bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
N6‐methyladenosine methylation regulatory pattern of pulmonary lymphoepithelioma‐like carcinoma based on exosomal transcriptome analysis
Authors: Yu Mengge , Pan Yiyun , Li Huahua , Liu Xiaomei , Chen Zhengcong , Chen Hailong , Ma Shudong , Zeng Wen
Published: August 2023

Pulmonary lymphoepithelioma‐like carcinoma (pLELC) is a rare malignancy that lacks specific biomarkers. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is the most widespread internal modification of messenger RNA (mRNA), and its dysregulation is involved in the development of many cancers. However, the expression of m6A genes in pLELC and their roles are unknown.

We obtained an exosomal transcriptome data set of patients diagnosed with pLELC and healthy controls using RNA sequencing and identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the two groups using R software. The differential expression of the 37 m6A genes in the two sets of samples was further analyzed, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted for each gene to identify their grouping ability. The STRING database was used to construct a protein–protein interaction network for m6A genes. An mRNA–miRNA regulatory network of m6A‐related DEGs was constructed using the miRNet database, and a prediction score formula was established. A nomogram was constructed based on the candidate m6A genes and prediction scores. The expression of key genes was determined through the immunohistochemical (IHC) staining of clinical tissue sections.

Using ROC curves, nine m6A genes were revealed to have classification efficacy in both groups of samples. We screened seven m6A‐related DEGs (MAN2C1, HNRNPCL1, FUS, EIF6, DIP2A, COA3, and BUD13) that were beneficial for grouping and constructed nomogram models. Through IHC, we identified FUS and EIF6 as being possibly involved in the occurrence and development of pLELC.

The m6A gene expression patterns in pLELC‐derived exosomes were significantly different from those in healthy controls. We screened several key genes to facilitate the development of diagnostic markers for pulmonary lymphoepithelioma.
Genomic testing in voluntary workplace wellness programs in the US: Evidence and challenges
Authors: Cohn Betty , Ryan Kerry A. , Hendy Katherine , Callahan Katherine , Roberts J. Scott , Spector‐Bagdady Kayte , Mathews Debra J. H. ,   the INSIGHT @ Work Consortium
Published: August 2023

Background

Workplace genetic and/or genomic testing (wGT) is one of many options that employers can offer within the scope of voluntary workplace wellness programs, though we know little about how many employers are offering this benefit, or what kinds of testing are included.

Methods

Our landscaping review sought to discover the prevalence and distribution of wGT within voluntary wellness programs among U.S. companies using three approaches: (1) analysis of publicly available information; (2) national surveys; and (3) interviews with company representatives.

Results

In total, 50/420 (11.9%) companies we investigated had publicly available data suggesting that they offer wGT to their employees. Survey data weighted to be representative of the type and distribution of U.S. companies suggest that ~1% of U.S. companies offer wGT to their employees.

Conclusion

Our research found little evidence of broad uptake of wGT among U.S. companies, though information gathering was challenging.
Multiscale population demographics and growth responses of trout in the upper Snoqualmie River watershed, Washington
Authors: Thompson Jamie Nicholas , Overman Nathanael Christian
Published: August 2023

Objective

Population demographics of trout were analyzed across multiple spatial scales to evaluate fishery resources in the three forks and main stem of the upper Snoqualmie River, Washington. Physical habitat and trout species compositions, relative abundances, and sizes were assessed through spatially continuous sampling of the watershed. Fish were also sampled at the segment scale (5–20 km) for more detailed but spatially intermediate assessments of species and genetic origin, size at age, and seasonal diet. To evaluate growth conditions during summer months, bioenergetics simulations of consumption by trout were run using summer water temperatures, and growth and diets were sampled at two life stages.

Result

We found high variability in longitudinal species compositions, genetic origins, relative abundances, and densities within and among forks. While annual growth generally decreased with distance upstream, summer growth efficiency consistently increased. Areal density estimates of age-0 recruits in the North and Middle forks generally increased with segment elevation, whereas density of recruits was relatively low in upper elevations of the South Fork, where nonnative Westslope Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi were most abundant. Abundance of trout varied widely among the forks, and a native metapopulation of Coastal Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii was the most abundantly distributed species across interconnected main-stem habitats.

Conclusion

Factors affecting population demographics of trout at the riverscape scale included geologic barriers, habitat diversity, and stocking practices, while summer growth was primarily affected by water temperature. Merging riverscape- and intermediate-scale sampling enhanced watershed-scale inferences made from intermediate sampling while accounting for continuous variability. This design provided a holistic assessment of the trout resources that would not have been possible using either site-specific sampling or continuous longitudinal surveys and provided a baseline assessment of trout resources in the upper Snoqualmie River watershed for continued management and conservation of the fishery.
An investigation into the impact resistance of bio‐inspired laminates with interlayer hybrid unidirectional/woven carbon fibers
Authors: Zhao Shicai , Yin Xiaoming , Zhang Deyuan
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the rapid mandible strike behavior of trap‐jaw ants (Odontomachus monticola), a highly aggressive species of terrestrial social organisms. An impact‐resistant gradient waviness structure is discovered in the mandibles of trap‐jaw ants. The gradient waviness structure is incorporated into the fiber laminates to enhance their impact resistance and damage tolerance. Bioinspired interlayer hybrid laminates with both unidirectional and woven arrangements were fabricated using the mold press forming technique. The impact resistance and damage tolerance of the bionic laminates are investigated through low‐velocity impact, ultrasonic C‐scanning, and compression after impact tests. The results indicate that hybrid laminates play a key role in limiting damage propagation and improving energy dissipation capacity. The hybrid configuration effectively mitigates crack propagation, enhances load‐bearing capacity, and improves residual compressive strength. Bionic laminates offer an efficient solution for enhancing damage tolerance against through‐the‐thickness loads.

Highlights

An impact‐resistant gradient waviness structure is discovered in trap‐jaw ants.

Bioinspired interlayer hybrid laminate is fabricated by mold pressing.

The hybrid laminate restrict damage propagation and improve residual strength.

Bionic laminate offer an efficient solution for enhancing damage tolerance.
Influence of moisture absorption on the compressive behavior of halloysite nanotube reinforced buoyant nanocomposite foams for maritime applications
Authors: Bakshi Mohammed Sohail , Kattimani Subhaschandra
Published: August 2023

Current research focuses on the development of buoyant nanocomposite foams comprising naturally available nanofiller‐halloysite nanotubes (HNTs). Cenosphere, a waste byproduct of thermal power plants, is used to impart lightweight properties to syntactic foam composites at 0, 20, and 40 vol% in an epoxy matrix. HNTs are added to the cenosphere epoxy syntactic foam (CESF) composites at a constant 1 vol% to improve the favorable mechanical and water absorption properties of the composites. To evaluate the mechanical response of the CESF and HNTs reinforced syntactic foam (HRSF) composites, compression tests are conducted on samples immersed in water. The results of the water absorption analysis on the CESF and HRSF composites conclude that HNTs inhibit the entry of water into the epoxy matrix, resulting in lower absorption values in HRSF samples than in CESF. Outcomes from the compression tests and FTIR study support this conclusion. The modulus value of the water‐immersed HRSF sample with 40% cenospheres (NSF40 W) is reduced by 26.35%, and a 48.52% reduction in the modulus is registered for CESF with a similar concentration without HNTs. Structure–property correlations are established using the crack‐pinning phenomenon and planar dispersion of HNTs depicted by transmission electron microscopy. The HNTs reinforcement shows great promise as a structural, buoyant, and lightweight syntactic nanocomposite foam for maritime applications.
Long‐term factors associated with positive mental health outcomes for early adolescents during COVID‐19‐related school closures
Authors: Molloy‐Vickers Danielle , Chopra Jennifer , Saini Pooja , Ashworth Emma
Published: August 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic had an immediate negative impact on young people worldwide. However, there is a paucity of research examining the factors associated with good mental health, and specifically the factors that contributed to longer‐term positive outcomes. This study aimed to identify the protective factors among early adolescents in the United Kingdom that were associated with better mental health outcomes (internalizing and externalizing difficulties, and well‐being) during the second national lockdown, and any differences in protective factors between the first and second lockdowns. Between September and December 2020 (T1; N = 290), and March and May 2021 (T2; N = 72), 11 to 14‐year‐olds across North‐West England completed an online survey pertaining to their experiences of lockdown, and mental health and wellbeing. Hierarchical multiple regression was used to analyse the data. Results indicated that peer support was protective across all three mental health outcomes at T2. While optimism was protective across all three outcomes at T1, it was not significant at T2. School support and community and family connection were also significant predictors at T1 only. While support from multiple different sources may have been more important in the early days of the pandemic, support from peers was key in maintaining long‐term mental health.
Access to symptom screening and severe symptom risk among cancer patients with major mental illness
Authors: Davis Laura E. , Sutradhar Rinku , Bourque Michaela A. , Eskander Antoine , Noel Christopher W. , Isenberg‐Grzeda Elie , Vigod Simone N. , Coburn Natalie , Deleemans Julie , Bolton James M. , Chan Wing C. , Hallet Julie , Mahar Alyson L.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Cancer symptom screening has the potential to improve cancer outcomes, including reducing symptom burden among patients with major mental illness (MMI). We determined rates of symptom screening with the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS‐r) and risk of severe symptoms in cancer patients with MMI.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used linked administrative health databases of adults diagnosed with cancer between 2007 and 2020. An MMI was measured in the 5 years prior to cancer diagnosis and categorized as inpatient, outpatient, or no MMI. Outcomes were defined as time to first ESAS‐r screening and time to first moderate‐to‐severe symptom score. Cause‐specific and Fine and Gray competing events models were used for both outcomes, controlling for age, sex, rural residence, year of diagnosis and cancer site.

Results

Of 389,870 cancer patients, 4049 (1.0%) had an inpatient MMI and 9775 (2.5%) had an outpatient MMI. Individuals with inpatient MMI were least likely to complete an ESAS‐r (67.5%) compared to those with outpatient MMI (72.3%) and without MMI (74.8%). Compared to those without MMI, individuals with an inpatient or outpatient MMI had a lower incidence of symptom screening records after accounting for the competing risk of death (subdistribution Hazard Ratio 0.77 (95% CI 0.74–0.80) and 0.88 (95% CI 0.86–0.90) respectively). Individuals with inpatient and outpatient MMI status consistently had a significantly higher risk of reporting high symptom scores across all symptoms.

Conclusions

Understanding the disparity in ESAS‐r screening and management for cancer patients with MMI is a vital step toward providing equitable cancer care.
Refined read‐out: The hUHRF1 Tandem‐Tudor domain prefers binding to histone H3 tails containing K4me1 in the context of H3K9me2/3
Authors: Choudalakis Michel , Kungulovski Goran , Mauser Rebekka , Bashtrykov Pavel , Jeltsch Albert
Published: August 2023

UHRF1 is an essential chromatin protein required for DNA methylation maintenance, mammalian development, and gene regulation. We investigated the Tandem‐Tudor domain (TTD) of human UHRF1 that is known to bind H3K9me2/3 histones and is a major driver of UHRF1 localization in cells. We verified binding to H3K9me2/3 but unexpectedly discovered stronger binding to H3 peptides and mononucleosomes containing K9me2/3 with additional K4me1. We investigated the combined binding of TTD to H3K4me1‐K9me2/3 versus H3K9me2/3 alone, engineered mutants with specific and differential changes of binding, and discovered a novel read‐out mechanism for H3K4me1 in an H3K9me2/3 context that is based on the interaction of R207 with the H3K4me1 methyl group and on counting the H‐bond capacity of H3K4. Individual TTD mutants showed up to a 10,000‐fold preference for the double‐modified peptides, suggesting that after a conformational change, WT TTD could exhibit similar effects. The frequent appearance of H3K4me1‐K9me2 regions in human chromatin demonstrated in our TTD chromatin pull‐down and ChIP‐western blot data suggests that it has specific biological roles. Chromatin pull‐down of TTD from HepG2 cells and full‐length murine UHRF1 ChIP‐seq data correlate with H3K4me1 profiles indicating that the H3K4me1‐K9me2/3 interaction of TTD influences chromatin binding of full‐length UHRF1. We demonstrate the H3K4me1‐K9me2/3 specific binding of UHRF1‐TTD to enhancers and promoters of cell‐type‐specific genes at the flanks of cell‐type‐specific transcription factor binding sites, and provided evidence supporting an H3K4me1‐K9me2/3 dependent and TTD mediated downregulation of these genes by UHRF1. All these findings illustrate the important physiological function of UHRF1‐TTD binding to H3K4me1‐K9me2/3 double marks in a cellular context.
Does alkyl chain unsaturation affect tunability of the aryl alkyl imidazolium‐based ion pairs?
Authors: Khalili Behzad , Sheykhan Mehdi , Pour Marziye Ali Jan , Ghauri Khatereh
Published: August 2023

Three series of functionalized ion pairs composed of ethyl phenyl imidazolium [PhIM(C2H5)]+, (vinyl) ethenyl phenyl imidazolium [PhIM(C2H3)]+and ethynyl phenyl imidazolium [PhIM(C2H)]+cations and acetate ([Y1]−), nitrate ([Y2]−), tetrafluoroborate ([Y3]−) and perchlorate ([Y4]−) anions were designed and their physical and chemical properties were analyzed at M06‐2X‐GD3/AUG‐cc‐pVDZ level of theory. The effect of alkyl chain unsaturation on structural characteristics, energetic parameters, electronic and topological properties, and the global reactivity parameters and also on some physical and chemical properties such as dipole moment, melting point, and electrochemical window of the introduced IPs was discussed. Based on electrochemical window values, the studied IPs including alkyl chain unsaturation in the cation and [Y1‐2]−anions have no suitable electrochemical stability for use in electrochemical devices.
Global disparity of camera trap research allocation and defaunation risk of terrestrial mammals
Authors: Mugerwa Badru , Niedballa Jürgen , Planillo Aimara , Sheil Douglas , Kramer‐Schadt Stephanie , Wilting Andreas
Published: August 2023

Quantifying and monitoring the risk of defaunation and extinction require assessing and monitoring biodiversity in impacted regions. Camera traps that photograph animals as they pass sensors have revolutionized wildlife assessment and monitoring globally. We conducted a global review of camera trap research on terrestrial mammals over the last two decades. We assessed if the spatial distribution of 3395 camera trap research locations from 2324 studies overlapped areas with high defaunation risk. We used a geospatial distribution modeling approach to predict the spatial allocation of camera trap research on terrestrial mammals and to identify its key correlates. We show that camera trap research over the past two decades has not targeted areas where defaunation risk is highest and that 76.8% of the global research allocation can be attributed to country income, biome, terrestrial mammal richness, and accessibility. The lowest probabilities of camera trap research allocation occurred in low‐income countries. The Amazon and Congo Forest basins – two highly biodiverse ecosystems facing unprecedented anthropogenic alteration – received inadequate camera trap research attention. Even within the best covered regions, most of the research (64.2%) was located outside the top 20% areas where defaunation risk was greatest. To monitor terrestrial mammal populations and assess the risk of extinction, more research should be extended to regions with high defaunation risk but have received low camera trap research allocation.
Quantifying wetness variability in aapa mires with Sentinel‐2: towards improved monitoring of an EU priority habitat
Authors: Jussila Tytti , Heikkinen Risto K. , Anttila Saku , Aapala Kaisu , Kervinen Mikko , Aalto Juha , Vihervaara Petteri
Published: August 2023

Aapa mires are waterlogged northern peatland ecosystems characterized by a patterned surface structure where water‐filled depressions (‘flarks’) alternate with drier hummock strings. As one of the EU Habitat Directive priority habitats, aapa mires are important for biodiversity and carbon cycling, harbouring several red‐listed species and supporting unique species communities. Due to their sensitivity to hydrological disturbances, reliable, up‐to‐date and systematic information on the hydrological condition and responses of mires is crucial and required for multiple purposes ranging from carbon exchange modelling to EU Habitats Directive reporting and conservation and ecosystem restoration planning. Here, we demonstrate the usability of Sentinel‐2 satellite data in a semi‐automatic cloud‐based approach to retrieve large‐scale information on aapa mire hydrological variability. Two satellite‐derived metrics, soil moisture index and the extent of water‐saturated surfaces based on pixel‐wise classification, are used to quantify monthly and interannual wetness variation between 2017 and 2020 across Natura 2000 aapa mires in Finland, including responses to the extreme drought of 2018. The results revealed high temporal variability in wetness, particularly in the southern parts of the aapa mire zone and generally in the late summer months interannually. Observations from the drought summer showed that one third of usually year‐round wet flark surfaces may be exposed to drying during climatic extremes. Responses varied between sites and regions, implicating the significance of environmental factors for drought resistance: some sites maintained high levels of moisture, whereas others lost wet surfaces completely. Our study provides the first comprehensive national‐level representation of seasonal and interannual wetness variability and drought‐sensitivity of pristine aapa mire sites. The approach and methods used here can be directly upscaled outside protected areas and to other EU countries. Thus, they provide a means for harmonized, systematic large‐scale monitoring of this priority habitat, as well as valuable information for other applications supporting peatland conservation and research.
Combining environmental DNA with remote sensing variables to map fish species distributions along a large river
Authors: Zong Shuo , Brantschen Jeanine , Zhang Xiaowei , Albouy Camille , Valentini Alice , Zhang Heng , Altermatt Florian , Pellissier Loïc
Published: August 2023

Biodiversity loss in river ecosystems is much faster and more severe than in terrestrial systems, and spatial conservation and restoration plans are needed to halt this erosion. Reliable and highly resolved data on the state of and change in biodiversity and species distributions are critical for effective measures. However, high‐resolution maps of fish distribution remain limited for large riverine systems. Coupling data from global satellite sensors with broad‐scale environmental DNA (eDNA) and machine learning could enable rapid and precise mapping of the distribution of river organisms. Here, we investigated the potential for combining these methods using a fish eDNA dataset from 110 sites sampled along the full length of the Rhone River in Switzerland and France. Using Sentinel 2 and Landsat 8 images, we generated a set of ecological variables describing both the aquatic and the terrestrial habitats surrounding the river corridor. We combined these variables with eDNA‐based presence and absence data on 29 fish species and used three machine‐learning models to assess environmental suitability for these species. Most models showed good performance, indicating that ecological variables derived from remote sensing can approximate the ecological determinants of fish species distributions, but water‐derived variables had stronger associations than the terrestrial variables surrounding the river. The species range mapping indicated a significant transition in the species occupancy along the Rhone, from its source in the Swiss Alps to outlet into the Mediterranean Sea in southern France. Our study demonstrates the feasibility of combining remote sensing and eDNA to map species distributions in a large river. This method can be expanded to any large river to support conservation schemes.
Co‐creating a community of belonging and presence: Multilingual learners' experiences of science and language learning at an urban, inclusive STEM‐focused high school
Authors: Tripp Jennifer N. , Waight Noemi
Published: August 2023

Science education reform efforts have called for teaching science to all students, yet the “Science for All” mantra has remained merely rhetoric. Given that multilingual learners continue to face inequities more broadly in the education system and in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects in particular, there has been renewed attention to conditions that support more equitable science learning opportunities. In this exploratory, qualitative case study, we intentionally centered the voices of ninth grade multilingual learners by examining their science experiences in a Regents Living Environment class at an urban, inclusive STEM‐focused high school (ISHS). Specifically, drawing from ecological and humanizing education theoretical perspectives, we investigated the elements of their experiences that were asset‐oriented and humanizing, which promoted a healthy science learning ecosystem, as well as the challenges that coexisted. Qualitative data analysis revealed four main themes. First, multilingual learners appreciated authentic engagement in hands‐on, science inquiry opportunities, including developing and implementing their own experiments. Students also noted feelings of joy, comfort, and belonging in their classroom environment that were supported by strong relationships and positive interactions among peers and their teachers. Moreover, students underscored the role of their teachers in intentionally co‐creating a science classroom community of belonging and excellence. There were, however, persistent challenges associated with learning science and English simultaneously, in the backdrop of a standardized English‐dominant, high‐stakes accountability context. These findings have implications for pedagogy, teacher preparation, research, and policy for a more inclusive, asset‐oriented, and humanizing science education for multilingual learners that broadens possibilities.
Hybrid Metal/Spinel Oxide Coating with Microcone Arrays to Stimulate a Photothermal‐Augmented Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Chen Yuhao , Xu Jiang , Chen Yujie , Xie Zong‐Han , Munroe Paul
Published: August 2023

To boost the kinetic process of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), hybrid CoNiFe/Fe(Fe,Mo,Al)2O4 coatings are deposited on pure Ti substrates (namely, CoNiFe/Fe(Fe,Mo,Al)2O4/Ti electrodes). This new coating features a dense inner layer together with an outer layer of microcone arrays (MCAs). The electrochemical surface area of the electrodes is modulated by controlling the geometrical factors of the MCAs. For the OER in 1.0 m KOH, the electrodes require minimum overpotentials of 245 and 333 mV to realize current densities of, respectively, 10 and 100 mA cm−2. Furthermore, the high aspect ratio of the MCAs enables the electrodes to exhibit strong sunlight capture. Under 10 min of simulated 1.0 sun illumination, the electrode's temperature can rise by up to 108.2 °C. The number of active sites and the OER reaction rate of the electrodes are further increased by photoassistance, with only 234 and 296 mV overpotentials, respectively, needed to generate current densities of 10 and 100 mA cm−2 with a Tafel slope as low as 40.9 mV dec−1. Therefore, the application of this composite coating, which exhibits photothermal effects with respect to conventional Ti electrodes, provides an inspiration for further improvement of OER catalytic efficiency.
Hybrid Heterostructures of a Spin Crossover Coordination Polymer on MoS2: Elucidating the Role of the 2D Substrate
Authors: Núñez‐López Alejandro , Torres‐Cavanillas Ramón , Morant‐Giner Marc , Vassilyeva Natalia , Mattana Richard , Tatay Sergio , Ohresser Philippe , Otero Edwige , Fonda Emiliano , Paulus Michael , Rubio‐Giménez Víctor , Forment‐Aliaga Alicia , Coronado Eugenio
Published: August 2023

Controlling the deposition of spin‐crossover (SCO) materials constitutes a crucial step for the integration of these bistable molecular systems in electronic devices. Moreover, the influence of functional surfaces, such as 2D materials, can be determinant on the properties of the deposited SCO film. In this work, ultrathin films of the SCO Hofmann‐type coordination polymer [Fe(py)2{Pt(CN)4}] (py = pyridine) onto monolayers of 1T and 2H MoS2 polytypes are grown. The resulting hybrid heterostructures are characterized by GIXRD, XAS, XPS, and EXAFS to get information on the structure and the specific interactions generated at the interface, as well as on the spin transition. The use of a layer‐by‐layer results in SCO/2D heterostructures, with crystalline and well‐oriented [Fe(py)2{Pt(CN)4}]. Unlike with conventional Au or SiO2 substrates, no intermediate self‐assembled monolayer is required, thanks to the surface S atoms. Furthermore, it is observed that the higher presence of Fe3+ in the 2H heterostructures hinders an effective spin transition for [Fe(py)2{Pt(CN)4}] films thinner than 8 nm. Remarkably, when using 1T MoS2, this transition is preserved in films as thin as 4 nm, due to the reducing character of this metallic substrate. These results highlight the active role that 2D materials play as substrates in hybrid molecular/2D heterostructures.
Nanothermometry‐Enabled Intelligent Laser Tissue Soldering
Authors: Cipolato Oscar , Dosnon Lucas , Rosendorf Jachym , Sarcevic Sima , Zäch Marius , Bondi Alice , Liska Vaclav , Schlegel Andrea A. , Herrmann Inge K.
Published: August 2023

While often life‐saving, surgical resectioning of diseased tissues puts patients at risk for post‐operative complications. Sutures and staples are well‐accepted and routinely used to reconnect tissues, however, their mechanical mismatch with biological soft tissue and invasiveness contribute to wound healing complications, infections, and post‐operative fluid leakage. In principle, laser tissue soldering offers an attractive, minimally‐invasive alternative for seamless soft tissue fusion. However, despite encouraging experimental observations, including accelerated healing and lowered infection risk, critical issues related to temperature monitoring and control during soldering and associated complications have prevented their clinical exploitation to date. Here, intelligent laser tissue soldering (iSoldering) with integrated nanothermometry is introduced as a promising yet unexplored approach to overcome the critical shortcomings of laser tissue soldering. It demonstrates that adding thermoplasmonic and nanothermometry nanoparticles to proteinaceous solders enables heat confinement and non‐invasive temperature monitoring and control, offering a route to high‐performance, leak‐tight tissue sealing even at deep tissue sites. The resulting tissue seals exhibit excellent mechanical properties and resistance to chemically‐aggressive digestive fluids, including gastrointestinal juice. The iSolder can be readily cut and shaped by surgeons to optimally fit the tissue defect and can even be applied using infrared light from a medically approved light source, hence fulfilling key prerequisites for application in the operating theatre. Overall, iSoldering enables reproducible and well‐controlled high‐performance tissue sealing, offering new prospects for its clinical exploitation in diverse fields ranging from cardiovascular to visceral and plastic surgery.
Reliability based service life prediction of bridges in Indian coastal region
Authors: Nagaraju A. S. V. , Kumar Ratnesh
Published: August 2023

Chloride‐induced corrosion in concrete bridges is a common problem in coastal regions. This study assesses the reliability‐based service life of a reinforced concrete (RC) T‐girder bridge subjected to pitting rebar corrosion. The impact of spatial variability of rebar pitting corrosion has been considered to accurately predict the service life. Service life models have been applied to both strength and serviceability parameters for coastal bridges in India. The results indicate that rebar corrosion influences the shear resistance deterioration of the bridge girder more rapidly than the flexure resistance deterioration, which significantly impacts the bridge's reliability and service life. Further, it has also been observed that due to chloride‐induced corrosion, the serviceability parameters are impacted more than the strength parameter leading to an early requirement of repair for the serviceability conditions.
Unravelling marker trait associations linking nutritional value with pigmentation in rice seed
Authors: Mbanjo Edwige Gaby Nkouaya , Pasion Erstelle A. , Jones Huw , Carandang Socorro , Misra Gopal , Ignacio John Carlos , Kretzschmar Tobias , Sreenivasulu Nese , Boyd Lesley Ann
Published: August 2023

While considerable breeding effort has focused on increasing the yields of staple crops such as rice and the levels of micronutrients such as iron and zinc, breeding to address the problems of the double‐burden of malnutrition has received less attention. Pigmented rice has higher nutritional value and greater health benefits compared to white rice. However, the genetic associations underlying pericarp coloration and accumulation of nutritionally valuable compounds is still poorly understood. Here we report the targeted genetic analysis of 364 rice accessions, assessing the genetic relationship between pericarp coloration (measured using multi‐spectral imaging) and a range of phenolic compounds with potential nutritional and health‐promoting characteristics. A genome‐wide association study resulted in the identification of over 280 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with the traits of interest. Many of the SNPs were associated with more than one trait, colocalization occurring between nutritional traits, and nutritional and color‐related traits. Targeted association analysis identified 67 SNPs, located within 52 candidate genes and associated with 24 traits. Six haplotypes identified within the genes Rc/bHLH17 and OsIPT5 indicated that these genes have an important role in the regulation of a wide range of phenolic compounds, and not only those directly conferring pericarp color. These identified genetic linkages between nutritionally valuable phenolic compounds and pericarp color present not only a valuable resource for the enhancement of the nutritional value of rice but an easy method of selection of suitable genotypes.
The conservation of gene models can support genome annotation
Authors: Tay Fernandez Cassandria G. , Bayer Philipp E. , Petereit Jakob , Varshney Rajeev , Batley Jacqueline , Edwards David
Published: August 2023

Many genome annotations include false‐positive gene models, leading to errors in phylogenetic and comparative studies. Here, we propose a method to support gene model prediction based on evolutionary conservation and use it to identify potentially erroneous annotations. Using this method, we developed a set of 15,345 representative gene models from 12 legume assemblies that can be used to support genome annotations for other legumes.
Sustainability Effects of Robust and Resilient Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Priebe Torsten , Kieseberg Peter , Adrowitzer Alexander , Eigner Oliver , Kovac Fabian
Published: August 2023

It is commonly understood that the resilience of critical information technology (IT) systems based on artificial intelligence (AI) must be ensured. In this regard, we consider resilience both in terms of IT security threats, such as cyberattacks, as well as the ability to robustly persist under uncertain and changing environmental conditions, such as climate change or economic crises. This paper explores the relationship between resilience and sustainability with regard to AI systems, develops fields of action for resilient AI, and elaborates direct and indirect influences on the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Indirect in this case means that a sustainability effect is reached by taking resilience measures when applying AI in a sustainability-relevant application area, for example precision agriculture or smart health.
Conclusion
Authors: Scott-Baumann Alison
Published: August 2023

Ricoeur’s philosophy offers great strengths by insisting upon the value of discussion for building a better world, particularly through improving the university sector. His model of higher education reform is even more relevant now and his dialectical model of delicate, provisional balancing of different views proves useful for analyzing and challenging populist binaries. Yet this dialectical model is inadequate for redressing gross societal imbalances created and perpetuated by the concept of race and the practice of racism. Here I summarise the problems and possible practical solutions I am enacting, and make broader recommendations for the UK’s university sector.
Interpolating Wilson loops and enriched RG flows
Authors: Castiglioni Luigi , Penati Silvia , Tenser Marcia , Trancanelli Diego
Published: August 2023

Abstract

We study new 1/24 BPS circular Wilson loops in ABJ(M) theory, which are defined in terms of several parameters that continuously interpolate between previously known 1/6 BPS loops (both bosonic and fermionic) and 1/2 BPS fermionic loops. We compute the expectation value of these operators up to second order in perturbation theory using a one-dimensional effective field theory approach. Within dimensional regularization, we find non-trivial β-functions for the parameters, which are marginally relevant deformations triggering RG flows from a UV fixed point represented by the 1/6 BPS bosonic loop to an IR fixed point represented by a 1/2 BPS fermionic loop. Generically, along all flows at least one supercharge of the theory is preserved, so that we refer to them as enriched RG flows. In particular, fixed points are connected through 1/6 BPS fermionic operators. This holds at framing zero, which is a consequence of the regularization scheme employed. We also establish the validity of the g-theorem, relating the expectation values of the Wilson loops corresponding to the UV and IR fixed points of the flow, and discuss the one-dimensional defect SCFT living on the Wilson loop contour.
Large-scale factors controlling biological communities in the Iberian Peninsula: an insight into global change effects on river ecosystems
Authors: Rocha Pompeu Cássia , Peñas Francisco J. , Belmar Oscar , Barquín José
Published: August 2023

The ongoing global environmental change poses a serious threat to rivers. Comprehensive knowledge of how stressors affect biota is critical for supporting effective management and conservation strategies. We evaluated the major gradients influencing spatial variability of freshwater biodiversity in continental Spain using landscape-scale variables representing climate, land use and land cover (LULC), flow regime, geology, topography, and diatom (n = 117), macroinvertebrate (n = 441), and fish (n = 264) communities surveyed in minimally impacted streams. Redundancy analysis identified the environmental factors significantly contributing to community variability, and specific multivariate analyses (RLQ method) were used to assess trait–environment associations. Environmental variables defined the major community change gradients (e.g., mountain–lowland). Siliceous, steep streams with increased precipitation levels favored stalked diatoms, macroinvertebrates with aquatic passive dissemination, and migrating fish. These traits were replaced by adnate diatoms, small macroinvertebrates, and non-migratory fish in lowland streams with warmer climates, calcareous geology, agriculture, and stable flow regimes. Overall, landscape-scale environmental variables better explained fish than diatom and macroinvertebrate community variability, suggesting that these latter communities might be more related to local-scale characteristics (e.g., microhabitat structure, substrate, and water physicochemistry). The upslope environmental gradient of river networks (e.g., slope, temperature, and LULC changes) was paralleled to the observed taxonomy-based and trait-based spatial variability. This result indicates that global change effects on riverine biodiversity could emerge as longitudinal distribution changes within river networks. Implementing management actions focusing simultaneously on water temperature, hydrological regime conservation (e.g., addressing LULC changes), and river continuity might be the best strategy for mitigating global change effects on river biodiversity.
Asymmetric equilibrium configurations of a body immersed in a 2d laminar flow
Authors: Bocchi Edoardo , Gazzola Filippo
Published: August 2023

We study the equilibrium configurations of a possibly asymmetric fluid–structure interaction problem. The fluid is confined in a bounded planar channel and is governed by the stationary Navier–Stokes equations with laminar inflow and outflow. A body is immersed in the channel and is subject to both the lift force from the fluid and to some external elastic force. Asymmetry, which is motivated by natural models, and the possibly non-vanishing velocity of the fluid on the boundary of the channel require the introduction of suitable assumptions to prevent collisions of the body with the boundary. With these assumptions at hand, we prove that for sufficiently small inflow/outflow there exists a unique equilibrium configuration. Only if the inflow, the outflow and the body are all symmetric, the configuration is also symmetric. A model application is also discussed.
Novel in-house knowledge-based automated planning system for lung cancer treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy
Authors: Shao Yan , Guo Jindong , Wang Jiyong , Huang Ying , Gan Wutian , Zhang Xiaoying , Wu Ge , Sun Dong , Gu Yu , Gu Qingtao , Yue Ning Jeff , Yang Guanli , Xie Guotong , Xu Zhiyong
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The goal of this study was to propose a knowledge-based planning system which could automatically design plans for lung cancer patients treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT).

Methods and materials

From May 2018 to June 2020, 612 IMRT treatment plans of lung cancer patients were retrospectively selected to construct a planning database. Knowledge-based planning (KBP) architecture named αDiar was proposed in this study. It consisted of two parts separated by a firewall. One was the in-hospital workstation, and the other was the search engine in the cloud. Based on our previous study, A‑Net in the in-hospital workstation was used to generate predicted virtual dose images. A search engine including a three-dimensional convolutional neural network (3D CNN) was constructed to derive the feature vectors of dose images. By comparing the similarity of the features between virtual dose images and the clinical dose images in the database, the most similar feature was found. The optimization parameters (OPs) of the treatment plan corresponding to the most similar feature were assigned to the new plan, and the design of a new treatment plan was automatically completed. After αDiar was developed, we performed two studies. The first retrospective study was conducted to validate whether this architecture was qualified for clinical practice and involved 96 patients. The second comparative study was performed to investigate whether αDiar could assist dosimetrists in improving the quality of planning for the patients. Two dosimetrists were involved and designed plans for only one trial with and without αDiar; 26 patients were involved in this study.

Results

The first study showed that about 54% (52/96) of the automatically generated plans would achieve the dosimetric constraints of the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) and about 93% (89/96) of the automatically generated plans would achieve the dosimetric constraints of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). The second study showed that the quality of treatment planning designed by junior dosimetrists was improved with the help of αDiar.

Conclusions

Our results showed that αDiar was an effective tool to improve planning quality. Over half of the patients’ plans could be designed automatically. For the remaining patients, although the automatically designed plans did not fully meet the clinical requirements, their quality was also better than that of manual plans.
Gesundheitsschutz und Klimawandel erfordern ambitionierte Grenzwerte für Luftschadstoffe in Europa
Authors: Peters Annette , Herr Caroline , Bolte Gabriele , Heutelbeck Astrid , Hornberg Claudia , Kraus Thomas , Lakes Tobia , Matzarakis Andreas , Novak Dennis , Reifegerste Doreen , Traidl-Hoffmann Claudia , Zeeb Hajo , Schneider Alexandra , Hoffmann Barbara
Published: August 2023

Die Weltgesundheitsorganisation (WHO) hat aufgrund wissenschaftlicher Ergebnisse die Richtwerte zur Luftqualität 2021 verschärft. Es wurde eine deutliche Absenkung der Jahresmittelwerte von Feinstaub (Partikelgröße 2,5 µm oder kleiner, PM2,5) sowie der Langzeitbelastung gegenüber Stickstoffdioxid (NO2) und Ozon (O3) empfohlen. Das Mortalitätsrisiko, wie Studien für den Bereich der niedrigen Luftschadstoffkonzentrationen belegen, steigt bereits oberhalb der WHO-Richtwerte an. In Deutschland wurden die WHO-Richtwerte von 2021 für PM2,5 und NO2 im Jahr 2022 deutlich überschritten.

In diesem Positionspapier geben wir folgende Empfehlungen zur Europäischen Luftqualitätsrichtlinie: (1) Festlegung von verbindlichen Grenzwerten entsprechend WHO 2021, (2) Geltungsbereich der Grenzwerte in ganz Europa, (3) Fortführung und Ausbau der etablierten Ländermessnetze, (4) Ausbau der Luftqualitätsmessungen für ultrafeine Partikel und Rußpartikel, (5) Verknüpfung von Maßnahmen zur Luftreinhaltung und zum Klimaschutz.

Eine Verschärfung der Grenzwerte für Luftschadstoffe erfordert gesellschaftliche und politische Veränderungen unter anderem in den Bereichen Mobilität, Energienutzung und -erzeugung, Stadt- und Raumplanung. Die Umsetzung der WHO-2021-Richtwerte hätte einen volkswirtschaftlichen Nettonutzen von 38 Mrd. € im Jahr.

Ambitionierte Grenzwerte für Luftschadstoffe helfen auch, den Klimawandel und seine gesundheitlichen Auswirkungen einzudämmen. Die Kommission Environmental Public Health hält daher ambitioniertere Grenzwerte für notwendig, um einen effektiven Gesundheitsschutz in Deutschland zu ermöglichen, und fordert, dass Luftschadstoffgrenzwerte entsprechend den WHO-Empfehlungen von 2021 in Europa verbindlich werden.
Thermodynamically consistent concurrent material and structure optimization of elastoplastic multiphase hierarchical systems
Authors: Gangwar Tarun , Schillinger Dominik
Published: August 2023

The concept of concurrent material and structure optimization aims at alleviating the computational discovery of optimum microstructure configurations in multiphase hierarchical systems, whose macroscale behavior is governed by their microstructure composition that can evolve over multiple length scales from a few micrometers to centimeters. It is based on the split of the multiscale optimization problem into two nested sub-problems, one at the macroscale (structure) and the other at the microscales (material). In this paper, we establish a novel formulation of concurrent material and structure optimization for multiphase hierarchical systems with elastoplastic constituents at the material scales. Exploiting the thermomechanical foundations of elastoplasticity, we reformulate the material optimization problem based on the maximum plastic dissipation principle such that it assumes the format of an elastoplastic constitutive law and can be efficiently solved via modified return mapping algorithms. We integrate continuum micromechanics based estimates of the stiffness and the yield criterion into the formulation, which opens the door to a computationally feasible treatment of the material optimization problem. To demonstrate the accuracy and robustness of our framework, we define new benchmark tests with several material scales that, for the first time, become computationally feasible. We argue that our formulation naturally extends to multiscale optimization under further path-dependent effects such as viscoplasticity or multiscale fracture and damage.
Tear patterns and locations are different between lateral and medial compartments in patients with early anatomical failure after meniscal allograft transplantation
Authors: Lee Seon‐Jong , Bin Seong‐Il , Kim Jong‐Min , Lee Bum‐Sik , Kim Seung‐Min , Lee Hyo Yeol
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To investigate the characteristics of anatomically failed grafts within 1 year after meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) and compare the differences between lateral and medial MATs.

Methods

The records of consecutive patients with anatomically failed grafts within 1 year after primary MAT between 2005 and 2018 were reviewed. Anatomical failure was defined as a tear covering > 50% of the allograft or an unstable peripheral rim. The pattern and location of the graft tears were analyzed using magnetic resonance imaging or arthroscopy.

Results

A total of 21 patients were included. All 21 patients had anatomical failure with tears involving > 50% of the allograft, whereas 15 had an unstable peripheral rim of the allograft. The mean failure time was 6.6 ± 3.6 months in all patients (lateral MAT, n = 15; medial MAT, n = 6). In the lateral MAT group, meniscocapsular separation was the most common pattern (n = 10, 66.7%), followed by complex (n = 3, 20.0%), radial (n = 1, 6.7%), and longitudinal (n = 1, 6.7%) tear. In the medial MAT group, a root tear was the most common pattern (n = 5, 83.3%), followed by a complex tear (n = 1, 16.7%). Meanwhile, in the lateral MAT, the midbody was the most frequently affected location (n = 9, 60.0%), followed by the posterior (n = 5, 33.3%) and anterior (n = 1, 6.7%) areas; in the medial MAT group, the posterior (n = 5, 83.3%) was the most frequently affected location, followed by the anterior area (n = 1, 16.7%). Significant differences in the pattern (P = 0.002) and location (P = 0.043) of the graft tears were found between lateral and medial MATs.

Conclusion

In patients with early failure after MAT, meniscocapsular separation in the midbody of the lateral compartment and root tears in the posterior area of the medial compartment were the most common. Thus, surgeons are encouraged to pay extra attention to these vulnerable areas during the early period after MAT.

Level of evidence

IV.