bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
More or fewer latent variables in the high-dimensional data space? That is the question
Authors: Vaccari Francesco Edoardo , Diomedi Stefano , Bettazzi Edoardo , Filippini Matteo , De Vitis Marina , Hadjidimitrakis Kostas , Fattori Patrizia 
Published: November 2024

Dimensionality reduction is widely used in modern Neuro-science to process massive neural recordings data. Despite the development of complex non-linear techniques, linear algorithms, in particular Principal Component Analysis (PCA), are still the gold standard. However, there is no consensus on how to estimate the optimal number of latent variables to retain. In this study, we addressed this issue by testing different criteria on simulated data. Parallel analysis and cross validation proved to be the best methods, being largely unaffected by the number of units and the amount of noise. Parallel analysis was quite conservative and tended to underestimate the number of dimensions especially in low-noise regimes, whereas in these conditions cross validation provided slightly better estimates. Both criteria consistently estimate the ground truth when 100+ units were available. As an exemplary application to real data, we estimated the dimensionality of the spiking activity in two macaque parietal areas during different phases of a delayed reaching task. We show that different criteria can lead to different trends in the estimated dimensionality. These apparently contrasting results are reconciled when the implicit definition of dimensionality underlying the different criteria is considered. Our findings suggest that the term ‘dimensionality’ needs to be defined carefully and, more importantly, that the most robust criteria for choosing the number of dimensions should be adopted in future works. To help other researchers with the implementation of such an approach on their data, we provide a simple software package, and we present the results of our simulations through a simple Web based app to guide the choice of latent variables in a variety of new studies.Key pointsParallel analysis and cross-validation are the most effective criteria for principal components retention, with parallel analysis being slightly more conservative in low-noise conditions, but being more robust with larger noise.The size of data matrix as well as the decay rate of the explained variance decreasing curve strongly limit the number of latent components that should be considered.When analyzing real spiking data, the estimated dimensionality depends dramatically on the criterion used, leading to apparently different results. However, these differences stem, in large part, from the implicit definitions of ‘dimensionality’ underlying each criterion.This study emphasizes the need for careful definition of dimensionality in population spiking activity and suggests the use of parallel analysis and cross-validation methods for future research.
Combining Glycosidases and Nanopore Technology for Glycan Sequencing
Authors: Yao Guangda , Xia Bingqing , Wei Fangyu , Wang Jiahong , Yang Yuting , Ma Shengzhou , Ke Wenjun , Li Tiehai , cheng Xi , Wen Liuqing , Long Yi-tao , Gao Zhaobing 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe efficient characterization of glycan structures remains a critical challenge. Direct glycan sequencing technologies with improved sensitivity and throughput are still needed. Here, we propose a glycan sequencing strategy based on glycosidase -assisted nanopore sensing. We used engineered nanopore α-hemolysin (M113R/T115A), which provided high-resolution discrimination of monosaccharide volume differences and sensitivity to variations in glycan chain length. By utilizing the specificity of glycosidases, we sequentially hydrolyzed the terminal residues of the glycan chains and detected the characteristic shifts in electrical signals generated by the translocation of hydrolysis products. The accuracy of recognition of hydrolysis fragments achieved over 90 % using machine learning. This allowed us to efficiently and conveniently determine the sequence of consecutive monosaccharide units in the glycan chains. Based on this principle, we conducted a proof-of-concept demonstration on actual samples and verified the accuracy via HPLC-MS. We achieved the sequencing of consecutive units in glycan chains, confirming the theoretical feasibility of glycosidase -assisted nanopore glycan sequencing. With future optimization, the development of arrayed nanopore glycan sequencing technology based on hydrolysis strategy will provide an innovative approach for rapid decoding of glycans, which could promote the progress of glycomics research and glycobiology.
A meta-analysis of age-dependent changes in extracellular vesicle proteins inC. elegans
Authors: Bhunia Prasun Kumar , Kasturi Prasad 
Published: November 2024

AbstractExtracellular vesicles (EVs) contribute to the maintenance of organism-wide proteostasis by mediating intercellular communication. Loss of proteostasis and altered intercellular communication are associated with aging and age-related diseases, suggesting key roles for EVs. However, it is unclear how the proteome of the EVs changes with age. To identify EV-associated proteins and their fate with age, we curated publicly available proteome data from C.elegans model organism. Our analysis reveals that EVs carry proteins that involve protein quality control. We found that abundance of the EV proteins changes significantly with age. Many of these EV proteins also aggregate with age and overlap with Aβ driven protein aggregates. Further, we find that a subset of proteins that alter their abundance in response to heat stress and pathogen infections are also associated with the EVs. This meta-analysis highlights EVs proteome composition, their abundance changes, and aggregation during aging and stress conditions. Overall, this study provides new insights into the dynamics of EV proteins during and aging and may possibly help in identifying potential biomarkers for age-related diseases.
A cost analysis comparing Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention with and without Vitamin A Supplementation among under-5 children in Nigeria
Authors: Oresanya Olusola , Arije Olujide , Fadipe Jesujuwonlo , Rotimi Kunle , Phillips Abimbola , Maxwell Kolawole , Shekarau Emmanuel , Onwu Nneka , Bazant Eva S. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBackgroundChild mortality in Nigeria, significantly affected by malaria and malnutrition, remains a public health concern in the country. Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) and Vitamin A supplementation (VAS) are effective interventions that can be delivered through integrated health campaigns to reduce this mortality. This study assesses the cost implications of integrating these two interventions among under-5 children in Northeast Nigeria.MethodsA cost analysis compared standalone SMC (Cycle 1 in July 2021) with SMC-VAS integrated campaign (Cycle 4 in October 2023) in two Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Bauchi State. The number of children reached by the SMC-only campaign was 168,820 and for the SMC+Vit A campaign, the number was 170,681. Data collection utilized a mixed-methods approach, drawing from primary and secondary sources, including programmatic, financial, and coverage records. Costs were categorized into distribution, Sulphadoxine-Pyrimethamine plus Amodaiquine (SPAQ) for SMC, Vitamin A, training, supplies, meetings, labor, supervision, and social mobilization costs. Sensitivity analyses evaluated the effect of a 10% fluctuation in the costs of distribution, labor, SPAQ, and supplies on the cost per child.ResultsThe total cost for the SMC standalone campaign was US$158,934, and the SMC-VAS integration was US$186,426. Distribution and drug costs were the largest contributors in the integrated and SMC-only campaign. The SMC-only cost per child was $0.94 and $1.18 when eligible children received both SMC and VAS. The integration of VAS into the SMC campaign cycle incurred an additional US$27,492 over Cycle 1 cost (US$186,426 - US$158,934). Fluctuations in distribution costs were the most influential component of the cost per child.ConclusionIntegrating VAS with SMC campaigns increases the cost by US$0.24 per child, a modest increment considering the potential health benefits. The results support the feasibility of this integration, in terms of cost, to combat child mortality from malaria and malnutrition in Nigeria. Further research is recommended to explore the cost-effectiveness of this integrated distribution model.
Diabetic Retinopathy: Knowledge, Staging and Barriers to Early Presentation in a Tertiary Eye Care Centre in Ghana
Authors: Appiagyei Emmanuel , Essuman Yaw Akye , Ahmed Akwasi Agyeman 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBackgroundDiabetic retinopathy is the most common microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus and a leading cause of new-onset blindness in populations of working age. Late presentation of patients to eye care facilities has been associated with the development of vision-threatening complications. The study sought to determine the clinical profile, knowledge and factors influencing late presentation of diabetic retinopathy among diabetics at the Eye Centre of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Ghana.MethodsThis descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between the periods of February 2022 to April 2022. All diabetic patients referred to the retina clinic were examined for diabetic retinopathy. Both eyes of participants were examined and the eye with the most severe form of diabetic retinopathy was used for the staging. A structured questionnaire was employed to collect patients’ socio-economic factors and knowledge on diabetic retinopathy. Data was analysed using the SPSS ver. 23 software. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.ResultsA total of 78 diabetic patients were included in the study. Thirty-six (36, 46.2%) were males and 42 (53.8%) females. Mean age of the study population was 49.9±11.4 years. The mean (+SD) knowledge score of study participants on diabetic retinopathy was 5.3 (±3.2) with a maximum possible score of 12. Majority of the participants (65%) were aware that uncontrolled diabetes mellitus affects the eyes; 7.7% had mild NPDR, 16.7%) had moderate NPDR, 10.3%; severe NPDR, 19.2%; very severe NPDR, 9.0%; high risk PDR and 37.2% showed signs of advanced PDR. Fifty-four participants (69.2%) highlighted a lack of knowledge about the condition as the main reason for late presentation.ConclusionMost diabetic patients who presented to the eye clinic had advanced PDR stage of the condition. The major factor to late presentation of diabetic retinopathy cases was lack of knowledge about the condition.
Predictive evaluation of hydrogen diffusion coefficient on Pd(111) surface by path integral simulations using neural network potential
Authors: Kataoka Yuta , Haruyama Jun , Sugino Osamu , Shiga Motoyuki 
Published: December 2024

Quantum diffusion of hydrogen (H) on palladium (Pd) (111) was studied using two types of path integral simulations: quantum transition state theory (QTST) and ring polymer molecular dynamics (RPMD). The use of an artificial neural network potential trained by density functional theory calculations has made it feasible to perform path integral simulations considering nuclear quantum effects (NQEs) of a many-body Pd-H system with accuracy. The QTST result has shown a clear non-Arrhenius behavior in the diffusion coefficient (D) of H below the temperature of 150–200 K due to the NQEs. Comparing the D on Pd surface and bulk Pd, it was found that surface and bulk diffusion are competitive at high temperature. Consistent with this, it was observed in the RPMD simulation at 800 K that a part of the quantum trajectories of H on the surface bifurcates to the Pd subsurface. As the temperature decreases, the surface diffusion becomes much faster than the bulk diffusion. Furthermore, distinct quantum behaviors of H were identified at the surface and within the bulk. The D values obtained from this study using a “flexible” Pd surface model differed considerably from those previously reported using “frozen” Pd surface models, indicating an important contribution from Pd vibrations coupled with H diffusion.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Barriers to manufacturing integrated circuit chips in the Indian semiconductor manufacturing industry using the grey influence analysis (GINA)
Authors: Singh Karam Bharat , Misra Subhas Chandra 
Published: November 2024

PurposeThis study identifies and ranks the barriers to manufacturing integrated circuit (IC) chips in the Indian semiconductor manufacturing industry by examining the causal relationships between the different barriers using an advanced causal modeling technique named the grey influence analysis (GINA). Moreover, IC plays a crucial function in reducing the size, boosting the speed and improving the dependability of electronic devices. The widespread use of these technologies has led to advancements in sectors such as communications, healthcare, transportation and entertainment.Design/methodology/approachThis study investigates 12 factors related to the barriers to manufacturing IC chips. In addition, experts from an Indian semiconductor manufacturing organization have validated the presence of these barriers. In addition, the research employs a novel GINA to investigate and comprehend the influence relationships between these barriers.FindingsTo successfully manufacture IC chips in India, the “Government Policies and Regulations (B11),” “Lack of Semiconductor Fabrication Facilities (B1)” and “Dependence on Imported Raw Materials and Components (B2),” were the critical barriers that must be addressed and overcome, as per the GINA result.Practical implicationsThe author highlighted that a lack of fabrication plants could lead to limited production of the semiconductor chips and that a lack of local fabs can hinder the development of advanced technologies. The complex policy can significantly affect the set-up of new semiconductor fabs, hamper the overall growth of the semiconductor market and divert away foreign investors. This further creates restrictions on employment creation and undermines the economy.Originality/valueAlthough semiconductor applications have several benefits, more research is needed to identify the barriers to manufacturing IC chips in India, making this study unique. In addition, the advanced GINA method is also used to examine the critical barriers and their interconnection based on an expert response-based study from an Indian semiconductor organization.
Leveraging sentiment analysis via text mining to improve customer satisfaction in UK banks
Authors: Ghadiridehkordi Amirreza , Shao Jia , Boojihawon Roshan , Wang Qianxi , Li Hui 
Published: November 2024

PurposeThis study examines the role of online customer reviews through text mining and sentiment analysis to improve customer satisfaction across various services within the UK banking sector. Additionally, the study analyses sentiment trends over a five-year period.Design/methodology/approachUsing DistilBERT and Support Vector Machine algorithms, customer sentiments were assessed through an analysis of 20,137 Trustpilot reviews of HSBC, Santander, and Tesco Bank from 2018 to 2023. Data pre-processing steps were implemented to ensure data integrity and minimize noise.FindingsBoth positive and negative sentiments provide valuable insights. The results indicate a high prevalence of negative sentiments related to customer service and communication, with HSBC and Santander receiving 90.8% and 89.7% negative feedback, respectively, compared to Tesco Bank’s 66.8%. Key areas for improvement include HSBC’s credit card services and call center efficiency, which experienced increased negative feedback during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings also demonstrate that DistilBERT excelled in categorizing reviews, while the SVM model, when combined with customer ratings, achieved 96% accuracy in sentiment analysis.Research limitations/implicationsThis study focuses on UK bank consumers of HSBC, Santander, and Tesco Bank. A multi-country or cross-cultural study may further enhance our understanding of the approaches and findings.Practical implicationsOnline customer reviews become more informative when categorised by service sector. To enhance customer satisfaction, bank managers should pay attention to both positive and negative reviews, and track trends over time.Originality/valueThe uniqueness of this study lies in its exploration of the importance of categorisation in text-mining-based sentiment analysis, its focus on the influence of both positive and negative sentiments, and its emphasis on tracking sentiment trends over time.
Religiosity and corruption acceptability in a developing country: does patriotism mediate the relationship?
Authors: Puni Albert , Hilton Sam Kris , Mohammed Ibrahim 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
Religiosity is believed to have an effect on corruption acceptability but the mechanism by which its effect is realized is not fully known. In this study, we explore the potency of patriotism as a mediating variable on the relationship between religiosity and corruption acceptability in a developing context.

Design/methodology/approach
We use cross-sectional data from the World Values Survey on Ghana which was collected from 1,552 respondents. We analyse the data using descriptive statistics, correlation and macro PROCESS model in SPSS.

Findings
We ascertain that while religiosity has a significant direct negative effect on corruption acceptability, it has no significant direct effect on patriotism or indirect effect on corruption acceptability. However, patriotism has a positive significant effect on corruption acceptability. Furthermore, the findings reveal that private-sector employees, as compared to public sector employees, are more likely to perceive corruption as unacceptable. Similarly, females are more likely than males to perceive corruption as unacceptable. We conclude that patriotism does not mediate the relationship between religiosity and corruption acceptability.

Originality/value
Our findings have bridged the gap in extant literature by revealing that patriotism is not an effective mediator in the relationship between religiosity and corruption acceptability in developing country context. Therefore, we provide evidence for building a strong link between religiosity and socio-moral conduct, where the conscience of citizens will be developed against the acceptability of corruption.
A nexus analysis of future ICT professionals’ views on sustainable digital technology development
Authors: Vainionpää Fanny , Aalto Ville , Kinnula Marianne 
Published: November 2024

Purpose There are increasing expectations for educators to include sustainability as part of higher education Information and Communication Technology (ICT) curricula, but we still lack concrete ways how to integrate it into teaching. To be able to create meaningful learning experiences we need to understand how our students approach sustainability and what they base their thinking on.Design/methodology/approach We asked our students to consider technology development linked with the European Green Deal targets in their essays and utilized nexus analysis to focus on discourses in place, interaction order and the historical body revealed in the essays.Findings Learning about sustainability could be approached in the ICT courses in a structured way as a question of four intersecting elements: individuals, societal systems, current and emerging technologies, and relevancy of the topic, all of these linked with the agency of ICT professionals.Originality/value This study contributes toward sustainable ICT research and design of effective ICT education (1) by providing an understanding of how future ICT professionals approach sustainability and digital technology development, (2) by proposing a way to raise students’ consciousness of their own role as future professionals in developing more sustainable digital solutions and (3) generally helping students to see the big picture of sustainability through setting the scene with the wider targets.
Assessing interest in addressing religion and spirituality in a recovery program for adults with serious mental illness
Authors: Matsuura Taiki , Klee Anne , Heikkila Holly , Cooke James , Edens Ellen , Rosenheck Robert 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
Religion and spirituality (R/S) are recognized components of recovery-oriented mental health services. This study aims to present a clinically focused tool for assessing R/S interest among veterans with serious mental illness (SMI).

Design/methodology/approach
A questionnaire including 39 items was developed by experienced chaplains and mental health clinicians and administered to modest pilot sample of 110 participants in a recovery-oriented program at a medical center of the US Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

Findings
Altogether 40 (37%) participants said they would like R/S issues to be a greater part of their treatment (i.e. very or extremely). A screening tool to identify veterans for referral to R/S focused interventions was developed based on the selection of the five items most strongly loading on the strongest factor in a factor analysis.

Research limitations/implications
First, the identification of items for the survey was made on the basis of clinical experience with issues discussed by veterans in a VA recovery-oriented program and thus are based on clinician experience and their association with a stated desire for more R/S in their treatment. Since no gold-standard measure of “religion/spirituality” has been universally established and validated, this method, though imperfect, was accepted as practical and as having face validity. Furthermore, the sample size, while substantial, was limited and was not representative of the general population. Again, this was a pilot study of a unique effort to identify R/S issues of greatest relevance in a recovery program for people with SMI.

Practical implications
In this SMI sample, 36% of the participants said that they would like more R/S to be incorporated into their treatment. Factor analysis showed the desire for uplifting religious/spiritual community to be the predominant factor and formed the basis for a five-item screening tool that can be used to briefly identify services needs in this area of recovery.

Social implications
This screening tool can help incorporate religious and spiritual issues into mental health treatment, and area of importance that is often neglected. The results could help destigmatize this area of recovery practice for people with SMI.

Originality/value
This R/S survey of SMI adults suggests that over one-third of the participants in a pilot sample in a recovery-oriented program would like more R/S emphasis in their treatment. Factor analysis showed the desire for uplifting religious/spiritual community to be the predominant factor.