bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multi-dimensional consistency learning between 2D Swin U-Net and 3D U-Net for intestine segmentation from CT volume
Authors: An Qin , Oda Hirohisa , Hayashi Yuichiro , Kitasaka Takayuki , Uchida Hiroo , Hinoki Akinari , Suzuki Kojiro , Takimoto Aitaro , Oda Masahiro , Mori Kensaku 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Purpose
The paper introduces a novel two-step network based on semi-supervised learning for intestine segmentation from CT volumes. The intestine folds in the abdomen with complex spatial structures and contact with neighboring organs that bring difficulty for accurate segmentation and labeling at the pixel level. We propose a multi-dimensional consistency learning method to reduce the insufficient intestine segmentation results caused by complex structures and the limited labeled dataset.

Methods
We designed a two-stage model to segment the intestine. In stage 1, a 2D Swin U-Net is trained using labeled data to generate pseudo-labels for unlabeled data. In stage 2, a 3D U-Net is trained using labeled and unlabeled data to create the final segmentation model. The model comprises two networks from different dimensions, capturing more comprehensive representations of the intestine and potentially enhancing the model’s performance in intestine segmentation.

Results
We used 59 CT volumes to validate the effectiveness of our method. The experiment was repeated three times getting the average as the final result. Compared to the baseline method, our method improved 3.25% Dice score and 6.84% recall rate.

Conclusion
The proposed method is based on semi-supervised learning and involves training both 2D Swin U-Net and 3D U-Net. The method mitigates the impact of limited labeled data and maintains consistncy of multi-dimensional outputs from the two networks to improve the segmentation accuracy. Compared to previous methods, our method demonstrates superior segmentation performance.
Joint ergodicity for functions of polynomial growth
Authors: Donoso Sebastián , Koutsogiannis Andreas , Sun Wenbo 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
We provide necessary and sufficient conditions for joint ergodicity results for systems of commuting measure preserving transformations for an iterated Hardy field function of polynomial growth. Our method builds on and improves recent techniques due to Frantzikinakis and Tsinas, who dealt with multiple ergodic averages along Hardy field functions; it also enhances an approach introduced by the authors and Ferré Moragues to study polynomial iterates. The more general expression, in which the iterate is a linear combination of a Hardy field function of polynomial growth and a tempered function, is studied as well.
Filtered skew derivations on simple artinian rings
Authors: Jones Adam , Woods William 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Given a complete, positively filtered ring (R, f) and a compatible skew derivation (σ, δ), we may construct its skew power series ring R[[x; σ, δ]]. Due to topological obstructions, even if δ is an inner σ-derivation, in general we cannot “untwist” it, i.e., reparametrise to find a filtered isomorphism R[[x; σ, δ]] ≌ R[[x′; σ]], as might be expected from the theory of skew polynomial rings; similarly when σ is an inner automorphism. We find general conditions under which it is possible to untwist the multiplication data, and use this to analyse the structure of R[[x; σ, δ]] in the simplest case when R is a matrix ring over a (noncommutative) noetherian discrete valuation ring.
Generalized regular representations of big wreath products
Authors: Strahov Eugene 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Let G be a finite group with k conjugacy classes, and S(∞) be the infinite symmetric group, i.e., the group of finite permutations of {1, 2, 3, …}. Then the wreath product G
∞ = G ∼ S (∞) of G with S (∞) (called the big wreath product) can be defined. The group G
∞ is a generalization of the infinite symmetric group, and it is an example of a “big” group, in Vershik’s terminology. For such groups the two-sided regular representations are irreducible, the conventional scheme of harmonic analysis is not applicable, and the problem of harmonic analysis is a nontrivial problem with connections to different areas of mathematics and mathematical physics.
Harmonic analysis on the infinite symmetric group was developed in the works by Kerov, Olshanski, and Vershik, and Borodin and Olshanski. The goal of this paper is to extend this theory to the case of G
∞. In particular, we construct an analogue

$${\frak{S}}_{G}$$

S

G

of the space of virtual permutations. We then formulate and prove a theorem characterizing all central probability measures on

$${\frak{S}}_{G}$$

S

G

. Next, we introduce generalized regular representations

$$\{T_{z_{1}},\cdots,z_{k} : z_{1}\in \mathbb{C},\cdots,z_{k}\in \mathbb{C}\}$$

{

T

z

1

,
⋯
,

z

k

:

z

1

∈

C

,
⋯
,

z

k

∈

C

}

of the big wreath product G
∞, which are analogues of the Kerov–Olshanski–Vershik generalized regular representations of the infinite symmetric group. We derive an explicit formula for the characters of

$$T_{z_{1}},\cdots,z_{k}$$

T

z

1

,
⋯
,

z

k

. The spectral measures of these representations are characterized in different ways. In particular, these spectral measures are associated with point processes whose correlation functions are explicitly computed. Thus, in representation-theoretic terms, the paper solves a natural problem of harmonic analysis for the big wreath products: our results describe the decomposition of

$$T_{z_{1}},\cdots,z_{k}$$

T

z

1

,
⋯
,

z

k

into irreducible components.
Neuromodulation of Dopamine D2 Receptors Alters Orbitofrontal Neuronal Activity and Reduces Risk-Prone Behavior in Male Rats with Inflammatory Pain
Authors: Dourado Margarida , Cardoso-Cruz Helder , Monteiro Clara , Galhardo Vasco 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Dopamine (DA) is believed to play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the rodent orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) networks during risk-based decision-making processes. Chronic pain conditions can lead to impaired DAergic signaling, which, in turn, may affect the motivational control of risk-based responses. Nevertheless, the neural mechanisms underlying this instability are poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether this impairment is dependent on the activity of the DA D2 receptor (D2r). To address this hypothesis, we implanted bilateral matrices of multielectrodes into the OFC of male rats and recorded the neural activity while they performed a food-reinforced rodent gambling task (rGT). We evaluated behavioral performance and neural activity patterns before and after inducing a model of inflammatory pain – complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) model. Our findings revealed that rats treated with CFA exhibited an abnormal preference for the large/uncertain reward during rGT performance. This altered behavioral choice profile could be reversed by prior systemic administration of D2r ligands (0.05 mg/kg, quinpirole or raclopride), indicating a potential role of D2r in the decision-making process required for this task. The administration of these ligands at the specified dosages did not affect pain responses, but lead to a significant alteration of OFC neuronal activity that support goal-directed choice responses in the rGT. Finally, we found evidence that CFA-treated rats exhibit OFC functional changes, namely an upregulation of DA D1 receptor (D1r) and a downregulation of DA beta-hydroxylase (DH). These results demonstrate that the disruption of DAergic balance in the brain networks is crucial for the development of high-risk decision profiles during painful conditions.
The Right to Mental Integrity: Multidimensional, Multilayered and Extended
Authors: Cassinadri Guido 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
In this article I present a characterization of the right to mental integrity (RMI), expanding and refining the definition proposed by Ienca and Andorno’s (Life Science Society Policy 13 5, 2017) and clarifying how the scope of this right should be shaped in cases of cognitive extension (EXT). In doing so, I will first critically survey the different formulations of the RMI presented in the literature. I will then argue that the RMI protects from i) nonconsensual interferences that ii) bypass reasoning and iii) produce mental harm. Contrary to other definitions proposed in the literature, my formulation disentangles the RMI from the right to cognitive liberty (RCL) (Lavazza in Frontiers Neuroscience 12 82, 2018), the right to mental privacy (RMP) (Lavazza and Giorgi in Neuroethics 16 (1): 1-13, 2023), and the right to psychological continuity (RPC) (Zohny et al. in Neuroethics 16: 20, 2023), thus enabling a fine-grained assessment of their simultaneous or individual violation. Finally, I analyse how the extended mind thesis (EXT) reshapes the scope of the RMI, proposing a layered protection of extended mental integrity, which grants stronger protection to the organism-bound cognitive system and self in case of manipulative influences of the mind-extending device. To conclude, I present a variety of neurorights violations and mental harms inflicted to organism-bound and cognitively extended agents.
Efficacy and safety of elobixibat in patients with chronic constipation—A randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study from India
Authors: Agarwal Piyush , Jha Brajesh Kumar , Somagoni Jaganmohan , B Srinivas Shenoy , Modh Vipul , Chakilam Sanketh Kumar , Kumar Vinay , Vasantrao Mukewar Shrikant , Kalla Mukesh , Kavitha Anumula , Goyal Omesh , Bhatia Ashima 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Elobixibat is a locally acting ileal bile acid transporter (IBAT) inhibitor that relieves functional constipation in patients by accelerating colonic transit. In this study, we aimed at determining the efficacy and safety of elobixibat for short-term treatment (two weeks) of chronic constipation in Indian patients.

Methods
The present study was a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, phase III study to evaluate efficacy and safety of elobixibat. The study planned to enroll patients with chronic constipation of at least six months' duration, satisfying Rome IV criteria for functional constipation. Following a run-in of approximately 14 days to confirm eligibility and determine baseline frequency of spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs), eligible patients were randomized 1:1 either to elobixibat or to placebo groups. The change in weekly frequency of spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) at the end of treatment (week two) over baseline was the primary efficacy endpoint in this trial. Primary efficacy analyses were based on the modified intention-to-treat (mITT) population. This trial is registered at CTRI (Clinical Trial Registry of India).

Results
Between April 2023 and December 2023, 150 patients were randomized into the two-week trial. In mITT population (n = 146 [elobixibat = 75 and placebo = 71]), the least square mean (LSM) difference between elobixibat (3.83) and placebo (2.68) was 1.15 (95% CI, 0.31, 1.99) demonstrating a statistically significant improvement (p = 0.008) in weekly frequency of SBMs (week two over baseline) with the use of elobixibat. The proportions of patients with a complete spontaneous bowel movement (CSBM) “response” was significantly higher with elobixibat (49.33%) compared to the placebo (26.76%) treatment (difference 22.57% [95% CI, 8.36%, 36.78%] [p = 0.005]). The most common adverse event (AE) was abdominal pain (elobixibat = 6 patients [7.89%] vs. placebo = 3 patients [4.05%]).

Conclusions
Elobixibat was well tolerated and improved bowel movement frequency within two weeks of treatment in Indian patient population with chronic constipation.

Clinical trial registry number
CTRI/2022/10/046690

Graphical Abstract
Green infrastructure has weak conceptual links with efficient biodiversity conservation
Authors: Ekroos Johan , von Post Maria , Persson Anna S. , Stjernman Martin , Olsson Ola 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
To reverse biodiversity loss, creating resilient ecological networks has been promoted in policy and practice. However, we argue that emphasising networks within policy without clear conservation prioritisations may direct focus away from ecological processes important for population persistence. We studied the rationale for resilient ecological networks represented in a policy context, by reviewing research related to biodiversity within the concept of green infrastructure in European policy. We compared this outcome with underlying empirical evidence for effects of landscape properties on ecological processes relevant to population persistence. We show that interventions within green infrastructure research partly diverge from evidence of efficient conservation derived from empirical studies, likely linked to an insufficient acknowledgement of ecological processes determining long-term conservation of populations in GI policy and research. We discuss possible implications for biodiversity conservation and argue for upcoming policies to better integrate scientific evidence and underlying ecological processes to improve biodiversity outcomes.
Enhancing error detection and improvement in operations and manufacturing through app designers
Authors: Elshourbagy S. A. M. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
This study explores how involving app designers can enhance the use of various technologies to solve complex problems in engineering and manufacturing. App designers can play a key role in identifying and reducing errors by diagnosing software issues, modeling machines, pinpointing error sources, simulating and analyzing vibration and sound, measuring vibration and sound levels, and providing real-time monitoring. They can also use haptic feedback to alert users to the presence of vibrations or noises. However, using apps to measure vibration and sound has limitations, such as the quality of smartphone sensors, environmental conditions, and specific app features that can impact measurement accuracy. The study highlights successful examples of utilizing app designers in manufacturing and operations, including an app using machine learning to diagnose car issues based on sound and vibration data, and an app that measures ground vibrations caused by traffic using smartphone sensors. These examples demonstrate the potential for app designers to help resolve errors in manufacturing and operations. The resulting applications can effectively detect sound and noise in both the time and frequency domains, leading to improved accuracy, efficiency, error reduction, and increased productivity in manufacturing and operations.
Improving a reaction curve-based analytical identification technique for fractional models
Authors: Gude Juan J. , García Bringas Pablo 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
A new analytical procedure for identifying fractional first-order plus dead-time (FFOPDT) models has recently been proposed. The technique is applicable to systems with S-shaped step responses and involves selecting three specific points on the process response curve for parameter estimation. In a simplified version of the method, the points are symmetrically positioned as

$$x_1 = x\%$$

x
1

=
x
%

,

$$x_2 = 50\%$$

x
2

=
50
%

, and

$$x_3 = (100 - x)\%$$

x
3

=

(
100
-
x
)

%

, with

$$0< x < 50\%$$

0
<
x
<
50
%

, requiring only the optimal position of one point, x, given that the others are set automatically. This study explores the effect of adjusting the value of

$$x_2$$

x
2

in the representative points (x-

$$x_2$$

x
2

-

$$(100-x)\%)$$

(
100
-
x
)
%
)

, while preserving symmetry around the center of the interval. Simulations provide insights into the influence of

$$x_2$$

x
2

for more accurate estimation, revealing that the accuracy of the identified FFOPDT model is highly sensitive to the position of

$$x_2$$

x
2

, and an optimal value is proposed to enhance precision. Experimental validation on a thermal-based prototype deployed on a microprocessor confirms the technique’s applicability. This approach provides new insights into selecting the central point

$$x_2$$

x
2

and its implications for industrial applications.
Opportunistic muscle density assay during CT lung cancer screening for low muscle quality evaluation in older adults: a multicenter study
Authors: Chen Xin , Gao Xifa , Wang Rongzhou , Wei Zicheng , Wang Jiangchuan , Wang Miaomiao , Xie Chao , Chen Xiao 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Intramuscular adiposity, which can be reflected by muscle computed tomography (CT) attenuation, may be a marker of sarcopenia. This study aimed to investigate muscle attenuation across the life course and thresholds of muscle attenuation for evaluating low muscle quality in older adults.

Methods
This retrospective multicenter study included 9701 subjects aged 20 years and older who underwent CT lung cancer screening from 2019 to 2021 at our institutions in cohort 1. Muscle attenuation (Hounsfield units [HUs]) of the bilateral erector spinae and spleen attenuation at the middle level of the T11 vertebra were measured. The T score, which is analogous to that used to define osteoporosis, was calculated on the basis of absolute muscle attenuation and the muscle‒spleen ratio (M/S). A T score < -2.5 was used to define low muscle density. The cutoff points for muscle CT attenuation and M/S were subsequently calculated to define low muscle density. Another cohort (cohort 2) of 2006 subjects aged 50 years or older was included to explore the association between low muscle quality and vertebral compression fracture (VCF).

Results
The mean [SD] age of cohort 1 was 51.8 [15.5] years, and 5896 [60.8%] men were included. The mean [SD] age of cohort 2 was 62.4 [9.6] years, and 1162 [57.9%] men were included. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that age was associated with muscle CT attenuation (β = -0.19, 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.21 to -0.18) and the M/S ratio (β = -0.004, 95% CI: -0.004 to -0.003). The prevalence of low muscle density was dependent on the cutoff point and increased with age. A cutoff point of 32 HU for women and 37 HU for men and an M/S of 0.65 for women and 0.75 for men were used to define low muscle density. Low muscle density defined by those cutoff points was associated with the risk of VCF [muscle attenuation: adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 0.422 (95% CI: 0.256–0.696) for women; aHR = 0.391 (95% CI: 0.173–0.883) for men; M/S: aHR = 0.40 (95% CI: 0.23–0.68) for women; aHR = 0.23 (95% CI: 0.09–0.58) for men].

Conclusion
Muscle density decreases with age. The muscle attenuation of 32 HU for women and 37 HU for men, an M/S of 0.65 for women and 0.75 for men, may be used to define low muscle density.
Musculoskeletal diseases, infections and vaccines: state of the art, research perspectives and educational needs
Authors: Ecarnot Fiona , Thiyagarajan Jotheeswaran Amuthavalli , Barbagallo Mario , Barratt Jane , Constantinescu Stefan , Elkayam Ori , Ferrucci Luigi , Hiligsmann Mickaël , Kapetanovic Meliha , Macchia Francesco , Michel Jean-Pierre , Migliore Alberto , Pilotto Alberto , Sieber Cornel , Strangfeld Anja , Veronese Nicola , Vetrano Davide Liborio , Maggi Stefania , Rizzoli René 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders are a significant public health burden concern, projected to increase in the coming decades, and will substantially contribute to the rising prevalence of functional impairment, frailty and disability in a growing global population. Since persons with musculoskeletal disorders tend to have immune dysfunction, inflammation or be taking immunosuppressive medication, prevention of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) in this group is particularly important. The European Interdisciplinary Council for Aging (EICA) and the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases (ESCEO) jointly convened a 2-day in-person and virtual meeting on 26–27 September 2023, to review the state of the evidence on the link between musculoskeletal diseases, infections and vaccines. We present here the Executive Summary of the proceedings of this meeting. We review the importance of physical activity in preventing or mitigating both musculoskeletal diseases and risk of infection. We summarize current knowledge of the impact of common VPDs on the development and progression of musculoskeletal diseases, and the role of selected vaccines in preventing onset and worsening of frailty and disability in these individuals. This report summarizes the evidence presented at the two-day meeting, highlighting the need to raise awareness among scientists, healthcare professionals, decision-makers, civil society and the general public about the long-term sequelae of VPDs, with focus on the health status of older patients with musculoskeletal diseases.
Group exercise in long-term care facilities, alignment with World Health Organization recommendations: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Poveda-López Salud , Lillo-Navarro Carmen , Montilla-Herrador Joaquina 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Maintaining functional status in institutionalized older people is a challenge for long-term care (LTC) institutions. In this regard, exercise may have positive effects. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued guidelines which include recommendations of exercise for each population group. Nonetheless, the literature shows that the levels of exercise among institutionalized population are still low.

Aims
This study sought to determine: (1) the characteristics of exercise programs for older people performed by health professionals in LTC facilities, (2) the knowledge and use of the WHO recommendations and guidelines for exercising among older people in LTC facilities; (3) the limitations identified by health professionals regarding the application of the WHO guidelines.

Materials and methods
A cross-sectional national survey following STROBE guideline was performed. Sample: professionals developing exercise programs for institutionalized older people. A Delphi study was conducted to create the survey which included sociodemographic data, exercise characteristics, knowledge about WHO recommendations and limitations regarding their application. Descriptive statistics were used on the data, such as Pearson’s χ2 and independent t- test.

Results
Many professionals do not know (27,5%) or do not follow (52%) the guidelines proposed by the WHO. There is a low weekly frequency for strength exercises (30%) and aerobic exercise (51%). The professional contract influences the weekly frequency of exercise. Most identified limitations for using the WHO recommendations were the lack of time and large groups.

Discussion and conclusions
Recommendations of WHO guidelines are familiar to many professionals, however, some are difficult to implement in exercise programs in LTC facilities.