMSSD of 50.5 ms (38.3–62.8) at baseline and 55.0 ms (41.2–68.7, p = .013) post‐OMT. pNN50 was 24.5% (17.6–31.3, n = 30) at baseline and 28.2% (20.8–35.6, p = .003) post‐OMT. HF was 1549.6 ms2 (389.8–2709.4) at baseline and 1901.8 ms2 (618.2–3185.4, p = .103) post‐OMT. PNSI was −0.1 (−0.5 to 0.2) at baseline and 0.1 (−0.3 to 1.5, p < .01) post‐OMT, and SNSI was 0.2 (−0.1 to 0.6) at baseline and 0.05 (−0.3 to 0.4, p < .01) post‐OMT. Normalization, due to high baseline variance, results include RMSSD 1.1 ms (1.0 to 1.1, p = .012), pNN50 1.3 (1.1 to 1.4, p = .011), and HF 1.2 ms2 (1.1 to 1.4, p = .018).

Conclusions

Modified occipitomastoid suture v‐spread may provide clinical benefit through increased vagal tone and decreased sympathetic activity.
Experimental Investigation of Quasi‐Static Compressive Properties of Polymer‐Bonded Explosives (PBX) Based on UV‐Curing 3D Printing
Authors: Guo Chao , Cui Hao , Ren Hao , Xiao Lei , Gu Xiaohui , Tang Yuyong , Zhou Hao , Yang Yongliang , Guo Rui
Published: October 2024

Ultraviolet(UV)‐curing 3D printing in the preparation of explosives has get more attention due to its manufacturing flexibility. To study the effects of binder formulations on compressive properties of PBX for UV‐curing, cast HMX‐based polymer‐bonded explosives (PBX) with 5 groups of binder formulations are prepared by extruded‐based UV curing 3D printer. The test shows that the density of printed explosives exceeds 90% of the theoretical density and quasi‐static compression tests are conducted to analyze the mechanical properties of printed explosives. The results suggest that the elastic modulus and compressive strength of printed explosives with photocurable monomer TMP3EOTA as binder resin have increased by 693.1% and 424%, respectively, compared to those using polyether resin. Moreover, the mechanical properties improve as the content of Isophorone diisocyanate(IPDI) increases from 1 wt. % to 22 wt. %. The addition of aluminum powder decreases the elastic modulus and strength of samples printed by 59.5% and 62%. Meanwhile, the failure modes of printed grains have been also determined. This work provides practical references for future research of PBX on UV‐curing.
Headspace Characterization of Smokeless Powders Using Thermal Desorption‐Gas Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry for Consideration in Canine Detection Training
Authors: Mills Dawn M. , Crespo‐Cajigas Janet
Published: October 2024

Explosives detection canines (K9s) are routinely utilized for non‐contact detection of smokeless powders (SP) but the distinct odor(s) used by K9s for SP detection are unknown. Here, the headspace of single base (SB) and double base (DB) SPs was collected using dynamic air sampling and characterized using thermal desorption (TD) gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry to identify headspace analytes. TD method parameters were optimized and the headspace analysis of 26 SPs resulted in detection of 3291 compounds. Statistical analyses were utilized to narrow down significant components and principal component analysis was used to visualize potential relationships within the data. SP samples originating from the same countries clustered together and a separation in clustering for SB and DB SPs was also observed. Unique volatile chemical compounds were identified for SB and DB SPs (15 and 10 components respectively), as well as for SPs with differing origins. Shared entities between these sample groupings were also identified which may help provide a list of compounds useful for generalization of SPs regardless of manufacturing origin or SP type. Some components identified in the headspace include nitroglycerin, diphenylamine, butyl acetate, and phthalates among others. The variance in headspace data demonstrates the complexity of SP odor profiles and reiterates the need for paired K9 detection studies to understand generalization across SPs. Further implications of this research may allow for identification of additional SP training aids for inclusion in K9 kits to broaden their exposure to a diverse set of SP odor profiles.
Preferential binding of ADP‐bound mitochondrial HSP70 to the nucleotide exchange factor GRPEL1 over GRPEL2
Authors: Manjunath Pooja , Stojkovič Gorazd , Euro Liliya , Konovalova Svetlana , Wanrooij Sjoerd , Koski Kristian , Tyynismaa Henna
Published: October 2024

Human nucleotide exchange factors GRPEL1 and GRPEL2 play pivotal roles in the ADP–ATP exchange within the protein folding cycle of mitochondrial HSP70 (mtHSP70), a crucial chaperone facilitating protein import into the mitochondrial matrix. Studies in human cells and mice have indicated that while GRPEL1 serves as an essential co‐chaperone for mtHSP70, GRPEL2 has a role regulated by stress. However, the precise structural and biochemical mechanisms underlying the distinct functions of the GRPEL proteins have remained elusive. In our study, we present evidence revealing that ADP‐bound mtHSP70 exhibits remarkably higher affinity for GRPEL1 compared to GRPEL2, with the latter experiencing a notable decrease in affinity upon ADP binding. Additionally, Pi assay showed that GRPEL1, but not GRPEL2, enhanced the ATPase activity of mtHSP70. Utilizing Alphafold modeling, we propose that the interaction between GRPEL1 and mtHSP70 can induce the opening of the nucleotide binding cleft of the chaperone, thereby facilitating the release of ADP, whereas GRPEL2 lacks this capability. Additionally, our findings suggest that the redox‐regulated Cys87 residue in GRPEL2 does not play a role in dimerization but rather reduces its affinity for mtHSP70. Our findings on the structural and functional disparities between GRPEL1 and GRPEL2 may have implications for mitochondrial protein folding and import processes under varying cellular conditions.
Nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling as a method for causal inference to predict exposures under desired within‐subject dose titration schemes
Authors: Bartels Christian , Scauda Martina , Coello Neva , Dumortier Thomas , Bornkamp Björn , Moffa Giusi
Published: October 2024

The ICH E9 (R1) guidance and the related estimand framework propose to clearly define and separate the clinical question of interest formulated as estimand from the estimation method. With that it becomes important to assess the validity of the estimation method and the assumptions that must be made. When going beyond the intention to treat analyses that can rely on randomization, causal inference is usually used to discuss the validity of estimation methods for the estimand of interest. In pharmacometrics, mixed‐effects models are routinely used to analyze longitudinal clinical trial data; however, they are rarely discussed as a method for causal inference. Here, we evaluate nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling and simulation (NLME M&S) in the context of causal inference as a standardization method for longitudinal data in the presence of confounders. Standardization is a well‐known method in causal inference to correct for confounding by analyzing and combining results from subgroups of patients. We show that nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling is a particular implementation of standardization that conditions on individual parameters described by the random effects of the mixed‐effects model. As an example, we use a simulated clinical trial with within‐subject dose titration. Being interested in the outcome of the hypothetical situation that patients adhere to the planned treatment schedule, we put assumptions in a causal diagram. From the causal diagram, conditional independence assumptions are derived either by conditioning on the individual parameters or on earlier outcomes. With both conditional independencies unbiased estimates can be obtained.
GaN Quantum Dots in Resonant Cavity Nanopillars as Deep‐UV Single‐Photon Sources
Authors: Schürmann Hannes , Bertram Frank , Schmidt Gordon , Veit Peter , August Olga , Berger Christoph , Dadgar Armin , Strittmatter André , Kullig Julius , Wiersig Jan , Gao Kang , Holmes Mark , Arakawa Yasuhiko , Christen Jürgen
Published: October 2024

Herein, integrating GaN quantum dots (QDs) within a resonant cavity is focused on. Utilizing metal‐organic vapor phase epitaxy, controlled growth of GaN QDs on AlN is achieved. A deep‐UV distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) with high reflectivity in the 250–300 nm range, using AlN and Al0.7Ga0.3N layers to maximize refractive index contrast, is developed. A 50‐period DBR achieves 98% reflectivity at a wavelength of 272 nm. Scanning transmission electron microscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy analyses reveal a trisection of DBR periods, attributed to a Ga composition pulling effect during growth. The real structure's reflectivity is simulated and matched well with measured data, though actual reflectivity is lower than the ideal. Cathodoluminescence studies at T = 17 K show emission peaks from both the DBR and the GaN QDs. Further, single‐photon emission is demonstrated with a g(2)(t = 0) value of 0.41 at 272.7 nm, confirming the potential for deep‐UV single‐photon sources. Additionally, the creation of a planar resonant cavity with enhanced emission intensity and vertical nanopillar structures with an aspect ratio of 11 and a diameter of 400 nm confirm the successful integration of GaN QDs in advanced UV photonic structures.