bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SoS ‐ Global Solutions to Global Problems Using UAF
Authors: Carroll Kristina , Lyle Allison , Lewark Rae , Medina Casey , Morkevičius Aurelijus
Published: September 2024

This paper applies Unified Architecture Framework (UAF) to a case study which defines the global copper market as an enterprise comprising a diverse set of stakeholders and independently operating businesses and industries, with the goal to understand how they might evaluate, execute, or modify their behaviors in response to the diminishing global copper supply. Specifically, we sought to determine if the framework viewpoints, modeling language, and workflow guidance provided in the UAF specification could support the analysis. In a true System of Systems (SoS), the solution (or any improvement) relies on the cooperation of a multitude of independent and unrelated businesses and industries. Several viewpoints of UAF were evaluated to model the SoS, which reveal how certain entities may be motivated to implement solutions, and how those decisions may impact others within the SoS. We also provide observations from the analysis which may serve to improve the utility of UAF in other applications.
A MODULAR SIMULATION‐BASED MBSE APPROACH APPLIED TO A CLOUD‐BASED SYSTEM
Authors: Booth Thomas M. , Ghosh Sudipto
Published: September 2024

The current state of the practice of Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methodologies, system specification models, and executable system simulations lack the capability of simulation execution within a single system specification model with the fidelity required for time‐dependent simulation towards the design, analysis, and optimization of complex software‐based systems. In this paper we develop and demonstrate a modular simulation‐based MBSE approach capable of filling this gap. To accomplish this within a single system specification model we embed a combination of modeled simulation activities, opaque behaviors, and simulation specific functions to execute and manage the time‐dependent simulation variable arrays. We applied our MBSE approach on the design and analysis of a hybrid on‐prem/cloud data system example that meets the complex, software‐based, and time‐dependent requirements this approach was built to solve. The results show that our approach produces a modular and time‐dependent simulation‐enabled system specification model that accurately estimates cloud‐based system performance and storage cost as a function of time. Emergent system behaviors observed from the simulation results indicate the system model provides foundational design and analysis capabilities that are required for applying system optimization algorithms.
Modeling Enterprise Software with UAF
Authors: Hause Matthew , Kihlström Lars‐Olof
Published: September 2024

Systems and Software Engineers often have an uneasy relationship. The job of the systems engineer is to work with the stakeholders to define a set of requirements that meet their needs. These are then allocated to various solution spaces such as electronic hardware, mechanical, procedural, and software among others. For many systems, the functional requirements are almost exclusively software requirements. Correspondingly, as an increasing amount of project manpower, schedule time, and budget are allocated to software, it becomes increasingly important that systems and software engineers communicate effectively. The Systems Modeling Language (SysML) has helped in this regard in that it can provide executable behavioral models with precise semantics to express software requirements in a model. These models define “What is required” without overly constraining the implementation. In addition, SysML can be used to define performance constraints, required concurrency, hardware memory and processor budgets, interfaces, safety critical requirements, etc. These aspects are essential for software engineers to understand the constraints and limitations of their environment. At the System of Systems (SoS)/Enterprise level, defining software/systems employs a similar pattern, but at a higher level of abstraction. In the Unified Architecture Framework, capabilities are defined for the enterprise, with systems and software allocated to realize the capabilities. In the same way that capabilities depend on one another, the implementing systems and software interact to support each other. In the past, enterprise software would be modeled as residing in mainframes in a federated software pattern. Modern software can be modeled throughout the enterprise in a distributed network that can adapt to the changing needs of the enterprise to do load leveling, dynamic and late binding, reconfiguration, and reallocation of hardware resources as necessary. If the domain includes the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT), then deployment could include edge devices, embedded software, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), PCs, servers, cloud computing, and of course mainframes. The Object management Group (OMG) Data Distribution Services (DDS) standard enables these capabilities across these devices in a universal format implemented by multiple vendors. However, before this complex system of systems can be implemented, it must first be architected and designed to ensure that it will be fit for purpose both now and as the complex system of systems expands and evolves. This paper will examine the aspects of modeling software in the UAF, and how it can help guide enterprise and system and software architecture.
Exploring the Executable SysML Capabilities to Integrate and Operate Hardware in the Loop
Authors: Yeiser Alexander , Pavalkis Saulius , Yakimenko Oleg
Published: September 2024

These days, systems engineers use advanced software tools and standardized modeling methods to break down complex systems into simpler, less complicated parts that are easier to understand. This includes CATIA Magic that allows for systems architecture, as well as more in‐depth Systems Modeling Language (SysML) modeling and simulation. The goal of this paper is to explore the capabilities of SysML to model and control hardware in the loop (HIL). The model of a weapon system was created using several different diagrams commonly used in SysML. When these diagrams are used together with the CATIA Magic simulation toolkit (Magic Model Analyzer), they can be made executable and used for simulation purposes. While CATIA Magic was selected to provide a digital model of the weapon system, a LEGO Mindstorms EV3 development kit was selected to create a mockup of a physical system. The CATIA Magic model reacts to the inputs received from the LEGO sensors and sends control signals to motors built into the LEGO model. In general, the integration between the LEGO Mindstorms and CATIA Magic can be done successfully, however, this study revealed certain limitations pertinent to the current capability of CATIA Magic to make connections between the SysML model and LEGO hardware. While these limitations did not allow for a full integration and in‐depth testing of the created dynamic model, as intended, the paper presents the current state of the project discussing what is involved in integrating CATIA Magic and LEGO Mindstorms kits and what functionality could be achieved by doing this. The paper pursues both the educational aspect that allows a deeper exploration of the modern system modeling tools, and the practical aspect, showing how a SysML model can be integrated with HIL to provide opportunities to better understand the design space at earlier stages of system development.
Do Algorithms Dream of Electric Requirements? Leveraging AI‐Based Approaches for Automated Allocation and Classification of Requirements in Railway Engineering
Authors: Martín Rodríguez David , Ferrer Jaume Sanso
Published: September 2024

In recent years, Artificial Intelligence has experienced an extraordinary growth. Systems Engineering is a discipline where the implementation of AI can be challenging, but that could immensely benefit from its capabilities. This paper presents one of the many implementations that AI can have within the Systems Engineering field. AI has been leveraged to create an algorithm that allows for the automatic identification and classification of requirements within a specific engineering sector: large railway projects. While text classification algorithms are well established, the key to a successful implementation of a requirements classification algorithm lays on the effective structurization of the data, as well as the high quality of the training datasets. This paper describes how an AI‐based requirements classification algorithm has been planned and trained to effectively classify requirements in future documents based on systems and subsystems from a System Breakdown Structure (SBS), as well as to predict the adequate method of verification for both the Design and Testing and Commissioning stages of a railway project.

Finally, the paper showcases how the use of this AI‐based requirements classifier does not only lower the probability of human error, but also reduces ∼75% human workload per project. Additionally, overall ∼30% cost savings to organizations are expected in a 10‐year period in the task of classifying requirements with respect to manual classification performed by subject matter experts.
LLM‐based Approach to Automatically Establish Traceability between Requirements and MBSE
Authors: Bonner Maria , Zeller Marc , Schulz Gabor , Savu Ana
Published: September 2024

Tracing requirements specification to design and implementation is an essential part of safety standards, as it allows to ensure that safety goals are met throughout the development process. Manual tracing numerous artifacts produced throughout the development process is error‐prone and takes much time. To address these problems, we proposed a tool (Bonner, M.; Zeller, M.; Schulz, G.; Beyer, D.; Olteanu, M., 2023), which allows to establish links between requirements and Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) in a semi‐automatic way. The underlying algorithms of our tool are embedding similarity computation and classification approaches based on Large Language Models (LLMs). To assess the performance of underlying algorithm we propose an evaluation, where we compare the recall, the precision, and the F2 score of different approaches applied to our datasets. The goal of our evaluation is to understand how well LLMs perform in automatically generating trace links on different datasets. Our evaluation shows that it is worth to invest time in preprocessing the data and fine‐tuning the LLMs to achieve the better recommendations for engineers, which improves the traceability process.
Impact of organized and opportunistic screening on excess mortality and on social inequalities in breast cancer survival
Authors: Poiseuil Marie , Molinié Florence , Dabakuyo‐Yonli Tienhan Sandrine , Laville Isabelle , Fauvernier Mathieu , Remontet Laurent , Amadeo Brice , Coureau Gaëlle
Published: September 2024

In most developed countries, both organized screening (OrgS) and opportunistic screening (OppS) coexist. The literature has extensively covered the impact of organized screening on women's survival after breast cancer. However, the impact of opportunistic screening has been less frequently described due to the challenge of identifying the target population. The aim of this study was to describe the net survival and excess mortality hazard (EMH) in each screening group (OrgS, OppS, or No screening) and to determine whether there is an identical social gradient in each groups. Three data sources (cancer registry, screening coordination centers, and National Health Data System [NHDS]) were used to identify the three screening groups. The European Deprivation Index (EDI) defined the level of deprivation. We modeled excess breast cancer mortality hazard and net survival using penalized flexible models. We observed a higher EMH for “No screening” women compared with the other two groups, regardless of level of deprivation and age at diagnosis. A social gradient appeared for each group at different follow‐up times and particularly between 2 and 3 years of follow‐up for “OrgS” and “OppS” women. Net survival was higher for “OrgS” women than “OppS” women, especially for the oldest women, and regardless of the deprivation level. This study provides new evidence of the impact of OrgS on net survival and excess mortality hazard after breast cancer, compared with opportunistic screening or no screening, and tends to show that OrgS attenuates the social gradient effect.
THF induces apoptosis by downregulating initiation, promotion, and progression phase biomarkers in skin and lung carcinoma
Authors: Raza Waseem , Meena Abha , Luqman Suaib
Published: September 2024

3,5,7‐Trihydroxy‐2‐phenylchromen‐4‐one (THF) possesses a diverse range of pharmacological activities. Evidence suggests that THF exerts anticancer activity by distinct mechanisms of action. This study explores the anticancer potential of THF in human lung (A549) and skin (A431) cancer cells by employing different antiproliferative assays. 3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)−2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide, neutral red uptake, sulphorhodamine B, and cell motility assays were used to confirm the anticancer potential of THF. Cell target‐based and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) assays were used to explore the effect of THF on the initiation, promotion and progression phase biomarkers of carcinogenesis. THF suppresses the activity of lipoxygenase‐5 up to ~40% in both A549 and A431 cells and up to ~50% hyaluronidase activity in A549 cells. qRT‐PCR assay reveals that THF inhibits the activity of phosphatidyl inositol‐3 kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin in both cell lines, which is responsible for the initiation of cancer. It also arrests the G2/M phase of the cell cycle in A431 cells and increases the sub‐diploid population in both A549 and A431 cell lines which leads to cell death. Annexin V‐FITC assay confirmed that THF induces apoptosis and necrosis in A431 and A549 cell lines. Further investigation revealed that THF not only enhances reactive oxygen species production but also modulates mitochondrial membrane potential in both cell lines. It significantly inhibits S‐180 tumour formation at 5 and 10 mg/kg bw, i.p. dose. An acute skin toxicity study on mice showed that erythema and edema scores are within the acceptable range, besides acceptable drug‐likeness properties and non‐toxic effects on human erythrocytes. Conclusively, THF showed potent anticancer activity on skin and lung carcinoma cell lines, suppressed the level of the biomarkers and inhibited tumour growth in mice.
Circ_0004674 regulation of glycolysis and proliferation mechanism of osteosarcoma through miR‐140‐3p/TCF4 pathway
Authors: Ma Yulong , Du Shaowen , Wang Shengdong , Liu Xiang , Cong Liming , Shen Wenxiang , Ye Kaishan
Published: September 2024

As a subclass of noncoding RNAs, circular RNA play an important role in tumour development. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of circ_0004674 in osteosarcoma glycolysis and the molecular mechanism of its regulation. We examined the expression of circ_0004674, miR‐140‐3p, TCF4 and glycolysis‐related proteins (including HK2, PKM2, GLUT1 and LDHA) in osteosarcoma cells and tissues by quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting (Western blot analysis). The role of circ_0004674, miR‐140‐3p and TCF4 in the proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion of OS cells was examined using CCK8 assay, Apoptosis assay, Wound healing assay, Transwell migration and Matrigel invasion assay. The interaction of circ_0004674/miR‐140‐3p and miR‐1543/TCF4 was also analysed using a dual luciferase reporter assay. Finally, the glycolytic process was assessed by glucose uptake assays and lactate production measurements. The results showed that the expression of circ_0004674 and TCF4 was significantly higher in MG63 and U2OS cells compared to hFOB1.19 cells, while the expression of miR‐140‐3p was downregulated. Silencing of circ_0004674 gene significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of cancer cells and promoted apoptosis of cancer cells. Experiments such as dual luciferase reporter analysis showed that circ_0004674 regulates the expression of glycolysis‐related proteins through the miR‐140‐3p/TCF4 pathway, and inhibition of this gene attenuated the depletion of glucose content and the production of lactate in cancer cells. Furthermore, inhibition of miR‐140‐3p or overexpression of TCF could reverse the phenotypic changes in cancer cells induced by circ_0004674 silencing. In summary, this study elucidated the specific function and potential mechanisms of circ_0004674 in osteosarcoma glycolysis. The findings demonstrate that miR‐140‐3p and TCF4 function respectively as a tumor suppressor gene and an oncogene in osteosarcoma. Notably, they influence glycolysis and associated pathways, regulating osteosarcoma proliferation. Therefore, circ_0004674 promotes osteosarcoma glycolysis and proliferation through the miR‐140‐3p/TCF4 pathway, enhancing the malignant behaviour of tumours, and it is expected to be a potential molecular target for osteosarcoma treatment.
Sludge carbon promotes barium titanate piezoelectric property to activate persulfate degradation of enrofloxacin
Authors: Chen Jun , Li Xue , Yang Xiaohong , Wang Yutong , Zhan Zongsheng , Teng Dawei , Du Mingxia , Lv Dong , Yao Kaiqi , Da Chunnian , Xu Mengqiu
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Piezoelectric catalysis using perovskite‐type barium titanate (BaTiO3) has been applied to the decomposition of refractory organic pollutants through piezoelectric catalytic persulfate (PS). Nevertheless, challenges such as a limited specific surface area, poor electrical conductivity and a tendency towards agglomeration in BaTiO3 necessitate the exploration of novel methods to enhance its piezoelectric efficiency.

RESULTS

Sludge carbon (SC) from sewage treatment and BaTiO3 was utilized to develop a novel piezoelectric catalytic material (BaTiO3/SC). The specific surface area of BaTiO3/SC reached 67.92 m2 g−1, which is nine times larger than that of BaTiO3 alone. The inclusion of SC in the composite enhanced the number of active sites and contributed to a higher degree of graphitization, improved electrical conductivity, and provided a more stable structure for BaTiO3/SC. This material was capable of harvesting mechanical vibration energy from ultrasound, thereby generating piezoelectric catalytic properties and activating PS to achieve a 93% decomposition ratio of enrofloxacin (ENR) in water within 80 min. The activation of PS by BaTiO3/SC piezocatalysis led to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as •OH and SO4−•. These ROS attack the quinolone ring of ENR, which is susceptible to cleavage, resulting in the decomposition of ENR into intermediates of lower toxicity.

CONCLUSION

The incorporation of SC has enhanced the piezoelectric performance of BaTiO3, rendering BaTiO3/SC a novel perovskite‐type piezoelectric catalytic material that improves piezoelectric efficiency. The BaTiO3/SC system, through its piezoelectric catalytic activation of PS, demonstrates potential for decomposition of refractory organic pollutants in water treatment. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Striking a balance between water use and environmental protection in an oasis—A case study of Ganzhou District, China
Authors: Lin Yaoben , Liu Yuanyuan , Wang Lei
Published: September 2024

Arid regions in Northwestern China, such as Ganzhou District, are crucial for agriculture but face challenges due to water scarcity. This study employs a coupling coordination model to analyse the environmental impact of agricultural water use in Ganzhou District and dissect the tension between agricultural development and ecological concerns. Despite an overall positive trend, the study reveals relatively poor coordination between water use and environmental protection, along with uneven spatial distribution. Examining the tension between agricultural expansion and its environmental repercussions, this study offers a reference for efforts to promote sustainable practices in agriculture and environmental management in oases.
Ganoderma lucidum spore powder after oil extraction alleviates microbiota dysbiosis to improve the intestinal barrier function in mice
Authors: Zhong Shun , Qi Yao Yao , Yuan Yuan , Lian Li , Deng Zeyuan , Pan Feng , Zhou Junfu , Wang Zhiyu , Li Hongyan
Published: September 2024

Background

There are few studies about the differences in the composition of moisture, ash, crude protein, crude fat, crude polysaccharide and ergothioneine in Ganoderma lucidum spore powder (GLSP) from different origins. As for GLSP after oil extraction (OE‐GLSP), there are still lots of bioactive substance in it. It can be seen that OE‐GLSP has certain biological activity. The effect of OE‐GLSP on the improvement of intestinal barrier function has been less studied.

Results

The results showed that there were significant differences for GLSP from five different origins (Anhui, Jilin, Jiangxi, Shandong and Zhejiang) in moisture (0.065–0.113%), ash (0.603–0.955%), crude fat (42.444–44.773%), crude polysaccharide (2.977–4.127%), crude protein (14.761–17.639%) and ergothioneine (0.552–1.816 mg g−1) (P < 0.05). The monosaccharides of GLSP polysaccharide mainly consist of glucose, galactose, mannose, rhamnose, etc. Moreover, the effects of OE‐GLSP supplementation on the regulation of organ index, colonic tissue and intestinal microbiota in C57BL/6J mice were investigated. The supplement of OE‐GLSP could restore the organ index and weight loss of antibiotic‐treated mice. Moreover, OE‐GLSP led to the improvement of intestinal dysbiosis by enriching Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Lactobacillus and Roseburia, and increasing the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. In addition, OE‐GLSP intervention repaired intestinal barrier dysfunction by increasing the expression of tight junction proteins (Occludin, Claudin‐1 and E‐cadherin).

Conclusion

Different GLSP from five origins exhibited significant differences in microstructure and contents of crude polysaccharide, crude protein, crude fat, water, ash and ergothioneine. Moreover, it was found that OE‐GLSP could improve the intestinal barrier function and induce potentially beneficial changes in intestinal flora. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effects of vegetal protein hydrolysate application method, nitrogen level, and nitrate‐to‐ammonium ratio on growth and composition of hydroponic lettuce
Authors: Choi Seunghyun , Colla Giuseppe , Cardarelli Mariateresa , Kim Hye‐Ji
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Vegetal‐derived protein hydrolysates (PHs) have been recognized as sustainable biostimulant products due to their beneficial effects on crops. However, most studies on PHs have been conducted at a fixed ratio of nitrate‐to‐ammonium (NO3−:NH4+) without considering other N application scenarios, leading to inconsistent results among the studies. This study compared the influences of N levels (2 or 10 mM N), NO3:NH4 ratios (100:0, 75:25, 50:50, or 25:75), and PH application methods – control, foliar spray (PH‐F) or root application (PH‐R) – on the yield, morphology, nutrients, and nutraceutical quality of hydroponic lettuce.

RESULTS

Nitrogen level, NO3:NH4 ratio, and PH application affected plant growth, morphology, and quality significantly, highlighting the importance of the interactions among these factors. Shoot growth was influenced by NO3:NH4 ratios, PH, and their interactions. Similar trends were observed in chlorophyll content. The interactions among all three factors significantly influenced root growth and morphology. Root application (PH‐R) protected lettuce from yield loss caused by low NO3:NH4 ratios and from reduced antioxidant compounds caused by high N levels. Vegetal‐derived protein hydrolysates improved nutrient uptake through two‐way and three‐way interactions although neither PH nor any interactions affected nitrate concentrations.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that PH interacts with N level and NO3:NH4 ratio, affecting hydroponic lettuce yield and quality. In particular, the root application of PH was the most effective method for enhancing yield (shoot fresh weight), quality (chlorophylls, carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenols), and nutrient uptake in hydroponically grown lettuce in relation to N form and level. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Cadaveric Study on the Safety of High‐Flow Nasal Oxygen in Laser Microlaryngeal Surgery
Authors: Ferraro Ellen L. , Zura Nicholas , Abdelmalak Basem B. , Galway Ursula , Benninger Michael S. , Bryson Paul C.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

High‐flow nasal oxygen (HFNO), or transnasal humidified rapid‐insufflation ventilatory exchange (THRIVE), is a technique providing apneic oxygenation and a degree of ventilation during microlaryngeal surgery. Its use with laser has been questioned due to concern for airway fire. For fire to occur, a triad of ignition source, oxidizer, and fuel source must be present. By using HFNO and eliminating an endotracheal tube (fuel source), it is hypothesized that airway fire risk is minimal. We tested this theory with human cadavers using HFNO with increasing levels of FiO2 while performing microlaryngeal laser surgery.

Methods

HFNO was placed on two cadavers, and oxygen was administered at incrementally increasing fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) concentrations (30%–100%). Laryngeal microsurgery was conducted with CO2 and KTP lasers applied for 30 s. Oxygen readings were taken at several anatomic locations along the body assessing oxygen concentrations in correlation with increasing FiO2 administration.

Results

The use of CO2 and KTP laser on cadaveric vocal folds produced char but no spark or airway fire at any of the tested oxygen concentrations. Apart from the mouth, there was minimal increase in oxygen levels at the surrounding anatomic sites despite elevating FiO2 levels.

Conclusion

HFNO may be safe to use during microlaryngeal laser surgery. By eliminating the endotracheal tube as a fuel source, risk of airway fire may be negligible. Our study safely applied CO2 and KTP lasers for an uninterrupted 30 s with HFNO at 70 L/min and 100% FiO2 producing no spark or fire.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 2024
Metabolomics study of serum from patients with type 2 diabetes: Peripheral neuropathy could be associated with sphingosine and phospholipid molecules
Authors: Zhong Jingchen , Li Xiaojie , Yuan Mengqian , Chen Dong , Li Yancai , Lian Xiaoyang , Wang Ming
Published: September 2024

Abnormal lipid metabolism is one of the risk factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus peripheral neuropathy (DPN). This study aimed to determine the differences in lipid metabolism in patients with type 2 diabetes and DPN and the possible pathogenesis caused by this difference. The participants comprised type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with DPN (N = 60) and healthy controls (N = 20). Blood samples were drawn from the participants in the morning in the fasting state, and then changes in serum lipids were explored using targeted metabolomics on the liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry platform. Among the 1768 differentially abundant lipid metabolites, the results of orthogonal partial least squares‐discriminant analysis combined with random forest analysis showed that the levels of sphingosine (SPH) (d18:0), carnitine 22:1, lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) (18:0/0:0), LPC (16:0/0:0), lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) (18:1/0:0), LPC (0:0/18:0) and LPE (0:0/18:1) were significantly different between the two groups. Spearman correlation analysis showed that SPH (d18:0), carnitine 22:1, LPE (18:0/0:0), and LPC (0:0/18:0) levels correlated highly with the patients' electromyography results. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway annotation and enrichment analysis of 538 differentially abundant lipid metabolites revealed that type 2 diabetes mellitus DPN was related to glycerophospholipid metabolism and glycerol metabolism. Our results further identified the dangerous lipid metabolites associated with DPN and abnormal lipid metabolism. The influence of lipid metabolites such as SPH and phospholipid molecules on DPN development in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were suggested and the possible pathogenic pathways were clarified, providing new insights into the clinical risk of DPN in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Multivariate statistical “unmixing” of Indian and Pacific Ocean sediment provenance
Authors: Dunlea Ann G. , Yasukawa Kazutaka , Tanaka Erika , Hendy Ingrid L.
Published: September 2024

The geochemistry of marine sediment is a massive archive of (paleo)oceanographic information. Accessing that information requires “unmixing” the various influences on marine sediment geochemistry to understand individual sources and marine geochemical processes. Q‐mode factor analysis (QFA) and independent component analysis (ICA) are multivariate statistical techniques that have successfully been applied to large datasets of marine sediment element concentrations to identify the number and composition of marine sediment sources or end‐members. In this study, we apply both techniques to two datasets of marine sediment geochemistry, compare the output, and discuss the advantages of each approach. In both datasets, ICA identified a mixing trend between carbonates and dust, whereas QFA represented the end‐members as two separate factors. In the Pacific and Indian Oceans dataset, both techniques produced three factors or independent components involving rare earth elements, but two of the QFA factors explained a small, almost negligible, amount of the variability of the dataset. Also, QFA identified more aluminosilicate end‐members (dust or volcanic ash) than ICA. In the Indian Ocean Sites 738 and 752 dataset, ICA identified two processes affecting Sr and Ba concentrations as separate independent components, while QFA created a factor representing the covariation of Sr and Ba over intervals of the site's paleoceanographic history. The results of this study exemplify that QFA identifies covariances and finds discrete end‐members contributing to the bulk mass of sediment. ICA works best with non‐Gaussian element distributions and finds geochemical signals and mixing trends that constitute the characteristic structure of the multielemental data.
Effect of financial contagion between real and financial sectors on asset bubbles: A two‐layer network game approach
Authors: Fan Ruguo , Xie Xiao , Wang Yuanyuan , Lin Jinchai
Published: September 2024

Understanding the mechanism of asset bubble formation is important for maintaining financial stability and healthy functioning of the economic system. With gradual emphasis on the complex characteristics of financial markets, a new perspective for analyzing the emergence of asset bubbles is emerging: how to integrate the real economy with financial markets composed of heterogeneous individuals. In this study, we propose a two‐layer network game to investigate the impact of financial contagion between the real and financial sectors on asset bubbles. Among their interactions, shadow banking activities in both sectors increase the contagion risk across financial markets and construct a broader financial system. Both credit interactions and peer learning effects are captured in the network framework. Simulating relevant regulation policies, our experiments indicate that regulators should closely monitor returns on assets by setting an upper threshold. Financialization in the real sector significantly exacerbates the formation of asset bubbles, with medium‐level borrowing constraints minimizing bubble dynamics most effectively. The financialization practices of mature industries should be strictly regulated, while innovative industries should be allowed moderately flexible financing practices. The degree of friction within the financial market should be flexibly calibrated for financial institutions and genuine enterprises, aiming to mitigate systemic risks in the financial market while fostering robust growth in the real economy.
Impact of nutrition interventions for malnourished patients: Introduction to health economics and outcomes research with findings from nutrition care studies
Authors: Schuetz Philipp , Kerr Kirk W. , Cereda Emanuele , Sulo Suela
Published: September 2024

Healthcare systems and patients today are challenged by high and ever‐escalating costs for care. With increasing costs and declining affordability, public and private healthcare payers are all seeking value in care. As the evidence regarding health benefits of nutrition products and interventional nutrition care is increasing, cost‐effectiveness of these interventions needs consideration. Health economics and outcomes research (HEOR) examines the value of healthcare treatments, including nutrition interventions. This review summarizes how HEOR tools are used to measure health impact, that is, the burden of illness, the effect of interventions on the illness, and the value of the nutrition intervention in terms of health and cost outcomes. How studies are designed to compile data for economic analyses is briefly discussed. Then, studies that use HEOR methods to measure efficacy, cost‐effectiveness, and cost savings from nutrition care across the healthcare spectrum—from hospitals to nursing homes and rehabilitation centers, to care for community‐living individuals, with an emphasis on individuals who are older or experiencing chronic health issues—are reviewed. Overall, findings from HEOR studies over the past decade build considerable evidence to show that nutrition care improves the health of at‐risk or malnourished patients effectively and at a reasonable cost. As such, the evidence suggests that nutrition care brings value to healthcare across multiple settings and populations.
Oral lichenoid lesions as an immune‐related adverse event: A rare case report and literature review
Authors: Okamura Takeshi , Koshinuma Shinya , Noujima Mai , Sugiura Shuji , Fujimoto Noriki , Takaoka Kazuki
Published: September 2024

Background

Reports of oral lichenoid lesions (OLLs) as an immune‐related adverse event (irAE) are rare.

Case presentation

An 81‐year‐old man was visited with a complaint of severe pain in the oral mucosa. He had received nivolumab for relapsed malignant melanoma. Pathological examination showed acanthotic and destructive changes in the epithelium with inflammatory infiltrates and CD8 positivity. Based on these findings, the diagnosis was OLL as an irAE. Oral prednisolone was started, and the lesion gradually resolved.

Conclusion

The literature review suggested that OLL can appear as an irAE on the buccal mucosa and tongue after a varying number of cycles of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Routine surveillance of the oral mucosa is needed.
The influence of crop type on pesticide wash‐off parameters for use in environmental fate modelling
Authors: Hand Laurence , Patterson David , Reinken Gerald , Schriever Carola , Volz Petra , Rieder Benjamin , Essing Marius
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Wash‐off of plant protection products from crops is represented in current European Union (EU) surface water models and future EU soil models by a coefficient that estimates its contribution to soil loadings following rainfall. Replacing the default coefficient with experimental data requires a harmonized protocol and this research forms part of the development of such a protocol. Following a successful test of the proposed protocol on a single crop across eight laboratories, a range of crops were tested in a single laboratory to assess the impact of crop type on the results.

RESULTS

Six crops (wheat, rice, oil seed rape, cabbage, potato and French bean) were chosen, encompassing both hydrophobic and hydrophilic leaf surfaces. Tebuconazole (Folicur EW 250) was sprayed onto plants at a rate equivalent to 100 g ai ha−1 and subjected to a 1‐h simulated rainfall event at an intensity of 20 mm h−1. Measured residues before and after rainfall were compared to calculate the percentage wash‐off. The extent of wash‐off was 66.4% with a 95% confidence interval of ±18.5% and the results were clustered according to leaf wettability, with lower wash‐off in hydrophobic crops than in hydrophilic crops.

CONCLUSION

Wash‐off of this unoptimized formulation was similar across the crops, despite the use of crops with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic leaf surfaces. There is potential, therefore, to rationalize the number of crops used in future studies by selecting a small number of hydrophilic and/or hydrophobic crops to obtain a robust estimation of the extent of wash‐off for use in environmental fate models. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Quercetin supplementation prevents kidney damage and improves long‐term prognosis in hypertensive patients
Authors: Zheng Yawei , Fang Yuan , Li Li , Wang Huihui , Zhang Siqi , Zhu Yuan , Wang Yating , Meng Xianze , Fang Zhen , Luo Yu , Fang Zhuyuan
Published: September 2024

Quercetin has shown potential antihypertensive‐like activities in several studies. The present study aimed to test the effect of quercetin supplementation on kidney damage and long‐term prognosis in hypertensive patients. The data of enrolled hypertensive patients were acquired from the NHANES dataset. The flavanol intake data was extracted from the FNDDS flavonoid database. Information regarding mortality was extracted from the NCHS. A total of 5801 hypertensive patients were included in this study. Preliminary analysis found that the total flavanols intake dosage was the independent influence factor of the kidney damage prevalence in hypertension, and it was found that only the quercetin supplementation was the protective factor for kidney damage after stratification analysis. For every 10 mg/d increase in quercetin intake, the kidney damage prevalence decreased by 8% [OR = 0.92, 95% CI: 0.85–0.99, p = 0.032]. The comprehensive analysis results suggested that hypertensive patients in the quercetin‐high group had a lower kidney damage prevalence and a higher survival probability than those in the quercetin‐low group. The urine microalbumin of hypertensive patients in the quercetin‐high group was significantly lower than that of hypertensive patients in the quercetin‐low group. In addition, at a median follow‐up time of 122 months, the mortality decreased by 9% [HR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.84–0.99, p = 0.031] for every 10 mg/d increase in quercetin intake. The findings suggested that high quercetin intake was associated with low kidney damage prevalence and high survival probability. Based on the existing evidence, promoting quercetin supplementation as a supplementary treatment for hypertensive patients was warranted.
Dynamic Phase Enabled Topological Mode Steering in Composite Su‐Schrieffer–Heeger Waveguide Arrays
Authors: Tang Min , Pang Chi , Saggau Christian N. , Dong Haiyun , Lee Ching Hua , Thomale Ronny , Klembt Sebastian , Fulga Ion Cosma , van den Brink Jeroen , Vaynzof Yana , Schmidt Oliver G. , Wang Jiawei , Ma Libo
Published: September 2024

Topological boundary states localize at interfaces whenever the interface implies a change of the associated topological invariant encoded in the geometric phase. The generically present dynamic phase, however, which is energy and time‐dependent, is known to be non‐universal, and hence not to intertwine with any topological geometric phase. Using the example of topological zero modes in composite Su‐Schrieffer‐Heeger (c‐SSH) waveguide arrays with a central defect is reported on the selective excitation and transition of topological boundary mode based on dynamic phase‐steered interferences. This work thus provides a new knob for the control and manipulation of topological states in composite photonic devices, indicating promising applications where topological modes and their bandwidth can be jointly controlled by the dynamic phase, geometric phase, and wavelength in on‐chip topological devices.
Vacuum‐assisted wound closure and mesh‐mediated fascial traction for temporary closure in open abdomen: A single‐arm meta‐analysis
Authors: Lech Gabriele Eckerdt , Neves Brian Henriques , Oliveira Gilson Tenório , da Silveira Carlos André Balthazar , Kasmirski Julia Adriana , Lima Diego L. , Cavazzola Leandro Totti
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Open abdomen (OA) therapy is used in the management of patients who require surgery for severe abdominal conditions. This meta‐analysis aims to evaluate the VAWCM technique regarding short and long‐term outcomes.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central were systematically searched for studies that analyzed VAWCM therapy in OA. Primary outcomes were the complete fascial closure rate and mean duration of OA treatment. Statistical analyses were performed using R statistical software.

Results

Seven studies comprising 535 patients were included. We found a complete fascial closure rate of 77.3 per 100 patients (80.1%; 95% CI 59.6–88.7; I2 = 76%), with an overall mortality of 30.3 per 100 (33.5%; 95% CI 9.3–19.4; I2 = 78%). The pooled mean duration of OA treatment was 14.6 days (95% CI 10.7–18.6; I2 = 93%), while the mean length of hospital stay was 43.3 days (95% CI 21.2–65.3; I2 = 96%). As additional outcomes, we found an enteroatmospheric fistula rate of 5.6 per 100 patients (5.4%; 95% CI 2.3–13.3; I2 = 45%) and incisional hernia rate of 34.7 per 100 (34.6%; 95% CI 28.9–41.1; I2 = 0%). The subgroup analysis of mesh materials (polypropylene or polyglactin) showed a higher complete fascial closure rate for the polyglactin (89.1% vs. 66.6%; p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Our findings showed that VAWCM is a viable option for OA treatment, successfully reaching complete fascial closure, with a low duration of the technique, even though it presented a high heterogeneity between the studies.
KPZ scaling from the Krylov space
Authors: Gorsky Alexander , Nechaev Sergei , Valov Alexander
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Recently, a superdiffusion exhibiting the Kardar-Parisi-Zhang (KPZ) scaling in late-time correlators and autocorrelators of certain interacting many-body systems, such as Heisenberg spin chains, has been reported. Inspired by these results, we explore the KPZ scaling in correlation functions using their realization in the Krylov operator basis. We focus on the Heisenberg time scale, which approximately corresponds to the ramp–plateau transition for the Krylov complexity in systems with a large but finite number degrees of freedom. Two frameworks are under consideration: i) the system with growing Lanczos coefficients and an artificial cut-off, and ii) the system with the finite Hilbert space. In both cases via numerical analysis, we observe the transition from Gaussian to KPZ-like scaling, or equivalently, the diffusion-superdiffusion transition at the critical Euclidean time $$ {t}_E^{\ast } $$

t
E
∗

= ccrK, for the Krylov chain of finite length K, and ccr = O(1). In particular, we find a scaling ~ K1/3 for fluctuations in the one-point correlation function and a dynamical scaling ~ K−2/3 associated with the return probability (Loschmidt echo) corresponding to autocorrelators in physical space. In the first case, the transition is of the 3rd order and can be considered as an example of dynamical quantum phase transition (DQPT), while in the second, it is a crossover. For case ii), utilizing the relationship between the spectrum of tridiagonal matrices at the spectral edge and the spectrum of the stochastic Airy operator, we demonstrate analytically the origin of the KPZ scaling for the particular Krylov chain using the results of the probability theory. We argue that there is interesting outcome of our study for the double scaling limit of matrix models. For the case of topological gravity, the white noise term of order O (1/N) is identified, which should be taken into account in the controversial issue of ensemble averaging in 2D/1D holography.
Bosonization of 2+1 dimensional fermions on the surface of topological insulators
Authors: Cappelli Andrea , Maffi Lorenzo , Villa Riccardo
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Three-dimensional topological insulators can be described by an effective field theory involving two ‘hydrodynamic’ Abelian gauge fields. The action contains a bulk topological BF term and a surface term, called loop model. This describes the massless 2+1 dimensional excitations and provides them with a semiclassical, yet non-trivial conformal invariant dynamics. Given that topological insulators are originally fermionic, this physical setting is ideal for realizing the bosonization of massless fermions in terms of gauge fields. Building on earlier analyses of the loop model, we find that fermions belong to the solitonic spectrum and can be described by Wilson lines, through the generalization of 1+1 dimensional vertex operators. Their correlation functions agree with conformal invariance. The bosonic loop model is then mapped into a fermionic theory by using the general construction of fermionic topological phases described in the literature. It requires the identification of the characteristic one-form ℤ2 symmetry of the bosonic theory and its gauging, which originates the fermion number (−1)F, the spin sectors and the time reversal symmetry obeying $$ \mathcal{T} $$
T
2 = (−1)F. These results are detailed for the effective action and the partition function on the geometry S2 × S1.
A convergent genus expansion for the plateau
Authors: Saad Phil , Stanford Douglas , Yang Zhenbin , Yao Shunyu
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We conjecture a formula for the spectral form factor of a double-scaled matrix integral in the limit of large time, large density of states, and fixed temperature. The formula has a genus expansion with a nonzero radius of convergence. To understand the origin of this series, we compare to the semiclassical theory of “encounters” in periodic orbits. In Jackiw-Teitelboim (JT) gravity, encounters correspond to portions of the moduli space integral that mutually cancel (in the orientable case) but individually grow at low energies. At genus one we show how the full moduli space integral resolves the low energy region and gives a finite nonzero answer.
Human coronaviruses activate and hijack the host transcription factor HSF1 to enhance viral replication
Authors: Pauciullo Silvia , Riccio Anna , Santopolo Silvia , Albecka Anna , Papa Guido , James Leo C. , Piacentini Sara , Lanzilli Giulia , Rossi Antonio , Santoro M. Gabriella
Published: September 2024

Organisms respond to proteotoxic-stress by activating the heat-shock response, a cellular defense mechanism regulated by a family of heat-shock factors (HSFs); among six human HSFs, HSF1 acts as a proteostasis guardian regulating severe stress-driven transcriptional responses. Herein we show that human coronaviruses (HCoV), both low-pathogenic seasonal-HCoVs and highly-pathogenic SARS-CoV-2 variants, are potent inducers of HSF1, promoting HSF1 serine-326 phosphorylation and triggering a powerful and distinct HSF1-driven transcriptional-translational response in infected cells. Despite the coronavirus-mediated shut-down of the host translational machinery, selected HSF1-target gene products, including HSP70, HSPA6 and AIRAP, are highly expressed in HCoV-infected cells. Using silencing experiments and a direct HSF1 small-molecule inhibitor we show that, intriguingly, HCoV-mediated activation of the HSF1-pathway, rather than representing a host defense response to infection, is hijacked by the pathogen and is essential for efficient progeny particles production. The results open new scenarios for the search of innovative antiviral strategies against coronavirus infections.