bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability cost/worth assessment of distribution network formed by underground cables and overhead lines. Case study of Latvia
Authors: Ļvovs Aleksandrs , Priedite Ilze
Published: June 2015

The increasing number of severe weather occurrences that influence the number of large scale outages, especially in rural distribution networks, makes the question on the need of increasing reliability level of power supply of the distribution network even more actual. Distribution system operators and national regulators shall not only find a reliable but also a cost-effective solution for further distribution network development: the optimal reliability level of power supply. One of the reliability improvement solutions that allows effectively dealing with the reduction of the number of outages in rural distribution networks is the cablification of network. Construction costs of the aforementioned solution are quite high in comparison to other network line types, and due to that, the implementation of the solution always raises discussions on cost-effectiveness. The paper presents approaches for the cost/worth assessment of power line lifetime costs in the distribution network and for the assessment of customer costs of reliability that takes into account time-varying loads and outage costs (previously developed by authors of this paper [6, 7]) as well as for the assessment of traders’ losses due to electrical energy not supplied. The case study included in the paper is performed for Latvian conditions and takes into account information on the real customer costs of reliability of Latvian customers (information from the study of the Institute of Physical Energetics), fault statistics of Latvian underground cables and overhead lines, information with a high level of details on the capital costs, operational and fault elimination costs of distribution lines in Latvia.
Uncertainty and sensitivity evaluation of aerosol deposition in PHEBUS containment during FPT-2 experiment
Authors: Kontautas Aurimas , Urbonavičius Egidijus
Published: June 2015

During a hypothetical severe accident at a nuclear power plant (NPP), the aerosols and radionuclides could be released from the reactor through the engineering systems to the surrounding atmosphere. The last barrier preventing release is the containment, which surrounds the reactor and the main engineering systems. Most of radioactivity is released in the form of particles (aerosols). Therefore, aerosol transport and deposition processes are very important for NPP safety. Description of these processes requires a lot of physical parameters and conditions. Naturally, these parameters bring their own uncertainties, and so uncertainty and sensitivity analyses are necessary for final assessment of the accuracy of results. This paper presents the uncertainty and sensitivity analysis of PHEBUS FPT-2 simulation performed with the SUSA software. The containment simulation results were received using the lumped-parameter code COCOSYS. This paper includes a description of the PHEBUS containment, nodalisation, initial and boundary conditions, results and conclusions. The uncertainty analysis was performed assuming 95/95 probability, and tolerance limits showed that the measured values of the aerosol mass suspended in the gas phase were within the calculated uncertainty limits. However, the deposition on the vertical containment walls is not within the calculated limits. The sensitivity analysis showed that the parameters having the largest influence on the investigated parameters (mass suspended in gas phase, deposition on containment elliptic floor, deposition on condensers, deposition on vertical walls) are the following: the Mass Median Diameter (MMD), the dynamic shape factor, the particle agglomeration factor, the water film thickness, the initial pressure, the Geometric Standard Deviation of particle diameter, and the thickness of diffusive boundary layer.
Vėjo energijos panaudojimo šilumos gamybai, taikant hidraulinę sistemą, tyrimas
Authors: Černeckienė Jurgita , Ždankus Tadas
Published: June 2015

Vėjo energiją naudojant pastatams šildyti galima ženkliai sumažinti kuro sąnaudas, o tuo pačiu ir aplinkos taršą. Vėjo mechaninės energijos transformavimas į šilumą nėra naujovė, tačiau dabar labiausiai paplitusios elektrinės sistemos, kai vėjaratis suka elektros generatorių, o šiluma pastate gaunama naudojant elektrinius šildytuvus. Daugiau generuojamos šilumos ir mažesnes investicijas galima būtų pasiekti vietoje elektrinės naudojant hidraulinę šilumos generavimo sistemą. Eksperimentinių tyrimų stende hidraulinės sistemos pagrindinės dalys buvo: krumpliaratinis siurblys, reguliuojamasis ventilis-apkrova ir šilumokaitis. Eksperimentiškai modeliuojama maža vėjo jėgainė su vėjaračio sukimosi dažniu iki 5  Hz. Eksperimentinių tyrimų metu nustatyta, kad hidraulinė šilumos generavimo sistema net ir neapkrauta pasiekia naudingumo koeficientą iki 0,5, o su apkrova efektyvumas išauga iki >0,85. Vėjo energija sugeneruotą šilumą šilumnešiui galima atiduoti akumuliacinėje talpoje, jei pastate kaip pagrindinis energijos šaltinis naudojamas dujinis ar kieto kuro katilas. Kitu atveju šilumą galima kaupti grunte, jei pastatams šildyti naudojama geoterminė sistema.
Sėkmingo verslo ir mokslo bendradarbiavimo rezultatas – mažesnė oro tarša azoto oksidais
Authors: Striūgas Nerijus
Published: June 2015

Lietuvos energetikos instituto mokslininkai sėkmingai išsprendė oro taršos mažinimo Vilniuje uždavinį
Metric Dimension Parameterized by Max Leaf Number
Authors: Eppstein David
Published: June 2015

The metric dimension of a graph is the size of the smallest set of vertices whose distances distinguish all pairs of vertices in the graph. We show that this graph invariant may be calculated by an algorithm whose running time is linear in the input graph size, added to a function of the largest possible number of leaves in a spanning tree of the graph.
Some Cosmological Notions from Late Antiquity in Q 18:60–65
Authors: Tesei Tommaso
Published: June 2015

The Quranic terms sarab, a hapax legomenon, and majmaʿ al-baḥrayn have generated a number of different interpretations among both Muslim exegetes and Western scholars. In this article I demonstrate how they can be better understood when read in the light of the cultural context of late antiquity and, in particular, of the cosmological imagery of this historical period.
Why the Rise of This Drug-Resistant Fungus Is Raising International Concern
Authors: McKenna Maryn
Published: August 2024

This Medical News article discusses terbinafine-resistant tinea, or ringworm, caused by the recently identified fungal species Trichophyton indotineae.
As Mpox Cases Surge in Africa, WHO Declares a Global Emergency—Here’s What to Know
Authors: Harris Emily
Published: August 2024

This Medical News article discusses the World Health Organization’s emergency declaration related to an mpox outbreak in Africa and the emergence of a new virus strain spread by sexual contact.
Tourniquet Use and Local Tissue Concentrations of Cefazolin During Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Montreuil Julien , Tanzer Michael , Zhang Yu Ling , Rajda Ewa , Avizonis Daina , Hart Adam
Published: August 2024

Importance

Prophylactic administration of antibiotics before skin incision is an important component in the prevention of periprosthetic joint infection in arthroplasty surgery. For antibiotics to be effective, the local tissue concentration (LTC) must exceed the minimum inhibitory concentration of typical infecting organisms; however, the LTC of cefazolin during arthroplasty is poorly understood.

Objective

To compare the systemic concentration of cefazolin in serum with the LTC in fat, synovium, and bone during primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) while assessing the effect of tourniquet inflation.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective randomized clinical trial was conducted from March 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, in patients undergoing TKA at a single academic center.

Intervention

Total knee arthroplasty with or without a limb tourniquet.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Systemic blood and local tissues from the surgical site (fat, synovium, and bone) were harvested at regular intervals during the surgery. The primary outcome was the LTC of cefazolin, quantified using the liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry technique.

Results

A total of 59 patients were included in the study, with 29 in the tourniquet group (mean [SD] age, 69.3 [9.6] years; 23 [79.3%] female) and 30 in the no tourniquet group (mean [SD] age, 69.9 [9.7] years; 21 [70.0%] female). In patients undergoing TKA without a tourniquet, the mean concentration of cefazolin in serum was 71.9 μg/mL (95% CI, 66.4-77.5 μg/mL), whereas the mean LTCs were 13.9 μg/g (95% CI, 12.1-15.7 μg/g) in fat, 27.7 μg/g (95% CI, 24.3-31.0 μg/g) in synovium, and 17.7 μg/g (95% CI, 14.8-20.5 μg/g) in bone. For patients undergoing TKA with a tourniquet, the mean concentration of cefazolin in serum was 72.0 μg/mL (95% CI, 66.3-77.7 μg/mL), and the mean LTCs were 9.9 μg/g (95% CI, 8.7-11.1 μg/g) in fat, 21.8 μg/g (95% CI, 18.7-25.0 μg/g) in synovium, and 13.0 μg/g (95% CI, 10.8-15.2 μg/g) in bone. The use of a tourniquet resulted in significantly lower mean LTCs by 60 minutes after cefazolin infusion (10.8 μg/g [95% CI, 9.1-12.4 μg/g] vs 16.9 μg/g [95% CI, 14.1-19.6 μg/g], P = .001 in fat; 18.9 μg/g [95% CI, 14.1-23.6 μg/g] vs 25.8 μg/g [95% CI, 21.4-30.3 μg/g], P = .03 in synovium; and 11.8 μg/g [95% CI, 9.3-14.2 μg/g] vs 19.4 μg/g [95% CI, 14.5-24.4 μg/g], P = .007 in bone).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this randomized clinical trial, the concentration of cefazolin was lower in local tissues (fat, synovium, and bone) than in systemic blood, and the use of a limb tourniquet further significantly reduced these concentrations. Although the current prophylactic dosing regimen for cefazolin provides sufficient serum concentrations, the levels in the periarticular tissue during TKA may be insufficient to prevent periprosthetic joint infection.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05604157
New concept: Treatment‐refractory addiction
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2024

The last issue of August is sometimes quiet; lots of vacations, little of note in the news. This year, the Journal of Addiction Medicine came to the rescue with bold commentaries from top experts in the field introducing new concepts: specifically, “treatment‐refractory addiction.” The commentaries also play into a rich literature of treatment resistance in general, starting with depression.
Proposed DNC platform on cannabis, treatment
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2024

Below are excerpts from the DNC platform, released August 19.
3D‐Mapping and Manipulation of Photocurrent in an Optoelectronic Diamond Device
Authors: Wood Alexander A. , McCloskey Daniel J. , Dontschuk Nikolai , Lozovoi Artur , Goldblatt Russell M. , Delord Tom , Broadway David A. , Tetienne Jean‐Philippe , Johnson Brett C. , Mitchell Kaih T. , Lew Christopher T.‐K. , Meriles Carlos A. , Martin Andy M.
Published: August 2024

Establishing connections between material impurities and charge transport properties in emerging electronic and quantum materials, such as wide‐bandgap semiconductors, demands new diagnostic methods tailored to these unique systems. Many such materials host optically‐active defect centers which offer a powerful in situ characterization system, but one that typically relies on the weak spin‐electric field coupling to measure electronic phenomena. In this work, charge‐state sensitive optical microscopy is combined with photoelectric detection of an array of nitrogen‐vacancy (NV) centers to directly image the flow of charge carriers inside a diamond optoelectronic device, in 3D and with temporal resolution. Optical control is used to change the charge state of background impurities inside the diamond on‐demand, resulting in drastically different current flow such as filamentary channels nucleating from specific, defective regions of the device. Conducting channels that control carrier flow, key steps toward optically reconfigurable, wide‐bandgap optoelectronics are then engineered using light. This work might be extended to probe other wide‐bandgap semiconductors (SiC, GaN) relevant to present and emerging electronic and quantum technologies.
Multifunctional Metamaterial with Reconfigurable Electromagnetic Scattering Properties for Advanced Stealth and Adaptive Applications
Authors: Wang Gang , Li Dawei , Liao Wenhe , Liu Tingting , Li Xiangjia , An Qing , Qu Zhi
Published: August 2024

The rapid development of radar detection systems has led to an increased sensitivity to the electromagnetic (EM) scattering properties of detected targets. Flexible and adaptable EM scattering properties significantly enhance the survivability of battlefield weapons. This paper presents the design of a novel multifunctional metamaterial with reconfigurable EM scattering properties based on a bistable curved beam. In addition to the cushioning and energy absorption properties of curved beams, the metamaterial achieves more than 90% EM absorption in the frequency range of 2.17–17.31 GHz, with a relative thickness of only 0.09λL. The bistable nature of the metamaterial allows it to switch between different states. Moreover, combined with the digital coding, this metamaterial can continuously adjust the absorbing bandwidth and further enhance the EM absorption rate within a specific frequency band range. If applied to satellite configurations, the developed metamaterial significantly reduces the radar cross section and offers potential applications in reconfiguring EM scattering properties, when applied to satellite configurations. By actively controller and reconstructing the EM scattering properties at certain frequency points, the metamaterial can achieve camouflage, providing innovative solutions for future stealth technology, electronic countermeasures, and deception jamming in radar detection.
MXene/Ag@whisker Carbon Nanotube‐Based Sandwich Structures for High‐Performance Electromagnetic Interference Shielding
Authors: Zhou Shenglin , Zhang Jiapeng , Hu Jun , You Junbo , Shentu Baoqing
Published: August 2024

The development of novel material configurations for achieving high‐performance electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding remains challenging. To effectively address this issue, in this work, a structure composed of Ag‐modified whisker carbon nanotube (Ag@WCNT) coated with 2D MXene composite is fabricated. The proposed EMI shielding material with different structures (double‐layer and sandwich structures) exhibited high shielding effectiveness close to 85 dB at X‐band. Its lightweight structure allowed for efficient shielding without significant weight gain, which is especially important in applications such as aerospace, mobile communications equipment, and others where lightweight is required. The high degree of tunability of these composites can be leveraged for meeting specific application requirements. This property renders them promising candidates for a wide range of electromagnetic shielding applications.
Rare Earth‐Diamond Hybrid Structures for Optical Quantum Technologies
Authors: Balașa Ionuț Gabriel , Arranz‐Martinez María Alejandra , Perrin Pauline , Ngandeu Ngambou Midrel , Hebbrecht Alexandre , Serrano Diana , Achard Jocelyn , Tallaire Alexandre , Goldner Philippe
Published: August 2024

Diamond containing nitrogen‐vacancy centers (NV−) is one of the most investigated materials for quantum technologies, because of this system's exceptional spin properties. Although the NV− optical transition is very bright, it suffers from spectral diffusion and weak zero‐phonon line, and is in the visible range. This limits integration into quantum photonic structures and interfacing with optical fiber networks. In contrast, rare earth (RE) ions exhibit extremely narrow and stable optical transitions, including erbium's 1.5 µm telecom wavelength. Combining RE with NV− properties through short‐range interactions is however challenging as RE do not readily enter the diamond lattice. In this work, a thin‐film‐based architecture in which RE and NV− centers can interact while preserving their unique properties is introduced. Thin films of Er3+:Y2O3 are grown by chemical vapor deposition on diamond substrates with well‐crystallized and highly textured structures. An extensive spectroscopic study of Er3+ transitions at room and low temperatures further reveals that photoluminescence spectra and decays are close to bulk materials. It is also shown that Y2O3 thin film deposition has no detrimental effects on NV− optical and spin properties. RE thin films deposited on diamond can thus be suitable for building hybrid materials for new functionalities in quantum sensing, communication, and processing.
Novel CAR‐T Cells Specifically Targeting SIA‐CIgG Demonstrate Effective Antitumor Efficacy in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Ding Mengting , Lin Jiaxing , Qin Caipeng , Fu Yuhao , Du Yiqing , Qiu Xiaoyan , Wei Ping , Xu Tao
Published: August 2024

Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy is a promising cancer treatment method. However, its application in bladder cancer (BC) remains limited, partially because of the absence of appropriate target molecules. Sialylated cancer‐derived IgG (SIA‐CIgG) is highly expressed in BC and is closely associated with malignant biological behavior. However, its potential as a target for CAR‐T cell therapy to treat BC is yet to be established. Here, it is found that SIA‐CIgG is highly expressed in most BC samples but displayed limited expression in normal tissues. CAR‐T cells specifically targeting SIA‐CIgG can effectively lyse BC cells and the cytotoxicity depends on SIA‐CIgG expression. Furthermore, SIA‐CIgG CAR‐T cells demonstrate milder tumor cell lysis and enhanced persistence compared with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) CAR‐T cells, which have undergone extensive clinical trials. After repeated tumor antigen challenges, SIA‐CIgG CAR‐T cells display substantial alterations in both the transcriptome and chromatin accessibility. When combining SIA‐CIgG CAR‐T cell therapy with FDA‐approved drugs to treat BC, the histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi), vorinostat, is found to enhance the ablility of CAR‐T cells for tumor cell lysis. Therefore, the combination of SIA‐CIgG CAR‐T cells and vorinostat is promising for BC treatment.
Exercises in ethically engaged work in biological anthropology
Authors: Zuckerman Molly K. , Marklein Kathryn E. , Austin Rita M. , Hofman Courtney A.
Published: August 2024

An ethical paradigm shift currently taking place within biological anthropology is pushing scholars to envisage and develop paths toward more ethical futures. Drawing from case studies in our own teaching, research, and fieldwork experience, we reflect on the complex, diverse, and dynamic nature of ethical considerations in our field. We discuss the acquisition and institutional narrative of a human osteological teaching collection at the University of Louisville as an embodiment of structural apathy turned structural violence, and the need for professional guidance in the potential retirement of deceased individuals from our classrooms. In documented collections (i.e., the Robert J. Terry Collection), we share our process and scholarly reemphasis of the humanity of a deceased individual through contextualized analysis (i.e., osteobiography and archival history) and postmortem agentive acts. Lastly, we present an archeological site in the U.S. Virgin Islands, which poses ethical concerns as biocultural bioarcheologists and archeologists attempt to negotiate the possible wishes of the deceased with the cultural value of reconstructing the community's otherwise undocumented past, all amidst the immediate threat of anthropogenic climate change. We offer these exercises and discussion in ethically engaged projects transparently and with an overarching admission that none are models for replication. Rather, at various stages in our careers and engagement with ethics, we acknowledge that progress is worthwhile, albeit challenging, and that proceeding forward collectively as biological anthropologists should be deliberate, reflexive, and compassionate for deceased individuals and their descendant communities, as well as among and between colleagues.
Distinct regional vulnerability to Aβ and iron accumulation in post mortem AD brains
Authors: Yao Junye , Li Zhenghao , Zhou Zihan , Bao Aimin , Wang Zheng , Wei Hongjiang , He Hongjian
Published: August 2024

INTRODUCTION

The paramagnetic iron, diamagnetic amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and their interaction are crucial in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis, complicating non‐invasive magnetic resonance imaging for prodromal AD detection.

METHODS

We used a state‐of‐the‐art sub‐voxel quantitative susceptibility mapping method to simultaneously measure Aβ and iron levels in post mortem human brains, validated by histology. Further transcriptomic analysis using Allen Human Brain Atlas elucidated the underlying biological processes.

RESULTS

Regional increased paramagnetic and diamagnetic susceptibility were observed in medial prefrontal, medial parietal, and para‐hippocampal cortices associated with iron deposition (R = 0.836, p = 0.003) and Aβ accumulation (R = 0.853, p = 0.002) in AD brains. Higher levels of gene expression relating to cell cycle, post‐translational protein modifications, and cellular response to stress were observed.

DISCUSSION

These findings provide quantitative insights into the variable vulnerability of cortical regions to higher levels of Aβ aggregation, iron overload, and subsequent neurodegeneration, indicating changes preceding clinical symptoms.

Highlights

The vulnerability of distinct brain regions to amyloid beta (Aβ) and iron accumulation varies.

Histological validation was performed on stained sections of ex‐vivo human brains.

Regional variations in susceptibility were linked to gene expression profiles.

Iron and Aβ levels in ex‐vivo brains were simultaneously quantified.
Electro‐Clinical Features and Functional Connectivity Analysis in SYN1‐Related Epilepsy
Authors: Moya Quiros Vincent , Adham Ahmed , Convers Philippe , Lesca Gaetan , Mauguiere François , Soulier Hugo , Arzimanoglou Alexis , Bayat Allan , Braakman Hilde , Camdessanche Jean‐Philippe , Casenave Philippe , Chaton Laurence , Chaix Yves , Chochoi Maxime , Depienne Christel , Desportes Vincent , De Ridder Jessie , Dinkelacker Vera , Gardella Elena , Kluger Gerhard J. , Jung Julien , Lemesle Martin Martine , Mancardi Maria Margherita , Mueller Markus , Poulat Anne‐Lise , Platzer Konrad , Roubertie Agathe , Stokman Marijn F. , Vulto‐van Silfhout Anneke T. , Wiegand Gert , Mazzola Laure
Published: August 2024

Objective

There is currently scarce data on the electroclinical characteristics of epilepsy associated with synapsin 1 (SYN1) pathogenic variations. We examined clinical and electro‐encephalographic (EEG) features in patients with epilepsy and SYN1 variants, with the aim of identifying a distinctive electroclinical pattern.

Methods

In this retrospective multicenter study, we collected and reviewed demographic, genetic, and epilepsy data of 19 male patients with SYN1 variants. Specifically, we analyzed interictal EEG data for all patients, and electro‐clinical data from 10 epileptic seizures in 5 patients, using prolonged video‐EEG monitoring recordings. Inter‐ictal EEG functional connectivity parameters and frequency spectrum of the 10 patients over 12 years of age, were computed and compared with those of 56 age‐ and sex‐matched controls.

Results

The main electroclinical features of epilepsy in patients with SYN1 were (1) EEG background and organization mainly normal; (2) interictal abnormalities are often rare or not visible on EEG; (3) more than 60% of patients had reflex seizures (cutaneous contact with water and defecation being the main triggers) isolated or associated with spontaneous seizures; (4) electro‐clinical semiology of seizures was mainly temporal or temporo‐insulo/perisylvian with a notable autonomic component; and (5) ictal EEG showed a characteristic rhythmic theta/delta activity predominating in temporo‐perisylvian regions at the beginning of most seizures. Comparing patients with SYN1 to healthy subjects, we observed a shift to lower frequency bands in power spectrum of interictal EEG and an increased connectivity in both temporal regions.

Interpretation

A distinct epilepsy syndrome emerges in patients with SYN1, with a rather characteristic clinical and EEG pattern suggesting predominant temporo‐insular involvement. ANN NEUROL 2025;97:34–50
Bismuth Nanoparticles and Single Iron Atoms on Carbon Derived from a Covalent Organic Framework Synergistically Catalyze the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Tao Andong , Guo Bing , Yu Chengbing , Yang Xiubei , Liu Guojuan , Zeng Gaofeng
Published: August 2024

The utilization of catalysts comprising metal nanoparticle has been beneficial for enhancing the performance of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, the inadequate intrinsic activity of these catalysts still presents a significant challenge, limiting their overall effectiveness. This issue can be addressed by introducing single atoms, which can create a synergistic effect with the nanoparticles to catalyse and thereby improve performance. Nevertheless, the synergistic catalysis of nanoparticles and single atoms is still under investigation. In this study, we fabricated a core‐shell structured carbon framework incorporating Fe single atoms and Bi nanoparticles through the pyrolysis of COF and MOF core‐shell structures. Introducing Fe single atoms into ZIF‐8, with Fe‐ZIF‐8 as the core and Bi‐containing COF as the shell, resulted in higher ORR activity. The catalyst exhibited a half‐wave potential of 0.867 V and a high current density of 6.68 mA cm−2 in 0.1 M KOH, which were comparable to those of Pt/C equivalent.

This study provides new research concepts for exploring the application of single atoms and nanoparticles in catalytic oxygen reduction reactions through synergistic effects.
Solving large numerical substructures in real‐time hybrid simulations using proper orthogonal decomposition
Authors: Zhang Jian , Ding Hao , Wang Jin‐Ting , Altay Okyay
Published: August 2024

Real‐time hybrid simulation (RTHS) technique significantly streamlines experimental procedures by allowing researchers to study a substantial portion of the structure through numerical analysis. For effective real‐time interconnectivity between the investigated substructures, the numerical component must be solved within an extremely tight time frame. However, achieving a real‐time solution for large numerical substructures presents a major challenge. Hence, this paper proposes the Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) method to reduce computational burden in RTHS and shows its implementation. The merits of the approach are shown by comparisons between the full‐order and reduced‐order numerical substructures, including nonlinearities. A shear frame retrofitted with superelastic shape memory alloy dampers is investigated as a numerical model. The soil‐structure interaction is also included using a finite element half‐space model with an artificial viscous‐spring boundary. Furthermore, the numerical substructure is coupled with shaking table experiments of a tuned liquid column damper to prove the feasibility of the method. With POD, the studied nonlinear numerical substructure can simulate up to 2655 degrees‐of‐freedom (DOFs) with a given hardware setup, while the full‐order model is limited to 135 DOF, underscoring the significance of the POD method in RTHS.
A mathematical model for bedrock incision in near‐threshold gravel‐bed rivers
Authors: Gabel Vanessa , Tucker Gregory E. , Campforts Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Gravel‐bed rivers that incise into bedrock are common worldwide. These systems have many similarities with other alluvial channels: they transport large amounts of sediment and adjust their forms in response to discharge and sediment supply. At the same time, the occurrence of bedrock incision implies behaviour that falls on a spectrum between fully detachment‐limited ‘bedrock channels’ and fully transport‐limited ‘alluvial channels’. Here, we present a mathematical model of river profile evolution that integrates bedrock erosion, gravel transport and the formation of channels whose hydraulic geometry is consistent with that of near‐threshold alluvial channels. We combine theory for five interrelated processes: bedload sediment transport in equilibrium gravel‐bed channels, channel width adjustment to flow and sediment characteristics, abrasion of bedrock by mobile sediment, plucking of bedrock and progressive loss of gravel‐sized sediment due to grain attrition. This model contributes to a growing class of models that seek to capture the dynamics of both bedrock incision and alluvial sediment transport. We demonstrate the model's ability to reproduce expected fluvial features such as inverse power law scaling between slope and area, and width and depth consistent with near‐threshold channel theory, and we discuss the role of sediment characteristics in influencing the mode of channel behaviour, erosional mechanism, channel steepness and profile concavity.
Functional, nutritional, and sensorial evaluation of sorghum‐based beverages produced by single‐ and two‐stage acid, α‐amylase enzyme, and germination treatments
Authors: Sajjadi Alhashem Seyed Hasan , Ehsani Mohammad Reza , Akhondzadeh Basti Afshin , Sharifan Anoosheh
Published: August 2024

Nowadays, the consumption of functional foods, such as plant‐based beverages, is increasing due to their health‐promoting properties. The low extraction yield of nutritional and functional components is considered a major challenge during the production of sorghum‐based beverages (SBB), as well as their sensorial properties. This investigation studied the effects of various treatments (acidic using phosphoric acid, enzymatic using α‐amylase, germination, germination‐acidic, germination‐enzymatic, and acidic‐enzymatic) on the functional, nutritional, and sensorial properties of SBB. The two‐stage acidic‐enzymatic treatment demonstrated the highest extraction yield, dry matter, ash, carbohydrates, and reducing sugar contents, as well as the lowest starch content (p < .05). Furthermore, the highest protein content (0.98%) was achieved by the germination treatments of sorghum grains. While the highest fat content was achieved by the acidic treatment (1.38%), the germination‐acidic treatment exhibited the highest energy value (26.02 kcal/100 mL). Moreover, the total phenolic content of the acidic‐enzymatic treatment (44.56 mg GAE/L) was significantly higher than that of other treatments. However, all treatments demonstrated lower antioxidant properties compared to the control treatment (142.85 mg BHT eq./L). Furthermore, the sensory evaluation of the germination and germination‐enzymatic treatments showed acceptable scores (≥7) for consumers. In conclusion, the results indicated that the two‐stage treatments of sorghum, especially the acidic‐enzymatic treatment, were more effective than single treatments for the extraction of functional and nutritional components during the production of SBB.
Dietary factors and risk for adverse pregnancy outcome: A Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Mu Fangxiang , Liu Lin , Wang Weijing , Wang Mei , Wang Fang
Published: August 2024

This study aims to explore the link between dietary habits and adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs), including preterm birth (PB), preeclampsia (PE), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), fetal growth restriction (FGR), and spontaneous abortion (SA) through two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR). We accessed publicly available genome‐wide association studies' (GWAS) summary statistics for dietary habits and APOs, respectively. We used five MR methods to synthesize MR estimates across genetic instruments. To ensure the robustness of our results, we assessed heterogeneity, and horizontal pleiotropy, and conducted sensitivity analyses. The primary analysis showed that intake of dried fruit (odds ratio (OR), 0.522; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.291–0.935) and fresh fruit (OR, 0.487; 95% CI: 0.247–0.960) was related to a decreased risk of PB. While intake of tea (OR, 1.602; 95% CI: 1.069–2.403) and poultry (OR, 6.314; 95% CI: 1.266–31.488) was linked to a heightened risk of PB. Cheese intake was a protective factor against PE (OR, 0.557; 95% CI: 0.337–0.920) and GDM (OR, 0.391; 95% CI: 0.270–0.565). Intake of lamb/mutton had a negative relationship with PE (OR, 0.372; 95%CI: 0.145–0.954), whereas oily fish consumption showed a positive relationship with FGR (OR, 2.005; 95% CI: 1.205–3.339). However, after correction using the false discovery rate (FDR) analysis, only the intake of cheese showed a significant causal relationship with GDM (p < .001). Our study preliminarily found that cheese intake was significantly associated with the lower risk of GDM, while others were suggestively associated with the risk of APOs. Well‐designed prospective studies are still needed to confirm our findings in the future.
Beobachtungen an Crinipellis corticalis (Desm.) Sing. & Clém. und Crinipellis slipitaria (Fr.) Pat.
Authors: Paechnatz Eckehard
Published: August 2024

Ein kritischer Vergleich der Beschreibungen von Crinipellis corticalis (Desmazières) Singer & Clémençon mit solchen von Crinipellis stipitaria (Fries) Patouillard ergab, daß die zur Trennung beider Sippen herangezogenen Merkmale nicht eindeutig definiert sind und einer Überprüfung bedürfen.

Makroskopische und mikroskopische Beobachtungen an 37 Crinipellis‐Kollektionen mit etwa 390 Fruchtkörpern, überwiegend Material aus der DDR, zeigten, daß die Merkmale der Holzbewohner von denen der Grasbewohner nicht verschieden sind. Die große Variabilität einiger Merkmale des Individuums und der Population verbietet auch die Abtrennung von Varietäten oder Formen. Wir müssen somit Crinipellis corticalis (Desm.) Sing. & Clém. als Synonym zu Crinipellis slipitaria (Fr.) Pat. bewerten.

Zu einigen Eigenschaften dieser Art einschließlich der Standort‐ und Wirtswahl ergeben sich neue Gesichtspunkte.
Das Asplenietum serpentini und seine Kontaktgesellschaften auf dem Serpentinit‐Komplex im Slavkovský les (Kaiserwald) bei Mariánské lazně (Marienbad) in Westböhmen (ČSSR)
Authors: Müller‐Stoll Wolfgang R. , Toman Miloslav
Published: August 2024

Vom Serpentinit im Slavkovský les (Kaiserwald) bei Mariánské lázně (Marienbad) in Westböhmen werden vier Gesellschaften beschrieben. Den Mittelpunkt unserer Bemühungen stellt das Asplenietum serpentini Gauckl. 54 mit 23 Aufnahmen dar; es handelt sich um eine typische Felsspaltengesellschaft (Asplenictea rupestris Br.‐Bl. in Meyer & Br.‐Bl. 34). Als zweites kommt das Rubo idaei‐Poetum nemoralis ass. nov. vor, das neben und zwischen den Felsen auf flachgründigem Boden auftritt (Sedo‐Seleranthetea Br.‐Bl. 55 cm. Th. Müller 61). Diese Gesellschaft wird in drei Untergesellschaften gegliedert, darunter eine solche mit dem endemischen Cerastium alsinifolium alsinifolium Tausch. Als weitere Assoziation wird das Nardo‐Callunetum Bük. 42 (nom. inv. Oberdorfer 87) und zwar in der Untergesellschaft von Erica carnca beschrieben (Nardo‐Callunetea Prsg. 49). Sie kommt sowohl im offenen Gelände als auch unter lichten Kiefern (Pinus sylvestris) vor. Schließlich wird auf zwei Bestände des Diantho deltoidis‐Galietum veri in der Subassoziation von Lychnis viscaria Toman 77 eingegangen, die ebenfalls in die Klasse Nardo‐Callunetea gehören.
Lantana camara L. – a review
Authors: Sinha Sangram , Sharma Achana
Published: August 2024

The species Lantana camara shows a wide distribution with a large range of cytotypes and ecotypes. Detailed distribution of the different species of the genus Lantana has been given, together with their morphological, anatomical and palynological characters and their peculiar pollination biology. Cytological studies show polyploids between 2n to 6n with a deep seated base of x = 11 chromosomes and occasionally x = 12. Diploids are few and mostly cultivated. The tetraploids are most frequent, occupying a wide ecological range. Triploids co‐exist with tetraploids but the relatively few pentaploids prefer a more temperate habitat. DNA content varies with level of ploidy. The great success of this species in the tropical countries may be due to the range of polyploids, associated with vegetative reproduction. Polyploidy can to some extent be correlated with habitat and morphology and also with the content of the lantadenes, which are responsible for the toxic properties.
Vegetation of inland desert wadies in Egypt IX. Eastern tributaries of lower Wadi Qena
Authors: El‐Sharkawi H. M. , Fayed A. A. , Salama F. M.
Published: August 2024

Wadi Quena, unique in its north‐south orientation among other wadies of the eastern desert of Egypt constitutes a vast catchment system of sporadic rains over the Red Sea mountains. The present study concerns a part of this catchment area, including some east‐west tributaries pouring flood waters into the lower part of the main trunk of the wadi. Due to local physiographic factors, these tributaries harbour two communities newly recognized in this desert. These are: community of Salsola baryosma‐Tamarix aphylla and community of Citrullus colocynthis‐Cleome droserifolia. Elements of the alliance Zygophyllaeion coccini, previously identified in this series of investigations, are well represented in the area under consideration.
FOXO3 Activates MFN2 Expression to Maintain the Autophagy Response in Cancer Cells Under Amino Acid Deprivation
Authors: Jiang Xu , Wang Jing , Ma Fang , Li Yuyun
Published: August 2024

The lack of amino acids triggers the autophagic response. Some studies have shown such starvation conditions also induce mitochondrial fusion, revealing a close correlation between the two processes. Although Mitofusin‐2 (MFN2) has been demonstrated to play a role in fusion regulation, its role in the autophagic response and the variables that activate MFN2 under stress remain unknown. In this investigation, we screened and confirmed that forkhead box protein O3 (FOXO3) participates in MFN2's expression during short periods of starvation. Luciferase reporter test proved that FOXO3 facilitates MFN2's transcription by binding to its promoter region, and FOXO3 downregulation directly depresses MFN2's expression. Consequently, inhibiting the FOXO3–MFN2 axis results in the loss of mitochondrial fusion, disrupting the normal morphology of mitochondria, impairing the degradation of substrates, and reducing autophagosome accumulation, ultimately leading to the blockage of the autophagy. In conclusion, our work demonstrates that the FOXO3–MFN2 pathway is essential for adaptive changes in mitochondrial morphology and cellular autophagy response under nutritional constraints.
Spin parameter optimization for spin‐polarized extended tight‐binding methods
Authors: Moradi Siyavash , Tomann Rebecca , Hendrix Josie , Head‐Gordon Martin , Stein Christopher J.
Published: August 2024

We present an optimization strategy for atom‐specific spin‐polarization constants within the spin‐polarized GFN2‐xTB framework, aiming to enhance the accuracy of molecular simulations. We compare a sequential and global optimization of spin parameters for hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and fluorine. Sensitivity analysis using Sobol indices guides the identification of the most influential parameters for a given reference dataset, allowing for a nuanced understanding of their impact on diverse molecular properties. In the case of the W4‐11 dataset, substantial error reduction was achieved, demonstrating the potential of the optimization. Transferability of the optimized spin‐polarization constants over different properties, however, is limited, as we demonstrate by applying the optimized parameters on a set of singlet‐triplet gaps in carbenes. Further studies on ionization potentials and electron affinities highlight some inherent limitations of current extended tight‐binding methods that can not be resolved by simple parameter optimization. We conclude that the significantly improved accuracy strongly encourages the present re‐optimization of the spin‐polarization constants, whereas the limited transferability motivates a property‐specific optimization strategy.
A cross‐sectional examination of the relationship between learning environment and anxiety among dental hygiene students
Authors: Klap Jamie
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study's purpose was to determine if the learning environment impacts student anxiety in a dental hygiene program by evaluating the two main learning environments: the dental clinic and the traditional classroom. This study also examined educational tasks and their association with anxiety in each learning environment.

Methods

A web‐based survey was conducted using a convenience sample of dental hygiene students enrolled in a two or four year CODA‐accredited dental hygiene program in the United States. The Beck Anxiety Inventory was used to determine each participant's anxiety levels in both learning environments. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, correlation, and an analysis of variance.

Results

According to the Beck Anxiety Inventory scoring, dental hygiene students experience a moderate level of anxiety when learning in the dental clinic and a low level of anxiety when learning in the classroom. Nervousness was the most reported anxiety symptom in both the dental clinic and the traditional classroom. Test results from the Spearman correlation show that all dental clinic and classroom educational tasks have a significant correlation (p < 0.01) to a student's anxiety level. Anxiety reported by students did not statistically differ by the year in which they were in the dental hygiene program.

Conclusion

Findings suggest anxiety does exist at a moderate level in dental hygiene students. The dental clinic learning environment is associated with greater anxiety among dental hygiene students. Results from this study will be beneficial in understanding how to facilitate student success in a dental hygiene program.
The prospect of a mentor‐protégé model in dental hygiene as a supplementary approach to traditional clinical education
Authors: Tingué Esther , Fung Xiao‐Qing , Sefo Dianne L. , Benvenuto Victoria , Beall Andrea L.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study compared the person‐centered approach alone and incorporated the mentor‐protégé model to assess differences in self‐efficacy, clinical skill acquisition, and anxiety/stress levels.

Methods

This quasi‐experimental study recruited a convenience sample of dental hygiene students at New York University during the 2022–2023 academic year. The dental hygiene students who were taught through traditional methods only (control group) and those who experienced the mentor‐protégé approach (intervention group) were compared. Data was collected from participants through anonymous surveys at the beginning and conclusion of the academic year. Additional information was gathered from the comparison group through a focus group.

Results

Participants from both groups responded favorably in measurements of self‐efficacy. However, the comparison group had a significant increase in their self‐rated ability to work independently (p = 0.008989). Changes in perceived clinical skill acquisition were not statistically significant, except for improvement in patient communication for the comparison group (p = 0.0197). The control group's anxiety/stress decreased by 12.5% (p = 0.0755) and the comparison group's anxiety/stress levels reduced by 28.3% (p = 0.0646) in the general clinics. The clinical course failing rate for the control group in fall 2022 semester was 9%, and the intervention group at 0%; no clinical course failures occurred in either group for Spring 2023 semester. There was a 100% passing rate achieved on the clinical board exam by both groups.

Conclusions

Implementing the mentor‐protégé model in dental hygiene education enhances students' clinical learning experiences and aids in practice readiness.
Assessing Axillary Lymph Node Burden and Prognosis in cT1‐T2 Stage Breast Cancer Using Machine Learning Methods: A Retrospective Dual‐Institutional MRI Study
Authors: Liao Jiayi , Xu Zeyan , Xie Yu , Liang Yanting , Hu Qingru , Liu Chunling , Yan Lifen , Diao Wenjun , Liu Zaiyi , Wu Lei , Liang Changhong
Published: August 2024

Background

Pathological axillary lymph node (pALN) burden is an important factor for treatment decision‐making in clinical T1‐T2 (cT1‐T2) stage breast cancer. Preoperative assessment of the pALN burden and prognosis aids in the individualized selection of therapeutic approaches.

Purpose

To develop and validate a machine learning (ML) model based on clinicopathological and MRI characteristics for assessing pALN burden and survival in patients with cT1‐T2 stage breast cancer.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 506 females (range: 24–83 years) with cT1‐T2 stage breast cancer from two institutions, forming the training (N = 340), internal validation (N = 85), and external validation cohorts (N = 81), respectively.

Field Strength/Sequence

This study used 1.5‐T, axial fat‐suppressed T2‐weighted turbo spin‐echo sequence and axial three‐dimensional dynamic contrast‐enhanced fat‐suppressed T1‐weighted gradient echo sequence.

Assessment

Four ML methods (eXtreme Gradient Boosting [XGBoost], Support Vector Machine, k‐Nearest Neighbor, Classification and Regression Tree) were employed to develop models based on clinicopathological and MRI characteristics. The performance of these models was evaluated by their discriminative ability. The best‐performing model was further analyzed to establish interpretability and used to calculate the pALN score. The relationships between the pALN score and disease‐free survival (DFS) were examined.

Statistical Tests

Chi‐squared test, Fisher's exact test, univariable logistic regression, area under the curve (AUC), Delong test, net reclassification improvement, integrated discrimination improvement, Hosmer‐Lemeshow test, log‐rank, Cox regression analyses, and intraclass correlation coefficient were performed. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The XGB II model, developed based on the XGBoost algorithm, outperformed the other models with AUCs of 0.805, 0.803, and 0.818 in the three cohorts. The Shapley additive explanation plot indicated that the top variable in the XGB II model was the Node Reporting and Data System score. In multivariable Cox regression analysis, the pALN score was significantly associated with DFS (hazard ratio: 4.013, 95% confidence interval: 1.059–15.207).

Data Conclusion

The XGB II model may allow to evaluate pALN burden and could provide prognostic information in cT1‐T2 stage breast cancer patients.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2