bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abiotic crust formation in fallow agricultural desert soils through carbonate cementation reduces fugitive dust
Authors: Scott Brian , Zaloumis Jon L. , Salifu Emmanuel , Adegoke Adesola H. , Alaufi Salim , Fraser Matthew , Kavazanjian Edward , Garcia-Pichel Ferran
Published: November 2024

Unconsolidated soils typically develop a physical surface crust after wetting and drying. We reproduced this process in the laboratory by wetting with fog and simulated rain on fallow agricultural soils from 26 locations, representing 15 soil types from Pinal County, Arizona. Through correlative analyses, we found that carbonate content was a strong predictor of physical crust strength with fog (p < 0.0001, R2 = 0.48) and rain (p = 0.004, R2 = 0.30). Clay content increased crust strength (p = 0.04) but was not a useful predictor. Our results extend the current understanding of the soil crusting process by highlighting the preeminence of carbonate cementation in desert agricultural soils. Consequently, we identify carbonate as a pragmatic tool for estimating crust strength, a surrogate measure of a soil’s potential to produce fugitive dust, which can help prioritize interventions to curb airborne dust in arid lands.
Dynamics of turbulence production by attenuating interfacial gravity waves observed in air–water coupled wave-resolving simulation
Authors: Fujiwara Yasushi
Published: November 2024

Even without breaking or wind influence, ocean surface waves are observed to produce turbulence in the water, possibly influencing ocean surface dynamics and air–sea interactions. Based on the water-side free-surface simulations, recent studies suggest that such turbulence is produced through the interaction between the waves and the near-surface Eulerian current associated with the viscous attenuation of waves. To clarify the dynamical role of the air–water interface in the turbulence production, the attenuating interfacial gravity waves were simulated directly using a newly developed two-phase wave-resolving numerical model. The air–water coupling enhanced the wave energy dissipation through the formation of a strong shear at the air-side viscous boundary layer. This led to an enhancement of the wave-to-current momentum transfer and the formation of the down-wave Eulerian mean sheared current, which is favourable for the CL2 instability responsible for the production of Langmuir circulations. As a result, the water-side turbulence grew stronger compared with the corresponding free surface (water-only) wave-resolving simulation. The evolution of the wave-averaged field was well reproduced with the Craik–Leibovich equation with the upper boundary condition provided with the virtual wave stress based on linear theory. The wave energy dissipation by air–water coupling plays a significant role in the quantitative understanding of the wave-induced turbulence at the laboratory and field scales.
“Natives Around the Township”: State Spaces and the Struggle for Karamoja's Future, 1950–66
Authors: Meyerson Samuel
Published: November 2024

At the moment of independence, the Karamoja region of northeastern Uganda occupied a unique position within the Ugandan state. Local communities existed largely outside the sovereignty of the state and remained disinvested from its politico-economic institutions, and policymakers saw Karamoja as a problematic challenge to their agendas of development, security, and nation-building. I contend that, in the years surrounding Uganda's independence, government officials, rural communities, and a small emergent local elite fiercely debated Karamoja's place in the Ugandan state in state spaces such as government headquarters, trading centers, and barazas. Examining these contestations in state spaces allows us to map the indigenous political epistemologies of Karamoja against the epistemology of statehood and demonstrates the diversity of political thought that existed in Karamoja. A look at political debates in Karamoja at the moment of independence also sheds light on gaps within the historiographies of belonging and marginality in African states and addresses Karamoja's exclusion from the historiography of Uganda.
Performance of a new evaporative misting system based on photovoltaic/thermal and ventilation heat exchange in sow farms: a case study in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Xie Yue , Li Qinghua , Ma Hongqiang , Wang Jiajun , Wang Shengxun
Published: November 2024

In order to improve the regional applicability of existing evaporative misting systems, a new evaporative misting system based on photovoltaic/thermal and ventilation heat exchange is proposed for sow farms. Compared to traditional systems, the proposed system can help to improve their regional applicability and reduce their energy consumption. Meanwhile, its simulation model is constructed and the reliability is verified for its core equipment. The maximum error is less than 14.5% for the above models. Through simulation, the optimal regulation variable ranges in the proposed system are determined for mass flow rate of working fluid (MFWF) and misting power by analysing its operating characteristics. The results show that its optimal ranges of MFWF and misting power are 7245–9245 kg/h and 40–45 kW, respectively. The annual performance is further quantified and analysed under different load ratios for the proposed system in Guangzhou. It can be found that the annual exergy loss, heat exchange coefficient and solar energy benefits of the proposed system in Guangzhou are negatively correlated with load ratio, but its annual energy consumption and energy efficiency ratio are positively correlated. Meanwhile, the system performance and benefits are not significantly improved by increasing device investment and sow density when load ratio exceeds 120% in sow farms. The above conclusion can contribute to improving the existing evaporative misting systems in sow farms and guiding the operating regulation of the proposed system.
Taxonomic summary of Schyzocotyle (Cestoda: Bothriocephalidae) with a redescription of Schyzocotyle nayarensis (Malhotra, 1983) from India
Authors: Marick J. , Choudhury A. , Scholz T. , Biswas R. , Ash A.
Published: November 2024

In this study, we use an integrative taxonomic approach to redescribe Schyzocotyle nayarensis (Malhotra, 1983) (Cestoda: Bothriocephalidae), based on newly collected specimens from the type-host Raiamas bola (Hamilton, 1822) (Cypriniformes: Danionidae) in Fulbari, Siliguri, West Bengal, India. The detailed morphological assessment, from whole mounts, histology and scanning electron microscopy, offers additional insights into the scolex structure, vitelline follicles, and egg morphology. Molecular data from this and previous studies corroborate the identity and systematics of S. nayarensis as a bothriocephalid closely related to the Asian Fish Tapeworm, Schyzocotyle acheilognathi (Yamaguti, 1934). This study elucidates the historical context and taxonomic ambiguities surrounding S. nayarensis, emphasizing the key role of the scolex in both generic and species identification. Amendments to the diagnosis of Schyzocotyle Akhmerov, 1960 are proposed. A differential diagnosis of the two valid species within the genus, namely S. acheilognathi and S. nayarensis, is also provided. An evaluation of the taxonomic status of Bothriocephalus teleostei Malhotra, 1984, and Capooria barilii Malhotra, 1985 suggests that they may be S. nayarensis. Finally, we posit that none of the ten species of Ptychobothrium Lönnberg, 1889 described from Indian freshwater teleosts belong to this genus but instead appear to be a mix of species belonging to Schyzocotyle, Senga Dollfus, 1934, and possibly even Proteocephalidae La Rue, 1911; all require further study based on newly collected, properly fixed specimens and an integrated taxonomic approach. Finally, future survey studies may reveal hidden diversity of Schyzocotyle species in Indian cyprinoids.
Exploring South Africa's hidden marine parasite diversity: two new marine Ergasilus species (Copepoda: Cyclopoida: Ergasilidae) from the Evileye blaasop, Amblyrhynchote honckenii (Bloch)
Authors: van der Spuy Linda , Narciso Rodrigo B. , Hadfield Kerry A. , Wepener Victor , Smit Nico J.
Published: November 2024

Marine parasites remain understudied in South Africa with little information available on their diversity and the effects these parasites may have on their hosts. This is especially true for parasitic copepods within the family Ergasilidae. Among the 4 genera known in Africa, Ergasilus Nordmann, 1832 is the most speciose with 19 reported species. However, this represents only 12% (19/163) of the global diversity. Furthermore, only 5 known African species are reported from marine environments, and only 1 is reported from the South African coastline. Given the rich biodiversity along this coastline, a high marine parasite diversity could be expected from these shores. As a case study, the Evileye blaasop, Amblyrhynchote honckenii (Bloch), a marine and brackish fish species, was screened for parasites along the South African coastline. This resulted in the discovery of 2 species of Ergasilus new to science (Ergasilus arenalbus n. sp. and Ergasilus chintensis n. sp.), which makes them the second and third ergasilid species reported for tetraodontid pufferfishes worldwide. Although genetically distinct, the 2 newly described species clustered in the same subclade within the Ergasilidae based on 18S rDNA, 28S rDNA and COI mtDNA phylogenies. The newly described species differ morphologically from each other, and their respective congeners based on the size and armature of the antenna; body segmentation; and general ornamentation throughout the entire body. The addition of these 2 new species from a single host species indicates that South Africa's marine fishes contain most probably a hidden parasitic copepod diversity that is worth exploring.
Impact of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on clinical manifestations in autism spectrum disorders: an umbrella review of meta-analyses
Authors: Abbasi Hamid , Parhiz Abdolrahman , Khoshdooz Sara , Bakhshimoghaddam Farnush , Doaei Saeid , Gholamalizadeh Maryam
Published: November 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition. Omega-3 fatty acid insufficiency has been linked to ASD. This umbrella meta-analysis was performed to investigate the effects of omega-3 supplementation on clinical manifestations in participants with ASD. Based on the PRISMA statement, databases including Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus were systematically searched for published meta-analyses on the effect of omega-3 supplementation on ASD up to December 2023. To assess the risk of bias, the assessment of multiple systematic reviews (AMSTAR)-2 was utilised. The outcomes were core and non-core symptoms of ASD including social withdrawal/lethargy, cluttering speech, hyperactivity, irritability and stereotypy. Seven meta-analyses eventually remained in the umbrella review. The results revealed that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation caused a significant reduction in cluttering speech in studies conducted on age ≤8 years (effect size (ES) −0·30; 95% confidence interval (CI) −0·55, −0·06; P = 0·02). Omega-3 supplementation caused a significant reduction in hyperactivity in participants ≤8 years (ES −0·30; 95% CI −0·55, −0·06; P = 0·02) and in participants who received the supplements for more than 14 weeks (ES −0·30; 95% CI −0·55, −0·06; P = 0·02). A dosage of ≤1000 mg/d of omega-3 supplementation led to a significant increase in the stereotypy/restricted and repetitive interests and behaviours (ES 0·19; 95% CI 0·03, 0·35; P = 0·02). This umbrella review revealed that omega-3 fatty acid may be a beneficial supplement to control cluttering speech and hyperactivity in children with ASD who are 8 years old or younger.
Navigating healthcare during a pandemic: what parents of CHD children want healthcare professionals to know
Authors: Harvey Kayla A. , Holt Tracy D.
Published: November 2024

Background:

The COVID pandemic has had deleterious effects on the mental health of the global population. Parents of children with CHD were particularly vulnerable to negative mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and perceived stress. A better understanding of the CHD parent experiences, needs, and concerns while navigating the healthcare system during a pandemic is needed.

Methods:

Online survey responses from 71 parents of young children with CHD representing families across the United States of America and Canada were analysed. Qualitative data were collected one year into the COVID pandemic. Thematic analysis was used to examine responses to the open-ended question “What would you like healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses) to know about your experience of being a parent with a child with CHD during the COVID-19 pandemic?.”

Results:

Two major themes with subthemes and an umbrella theme emerged from the parents’ responses (1) Pandemic Parenting: The Emotional Toll of Hospital Visitation Restrictions, Dealing with Social Distancing, Feeling Isolated, Decision Making in Uncertainty, and Playing it Safe versus Returning to Normal and (2) Unmet Expectations of Care: Needing Information, Wanting Empathy, Requesting Respect, Questioning Care Quality, and the umbrella theme of: Our Lives were Turned Upside Down.

Conclusion:

CHD parents describe a negative impact of healthcare-related challenges during the COVID pandemic. These findings may offer insight to how healthcare professionals can better support the mental health and care burden of CHD parents during future pandemics.
To prevent sudden death in m.3243A>G carriers, comprehensive neurologic, cardiac, and pulmological examinations are required
Authors: Mehri Sounira , Finsterer Josef
Published: November 2024

The interesting study has limitations that put the results and their interpretation into perspective. m.3243A>G carriers should undergo prospective testing for multisystem disease to avoid missing subclinical multisystem involvement. m.3243A>G carriers with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy require long-term electrocardiogram recordings to determine whether implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation is necessary or not. To assess the outcome of m.3243A>G carriers, knowledge of heteroplasmy rates and mtDNA copy numbers is required. It is tempting to assign pathogenicity when any pathogenic variant is seen with genotype-phenotype correlation. However, double hits are possible and if genetic information is to be used to screen or risk-stratify other family members, the standard of care would be to ensure that post-mortem genetic autopsy is performed for a panel of causative genes, and that an autopsy is done to exclude other causes of death, if possible.
Cyber risk within capital models
Authors: Grewal Jasvir , Cartagena Simon
Published: November 2024

The (re)insurance industry is maturing in its ability to measure and quantify Cyber Risk. The risk and threat landscapes around cyber continue to evolve, in some cases rapidly. The threat actor environment can change, as well as the exposure base, depending on a variety of external factors such as political, economic and technological factors. The rapidly changing environment poses interesting challenges for the risk and capital actuaries across the market. The ability to accurately reflect all sources of material losses from cyber events is challenging for capital models and the validation exercise. Furthermore, having a robust enterprise risk management (ERM) framework supporting the business to evaluate Cyber Risk is an important consideration to give the board comfort that Cyber Risk is being effectively understood and managed by the business. This paper discusses Cyber Risk in relation to important risk and capital model topics that actuaries should be considering. It is challenging for the capital models to model this rapidly changing risk in a proportionate way that can be communicated to stakeholders. As model vendors continue to mature and update models, the validation of these models and the ultimate cyber capital allocation is even more complex. One’s view of risk could change rapidly from year to year, depending on the threat or exposure landscape as demonstrated by the ransomware trends in recent years. This paper has been prepared primarily with General Insurers in mind. However, the broader aspects of capital modelling, dependencies and ERM framework are relevant to all disciplines of the profession.
Handling cyberspace's state of intermediacy through existing international law
Authors: Giovannelli Davide
Published: November 2024

How international law applies to the use of information and communications technology by States is still a matter of discussion. Against this background, cyberspace has become the main area of competition between States, and this competition, to put it simply, is resulting in a constant low-intensity warfare below the threshold for a use of force. Such low-intensity cyber warfare, from a legal point of view, revitalizes the debate over the concept of a “state of intermediacy” that has the potential to overcome the dichotomy between peace and war. In the present author's opinion, this state of intermediacy also supports the idea that the international humanitarian law (IHL) principle of distinction should be applied, even before the eruption of a full-scale war, whenever wartime means and capabilities are employed by States. This paper argues that some opacities in international law have created favourable conditions for such constant low-intensity warfare, and that tackling the identified opacities would therefore be beneficial in order to achieve a more peaceful cyberspace. Thus, the paper goes on to address one of the identified opacities, namely the definition of espionage under international law, because, as international law now stands, it does not allow us to tackle the other identified opacities. Finally, the paper discusses how the proposed narrow interpretation of espionage can cope with the IHL principle of distinction in the cyber domain.
Characterizing the Impacts of 2024 Total Solar Eclipse Using New York State Mesonet Data
Authors: Wang Junhong , Dai Aiguo , Yu Chau‐Lam , Shrestha Bhupal , McGuinnes D. J. , Bain Nathan
Published: November 2024

On 8 April 2024, a rare total solar eclipse (TSE) passed over western New York State (NYS), the first since 1925 and the last one until 2079. The NYS Mesonet (NYSM) consisting of 126 weather stations with 55 on the totality path provides unprecedented surface, profile, and flux data and camera images during the TSE. Here we use NYSM observations to characterize the TSE's impacts at the surface, in the planetary boundary layer (PBL), and on surface fluxes and CO2 concentrations. The TSE‐induced peak surface cooling occurs 17 min after the totality and is 2.8°C on average with a maximum of 6.8°C. It results in night‐like surface inversion, calm winds, and reduced vertical motion and mixing, leading to the shallowing of the PBL and its moistening. Surface sensible, latent and ground heat fluxes all decrease whereas near‐surface CO2 concentration rises as photosynthesis slows down.
Combination strategies with PARP inhibitors in BRCA-mutated triple-negative breast cancer: overcoming resistance mechanisms
Authors: Jain Aditi , Barge Alan , Parris Christopher N.
Published: November 2024

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a particularly aggressive breast cancer subtype, characterised by a higher incidence in younger women, rapid metastasis, and a generally poor prognosis. Patients with TNBC and BRCA mutations face additional therapeutic challenges due to the cancer’s intrinsic resistance to conventional therapies. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPis) have emerged as a promising targeted treatment for BRCA-mutated TNBC, exploiting vulnerabilities in the homologous recombination repair (HRR) pathway. However, despite initial success, the efficacy of PARPis is often compromised by the development of resistance mechanisms, including HRR restoration, stabilisation of replication forks, reduced PARP1 trapping, and drug efflux. This review explores latest breakthroughs in overcoming PARPi resistance through combination therapies. These strategies include the integration of PARPis with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, antibody-drug conjugates, and PI3K/AKT pathway inhibitors. These combinations aim to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of PARPis by targeting multiple cancer progression pathways. The review also discusses the evolving role of PARPis within the broader treatment paradigm for BRCA-mutated TNBC, emphasising the need for ongoing research and clinical trials to optimise combination strategies. By tackling the challenges associated with PARPi resistance and exploring novel combination therapies, this review sheds light on the future possibilities for improving outcomes for patients with BRCA-mutated TNBC.
Development of a dynamic clinical assessment for finals
Authors: Mullan Francesca , Rolland Sarah , Desai Hannah , Stone Simon James , Bateman Heidi Louise
Published: November 2024

Different dental schools assess ‘finals' in different ways. Assessment of applied clinical knowledge and skills are commonly based on either objective structured clinical examinations or multiple ‘long cases'. While iterative changes naturally occur throughout education and assessment, it is important to step back and question what skills should be assessed and either identify or develop new assessment methods. At the point of graduation, these should capture the professional attributes expected of a ‘qualified dentist'. New graduate attributes we consider valuable, which can often be challenging to assess summatively in a high-stakes examination, include effective communication skills in a variety of contexts, the ability to be reactive and responsive, and to manage case complexity appropriately for the graduate level.

Here, we report a dynamic assessment incorporating candidate interaction with a range of stakeholders. To reflect progression of changing clinical situations, we move away from solely traditional case-based discussions, which principally assess interaction with an examiner, and have introduced multiple scenarios with rapid situation changes, long-term follow-up, treatment complications and challenging communications. A cross-cutting assessment rubric was developed to assess candidates' information gathering/giving, communication, clinical and diagnostic reasoning, applied knowledge, management and professionalism.
Understanding demographic events and migration patterns in two urban slums of Nairobi City in Kenya
Authors: Omondi Evans , Iddi Samuel , Chepkemoi Sharon , Mugotitsa Bylhah , Cygu Steve , Okumu Boscow , Ziraba Abdhalah , Kadengye Damazo T. , Kiragga Agnes
Published: November 2024

Understanding the dynamics of movements between different demographic events is essential for informing effective population management strategies. This study aims to characterize the trajectories of demographic and other vital events within the Nairobi Urban Health and Demographic Surveillance System (NUHDSS). Thus, it intends to unravel patterns and trends that can guide the development of targeted policies and interventions to address the population’s evolving needs. Using a continuous-time homogeneous multi-state Markov model, longitudinal data from 223,350 individuals in Korogocho and Viwandani urban slums, we study the enumeration, births, deaths, and migrations among urban poor in Nairobi, shedding light on population dynamics and movements over time, disaggregated by gender. Findings indicate a positive net migration in population per thousand in 2002, dropping in 2004, with Viwandani consistently showing higher birth rates than Korogocho. Males generally have higher death rates than females. Females from Viwandani are 39.0% more likely to exit after enumeration compared to Korogocho, while males are 35.6% more likely to move from enumeration to exit compared to males from Korogocho. Both genders from Viwandani have a decreased likelihood of moving from birth to death compared to Korogocho. Our findings provide unique insights into migration in urban Kenya, the frequency and movement to different demographic events and any gender differences that warrant strategic policies for effective population and health planning in Africa. These findings can inform the design of effective health interventions that are often affected by migration and population growth.
Strategies for resolving challenging psychedelic experiences: insights from a mixed-methods study
Authors: Wood Maximillian J. , McAlpine Rosalind G. , Kamboj Sunjeev K.
Published: November 2024

Psychedelic substances are garnering renewed interest for their potential therapeutic applications, yet the mechanisms by which challenging experiences during psychedelic use contribute to positive outcomes remains poorly understood. Here we present a mixed-methods investigation into the strategies individuals employ to navigate difficult psychedelic experiences and their relationship to emotional breakthrough. Qualitative analysis of accounts from psilocybin retreat participants (n = 16) informed the development of the Responses to Challenging Psychedelic Experiences Inventory (ReCiPE). In a subsequent online survey (n = 529), exploratory factor analysis of the ReCiPE revealed three primary response strategies: Acceptance and Reappraisal, Sensory Regulation and Physical Interaction, and Social Support and Disclosure. Exploratory correlation and multiple regression analyses demonstrated significant relationships between different types of challenges, response strategies and emotional breakthrough. Notably, Acceptance and Reappraisal, and Social Support and Disclosure strategies were positively associated with greater emotional breakthrough. Fear-related challenges were negatively associated with emotional breakthrough and involved fewer adaptive coping strategies. These findings elucidate the complex interplay between challenging experiences and adaptive responses in psychedelic contexts, offering insights for optimising therapeutic protocols and enhancing safety in both clinical and non-clinical settings.
The effect of resistance training on patients with secondary sarcopenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cheng Fang , Li Na , Yang Jinfeng , Yang Jinqi , Yang Weicheng , Ran Jianxin , Sun Peijie , Liao Yuanpeng
Published: November 2024

To analyse the effectiveness of resistance training on secondary sarcopenia, we conducted a meta-analysis to elucidate the effects of resistance training (RT) on muscle strength (handgrip strength [HGS]), muscle mass (Skeletal muscle mass index [SMI]), and physical function (Gait speed [GS]) in patients with secondary sarcopenia. All studies published between 2015 and January 2024 on the effects of resistance training on patients with secondary sarcopenia were retrieved from 6 electronic databases: PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, Embase, the Cochrane Library, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) Core journals and the Wanfang Database. Two researchers independently extracted and evaluated studies that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Finally, 12 randomized controlled trials were included. Pooled analyses of baseline data and results were performed using Review Manager 5.3 with standardized mean variance (SMD) and random effects model. The study included 12 randomized controlled trials involving 639 patients (mean age 57.28 ± 2.66 to 79.6 ± 5.4 years). There are five types of complications among the patients: obesity, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, hemodiaysis, and pancreatic cancer. Compared with the control group, RT effectively improved HGS [SMD = 2.47, 95% CI (1.50, 3.43), p < 0.01, I2 = 94%]; SMI [SMD = 0.94, 95% CI (0.52, 1.36), p < 0.01, I2 = 56%]; and GS [SMD = 2.18, 95% CI (-0.01, 4.37), p ≥ 0.05, I2 = 97%]. Further subgroup analysis of the results showed that the intervention effect on grip strength was greater for non-elastic band resistance [SMD = 2.40, 95% CI (1.05, 3.75), p < 0.01, I2 = 94%] than for elastic band resistance (EBRT) [SMD = 1.22, 95% CI (-0.14, 2.58), p < 0.01, I2 = 95%]. The intervention effect of RT on grip strength is more significant in patients with T2D [SMD = 0.59, 95%CI (0.26–0.93, p < 0.01, I2 = 27%] and obesity [SMD = 0.74, 95%CI (0.32–1.15, p < 0.01, I2 = 0%]. For patients with secondary sarcopenia, Resistance training (RT) can effectively enhance muscle strength and muscle mass; however, it does not significantly improve physical function. Different RT intervention methods have different effects on patients, such as elastic band training and non-elastic band training (bounce ball RT; equipment RT, etc.). Different types of complications may influence the effectiveness of RT intervention.
Deciphering molecular landscape of breast cancer progression and insights from functional genomics and therapeutic explorations followed by in vitro validation
Authors: Khan Bushra , Qahwaji Rowaid , Alfaifi Mashael S. , Athar Tanwir , Khan Abdullah , Mobashir Mohammad , Ashankyty Ibraheem , Imtiyaz Khalid , Alahmadi Areej , Rizvi M. Moshahid A.
Published: November 2024

Breast cancer is caused by aberrant breast cells that proliferate and develop into tumors. Tumors have the potential to spread throughout the body and become lethal if ignored. Metastasis is the process by which invasive tumors move to neighboring lymph nodes or other organs. Metastasis can be lethal and perhaps fatal. The objective of our study was to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the transition of Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) to Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC), with a particular focus on hub genes and potential therapeutic agents. Using Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), we built a comprehensive network combining clinical and phenotypic data from both DCIS and IDC. Modules within this network, correlated with specific phenotypic traits, were identified, and hub genes were identified as critical markers. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis assessed their potential as biomarkers, while survival curve analysis gauged their prognostic value. Furthermore, molecular docking predicted interactions with potential therapeutic agents. Ten hub genes—CDK1, KIF11, NUF2, ASPM, CDCA8, CENPF, DTL, EXO1, KIF2C, and ZWINT—emerged as pivotal fibroblast-specific genes potentially involved in the DCIS to IDC transition. These genes exhibited pronounced positive correlations with key pathways like the cell cycle and DNA repair, Molecular docking revealed Fisetin, an anti-inflammatory compound, effectively binding to both CDK1 and DTL underscoring their role in orchestrating cellular transformation. CDK1 and DTL were selected for molecular docking with CDK1 inhibitors, revealing effective binding of Fisetin, an anti-inflammatory compound, to both. Of the identified hub genes, DTL—an E3 ubiquitin ligase linked to the CRL4 complex—plays a central role in cancer progression, impacting tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis, as well as cell cycle regulation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). CDK1, another hub gene, is pivotal in cell cycle progression and associated with various biological processes. In conclusion, our study offers insights into the complex mechanisms driving the transition from DCIS to IDC. It underscores the importance of hub genes and their potential interactions with therapeutic agents, particularly Fisetin. By shedding light on the interplay between CDK1 and DTL expression, our findings contribute to understanding the regulatory landscape of invasive ductal carcinoma and pave the way for future investigations and novel therapeutic avenues.
Pre-exposure immunohematologic features of heart failure associate with COVID-19 mortality
Authors: Zidar David A. , Wilson Brigid M. , Al-Kindi Sadeer G. , Sweet David , Juchnowski Steven , Huntington Lauren , Shive Carey , Bosch Jürgen , King Christopher , Karn Jonathan , Chung Mina K. , Gillombardo Carl B. , Karnib Mohammad , Sundaram Varun , Parikh Sahil A. , Jain Mukesh , Gunzler Douglas D. , Skarbinski Jacek , Tang W. H. Wilson , Anthony Donald D. , Chan Timothy A. , Dalton Jarrod E.
Published: November 2024

Chronic heart failure, like diabetes, is a pro-inflammatory cardiometabolic condition, but its association with immunodeficiency is less well established. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of US Veterans infected during the first wave of COVID-19 (n = 92,533) to identify relationships between comorbidities, pre-infection immunohematologic (IH) features (based on complete blood cell count parameters), and 60-day mortality. A biomarker sub-analysis of anti-SARS CoV2 antibodies and cytokine levels was also performed (n = 44). Heart failure was independently associated with higher COVID-19 mortality and with the specific IH alterations (especially relative anemia, anisocytosis, and lymphopenia) which themselves predicted non-survival or protracted inflammation. Over half the risk conferred by heart failure was mediated by its anticipatory IH features whereas diabetes risk was unrelated to its associated IH profile. These findings indicate that heart failure is associated with a COVID-19 immunodeficiency distinct from that of diabetes which correlates with antecedent erythrocyte and lymphocyte dyshomeostasis.
Development of a selective methodology for methylmercury quantification and evaluation of its accumulation in hippocampus
Authors: Verdugo Marcelo , Ávila Ferdinand , Ruiz Jhoel , Vásquez Constanza , Roldán Nicole , Lobos M. Gabriela , Ardiles Álvaro O.
Published: November 2024

Methylmercury (MeHg+) is a highly toxic compound with significant neurotoxic effects, necessitating precise and reliable quantification methods for its assessment in biological tissues.
Reliable and precise lipoprotein detection based on a self-priming hairpin-triggered Cas12a/crRNA based signaling strategy
Authors: Liu Xiaoya , Peng Hai , Gong Lisha , Zhang Hong , Zhao Chenglong , Lai Weiju , An Gang , Zhao Xianxian
Published: November 2024

Cardiovascular disease, intimately linked to dyslipidemia, is one of the leading global causes of mortality.
Linear phenolic polymers with amide stabilized catechol moieties
Authors: Wang Jie , Wang Rui , Gao Yan , Wang Baoxia , Dong Shuqi , Yuan Liang
Published: November 2024

Amide groups were engineered into catechol-containing macromolecular antioxidants to enhance their thermal storage stability.
Rhodium-catalyzed C–H α-fluoroalkenylation/annulation of β-ketosulfoxonium ylides with 2,2-difluorovinyl tosylate/oxadiazolones
Authors: Song Jia-Lin , Yang Zi-Feng , Fang Sheng , Chen Wang-Liang , Ye Lian-Bao , Liu Xiang , Shu Bing
Published: November 2024

A Rh(iii)-catalyzed C–H α-fluoroalkenylation/annulation of β-ketosulfoxonium ylides with 2,2-difluorovinyl tosylate/oxadiazolones was realized, which afforded diverse o-fluoroalkenylation β-ketosulfoxonium ylides and oxadiazolone fused-isoquinolines.
Intramolecularly remote functional group migration reactions involving free radicals
Authors: Chen Fushan , Cao Zhu , Zhu Chen
Published: November 2024

This feature article summarizes our achievements in radical-mediated intramolecular functional group migration reactions, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the progress in this emerging area.
Pd(ii)-catalyzed regioselective ring opening/[3+2] annulation reaction of enaminones with cyclopropenones: divergent synthesis of γ-butenolides and γ-lactams
Authors: Zhang Zhilai , Xu Yu , Peng Menglin , Song Siyu , Wei Yuanzheng , Hu Huimin , Wang Xiuju , Yu Fuchao
Published: November 2024

Highly functionalized γ-butenolides and γ-lactams were efficiently synthesized via a Pd(ii)-catalyzed, regioselective and skeleton-controllable ring opening/[3+2] annulation reaction between readily available enaminones and cyclopropenones.
Charting the salt–cocrystal continuum of acid–base multicomponent crystals with hybrid density functional theory
Authors: Bal Kristof M. , Collas Alain
Published: November 2024

The protonation state in acid–base multicomponent crystals is challenging to determine. An efficient procedure, leveraging modern implementations of hybrid density functional theory (DFT), is shown to efficiently identify the nature of such crystals.
SARS-CoV-2 variants and bebtelovimab: immune escape mechanisms revealed by computational studies
Authors: Roy Rakesh Kumar , Sharma Madhur , Patra Niladri
Published: November 2024

The binding mechanism between human-derived monoclonal antibody, bebtelovimab, and RBD of the viral spike protein and the effects of mutations on this binding.
“One-for-all” on-demand multifunctional fluorescent amphoteric polymers achieving breakthrough leather eco-manufacturing evolution
Authors: Wei Chao , Wang Xuechuan , Liang Shuang , Zou Xiaoliang , Xie Long , Liu Xinhua
Published: November 2024

The proposed “all-in-one” strategy enables the creation of multifunctional materials for tanning, retanning, fatliquoring, and dyeing, simplifying leather manufacturing to meet market demands while delivering significant environmental benefits.
New machine learning models on reevaluation of the Ti-in-zircon thermometer via multivariate trace elements
Authors: Chen Hong-Jie , Sheng Ying-Ming
Published: November 2024

Through training and testing extensive machine learning algorithms, an advanced high-dimensional temperature prediction model based on the XGBoost has been developed, which utilizes comprehensive trace element concentrations within zircons.
A transition-metal-free catalytic reduction of benzylic alcohols and alkenes and N-formylation of nitroarenes mediated by iodide ions and formic acid
Authors: Wang Yufen , Wang Yantao , Ma Yongqing , Elsharif Asma Mohmmad , Zhang Chen , Yang Weiran , Len Christophe
Published: November 2024

A novel transition-metal-free catalytic system utilizing sodium iodide as a catalyst, in combination with formic acid, has been developed for the selective reduction of hydroxyl groups and the reductive N-formylation of nitroarenes.
Efficient interfacial optimization of NiOx-based perovskite solar cells via a butterfly-structured semiconductor
Authors: Wang Zhihui , Wang Zhe , Ma Zhaolong , Chen Ruifeng , Wang Ting , Kang Jiali , Hu Guang , Zong Xueping
Published: November 2024

A butterfly-structured organic semiconductor effectively modified the interface of NiOx/perovskite in inverted perovskite solar cells.
Solventless, rapid-polymerizable liquid resins from solid carboxylic acids through low-viscosity acid/base complexes
Authors: Musgrave Grant M. , Yau Eden Y. , Huang Sijia , Reese Caleb J. , Wang Chen
Published: November 2024

In this work, we demonstrate the formation of ionic-bonded complexes between an amino methacrylate and various solid carboxylic acids, which is robust “hardener” for epoxy resins through dual-cure reactions.
Beyond DAD: proposing a one-letter code for nucleobase-mediated molecular recognition
Authors: Ward Aiden J. , Partridge Benjamin E.
Published: November 2024

This perspective outlines some key considerations for formulating a unified shorthand to describe nucleobase-mediated molecular recognition across chemical, biological, and materials contexts and proposes a naming scheme consistent therewith.
Dual-response photoluminescence of rare earth-based halide double perovskites
Authors: Gao Xianhe , Cui Tao , Liu Ruigang , Liu Jie , Zhu Shigui , Song Hao , Wei Yang , Kang Weiqiu , Chen Xiumei , Yuan Ze , Li Hongbo , Xie Xiaoji
Published: November 2024

Cs2NaScCl6:Sb integrates two emission adjustment modes, including excitation wavelength and temperature, showing a variety of optical application potential.
A 2‐GHz GaN HEMT Power Amplifier Harmonically Tuned Using a Compact One‐Port CRLH Transmission Line
Authors: Tanaka Shinichi , Mogami Ryota , Iisaka Naoki , Honjo Kazuhiko , Ishikawa Ryo
Published: November 2024

A compact harmonic tuning network (HTN) using a composite right‐/left‐handed (CRLH) transmission line (TL) is introduced. The CRLH TL offers purely imaginary harmonic load impedances, as it essentially functions as a one‐port circuit at the harmonic frequencies, owing to a harmonics trap filter. In comparison to conventional HTNs based on microstrip line (MSL) or hybrid MSL and CRLH TL technologies, the proposed HTN features remarkable compactness while accommodating various operating classes of amplifiers. As a proof of concept, a 2‐GHz 10‐W gallium nitride (GaN) high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) power amplifier (PA) was fabricated, demonstrating drain efficiency of 84.6% and power added efficiency (PAE) of 78.4%. The novel HTN is expected to find applications in PAs for transmitter systems, where high efficiency and a minimal circuit footprint are of paramount importance.
Facial and Neck Region Analysis for Deepfake Detection Using Remote Photoplethysmography Signal Similarity
Authors: An Byeong Seon , Lim Hyeji , Seong Hyeon Ah , Lee Eui Chul
Published: November 2024

Deepfake (DF) involves utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) technology to synthesize or manipulate images, voices, and other human or object data. However, recent times have seen a surge in instances of DF technology misuse, raising concerns about cybercrime and the credibility of manipulated information. The objective of this study is to devise a method that employs remote photoplethysmography (rPPG) biosignals for DF detection. The face was divided into five regions based on landmarks, with automatic extraction performed on the neck region. We conducted rPPG signal extraction from each facial area and the neck region was defined as the ground truth. The five signals extracted from the face were used as inputs to an support vector machine (SVM) model by calculating the euclidean distance between each signal and the signal extracted from the neck region, measuring rPPG signal similarity with five features. Our approach demonstrated robust performance with an area under the curve (AUC) score of 91.2% on the audio‐driven dataset and 99.7% on the face swapping generative adversarial network (FSGAN) dataset, even though we only used datasets excluding DF techniques that can be visually identified in Korean DF Detection Dataset (KoDF). Therefore, our research findings demonstrate that similarity features of rPPG signals can be utilized as key features for detecting DFs.
Object detection in smart indoor shopping using an enhanced YOLOv8n algorithm
Authors: Zhao Yawen , Yang Defu , Cao Sheng , Cai Bingyu , Maryamah Maryamah , Solihin Mahmud Iwan
Published: November 2024

This paper introduces an enhanced object detection algorithm tailored for indoor shopping applications, a critical component of smart cities and smart shopping ecosystems. The proposed method builds on the YOLOv8n algorithm by integrating a ParNetAttention module into the backbone's C2f module, creating the novel C2f‐ParNet structure. This innovation enhances feature extraction, crucial for detecting intricate details in complex indoor environments. Additionally, the channel‐wise attention‐recurrent feature extraction (CARAFE) module is incorporated into the neck network, improving target feature fusion and focus on objects of interest, thereby boosting detection accuracy. To optimize training efficiency, the model employs the Wise Intersection over Union (WIoUv3) as its regression loss function, accelerating data convergence and improving performance. Experimental results demonstrate the enhanced YOLOv8n achieves a mean average precision (mAP) at 50% threshold (mAP@50) of 61.2%, a 1.2 percentage point improvement over the baseline. The fully optimized algorithm achieves an mAP@50 of 65.9% and an F1 score of 63.5%, outperforming both the original YOLOv8n and existing algorithms. Furthermore, with a frame rate of 106.5 FPS and computational complexity of just 12.9 GFLOPs (Giga Floating‐Point Operations per Second), this approach balances high performance with lightweight efficiency, making it ideal for real‐time applications in smart retail environments.
Distributed multi‐layer control of hybrid AC/DC grids: Design and experimental validation
Authors: Lazzari Riccardo , La Bella Alessio
Published: November 2024

As the electrical system becomes more and more decentralized, new control algorithms are necessary to manage the intermittent and non‐deterministic production of non‐programmable renewable sources, as well as the consumption of new loads like electric vehicles and heat pumps. Traditionally, electrical networks are controlled centrally, which provides full controllability of the system but introduces issues on scalability and complexity. This paper proposes a distributed multilayer control scheme based on model predictive control (MPC) applied to different portions of an electrical grid, optimizing power exchanges for balancing services. The first layer comprises local decentralized MPC controllers managing their areas, while the high‐level distributed supervisor layer coordinates the exchange of flexibility between the network areas by acting on AC/DC converters. The overall distributed control architecture is applied and experimentally validated through the distributed energy resources test facility of RSE, showing enhanced performances in terms of prompt control action and compensation of the power disturbances.
Advanced exergy analysis and performance enhancement of air‐cooled solar recompression supercritical carbon dioxide systems
Authors: Atarzadeh Amin , Ameri Mehran , Jahanshahi Javaran Ebrahim
Published: November 2024

This study advances the efficiency of a recompression power generation cycle using supercritical carbon dioxide, leveraging solar energy as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. It is the first to uniquely address the performance of air‐cooled solar recompression cycles by evaluating both the heat and cooling source. Traditional water and cooling towers are replaced with air and fans to conserve water and enhance cooling efficiency. The study employs advanced exergy analysis to identify optimization strategies and reduce exergy destruction. The baseline system “System A” identifies the precooler and main compressor as key areas for improvement. Two novel systems are proposed: “System B,” which integrates an intercooler and a secondary compressor to significantly cut exergy losses, and “System C,” which uses a single‐effect absorption refrigeration cycle to further reduce exergy destruction. The results show an increase in energy efficiency and exergy efficiency from 23.24% in System A to 25.72% in System B and 24.28% in System C. Advanced exergy analysis reveals that, although the central receiver and high‐temperature recuperator are major sources of exergy destruction, the heliostat and low‐temperature recuperator are crucial for system optimization. This study's unique approach combines comprehensive exergy analysis with innovative system proposals based on the results.
Modeling of the temperature field and thermal stresses of a fuel element with variable volumetric heat release
Authors: Kanareykin Alexandr
Published: November 2024

The work is devoted to improving the reliability of the fuel element design. The paper considers the thermally stressed state of fuel rods when their geometric shape changes. The main purpose of the article is to determine the temperature field of a fuel element with variable volumetric heat release under a boundary condition of the first kind for determining thermal stresses. It takes into account the coordinate dependence of heat release. The behaviour of the temperature field is also analysed by its cross section. It is established that the temperature difference between the centre of the fuel element and its surface is parabolic in nature. This opens up the possibility of reducing temperature stresses in fuel rods with a coordinate dependence of volumetric heat release.