bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Thermal Performance Enhancement on PTC Downsizing With Emphasis on Cost Savings and Commercial Feasibility: An Extended Evaluation Criterion
Authors: Bessanane Nabil , Demagh Yassine , Si‐ameur Mohamed , Rebay Mourad
Published: November 2024

This study proposes a new comparative analysis and introduces a new criterion for evaluating the size reduction of heat exchangers, particularly relevant in the context of parabolic trough receivers. Various innovative receivers from the literature, employing different enhancement techniques, were compared with the conventional straight receiver. On the basis of the principle of similarity and using a previously validated one‐dimensional mathematical model and numerical code, a parametric analysis was used to estimate reduction ratios and sizes for different solar receivers. For well‐defined receiver geometries, the main results reveal consistent reduction ratios of around 99.7% and 93.53% for helical screw‐tape and wavy receivers, respectively. This translates to size reductions of approximately 0.3 and 6.5 m compared with a 100‐m‐long conventional straight receiver, respectively. By integrating the ratio and the performance evaluation criterion (PEC) into a unified metric mPEC = PEC/, which accounts for both effectiveness and size reduction, a new classification of receivers is derived, closely aligning with that obtained by the ratio. In addition, a rebalancing analysis of the increased load loss is conducted based on this ratio. It suggests that in a scenario where the wavy receiver replaces the conventional straight receiver in operation, there would be no need to increase pumping power, as its reduced size compensates for the increased pressure drop. This scenario was used to assess the economic impact of a parabolic trough collector power plant in Hassi R'mel (Algerian Sahara). Without any additional components to boost performance, the adoption of the wavy receiver led to significant gains in terms of useful surface area, cost, and length, resulting in savings of over €3.02 million for this 30 MW solar energy field.
Impacts of Double Rotating Cylinders on the Forced Convection of Nanoencapsulated Phase Change Material
Authors: Abderrahmane Aissa , Laidoudi Houssem , Ali Alhadj Hisseine Issaka , Belazreg Abdeldjalil , Younis Obai , Marzouki Riadh
Published: November 2024

Many engineering and industrial applications rely on heat transfer (HT) as a basic and central process. Therefore, engineers and researchers place significant emphasis on optimizing HT rates. Here, we numerically attempt to maximize the heat transmission rate of mixed convection of nanoencapsulated phase change material in a square compartment. The compartment is differentially heated and incorporates two cold rotating cylinders. The Galerkin finite element approach is utilized for addressing the system governing equations. A range of various factors affecting the thermal activity in the compartment were considered. These factors include the speed of spinning cylinders (Re = 0–1000), the porousness of the compartment (Da = 10−5–10−2), the magnetic field intensity (Ha = 0–100), and the concentration of nanoadditives (ϕ = 0%–8%). The obtained numerical findings demonstrated that the thermal activity inside the compartment is positively correlated to the speed of the spinning cylinders, the concentration of nanoadditives, and the porousness of the compartment. In contrast, increasing the intensity of the magnetic field obstructs the heat transmission. It was noted that at the highest Re number, the average Nusselt number augmented by 257% and 13.6% when increasing Da and ϕ, respectively.
Assessment of an oocyte retrieval simulation training program for residents: From training to clinical practice
Authors: Watelet Amélie , Brilland Benoit , El Hachem Hady , Dreux Cécile , Jeanneteau Pauline , Legendre Guillaume , Descamps Philippe , May‐Panloup Pascale , Bouet Pierre‐Emmanuel
Published: November 2024

Objective

To assess the impact of an oocyte retrieval simulation training program (ORSTP) on the clinical performance of residents.

Methods

We performed a prospective comparative study. The Simulation (S) group included oocyte retrieval (OR) performed by residents who had undergone an ORSTP before performing them on patients (n = 422 OR), and the control (C) group included OR performed by residents who had not received prior simulation training (n = 329 OR). Our main outcome measure was the OR rate (ORR) (number of oocytes collected/number of follicles aspirated) during the first 3 months of the rotation.

Results

In the S group, six residents aspirated 657 ovaries, while in the C group, five residents aspirated 508 ovaries. The mean ORR during the first 3 months of rotation were comparable between the S and C groups (59% vs. 58%, P = 0.68). ORR during the first and second month, and at the end of the rotation were also comparable between the S and C groups (54% vs. 63% [P = 0.13], 58% vs. 59% [P = 0.82], and 58% vs. 58% [P = 0.90], respectively). There was no significant difference in the rate of failed OR (ORR = 0%) (3.3% vs. 1.8%, P = 0.13) between the S and C groups. Finally, 16% of residents in the S group reported being stressed before their first OR compared to 40% in the C group (P = 0.85), and 83% of residents in the S group felt confident about the results of their retrievals compared to 20% in the C group (P = 0.13).

Conclusion

The ORSTP does not improve the residents' clinical performance, but it could decrease their stress and improve their confidence in clinical practice.
Super‐adaptive electroactive programmable adhesive materials to challenging surfaces: From intelligent soft robotics to XR haptic interfaces
Authors: Jeon Seung Hwan , Hwang Gui Won , Kim Jinhyung , Lim Dohyun , Son Yong , Yang Tae‐Heon , Kim Da Wan , Pang Changhyun
Published: November 2024

Recently, the intelligent strategies for adapting to multiple challengeable surfaces of electroactive programmable materials integrated with bio‐inspired architectures offer expanded directions beyond traditional limitations in soft grippers, medical mobile robots, and XR (Extended Reality) interfaces. These electroactive programmable adhesive materials are adaptively designed for a variety of complex surfaces, including soft, wet, non‐flat, or contamination‐susceptible feature such as bio‐surfaces and vulnerable objects. They can be produced via solution‐based methods of replica coating or 3/4‐dimensional printing. The integration of electroactive programmable materials and intelligent adhesive architecture enables super‐adaptive switchable adhesion to a variety of complex surfaces through control of physical deformation and mechanical properties at the adhesive interface, presenting a breakthrough in soft electro‐robotics and extended reality (XR) Haptic interfaces technology. These surface‐adaptive platform can provide multiple functionalities that can efficiently control physical deformations of soft bioinspired architectures or transfer physical energy (heat, vibration, pressure) into the engaged surfaces in a lightweight and human‐friendly form. This review focuses on intelligent strategies, principles, design, and fabrication methods of super‐adaptive electroactive programmable materials intelligently combined with bioinspired switchable adhesives for next‐generation human–robot interaction devices, along with current challenges and prospects.

image
The Effect of Changes in Tax Laws on Stock Liquidity: Evidence From the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
Authors: Fatemi Darius , Kim Jang‐Chul , Mazumder Sharif , Su Qing
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the effect of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) on stock liquidity. The TCJA brought significant changes, including a reduction in corporate tax rates and provisions incentivizing the repatriation of foreign earnings. We find a negative association between TCJA‐related events and the liquidity of U.S. stocks, persisting even up to 60 days following legislative announcements. However, despite the negative impact on liquidity, there is evidence of improved price efficiency following the TCJA enactment, driven by increased informed trading. Additionally, our analysis extends to non‐U.S. stocks traded in U.S. markets and indicates similar relations.
An Improvement on Triple Systems Without Two Types of Configurations
Authors: Yu Liying , Yu Shuhui , Ji Lijun
Published: November 2024

There are four nonisomorphic configurations of triples that can form a triangle in a three‐uniform hypergraph, where the configurations and on consist of three triples and , respectively. Denote by ex and ex the maximum number of triples in a three‐uniform hypergraph on vertices which does not contain , both and , respectively. Recently, Frankl et al. used theorem of Gustavsson on sufficiently dense graphs to determine ex and ex for all . In this note, we use packings and group divisible designs of block size 4 to remove the condition .
Ultrasonic Assisted Cu‐Catalyzed Intermolecular O‐Arylation of N‐Hydroxyimidoyl Chloride and 2‐Iodophenol: New Substituted Benzo[1,4,2]Dioxazine Derivatives
Authors: Nematpour Manijeh
Published: November 2024

A rapid and direct route with the help of ultrasound for the synthesis of benzo[1,4,2]dioxazine derivatives through a copper iodide‐catalyzed intermolecular O‐arylation of N‐hydroxyimidoyl chloride and 2‐iodophenol in acetonitrile solvent has been investigated. The use of cheap and available raw materials and catalysts, without column chromatography, applying the sonochemical methodology, and performing the reaction in 40–45 min, with good efficiency (71%–93%) are notable features of this protocol. This research represents a significant advancement in the synthesis of benzo[1,4,2]dioxazine derivatives.
Considerations in the development of the International Multicenter Pediatric Portal Hypertension Registry
Authors: Grammatikopoulos Tassos , Jaramillo Catalina , Molleston Jean , Pimenta Julio , Ackermann Oanez , Superina Riccardo , De Franchis Roberto , Tutan Serpil , Ling Simon , Ramamurthy Uma , Shneider Benjamin L.
Published: November 2024

Portal hypertension, a common sequela of chronic liver disease, is complicated by variceal hemorrhage, one of its most serious complications. Evidence‐based approaches to managing variceal hemorrhage are limited by the scarcity of data related to this rare entity. Multicenter international registries are increasingly utilized to garner critical information about rare diseases. The International Multicenter Pediatric Portal Hypertension Registry (IMPPHR) was developed to acquire pediatric data about the mortality of first variceal hemorrhage and approaches to primary and second prophylaxis of variceal hemorrhage with a goal of improving outcomes in children with portal hypertension. IMPPHR evolved from pediatric portal hypertension symposia at the Baveno V and VI meetings in 2010 and 2015, with a formal executive committee initiating the development of IMPPHR in 2019. The registry opened in 2020, with data closure in 2024, including information from 44 centers and >700 subjects. The complexities and approaches to developing IMPPHR are described.
The Emerging Role of Cytoreduction and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Thiels Cornelius , Grotz Travis E.
Published: November 2024

Peritoneal spread is a frequent cause of metastasis in both the synchronous and metachronous settings for patients with pancreatic cancer. Recent improvements in systemic chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer may now allow for the careful selection of patients with oligometastatic disease isolated to the peritoneum who may benefit from consolidative cytoreduction and HIPEC.
Role of Cytoreduction and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) in the Treatment of Peritoneal Carcinomatosis From Small Bowel Adenocarcinoma—A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Fernando Deemantha G. , Sparapani Rodney , Mogal Harveshp
Published: November 2024

Introduction

While systemic chemotherapy (SC) is the mainstay of treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis from small bowel adenocarcinomas (SBA‐PC), its efficacy and outcomes remain poor. Therefore, the role of curative‐intent surgery needs to be better defined. Using a systematic review and meta‐analysis, this study aims to define the role of CRS/HIPEC in patients with SBA‐PC.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed and MEDLINE following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines for studies published between 1990 and 2023. Articles were scored and incorporated within approximate normality of means/proportions formulae to compare outcomes of CRS/HIPEC and SC alone.

Results

Ten studies with 461 patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC and seven studies with 285 patients undergoing SC alone were identified. In the CRS/HIPEC group, 215 (46.6%) were male and the median age was 46.5–66 years. The primary tumor was located mostly in the duodenum (n = 169, 36.7%) and ileum (n = 108, 23.4%). Grade was unspecified in most patients (n = 232, 50.3%). Median Peritoneal Cancer Index (PCI) ranged between 10 and 12, and 93.1% underwent complete cytoreduction (CC 0/1). CRS/HIPEC‐related major morbidity and mortality was 20.7% (SD = 2.5, 95% CI 15.6–25.6) and 1.7% (SD = 0.8, 95% CI 0.1–3.3), respectively. With a median follow‐up of 21.1 (SD = 1.1, 95% CI 18.9–23.3) months, CRS/HIPEC demonstrated median overall survival of 32.3 (SD = 1.19, 95% CI 30–34.6) versus 14.5 (SD = 0.19, 95% CI 14.1–14.9) months for SC alone (p < 0.0003).

Conclusion

In comparison to SC alone, CRS/HIPEC may result in long‐term survival with acceptable perioperative morbidity, in select SBA‐PC patients with low‐volume disease undergoing complete cytoreduction.
Total knee arthroplasty: The need for better patient selection
Authors: Tampere T. , Arnout N. , Victor J.
Published: November 2024

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a widely performed surgical intervention designed to relieve pain and restore function in patients with severe knee joint degeneration, most commonly due to osteoarthritis. This procedure involves replacing the damaged knee joint with a prosthetic implant, providing significant improvements in mobility and quality of life. While TKA is beneficial for many, the individuals who stand to gain the most are those with advanced knee arthritis unresponsive to conservative treatments, typically aged 60 and above, experiencing activity‐related pain and functional limitations. Identifying patients with the highest potential for positive outcomes is critical to maximizing the benefits of this transformative surgery. Goal of this editorial is to give a critical view on today's common practice of arthroplasty surgery.
Diel dissolved organic matter patterns reflect spatiotemporally varying sources and transformations along an intermittent stream
Authors: Hale Rebecca L. , Godsey Sarah E. , Dohman Jenna M. , Warix Sara R.
Published: November 2024

Stream dissolved organic matter (DOM) is a globally important carbon flux and a locally important control on stream ecosystems, and therefore understanding controls on stream DOM fluxes and dynamics is crucial at both local and global scales. However, attributing process controls is challenging because both hydrological and biological controls on DOM are integrated and may vary over time and throughout stream networks. Our objective was to assess the patterns and corresponding controls of diel DOM cycles through a seasonal flow recession by using reach‐scale in situ sensors in a non‐perennial stream network. We identified five characteristic diel variations in DOM with differing phase and amplitude. During snowmelt flows, diel variations in DOM were consistent among sites and reflected diel flowpath shifts and photodegradation. Evapotranspiration‐driven diel stage oscillations emerged at two upstream sites, shaping diel DOM patterns indirectly, by creating conditions for instream DOM processing. At a spring‐fed site, minimal diel variation was observed throughout the summer whereas at an intermittent reach, daily drying and rewetting created biogeochemical hot moments. This research demonstrates that controls on DOM vary over time and space, even in close proximity, generating asynchronous fDOM patterns during low flows, illuminating shifts in biogeochemical processes and flowpaths.
pH‐Responsive Protein‐Polycation Nanocarriers for Efficient Eradication of Bacterial Biofilms and Intracellular Bacteria
Authors: Amier Yirixiatijiang , Ji Wenke , Xun Yang , Yu Xiao , Zhu Zhiyuan , Rao Jingyi
Published: November 2024

Bacterial biofilms and intracellular pathogens pose significant challenges in eradication, often leading to persistent infections that are difficult to treat. To address this issue, the hydrophobic biofilm dispersant D‐tyrosine is encapsulated within protein‐polycation nanoparticles, designed using a mannose‐terminated cationic polymer and concanavalin through electrostatic interactions. Thermodynamic studies reveal that free mannosyl groups on the nanoparticle surface promote spontaneous binding to receptor molecules mimicking those on bacterial biofilms and host cells. Under mildly acidic conditions, the nanoparticles reduce in size from 550 to ≈48 nm within 2 h, releasing 76% of encapsulated D‐tyrosine. The combination of mannose targeting, particle size reduction, and controlled D‐tyrosine release enable the nanoparticles to eliminate 70%–80% of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus biofilm biomass at minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and 2MBC while eradicating 8 log of bacteria embedded within the biofilm. In an intracellular Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection model using RAW 264.7 macrophages, the nanoparticles at 2MBC eliminate over 95% of the intracellular bacteria without inducing an increase in the inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐6. These protein‐polycation nanoparticles, which activate their antimicrobial properties under acidic conditions, efficiently penetrate bacterial biofilms and host cell barriers via their mannose‐rich surface, offering a promising strategy for the treatment of persistent infections.
Design and Rapid Optimization Procedure of a Compact Broadband Microstrip Diplexer for VHF/UHF Band
Authors: Feng Penghao , Huang Binke , Chen Juan , Yan Sen
Published: November 2024

In this paper, a design procedure of a compact broadband microstrip diplexer working on the Very High Frequency (VHF)/Ultrahigh Frequency (UHF) band is proposed. The diplexer consists of a fourth‐order Butterworth Low‐Pass Filter (LPF) and a sixth‐order elliptic High‐Pass Filter (HPF). The two filters are located on two substrates with a common ground. A microstrip‐to‐coaxial structure is utilized to transmit the power flow between the two substrates. For miniaturization, the utilized ideal capacitors and inductors are realized by the commercial lumped‐element capacitors and the curved microstrip line sections, respectively. All the middle design and rapid optimization processes from the schematic simulation by Advanced Design System (ADS) to the circuit simulation by CST STUDIO SUITE (CST) are given in the article. A prototype is fabricated and measured. The testing results are consistent with the simulation. The diplexer can operate at 225–775 and 880–2500 MHz. The insertion losses are 0.8 ± 0.3 and 0.9 ± 0.4 dB in the two working bandwidths. The isolation bandwidth of −20 dB level is as small as 105 MHz. The roll‐off is also sharp that the related bandwidths corresponding to the attenuation level −3 to −20d B are 90 and 30 MHz to the high and low bands, respectively. Besides, the return loss and isolation are larger than 10 and 20 dB approximately. The diplexer has a volume of 0.065 λg × 0.156 λg @775 MHz, which can be utilized to feed the miniaturized broadband VHF/UHF antenna system.
Mouse Bladder Smooth Muscle Lack the Functional Active NMDAR
Authors: Zhan Zhean , Chen Zhibin , Zheng Xiaoli , Xie Xiang , Li Guang , Chen Huan
Published: November 2024

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the role of N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptors (NMDARs) in bladder smooth muscle (BSM) function and their potential as therapeutic targets for overactive bladder conditions.

Methods

We employed a multi‐faceted approach to assess NMDAR activity in BSM. Myography was used to evaluate the effects of NMDAR antagonists and agonists on BSM contraction. Calcium imaging was conducted to determine changes in intracellular calcium ions. We also analyzed single‐cell RNA sequencing data to examine NMDAR subunit expression in bladder cell subpopulations from both human and mouse tissues. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to localize the obligate NMDAR subunit, GluN1, in mouse BSM.

Results

NMDAR agonists did not modulate BSM contractile force. NMDAR antagonists had varied effects: D‐AP5 showed no impact, CGS‐19755 significantly inhibited contraction at the highest concentration, and MK‐801 enhanced contractile force in a concentration‐dependent manner at EFS frequencies of 1, 2, and 5 Hz. Neither agonists nor antagonists, including MK‐801, induced calcium ion shifts in BSM cells. Single‐cell RNA sequencing revealed no NMDAR subunit expression in BSM cells from human or mouse tissues. Immunofluorescence confirmed GluN1 expression in pulmonary artery smooth muscle but not in BSM.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate the absence of functional active NMDARs in BSM, suggesting that the therapeutic benefits of NMDAR inhibition observed in vivo for treating overactive bladder are unlikely to be directly mediated through effects on the BSM itself. This highlights the need to explore alternative mechanisms or targets for therapeutic interventions in overactive bladder conditions.
Recent advances of interfacial modifications toward carbon fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic polypropylene and polyamide composites
Authors: Yuan Xiaomin , Wang Yongwei , Zhang Zhihua , Qin Rongman , Cao Weiwei , Zhu Bo
Published: November 2024

The performance of carbon fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic composites (CFRTP) has been restricted by the performance of the interface. In general, the interfacial properties of CFRTP are determined by both the surface properties of the carbon fiber (CF) reinforcement and the infiltration properties of the thermoplastic matrices, which possess high melt viscosity and seem difficult to sufficiently infiltrate the fiber reinforcement. As a result, the melt flow characteristics of different matrices significantly influence the interfacial melt penetration and mechanical properties of CFRTP. In this paper, in order to explore the influence of melt flow characteristics of various thermoplastic resins toward CFRTP interfacial behaviors, high‐polarity polyamide (PA) and low‐polarity polypropylene (PP) resins are selected as representative resin matrices among commonly used resin systems. Specifically, the polarity differences and interface‐forming mechanisms of CFRTP are first established. Following a systematical discourse on the latest research progress of interfacial modifications in PP/PA‐based CFRTP are described, centering on the effects of various modification methods on improving the interlaminar/interfacial strength, toughness, impact strength, and bending strength of the composites. In addition, this paper also classifies the interfacial mechanisms of CFRTP in terms of interface bonding, interface strengthening, and interface failure. Finally, the shortcomings and future research directions are pointed out to achieve effective interfacial construction and innovative modification of CFRTP.

Highlights

An introduction of resin polarity differences of CFRTP is established.

An introduction of interface‐forming mechanisms of CFRTP is established.

State‐of‐art characterization techniques of CFRPs interface are provided.

Effect of melt flow property on the interfacial behavior of CFRTP was explored.

The interfacial mechanisms are systematically analyzed.
Biomass‐based crosslinked composite anion exchange membranes using bacterial cellulose template towards enhanced ionic conductivity and alkaline stability
Authors: Nie Shijun , Li Zhengyu , Li Xinyi , Lu Xingxin , Gong Chunli , Sun Zhengguang
Published: November 2024

A balanced relationship among ionic conductivity, mechanical properties and alkaline stability of anion exchange membranes (AEMs) is essential for their practical application in fuel cells. Herein, a porous substrate (BC@LDH) with hierarchical structure was constructed using natural bacterial cellulose (BC) as a template and then in situ grew inorganic hydroxide ion conductor (layered double hydroxide, LDH). The membrane was fabricated via a filling together with sol–gel crosslinking strategy after impregnating an ionomer containing both quaternary ammonium and hydroxyl groups into the porous substrate and then crosslinked by organosiloxane. Due to the synergistic enhancement effect of BC, LDH and cross‐linking, the obtained membrane exhibited a tensile strength of 47.48 MPa that was 88.3% higher than that of the pure ionomer membrane, and showed an ionic conductivity of 70.7 mS cm−1 (80°C) which benefited from the introduction of ionic conductor LDH. More importantly, its alkaline stability was significantly improved and the residual conductivity ratio was still as high as 81.5% even after hot alkali treatment for 580 h. The direct methanol fuel cell assembled with this membrane exhibited a peak power density of 13.6 mW cm−2 with an open‐circuit voltage of 0.72 V, indicating its potential application in biomass‐based AEMs for fuel cells.

Highlights

Hierarchical porous substrate comprising LDHs anchored BC fiber was prepared.

LDH@BC served as a reinforcing substrate and an ion transport medium.

The crosslinked membrane showed significantly improved alkaline stability.

The membrane had high ionic conductivity and mechanical strength.

Providing a new way to design biomass‐based AEMs with high performance.
Heterogeneous folding landscapes and predetermined breaking points within a protein family
Authors: Pechmann Sebastian
Published: November 2024

The accurate prediction of protein structures with artificial intelligence has been a spectacular success. Yet, how proteins fold into their native structures inside the cell remains incompletely understood. Of particular interest is to rationalize how proteins interact with the protein homeostasis network, an organism specific set of protein folding and quality control enzymes. Failure of protein homeostasis leads to widespread misfolding and aggregation, and thus neurodegeneration. Here, I present a comparative analysis of the folding of 16 single‐domain proteins from the same organism across a protein family, the Saccharomyces cerevisiae small GTPases. Using computational modeling to directly probe protein folding dynamics, this work shows how near identical structures from the same folding environment can exhibit heterogeneous folding landscapes. Remarkably, yeast small GTPases are found to unfold along different pathways either via the N‐ or C‐terminus initiated by structure‐encoded predetermined breaking points. Degrons as recognition signals for ubiquitin‐dependent degradation were systematically absent from the initial unfolding sites, as if to protect from too rapid degradation upon spontaneous unfolding or before completion of the folding. The presented results highlight a direct coordination of folding pathway and protein homeostasis interaction signals across a protein family. A deeper understanding of the interdependence of proteins with their folding environment will help to rationalize and combat diseases linked to protein misfolding and dysregulation. More generally, this work underlines the importance of understanding protein folding in the cellular context, and highlights valuable constraints towards a systems‐level understanding of protein homeostasis.
Low‐dimensional neural ordinary differential equations accounting for inter‐individual variability implemented in Monolix and NONMEM
Authors: Bräm Dominic Stefan , Steiert Bernhard , Pfister Marc , Steffens Britta , Koch Gilbert
Published: November 2024

Neural ordinary differential equations (NODEs) are an emerging machine learning (ML) method to model pharmacometric (PMX) data. Combining mechanism‐based components to describe “known parts” and neural networks to learn “unknown parts” is a promising ML‐based PMX approach. In this work, the implementation of low‐dimensional NODEs in two widely applied PMX software packages (Monolix and NONMEM) is explained. Inter‐individual variability is introduced to NODEs and proposals for the practical implementation of NODEs in such software are presented. The potential of such implementations is shown on various demonstrational datasets available in the Monolix model library, including pharmacokinetic (PK), pharmacodynamic (PD), target‐mediated drug disposition (TMDD), and survival analyses. All datasets were fitted with NODEs in Monolix and NONMEM and showed comparable results to classical modeling approaches. Model codes for demonstrated PK, PKPD, TMDD applications are made available, allowing a reproducible and straight‐forward implementation of NODEs in available PMX software packages.
Efficient Homogenization of Multicomponent Metamaterials: Chiral Effects
Authors: Mochán Wolf Luis , López‐Reyna Andrea , Ortiz Guillermo P.
Published: November 2024

Herein, an efficient homogenization procedure is extended based on a Haydock representation of the microscopic wave operator for the calculation of the retarded macroscopic dielectric response of a binary periodic composite to the case of an arbitrary number of components of arbitrary composition. As a test, this numerical procedure is applied to the calculation of the optical properties of a Bouligand structure, made up of a large number of anisotropic layers stacked on top of each other and progressively rotated. This system constitutes a photonic crystal with circularly polarized electromagnetic normal modes, naturally occurring in the cuticle of several arthropods. It presents a gap for one helicity, which corresponds to the observation of circularly polarized strong metallic like reflections. This numerical procedure is validated through its good agreement with the results of alternative formulations, including an analytical solution for this simple chiral system.
(Re)membering Home(lands): Generative Analysis of Human Displacement in Children's Literature
Authors: Strekalova‐Hughes Ekaterina , Peterman Nora , Minaya Richard
Published: November 2024

Children's literature is a powerful pedagogical tool within culturally sustaining literacy classrooms. Drawing from generative metanarrative theory of human displacement, culturally sustaining pedagogies, and critical refugee studies, this research investigates how representations of home(lands) in 30 acclaimed picturebooks about children who experienced displacement could affirm critically informed history and cultivate cultural sustenance. We analyze the narrative structures of time space (chronotope) within and across these stories, as well as the substance therein, identifying troubling generic patterns. We propose strategies for remembering home(lands) through acts of collective imagining.
Understanding an exceptional Afropollis‐dominated flora in the middle Cretaceous palaeotropics of the southern Tethys
Authors: El Atfy Haytham , Coiffard Clément , El Beialy Salah Y. , Doyle James A.
Published: November 2024

Afropollis is a common element in Cretaceous low‐latitude palynofloras ranging from the Barremian to the Cenomanian. Despite an abundant fossil record, its affinities are still elusive. Nine Afropollis‐rich subsurface samples from the Cenomanian Bahariya Formation in the northern part of the Western Desert of Egypt were palynologically analysed, and the palynoflora was compared with previously published material. The geographical distribution of Afropollis‐yielding strata was compared with known macrofloras. The Bahariya material yielded a distinct palynomorph assemblage dominated by an unusually high frequency of Afropollis jardinus, reaching up to 60.7% of the total palynomorph count. The dominance of A. jardinus may be ecologically related to a near‐coastal lacustrine or lagoonal environment. Its association with two kinds of macrofloras suggests that the plants producing A. jardinus may have been part of a tropical azonal vegetation type, either aquatic or mangrove‐like.
Nest‐site fidelity of Arctic terns Sterna paradisaea in a managed environment exposed to benign human activity
Authors: Redfern Chris P. F. , Steel David
Published: November 2024

Human activity near seabird colonies is often equated with disturbance. Coping with human disturbance is a critical task in the management of seabird colonies where human access is an issue. Nest‐site fidelity and breeding dispersal were characterised in an Arctic tern population exposed to a high level of benign human activity from resident conservation staff and public visitors. The annual return rate of nesting birds was 90% over the 10‐year study period. Nest‐site fidelity was high with most birds returning to the same 2 × 2 m square in subsequent years, in particular to nest sites that were against walls and exposed to a high level of human activity at close range. This indicates that human activity was not a deterrent to nesting by Arctic terns. Breeding dispersal to other nearby colonies was low, except when related to colony abandonment. The data suggest that benign human activity from resident staff and public visitors can be a positive benefit, both within and across years, to Arctic tern colonies. Managed public access could be considered an effective management tool for Arctic tern conservation, as well as seabird colonies more widely.
Mining and the Formation of Modern Geology
Authors: Felten Sebastian
Published: November 2024

Mining mineral resources and knowing the Earth are historically entwined activities. This connex of practical and theoretical interest in the Earth has long been noted by historians of science. This historiographical chapter uses Vaccari and Morello’s survey as a starting point. It revisits the idea that an eighteenth-century conjuncture of mining and scholarship brought about modern geology, tracing some strands of this narrative into the period of institutional entrenchment and global diffusion in the nineteenth century. It surveys canonical and recent works in the history of geology. Section 2 situates the interaction of mining and geology in a broader debate on practical and theoretical knowledge in the Scientific and Industrial Revolution. Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 describe four ways in which historians have found mining (including other forms of earthwork like digging canals or quarrying) to have shaped the modern earth sciences. Section 7 points to a new avenue for research about the interface between mining and science: the impact of specifically bureaucratic knowledge production on modern geology during its formation. The Conclusion asks how the interaction between mining and science was shaped, or even constituted, by social mechanisms of inclusion and exclusion based on class/status, gender, and race.
Stochastic Fluids with Transport Noise: Approximating Diffusion from Data Using SVD and Ensemble Forecast Back-Propagation
Authors: Woodfield James
Published: November 2024

We introduce and test methods for the calibration of the diffusion term in Stochastic Partial Differential Equations (SPDEs) describing fluids. We take two approaches, one uses ideas from the singular value decomposition and the Biot-Savart law. The other backpropagates through an ensemble forecast, with respect to diffusion parameters, to minimise a probabilistic ensemble forecasting metric. We describe the approaches in the specific context of solutions to SPDEs describing the evolution of fluid particles, sometimes called inviscid vortex methods. The methods are tested in an idealised setting in which the reference data is a known realisation of the parameterised SPDE, and also using a forecast verification metric known as the Continuous Rank Probability Score (CRPS).
An imperative study of the angular observables in $$ {\Lambda}_b\to {\Lambda}_c^{+}\left(\to \Lambda {\pi}^{+}\right){\ell}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\ell } $$ decay and probing the footprint of new physics
Authors: Nandi Soumitra , Sahoo Shantanu , Sain Ria
Published: November 2024

Abstract

We study the four-fold angular distribution of the semileptonic $$ {\Lambda}_b\to {\Lambda}_c^{+}\left(\to \Lambda {\pi}^{+}\right){\ell}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\ell } $$

Λ
b

→

Λ
c
+

→
Λ

π
+

ℓ
−

ν
¯

ℓ

decay and find out analytical expressions for various asymmetric and angular observables in the standard model (SM) and the relevant new physics (NP) scenarios. Using the available inputs on the form factors from the lattice, we predict the values with uncertainties of all these observables in the SM. We have considered NP effects only in $$ b\to c{\tau}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\tau } $$
b
→
c

τ
−

ν
¯

τ

transitions, and constrain the Wilson coefficients of the model-independent beyond the SM operators from the available data on B → D(*)ℓνℓ and $$ {\Lambda}_b\to {\Lambda}_c^{+}{\ell}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\ell } $$

Λ
b

→

Λ
c
+

ℓ
−

ν
¯

ℓ

decays. In this study, we focus on analysing the contributions to these decays in one- and two-operator scenarios. Furthermore, we test the new physics sensitivities (one or two-operator scenarios) of the different angular and asymmetric observables in $$ {\Lambda}_b\to {\Lambda}_c^{+}\left(\to \Lambda {\pi}^{+}\right){\tau}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\tau } $$

Λ
b

→

Λ
c
+

→
Λ

π
+

τ
−

ν
¯

τ

decays and discuss the phenomenology. We observe that it will be possible to distinguish the different NP effects from one another by measuring these observables.
Totally Symmetric Self-Complementary Plane Partition Matrices and Related Polytopes
Authors: Holmlund Vincent , Striker Jessica
Published: November 2024

Plane partitions in the totally symmetric self-complementary symmetry class (TSSCPPs) are known to be equinumerous with $$n\times n$$

n
×
n

alternating sign matrices, but no explicit bijection is known. In this paper, we give a bijection from these plane partitions to $$\{0,1,-1\}$$

{
0
,
1
,
-
1
}

-matrices we call magog matrices, some of which are alternating sign matrices. We explore enumerative properties of these matrices related to natural statistics such as inversion number and number of negative ones. We then investigate the polytope defined as their convex hull. We show that all the magog matrices are extreme and give a partial inequality description. Finally, we define another TSSCPP polytope as the convex hull of TSSCPP boolean triangles and determine its dimension, inequalities, vertices, and facets.
Emerging socioeconomic correlates of loneliness. Evidence from the Barcelona Health Survey 2021
Authors: Mangot-Sala Lluís , Bartoll-Roca Xavier , Sánchez-Ledesma Esther , Cortés-Albaladejo Mònica , Liefbroer Aart C. , Pérez Katherine
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Recent evidence shows that loneliness is associated with socioeconomic factors. However, studies often focus on traditional socioeconomic indicators (income, occupation, educational level) only, disregarding other important socioeconomic determinants, such as job insecurity, housing conditions or material deprivation. Therefore, we analyse the association of a broad range of socioeconomic indicators with loneliness. Moreover, we investigate potential age and gender differences in this relationship.

Methods

We used cross-sectional data from the Barcelona Health Survey 2021, representative of the population of Barcelona (Spain). Individuals over the age of 14 were selected (n = 3,337). The outcome was a loneliness score based on 4 items of the UCLA scale. Loneliness was regressed on a series of sociodemographic and emerging socioeconomic correlates. Linear regression models were fitted, and potential age and gender moderation effects were tested by means of two-way interactions.

Results

Job insecurity and precarity-related factors, such as having a temporary job or working without a contract, material deprivation and financial difficulties, as well as poor housing conditions and facing housing insecurity were associated with increased loneliness levels. While the association between loneliness and precarity-related factors is stronger among younger individuals, material deprivation is associated with increased loneliness among older workers and women.

Conclusion

Beyond sociodemographic individual characteristics, socioeconomic factors are strongly associated with loneliness levels in the population. Findings support the relevance of broadening the scope of socioeconomic indicators, assessing both material conditions as well as perceived insecurity.
Quantitative distribution of essential elements and non-essential metals in breast cancer tissues by LA-ICP-TOF–MS
Authors: Escudero-Cernuda Sara , Clases David , Eiro Noemi , González Luis O. , Fraile María , Vizoso Francisco J. , Fernández-Sánchez María Luisa , Gonzalez de Vega Raquel
Published: November 2024

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide, making the discovery and quantification of new biomarkers essential for improving diagnostic and preventive strategies to limit dissemination and improve prognosis. Essential trace metals such as Fe, Cu, and Zn may play critical roles in the pathophysiology of both benign and malignant breast tumors. However, due to the high metabolic activity and reduced element selectivity of cancer cells, also non-essential elements may be taken up and may even be implicated with disease progression. This study investigates the spatial distribution and concentrations of both essential and non-essential elements in breast tissues, assessing their potential for diagnostic applications. Laser ablation (LA)–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) with a time-of-flight (ToF) mass analyzer (LA-ICP-ToF–MS) was used to inquire the distribution of almost all elements across the periodic table and their abundance in metastatic (n = 11), non-metastatic (n = 7), and healthy (n = 4) breast tissues. Quantification was achieved using gelatine-based standards for external calibration to quantitatively map various elements. Overall, the Fe, Cu, Zn, Sr, and Ba levels were significantly increased in tumor samples with Sr and Ba showing strong correlation, likely due to their similar chemistry. Comparison of calibrated LA-ICP-ToF–MS data with a histologic staining demonstrated the possibility to clearly differentiate between various tissue types and structures in breast tissues such as tumor niche and stroma. The levels of the studied elements were significantly higher in the tumor niche areas compared to the stroma, and for Fe, a significant accumulation was observed in the tumor niche areas from the metastatic patient group relative to the levels found in the same areas of the non-metastatic group.

Graphical Abstract

LA-ICP-ToF–MS was used to quantitatively map the biodistribution of essential and non-essential elements in metastatic and non-metastatic breast cancer tissues.
$$\varvec{\Gamma }$$-Convergence and Stochastic Homogenization of Second-Order Singular Perturbation Models for Phase Transitions
Authors: Donnarumma Antonio Flavio
Published: November 2024

We study the effective behavior of random, heterogeneous, anisotropic, second-order phase transitions energies that arise in the study of pattern formations in physical–chemical systems. Specifically, we study the asymptotic behavior, as

$$\varepsilon $$

ε

goes to zero, of random heterogeneous anisotropic functionals in which the second-order perturbation competes not only with a double well potential but also with a possibly negative contribution given by the first-order term. We prove that, under suitable growth conditions and under a stationarity assumption, the functionals

$$\Gamma $$

Γ

-converge almost surely to a surface energy whose density is independent of the space variable. Furthermore, we show that the limit surface density can be described via a suitable cell formula and is deterministic when ergodicity is assumed.
Challenges in the terminology of second-degree atrioventricular block
Authors: Barold S. Serge , Israel Carsten W. , Herweg Bengt
Published: November 2024

The terminology of second-degree atrioventricular block has evolved over time, thereby creating some confusion and misinterpretations. Strict adherence to standard terminology and the appropriate use of eponyms are important to avoid diagnostic errors.
Persistent pulmonary hypertension in children after apparent resolution of ultrasound-defined pulmonary hypertension associated with bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Takeoka Mami , Sawada Hirofumi , Mitani Yoshihide , Ohashi Hiroyuki , Yodoya Noriko , Ohya Kazunobu , Tsuboya Naoki , Harada Tomoya , Hirayama Masahiro
Published: November 2024

To evaluate pulmonary hemodynamics in patients who had been followed up for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD)-associated pulmonary hypertension (PH) in the mid-term by right heart catheterization (RHC). A retrospective study was conducted among 56 patients who were born at a gestational age < 28 weeks during 2018–2020, and the consecutive patients complicated by BPD and ultrasound-defined PH (n = 10, 18%), of whom 7 patients were treated with sildenafil, were examined by RHC in the mid-term follow-up (median age: 25 months [IQR: 19–32]). Ultrasound study at RHC showed improvement in PH as represented by left ventricular end-systolic eccentricity index (median [IQR], 1.05 [IQR: 1.03–1.06] vs. 1.18 [IQR: 1.15–1.33]), pulmonary artery acceleration time (PAAT) (mean ± SD, 97.3 ± 18.2 vs. 55.2 ± 10.1) and a ratio of PAAT to right ventricular ejection time (0.35 ± 0.05 vs. 0.25 ± 0.04) compared with those at 40 weeks of postmenstrual age (PMA) (p < 0.05, respectively). RHC (mean pulmonary artery [PA] pressure: 21 [19–22] mmHg; pulmonary vascular resistance index [PVRi]: 2.63 [1.95–2.94] Wood Units·m2) revealed that 5 infants (50%) had mild PH (21–24 mmHg) and reduced peripheral PAs by pulmonary wedge angiography. The presence of emphysema on chest CT at 40 weeks of PMA and moderate/marked reduction of contrast filling in peripheral PAs on angiography were correlated with increased PVRi (p < 0.05, respectively).

Conclusion: We observed that even after apparent resolution of ultrasound-defined PH, half of patients had catheterization-defined PH and vasculopathy at 2 years of age. These findings warrant long-term follow-up studies of BPD-associated PH.

What is Known:
• Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is associated with increased mortality in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia 
(BPD). Mortality in patients with BPD-associated PH predominantly occurs within the first 6 months of life and most 
patients who survive beyond 6 months show resolution of PH on echocardiography by 2 to 3 years of age.
What is New:
• Even after the resolution of echocardiography-derived PH in infants with BPD-associated PH in the mid-term, the majority of such patients have abnormal pulmonary vasculature with PH or mildly elevated pulmonary artery pressure on right heart catheterization (RHC), indicating that echocardiography is insufficient and RHC may be 
necessary to follow up this population of patients.