bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Breast Surgery Type Alter Incidental Axillary Irradiation? A Dosimetric Analysis of the “Sentinel Envahi et Randomisation du Curage” SERC Trial
Authors: Nicolas Camille , Petit Claire , Tallet Agnès , Boher Jean-Marie , Varela Cagetti Leonel , Favrel Veronique , Gonzague Casabianca Laurence , Guenole Morgan , Mailleux Hugues , Darreon Julien , Bannier Marie , Cohen Monique , Sabiani Laura , Tallet Camille , Teyssandier Charlene , Gonçalves Anthony , De Nonneville Alexandre , Lopez Almeida Leonor , Coste Nathan , Tyran Marguerite , Houvenaeghel Gilles
Published: March 2024

Background. An incidental axillary dose of adjuvant radiotherapy using tangential beams is usually given after breast-conserving surgery for breast cancer. The goal of this sub-study was to evaluate this incidental dose in the setting of post-mastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) according to two different radiotherapy techniques. Methods. Patients participating in a randomized SERC trial who received PMRT in a single center were included. We collected the incidental axillary dose delivered to the Berg level 1 using different dosimetric parameters and compared two techniques using Student’s t-test: three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) and volumetric arc therapy (VMAT). Results. We analyzed radiotherapy plans from 52 patients who received PMRT from 2012 to 2021. The mean dose delivered to the Berg level 1 was 37.2 Gy. It was significantly higher with VMAT than with 3D-CRT—43.6 Gy (SD = 3.1 Gy) versus 34.8 Gy (SD = 8.6 Gy) p < 0.001. Eighty-four percent of the Berg level 1 was covered by 40 Gy isodose in the VMAT group versus 55.5% in the 3D-CRT group p < 0.001. Conclusions. On the Berg level 1, PMRT gives a dose at least equivalent to the one given by post-breast-conserving surgery radiotherapy, making it possible to limit completion axillary lymph node dissections in select pN1a patients treated with a mastectomy. Modern radiotherapy techniques like VMAT tend to increase this incidental dose.
Machine Learning Analysis of Post-Operative Tumour Progression in Non-Functioning Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumours: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hussein Ziad , Slack Robert W. , Baldeweg Stephanie E. , Mazomenos Evangelos B. , Marcus Hani J.
Published: March 2024

Post-operative tumour progression in patients with non-functioning pituitary neuroendocrine tumours is variable. The aim of this study was to use machine learning (ML) models to improve the prediction of post-operative outcomes in patients with NF PitNET. We studied data from 383 patients who underwent surgery with or without radiotherapy, with a follow-up period between 6 months and 15 years. ML models, including k-nearest neighbour (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), and decision tree, showed superior performance in predicting tumour progression when compared with parametric statistical modelling using logistic regression, with SVM achieving the highest performance. The strongest predictor of tumour progression was the extent of surgical resection, with patient age, tumour volume, and the use of radiotherapy also showing influence. No features showed an association with tumour recurrence following a complete resection. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the potential of ML models in predicting post-operative outcomes for patients with NF PitNET. Future work should look to include additional, more granular, multicentre data, including incorporating imaging and operative video data.
Stage Shifting by Modifying the Determinants of Breast Cancer Stage at Diagnosis: A Simulation Study
Authors: Pokharel Gyanendra , Wang Qinggang , Khan Momtafin , Robson Paula J. , Shack Lorraine , Kopciuk Karen A.
Published: March 2024

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Canadian women; nearly 25% of women diagnosed with cancer have breast cancer. The early detection of breast cancer is a major challenge because tumours often grow without causing symptom. The diagnosis of breast cancer at an early stage (stages I and II) improves survival outcomes because treatments are more effective and better tolerated. To better inform the prevention of and screening for breast cancer, simulations using modifiable rather than non-modifiable risk factors may be helpful in shifting the stage at diagnosis downward. Methods: Breast cancer stages were simulated using the data distributions from Alberta’s Tomorrow Project participants who developed breast cancer. Using multivariable partial proportional odds regression models, modifiable lifestyle factors associated with the stage of cancer at diagnosis were evaluated. The proportions or mean levels of these lifestyle factors in the simulated population were systematically changed, then multiplied by their corresponding estimated odds ratios from the real data example. The effects of these changes were evaluated singly as well as cumulatively. Results: Increasing total dietary protein (g/day) intake was the single most important lifestyle factor in shifting the breast cancer stage downwards followed by decreasing total dietary energy intake (kcal/day). Increasing the proportion of women who spend time in the sun between 11 am and 4 pm in the summer months, who have had a mammogram, who have been pregnant or reducing the proportion who are in stressful situations had much smaller effects. The percentage of Stage I diagnoses could be increased by approximately 12% with small modifications of these lifestyle factors. Conclusion: Shifting the breast cancer stage at diagnosis of a population may be achieved through changes to lifestyle factors. This proof of principle study that evaluated multiple factors associated with the stage at diagnosis in a population can be expanded to other cancers as well, providing opportunities for cancer prevention programs to target specific factors and identify populations at higher risk.
Endobronchial Ultrasound Using Guide Sheath-Guided Transbronchial Lung Biopsy in Ground-Glass Opacity Pulmonary Lesions without Fluoroscopic Guidance
Authors: Park Jongsoo , Kim Changwoon , Jang Jong Geol , Lee Seok Soo , Hong Kyung Soo , Ahn June Hong
Published: March 2024

Diagnosing ground-glass opacity (GGO) pulmonary lesions poses challenges. This study evaluates the utility of radial probe endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial lung biopsy (RP-EBUS-TBLB) in diagnosing GGO pulmonary lesions. A total of 1651 RP-EBUS procedures were performed during the study period. This study analyzed 115 GGO lesions. The EBUS visualization yield was 80.1%. Of 115 lesions, 69 (60%) were successfully diagnosed. The average size of diagnosed lesions was significantly larger than that of undiagnosed lesions (21.9 ± 7.3 vs. 17.1 ± 6.6 mm, p < 0.001). Diagnostic yield varied by lesion size: 50.0% for lesions <20 mm, 65.1% for 20–30 mm lesions, and 85.7% for lesions >30 mm. The mixed blizzard sign on EBUS appeared in 60.6% of mixed GGO lesions, with no cases in pure GGO lesions. Multivariable analyses showed that lesion size (odds ratio [OR], 1.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00–1.16; p < 0.001) and mixed blizzard sign on EBUS (OR, 20.92; CI, 7.50–58.31; p < 0.001) were significantly associated with diagnostic success. Pneumothorax and hemoptysis occurred in 1.7% and 2.6% of patients, respectively. RP-EBUS-TBLB without fluoroscopic guidance is a viable diagnostic approach for GGO pulmonary lesions with acceptable complications.
Complication of Orthodontic Treatment: A Case Report on Severe Apical Root Resorption (ARR) in a Patient with Turner Syndrome
Authors: Laskowska Joanna , Paradowska-Stolarz Anna , Miralles-Jordá Lucía , Schutty Dorota , Mikulewicz Marcin
Published: March 2024

External apical root resorption in permanent teeth is a multifactorial process influenced by a variety of local and systemic factors. This report describes a case of multiple and severe apical root resorptions in a patient with Turner syndrome. The condition was discovered in a young female with Turner syndrome after 30 months of orthodontic treatment with fixed appliance. The purpose of this report is to present reports by other authors on the potential causes of the increased risk of tooth resorption in patients with Turner syndrome and to share insights derived from its course, highlighting the implications and lessons learned. Patients with Turner syndrome are not ideal candidates for orthodontic treatment. Prior to commencing orthodontic treatment, it is essential to carefully consider the potential benefits of the therapy compared to the risk associated with exacerbating root resorption. In the case of Turner syndrome patients, where there is an elevated risk of such complications, a thorough analysis should be conducted to determine whether the expected benefits of the treatment outweigh the potential hazards to the patient’s dental health.
Practical Improvement in the Implementation of Two Avalanche Tests to Measure Statistical Independence in Stream Ciphers
Authors: Madarro-Capó Evaristo José , Ramos Piñón Eziel Christians , Sosa-Gómez Guillermo , Rojas Omar
Published: March 2024

This study describes the implementation of two algorithms in a parallel environment. These algorithms correspond to two statistical tests based on the bit’s independence criterion and the strict avalanche criterion. They are utilized to measure avalanche properties in stream ciphers. These criteria allow for the statistical independence between the outputs and the internal state of a bit-level cipher to be determined. Both tests require extensive input parameters to assess the performance of current stream ciphers, leading to longer execution times. The presented implementation significantly reduces the execution time of both tests, making them suitable for evaluating ciphers in practical applications. The evaluation results compare the performance of the RC4 and HC256 stream ciphers in both sequential and parallel environments.
Biodiversity and Carbon Sequestration in Chakra-Type Agroforestry Systems and Humid Tropical Forests of the Ecuadorian Amazon
Authors: Huera-Lucero Thony , Lopez-Piñeiro Antonio , Torres Bolier , Bravo-Medina Carlos
Published: March 2024

Currently, there are several studies related to climate change, carbon sequestration, and floristic composition in different scenarios and land uses. In this context, the objective of this research is: (a) to characterize biodiversity based on ecological indicators and diversity indices and (b) to evaluate carbon sequestration in different components of chakra-type agroforestry systems and secondary tropical humid forests of the Ecuadorian Amazon. For this, temporary sampling plots of 1600 m2 are established on the properties to be investigated. The study found that the structural characteristics and floristic composition vary according to the forest arrangement and the management system. Secondary forests are the most diverse, according to the Shannon (3.49), Simpson (0.96), and Margaleft (9.34) diversity indices, in addition to having the largest carbon stores with 233 (Mg C ha−1), followed by agroforestry systems in association with timber trees (TAFS) and fruit trees (FAFS) with 97.8 and 95.1 (Mg C ha−1) respectively, and cocoa monoculture (CMC) with 90.4 (Mg C ha−1). These results demonstrate the importance of conserving the remnants of tropical forests that still remain, due to the diversity of species, ecosystem services, and the total carbon they contain, as well as the agroforestry systems (AFS), systems analogous to forests, which are gradually becoming important management systems, especially if they are associated with potential species to sequester carbon, such as those documented in this and several other studies that seek solutions to global climate change.
Preparation and Characterization of Microencapsulated Ammonium Polyphosphate with Polyurethane Shell and Its Flame Retardance in Polypropylene
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Thuy Tien , Yusifov Ziya , Tóth Bence , Bocz Katalin , Márton Péter , Hórvölgyi Zoltán , Marosi György , Szolnoki Beáta
Published: March 2024

Polypropylene (PP) shows no charring ability in burning due to the lack of hydroxyl functional groups; thus, the flame retardant system needs an additional amount of carbonizing agent. An ammonium polyphosphate (APP)-based all-in-one intumescent flame-retardant system was prepared by the in situ polymerization of polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (pMDI) with a glycerol-based and a glycerol–sorbitol-based polyol of high OH value. The microencapsulated APP with a polyurethane shell (MCAPP) of different polyols was characterized. The MCAPP with speculated improved flame retardant performance was selected for further evaluation in the PP matrix at different loadings by means of standard flammability tests.
High-Frequency Fractional Predictions and Spatial Distribution of the Magnetic Loss in a Grain-Oriented Magnetic Steel Lamination
Authors: Ducharne Benjamin , Hamzehbahmani Hamed , Gao Yanhui , Fagan Patrick , Sebald Gael
Published: March 2024

Grain-oriented silicon steel (GO FeSi) laminations are vital components for efficient energy conversion in electromagnetic devices. While traditionally optimized for power frequencies of 50/60 Hz, the pursuit of higher frequency operation (f ≥ 200 Hz) promises enhanced power density. This paper introduces a model for estimating GO FeSi laminations’ magnetic behavior under these elevated operational frequencies. The proposed model combines the Maxwell diffusion equation and a material law derived from a fractional differential equation, capturing the viscoelastic characteristics of the magnetization process. Remarkably, the model’s dynamical contribution, characterized by only two parameters, achieves a notable 4.8% Euclidean relative distance error across the frequency spectrum from 50 Hz to 1 kHz. The paper’s initial section offers an exhaustive description of the model, featuring comprehensive comparisons between simulated and measured data. Subsequently, a methodology is presented for the localized segregation of magnetic losses into three conventional categories: hysteresis, classical, and excess, delineated across various tested frequencies. Further leveraging the model’s predictive capabilities, the study extends to investigating the very high-frequency regime, elucidating the spatial distribution of loss contributions. The application of proportional–iterative learning control facilitates the model’s adaptation to standard characterization conditions, employing sinusoidal imposed flux density. The paper deliberates on the implications of GO FeSi behavior under extreme operational conditions, offering insights and reflections essential for understanding and optimizing magnetic core performance in high-frequency applications.
Genome and Epigenome Disorders and Male Infertility: Feedback from 15 Years of Clinical and Research Experience
Authors: Montjean Debbie , Beaumont Marion , Natiq Abdelhafid , Louanjli Noureddine , Hazout Andre , Miron Pierre , Liehr Thomas , Cabry Rosalie , Ratbi Ilham , Benkhalifa Moncef
Published: March 2024

Infertility affects around 20% of couples of reproductive age; however, in some societies, as many as one-third of couples are unable to conceive. Different factors contribute to the decline of male fertility, such us environmental and professional exposure to endocrine disruptors, oxidative stress, and life habits with the risk of de novo epigenetics dysregulation. Since the fantastic development of new “omes and omics” technologies, the contribution of inherited or de novo genomes and epigenome disorders to male infertility have been further elucidated. Many other techniques have become available to andrology laboratories for the investigation of genome and epigenome integrity and the maturation and the competency of spermatozoa. All these new methods of assessment are highlighting the importance of genetics and epigenetics investigation for assisted reproduction pathology and for supporting professionals in counselling patients and proposing different management strategies for male infertility. This aims to improve clinical outcomes while minimizing the risk of genetics or health problems at birth.
Korean Nursing Students’ Experiences of Virtual Simulation Programs Replacing In-Person Mental Health Nursing Practicum during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lee Sunyoung , Park Eunyoung , Yeom Hyun-E
Published: March 2024

This qualitative study explored the experiences of nursing students whose clinical practice in mental health nursing had been substituted with virtual simulation programs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants were ten nursing students who had undergone a virtual simulation program-centered practice, replacing the traditional clinical practice in mental health nursing and previous clinical practice in mental health nursing. The data were collected through in-depth individual interviews from January to February 2021. Following Braun and Clarke’s method, the thematic analysis identified five themes and ten sub-themes. The five themes included the following: (1) lack of vibrancy in the actual clinical setting, (2) limited direct and indirect practical experience, (3) performing diverse roles in a virtual setting, (4) learner-directed practicum, and (5) sense of relief due to a safe virtual practicum environment. The participants recognized the limitations of the practice, particularly regarding communication with patients with mental disorders in the virtual simulation program. However, their perception of nursing underwent a positive change through the indirect clinical practice experience. Accordingly, it is necessary to develop a platform for the mental health nursing practicum that can easily interact with clients and to establish a hybrid practice that combines the clinical practice and virtual simulation practice.
Predicting Mortality for COVID-19 Patients Admitted to an Emergency Department Using Early Warning Scores in Poland
Authors: Rzońca Patryk , Butkiewicz Sławomir , Dobosz Paula , Zaczyński Artur , Podgórski Marcin , Gałązkowski Robert , Wierzba Waldemar , Życińska Katarzyna
Published: March 2024

COVID-19 disease is characterised by a wide range of symptoms that in most cases resemble flu or cold. Early detection of infections, monitoring of patients’ conditions, and identification of patients with worsening symptoms became crucial during the peak of pandemic. The aim of this study was to assess and compare the performance of common early warning scores at the time of admission to an emergency department in predicting in-hospital mortality in patients with COVID-19. The study was based on a retrospective analysis of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted to an emergency department between March 2020 and April 2022. The prognostic value of early warning scores in predicting in-hospital mortality was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Patients’ median age was 59 years, and 52.33% were male. Among all the EWS we assessed, REMS had the highest overall accuracy (AUC 0.84 (0.83–0.85)) and the highest NPV (97.4%). REMS was the most accurate scoring system, characterised by the highest discriminative power and negative predictive value compared to the other analysed scoring systems. Incorporating these tools into clinical practice in a hospital emergency department could provide more effective assessment of mortality and, consequently, avoid delayed medical assistance.
Phytoene Desaturase (PDS) Gene-Derived Markers Identify “A” and “B” Genomes in Banana (Musa spp.)
Authors: Nascimento Fernanda dos Santos , Mascarenhas Marcelly Santana , Boaventura Samantha Costa , de Souza Carla Catharina Hora , de Souza Ramos Andresa Priscila , de Jesus Rocha Anelita , da Silva Soares Julianna Matos , Diniz Leandro Eugenio Cardamone , de Oliveira Mendes Tiago Antônio , Ferreira Claudia Fortes , Amorim Edson Perito
Published: March 2024

Phytoene desaturase (PDS) is a plant enzyme involved in carotenoid biosynthesis. The PDS gene has been used as a selective marker for genome editing in several plant species, including banana (Musa spp.). Its knockout promotes dwarfism and albinism, characteristics that are easily recognizable and highly favorable. In Musa spp., the A genome increases fruit production and quality, whereas the B genome is associated with tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. The objective of this study was to identify a molecular marker in the PDS gene to easily discriminate the A and B genomes of banana. A 2166 bp fragment for the “PDSMa” marker was identified as polymorphic for the A genome (identification accuracy of 99.33%), whereas ~332 and ~225 bp fragments were detected for the “PDSMb” marker with 100% accuracy using MedCalc software. In this study, we used genotypes with A and B genomes that are used in the genetic improvement of bananas and an accession with the BT genome. It was not possible to differentiate the accession with the BT genome from the others, suggesting that the markers do not have the capacity to separate the T genome from the A and B genomes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to use the PDS gene to determine doses of the A genome and identify the B genome in Musa spp., which will aid in evaluating the genomic constitution of banana hybrids and accessions at the seedling stage and accelerating their classification in crop genetic improvement programs.
Disc Degeneration and Cervical Spine Intervertebral Motion: A Cross-Sectional Study in Patients with Neck Pain and Matched Healthy Controls
Authors: Branney Jonathan , Breen Alexander , du Rose Alister , Mowlem Philip , Breen Alan
Published: March 2024

While neck pain can be defined in clinical terms, in most cases the underlying pathophysiology is largely unknown. Regional cervical spine range of motion is often found to be reduced in patients with neck pain compared to persons without pain although it is not clear if the decreased range is cause or effect. Less is known about the role of intervertebral kinematics and how that might be related to the presence of disc degeneration. In this study, the prevalence of intervertebral disc degeneration and continuous cervical intervertebral motion were both measured utilizing quantitative fluoroscopy (QF) in patients with subacute or chronic neck pain (n = 29) and gender-matched healthy controls (n = 30). A composite disc degeneration (CDD) score was calculated for each participant from the first, neutral, lateral fluoroscopic image. Intervertebral motion sharing parameters of motion-sharing inequality (MSI) and motion-sharing variability (MSV) were derived from the active cervical motion sequences obtained while patients were seated. The objective was to determine if average age, CDD, MSI, and MSV values were correlated and if there were differences in these variables between the neck pain group and the healthy control group. Correlation analysis was conducted for age, CDD, MSI, and MSV in each group. Age was moderately correlated with MSV in cervical spine extension in patients only (r = 0.63, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in the prevalence of disc degeneration (CDD) between patients, who had on average mild pain and related disability, and healthy controls (median CDD 2 both groups, p = 0.94). There were also no significant differences in either flexion or extension intervertebral motion-sharing inequality or variability (MSI or MSV) between groups as measured during active cervical motion.
Delving into L2 Learners’ Perspective: Exploring the Role of Individual Differences in Self-Evaluation of L2 Speech Learning
Authors: Suzukida Yui
Published: March 2024

Misalignment between second language (L2) self-perception and actual ability is often observed among L2 learners. In order to further understand this phenomenon, the current study investigated how the roles of individual differences (IDs; especially experiential and cognitive IDs) influence the learners’ self-assessment accuracy. To this end, L2 speech samples elicited from 97 Japanese learners of English were analyzed via self-evaluation and expert evaluations. Subsequently, learners’ IDs profiles, including working memory, phonological memory, implicit learning and auditory processing, were linked to (a) the gap between self- and expert evaluation scores and (b) the type of inaccurate self-evaluation (i.e., overconfident vs. underconfident evaluations). The study illustrates the complex relationships between L2 learners’ linguistic knowledge, cognitive abilities, experiential profiles and self-perception.
Modelling a Logistics and Financial Supply Chain Network during the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Abbasi Sina , Vlachos Ilias , Samadzadeh Ali , Etemadifar Shayan , Afshar Mohamad , Amra Mohsen
Published: March 2024

Background: Supply chain networks (SCNs) have been interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving them open to financial losses. SCs have been impacted by the pandemic, necessitating the adoption of sustainable practices and dynamic capacities to ensure resilience and performance. Several studies have focused on this subject, offering insights into the importance of sustainable supply-chain management, corporate governance, big data management activities, and digital technology in minimising the consequences of the pandemic and fostering sustainability. Methods: This study suggests an analytical framework for assessing environmentally friendly procedures and dynamic capacities to assure performance in a disruptive environment. Results: The following are some of the important details and contributions in this article: (1) developed a conceptual framework for assessing dynamic capacities and sustainable behaviours considering COVID-19, (2) concentrates on financial ratios during COVID-19, and (3) established drivers for sustainable practices and competencies during disruption and unpredictable business settings. Conclusions: The suggested model can assist practitioners in creating and implementing sustainable supply chain (SC) activities and tracking and assessing their effects on the sustainability of businesses. So, the proposed model can assist managers in creating and implementing sustainable supply-chain activities and tracking and analysing their effects on the sustainability of businesses.
Butyl (2,2-Dibutoxybutanoyl)-ʟ-Tryptophanate
Authors: Quiroga Diego , Coy-Barrera Ericsson
Published: March 2024

The multicomponent reaction between ʟ-tryptophan 1, 2-oxobutanoic acid 2, and 1-butanol in the presence of SiMe3Cl was studied using microwave irradiation conditions. The main product was identified as an unreported acetal-containing compound, namely, butyl (2,2-dibutoxybutanoyl)-ʟ-tryptophanate (3), yielding 89%. NMR experiments demonstrated that the adjacent methylene protons of the acetal group appeared as two signals exhibiting their behavior as diastereotopic protons. DFT/B3LYP calculations revealed an asymmetric molecular structure with specific angles, leading to an explanation of the NMR results. The calculated chemical shifts showed slight differences with the experimental values and suggested magnetic anisotropy and inductive deprotection around the methylene hydrogen atoms in the acetal location. The reaction mechanism was proposed in which SiMe3Cl plays a crucial role by promoting water removal through key steps.
BV Solutions to Evolution Inclusion with a Time and Space Dependent Maximal Monotone Operator
Authors: Castaing Charles , Godet-Thobie Christiane , Monteiro Marques Manuel D. P.
Published: March 2024

This paper deals with the research of solutions of bounded variation (BV) to evolution inclusion coupled with a time and state dependent maximal monotone operator. Different problems are studied: existence of solutions, unicity of the solution, existence of periodic and bounded variation right continuous (BVRC) solutions. Second-order evolution inclusions and fractional (Caputo and Riemann–Liouville) differential inclusions are also considered. A result of the Skorohod problem driven by a time- and space-dependent operator under rough signal and a Volterra integral perturbation in the BRC setting is given. The paper finishes with some results for fractional differential inclusions under rough signals and Young integrals. Many of the given results are novel.
M5GP: Parallel Multidimensional Genetic Programming with Multidimensional Populations for Symbolic Regression
Authors: Cárdenas Florido Luis , Trujillo Leonardo , Hernandez Daniel E. , Muñoz Contreras Jose Manuel
Published: March 2024

Machine learning and artificial intelligence are growing in popularity thanks to their ability to produce models that exhibit unprecedented performance in domains that include computer vision, natural language processing and code generation. However, such models tend to be very large and complex and impossible to understand using traditional analysis or human scrutiny. Conversely, Symbolic Regression methods attempt to produce models that are relatively small and (potentially) human-readable. In this domain, Genetic Programming (GP) has proven to be a powerful search strategy that achieves state-of-the-art performance. This paper presents a new GP-based feature transformation method called M5GP, which is hybridized with multiple linear regression to produce linear models, implemented to exploit parallel processing on graphical processing units for efficient computation. M5GP is the most recent variant from a family of feature transformation methods (M2GP, M3GP and M4GP) that have proven to be powerful tools for both classification and regression tasks applied to tabular data. The proposed method was evaluated on SRBench v2.0, the current standard benchmarking suite for Symbolic Regression. Results show that M5GP achieves performance that is competitive with the state-of-the-art, achieving a top-three rank on the most difficult subset of black-box problems. Moreover, it achieves the lowest computation time when compared to other GP-based methods that have similar accuracy scores.
Effects of Stationary Bikes and Elliptical Machines on Knee Joint Kinematics during Exercise
Authors: He Min-Yan , Lo Huai-Po , Chen Wei-Han
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives: This study examined the influence of stationary bikes and elliptical machines on knee movement and joint load during exercise. Materials and Methods: Twelve healthy male participants engaged in pedaling exercises on stationary bikes and elliptical machines at speeds of 50 and 70 revolutions per minute (rpm). Knee movement and joint load were assessed using a motion analysis system. Results: The results indicated that elliptical machines induced higher knee joint torque compared to stationary bikes. Notably, peak torque occurred at different joint angles, with stationary bikes reaching an earlier peak at 70°–110° and elliptical machines showing a later peak at 135°–180°. Increased pedaling speed correlated with higher peak knee joint torque on both machines. With the elliptical machine, a higher pedaling frequency correlated with increased peak forces on the knee and ankle joints, as well as vertically. Interestingly, both types of equipment were associated with enhanced peak knee joint torques during high-speed pedaling. Conversely, constant pedaling on elliptical machines limited the ankle angle and could induce inward rotation. Conclusions: This study focused on knee joint torque variations during pedaling on indoor stationary bicycles and elliptical machines. Elliptical machines showed higher peak values of forces and torque, particularly during the propulsive and recovery phases, indicating potential challenges to the knee joint. Notably, peak pedal angles occurred earlier on indoor stationary bicycles, emphasizing the impact of equipment choice on joint kinetics.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Quality of Life following Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty: A Prospective Analysis
Authors: Vasović Dolika D. , Karamarković Miodrag Lj. , Jovanović Milan , Stojičić Milan , Rašić Dejan M. , Marjanović Ivan , Kalezić Tanja , Jeremić Miroslav
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives: Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that addresses both aesthetic and functional concerns, offering transformative potential for patients’ overall well-being. This study systematically evaluates the comprehensive impact of upper eyelid blepharoplasty on patients’ quality of life, employing rigorous methodologies and standardized assessment protocols. Materials and Methods: A prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted, involving 348 patients aged 49 to 87 years. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either continuous or intradermal sutures following upper eyelid surgery. Validated FACE-Q questionnaires were used to assess various outcomes, including early-life impact, expectations, satisfaction with eyes, overall face satisfaction, satisfaction with the outcome, psychological function, social function, and adverse effects. Results: Results indicate significant improvements in multiple domains of patient-reported outcomes following upper eyelid blepharoplasty, including satisfaction with eyes, overall face satisfaction, satisfaction with the outcome, psychological function, and social function. Notably, no significant differences were observed between suturing techniques regarding patient satisfaction and well-being. Adverse effects were minimal and improved over time. Conclusions: The study underscores the transformative nature of upper eyelid blepharoplasty in enhancing patients’ quality of life, addressing both cosmetic and functional concerns. Utilizing standardized assessment tools like the FACE-Q questionnaire facilitates a comprehensive understanding of treatment outcomes and enables patient-centered care. Overall, this research contributes to the growing evidence supporting the positive impact of upper eyelid blepharoplasty on patients’ well-being, emphasizing the importance of continued research and standardized assessment protocols in advancing patient care in cosmetic surgery.
Capacitating Pedagogy to Inclusive Excellence through Bienvivance for Zero Waste of Human Resources: European Case Studies during the Lockdown on Vocational Education and Training
Authors: Gendron Bénédicte
Published: March 2024

The lockdown during the pandemic questioned the learning and working conditions but underlined crucially the teaching pedagogy and new essential teachers’ roles and competencies, and on the whole, the operational framework of education for quality of education for all. The research was carried out through a European Project and gathered at training centers in two countries focusing on learning and pedagogical issues during the lockdown through focus group discussion methodology and labels analysis. If planning, material resources, and health issues came out as relevant difficulty categories, the findings underlined collaborative projects and capacitating pedagogy as efficient and helpful. The findings also questioned the quality-of-life framework at school and the teaching pedagogy and new teachers’ roles as competencies to cope with such a situation to support transformative learning. The outcomes suggested a positive operational framework, the innovative bienvivance paradigm, derived from medical methodology, which can help school organizations by inner development for outer changes to integrate diversity, equity, and educational quality efforts into their missions. It aims at serving inclusive excellence toward human resource sustainability and zero waste of human resources. It can be seen as an effective framework for quality and equity in education. It supports the UN and UNESCO recommendations and the psycho-socio-economic optimization of human resource issues, which are crucial in these human resource mobility and migrations waves, and broadly copes with global changes.
Machine Learning-Based Figure of Merit Model of SIPOS Modulated Drift Region for U-MOSFET
Authors: Cao Zhen , Sun Qi , Ma Chuanfeng , Hou Biao , Jiao Licheng
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a machine learning-based figure of merit model for superjunction (SJ) U-MOSFET (SSJ-UMOS) with a modulated drift region utilizing semi-insulating poly-crystalline silicon (SIPOS) pillars. This SJ drift region modulation is achieved through SIPOS pillars beneath the trench gate, focusing on optimizing the tradeoff between breakdown voltage (BV) and specific ON-resistance (RON,sp). This analytical model considers the effects of electric field modulation, charge-coupling, and majority carrier accumulation due to additional SIPOS pillars. Gaussian process regression is employed for the figure of merit (FOM = BV2/RON,sp) prediction and hyperparameter optimization, ensuring a reasonable and accurate model. A methodology is devised to determine the optimal BV-RON,sp tradeoff, surpassing the SJ silicon limit. The paper also delves into a discussion of optimal structural parameters for drift region, oxide thickness, and electric field modulation coefficients within the analytical model. The validity of the proposed model is robustly confirmed through comprehensive verification against TCAD simulation results.
Droplets for Gene Editing Using CRISPR-Cas9 and Clonal Selection Improvement Using Hydrogels
Authors: Pérez-Sosa Camilo , Pérez Maximiliano S. , Vallejo-Janeta Alexander Paolo , Bhansali Shekhar , Miriuka Santiago , Lerner Betiana
Published: March 2024

Gene editing tools have triggered a revolutionary transformation in the realms of cellular and molecular physiology, serving as a fundamental cornerstone for the evolution of disease models and assays in cell culture reactions, marked by various enhancements. Concurrently, microfluidics has emerged over recent decades as a versatile technology capable of elevating performance and reducing costs in daily experiments across diverse scientific disciplines, with a pronounced impact on cell biology. The amalgamation of these groundbreaking techniques holds the potential to amplify the generation of stable cell lines and the production of extracellular matrix hydrogels. These hydrogels, assuming a pivotal role in isolating cells at the single-cell level, facilitate a myriad of analyses. This study presents a novel method that seamlessly integrates CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing techniques with single-cell isolation methods in induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) lines, utilizing the combined power of droplets and hydrogels. This innovative approach is designed to optimize clonal selection, thereby concurrently reducing costs and the time required for generating a stable genetically modified cell line. By bridging the advancements in gene editing and microfluidic technologies, our approach not only holds significant promise for the development of disease models and assays but also addresses the crucial need for efficient single-cell isolation. This integration contributes to streamlining processes, making it a transformative method with implications for enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of stable cell line generation. As we navigate the intersection of gene editing and microfluidics, our study marks a significant stride toward innovative methodologies in the dynamic landscape of cellular and molecular physiology research.
Harmful and Harmless Soil-Dwelling Fungi Indicate Microhabitat Suitability for Off-Host Ixodid Ticks
Authors: Gooding Claire E. , Gould Layla , Gries Gerhard
Published: March 2024

Following blood meals or questing bouts, hard ticks (Ixodidae) must locate moist off-host microhabitats as refuge. Soil-dwelling fungi, including entomopathogenic Beauveria bassiana (Bb), thrive in moist microhabitats. Working with six species of ixodid ticks in olfactometer bioassays, we tested the hypothesis that ticks avoid Bb. Contrary to our prediction, nearly all ticks sought, rather than avoided, Bb-inoculated substrates. In further bioassays with female black-legged ticks, Ixodes scapularis, ticks oriented towards both harmful Bb and harmless soil-dwelling fungi, implying that fungi—regardless of their pathogenicity—signal habitat suitability to ticks. Only accessible Bb-inoculated substrate appealed to ticks, indicating that they sense Bb or its metabolites by contact chemoreception. Bb-inoculated substrate required ≥24 h of incubation before it appealed to ticks, suggesting that they respond to Bb metabolites rather than to Bb itself. Similarly, ticks responded to Bb-inoculated and incubated cellulose but not to sterile cellulose, indicating that Bb detection by ticks hinges on the Bb metabolism of cellulose. 2-Methylisoborneol—a common fungal metabolite with elevated presence in disturbed soils—strongly deterred ticks. Off-host ticks that avoid disturbed soil may lower their risk of physical injury. Synthetic 2-methylisoborneol could become a commercial tick repellent, provided its repellency extends to ticks in diverse taxa.
Identification of the Microbiome Associated with Prognosis in Patients with Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Yamamoto Kenta , Honda Takashi , Inukai Yosuke , Yokoyama Shinya , Ito Takanori , Imai Norihiro , Ishizu Yoji , Nakamura Masanao , Kawashima Hiroki
Published: March 2024

We investigated the prognostic role of the gut microbiome and clinical factors in chronic liver disease (hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC]). Utilizing data from 227 patients whose stool samples were collected over the prior 3 years and a Cox proportional hazards model, we integrated clinical attributes and microbiome composition based on 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing. HCC was the primary cause of mortality, with the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system-derived B/C significantly increasing the mortality risk (hazard ratio [HR] = 8.060; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.6509–17.793; p < 0.001). Cholesterol levels < 140 mg/dL were associated with higher mortality rates (HR = 4.411; 95% CI: 2.0151–9.6555; p < 0.001). Incertae sedis from Ruminococcaceae showed a protective effect, reducing mortality risk (HR = 0.289; 95% CI: 0.1282 to 0.6538; p = 0.002), whereas increased Veillonella presence was associated with a higher risk (HR = 2.733; 95% CI: 1.1922–6.2664; p = 0.017). The potential of specific bacterial taxa as independent prognostic factors suggests that integrating microbiome data could improve the prognosis and treatment of chronic liver disease. These microbiome-derived markers have prognostic significance independently and in conjunction with clinical factors, suggesting their utility in improving a patient’s prognosis.
Characterization of the 3,4-Dichloroaniline Degradation Gene Cluster in Acinetobacter soli GFJ2
Authors: Gibu Namiko , Kasai Daisuke , Sato Saki , Tabata Michiro , Vangnai Alisa , Fukuda Masao
Published: March 2024

3,4-Dichloroaniline (34DCA), a major metabolite of phenylurea herbicides, causes environmental contamination owing to its toxicity and recalcitrant properties. Acinetobacter soli strain GFJ2, isolated from soil potentially contaminated with herbicides, can degrade 34DCA. This study aimed to identify and characterize the 34DCA degradation gene cluster responsible for the conversion of 34DCA to 4,5-dichlorocatechol in the strain GFJ2. Genome analysis revealed one chromosome and seven plasmids in GFJ2, comprising 21, 75, and 3309 copies of rRNA, 75 tRNA, and protein-encoding genes, respectively. A gene cluster responsible for 34DCA degradation was identified, comprising dcdA, dcdB, and dcdC, which encode dioxygenase, flavin reductase, and aldehyde dehydrogenase, respectively. Transcriptional analysis indicated that this gene cluster is constructed as an operon, induced during 34DCA utilization. The heterologous expression of dcdA and dcdB in Escherichia coli confirmed their activity in degrading 34DCA to an intermediate metabolite, converted to 4,5-dichlorocatechol via a reaction involving the dcdC gene product, suggesting their involvement in 34DCA conversion to 4,5-dichlorocatechol. Deletion mutants of dcdA and dcdB lost 34DCA degradation ability, confirming their importance in 34DCA utilization in GFJ2. This study provides insights into the genetic mechanisms of 34DCA degradation by GFJ2, with potential applications in the bioremediation of environments contaminated by phenylurea herbicides.
Rational Design of Magnetic Nanoparticles as T1–T2 Dual-Mode MRI Contrast Agents
Authors: Geraldes Carlos F. G. C.
Published: March 2024

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), either paramagnetic or superparamagnetic depending on their composition and size, have been thoroughly studied as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents using in vitro and in vivo biomedical preclinical studies, while some are clinically used. Their magnetic properties responsible in some cases for high magnetization values, together with large surface area-to-volume ratios and the possibility of surface functionalization, have been used in MRI-based diagnostic and theranostics applications. MNPs are usually used as positive (T1) or negative (T2) MRI contrast agents, causing brightening or darkening of selected regions in MRI images, respectively. This review focusses on recent developments and optimization of MNPs containing Gd, Mn, Fe and other lanthanide ions which may function as dual-mode T1–T2 MRI contrast agents (DMCAs). They induce positive or negative contrast in the same MRI scanner upon changing its operational mode between T1-weighted and T2-weighted pulse sequences. The type of contrast they induce depends critically on their r2/r1 relaxivity ratio, which for DMCAs should be in the 2–10 range of values. After briefly discussing the basic principles of paramagnetic relaxation in MNPs, in this review, the basic strategies for the rational design of DMCAs are presented and typical examples are discussed, including in vivo preclinical applications: (1) the use of NPs with a single type of contrast material, Gd- or Mn-based NPs or superparamagnetic NPs with appropriate size and magnetization to provide T2 and T1 contrast; and (2) inclusion of both types of T1 and T2 contrast materials in the same nanoplatform by changing their relative positions.