bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In-Silico Comparison of Thermal Microwave Ablation Therapy for Segmental Microcalcifications in Homogenous and Heterogenous Breast Tissue Models
Authors: García Eduardo Pinto , Rubio Mario Francisco Jesús Cepeda , López Geshel David Guerrero , Félix Kristian Segura , Jaquez José Irving Hernández , García Francisco Flores , Hernández Arturo Vera , Salas Lorenzo Leija 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Among women across the world, breast cancer is the number one cause of death since 2020. Some of the main treatments against this affection represent severe physiological and aesthetic adverse effects. To reduce these side effects, many minimally invasive treatments have been researched. One of these many techniques is ablation therapy by emission of electromagnetic waves, chemical or cryogenic means. This work aims to compare the computational modelling of microwave ablation therapy in heterogeneous (volume of tissue driven) and homogeneous (density of tissue driven) breasts that present segmental microcalcifications. The main objective is to compare the differences between thermal, reflection parameters and power reflection between the two model simulations. For the application of microwave radiation, a coaxial dual-slot antenna model, at an operating frequency of 2.45 GHz, and 12 W of input power was used. The simulations of each homogeneous model yielded a power reflection below 17% and reached the desired 50°C ablation temperatures below 250s therapy time. Specifically, the Low-Density model got an SWR of 1.78, a -11.023 dB S11and a power reflection of 7.913%. The heterogenous model simulations got a power reflection above 18% and reached the desired 50°C ablation temperatures below 250s therapy time. Where each desired parameter yielded closed results, being the best the High-Density model with respect to a SWR of 2.4897, and 18.223% of reflected power. The data shows that it is best to consider the variation in dielectric properties of a homogenous breast model rather than the segmentation of the tissues. Therefore, more research is required for the optimization of the antenna for each homogenous breast density considering other malignant tissues.
Socioeconomic position, family context, and child cognitive development
Authors: González Llúcia , Popovic Maja , Rebagliato Marisa , Estarlich Marisa , Moirano Giovenale , Barreto-Zarza Florencia , Richiardi Lorenzo , Arranz Enrique , Santa-Marina Loreto , Zugna Daniela , Ibarluzea Jesús , Pizzi Costanza 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Socioeconomic position (SEP) may have different effects on cognitive development and family context could play a role in this association. This work aimed to analyse the role of socioeconomic positions, measured via various indicators collected longitudinally, in cognitive development at 7–11 years of age, evaluating the role of family context as a potential mediator.
Method
The study sample included 394 and 382 children from the INMA Gipuzkoa and Valencia cohorts, respectively. SEP indicators were assessed during pregnancy (family social class, parental education, employment, and disposable income) and at 7 (Gipuzkoa) and 11 (Valencia) years of age (At Risk of Poverty or Social Exclusion (AROPE)). Family context and cognitive development were measured with the Haezi-Etxadi Family Assessment Scale 7–11 (HEFAS 7–11) and Raven’s Coloured Progressive Matrices (Raven’s CPM), respectively. Linear regression models were developed to assess the relationships between a) SEP-family context, b) SEP-cognitive development, and c) family context-cognitive development, adjusting for a priori-selected confounders. Simple and multiple mediation analyses were performed to explore the role of family context in the SEP-cognitive development relationship.
Results
Lower SEP was related with a lower cognitive score, this association being particularly robust for family social class. SEP indicators were related to subscales of family context, in particular those regarding cognitive stimulation, parental stress, and parenting. A relationship was also found between these three subscales and child cognitive development, mediating the effect of family social class on child cognition by 5.2, 5.5, and 10.8%, respectively, and 12.0% jointly.
Conclusions
Both family SEP and context contribute to a child’s cognitive development. Equalising policies and positive parenting programmes could contribute to improving cognitive development in children.
Data-Driven Queueing Science Approach to Manage Secondary Queue Formation of Passenger Flow in Indian Railways: A Case of Overbooking on Vaishali Train
Authors: QASIM S M , Farooquie Jamal A 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Overbooking has been far and wide embraced to save any system from being idle. Rarely does the literature focuses on the unique queue formation nomenclatures as secondary queue due to overbooking. In this background, deciding the buffer capacity in the secondary queue is a major concern. The hypothetical design of a buffer often leads to wrong decision-making. In this paper, we take a real data-driven approach to explore the passenger flow through the lens of a queueing scientist. The means is to perform the statistical analysis using stationarity (Augmented Dickey-Fuller test), independence (Pearson's correlation) and distribution fitting for the data to validate the queueing system of Advanced Passenger Reservation. Further, what are the unique features of this queueing system in terms of its system primitives, key performance measures, and buffer capacity have been evaluated. What-if analysis has been explored for the different buffer capacities, and operational policy has been suggested for the passenger flow based on different scenarios. Our results show that Inter arrival and service time must be governed by a combination of N and F policies of queueing with suitable channels (servers) to quantify the overbooking.
A Synthetic Cytotoxic T cell Platform for Rapidly Prototyping TCR Function
Authors: Sharma Govinda , Round James , Teng Fei , Ali Zahra , May Chris , Yung Eric , Holt Robert A. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Current tools for functionally profiling T cell receptors with respect to cytotoxic potency and cross-reactivity are hampered by difficulties in establishing model systems to test these proteins in the contexts of different HLA alleles and against broad arrays of potential antigens. We have implemented and validated a granzyme-activatable sensor of T cell cytotoxicity in a novel universal prototyping platform which enables facile recombinant expression of any combination of TCR-, peptide-, and class I MHC-coding sequences and direct assessment of resultant responses. This system consists of an engineered cell platform based on the immortalized natural killer cell line, YT-Indy, and the MHC-null antigen-presenting cell line, K562. These cells were engineered using contemporary gene-editing techniques to furnish the YT-Indy/K562 pair with appropriate protein domains required for recombinant TCR expression and function in a non-T cell chassis, integrate a fluorescence-based target-centric early detection reporter of cytotoxic function, and deploy a set of protective genetic interventions designed to preserve antigen-presenting cells for subsequent capture and downstream characterization. Our data show successful reconstitution of the surface TCR complex in the YT-Indy cell line at biologically relevant levels. We also demonstrate successful induction and highly sensitive detection of antigen-specific response in multiple distinct model TCRs, with significant responses (p < 0.05 and Cohen’s d > 1.9) in all cases. Additionally, we monitored destruction of targets in co-culture and found that our survival-optimized system allowed for complete preservation after 24-hour exposure to cytotoxic effectors. With this bioplatform, we anticipate investigators will be empowered to rapidly express and characterize T cell receptor responses, generate new knowledge regarding the patterns of T cell receptor recognition, and optimize novel therapeutic T cell receptors for improved cytotoxic potential and reduced cross-reactivity to undesired antigenic targets.
What Explains Recent Trends in Income Inequality in the European Union?
Authors: Filauro Stefano , Parolin Zachary , Valetto Pietro 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We investigate trends in income inequality in the European Union (EU) from 2007 to 2019. Using EU-SILC data, we find that EU-wide inequality declined between 9% and 20%, depending on the inequality measure applied, despite rising within-country income inequality during the same time period. Applying a series of decomposition techniques, we find that between-country convergence in pre-tax/transfer incomes fully explains the declining EU-wide inequality. Changes in tax and transfer systems, in contrast, contributed to marginally higher inequality in 2019 compared to 2007. Nonetheless, the 10th percentile of the EU-wide income distribution grew six times the rate of the 90th percentile, a product of widespread earnings gains among residents of lower-income EU Member States. Re-centered influence functions and Kitigawa-Oaxaca-Blinder analyses reveal that those earnings gains are not due to specific compositional or employment changes but rather are due to rising earnings returns to employment in lower-income Member States. Despite the contribution of between-country income convergence in reducing EU-wide inequality between 2007 and 2019, however, within-country income disparities continue to explain the larger share of EU-wide inequality levels in 2019. Thus, reducing within-country economic disparities is increasingly important for achieving further reductions in EU-wide inequality moving forward.
Phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of adult-onset glutaric aciduria type 1: report of two cases and a literature review
Authors: Li Jieyu , Xie Zhiying , Zhu Ying , Chen Jing , Zhao Yawen , Yuan Yun , Huang Yining , Yang Yanling , Wang Zhaoxia , Chen Jing , Wei Luhua 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Glutaric aciduria type 1 (GA-1) is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder caused by GCDH variations. GA-1 is a rare disease that typically manifests in infancy and early childhood, with adult-onset cases being even rarer. Currently, data on the clinical and genetic characteristics of adult-onset GA-1 remains limited. We hereby reported two new cases of adult-onset GA-1 and systematically summarized reported studies to investigate its genotypic and phenotypic features. Patient 1 presented with seizures as the onset symptom. Patient 2 exhibited recurrent stroke-like episodes. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed subependymal lesions. Urine organic acid analyses were performed since both patients had hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) and found significantly elevated glutaric acid and 3-hydroxyglutaric acid. Genetic analysis further identified four missense variants in the GCDH gene (c.937C > T, c.383G > A, c.533G > A, c.1205G > A). A literature review found seven cases and 12 variants in adult-onset GA-1. Most of them showed nonspecific neurological manifestations. The most common symptoms were cognitive impairment and headache. Subependymal lesions have been reported in 5/7 cases. One of them also had HHcy. All adult-onset GA-1 cases were high excretors. A common feature of the 12 variants was that they spared the binding site of flavin adenine dinucleotide or 4-nitrobutyryl-CoA. This study characterized the phenotype of adult-onset GA-1 emphasizing subependymal lesions and the coexistence of HHcy. The latter might suggest the influence of environmental factors on the age of onset. No clear phenotype-genotype correlation was found. However, the variants in adult-onset GA-1 mainly affect the non-active binding regions.
A general equilibrium model with real exchange rates
Authors: Tariffi Leonardo 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
In this paper, I revisit the Balassa-Samuelson effect. I explain that the behaviour of the real exchange rate shows structural breaks only in the short term. I also explain that any change in a currency’s price in terms of another currency in real terms is transitory in the very long run, thereby disappearing after a certain period of time. I first write a partial equilibrium model “á la Rogoff” where there are relative prices of non-tradable goods in terms of tradables goods in the supply side. Secondly, I obtain a general equilibrium model after I add a utility function to the partial-equilibrium model. In the general equilibrium model, I find that any price's change in non-tradables goods will be compensated by either way a price´s change in tradables goods or changes in the nominal exchange rate. The mathematical mechanism behind the general equilibrium model shows a stationary state in the real exchange rate considering not only non-tradables goods but also tradables goods either in the domestic market and the foreign market. Therefore, the real exchange rate is constant over the time in the long run.
JEL Classification F31, F41
Living Kombucha Electronics with Proteinoids
Authors: Nikolaidou Anna , Mougkogiannis Panagiotis , Adamatzky Andrew 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The work introduces a composite material that combines Kombucha cellulose mats with synthetic thermal proteinoids to create electroactive biofilms, capable for sensing and computation. The synthesis of proteinoids involves heating amino acid mixtures, which leads to the formation of proto–cell structures capable of biological electrical signalling. We demonstrate that these hybrid biofilms exhibit adjustable memristive and memfractance properties, which can be utilised for unconventional computing tasks. The potential applications of living biofilms extend beyond neural interfaces, encompassing bioinspired robotics, smart wearables, adaptive biorobotic systems, and other technologies that rely on dynamic bioelectronic materials. The composite films offer a wide range of options for synthesis and performance customisation. Current research is dedicated to customising the composition, nanostructure, and integration of proteinoids in hybrid circuits to achieve specific electronic functionalities. Overall, these cross–kingdom biofilms are an intriguing category of materials that combine the unique properties of biological organisms and smart polymers. The Kombucha–proteinoid composites are a significant step forward in the development of future technologies that bridge the gap between living and artificial life systems. These composites have the remarkable ability to support cellular systems and demonstrate adaptive bioelectronic behaviour.
Filtering out redundant sites to alleviate the p&gt;&gt;n problem in genomic selection
Authors: Xie Zhengchao , Xu Xiaogang , Ma Yinxing , Wang Jun , Wu Cuiling , Wei Sidi , He Jingjing , Feng Xianzhong , Li Nannan 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
A significant problem in genomic selection (GS) is that the number of SNPs is far greater than the number of samples. Eliminating redundant SNP sites is one way to improve the GS model. This paper introduces pairwise squared allele-frequency correlation to evaluate the correlation strength between sites. One of the two sites is randomly removed if the correlation strength exceeds a threshold. Through haplotype analysis, many strongly correlated SNP sites exist in rice, sunflower, and maize. By filtering out 50% of the SNPs through pairwise squared allele-frequency correlation, the prediction accuracy of the GS model does not decrease or even increase slightly. Meanwhile, the training time of the GS model is reduced by half. Through the filtering site method introduced in this paper, the training time of the maize GS model is steadily reduced in six environments. Calculating only the correlation strength between sites on the same chromosome can significantly reduce computational resources, making this method of filtering sites practical. Parallel computing can further reduce the computing time.
Comparison of the conservation of medium and large-sized mammals in a national park and military area
Authors: Kim Mihyeon , Kim Hyo Gyeom , Hong Sungwon 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

National parks (NP) and military areas (MA) preserve natural ecosystems. Although both regions have positive and negative effects on animal communities, studies comparing their impacts on conservation are limited. We monitored mammalian communities using 21 sensor cameras in a MA (6 sites) and NP (15 sites) located on Gyeryongsan Mountain, South Korea from May to November 2021 to compare the conservation of medium and large-sized mammals between the two regions. Forty-one environmental variables, including anthropogenic and geographical factors, were extracted from different spatial ranges (50, 500, and 1000 m). A linear model and non-metric multidimensional scaling were used to identify the factors influencing community diversity. We also analyzed species habitat type preferences using a multispecies occupancy model and compared temporal activities in the two regions. Species diversity was similar between the two sites, with most animals preferring habitats with lower slopes located at greater distances from human trails. Only the Korean hare (Lepus coreanus) preferred the NP habitat of the eight species found. Active periods were similar for the species in both regions, except for differences in some carnivore species. Although not all species were affected by human activity, most preferred the MA over the NP. The carnivores were especially able to flexibly alter their active periods and locations in response to human activities, especially in the NP where human activity was more prevalent. Thus, strategies should be implemented to improve NP conservation success, such as spatial and temporal accessible and inaccessible section separation.
Screening Tools for Autism in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Paediatric Populations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Huda Elmee , Hawker Patrick , Cibralic Sara , John James Rufus , Hussain Aniqa , Diaz Antonio Mendoza , Eapen Valsamma 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Background Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has varying prevalence rates worldwide, often higher in culturally diverse populations. Cultural differences can affect autism symptom recognition. Language barriers and differing healthcare attitudes may delay diagnosis and intervention. Most autism screening tools were developed in Western, predominantly Caucasian populations, and their appropriateness in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) contexts remains uncertain. There is a lack of comprehensive data on the accuracy of these tools in identifying autism in culturally and linguistically diverse groups. Consequently, it is unclear whether current screening tools are culturally sensitive and appropriate. Methods A research protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022367308). A comprehensive search of literature published from inception to October 2022 was conducted using the following databases: PubMed, Medline Complete, Scopus, PsychInfo and CINAHL Complete. The articles were screened using pre-determined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data extracted included participant demographics, screening tool psychometric properties (validity, reliability, accuracy) and acceptability. A thematic narrative approach was used to synthesise results. Results From the initial retrieval of 2310 citations, 56 articles were included for analysis. The studies were conducted in 33 different countries with screening tools in the following languages: Chinese, Spanish, Korean, Turkish, Arabic, Kurdish, Persian, Serbian, Italian, French, Sinhala, Taiwanese, Finnish, Northern Soho, Albanian, German, Japanese, Vietnamese, Farsi, Greek and English. There was no data on acceptability of the screening tools in CALD populations. Validity, reliability, and accuracy ranged from poor to excellent with consistently high performance by screening tools devised within the populations they are intended for. Conclusions The review evaluated autism screening tools in culturally diverse populations, with a focus on validity, reliability, and acceptability. It highlighted variations in the effectiveness of these tools across different cultures, with high performance by tools devised specifically for the intended population, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive screening tools. Further research is needed to improve culturally specific, reliable autism screening tools for equitable assessment and intervention in diverse communities.
Comparable species diversity and forest structure between sacred groves and protected forests reveal high conservation value of customary forests in Bali, Indonesia
Authors: Undaharta Ni Kadek Erosi , Martini Francesco , Wee Alison Kim Shan 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Sacred groves are forest patches managed and preserved by local communities to support their cultural and religious practices. Though often poorly documented, these forests provide refuge for threatened species and act as crucial nodes of biodiversity in an increasingly human-dominated landscape. Understanding the floristic and ecological characteristics of sacred groves, especially as compared to formally protected forests, is therefore key to their effective governance and incorporation into existing protected area network. In this study, we compared the tree diversity and forest structure of sacred groves and protected forests in Bali, Indonesia. We assessed the species richness, species diversity, basal area (or abundance) and community composition of trees from three ontogenetic stages (adults, saplings, and seedlings). Specifically, we focused our analysis on Dipterocarpus hasseltii, an endangered canopy tree species of local cultural significance. Sacred groves generally had similar levels of tree species richness, species diversity and demographic structure as protected forests at every ontogenetic stage, but differed significantly in community composition. Adult trees in sacred groves had a significantly higher basal area than that of protected forests. The population demography of D. hasseltii was similar in sacred groves and protected forests. We provide novel evidence that sacred groves that are managed to preserve a single tree species (i.e. D. hasseltii) could positively impact the conservation of other species, providing a similar conservation value as protected forests in terms of tree diversity and forest structure. Ultimately, our study supports the efficacy of social forestry and highlights its importance in biodiversity conservation.
Clinical prediction model for red cell blood transfusion in elective primary posterior lumbar spine fusion
Authors: Pirot Chatchawan , Tantrakansakul Chakkraphan , Sirithiantong Todsaporn 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Overestimated the cross-match of preoperative PRC preparation for elective primary lumbar spinal fusion needs revision for cost-effectiveness. We aimed to develop a novel preoperative predictive model for appropriate PRC preparation. This clinical prediction model in a retrospective cohort was studied between January 2015 and September 2022. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess predictive variables. The logistic coefficient of each predictor generated scores to establish a predictive model. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AuROC) was used to evaluate the model. The predictive performance was validated using bootstrapping techniques and externally validated in 102 independent cases. Among 416 patients, 178 (43%) required transfusion. Four final predictors: preoperative hematocrit level, laminectomy level, transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion level, and sacral fusion. When categorized into two risk groups, the positive predictive values for the low-risk score (≤4) were 18.4 (95% Cl 13.9, 23.6) and 83.9 (95% CI 77.1, 89.3) for the high-risk score (>4). AuROC was 0.90. Internal validation (bootstrap shrinkage = 0.993) and external validation (AuROC:0.91). A new model demonstrated exemplary performance and discrimination in predicting the appropriate preparation for PRC. This study should be corroborated by rigorous external validation in other hospitals and by prospective assessments.