bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of immune‐related gene signatures and immune infiltration features in early‐ and late‐onset preeclampsia
Authors: Wu Quanfeng , Ying Xiang , Yu Weiwei , Li Huanxi , Wei Wei , Lin Xueyan , Yang Meilin , Zhang Xueqin
Published: February 2024

Background

Preeclampsia, a severe pregnancy syndrome, is widely accepted divided into early‐ and late‐onset preeclampsia (EOPE and LOPE) based on the onset time of preeclampsia, with distinct pathophysiological origins. However, the molecular mechanism especially immune‐related mechanisms for EOPE and LOPE is currently obscure. In the present study, we focused on placental immune alterations between EOPE and LOPE and search for immune‐related biomarkers that could potentially serve as potential therapeutic targets through bioinformatic analysis.

Methods

The gene expression profiling data was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. ESTIMATE algorithm and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis were employed to evaluate the immune status. The intersection of differentially expressed genes in GSE74341 series and immune‐related genes set screened differentially expressed immune‐related genes. Protein–protein interaction network and random forest were used to identify hub genes with a validation by a quantitative real‐time PCR. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways, Gene Ontology and gene set variation analysis were utilized to conduct biological function and pathway enrichment analyses. Single‐sample gene set enrichment analysis and CIBERSORTx tools were employed to calculate the immune cell infiltration score. Correlation analyses were evaluated by Pearson correlation analysis. Hub genes‐miRNA network was performed by the NetworkAnalyst online tool.

Results

Immune score and stromal score were all lower in EOPE samples. The immune system‐related gene set was significantly downregulated in EOPE compared to LOPE samples. Four hub differentially expressed immune‐related genes (IL15, GZMB, IL1B and CXCL12) were identified based on a protein–protein interaction network and random forest. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction validated the lower expression levels of four hub genes in EOPE compared to LOPE samples. Immune cell infiltration analysis found that innate and adaptive immune cells were apparent lacking in EOPE samples compared to LOPE samples. Cytokine‐cytokine receptor, para‐inflammation, major histocompatibility complex class I and T cell co‐stimulation pathways were significantly deficient and highly correlated with hub genes. We constructed a hub genes‐miRNA regulatory network, revealing the correlation between hub genes and hsa‐miR‐374a‐5p, hsa‐miR‐203a‐3p, hsa‐miR‐128‐3p, hsa‐miR‐155‐3p, hsa‐miR‐129‐2‐3p and hsa‐miR‐7‐5p.

Conclusions

The innate and adaptive immune systems were severely impaired in placentas of EOPE. Four immune‐related genes (IL15, GZMB, IL1B and CXCL12) were closely correlated with immune‐related pathogenesis of EOPE. The result of our study may provide a new basis for discriminating between EOPE and LOPE and acknowledging the role of the immune landscape in the eventual interference and tailored treatment of EOPE.
Interventions to alleviate anxiety and pain during venipuncture in children with chronic gastrointestinal and/or liver disease: A single‐center prospective observational study
Authors: Fuchs Albert , Cordes Berrit L. , van Dick Rolf , Ebers Gianna , Kaluza Antonia , Konietzny Christiane , Baumann Ulrich
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The goal of this longitudinal study was to reduce anxiety and pain in children with chronic conditions from the gastrointestinal tract during venipuncture. These children undergo regular venipuncture as part of their medical management and the procedure is often accompanied with anxiety and pain. In addition, children as well as their parents and health care professionals (HCPs) often suffer “compassionate pain” because of emotional interference.

Method

In a realistic clinical setting, different psychological and medical interventions were examined: (1) Psychoeducational brochures and (2) four different medical‐technical interventions during venipuncture. In a large hospital in Germany, 169 children, their parents, and HCPs were asked to rate anxiety and pain during venipuncture before and after the intervention.

Results

Children showed a clear preference for some of the medical‐technical interventions. Using Linear Mixed Models anxiety and pain rated by the children themselves showed no significant reduction. However, parents and HCPs reported a significant reduction. Age, gender, and status of liver transplantation were associated with a reduction in anxiety and pain in most of the analyses.

Conclusion

Both psychoeducational brochures and medical‐technical interventions had a positive impact on anxiety and pain. However, effectivity for the medical–technical interventions was lower than in previous studies utilizing individual interventions. Reasons for this difference as well as possibilities to improve the intervention are discussed. In addition, this study provides practical day‐to‐day information about the implementation of interventions for the work in pediatric units such as when and how to provide psychoeducational materials.
Campaign reveals increased awareness among Georgians about parity rights
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2024

Observing a mission to elevate awareness of mental health rights in Georgia and increase the public's knowledge of their legal right to insurance coverage for treatment of mental health and substance use disorders, The Carter Center on Feb. 8 released the results of its first Georgia mental health parity awareness campaign at a press conference held during Georgia's inaugural Mental Health Parity Day at the state capitol.
RADCURE: An open‐source head and neck cancer CT dataset for clinical radiation therapy insights
Authors: Welch Mattea L. , Kim Sejin , Hope Andrew J. , Huang Shao Hui , Lu Zhibin , Marsilla Joseph , Kazmierski Michal , Rey‐McIntyre Katrina , Patel Tirth , O'Sullivan Brian , Waldron John , Bratman Scott , Haibe‐Kains Benjamin , Tadic Tony ,   Princess Margaret Head and Neck Site Group
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This manuscript presents RADCURE, one of the most extensive head and neck cancer (HNC) imaging datasets accessible to the public. Initially collected for clinical radiation therapy (RT) treatment planning, this dataset has been retrospectively reconstructed for use in imaging research.

Acquisition and Validation Methods

RADCURE encompasses data from 3346 patients, featuring computed tomography (CT) RT simulation images with corresponding target and organ‐at‐risk contours. These CT scans were collected using systems from three different manufacturers. Standard clinical imaging protocols were followed, and contours were manually generated and reviewed at weekly RT quality assurance rounds. RADCURE imaging and structure set data was extracted from our institution's radiation treatment planning and oncology information systems using a custom‐built data mining and processing system. Furthermore, images were linked to our clinical anthology of outcomes data for each patient and includes demographic, clinical and treatment information based on the 7th edition TNM staging system (Tumor‐Node‐Metastasis Classification System of Malignant Tumors). The median patient age is 63, with the final dataset including 80% males. Half of the cohort is diagnosed with oropharyngeal cancer, while laryngeal, nasopharyngeal, and hypopharyngeal cancers account for 25%, 12%, and 5% of cases, respectively. The median duration of follow‐up is five years, with 60% of the cohort surviving until the last follow‐up point.

Data Format and Usage Notes

The dataset provides images and contours in DICOM CT and RT‐STRUCT formats, respectively. We have standardized the nomenclature for individual contours—such as the gross primary tumor, gross nodal volumes, and 19 organs‐at‐risk—to enhance the RT‐STRUCT files’ utility. Accompanying demographic, clinical, and treatment data are supplied in a comma‐separated values (CSV) file format. This comprehensive dataset is publicly accessible via The Cancer Imaging Archive.

Potential Applications

RADCURE's amalgamation of imaging, clinical, demographic, and treatment data renders it an invaluable resource for a broad spectrum of radiomics image analysis research endeavors. Researchers can utilize this dataset to advance routine clinical procedures using machine learning or artificial intelligence, to identify new non‐invasive biomarkers, or to forge prognostic models.
Motion compensated structured low‐rank reconstruction for 3D multi‐shot EPI
Authors: Chen Xi , Wu Wenchuan , Chiew Mark
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The 3D multi‐shot EPI imaging offers several benefits including higher SNR and high isotropic resolution compared to 2D single shot EPI. However, it suffers from shot‐to‐shot inconsistencies arising from physiologically induced phase variations and bulk motion. This work proposed a motion compensated structured low‐rank (mcSLR) reconstruction method to address both issues for 3D multi‐shot EPI.

Methods

Structured low‐rank reconstruction has been successfully used in previous work to deal with inter‐shot phase variations for 3D multi‐shot EPI imaging. It circumvents the estimation of phase variations by reconstructing an individual image for each phase state which are then sum‐of‐squares combined, exploiting their linear interdependency encoded in structured low‐rank constraints. However, structured low‐rank constraints become less effective in the presence of inter‐shot motion, which corrupts image magnitude consistency and invalidates the linear relationship between shots. Thus, this work jointly models inter‐shot phase variations and motion corruptions by incorporating rigid motion compensation for structured low‐rank reconstruction, where motion estimates are obtained in a fully data‐driven way without relying on external hardware or imaging navigators.

Results

Simulation and in vivo experiments at 7T have demonstrated that the mcSLR method can effectively reduce image artifacts and improve the robustness of 3D multi‐shot EPI, outperforming existing methods which only address inter‐shot phase variations or motion, but not both.

Conclusion

The proposed mcSLR reconstruction compensates for rigid motion, and thus improves the validity of structured low‐rank constraints, resulting in improved robustness of 3D multi‐shot EPI to both inter‐shot motion and phase variations.
Optimize AMI With an Asset Management Program
Authors: Wilkins Scotty , Price David
Published: February 2024

The Town of Surf City, N.C., is located on Topsail Island, a barrier island situated south of the Outer Banks. Its clean and uncrowded public beaches, family‐friendly atmosphere, wide range of amenities and services, and mild climate make the town a wonderful place to live and a popular destination for vacationers. The town recently implemented advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) technology to modernize—and futureproof—its water system.
Proving Your Water System Has Benefited From a System Change
Authors: Cantor Abigail F.
Published: February 2024

When a water utility makes adjustments to system operations, comparing data sets and following a correct statistical calculation process can paint a clear picture of whether the change has been worthwhile.
Integrated analyses of the genetic and clinicopathological features of cholangiolocarcinoma: cholangiolocarcinoma may be characterized by mismatch‐repair deficiency
Authors: Makino Kenta , Ishii Takamichi , Takeda Haruhiko , Saito Yoichi , Fujiwara Yukio , Fujimoto Masakazu , Ito Takashi , Wakama Satoshi , Kumagai Ken , Munekage Fumiaki , Horie Hiroshi , Tomofuji Katsuhiro , Oshima Yu , Uebayashi Elena Yukie , Kawai Takayuki , Ogiso Satoshi , Fukumitsu Ken , Takai Atsushi , Seno Hiroshi , Hatano Etsuro
Published: February 2024

Cholangiolocarcinoma (CLC) is a primary liver carcinoma that resembles the canals of Hering and that has been reported to be associated with stem cell features. Due to its rarity, the nature of CLC remains unclear, and its pathological classification remains controversial. To clarify the positioning of CLC in primary liver cancers and identify characteristics that could distinguish CLC from other liver cancers, we performed integrated analyses using whole‐exome sequencing (WES), immunohistochemistry, and a retrospective review of clinical information on eight CLC cases and two cases of recurrent CLC. WES demonstrated that CLC includes IDH1 and BAP1 mutations, which are characteristic of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA). A mutational signature analysis showed a pattern similar to that of iCCA, which was different from that of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). CLC cells, including CK7, CK19, and EpCAM, were positive for cholangiocytic differentiation markers. However, the hepatocytic differentiation marker AFP and stem cell marker SALL4 were completely negative. The immunostaining patterns of CLC with CD56 and epithelial membrane antigen were similar to those of the noncancerous bile ductules. In contrast, mutational signature cluster analyses revealed that CLC formed a cluster associated with mismatch‐repair deficiency (dMMR), which was separate from iCCA. Therefore, to evaluate MMR status, we performed immunostaining of four MMR proteins (PMS2, MSH6, MLH1, and MSH2) and detected dMMR in almost all CLCs. In conclusion, CLC had highly similar characteristics to iCCA but not to HCC. CLC can be categorized as a subtype of iCCA. In contrast, CLC has characteristics of dMMR tumors that are not found in iCCA, suggesting that it should be treated distinctly from iCCA. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Interoception, somatic symptoms, and somatization tendency in Chinese individuals with subsyndromal depression: A follow‐up study
Authors: Zhou Xiaolu , Ren Fen , Lui Simon S. Y. , Chan Raymond C. K.
Published: February 2024

Interoception refers to the sensation and perception of internal bodily sensations, and may be related to depressive symptoms. Schemata concerning the body vary across different cultures and may influence interoception and symptom presentations of depression. This study explored the relationship between interoception, depressive symptoms, and schema of somatic focus in Chinese people with subsyndromal depression. Thirty‐nine individuals with subsyndromal depression (SD) and 40 healthy controls (HCs) were assessed at baseline and after 3 months. Participants completed the self‐report questionnaires for assessing interoceptive sensibility, somatic and psychological symptoms of depression, and somatization tendency. They also completed the heartbeat perception behavioral task for estimating interoceptive accuracy. The results showed that both the SD and the HC groups showed similar interoceptive accuracy, although the SD group showed heightened interoceptive sensibility. The discrepancy between interoceptive sensibility and interoceptive accuracy is termed the interoceptive trait prediction error (ITPE). The ITPE was positive in SD participants but was negative in HCs. In the entire sample, interoceptive sensibility and the ITPE were correlated with somatic symptoms rather than with psychological symptoms of depression. Interoceptive sensibility partially mediated the relationship between somatization tendency and somatic symptoms, after controlling for psychological symptoms of depression. These results remained stable after 3 months. The shortcomings of the present study were a lack of clinical interview to ascertain diagnosis and a short follow‐up duration. In conclusion, our study suggests that altered interoception occurs in subsyndromal depression. Interoception is related to somatic symptoms of depression. The schema of body was related to depressive symptoms, partially through interoception, in Chinese people with subsyndromal depression.
Quantifying spectral albedo effects on bifacial photovoltaic module measurements and system model predictions
Authors: Tonita Erin M. , Valdivia Christopher E. , Russell Annie C. J. , Martinez‐Szewczyk Michael , Bertoni Mariana I. , Hinzer Karin
Published: February 2024

We provide a comprehensive analysis of the effect of spectral albedo on photovoltaic (PV) module measurements and system model predictions. We demonstrate how to account for albedo in indoor bifacial device measurements by adjusting the applied irradiance using the scaled rear irradiance method, exemplified on fabricated silicon heterojunction (SHJ) modules. System model performance is studied using a detailed 3D finite‐element model, DUET, for fixed‐tilt and horizontal single‐axis tracked (SAT) arrays between 15 and 75°N. Spectral effects cause variations in measured SHJ module short‐circuit current up to 2% and efficiency variation up to 0.3% abs. We further demonstrate that rear‐side spectral mismatch factors (SMMs) resulting from including or omitting spectral albedo in PV system modeling vary between ±13%, while total (front+rear) SMMs vary up to 3%, depending on the deployment configuration and latitude. SAT array SMMs are weakly correlated with latitude, while fixed‐tilt array SMMs increase with latitude, driven by an increasing proportion of ground‐reflected light on the front‐side of modules. Ground‐reflections can constitute between 2% and 32% of total incident module irradiance, with notably high (>10%) contributions for fixed‐tilt arrays at high latitude. Effects of spectral albedo are most significant for: (1) fixed‐tilt deployments at high latitudes, (2) wide bandgap technologies such as perovskite and cadmium telluride cells, (3) albedos which vary steeply over the technology's absorption range, and (4) high albedo ground covers. Overall, we demonstrate that omitting spectral albedo effects can result in PV measurement and system‐level modeling uncertainties on the order of several percent in these cases.
Combining FAIMS based glycoproteomics and DIA proteomics reveals widespread proteome alterations in response to glycosylation occupancy changes in Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Hadjineophytou Chris , Loh Edmund , Koomey Michael , Scott Nichollas E.
Published: February 2024

Protein glycosylation is increasingly recognized as a common protein modification across bacterial species. Within the Neisseria genus O‐linked protein glycosylation is conserved yet closely related Neisseria species express O‐oligosaccharyltransferases (PglOs) with distinct targeting activities. Within this work, we explore the targeting capacity of different PglOs using Field Asymmetric Waveform Ion Mobility Spectrometry (FAIMS) fractionation and Data‐Independent Acquisition (DIA) to allow the characterization of the impact of changes in glycosylation on the proteome of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. We demonstrate FAIMS expands the known glycoproteome of wild type N. gonorrhoeae MS11 and enables differences in glycosylation to be assessed across strains expressing different pglO allelic chimeras with unique substrate targeting activities. Combining glycoproteomic insights with DIA proteomics, we demonstrate that alterations within pglO alleles have widespread impacts on the proteome of N. gonorrhoeae. Examination of peptides known to be targeted by glycosylation using DIA analysis supports alterations in glycosylation occupancy occurs independently of changes in protein levels and that the occupancy of glycosylation is generally low on most glycoproteins. This work thus expands our understanding of the N. gonorrhoeae glycoproteome and the roles that pglO allelic variation may play in governing genus‐level protein glycosylation.
H∞$$ {H}_{\infty } $$ optimal output tracking control for Markov jump systems: A reinforcement learning‐based approach
Authors: Shen Ying , Yao Cai‐Kang , Chen Bo , Che Wei‐Wei , Wu Zheng‐Guang
Published: February 2024

In this paper, the optimal output tracking control problem for Markov jump systems is investigated, where the two cases with known or completely unknown transition probabilities are both considered. Based on game theory and performance, quadratic cost is considered, where a discount parameter is introduced into the quadratic cost in order to track unstable systems and eliminate the assumption that the noise energy is bounded. The game coupled algebraic Riccati equation and the corresponding controller are presented by dynamic programming. The stochastic stability of the tracking error system is further investigated. Moreover, iterative and reinforcement learning‐based algorithms are proposed for solving the optimal tracking controller with known or completely unknown transition probabilities, respectively. Finally, some numerical simulations on a DC motor are performed to validate the effectiveness of the proposed results.
Optimized leader‐follower consensus control using combination of reinforcement learning and sliding mode mechanism for multiple robot manipulator system
Authors: Song Yanfen , Li Zijun , Li Bin , Wen Guoxing
Published: February 2024

This article is to develop an optimized leader‐follower consensus control for multiple robot manipulator system by combining sliding mode control (SMC) and reinforcement learning (RL). The SMC mechanism aims to steer both position and velocity states of multiple manipulator reaching the predefined trajectory. And the RL is designed and performed under identifier‐critic‐actor architecture for the achievement of optimized control performance. Compared to traditional optimal control, this proposed method has two main advantages: (i) the RL updating laws for training both the actor and critic networks are simpler; (ii) the optimized control can not require the complete dynamic knowledge because the adaptive identifier is designed into the RL learning. Consequently, this optimized control method can smoothly steer the multiple robot manipulator system to achieve the leader‐follower consensus. Finally, feasibility of this control method is verified through both theory and simulation.
Extended state filter‐based velocity‐free finite‐time attitude control of spacecraft
Authors: Yao Qijia , Li Qing , Xi Yaming , Jahanshahi Hadi
Published: February 2024

This brief presents a finite‐time output feedback control scheme for the velocity‐free attitude stabilization of rigid spacecraft under inertia uncertainties and disturbances. Note that either the finite‐time velocity observer or the finite‐time extended state observer contains the control torques, which makes the transient performance of the observer‐based output feedback control difficult to be regulated. Alternatively, the filter‐based output feedback control can overcome such problem naturally since the finite‐time velocity filter does not involve the control torques in its structure. Different from the existing finite‐time velocity filters, a finite‐time extended state filter is introduced in this work to estimate the pseudo angular velocity and total uncertain item simultaneously. Then, the developed controller is synthesized based on the recovered information, which does not require the angular velocity for feedback and has the excellent uncertainty and disturbance compensation capability. The global finite‐time stability of the resultant closed‐loop system is evaluated through the Lyapunov direct methodology and homogeneous system theory. Lastly, comparative simulations are carried out to examine the efficiency and superiority of the presented control scheme.
Unveiling the contribution of Osborne protein fractions to the physicochemical and functional properties of alkaline and enzymatically extracted green lentil proteins
Authors: Dias Fernanda F. G. , Yang Jasmin S. , Pham T. Truc K. , Barile Daniela , L. N. de Moura Bell Juliana M.
Published: February 2024

Lentil proteins are gaining popularity as food ingredients, serving both functional and nutritional purposes. To better understand the properties of lentil proteins extracted using commercially relevant methods (alkaline and enzymatic), sequential fractionation by solubility (Osborne fractionation) was performed and the physicochemical, thermal, and functional properties of the extracts were characterized. Fractionation revealed that 43% of lentil proteins were water‐soluble (ALB, albumin‐rich), 37% salt‐soluble (GLO, globulin‐rich), 14% alkaline‐soluble (GLU, glutelin‐rich), and 3% ethanol‐soluble (PRO, prolamin‐rich). Protein extraction yields of 81% and 87% were achieved by alkaline (pH 9.0, 50 °C, 1:10 solids‐to‐liquid ratio, 60 min) and enzymatic extraction (same conditions with 0.5% (w/w) Alkaline Protease), respectively. Proteomic analysis allowed for the identification of 129 proteins among all extracts, and the ALB and GLO fractions exhibited similar protein profiles as the alkaline‐extracted proteins. The secondary structure of the protein fractions was dominated by β‐sheets (20%–35%) and unordered structures (45%–48%). Surface hydrophobicity and absolute zeta potential were negatively correlated (R2 = 0.82, p < 0.05). ALB and GLO fractions had higher denaturation temperatures than the alkaline/enzymatically‐extracted proteins, potentially due to partial denaturation. ALB and GLO fractions also had the highest solubility and emulsification capacities. Under acidic conditions, enzymatically‐extracted proteins exhibited better solubility (58 vs. 33%), emulsification (499 vs. 403 g oil/g dry sample), and similar foaming capacity (57%–69%) compared to alkaline‐extracted proteins. This study showed that alkaline and enzymatically extracted lentil proteins share physicochemical and functional characteristics with water‐ and salt‐extracted proteins, demonstrating the efficacy of these single‐stage extraction strategies in achieving high yields and desirable functionality.
Boosting Reactive Oxygen Species Formation Over Pd and VOδ Co‐Modified TiO2 for Methane Oxidation into Valuable Oxygenates
Authors: Zhou Huanyu , Chen Fan , Liu Dandan , Qin Xin , Jing Yangchi , Zhong Chenyu , Shi Rui , Liu Yana , Zhang Jiguang , Zhu Yunfeng , Wang Jun
Published: February 2024

Direct photocatalytic methane oxidation into value‐added products provides a promising strategy for methane utilization. However, the inefficient generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) partly limits the activation of CH4. Herein, it is reported that Pd and VOδ co‐modified TiO2 enables direct and selective methane oxidation into liquid oxygenates in the presence of O2 and H2. Due to the extra ROS production from the in situ formed H2O2, a highly improved yield rate of 5014 µmol g−1 h−1 for liquid oxygenates with a selectivity of 89.3% is achieved over the optimized Pd0.5V0.2‐TiO2 catalyst at ambient temperature, which is much better than those (2682 µmol g−1 h−1, 77.8%) without H2. Detailed investigations also demonstrate the synergistic effect between Pd and VOδ species for enhancing the charge carrier separation and transfer, as well as improving the catalytic activity for O2 reduction and H2O2 production.
Investigation on mechanical performance of prestressed concrete box‐girder bridge strengthened using composite trusses with different shapes
Authors: Hou Peng , Yang Caiqian , Yang Jing , Pan Yong
Published: February 2024

In this study, a finite element (FE) model of an existing prestressed concrete box‐girder (PCB) bridge is developed using Abaqus/Explicit (2022), and a series of FE simulations are conducted to examine the results of composite trusses (CTs) in strengthening PCB bridges with different shapes. A concrete damage plastic model of concrete is used to predict the nonlinear behavior of concrete. Field tests and theoretical calculations are performed to verify the rationality of the model. Three CTs of different shapes, that is, a K‐shaped composite truss (KCT), an X‐shaped composite truss (XCT), and a triangle‐shaped composite truss (TCT), are used to strengthen the PCB bridge models. The deflection, load distribution, distortion, and surface connection forces under two types of lane loads (European code [EU] and Chinese code [CC]) are discussed. The results show that the CT can reduce the deflection and distortion of the PCB bridge and improve the load distribution. However, the different CT shapes offer other strengthening effects. Among them, the XCT reduces deflection the most significantly, that is, by 8.9% and 17.1% under the two load modes, separately. In addition, the XCT improves the load distribution of the PCB bridge the most significantly. The KCT reduces the distortion of the PCB bridge the most significantly and decreases the stress ratio by 75.36%. Moreover, the deflection of the PCB bridge under the EC is more significant, indicating that the lane load defined by the EC is larger than that by the CC. The maximum surface connection forces are different under the same load mode for the different CTs. However, in all the models, the bending moment at surface‐2 is insignificant. Based on the analysis results, five assumptions are introduced. Using the KCT as an example, the plane model of the reinforced section is simplified, and a canonical equation is established to calculate the load distribution factor. The 324 coefficients and 18 free terms in this canonical equation are deduced, which provides a theoretical basis for strengthening PCB bridges using CTs.
Experimental Analysis of Rayleigh and Sezawa Modes Resonance Frequencies in SAW Devices Manufactured on Sc0.3Al0.7N/Si†
Authors: Nicoloiu Alexandra , Boldeiu George , Nastase Claudia , Nedelcu Monica , Ciornei Cristina , Zdru Ioana , Stavrinidis George , Vasilache Dan , Stavrinidis Antonis , Dinescu Adrian , Konstantinidis George , Müller Alexandru
Published: February 2024

GHz operating single port SAW resonators have been manufactured on Sc0.3Al0.7N/Si substrate. The thickness of the ScAlN thin layer was 0.8 μm. Advanced nano‐lithographic techniques have been developed for devices manufacturing. Rayleigh and Sezawa modes have been evidenced on Sc0.3Al0.7N/Si structure. The targeted applications are temperature sensors for harsh environmental operations. The sensitivity and temperature coefficient of frequency (TCF) of the manufactured devices have been experimentally determined and analyzed. The mode shapes of the resonances that appear in the devices supported on Sc0.3Al0.7N/Si substrate were evidenced by finite element method (FEM) simulations. A technique that combines FEM with Coupling of Modes (COM) was used for the determination of the resonance frequencies. Simulations performed for the temperature dependence of the resonance frequency led to results close to the experimental ones for the Rayleigh mode as well as for the Sezawa mode for devices supported on Sc0.3Al0.7N/Si substrate. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Multi‐locus genome‐wide association study reveal genomic regions underlying root system architecture traits in Ethiopian sorghum germplasm
Authors: Elias Masarat , Chere Diriba , Lule Dagnachew , Serba Desalegn , Tirfessa Alemu , Gelmesa Dandena , Tesso Tesfaye , Bantte Kassahun , Menamo Temesgen M.
Published: February 2024

The identification of genomic regions underlying the root system architecture (RSA) is vital for improving crop abiotic stress tolerance. To improve sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) for environmental stress tolerance, information on genetic variability and genomic regions linked to RSA traits is paramount. The aim of this study was, therefore, to investigate common quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) via multiple methodologies and identify genomic regions linked to RSA traits in a panel of 274 Ethiopian sorghum accessions. Multi‐locus genome‐wide association study was conducted using 265,944 high‐quality single nucleotide polymorphism markers. Considering the QTN detected by at least three different methods, a total of 17 reliable QTNs were found to be significantly associated with root angle, number, length, and dry weight. Four QTNs were detected on chromosome SBI‐05, followed by SBI‐01 and SBI‐02 with three QTNs each. Among the 17 QTNs, 11 are colocated with previously identified root traits quantitative trait loci and the remaining six are genome regions with novel genes. A total of 118 genes are colocated with these up‐ and down‐streams of the QTNs. Moreover, five QTNs were found intragenic. These QTNs are S5_8994835 (number of nodal roots), S10_55702393 (number of nodal roots), S1_56872999 (nodal root angle), S9_1212069 (nodal root angle), and S5_5667192 (root dry weight) intragenic regions of Sobic.005G073101, Sobic.010G198000, Sobic.001G273000, Sobic.009G013600, and Sobic.005G054700, respectively. Particularly, Sobic.005G073101, Sobic.010G198000, and Sobic.009G013600 were found responsible for the plant growth hormone‐induced RSA. These genes may regulate root development in the seedling stage. Further analysis on these genes might be important to explore the genetic structure of RSA of sorghum.
How sea otters are preventing coastal erosion
Authors: Mills Georgina
Published: February 2024

Georgina Mills discusses research showing how the return of a top‐level predator to a salt marsh in California has had impressive effects on reducing vegetation loss.
Practical application of equine thermography
Authors: Chambers Sandie
Published: February 2024

Reviewed by Sandie Chambers, a biomedical/veterinary engineer and ‘pioneer’ of equine thermography.
Regionale Klimamodellierung
Authors: Rechid Diana , Breil Marcus , Jacob Daniela , Kottmeier Christoph , Petersen Juliane , Pfeifer Susanne , Teichmann Claas
Published: February 2024

Regionalisierungen von globalen Klimaprojektionen liefern räumlich detaillierte Informationen zu den Auswirkungen globaler Klimaänderungen auf einzelne Regionen, welche als Basis für die Forschung zu Klimafolgen, Vulnerabilität und Anpassungsoptionen dienen. Die Vielfalt der dafür eingesetzten regionalen Klimamodelle wird vorgestellt. Dabei widmet sich das Kapitel ebenso den methodischen Ansätzen, Herausforderungen und neuen Entwicklungen der regionalen Klimamodellierung und der Validierung der einzelnen Modelle, wie auch der Interpretation und Darstellung der Modellergebnisse, die zur Berücksichtigung von Unsicherheiten in Bandbreiten zu fassen sind. Dargestellt werden Ergebnisse regionaler Klimasimulationen basierend auf dem neuesten Stand des EURO-CORDEX Ensemble, der Schwerpunkt liegt auf Temperatur und Niederschlag.
Current knowledge of bone-derived factor osteocalcin: its role in the management and treatment of diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, osteopetrosis and inflammatory joint diseases
Authors: Martiniakova Monika , Biro Roman , Kovacova Veronika , Babikova Martina , Zemanova Nina , Mondockova Vladimira , Omelka Radoslav
Published: February 2024

Osteocalcin (OC) is the most abundant non-collagenous and osteoblast-secreted protein in bone. It consists of two forms such as carboxylated OC (cOC) and undercarboxylated OC (ucOC). While cOC promotes bone mineralization and increases bone strength, ucOC is regarded an endocrinologically active form that may have several functions in multiple end organs and tissues. Total OC (tOC) includes both of these forms (cOC and ucOC) and is considered a marker of bone turnover in clinical settings. Most of the data on OC is limited to preclinical studies and therefore may not accurately reflect the situation in clinical conditions. For the stated reason, the aim of this review was not only to summarize current knowledge of all forms of OC and characterize its role in diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, osteopetrosis, inflammatory joint diseases, but also to provide new interpretations of its involvement in the management and treatment of aforementioned diseases. In this context, special emphasis was placed on available clinical trials. Significantly lower levels of tOC and ucOC could be associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. On the contrary, tOC level does not seem to be a good indicator of high bone turnover status in postmenopausal osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The associations between several pharmacological drugs used to treat all disorders mentioned above and OC levels have also been provided. From this perspective, OC may serve as a medium through which certain medications can influence glucose metabolism, body weight, adiponectin secretion, and synovial inflammation.
Multiple normalized solutions for the planar Schrödinger–Poisson system with critical exponential growth
Authors: Chen Sitong , Rădulescu Vicenţiu D. , Tang Xianhua
Published: February 2024

The paper deals with the existence of normalized solutions for the following Schrödinger–Poisson system with $$L^2$$

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-constraint: $$\begin{aligned} \left\{ \begin{array}{ll} -\Delta u+\lambda u+\mu \left( \log |\cdot |*u^2\right) u=\left( e^{u^2}-1-u^2\right) u, &{} x\in {\mathbb {R}}^2, \\ \int _{{\mathbb {R}}^2}u^2\textrm{d}x=c, \\ \end{array} \right. \end{aligned}$$

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-
1
-

u
2

u
,

x
∈

R

2

,

∫

R

2

u
2

d
x
=
c
,

where $$\mu >0$$

μ
>
0

, $$\lambda \in {\mathbb {R}}$$

λ
∈
R

will arise as a Lagrange multiplier and the nonlinearity enjoys critical exponential growth of Trudinger-Moser type. By specifying explicit conditions on the energy level c, we detect a geometry of local minimum and a minimax structure for the corresponding energy functional, and prove the existence of two solutions, one being a local minimizer and one of mountain-pass type. In particular, to catch a second solution of mountain-pass type, some sharp estimates of energy levels are proposed, suggesting a new threshold of compactness in the $$L^2$$

L
2

-constraint. Our study extends and complements the results of Cingolani–Jeanjean (SIAM J Math Anal 51(4): 3533-3568, 2019) dealing with the power nonlinearity $$a|u|^{p-2}u$$

a
|
u
|

p
-
2

u

in the case of $$a>0$$

a
>
0

and $$p>4$$

p
>
4

, which seems to be the first contribution in the context of normalized solutions. Our model presents some new difficulties due to the intricate interplay between a logarithmic convolution potential and a nonlinear term of critical exponential type and requires a novel analysis and the implementation of new ideas, especially in the compactness argument. We believe that our approach will open the door to the study of other $$L^2$$

L
2

-constrained problems with critical exponential growth, and the new underlying ideas are of future development and applicability.
Glucosylglycerol phosphorylase, a potential novel pathway of microbial glucosylglycerol catabolism
Authors: Cheng Lin , Zhang Zhichao , Zhu Daling , Luo Quan , Lu Xuefeng
Published: February 2024

Glucosylglycerol (GG) is a natural compatible solute that can be synthesized by many cyanobacteria and a few heterotrophic bacteria under high salinity conditions. In cyanobacteria, GG is synthesized by GG-phosphate synthase and GG-phosphate phosphatase, and a hydrolase GGHA catalyzes its degradation. In heterotrophic bacteria (such as some Marinobacter species), a fused form of GG-phosphate phosphatase and GG-phosphate synthase is present, but the cyanobacteria-like degradation pathway is not available. Instead, a phosphorylase GGP, of which the coding gene is located adjacent to the gene that encodes the GG-synthesizing enzyme, is supposed to perform the GG degradation function. In the present study, a GGP homolog from the salt-tolerant M. salinexigens ZYF650T was characterized. The recombinant GGP catalyzed GG decomposition via a two-step process of phosphorolysis and hydrolysis in vitro and exhibited high substrate specificity toward GG. The activity of GGP was enhanced by inorganic salts at low concentrations but significantly inhibited by increasing salt concentrations. While the investigation on the physiological role of GGP in M. salinexigens ZYF650T was limited due to the failed induction of GG production, the heterologous expression of ggp in the living cells of the GG-producing cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 significantly reduced the salt-induced GG accumulation. Together, these data suggested that GGP may represent a novel pathway of microbial GG catabolism.

Key points

• GGP catalyzes GG degradation by a process of phosphorolysis and hydrolysis

• GGP-catalyzed GG degradation is different from GGHA-based GG degradation

• GGP represents a potential novel pathway of microbial GG catabolism
Update on musculoskeletal applications of magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound
Authors: McGill Kevin C. , Baal Joe D. , Bucknor Matthew D.
Published: February 2024

Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) is a noninvasive, incisionless, radiation-free technology used to ablate tissue deep within the body. This technique has gained increased popularity following FDA approval for treatment of pain related to bone metastases and limited approval for treatment of osteoid osteoma. MRgFUS delivers superior visualization of soft tissue targets in unlimited imaging planes and precision in targeting and delivery of thermal dose which is all provided during real-time monitoring using MR thermometry. This paper provides an overview of the common musculoskeletal applications of MRgFUS along with updates on clinical outcomes and discussion of future applications.
Induction immunotherapy plus chemotherapy followed by definitive chemoradiation therapy in locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a propensity-score matched study
Authors: Lian Hui-min , Wu Jia-liang , Liufu Wei-jian , Yu Tian-tian , Niu Shao-qing , Bao Yong , Peng Fang
Published: February 2024

Background

For patients with unresectable locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) is the current standard treatment; however, the prognosis remains poor. Immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy has demonstrated improved survival outcomes in advanced ESCC. Nevertheless, there is a lack of reports on the role of induction immunotherapy plus chemotherapy prior to CCRT for unresectable locally advanced ESCC. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of induction immunotherapy plus chemotherapy followed by definitive chemoradiotherapy in patients with unresectable locally advanced ESCC.

Methods

This study retrospectively collected clinical data of patients diagnosed with locally advanced ESCC who were treated with radical CCRT between 2017 and 2021 at our institution. The patients were divided into two groups: an induction immunotherapy plus chemotherapy group (induction IC group) or a CCRT group. To assess progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), we employed the Kaplan–Meier method after conducting propensity score matching (PSM).

Results

A total of 132 patients with unresectable locally advanced ESCC were included in this study, with 61 (45.26%) patients in the induction IC group and 71 (54.74%) patients in the CCRT group. With a median follow-up of 37.0 months, median PFS and OS were 25.2 and 39.2 months, respectively. The patients in the induction IC group exhibited a significant improvement in PFS and OS in comparison with those in the CCRT group (median PFS: not reached [NR] versus 15.9 months, hazard ratio [HR] 0.526 [95%CI 0.325–0.851], P = 0.0077; median OS: NR versus 25.2 months, HR 0.412 [95%CI 0.236–0.719], P = 0.0012). After PSM (50 pairs), both PFS and OS remained superior in the induction IC group compared to the CCRT group (HR 0.490 [95%CI 0.280–0.858], P = 0.011; HR 0.454 [95%CI 0.246–0.837], P = 0.0093), with 2-year PFS rates of 67.6 and 42.0%, and the 2-year OS rates of 74.6 and 52.0%, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that lower tumor stage, concurrent chemotherapy using double agents, and induction immunotherapy plus chemotherapy before CCRT were associated with better prognosis.

Conclusions

Our results showed for the first time that induction immunotherapy plus chemotherapy followed by CCRT for unresectable locally advanced ESCC provided a survival benefit with manageable safety profile. More prospective clinical studies should be warranted.
Poor obstetric outcomes in women with takayasu arteritis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Bodakçi Erdal , Cansu Döndü Üsküdar , Korkmaz Cengiz
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study was to assess the pregnancy outcomes in a cohort of patients who experienced pregnancies before and/or after being diagnosed with Takayasu’s arteritis (TA). The present investigation encompassed a total of 88 pregnancies seen in a cohort of 35 patients who met the criteria outlined by the American College of Rheumatology in 1990 for the classification of Takayasu arteritis (TA). Pregnancies were classified into two categories. 1. Pregnancies that occurred before the diagnosis (pre-d or pre-TA) 2. Pregnancies that happened following a diagnosis (post-d or post-TA). Fifty-nine pregnancies (67.0%) occurred in 21 TA patients before the diagnosis with and a complication rate of 15.2%, and twenty-nine pregnancies (33.0%) occurred in 14 patients concomitant with or after TA diagnosis and complication rate 100%. Although the hypertension rate was higher in the pre-d group than in the post-d group, it was not significant (32.2% vs. 10.3%, p = 0.160). However, preeclampsia (20.6% vs. 0%, p = 0.001), low birth weight (27.5% vs. 1.6%, p = 0.001), and prematurity (24.1% vs. 1.6%, p = 0.035) were observed more frequently in the post-d group compared to the pre-d group. The frequency of abortions and in-utero deaths were similar in both groups (p > 0.05). Patients with hypertension had significantly higher rates of preeclampsia (p = 0.003), preterm birth (p = 0.036), low birth weight (p = 0.250), abortion (p = 0.018), in utero death (p = 0.128), and cesarean section (p = 0.005) than those without hypertension. Renal artery involvement was detected in 15 (42.8%) patients. All patients with renal artery involvement had hypertension, and they had significantly more pregnancy complications than the other group (p = 0.001). TA negatively affects pregnancy outcomes. A good control of arterial hypertension before conception and during pregnancy is critical to improve both maternal and fetal outcomes. In addition, detecting renal artery stenosis before pregnancy is important in reducing possible negative pregnancy outcomes.
PI-RADS upgrading as the strongest predictor for the presence of clinically significant prostate cancer in patients with initial PI-RADS-3 lesions
Authors: Kwe Jeremy , Baunacke Martin , Boehm Katharina , Platzek Ivan , Thomas Christian , Borkowetz Angelika
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Unclear lesions on multiparametric magnetic resonance tomography (mpMRI) are challenging for the indication of biopsy in patients with clinical suspicion of prostate cancer (PCa). The aim of this study is the validation of the detection rate of clinically significant PCa (csPCa) in patients with PI-RADS 3 findings and to determine the appropriate follow-up strategy.

Methods

In this retrospective single-center study, patients with maximum PI-RADS 3 lesions underwent targeted MRI/ultrasound-fusion biopsy (tPbx) combined with systematic 12-core biopsy (sPbx) and follow-up mpMRI with further control biopsy. We assessed the evolution of MRI findings (PI-RADS, volume of the lesion), clinical parameters and histopathology in follow-up MRI and biopsies. The primary objective is the detection rate of csPCa, defined as ISUP ≥ 2 findings.

Results

A total of 126 patients (median PSA 6.65 ng/ml; median PSA-density (PSAD) 0.13 ng/ml2) were included. The initial biopsy identified low-risk PCa in 24 cases (19%). During follow-up biopsy, 22.2% of patients showed PI-RADS upgrading (PI-RADS > 3), and 29 patients (23%) exhibited a tumor upgrading. Patients with PI-RADS upgrading had a higher risk of csPCa compared to those without PI-RADS upgrading (42.9% vs. 9.18%, p < 0.05). PI-RADS upgrading was identified as an independent predictor for csPCa in follow-up biopsy (OR 16.20; 95% CI 1.17–224.60; p = 0.038).

Conclusion

Patients with stable PI-RADS 3 findings may not require a follow-up biopsy. Instead, it is advisable to schedule an MRI, considering that PI-RADS upgrading serves as an independent predictor for csPCa.