bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ensemble Learning with Feature Optimization for Credit Risk Assessment
Authors: Zeng Guanghui , Su Weixin , Hong Chaoqun 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Credit risk assessment stands as a cornerstone in financial decision-making, with significant implications for economic stability and growth. This paper highlights the transformative advantages of credit big data over traditional methods, particularly in enhancing the creditworthiness evaluation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). We delineate the distinctive features of the big data financial innovation model across six economic dimensions, showcasing its potential to reshape financial practices. To address the inefficiencies of traditional expert-driven approaches, we introduce an innovative 'Feature Selector-classifier Optimization Framework' that streamlines the credit risk prediction process. This framework not only refines the accuracy and efficiency of predictions but also integrates seamlessly with economic analysis, offering a robust tool for financial decision-makers. Our ensemble classifier delivers remarkable performance, exemplified by its high accuracy and AUC scores across multiple datasets, thereby validating the framework's efficacy in enhancing predictive power while ensuring operational efficiency.
Validation of NADH Dehydrogenase 4L (ND4L) Primers Gene for Porcine Detection Using A SYBR Green Real-Time PCR Analysis on Commercial Processed Meat Products
Authors: Volkandari Slamet Diah , Jenie Siti Nurul Aisyiyah , Rohman Abdul , Ridwanuloh Asep Muhamad , Dewantoro Auraga , Cahyadi Muhammad , Erwanto Yuny 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Porcine contamination in halal products is known to be found in commercial food markets in Indonesia. Detection methods are needed, one of which is Real-Time PCR with robust biomarkers in various types of processed food. In this study, we focused on designing a novel primer from NADH Dehydrogenase 4L (ND4L) gene that has never been explored as a porcine detection. Primers were assembled using GenBank NCBI (MK251046 Sus scrofa), and their efficacy (repeatability, sensitivity, and specificity) was evaluated. The capability primer performance was also compared with a commercial kit. Results showed that primer effectively amplified porcine DNA with a melting curve (Tm) of 78.17 ± 0.05oC and a Cq value of 11.95 ± 0.48 at a 20 ng/µL DNA concentration. CV values of Cq and Tm repeatability were 4,01 and 0.09%, respectively. The limit of detection primer reached 5 pg/µL DNA and 0.001% w/w binary meat mixture of pork-beef. This primer is highly specific to pig and wild boar species (against 30 species (non-pig). A comparative study on the ND4L primer with a commercial porcine detection kit (FAM label) revealed similar results in detecting porcine DNA in food products. ND4L primer successfully detected porcine DNA in 20 of 52 commercial meat products with various types of processing (according to their claims). Primer performed satisfactorily in all validation parameters with high sensitivity and specificity. Hence, this finding of the specific primers on the ND4L gene could be promising for detecting porcine DNA in food products.
Anastomotic leakage after resection for rectal cancer and recurrence-free survival in relation to postoperative C-reactive protein levels
Authors: Gerdin Anders , Park Jennifer , Häggström Jenny , Segelman Josefin , Matthiessen Peter , Lydrup Marie-Louise , Rutegård Martin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background Anastomotic leakage following surgery for rectal cancer is associated with reduced overall survival and higher rates of recurrence. Some data suggest that an aggravated inflammatory response might lead to worse oncological outcomes, but few attempts have been made to investigate leakage and inflammation in conjunction.Methods This is a retrospective multicentre cohort study including patients operated with anterior resection for rectal cancer in Sweden during 2014–2018. Anastomotic leakage within 12 months was exposure and primary outcome was recurrence-free survival. Mediation analysis was performed to evaluate the potential effect of systemic inflammatory response, as measured by the highest postoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) level within 14 days of surgery. Confounders were chosen using a causal diagram, while multiple imputation was used to handle missing data.Results Some 1,036 patients were eligible for analysis, of whom 218 (21%) experienced an anastomotic leakage. At the end of follow-up at a median of 61 months after surgery, recurrence-free survival amounted to 82.6% and 77.8% in the group with and without leakage, respectively. The median highest postoperative CRP value after surgery was higher in the leakage group (219 mg/l), compared with the group without leakage (108 mg/l). Leakage did not lead to worse recurrence-free survival (HR 0.66; 95% CI: 0.43–0.94), and there was no apparent effect through postoperative highest CRP (HR 1.12; 95% CI: 0.93–1.29).Conclusions In conclusion, anastomotic leakage, with its accompanying CRP increase, was not found to be associated with recurrence-free survival after anterior resection for rectal cancer in this patient cohort. Larger, even more detailed studies are needed to further investigate this topic.
An experimental characterization of capillary driven flows in microgravity
Authors: Fiorini Domenico , Simonini Alessia , Steelant Johan , Seveno David , Mendez Miguel Alfonso 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This work investigates the capillary rise dynamics of highly wetting liquids in a divergent U-tube in the microgravity conditions provided by 78th European Space Agency (ESA) parabolic flight. This configuration produces a capillary-driven channel flow. We use image recording in backlight illumination to characterize the interface dynamics and dynamic contact angle of HFE7200 and Di-Propylene Glycol (DPG). For the case of HF7200, we complement the interface measurements with Particle Tracking Velocimetry (PTV) to characterize the velocity fields underneath the moving meniscus. In the experiments with DPG, the liquid column reaches different heights within various experiments, and the measurements show a sharp reduction of the meniscus curvature when the contact line moves from a pre-wet to a dry substrate. In experiments with HFE7200, the interface always moves on a pre-wet surface. Yet a curvature reduction is observed due to the inertial forces on the underlying accelerating flow. The PTV measurements show that the distance from the interface within which the velocity profile adapts to the meniscus velocity shortens as the interface acceleration increases.
Influence of Unhealthy Diet and Sedentary Behavior on the Oral Health-Related Quality of Life of 12-Year-Old Adolescents
Authors: Cabral Jhenyffer Andrade Viana , Bomfim Rafael Aiello 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This study analyzed the factors associated with the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) of 12-year-old adolescents and their relationship with unhealthy eating and sedentary behavior. Data were collected from 615 adolescents from the five largest cities in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The theoretical framework of the social determinants of oral health guided all analyses and the measurement instrument was OIDP (impact of oral health on daily performance). Multilevel logistic and negative binomial regressions were performed to test the association of OHRQOL with unhealthy eating, sedentary behavior, sociodemographic characteristics and health behaviours. Considering the sample weights, 43% of the adolescents reported some impact on OHRQOL. In the adjusted models, higher consumption of unhealthy foods (moderate and high) was associated with a prevalence of impact on OHRQOL [OR = 3.59 (95%CI 1.99; 6.46)] and higher OHRQOL severity [RR = 2.05 (95%CI 1.43; 2.94)] compared to their counterparts. Those who had sedentary behaviour were associated with the prevalence of impact on OHRQOL [OR = 1.52 (95%CI 1.22; 1.89)] and greater severity [RR = 1.21 (95%CI 1.07; 1.37)] compared to those who did not have sedentary behaviour. Unhealthy food consumption and sedentary behavior were associated with OHRQOL. Intersectoral health public policies for healthy eating and for reducing sedentary behavior on the internet and electronic games can help in the quality of life of adolescents.
Application of machine learning for detecting and tracking turbulent structures in plasma fusion devices using ultra-fast imaging
Authors: Chouchene Sarah , Brochard Frédéric , Desecures Mikaël , Lemoine Nicolas , Cavalier Jordan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This study explores the application of machine learning techniques for detecting and tracking plasma filaments around the boundary of magnetically confined tokamak plasmas. Plasma filaments, also called blobs, are responsible for enhanced turbulent transport across magnetic field lines, and their accurate characterization is crucial for optimizing the performance of magnetic fusion devices. We present a novel approach that combines machine learning methods applied to data obtained from ultra-fast cameras, including YOLO (You Only Look Once) for object detection, semantic segmentation, and specific tracking methods. This approach enables fast and accurate detection and tracking of filaments while overcoming the limitations of conventional methods, which are time-consuming and prone to human subjectivity. A significant advance in our study lies in the development of a method for automatically labeling a large batch of data, which greatly facilitates the training of supervised machine learning algorithms. Using these techniques, we obtained promising results demonstrating a significant improvement over conventional tracking methods, achieving a detection accuracy of up to 98.8 %, while reducing the inference time per frame by 15% to 31% compared to conventional Kalman filter tracking. These results open up new perspectives for investigating turbulent phenomena in tokamaks, and could have important implications for the development of controlled nuclear fusion.
Study on the mechanism of common differential genes between gingival fibroma and H1N1 infection in autophagy
Authors: Xu Mingxiang , Li Yinpeng , Wu Jie , Zhang Luwei , Wang Yang , Ye Lin , Li Xin , Xu Kebin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Recent studies have shown a close association between periodontal disease and respiratory diseases. Gingival fibroma is a form of periodontal disease, and the H1N1 virus is a common pathogen causing respiratory diseases. The objective of this study is to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of autophagy in common differential genes between gingival fibroma and H1N1 virus infection using bioinformatics methods
Method
Data sets of gingival fibroma and H1N1 virus infection were downloaded from GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus), and the differential genes between the two were identified using R language. The intersection of the differential gene sets of the two diseases with the autophagy-related gene set downloaded from Gene Cards was obtained. GO analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were conducted on the differential genes of the two diseases using R language. Immune infiltration analysis was performed on the differential genes of the two diseases, and a heatmap of the correlation between the common differential genes of gingival fibroma, H1N1 virus infection, and autophagy and immune cells was drawn using R language
Results
Data from two GEO datasets were analyzed, and the data of gingival fibroma were screened out286 differential genes (199 down-regulated genes, 87 up-regulated genes)and H1N1 virus infection388 differential genes (38 up-regulated genes and 350 down-regulated genes)There are four common differential genes in gingival fibroma, H1N1 virus infection and cell autophagyBST2, SOD2, SLC7A11, and MXD1The enrichment analysis results show that,The differential genes of gingival fibroma are mainly enriched in tissue development (biological processes), extracellular regions (cellular composition), through the incorporation or reduction of molecular oxygen acting on paired donors (molecular functions), and are enriched in fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis signaling pathways. The differential genes infected by H1N1 virus are mainly enriched in interspecies interactions (biological processes), nuclear endoplasmic reticulum membranes (cellular composition), signal receptor binding (molecular functions), and are enriched in influenza A, EB virus infection and other signaling pathwaysThe results of immune infiltration analysis showed that,Gingival fibroma is significantly related to dendritic cells and other immune cells, and H1N1 virus infectioninitial CD4 + T cellsDendritic cells and neutrophils are significantly related.
Conclusion
The regulatory mechanism of cell autophagy in the common differential genes between gingival fibroma and H1N1 virus infection can be analyzed by bioinformatics methods
Characterization of Collaborative Cross mouse founder strain CAST/EiJ as a novel model for lethal COVID-19
Authors: Baker Candice N. , Duso Debra , Kothapalli Nagarama , Hart Tricia , Casey Sean , Cookenham Tres , Kummer Larry , Hvizdos Janine , Lanzer Kathleen , Vats Purva , Shanbhag Priya , Bell Isaac , Tighe Mike , Travis Kelsey , Szaba Frank , Bedard Olivia , Oberding Natalie , Ward Jerrold M. , Adams Mark D. , Lutz Cathleen , Bradrick Shelton S. , Reiley William W. , Rosenthal Nadia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Mutations in SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) have expanded the viral host range beyond primates, and a limited range of other mammals, to mice, affording the opportunity to exploit genetically diverse mouse panels to model the broad range of responses to infection in patient populations. Here we surveyed responses to VOC infection in genetically diverse Collaborative Cross (CC) founder strains. Infection of wild-derived CC founder strains produced a broad range of viral burden, disease susceptibility and survival, whereas most other strains were resistant to disease despite measurable lung viral titers. In particular, CAST/EiJ, a wild-derived strain, developed high lung viral burdens, more severe lung pathology than seen in other CC strains, and a dysregulated cytokine profile resulting in morbidity and mortality. These inbred mouse strains may serve as a valuable platform to evaluate therapeutic countermeasures against severe COVID-19 and other coronavirus pandemics in the future.
Vascular supply of the radial nerve and its terminal branches: an anatomical study
Authors: Daoulas Thomas , Sivakumar Brahman , Houziaux Gautier , Forli Alexandra , Seizeur Romuald , Perruisseau-Carrier Anne 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The aim of this cadaveric study was to further describe the vascular supply of the radial, posterior interosseous and superficial radial nerves.
Methods
11 cadaveric upper limbs, injected with colored latex, were dissected. Vascular afferents to the radial nerve, superficial radial nerve (SRN) and posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) were described and located. Their origin was identified and its distance to interepicondylar line was measured.
Results
The radial nerve had an average of 3 vascular afferents (2-5), of septomuscular origin in 54% of cases. 46% came from adjacent arteries.
The PIN had an average of 8 vascular afferents (6-12), arising from septomuscular branches in 82% of cases. The PIN was vascularized in 100% of cases by a large arterial plexus originating from the supinator muscle between its two heads.
The SRN had an average of 4 vascular afferents (3-5). Before crossing the septum of the brachioradialis, vascularization was predominantly septomuscular; after crossing the septum, the nerve was exclusively vascularized by septocutaneous arteries.
Conclusion
This is the first study to describe the vascularization of the radial nerve and its terminal branches along their entire length. Our results are in line with the data available in the literature.
An arterial plexus between the two heads of the supinator was surrounding the PIN in all cases. This vascular plexus might be involved in dynamic compression of the posterior interosseous nerve.
Ferroptosis suppressor 1 regulates ferroptosis and mitochondrial function during mouse oocyte maturation
Authors: Ruan Hongzhen , Xiang Huifen , Liu Yajing , Wang Peiwen , Dong Liuliu , Chen Yaxin , Zhang Yingying , Ma Cong , Wang Mengyao , Wu Caiyun , Cao Yunxia , Liang Dan , Ding Zhiming 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Oocyte quality is critical for fertilization and embryo development. Recent studies have shown that ferroptosis may compromise oocyte quality. Ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 (FSP1) is a ferroptosis inhibitor with an undefined role in oocyte quality regulation during meiotic maturation. Here, we found that FSP1 is expressed throughout all stages of meiotic maturation and localizes to the cytoplasm of mouse oocytes. A decline in FSP1 expression was observed in the ovaries and oocytes of aged mice. Pharmacological inhibition of FSP1 caused a failure in germinal vesicle breakdown and polar body emission, accompanied by spindle abnormalities and chromosome misalignment. Moreover, FSP1 inhibition consistently activated the spindle assembly checkpoint, inducing meiotic arrest. Mechanistically, FSP1 inhibition increased Fe2+ content, elevated dihydroethidium levels, promoted reactive oxygen species buildup, and heightened lipid peroxidation. Additionally, it dysregulated the expression of ferroptosis-related genes, suggesting that oocytes underwent ferroptosis. Furthermore, FSP1 inhibition provoked mitochondrial dysfunction, characterized by abnormal mitochondrial localization, reduced ATP levels, and elevated mitochondrial membrane potential. In summary, our findings demonstrate that FSP1 participates in oocyte meiotic maturation through its involvement in iron homeostasis and mitochondrial activity, and FSP1 inhibition results in ferroptosis-dependent meiotic failure.
Speeding up hierarchical reinforcement learning using state-independent temporal skills
Authors: Azadkhah Leila , Davoodi Omid , Ghazanfari Mohammad , Mozayani Nasser 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Hierarchical reinforcement learning has the potential to expedite long-term decision-making by abstracting policies into multiple levels. Encouraging outcomes have been observed in challenging reward environments through the use of skills, defined as sequences of basic actions. While existing methods based on offline data have shown promise, the resulting lower-level policies may suffer from unreliability due to limited demonstration coverage or shifts in distribution. To address this limitation, we propose a novel approach to autonomously identify state-independent temporal skills (SITS) by extracting the most repetitive action sequences from a trained agent. These skills, acquired in a simpler source task, can then be transferred to a more complex target task to enhance the agent’s training efficiency, particularly during the exploration phase. Our method is independent of other hierarchical reinforcement learning techniques and can be used in conjunction with them. Experimental results demonstrate the efficacy of incorporating SITS in addressing complex RL challenges.
Maedi-visna in Pomeranian Coarsewool sheep in Germany: Seroprevalence, environmental and genetic risk factors
Authors: Frölich Cassandra , Lühken Gesine , Ganter Martin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Small ruminant lentiviruses (SRLV) cause maedi-visna (MV), an incurable, wasting disease affecting sheep worldwide. This study evaluated the seroprevalence of the maedi-visna virus (MVV) in the endangered German Pomeranian Coarsewool Sheep (RPL) and identified environmental and genetic risk factors for individual and flock-level seropositivity. A total of 849 samples from 35 farms across 9 German states were analyzed for MVV antibodies. Individual seroprevalence and clinical incidence were 3.5% and 13.3%, respectively. Seropositive sheep were detected in 6 flocks, with prevalences between 5.3% and 37.5%. Eastern German flocks and sheep older than 3 years showed the highest seroprevalence. Purchasing positive ewes was identified as the main risk factor for seropositivity. Serotyping of SRLV in the MVV-positive sheep identified besides genotype A for the first time in Germany genotypes B and E, suggesting multiple routes of virus introduction into this breed. Furthermore, 530 sheep from 54 flocks were genotyped for position 35 of the ovine transmembrane protein 154 (TMEM154) coding region. The putative protective TMEM154 genotype KK and allele K were present in 28% and 53%, respectively. Association analysis between TMEM154 genotypes and MVV seropositivity showed only a tendency towards significance, potentially confounded by the low number of positive sheep and/or different SRLV genotypes. Despite a low MVV seroprevalence in the RPL breed in Germany, regular monitoring is strongly recommended to avoid its spread. Selection of sheep for the less susceptible TMEM154 genotype KK may help to eradicate the disease in affected flocks but requires further investigation.
Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Vs Chemoradiotherapy for Malignancy of Oesophagus (NAMO Study)
Authors: Varshney Vaibhav Kumar , Jain Vishu , Selvakumar B , Soni Subhash , Varshney Peeyush , Agarwal Lokesh , Suman Sunita , Pareek Puneet , Goel Akhil Dhanesh , Hussain Sabir , Elhence Poonam 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Neoadjuvant chemoradiation (NACRT) followed by surgery has become the standard of care in the management of oesophageal cancer. This study was intended to compare the neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) with NACRT for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the oesophagus in terms of tolerability and oncological benefit.
Methods
A non-randomised controlled study was conducted from July 2019 to August 2023. Either NACT or NACRT was given to all resectable oesophagus cancer (Clinical staged IB–IIIC) patients based on their choice after counselling and proper consent. Post neoadjuvant therapy, all patients underwent Mckeown’s esophagectomy with two-field lymphadenectomy. Radiological and pathological response, peri-operative morbidity, mortality, recurrence-free and overall survival were compared.
Results
Out of 75 patients enrolled, after exclusion, 30 patients had received NACT, and 33 received NACRT. The pre-operative demographics, clinical tumor & nodal stage and post-neoadjuvant therapy-related adverse events were comparable in the two groups. The median number of LNs retrieved (21 vs 19, p = 0.19), R0 resection rate (100% vs 94%) and perineural invasion were similar (36.7% vs 24.2%, p-value: 0.283) in both. Although the pathological response was significantly better in the NACRT arm at a median follow-up of 32.5 (20.75–48) months, the median recurrence-free survival was higher in the NACT than the NACRT group (57 vs 36 months, p-value – 0.831), and overall survival was yet to reach in both groups.
Conclusions
NACT has non-inferior oncological and survival outcomes vis a-vis patients receiving NACRT. NACT could be a feasible alternative to NACRT in SCC of the oesophagus, especially in situations where radiotherapy is not feasible.