bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feedback loop LINC00511–YTHDF2–SOX2 regulatory network drives cholangiocarcinoma progression and stemness
Authors: Guan Canghai , Zou Xinlei , Gao Xin , Liu Sidi , Gao Jianjun , Shi Wujiang , Dong Qingfu , Jiang Xingming , Zhong Xiangyu
Published: October 2024

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) was identified as a malignant tumor with rising incidence and mortality rates, and the roles of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in CCA remained not entirely clear. In this study, LINC00511 had high expression in CCA, which was closely related to poor prognosis. Knockdown of LINC00511 significantly inhibited cell malignant biological behaviors. It also affected the stemness of CCA, evidenced by decreased SOX2 protein expression. Moreover, the study revealed the interaction of LINC00511, YTHDF2, and SOX2 in CCA. Specifically, LINC00511 facilitated the formation of a complex with YTHDF2 on SOX2 mRNA, which uniquely enhances the mRNA's stability through m6A methylation sites. This stabilization appears crucial for maintaining malignant behaviors in CCA cells. Additionally, LINC00511 modulated SOX2 expression via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Meanwhile, SOX2 can also promote LINC00511 expression as an upstream transcription factor, thereby confirming a positive feedback loop formed by LINC00511, YTHDF2, and SOX2, which plays a significant role in the occurrence and development of CCA. Finally, the study successfully constructed two patient‐derived xenograft models, revealing the vital role of LINC00511 in CCA development. In summary, this research provides a comprehensive understanding of the role of LINC00511 in the pathogenesis of CCA.
RNA modification in normal hematopoiesis and hematologic malignancies
Authors: Chen Xi , Yuan Yixiao , Zhou Fan , Li Lihua , Pu Jun , Jiang Xiulin
Published: October 2024

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant RNA modification in eukaryotic cells. Previous studies have shown that m6A plays a critical role under both normal physiological and pathological conditions. Hematopoiesis and differentiation are highly regulated processes, and recent studies on m6A mRNA methylation have revealed how this modification controls cell fate in both normal and malignant hematopoietic states. However, despite these insights, a comprehensive understanding of its complex roles between normal hematopoietic development and malignant hematopoietic diseases remains elusive. This review first provides an overview of the components and biological functions of m6A modification regulators. Additionally, it highlights the origin, differentiation process, biological characteristics, and regulatory mechanisms of hematopoietic stem cells, as well as the features, immune properties, and self‐renewal pathways of leukemia stem cells. Last, the article systematically reviews the latest research advancements on the roles and mechanisms of m6A regulatory factors in normal hematopoiesis and related malignant diseases. More importantly, this review explores how targeting m6A regulators and various signaling pathways could effectively intervene in the development of leukemia, providing new insights and potential therapeutic targets. Targeting m6A modification may hold promise for achieving more precise and effective leukemia treatments.
Tall tower observations of a northward surging gust front in central Amazon and its role in the mesoscale transport of carbon dioxide
Authors: Reis Luciane I. , Oliveira Maurício I. , Dias‐Júnior Cléo Q. , van Asperen Hella , Mortarini Luca , Acevedo Otávio C. , Pöhlker Christopher , Kremper Leslie A. , Takeshi Bruno , Quesada Carlos A. , Brondani Daiane V.
Published: October 2024

High‐frequency measurements obtained at two micrometeorological towers are investigated for a rare northward surging gust front that impacted the Amazon Tall Tower Observatory (ATTO), in central Amazon. The gust front originated from a decaying mesoscale convective system (MCS) during the morning hours of 27 December 2021 near Manaus, Amazonas state, northern Brazil, and surged north‐eastward towards the ATTO site. Large temperature drops and vigorous, persistent winds were observed at the towers which lasted for over 4 h despite the gust front being detached from its parent, decaying MCS. More importantly, the gust front was responsible for drastic increases of CO2 concentrations throughout the tower depths, which suggests that the gust front winds horizontally advected CO2‐rich air from a source upstream from the ATTO site. The CO2‐rich outflow is hypothesized to originate from downward transport and/or biomass burning from forest fires in southeastern Amazon, both ideas that are supported by large increases of aerosol concentrations measured at ATTO following the gust front passage. Our results stress the need for further investigations addressing the role played by mesoscale convective circulations in the redistribution of trace gases and aerosols in the Amazon.
Malnutrition in patients with obesity: An overview perspective
Authors: Cristancho Cagney , Mogensen Kris M. , Robinson Malcolm K.
Published: October 2024

Malnutrition in patients with obesity presents a complex and often overlooked clinical challenge. Although obesity is traditionally associated with overnutrition and excessive caloric intake, it can also coincide with varying degrees of malnutrition. The etiopathogenesis of obesity is multifaceted and may arise from several factors such as poor diet quality, nutrient deficiencies despite excess calorie consumption, genetics, and metabolic abnormalities affecting nutrient absorption and utilization. Moreover, a chronic low‐grade inflammatory state resulting from excess adipose tissue, commonly observed in obesity, can further exacerbate malnutrition by altering nutrient metabolism and increasing metabolic demands. The dual burden of obesity and malnutrition poses significant risks, including immune dysfunction, delayed wound healing, anemia, metabolic disturbances, and deficiencies in micronutrients such as vitamin D, iron, magnesium, and zinc, among others. Malnutrition is often neglected or not given enough attention in individuals with obesity undergoing rapid weight loss through aggressive caloric restriction, pharmacological therapies, and/or surgical interventions. These factors often exacerbate vulnerability to nutrition deficiencies. We advocate for healthcare practitioners to prioritize nutrition assessment and initiate medical intervention strategies tailored to address both excessive caloric intake and insufficient consumption of essential nutrients. Raising awareness among healthcare professionals and the general population about the critical role of adequate nutrition in caring for patients with obesity is vital for mitigating the adverse health effects associated with malnutrition in this population.
Optimization of Electrodialysis for Ammonium Removal From NH4Cl‐Doped Groundwater Samples Using the Response Surface Method
Authors: Hazra Mohamed , Addar Fatima Zahra , Tahaikt Mustapha , Elmidaoui Azzedine , Taky Mohamed , Belhamidi Sakina
Published: October 2024

This study aims to optimize ammonium removal from NH4Cl‐enriched groundwater at different concentrations using an electrodialysis (ED) process. A customized design (CD) based on response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to develop predictive models and improve the performance of the demineralization system. Ion removal efficiency was evaluated in 32 unique experimental configurations, taking into account variations in three input parameters: voltage (A), initial ammonium concentration (B) and demineralization rate (C). These parameters were selected for their impact on two response variables: electric conductivity (Y1) and final ammonium concentration (Y2). An in‐depth analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to examine the variables and their interactions. The results indicated that Y1 was significantly influenced by C, while Y2 was influenced by B. In addition, the predictive models demonstrated strong correlations, with a coefficient of determination (R2) greater than 0.88 for both response variables. The RSM approach applied to optimize the parameters studied identified the following optimum values: 14.17 V for A, 1 mg/L for B and 70 % for C, giving Y1 of 215.377 μS/cm and Y2 of 0.279 mg/L.
The hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor HCA2 is required for the protective effect of ketogenic diet in epilepsy
Authors: Richardson Jill C. , Higgins Guy A. , Upton Neil , Massey Peter , Cunningham Mark , Wilson Steve , Holenz Joerg , Taylor Colleen , Lavrov Arseniy , Lin Hong , Matsuoka Yasuji , Brown Andrew J.
Published: October 2024

One third of epilepsy patients are resistant to treatment with current anti‐seizure medications. The ketogenic diet is used to treat some forms of refractory epilepsy, but the mechanism of its action has not yet been elucidated. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether the hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 2 (HCA2), a known immunomodulatory receptor, plays a role in mediating the protective effect of this diet. We demonstrate for the first time that selective agonists at this receptor can directly reduce seizures in animal models. Agonists also reduce network activity in rodent and human brain slices. Ketogenic diet is known to increase circulating levels of endogenous HCA2 agonists, and we show that the effect of ketogenic diet in reducing seizures in the 6 Hz seizure model is negated in HCA2‐deficient mice. Our data support the potential of HCA2 as a target for the treatment of epilepsy and potentially for neurodegenerative diseases.
Discrete‐Time Optimal Control of State‐Constrained Nonlinear Systems Using Approximate Dynamic Programming
Authors: Song Shijie , Gong Dawei , Zhu Minglei , Zhao Yuyang
Published: October 2024

This article investigates the optimal control problem (OCP) for a class of discrete‐time nonlinear systems with state constraints. First, to overcome the challenge caused by the constraints, the original constrained OCP is transformed into an unconstrained OCP by utilizing the system transformation technique. Second, a new cost function is designed to alleviate the effect of system transformation on the optimality of the original system. Further, a novel off‐policy deterministic approximate dynamic programming (ADP) scheme is developed to obtain a near‐optimal solution for the transformed OCP. Compared to existing off‐policy deterministic ADP schemes, the developed scheme relaxes the requirement on the learning data and saves computing resources from the perspective of training neural networks. Third, considering approximation errors, we analyze the convergence and stability of the developed ADP scheme. Finally, the developed ADP with the designed cost function is tested in two numerical cases, and simulation results confirm its effectiveness.
Step‐Directed Epitaxy of Unidirectional Hexagonal Boron Nitride on Vicinal Ge(110)
Authors: Jung Ju‐Hyun , Zhao Chao , Yang Seong‐Jun , Park Jun‐Ho , Lee Woo‐Ju , Song Su‐Beom , Kim Jonghwan , Hwang Chan‐Cuk , Baek Seung‐Hwa , Ding Feng , Kim Cheol‐Joo
Published: October 2024

Insulating hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) films with precisely controlled thickness are ideal dielectric components to modulate various interfaces in electronic devices. To achieve this, high‐quality hBN with controlled atomic configurations must be able to form pristine interfaces with various materials in devices. However, previously reported large‐scale hBN films with uniform thickness either are polycrystalline or are not suitable for atomically clean assembly via mechanical exfoliation, limiting their applications in device technology. Herein, the large‐scale growth of monolayer (ML) single crystalline hBN films on Ge(110) substrates by using chemical vapor deposition is reported. Vicinal Ge(110) substrates are used for the step‐directed epitaxial growth of hBN, where Ge atomic steps act as the hBN nucleation sites, guiding the unidirectional alignments of multiple hBN domains. Density functional theory calculations reveal that the optimum hydrogen passivations on both hBN edges and Ge surfaces enable the epitaxial coupling between hBN and the Ge step edges and the single crystallinity of the final hBN films. Using epitaxially grown ML hBN films, a few hBN films with controlled stacking orders and pristine interfaces through a layer‐by‐layer assembly process are fabricated. These films function as high‐quality dielectrics to enhance carrier transport in graphene and MoS2 channels.
3D Coaxial Printing of Small‐Diameter Artificial Arteries
Authors: Zhu Yuxiang , Liu Siying , Mei Xuan , Lin Zeng , Pulido Tiffany V. , Hou Jixin , Remani Srikar Anudeep , Patil Dhanush , Sobczak Martin Taylor , Ramanathan Arunachalam , Thummalapalli Sri Vaishnavi , Chambers Lindsay B. , Yu Churan , Guo Shenghan , Zhao Yiping , Liu Yang , Wang Xianqiao , Lancaster Jessica N. , Zhang Yu Shrike , Chen Xiangfan , Song Kenan
Published: October 2024

As a treatment for the widely spread cardiovascular diseases (CVD), bypass vascular grafts have room for improvement in terms of mechanical property match with native arteries. A 3D‐printed nozzle is presented, featuring unique internal structures, to extrude artificial vascular grafts with a flower‐mimicking geometry. The multilayer‐structured graft wall allows the inner and outer layers to interfere sequentially during lateral expansion, replicating the nonlinear elasticity of native vessels. Both experiment and simulation results verify the necessity and benefit of the flower‐mimicking structure in obtaining the self‐toughening behavior. The gelation study of natural polymers and the utilization of sacrificial phase enables the smooth extrusion of the multiphase conduit, where computer‐assisted image analysis is employed to quantify manufacturing fidelity. The cell viability tests demonstrate the cytocompatibility of the gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)/sodium alginate grafts, suggesting potential for further clinical research with further developments. This study presents a feasible approach for fabricating bypass vascular grafts and inspires future treatments for CVD.
Charge Carrier Dynamics of SnO2 Electron‐Transporting Layers in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Adenle Abraham , Suragtkhuu Selengesuren , Purevdorj Solongo , Zhong Yu Lin , Batmunkh Munkhbayar
Published: October 2024

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have demonstrated remarkable increase in their photovoltaic efficiencies over the past several years. Charge carrier properties including charge selectivity, extraction, and transport play key roles in device performances. Therefore, a comprehensive insight into the charge carrier dynamics and mobility within the bulk materials and at the interface is of great importance for the future development of this cutting‐edge technology. This review discusses the recent advances that have been made in SnO2 electron‐transporting layers and their limitations, followed by outlining the key development of novel strategies in improving SnO2 films through surface defect engineering, interface modification, and doping approaches. In addition, the recent developments are highlighted for identifying the origin of defect and trap center, and promoting SnO2 electron extraction and transporting capacity in PSCs. Importantly, the novel approaches are also discussed for studying photogenerated charge carrier dynamics of the devices. In conclusion, the own prospectives and outlooks are presented for the development of SnO2‐based PSCs, with a particular focus on addressing current difficulties in SnO2 and providing in‐depth understanding on the relationships between materials and devices.
Multifunctional Carbon Dots Derived from Human Hair for Fast Healing Wounds Together with Oleogels
Authors: Shi Xiaofeng , Ma Qianli , Jia Xinlin , Wu Zhaofan , Yu Chaohong , Gao Tian , Xu Wei , Sun Zhaonan , Zhang Jingwei , Xiong Huanming , Mao Yuanqing
Published: October 2024

In the complex process of wound healing, oleogels (OG) are suitable as the primary component of dressing materials, but they cannot meet the diverse requirements at different healing stages. In this study, a new kind of carbon dots (CrCi‐CDs) prepared by carbonizing human hair, exhibits excellent hemostatic, antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, and pro‐angiogenic properties and thus supports the various stages of wound healing effectively. Such CrCi‐CDs are incorporated into OG to produce a CrCi‐CD/OG composite material with enhanced multifunctional capabilities, significantly outperforming OG alone. Various experiments in vitro and in vivo confirm that the CrCi‐CDs/OG can rapidly achieve hemostasis at the initial stage of wound formation, subsequently inhibit bacterial proliferation and biofilm formation, improve the complex microenvironment surrounding the wound, and promote neovascularization, ultimately accelerating the wound repair.
Investigation of Viral, Bacterial and Parasitic Zoonotic Diseases in Rodents in Turkey
Authors: Timurkan Mehmet Ozkan , Guven Esin , Cengiz Seyda , Aydın Hakan , Kirman Ridvan , Avcioglu Hamza
Published: October 2024

Background

Rodents are reservoir hosts for zoonotic pathogens that cause tropical diseases, many of which have been overlooked.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of viral lymphocytic choriomeningitis and hantavirus infections, bacterial tularaemia and leptospirosis, and parasitic leishmaniasis and toxoplasmosis in rodents that are likely to carry and spread zoonotic agents, by using molecular methods.

Methods

A total of 498 voles collected from 20 counties of Erzurum province. Conventional PCR was used for pathogen search. PCR‐positive samples were subjected to sequence analysis.

Results

Hantavirus (4.8%, 24/498) and tularaemia (0.8%, 4/498) positivity were detected. However, no positivity was detected for other selected pathogens.

Conclusions

Rodents, which are pathogen carriers and potential risk factors, are thought to may act as reservoirs for hantavirus and tularaemia in the study area. A preliminary study has been carried out at the point of detection of these diseases of global importance. The extent of the distribution of the infections, alternative hosts and the consequences of human exposure needs to be clarified through further studies.
Suppressing Coda Events with a Bayesian Model of Global Scale Seismology
Authors: Arora Nimar S. , Ali Sherif Mohamed , Shashkin Aleksandr , Tamarit Vera Miljanovic , Khukhuudei Urtnasan
Published: October 2024

Large seismic events often trigger a wave train of slow decaying energy known as the coda that can mislead signal detectors into forming coda detections that appear to look like regular phase detections. These coda detections can confuse event formation algorithms into building false events known as coda events. Naive solutions to this problem by dropping any detection that looks like a coda detection can have the negative consequence of missing real events. We propose to address this issue by extending an existing Bayesian approach, NET-VISA that has been designed to build event bulletins using a generative model of global-scale seismology. Our extensions significantly boost the existing work by reducing the total number of false events by nearly half and virtually eliminating coda events without changing the number of real events.
$$\partial \bar{\partial }$$-lemma and p-Kähler structures on families of solvmanifolds
Authors: Cattaneo Andrea , Tomassini Adriano
Published: October 2024

We provide families of compact$$(n + 1)$$(n+1)-dimensional complex non Kähler manifolds satisfying the$$\partial \bar{\partial }$$∂∂¯-Lemma, with holomorphically trivial canonical bundle, carrying a balanced metric and with nop-Kähler structures. Such a construction extends to the completely solvable case in any dimension Nakamura’s construction of low-dimensional holomorphically parallelizable solvmanifolds.
The Primitive Comparison Theorem in characteristic p
Authors: Heuer Ben
Published: October 2024

We prove an analogue of Scholze’s Primitive Comparison Theorem for proper rigid spaces over an algebraically closed non-archimedean field K of characteristic p. This implies a v-topological version of the Primitive Comparison Theorem for proper finite type morphisms $$f{:}\,X\rightarrow Y$$

f
:

X
→
Y

of analytic adic spaces over $$\mathbb {Z}_p$$

Z
p

. We deduce new cases of the Proper Base Change Theorem for p-torsion coefficients and the Künneth formula in this setting.
Lessons learned: strategies for implementing and the ongoing use of LI-RADS in your practice
Authors: Ismail Mohammed , Lalani Tasneem , Kielar Ania , Hong Cheng , Yacoub Joseph , Lim Christopher , Surabhi Venkateswar , Shanbhogue Krishna , Nandwana Sadhna , Liu Xiaoyang , Santillan Cynthia , Bashir Mustafa R. , Lee James
Published: October 2024

The establishment of the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) in 2011 provided a comprehensive approach to standardized imaging, interpretation, and reporting of liver observations in patients diagnosed with or at risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Each set of algorithms provides criteria pertinent to the various components of HCC management including surveillance, diagnosis, staging, and treatment response supported by a detailed lexicon of terms applicable to a wide range of liver imaging scenarios. Before its widespread adoption, the variability in the terminology of diagnostic criteria and definitions of imaging features led to significant challenges in patient management and made it difficult to replicate findings or apply them consistently. The integration of LI-RADS into the clinical setting has enhanced the efficiency and clarity of communication between radiologists, referring providers, and patients by employing a uniform language that averts miscommunications. LI-RADS has been strengthened with its integration into the American Association for Study of Liver Diseases practice guidelines. We will provide the background on the initial development of LI-RADS and reasons for development to serve as a starting point for conveying the system’s benefits and evolution over the years. We will also suggest strategies for the implementation and maintenance of a LI-RADS program will be discussed.
Von der Smartphone-basierten Ersthelferalarmierung zum „lebensrettenden System“
Authors: Ganter Julian , Busch Hans-Jörg , Trummer Georg , Schmitz Daniel , Pooth Jan-Steffen , Steuber Thomas , Brucklacher Thomas , Müller Michael Patrick
Published: October 2024

Hintergrund

Smartphone-basierte Ersthelfersysteme sollen die Verkürzung des reanimationsfreien Intervalls realisieren. Technologische und konzeptuelle Charakteristika sind für bestmögliche Ergebnisqualität von grundlegender Bedeutung.

Ziel

Qualitative und quantitative Evaluation der neuen Systemversion 3.0 des Ersthelferalarmierungssystems „Region der Lebensretter“.

Material und Methoden

Für das System 3.0 wurde der Alarmierungsalgorithmus neu entwickelt: Bei Alarmierung werden die Ersthelfer gefragt, mit welchem Verkehrsmittel sie zum Einsatzort kommen. Mittels individueller Routenberechnung wird die voraussichtliche Eintreffzeit errechnet. Die beiden Ersthelfer mit der kürzesten prognostizierten Eintreffzeit werden zum Einsatzort geroutet, der dritte wird zum nächstgelegenen automatisierten externen Defibrillator (AED) geleitet und der vierte weist den Rettungsdienst ein. Im Rahmen einer Beobachtungsstudie wurden Einsätze eines 3‑monatigen Intervalls vor und nach Systemupdate (Juli 2023) für die Region Freiburg (1531 km2, 493.036 Einwohner) ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse

Die Quote akzeptierter Einsätze blieb mit durchschnittlich 63 % auf dem vorherigen Niveau. Eine signifikante Verkürzung der medianen Eintreffzeiten der Ersthelfer von 05:38 min (Q1 03:21; Q3 08:15) auf 03:59 min (Q1 02:56; Q3 05:30) konnte realisiert werden (p < 0,001).

Diskussion

Die Weiterentwicklung des Alarmierungsalgorithmus mit anschließendem Systemupdate resultierte in kürzeren Eintreffzeiten. Eine intelligente Disposition von Ersthelfern kann technisch realisiert werden. Zukünftig sind weitere Untersuchungen notwendig, um Qualitätsparameter auf Grundlage des internationalen Reporting-Standards für Ersthelfersysteme zu analysieren und die Funktionsweise dieser Systeme fortlaufend zu verbessern.

Graphic abstract
Transitioning practices of vegetable small-scale actors in Vietnam: an interplay of food safety, labor demand, and soil environment
Authors: Nguyen-Minh Quoc , Vignola Raffaele , Brouwer Inge D. , Oosterveer Peter
Published: October 2024

Food safety is a critical and persistent issue that challenges the sustainability of agri-food systems in Vietnam. The government has launched multiple food safety initiatives, but there is limited understanding of their contribution to changing the practices of small-scale producers and distributors. This study explores these changing practices by applying Social Practice Theory (SPT) to analyze the transitions in everyday routines of small-scale vegetable producers while being embedded in socio-institutional contexts of agri-food system transitions. We conducted semi-structured interviews and survey with small-scale food producers and distributors in Hanoi, Vietnam to examine the transitions in production and post-production practices over the last 20 years and the intersection between smallholding practices and cross-level dynamics. The study revealed, contrary to some common perceptions, that smallholder producers are transitioning towards food safety, with the use of more bio-pesticides and eco-friendly pest control methods. The smallholders also reproduce a variety of (sustainable) intensification practices, including crop rotation, organic fertilization, and soil cultivation, to sustain soil fertility and save labor. However, there are no clear patterns of change for post-production practices, although they have been diversifying under the impacts of urbanization. The findings highlight the interplay of food safety, labor, and soil environment in shaping the transitions of smallholder practices. We suggest that success in improving safety in production practices is feasible, but that this requires more thorough interventions in distribution and consumption practices to transform the food systems at large.
Thermodynamically Traceable Calorimetric Results for Aqueous Sodium Chloride Solutions from T = (273.15 to 373.15) K up to the Saturated Solutions: Part 2 —The Quantities Associated with the Partial Molar Heat Capacity
Authors: Partanen Lauri J. , Partanen Jaakko I.
Published: October 2024

In previous articles (Partanen and Partanen in J. Chem. Eng. Data 65: 5226 − 5239 (2020), J. Solution Chem. 52: 1352 − 1385 (2023)), we presented a traceable and transparent three-parameter model for thermodynamic activity and enthalpy quantities in aqueous NaCl solutions. The model is based on extended Hückel equations with parameters B, b
1, and b
2 and it applies from T = 273.15 to 373.15 K up to the saturated solutions. These studies demonstrate that the model explains the literature data of almost all thermodynamic quantities including apparent and partial molar enthalpies within experimental error. In the model, the ion-size parameter in the Debye–Hückel equation, B, is regarded as a constant while the parameters of the coefficients of the linear and quadratic molality terms, b
1 and b
2, respectively, possess quadratic temperature dependences. In this study, the results obtained for the heat capacity quantities of NaCl(aq) are considered. We show that the available heat capacity literature for these solutions can be predicted at least satisfactorily up to the saturated solutions with our new model. Following this success, we supplement the existing thermodynamic tables with the new values for the relative apparent and partial molar heat capacities for NaCl solutions. It is likely that the new tables contain the most reliable values determined so far even though no calorimetric data were used in the parameter estimation of our model.

Graphical Abstract
Governmentality and the Common Law: Expansion of “Mind” 1835–1885
Authors: Dent Chris
Published: October 2024

The nineteenth century saw significant changes in how the law articulated the assessment of those who came before the courts. The judges made greater, and more refined, use of the concept of the mind as a way to refer to the internal lives of the parties. Using a Foucauldian lens, judgments from the sub-disciplines of criminal, succession and contract law will be assessed. Two specific aspects will be considered—the manner in which the law disciplined the subjects themselves and the manner in which the profession operated as a form of externalised governance. This deployment of the term “mind” used by the judges conforms with the idea that the law was taking on a new role in the governance of English society while emphasising specific tensions within each area.
Data model to enable multidimensional process mining for data farming based value stream planning in production networks
Authors: Kroeger Sebastian , Rafles Alrisyadani , Jordan Patrick , Soellner Christoph , Zaeh Michael F.
Published: October 2024

International industrial companies operate complex value streams within production networks. Therefore, strategic network design aims to identify an efficient value stream from several value stream scenarios. For this purpose, Value Stream Mapping (VSM) is a well-established methodology from Lean Management. However, the complexity and variety of value streams in production networks can lead to high manual effort when using pen-and-paper-based VSM. Therefore, data-driven VSM based on process mining has to be applied. To create a comprehensive data-driven VSM, it is necessary to transparently understand the correlations between different dimensions, such as the material flow, the information flow, and the inventory, which requires a multidimensional process mining approach. Simulation experiments can generate the necessary data for each value stream scenario using a data farming based planning approach to conduct a data-driven VSM in strategic network design. However, no data model currently supports storing comprehensive datasets for multiple scenarios to enable multidimensional process mining. To overcome this shortcoming, this article presents a data model for applying multidimensional process mining that is scalable to multiple dimensions and scenarios. The data model is constructed based on the theoretical principles of data cubes and multidimensional process mining. The applicability is demonstrated by a case study of a production network from the automotive industry.
Long-term outcomes of transapical-transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Maeda Koichi , Shimamura Kazuo , Mizote Isamu , Nakamura Daisuke , Yamashita Kizuku , Kawamura Ai , Yoshioka Daisuke , Sakata Yasushi , Miyagawa Shigeru
Published: October 2024

Objective

Transapical-transcatheter aortic valve replacement is one of the main interventions indicated for patients where access via peripheral vessels is challenging. However, there have been no reports on the long-term outcomes of this intervention. Here, we report the long-term outcomes of this intervention.

Methods

Among 178 patients who underwent transapical-transcatheter aortic valve replacement between October 2009 and July 2023, 173 patients who underwent this intervention for native aortic stenosis were included in this study, and early and long-term results were evaluated.

Results

The mean age was 82.4 ± 6.4 years, 52.6% were women, mean body area was 1.46 ± 0.17 m2, and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality was 11.2 ± 9.9%. In-hospital mortality was observed in three patients (1.7%). Mean follow-up duration was 4.3 ± 2.8 years, and the survival rates at 1-, 3-, 5-, and 8-years were 84.9%, 67.1%, 47.0%, and 22.1%, respectively. Freedom from cardiovascular mortality at 1, 3, 5, and 8-years was 92.9%, 86.1%, 75.8%, and 53.5%, respectively. The freedom from disabling stroke rates at 1, 3, 5, and 8-years were 95.0%, 92.4%, 92.4%, and 90.8%, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that male (Hazard Ratio 1.85, 95%Confidence Interval 1.27−2.70, p = 0.0012) and hemodialysis (Hazard Ratio 1.64, 95%Confidence Interval 1.00−2.67, p = 0.049) were significant poor prognosis factors.

Conclusions

Long-term outcomes of transapical-transcatheter aortic valve replacement were satisfactory. Despite the variety of available approaches, the role of transapical-transcatheter aortic valve replacement, which has low vascular impact, has not been completely lost.
Development of a German version of a single-question restless legs syndrome screening questionnaire
Authors: Rinaldi Fabrizio , Ferini-Strambi Luigi , Trinka Eugen , Richter Kneginja
Published: October 2024

Background

The “Single Question for the Rapid Screening of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS Single Question) ©” is a questionnaire specifically designed to screen for restless legs syndrome (RLS). This research article describes the process of development and cultural adaptation of the German version of the questionnaire.

Objective

The primary objective of this study was to create a culturally appropriate and linguistically precise tool for evaluating RLS symptoms within German-speaking populations.

Materials and methods

The translation process involved meticulous forward and backward translations coupled with cognitive interviews conducted with patients to ensure the linguistic accuracy and cultural relevance of the instrument.

Results

The resultant final version of the questionnaire demonstrated an optimal level of comprehension and is anticipated to serve as an asset for the early detection and effective management of RLS among individuals who speak German.

Conclusion

The study highlights the successful development of the RLS questionnaire for the German-speaking context. Patient involvement in cognitive interviews proves pivotal in resolving minor comprehension issues. Its successful adaptation underscores the significance of comprehensive translation in diverse linguistic and cultural contexts, ultimately enhancing patient care. Future research will explore the validation of the test in larger populations and its integration into holistic diagnostic strategies.
Measuring Children’s Developmental Status in China Using the ECDI2030: Comparing with Direct Assessment and Teacher Report
Authors: Li Zeyi , Rao Nirmala
Published: October 2024

This study compared different approaches for monitoring progress towards Sustainable Development Goal Target 4.2, which focuses on the proportion of children who are developmentally on track. UNICEF’s Early Childhood Development Index 2030 (ECDI2030), a parent report measure, was compared with a corresponding direct assessment measure using a sample of children aged 3 and 5 (N = 309; 154 girls) in China at two time points. In the second wave, the study also investigated the correlations and agreement between the ECDI2030 and a teacher report measure for children’s development. Although Cronbach’s alpha indicated that both adult report measures had lower reliability, McDonald’s omega showed comparable reliability among the three measures when the assumption of tau-equivalence was relaxed. Moreover, both adult report measures tended to overestimate children’s developmental levels, and were less effective in capturing the development of older children compared to the direct assessment measure. The correlations between parent report and direct assessment were significant for both girls and boys, urban children, and children from higher socioeconomic quartiles in both waves. Parents’ education levels did not substantially moderate the correlations. Moreover, parent report may not predict children’s development as effectively as direct assessment. Compared to parent report, teacher report was less effective in differentiating children’s development across socioeconomic status and urbanicity. Parent and teacher judgements were more consistent on children’s early learning competencies than on children’s motor and psychosocial skills. Implications of the findings for population-based measurement of early childhood development are discussed.
Treatment sequencing in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Melhorn Philipp , Raderer Markus , Kiesewetter Barbara
Published: October 2024

The oncological treatment of neuroendocrine tumors (NET) has improved significantly in the last few years. Several informative clinical studies on NET have been conducted recently and updated NET guidelines have been published by the European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (ENETS) in 2023 and 2024. With the growing number of positive phase III trials in NET, the main difficulty today is selecting the most appropriate treatment for a patient at the right time. The purpose of this short review is to delineate the main concepts and important changes in the therapy sequences for gastroenteropancreatic NET (gepNET) outlined in current European guidelines. In clinical practice, more individualized treatment decisions are often required that go beyond these general recommendations.
A massive and ancient antipatharian colony at a seamount in the northwest Pacific
Authors: Reimer James Davis , Yanagi Kensuke , Castelló Guillermo Mironenko , Bacharo Kurt Bryant B. , Yokooka Hiroyuki , Koeda Keita , Tsuchida Shinji , Fujiwara Yoshihiro
Published: October 2024

Many colonial anthozoans are ecosystem engineers and contribute to creating intricate benthic communities that often harbor high levels of marine biodiversity. Here, we report on an extraordinarily large antipatharian colony observed on the West Mariana Ridge in the Northwest Pacific. Based on colony form, morphological analyses, and DNA barcoding results, we identified the colony as Leiopathes cf. annosa. From in situ observations, we estimate the size of the colony as approximately 308 cm in height and 441 cm in width, with a central stem of 28 cm in diameter. If growth rates of Leiopathes species in this region of the Pacific Ocean are similar to those previously reported from Hawaii, this colony may be approximately 7000 years old, placing it among the longest-lived marine organisms reported. Seamounts in this region and such large anthozoan colonies should be targeted for more biodiversity investigation and future conservation.
Effect of Probiotics on Sperm Quality in the Adult Mouse
Authors: Sanchez-Rodriguez Ana , Idrovo Ingrid I. D. , Villafranca Rocío , Latorre Nerea , Rielo Juan Antonio , Laburu Ane , Nieto-Román Sandra , Heredia Daniel , González Rubén , García-Cañas Virginia , Laxalde Diego , Simó Carolina , Vieites David R. , Roldan Eduardo R. S.
Published: October 2024

The administration of probiotics for the treatment of different diseases has gained interest in recent years. However, few studies have evaluated their effects on reproductive traits. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of two mixtures of probiotics, a commercial probiotic (Vivomixx®) and a mix of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG and Faecalibacterium duncaniae A2-165, on sperm quality in a mouse model. Adult male mice (8 months old) were used for two experimental and one control groups (n = 5 each). The probiotics or physiological serum (control) was administered orally, twice a week, during 5 weeks. Sperm were collected from the cauda epididymis, and their total number, motility, kinematics, morphology, and acrosome integrity were assessed in recently collected samples and after a 60-min in vitro incubation. Results showed a higher percentage of normal sperm in both experimental groups, with fewer head abnormalities than in the control. Differences were found among groups in the morphometry of sperm heads, being more elongated in mice treated with probiotics. Sperm from probiotic-treated mice showed similar total motility when compared to the controls, although the proportion of progressively moving sperm and their vigor of motility were lower. Sperm swimming descriptors were measured with a CASA system. Velocity parameters were similar among groups whereas linearity was higher in mice treated with the commercial probiotic. These results suggest that the administration of probiotics may increase the proportion of sperm with normal morphology and lead to modifications in sperm head shape that may enhance sperm swimming. Studies using a longer administration period would be useful in further characterizing the effect of these probiotic mixtures on sperm quality and fertilization capacity.
Mangrove Surface Elevation Loss after Tree fall during Extreme Weather
Authors: Bennion Vicki , Hill Jack W. , Lovelock Catherine E.
Published: October 2024

Fringing mangrove forests are likely to experience increasingly severe weather events under climate change, including an increased frequency of tropical storms that may lead to mangrove mortality. Mangrove mortality can result in soil surface elevation loss through the death and compaction of roots, which can in turn alter the hydrology of the ecosystem and reduce its resilience to sea-level rise. In subtropical Queensland, Australia, an extreme weather event in early 2021 resulted in the death and toppling of large Avicennia marina trees on a creek edge in mainland Quandamooka (Moreton Bay). A set of three rod surface elevation tables were located meters away from the uprooted mangroves and were opportunistically measured for twenty months after the tree deaths. Surface elevation in the mangrove forest decreased by 26.3 ± 3.59 mm year− 1 following the severe weather event, when estimated using a traditional annualization approach for surface elevation loss data. Loss estimates using generalised additive models were able to account for non-linear change in surface elevation and were of the same direction as annualised estimates but an order of magnitude lower (-4.82 ± 0.03 mm year− 1). Surface elevation loss was the result of local root compaction, and subsequent recovery of elevation was the result of mangrove forest recovery through neighbouring tree root growth and canopy infilling. This study was the first to follow the change in soil surface elevation after the uprooting of A. marina at a single tree scale, providing insights for mangrove forest resilience under future sea-level rise.
Leveraging LLMs for Unstructured Direct Elicitation of Decision Rules
Authors: Dong Songting
Published: October 2024

Unstructured Direct Elicitation (UDE) offers a flexible method to capture consumer preferences and decision rules in an unstructured format such as writing an email. However, it relies on subjective human coding and indicative consideration set sizes to make accurate predictions on consideration decisions. This research leverages large language models (LLMs) to replace human judges and make predictions without the need for additional information like indicative consideration set sizes. Empirical analyses show that fine-tuned LLMs effectively interpret decision rules and handle sophisticated considerations in a complex product scenario (automotive study), outperforming the best UDE models by capturing over 25% more information, while their performance in a moderate-scale study on mobile phones is comparable to the best UDE models. The use of LLMs enhances scalability, cost efficiency, and consistency in comprehending unstructured text data and making predictions, offering a promising alternative to human judges and enabling large-scale, real-time implementation of UDE in marketing research and practice. Together with their ability to interact with users, LLMs fine-tuned with representative datasets may serve as a valuable knowledgebase to summarize consumer preferences and decision rules and supply insights for the creation and simulation of marketing strategies.
Fabrication and comprehensive evaluation of Zr-based bulk metallic glass matrix composites for biomedical applications
Authors: Hasiak Mariusz , Sobieszczańska Beata , Łaszcz Amadeusz , Biały Michał , Chęcmanowski Jacek , Zatoński Tomasz
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study is to fabricate Zr-based bulk metallic glass matrix composites (BMG-MCs) for biomedical usage and subject them to a comprehensive and farreaching analysis with respect to their mechanical properties, biocorrosion resistance, biocompatibility, and interactions with biofilms that all may arise from their chemical compositions and unusual disordered internal structure. In this study, we fabricate Zr40Ti15Cu10Ni10Be25, Zr50Ti15Cu10Ni10Be25, and Zr40Ti15Cu10Ni5Si5Be25 alloys and confirm their glassy matrix nature through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses. The mechanical properties, assessed via nanoindentation, demonstrate the high hardness, strength, and elasticity of the produced materials. Corrosion resistance is investigated in simulated body fluid, with Zr-based BMG-MCs exhibiting superior performance compared to conventional biomedical materials, including 316L stainless steel and Ti6Al4V alloy. Biocompatibility is assessed using human fetal osteoblastic cell line hFOB 1.19, revealing low levels of cytotoxicity. The study also examines the potential for biofilm formation, a critical factor in the success of biomedical implantation, where bacterial infection is a major concern. Our findings suggest, as never reported before, that Zr-based BMG-MCs, with their unique composite glassy structure and excellent physicochemical properties, are promising candidates for various biomedical applications, potentially offering improved performance over traditional metallic biomaterials.
Geochemical characterization of trace fossil assemblages in spotted marls and limestones of the Lower Jurassic of the Western Carpathians: environmental implications
Authors: Reolid Matías , Šimo Vladimír , Schlögl Jan
Published: October 2024

The trace fossils of the spotted limestones and marls from upper Pliensbachian of the Skladaná Skala section, Western Carpathians (Slovakia), are characteristic of Zoophycos ichnofacies preserved in outer shelf deposits. The ichnoassociation is dominated by Lamellaeichnus and Chondrites, while Palaeophycus, Planolites, Teichichnus, Thalassinoides, Trichichnus, and Zoophycos, are less abundant. The presence of relatively large sized traces (reaching a decimetre in horizontal dimension for Thalassinoides and Zoophycos) and continuously well bioturbated deposits point to well oxygenated shallow zone (mixed layer) and deeper part of stiffed substrate of the transitional layer of bottom substrate up to the first tens of centimetres to depth. A first tier (tier I) corresponds to the shallowest sediment occupied by Bathysiphon tests and other epifaunal body fossils. The tier II is characterized by shallow infaunal burrows of deposit feeders (Planolites) and permanent dwelling, open burrows (Palaeophycus, Thalassinoides) located in a Ca-rich sediment (corresponding to CaCO3). The tier III is dominated by deposit feeders (Lamellaeichnus, Teichichnus) that burrowed stiff Ca-rich sediment below the redox boundary. Trace fossils of tier III are rich in fine siliciclastics (high content in Si, Al, K mainly associated to clays) and pyrite framboids (enrichment in Fe, S and Co). The deposit-feeders of tier III maintain connection to the sediment-water interface. Tier IV (Zoophycos, Teichichnus and large Chondrites), and deepest infaunal forms of the tier V. (Trichichnus, Pilichnus and tiny forms of Chondrites) comprises trace fossils commonly rich in pyrite framboids with relatively high content of Fe, S, and Co, congruent with chemosymbiotic behaviour commonly inferred for Chondrites, Trichichnus, and the organic-matter storage of Zoophycos.