bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Invariant Tori and Heteroclinic Invariant Ellipsoids of a Generalized Hopf–Langford System
Authors: Zhong Jiyu , Liang Ying
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the bounded invariant surfaces of a generalized Langford system are discussed. Firstly, by the first integrals of systems restricted in the Poincaré sections of a periodic orbit, the accurate expressions of a heteroclinic orbit, a family of invariant tori and a heteroclinic invariant ellipsoid are given near a periodic orbit. Then, applying the successor functions to compute the periods of periodic orbits for the systems in the Poincaré sections, we present the parameter conditions for the existence of periodic orbits with any periods on these invariant tori. Finally, using the averaging theory and the theory of the Poincaré bifurcation and by determining the monotonicity of the ratio of two Abelian integrals, we give the conditions respectively such that the system has a unique invariant torus and a unique heteroclinic invariant ellipsoid near a zero-Hopf equilibrium.
Design and Dynamics of Multicavity Hyperchaotic Maps with Cylinder Attractors
Authors: Zhou Xianhui , Sun Kehui , Liu Wenhao , Wang Huihai
Published: October 2023

Based on the mathematical model of the elliptical cylinder, we design a new hyperchaotic map with an elliptical cylinder or a cylinder attractor. The dynamical analysis results indicate the proposed system is globally hyperchaotic, and has large Lyapunov Exponents (LEs), and high Permutation Entropy (PE) complexity. Interestingly, the hyperchaotic system exhibits the offset boosting coexistence attractors with respect to the system parameters. In addition, three Multicavity Hyperchaotic Maps (MHCM) are constructed by introducing a symmetric staircase function, which expands greatly the phase space of the system. The MHCM have more complex topological structures and maintain the chaotic performance of the original map. To illustrate the feasibility of the hyperchaotic systems further, we apply them to design a Pseudo-Random Number Generator (PRNG), and implement them on the DSP platform.
MAXIMUM SUSTAINABLE YIELD FOR A FISHERY WITH VARIABLE PRICE
Authors: MOULAI-KHATIR ANES , MOUSSAOUI ALI , AUGER PIERRE
Published: October 2023

We present a bioeconomic fishery model with variable price based on supply and demand. The model considers three variables: resource biomass, fishing effort, and market price. Rapid price changes classify the fishery system as a slow–fast system. Two main cases arise: catastrophic equilibrium (CE) with overexploitation and fish extinction, and a sustainable fishery equilibrium. We aim to determine conditions for maximum sustainable yield by optimizing cost per unit of fishing effort. Additionally, we explore conditions to prevent extinction and restore sustainable fishing. Marine protected areas (MPAs) can restore fish stocks by destabilizing the CE and maintaining a stable positive equilibrium. A model incorporating an MPA and fish movement is proposed, suggesting a small carrying capacity-to-surface area ratio in the fishing zone. Optimal total catch can be achieved by selecting the appropriate MPA surface area.
A Weight Determination Model in Uncertain and Complex Bi-Polar Preference Environment
Authors: Jin Lesheng , Yatsalo Boris , Lopez Luis Martínez , Senapati Tapan , Jebari Chaker , Yager Ronald R.
Published: October 2023

Uncertainties are pervasive in ever-increasing more practical evaluation and decision making environments. Numerical information with uncertainty losses more or less credibility, which makes it possible to use bi-polar preference based weights allocation method to attach differing importance to different information granules in evaluation. However, there lacks effective methodologies and techniques to simultaneously consider various categories of involved bi-polar preferences, not merely the magnitude of main data which ordered weighted averaging aggregation can well handle. This work proposes some types and categories of bi-polar preference possibly involved in preference and uncertain evaluation environment, discusses some methods and techniques to elicit the preference strengths from practical backgrounds, and suggests several techniques to generate corresponding weight vectors for performing bi-polar preference based information fusion. Detailed decision making procedure and numerical example with management background are also presented. This work also presents some practical approaches to apply preferences and uncertainties involved aggregation techniques in decision making.
On quasi-duo differential polynomial rings
Authors: Lee Pjek-Hwee
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we prove a necessary and sufficient condition on a ring [Formula: see text] with a derivation [Formula: see text] for the differential polynomial ring [Formula: see text] to be right quasi-duo. More precisely, [Formula: see text] is right quasi-duo if and only if [Formula: see text] is commutative and [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is the intersection of [Formula: see text] with the Jacobson radical of [Formula: see text]. The proof is simple and corrects the original proof by Bien and Oinert.
Effect of π-extension and halogenation on the optical limiting properties of meso-pyrenylBODIPYdyes
Authors: Kubheka Gugu , Mack John , Nyokong Tebello
Published: October 2023

The lack of suitable optical limiters that cover the entire UV-visible-NIR region has motivated research to identify novel efficient and stable optical limiting materials. There has been a strong focus on attenuating the second harmonic of Nd:YAG pulsed lasers at 532 nm on the nanosecond timescale. The photophysicochemical processes of a series of mono- and di-(4-dimethylamino)styryl-meso-pyrenylBODIPY and mono- and di-(4-dimethylamino)buta-1,3-dienyl-meso-pyrenylBODIPY dyes were studied by UV-visible absorption and fluorescence emission spectroscopy, and by determining the fluorescence and triplet state lifetimes. Z-scan measurements were carried out at a fixed concentration of 10 [Formula: see text]M so that the effective nonlinear coefficients, third-order susceptibilities, second-order hyperpolarizabilities and limiting fluences of the dyes can be compared and trends in the structure-property relationships for these optical limiting parameters can be identified.
UTILISING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO INVESTIGATE THE RELEVANCE OF CUSTOMER BENEFITS
Authors: BRAUMANDL ADRIAN , PONNRAJ ALEX , BRÜCKEL JULIAN , BAUSE KATHARINA , ALBERS ALBERT
Published: October 2023

To support market success, it is important to identify customer needs, and the relation between customer needs and customer purchasing behaviour. This paper provides an overview over existing, already established approaches to determine the relevance of customer benefits. Then, an approach utilising artificial neural networks to correlate the attributes of battery electric vehicles and their sales performance is presented. This approach is discussed in relation to needs expressed by customers in surveys as well as typical user behaviour of passenger cars. It seems that, for example, charging speed of electric vehicles is more important than operational range despite customers regularly expressing operational range as their greatest concern. The presented approach can be integrated into the reference process for developing product profiles and can be coupled with drive system optimisation methods, to consider sales performance alongside vehicle performance, efficiency and costs in the early stage of product generation engineering.
Managing Small Joint Septic Arthritis of the Hand
Authors: ADEBOYE Teniola , GIWA Lolade , JEMEC Barbara
Published: October 2023

Background: Current guidance for the management of septic arthritis is limited to large joints and, therefore, unspecific to the small joints of the hand, which may present differently, require different diagnostic approaches, and have different complications. The aim of this article was to review current treatment trends for the management of small joint septic arthritis (SJSA) of the hand and offer guidelines for its management.

Methods: A systematic review was carried out according to PRISMA guidelines and a survey distributed to Fellows of the British Society for Surgery of the Hand to establish expert opinion. The review and survey were combined to present a set of specific SJSA of the hand infection guidelines.

Results: All 20 included studies recommended physical drainage of infected joint fluid; subsequent lavage and early antibiotic therapy, with physiotherapist-guided joint mobilisation. Statistical analysis of the 77 responses to our survey revealed that (in order of preference) the diagnosis was made by history and examination, blood tests, joint aspiration and vital signs; and for interventions: joint elevation and intravenous antibiotics; then joint washout repeated within 48 hours, if necessary.

Conclusions: Small joint infection differs from large joint infection because it is difficult to obtain joint aspirate without damaging or opening the joint. We, therefore, recommend utilising exclusion blood tests, imaging and the clinical picture to establish the diagnosis and implement early treatment and rehabilitation.

Level of Evidence: Level III
Relevance of Workplace Learning in Enterprise Transformation: The Prospects for Singapore
Authors: Billett Stephen
Published: October 2023

In Singapore, as in many other countries, there is a growing focus on working age adults’ learning across their working lives to remain employable and contribute to the viability and continuity of the public and private sector enterprises in which they work. This focus extends to these workers’ ability to be innovative. Those innovative capacities are being increasingly requested by employers and governments alike to respond to ongoing and emerging social and economic challenges. This paper proposes responses to these two key government goals: (i) enhancing skills upgrading, and (ii) enterprises becoming more innovative in response to global economic challenges. First, it proposes approaches to Singaporean workplaces becoming “learning practices” to maintain and upgrade workforce skills, largely through their engagement in everyday work activities and interactions. The case made here draws on Australian studies of learning in and through work and its augmentation. Second, it proposes engaging workers more in initiating, enacting, and monitoring innovations at work to be both generative of their learning and bringing about change in their workplaces. This case is made by drawing upon the findings of investigations of innovations and learning in Singaporean small to medium sized enterprises.
The Growing Scope and Impact of the Progressive Wage Model
Authors: Ho Terence
Published: October 2023

This paper outlines the origins and evolution of Singapore’s Progressive Wage Model (PWM), an initiative to raise the incomes of lower-wage workers through stipulated wage floors and ladders corresponding to skills and productivity. The PWM has evolved from a niche scheme targeting outsourced service sectors, viz. cleaning, security, and landscaping, to a national programme covering the majority of lower-wage workers. It has helped to narrow the wage gap without reducing employment. However, the wage ladders will require continual updating, and businesses and consumers will have to adjust to higher costs as Singapore strives to become a more inclusive society.
A Multi-Dimensional Inventory for Measuring Future Graduates’ Work Readiness
Authors: Ng Betsy
Published: October 2023

The present brief paper offers a multi-dimensional work readiness inventory for measuring future graduates’ work readiness. It also highlights the importance of career success and employability by identifying the 21 dimensions of work readiness. This paper provides a summary of how the study developed and validated the work readiness assessment inventory (WRAI) using a total of 1,076 university students in Singapore. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were conducted to validate the WRAI. Using factorial analyses, this study examined the reliability and convergent validity of this inventory, suggesting that the WRAI could be used in universities and organisations to bridge the expectations of employees and employers. As there are limited numbers of studies which have developed and validated an inventory relating to work-ready attributes of graduates, the findings in this study can contribute significantly to research and practice areas regarding workforce development. Only by equipping our graduates with work-ready attributes, can they be competent and be confident in finding career success. This brief paper also contributes to labour policy by informing the key stakeholders that relevant work-ready attributes are important for career success and workplace transition which in turn relates to lifelong employability.
Sperm in the Mammalian Female Reproductive Tract: Surfing Through the Tract to Try to Beat the Odds
Authors: Miller David J.
Published: October 2023

Mammalian sperm are deposited in the vagina or the cervix/uterus at coitus or at artificial insemination, and the fertilizing sperm move through the female reproductive tract to the ampulla of the oviduct, the site of fertilization. But the destination of most sperm is not the oviduct. Most sperm are carried by retrograde fluid flow to the vagina, are phagocytosed, and/or do not pass barriers on the pathway to the oviduct. The sperm that reach the site of fertilization are the exceptions and winners of one of the most stringent selection processes in nature. This review discusses the challenges sperm encounter and how the few sperm that reach the site of fertilization overcome them. The sperm that reach the goal must navigate viscoelastic fluid, swim vigorously and cooperatively along the walls of the female tract, avoid the innate immune system, and respond to potential cues to direct their movement.
Genetics and Evolution of Bird Migration
Authors: Gu Zhongru , Dixon Andrew , Zhan Xiangjiang
Published: October 2023

Bird migration has long been a subject of fascination for humankind and is a behavior that is both intricate and multifaceted. In recent years, advances in technology, particularly in the fields of genomics and animal tracking, have enabled significant progress in our understanding of this phenomenon. In this review, we provide an overview of the latest advancements in the genetics of bird migration, with a particular focus on genomics, and examine various factors that contribute to the evolution of this behavior, including climate change. Integration of research from the fields of genomics, ecology, and evolution can enhance our comprehension of the complex mechanisms involved in bird migration and inform conservation efforts in a rapidly changing world.
Fluid Dynamics of Airtanker Firefighting
Authors: Legendre Dominique
Published: October 2023

Airtanker firefighting is the most spectacular tool used to fight wildland fires. However, it employs a rudimentary large-scale spraying technology operating at a high speed and a long distance from the target. This review gives an overview of the fluid dynamics processes that govern this practice, which are characterized by rich and varied physical phenomena. The liquid column penetration in the air, its large-scale fragmentation, and an intense surface atomization give shape to the rainfall produced by the airtanker and the deposition of the final product on the ground. The cloud dynamics is controlled by droplet breakup, evaporation, and wind dispersion. The process of liquid deposition onto the forest canopy is full of open questions of great interest for rainfall retention in vegetation. Of major importance, but still requiring investigation, is the role of the complex non-Newtonian viscoelastic and shear-thinning behavior of the retardant dropped to stop the fire propagation. The review describes the need for future research devoted to the subject.
Fe&Fe2O3 Dual-Decorated on N-Doped Porous Carbon for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Zhang Hui-Juan , He Ye , Chen Bo , Zhao Wenqing , Yao Wenli , Xue Yuhua
Published: October 2023

Catalysts for the cathodic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) are important in fuel cells. Herein, a class of non-precious metal ORR catalyst, namely Fe&Fe2O3 dual-decorated on N-doped porous carbon (Fe&Fe2O3/NC), is prepared from the pyrolysis of a mixture containing Fe2O3/NC, Fe salt and melamine, followed by acid-leaching, where Fe2O3/NC is firstly synthesized from one-step pyrolyzing the precursors of coal, KOH, melamine and Fe salt. As a result, the Fe&Fe2O3/NC provides a much better ORR catalytic activity with the peak potential (Ep) and half-wave potential (E1/2) of 902 mV and 852 mV, respectively, than these of Fe2O3/NC (824 mV and 768 mV) and close to these of 20 wt% commercial Pt/C (918 mV and 863 mV). Furthermore, the ORR occurred on Fe&Fe2O3/NC follows near a four-electron transfer pathway. It also has a good stability and methanol-resistance. By comparing the structures of Fe2O3/NC and Fe&Fe2O3/NC, the essential roles on improving the ORR catalytic activity are discussed: both the abundant graphitic N active sites and the synergistic effect of Fe and Fe2O3 play important roles. This work not only provides a general guideline for the design and development of non-precious metal-based catalysts for ORR but also enriches the application scope of coal.
Selective Copper Electrodeposition for Redistribution Layer by Varying Concentration and Agitation of Janus Green B
Authors: Lee Jinhyun , Kim Youjung , Han Haneul , Yoon Sanghwa , Lim Jae-Hong , Yoo Bongyoung
Published: October 2023

A fine-pitch redistribution layer (RDL) for high-performance devices in a fan-out wafer-level package (FOWLP) is required in semiconductor packaging technology. The damascene process for fine-pitch RDL has been studied for several years, which has been introduced to overcome the etching problems. Although surface planarization for removing overburden is necessary for the damascene process in RDL, it adds high cost to the FOWLP process. Selective Cu electrodeposition is a method used to prevent overburden. Janus Green B (JGB) is utilized as a leveler in Cu electrodeposition and has properties that depend on concentration and agitation. These properties affected the Cu deposition rate according to the pattern position. Thus, the electrochemical properties of JGB were investigated based on the concentration of JGB and agitation. Furthermore, the effect of JGB on the crystalline structure of the Cu film was examined. Additionally, changes in the growth behavior of the Cu nuclei caused by JGB were observed during the initial stage of chronoamperometry. Based on these results, selective Cu electrodeposition was successfully performed on the patterned substrate using the difference in the concentration of JGB and agitation.
Strategic Placement of Portable Air Cleaners for Enhanced Aerosol Control in Dental Treatment Rooms: A Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analysis
Authors: Rattanatigul Yanin , Hokpunna Arpiruk , Rungsiyakull Pimduen , Suttiat Kullapop
Published: October 2023

Background. Adequate ventilation is imperative for controlling respiratory transmission, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The commercial portable air cleaners have emerged as practical solutions to reduce contaminated aerosols in dental treatment rooms. This study employs computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to assess their impact on airflow dynamics. Methods. Dental treatment room models were constructed using SolidWorks software, encompassing two distinct air conditioner grille orientations (straightening and 45-degree downward directions) and five different positions for the portable air cleaner (two located at the rear left/right of the dental unit and three at the foot end of the dental unit—center, left, and right corners). The study examined alterations in airflow direction and residual aerosol concentrations using ANSYS Fluent software. Results. The incorporation of portable air cleaners in dental treatment rooms significantly reduced aerosol levels across all model configurations. Notably, the placement of the portable air cleaner emerged as a critical factor influencing airflow patterns. In models with straightening and 45-degree downward air conditioner grille orientations, optimal positioning was near the operating field and at the foot end of the dental chair, respectively. Conclusion. This investigation highlights the pivotal role of strategic portable air cleaner placement in dental treatment rooms for effective aerosol removal. Placing the air cleaner near the operating field or at the foot end of the dental chair not only improved airflow patterns but also enhanced aerosol removal efficiency, ultimately promoting superior air quality within dental treatment environments.
Monitoring Soil-Pile Stripping Damage at Different Temperatures via Piezoelectric Ceramic Sensors
Authors: Zhu Daopei , Liu Xu , Wang Zhangli , Cai Xiaoli
Published: October 2023

Large temperature differences exist between the winter and summer seasons in different regions of China. Such temperature differences, caused by seasonal changes, may affect the life cycles of piles. Under natural conditions, such as long-term operation under the ambient environment and loads, piles and the surrounding soil undergo peel damage. To study such peel damage between the pile and soil at different temperatures, we installed concrete test piles in soil and subjected them to different temperatures. A crack with a width of 2 cm, depth of 10 cm, and damage range of 90° was applied at the side of the piles. Furthermore, a horizontal impact load was applied near the top of the pile and a piezoelectric ceramic sensor was used to obtain the stress wave response signals. The experimental results reveal that with a decrease in the soil temperature, the amplitude and fluctuation range of the signals received by the piezoelectric sensor decreased. According to the experimental results, in the group with the greatest influence of temperature, keeping other conditions unchanged and setting different crack depths, the horizontal impact load can also be introduced to observe the frequency change. It can be observed that the larger the crack depth, the smaller the frequency. Finally, ABAQUS was used for simulations, whose results were found to be consistent with those of the experiments. This paper describes a method for determining the safety of soil and piles with peel damage at different temperatures, and it also provides a validation of the necessity of holding the rest constant.
Chemical Composition and Future Perspectives of Essential Oil Obtained from a Wild Population of Stachys germanica L. Distributed in the Balkan Mountains in Bulgaria
Authors: Ivanova Stanislava , Pashova Stela , Dyankov Stanislav , Georgieva Yoana , Ivanov Kalin , Benbassat Niko , Koleva Nina , Bozhkova Maria , Karcheva-Bahchevanska Diana
Published: October 2023

Stachys germanica L. (Lamiaceae) is a plant associated with a rich history in the traditional medicine of Iran, Turkey, and Serbia. However, researchers have not fully investigated the pharmacological potential of the herb, and scientific data on this plant species are limited. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the chemical composition of the essential oil (EO) obtained from the aerial parts of S. germanica L. growing wild in Bulgaria and to perform a comparative analysis of the chemical composition of EOs obtained from the same plant species from other geographical regions. For the evaluation of the chemical profile of the isolated EO, gas chromatographic analysis with mass spectrometry was performed. The most abundant terpene class was oxygenated monoterpenes, which accounted for 59.30% of the total EO composition. The bicyclic monoterpene camphor, as a compound of this class, was identified as the major constituent in the EO, accounting for 52.96% of the total oil composition. The chemical profile of Bulgarian EO is quite different compared to that of EOs from other regions. It is the only one to contain more than 50% camphor. In addition, EO contains significant amounts of the diterpene geranyl p-cymene (10.49%). This is the first study describing the chemical composition of EO from Bulgarian Stachys germanica L., and our results reveal some future perspectives for the evaluation of the biological activity of EO from the studied plant species as a new therapeutic agent or natural remedy targeting different medical conditions. The EO has a promising potential to be used as a biopesticide and repellent as well, an environmentally friendly and safer alternative to standard pesticides.
Clinicopathological Analysis of Bronchiolar Adenoma Lined Purely by Mucinous Luminal Cells
Authors: Liao Guangjie , Zhang Xinke
Published: October 2023

Bronchiolar adenoma (BA) is a rare lung tumor that has recently been clearly named, including the previous ciliated muconodular papillary tumor (CMPT) and the so-called nonclassical CMPT. The most prominent histological feature of BA is a double-layer cell structure composed of a continuous basal cell layer and a luminal cell layer. BA lined purely by mucinous luminal cells is very rare, and only one case has been reported in the English literature. This type of BA can easily be misdiagnosed as early mucinous adenocarcinoma. This article analyzes the clinicopathological characteristics of a newly discovered case of BA lined purely by mucinous luminal cells and fully integrated with the literatures.
Key Transmission Section Search Based on Graph Theory and PMU Data for Vulnerable Line Identification in Power System
Authors: Yu Miao , Zhang Shouzhi , Shi Fang , Sun Jianqun , Wei Jingjing , Wu Yixiao , Hu Jingxuan
Published: October 2023

Failure of vulnerable lines in the power system often results in tidal shifts, and triggering chain failures and their corresponding transmission sections are concentrated manifestations of the weak links in the power system. It is very important to identify the vulnerable lines and search the transmission section to prevent the chain faults as well as to analyze the stability of the power system. Aiming at the problems of inaccurate search of vulnerable lines, difficulties adapting to the complex and changing power system as well as wrong selection and omission of transmission section search in the existing references, this paper proposes an algorithm for searching vulnerable lines and their key transmission sections based on the graph theory and PMU (phasor measurement unit) data. First, the method combines with the graph theory and PMU data to construct the grid topology map. Second, the comprehensive indicators for screening vulnerable lines are proposed by fully considering the network topology and line capacity, which combines with power exchange efficiency and energy fluctuation probability. Third, the distance matrix in the Floyd algorithm is transformed into a unit group that can store more elements, which reduces the traversal times of the algorithm and improves computational efficiency. The fast localization of transmission cross sections associated with vulnerable lines is realized. Finally, the critical transmission cross sections are screened according to the line outage distribution factor and line safety margin. The IEEE 39-bus system is selected for simulation experiments, and the simulation results show that the key transmission section search method proposed in this paper can better adapt to the variable power grid and is faster and more accurate than the other common method.
Fine-Tuning Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy for Early-Stage Breast Cancer: An Expert Consensus on Open Issues for Future Research
Authors: Conforti Fabio , Pala Laura , De Pas Tommaso , Zattarin Emma , Catania Chiara , Cocorocchio Emilia , Rossi Giovanna , Laszlo Daniele , Colleoni Marco , Zambelli Alberto , Hortobagyi Gabriel N. , Cortes Javier , Piccart Martine J. , Dowsett Mitch , Gelber Richard D. , Viale Giuseppe
Published: October 2023

After decades of research, improving the efficacy of adjuvant endocrine therapy (ET) for early-stage breast cancer becomes increasingly difficult. Beyond technological breakthroughs and the availability of new classes of drugs, further improvement of adjuvant ET will require applying a rigorous research approach in poorly investigated areas. We critically discuss some key principles that should inform future research to improve ET efficacy, including identifying specific subgroups of patients who can benefit from escalating or de-escalating approaches, optimizing available and new treatment strategies for different clinical contexts, and dissecting the direct and indirect biological effects of therapeutic interventions. Four main issues regarding adjuvant ET were identified as relevant areas, where a better application of such principles can provide positive results in the near future: (i) tailoring the optimal duration of adjuvant ET, (ii) optimizing ovarian function suppression for premenopausal women, (iii) dissecting the biological effects of estrogen receptor manipulation, and (iv) refining the selection of patients to candidate for treatments escalation.
Biomarkers of Pathologic Complete Response to Neoadjuvant Immunotherapy in Mismatch Repair–Deficient Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Li Jianxia , Hu Huabin , Qin Ge , Bai Fan , Wu Xianrui , Ke Haoxian , Zhang Jianwei , Xie Yuqian , Wu Zehua , Fu Yang , Zheng Hongbo , Gong Longlong , Xie Zhi , Deng Yanhong
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have become the standard of care for patients with mismatch repair-deficient/microsatellite instability-high (dMMR/MSI-H) colorectal cancer. However, biomarkers of response to ICI are still lacking.

Experimental Design:

Forty-two patients with dMMR colorectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant PD-1 blockade were prospectively enrolled. To identify biomarkers of pathologic complete response (pCR) to neoadjuvant therapy, we analyzed genomic and transcriptomic profiles based on next-generation sequencing, and immune cell density based on multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) staining. An integrated analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing from our previous study and GSE178341, as well as mIF was performed to further explore the significance of the tumor microenvironment (TME) on pCR response.

Results:

The tumor mutation burden of both tumor tissue and plasma blood samples was comparable between the pCR and non-pCR groups, while HLA-DQA1 and HLA-DQB1 were significantly overexpressed in the pCR group. Gene signature enrichment analysis showed that pathways including T-cell receptor pathway, antigen presentation pathway were significantly enriched in the pCR group. In addition, higher pre-existing CD8+ T-cell density was associated with pCR response (767.47 per.mm2 vs. 326.64 per.mm2, P = 0.013 Wilcoxon test). Further integrated analysis showed that CD8+ T cells with low PD-1 expression (PD-1lo CD8+ T cells) expressing high levels of TRGC2, CD160, and KLRB1 and low levels of proliferated and exhausted genes were significantly associated with pCR response.

Conclusions:

Immune-associated transcriptomic features, particularly CD8+ T cells were associated with pCR response to ICI in dMMR colorectal cancer. Heterogeneity of TME within dMMR colorectal cancer may help to discriminate patients with complete response to neoadjuvant ICI.
CyberKnife Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Uveal Melanoma: First Case Series in Central America
Authors: Benavides Raquel , Mejías Ricardo , Blanco Alejandro , Bermudez-Guzman Luis
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults, affecting primarily the choroid of the eye. Plaque brachytherapy is the most common procedure for the treatment of small choroidal melanoma, especially in posteriorly located tumors. However, modern radiotherapy techniques, such as CyberKnife or Gamma knife stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and proton beam radiotherapy, have shown better results in tumor control and eye retention. Recent studies have indicated that SRS is a promising non-invasive, single-session treatment option, with most studies reporting the best outcomes when using ≥21–22 Gy. However, there is no consistent protocol for managing this pathology using CyberKnife, not only in terms of dose but also fractions. Case Presentations: Here, we report the first case series of patients (n = 4, age range 38–64 years, median age 52.5 years) with choroidal UM in Central America who were treated with CyberKnife SRS (22 Gy in one session). During the follow-up (range 25–29 months, median 27.5 months), a 100% control rate with no systemic metastatic disease has been achieved. We found a statistically significant reduction in the largest basal diameter at 24 months for all tumors. However, visual acuity has progressively decreased in most patients. Notably, two of our patients developed radiation maculopathy, and the other two developed radiation retinopathy after SRS. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that future studies should evaluate the use of different prophylactic therapies to prevent the development of side effects. The clinical management of toxicities presented in our report can serve as a reference in the clinical practice of other centers. Our report supports the growing body of evidence showing that CyberKnife radiosurgery is a safe and effective therapeutic option for the treatment of UM.
Effects of Blood Hemoadsorption Therapy with HA-380 in Total Arch Replacement for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Wang Juxiang , Chen Bin , Xie Junhao , Chen Huilong , Li Lihua , Zhang Weiqun , Lu Lin
Published: October 2023

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate whether the addition of a hemoadsorption (HA) cartridge, HA-380, in the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuit in acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) surgery reduced inflammatory cytokine levels and decreased postoperative complications. Methods: A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted between March 1, 2021, and February 28, 2022. Patients with ATAAD undergoing emergent total arch replacement surgery were divided into the control (CON) and HA groups on the basis of the addition of the HA-380 cartridge in the CPB circuit. Results: Overall, 121 patients met the eligibility criteria; 2 patients in each group who died within the first postoperative week were excluded. Further, 57 and 60 patients in the CON and HA groups, respectively, were included in the pooled analysis. The major perioperative data, baseline values of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein, and therapeutic interventions were similar in the two groups (all, p > 0.05). The serum IL-6 levels increased more rapidly in the CON group than those in the HA group postoperatively (205.73 ± 174.72 vs. 146.13 ± 64.15 pg/mL, p = 0.020). The HA group had a lower incidence of postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) and severe acute respiratory distress syndrome than the CON group (25.4 vs. 44.6%, p = 0.032 and 18.3 vs. 35.1%, p = 0.040, respectively). Logistic regression analyses showed that HA may be a protective factor against postoperative AKI. The incidence of bleeding, delirium, and stroke as well as the lengths of intensive care unit and hospital stay in both groups were similar (all, p > 0.05). Conclusions: The use of HA-380 in the CPB circuit may attenuate inflammatory response and reduce major complications following ATAAD surgery. HA may be associated with lower rate of postoperative AKI.
ChaMP-CMD: A Phenotype-Blinded, Randomized Controlled, Cross-Over Trial
Authors: Sinha Aish , Rahman Haseeb , Douiri Abdel , Demir Ozan M. , De Silva Kalpa , Clapp Brian , Webb Ian , Gulati Ankur , Pinho Pedro , Dutta Utkarsh , Ellis Howard , Shah Ajay M. , Chiribiri Amedeo , Marber Michael , Webb Andrew J. , Perera Divaka
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND:

Angina with nonobstructive coronary arteries is a common condition for which no effective treatment has been established. We hypothesized that the measurement of coronary flow reserve (CFR) allows identification of patients with angina with nonobstructive coronary arteries who would benefit from anti-ischemic therapy.

METHODS:

Patients with angina with nonobstructive coronary arteries underwent blinded invasive CFR measurement and were randomly assigned to receive 4 weeks of amlodipine or ranolazine. After a 1-week washout, they crossed over to the other drug for 4 weeks; final assessment was after the cessation of study medication for another 4 weeks. The primary outcome was change in treadmill exercise time, and the secondary outcome was change in Seattle Angina Questionnaire summary score in response to anti-ischemic therapy. Analysis was on a per protocol basis according to the following classification: coronary microvascular disease (CMD group) if CFR<2.5 and reference group if CFR≥2.5. The study protocol was registered before the first patient was enrolled (International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number: ISRCTN94728379).

RESULTS:

Eighty-seven patients (61±8 years of age; 62% women) underwent random assignment (57 CMD group and 30 reference group). Baseline exercise time and Seattle Angina Questionnaire summary scores were similar between groups. The CMD group had a greater increment (delta) in exercise time than the reference group in response to both amlodipine (difference in delta, 82 s [95% CI, 37–126 s];
P
<0.001) and ranolazine (difference in delta, 68 s [95% CI, 21–115 s];
P
=0.005). The CMD group reported a greater increment (delta) in Seattle Angina Questionnaire summary score than the reference group in response to ranolazine (difference in delta, 7 points [95% CI, 0–15];
P
=0.048), but not to amlodipine (difference in delta, 2 points [95% CI, –5 to 8];
P
=0.549).

CONCLUSIONS:

Among phenotypically similar patients with angina with nonobstructive coronary arteries, only those with an impaired CFR derive benefit from anti-ischemic therapy. These findings support measurement of CFR to diagnose and guide management of this otherwise heterogeneous patient group.
A 7T interleaved fMRS and fMRI study on visual contrast dependency in the human brain
Authors: Schrantee Anouk , Najac Chloe , Jungerius Chris , van der Zwaag Wietske , Jbabdi Saad , Clarke William T. , Ronen Itamar
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Functional magnetic resonance spectroscopy (fMRS) is a non-invasive technique for measuring dynamic changes in neurometabolites. While previous studies have observed concentration changes in metabolites during neural activation, the relationship between neurometabolite response and stimulus intensity and timing requires further investigation. To address this, we conducted an interleaved fMRS and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) experiment using a visual stimulus with varying contrast levels.

Methods: A total of 20 datasets were acquired on a 7T MRI scanner. The visual task consisted of two STIM blocks (30 s/20 s ON/OFF, 4 min), with 10% or 100% contrast, interleaved with a 5 min REST block. A dynamic fitting approach was used for fMRS data analysis. For metabolite level changes, the STIM conditions were modeled in two different ways: either considering the full STIM block as active condition (full-block model) or only modeling the ON blocks as active condition (sub-block model). For linewidth changes due to the BOLD effect, STIM conditions were modeled using the sub-block model.

Results: For both models, we observed significant increases in glutamate levels for both the 10% and 100% visual contrasts, but no significant difference between the contrasts. Decreases in aspartate, and glucose, and increases in total N-acetylaspartate and total creatine were also detected, although less consistently across both 10% and 100% visual contrasts. BOLD-driven linewidth decreases and fMRI-derived BOLD increases within the MRS voxel were observed at both 10% and 100% contrasts, with larger changes at 100% compared to 10% in the fMRI-derived BOLD only. We observed a non-linear relation between visual contrast, the BOLD response, and the glutamate response.

Conclusion: Our study highlights the potential of fMRS as a complementary technique to BOLD fMRI for investigating the complex interplay between visual contrast, neural activity, and neurometabolism. Future studies should further explore the temporal response profiles of different neurometabolites and refine the statistical models used for fMRS analysis.
Number Agreement Attraction in Czech Comprehension: Negligible Facilitation Effects
Authors: Chromý Jan , Lacina Radim , Dotlačil Jakub
Published: October 2023

Number agreement attraction in comprehension has been extensively studied in various languages and it has been claimed that attraction effects are generally present across languages. In this paper, four experiments on Czech are presented, each examining a different structure. The Bayesian hierarchical models and Bayes factor analysis pointed towards no agreement attraction effects in three of the experiments. Only in one experiment an effect interpretable as signaling agreement attraction was observed. Its size, however, was so small that it did not translate into a clear preference for models with agreement attraction. The data from the four experiments were further compared to available data from several other languages (English, Armenian, Arabic, and Spanish). The emerging picture is that in Czech, agreement attraction effects are negligible in size if they appear at all. This presents a serious challenge to current theoretical explanations of agreement attraction effects.
The Legal Framework for Artificial Energy Islands in the Northern Seas
Authors: Nieuwenhout Ceciel , Andreasson Liv Malin
Published: October 2023

Belgium, Denmark and the Netherlands have announced their interest in constructing artificial ‘energy islands’ to enable the integration of large-scale offshore wind energy into the energy system. This raises several legal questions, such as how do these developments fit in the balance of interests required by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, what European Union law is applicable to artificial islands and how Belgium, Denmark and the Netherlands approach the construction of artificial islands. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the applicable legal framework and shows the variety of approaches and strategic choices States may have when developing energy islands.
Joint Contributions of Auditory, Proprioceptive and Visual Cues on Human Balance
Authors: Teaford Max , Mularczyk Zachary J. , Gernon Alannah , Cannon Shauntelle , Kobel Megan , Merfeld Daniel M.
Published: October 2023

One’s ability to maintain their center of mass within their base of support (i.e., balance) is believed to be the result of multisensory integration. Much of the research in this literature has focused on integration of visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive cues. However, several recent studies have found evidence that auditory cues can impact balance control metrics. In the present study, we sought to better characterize the impact of auditory cues on narrow stance balance task performance with different combinations of visual stimuli (virtual and real world) and support surfaces (firm and compliant). In line with past results, we found that reducing the reliability of proprioceptive cues and visual cues yielded consistent increases in center-of-pressure (CoP) sway metrics, indicating more imbalance. Masking ambient auditory cues with broadband noise led to less consistent findings; however, when effects were observed they were substantially smaller for auditory cues than for proprioceptive and visual cues — and in the opposite direction (i.e., masking ambient auditory cues with broadband noise reduced sway in some situations). Additionally, trials that used virtual and real-world visual stimuli did not differ unless participants were standing on a surface that disrupted proprioceptive cues; disruption of proprioception led to increased CoP sway metrics in the virtual visual condition. This is the first manuscript to report the effect size of different perturbations in this context, and the first to study the impact of acoustically complex environments on balance in comparison to visual and proprioceptive contributions. Future research is needed to better characterize the impact of different acoustic environments on balance.
Evolution of Meridional Heat Transport by Subtropical Western Boundary Currents in a Warming Climate Predicted by High-Resolution Models
Authors: Cai Jinzhuo , Yang Haiyuan , Gan Bolan , Wang Hong , Chen Zhaohui , Wu Lixin
Published: October 2023

Subtropical western boundary currents (WBCs) are among the most energetic currents in the global circulation system and play an important role in the oceanic meridional heat transport (OHT). Based on nine high-resolution global coupled climate models, this study investigates the change of OHT by subtropical WBCs (WHT) under global warming. We found that WHT in both hemispheres depicts a weakening trend during 1950–2050, primarily caused by the transport change of WBCs. In the Northern Hemisphere, weakening of the Gulf Stream resulting from the slowing AMOC leads to the hemispheric WHT weakening. In the Southern Hemisphere, the WHT decrease is mainly induced by the sharp decline of Agulhas Current transport, associated with the change in wind field in the southern Indian Ocean and Indonesian Throughflow. Compared to the mean flow, the contribution of mesoscale eddies to OHT change is negligible along with WBCs but is important in their extension regions.
Victim Injury and Its Consequences: Assessing the Effects of Macro-Social Contexts on Punishment Dispositions
Authors: Bailey Caroline M. , Warren Patricia Y. , Stewart Eric A. , Hughes Cresean
Published: October 2023

Because of its physical, psychological, and economic costs, victimization is a major concern for scholars and policymakers. To date, however, few studies have investigated how victim injury influences punishment across contexts. The current study fills this void by assessing whether the size of racial and ethnic populations conditions the effect of victim injury and injury severity on sentencing outcomes for race-specific defendants. We find support for the threat hypotheses. Specifically, victim injury and injury severity increase the probability of receiving an incarceration decision for all defendants, in counties with larger Black and Latino populations. We discuss the implications of these findings and avenues for future research.
Tourism Demand in the Face of Geopolitical Risk: Insights From a Cross-Country Analysis
Authors: Papagianni Estela , Evgenidis Anastasios , Tsagkanos Athanasios , Megalooikonomou Vasileios
Published: October 2023

This paper develops a novel Bayesian heterogeneous panel vector autoregressive model (B-HP-VAR) that quantifies the impact of geopolitical risk shocks on the tourism industry of 14 emerging market and developing economies (EMDE). We find that increasing geopolitical tensions have a persistent negative effect on tourism demand in most of these countries, as shown by our impulse response estimates. Furthermore, evidence from forecast error variance decomposition reveals that geopolitical risk shocks in many EMDE economies constitute the main driver of tourism demand. Analysis from historical decompositions demonstrates that geopolitical tensions have been particularly influential in driving tourism demand in Ukraine, Russia, Turkey, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Colombia, and Mexico. Our main findings are robust to several perturbations to the benchmark specification. Our results have several important implications for policymakers in their efforts to strengthen the ability of the tourism industry to absorb shocks from geopolitical tensions.