bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Mathematical Approximations for the Cumulative Normal Distribution Function
Authors: Etesami Reza , Madadi Mohsen , Keynia Farshid , Arabpour Alireza
Published: June 2024

The normal cumulative distribution function and its derivatives, such as the error function, the Q-function, and the Mills ratio, are widely used in engineering, mathematics, statistics, computer science, diffusion theory, communication theory, physics, and chemistry. However, their non-closed form nature has led to the development of new approximations with varying levels of accuracy and complexity. These new approximations are often more accurate; nevertheless, they can also be more complex, which may limit their practical utility. In this article, a new approach for approximating is proposed. which combines Taylor series expansion and logistic function to create an initial approximation, to enhance the accuracy of the initial approximation, the Hunter-Prey Optimization algorithm is utilized to minimize both the maximum absolute error and the mean absolute error, leading to a significantly more precise approximation. Furthermore, this algorithm is employed to enhance the accuracy of other existing approximations introduced by researchers. The results showed that the improved approximations have much higher accuracy. To show the effectiveness of the new findings of this article, two case studies with applications are presented.
Effect of Room Layout on Natural Gas Explosion in Kitchen
Authors: Yang Kai , Wu Hao , Chen Ye , Pang Lei
Published: June 2024

In order to elucidate the overpressure and fire hazard effects of gas explosion in a congested room, the effects of gas concentration and room layout of gas explosion in a kitchen were studied by CFD. The results showed that the flow field parameters in a kitchen exhibited an initial increase followed by a decrease as the gas concentration increased. The maximum gas flow rate recorded within the chamber was 390 m/s, while the corresponding maximum flame propagation rate and peak pressure reached 289.86 m/s and 30.95 kPa, respectively. The difference in the flow field induced by the concentration is further enhanced by the presence of congested materials. Additionally, the room layout influenced the gas congestion’s blowout effect due to variations in turbulence intensity and flammable gas volume caused by significant changes in the congestion’s size within the room. Specifically, when gas concentration is 10%, the indoor gas flow rate and flame combustion rate are II > U > L > I, while the turbulent kinetic energy and explosive overpressure followed the order of I > II > L > U. The results are of great significance for the disaster assessment and accident prevention of natural gas explosion in civil kitchens.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Guided Single-Fraction Preoperative Radiotherapy for Early Stage Breast Cancer (The RICE Trial): Feasibility Study
Authors: Qadir Ayyaz , Singh Nabita , Dean Jenna , Brown Kerryn , Tacey Mark , Mann Bruce , Kron Tomas , Cahoon Glenn , Lau Eddie , Scot Andrew M , Yeo Belinda , Loh Su-Wen , Uribe Sergio , Moe Aung Aung Kywe , Ireland-Jenkins Kerryn , McAuley Rosly , McDermont Leah , Ooi Wei Ming , Ng Suat , Chao Michael , Foroudi Farshad
Published: June 2024

Background
Over the past decade, the adoption of screening programs, digital mammography, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has increased early-stage breast cancer diagnosis rates. Mortality rates have decreased due to early detection, improved treatments, including personalized therapies. Accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) is emerging as a convenient and effective treatment for some patients, with studies exploring its preoperative use. Preoperative APBI, especially with MRI guidance, offers improved tumor targeting and reduced side effects. Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Guided Single Fraction Pre-operative Radiotherapy for Early-Stage Breast Cancer (RICE trial) aims to assess the feasibility and efficacy of MRI-guided single-dose radiotherapy for early-stage breast cancer.
Methods
The RICE study is a prospective, single-arm study evaluating single fraction pre-operative, accelerated partial breast irradiation treatment for patients with early-stage breast cancer using a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Linear Accelerator (MR Linac). Eligible patients enrolled in this study will have a core biopsy to confirm estrogen receptor positive and Her2 negative subtype. Radiotherapy planning will use a planning computed tomography (CT) co-registered with a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with the patient in either the supine or prone position. For the diagnostic workup, [18F] Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/CT ([18F] FDG PET/CT) and [18] Fluoroestradiol Positron Emission Tomography/CT ([18F] FES PET/CT) will be performed prior to treatment. Thirty patients will receive a single ablative RT dose of 21 Gy to the tumor. Pre- and post-treatment MRI scans will be acquired at baseline and 5 weeks post radiotherapy respectively. Breast-conserving surgery will be scheduled for 6 weeks after APBI treatment using the MR Linac.
Trial Registration
This trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR). Registered 31st of May 2021. Registration number: ACTRN12621000659808 https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12621000659808
Predictive factors and survival outcome of conversion therapy for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma patients receiving atezolizumab and bevacizumab: Comparative analysis of conversion, partial response and complete response cases.
Authors: Hatanaka Takeshi , Kakizaki Satoru , Hiraoka Atsushi , Tada Toshifumi , Hirooka Masashi , Kariyama Kazuya , Tani Joji , Atsukawa Masanori , Takaguchi Koichi , Itobayashi Ei , Fukunishi Shinya , Tsuji Kunihiko , Ishikawa Toru , Tajiri Kazuto , Toyoda Hidenori , Ogawa Chikara , Nishikawa Hiroki , Nishikawa Takashi , Kawata Kazuhito , Kosaka Hisashi , Naganuma Atsushi , Yata Yutaka , Ohama Hideko , Kuroda Hidekatsu , Matono Tomomitsu , Aoki Tomoko , Kanayama Yuki , Tanaka Kazunari , Tada Fujimasa , Nouso Kazuhiro , Morishita Asahiro , Tsutsui Akemi , Nagano Takuya , Itokawa Norio , Okubo Tomomi , Arai Taeang , Imai Michitaka , Nakamura Shinichiro , Enomoto Hirayuki , Kaibori Masaki , Hiasa Yoichi , Kudo Masatoshi , Kumada Takashi
Published: June 2024

Aim
This study aims to investigate the predictive factors for conversion therapy in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC) and to evaluate the prognosis of conversion cases by comparing them with partial response (PR) and complete response (CR) cases.
Methods
In this retrospective multicenter study, we included a total of 946 uHCC patients treated with atezolizumab and bevacizumab (Atez/Bev) from September 2020 to September 2023.
Results
Out of the patients, 43 (4.5%) received conversion therapy following Atez/Bev treatment. The overall response rate was 65.1% and 23.7% in the conversion and non-conversion group, with a statistical significance (p < 0.001). Multivariate analyses show that BCLC stage B or an earlier stage (p = 0.045), absence of macrovascular invasion and extrahepatic spread (p = 0.045), and a low value of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (p = 0.04) were significantly favorable predictive factors associated with conversion therapy. The conversion group showed significantly better survival compared to the non-conversion group (p < 0.001). In the landmark analysis at 6, 12, and 18 months, the conversion group exhibited better survival compared to PR patients in the non-conversion group (p = 0.04, 0.01, and 0.03, respectively) and there were no significant differences in the overall survival (OS) between the conversion group and achieving CR cases (p = 0.7, 1.0, and 0.3, respectively)
Conclusions
Patients with low tumor burden and low value of NLR were more likely to undergo conversion therapy. The OS of patients undergoing conversion therapy showed better survival compared to those achieving PR and was comparable to those with CR patients. Conversion therapy should be considered if feasible.
Association analysis of the Ex3 VNTR polymorphism of the DRD4 dopamine receptor gene with personality traits in patients with a behavioural addiction
Authors: Boroń Agnieszka , Recław Remigiusz , Chmielowiec Krzysztof , Chmielowiec Jolanta , Strońska-Pluta Aleksandra , Kowalski Michał Tomasz , Masiak Jolanta , Gibas-Dorna Magdalena , Trybek Grzegorz , Grzy-wacz Anna
Published: June 2024

Results In behavioural and amphetamine addicts with a higher level of the STAI trait scale and a higher level of the Neuroticism scale, the DRD4 Ex3 s/s gene polymorphism occurred significantly more often compared to the control group with the s/s polymorphism and the l/l and s/l polymorphism. Similarly, in people addicted to behavioural and amphetamine with a higher level of the STAI trait scale and a higher level of the Neuroticism scale, the DRD4 Ex3 s/l gene polymorphism occurred significantly more frequently compared to the control group with the s/s polymorphism. Conclusions: In the presented study, we see that ad-dictions should be analysed multifactorial. We can conclude that DRD4 and its polymorphic variant influence addiction development.
Effectiveness of a web-based foot-ankle exercises program for treating modifiable risk factors for ulcers in people with diabetic neuropathy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ferreira Jane Suelen S. P. , Cruvinel-Júnior Ronaldo H. , Silva Erica Q. , Veríssimo Jady L. , Monteiro Renan. L , Duarte Marcos , Giacomozzi Claudia , Sacco Isabel C. N.
Published: June 2024

The need for strategies to prevent complications arising from diabetic neuropathy (DPN) is well recognized, yet foot-ankle exercises programs present weak to moderate evidence and barriers persist in their implementation, including the democratization of access to exercise programs. In this paper, we report for the first time the effectiveness of a web-based foot-ankle exercises program aiming to improve DPN-related outcomes, gait biomechanics and functional outcomes. Sixty-two participants with DPN were randomly allocated into the control group (CG;n=31), which received the usual care, or the intervention group (IG;n=31), which received the usual care plus a 12-week foot-ankle exercises program using a web-based software (the SOPeD software). Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks by an assessor blinded to group allocation. DPN symptoms and severity remained unchanged after the web-based foot-ankle program; however, IG showed improvements compared to CG, with greater functional reach at 12 weeks, better foot function, reduced foot pain and greater plantarflexion during push-off at 24 weeks. Regarding plantar loadings during gait, there was a forefoot pressure reduction at 12 weeks compared to baseline, but at 24 weeks, forefoot loads increased in the IG compared to CG. The 12-week web-based foot-ankle exercise program was feasible, acceptable, demonstrating safety with minimal adverse events. While DPN-related outcomes were unaffected by the 12-week SOPeD program, modest improvements in foot pain and function, functional reach, and changes in plantar pressure and plantarflexion during gait were noted, mostly at 24 weeks.
Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04011267. Registered on 8 July 2019.
MANAGEMENT Practices for Children IN Sickle Cell Crisis in Selected Hospitals in Northern Malawi.
Authors: Kumwenda Maria Mtangwa , Phiri Ettah Chimbe , Mpasa Ferestas
Published: June 2024

Background
Sickle cell crisis is a common complication of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) that is responsible for frequent hospitalizations among children. The condition carries a mortality rate of 50% − 90%. If appropriate care is not rendered, it can lead to early child mortality. The aim of the study was to assess the quality of care provided to hospitalized children in sickle cell crisis in selected hospitals in Northern Malawi.
Methods
A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design was used to assess the quality of care provided to hospitalized children in sickle cell crisis at a tertiary, district and mission hospitals in the Northern Region of Malawi. Data was collected from files of 124 children admitted in sickle cell crisis from 2019 to 2021 using a checklist that was developed from WHO, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), and Queens Paediatric Guidelines for the management of SCD while analysis was done using SPSS version 20.
Results
The results showed suboptimal quality of care as most children did not receive the recommended interventions such as oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, the correct amount of intravenous fluids, and timely pain relief medication as stipulated by the guidelines for the management of SCD.
Conclusions
The study gave some insights regarding quality of care for children in sickle cell crisis in the Region. It can, therefore, be concluded that ensuring the availability and accessibility of SCD management guidelines, pain assessment tools in Paediatric care settings would improve clinical practice.
Diagnostic value of combined CT lymphangiography and 99 Tc m -DX lymphoscintigraphy in primary chylopericardium
Authors: Zhang Yimeng , Guo Jia , Wen Zhe , Liu Mengke , Li Xingpeng , Zhang Mingxia , Wang Rengui
Published: June 2024

Objective
To investigate the diagnostic value of combined 99Tcm-DX lymphoscintigraphy and CT lymphangiography (CTL) in primary chylopericardium.
Methods
༚Fifty-five patients diagnosed with primary chylopericardium clinically were retrospectively analyzed. 99Tcm-DX lymphoscintigraphy and CTL were performed in all patients. Primary chylopericardium was classified into three types, according to the 99Tcm-DX lymphoscintigraphy results. The evaluation indexes of CTL include: (1) abnormal contrast distribution in the neck, (2) abnormal contrast distribution in the chest, (3) dilated thoracic duct was defined as when the widest diameter of thoracic duct was > 3 mm, (4) abnormal contrast distribution in abdominal. CTL characteristics were analyzed between different groups, and P < 0.05 was considered a statistically significant difference.
Results
Primary chylopericardium showed 12 patients of type Ⅰ, 14 patients with type II, and 22 patients with type III. The incidence of abnormal contrast distribution in the posterior mediastinum was greater in type I than type III (P = 0.003). The incidence of abnormal contrast distribution in the pericardial and aortopulmonary windows, type I was greater than type III (P = 0.008). And the incidence of abnormal distribution of contrast agent in the bilateral cervical or subclavian region was greater in type II than type III (P = 0.002).
Conclusion
The combined application of the 99Tcm-DX lymphoscintigraphy and CTL is of great value for the localized and qualitative diagnosis of primary chylopericardium and explore the pathogenesis of lesions.
Influence of horizontal forces on implants with different multi-unit abutment angulations: A finite element analysis
Authors: Lin Dong , Wen Zi-Heng , Guo Xiao-Ning , Zhang Yuqing
Published: June 2024

Background
Few studies have provided a detailed analysis of stress distribution on the components of multi-unit abutment (MUA). Our objective was to investigate the differences in stress patterns among MUA with different angulations under varies loading conditions.
Methods
Using finite element analysis, we constructed MUA-implant complexes with different abutment angulations (0°, 17°, and 30°). A static force of 200 N was applied along the axis of the prosthesis, accompanied by varying horizontal forces (0 N, 30 N, and 100 N).
Results
When subjected to a 200 N vertical load along the long axis of the prosthesis, implants with a 30° angulated abutment experienced nearly 2.5 times the stress (1185 MPa) compared to straight abutments (437 MPa). The maximum stress of the straight MUA-implant was 8 times higher under a 100 N horizontal force (2389 MPa) compared to that without horizontal force. Most of the stress was located near the first thread of the prosthesis screw, while screws loaded with horizontal force showed a higher stress around the screw head.
Conclusions
Increasing the abutment angulation leads to higher stress on the implant, which may be associated with potential bone loss. Horizontal forces significantly increase the maximum stress on the implant, particularly in the neck region. There is a distinct stress distribution pattern between the prosthesis screw and abutment screw.
Backcalculation of Asphalt Concrete Poisson's Ratio using the Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Test
Authors: Lu Yujia , Maia Renan Santos , Hajj Ramez
Published: June 2024

For asphalt mixtures, it is widely known that Poisson's Ratio (PR) varies according to several parameters, and is a temperature and loading frequency-dependent property. However, measuring PR at different temperatures and frequencies during mechanical tests is not commonly done. A complex arrangement of fixtures and instruments are typically necessary, and are not compatible with typical cylindrical specimens. This work aimed to combine the simple and practical Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) test with the conventional Dynamic Modulus (E*) test used for determining pavement design inputs related to asphalt mixtures. To do this, four typical lower binder asphalt concrete mixes were selected, having different levels of Asphalt Binder Replacement (ABR) given the presence of RAP/RAS, and covering seven different asphalt binders in terms of Performance Grade (PG). Additionally, a baseline mixture with no recycled material was used for comparison. Results show that estimating E* via UPV assuming a typical PR value may be inaccurate. Also, an increase in PR was observed with the increase in temperature, and reduction in ABR, as well as air voids. The findings indicate that PR can be a source of significant variability when it comes to the use of recycled materials, and that UPV is a relatively low-cost, simple, practical, and accurate piece of equipment with potential use as a complementary test to be carried out with E* for more accurate determination of PR, especially when comparing across different mixes.
Wnt7b Modulates Axon Differentiation and Extension via JNK-Mediated Cytoskeleton Dynamics
Authors: Neila Lorena Paola , Luna Sebastian , Vena Rodrigo , Rosso Silvana Beatriz
Published: June 2024

Neuronal polarization and axon growth are critical processes for neuronal cell differentiation and maturation. Wingless-type family proteins (Wnts) have been implied as key regulators of neuronal development; however, little is known about the cellular mechanisms by which they regulate axon growth. In this study, we investigated the role of Wnt7b on axon differentiation and elongation in hippocampal neurons and we also tried to describe the underlying mechanism involved in that process. Results indicated that Wnt7b accelerates the polarization of neurons and promotes axon elongation since most undifferentiated neurons polarized in the presence of Wnt7b and later on, elicited longer axons compared to controls. To go further, we found that this process was mediated by JNK pathway since its inhibition by a pharmacological agent or expressing a dominant negative construct blocked the Wnt7b effect on axonal elongation. Moreover, Wnt7b induced a locally activation of JNK at the axonal growth and changes in the cytoskeleton. In this sense, Wnt stimulation promoted microtubule stabilization along the newly-formed axons and protrusion of dynamic microtubules at the growth cones that likely facilitate axon extension. Together, our findings define Wnt7b as a crucial factor in the modulation of axon differentiation and extension by activating JNK pathway.
Seismic Site Classification and Correlation Between SPT N-Value and Shear Wave Velocity in The Niger Delta Region
Authors: Kennedy Charles
Published: June 2024

This study investigates seismic site classification and the empirical correlations between SPT blow counts (N-values) and shear wave velocity (Vs) in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Accurate site classification is vital for evaluating seismic ground response and liquefaction potential in earthquake-prone areas like the Niger Delta. To overcome the challenges of costly and time-consuming direct geophysical measurements of shear wave velocity, the study utilizes the SPT as an in-situ test to indirectly estimate Vs through empirical correlations. The research involves subsurface exploration at two sites in Agudama Town, Bayelsa State. SPT borings were conducted to depths of 30m, collecting disturbed soil samples at 1.5m intervals and undisturbed samples from deeper cohesive layers. Laboratory testing was performed to classify the soils according to the Unified Soil Classification System and determine key engineering properties. Grain size analyses revealed a transition from sandy soils near the surface to silty clay with increasing depth, attributed to natural sorting processes in deltaic sediments. Consistency limits indicated low to intermediate plasticity soils in the upper layers, transitioning to high plasticity at greater depths. Downhole geophysical tests directly measured Vs profiles, which, combined with SPT blow counts, facilitated site classification based on the NEHRP and Eurocode 8 systems. Additionally, one-dimensional equivalent linear site response analysis estimated amplification factors across various strains and periods, predicting peak amplifications of 0.4 to 0.7 seconds that aligned with the subsurface conditions. Empirical correlations were established to relate SPT-N values to Vs, achieving R2 values exceeding 0.90. Predictive models for liquefaction potential factor of safety demonstrated good agreement with observed trends. These findings offer valuable insights into subsurface conditions and establish initial predictive tools for seismic hazard assessment in the soft deltaic soils of the Niger Delta region. Further studies are necessary to expand the database, refine correlations and classifications, and account for geological variability in this seismically active area. These investigations will enhance the understanding of the region's subsurface characteristics and improve the accuracy of seismic hazard assessments.
Factors associated with SIRS negativity at the early stage of sepsis among nonsurviving sepsis patients in ICU: Targeting “silent sepsis”
Authors: Liu Taotao , Luo Jingchao , Wang Xiaogang , Xu Yuan
Published: June 2024

Background
Despite the very high sensitivity of the Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) score for identifying sepsis, there remains a subset of septic patients who exhibit negative SIRS scores, and unfortunately, many of these patients experience poor outcomes. This study aims to investigate the factors associated with SIRS negativity during the early stage of sepsis in deceased septic patients.
Methods
Adult septic patients were included from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database between 2008 and 2019. Sepsis was determined based on the Sepsis 3.0 criteria. Patients who did not survive after 28 days were assigned to the SIRS-negative or SIRS-positive group according to whether the SIRS score was less than two points within 24 hours of intensive care unit (ICU) admission. The baseline data of patients in the SIRS-negative and SIRS-positive groups were collected and compared. The factors associated with SIRS negativity in septic patients were analysed by logistic regression. The dose-response relationships of SIRS negativity with SOFA score and age were determined with a restricted cubic spline model.
Results
A total of 53,150 patients were screened in the MIMIC-IV database, and 2706 sepsis nonsurvivors were ultimately included, 101 of whom were negative for SIRS. There were significant differences in SOFA scores between groups (8.18 ± 3.58 vs. 9.75 ± 4.28, P < 0.001). In addition, differences in several other parameters nearly reached statistical significance, including age (76 [61 to 86] vs. 72 [60 to 82], P = 0.053), body mass index (BMI) (26 [22 to 31] vs. 27 [24 to 32], P = 0.056), and the Charlson comorbidity index (8 [6 to 9] vs. 7 [5 to 9], P = 0.052). Logistic regression analysis indicated that both SOFA score (OR = 0.93 [95% CI = 0.87-1.00], P = 0.046) and age (OR = 1.04 [95% CI = 0.88–1.15], P = 0.012) were independent factors related to SIRS negativity in septic patients. Analysis with a restricted cubic spline model showed that the odds ratio (OR) of SIRS negativity continued to increase with age, particularly for those over 80 years old (p for nonlinearity = 0.024). The odds ratio of SIRS negativity was more than 1 when the SOFA score was less than 4 (p for nonlinearity = 0.261).
Conclusions
For sepsis patients with poor prognoses, elderly individuals (over 80 years) are more likely to be SIRS negative when they have mild organ dysfunction damage (less than 4 SOFA scores) in the early stage of sepsis. This warranted an opportunity to provide early diagnosis for elderly population with negative SIRS score, in order to prevent poor outcomes.
The value of Lymphocyte-to-C-Reactive Protein Ratio for predicting clinical outcomes in patients with sepsis in intensive care unit: a retrospective single-center study
Authors: song chao , hu zhenkui , zhang jinhui
Published: June 2024

Background
The lymphocyte-to-C-reactive protein ratio (LCR) was a novel biomarker of inflammation that had been implicated in various diseases. Nevertheless, the role of LCR in the context of sepsis patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) had not been thoroughly elucidated. This study aimed to determine the significance of the LCR in predicting the prognosis of sepsis patients within ICU.
Methods
A sample of sepsis patients requiring ICU care was selected from the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University. These patients were then segmented into four quartiles based on their LCR levels. The primary endpoint of the study was 30-day mortality and the secondary endpoint was the occurrence of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). Survival analysis, via the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test, was conducted to assess survival rates. Cox proportional hazards regression and logistic regression models were employed to investigate the association between LCR and clinical outcomes. Additional subgroup analyses were conducted to evaluate the influence of other confounding factors on the relationship between LCR and patient outcomes.
Results
A total of 1123 patients were enrolled in this study, with a median age of 75 (65–84) years, and 707 (63.0%) of them were male. The 30-day mortality rate was 28.1%, while the incidence of AKI was 45.6%. A progressive decrease in LCR levels was found to be associated with an increased cumulative incidence of 30-day mortality (log-rank P < 0.001). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards analyses demonstrated that LCR was an independent predictor of 30-day mortality [per 1-unit increase in LCR: HR (95%CI): 0.370 (0.142–0.963); P = 0.042]. Additionally, multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association between LCR and AKI occurrence [per 1-unit increase in LCR: OR (95%CI): 0.541 (0.307–0.953); P = 0.034]. Furthermore, subgroup analysis indicated a stronger correlation for patients aged over 65 years compared to those aged 65 or younger (p for interaction < 0.05) in predicting 30-day mortality or AKI occurrence based on LCR.
Conclusions
A reduction in LCR was notably linked to 30-day mortality and the occurrence of AKI in sepsis patients. These findings suggested that LCR could potentially serve as a valuable tool in identifying sepsis patients at a heightened risk of adverse outcomes.
Soil infiltration rates in mediterranean mountain areas: relationship with soil properties and different land-use
Authors: Mongil-Manso Jorge , Jiménez-Ballesta Raimundo , Navarro-Hevia Joaquín , Martín Roberto San
Published: June 2024

We determined the soil properties and infiltration rates in 11 plots, including four soil types (Leptosol, Cambisol, Umbrisol and Regosol, according to the FAO criteria), under three different land uses (pine forest, oak forest and scrubland). The study was conducted in a Spanish Central System mountain under a Mediterranean climate. We tried to quantify the effect of land use (native and reforested forest and scrubland) and soil properties on the steady-state soil infiltration rate because of the limited evidence about soil infiltration in Mediterranean mountains with sandy and acid soils developed on granite rocks. We employed a simple-ring methacrylate infiltrometer method to determine soil infiltration rates. We used correlation and principal component analysis to examine the relationships between soil properties, land uses, and water infiltration. Additionally, a one-way ANOVA model was applied to identify differences between vegetation types. Soil infiltration rates in the pine forest (891.9 mm·h− 1) and the oak forest (509.0 mm·h− 1) were better than those in the scrubland (178.4 mm·h− 1). Our results are in agreement with the common results in the scientific literature. Factors such as sand content (R = 0.71, p-value = 0.02) or electrical conductivity (salt content indicator; R = 0.81, p-value = 0.00) were positively related to soil infiltration, while clay was negatively related (R = -0.69, p-value = 0.02). Forest cover improves soil infiltration. This effect is strongly related to hydrological ecosystem services, which may be of interest for decision-making in natural environment management, especially for soil and water conservation.
Optimal Production Scheduling and Roller Change by Joint Multi-Attribute Constrained Decision Making in Hot Tandem Rolling Production Process
Authors: Hu Shangju , Zhang Xiaohong , Zeng Jianchao , Gan Jie , Shi Guannan , Qiu Huadong
Published: June 2024

During the hot tandem rolling production process, the urgency of rolling tasks requires the manufacturing workflow to respond efficiently to market requirements. Product quality decisively influences a company's competitiveness and customer satisfaction. This study examined production scheduling optimisation and roller-changing decisions in hot rolling systems, considering different production tasks with different quality grades and delivery deadlines under multiple attribute constraints. First, a stochastic wear degradation and reliability prediction model for the roller was developed based on the different material attributes of the rolled pieces and the diversity of the production processes, all of which have varying effects on the roller wear. Second, a combined decision model for production scheduling and roller changes was developed under the dual constraints of quality grade and delivery deadlines, from which the optimal scheduling sequence for the rolled pieces and the reliability threshold for roller changes were determined with the aim of maximizing production profitability. A hybrid optimisation algorithm combining the genetic algorithm with tabu search was employed to enhance search efficiency. Numerical experiments with data sourced from 1,009 rolled pieces produced in an actual steel factory were conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed model and method. The results showed that the proposed strategies and models could increase profits by 2.62% under the same conditions and reduce the number of roller changes, ensuring that the reliability of the system before roller changing was no less than 0.97, while still meeting the required quality grades.
Self and Other-Perceived Deception Detection Abilities are Highly Correlated but Unassociated with Objective Detection Ability: Examining the Detection Consensus Effect
Authors: Markowitz David M.
Published: June 2024

Subjective lying rates are often strongly and positively correlated. Called the deception consensus effect, people who lie often tend to believe others lie often, too. The present paper evaluated how this cognitive bias also extends to deception detection. Two studies (Study 1: N = 180 students; Study 2: N = 250 people from the general public) had participants make 10 veracity judgments based on videotaped interviews, and also indicate subjective detection abilities (self and other). Subjective, perceived detection abilities were significantly linked, supporting a detection consensus effect, yet they were unassociated with objective detection accuracy. More overconfident detectors — those whose subjective detection accuracy was greater than their objective detection accuracy — reported telling more white and big lies, cheated more on a behavioral task, and were more ideologically conservative than less overconfident detectors. This evidence supports and extends truth-default theory, highlighting possible (a)symmetries in subjective and objective veracity assessments.
Donor and recipient hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells mobilization in liver transplantation patients
Authors: Zhi Yao , Qiu Wei , Tian Guangyao , Song Shifei , Zhao Wenchao , Du Xiaodong , Sun Xiaodong , Chen Yuguo , Huang Heyu , Li Jing , Yu Ying , li Mingqian , Lv Guoyue
Published: June 2024

Background
Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) mobilize from bone marrow to peripheral blood in response to stress. The impact of alloresponse-induced stress on HSPCs mobilization in human liver transplantation (LTx) recipients remains under-investigated.
Methods
Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples were longitudinally collected from pre- to post-LTx for one year from 36 recipients with acute rejection (AR), 74 recipients without rejection (NR), and 5 recipients with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). 28 PBMC samples from age-matched healthy donors were collected as healthy control (HC). Multi-color flow cytometry (MCFC) was used to immunophenotype HSPCs and their subpopulations. Donor recipient-distinguishable major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antibodies determined cell origin.
Results
Before LTx, patients who developed AR after transplant contained more HSPCs in PBMC samples than HC, while the NR group patients contained fewer HSPCs than HC. After LTx, the HSPC ratio in the AR group sharply decreased and became less than HC within six months, and dropped to a comparable NR level afterward. During the one-year follow-up period, myeloid progenitors (MPs) biased differentiation was observed in all LTx recipients who were under IS treatment. During both AR and GVHD episodes, the recipient-derived and donor-derived HSPCs mobilized into the recipient's blood, respectively. The HSPCs percentage reduced after the disease was cured.
Conclusions
A preoperative high HSPC ratio in blood characterizes recipients who developed AR after LTx. Recipients exhibited a decline in blood-circulating HSPCs after transplant, the cells mobilized into the blood during alloresponse.
Evaluating Existing Approaches to Text Reuse Through an Analysis of Matteo Ricci’s Reliance on Classical Chinese Texts
Authors: McManus Stuart Michael , Li Yuji , Tam Leo , Qiu Shuyang , Liu Songyu , Ng Daniel , Wong Warner , Yu Letian
Published: June 2024

This article analyses the debt to classical Sinographic literature, history and philosophy in the works of the famous Jesuit missionary to the Wanli Emperor, Matteo Ricci (1552-1610). To do so, we trial three recently developed models for analyzing historical text reuse and choose the model best suited to our task. After identifying relevant examples of text reuse in Ricci’s eight surviving works (two of which show particularly high patterns of reuse), we then explore the possible historical factors behind these patterns and subject the citation frequencies of particular classical works, historical periods and genres to analysis using linear and nonlinear regression models. In the end, we conclude that Ricci’s oeuvre borrows heavily from works generally categorized as “Confucian” from the Warring States period, as well as poetic texts of various sorts. This reflects the existing consensus in the historiography, while adding important granular detail.
Immunohistochemical characterization of interstitial cells and their relationship to motor neurons within the mouse esophagus
Authors: Bhraonain Emer Ni , Turner Jack , Hannigan Karen , Sanders Kenton , Cobine Caroline
Published: June 2024

Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) and PDGFRα+ cells regulate smooth muscle motility in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. However, their role(s) in esophageal motility are still unclear. The mouse esophagus has traditionally been described as almost entirely skeletal muscle in nature though ICC have been identified along its entire length. The current study evaluated the distribution of skeletal and smooth muscle within the esophagus using a mouse selectively expressing eGFP in smooth muscle cells (SMCs). The relationship of SMCs to ICC and PDGFRα+ cells was also examined. SMCs declined in density in the oral direction however SMCs represented ~ 25% of the area in the distal esophagus suggesting a likeness to the transition zone observed in humans. ANO1+ intramuscular ICC (ICC-IM) were distributed along the length of the esophagus though like SMCs, declined proximally. ICC-IM were closely associated with SMCs but were also found in regions devoid of SMCs. Intramuscular and submucosal PDGFRα+ cells were densely distributed throughout the esophagus though only intramuscular PDGFRα+ cells within the LES and distal esophagus highly expressed SK3. ICC-IM and PDGFRα+ cells were closely associated with nNOS+, VIP+, VAChT+ and TH+ neurons throughout the LES and distal esophagus. GFAP+ cells resembling intramuscular enteric glia were observed within the muscle and were closely associated with ICC-IM and PDGFRα+ cells, occupying a similar location to motor nerve fibers. These data suggest that the mouse esophagus is more similar to the human than thought previously and thus set the foundation for future functional and molecular studies using transgenic mice.
Reflectance Test Method of X-ray Optics on the 100-m X-ray Test Facility
Authors: Zhu Yuxuan , Zhao Zijian , Hou Dongjie , Yang Yanji , Yang Xiongtao , Zhang Yifan , Wu Kaiji , Ding Fei , Xie Dong , Xu Yupeng , Wang Bo , Wang Langping , Wang Yusa
Published: June 2024

Reflectance is a key topic in soft X-ray optics research and serves as the foundation for the study of X-ray astronomical satellites and payload performance. Since its establishment, the 100-m X-ray Test Facility (100XF) has been continuously developing various testing functionalities, including calibration of timing, imaging, and energy response. This paper provides a detailed description of the X-ray optics reflectance test method based on the 100XF, which is applicable to various grazing incident X-ray optics, including Wolter-I and lobster-eye types, significantly expanding the application scope of the 100XF. A flat mirror sample (SiO2 coated on Si wafer) are tested. Results of the variation of reflectivity with angle @ C-Kα (0.28 keV), Al-Kα(1.49 keV) and Ti-Kα(4.50 keV) are presented among the description. Additionally, reflectance test method has been applied to the coating reflectivity study of the enhanced X-ray Timing and Polarimetry Mission (eXTP) mirror. At the same time, a new method utilizing continuum spectrum of bremsstrahlung was carried out for studying the continuous variation of reflectivity with energy, greatly improving efficiency compared to traditional methods, and all the results show a good agreement with the theoretical values. The deviation between the test values and theoretical values in the low-energy range (1.5-8.0 keV) is less than 10%.
The Causal Relationship between Cathepsins and Breast Cancer: A Univariable and Multivariable Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Xu Zheyu , Mao Chenkai , Zhao Zheng , Zhang Xinyu , Zhou YC
Published: June 2024

Background
Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent cancer among women, with significant incidence, mortality, and economic impact observed worldwide. Exploring potential candidates in the tumor microenvironment can be a breakthrough in cancer prevention. Observational studies have suggested a reciprocal influence between BC and cathepsins. However, potential confounding factors may influence the results of these studies. While overcoming these confounding factors, Mendelian randomization (MR) studies can assess causal relationships.
Objective
This study assessed the causal relationship between BC and cathepsins B, E, F, G, H, O, S, V, and X by using two-sample MR, thereby offering new preventive strategies for BC. Additionally, a multi-sample MR validation was conducted to determine whether indirect causal relationships are present.
Methods
Instrumental variables for genome-wide significant levels were obtained from published summary statistics. The inverse variance weighting method and other MR approaches were used to assess bidirectional causal relationships between BC and cathepsins, followed by the use of multi-sample MR.
Results
Positive MR indicated that cathepsins E and F have a direct causal impact on BC [cathepsin E-related analysis: odds ratio (OR) = 1.064, 95% confidence interval (CI) = (1.009, 1.112), p = 0.021; cathepsin F-related analysis: OR (95% CI) = 1.066 (1.003, 1.133), p = 0.038]. No evidence suggested a reverse causal relationship between BC and the nine cathepsins. Multi-sample MR (multivariable Mendelian randomization) results for the nine cathepsins show no causal relationship.
Conclusion
Cathepsins may have a causal effect on BC. Our findings indicate that patients with higher concentrations of cathepsin E and F are more susceptible to BC. The findings also provide new insights into the potential pathogenic mechanisms of BC and BC preventive strategies involving cathepsins.
A Graph Neural Network Approach for Hierarchical Mapping of Breast Cancer Protein Communities
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Liu Qian
Published: June 2024

Background
Comprehensively mapping the hierarchical structure of breast cancer protein communities and identifying potential biomarkers from them is a promising way for breast cancer research. Existing approaches are subjective and fail to take information from protein sequences into consideration. Deep learning can automatically learn features from protein sequences and protein-protein interactions for hierarchical clustering.
Results
Using a large amount of publicly available proteomics data, we created a hierarchical tree for breast cancer protein communities using a novel hierarchical graph neural network, with the supervision of gene ontology terms and assistance of a pre-trained deep contextual language model. Then, a group-lasso algorithm was applied to identify protein communities that are under both mutation burden and survival burden, undergo significant alterations when targeted by specific drug molecules, and show cancer-dependent perturbations. The resulting hierarchical map of protein communities shows how gene-level mutations and survival information converge on protein communities at different scales. Internal validity of the model was established through the convergence on BRCA2 as a breast cancer hotspot. Further overlaps with breast cancer cell dependencies revealed SUPT6H and RAD21, along with their respective protein systems, HOST:37 and HOST:861, as potential biomarkers. Using gene-level perturbation data of the HOST:37 and HOST:861 gene sets, three FDA-approved drugs with high therapeutic value were selected as potential treatments to be further evaluated. These drugs include mercaptopurine, pioglitazone, and colchicine.
Conclusion
The proposed graph neural network approach to analyzing breast cancer protein communities in a hierarchical structure provides a novel perspective on breast cancer prognosis and treatment. By targeting entire gene sets, we were able to evaluate the prognostic and therapeutic value of genes (or gene sets) at different levels, from gene-level to system-level biology. Cancer-specific gene dependencies provide additional context for pinpointing cancer-related systems and drug-induced alterations can highlight potential therapeutic targets. These identified protein communities, in conjunction with other protein communities under strong mutation and survival burdens, can potentially be used as clinical biomarkers for breast cancer.
Understanding predictions of drug effectiveness using explainable Machine Learning models
Authors: König Caroline , Vellido Alfredo
Published: June 2024

Purpose: The analysis of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) molecular properties is of relevance to drug design, as they directly inﬂuence the drug’s eﬀectiveness at its target location. This study concerns their prediction, using explainable Machine Learning (ML) models. The aim of the study is to ﬁnd which molecular features are relevant to the prediction of the diﬀerent ADME properties and measure their impact on the predictive model.
Methods: The relative relevance of individual features for ADME activity is gauged by estimating feature importance in ML models’ predictions. Feature importance is calculated using feature permutation and the individual impact of features is measured by SHAP additive explanations.
Results: The study reveals the relevance of speciﬁc molecular descriptors for each ADME property and quantiﬁes their impact on the ADME property prediction.
Conclusion: The reported research illustrates how explainable ML models can provide detailed insights about the individual contributions of molecular features to the ﬁnal prediction of an ADME property, as an eﬀort to support experts in the process of drug candidate selection through a better understanding of the impact of molecular features.
Simultaneous removal of Eriochrome Black T and chromate anions from aqueous solution using functionalized magnetic polymers
Authors: Alghamdi Huda M. , Mohammad Rihab M. , Elwakeel Khalid Z.
Published: June 2024

Textile wastewater containing heavy metal ions has become a severe environmental problem worldwide. The combined uptake of heavy metals and dyes from wastewater discharged by different sectors is a challenging concept. This study explores the use of hybrid adsorbent based on magnetic chitosan (MC) and magnetic glycidyl methacrylate (Mp(GMA)) in adsorption technology, for simultaneous removal of Eriochrome Black T (EBT) dye and chromate anions from their binary aqueous solution. The adsorbent material was functionalized by loading diethylenetriamine (DETA) or dithizone to improve their adsorption capacity (R-DETA or R-Dithizone). The physicochemical characteristics of the materials have been characterized by a wide variety of analytical techniques. Pseudo-second order and Langmuir adsorption isotherms were the best-fit models in the binary adsorption system. The co-presence of these anions in the binary solution increases the adsorption capacity of chromate and diminishes the EBT adsorption capacity of the investigated adsorbents (R-DETA and R-Dithizone). These anions in the binary solution reduce the adsorption capacity of both dye and chromate anions. The adsorption capacity at monolayer saturation capacities (Langmuir) of R-DETA in binary system were 0.782 and 4.11 mmol g− 1 towards EBT and chromate anions respectively, while R-Dithizone adsorbent recorded lower monolayer sorption capacity for EBT (0.490 mmol g− 1 ) and higher sorption capacity for chromate 5.93 mmol Cr(VI) g− 1 in the binary solution. The effects of competitive anions Cl−, NO3−, SO42−, and MnO4− on the adsorption of EBT and chromate anions in their binary mixture were examined. The good sorption ability of EBT and Cr(VI) anions against ionic interference supported their use in wastewater treatment applications. NaOH (0.5 M) proved the most effective for desorption from their binary mixture.