bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translating weighted probabilistic bits to synthetic genetic circuits
Authors: Ciccone Matthew D. , Messina Carlos D.
Published: October 2024

Synthetic genetic circuits in plants could be the next technological horizon in plant breeding, showcasing potential for precise patterned control over expression. Nevertheless, uncertainty in metabolic environments prevents robust scaling of traditional genetic circuits for agricultural use, and studies show that a deterministic system is at odds with biological randomness. We analyze the necessary requirements for assuring Boolean logic gate sequences can function in unpredictable intracellular conditions, followed by interpreted pathways by which a mathematical representation of probabilistic circuits can be translated to biological implementation. This pathway is utilized through translation of a probabilistic circuit model presented by Pervaiz that works through a series of bits; each composed of a weighted matrix that reads inputs from the environment and a random number generator that takes the matrix as bias and outputs a positive or negative signal. The weighted matrix can be biologically represented as the regulatory elements that affect transcription near promotors, allowing for an electrical bit to biological bit translation that can be refined through tuning using invertible logic prediction of the input to output relationship of a genetic response. Failsafe mechanisms should be introduced, possibly through the use of self‐eliminating CRISPR‐Cas9, dosage compensation, or cybernetic modeling (where CRISPR is clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and Cas9 is clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat‐associated protein 9). These safety measures are needed for all biological circuits, and their implementation is needed alongside work with this specific model. With applied responses to external factors, these circuits could allow fine‐tuning of organism adaptation to stress while providing a framework for faster complex expression design in the field.
Surgical training trends in the Americas: A cross‐continental assessment of minimally invasive surgery and open surgery among surgical trainees
Authors: Cassidy Benjamin P. , Stingl C. Sierra , Méndez Napoleón , Machain Gustavo M. , Vega‐Rivera Felipe , Ribeiro Marcelo A. F. , Sacoto Hernan , Ottolino Pablo , Beitia Susan K. , Quiodettis Martha , Rodas Edgar B. , Mallah Mike M.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has become standard of care in many high‐income countries, but its adoption in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LICs/MICs) has been impeded by resource‐ and training‐related barriers. We hypothesized that trainees in MICs perform MIS procedures less often, and that as procedure complexity increases, the rate of MIS decreases.

Methods

A 22‐question survey, distributed to representative leaders across Latin America, collected country‐specific graduating trainee case requirements and volumes for four index procedures (cholecystectomy, appendectomy, inguinal hernia repair, colectomy) using MIS or open surgery (OS). USA data was obtained from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests were performed to determine whether the rate of MIS differed across all countries, procedure complexity classes, and high income countries (HICs)/MICs.

Results

Seven experts (70% response rate) completed the survey, representing: Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, and Paraguay. The percentage of MIS completed by trainees varied with mean and interquartile ranges as follows: cholecystectomy (60% ± 54%), appendectomy (41% ± 69%), inguinal hernia repair (19% ± 23%), colectomy (16% ± 29%). There was a significant difference in mean MIS experience across the eight countries (H = 17.6, p = 0.014) and between most complex and least complex procedures (p = 0.039). No difference was found between MICs and HICs (p = 0.786).

Conclusions

We found a significant difference of general surgery trainee exposure to MIS versus OS across the Americas, but the difference was not significantly associated with World Bank Income Groups. Different trainee experiences with MIS and OS may highlight an opportunity for international and bidirectional collaboration.
Nanotechnology‐Assisted CAR‐T‐Cell Therapy for Tumor Treatment
Authors: Wang Yixin , Barrett Allie , Hu Quanyin
Published: October 2024

The adoptive transfer of T cells redirected by chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) has made a dramatic breakthrough in defeating hematological malignancies. However, in solid tumor treatment, CAR‐T‐cell therapy has attained limited therapeutic benefits due to insufficient infiltration and expansion, rapidly diminishing function following adoptive transfer, and severe life‐threatening toxicities. To address these challenges, advancements in nanotechnology have utilized innovative approaches to devise stronger CAR‐T cells with reduced toxicity and enhanced anti‐tumor activity. Equipping CAR‐T cells with multifunctional nanoparticles can abrogate immunosuppressive signaling in the tumor area, augment the functions of CAR‐T cells, and mitigate their toxicity against normal tissues. Additionally, nanoparticle‐mediated CAR‐T‐cell programming has the potential to optimize manufacturing and lower the cost for the broader implementation of CAR‐T‐cell therapy. In this review, we introduce the obstacles to be surmounted in CAR‐T‐cell therapy, highlight the nanotechnology‐based strategies that aim to enrich the therapeutic applications of CAR‐T‐cell therapy, and envision the prospect of nanoparticle‐assisted CAR‐T‐cell therapy.
Introduction
Authors: Pisarevskaya Asya , Scholten Peter
Published: October 2024

Cities are the places where migration-related diversities often become the most manifest. It is where migrants usually arrive, where they make contact with others, where they find housing, jobs and schooling, and from where they sometimes also depart, often to other cities. Migration and diversity are often key parts of the historical development and economic positioning of cities. Many cities were built on migration and continue to be primary magnets for migrants from all over the world. Think about how global cities as London, New York and Shanghai evolved as key cities of migration, or how the economy of port cities as Rotterdam, Marseille, Naples and Cape Town continues to be deeply entwined with migration.
Conceptualizing the Plurality of Urban Diversities
Authors: Pisarevskaya Asya , Scholten Peter
Published: October 2024

A systematic approach towards capturing and understanding the variation of urban diversities, requires a careful conceptualization of urban diversities. In migration studies there has been a growing interest for the ‘local dimension’ of migration-related diversities (Borkert & Caponio, 2010). In this book we develop the thesis that this local dimension brings a plurality of urban diversities. However, in order to capture this plurality, we need a proper understanding of relevant dimensions on which urban diversities can vary. Often, urban diversities are described in terms of different degrees of diversity, such as in terms of ‘minority’ cities with significant migrant groups or ‘majority-minority’ cities where the majority of a city has a migration background (Crul, 2016). Or it is described in terms of spatial unevenness of distribution of people with and without a migration background, or ‘segregation’.
Towards a Typology of Urban Diversities
Authors: Pisarevskaya Asya , Scholten Peter
Published: October 2024

How and why do some cities develop such different diversity configurations? And what is the relation between diversity and segregation levels and broader economic situation, migration history and political factors? After the analysis presented the previous chapters we know how 16 selected cities compare to each other in terms of mobilities, inequalities and broader political-institutional setting. However, to understand how these factors are related to diversity and segregation, requires a further step of analysis. To this aim, in this chapter we make the step towards a typology of cities of migration.
The SM expected branching ratio for h → γγ and an excess for h → Zγ
Authors: He Xiao-Gang , Huang Zhong-Lv , Li Ming-Wei , Liu Chia-Wei
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The recent measurements of h → Zγ from ATLAS and CMS show an excess of the signal strength μZ = $$ {\left(\sigma \cdotp \mathcal{B}\right)}_{\textrm{obs}}/{\left(\sigma \cdotp \mathcal{B}\right)}_{\textrm{SM}} $$

σ
·
B

obs

/

σ
·
B

SM

= 2.2 ± 0.7, normalized as 1 in the standard model (SM). If confirmed, it would be a signal of new physics (NP) beyond the SM. We study NP explanation for this excess. In general, for a given model, it also affects the process h → γγ. Since the measured branching ratio for this process agrees well with the SM prediction, the model is severely constrained. We find that a minimally fermion singlets and doublet extended NP model can explain simultaneously the current data for h → Zγ and h → γγ. There are two solutions. Although both solutions enhance the amplitude of h → Zγ to the observed one, in one of the solutions the amplitude of h → γγ flips sign to give the observed branching ratio. This seems to be a contrived solution although cannot be ruled out simply using branching ratio measurements alone. However, we find another solution that naturally enhances h → Zγ to the measured value, but keeps the amplitude of h → γγ close to its SM prediction. We also comment on the phenomenology associated with these new fermions.
The energy-frequency diagram of the (1+1)-dimensional Φ4 oscillon
Authors: Alexeeva N. V. , Barashenkov I. V. , Dika Alain , De Sousa Raphael
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Two different methods are used to study the existence and stability of the (1+1)-dimensional Φ4 oscillon. The variational technique approximates it by a periodic function with a set of adiabatically changing parameters. An alternative approach treats oscillons as standing waves in a finite-size box; these are sought as solutions of a boundary-value problem on a two-dimensional domain. The numerical analysis reveals that the standing wave’s energy-frequency diagram is fragmented into disjoint segments with ωn+1< ω < ωn, where ωn = ω0/(n + 1), n = 0, 1, 2, . . ., and ω0 is the endpoint of the continuous spectrum (mass threshold of the model). The variational approximation involving the first, zeroth and second harmonic components provides an accurate description of the oscillon with the frequency in (ω1, ω0), but breaks down as ω falls out of that interval.
Canonical coordinates for Yang-Mills-Chern-Simons theory
Authors: Henningson Måns
Published: October 2024

Abstract

We consider the classical field theory of 2+1-dimensional Yang-Mills-Chern-Simons theory on an arbitrary spatial manifold. We first define a gauge covariant transverse electric field strength, which together with the gauge covariant scalar magnetic field strength can be taken as coordinates on the classical phase space. We then determine the Poisson-Dirac bracket and find that these coordinates are canonically conjugate to each other. The Hamiltonian is non-polynomial when expressed in terms of these coordinates, but can be expanded in a power series in the coupling constant with polynomial coefficients.
Endoscopy for affine Hecke categories
Authors: Li Yau Wing
Published: October 2024

We show that the neutral block of the affine monodromic Hecke category for a reductive group is monoidally equivalent to the neutral block of the affine Hecke category for its endoscopic group. The semisimple complexes of both categories can be identified with the generalized Soergel bimodules via the Soergel functor. We extend this identification of semisimple complexes to the neutral blocks of the affine Hecke categories by the technical machinery developed by Bezrukavnikov and Yun.
Resolvent decomposition with applications to semigroups and cosine functions
Authors: Gregosiewicz Adam
Published: October 2024

For an operator whose domain is the kernel of a functional that is a finite sum of simpler functionals, we show that the resolvent of the operator can be decomposed as an affine combination of resolvents associated with these simpler functionals. Specifically, given an operator A and a finite number of functionals

$$\phi $$

ϕ

defined on the domain of A, we prove that the resolvent

$$(\lambda - A_{|\ker \sum \phi })^{-1}$$

(
λ
-

A

|
ker
∑
ϕ

)

-
1

is an affine combination of resolvents

$$(\lambda - A_{|\ker \phi })^{-1}$$

(
λ
-

A

|
ker
ϕ

)

-
1

, provided that the sum of the functionals is nontrivial on the kernel of

$$\lambda - A$$

λ
-
A

. We use this result to derive generation theorems for semigroups and cosine functions.As applications, we prove that there are cosine functions associated with skew and snapping out Brownian motions on star graphs, and that skew Brownian motion can be approximated by snapping out Brownian motion.
Curcumin as a complementary treatment in oncological therapy: a systematic review
Authors: Gutsche Lisa C. , Dörfler Jennifer , Hübner Jutta
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is employed by numerous cancer patients to support conventional cancer therapy. This systematic review aims to summarize the existing clinical evidence and to provide an overview of the potential benefits and risks associated with curcumin supplementation.

Methods

In January 2024, we conducted a systematic search of five electronic databases (Embase, Cochrane, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and Medline) using a complex search strategy. We included randomized controlled trials on the use, effectiveness, and potential harm of additional curcumin therapy in adult patients under cancer treatment. The risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane revised Risk of Bias Tool 2.0.

Results

This systematic review included 34 randomized controlled trials involving 2580 patients out of 11143 search results. Included patients were primarily diagnosed with head and neck cancer, followed by breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer. Therapy concepts encompassed topical or systemic curcumin administration. The studies reported heterogeneous results concerning oral and skin symptoms, pain, weight alteration and changes in body composition, survival, and disease progression. Significant findings were reported for oral mucositis and weight loss. Considering risk of bias, all studies had moderate to high risk of bias. Regarding side effects, one study reported significantly more vomiting in the curcumin group.

Conclusion

Although the results suggest promise in reducing mucositis and weight loss, a clear statement regarding the effectiveness of curcumin therapy on cancer patients cannot be made due to heterogeneous results and methodological limitations of the involved studies. Further investigations of higher quality are necessary to derive a definite recommendation for action.
Numerical evaluation of wear parameters using meta-models
Authors: El Masri Samir , Hartung Felix , Berger Thomas , Kaliske Michael
Published: October 2024

Wear parameters identified by linear friction tester (LFT) experiments overestimate the wear mass loss when applied on a laboratory abrasion & skid tester 100 (LAT100) simulation. On the other hand, the identification of wear parameters directly from the LAT100 experiment can be challenging since variables such as the contact area and the slip velocity are not measured experimentally and need to be assumed. To improve the identification process, numerical calibration is used as a more suitable approach. This approach relies on meta-models as a target function for minimization. The meta-models are generated using a sample of wear parameters applied to an LAT100 finite element modeling (FEM) to calculate the corresponding wear mass.. In this model, a transport velocity is defined for the rolling simulation, and an arbitrary lagrangian–eulerian (ALE) adaptive meshing approach is adopted for the wear modeling. For the wear model, a combination of archard’s wear model and schallamach’s abrasion law is used. This model contains a pair of wear parameters to be identified. The ALE adaptive meshing technique moves the nodes independently of the material. Since the mesh topology remains the same, failure of the simulation occurs if the wear volume loss exceeds that of the element. Meta-models are created to extend wear modeling beyond this failure. Once the meta-models are created, they are used as a target function for the minimization algorithm. The minimization algorithm aims to find the optimal wear parameters by minimizing the difference between experimentally observed and numerically produced wear mass loss. The minimization algorithm inputs a set of wear parameters into the meta-models which in turn yield a prediction of the wear mass loss. The process is carried out until an optimum parameter set is identified. Such an approach has a lower accuracy if the parameters are identified directly from the experiment using assumptions regarding the contact shear stress and the sliding velocity. Nonetheless, the main advantage of parameters identified using the meta-model approach is the usability of these parameters in an LAT100 model.
Model selection for mixture hidden Markov models: an application to clickstream data
Authors: Urso Furio , Abbruzzo Antonino , Chiodi Marcello , Cracolici Maria Francesca
Published: October 2024

In a clickstream analysis setting, Mixture Hidden Markov Models (MHMMs) can be used to examine categorical sequences assuming they evolve according to a mixture of latent Markov processes, each related to a different subpopulation. These models involve identifying both the number of subpopulations and hidden states. This study proposes a model selection criterion based on an integrated completed likelihood approach that accounts for the two latent classes in the model. We implemented a Monte Carlo simulation study to compare selection criteria performance. In scenarios characterised by categorical short length sequences, our proposed measure outperforms the most commonly used model selection criteria in identifying components and states. The paper presents a case study on clickstream data collected from the website of a company operating in the hospitality industry and modelled by an MHMM selected by the proposed score.
A comparison of single and double generator formalisms for thermodynamics-informed neural networks
Authors: Urdeitx Pau , Alfaro Icíar , González David , Chinesta Francisco , Cueto Elías
Published: October 2024

The development of inductive biases has been shown to be a very effective way to increase the accuracy and robustness of neural networks, particularly when they are used to predict physical phenomena. These biases significantly increase the certainty of predictions, decrease the error made and allow considerably smaller datasets to be used. There are a multitude of methods in the literature to develop these biases. One of the most effective ways, when dealing with physical phenomena, is to introduce physical principles of recognised validity into the network architecture. The problem becomes more complex without knowledge of the physical principles governing the phenomena under study. A very interesting possibility then is to turn to the principles of thermodynamics, which are universally valid, regardless of the level of abstraction of the description sought for the phenomenon under study. To ensure compliance with the principles of thermodynamics, there are formulations that have a long tradition in many branches of science. In the field of rheology, for example, two main types of formalisms are used to ensure compliance with these principles: one-generator and two-generator formalisms. In this paper we study the advantages and disadvantages of each, using classical problems with known solutions and synthetic data.
Intraoperative visualization of cerebral aneurysms using navigated 3D-ultrasound power-Doppler angiography
Authors: Šteňo Andrej , Buvala Ján , Malchárková Sofia , Mižičková Magdaléna , Bažík Rastislav , Mikula Peter , Bízik Ivan , Šteňo Juraj
Published: October 2024

Background

The questions of whether the spatial resolution of navigated 3D-ultrasound (3D-US) power-Doppler angiography imaging rendered by existing 3D-US systems is sufficient for the intraoperative visualization of cerebral aneurysms, and in what percentage of cases, are largely unanswered. A study on this topic is lacking in the literature.

Methods

From 2015 to 2022, we performed 86 surgeries on 83 aneurysm patients. Navigated 3D-US was used at the discretion of the operating neurosurgeons when available (i.e., not being used during parallel tumor surgeries). Twenty-five aneurysms (15 ruptured) were operated on using 3D-US; 22 aneurysms were located at the middle cerebral artery (MCA). Patient 3D-US power-Doppler angiography images and surgical reports were retrospectively reviewed to assess the intraoperative ultrasound visibility of aneurysms.

Results

In 20 patients (80%) the aneurysms were successfully visualized. In five patients (20%), the aneurysms visualization was insufficient or absent. Nineteen of 22 aneurysms (86.4%) were visualized in the MCA aneurysm subgroup. We observed no association between aneurysm visibility and aneurysm size or the presence of subarachnoid hemorrhage. In the subgroup of MCA aneurysms, no association between aneurysm visibility and the presence of subarachnoid hemorrhage was found; a trend toward poor sonographic visibility of smaller aneurysms was observed (p = 0.09).

Conclusions

Our initial data show that intraoperative 3D-US power-Doppler angiography, rendered by current navigated 3D-US systems, clearly depicts the majority of aneurysms in the MCA aneurysm subgroup. However, future prospective studies performed on a higher number of aneurysms localized at various anatomic sites are needed to confirm our initial findings and determine their potential clinical relevance.
Equivalent spring-like system for two nonlinear springs in series: application in metastructure units design
Authors: Cveticanin L.
Published: October 2024

The paper deals with the problem of design of unit in auxetic metastructure. The unit is modeled as a two-part spring-like system where each part is with individual stiffness. To overcome the problem of analyzing of each of parts separately, the equivalent spring is suggested to be introduced. In the paper, a method for obtaining the equivalent elastic force of the unit is developed. The method is the generalization of the procedure suggested for substitution of a hard and a soft spring in series with an equivalent one. The nonlinearity of original springs is of quadratic order. As a results, it is obtained that the equivalent elastic force for two equal springs remains of the same type as of the original springs (soft or hard). For two opposite type springs in series with equal coefficients, the equivalent force is soft. The method is applicable for any hard and soft nonlinear springs or spring-like systems. Thus the hexagonal auxetic unit which contains a soft and a hard part in series is analyzed. In the paper, a new analytic method for determination of the frequency of vibration for the unit under action of a constant compression force acting along the unit axis is introduced. The method is applied for units which contain two parts: hard–hard, soft–soft, hard–linear, soft–linear and opposite. The obtained approximate vibration results are compared with numerically obtained ones and show good agreement. The advantage of the method is its simplicity as it does not require the nonlinear equation of motion to be solved.
The reverse transsulfuration pathway affects the colonic microbiota and contributes to colitis in mice
Authors: Gobert Alain P. , Latour Yvonne L. , McNamara Kara M. , Hawkins Caroline V. , Williams Kamery J. , Asim Mohammad , Barry Daniel P. , Allaman Margaret M. , Delgado Alberto G. , Milne Ginger L. , Zhao Shilin , Piazuelo M. Blanca , Washington M. Kay , Coburn Lori A. , Wilson Keith T.
Published: October 2024

Cystathionine γ-lyase (CTH) is a critical enzyme in the reverse transsulfuration pathway, the major route for the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids, notably converting cystathionine to cysteine. We reported that CTH supports gastritis induced by the pathogen Helicobacter pylori. Herein our aim was to investigate the role of CTH in colonic inflammation. First, we found that CTH is induced in the colon mucosa in mice with dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis. Expression of CTH was completely absent in the colon of Cth–/– mice. We observed that clinical and histological parameters are ameliorated in Cth-deficient mice compared to wild-type animals. However, Cth deletion had no effect on tumorigenesis and the level of dysplasia in mice treated with azoxymethane-DSS, as a reliable model of colitis-associated carcinogenesis. Mechanistically, we determined that the deletion of the gene Slc7a11 encoding for solute carrier family 7 member 11, the transporter of the anionic form of cysteine, does not affect DSS colitis. Lastly, we found that the richness and diversity of the fecal microbiota were significantly increased in Cth–/– mice compared to both WT and Slc7a11–/– mice. In conclusion, our data suggest that the enzyme CTH represents a target for clinical intervention in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, potentially by beneficially reshaping the composition of the gut microbiota.
Structure-activity relationship of amino acid analogs to probe the binding pocket of sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter SNAT2
Authors: Jakobsen Sebastian , Pedersen Maria , Nielsen Carsten Uhd
Published: October 2024

The sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter SNAT2 (SLC38A2) has been shown to have important physiological functions and is implicated in various diseases like cancer. However, few compounds targeting this transporter have been identified and little is known about the structural requirements for SNAT2 binding. In this study, the aim was to establish the basic structure-activity relationship for SNAT2 using amino acid analogs. These analogs were first studied for their ability to inhibit SNAT2-mediated 3H-glycine uptake in hyperosmotically treated PC-3 cells. Then to identify substrates a FLIPR membrane potential assay and o-phthalaldehyde derivatization of intracellular amino with subsequent quantification using HPLC-Fl was used. The results showed that ester derivatives of the C-terminus maintained SNAT2 affinity, suggesting that the negative charge was less important. On the other hand, the positive charge at the N-terminus of the substrate and the ability to donate at least two hydrogen bonds to the binding site appeared important for SNAT2 recognition of the amine. Side chain charged amino acids generally had no affinity for SNAT2, but their non-charged derivatives were able to inhibit SNAT2-mediated 3H-glycine uptake, while also showing that amino acids of a notable length still had affinity for SNAT2. Several amino acid analogs appeared to be novel substrates of SNAT2, while γ-benzyl L-glutamate seemed to be inefficiently translocated by SNAT2. Elaborating on this structure could lead to the discovery of non-translocated inhibitors of SNAT2. Thus, the present study provides valuable insights into the basic structural binding requirements for SNAT2 and can aid the future discovery of compounds that target SNAT2.
Assessing the practice of total neoadjuvant therapy for rectal cancer: an online survey among radiation oncology departments in Germany and German-speaking regions of Austria and Switzerland
Authors: Knippen Stefan , Hildebrandt Guido , Putz Florian , Gossé Lasse Leon , Ritz Jörg-Peter , Duma Marciana-Nona
Published: October 2024

Total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) of rectal cancer improves rates of pathological complete remission and progression-free survival. With improved clinical response rates, interest grew in a non-operative approach/watch and wait (WaW) for this disease. In 2020, the working groups of ACO/AIO/ARO published a consensus statement on the use of TNT, including a non-operative approach. However, the best combination scheme remains unclear. Despite the increasing use of TNT, there is a lack of comprehensive data on its current implementation and practices. To address this knowledge gap, a multicenter survey was conducted to capture the use of TNT protocols in German-speaking radiotherapy departments. At the beginning of 2023, a GDPR-compliant online survey was conducted in Germany, Austria, and German-speaking Switzerland. The questionnaire comprised 43 questions covering various aspects of TNT, including chemotherapy and WaW concepts. Most respondents (98.4%) confirmed awareness of the consensus on TNT for rectal cancer. Institutions treated an average of 30.22 rectal cancer patients annually. Most respondents (76.2%) reported treating over 80% of patients neoadjuvantly. Regarding TNT, 33.3% treated 21–50% with such a protocol. No significant association was found between the institution type and TNT application. In 62/63 cases, tumor board discussion was standard before offering TNT. VMAT was the predominant technique (82.5%). For rectal cancer dosing, the 50/50.4Gy scheme was most common, followed by 45Gy with a boost and the 5 × 5Gy scheme. Dosing schemes for TNT varied slightly, with more participants reporting the use of 5 × 5Gy compared to radiation therapy for rectal cancer in general. CBCT was the primary IGRT method (88.9%). Larger hospitals typically administered chemotherapy themselves, while private practices collaborated with medical oncologists (p < 0.0001). The most common concurrent chemotherapy drugs were 5-fluorouracil/capecitabine (64.4%) and oxaliplatin (37.3%). A WaW strategy was reported to be institutional implemented by 63.8%. The timing of offering WaW was split, with 50% offering it after radiochemotherapy and 47% during the informed consent talk. For planned WaW, 62% prefer normofractionated TNT. TNT appears to be widely implemented in the German-speaking radio-oncological community, regardless of the type of institution. Image-guided therapy, multidisciplinary team decisions, and internal guidelines play an important role. TNT seems to have already altered treatment protocols for rectal cancer toward an organ-preserving approach in selected cases. In these WaW cases, normofractionation appears to be preferred over hypofractionation.
Using the Health Belief Model to Understand Why Making Oral HIV Self-Testing Available to Truck Drivers in Kenya Had Little Impact on Six-Month Testing
Authors: Oo Thae Aient Aient , Romo Matthew L. , George Gavin , Mwai Eva , Nyaga Eston , Mantell Joanne E. , Odhiambo Jacob O. , Govender Kaymarlin , Kelvin Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2024

Research has found that offering HIV self-testing (HIVST) to truckers in Kenya increased testing rates at baseline but not over 6-month follow-up. We explored possible explanations based on the Health Belief Model by assessing HIV risk perception, self-efficacy, and fatalism as possible effect modifiers of the impact of offering HIVST (intervention n = 150) versus standard of care (SOC n = 155) on 6-month testing on the multiplicative and additive scales using log binomial and linear binomial regression and stratifying on significant modifiers. We found significant interaction between the intervention and fatalism on both the multiplicative (p = 0.020) and additive (p = 0.020) scales. In the stratified models, the HIVST intervention was associated with higher HIV testing among participants with low fatalism but lower testing among those with high fatalism (risk ratio [RR] = 1.30, p = 0.065 versus RR = 0.74, p = 0.072; risk difference [RD] per 100 = 14.00, p = 0.080 versus RD=-14.69, p = 0.086). Truckers in Kenya are described as being highly fatalistic, feeling lack of control over their lives and health. We found that fatalistic views negated the potential benefit of offering HIVST to truckers. For HIVST to have an impact among truckers, psychosocial interventions may be needed that address fatalistic views.
Tire wear monitoring using feature fusion and CatBoost classifier
Authors: Prasshanth C. V. , Sugumaran V.
Published: October 2024

Addressing the critical issue of tire wear is essential for enhancing vehicle safety, performance, and maintenance. Worn-out tires often lead to accidents, underscoring the need for effective monitoring systems. This study is vital for several reasons: safety, as worn tires increase the risk of accidents due to reduced traction and longer braking distances; performance, as uneven tire wear affects vehicle handling and fuel efficiency; maintenance costs, as early detection can prevent more severe damage to suspension and alignment systems; and regulatory compliance, as ensuring tire integrity helps meet safety regulations imposed by transportation authorities. In response, this study systematically evaluates tire conditions at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% wear, with an intact tire as a reference, using vibration signals as the primary data source. The analysis employs statistical, histogram, and autoregressive–moving-average (ARMA) feature extraction techniques, followed by feature selection to identify key parameters influencing tire wear. CatBoost is used for feature classification, leveraging its adaptability and efficiency in distinguishing varying wear patterns. Additionally, the study incorporates feature fusion to combine different types of features for a more comprehensive analysis. The proposed methodology not only offers a robust framework for accurately classifying tire wear levels but also holds significant potential for real-time implementation, contributing to proactive maintenance practices, prolonged tire lifespan, and overall vehicular safety.
Properties of quaternized and cross-linked hydroxyethylcellulose composite films
Authors: Šimkovic Ivan , Gucmann Filip , Dobročka Edmund , Filip Jaroslav , Hricovíni Michal , Dujnič Viera , Mendichi Raniero , Schieroni Alberto Giacometti , Piovani Daniele , Zappia Stefania , Hricovíni Miloš
Published: October 2024

Although trimetylammonium-2-hydroxypropyl-hydroxyethylcellulose (QHEC) is a well-known polysaccharide material, some of its properties have not been previously studied in detail. Therefore, we applied a combination of multidimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) in D2O on hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) and HEC derivatives, and size-exclusion chromatography with multi-angle laser light scattering (SEC-MALS) in carbonate buffer at pH 10; while Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), the X-ray diffraction (XRD), the thermogravimetry/differential/differential thermogravimetry (TG/DTG/DTA) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) in film form. SEC-MALS revealed various water-solubility of prepared derivatives: HEC (98%) > CHEC (72%) > QHEC (26%) > QCHEC (14%). Due to its substituents, the HEC macromolecule forms coil structures with varying gyration radii: QHEC (38–260 nm) > QCHEC (10–230 nm) > CHEC (21–100 nm) > HEC (23–50 nm). FTIR analysis of all prepared films confirmed their identical structure compared to that observed in liquid form in D2O. Onset temperatures (OT) of films degradation decreased in order: HEC (222 °C) > QCHEC (162 °C) > CHEC (142 °C) > QHEC (141 °C). The X-ray diffraction confirmed residual crystallinity of cellulose II (CII) in all four types of prepared films and was linked to ~ 2% water-insolubility of HEC derivatives revealed by SEC-MALS. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) showed significant differences in surface morphology among the four prepared films with surface roughness of: HEC (25 nm) > QCHEC (5.8 nm) > QHEC (4.2 nm) > CHEC (2.8 nm). Various spherical particles were found in case of HEC, circular depressions/holes approximately 4 μm in diameter were observed in case of QHEC. Except for the HEC, all other films showed granular surface probably due to insoluble components. Based on the mechanisms of quaternization and crosslinking and the results of analysis on water-soluble part and films we could assume that there are similarities in structures between the soluble and insoluble products of the reactions.
Solving convex optimization problems via a second order dynamical system with implicit Hessian damping and Tikhonov regularization
Authors: László Szilárd Csaba
Published: October 2024

This paper deals with a second order dynamical system with a Tikhonov regularization term in connection to the minimization problem of a convex Fréchet differentiable function. The fact that beside the asymptotically vanishing damping we also consider an implicit Hessian driven damping in the dynamical system under study allows us, via straightforward explicit discretization, to obtain inertial algorithms of gradient type. We show that the value of the objective function in a generated trajectory converges rapidly to the global minimum of the objective function and depending the Tikhonov regularization parameter the generated trajectory converges weakly to a minimizer of the objective function or the generated trajectory converges strongly to the element of minimal norm from the

$$\mathop {\text {argmin}}$$

argmin

set of the objective function. We also obtain the fast convergence of the velocities towards zero and some integral estimates. Our analysis reveals that the Tikhonov regularization parameter and the damping parameters are strongly correlated, there is a setting of the parameters that separates the cases when weak convergence of the trajectories to a minimizer and strong convergence of the trajectories to the minimal norm minimizer can be obtained.
The eroding power of anti-immigrant attitudes for social cohesion in Singapore: more myth than fact?
Authors: Dirksmeier Peter
Published: October 2024

This paper analyses the impact of anti-immigrant attitudes on social cohesion in Singapore. The OLS regression models show that anti-immigrant attitudes have a negative influence on social cohesion in all analyses, but this influence is weak and falls behind the ambiguous influence of patriotism. In some of the data, there is a significant difference in social cohesion between the centre and the peripheral districts of Singapore, which can only be attributed to a small extent to composition effects. The results of the analyses thus show that the partially state-led measures for social cohesion in a post-colonial society are indeed effective. However, the multicultural Singaporean society obviously also reacts to cohesion policy measures in a group-specific manner. It is noticeable that social cohesion and an open culture for newcomers cannot be thought of separately. These policies should therefore focus even more strongly than before on social cohesion as societal cohesion.
Effect of second-phase precipitates on deformation microstructure in AA2024 (Al–Cu–Mg): dislocation substructures and stored energy
Authors: Irmer Daniel , Yildirim Can , Sennour Mohamed , Esin Vladimir A. , Moussa Charbel
Published: October 2024

The importance of comprehensive multiscale characterisation in advancing our understanding of engineering materials is undeniable but remains a challenging pursuit. Combining complimentary microstructure characterisation techniques, including transmission electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction and dark-field X-ray microscopy (DFXM), the formation of deformation microstructures is investigated in presence of shearable and non-shearable hardening precipitates in an industrial aluminium alloy (AA) 2024 (Al–Cu–Mg family). The alloy was used in naturally aged T3 (with shearable co-clusters and Guinier–Preston–Bagaryatsky (GPB) zones) and peak-hardened T8 (with non-shearable S-phase precipitates) states. After cold rolling with thickness reductions varying from 25 to 60% (or corresponding von Mises strain from 0.33 to 1.06), the T8 state revealed a higher sub-boundary density with slightly smaller mean disorientation angle, as compared to those in the T3 state. At a von Mises strain of 0.33, the T8 state exhibited higher long-range orientation gradients, as compared to the T3 state, for higher strain orientation gradients in T3 surpass those in T8 state. With DFXM, distinct 3D substructures are shown, revealing ellipsoidal sub-grains in the T8 state and pancake-like sub-grains in the T3 state. Moreover, the stored energy induced by cold rolling is higher for the T8 state. These results indicate different deformation microstructures, formed in the same AA2024 but hardened by shearable and non-shearable precipitates.

Graphical abstract
Analysis of hydrodynamics and thermal–hydraulic performance of twisted angle fins within an annular conduit
Authors: Haw W. , Oon C. S. , Lau E. V.
Published: October 2024

This paper investigated the influence of various twisted angles of fin inserts integrated on the inner heated pipe wall of a double-pipe heat exchanger by analysing the thermal–hydraulic performance through numerical simulations. Results showed twisted angle fin (TAF) induced turbulent fluid flow phenomena, generating transverse and longitudinal vortices, along with swirling flow. This collaboration between the vortices and swirling flow effectively prevents heat trapping and enhances heat transfer from the inner pipe wall through the intensive fluid mixing. Despite longitudinal swirling vortices and turbulence significantly enhance local and global heat transfer performance, they led to increased pressure drop. However, TAF twisting reduces pressure drop by streamlining flow. The performance evaluation criterion (PEC) value is a dimensionless quantity that facilitates the comprehensive evaluation of optimal configurations by comparing the increment in Nusselt number and the increment in friction factor. PEC values greater than 1 indicate that the increase in Nusselt number exceeded the increase in friction factor. Among tested configurations, the twisted fin angles of 60° (TAF60) exhibited the highest improvement in Nusselt number and friction factor, also achieving the highest PEC of 1.59712 at Reynolds number of 1194.71. TAF40 and TAF50 were identified as optimal configurations for enhancing the thermal–hydraulic efficiency, with average PEC values of 1.26893 and 1.27030, respectively. Overall, the study indicated a consistent enhancement trend with increasing twisted angles and emphasizes the significant thermal performance improvement of TAF configurations compared to the smooth conduit. Furthermore, the results showed a converging tendency across all TAF configurations in the percentage improvement in Nusselt number and friction factor, as well as PEC compared to the baseline No fin configuration with increasing Reynolds number, suggesting that future improvements in thermal–hydraulic performance are more dependent on geometric angles than fluid flow velocity.
Comment on “quantum identity authentication with single photon”
Authors: Li Calsi Davide , Kohl Paul
Published: October 2024

A few years ago Hong et al.  (Quantum Inf Process 16:236, 2017) proposed a quantum identity authentication protocol using single photons and executable on currently available quantum hardware. Zawadzki later published two attacks on this protocol, and suggested a mitigation in the same work. In this comment we point out an additional vulnerability that causes the prover Alice to leak a percentage of her secret key at every authentication attempt. The latter is due to a problematic policy in the generation and management of decoy states. We conclude by showing a simple mitigation that addresses the issue.
What do we know about abnormally low prolactin levels in polycystic ovary syndrome? A narrative review
Authors: Cera Nicoletta , Pinto Joana , Pignatelli Duarte
Published: October 2024

Hyper and hypoprolactinemia seem to be related to the occurrence of metabolic alterations in PCOS patients. In contrast, between significantly elevated and significantly low, prolactin levels seem to be protective against metabolic consequences. In the present review, we found 4 studies investigating hypoprolactinemia in patients with PCOS. We also identified 6 additional studies that reported low levels of PRL in PCOS patients. Although its prevalence is not considered high (13.2–13.9%), its contribution is certainly significant to the metabolic alterations observed in PCOS (insulin resistance, obesity, diabetes mellitus, and fatty liver disease). Dopamine inhibits the secretion of prolactin and GnRH. If dopamine levels are low or the dopamine receptor is less expressed or mutated, the levels of prolactin and GnRH increase, and consequently, LH also increases. On the other hand, hyperprolactinemia, in prolactinomas-typical levels, acting through kisspeptin inhibition causes GnRH suppression and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. In situations of hypoprolactinemia due to excessive dopamine agonist treatment, dosage reduction is important to minimize the decrease in prolactin levels. Nevertheless, there is a lack of prospective studies confirming these hypotheses, as well as randomized clinical trials with appropriate drugs targeting both hyperprolactin and hypoprolactin in patients with PCOS.
Otolith growth chronologies reveal distinct environmental sensitivities between and within shallow- and deep-water snappers
Authors: Widdrington Joseph B. , Reis-Santos Patrick , Morrongiello John R. , Macdonald Jed I. , Wakefield Corey B. , Newman Stephen J. , Nicol Simon J. , Gillanders Bronwyn M.
Published: October 2024

Fish growth underpins individual fitness and population-level metrics, with fluctuations linked to environmental variability. Growth chronologies derived from otolith increment analysis are a powerful proxy to understand population responses to environmental change and productivity. Yet, long-term patterns of growth and their environmental drivers are better understood for shallow-water species compared to deep-water inhabitants. Additionally, focus is largely on adults, disregarding the potential influence of juvenile growth which is critical to size- and age-at-maturity. Here, we investigate the long-term growth patterns of two commercially important snapper species separated by depth in northwestern Australia’s coastal shelf waters, the shallow-water Lutjanus sebae (70 year chronology, 1950–2020) and the deep-water Etelis boweni (41 year chronology, 1973–2013). Annually-resolved otolith growth chronologies revealed distinct environmental sensitivities within (juveniles vs adults) and among (shallow- vs deep-water habitats) species. Within species, juveniles and adults responded differently to shared environmental stimuli, highlighting the importance of understanding the impacts of environmental effects and sensitivities for different life-history stages. Across species, L. sebae exhibited highly variable growth tied to local climate signals such as sea surface temperature and rainfall, while E. boweni displayed more stable growth patterns that only responded to interannual and decadal shifts in the environment (e.g. Pacific Decadal Oscillation). Our results highlight potential vulnerabilities of shallow-water species to future environmental perturbations compared to species residing at depth, as they are likely to encounter more extreme climate variability under future oceanic conditions. This study contributes valuable insights into understanding and managing the impacts of future environmental variability on fisheries sustainability, emphasising the need for continued research across species and habitats.