bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of updated imaging software on the performance of machine learning models for breast cancer diagnosis: a multi-center, retrospective study
Authors: Cai Lie , Golatta Michael , Sidey-Gibbons Chris , Barr Richard G. , Pfob André
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Artificial Intelligence models based on medical (imaging) data are increasingly developed. However, the imaging software on which the original data is generated is frequently updated. The impact of updated imaging software on the performance of AI models is unclear. We aimed to develop machine learning models using shear wave elastography (SWE) data to identify malignant breast lesions and to test the models’ generalizability by validating them on external data generated by both the original updated software versions.

Methods

We developed and validated different machine learning models (GLM, MARS, XGBoost, SVM) using multicenter, international SWE data (NCT 02638935) using tenfold cross-validation. Findings were compared to the histopathologic evaluation of the biopsy specimen or 2-year follow-up. The outcome measure was the area under the curve (AUROC).

Results

We included 1288 cases in the development set using the original imaging software and 385 cases in the validation set using both, original and updated software. In the external validation set, the GLM and XGBoost models showed better performance with the updated software data compared to the original software data (AUROC 0.941 vs. 0.902, p < 0.001 and 0.934 vs. 0.872, p < 0.001). The MARS model showed worse performance with the updated software data (0.847 vs. 0.894, p = 0.045). SVM was not calibrated.

Conclusion

In this multicenter study using SWE data, some machine learning models demonstrated great potential to bridge the gap between original software and updated software, whereas others exhibited weak generalizability.
Comparison of laparoscopic performance using low-cost laparoscopy simulators versus state-of-the-art simulators: a multi-center prospective, randomized crossover trial
Authors: Geissler Mark Enrik , Bereuter Jean-Paul , Geissler Rona Berit , Kowalewski Karl-Friedrich , Egen Luisa , Haney Caelan , Schmidt Sofia , Fries Alexa , Buck Nathalie , Weiß Juliane , Krause-Jüttler Grit , Weitz Jürgen , Distler Marius , Oehme Florian , von Bechtolsheim Felix
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Simulator training is an efficient method for the development of basic laparoscopic skills. We aimed to investigate if low-cost simulators are comparable to more expensive box trainers regarding surgeons usability, likability, and performance.

Methods

This multi-center, randomized crossover study included 16 medical students, seven abdominal surgeons, and seven urological surgeons. Participants performed four laparoscopic tasks (peg transfer, circle cutting, balloon resection, suture and knot) on both, a “Low cost trainer” (LCT) or a “high cost trainer” (HCT) in a randomized order. The primary endpoint was the subjective rating of both training simulators in terms of camera view, depth perception, movement of instruments, pricing, and usability for training. Secondary endpoints were force parameters, task completion time, surgical errors, and psychological workload.

Results

Participants rated the LCT better concerning view (p < 0.001), depth perception (p = 0.003), pricing (p < 0.001), and usability for digital training (p < 0.001), but worse in terms of instrument movement (p = 0.004). Overall, the LCT was rated better than the HCT (p = 0.015). Regarding force parameters, participants showed a significantly lower force exertion on the HCT during the peg transfer task (p = 0.008). The force exertion in the other tasks were comparable between both trainers. Participants were significantly faster using the HCT during the peg transfer (p = 0.049) and significantly slower in balloon resection (p = 0.049) and suture and knot task (p = 0.026). The assessment of the participants’ workload showed no differences.

Conclusion

The LCT was generally rated better than the HCT. The differences concerning force exertion and task completion time showed better results during peg transfer at the HCT but were generally inconclusive and without systemic advantage for either trainer. However, the LCT could be a promising and cost-effective augmentation for modern laparoscopic training.

Graphical abstract
Cyclic Higgs bundles, subharmonic functions, and the Dirichlet problem
Authors: Miyatake Natsuo
Published: January 2025

We demonstrate the existence and uniqueness of the solution to the Dirichlet problem for a generalization of Hitchin’s equation for diagonal harmonic metrics on cyclic Higgs bundles. The generalized equations are formulated using subharmonic functions. In this generalization, the coefficient exhibits worse regularity than that in the original equation.
Trace metals and Mo isotopic fractionation in Skagerrak sediments–effects of different oxygen conditions
Authors: Siems Anna , Zimmermann Tristan , Sanders Tina , Wieser Michael E. , Pröfrock Daniel
Published: January 2025

The Skagerrak is the main depot center for organic matter and anthropogenic pollutants from the entire North Sea. Changes in ocean circulation or suspended matter supply might impact the sediment redox conditions. Indeed, little is known about the response of Skagerrak sediment and associated pollutants to different oxygen levels. We investigated sediments from three stations within the Skagerrak and incubated them for up to twelve months under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Furthermore, we present the first δ
98/95Mo data for Skagerrak sediment profiles and the incubations to be utilized as a redox tracer. The sediment profiles of metals reflected anthropogenic pollution (Cu, Ni, Pb) but differed regionally with redox conditions. We differentiated redox conditions mainly by sediment and porewater Fe, Mn, Mo and δ
98/95Mo. In aerobic incubations, no Mn or Fe reduction was detected, while under anaerobic conditions, initial Mn and Fe reduction decreased after approximately three months. Under anaerobic conditions, a strong isotopic fractionation of Mo in the dissolved phase was found, reaching up to 5.03 ± 0.10‰, probably caused by incomplete thiolation of molybdate under low hydrogen sulfide levels. During the incubations, Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb were mobilized. While Cu and Cd were mobilized under aerobic conditions, Ni and Pb mobilization depended mainly on remineralization and redox conditions. Our results show that changes in oxygen conditions in the Skagerrak can have significant effects on the (legacy) metals stored in the sediment over the past decades.

Graphical Abstract
Population genetics of the scalloped hammerhead shark (Sphyrna lewini) in the Gulf of Mexico: evaluating fine scale female philopatry and its importance for management and conservation
Authors: Alfonso-González Massiel , Llanes-Quevedo Alexander , Mar-Silva Adán F. , Lara-Mendoza Raúl E. , Díaz-Jaimes Píndaro
Published: January 2025

The Scalloped Hammerhead, Sphyrna lewini, is a large coastal pelagic shark species that inhabits tropical and subtropical waters around the world. It is listed as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN, Red List). In the present study, we used nine nuclear microsatellite DNA markers and sequences of the complete mitochondrial DNA genome to estimate the diversity and genetic structure of S. lewini in the Gulf of Mexico and to assess whether the genetic evidence supports philopatry within this geographic area. We sampled a total of 73 juvenile individuals from seven locations in the Northern (GMN) and Southern (GMS) Gulf of Mexico. Our results indicate low genetic diversity in the Gulf of Mexico population compared to previously studied populations, which could be related to the origin and colonization of the species. We detected genetic homogeneity in both types of markers, which suggests that philopatric behavior is unlikely in the studied area. Interestingly, the location La Pesca was genetically distinct from the rest of sampled locations, which may warrant special attention for conservation efforts.
Intensive Care Nurses’ Pain Management Experiences within the Framework of the Biopsychosocial-Spiritual Model in Türkiye: A Qualitative Approach
Authors: Bilgin Aylin , Öcalan Sinem , Kovancı Mustafa Sabri
Published: January 2025

Pain, which includes biological, psychological, social and spiritual factors, is a common symptom experienced by patients in intensive care. This study aimed to uncover intensive care nurses’ perspectives on pain management strategies, employing the biopsychosocial-spiritual model as the guiding framework. This research employed a descriptive qualitative method, engaging participants from diverse locations across five provinces and eight different institutions. The study involved 16 intensive care nurses and utilized semi-structured online Zoom interviews. Data analysis was conducted using Braun and Clarke’s six stages, and reporting followed the consolidated criteria for qualitative studies. The answers of the nurses were grouped under four themes and six subthemes: (1) biological interventions, (2) psychological interventions, (3) social interventions: involving families in the process and (4) spiritual interventions: support religious activities. This study shows that intensive care nurses benefit from many practices in pain management. These interventions included medication management and ensuring physical comfort in the biological factor, distracting activities and being with the patient in the psychological factor, involving the family in care in the social factor and providing an environment that supports the patient’s religious needs under the spiritual factor.
Few-Shot Object Detection Based on Global Domain Adaptation Strategy
Authors: Gong Xiaolin , Cai Youpeng , Wang Jian , Liu Daqing , Ma Yongtao
Published: January 2025

Aiming to detect novel objects from only a few annotated samples, few-shot object detection (FSOD) has undergone remarkable development. Previous works rarely pay attention to the perspective of gradient propagation to optimize existing methods, therefore failing to make full use of information for novel objects in gradient propagation. We propose a method to solve this problem based on two-stage fine-tuning. A domain adaptation module with multi-constraints is used to promote the spread of gradients, a classification promotion network is used to improve the effect of classification, and a multi-path mask head is added to enrich RoI features. Experiments on PASCAL VOC and COCO datasets show that our model significantly raises the performance compared with previous methods (up to 1–5

$$\%$$

%

in average).
Effect of Silica Content in a Bio-Polymeric Blended Nanocomposite for Efficient Adsorption of Mercury in Basic Aqueous Solution
Authors: Tshikovhi A. , Mishra Shivani B. , Mishra Ajay K. , Motaung Tshwafo E.
Published: January 2025

The current work describes the development of silica chitosan-guar gum blended nanocomposites (NCs) for the proficient removal of mercury (Hg2+) ions in aqueous solution at pH 12. The silica NCs were prepared by dispersing the as-synthesized silica nanoparticles (NPs) into the chitosan-guar gum (CS-GG) polymer blend matrix. The developed silica NCs were characterized by FTIR, SEM–EDS, XRD, TGA, and BET. The results confirmed the dispersion of silica NPs on the surface of the CS: GG blend resulting in silica NCs with improved thermal stability, and an enhanced specific pore surface area from 11.843 m2/g to 23.029 m2/g. The 2 and 5% silica NCs were used as an efficient adsorbent for the removal of mercury ions. The 2 and 5% of silica NCs showed a maximum removal efficiency of 88% and 79% for mercury ions, respectively. The adsorption process is best fitted with the Langmuir adsorption isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The adsorbent proved to be economical with 72% of removal efficiency after five cycles using EDTA as a desorbing solution.
Social Networks and Loneliness in the Blackfeet American Indian Community
Authors: John-Henderson Neha A. , Henderson-Matthews Betty , Wood Zachary J. , Gilham Skye , Runner George Heavy , Johnson, III Lester R. , Lafromboise Mary Ellen , Malatare Melveena , Salois Emily M.
Published: January 2025

Background

While characteristics of an individual’s social network and reported loneliness may be linked, they can be distinct. Prior work indicates that gender moderates the relationship between social networks and loneliness; however, these relationships have not been investigated in American Indian adults. The current work investigates whether the relationship between characteristics of one’s social network (i.e., social network size and social integration) and loneliness is moderated by gender in a sample of Blackfeet American Indian adults.

Method

At Wave 1 of a longitudinal research project, we used linear regression to test whether gender moderates the relationship between social network characteristics and loneliness in a sample of 275 Blackfeet American Indian adults living in the Blackfeet nation in Montana. Our analyses controlled for age, education, and symptoms and depression and anxiety.

Results

Gender moderated the relationship between social network size and loneliness (β = − 0.15, t(265) = − 2.71, p = 0.01, r
2 change = .04), and the relationship between social integration and loneliness (β = − 0.14, t(265) = − 2.68, p = 0.01, r
2 change = .03). Women with small social networks reported significantly greater loneliness compared to men with similarly small social networks, and for women higher social integration (i.e., more social roles) related to lower loneliness, but this was not the case for men.

Conclusion

Social network characteristics predict loneliness for Blackfeet women but not Blackfeet men in this sample. Future work should elucidate predictors of loneliness for Blackfeet men and consider whether daily changes in social connectedness predict changes in loneliness and whether changes in social networks predict changes in loneliness.
Influence of heat input on cooling rates and mechanical properties of laser hybrid welded thick structural steels
Authors: Akyel Fatma , Üstündag Ömer , Bakir Nasim , Brunner-Schwer Christian , Gumenyuk Andrey , Rethmeier Michael
Published: January 2025

Laser hybrid welding presents several challenges when used to weld thick steels. A typical weld is divided into the arc-dominated and laser-dominated zone. These zones lead to variations in the mechanical properties of the weld. The laser-dominated zone is of particular importance regarding mechanical properties, notably Charpy impact toughness, due to the high cooling rates and the absence of filler wire. The low heat input of the laser can lead to martensitic microstructure causing hardening and deterioration of impact toughness. The high heat input of the arc can lead to grain coarsening and even loss of impact toughness. This study examines the influence of heat input on the cooling rates, microstructure and mechanical properties of single-pass laser hybrid welded steels of S355J2 and EH36 with thicknesses up to 30 mm. The experiments were performed with a 20-kW fibre laser and a contactless electromagnetic weld backing in the butt-joint configuration in 1G welding position. The cooling time was measured in three different locations near the fusion lines corresponding to different heights of the seam using a special configuration with pyrometers, collimators and optical fibres. The test specimens for the Charpy impact testing and tensile testing were extracted in three different depths. The experiments indicated that a heat input of 1.6 kJ/mm–2 kJ/mm, 2 kJ/mm–2.4 kJ/mm and 3.7 kJ/mm were recommended when single-pass laser hybrid welding of 20-, 25-, and 30-mm-thick structural steels regarding the minimum requirements of the mechanical properties, respectively.
Solidification crack susceptibility of 5xxx aluminum alloys
Authors: Soysal Tayfun
Published: January 2025

5xxx series aluminum (Al) alloys are recommended over the other wrought aluminum alloys for their relatively better weldability; however, some studies reported serious cracking in these alloys during welding. The weldability of these alloys has been investigated both experimentally and theoretically with respect to solidification cracking susceptibility to provide better understanding of these materials. The transverse motion weldability test was used to assess the crack susceptibility of 5086 and 5456 Al alloys which were welded by tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding. The crack susceptibility predictions of the tested Al alloys were made using the recently proposed cracking index. The consistency between the test results and the predictions helped verify the simulation parameters used to calculate predictions for TIG welding. Based on the test results of the Al alloys and the identified simulation parameters, the crack susceptibility predictions of binary Al-magnesium system were discussed to help design new alloys and welds to avoid solidification cracking.
Predicting breast cancer recurrence using deep learning
Authors: Kumari Deepa , Naidu Mutyala Venkata Sai Subhash , Panda Subhrakanta , Christopher Jabez
Published: January 2025

Breast cancer and its recurrence are significant health concerns, emphasizing the critical importance of early detection and personalized treatment strategies for improved outcomes. This study introduces the BCR-HDL (Breast Cancer Recurrence using Hybrid Deep Learning) framework, a novel approach designed to predict breast cancer recurrence with high accuracy and interpretability. Utilizing the Wisconsin Diagnostic Breast Cancer and Wisconsin Prognostic Breast Cancer datasets, the framework integrates multiple deep learning architectures- Multi layer Perceptron (MLP), Visual Geometry Group (VGG), Residual Network (ResNet), and Extreme Inception (Xception)-with traditional machine learning models such as Support Vector Machine (SVM), Decision Trees (DT), Random Forest (RF), and Logistic Regression (LR). This hybridization leads to the creation of 16 robust models that enhance interpretability, facilitate generalization, and effectively manage challenges related to small datasets, class imbalance, and data preprocessing. The BCR-HDL framework’s unique contributions include its ability to predict not only diagnostic outcomes but also prognostic and recurrence timing, offering a comprehensive solution for breast cancer management. Specifically, the Hybrid MLP+RF and Xception+RF models achieved an exceptional diagnostic accuracy of 97% on the WDBC dataset, while the Hybrid MLP+RF model reached 78% prognostic accuracy on the WPBC dataset. Moreover, the Hybrid ResNet+SVM and ResNet+RF models demonstrated impressive performance in multi-classifying recurrence into different time intervals, achieving 92% accuracy in predicting recurrence within 2 years, between 2 to 4 years, and beyond 4 years. The study also provides a detailed analysis of model performance through training versus validation accuracy graphs and a comparison with existing approaches, demonstrating the superiority of the proposed framework in terms of diagnostic, prognostic, and recurrence time predictions. The BCR-HDL framework offers practical recommendations for clinicians, including its potential for personalized treatment strategies and improved patient monitoring, making it a valuable tool for advancing breast cancer management.
Comparative Study of Cytokine Profiles in SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron Variants
Authors: Krivosova Michaela , Hanusrichterova Juliana , Lucansky Vincent , Samec Marek , Bobcakova Anna , Baranovicova Eva , Dohal Matus , Mokry Juraj , Skerenova Maria , Liptak Peter , Rosolanka Robert , Banovcin Peter , Dvorska Dana , Kapinova Andrea , Franova Sona , Dankova Zuzana , Novakova Elena , Halasova Erika
Published: January 2025

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has highly impacted everyday lives and healthcare systems since its spread across the globe. As a result of numerous mutations in the viral genome, several genetic variants and sub-variants have evolved, and they differ in various characteristics, such as infectivity, transmissibility, and immune response in human body. The aim of this study was to compare cytokine levels in plasma samples from patients with acute COVID-19, infected with either the Delta or Omicron variants.

Methods

This retrospective study included 80 hospitalized patients with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2. Blood samples from the patients as well as control subjects were collected, and the multiplex cytokine assay was performed determining the levels of 48 cytokines in plasma.

Results

This study included 50 hospitalized patients with Delta, 30 patients with Omicron variant, and 18 control subjects. Severe and critical disease course led to 27 significantly modified levels of cytokines in both COVID-19 variants compared to control subjects. However, 12 cytokine levels (GRO-α, IFN-α2, IL-1α, IL-4, IL-9, IL-16, MIF, MIP-1β, SDF-1α, TNF-α, TNF-β, TRAIL) were significantly elevated in Delta versus Omicron variant with the discrimination equal to AUC = 0.876. Moreover, vaccination significantly decreased levels of GM-CSF, IL-7, and IL-8 in patients with Omicron variant.

Conclusions

This study suggests that the genetic variants of SARS-CoV-2 affect the immune response differently.
Opinion Pooling
Authors: Elkin Lee , Pettigrew Richard
Published: January 2025

Disagreement is a common feature of a social world. For various reasons, however, we sometimes need to resolve a disagreement into a single set of opinions. This can be achieved by pooling the opinions of individuals that make up the group. In this Element, we provide an opinionated survey on some ways of pooling opinions: linear pooling, multiplicative pooling (including geometric), and pooling through imprecise probabilities. While we give significant attention to the axiomatic approach in evaluating pooling strategies, we also evaluate them in terms of the epistemic and practical goals they might meet. In doing so, we connect opinion pooling to some philosophical problems in social epistemology and the philosophy of action, illuminating different perspectives one might take when figuring out how to pool opinions for a given purpose. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.
Self and Body in Early East Asian Thought
Authors: Lewis Mark Edward
Published: January 2025

This Element examines evolving methods of cultivating the embodied self, including healing diseases and creating a superior person, in late Warring States and early imperial East Asia. It analyses many topics, including the textualization of bodily regimens and therapies, their systematization, their dissemination among different (and sometimes rival) social groups, and the diversity of traditions – religious, pharmacological, nourishing of life – that contested and combined to form a hegemonic medical practice. These topics in turn feature several issues: models of the body, regimens of cultivating and extending vitality, models of disease, and therapies for these ailments. All these ideas will be refined and extended through comparison with early Western medical traditions.
Safety of Dabigatran in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients with Microbleeds: Post Hoc Analysis of DATAS-II Randomized Trial
Authors: Balali Pargol , Butcher Ken , Ng Kelvin K.H. , Joundi Raed A. , Kasner Scott E. , Katsanos Aristeidis H. , Sharma Mukul , Shoamanesh Ashkan
Published: January 2025

Background:

Cerebral microbleeds are associated with an increased risk of hemorrhagic transformation (HT) following acute ischemic stroke. We investigated whether the effect of dabigatran (vs. aspirin) in patients with acute minor non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA) is modified by baseline microbleeds on MRI.

Methods:

The Dabigatran Treatment of Acute Stroke II trial randomized 305 patients with acute minor non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke/TIA to dabigatran (150/110 mg twice daily) or aspirin (81 mg daily) for 30 days. Microbleeds were centrally adjudicated in patients with an interpretable blood-sensitive sequence on baseline MRI. In this post hoc analysis, we used multivariable regression models to determine the association between microbleeds and any incident HT on day-30 MRI and excellent functional outcome (modified Rankin scale = 0–1) at 90 days.

Results:

A total of 251 (82.3%) participants (mean age = 66 ± 13 years, 36% women, median [IQR] onset-to-randomization time = 40[27–55] hours; median [IQR] NIHSS = 1 [0–2]) were included, of whom 82 (33%) had microbleeds. On day-30 MRI, 6% (n = 14) developed HT, and 80% (n = 191) achieved 90-day mRS of 0–1. We found no association between microbleed presence and HT (adjusted OR = 0.84; 95%CI:0.21–3.25) or excellent functional outcome (adjusted RR = 1.09; 95%CI:0.94–1.26). The rate of HT in patients with microbleeds was 3% with dabigatran and 4% with aspirin (OR = 0.85; 95%CI:0.11–6.75). Excellent functional outcome occurred in 74% and 84% of dabigatran and aspirin-treated patients, respectively (RR = 0.88; 95%CI:0.69–1.12). The presence, severity or location of microbleeds did not modify the effect of dabigatran on these outcomes (p-interaction > 0.05).

Conclusions:

Early dabigatran treatment appears safe in patients with acute minor non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke/TIA and hemorrhage-prone cerebral small vessel disease marked by microbleeds on MRI.
Real-world clinical impact of plasma cell-free DNA metagenomic next-generation sequencing assay
Authors: Kaur Ishminder , Shaw Bennett , Multani Ashrit , Pham Christine , Malhotra Sanchi , Smith Ethan , Adachi Kristina , Allyn Paul , Bango Zackary , Beaird Omer Eugene , Caldera JR , Chandrasekaran Sukantha , Chan Lynn , Cheema Rabia , Daouk Sarah , Deville Jaime , Dong Huan Vinh , Fan Austin , Garner Omai , Gaynor Pryce , Gray Hannah , Gorin Aleksandr , Kalava Sowmya , Kanatani Meganne , Karnaze Andrew , Saleh Tawny , Sharma Yamini , Stauber Stacey , Vargas Moises , Veral Monette , Winston Drew , Yanagimoto-Ogawa Lauren , Aldrovandi Grace , Nielsen-Saines Karin , Fuller Trevon , Jackson Nicholas , Uslan Daniel , Schaenman Joanna , Vijayan Tara , Sakona Ashlyn , Yang Shangxin
Published: January 2025

Objective:

To describe the real-world clinical impact of a commercially available plasma cell-free DNA metagenomic next-generation sequencing assay, the Karius test (KT).

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated the clinical impact of KT by clinical panel adjudication. Descriptive statistics were used to study associations of diagnostic indications, host characteristics, and KT-generated microbiologic patterns with the clinical impact of KT. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to further characterize predictors of higher positive clinical impact.

Results:

We evaluated 1000 unique clinical cases of KT from 941 patients between January 1, 2017–August 31, 2023. The cohort included adult (70%) and pediatric (30%) patients. The overall clinical impact of KT was positive in 16%, negative in 2%, and no clinical impact in 82% of the cases. Among adult patients, multivariable logistic regression modeling showed that culture-negative endocarditis (OR 2.3; 95% CI, 1.11–4.53; P .022) and concern for fastidious/zoonotic/vector-borne pathogens (OR 2.1; 95% CI, 1.11–3.76; P .019) were associated with positive clinical impact of KT. Host immunocompromised status was not reliably associated with a positive clinical impact of KT (OR 1.03; 95% CI, 0.83–1.29; P .7806). No significant predictors of KT clinical impact were found in pediatric patients. Microbiologic result pattern was also a significant predictor of impact.

Conclusions:

Our study highlights that despite the positive clinical impact of KT in select situations, most testing results had no clinical impact. We also confirm diagnostic indications where KT may have the highest yield, thereby generating tools for diagnostic stewardship.
Demystifying China's Critical Minerals Strategies: Rethinking ‘De-risking’ Supply Chains
Authors: Zhou Weihuan , Crochet Victor , Wang Haoxue
Published: January 2025

‘De-risking’ is the latest buzzword in the China strategy of the United States and its allies. It means limiting dependence on and engagement with China in select strategic sectors. One of such sectors concerns critical minerals (CMs) which are essential for the ongoing green economic transition. To secure access to CMs and reduce reliance on China, the US and its allies have been developing networks for ally-shoring supply chains. A major problem with the ‘de-risking’ strategy in this regard is that it treats China as the risk and hence excludes China from the discussions and collaboration on global supply chain issues. In this paper, we argue that this strategy fails to consider China's strategies and policies regarding CMs. We therefore offer a detailed analysis of China's policies which shows that they have been primarily aimed at addressing internal challenges and policy priorities in China rather than dominating, weaponizing, or causing disruptions in global supply chains. To address supply chain risks most effectively, international collaborative frameworks should engage with, rather than exclude, China. Confrontational strategies with ‘China being the risk’ at the core might themselves be a risk by undermining rational policymaking and leading to disruptive policies.
Free Trade Agreements as Sites of Economic Diplomacy: Agreeing Common Standards for Sustainable Development
Authors: Messenger Gregory
Published: January 2025

In the face of ongoing disruptions to the multilateral trade regime, from deadlock at the WTO to the rise in unilateralism, this contribution examines the role that free trade agreements (FTAs) can play in supporting the adoption of common standards for sustainable development. It does this in three moves: first, it reframes the role of FTAs from sources of obligation and mechanisms of compliance to sites of economic diplomacy where governments can shape international standards through FTA structures; second, it unpacks the relationship between regulation and standards through three case studies (dolphin-safe labelling, automotive standards, and nutrient profiling), identifying means through which FTAs can be leveraged by trade policy actors; third, it draws on these lessons to examine how FTAs can support the uptake of key new standards and quasi-standards for sustainability, in this case, the ISO Net Zero Guidelines. Finally, this contribution reflects on the implications of reappraising the development of world trade law as part of the practice of economic diplomacy.
Regional Patterns of Organic Matter Export Rates Along the GEOTRACES Pacific Meridional Transect GP15
Authors: Quay Paul , Stephens Mark
Published: January 2025

Export rates of organic matter (OM) were determined based on PO43−, NO3− and O2 budgets during GEOTRACES cruise GP15 in the Pacific Ocean that crossed subpolar, subtropical and equatorial regimes. Lowest OM export rates at 3–5 mmol C/m2/yr were found in the subtropical regions and highest rates at 9–12 mmol C/m2/yr were found in the equatorial and subpolar regions. Satellite based OM export rates showed similar regional trends but with a significantly larger range. The budget and satellite‐based OM export rates were 3–15× higher than estimates of particle loss rates based on 234Th and sediment trap collections, with the differences primarily due to non‐particle forms of OM export and different integration times of methods. The efficiency of export varied from 0.1 to 0.3, with the lowest efficiencies in the subtropics and highest efficiencies in the subpolar and equatorial regions.
Seasonal and Geomagnetic Activity Dependence of Auroral E‐Region Neutral Winds at Poker Flat
Authors: Zhan Weijia , Kaeppler Stephen R.
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we investigated the seasonal and geomagnetic dependence of the auroral ‐region neutral winds and the tidal components between 90 and 125 km using nearly continuously sampled measurements from the Poker Flat Incoherent Scatter Radar (PFISR) from 2010 to 2019. The average winds show consistent semidiurnal oscillations between 100 and 115 km and diurnal oscillations above 115 km in all seasons with some seasonal and geomagnetic activity dependencies. In general, the semidiurnal oscillation in zonal and meridional directions is strongest in summer and weakest in winter. The diurnal oscillation is strongest in winter and weakest in spring. More details on the seasonal and geomagnetic activity dependencies are revealed in the tidal decomposition results. Tidal decomposition results show eastward mean wind below 115 km in summer, fall, and winter and westward mean wind above 115 km in all seasons. The meridional mean is northward below 115 km and southward above in all seasons. The diurnal amplitudes are small below 110 km and increase with altitude above 110 km in all seasons with larger enhancements in the meridional direction. The semidiurnal amplitudes increase with altitude below 110 km and reach a maximum at around 110 km, then decrease or keep stable (depending on the geomagnetic activity) above 110 km in both directions and all seasons. The diurnal phases shift to earlier times with the increase of geomagnetic activity but show different variations with altitudes in zonal and meridional directions. The semidiurnal phases show a downward progressing trend in both directions and in all seasons.
Loss of ARID1A accelerates prostate tumourigenesis with a proliferative collagen-poor phenotype through co-operation with AP1 subunit cFos
Authors: Hartley Andrew , Galbraith Laura C. A. , Shaw Robin , Tibbo Amy , Veeratterapillay Rajan , Wilson Laura , Heer Rakesh , Blyth Karen , Leung Hing , Ahmad Imran
Published: January 2025

Background

Prostate cancer (PC) is the commonest male visceral cancer, and second leading cause of cancer mortality in men in the Western world.

Methods

Using a forward-mutagenesis Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon-based screen in a Probasin Cre-Recombinase (Pb-Cre) Pten-deficient mouse model of PC, we identified Arid1a loss as a driver in the development of metastatic disease.

Results

The insertion of transposon in the Arid1a gene resulted in a 60% reduction of Arid1a expression, and reduced tumour free survival (SB:Pten

fl/fl

Arid1a

INT
median 226 days vs SB:Pten

fl/fl

Arid1a

WT
293 days, p = 0.02),with elevated rates of metastasis (SB:Pten

fl/fl

Arid1a

INT
75% lung metastasis rate vs 17% SB:Pten

fl/fl

Arid1a

WT
, p < 0.001). We further generated a Pb-Cre Pten- and Arid1a-deficient mouse model, in which loss of Arid1a demonstrated a profound acceleration in tumorigenesis in Pten

fl/fl
mice compared to Pten loss alone (Pb-Cre Pten

fl/fl

Arid1a

+/+
median survival of 267 days vs Pb-Cre Pten

fl/fl

Arid1a

fl/fl
103 days, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Our data revealed homozygous Arid1a loss is required to dramatically accelerate prostate tumourigenesis. Analysis of RNA and ChIP -Sequencing data suggests Arid1a loss enhanced the function of AP-1 subunit cFos. In clinical PC cohort, ARID1A and cFos levels stratified an aggressive subset of PC with a poor survival outcome with a median of only 30 months.
Mitochondrial KMT9 methylates DLAT to control pyruvate dehydrogenase activity and prostate cancer growth
Authors: Jia Yanhan , Wang Sheng , Urban Sylvia , Müller Judith M. , Sum Manuela , Wang Qing , Bauer Helena , Schulte Uwe , Rampelt Heike , Pfanner Nikolaus , Schüle Katrin M. , Imhof Axel , Forné Ignasi , Berlin Christopher , Sigle August , Gratzke Christian , Greschik Holger , Metzger Eric , Schüle Roland
Published: January 2025

Prostate cancer (PCa) growth depends on de novo lipogenesis controlled by the mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC). In this study, we identify lysine methyltransferase (KMT)9 as a regulator of PDC activity. KMT9 is localized in mitochondria of PCa cells, but not in mitochondria of other tumor cell types. Mitochondrial KMT9 regulates PDC activity by monomethylation of its subunit dihydrolipoamide transacetylase (DLAT) at lysine 596. Depletion of KMT9 compromises PDC activity, de novo lipogenesis, and PCa cell proliferation, both in vitro and in a PCa mouse model. Finally, in human patients, levels of mitochondrial KMT9 and DLAT K596me1 correlate with Gleason grade. Together, we present a mechanism of PDC regulation and an example of a histone methyltransferase with nuclear and mitochondrial functions. The dependency of PCa cells on mitochondrial KMT9 allows to develop therapeutic strategies to selectively fight PCa.
Plasma proteomic evidence for increased β-amyloid pathology after SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Duff Eugene P. , Zetterberg Henrik , Heslegrave Amanda , Dehghan Abbas , Elliott Paul , Allen Naomi , Runz Heiko , Laban Rhiannon , Veleva Elena , Whelan Christopher D. , Sun Benjamin B. , Matthews Paul M.
Published: January 2025

Previous studies have suggested that systemic viral infections may increase risks of dementia. Whether this holds true for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus infections is unknown. Determining this is important for anticipating the potential future incidence of dementia. To begin to do this, we measured plasma biomarkers linked to Alzheimer’s disease pathology in the UK Biobank before and after serology-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections. SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with biomarkers associated with β-amyloid pathology: reduced plasma Aβ42:Aβ40 ratio and, in more vulnerable participants, lower plasma Aβ42 and higher plasma pTau-181. The plasma biomarker changes were greater in participants who had been hospitalized with COVID-19 or had reported hypertension previously. We showed that the changes in biomarkers were linked to brain structural imaging patterns associated with Alzheimer’s disease, lower cognitive test scores and poorer overall health evaluations. Our data from this post hoc case–control matched study thus provide observational biomarker evidence that SARS-CoV-2 infection can be associated with greater brain β-amyloid pathology in older adults. While these results do not establish causality, they suggest that SARS-CoV-2 (and possibly other systemic inflammatory diseases) may increase the risk of future Alzheimer’s disease.
Optimizing multiprocessor performance in real-time systems using an innovative genetic algorithm approach
Authors: Hassan Heba E. , Ibrahiem Khaled Hosny , Madian Ahmed H.
Published: January 2025

Due to its enormous influence on system functionality, researchers are presently looking into the issue of task scheduling on multiprocessors. Establishing the most advantageous schedules is often regarded as a difficult-to-compute issue. Genetic Algorithm is a recent tool employed by researchers to optimize scheduling tasks and boost performance, although this field of research is yet mostly unexplored. In this article, a novel approach for generating task schedules for real-time systems utilizing a Genetic Algorithm is proposed. The approach seeks to design task schedules for multiprocessor systems with optimal or suboptimal lengths, with the ultimate goal of achieving high performance. This research project focuses on non-preemptive independent tasks in a multiprocessor environment. All processors are assumed to be identical. We conducted a thorough analysis of the proposed approach and pitted it against three frequently utilized scheduling methodologies: the “Evolutionary Fuzzy Based Scheduling Algorithm”, the “Least Laxity First Algorithm”, and the “Earliest Deadline First Algorithm”. The Proposed Algorithm demonstrated superior efficiency and reliability compared to Earliest Deadline First, Least Laxity First, and Evolutionary Fuzzy-based Scheduling Algorithm. It consistently achieved zero missed deadlines and the lowest average response and turnaround times across all scenarios, maintaining optimal performance even under high load conditions.
Cross-talk-free, high extinction ratio, and ultra-compact all‑optical 4 × 2 encoder using graphene-based plasmonic waveguides
Authors: Kanwal Saima , Saeed Mohammed R. , AL-Shammri Faris K. , Rezaei Mir Hamid
Published: January 2025

This paper presents an all-optical 4 × 2 encoder based on graphene-plasmonic waveguides for operation in the wavelength range of 8–12 μm. The basic plasmonic waveguide consists of a silicon (Si) strip and a graphene sheet supported by two dielectric ridges. Surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) are stimulated in the spatial gap between the graphene sheet and the Si strip. The effect of geometric parameters and chemical potential of the graphene sheet changes on the suggested waveguide’s waveguiding behavior is meticulously investigated using the three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain (3D-FDTD) method. The encoder comprises a straight waveguide to detect the state of the In0 input and two Y-combiners with outputs Out0 and Out1 to detect the state of the In1, In2, and In3 inputs. The encoder exhibits a minimum extinction ratio (ER

min
) of 19 dB at a wavelength of 10 μm. In addition, the cross-talk (CT) and insertion loss (IL) values are −21.3 and −1.31 dB, respectively. The encoder offers an ultra-compact structure with a total footprint of 4.25 μm2. Due to its exceptional waveguiding features, low CT and IL values, and high ER

min
, the proposed encoder holds promise for various communication and signal processing applications.
Adaptive hybrid virtual inertia controller for PMSG-based wind turbine based on fuzzy logic control
Authors: Hosny Mohamed , Marei Mostafa I. , Mohamad Ahmed M.I.
Published: January 2025

The integration of renewable energy sources into microgrids presents some challenges due to the decreased system overall inertia associated with the presence of converter -based sources. To overcome this issue and to enhance the system inertia, various concepts for virtual inertial control have been proposed in the literature. However, the concept of improving the system frequency through wind turbines has gained widespread acceptance. Several frequency support techniques have been proposed recently. However, conventional virtual inertia controllers may not satisfy the performance requirements in terms of frequency nadir and rate of change of frequency (ROCOF) over a wide range of microgrid operating conditions. This paper proposes a hybrid adaptive virtual inertia control strategy based on Fuzzy logic. The hybrid strategy integrates kinetic energy based virtual inertia control and virtual capacitance control schemes. The gains of both KE based virtual inertia control loop and virtual capacitance control loop are adapted simultaneously to enhance frequency support of low inertia microgrid under wide range of renewable energy sources (RES) disturbances and load changes. Different case studies are simulated on MATLAB/ Simulink to evaluate the dynamic performance of the proposed adaptive hybrid virtual inertia strategy under different conditions.
Transient methods for understanding the properties of strongly oxidizing radicals
Authors: Polyansky Dmitry E.
Published: January 2025

The properties of strongly oxidizing radicals are probed by photochemical or radiolytic transient techniques.
Highly conductive composite anode catalysts featuring a fused Ir nano-network towards proton exchange membrane electrocatalysis
Authors: Zhang Lu , Wu Qiannan , Zhao Xiao , Liang Xiao , Zou Xiaoxin , Chen Hui
Published: January 2025

A fused Ir nano-network supported on TiO2 is reported to fabricate a low-iridium-loading anode catalyst layer of a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer.
Construction of a hydrogen-bonded organic framework-based therapeutic platform by one-pot method
Authors: Wang Yan , Qiao Jiarui , Wei Wenjing , Liu Meng , Wei Xianhao , Zhang Luwen , Ou Junhe , Jiang Tingyan , Pang Maolin
Published: January 2025

The anticancer drug camptothecin (CPT) was successfully in situ loaded into a hydrogen-bonded organic framework (HOF) by a one-pot method with a high loading efficiency of 42 wt%.
Acoustic shock wave-induced sp3-to-sp2 type solid-state phase transition: a case study on tetrahedral amorphous carbon
Authors: Aswathappa Sivakumar , Dai Lidong , Sathiyadhas Sahaya Jude Dhas , Kumar Raju Suresh , Selvakumar Cathrin Lims , Pham Phuong V.
Published: January 2025

Herein, we demonstrate superheating assisted graphitization in ta-C, which nearly attains an ideal crystal structure of graphite at 500 shocked conditions (16.5 MPa) and the results are evaluated by Raman, XPS and HR-TEM techniques.
Battery lifetime prediction using surface temperature features from early cycle data
Authors: Sugiarto Lawnardo , Huang Zijie , Lu Yi-Chun
Published: January 2025

Statistical temperature features from the first 10 cycles were used to develop machine learning models, showing competitive performance across various battery cathodes and operating conditions for early-cycle battery lifetime prognostics.
Organonitrogen platform chemicals and pharmaceutical precursors: a perspective on sustainable chitin utilization
Authors: Wang Ting , Wei Junnan , Deuss Peter J.
Published: January 2025

Chitin is a sustainable source of naturally-fixed nitrogen. This review explores advances in converting chitin into nitrogen-containing compounds, emphasizing progress in synthesizing benzenoid aromatics and highlighting future prospects.
Transition-metal-free phosphorylation of polyfluoroarenes with P(O)H compounds
Authors: Sun Bingqian , Liang Yu-Ting , Xiang Meng-Ting , Ai Jun-Tao , Wang Shuai , Zhong Hong , Yang Jia , Xiang Hao-Yue
Published: January 2025

A base-promoted C–P(O) bond formation method has been developed for the phosphorylation of polyfluoroarenes through selective C–F bond cleavage.
Retraction: Antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of silver-decorated zinc ferrite nanoparticles synthesized by a gamma irradiation-coupled sol–gel method against some pathogenic bacteria from medical operating room surfaces
Authors: Maksoud M. I. A. Abdel , El-Sayyad Gharieb S. , El-Bastawisy Hanan S. , Fathy Rasha M.
Published: January 2025

Retraction of ‘Antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of silver-decorated zinc ferrite nanoparticles synthesized by a gamma irradiation-coupled sol–gel method against some pathogenic bacteria from medical operating room surfaces’ by M. I. A. Abdel Maksoud et al., RSC Adv., 2021, 11, 28361–28374, https://doi.org/10.1039/D1RA04785J.