bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on the competitiveness of the Arctic transportation route under the belt and road initiative
Authors: Zhang Man‐Ling , Ding Tian‐Ming , Ding Chao‐Jun
Published: May 2024

With the continuous improvement of the navigation environment of the Arctic routes, the commercialization potential of the Arctic routes is enhanced, which brings new challenges to the Suez Canal route and the China–Europe railway Express. In addition, geopolitical factors such as the Russia–Ukraine conflict and the Red Sea crisis have also brought some impact on the Eurasian transport pattern. In this context, the future trade and transportation between China and Europe will take on a new pattern. In order to study the transport competition pattern between China and Europe under the opening of the Arctic routes, this article takes into account the time‐value cost of goods and geopolitical factors, constructs a logit competition model, and quantitatively investigates the competitiveness of the Arctic route and the traditional routes of the “Belt and Road Initiative” using major international transportation hub cities in China. The results show that the types of cargo and the level of freight are important factors affecting the competitiveness of Arctic routes. Under the influence of geopolitics, the competitive advantage of the Arctic routes are highlighted.
Enhancing 3D printing sustainability: Reinforcing thermoplastic polyurethane with recycled polyurethane foam for durable applications in orthopedic footwear
Authors: Mohamed Toaa Salama , Nassef Ehssan , Morsy Ashraf , Ewais Hassan A. , Abdel‐Salam Ahmed H. , Morsy Ahmed , Abd El‐Moneim Nabil Mahmoud
Published: May 2024

This study seeks to advance the realm of 3D printing through the exploration of fabricating polymer matrix composite objects using recycled materials, with a particular emphasis on bolstering durability. Characterization was carried out by integrating polyurethane foam (PUF) residues into thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) composites at different concentrations (ranging from 3% to 10% wt/wt), which are frequently employed in 3D printing. The chemical functions were analyzed using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), while thermal stability was measured through thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). The morphology characterized of the material via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and density measurement identified that the surface roughness and void content of the PUF/TPU composite materials was a significant factor affecting the measured mechanical properties. Experimental results indicate that higher PUF content enhances filament properties and the resultant 3D printed products, showcasing a reduction in both the density and melt index of the produced filament by 15.9% and 34.4%, respectively, with the addition of 5% wt./wt. PUF residues to TPU. Additionally, there was a notable increase in Young's modulus of the produced filament by 79.9% and maximum stress by 12.7%, while elongation at break was reduced by 24.9%. Furthermore, the study highlights the sustainability advantages of utilizing recycled PUF, contributing to waste reduction and associated cost savings. Recycled PUF emerges as a cost‐effective additive for synthesizing 3D polymeric materials, holding promise for diverse applications such as orthopedic footwear, leveraging the desirable attributes of TPU.

Highlights

Recycled (PUF)/TPU composites for 3D printing, enhancing durability.

PUF content improves filament properties, reducing density and melt index.

Young's modulus and maximum stress of produced filament increases.

Utilizing recycled PUF reduces waste and promises sustainability.
Complete prepotentials of 5d higher rank theories
Authors: Mignosa Francesco
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We generalize recent methods regarding the construction of complete prepotentials of five dimensional SCFTs to two classes of rank-N theories, i.e. the X1,N and the UV fixed point of the SU (N + 1)0 + 2(N + 1)F gauge theories. Their complete prepotentials are consistently constructed starting from their weakly coupled descriptions. The results are verified by employing UV dualities and decoupling of flavors from theories with known complete prepotentials. Applications of these results to the recent investigation of non-supersymmetric conformal field theories from soft supersymmetric breaking deformations are addressed.
Non-disjoint strong external difference families can have any number of sets
Authors: Huczynska Sophie , Ng Siaw-Lynn
Published: May 2024

Strong external difference families (SEDFs) are much-studied combinatorial objects motivated by an information security application. A well-known conjecture states that only one abelian SEDF with more than 2 sets exists. We show that if the disjointness condition is replaced by non-disjointness, then abelian SEDFs can be constructed with more than 2 sets (indeed any number of sets). We demonstrate that the non-disjoint analogue has striking differences to, and connections with, the classical SEDF and arises naturally via another coding application.
Functional implications of NHR-210 enrichment in C. elegans cephalic sheath glia: insights into metabolic and mitochondrial disruptions in Parkinson's disease models
Authors: Hameed Rohil , Naseer Anam , Saxena Ankit , Akbar Mahmood , Toppo Pranoy , Sarkar Arunabh , Shukla Sanjeev K. , Nazir Aamir
Published: May 2024

Glial cells constitute nearly half of the mammalian nervous system's cellular composition. The glia in C. elegans perform majority of tasks comparable to those conducted by their mammalian equivalents. The cephalic sheath (CEPsh) glia, which are known to be the counterparts of mammalian astrocytes, are enriched with two nuclear hormone receptors (NHRs)—NHR-210 and NHR-231. This unique enrichment makes the CEPsh glia and these NHRs intriguing subjects of study concerning neuronal health. We endeavored to assess the role of these NHRs in neurodegenerative diseases and related functional processes, using transgenic C. elegans expressing human alpha-synuclein. We employed RNAi-mediated silencing, followed by behavioural, functional, and metabolic profiling in relation to suppression of NHR-210 and 231. Our findings revealed that depleting nhr-210 changes dopamine-associated behaviour and mitochondrial function in human alpha synuclein-expressing strains NL5901 and UA44, through a putative target, pgp-9, a transmembrane transporter. Considering the alteration in mitochondrial function and the involvement of a transmembrane transporter, we performed metabolomics study via HR-MAS NMR spectroscopy. Remarkably, substantial modifications in ATP, betaine, lactate, and glycine levels were seen upon the absence of nhr-210. We also detected considerable changes in metabolic pathways such as phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis metabolism; glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism; as well as glyoxalate and dicarboxylate metabolism. In conclusion, the deficiency of the nuclear hormone receptor nhr-210 in alpha-synuclein expressing strain of C. elegans, results in altered mitochondrial function, coupled with alterations in vital metabolite levels. These findings underline the functional and physiological importance of nhr-210 enrichment in CEPsh glia.

Graphical abstract
Avoiding a reproducibility crisis in regulatory toxicology—on the fundamental role of ring trials
Authors: Jacobs Miriam N. , Hoffmann Sebastian , Hollnagel Heli M. , Kern Petra , Kolle Susanne N. , Natsch Andreas , Landsiedel Robert
Published: May 2024

The ongoing transition from chemical hazard and risk assessment based on animal studies to assessment relying mostly on non-animal data, requires a multitude of novel experimental methods, and this means that guidance on the validation and standardisation of test methods intended for international applicability and acceptance, needs to be updated. These so-called new approach methodologies (NAMs) must be applicable to the chemical regulatory domain and provide reliable data which are relevant to hazard and risk assessment. Confidence in and use of NAMs will depend on their reliability and relevance, and both are thoroughly assessed by validation. Validation is, however, a time- and resource-demanding process. As updates on validation guidance are conducted, the valuable components must be kept: Reliable data are and will remain fundamental. In 2016, the scientific community was made aware of the general crisis in scientific reproducibility—validated methods must not fall into this. In this commentary, we emphasize the central importance of ring trials in the validation of experimental methods. Ring trials are sometimes considered to be a major hold-up with little value added to the validation. Here, we clarify that ring trials are indispensable to demonstrate the robustness and reproducibility of a new method. Further, that methods do fail in method transfer and ring trials due to different stumbling blocks, but these provide learnings to ensure the robustness of new methods. At the same time, we identify what it would take to perform ring trials more efficiently, and how ring trials fit into the much-needed update to the guidance on the validation of NAMs.
Identifying causes and associated factors of stillbirths using autopsy of the fetus and placenta
Authors: Kedar Sade Eliel , Lantsberg Daniel , Tagar Sar-el Moriel , Gefen Sheizaf , Gafner Michal , Katorza Eldad
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The study aimed to evaluate the causes of death and associated factors in cases of stillbirth, using post-mortem examination and applying a rigorous, evidence-based holistic approach.

Methods

Our retrospective observational study included cases of autopsy following stillbirth that occurred at our tertiary medical center during a period of 8 years. Detailed up-to-date criteria that incorporate clinical reports, medical history, prenatal imaging, and histopathological findings were used to evaluate the cause of death and associated factors.

Results

After applying our proposed methodology, 138 cases of stillbirth were classified into eight categories based on the causes of death. A definitive cause of death was observed in 100 (72%) cases, while 38 (28%) cases were considered unexplained. The leading cause of death was placental lesions (n = 39, 28%) with maternal vascular malperfusion (MVM) lesions being the most common (54%). Ascending infection was the second most common cause of fetal death (n = 24, 17%) and was often seen in the setting of preterm labor and cervical insufficiency.

Conclusion

The largest category of cause of death was attributed to placental pathology. Using rigorous detailed up-to-date criteria that incorporate pathological and clinical factors may help in objectively classifying the cause of death.
Long-term neurological outcomes of offspring misdiagnosed with fetal growth restriction
Authors: Snir Amir , Zamstein Omri , Wainstock Tamar , Sheiner Eyal
Published: May 2024

Objective

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a major determinant of adverse short- and long-term perinatal outcomes. The current definition of FGR (estimated fetal weight measurement < 10th percentile) may lead, at times, to a false diagnosis of fetuses that are eventually born appropriate for gestational age (AGA). Our objective was to investigate the potential association between a misdiagnosis of antepartum fetal growth restriction and long-term neurological outcomes in offspring.

Study design

A population-based cohort analysis was performed including deliveries between the years 1991–2020 in a tertiary medical center. We compared neurological hospitalization during childhood among AGA infants falsely diagnosed as FGR versus AGA infants without a false FGR diagnosis. A Kaplan–Meier survival curve was used to assess cumulative morbidity and a Cox proportional hazards model was employed to control for confounders.

Results

During the study period, 324,620 AGA infants met the inclusion criteria; 3249 of them were falsely classified as FGR. These offspring had higher rates of hospitalizations due to various neurological conditions, as compared to those without an FGR diagnosis (OR 1.431, 95% CI 1.278–1.608; P < 0.001). In addition, cumulative hospitalization incidence was elevated in the FGR group (log-rank P-value < 0.001). When controlling for confounders, a false FGR diagnosis remained independently associated with long-term neurological morbidities (adjusted HR 1.086, 95% CI 1.003–1.177, P = 0.043).

Conclusion

Misdiagnosis of FGR in the antepartum period is associated with an increased risk for offspring long-term neurological morbidities.
What we see is what we touch? Sex estimation on the skull in virtual anthropology
Authors: Braun Sandra , Schwendener Nicole , Kanz Fabian , Lösch Sandra , Milella Marco
Published: May 2024

Background

The increased use of virtual bone images in forensic anthropology requires a comprehensive study on the observational errors between dry bones and CT reconstructions. Here, we focus on the consistency of nonmetric sex estimation traits on the human skull.

Materials and methods

We scored nine nonmetric traits on dry crania and mandibles (n = 223) of archaeological origin and their CT reconstructions. Additionally, we 3D surface scanned a subsample (n = 50) and repeated our observations. Due to the intricate anatomy of the mental eminence, we split it into two separate traits: the bilateral mental tubercles and the midsagittal mental protuberance. We provide illustrations and descriptions for both these traits.

Results

We obtained supreme consistency values between the CT and 3D surface modalities. The most consistent cranial traits were the glabella and the supraorbital margin, followed by the nuchal crest, zygomatic extension, mental tubercles, mental protuberance, mental eminence, mastoid process and ramus flexure, in descending order. The mental tubercles show higher consistency scores than the mental eminence and the mental protuberance.

Discussion

The increased interchangeability of the virtual modalities with each other as compared to the dry bone modality could be due to the lack of tactility on both the CT and surface scans. Moreover, tactility appears less essential with experience than a precise trait description. Future studies could revolve around the most consistent cranial traits, combining them with pelvic traits from a previous study, to test for accuracy.
From bristle to brain: embryonic development of topographic projections from basiconic sensilla in the antennal nervous system of the locust Schistocerca gregaria
Authors: Boyan George , Ehrhardt Erica
Published: May 2024

The antennal flagellum of the locust S. gregaria is an articulated structure bearing a spectrum of sensilla that responds to sensory stimuli. In this study, we focus on the basiconic-type bristles as a model for sensory system development in the antenna. At the end of embryogenesis, these bristles are found at fixed locations and then on only the most distal six articulations of the antenna. They are innervated by a dendrite from a sensory cell cluster in the underlying epithelium, with each cluster directing fused axons topographically to an antennal tract running to the brain. We employ confocal imaging and immunolabeling to (a) identify mitotically active sense organ precursors for sensory cell clusters in the most distal annuli of the early embryonic antenna; (b) observe the subsequent spatial appearance of their neuronal progeny; and (c) map the spatial and temporal organization of axon projections from such clusters into the antennal tracts. We show that early in embryogenesis, proliferative precursors are localized circumferentially within discrete epithelial domains of the flagellum. Progeny first appear distally at the antennal tip and then sequentially in a proximal direction so that sensory neuron populations are distributed in an age-dependent manner along the antenna. Autotracing reveals that axon fasciculation with a tract is also sequential and reflects the location and age of the cell cluster along the most distal annuli. Cell cluster location and bristle location are therefore represented topographically and temporally within the axon profile of the tract and its projection to the brain.
Predicting response of hepatoblastoma primary lesions to neoadjuvant chemotherapy through contrast-enhanced computed tomography radiomics
Authors: Yang Yanlin , Wang Haoru , Si Jiajun , Zhang Li , Ding Hao , Wang Fang , He Ling , Chen Xin
Published: May 2024

Objective

To investigate the clinical value of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) radiomics for predicting the response of primary lesions to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in hepatoblastoma.

Methods

Clinical and CECT imaging data were retrospectively collected from 116 children with hepatoblastoma who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Tumor response was assessed according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST). Subsequently, they were randomly stratified into a training cohort and a test cohort in a 7:3 ratio. The clinical model was constructed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression, while the radiomics model was developed based on selected radiomics features employing the support vector machine algorithm. The combined clinical–radiomics model incorporated both clinical and radiomics features.

Results

The area under the curve (AUC) for the clinical, radiomics, and combined models was 0.704 (95% CI: 0.563–0.845), 0.830 (95% CI: 0.704–0.959), and 0.874 (95% CI: 0.768–0.981) in the training cohort, respectively. In the validation cohort, the combined model achieved the highest mean AUC of 0.830 (95% CI 0.616–0.999), with a sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, precision, and f1 score of 72.0%, 81.1%, 78.5%, 57.2%, and 63.5%, respectively.

Conclusion

CECT radiomics has the potential to predict primary lesion response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in hepatoblastoma.
Investigating oral somatosensory perception and oral symptoms of head and neck cancer patients: insights on eating behaviour
Authors: Riantiningtyas Reisya Rizki , Dougkas Anestis , Bredie Wender L. P. , Kwiecien Camille , Bruyas Amandine , Philouze Pierre , Giboreau Agnès , Carrouel Florence
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Sensory alterations and oral manifestations are prevalent among head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. While taste and smell alterations have been thoroughly investigated, studies on their oral somatosensory perception remain limited. Building upon our previous publication that primarily focused on objective somatosensory measurements, the present work examined self-reported sensory perception, including somatosensation and oral symptoms, in HNC patients and evaluated their link with eating behaviour.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using self-reported questionnaires on sensory perception, oral symptoms, sensory-related food preference, and eating behaviour among HNC patients (n = 30). Hierarchical clustering analysis was performed to categorise patients based on their sensory perception. Correlations between oral symptoms score, sensory perception, sensory-related food preference, and eating behaviour were explored.

Results

Two distinct sensory profiles of patients were identified: no alteration (n = 14) and alteration (n = 16) group. The alteration group showed decreased preference towards several sensory modalities, especially the somatosensory. Concerning eating behaviour, more patients in the alteration group agreed to negatively connotated statements (e.g. having food aversion and eating smaller portions), demonstrating greater eating difficulties. In addition, several oral symptoms related to salivary dysfunction were reported. These oral symptoms were correlated with sensory perception, sensory-related food preference, and eating behaviour.

Conclusion

This study presented evidence demonstrating that sensory alterations in HNC patients are not limited to taste and smell but cover somatosensory perception and are linked to various aspects of eating. Moreover, patients reported experiencing several oral symptoms. Those with sensory alterations and oral symptoms experienced more eating difficulties.
pDNA-tachyplesin treatment stimulates the immune system and increases the probability of apoptosis in MC4-L2 tumor cells
Authors: Mahmoudi-Filabadi Fatemeh , Doosti Abbas
Published: May 2024

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and marine creatures are the most abundant reservoir of anticancer medicines. Tachyplesin peptides have shown antibacterial capabilities, but their potential to inhibit cancer growth and trigger cancer cell death has not been investigated. A synthetic tachyplesin nucleotide sequence was generated and inserted into the pcDNA3.1( +) Mammalian Expression Vector. PCR analysis and enzyme digesting procedures were used to evaluate the vectors' accuracy. The transfection efficiency of MCF-7 and MCF10-A cells was 57% and 65%, respectively. The proliferation of MCF-7 cancer cells was markedly suppressed. Administration of plasmid DNA (pDNA) combined with tachyplesin to mice with tumors did not cause any discernible morbidity or mortality throughout treatment. The final body weight curves revealed a significant reduction in weight among mice treated with pDNA/tachyplesin and tachyplesin at a dose of 100 µg/ml (18.4 ± 0.24 gr, P < 0.05; 11.4 ± 0.24 gr P < 0.01) compared to the control group treated with PBS (22 ± 0.31 gr). Animals treated with pDNA/tachyplesin and tachyplesin exhibited a higher percentage of CD4 + Foxp3 + Tregs, CD8 + Foxp3 + Tregs, and CD4 + and CD8 + T cell populations expressing CTLA-4 in their lymph nodes and spleen compared to the PBS group. The groups that received pDNA/tachyplesin exhibited a substantial upregulation in the expression levels of caspase-3, caspase-8, BAX, PI3K, STAT3, and JAK genes. The results offer new possibilities for treating cancer by targeting malignancies using pDNA/tachyplesin and activating the mTOR and NFκB signaling pathways.
Treatment of multiple adjacent gingival recessions using leucocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin with coronally advanced flap: a 12-month split-mouth controlled randomized clinical trial
Authors: Yavuz Atacan , Güngörmek Hatice Selin , Kuru Leyla , Doğan Başak
Published: May 2024

Objective

This split-mouth randomized study aimed to assess efficacy of leucocyte-platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) versus connective tissue graft (CTG) in achieving root coverage (RC) for multiple adjacent gingival recessions (MAGRs) throughout 12-month period.

Materials and methods

The study enrolled 59 teeth from 12 patients with Miller Class I MAGRs ≥ 2 mm on bilateral or contralateral sides. Patients were randomly assigned to receive coronally advanced flap (CAF) with either CTG (control) or L-PRF (test) treatment. Various parameters, including plaque and gingival index, clinical attachment level, recession depth, probing depth, recession width (RW), papilla width (PW), keratinized tissue width (KTW), gingival thickness (GT), percentage of RC, complete root coverage (CRC), and location of the relative gingival margin concerning the cemento-enamel junctions (GMCEJ) after CAF, were recorded at baseline, 3-, 6-, and 12-months post-surgery. On June 29, 2021 the study was registred to ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04942821).

Results

Except KTW and GT gain, all clinical parameters, RC, and CRC were similar between the groups at all follow-up periods (p > 0.05). The higher GT and KTW gains were detected in the control group compared to test group at 12 months (p < 0.05). Both RC and CRC were positively associated with initial PW and GMCEJ, but negatively with initial RW (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The current study concludes that L-PRF were equally effective as CTG in treating MAGRs in terms of RC and CRC. Additionally, RC and CRC outcomes appeared to be influenced by GMCEJ, PW, and RW.

Clinical relevance

L-PRF could represent a feasible substitute for CTG in treating MAGRs.
Prenatal maternal stress, breastfeeding and offspring ADHD symptoms
Authors: Jallow Jandeh , Hurtig Tuula , Kerkelä Martta , Miettunen Jouko , Halt Anu-Helmi
Published: May 2024

There is increasing evidence to suggest that environmental factors are associated with ADHD, but results regarding prenatal maternal stress, unwanted pregnancy, breastfeeding, and ADHD in children are controversial and few prospective studies have been conducted. Using prospectively collected data from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986 (n = 7,910) we studied potential risk factors for ADHD symptoms at 8 and 16 years of age, including prenatal maternal stress and unwanted pregnancy, and protective factors including the duration of breastfeeding. Prenatal stress was associated with an increased risk of ADHD symptoms at the age of 16 (OR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.34–2.80) and an unwanted pregnancy correlated with hyperactivity symptoms in the offspring at the age of 8 (OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.55–2.77). We did not find an association between prenatal maternal stress and hyperactivity symptoms in the offspring at the age of 8 (OR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.69–1.08) or with unwanted pregnancy and ADHD symptoms at the age of 16 (OR = 1.13, 95% CI: 0.57–2.02). In relation to breastfeeding, over three months of exclusive breastfeeding was associated with lower hyperactivity symptoms in the 8-year follow-up (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.46–0.92) and there was evidence of same kind of relationship concerning non-exclusive breastfeeding, but the association was not statistically significant (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.54–1.06). In 16-year follow-up, under six months of non-exclusive breastfeeding showed an association with ADHD symptoms (OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.48–0.95) while exclusive breastfeeding did not (OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.66–1.55). In conclusion, our findings suggest that prenatal maternal stress increases the risk of more severe forms of ADHD symptoms in the offspring and breastfeeding can protect against such symptoms at the ages of 8 and 16.
Robotic transversus abdominis release (TAR) for ventral hernia repairs is associated with low surgical site occurrence rates and length of stay despite increasing modifiable comorbidities
Authors: Skoczek A. C. , Ruane P. W. , Holland A. B. , Hamilton J. K. , Fernandez D. L.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Modifiable comorbidities (MCMs) have previously been shown to complicate postoperative wound healing occasionally leading to surgeon hesitancy to repair ventral hernias prior to preoperative optimization of comorbidities. This study describes the effects of MCMs on surgical site occurrences (SSOs) and hospital length of stay (LOS) following robotic transversus abdominis release (TAR) with poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) resorbable biosynthetic mesh retromuscular sublay for ventral hernia repair in patients who had not undergone preoperative optimization.

Methods

A single-surgeon retrospective review was performed for patients who underwent the robotic TAR procedure with P4HB mesh between January 2015 and May 2022. Patients were stratified by the amount of MCMs present: 0, 1, or 2 + . MCMs included obesity, diabetes, and current tobacco use. Patient data was analyzed for the first 60 days following their operation. Primary outcomes included 60-day SSO rates and hospital LOS.

Results

Three hundred and thirty-four subjects met the inclusion criteria for SSO and prolonged LOS analysis. 16.8% had no MCM, 56.1% had 1 MCM, and 27% had 2 + MCMs. No significant difference in SSO was seen between the 3 groups; however, having 2 + MCMs was significantly associated with increased odds of SSO (odds ratio 3.25, P = .019). When the groups were broken down, only having a history of diabetes plus obesity was associated with significantly increased odds of SSO (odds ratio 3.54, P = .02). No group showed significantly increased odds of prolonged LOS.

Conclusion

2 + MCMs significantly increase the odds of SSO, specifically in patients who have a history of diabetes and obesity. However, the presence of any number of MCMs was not associated with increased odds of prolonged LOS.
Adjuvant and post-recurrent treatment patterns in patients with resectable gastric cancer in Japan: a retrospective database cohort study
Authors: Yoshikawa Takaki , Kikko Yorifumi , Makino Reina , Kimijima Yuya , Nishiyama Eiji , Matsuda Yuko , Casaes Teixeira Bruno , Tejada Mariella , Carroll Robert , Hironaka Shuichi
Published: May 2024

Background

This study examined temporal shifts in adjuvant therapy patterns in Japanese patients with resectable gastric cancer (GC) and treatment patterns of first-line and subsequent therapy among those with recurrent disease.

Methods

This retrospective analysis of hospital-based administrative claims data (April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2022) included adults (aged ≥ 20 years) with GC who started adjuvant therapy on or after October 1, 2008 (adjuvant cohort) and patients in the adjuvant cohort with disease recurrence (recurrent cohort), further defined by the time to recurrence (≤ 180 or > 180 days after adjuvant therapy).

Results

In the adjuvant cohort (n = 17,062), the most common regimen during October 2008–May 2016 was tegafur/gimeracil/oteracil potassium (S-1; 95.7%). As new standard adjuvant regimen options were established, adjuvant S-1 use decreased to 65.0% and fluoropyrimidine plus oxaliplatin or docetaxel plus S-1 use increased to 15.0% and 20.0%, respectively, in September 2019–March 2022. In the recurrent cohort with no history of trastuzumab/trastuzumab deruxtecan treatment (n = 1257), the most common first-line regimens were paclitaxel plus ramucirumab (34.0%), capecitabine plus oxaliplatin (CapeOX; 17.0%), and nab-paclitaxel plus ramucirumab (10.1%) in patients with early recurrence, and S-1 plus oxaliplatin (26.3%), S-1 plus cisplatin (15.3%), CapeOX (14.0%), S-1 (13.2%), and paclitaxel plus ramucirumab (10.8%) in those with late recurrence.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated temporal shifts in adjuvant treatment patterns that followed the establishment of novel regimens, and confirmed that post-recurrent treatment patterns were consistent with the Japanese Gastric Cancer Association guideline recommendations.
The intergenerational learning effects of a home study program for elementary and junior high school children on knowledge and awareness of plastic consumption
Authors: Kalyanasundaram Maheshwari , Ando Yuta , Asari Misuzu
Published: May 2024

Education through intergenerational learning (IGL) can be a key to consumer behavior change to combat plastic issues. The objectives of this study are to create a home study program that fosters IGL, targeting elementary and junior high school children of Kyoto city, understand if the program can increase student’s personalization of plastics issues, and understand if IGL can play a role in enabling plastic reduction actions in the household. A program, in which the 25 participating children proposed, executed, and monitored 3 actions to reduce plastic consumption, including their family, was successfully developed. To analyze the changes, children’s pre- and post-questionnaires and parents post-questionnaire were distributed. By experiencing the program, children felt increased guilt toward plastic use. Qualitative analysis revealed the barriers (lack of options, habits, lack of information) felt by the children when trying to reduce plastic. Feelings of guilt and facing barriers are parts of personalization and indicate that the program had initiated personalization process. In terms of IGL, qualitative analysis revealed that families that had social issues-based conversations during the program, and children who themselves decided reduction actions, engaged in plastic reduction better. Hence, education centering around IGL with effective personalization can influence household behavior.
Can Machine Learning Explain Alpha Generated by ESG Factors?
Authors: Carlei Vittorio , Cascioli Piera , Ceccarelli Alessandro , Furia Donatella
Published: May 2024

This research explores the use of machine learning to predict alpha in constructing portfolios, leveraging a broad array of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors within the S&P 500 index. Existing literature bases analyses on synthetic indicators, this work proposes an analytical deep dive based on a dataset containing the sub-indicators that give rise to the aforementioned synthetic indices. Since such dimensionality of variables requires specific processing, we deemed it necessary to use a machine learning algorithm, allowing us to study, with strong specificity, two types of relationships: the interaction between individual ESG variables and their effect on corporate performance.The results clearly show that ESG factors have a significant relationship with company performance. These findings emphasise the importance of integrating ESG indicators into quantitative investment strategies using Machine Learning methodologies.
Comparison of different hulled wheat genotypes in terms of yield, morphological, and nutritional properties
Authors: Temizgul Ridvan , Ciftci Beyza , Kardes Yusuf Murat , Kara Rukiye , Temizgul Sumeyye , Yilmaz Semih , Kaplan Mahmut
Published: May 2024

This study is conducted to characterize the yield and some of hulled wheat’s morphological and nutritional attributes. For this purpose, a total of 88 local hulled wheat samples were collected, including 7 T. dicoccum, 28 T. monococcum, 7 T. speldoides, 23 T. boeoticum, 3 T. araraticum, 4 Triticum sp, 2 T. urartu and 14 T. turgidum genotype was used as plant material. The field experiment was conducted for two years, from 2017 to 2018 and 2018 to 2019. The findings showed that grain yield varied between 40.75–398.75 g/m2, biological yield 86.90–1166.33 g/m2, harvest index 18.15–53.96%, spike length 1.2–8.1 cm, plant height 29.8–82.8 cm and length of upper internode 18.4–53 cm. The auricle color of the genotypes was white, and no hairiness or waxiness was observed. Most of the genotypes have developed erect. Crude ash contents of the hulled wheat vary between 1.7 and 5.10%, crude protein 10.12-19.48%, dietary fiber 2.2-8.2%, total starch 49.50–67.98%, resistant starch 0.25–3.38%, non-resistant starch 48.08–64.95%, amylose 3.43–42.88%, amylopectin 57.13–96.58%. Hulled wheat species and genotypes showed significant differences in yield and nutritional properties. Many genotypes used in the study have the potential to be cultured in field agriculture and contribute to the production of nutritional products in the future with their superior characteristics. In addition to testing genotypes in different climate and soil conditions, conducting research on the production of different foods is recommended.
Confidence and Outcome Expectations in Bilateral Negotiations–A Dynamic Model
Authors: Vetschera Rudolf , Dias Luis C.
Published: May 2024

This work proposes and studies a dynamic model of two bargaining parties exchanging offers over time, considering their confidence about the share of the “pie” they obtain, which translates into expectations regarding the outcome of the bargaining process. The model predicts the sequence of offers as well as the final agreement for given confidence parameters. A mathematical analysis of the model shows the outcome is an Asymmetric Nash Bargaining Solution with exponents determined by the bargainers’ confidence. Moreover, a compensation effect can be found between confidence and risk aversion. This work also considers that confidence levels of bargainers might change during the negotiation, and we conduct a comprehensive simulation study to analyze the effect of such changes. Through Monte-Carlo simulation, we show that a bargainer is better off if its confidence increases, but the advantage is lost if the other party’s confidence increases in a similar way. In that case, concessions are smaller and negotiations last longer. Changing confidence parameters make the outcome harder to predict, as it will depend more on the final confidence than the initial one. The simulations also show that the average size of concessions, and therefore the final agreement, depend not only on whether confidence increases or decreases, but also on the change rate, with stronger effects observed when change accelerates towards the end of the process.
The impact of ATP-sensitive potassium channel modulation on mitochondria in a Parkinson’s disease model using SH-SY5Y cells depends on their differentiation state
Authors: Evinova A , Baranovicova E , Hajduchova D , Dibdiakova K , Baranova I , Racay P , Strnadel J , Pecova R , Halasova E , Pokusa M
Published: May 2024

Inward rectifying potassium channels sensitive to ATP levels (KATP) have been the subject of investigation for several decades. Modulators of KATP channels are well-established treatments for metabolic as well as cardiovascular diseases. Experimental studies have also shown the potential of KATP modulation in neurodegenerative disorders. However, to date, data regarding the effects of KATP antagonists/agonists in experiments related to neurodegeneration remain inconsistent. The main source of confusion in evaluating available data seems to be the choice of experimental models. The present study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the effects of both opening and blocking KATP channels in two forms of SH-SY5Y cells. Our results offer valuable insights into the significance of metabolic differences between differentiated and non-differentiated SH-SY5Y cells, particularly in the context of glibenclamide and diazoxide effects under normal conditions and during the initiation of pathological events simulating Parkinson’s disease in vitro. We emphasize the analysis of mitochondrial functions and changes in mitochondrial network morphology. The heightened protein expression of KATP channels identified in non-differentiated SH-SY5Y cells seems to be a platform for a more significant impact of KATP modulators in this cell type. The efficiency of rotenone treatment in inducing morphological changes in the mitochondrial network depends on the differentiation status of SH-SY5Y cells.
Numerical representations of AB-type copolymer complexes: analysis of 1H NMR chemical shift patterns in terms of a Smith–Cantor set
Authors: Colquhoun Howard M. , Grau-Crespo Ricardo
Published: May 2024

When considering the possibility of storing information in the sequence of monomer residues within an AB-type copolymer chain, it is constructive to model that sequence as a string of ones and zeros. The intramolecular environment around any given digit (say a “1”) can then be represented by another string of integers—a code—obtained by summing pairs of digits at equivalent positions, in both directions, from that digit. The code can include only integers 0, 1 and 2, and can represent a number in any base b higher than 2. In base b = 3 the resulting set of codes includes all numbers (because only digits 0, 1 and 2 occur in ternary expansions), but in any base b > 3 the codes define a limited set of numbers comprising a fractal we term a Smith–Cantor set. The 1H NMR spectrum of a random, AB-type co(polyester-imide) shows, on complexation with pyrene, a pattern of complexation shifts approximating very closely to the Smith–Cantor set for which b = 4. Other co(polyimide) complexes show a 1H NMR pattern corresponding to a specific sub-set of this fractal. The sub-set arises from a “stop-at-zero” limitation, whereby digits in the initial string are set to zero for code-generating purposes if they occur beyond a zero, as viewed from the central “1”. The limitation arises in copolymers where pyrene binds by intercalation between pairs of adjacent diimide residues. This numerical approach provides a complete, unifying theory to account for the emergence of fractal character in the 1H NMR spectra of AB-type copolymer complexes.
The shape of chance: what can stones tell us about artistic creativity and literary theory?
Authors: Li Xiaofan Amy
Published: May 2024

What does literature tell us about the concept of chance? And how is chance relevant to literary theory and comparison? Relating chance to theory is counter-intuitive, because the very attempt to theorise seems to aim at reducing the coincidental and advancing systematic interpretations of literature. But writings about stones tell us otherwise. By highlighting stones’ aesthetic qualities and quasi-artistic status, these writings raise questions about the role of chance in the natural processes that form stones, and in the human perception that frame them as aesthetic objects. I read Roger Caillois’s lithic writings alongside the poetics of Chinese scholars’ rocks and poet Lu Ji’s 陸機 (c. 261-303) Rhapsody on Literature (文賦 Wenfu). Their writings raise questions about the intersections between chance, writing, and literary theory: What can stones tell us about our understanding of chance and creativity? Can creativity and criticism flourish by promoting instead of calculating or eliminating chance? If yes, how? I discuss how lapidary writings and practices posit stones as poetic and discursive objects that engage with chance reveries, aesthetic sensations, and effects of human-mineral symbiosis.
On the accurate computation of the Newton form of the Lagrange interpolant
Authors: Khiar Y. , Mainar E. , Royo-Amondarain E. , Rubio B.
Published: May 2024

In recent years many efforts have been devoted to finding bidiagonal factorizations of nonsingular totally positive matrices, since their accurate computation allows to numerically solve several important algebraic problems with great precision, even for large ill-conditioned matrices. In this framework, the present work provides the factorization of the collocation matrices of Newton bases—of relevance when considering the Lagrange interpolation problem—together with an algorithm that allows to numerically compute it to high relative accuracy. This further allows to determine the coefficients of the interpolating polynomial and to compute the singular values and the inverse of the collocation matrix. Conditions that guarantee high relative accuracy for these methods and, in the former case, for the classical recursion formula of divided differences, are determined. Numerical errors due to imprecise computer arithmetic or perturbed input data in the computation of the factorization are analyzed. Finally, numerical experiments illustrate the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed methods with several algebraic problems, in stark contrast with traditional approaches.
An Indigenous Relational Approach to Systemic Thinking and Being: Focus on Participatory Onto-Epistemology
Authors: Romm Norma R. A.
Published: May 2024

This article is structured around my locating a lacuna in the (mainstream) literature describing the history of the field of “systems thinking”. I investigate how dominant accounts of this history do not include an account of the contributions of Indigenous sages and scholars’ systemic thinking. Such thinking (and being) is grounded in a relational onto-epistemology and attendant axiology – where knowing is consciously tied to (re)generating reciprocal relations with others – human and more-than-human – as we enact worlds-in-the making. The argument is that at the moment of “knowing/inquiring” we co-constitute with other agents (and not only human ones) the worlds that are brought forth. Otherwise expressed, there are never spectators, only participants in ongoing world-construction. I explore the way of explaining this as proffered by authors from a variety of geographical contexts as a backdrop to indicating how Indigenous critical systemic thinking has not been catered for by those writing the history of the so-called “systems community”. This is despite many Indigenous scholars self-naming their understandings as being systemic. I indicate that exploring global superwicked problems from the standpoint of an Indigenous onto-epistemology includes pointing to, and experimenting further with, radically different options for thinking-and-being than those that thus far have been storied by those writing the history of systems thinking. I indicate why it is important to take seriously this approach, rather than drowning its contribution.
Seventy-three years riding heterocycles
Authors: Elguero José
Published: May 2024

The Chemical Intelligencer,1997, 3, 61–64.

IH: When you returned to Spain, you were 45.

Did you build up a new lab and a new research group then?

JE: It was difficult because the financial resources were not in place. There were no positions, no fellowships, no instrumentation. I tried to survive by building up an extensive system of cooperation with different places in Spain, in France, and in other countries.

I tried to do inexpensive but interesting chemistry. This is one of the reasons why I developed a project on the solid-state properties of heteroaromatic compounds.

They are stable, cheap, and friendly, are easy to prepare, and are crystalline, not volatile.
The Effect of Stiffness on Friction, Surface Strain and Contact Area of a Sliding Finger Pad Simulant
Authors: Lee Zing Siang , Maiti Raman , Carré Matt , Lewis Roger
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the frictional and surface strain behaviour of silicone hemispherical finger pad simulants with different stiffness during tribological interactions with a smooth glass plate. A novel contact area and strain measurement method employing a digital image correlation technique was employed to give new understanding of the pad behaviour during sliding. The frictional behaviour of the sliding finger pad simulant is dominated by the adhesion mechanism, with a small overall contribution from deformation, as suggested by the high principal strains at the edge of the contact area. The strain behaviour is also influenced by the magnitude of the normal force and the stiffness of the samples.
Testing effectiveness in nature reserve management using GIS-based tools: a 25 years monitoring of land use change in a Mediterranean coastal wetland
Authors: Marzialetti Flavio , Cesarini Giulia , Acosta Alicia T. R. , Battisti Corrado
Published: May 2024

Land-cover change dynamics were investigated in a Mediterranean coastal wetland to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of nature reserve management. A multitemporal analysis of land cover maps was conducted, utilizing visual interpretation of aerial orthophotos from the summer seasons of 1996, 2008, 2015, and 2021. Landscape changes were evaluated by transition matrices and chord diagrams. Maps were classified in accordance with CORINE land cover types at a fourth level of detail. The multitemporal analyses provided a comprehensive overview of landscape changes within the reserve over the past 25 years. The most notable changes were the increase of wetland areas and the reduction of agricultural and artificial areas. Moreover, seminatural vegetation constantly extended over time. These changes reflected the continuous management activities within the nature reserve, encompassing agreements for water supply, restoration projects, and measures to counteract illegality. These operational actions induced fine-grained ecological changes (outcomes at ecosystem level). This study highlighted the importance of remote sensing and landscape analysis, matched with fine-grained management data, as tool for long-term monitoring. Such an approach provides valuable support in evaluating the effectiveness of strategies promoted in nature reserves hosting wet coastal ecosystems of high conservation concern.