bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Actor-Critic Networks with Analogue Memristors Mimicking Reward-Based Learning
Authors: Portner Kevin , Zellweger Till , Martinelli Flavio , Bégon-Lours Laura , Bragaglia Valeria , Weilenmann Christoph , Jubin Daniel , Falcone Donato , Hermann Felix , Hrynkevych Oscar , Stecconi Tommaso , Porta Antonio La , Drechsler Ute , Olziersky Antonis , Offrein Bert , Gerstner Wulfram , Luisier Mathieu , Emboras Alexandros 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Advancements in memristive devices have given rise to a new generation of specialized hardware for bio-inspired computing. However, the majority of these implementations only draw partial inspiration from the architecture and functionalities of the mammalian brain. Moreover, the use of memristive hardware is typically restricted to specific elements within the learning algorithm, leaving computationally expensive operations to be executed in software. Here, we demonstrate actor-critic temporal difference (TD) learning on analogue memristors, mirroring the principles of reward-based learning in a neural network architecture similar to the one found in biology. Within the learning algorithm, memristors are used as multi-purpose elements: They act as synaptic weights that are trained online, they calculate the weight updates directly in hardware, and they compute the actions for navigating through the environment. Thanks to these features, weight training can take place entirely in-memory, eliminating the need for data movement and enhancing processing speed. Also, our proposed learning scheme possesses self-correction capabilities that effectively counteract noise during the weight update process, which makes it a promising alternative to traditional error mitigation schemes. We test our framework on two classic navigation tasks - the T-maze and the Morris water-maze - using analogue memristors based on the valence change memory (VCM) effect. Our approach represents a first step towards fully in-memory, online, and error-resilient neuromorphic computing engines based on bio-inspired learning schemes.
99mTc-GSA scintigraphy and modified albumin–bilirubin score can be complementary to ICG for predicting posthepatectomy liver failure
Authors: Mii Satoshi , Takahara Takeshi , Shibasaki Susumu , Ishihara Takuma , Mizumoto Takuya , Uchida Yuichiro , Iwama Hideaki , Kojima Masayuki , Kato Yutaro , Suda Koichi 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background: Posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) remains a severe complication after liver resection. This retrospective study investigated the correlation of three hepatic functional tests and whether 99mTc-galactosyl human serum albumin (99mTc-GSA) scintigraphy and modified albumin–bilirubin (ALBI) score are useful for predicting PHLF.
Methods: A total of 413 consecutivepatients undergoing hepatectomies between January 2017 and December 2020 at our institution were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study. To evaluate preoperative hepatic functional reserve, modified ALBI grade, indocyanine green clearance (ICG-R15), and 99mTc-GSA scintigraphy (LHL15) were routinely examined before the scheduled hepatectomy. Based on the retrospective chart review, multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for confounding factors was performed to confirm that ALBI, ICG-R15, and LHL15 are independent risk factors for PHLF.
Results: ICG-R15 and LHL15 were moderately correlated (r = −0.61). However, the correlation with LHL15 weakened when ICG-R15 was about ³20. Weak correlations were observed between LHL15 and ALBI score (r = −0.269) and ALBI score and ICG-R15 (r = 0.339). Of 413 patients, 66 (19%) developed PHLF (grade A: n = 20, grade B: n = 44, grade C: n = 2). Multivariable logistic regression analyses, mALBI grade (P= .014) and ICG-R15 (P < .001) were significant independent risk factors for PHLF. Subgroup analysis showed that ICG-R15 <19, major hepatectomy, and mALBI grade and ICG-R15 ³19, major hepatectomy, and LHL15 were significant independent risk factors for PHLF (P =.036,.020,.043, and.013, respectively).
Conclusion: LHL15 and mALBI grade would be complementary to ICG-R15 for predicting PHLF risk.
The serine-rich repeat glycoprotein Srr2 mediates Streptococcus agalactiae interaction with host fibronectin
Authors: Pellegrini Angelica , Motta Chiara , Menegussi Elisa Bellan , Pierangelini Andrea , Viglio Simona , Beninati Concetta , De Filippis Vincenzo , Barbieri Giulia , PIETROCOLA GIAMPIERO 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a commensal of healthy adults and an important pathogen in newborns, the elderly and immunocompromised individuals. GBS displays several virulence factors that promote colonisation and host infection, including the ST-17 strain-specific adhesin Srr2, previously characterised for its binding to fibrinogen. Another common target for bacterial adhesins and for host colonization is fibronectin, a multi-domain glycoprotein found ubiquitously in body fluids, in the extracellular matrix and on the surface of cells.
Results
In this study, fibronectin was identified as a novel ligand for the Srr2 adhesin of GBS. A derivative of the ST-17 strain BM110 overexpressing the srr2 gene showed an increased ability to bind fibrinogen and fibronectin, compared to the isogenic wild-type strain. Conversely, the deletion of srr2 impaired bacterial adhesion to both ligands. ELISA assays and surface plasmon resonance studies using the recombinant binding region (BR) form of Srr2 confirmed a direct interaction with fibronectin with an estimated Kd of 92 nM. Srr2-BR variants defective in fibrinogen binding also exhibited no interaction with fibronectin, suggesting that Srr2 binds this ligand through the dock-lock-latch mechanism, previously described for fibrinogen binding. The fibronectin site responsible for recombinant Srr2-BR binding was identified and localised in the central cell-binding domain of the protein. Finally, in the presence of fibronectin, the ability of a Δsrr2 mutant to adhere to human cervico-vaginal epithelial cells was significantly lower than the wild-type strain.
Conclusion
By combining genetic and biochemical approaches, here we demonstrate a new role for Srr2, namely interacting with fibronectin. We characterised the molecular mechanism of this interaction and demonstrated that it plays a role in promoting the adhesion of GBS to human cervico-vaginal epithelial cells, further substantiating the role of Srr2 as a factor responsible for the hypervirulence of GBS ST-17 strains. The discovery of the previously undescribed interaction between Srr2 and fibronectin establishes this adhesin as a key candidate for preventing GBS colonisation of host tissues.
Temperature and Degrees of Freedom of Potential Energy vs Its Kinetic Counterparts and Their Roles in Decoding Phase Transition
Authors: Zou Shengli , Wang Ankai 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Temperature, a fundamental metric in thermal energy characterization, encounters intriguing exceptions during phase transitions, where it maintains a constant value despite significant internal energy alterations. Equipartition theorem also failed in interpreting these phenomena. In this study, we introduce a novel framework termed "potential energy temperature (Tpot)" and associated degrees of freedom (Dpot) to provide deeper insights into phase transitions. Our investigations reveal that Tpot diverges considerably from conventional temperature (Tkin) defined by kinetic energy, and Dpot is influenced not only by dimensions in Cartesian coordinate but also by the number of interacting atoms. A noteworthy finding is the correlation between phase changes and increased Dpot, which explains the observed increase in potential energy using the equipartition theorem. Additionally, we identify a sudden change in Tpot during the phase transition, diverging from conventional descriptions. Furthermore, our study unveils unconventional concepts, such as the potential energy of an atom being significantly lower at higher temperatures than at absolute zero. These findings offer a fresh perspective on the phase changes of matter, challenging existing paradigms and providing insights into this complex yet fundamental natural process.
Development and performance verification of AI-based software for quantitative diagnosis of human vertebral fractures
Authors: Arakawa Shoutaro , Shinohara Akira , Arimura Daigo , Fukuda Takeshi , Takumi Yukihiro , Nishino Kazuyoshi , Saito Mitsuru 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Quantitative morphometry (QM) is crucial to accurately diagnose and perform follow-up of vertebral fractures. Although the semiquantitative technique by Genant is prevalent, its accuracy and reproducibility are low. This study combines an AI model that identifies the position of each vertebral body from thoracic and lumbar lateral X-ray images with another AI model that determines vertebral body height ratios required for QM to develop a software for automatic evaluations. The learning data set comprised 3,082 vertebrae annotated by an orthopedic specialist. Thereafter, the correlation and concordance were evaluated between the specialist in the validation set and external evaluators in the test set. The software required approximately 6 s to read one image. For the validation set, Spearman’s correlation coefficient (rs) was 0.605, 0.721, and 0.798 for C/A, C/P, and A/P, respectively. Bland–Altman analysis indicated that the percentage within the limits of agreement (LOA) was 96.8%, 95.7%, and 94.9%, respectively, which decreased as the vertebral body compression increased. For the test set, rs were between 0.519–0.589, 0.558–0.647, and 0.735–0.770, respectively, and the correlations between the external evaluators were similar. Additionally, LOAs were almost above 95%. The proposed software is expected to improve the diagnosis of vertebral fractures and osteoporosis, enabling appropriate treatment.
Synergetic hydrogen-bond network of functionalized graphene and cations for enhanced atmospheric water capture
Authors: Joshi Rakesh , Ren Xiaojun , Sui Xiao , Owens Llewellyn , Ji Dali , Wen Xinyue , Nishina Yuta , Pant Kamal , Quintano Vanesa , Andreeva Daria , Novoselov Konstantin , Karton Amir , Foller Tobias 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Water molecules at the solid-liquid interface display intricate behaviours sensitive to small changes. The presence of different interfacial components, such as cations or functional groups, shape the physical and chemical properties of the hydrogen bond network. Understanding such interfacial hydrogen-bond networks is essential for a large range of applications and scientific questions. To probe the interfacial hydrogen-bond network, atmospheric water capture is a powerful tool. Here, we experimentally observe that a calcium ion on a calcium-intercalated graphene oxide aerogel (Ca-GOA) surface captures 2.7 times more water molecules than in its freestanding state. From density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we uncover the synergistically enhanced hydrogen-bond network of the calcium ion-epoxide complex due to significantly larger polarizations and hydrogen bond enthalpies. This study reveals valuable insights into the interfacial water hydrogen-bond network on functionalized carbon-cation complexed surfaces and potential pathways for future atmospheric water generation technologies.
Clinical features and new perspectives on follow-up and treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Ren Linan , Xiao Xianchao , Cai Yunjia , Liu Siyuan , Gang Xiaokun , Wang Guixia 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

With the global prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), the incidence of secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) has gradually increased. The SHPT increase cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with CKD. However, clinical observations have found that SHPT in CKD patients has not attracted sufficient attention from clinicians. Therefore, our study investigated the current status of treatment of SHPT patients with CKD and found that 86.3% of patients had substandard parathyroid hormone (PTH) according to the KDOQI guidelines, and 44.5% of SHPT patients requiring pharmacologic or surgical interventions were not appropriately treated according to the KDIGO guidelines. Additionally, we analyzed the clinical characteristics of SHPT patients with CKD and found that PTH levels were lower in elderly, diabetic nephropathy patients, eGFR and adjusted serum calcium ion concentration were independent risk factors for increased PTH, and dialysis improved serum hypocalcemia better than hyperphosphatemia. Based on these findings, we propose some new recommendations for the follow-up and treatment of SHPT patients with CKD.
Enhanced Multiscale Human Brain Imaging by Semi-supervised Digital Staining and Serial Sectioning Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Tian Lei , Cheng Shiyi , Chang Shuaibin , Li Yunzhe , Novoseltseva Anna , Lin Sunni , Wu Yicun , Zhu Jiahui , Mckee Ann , Rosene Douglas , Wang Hui , Bigio Irving , Boas David 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

A major challenge in neuroscience is to visualize the structure of the human brain at different scales. Traditional histology reveals micro- and meso-scale brain features, but suffers from staining variability, tissue damage and distortion that impedes accurate 3D reconstructions. Here, we present a new 3D imaging framework that combines serial sectioning optical coherence tomography (S-OCT) with a deep-learning digital staining (DS) model. We develop a novel semi-supervised learning technique to facilitate DS model training on weakly paired images. The DS model performs translation from S-OCT to Gallyas silver staining. We demonstrate DS on various human cerebral cortex samples with consistent staining quality. Additionally, we show that DS enhances contrast across cortical layer boundaries. Furthermore, we showcase geometry-preserving 3D DS on cubic-centimeter tissue blocks and visualization of meso-scale vessel networks in the white matter. We believe that our technique offers the potential for high-throughput, multiscale imaging of brain tissues and may facilitate studies of brain structures.
PPI use associated with decreased new-onset diabetes risk in Korean NHIS-HEALS cohort
Authors: Kim Ye-Seul , Kim Jeong-Sook , You Hyo-sun , Kim Joungyoun , Kang Hee-Taik 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Several studies investigating the association between PPI use and new-onset diabetes mellitus (NODM) reported conflicting results. Herein, the association between PPI prescription and NODM in Koreans was examined. This study used the National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening cohort (NHIS-HEALS) database to identify adults ≥ 40 years without a history of diabetes. The dose of each PPI was converted into an omeprazole equivalent (OME) dose. Cumulative PPI prescriptions were categorized into four groups according to the OME dose: non-users, 1st tertile (T1), 2nd tertile (T2), and 3rd tertile (T3). We estimated the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for NODM using multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. During 9.8 years of mean follow-up for 82,590 participants, 9,464 (11.5%) developed NODM. Compared to non-users, the full adjusted HRs (95% CIs) of the T1, T2, and T3 for NODM were 0.57 (0.53 − 0.62), 0.55 (0.51 − 0.59), and 0.48 (0.45 − 0.52), in men and 0.62 (0.56 − 0.68), 0.57 (0.51 − 0.63), and 0.46 (0.41 − 0.51), in women, respectively (all p < 0.001). These trends were observed after stratifying the entire population into statin users and non-users or individuals with normoglycemia and impaired fasting glucose. Therefore, cumulative PPI prescription doses were associated with a lower risk of NODM in Korean adults.
Effect of denosumab on the incidence of fractures and mortality in patients undergoing hemodialysis: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kobayashi Arisa , Yaginuma Tatsuhiro , Kato Kazuhiko , Nakashima Akio , Ohkido Ichiro , Yokoo Takashi 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background: Patients undergoing hemodialysis are at an elevated risk of fractures; however, substantial evidence on osteoporosis treatment in this population is lacking. We explored the efficacy of denosumab, an anti-IgG2 antibody, in reducing fracture incidence and all-cause mortality in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study—conducted from December 2013 to December 2022—evaluated the effects of denosumab on fracture incidence and mortality. Kaplan–Meier curves and log-rank tests were used to assess survival and fracture/mortality risks, respectively. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to analyze fractures and all-cause mortality.
Results: Among 263 patients undergoing hemodialysis, 52 (19.8%) received denosumab. The median age was 71.7±12.1 years, with 93 (35.4%) females, and the median dialysis duration was 48 months (interquartile range, 4–114). During the study, 52 (22.8%) non-denosumab-treated patients had fractures compared to eight (3.0%) in the denosumab group. No significant differences were observed in the unadjusted model (HR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.24–1.08). Adjusting for competing mortality and clinical factors, the HR remained at 0.51 (95% CI, 0.22–1.20). Regarding all-cause mortality, no significant differences were observed in the unadjusted model (HR, 0.68 [95% CI, 0.43–1.07]); however, a significant reduction in mortality was observed in the adjusted model (HR, 0.46 [95% CI, 0.26–0.81]). Notably, the denosumab group showed a significant decrease in mortality, particularly in cardiovascular disease-related cases (HR, 0.32 [95% CI, 0.14–0.75]).
Conclusions: Denosumab may significantly reduce all-cause mortality in patients undergoing hemodialysis, particularly in those with cardiovascular complications. This finding offers a promising direction for osteoporosis treatment in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Research on skid resistance performance of Asphalt Pavement Based on 3D Texture Feature Parameters
Authors: LI junjie , YAN YANFENGKUST 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

As is well known, the surface texture of asphalt pavement is adversely affected by the long-term rainwater erosion, leading to a rapid decrease in skid resistance. Through a small accelerated loading device, high-precision 3D scanner, and digital image correlation technology (DIC), this study investigates the changes of surface texture and wear mechanism of basalt asphalt pavement and steel slag asphalt pavement under the influence of water erosion and driving load, respectively. It is found that the 3D-texture characteristic parameters, namely root mean square height (Sq), skewness (Ssk), peak support volume (Vmp), core support volume (Vmc), central void volume (Vvc), and valley void volume (Vvv), decrease significantly, the asphalt film peels off, leading to surface layer deformation, when subjected to loads ranging from 200,000 to 500,000. Moreover, the asphalt film peels off obviously when subjected to 500000 loads. It is noteworthy that the wear resistance of steel slag asphalt pavement is significantly better than that of the basalt asphalt pavement, providing a practical basis for the asphalt mixtures design with high wear resistance.
Bioelectrical impedance analysis–derived phase angle predicts possible sarcopenia in patients on maintenance hemodialysis: A retrospective study
Authors: Zeng Ying , Chen Yang , Yang Yujie , Qiu Ying , Yuan Huaihong 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background Early identification of possible sarcopenia in patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) is important to prevent adverse outcomes and improve the quality of life of these patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between phase angle (Pha) and possible sarcopenia and to assess its performance as a predictor of possible sarcopenia in MHD patients. Methods Data were retrospectively collected from outpatient under going MHD at Wenjiang Hemodialysis Center in the Department of Nephrology in West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China. The 2019 consensus update by Asian working group for sarcopenia (AWGS) was used to assess whether a MHD patient had sarcopenia. A total of 244 MHD patients were collected in this study, and after excluding patients with sarcopenia, data from 122 men (56 with possible sarcopenia) and 96 women (55 with possible sarcopenia) patients were included in this study. Participants were divided into a possible sarcopenic group and a non-sarcopenic group to develop a binary classification. Results After eliminating handgrip strength (HGS), short physical performance battery (SPPB), and skeletal muscle index (SMI), the best three features for possible sarcopenia identifcation of men patients are age, body mass index (BMI), and Pha (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, age, and Pha are the best two features for Women (P < 0.05). Spearman analysis showed that Pha was significantly negatively associated with possible sarcopenia (men: r =−0.501, P < 0.001; women: r=−0.356, P < 0.001). Pha showed significant positive associations with HGS, SPPB and SMI (men: r = 0.590, P < 0.001、r = 0.485, P < 0.001、r = 0.338, P < 0.001; women: r = 0.374, P < 0.001、r = 0.360, P < 0.001、r = 0.290, P = 0.004). The results of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) of Pha in screening male possible sarcopenia was 0.790, with sensitivity of 78.57%, specificity of 74.24%, and the optimal cutoff value of 6.52°. The AUC of Pha in screening women for possible sarcopenia was 0.707, sensitivity of 58.18%, specificity of 76.74%, and optimal cutoff value of 5.60°. Conclusions Pha may be a useful and simple predictor of the risk of possible sarcopenia in patients with MHD, and more research is needed to further promote the use of Pha in possible sarcopenia.
RIT1M90I is a driver of lung adenocarcinoma tumorigenesis and resistance to targeted therapy
Authors: Maddalo Danilo , DiMarco Ashley , Ravicahndran Mirunalini , Lau Jeffrey , Lima Anthony , Lin Eva , Weng Julie , Gerosa Luca , Larrocha Pablo Saenz-Lopez , Hunsaker Thomas , Xiao Yang , Mis Monika , Havnar Charles , Chen Wennie , Barck Kai , Totpal Klara , Foreman Oded , Merchant Mark , Sodir Nicole 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
RIT1 is a RAS-family GTPase that is mutated in 2.4% and amplified in up to 14% of lung adenocarcinoma patients. Yet, the oncogenic potential of RIT1 in the lungs is not completely understood. Many patients with RIT1 alterations are considered ‘oncogene-negative’, hence they are not eligible for any targeted therapy in the clinic. The role of RIT1 in cancer has been historically understudied due to the lack of in vitro and in vivo models harboring RIT1 alterations. In this study, we generated the first murine model of RIT1M90I-mutant lung cancer. We found that RIT1M90I was tumorigenic in the lungs and the tumors displayed histopathological features similar to lung adenocarcinoma. We leveraged this new model to assess both ex vivo and in vivo sensitivity of RIT1 tumors to the SHP2 inhibitor, migoprotafib, in combination with other targeted therapies. Finally, we showed that RIT1M90I can also drive resistance to the KRASG12C inhibitor, divarasib, and that the combination with migoprotafib can revert this phenotype. Our data shows that RIT1M90I is a bona fide oncogenic driver of NSCLC and mediator of targeted therapy resistance as a co-occurring mutation. Taken together, our study suggests that RIT1-altered cancer patients may benefit from combination treatment with SHP2 inhibitor in the primary and resistance setting.