bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrocarbon fluid evolution and accumulation process in ultradeep reservoirs of the northern Fuman Oilfield, Tarim Basin
Authors: Wang Rujun , Zhang Yingtao , Chen Fangfang , Li Mengqin , Wen Zhigang , Luo Xiao , Ding Zhiwen , Li Bing , Xue Yifan
Published: May 2024

Marine deep Ordovician reservoirs are significantly controlled by strike-slip fault zones, which govern reservoir fluid evolution during various activity periods. Such fluid evolution elucidates the process underpinning ultra-deep oil and gas accumulation and delineates the pivotal role of strike-slip fault zones in hydrocarbon aggregation. This method can improve the understanding of the mechanism of hydrocarbon accumulation in deep to ultradeep carbonate rocks. The findings indicate that the Ordovician reservoirs in the northern thrust fault zone of the Fuman Oilfield predominantly exhibit two stages of calcite vein formation. The distribution patterns of rare earth elements and Sr isotope characteristics suggest that both stages of vein formation were sourced from Middle to Lower Ordovician marine strata, with no evidence of oxidizing fluid infiltration. This indicates that late-stage oil and gas charging in deep-ultradeep formations has good sealing properties. In these calcite veins, early-, middle-, and late-stage fluid inclusions were primarily entrapped. By examining the development of primary oil inclusions and combining the U‒Pb isotope data of host minerals, this study confirms the occurrence of three stages of oil and gas charging in the deep Ordovician strata of the northern thrust fault zone in the Fuman Oilfield. These stages correspond to approximately 459 ± 7.2 Ma (mid-Caledonian), 348 ± 18 Ma (early Permian), and 268 Ma (late Permian). The key accumulation period of oil and gas reservoirs in the study area is the middle and late Caledonian, and there is a good correspondence between oil and gas charging and fault activity.
Synthesis and characterization of peanut shell-derived ferromagnetic activated carbon: application in the Fenton process for the degradation of methyl orange
Authors: Ndongmo Josiane Nguimatsia , Mabou Jules Leuna , Tchuifon Tchuifon Donald Raoul , Makota Suzanne , Fotsop Cyrille Ghislain , Conde Miriame , Tchieta Pierre Gerard
Published: May 2024

The objective of the current work was to synthesize and characterize ferromagnetic activated carbon from peanut shells (PSs) and apply it for the degradation of methyl orange (MO) following the heterogeneous Fenton process. PSs were activated with phosphoric acid and potassium hydroxide at 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3 solid/liquid activation ratios and different concentrations (0.5, 1, and 1.5 M) and pyrolized at 500°C. Based on the iodine indexes, KOH-activated carbon adsorbents exhibited higher porosity than the H3PO4-activated adsorbents. KOH-activated carbon at a 1:3 activation ratio (iodine value 591 mg/g) was selected for magnetization using iron (II) ions and catalytic mineralization of MO dye. The ferromagnetic activated carbon (AC-PS@FeII) was characterized using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, and nitrogen-adsorption BET measurements. AC-PS@FeII contained ferromagnetite with a cubic spinel structure and a specific area of 181.96 m2·g–1. AC-PS@FeII degraded MO with a degradation efficiency of 99.22% at pH 2, 4 g/L of catalyst dosage, and a 50-min contact time. The results of recyclability tests, using distilled water, revealed a slight decrease in degradation capacity after four runs, indicating that the developed catalyst was appreciably stable. The hetero-Fenton catalyst from peanut shells could be an ideal catalyst for treating wastewater contaminated with dyes as a path toward a circular economy.
Emerging therapeutic options for follicular-derived thyroid cancer in the era of immunotherapy
Authors: Turner Naimah , Hamidi Sarah , Ouni Rim , Rico Rene , Henderson Ying C. , Puche Maria , Alekseev Sayan , Colunga-Minutti Jocelynn G. , Zafereo Mark E. , Lai Stephen Y. , Kim Sang T. , Cabanillas Maria E. , Nurieva Roza
Published: May 2024

Although most follicular-derived thyroid cancers are well differentiated and have an overall excellent prognosis following treatment with surgery and radioiodine, management of advanced thyroid cancers, including iodine refractory disease and poorly differentiated/undifferentiated subtypes, is more challenging. Over the past decade, better understanding of the genetic drivers and immune milieu of advanced thyroid cancers has led to significant progress in the management of these patients. Numerous targeted kinase inhibitors are now approved by the U.S Food and Drug administration (FDA) for the treatment of advanced, radioiodine refractory differentiated thyroid cancers (DTC) as well as anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). Immunotherapy has also been thoroughly studied and has shown promise in selected cases. In this review, we summarize the progress in the understanding of the genetic landscape and the cellular and molecular basis of radioiodine refractory-DTC and ATC, as well as discuss the current treatment options and future therapeutic avenues.
Oropharyngeal cancer and human papillomavirus: a visualization based on bibliometric analysis and topic modeling
Authors: Liu Zhu , Wang Haixu , Xu Yang , Wei Hongming , Zhang Yuchong , Dong Huilei
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The incidence of oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) is increasing. This study used bibliometric analysis and topic modeling to explore the research trends and advancements in this disease over the past 10 years, providing valuable insights to guide future investigations.

Methods

7,355 English articles from 2013 to 2022 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection for bibliometric analysis. Topic modeling was applied to 1,681 articles from high-impact journals, followed by an assessment of topic significance ranking (TSR). Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms were extracted using R and Python, followed by an analysis of the terms associated with each topic and on an annual basis. Additionally, genes were extracted and the number of genes appearing each year and the newly emerged genes were counted.

Results

The bibliometric analysis suggested that the United States and several European countries hold pivotal positions in research. Current research is focused on refining treatments, staging and stratification. Topic modeling revealed 12 topics, emphasizing human papillomavirus (HPV) and side effect reduction. MeSH analysis revealed a growing emphasis on prognosis and quality of life. No new MeSH terms emerged after 2018, suggesting that the existing terms have covered most of the core concepts within the field of oropharyngeal cancers. Gene analysis identified TP53 and EGFR as the most extensively studied genes, with no novel genes discovered after 2019. However, CD69 and CXCL9 emerged as new genes of interest in 2019, reflecting recent research trends and directions.

Conclusion

HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer research, particularly treatment de-escalation, has gained significant attention. However, there are still challenges in diagnosis and treatment that need to be addressed. In the future, more research will focus on this issue, indicating that this field still holds potential as a research hotspot.
The advent of preventive high-resolution structural histopathology by artificial-intelligence-powered cryogenic electron tomography
Authors: Galaz-Montoya Jesús G.
Published: May 2024

Advances in cryogenic electron microscopy (cryoEM) single particle analysis have revolutionized structural biology by facilitating the in vitro determination of atomic- and near-atomic-resolution structures for fully hydrated macromolecular complexes exhibiting compositional and conformational heterogeneity across a wide range of sizes. Cryogenic electron tomography (cryoET) and subtomogram averaging are rapidly progressing toward delivering similar insights for macromolecular complexes in situ, without requiring tags or harsh biochemical purification. Furthermore, cryoET enables the visualization of cellular and tissue phenotypes directly at molecular, nanometric resolution without chemical fixation or staining artifacts. This forward-looking review covers recent developments in cryoEM/ET and related technologies such as cryogenic focused ion beam milling scanning electron microscopy and correlative light microscopy, increasingly enhanced and supported by artificial intelligence algorithms. Their potential application to emerging concepts is discussed, primarily the prospect of complementing medical histopathology analysis. Machine learning solutions are poised to address current challenges posed by “big data” in cryoET of tissues, cells, and macromolecules, offering the promise of enabling novel, quantitative insights into disease processes, which may translate into the clinic and lead to improved diagnostics and targeted therapeutics.
The trend of lymphoma incidence in China from 2005 to 2017 and lymphoma incidence trend prediction from 2018 to 2035: a log-linear regression and Bayesian age-period-cohort analysis
Authors: Lin Kangqian , Shao Jianjiang , Cao Yuting , Lu Lijun , Lei Peng , Chen Xiaohong , Tong Mengwei , Lu Yaping , Yan Yizhong , Zhang Lei , Pan Xin , Nong Weixia
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The aims of this study were to explore the incidence characteristics and trend prediction of lymphoma from 2005 to 2035, and to provide data basis for the prevention and control of lymphoma in China.

Method

The data on lymphoma incidence in China from 2005 to 2017 were obtained from the Chinese Cancer Registry Annual Report. The Joinpoint regression model was used to calculate annual percentage change (APC) and average annual percentage change (AAPC) to reflect time trends. Age–period–cohort models were conducted to estimate age, period, and cohort effects on the lymphoma incidence. A Bayesian age–period–cohort model was used to predict lymphoma incidence trends from 2018 to 2035.

Results

From 2005 to 2017, the incidence of lymphoma was 6.26/100,000, and the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) was 4.11/100,000, with an AAPC of 1.4% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.3%, 2.5%]. The ASIR was higher in men and urban areas than in women and rural areas, respectively. The age effect showed that the incidence risk of lymphoma increased with age. In the period effect, the incidence risk of lymphoma in rural areas decreased first and then increased with 2010 as the cutoff point. The overall risk of lymphoma incidence was higher in the cohort before the 1970–1974 birth cohort than in the cohort after. From 2018 to 2035, the lymphoma incidence in men, women, and urban areas will show an upward trend.

Conclusion

From 2005 to 2017, the incidence of lymphoma showed an increasing trend, and was different in regions, genders, and age groups in China. It will show an upward trend from 2018 to 2035. These results are helpful for the formulation and adjustment of lymphoma prevention, control, and management strategies, and have important reference significance for the treatment of lymphoma in China.
The role of municipal ownership for urban net-zero path creation
Authors: Sugar Katherine
Published: May 2024

Particularly within recent years, the rising number of city actors worldwide declaring climate emergencies and pledging commitments to carbon neutrality has sparked a spatial turn in broader sustainable transition thinking, noting the importance of the local level for governing sustainable transitions. Using a Geographical Political Economy approach, this paper critically engages with path creation theory and sustainable transitions literature to explore the potential of urban net-zero carbon transitions in a multi-scalar governance framework. The main argument is that municipal ownership across sectors has a fundamental role in sustainable transitions at the city level. This paper makes a distinct conceptual contribution to sustainable transitions literature by drawing on path creation theory to illustrate how municipal ownership is a central tenet of path creation by bringing together local actors and enabling political capacity and agency to control and strategize integrated sustainable urban pathways. Using the transport and energy sectors in Nottingham in the UK, it applies the Path Creation Framework in an urban setting to illustrate that municipal ownership stimulates a positive path creation through three main arguments. First, municipal ownership enables a positive embeddedness and historical legacy in the provision of sustainable urban energy and transport services; second, it facilitates the establishment of skills and expertise that positively reinforces urban political capacity for the pursuit of urban sustainability; and third, it stimulates the creation of innovative urban projects for sustainable and equitable pathways.
Investigation of activation-induced markers (AIM) in porcine T cells by flow cytometry
Authors: Moorton Madison , Tng Priscilla Y. L. , Inoue Ryo , Netherton Christopher L. , Gerner Wilhelm , Schmidt Selma
Published: May 2024

Activation-induced markers (AIMs) are frequently analyzed to identify re-activated human memory T cells. However, in pigs the analysis of AIMs is still not very common. Based on available antibodies, we designed a multi-color flow cytometry panel comprising pig-specific or cross-reactive antibodies against CD25, CD69, CD40L (CD154), and ICOS (CD278) combined with lineage/surface markers against CD3, CD4, and CD8α. In addition, we included an antibody against tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), to study the correlation of AIM expression with the production of this abundant T cell cytokine. The panel was tested on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)/ionomycin, Staphylococcus enterotoxin B (SEB) or PBMCs from African swine fever virus (ASFV) convalescent pigs, restimulated with homologous virus. PMA/ionomycin resulted in a massive increase of CD25/CD69 co-expressing T cells of which only a subset produced TNF-α, whereas CD40L expression was largely associated with TNF-α production. SEB stimulation triggered substantially less AIM expression than PMA/ionomycin but also here CD25/CD69 expressing T cells were identified which did not produce TNF-α. In addition, CD40L-single positive and CD25+CD69+CD40L+TNF-α− T cells were identified. In ASFV restimulated T cells TNF-α production was associated with a substantial proportion of AIM expressing T cells but also here ASFV-reactive CD25+CD69+TNF-α− T cells were identified. Within CD8α+ CD4 T cells, several CD25/CD40L/CD69/ICOS defined phenotypes expanded significantly after ASFV restimulation. Hence, the combination of AIMs tested will allow the identification of primed T cells beyond the commonly used cytokine panels, improving capabilities to identify the full breadth of antigen-specific T cells in pigs.
Experimental Investigation of Lithium-Ion Batteries Thermal Runaway Propagation Consequences under Different Triggering Modes
Authors: Yang Juan , Liu Wenhao , Zhao Haoyu , Zhang Qingsong
Published: May 2024

In the stage of aircraft development and airworthiness verification, it is necessary to master the influence of lithium-ion battery (LIB) thermal runaway (TR) propagation. In this paper, the battery TR propagation behavior under different trigger positions and modes is studied experimentally, and the calculation and comparison are carried out from the parameters of real-time temperature, voltage, propagation speed, total energy released, and solid ejecta. When the two adjacent cells at the top corner, side, and center of the module are overheated, TR occurs at about 1000 s for the triggered cells, while the whole-overheating trigger mode takes a longer time. The latter’s transmission speed is extremely fast, spreading 2.67 cells per second on average. The heat generated by the solid ejecta of the whole-overheating trigger mode is 82,437 J, which is more destructive. The voltage of the triggered cell fluctuates abnormally in a precursor manner when the internal active substances in the cell undergo a self-generated thermal reaction. This work can provide a reference for the safety and economical design of system installations and the correct setting of airworthiness verification Method of Compliance (MoC) experiments to verify whether the aircraft can bear and contain the adverse effects caused by LIB TR.
Spatial-Temporal Variations and Driving Factors of the Coupling and Coordination Level of the Digital Economy and Sustainable Rural Development: A Case Study of China
Authors: Nong Wanxiang , Wen Jun , He Jingyue
Published: May 2024

Sustainable rural development forms a robust foundation for economic and social sustainability. Moreover, the digital economy acts as a catalyst for advancing rural sustainable development by altering the distribution of production factors. Thus, this study concentrates on 30 provinces in China, constructing an evaluation index system for both the digital economy and rural sustainable development. The study employs various methods and models to analyze the spatiotemporal changes and driving factors affecting the coupling and coordination between these two aspects. The research findings are as follows: the coupling and coordination levels among provinces in China have been on the rise year by year. By 2022, the coupling and coordination levels of most provinces range between 0.5 and 0.6. Regional disparities are the primary determinant of the poor overall coupling and coordination level in China. In 2022, the coupling and coordination level in the eastern region is 0.6663, compared to 0.5420 in the central region and 0.5087 in the western region. Factors such as urbanization, industrial structure transformation, technological innovation, higher education, economic development, and government support significantly influence the coupling and coordination level. Nevertheless, their effects vary across regions, with a more pronounced impact in the eastern region than in the central and western regions. Therefore, this paper proposes policy recommendations, including infrastructure optimization, rural digitization promotion, regional resource allocation enhancement, cross-regional development mechanism exploration, and differentiated development strategy implementation.
Effect of Plant Density on Growth and Bioactive Compounds in Salvia miltiorrhiza
Authors: Xing Zhiheng , Bi Guihong , Li Tongyin , Zhang Qianwen , Knight Patricia R.
Published: May 2024

Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) is an herbaceous plant widely used in the pharmaceutical industry. However, the majority of medicinal plants utilized in the US are imported, posing challenges such as fluctuations in bioactive compound concentrations and insufficient supply to meet demand. Determining the optimal plant density is a key management decision for danshen production. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different plant densities on the growth and bioactive compound content of danshen cultivated in Mississippi. A field experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different plant densities on individual plant growth, photosynthesis, and the content of bioactive components in danshen in 2020 and 2021. Six plant densities were designed: 30 × 20 cm (between row spacing × within row spacing), 30 × 30 cm, 30 × 40 cm, 45 × 20 cm, 45 × 30 cm, or 45 × 40 cm. A plant density of 45 × 40 cm resulted in danshen plants exhibiting the highest Plant Growth Index (PGI), SPAD, root number, shoot number, shoot fresh and dry weight, maximum root diameter, maximum root length, net photosynthesis, intracellular CO2 concentration, tanshinone I, and cryptotanshinone, regardless of year. Plants spaced at 45 × 30 cm had similar root fresh weight, root dry weight, and tanshinone IIA and salvianolic acid B levels compared with plants grown at the 45 × 40 cm spacing, and both were significantly higher than other densities.
Challenges in Mapping Soil Variability Using Apparent Soil Electrical Conductivity under Heterogeneous Topographic Conditions
Authors: Kulmány István Mihály , Bede László , Stencinger Dávid , Zsebő Sándor , Csavajda Péter , Kalocsai Renátó , Vona Márton , Jakab Gergely , Vona Viktória Margit , Bede-Fazekas Ákos
Published: May 2024

Site-specific management requires the identification of treatment areas based on homogeneous characteristics. This study aimed to determine whether soil mapping based on apparent soil electrical conductivity (ECa) is suitable for mapping soil properties of fields with topographic heterogeneity. Research was conducted on two neighbouring fields in Fejér county, Hungary, with contrasting topographic heterogeneity. To characterise the spatial variability of soil attributes, ECa was measured and supplemented by obtaining soil samples and performing soil profile analysis. The relationship between ECa and soil physical and chemical properties was analysed using correlation, principal component, and regression analyses. The research revealed that the quality and strength of the relationship between ECa and soil remarkably differed in the two studied fields. In homogeneous topographic conditions, ECa was weakly correlated with elevation as determined by soil physical texture and nutrient content in a strong (R2 = 0.72) linear model. On the other hand, ECa was significantly determined by elevation in heterogeneous topographic conditions in a moderate (R2 = 0.47) linear model. Consequently, ECa-based soil mapping can only be used to characterise the soil, thus delineating management zones under homogeneous topographic conditions.
Influence of Nitrogen Application Rate on Wheat Grain Protein Content and Composition in China: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: An Hao-Yuan , Han Jing-Jing , He Qian-Nan , Zhu Yi-Lin , Wu Peng , Wang Yue-Chao , Gao Zhi-Qiang , Du Tian-Qing , Xue Jian-Fu
Published: May 2024

The nitrogen application rate (NAR) has a significant effect on the contents of wheat grain protein and its composition. There is still no consensus regarding the appropriate NAR, given the differences in studied conditions and influence of factors such as geographical location, climate, and soil nutrient contents. In this study, 66 papers related to wheat grain protein and its composition published from 1984 to 2021 were selected for meta-analysis in comprehensively evaluating the response of wheat grain protein content and composition to NAR in China. The results reveal that NAR significantly increased total protein content by 9.49–28.6%, gliadin by 9.13–30.5%, glutenin by 12.9–45.4%, albumin by 5.06–15.8%, and globulin by 8.52–24.0% of wheat grain in China, respectively, compared to no nitrogen application. The optimal NAR is 240–300 kg ha−1 when specific planting conditions are not being considered. Under different growing conditions, the NAR that provided the greatest increase in wheat grain protein and its composition varied as follows: 180–240 kg ha−1 in Northwest China and at >100 m altitudes; >300 kg ha−1 in North China and at <100 m altitudes and lower soil base nutrient levels; 240–300 kg ha−1 in Southeast China, with higher soil nutrients levels and for all average annual temperatures and precipitation ranges. In conclusion, the results of the present study reveal that it is feasible to systematically enhance the contents of wheat grain protein and its related fractions by appropriate NAR under different cropping conditions.
Evaluation of Effective Energy Values of Six Protein Ingredients Fed to Beagles and Predictive Energy Equations for Protein Feedstuff
Authors: Zhang Qiaoru , Sun Haoran , Gao Zuer , Zhao Hui , Peng Zhangrong , Zhang Tietao
Published: May 2024

This study evaluated the nutrition composition, the nutrient digestibility, and the energy value of six protein ingredients used in pet food by the difference method in six beagles within a 7 × 6 incomplete Latin square design. The results showed that the apparent total tract digestibility of gross energy (GE) and organic matter (OM) in beagles fed the fish meal (FM) and corn gluten meal (CGM) diets was higher than for those fed the meat and bone meal (MBM), soybean meal (SBM), mealworm meal (MM), and yeast extract (YE) diets (p < 0.05). The digestible energy (DE), metabolizable energy (ME), and net energy (NE) of the MM diet were greater than the other diets, and MBM was the lowest (p < 0.05). The ME of protein ingredients was positively correlated with organic matter and negatively correlated with the ash content. The NE of protein ingredients was positively correlated with the crude protein content and negatively correlated with the ash content. The study resulted in predictive energy equations for protein ingredients that were more accurate than the NRC’s predictive equation of ME when the ash content of the ingredient was more than 30% DM. In conclusion, the nutrient digestibility and energy value of corn gluten meal were similar to those of fish meal and those of soybean meal were similar to yeast extract. All predictive energy equations for six protein feedstuffs had slight differences with measured energy values.
The Associations between Human–Companion Animal Relationship Duration, Companion Animal Life Stage, and Relationship Quality
Authors: Ellis Annalyse , Loughnan Steve , Hawkins Roxanne D. , Stanton Sarah C. E.
Published: May 2024

Although many companion animal (or “pet”) owners report that their relationships with their pets are important, we know little about how animal ownership duration and animal life stage are related to relationship quality. In a sample of 1303 dog and cat owners, the present research explored the associations between relationship duration, pet life stage (puppy/kitten, young adult, mature adult, and senior), and four markers of relationship quality: pet-related self-expansion, perceived pet responsiveness, perceived pet insensitivity, and human–animal bond. We found that relationship duration was negatively and linearly associated with self-expansion for both dog and cat owners. Results comparing relationship quality markers across pet life stages revealed that for both dog and cat owners, self-expansion was higher for owners of younger animals compared to owners of older animals. There were no significant effects for perceived pet responsiveness, perceived pet insensitivity, or human–animal bond based on relationship duration or animal life stage. These findings indicate that the duration of the relationship with one’s pet and animal life stage have implications for how much people feel a pet helps them grow, whereas other markers of human–pet relationship quality likely vary based on other experiences.
Characterization of Removal Reasons for Nurse Sows and the Associated Removal Due to Their Extended Lactation Length in Hyperprolific Farrow-Wean Herds
Authors: Osotsi Joab Malanda , Balogh Peter , Novotnine-Danko Gabriella
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to characterize and quantify reasons for the removal of nurse sows and identify the removal associated with their extended lactation length (ELL). A total of 100,756 removed nurse sows within a period of 2016–2022 from 53 sow herds in the Midwest USA were analyzed. Reproductive failure was the most common removal reason (χ2 = 8748.421, p < 0.001) affecting P1, P2, and P3 nurse sows. Failure to conceive and absence of estrus were the main causes of reproductive failure (χ2 = 352.480, p < 0.001) affecting P1 and P2 nurse sows and P1 and P5 nurse sows, respectively. When P2 and P6 nurse sows had an ELL of 0–7 d, they faced a high chance (χ2 = 13.312, p = 0.021) of removal due to conception failure and failure to return to heat, respectively. When P2 and P5 nurse sows had an ELL of 8–14 d, they were highly vulnerable (χ2 = 59.847, p < 0.001) to removal due to failure to conceive and showing heat, respectively. Finally, when ELL was at 15–21 days, P4 and P5 nurse sows were more likely (χ2 = 41.751, p < 0.001) to be removed due to failure to express heat, whereas at the same time, P2 and P3 nurse sows experienced the same removal threat due to failing to conceive. These results could help producers manage nurse sow systems.
Personalized Setup Optimization Strategies to Improve Clinical Workflow in Image-Guided Pediatric Particle Therapy
Authors: Pepa Matteo , Pella Andrea , Sellaro Giulia , Galante Federica , Mirandola Alfredo , Ghirelli Angelica , Vennarini Sabina , Colombo Francesca , Imparato Sara , Iannalfi Alberto , Ciocca Mario , Paganelli Chiara , Orlandi Ester , Baroni Guido
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this retrospective study was to simulate a daily pre-alignment strategy to mitigate systematic positioning errors in image-guided pediatric hadron therapy. All pediatric patients (32 patients, 853 fractions) treated from December 2021 and September 2022 at our Institution were retrospectively considered. For all fractions, daily correction vectors (CVs) resulting from image registration for patient positioning were retrieved in the form of txt files from the hospital database. For each fraction, an adjusted correction vector (V′) was then computed as the difference between the actual one (V) and the algebraic average of the previous ones, as to simulate patient pre-alignment before imaging. The Euclidean norm of each V′ was computed and normalized with respect to that of the corresponding V to derive N. Pre-correcting all the coordinate values led to a 46% average reduction (min 20%, max 60%) in CVs, considering the first 27 fractions (average value in this cohort of patients). Such a potential improvement (N < 1) was observed for the most patients’ fractions (781/853, 91.6%). For the remaining 72/853 cases (8.4%), a remarkable worsening (N > 2) involved only 7/853 (0.82%) fractions. The presented strategy shows promising outcomes in order to ameliorate pediatric patient setup before imaging. However, further investigations to identify patients most likely to benefit from this approach are warranted.
Recent Trends of Authentication Methods in Extended Reality: A Survey
Authors: Hallal Louisa , Rhinelander Jason , Venkat Ramesh
Published: May 2024

Extended Reality (XR) is increasingly gaining momentum in industries such as retail, health, and education. To protect users’ personal data, establishing a secure authentication system for XR devices becomes essential. Recently, the focus on authentication methods for XR devices has been limited. To further our understanding of this topic, we surveyed authentication schemes, particularly systems and methods deployed in XR settings. In this survey, we focused on reviewing and evaluating papers published during the last decade (between 2014 and 2023). We compared knowledge-based authentication, physical biometrics, behavioral biometrics, and multi-model methods in terms of accuracy, security, and usability. We also highlighted the benefits and drawbacks of those methods. These highlights will direct future Human–computer Interaction (HCI) and security research to develop secure, reliable, and practical authentication systems.
Placing 21st Century Warming in Southern California, USA in a Multi-Century Historical Context
Authors: Knapp Paul A. , Catherwood Avery A. , Soulé Peter T.
Published: May 2024

Warming in southern California during the 21st century is unprecedented in the instrumental record. To place this warming in a multi-century historical context, we analyzed tree ring data sampled from Jeffrey pine (Pinus jeffreyi) and sugar pine (Pinus lambertiana) collected from minimally disturbed, old-growth high-elevation forests within Mt. San Jacinto State Park California, USA. Based on a calibration/verification period of 1960–2020 between earlywood radial growth and California Climate Division 6 climate data, we reconstructed annual (November–October) minimum temperature (Tmin) from 1658 to 2020. During the 61-year calibration/verification period, instrumental Tmin increased (r = 0.69, p < 0.01) and was positively associated with annual radial growth (r = 0.71, p < 0.01). Using regime shift analysis, we found that the 363-year reconstruction revealed Tmin stability until 1958 and then decreased until 1980, followed by the two warmest regimes (1981–2007, 2008–2020) on record. The last 13-year period was 0.77 °C warmer than the multi-century average with nine of the ten warmest years in the reconstruction recorded. These results suggest that 21st century warming in southern California is unique in the context of the past four centuries, indicating the rarity of exceptional warmth captured in the tree ring record.
Natural Orbitals and Targeted Non-Orthogonal Orbital Sets for Atomic Hyperfine Structure Multiconfiguration Calculations
Authors: Ma Mingxuan , Li Yanting , Godefroid Michel , Gaigalas Gediminas , Li Jiguang , Bieroń Jacek , Chen Chongyang , Wang Jianguo , Jönsson Per
Published: May 2024

Hyperfine structure constants have many applications, but are often hard to calculate accurately due to large and canceling contributions from different terms of the hyperfine interaction operator, and also from different closed and spherically symmetric core subshells that break up due to electron correlation effects. In multiconfiguration calculations, the wave functions are expanded in terms of configuration state functions (CSFs) built from sets of one-electron orbitals. The orbital sets are typically enlarged within the layer-by-layer approach. The calculations are energy-driven, and orbitals in each new layer of correlation orbitals are spatially localized in regions where the weighted total energy decreases the most, overlapping and breaking up different closed core subshells in an irregular pattern. As a result, hyperfine structure constants, computed as expectation values of the hyperfine operators, often show irregular or oscillating convergence patterns. Large orbital sets, and associated large CSF expansions, are needed to obtain converged values of the hyperfine structure constants. We analyze the situation for the states of the {2s22p3,2s22p23p,2s22p24p} odd and {2s22p23s,2s2p4,2s22p24s,2s22p23d} even configurations in N I, and show that the convergence with respect to the increasing sets of orbitals is radically improved by introducing separately optimized orbital sets targeted for describing the spin- and orbital-polarization effects of the 1s and 2s core subshells that are merged with, and orthogonalized against, the ordinary energy-optimized orbitals. In the layer-by-layer approach, the spectroscopic orbitals are kept frozen from the initial calculation and are not allowed to relax in response to the introduced layers of correlation orbitals. To compensate for this lack of variational freedom, the orbitals are transformed to natural orbitals prior to the final calculation based on single and double substitutions from an increased multireference set. The use of natural orbitals has an important impact on the states of the 2s22p23s configuration, bringing the corresponding hyperfine interaction constants in closer agreement with experiment. Relying on recent progress in methodology, the multiconfiguration calculations are based on configuration state function generators, cutting down the time for spin-angular integration by factors of up to 50, compared to ordinary calculations.
Comparative Analysis of Lithium-Ion Batteries for Urban Electric/Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Velev Boris , Djudzhev Bozhidar , Dimitrov Vladimir , Hinov Nikolay
Published: May 2024

This paper presents an experimental comparison of two types of Li-ion battery stacks for low-voltage energy storage in small urban Electric or Hybrid Electric Vehicles (EVs/HEVs). These systems are a combination of lithium battery cells, a battery management system (BMS), and a central control circuit—a lithium energy storage and management system (LESMS). Li-Ion cells are assembled with two different active cathode materials, nickel–cobalt–aluminum (NCA) and lithium iron phosphate (LFP), both with an integrated decentralized BMS. Based on experiments conducted on the two assembled LESMSs, this paper suggests that although LFP batteries have inferior characteristics in terms of energy and power density, they have great capacity for improvement.
RNA Binding by the m6A Methyltransferases METTL16 and METTL3
Authors: Mansfield Kyle D.
Published: May 2024

Methyltransferases are a wide-ranging, yet well-conserved, class of molecules that have been found to modify a wide variety of substrates. Interest in RNA methylation has surged in recent years with the identification of the major eukaryotic mRNA m6A methyltransferase METTL3. METTL16 has also been identified as an RNA m6A methyltransferase; however, much less is known about its targets and actions. Interestingly, in addition to their catalytic activities, both METTL3 and METTL16 also have “methylation-independent” functions, including translational regulation, which have been discovered. However, evidence suggests that METTL16’s role as an RNA-binding protein may be more significant than is currently recognized. In this review, we will introduce RNA methylation, specifically m6A, and the enzymes responsible for its deposition. We will discuss the varying roles that these enzymes perform and delve deeper into their RNA targets and possible roles as methylation-independent RNA binding proteins. Finally, we will touch upon the many open questions still remaining.
Retrospective Evaluation of Bone Turnover Markers in Serum for the Prediction of Metastases Development in Breast Cancer Patients: A Cohort Study
Authors: Kasoha Mariz , Findeklee Sebastian , Nigdelis Meletios P. , Schmidt Gilda , Solomayer Erich-Franz , Haj Hamoud Bashar
Published: May 2024

Background: Serum bone turnover markers might play a role in the prediction of the development of bone metastases in breast cancer (BC) patients. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to address the association of serum bone turnover markers with oncologic outcomes. Methods: We included 80 women with BC, who were operated on at the Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Homburg/Saar, Germany. Serum samples were obtained prior to surgery and were used for estimation of the concentration of tumor and bone turnover markers using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and radioimmunoassay (RIA). Results: At baseline, pyridinoline cross-linked carboxy-terminal telopeptide of type-1 collagen (ICTP) concentrations were higher in nodal positive vs. negative tumors (Mann–Whitney test p = 0.04). After a median follow-up of 79.4 months, 17 patients developed metastases, with 9 demonstrating, among other organs, osseous metastases. ICTP demonstrated the best area under the curve in the predection of osseous metastases in our cohort (AUC = 0.740, DeLong Test p = 0.005). Univariable Cox proportional hazard models failed to demonstrate significant associations between serum bone turnover markers and oncologic outcomes (progression-free survival, overall survival). Conclusions: Serum bone turnover markers (e.g., ICTP) were able to predict the development of osseous metastases but were not associated with oncologic outcomes. Further investigation and validation are required for the use of such markers in clinical practice.
Uncovering Druggable Targets in Aortic Dissection: An Association Study Integrating Mendelian Randomization, pQTL, and Protein–Protein Interaction Network
Authors: Jiang Daisong , Zheng Sihao , Xu Xiaokang , Yue Honghua , Liang Weitao , Wu Zhong
Published: May 2024

Aortic dissection (AD) is a life-threatening acute aortic syndrome. There are limitations and challenges in the discovery and application of biomarkers and drug targets for AD. Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis is a reliable analytical method to identify effective therapeutic targets. We aimed to identify novel therapeutic targets for AD and investigate their potential side-effects based on MR analysis. Data from protein quantitative trait loci (pQTLs) were used for MR analyses to identify potential therapeutic targets. We probed druggable proteins involved in the pathogenesis of aortic dissection from deCODE. In this study, a two-sample MR analysis was conducted, with druggable proteins as the exposure factor and data on genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of AD as the outcome. After conducting a two-sample MR, summary data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR) analysis and colocalization analysis were performed. A protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was also constructed to delve into the interactions between identified proteins. After MR analysis and the Steiger test, we identified five proteins as potential therapeutic targets for AD. SMR analysis and colocalization analysis also confirmed our findings. Finally, we identified ASPN (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.20, 1.54, p = 4.22 × 10−5) and SPOCK2 (OR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.41, 0.78, p = 4.52 × 10−4) as the core therapeutic targets. Through PPI network analysis, we identified six druggable targets, enabling the subsequent identification of six promising drugs from DrugBank for treating AD. This discovery of specific proteins as novel therapeutic targets represents a significant advancement in AD treatment. These findings provide more effective treatment options for AD.
A Contemporary Review of Trachea, Nose, and Ear Cartilage Bioengineering and Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Feng Max , Ahmed Khwaja Hamzah , Punjabi Nihal , Inman Jared C.
Published: May 2024

The complex structure, chemical composition, and biomechanical properties of craniofacial cartilaginous structures make them challenging to reconstruct. Autologous grafts have limited tissue availability and can cause significant donor-site morbidity, homologous grafts often require immunosuppression, and alloplastic grafts may have high rates of infection or displacement. Furthermore, all these grafting techniques require a high level of surgical skill to ensure that the reconstruction matches the original structure. Current research indicates that additive manufacturing shows promise in overcoming these limitations. Autologous stem cells have been developed into cartilage when exposed to the appropriate growth factors and culture conditions, such as mechanical stress and oxygen deprivation. Additive manufacturing allows for increased precision when engineering scaffolds for stem cell cultures. Fine control over the porosity and structure of a material ensures adequate cell adhesion and fit between the graft and the defect. Several recent tissue engineering studies have focused on the trachea, nose, and ear, as these structures are often damaged by congenital conditions, trauma, and malignancy. This article reviews the limitations of current reconstructive techniques and the new developments in additive manufacturing for tracheal, nasal, and auricular cartilages.
The Evolution of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation to Overcome Access Disparities: The Role of NMDP
Authors: Devine Steven M.
Published: May 2024

NMDP recognizes that despite advances in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and other cell therapies, not all patients have equitable access to treatment, and disparities in outcomes remain. This paper explores the recent work of NMDP to accelerate progress and expand access to more patients through transformative clinical research, particularly in the use of mismatched unrelated donors for HSCT.
Advancing Sustainability through Higher Education: Student Teachers Integrate Inner Development Goals (IDG) and Future-Oriented Methodologies
Authors: Nordén Birgitta
Published: May 2024

Methodologies for future-oriented research are mutually beneficial in highlighting different methodological perspectives and proposals for extending higher-education didactics toward sustainability. This study explores how different augmented-reality applications can enable new ways of teaching and learning. It systematically investigates how student teachers (n = 18) in higher education experienced ongoing realities while designing learning activities for a hybrid conference and interconnecting sustainability knowings via didactic modeling and design thinking. This qualitative study aims to develop a conceptual hybrid framework concerning the implications of student teachers incorporating design thinking and inner transition into their professional work with future-oriented methodologies on didactic modeling for sustainability commitment. With a qualitative approach, data were collected during and after a hackathon-like workshop through student teachers’ reflections, post-workshop surveys, and observation field notes. The thematic analysis shed light on transgressive learning and a transition in sustainability mindset through the activation of inner dimensions. Findings reinforcing sustainability commitment evolved around the following categories: being authentic (intra-personal competence), collaborating co-creatively (interpersonal competence), thinking long-term-oriented (futures-thinking competence on implementing didactics understanding), relating to creative confidence (values-thinking competence as embodied engagement), and acting based on perseverant professional knowledge-driven change (bridging didactics) by connecting theory-loaded empiricism and empirically loaded theory. The results highlight some of the key features of future-oriented methodologies and approaches to future-oriented methodologies, which include collaboration, boundary crossing, and exploration, and show the conditions that can support or hinder methodological development and innovation.
Psychometric Properties of the Revised Self-Efficacy for Diabetes Self-Management Scale among Spanish Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Villaécija Joaquín , Luque Bárbara , Cuadrado Esther , Vivas Sebastián , Tabernero Carmen
Published: May 2024

A longitudinal design was used to examine the psychometric properties of the Self-Efficacy for Diabetes Self-Management (SEDM) for children and adolescents with a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (T1D). The SEDM was adapted to Spanish and the best factorial solution was selected to test the invariance of the measures of age and gender. Individuals between the ages of 10 and 19 years old with a diagnosis of T1D completed a self-reported questionnaire (167 at Time 1 [mean age = 14.49, SD = 2.76; 56.9% boys] and 122 at Time 2 [mean age = 14.77, SD = 2.58; 56.6% boys]). Two unifactorial solutions were tested. The psychometric properties of the scale were validated. The proposed validation obtained excellent reliability indices (χ2 (26) = 25.59, p > 0.49, RMSEA = 0.00, 95% CI [0.00, 0.07], CFI = 1.00, GFI = 0.96, AGFI = 0.92, TLI = 1.00, and CMIN = 0.98), and it appeared to be invariant for gender and for age groups. The Cronbach’s α was 0.85. The test–retest reliability was high (r = 0.69 [p < 0.001]). Convergent, discriminant, and external validity were proven. The nine-item SEDM is a brief measure with satisfactory structural validity. From our knowledge, this study provides the first reliable tool to assess self-efficacy in the management of T1D for Spanish children and adolescents.