bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cross-centroid ripple pattern for facial expression recognition
Authors: Verma Monu , Vipparthi Santosh Kumar 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this paper, we propose a new feature descriptor Cross-Centroid Ripple Pattern (CRIP) for facial expression recognition. CRIP encodes the transitional pattern of a facial expression by incorporating a cross-centroid relationship between two ripples located at radius r1 and r2 respectively. These ripples are generated by dividing the local neighborhood region into subregions. Thus, CRIP has the ability to preserve macro and microstructural variations in an extensive region, which enables it to deal with side views and spontaneous expressions. Furthermore, gradient information between cross centroid ripples provides strength to capture prominent edge features in active patches: eyes, nose, and mouth, that define the disparities between different facial expressions. Cross-centroid information also provides robustness to irregular illumination. Moreover, CRIP utilizes the averaging behavior of pixels at subregions that yields robustness to deal with noisy conditions. The performance of the proposed descriptor is evaluated on seven comprehensive expression datasets consisting of challenging conditions such as age, pose, ethnicity, and illumination variations. The experimental results show that our descriptor consistently achieved a better accuracy rate as compared to existing state-of-the-art approaches.
Generalized fused Lasso for grouped data in generalized linear models
Authors: Ohishi Mineaki 
Published: May 2024

AbstractGeneralized fused Lasso (GFL) is a powerful method based on adjacent relationships or the network structure of data. It is used in a number of research areas, including clustering, discrete smoothing, and spatio-temporal analysis. When applying GFL, the specific optimization method used is an important issue. In generalized linear models, efficient algorithms based on the coordinate descent method have been developed for trend filtering under the binomial and Poisson distributions. However, to apply GFL to other distributions, such as the negative binomial distribution, which is used to deal with overdispersion in the Poisson distribution, or the gamma and inverse Gaussian distributions, which are used for positive continuous data, an algorithm for each individual distribution must be developed. To unify GFL for distributions in the exponential family, this paper proposes a coordinate descent algorithm for generalized linear models. To illustrate the method, a real data example of spatio-temporal analysis is provided.
Monitoring of mammal and bird species in an urban ecological park using environmental DNA metabarcoding
Authors: Sohn Heejung , Song Youngkeun 
Published: May 2024

AbstractMonitoring species distribution and abundance accurately and efficiently are vital for conservation efforts. Next-generation sequencing and DNA metabarcoding using environmental DNA (eDNA) allow for the simultaneous identification of multiple species in one sample, enabling swift biodiversity assessment in complex ecosystems. However, most eDNA studies focus on aquatic organisms and ecosystems.This study’s main objective was to use eDNA metabarcoding to monitor mammal and bird species in an urban ecological park. The chosen study site was Gildong Ecological Park, Seoul, South Korea, with a total area of 80,000 m² divided into three marsh area, a forested mountain area, and a rural experience learning center. Water sampling occurred five times from August to September, yielding 65 samples from three park sections. We employed MiMammal and MiBird primers targeting mitochondrial 12 S to investigate mammals and birds, serving as pivotal biological indicators within urban ecosystems.Metabarcoding revealed the presence of 73% (11/15) and 67% (represented 67% of the total 6268 individual) of the dominant mammalian and avian species, respectively, known to inhabit the park, compared to the results of traditional surveys. The mountain samples (1.51) and marsh samples (2.32) had significantly different median read counts when including all species; however, the same comparison within each taxonomic group yielded no statistically significant differences. Though we detected species differences using eDNA across summer, autumn, and winter monitoring, no statistically significant differences were found among seasons within the park. However, the park’s area is relatively small for detecting variations in eDNA. This might be because there is a lot of animal activity throughout the study site and/or a limited influence of microhabitats. These results could provide valuable insights for using eDNA to monitor animals in urban ecological parks.
The distribution and abundance of woody invasive alien plants in small towns in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Seboko Tshepiso Collen , Ruwanza Sheunesu , Shackleton Charlie 
Published: May 2024

AbstractInvasive alien plants (IAPs) are rapidly increasing around the world, mainly due to land transformation, climate change, and urbanisation. Whilst urban areas are highly susceptible to invasion by IAPs, crucial information on the distribution and abundance of woody invaders in small towns is limited. Here, we determined the distribution and abundance of woody IAPs across different suburbs and land use types in 12 small towns in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. We enumerated 38 427 individual woody IAPs, and their abundance and distribution varied across surveyed towns. Although species such as Melia azedarach, Pinus elliotti, Jacaranda mimosifolia, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, and Ligustrum lucidum were the most distributed, species density varied across towns. More than half of the woody IAPs were identified in affluent (56%) suburbs compared to the townships (23%), Central business district (CBD) (16%), and low-income housing neighbourhoods (5%). There were significant differences in woody IAPs distribution across different land use types, with more than half (54%) found in the residential areas compared to road verges (32%) and public urban green spaces (14%). Some socio-economic and environmental predictors such as town population, mean temperature, unemployment rate, and Gross domestic product (GDP) showed significant and positive correlations with woody IAPs species richness and density. Our findings suggest an uneven spatial distribution and diversity of woody IAPs across the different small towns, suburbs, and land use types in the region. It is recommended that small towns in South Africa need financial and human resources support to effectively manage IAPs.
Wastewater Treatment Sludge and Agricultural Wastes: Management by Composting Process
Authors: Ucaroglu Selnur , Atalay Yusuf 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis study aimed to investigate the compostability of wastewater treatment sludge and evaluate the effects on compost quality of adding cotton gin waste and peanut shell. For this purpose, treatment sludge was mixed with cotton gin waste in the ratios of 60:40 in M1 reactor and 80:20 in M2 reactor, while in M3 and M4 reactors, treatment sludge was mixed with peanut shell in the same proportions. The highest temperatures were reached in reactors M2 (65.2 °C) and M4 (68.7 °C) where 80% treatment sludge was added. These reactors also experienced the highest organic matter losses of 42.2% and 31.5%, respectively. It can be stated that a faster microbial decomposition and stabilization occurred in these reactors. It can be said that the composting process may be a preferable method for the management of treatment sludge and agricultural wastes. Furthermore, the outcomes of the study can serve the food industry and agriculture sector through effective bioconversion of organic waste.
Graphical Abstract
Preparation and preliminary evaluation of a tritium-labeled allosteric P2X4 receptor antagonist
Authors: Nagel Jessica , Törmäkangas Olli , Kuokkanen Katja , El-Tayeb Ali , Messinger Josef , Abdelrahman Aliaa , Bous Christiane , Schiedel Anke C. , Müller Christa E. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractP2X4 receptors are ATP-gated cation channels that were proposed as novel drug targets due to their role in inflammation and neuropathic pain. Only few potent and selective P2X4 receptor antagonists have been described to date. Labeled tool compounds suitable for P2X4 receptor binding studies are lacking. Here, we present a novel allosteric P2X4 receptor antagonist possessing high potency in the low nanomolar range. We describe its tritium-labeling resulting in the P2X4-selective radiotracer [3H]PSB-OR-2020 with high specific activity (45 Ci/mmol; 1.67 TBq/mmol). A radioligand binding assay was developed using human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cell membranes recombinantly expressing the human P2X4 receptor. Competition binding studies with structurally diverse P2X4 receptor antagonists revealed different allosteric binding sites indicating that the new class of P2X4 receptor antagonists, to which PSB-OR-2020 belongs, interacts with an unprecedented allosteric site. [3H]PSB-OR-2020 may become a useful tool for research on P2X4 receptors and for promoting drug development.
Self-rated health, epigenetic ageing, and long-term mortality in older Australians
Authors: Li Danmeng Lily , Hodge Allison M. , Southey Melissa C. , Giles Graham G. , Milne Roger L. , Dugué Pierre-Antoine 
Published: May 2024

AbstractSelf-rated health (SRH) is a subjective indicator of overall health based on a single questionnaire item. Previous evidence found that it is a strong predictor of mortality, although the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Epigenetic age is an objective, emerging biomarker of health, estimated using DNA methylation data at hundreds of sites across the genome. This study aimed to assess the overlap and interaction between SRH and epigenetic ageing in predicting mortality risk. We used DNA methylation data from 1059 participants in the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study (mean age: 69 years) to calculate three age-adjusted measures of epigenetic ageing: GrimAge, PhenoAge, and DunedinPACE. SRH was assessed using a five-category questionnaire item (“excellent, very good, good, fair, poor”). Cox models were used to assess the associations of SRH, epigenetic ageing, and their interaction, with all-cause mortality over up to 17 years of follow-up (Ndeaths = 345). The association of SRH with mortality per category increase was HR = 1.29; 95%CI: 1.14–1.46. The association was slightly attenuated after adjusting for all three epigenetic ageing measures (HR = 1.25, 95%CI: 1.10–1.41). A strong gradient was observed in the association of GrimAge (Pinteraction = 0.006) and DunedinPACE (Pinteraction = 0.002) with mortality across worsening SRH strata. For example, the association between DunedinPACE and mortality in participants with “excellent” SRH was HR = 1.02, 95%CI: 0.73–1.43 and for “fair/poor” HR = 1.72, 95%CI: 1.35–2.20. SRH and epigenetic ageing were synergistic risk factors of mortality in our study. These findings suggest that consideration of subjective and objective factors may improve general health assessment, which has implications for the ongoing development of molecular markers of ageing.
Ultrasound segmentation analysis via distinct and completed anatomical borders
Authors: Duque Vanessa Gonzalez , Marquardt Alexandra , Velikova Yordanka , Lacourpaille Lilian , Nordez Antoine , Crouzier Marion , Lee Hong Joo , Mateus Diana , Navab Nassir 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose

Segmenting ultrasound images is important for precise area and/or volume calculations, ensuring reliable diagnosis and effective treatment evaluation for diseases. Recently, many segmentation methods have been proposed and shown impressive performance. However, currently, there is no deeper understanding of how networks segment target regions or how they define the boundaries. In this paper, we present a new approach that analyzes ultrasound segmentation networks in terms of learned borders because border delimitation is challenging in ultrasound.

Methods

We propose a way to split the boundaries for ultrasound images into distinct and completed. By exploiting the Grad-CAM of the split borders, we analyze the areas each network pays attention to. Further, we calculate the ratio of correct predictions for distinct and completed borders. We conducted experiments on an in-house leg ultrasound dataset (LEG-3D-US) as well as on two additional public datasets of thyroid, nerves, and one private for prostate.

Results

Quantitatively, the networks exhibit around 10% improvement in handling completed borders compared to distinct borders. Similar to doctors, the network struggles to define the borders in less visible areas. Additionally, the Seg-Grad-CAM analysis underscores how completion uses distinct borders and landmarks, while distinct focuses mainly on the shiny structures. We also observe variations depending on the attention mechanism of each architecture.

Conclusion

In this work, we highlight the importance of studying ultrasound borders differently than other modalities such as MRI or CT. We split the borders into distinct and completed, similar to clinicians, and show the quality of the network-learned information for these two types of borders. Additionally, we open-source a 3D leg ultrasound dataset to the community https://github.com/Al3xand1a/segmentation-border-analysis.
Efficacy of 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for detecting renal cell carcinoma in patients with end-stage renal disease
Authors: Hirasawa Hiromi , Taketomi-Takahashi Ayako , Katsumata Natsumi , Higuchi Tetsuya , Sekine Yoshitaka , Suzuki Kazuhiro , Kaneko Yoriaki , Hiromura Keiju , Fukushima Yasuhiro , Tsushima Yoshito 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Dialysis patients are at an increased risk of developing renal cell carcinoma (RCC); however, differentiating between RCC and benign cysts can sometimes be difficult using modalities, such as computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography. 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET)/CT efficiently detects malignant tumors; however, physiological accumulation of FDG in the kidney limits its efficacy in detecting renal tumors. However, in patients with severely impaired renal function, the renal accumulation of FDG is decreased, possibly improving the detection of renal malignancies in this patient population. This study evaluated the usefulness of FDG-PET/CT as a screening tool for detecting RCC in patients with end-stage renal disease.

Materials and methods
This prospective study recruited 150 participants from 2012 to 2016 who were on dialysis or underwent renal transplantation and were on dialysis until transplantation. FDG-PET/CT was performed to screen for RCC. Three radiologists independently evaluated the images. No protocol was defined for the additional management of positive examinations, leaving decisions to the discretion of each participant. Negative examinations were observed until the end of 2019.

Results
In total, 150 participants (mean age, 58 ± 13 years; 105 men) underwent FDG-PET/CT. Twenty patients (13.4%) were diagnosed as positive. Fifteen patients underwent additional examinations and/or procedures, and RCC was found in seven patients. Of the four patients who underwent surgical resection, the pathological results were clear cell RCC in one, papillary RCC in one, and acquired cystic disease-associated RCC in two. Two participants were diagnosed with RCC on bone biopsy, and one was diagnosed on dynamic CT but opted for observation. The sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive value were 100%, 93.9%, and 100%, respectively.

Conclusion
FDG-PET/CT was useful for detecting RCC in patients with end-stage renal disease. Our findings show the potential use of FDG-PET/CT as a screening tool for RCC in this patient population.
Runx2 Suppresses Astrocyte Activation and Astroglial Scar Formation After Spinal Cord Injury in Mice
Authors: Lu Leilei , Ye Jiazong , Yi Dafa , Qi Tengfei , Luo Tong , Wu Silei , Yang Liangliang , Li Lei , Zhang Hongyu , Chen Daqing 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAfter spinal cord injury, astrocytes undergo a reactive process and form an astroglial scar, which impedes the regeneration of axons. The role of Runx2 in promoting the transformation of astrocytes in the central nervous system is well-established. However, it remains unclear whether Runx2 also plays a role in the development of astroglial scar, and the precise underlying mechanism has yet to be identified. Recently, our study using cell culture and animal models has demonstrated that Runx2 actually suppresses astrocyte activation and the formation of astroglial scar following injury. The initial results demonstrated an increase in the expression of Runx2 in astrocytes following in vivo injury. Subsequently, the overexpression of Runx2 resulted in the inhibition of astrocyte activation, reduction in the total area of astroglial scar, and restoration of neural function after 14 days of injury. However, these effects were reversed by CADD522. These findings indicate that Runx2 could potentially serve as a therapeutic intervention for spinal cord injury (SCI). Furthermore, our findings suggest that the Nuclear-matrix-targeting signal (NMTS) of Runx2 is associated with its effect. In summary, the study’s results propose that targeting Runx2 may be a promising treatment approach for reactive astrocytes and astroglial scar in the recovery of SCI.
Graphical Abstract
Assessing the Washing Fastness and Environmental Impact of Various Reduction Clearing Processes on High-Performance Polyetherimide (PEI) Fabrics
Authors: Kalayci Ece , Avinc Ozan 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPEI fibers are considered a high-performance type of fiber, known for their exceptional heat resistance and mechanical strength. These fibers, made of polyetherimide (PEI) polymer, have a completely amorphous structure, and can be dyed with disperse dyes, similar to how polyester fibers are dyed. This study focused on the reduction clearing process after dyeing PEI fibers with disperse dyes and examined various clearing agents used in both alkaline and acidic conditions, assessing how different concentrations, temperatures, and durations of reduction clearing processes affected the PEI samples. The main goal was to find the best reduction clearing parameters for disperse-dyed PEI samples, taking into account environmental impact, fabric durability, and color fastness. Analytical techniques like chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD5), total organic carbon (TOC), and carbon footprint analysis were used for evaluation. The study revealed that most disperse-dyed PEI fibers require a reduction clearing process, with few exceptions. It is important to note that clearing with sulfuric acid-based agents or in acidic conditions may slightly reduce the fiber’s strength. On the other hand, the study identified that utilizing a solution containing 2 g/l sodium dithionite and 4 g/l NaOH for 30 min at 70 °C resulted in the least strength loss. Similarly, when considering the environmental impact, this same reduction clearing process was found to have the least detrimental effects based on COD, BOD5, TOC, and carbon footprint analyses. The data collection process was thoroughly documented throughout the study.
Evaluating Hydrogeomorphic Condition Across Ecosystem States in a Non-tidal, Brackish Peat Marsh of the Florida Coastal Everglades, USA
Authors: Lamb-Wotton Lukas , Troxler Tiffany G. , Coronado-Molina Carlos , Davis Stephen E. , Gann Daniel , Ishtiaq Khandker S. , Malone Sparkle L. , Olivas Paulo , Rudnick David T. , Sklar Fred H. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractEmergent marsh and open water have been identified as alternate stable states in tidal marshes with large, relative differences in hydrogeomorphic conditions. In the Florida coastal Everglades, concern has been raised regarding the loss of non-tidal, coastal peat marsh via dieback of emergent vegetation and peat collapse. To aid in the identification of alternate stable states, our objective was to characterize the variability of hydrogeomorphic and biologic conditions using a field survey and long-term monitoring of hydrologic and geomorphic conditions across a range of vegetated (emergent, submerged) and unvegetated (open water) communities, which we refer to as “ecosystem states,” in a non-tidal, brackish peat marsh of the coastal Everglades. Results show (1) linear relationships among field-surveyed geomorphic, hydrologic, and biologic variables, with a 35-cm mean difference in soil surface elevation between emergent and open water states, (2) an overall decline in soil elevation in the submerged state that was related to cumulative dry days, and (3) a 2× increase in porewater salinity during the dry season in the emergent state that was also related to the number of dry days. Coupled with findings from previous experiments, we propose a conceptual model that describes how seasonal hydrologic variability may lead to ecosystem state transitions between emergent and open water alternate states. Since vegetative states are only moderately salt tolerant, as sea-level rise pushes the saltwater front inland, the importance of continued progress on Everglades restoration projects, with an aim to increase the volume of freshwater being delivered to coastal wetlands, is the primary management intervention available to mitigate salinization and slow ecosystem state shifts in non-tidal, brackish peat marshes.
A new prognostic model based on gamma-delta T cells for predicting the risk and aiding in the treatment of clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wu Yaqian , Yao Mengfei , Wu Zonglong , Ma Lulin , Liu Cheng 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
ccRCC is the prevailing form of RCC, accounting for the majority of cases. The formation of cancer and the body's ability to fight against tumors are strongly connected to Gamma delta (γδ) T cells.

Methods
We examined and analyzed the gene expression patterns of 535 individuals diagnosed with ccRCC and 72 individuals serving as controls, all sourced from the TCGA-KIRC dataset, which were subsequently validated through molecular biology experiments.

Results
In ccRCC, we discovered 304 module genes (DEGRGs) that were ex-pressed differentially and linked to γδ T cells. A risk model for ccRCC was constructed using 13 differentially DEGRGs identified through univariate Cox and LASSO regression analyses, which were found to be associated with prognosis. The risk model exhibited outstanding performance in both the training and validation datasets. The comparison of immune checkpoint inhibitors and the tumor immune microenvironment between the high- and low-risk groups indicates that immunotherapy could lead to positive results for low-risk patients. Moreover, the inhibition of ccRCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion was observed in cell culture upon knocking down TMSB10, a gene associated with different types of cancers.

Conclusions
In summary, we have created a precise predictive biomarker using a risk model centered on γδ T cells, which can anticipate clinical results and provide direction for the advancement of innovative targeted therapies.