bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolving patterns and clinical outcome of genetic studies performed at diagnosis in acute myeloid leukemia patients: Real life data from the PETHEMA Registry
Authors: Labrador Jorge , Martínez‐Cuadrón David , Boluda Blanca , Serrano Josefina , Gil Cristina , Pérez‐Simón José A. , Bernal Teresa , Bergua Juan M. , Martínez‐López Joaquín , Rodríguez‐Medina Carlos , Vidriales María B. , García‐Boyero Raimundo , Algarra Lorenzo , Polo Marta , Sayas María J. , Tormo Mar , Alonso‐Domínguez Juan M. , Herrera Pilar , Lavilla Esperanza , Ramos Fernando , Amigo María L. , Vives‐Polo Susana , Rodríguez‐Macías Gabriela , Mena‐Durán Armando , Pérez‐Encinas Manuel M. , Arce‐Fernández Olga , Cuello Rebeca , Sánchez‐García Joaquín , Gómez‐Casares María T. , Chillón María C. , Calasanz María J. , Ayala Rosa , Rodriguez‐Veiga Rebeca , Barragán Eva , Montesinos Pau ,   PETHEMA Group
Published: June 2024

Background

There are no studies assessing the evolution and patterns of genetic studies performed at diagnosis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. Such studies could help to identify potential gaps in our present diagnostic practices, especially in the context of increasingly complex procedures and classifications.

Methods

The REALMOL study (NCT05541224) evaluated the evolution, patterns, and clinical impact of performing main genetic and molecular studies performed at diagnosis in 7285 adult AML patients included in the PETHEMA AML registry (NCT02607059) between 2000 and 2021.

Results

Screening rates increased for all tests across different time periods (2000–2007, 2008–2016, and 2017–2021) and was the most influential factor for NPM1, FLT3‐ITD, and next‐generation sequencing (NGS) determinations: NPM1 testing increased from 28.9% to 72.8% and 95.2% (p < .001), whereas FLT3‐ITD testing increased from 38.1% to 74.1% and 95.9% (p < .0001). NGS testing was not performed between 2000–2007 and only reached 3.5% in 2008–2016, but significantly increased to 72% in 2017–2021 (p < .001). Treatment decision was the most influential factor to perform karyotype (odds ratio [OR], 6.057; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.702–7.802), and fluorescence in situ hybridation (OR, 2.273; 95% CI, 1.901–2.719) studies. Patients ≥70 years old or with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group ≥2 were less likely to undergo these diagnostic procedures. Performing genetic studies were associated with a favorable impact on overall survival, especially in patients who received intensive chemotherapy.

Conclusions

This unique study provides relevant information about the evolving landscape of genetic and molecular diagnosis for adult AML patients in real‐world setting, highlighting the increased complexity of genetic diagnosis over the past 2 decades.
Awareness based gannet optimization for source location privacy preservation with multiple assets in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Singh Mintu , Singh Maheshwari Prasad
Published: June 2024

The wireless sensor network (WSN) has been assimilated into modern society and is utilized in many crucial application domains, including animal monitoring, border surveillance, asset monitoring, and so forth. These technologies aid in protecting the place of the event's occurrence from the adversary. Maintaining privacy concerning the source location is challenging due to the sensor nodes' limitations and efficient routing strategies. Hence, this research introduces a novel source location privacy preservation using the awareness‐based Gannet with random‐Dijkstra's algorithm (AGO‐RD). The network is initialized by splitting the hotspot and non‐hotspot region optimally using the proposed awareness‐based Gannet (AGO) algorithm. Here, the multi‐objective fitness function is utilized to initialize the network based on factors like throughput, energy consumption, latency, and entropy. Then, the information is forwarded to the phantom node in the non‐hotspot region to preserve the source location's privacy, which is far from the sink node. The proposed random‐Dijkstra algorithm is utilized to route the information from the phantom node to the sink with more security. Analysis of the proposed AGO‐RD‐based source location privacy preservation technique in terms of delay, throughput, network lifetime, and energy consumption accomplished the values of 6.52 ms, 95.68%, 7109.9 rounds, and 0.000125 μJ.
Evaporation Dynamics on a Lithium Niobate Surface
Authors: Vinikumar Sushmitha , Schönecker Clarissa
Published: June 2024

Manipulating the water evaporation dynamics is a prerequisite in various modern‐day applications like DNA stretching, rapid disease diagnostics, and inkjet printing. One method to affect the evaporation dynamics of droplets is to externally apply electric fields. However, surfaces that bear an intrinsic surface charge have not yet been investigated with respect to their evaporation behavior. In this study, we investigate water droplet evaporation on lithium niobate (LN), a ferroelectric material with a very high spontaneous polarization of 0.7
. Our results show that a droplet deposited on an LN surface evaporates in three stages: (i) constant contact radius (ii) mixed phase (iii) stick‐slip, which is likely originating from the intrinsic surface charge. The influence of the polarization direction of the LN surface as well as the relative humidity of the environment on various evaporation characteristics were studied. The results suggest that the specific adsorption layers forming on charged surfaces, e. g. from the humidity of the surrounding air, play a key role in the evaporation process. Furthermore, compared to other materials with similar contact angles, LN demonstrated a significantly large evaporation rate. This property might also be attributed to the intrinsic surface charge and could be exploited in heat transfer applications.
Assessing the Performance of In silico Tools and Molecular Dynamics Simulations for Predicting Pharmacogenetic Variant Impact
Authors: AlSaeed Maryam Jamal , Ramdhan Peter , Malave Jean Gabriel , Eljilany Islam , Langaee Taimour , McDonough Caitrin W. , Seabra Gustavo , Li Chenglong , Cavallari Larisa H.
Published: June 2024

The ability of freely available in silico tools to predict the effect of non‐synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) in pharmacogenes on protein function is not well defined. We assessed the performance of seven sequence‐based (SIFT, PolyPhen2, mutation accessor, FATHMM, PhD‐SNP, MutPred2, and SNPs & Go) and five structure‐based (mCSM, SDM, DDGun, CupSat, and MAESTROweb) tools in predicting the impact of 118 nsSNPs in the CYP2C19, CYP2C9, CYP2B6, CYP2D6, and DPYD genes with known function (24 normal, one increased, 42 decreased, and 51 no‐function). Sequence‐based tools had a higher median (IQR) positive predictive value (89% [89–94%] vs. 12% [10–15%], P < 0.001) and lower negative predictive value (30% [24–34%] vs. 90% [80–93%], P < 0.001) than structure‐based tools. Accuracy did not significantly differ between sequence‐based (59% [37–67%]) and structure‐based (34% [23–44%]) tools (P = 0.070). Notably, the no‐function CYP2C9*3 allele and decreased function CYP2C9*8 allele were predicted incorrectly as tolerated by 100% of sequenced‐based tools and as stabilizing by 60% and 20% of structure‐based tools, respectively. As a case study, we performed mutational analysis for the CYP2C9*1, *3 (I359L), and *8 (R150H) proteins through molecular dynamic (MD) simulations using S‐warfarin as the substrate. The I359L variant increased the distance of the major metabolic site of S‐warfarin to the oxy‐ferryl center of CYP2C9, and I359L and R150H caused shifts in the conformation of S‐warfarin to a position less favorable for metabolism. These data suggest that MD simulations may better capture the impact of nsSNPs in pharmacogenes than other tools.
Surface and Grain Boundary Coating for Stabilizing LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 Based Electrodes
Authors: Ahaliabadeh Zahra , Miikkulainen Ville , Mäntymäki Miia , Mousavihashemi Seyedabolfazl , Yao Lide , Jiang Hua , Huotari Simo , Kankaanpää Timo , Kallio Tanja , Colalongo Mattia
Published: June 2024

The widespread use of high‐capacity Ni‐rich layered oxides such as LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC811), in lithium‐ion batteries is hindered due to practical capacity loss and reduced working voltage during operation. Aging leads to defective NMC811 particles, affecting electrochemical performance. Surface modification offers a promising approach to improve cycle life. Here, we introduce an amorphous lithium titanate (LTO) coating via atomic layer deposition (ALD), not only covering NMC811 surfaces but also penetrating cavities and grain boundaries. As NMC811 electrodes suffer from low structural stability during charge and discharge, We combined electrochemistry, operando X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and dilatometry to understand structural changes and the coating protective effects. XRD reveals significant structural evolution during delithiation for uncoated NMC811. The highly reversible phase change in coated NMC811 highlights enhanced bulk structure stability. The LTO coating retards NMC811 degradation, boosting capacity retention from 86 % to 93 % after 140 cycles. This study underscores the importance of grain boundary engineering for Ni‐rich layered oxide electrode stability and the interplay of chemical and mechanical factors in battery aging.
In vitro activation of the CB1 receptor by the semi‐synthetic cannabinoids hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), hexahydrocannabinol acetate (HHC‐O) and hexahydrocannabiphorol (HHC‐P)
Authors: Persson Mattias , Kronstrand Robert , Evans‐Brown Michael , Green Henrik
Published: June 2024

Semi‐synthetic cannabinoids (SSCs) including hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) are emerging on the drug market and sold openly as purportedly legal replacements for cannabis and Δ9‐THC. By the beginning of 2024, 24 European countries had identified HHC, often sold openly in edibles (foods/candy), vapes and low‐THC cannabis flowers and resins. The SSC market is developing rapidly, with HHC acetate (HHC‐O), hexahydrocannabiphorol (HHC‐P) and others recently identified. These developments may mark the first major change in the market for ‘legal’ replacements to cannabis since ‘Spice’ containing synthetic cannabinoids, such as JWH‐018, emerged in 2008. Currently, there are some data available on the pharmacology of SSCs, which is crucial for understanding their effects, evaluating health risks and informing public health responses. This study focused on characterizing the in vitro activation of the human CB1 receptor by the (R)‐ and (S)‐epimers of HHC, HHC‐P and HHC‐O. Using recombinant CHO‐K1 cells expressing the human CB1 receptor, the potency (EC50) and efficacy were determined. It was established that (9R)‐HHC and (9R)‐HHC‐P activated the CB1 receptor as partial agonists and with five and two times lower potency compared to JWH‐018, respectively, while the (S)‐epimers exhibited even lower potency. The (R)‐epimer of HHC‐O activate the CB1 receptor to even lesser extent and the (S)‐epimer showed no activation. For HHC and HHC‐P, all epimers exhibited similar level of efficacy. This available evidence suggests cannabimimetic effects of the tested SSC with the exception for the acetates that likely function as pro‐drugs in vivo.
Oleic acid enhances proliferation and calcium mobilization of CD3/CD28 activated CD4+ T cells through incorporation into membrane lipids
Authors: von Hegedus Johannes Hendrick , de Jong Anja J. , Hoekstra Anna T. , Spronsen Eric , Zhu Wahwah , Cabukusta Birol , Kwekkeboom Joanneke C. , Heijink Marieke , Bos Erik , Berkers Celia R. , Giera Martin A. , Toes Rene E. M. , Ioan‐Facsinay Andreea
Published: June 2024

Unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) are crucial for T‐cell effector functions, as they can affect the growth, differentiation, survival, and function of T cells. Nonetheless, the mechanisms by which UFA affects T‐cell behavior are ill‐defined. Therefore, we analyzed the processing of oleic acid, a prominent UFA abundantly present in blood, adipocytes, and the fat pads surrounding lymph nodes, in CD4+ T cells. We found that exogenous oleic acid increases proliferation and enhances the calcium flux response upon CD3/CD28 activation. By using a variety of techniques, we found that the incorporation of oleic acid into membrane lipids, rather than regulation of cellular metabolism or TCR expression, is essential for its effects on CD4+ T cells. These results provide novel insights into the mechanism through which exogenous oleic acid enhances CD4+ T‐cell function.
Sensory variation of landrace peas (Pisum sativum L.): Impacts of variety, location, and harvest year
Authors: Westling Magnus , Leino Matti Wiking , Wennström Stefan , Öström Åsa
Published: June 2024

The transition to more diversified protein sources presents legumes, such as peas, as excellent alternatives to animal protein. In light of this shift, understanding the sensory variation of pea genetic resources becomes crucial in broadening their appeal and promoting greater consumption. This study aimed to identify key factors influencing the sensory attributes of landrace peas, including variety (accession), location (geographical area of cultivation), and harvest year. Through a quantitative descriptive sensory analysis of six Swedish landrace pea accessions, cultivated over 1–2 years in three different Nordic countries, we analyzed the sensory attributes in detail and evaluated potential interactions between the pea accessions, their respective growing locations, and the varying harvest years. The results show that the sensory variation in the studied landrace pea accessions is primarily attributed to the chosen accession, despite the differences in location and harvest year. Notably, the results also reveal the potential impact of the location on the perceived sourness and umami taste of peas. These findings underscore the critical role of careful variety selection and breeding to enhance the sensory experience of peas, enabling the development of diverse pea‐based products that cater to consumer preferences.
Cognitive impairment in children and adults with cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis: A French cohort study
Authors: Salardaine Quentin , Shor Natalia , Villain Nicolas , Bozon Frédérique , Amador Maria Del Mar , Duchon Clarisse , Mélé Nicolas , Schiff Manuel , Brassier Anaïs , Nadjar Yann
Published: June 2024

Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis is a rare and treatable metabolic disorder related to the accumulation of cholestanol. This disorder is primarily associated with motor and cognitive impairments, although the latter has not been extensively characterized. The objectives of this work were to define the cognitive profile found in cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis patients, investigate the progression of cognitive impairment over time, and search for radio‐clinical correlations. Through a multicentric chart review study, we collected cognitive and radiological data from nine children and eighteen adults with genetically proven cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis. We performed a volumetric and morphological analysis of the brain magnetic resonance imaging. In our cohort, 44% (4/9) of children and 78% (14/18) of adults exhibited cognitive impairment that can be severe. The study revealed a significant impairment in various cognitive domains, specifically executive, attentional, language, and visuo‐spatial. Among adults, 16% (3/18) developed dementia after age 50. These three patients had delayed chenodeoxycholic acid treatment and important cerebral atrophy. Besides these three cases of late‐onset cognitive decline, Mini‐Mental State Evaluation was generally stable, suggesting cognitive impairment due to a neurodevelopmental disorder and persisting in adulthood. Cognitive impairment was less common in children, possibly related to early chenodeoxycholic acid treatment in our cohort. The severity of magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities did not predict cognitive impairment in patients. Overall, in cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis, cognitive impairment can be severe and mainly neurodevelopmental. Early chenodeoxycholic acid treatment might be associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline.
Comparison of Reduced and Full Field of View in Diffusion‐Weighted MRI on Image Quality: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Shi Jingjing , Lin Jie , Zhou Xinbin , Yin Ningbo , Wu Liyi , Yu Mei , Xu Maosheng
Published: June 2024

Background

Reduced field of view (rFOV) diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) in MRI shows potential for enhanced image quality compared with traditional full field of view (fFOV) DWI. Evaluating rFOV DWI's impact on image quality is important for clinical adoption.

Objective

To assess the efficacy of rFOV DWI in improving image quality, focusing on artifact reduction, signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) improvement, and lesion detectability.

Study Type

Meta‐analysis.

Population

Systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science ending in January 2024. Thirteen studies with 765 participants focusing on DWI quality using rFOV was analyzed.

Field Strength/Sequence

SS‐EPI, Rtr‐SS‐EPI, 2D‐SS‐EPI at 3.0 T.

Assessment

Two investigators performed the data extraction. QUADAS‐2 assessed bias. The image quality assessment of rFOV and fFOV DWI were compared.

Statistical Tests

Standardized mean difference (SMD) was utilized to evaluate and standardize MRI image quality. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic and publication bias was evaluated with Egger's test.

Results

The QUADAS‐2 analysis revealed that most studies exhibited a low risk of bias and minimal concerns regarding applicability. Statistical analysis indicated that rFOV DWI yielded higher subjective image quality scores (SMD = 0.535, 95% CI: 0.339, 0.731, I2 = 45.7%) compared with fFOV DWI and was more effective in reducing artifacts (SMD = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.209, 0.672, I2 = 42.3%) than fFOV DWI. However, a decrease in SNR was noted with rFOV DWI (SMD = −0.670, 95% CI: −1.187 to −0.152, I2 = 87.9%). Additionally, rFOV DWI demonstrated enhancements in lesion visibility (SMD = 0.432, 95% CI: −1.187, −0.152, I2 = 53.1%) and anatomical details (SMD = 0.598, 95% CI: 0.121, 1.075, I2 = 90.8%).

Data Conclusion

rFOV DWI enhances MRI image quality by reducing artifacts and improving lesion visibility with a SNR trade‐off.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Anal intraepithelial neoplasia screening in women from the largest center for lower genital tract disease in China
Authors: Zhang Lu , Sun Yixin , Chen Jianyu , Tao Xiang , Sui Long , Cong Qing
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to provide comprehensive clinical screening data for anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN). This study included 312 patients who underwent high‐resolution anoscopy (HRA) examinations between January 1, 2020 and April 15, 2024. Clinical data, including demographic information, clinical history, cytology/high‐risk human papilloma virus (hrHPV) results, and HRA records, were analyzed.

The median age of all patients was 42 years (interquartile range: 33–52 years). Approximately 26.3% reported a history of VIN2/3+, 13.5% had a history of VaIN2/3+, 29.8% had a history of CIN2/3+, 44.6% had persistent cervical HPV16 infection, and 12.5% had immune suppression. Among the 312 patients, 14.4% were diagnosed with AIN2/3, 25.0% with AIN1 and 60.6% were normal. Anal cytological abnormalities were found in 41.3% of all patients, with a significantly higher rate in AIN2/3 patients than in ≤AIN1, 71.1% versus 36.3%, p < 0.001. The hrHPV positivity rate was 89.7%, with HPV16 being the most prevalent. The complete agreement rate for HRA impressions was 79.5%. Multi‐variable analysis revealed immune suppression (odds ratio [OR]: 3.47, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.42–8.5) and VIN2/3+ (OR: 2.82, 95% CI: 1.27–6.28) were independent risk factors for AIN2/3. Abnormal cytology results (OR: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.52–7.17) and anal HPV16 infection (OR: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.26–8.12) demonstrated similar ORs for AIN2/3. Early screening for AIN2/3+ is crucial in Chinese women with lower genital tract precancerous and cancerous lesions, particularly in those with VIN2/3+ and immune suppression.
Facility Volume and Changing Facilities for Postoperative Radiotherapy in Salivary Gland Cancer
Authors: Patel Rushi , Patel Aman M. , Revercomb Lucy , Qie Vivienne , Tseng Christopher C. , Baredes Soly , Park Richard Chan Woo
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Changing location of postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) after treatment at a high‐volume facility (HVF) is associated with worse survival in various head and neck cancers. Our study investigates this relationship in salivary gland cancer (SGC).

Methods

The 2004–2016 National Cancer Database was queried for all cases of adult SGC treated with surgery and PORT with or without adjuvant chemotherapy. Patients with multiple cancer diagnoses, metastatic disease, or unknown PORT facility were excluded. Reporting facilities with >95th percentile annual case volume were classified as HVFs, the remainder were classified low‐volume facilities (LVFs).

Results

A total of 7885 patients met inclusion criteria, of which 418 (5.3%) were treated at an HVF. Patients treated at an HVF had higher rates clinical nodal positivity (18.2% vs. 14.0%, p < 0.001) and clinical T3/T4 (27.3% vs. 20.7%, p = 0.001) disease. Patients at HVFs changed facility for PORT at lower rates (18.9% vs. 24.5%, p = 0.009). Patients treated at an HVF had higher 5‐year overall survival (5‐OS) than those treated at an LVF (79.0% vs. 72.0%, p = 0.042). Patients treated at an HVF that changed PORT facility had worse 5‐OS (60.8% vs. 83.2%, p < 0.001). Radiation facility change was an independent predictor of worse survival in patients treated at an HVF (HR: 8.99 [3.15–25.67], p < 0.001) but not for patients treated at a LVF (HR: 1.11 [0.98–1.25], p = 0.109).

Conclusions

Patients treated at an HVF changing facility for PORT for SGC experience worse survival. Our data suggest patients treated surgically at an HVF should be counseled to continue their PORT at the same institution.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:4935–4946, 2024
A new linear path pair availability constraint for network design
Authors: Martins Lúcia , Santos Dorabella , Girão‐Silva Rita , Gomes Teresa
Published: June 2024

It is essential for network operators to guarantee required levels of availability in the network without incurring in excessive costs. We address the optimization problem of upgrading links at a given cost, to achieve end‐to‐end availability guarantees in the network, via pairs of working and backup paths. These guarantees are expressed as nonlinear path pair availability constraints which cannot be readily linearized. For this reason, most works have only considered the working path availability or disaggregated models where availability guarantees are considered separately for the working and backup paths. We show that the aggregated models which jointly consider the availabilities of the working and backup paths can provide better solutions than the disaggregated models. Moreover, we present a more efficient aggregated model based on a novel strategy to linearize the path pair availability constraints, and show that it further improves previous results. It is usual to impose that the upgraded links belong to a spanning tree subgraph. We further compare the solutions with and without this imposition and show that relaxing the tree condition can provide better solutions.
An energy‐based finite‐strain model for 3D heterostructured materials and its validation by curvature analysis
Authors: Hadjimichael Yiannis , Merdon Christian , Liero Matthias , Farrell Patricio
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive study of the intrinsic strain response of 3D heterostructures arising from lattice mismatch. Combining materials with different lattice constants induces strain, leading to the bending of these heterostructures. We propose a model for nonlinear elastic heterostructures such as bimetallic beams or nanowires that takes into account local prestrain within each distinct material region. The resulting system of partial differential equations (PDEs) in Lagrangian coordinates incorporates a nonlinear strain and a linear stress‐strain relationship governed by Hooke's law. To validate our model, we apply it to bimetallic beams and hexagonal hetero‐nanowires and perform numerical simulations using finite element methods (FEM). Our simulations examine how these structures undergo bending under varying material compositions and cross‐sectional geometries. In order to assess the fidelity of the model and the accuracy of simulations, we compare the calculated curvature with analytically derived formulations. We derive these analytical expressions through an energy‐based approach as well as a kinetic framework, adeptly accounting for the lattice constant mismatch present at each compound material of the heterostructures. The outcomes of our study yield valuable insights into the behavior of strained bent heterostructures. This is particularly significant as the strain has the potential to influence the electronic band structure, piezoelectricity, and the dynamics of charge carriers.
How people with brain injury run and evaluate a SLAM‐based smartphone augmented reality application to assess object‐location memory
Authors: Mendez‐Lopez Magdalena , Juan M.‐Carmen , Burgos Teresa , Mendez Marta , Fidalgo Camino
Published: June 2024

Augmented reality (AR) technology allows virtual objects to be superimposed on the real‐world environment, offering significant potential for improving cognitive assessments and rehabilitation processes in the field of visuospatial learning. This study examines how patients with acquired brain injury (ABI) evaluate the functions and usability of a SLAM‐based smartphone AR app to assess object‐location skills. Ten ABI patients performed a task for the spatial recall of four objects using an AR app. The data collected from 10 healthy participants provided reference values for the best performance. Their perceptions of the AR app/technology and its usability were investigated. The results indicate lower effectiveness in solving the task in the patient group, as the time they needed to complete it was related to their level of impairment. The patients showed lower, yet positive, scores in factors related to app usability and acceptance (e.g., mental effort and satisfaction, respectively). There were more patients reported on entertainment as a positive aspect of the app. Patients' perceived enjoyment was related to concentration and calm, whereas usability was associated with perceived competence, expertise, and a lower level of physical effort. For patients, the sensory aspects of the objects were related to their presence, while for healthy participants, they were related to enjoyment and required effort. The results show that AR seems to be a promising tool to assess spatial orientation in the target patient population.
Control of heparin surface density in multilayers of partially hydrolyzed poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline) by degree of hydrolysis
Authors: Saadatlou Ghazaleh Azizi , Guner Pinar Tatar , Demirel A. Levent
Published: June 2024

Controlling the surface density of heparin in active coatings is important in providing anticoagulation while preventing bleeding. An approach based on tuning the degree of hydrolysis of poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline) (PEOX) is presented to control the surface density of heparin in layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembled films. Multilayers are prepared at pH 5 in 0.5 M aqueous NaCl solutions by electrostatic interactions between negatively charged heparin and the positively charged amine groups in hydrolyzed PEOX. Characterization of the multilayers by quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM‐D), toluidine blue (TBO) assay and X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) all shows that the amount of heparin deposited increases with the degree of hydrolysis. While non‐hydrolyzed PEOX/heparin multilayers do not grow, the average deposited mass per area per bilayer as determined by QCM‐D measurements increases with the degree of hydrolysis. At 50% hydrolysis, TBO assay gives a heparin surface density of 1.03 μg/cm2 and atomic % of sulfur as determined by XPS leveled off at ~14%. These results show the potential of acidic hydrolysis of PEOX combined with LbL assembly of heparin as a reproducible method for controlling the surface density of heparin in anticoagulant coatings.
Experience with flexible bronchoscopy for noncoronavirus disease of 2019 indications in pediatric patients during the coronavirus disease of 2019 pandemic
Authors: Polat Sanem Eryilmaz , Arıkan Fatma Merve , Gençoğlu Murat Yasin , Akyan Şule Selin , Uytun Salih , Tabakçı Satı Özkan , Bilgiç Işıl , Çakar Meltem Kürtül , Ademhan Tural Dilber , Tuğcu Gökçen D. , Cinel Güzin
Published: June 2024

Background and Aim

Flexible bronchoscopy (FB) poses a risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) transmission due to aerosol generation. This study aimed to assess the utilization, indications, outcomes, and safety of FB in pediatric patients for noncoronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID‐19) reasons during the pandemic.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed pediatric patients who underwent FB for non‐COVID‐19 indications at a tertiary children's hospital's pulmonary clinic during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Patients showed no COVID‐19 symptoms and tested negative for SARS‐CoV‐2 by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of nasopharyngeal and throat swabs within 24 h before the procedure. FBs were conducted in the operating room, with healthcare professionals (HCPs) wearing personal protective equipment, including medical N95 masks, gloves, gowns, and eye protection.

Results

Between March 2020 and April 2022, 167 pediatric patients underwent FB for non‐COVID‐19 indications. Common indications included foreign body aspiration (22.7%), stridor (10.1%), and atelectasis (8.9%). No COVID‐19 symptoms were observed in patients on the 1st and 10th days post‐FB. During the 1‐month follow‐up, 52 patients underwent SARSCoV‐2 PCR testing, and one patient tested positive in the third week after the procedure. None of the HCPs in the FB team experienced COVID‐19 symptoms or tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2.

Conclusion

A bronchoscopy protocol with safety precautions minimized the risk of COVID‐19 transmission, allowing safe FB performance for non‐COVID‐19 indications in pediatric patients during the pandemic. The experience gained in FB during COVID‐19 is valuable for similar situations in the future.
Empowering BRICS economies: The crucial role of green finance, information and communication technology and innovation in sustainable development
Authors: Sahoo Malayaranjan , Bhujabal Padmaja , Gupta Mohini , Islam Muhummad Khairul
Published: June 2024

This study delves into the crucial role of green finance, information and communication technology (ICT), technological innovation, and renewable energy in the Brazil, Russia, India, and China (BRICS) countries from 2000 to 2021. The findings highlight the importance of green finance in reducing the ecological footprint and promoting eco‐friendly initiatives, sustainable practices, environmental technology innovation, and heightened environmental awareness. This means 1% increase in green related finance has reduced ecological footprint by 0.72% in BRICS economies. Additionally, technological innovation and the consumption of renewable energy play a significant role in enhancing environmental sustainability. Conversely, the study reveals that ICT has a considerable impact on the ecological footprint, but the interaction effect with green finance helps to mitigate its negative effects and improve the environmental quality. Meanwhile, non‐renewable energy, gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, and urbanization have an adverse effect on the environment. To strengthen green finance in BRICS countries, governments can establish comprehensive policy frameworks that prioritize sustainability and create a conducive climate for incentivizing investment in environmentally friendly endeavors.
Phronesis in climate change and sustainability education and practice: Importance of the immeasurable goodness of a professional
Authors: Salovaara Janne J.
Published: June 2024

Sustainability transformation calls for actors and agents of all types from all organisations and subsectors of society. Thus, sustainability‐themed and focused education has become a staple of higher education institutions, and the professionals and expertise produced—through learning of all sorts—have become an integral part of various organisations and their attempts to enact sustainability. A whole range of research and associated educational programmes have been founded, and various frameworks, for example those at the intersection of higher education and sustainability, and professionalism and climate change, have been study and development foci. However, few attempts at qualitative reflection and assessment have been made in this important field with its vital hypothesis that higher level of education, expertise, and professionalism will lead to higher societal sustainability impact by those educated actors. In this article, I propose that the Aristotelian concept of phronesis—as contextual and practical wisdom—can offer a framing for both reasoning about and assessing the qualitative side of being a climate change and sustainability professional. The conditions of being a sustainability professional, and the essence of phronesis thereof, are analysed from thematic in‐depth interviews with high‐level professionals, representing different organisations from various societal subsectors.
Centrifugation‐Mediated Crystal Growth of Attractive Colloids for Band Edge Lasing
Authors: Jung Yongseok , Park Sanghyuk , Lee Sang Seok , Kim Shin‐Hyun
Published: June 2024

Attractive depletion interactions are utilized to organize colloidal particles into crystalline arrays with high crystallinity through spontaneous phase separation. However, uncontrolled nucleation frequently leads to the formation of crystalline grains with varied crystal orientations, which hampers the optical performance of photonic crystals. Here, colloidal crystals have been engineered with uniform orientation and high surface coverage by applying centrifugal force during the depletion‐induced assembly of polystyrene particles. The centrifugal force encourages the particles to move toward the bottom surface, which fosters heterogeneous nucleation and supports rapid crystal growth, yielding densely‐packed and uniformly‐arranged crystal grains with high reflectivity. This study has observed that the nucleation and crystal growth behavior is significantly influenced by the salt concentration. Based on the pair potentials, the transition boundary has been quantitatively analyzed between fluid and crystal phases and identified the threshold for homogeneous nucleation. Utilizing the high‐reflectivity colloidal crystals, band‐edge lasing is achieved by dissolving the water‐soluble dye into the aqueous suspensions. Upon optical excitation, a lasing emission characterized is observed by a narrow spectral width at the short‐wavelength band edge. Notably, the laser wavelength can be adjusted by altering the salt concentration or particle diameter, offering a versatile approach to tuning the optical properties.
An overview of peer-to-peer accommodation operation during the COVID-19 pandemic: responses, strategies and opportunities
Authors: Cui Jianqiang , Attard Maria
Published: June 2024

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic had catastrophic impacts on many hospitality industries including the peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation industry. The fast spread of the COVID-19 outbreak in countries throughout the world left very limited time for crisis management planning, and exposed the vulnerability of the P2P accommodation sector. Stakeholders in the P2P accommodation industry had to take ad hoc actions and implement crisis management strategies to mitigate the impacts. This overview paper explores the responses and crisis management strategies that key stakeholders in the P2P accommodation industry adopted during the COVID-19 crisis. Experience obtained from the adjustment and adaptation of P2P accommodation operation practices were summarised. This paper provides lessons learnt and ways to move forward for the P2P accommodation industry in coping with disruptive events like the COVID-19 crisis. Future research directions are also highlighted.
KGR: A Kernel-Mapping Based Group Recommender System Using Trust Relations
Authors: Bukhari Maryam , Maqsood Muazzam , Aadil Farhan
Published: June 2024

A massive amount of information explosion over the internet has caused a possible difficulty of information overload. To overcome this, Recommender systems are systematic tools that are rapidly being employed in several domains such as movies, travel, E-commerce, and music. In the existing research, several methods have been proposed for single-user modeling, however, the massive rise of social connections potentially increases the significance of group recommender systems (GRS). A GRS is one that jointly recommends a list of items to a collection of individuals based on their interests. Moreover, the single-user model poses several challenges to recommender systems such as data sparsity, cold start, and long tail problems. On the contrary hand, another hotspot for group-based recommendation is the modeling of user preferences and interests based on the groups to which they belong using effective aggregation strategies. To address such issues, a novel “KGR” group recommender system based on user-trust relations is proposed in this study using kernel mapping techniques. In the proposed model, user-trust networks or relations are exploited to generate trust-based groups of users which is one of the important behavioral and social aspects. More precisely, in KGR the group kernels and group residual matrices are exploited as well as seeking a multi-linear mapping between encoded vectors of group-item interactions and probability density function indicating how groups will rate the items. Moreover, to emphasize the relevance of individual preferences of users in a group to which they belong, a hybrid approach is also suggested in which group kernels and individual user kernels are merged as additive and multiplicative models. Furthermore, the proposed KGR is validated on two different trust-based datasets including Film Trust and CiaoDVD. In addition, KGR outperforms with an RMSE value of 0.3306 and 0.3013 on FilmTrust and CiaoDVD datasets which are lower than the 1.8176 and 1.1092 observed with the original KMR.
Fairness: plurality, causality, and insurability
Authors: Fahrenwaldt Matthias , Furrer Christian , Hiabu Munir Eberhardt , Huang Fei , Jørgensen Frederik Hytting , Lindholm Mathias , Loftus Joshua , Steffensen Mogens , Tsanakas Andreas
Published: June 2024

This article summarizes the main topics, findings, and avenues for future work from the workshop Fairness with a view towards insurance held August 2023 in Copenhagen, Denmark.
More Accurately Estimating Aboveground Biomass in Tropical Forests With Complex Forest Structures and Regions of High‐Aboveground Biomass
Authors: Su Ying , Mura Matteo , Zheng Xiaoman , Chen Qi , Wei Xiaohua , Qiu Yue , Li Mei , Ren Yin
Published: June 2024

Accurately estimating aboveground biomass (AGB) in tropical forests is vital for managing the threats posed by deforestation, degradation, and climate change. However, challenges persist in accurately estimating AGB in high AGB regions. This study aims to accurately estimate the AGB of regions with high AGB by using spatial statistical analyses based on AGB estimates made by machine‐learning fusion of multisource data. We hypothesize that incorporating dominant auxiliary factors in the analysis increases the estimation accuracy. This study focuses on tropical forests located in Longyan, Fujian Province, China, covering an area of 19,028 km2. Multisource data are used, including airborne laser scanning, the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission digital elevation model, the Landsat Operational Land Imager, and the National Forest Inventory. Based on GeogDetector's spatial covariance matrix and the spatial similarity principle, we identify key auxiliary factors (dominant tree species, canopy closure, and herbaceous cover) and investigated how auxiliary variables can improve estimation accuracy. Empirical Bayesian kriging regression prediction introduces the main auxiliary factors to refine AGB estimates. These refinements significantly enhance the accuracy of AGB estimates, particularly for high AGB, resulting in a 0.1 increase in R2, a 7.0% reduction in root mean square error, a 13.5% reduction in mean square error, and a 6.6% reduction in mean absolute error when compared with the AGB estimates obtained by using machine learning to fuse multisource data. Thus, incorporating spatial statistical analysis into the integration of multisource data and machine learning for AGB estimation can enhance the accuracy of high‐AGB estimates in intricate forest structures, resulting in precise AGB maps.
Methane plume detection after the 2022 Nord Stream pipeline explosion in the Baltic Sea
Authors: Abrahamsson Katarina , Damm Ellen , Björk Göran , Bunse Carina , Sellmaier Samuel , Broström Göran , Assmann Volkmar , Dumitrascu Adela , Maciute Adele , Olofsson Niten , Pourdanandeh Milad
Published: June 2024

On September 26th, 2022, the detonations at the gas pipelines Nord Stream 1 and 2 resulted in some of the largest non-natural releases of methane known. The distribution of methane in the surrounding seawater and the possible effects were not apparent. To trace the pathways of methane we recorded CH4 concentrations and the isotopic signal (δ13C-CH4) in seawater, and air. A week post-explosion, we detected methane concentrations up to 4 orders of magnitude above the natural Baltic Sea background. The released fossil methane created a distinct plume with δ13C-CH4 ratios differing from natural background values. The strong water stratification preserved the distribution pattern initiated by the explosion, shown by the laterally strong concentration gradient within the plume. Our analysis encompasses three stages of the explosion's impact; the initial sea-air methane release, measurements taken during our research expedition one week later, and a third stage triggered by the shift from summer to winter conditions as an outlook on how winter mixing and microbial activity will influence the plume.
A method to detect uniformity of road base course based on impact imaging technology
Authors: Chen Xing-Guang , Luo Hao , Feng Shao-Kong , Wang Hai-Yang
Published: June 2024

The damage of road base course has the characteristics of strong concealment and difficulty in detecting. For this reason, the impact imaging method has been used for detection of road base course. This paper discussed systematically collection points setting, excitation mode and data processing method. Through the application in testing for highway pavement base before and after grouting maintenance, the results show that the method is simple and accurate. The detection results can be displayed in a two-dimensional image form and it is easy to be used in road maintenance. This method can be used to identify and locate the damages of the pavement base, to judge the uniformity of the pavement base structure. It can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of internal damage after grouting repairing.
Effect of an accelerating metro cabin on the diffusion of cough droplets
Authors: Peng Ge , Liu Fang
Published: June 2024

Coronaviruses being capable of spreading through droplet contamination have raised significant concerns regarding high-capacity public rail transport, such as the metro. Within a rapidly moving railcar cabin, the internal airflow lags behind the bulkhead, generating internally induced airflow that accelerates droplet dispersion within a non-inertial reference system. This study investigates the impact of acceleration on the diffusion of cough droplets of varying sizes using computational fluid dynamics. The modified k–ε equation in ANSYS® Fluent was utilized to simulate droplet diffusion under different body orientations by adjusting the inertial force correction source term. Results indicate that droplets in the middle size range (50–175 μm) are primarily influenced by inertial forces, whereas smaller droplets (3.5–20 μm) are predominantly controlled by air drag forces. Regardless of facial orientation, the outlet of high-capacity public rail transport poses the highest risk of infection.
Increasing magnitude of color differences amplifies category effects
Authors: Li Kashi , Nagai Takehiro
Published: June 2024

Previous studies have identified differences in sensitivity characteristics between color discrimination and perception of suprathreshold color differences. However, it remains highly unclear how color difference sensitivity changes with increasing magnitudes of color difference along various color hues. This study aimed to quantify the sensitivity transition across various magnitudes of color differences and uncover the underlying mechanisms. Color discrimination sensitivities were measured using an adaptive staircase method for 32 isoluminant pedestal colors in the u'v' chromaticity diagram. For suprathreshold color differences, we employed the Maximum Likelihood Difference Scaling (MLDS) method to measure sensitivity to various color difference levels for the same 32 colors. Our findings confirmed the differences in sensitivity characteristics between discrimination and suprathreshold color difference perception. Furthermore, we observed increased sensitivities at many color category boundaries in suprathreshold color difference perception. By investigating the relation between the category effects and the color difference size levels through a model simulation, our findings suggest that the influence of color categories on the perception of color differences may become more pronounced as the magnitude of color differences increases.
An assessment of priorities in handling climate change impacts on infrastructures
Authors: Leal Filho Walter , Abeldaño Zuñiga Roberto Ariel , Sierra Javier , Dinis Maria Alzira Pimenta , Corazza Laura , Nagy Gustavo J. , Aina Yusuf A.
Published: June 2024

Climate change (CC) will likely significantly impact the world’s infrastructure significantly. Rising temperatures, increased precipitation, and rising sea levels are all likely to stress critical infrastructures (CI). Rising temperatures can lead to infrastructure damage from extreme heat events. This can cause roads and bridges to buckle or crack, leading to costly repairs and potential traffic disruptions. In addition, heat waves can damage vital electrical infrastructure, leading to widespread power outages. In light of this context, this article reports on a study which examined the connections and impacts of CC on infrastructure. The study employed a mixed-method approach, combining bibliometric analysis for the period 1997–2022 with a series of relevant case studies from the five continents to offer insight into the impact of CC on infrastructure. The article fills a research gap in respect of assessments of the extent to which climate change (CC) negative influences the infrastructure, with a special focus on developing countries. It also showcases CI projects and adaptation measures being currently deployed, to address CC. The results show that the current infrastructure is vulnerable to CC. The selected case studies on CI adaptation show that in developing and industrialised countries, there is a perceived need to understand better the connections and potential impacts of CC on critical areas such as transport, settlements, and coastal infrastructure. In order to protect infrastructure from CC impacts, governments need to invest in measures such as flood control, early warning systems, and improved building codes. Additionally, they need to work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions more actively, which are the primary cause of CC.