bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Candidate Immunodominant Epitopes and Their HLA‐Binding Prediction on BK Polyomavirus Proteins in Healthy Donors
Authors: Lara‐de‐León Ana Gabriela , Mora‐Buch Rut , Cantó Ester , Peña‐Gómez Cleofé , Rudilla Francesc
Published: October 2024

BK polyomavirus infection is an important cause of graft loss in transplant patients, however, currently available therapies lack effectiveness against this pathogen. Identification of immunological targets for potential treatments is therefore necessary. The aim of this study was to predict candidates of immunodominant epitopes within four BK virus proteins (VP1, VP2, VP3 and LTA) using PBMCs from 44 healthy donors. We used the ELISpot epitope mapping method to evaluate the T‐cell response, and HLA‐peptide binding was predicted using the NetMHCpan algorithm. A total of 11 potential peptides were selected for VP1, 3 for VP2/VP3 and 13 for LTA. Greater reactivity was observed for VP1 and LTA proteins compared with VP2/VP3. Most of the peptides selected as potential immunodominant candidates were restricted towards several HLA class I and II alleles, with predominant HLA class I binding by computational predictions. Based on these findings, the sequences of the selected immunodominant epitopes candidates and their corresponding HLA restrictions could contribute to the optimisation of functional assays and aid in the design and improvement of immunotherapy strategies against BK virus infections.
A Harmonic Response Topology Optimization Method Based on Hybrid Cellular Automata
Authors: Wang Ziyi , Song Xueguan , Kan Ziyun
Published: October 2024

Hybrid cellular automaton (HCA) method is a topology optimization method with high convergence efficiency. Harmonic response topology optimization problem has been widely researched and common frequency-domain methods have been applied to solve this problem. Despite this, little work has so far been undertaken to utilize the HCA method to improve the calculation efficiency of harmonic response topology optimization. In this article, we present a methodology that applies the HCA method to solve harmonic response topology optimization problem. Mode displacement method (MDM), mode acceleration method (MAM), and full method (FM) are common frequency-domain methods that are utilized as harmonic response analysis methods in this study. The examples under rotating loads demonstrate that feasibility of this methodology at one specific frequency excitation and multiple frequencies excitation. This article presents and implements a high convergence efficiency method for harmonic response topology optimization, and this method can converge in 20–30 iterations. This method can extend the application range of the HCA method and improve the optimization efficiency of harmonic response topology optimization.
Level-Set Method Based Predictive Modeling to Track the Evolution of Surface During Pulsed Laser Surface Melting
Authors: Hijam Justin , Gupta Rohit , Vadali Madhu
Published: October 2024

The objective of this study is to investigate the evolution of surface geometry during pulsed laser surface melting (pLSM) via level-set method-based interface tracking numerical framework. Existing models to track surface geometry are inaccurate and computationally expensive. Therefore, they have limited use in gaining understanding of the surface evolution during pLSM. A numerical model, integrating the level-set approach, fluid flow, and heat transfer dynamics, is detailed in this paper. The multi-phase numerical model achieves accurate tracking of interface for a single pulse by implementing the volumetric laser heat source on the moving interface by modifying Beer–Lambert's law. The accuracy of the single pulse model is confirmed by comparing its peak-to-valley height (PVH) to the experimental data. The deviation in PVH is limited to about 15%, with a maximum root mean square error of ∼0.24 µm, highlighting the model's reliability. Additionally, the evolved surface of a single pulse from the model is replicated over an area with dedicated overlaps to generate the predicted textured surface with reasonable accuracy. Some inaccuracies in the predicted surface roughness values were observed because the textures were generated based on a single pulse geometry computed on an initially flat surface. Nonetheless, the results highlight a significant development in numerical frameworks for pLSM and can be used as a tool to gain deeper insights into the process and for process optimization.
Investigation of Electric Grid Decarbonization for Arizona With Solar Photovoltaic
Authors: Nadeem Haider , Milcarek Ryan J. , Stechel Ellen B. , Miller Clark
Published: October 2024

Arizona has the highest daily average solar insolation in the United States, with the theoretical capacity to fulfill the electricity consumption of the state and produce excess energy. A solar photovoltaic (PV) energy model is herein developed using the National Solar Radiation Database (NSRDB) insolation data to size solar plants to decarbonize the Arizona power grid. A previous study is used to classify land in Arizona for solar panels according to suitability and the excellent classified land is considered. PV panels are assumed to have a 32-degree tilt facing south, which is calculated to receive the highest annual solar insolation. Monthly electricity consumption data for the state is sourced through the Energy Information Administration (EIA), and PV plants are sized to match the total electric consumption for the month of December. The analysis shows that only ∼0.12% of Arizona’s total land is required to decarbonize the grid and produce 33.23 TWh of excess electrical energy annually, with the bulk of the excess energy generated in the spring and early summer months when consumption decreases, and solar PV generation is high. This excess energy is sufficient to electrify 185% of Arizona’s yearly motor gasoline miles (∼17.9 TWh) and decarbonizing this sector. Similarly, electrification of the state’s heavy transport, which utilizes 95.45 trillion kJs of distillate fuel oil usage, at 0.932 kWh/km required ∼8.45 TWh of electricity and can be decarbonized with the excess energy.
Thermal-Hydraulic Analysis of the Cooling Wall in Ultra Supercritical Coal-Fired Generation Plants During Deep Peaking
Authors: Wang Dengliang , Zhao Yongliang , Chen Weixiong , Wang Chaoyang , Yan Junjie
Published: October 2024

Due to increasingly severe environmental and climate concerns currently, renewable energy is highly penetrated around the world. However, given the intermittency and instability of renewable energy, coal-fired generation plants urgently need to undertake deep peak shaving tasks, resulting in the frequent load cycling transient processes of units. It will have a significant effect on the safe operation of the boiler components, especially for the hydrodynamic instability of cooling wall within the boiler. This paper takes a 1100 MW ultra-supercritical primary reheat coal-fired generation plants as the research object. In accordance with the heating load distribution characteristics of cooling wall, a hydrodynamic characteristic calculation model of cooling wall within the boiler is constructed based on the mass conservation, momentum conservation and energy conservation equations, which introduces numerous empirical correlations available for heat transfer and hydraulic resistance calculation at the same time. The working fluid temperature in the direction of cooling wall height at 100% THA, 75% THA, 50% THA, 40% THA and 30% THA, as well as the metal temperature of the inner, outer and fin tube walls are analyzed. The changes in metal wall temperature of cooling wall under different load cycling rates are obtained during the low load operating range of 50% THA to 30% THA. Ultimate load cycling rates of the coal-fired generation plants without causing the overtemperature issue of cooling wall is obtained. Finally, when the revised fuel supply control strategy is adopted, it is able to significantly reduce the maximum metal wall temperature during the rapid load cycling process. The maximum load cycling rate is increased from 2.5% Pe/min to 3.0% Pe/min for the loading up process.
Dynamic Characteristics and Control Strategy Optimization of a 1000 MW Lignite-Fired Power Unit Integrated With Primary Air Heater
Authors: Li Mengjie , Li Maoliang , Yin Chaoqiang , Liu Ming , Yan Junjie
Published: October 2024

Lignite is a kind of low rank coals with abundant reserves, and it is cost-effective for power plants. However, the moisture content is about 30% to 60% for the lignite, and the water carried by the raw lignite is dried in the pulverization system, which will consume much energy. Therefore, high temperature should be maintained for the primary air of the lignite-fired power plants, especially when the power plant operates under low power ratio or with low temperature feed air. In this study, a 1000 MW lignite-fired power system integrated with a primary air heater is proposed and analyzed. In the primary air heater, the low temperature reheated steam is extracted from the boiler to heat the primary air after the air preheater. The integration of primary air heater makes the lignite-fired power system be more complex, which will influence the operational flexibility of the power plant. Therefore, dynamic models of steam turbines and the boiler with waste heat recovery system were developed in this study. The transient characteristics of the unit under load cycling conditions and primary frequency modulation processes were analyzed. Then, control strategy of the primary air heater of turbine and boiler were enhanced based on the simulation results. The results show that the temperature of primary air can be increased by 51–69 °C by the additional air preheater, and the primary frequency modulation capacity can be improved by 8 MW at 50% power load ratio during primary frequency modulation process.
Investigation of Propane Micro-Scale Thermal Partial Oxidation for Syngas Production
Authors: Demers Guthrie , Milcarek Ryan
Published: October 2024

Solid oxide fuel cells have been explored as one method of high efficiency power generation with potential for zero emissions, but challenges remain with fuel flexibility, system integration and reforming. Recent research in micro-scale thermal partial oxidation has shown promise for high fuel flexibility as hydrocarbons are reformed into syngas (i.e., H2 and CO), which can then integrate directly with SOFCs to produce power. In this paper, propane fuel is mixed with air at different equivalence ratios and the partial oxidation reactions are investigated at different reactor wall temperatures and flow rates. This study is completed using a hydrogen burner, which results in a small residence time for the oxidation reaction. Thermal radiation generated from the reaction is captured using a camera and the exhaust gas is analyzed using a gas chromatograph. Mass flow controllers are used to control the volume flow rate of propane and air entering the heated reactor tube. Flame images are used to identify different reaction regimes (weak flame, normal flame, and flame with repetitive extinction and ignition) across the range of selected variables and to create a regime map. Gas chromatograph data is used to track concentrations of different gases such as hydrogen, carbon oxides, and other gases in the exhaust of the reaction. High ethylene concentrations are detected and the implications of this gas are discussed. The results from this study are compared to previous results for syngas production with propane as the fuel with larger residence times. Chemical equilibrium analysis is used to compare propane with other liquid and gaseous fuels for its ability to be used to produce syngas for SOFC applications.
A Comprehensive Introduction of the World First Elevated and Conventional Turbine-Generators Layout Design Double-Reheat Coal-Fired Power Unit
Authors: Feng Weizhong , Li Li , Zhang Jiancheng , Cao Yan
Published: October 2024

Although theoretically double-reheat units are more efficient than single-reheat ones, the practical application results worldwide show that the efficiency improvement of the conventional double-reheat unit is not obvious, and the cost performance is not outstanding. One of the main reasons is the larger pressure loss, heat dissipation loss and related investment cost caused by the excessively long pipeline, especially the second reheat system. The patented elevated and conventional turbine-generators layout introduced in this paper solves this problem well in principle. By placing the HP and IP1 turbine cylinders on a high platform very close to the boiler outlet headers, the technology can shorten the associated expensive critical pipes by more than 85 percent, which means not only reducing investment, but also eliminating corresponding pressure and heat loss, resulting in higher unit efficiency. At the same time, other patented innovations, such as the Generalized Regeneration technologies, can be combined with double reheats system to further reduce energy losses such as losses in the condenser and improve unit efficiency.

The R&D and integration of these technologies have been applied in the Pingshan Phase 2 1350MW elevated and conventional turbine-generators layout double-reheat unit, a national demonstration project in China. During the design process, the project also encountered challenges such as the stress problem caused by the extremely short but high temperature steam pipe between the elevated turbine and the boiler header, and the overspeed problem of the elevated turbine-generator. Fortunately all of them were well solved through innovative technical means. In addition to the world first elevated and conventional layout design, the project also applies a number of pioneering energy-saving technologies such as primary air Generalized Regeneration technology.

After the project was put into commercial operation, the test results of the third-party test in 2022 shows that the UNE (unit net efficiency) was as high as 49.4% (LHV) under rated conditions, and still as high as 46.8% at 50% load. In addition, the unit achieved safe and environmentally friendly operation in reasonable efficiency under 20% load during commissioning, making it the largest capacity unit to achieve this goal. The unit’s state of the art high efficiency and flexibility make it a new benchmark for worldwide coal-fired units.
Performance Evaluation of Tangentially Fired Boiler Utilizing Hydrogen Enriched Natural Gas Fuel
Authors: Pachpute Sharad , Lee Jason
Published: October 2024

The effect of hydrogen enriched of natural gaseous fuel from 100% methane to 100% hydrogen firing is numerically investigated for a tangentially fired boiler. The arrangement of gas burners, auxiliary air, closed coupled over-fire air (CCOFA) and separated over-fire air (SOFA) compartments are modeled considering upward, horizontal, and downward burner tilt positions.

A detailed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis of combustible flow from the fuel and air staged burners arranged in five elevations in the furnace has been carried out to evaluate the effect of hydrogen firing on heat transfer profiles and NOx emissions at the furnace exit plane. The results show that the heat absorption in the furnace walls is increased from 6% to 10% and NOx is increased by 15 to 18 times of that of 100% methane firing when firing 100% hydrogen fuel. Higher FEGT and NOx are observed for upward firing compared to horizontal and down firing. The addition of 35% flue gas recirculation into the preheated air decreases the NOx ratio significantly for hydrogen enriched natural gas firing.
Temperature and Positioning Effects of Spent Fluid Catalytic Cracking Catalyst in the Reactor on Pyrolysis of Polyethylene Terephthalate
Authors: Aktaş Fatih , Burra Kiran G. , Mavukwana Athi-enkosi , Gupta Ashwani K.
Published: October 2024

Results are presented on the influence of positioning of spent Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) catalyst and reactor temperature in pyrolyzing of waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The catalyst bed was modified to be directly mixed with the feedstock bed (in-situ) for a solid-solid contact or separated but kept at the same temperature so that the catalyst encountered only the volatiles released from PET (quasi in-situ). The synthesis gas (syngas) evolved from the pyrolysis of PET was analyzed and compared. For in-situ position of the catalyst at 900 °C, the syngas yield and energy yield increased by 40% and 35%, respectively, as compared to non-catalytic case at 800 °C. In contrast, they were only 20% and 13.3% for the quasi in-situ case. This suggests that PET in-situ catalytic pyrolysis is more efficient and effective than quasi in-situ pyrolysis for increased syngas yield. PET yields had low fixed carbon as shown from proximate analysis and thus its devolatilization provided only a trace amounts of char from pyrolysis. The lack of significant char formation and its possible inhibitive behavior over the catalyst surface allowed for the catalyst’s direct contact to be beneficial, unlike the inhibitive behavior observed during in-situ catalytic pyrolysis for other feedstocks that had substantial fixed carbon. The carbon conversion rates at 800 °C also increased from 44% via non-catalytic pyrolysis to 60% with in-situ catalysis, suggesting the effectiveness of the catalyst. Increase in temperature resulted in increased syngas and energy produced. Catalytic conversion resulted in ∼1 wt.% of the feedstock to thermally stable coke that resulted in plateau of overall pyrolysis gas yields with increase in temperature.
EF-hand calcium sensor, EfhP, controls transcriptional regulation of iron uptake by calcium in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Burch-Konda Jacob , Kayastha Biraj B. , Achour Myriam , Kubo Aya , Hull Mackenzie , Braga Reygan , Winton Lorelei , Rogers Rendi R. , Lutter Erika I. , Patrauchan Marianna A.
Published: October 2024

The human pathogen
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(
Pa
) poses a major risk for a range of severe infections, particularly lung infections in patients suffering from cystic fibrosis (CF). As previously reported, the virulent behavior of this pathogen is enhanced by elevated levels of Ca
2+
that are commonly present in CF nasal and lung fluids. In addition, a Ca
2+
-binding EF-hand protein, EfhP (PA4107), was partially characterized and shown to be critical for the Ca
2+
-regulated virulence in
P. aeruginosa
. Here, we describe the rapid (10 min, 60 min), and adaptive (12 h) transcriptional responses of PAO1 to elevated Ca
2+
detected by genome-wide RNA sequencing and show that
efhP
deletion significantly hindered both rapid and adaptive Ca
2+
regulation. The most differentially regulated genes included multiple Fe sequestering mechanisms, a large number of extracytoplasmic function sigma factors (ECFσ), and several virulence factors, such as the production of pyocins. The Ca
2+
regulation of Fe uptake was also observed in CF clinical isolates and appeared to involve the global regulator Fur. In addition, we showed that the
efhP
transcription is controlled by Ca
2+
and Fe, and this regulation required a Ca
2+
-dependent two-component regulatory system CarSR. Furthermore, the
efhP
expression is significantly increased in CF clinical isolates and upon pathogen internalization into epithelial cells. Overall, the results established for the first time that Ca
2+
controls Fe sequestering mechanisms in
P. aeruginosa
and that EfhP plays a key role in the regulatory interconnectedness between Ca
2+
and Fe signaling pathways, the two distinct and important signaling pathways that guide the pathogen’s adaptation to the host.

IMPORTANCE

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(
Pa
) poses a major risk for severe infections, particularly in patients suffering from cystic fibrosis (CF). For the first time, kinetic RNA sequencing analysis identified
Pa
rapid and adaptive transcriptional responses to Ca
2+
levels consistent with those present in CF respiratory fluids. The most highly upregulated processes include iron sequestering, iron starvation sigma factors, and self-lysis factors pyocins. An EF-hand Ca
2+
sensor, EfhP, is required for at least 1/3 of the Ca
2+
response, including the majority of the iron uptake mechanisms and the production of pyocins. Transcription of
efhP
itself is regulated by Ca
2+
and Fe, and increases during interactions with host epithelial cells, suggesting the protein’s important role in
Pa
infections. The findings establish the regulatory interconnectedness between Ca
2+
and iron signaling pathways that shape
Pa
transcriptional responses. Therefore, understanding Pa’s transcriptional response to Ca
2+
and associated regulatory mechanisms will serve in the development of future therapeutics targeting
Pa
’s dangerous infections.
Does sedentary behaviour cause spinal pain in children and adolescents? A systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Montgomery Laura R C , Swain Michael , Dario Amabile B , O'Keeffe Mary , Yamato Tie P , Hartvigsen Jan , French Simon , Williams Christopher , Kamper Steve
Published: October 2024

Objective

To evaluate whether sedentary behaviour is a risk or prognostic factor for spinal pain in children and adolescents. Specifically, to estimate the (1) direction and strength of the association; (2) risk of spinal pain onset and (3) effect on spinal pain prognosis.

Design

Systematic review with meta-analysis.

Data sources

Electronic searches of MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and Web of Science up to 23 March 2023.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Reports estimating the effect of sedentary behaviour on spinal pain in young people (≤19 years).

Results

We included 129 reports, 14 were longitudinal (n = 8 433) and 115 were cross-sectional (n > 697 590). We incorporated 86 studies into meta-analyses. (1) From cross-sectional data, we found low certainty evidence of a small positive association between sedentary behaviour and spinal pain (adjusted odds ratio 1.25 (95% CI 1.17 to 1.33), k = 44, n > 92 617). (2) From longitudinal data, we found low certainty evidence of no increased risk for the onset of spinal pain due to sedentary behaviour (adjusted risk ratio 1.07 (95% CI 0.84 to 1.35), k = 4, n = 1 292). (3) No studies assessed prognosis.

Conclusion

Cross-sectional data suggest minimally higher odds of spinal pain for children and adolescents who engage in greater sedentary behaviours. However, longitudinal data do not support a causal relationship, indicating that sedentary behaviour does not increase the risk for onset of spinal pain. Due to the low certainty of evidence, these findings must be interpreted with caution. We found no evidence of the effect sedentary behaviour has on spinal pain prognosis in children and adolescents, highlighting a considerable gap in the literature.
Ultra-high resolution CT angiography for the assessment of intracranial stents and flow diverters using photon counting detector CT
Authors: Ludovichetti Riccardo , Gorup Dunja , Krepuska Mikos , Winklhofer Sebastian , Thurner Patrick , Madjidyar Jawid , Flohr Thomas , Piccirelli Marco , Michels Lars , Alkadhi Hatem , Mergen Victor , Kulcsar Zsolt , Schubert Tilman
Published: October 2024

Background

The patency of intracranial stents may not be reliably assessed with either CT angiography or MR angiography due to imaging artifacts. We investigated the potential of ultra-high resolution CT angiography using a photon counting detector (PCD) CT to address this limitation by optimizing scanning and reconstruction parameters.

Methods

A phantom with different flow diverters was used to optimize PCD-CT reconstruction parameters, followed by imaging of 14 patients with intracranial stents using PCD-CT. Images were reconstructed using three kernels based on the phantom results (Hv56, Hv64, and Hv72; Hv=head vascular) and one kernel to virtually match the resolution of standard CT angiography (Hv40). Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) measurements were calculated. Subjective image quality and diagnostic confidence (DC) were assessed using a five point visual grading scale (5=best, 1=worst) and a three point grading scale (1=best, 3=worst), respectively, by two independent neuroradiologists.

Results

Phantom images demonstrated the highest image quality across dose levels for 0.2 mm reconstructions with Hv56 (4.5), Hv64 (5), and Hv72 (5). In patient images, SNR and CNR decreased significantly with increasing kernel sharpness compared with control parameters. All reconstructions showed significantly higher image quality and DC compared with the control reconstruction with Hv40 kernel (P<0.001), with both image quality and DC being highest with Hv64 (0.2 mm) and Hv72 (0.2 mm) reconstructions.

Conclusion

Ultra-high resolution PDC-CT angiography provides excellent visualization of intracranial stents, with optimal reconstructions using the Hv64 and the Hv72 kernels at 0.2 mm.

Registration

BASEC 2021-00343.
Latency Reduction in Immersive Systems through Request Scheduling with Digital Twin Networks in Collaborative Edge Computing
Authors: Liang Yuzhu , Li Guo , Zhang Guangxue , Guo Jianxiong , Liu Qin , Zheng James , Wang Tian
Published: October 2024

Immersive systems, which offer immersive interactive experiences by tightly coupling the real and virtual worlds, encompassing Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), have undergone rapid development in recent years. The inherent latency issue of immersive systems poses considerable challenges for AR/VR applications that are highly sensitive to delay. To address this challenge, we propose utilizing edge collaboration as an efficient means to schedule AR/VR requests, owing to the inherent ability of edge nodes to seamlessly coordinate within the same geographical region and optimally allocate request resources to minimize latency. However, when it comes to edge nodes across different regions, a significant hurdle emerges. These nodes often lack real-time knowledge about cached resources across other regions, making cross-regional edge collaboration for AR/VR request scheduling an extremely challenging problem. We formally define and prove the NP-hardness of this problem. To tackle this complexity, we introduce a Federated Digital Twin Model Construction (FedDT), which establishes a global digital twin network connecting different edge nodes. This network simulates and reflects the resource status and availability of each edge node in real time. Subsequently, we devise an extended Dijkstra algorithm to determine the shortest path between AR/VR requests and edge nodes, taking into account current network conditions to optimize service delay. Both theoretical analysis and experimental results confirm that compared with baseline methods, our proposed solution consistently achieves an average delay reduction of 36.78% across various scenarios, effectively demonstrating its superior performance.
Measuring the Digital Mindset: Development and Validation of a Multidimensional Scale
Authors: Hildebrandt Yannick , Beimborn Daniel
Published: October 2024

IS researchers and practitioners frequently claim that the 'digital mindset' is essential to achieving high employee performance and satisfaction and to leveraging opportunities in the context of pervasive digital innovation. However, extant literature has yet to provide a scale to measure the digital mindset in quantitative research. This study fills this gap by addressing the question of how the digital mindset can be measured. We conduct three studies to answer the research question and develop and validate a measurement model. In Study 1, we take literature-based and Delphi study-based approaches to create two types of scales, which we pre-validate through experts and purify through pilot tests. Study 2 undertakes confirmatory factor analyses (N = 147 and 142) to test the scales and three multidimensional conceptualizations of the digital mindset. Finally, Study 3 validates the criteria by testing the predictive ability of the model of IT mindfulness (N = 147 and 142) and by comparing the scales to the results of an interview-based approach measuring the digital mindset in a panel study (N = 42). Our results provide two newly developed and validated 39-item survey scales to assess the digital mindset that reflect an overall model of digital mindset based on agile, digital, and creative cognition, each of which contains several thinking patterns.
The Philosopher's Corner: Questioning the Third Way Rhetoric of Critical Realism
Authors: Lanamäki Arto
Published: October 2024

Roy Bhaskar's critical realism (CR) has become a popular metatheoretical foundation in information systems (IS) research. CR is often framed as a "third way" or a "middle ground" between positivism and interpretivism. In this essay, I deconstruct this third way rhetoric of the CR discourse into four argumentative steps: 1) IS research must be based on a metatheoretical foundation; 2) positivism and interpretivism are the only two choices for such foundation, but both are unsatisfactory; 3) critical realism solves this tension as a middle ground between the two alternatives; and 4) critical realism is superior to its alternatives and thus the only sensible choice. I problematize each of these steps. The contribution of this essay is to illuminate the seductiveness of the "third way" framing: it hides more than it reveals.
A Neuromorphic Radar Sensor for Low-Power IoT Systems
Authors: Zheng Kai , Qian Kun , Woodford Timothy , Zhang Xinyu
Published: October 2024

As radar sensors become an integral component of Internet of Things (IoT) systems, the challenge of high power consumption poses a significant barrier, especially for battery-operated devices. This article introduces NeuroRadar, a groundbreaking solution that leverages a radar front-end capable of generating spike sequences, which can be efficiently processed by energy-saving Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs). We explore the innovative design and implementation of NeuroRadar, showcasing its effectiveness in applications like gesture recognition and human tracking. By achieving dramatically lower power consumption compared to traditional radar systems, NeuroRadar represents a new paradigm in energy-efficient IoT sensing.
Improving the Machine Learning Stock Trading System: An N‐Period Volatility Labeling and Instance Selection Technique
Authors: Song Young Hun , Park Myeongseok , Kim Jaeyun
Published: October 2024

Financial technology is crucial for the sustainable development of financial systems. Algorithmic trading, a key area in financial technology, involves automated trading based on predefined rules. However, investors cannot manually analyze all market patterns and establish rules, necessitating the development of supervised learning trading systems that can discover market patterns using machine or deep learning techniques. Many studies on supervised learning trading systems rely on up–down labeling based on price differences, which overlooks the issues of nonstationarity, complexity, and noise in stock data. Therefore, this study proposes an N‐period volatility trading system that addresses the limitations of up–down labeling systems. The N‐period volatility trading system measures price volatility to address uncertainty and enables the construction of a stable, long‐term trading system. Additionally, an instance‐selection technique is utilized to address the limitations of stock data, including noise, nonlinearity, and complexity, while effectively reducing the data size. The effectiveness of the proposed model is evaluated through trading simulations of stocks comprising the NASDAQ 100 index and compared with up–down labeling trading systems. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed N‐period volatility trading system exhibits higher stability and profitability than other trading systems.
Efficacy and Safety of SGLT2 Inhibitors in Pediatric Patients and Young Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: dos Santos Borges Rafael , Conegundes Ana Flávia , Haikal de Paula Luiza , Lara Santos Rodrigo , Alves Samuel Norberto , Machado Raquel Amaral , Bussolaro Viana Isadora , Simões e Silva Ana Cristina
Published: October 2024

Introduction: In recent decades, an increase in the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in children and adolescents has been observed. Pediatric‐onset T2DM differs from the adult‐onset form, particularly regarding the durability of glycemic control and earlier appearance of complications. However, the scarcity of approved treatments and comprehensive studies on T2DM management in youth persists. Ongoing clinical trials seek to ascertain the efficacy and safety of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in patients aged between 10 and 24 years with T2DM. Therefore, we aimed to perform a meta‐analysis exploring the efficacy and safety of SGLT2i in pediatric patients and young adults with T2DM.

Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science for randomized controlled clinical trials on the efficacy and safety of SGLT2i in children, adolescents, and young adults with T2DM compared with placebo. Statistical analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 and R statistical software 4.2.1. Heterogeneity was assessed with I2 statistics.

Results: We included three studies totaling 334 patients followed for 37.79 weeks. Reduction in HbA1C (MD = −0.93; 95% CI = −1.36 to −0.49; p  < 0.0001; I2 = 0%) was significantly higher in SGLT2i group compared with placebo. The proportion of patients requiring rescue or discontinuation of study medication due to lack of efficacy was statistically lower in SGLT2i group compared with placebo (RR = 0.64; 95% CI = 0.43–0.94; p =  0.02; I2 = 0%). SGLT2i and placebo were similar in terms of any adverse event (RR = 1.10; 95% CI = 0.96–1.27; p =  0.17; I2 = 0%), serious side effects (RR = 1.06; 95% CI = 0.44–2.57; p = 0.90; I2 = 0%), and individual adverse effects.

Conclusion: In children, adolescents, and young adults with T2DM, SGLT2i appears to be effective and safe for glycemic control.
Humble Leadership Style and Team Performance of Nursing Academics, Senior Nurses, and Novice Nurses: An Online Cross‐Sectional Comparative and Predictive Study
Authors: Mrayyan Majd T. , Algunmeeyn Abdullah
Published: October 2024

Background: A humble leadership style promotes human relationships above transactional relationships.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate predictors and differences in humble nursing leadership and team performance based on sample characteristics and the total scores of the concepts.

Methods: Using a quantitative cross‐sectional design, convenience snowball samples of 260 participants distributed as nursing academics (66), senior nurses (94), and novice nurses (100) were recruited. An online poll was distributed in March 2022 in selected Jordanian public and private universities and hospitals. Using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), the general linear model (GLM) was used to determine predictors of humble leadership style and team performance. T‐tests or one‐way analyses of variance (ANOVAs) were employed to detect the differences in the total scores of the studied concepts.

Results: Academics, nurses, and teams were generally humble. The team functioned relatively well and effectively. Humble leadership scores correlated moderately with team performance. The ANOVA showed some significant differences between the two studied variables. Conclusions. A humble leadership style improves employees’ and the team’s performance. This study illuminates how a humble leadership style affects team performance.
An In Vitro Exploration of Interaction Mechanisms of Intracoronal Bleaching on the Compressive Strength of Conventional and Calcium Silicate–Based Self‐Adhesive Resins and Their Bonding to Composite Resin Restorative Material
Authors: Shafiei Fereshteh , Dehghanian Paria , Tivay Shadi , Ghahramani Yasamin
Published: October 2024

Objectives: The cervical resorption following intracoronal bleaching necessitates the application of impermeable cervical barriers. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two bleaching agents on the compressive strength (CS) and shear bond strength (SBS) of two self‐adhesive resins, TheraCem and Vertise Flow, to composite resin restorative material.

Materials and Methods: Two hundred sixteen specimens from TheraCem and Vertise Flow were prepared in special molds and treated in three groups: nonbleached (control); sodium perborate–hydrogen peroxide (SP–HP) (sodium perborate +3% hydrogen peroxide); and HP gel (35% hydrogen peroxide gel). The CS of 72 specimens in the three groups was tested using a universal testing machine. For SBS test, 144 specimens from TheraCem and Vertise Flow in the three groups were bonded to Z250 composite using Single Bond Universal adhesive in self‐etch and etch‐and‐rinse modes. SBS was measured using universal testing machine. Data were analyzed using two‐way ANOVA and Tukey tests for CS and three‐way ANOVA and Tukey tests for SBS.

Results: Vertise Flow showed higher CS than TheraCem (p < 0.001), while none of the bleaching agents deteriorated its CS. HP gel significantly lowered the CS of TheraCem (p = 0.001). Bleaching agents increased the SBS of Vertise Flow while the SBS of TheraCem was not significantly affected. For both resin barriers, SBS was higher in the etch‐and‐rinse mode (p < 0.05), except in nonbleached Vertise Flow (p = 0.091).

Conclusions: HP gel deleteriously affected the CS of only TheraCem during nonvital bleaching. The etch‐and‐rinse mode was preferred in terms of SBS for resin barriers.
Potential Therapeutic Targets in Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer Based on Gene Regulatory Network Analysis: A Comprehensive Systems Biology Approach
Authors: Ahmadi Maryam , Barkhoda Neda , Alizamir Aida , Taherkhani Amir
Published: October 2024

Background: Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype with limited treatment options. This study is aimed at identifying potential therapeutic targets in TNBC using gene regulatory network analysis and a system biology approach.

Methods: The GSE38959 dataset was reanalyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in TNBC tissues compared to normal breast samples. Protein–protein interaction networks were constructed, and hub genes were identified. Survival analysis was performed using GEPIA2. Gene regulatory networks were built to identify upstream regulators. Cross‐platform verification was conducted using an independent RNA‐seq dataset (GSE58135). Expression analysis of prognostic markers in TNBC versus non‐TNBC samples was performed using bc‐GenExMiner.

Results: A total of 943 DEGs were identified in TNBC tissues. CHEK1 and PLK1 were identified as central hub genes, with overexpression correlating with poor prognosis. GABPB1 was identified as the most influential upstream regulator of CHEK1 and PLK1 through gene regulatory network analysis, while JUN exhibited the most interactions among regulators. A total of 302 consistently modulated genes were confirmed through cross‐platform verification. The overexpression of CHEK1 and PLK1 in TNBC compared to non‐TNBC samples was validated by expression analysis.

Conclusion: This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of TNBC and suggests CHEK1, PLK1, and their upstream regulators as potential therapeutic targets for TNBC treatment.
Efficacy and Safety of Benvitimod in Patients With Palmoplantar Pustulosis: An Open‐Label, Multicenter, Prospective Study
Authors: Wang Guangping , Zhang Shuai , Yan Huimin , Qi Fang , Zhang Bingxin , Li Yan , Wang Hongmei , Song Jingna , Wang Siyao , Zeng Sanwu , Ji Liming
Published: October 2024

Palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) is often considered as pustular psoriasis of extremities. Benvitimod has been approved for mild to moderate psoriasis. We thus designed this study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of benvitimod for treating PPP. Of 47 PPP patients recruited from 4 hospitals, 40 finished 8 weeks visit and completed 4 weeks safety follow‐up visit. The Palmoplantar Pustular Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PPPASI) and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores fell continuously. At week 8, mean ± SD PPPASI and DLQI were 3.39 ± 3.86 (p < 0.0001) and 2.49 ± 3.34 (p < 0.0001), respectively. At week 8, 70% (28/40) achieved PPPASI‐50 response, 35% (14/40) achieved PPPASI‐75 response, and 17.5% (7/40) achieved PPPASI‐90 response. Relapse occurred in 7.5% (3/40) of the patients. Of 47 patients enrolled, self‐reported compliance was 12.77% (6/47). Common drug‐related adverse events (5/47) included xerosis cutis. Only one patient’s disease progressed during treatment. Our study demonstrated the efficacy and safety of benvitimod.
Table 1 from Incorporating Alternative Polygenic Risk Scores into the BOADICEA Breast Cancer Risk Prediction Model
Authors: Mavaddat Nasim , Ficorella Lorenzo , Carver Tim , Lee Andrew , Cunningham Alex P. , Lush Michael , Dennis Joe , Tischkowitz Marc , Downes Kate , Hu Donglei , Hahnen Eric , Schmutzler Rita K. , Stockley Tracy L. , Downs Gregory S. , Zhang Tong , Chiarelli Anna M. , Bojesen Stig E. , Liu Cong , Chung Wendy K. , Pardo Monica , Feliubadaló Lidia , Balmaña Judith , Simard Jacques , Antoniou Antonis C. , Easton Douglas F.
Published: October 2024

Summary parameters for alternative PRSs.a
Figure 6 from Small-Molecule CCR4 Antagonists in Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Enriquez José S. , Wang Xiaohong , Velatooru Loka Reddy , Han Wei , Bijani Pedram , Ni Xiao
Published: October 2024

Effects of C021 on tumor formation and growth in CTCL xenograft mice. A, Schedules of C021 treatment in xenograft mice. HuT 78 cells (5.0 × 106/site, nine mice/group) were subcutaneously injected into NSG mice on day 1. The treatment started on day 2, and four groups of mice were treated with different doses, routes, and schedules as indicated: G1—control (Ctl), i.p., twice/week; G2—5 mg/kg, i.p., twice/week; G3—2 mg/kg, i.p., daily × thrice/week; G4—5 mg/kg, s.c., twice/week. B, Tumor formation and growth were monitored, and tumor volumes (mm3) over 3 weeks are plotted for G1–4, respectively. C, The tumor tissues collected on day 22 are displayed, and the final tumor volumes (mm3) are plotted for all mice in four groups. D, Tumors tissue sections were stained for CCR4 and Ki67 protein expression by immunohistochemistry. Representative sections from G1 to G4 are presented for CCR4 (top) and Ki67 (bottom). IHC scores for the four groups are plotted for CCR4 and Ki67 expression. **, ANOVA test: P < 0.0001, statistically highly significant.
The Effects of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors on Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Shocks in Heart Failure Patients Undergoing Diuretic Therapy
Authors: Erbay Ilke , Gudul Naile Eris , Kokturk Ugur , Aladag Pelin , Kandazoglu Meltem , Avci Ahmet
Published: October 2024

Objective: Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are the standard treatment for patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF ≤35%) to reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death. Loop diuretics can cause electrolyte imbalances, leading to an increased incidence of ICD shocks. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) have shown cardiovascular benefits in patients with heart failure (HF), but their effects on ventricular arrhythmias and ICD shocks, particularly in patients receiving different doses of loop diuretics, are not fully understood. This study evaluated the effects of furosemide dose and SGLT2i use on ICD shocks in HF patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HFrEF). Materials and Methods: HFrEF patients using oral furosemide and undergoing ICD implantation in our clinic were followed for 12 months to monitor ICD shocks for ventricular arrhythmias. They were grouped according to daily oral furosemide dose and SGLT2i use. Results: Out of 175 patients, the use of high-dose furosemide (>80 mg/day) was significantly higher in the ICD shock group compared to the non-shock group (38.8% vs. 16.7%, p = 0.001), while the use of SGLT2i was lower (19.4% vs. 45.4%, p < 0.001). ICD shocks occurred in 67.6% of patients on high-dose furosemide without SGLT2i and 30.0% with SGLT2i (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified the absence of SGLT2i as an independent predictor of ICD shocks. Conclusions: SGLT2i was associated with reduced ventricular arrhythmias and ICD shocks in HF patients, even when high doses of furosemide were used. The absence of SGLT2i in HF treatment was an independent predictor of ICD shocks.
Proteomic Signatures of Right Ventricular Outcomes in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Pi Hongyang , Xia Lu , Boucherat Olivier , Suresh Karthik , Hemnes Anna R. , Bonnet Sébastien , Bravo Claudio A. , Oppegard Laura , Rayner Samuel G. , Shojaie Ali , Gharib Sina A. , Leary Peter J.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a disease of progressive right ventricular (RV) failure with high morbidity and mortality. Our goal is to investigate proteomic features and pathways associated with RV-focused outcomes including mortality, RV dilation, and NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide) in PAH.

METHODS:

Participants in a single-institution cohort with 3 years of follow-up underwent proteomic profiling of their plasma using 7288 aptamers (targeting 6467 unique human proteins). Partial least squares discriminant analysis was performed to assess global protein variation associated with mortality, RV dilation, and NT-proBNP levels. Differentially abundant proteins and enriched pathways associated with outcomes were identified following baseline adjustments. RV vulnerability models estimated associations for individuals with similar afterload following adjustment for pulmonary vascular resistance.

RESULTS:

A total of 117 participants with PAH were included. Partial least squares discriminant analysis of the proteome showed clear separation between survivors and nonsurvivors, participants with dilated versus nondilated RVs, and across NT-proBNP levels. Proteins and pathways involving the ECM (extracellular matrix) were upregulated in participants who died during follow-up, those with severe RV dilation, and those with higher levels of NT-proBNP. Pulmonary vascular resistance adjustment reinforced the importance of ECM proteins in the association with RV vulnerability, independent of afterload. These findings were confirmed in independent PAH cohorts with available plasma proteomics and RV tissue gene and protein expression.

CONCLUSIONS:

Distinct plasma proteomic profiles are associated with mortality, RV dilation, and NT-proBNP in PAH. Proteins and pathways governing tissue remodeling are strongly associated with poor outcomes, may mediate RV vulnerability to right heart failure, and represent promising candidates as biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets.