bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound radiomics based XGBoost model to differential diagnosis thyroid nodules and unnecessary biopsy rate: Individual application of SHapley additive exPlanations
Authors: Xiong Zhengbiao , Shi Yan , Zhang Yunyun , Duan Shuhui , Ding Yushuang , Zheng Qi , Jiao Yuting , Yan Junhong
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Radiomics‐based eXtreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) model was developed to differentiate benign thyroid nodules from malignant thyroid nodules and to prevent unnecessary thyroid biopsies, including positive and negative effects.

Methods

The study evaluated a data set of ultrasound images of thyroid nodules in patients retrospectively, who initially received ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) for diagnostic purposes. According to ACR TI‐RADS, a total of five ultrasound feature categories and the maximum size of the nodule were determined by four radiologists. A radiomics score was developed by the LASSO algorithm from the ultrasound‐based radiomics features. An interpretative method based on Shapley additive explanation (SHAP) was developed. XGBoost was compared with ACR TI‐RADS for its diagnostic performance and FNAB rate and was compared with six other machine learning models to evaluate the model performance.

Results

Finally, 191 thyroid nodules were examined from 177 patients. The radiomics score were calculated using 8 features, which were selected among 789 candidate features generated from the ultrasound images. The model yielded an AUC of 93% in the training cohort and 92% in the test cohort. It outperformed traditional machine learning models in assessing the nature of thyroid nodules. Compared with ACR TI‐RADS, the FNAB rate decreased from 34% to 30% in training and from 35% to 41% in test.

Conclusions

The radiomics‐based XGBoost model proposed could distinguish benign and malignant thyroid nodules, thereby reduced significantly the number of unnecessary FNAB. It was effective in making preoperative decisions and managing selected patients using the SHAP visual interpretation tools.
Study of Mg–Fe content in tourmalines from the dravite–schorl series by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Pasetti Lorenzo , Fornasini Laura , Mantovani Luciana , Andò Sergio , Raneri Simona , Palleschi Vincenzo , Bersani Danilo
Published: December 2023

Thanks to their high chemical and mechanical stability, their diffusion in all types of detrital sediments and their complex structural formula (XY3Z6(T6O18)(BO3)3V3W), tourmalines have attracted strong interest in provenance studies since, from their chemical composition, it is possible to reconstruct the source rocks in ancient sediments. Dravite and schorl, belonging to the alkali subgroup 1, are the most abundant tourmaline species, and they have different Y‐site compositions in the unit cell: dravite has more magnesium, while schorl has a higher iron content. For this reason, it is important to measure the Mg–Fe relative content in order to classify the analysed tourmalines in the dravite–schorl series. Raman spectroscopy is a suitable technique as it allows quick and easy measurements that provide chemical and structural information on tourmalines with a high spatial resolution, thus allowing analysis of small grains that could be found in sediments. In this work, we correlated the relative Mg–Fe content (x = Mg/(Mg + Fe)) in different tourmaline samples from the dravite–schorl series (
) with variations in Raman spectrum parameters in order to find a model for quick tourmaline identification useful for provenance studies. The chemical compositions of the analysed tourmalines are obtained by scanning electron microscope coupled with energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS). Raman measurements with a portable spectrometer have also been performed in order to evaluate our results for in situ applications.
Effect of ultrasonic modification on the binding ability of pectin to anthocyanin
Authors: Liu Yutong , Tong Yingjia , Tong Qunyi , Xu Wentian , Wang Zeqing
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Pectin was considered as a potential candidate to improve the thermal stability of anthocyanins, and the binding ability of pectin to anthocyanins was influenced by its structure. In this study, sunflower pectins, modified by ultrasound (40 kHz) for different periods of time, were prepared and used to bind with anthocyanins, extracted from purple sweet potato.

RESULTS

Characterization and thermal stability of pectin–anthocyanin complexes were investigated. The ultrasonic modification of pectin resulted in many changes in pectin chemical structure, including degradation of neutral sugar side chains, breakage of methoxyl groups, and increased molecular flexibility. Extension of ultrasonic modification time led to greater changes in pectin chemical structure. Analysis of the binding ability, as determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulations, revealed that the interaction between pectin and anthocyanins was driven by hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interaction, and hydrophobic interaction. Pectins with different ultrasonic modification times bound with anthocyanins to different extents, mainly resulting from an increase in the number of hydrogen bonds. According to high‐performance liquid chromatographic analysis, during heating at 90 °C the stronger the binding ability of pectin and anthocyanin complex, the better was its thermal stability.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasonic modification of pectin could effectively enhance its binding ability to anthocyanin. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
A regional virtual case discussion forum in pediatric oncology: Experience of the Pediatric Oncology East and Mediterranean Group
Authors: Noun Dolly , Obeid Anas , Belgaumi Asim , Sidhom Iman , Jadiry Mazin Al , Al‐Saeed Raghad , Khalifa Nisreen , Trehan Amita , Ghanem Khaled , AbdelHafeez Hafeez , Rodriguez‐Galindo Carlos , Jeha Sima , Saab Raya
Published: December 2023

Background

The Pediatric Oncology East and Mediterranean (POEM) group that aims to share expertise among pediatric oncology providers across the Middle East, North Africa, and East Asia region initiated a virtual Case Discussion Forum (CDF) in 2013.

Methods

Meeting records from September 2013 till June 2021 were reviewed. Detailed minutes were available starting August 2016; case data were analyzed including diagnoses, purpose of presentation and recommendations. A 38‐item survey assessing perception of benefits, challenges, and opportunities of the forum was distributed to members of the POEM group and results analyzed.

Results

A total of 140 cases were presented from 14 countries. After August 2016, 67 cases were presented, and those were analyzed regarding reasons for discussion, barriers, and recommendations. Details are presented in this report, and the most common challenges identified were related to histopathologic/molecular diagnosis (24%), imaging interpretation (18%), resource limitations (12%), and surgical difficulties (9%). A survey was distributed to all POEM members in 28 countries, and 76 responded. The main benefit reported was the provision of recommendations regarding treatment and evaluation, while the main challenges reported were time zone difference and workload. Recognized opportunities included conducting regionally relevant research studies based on clinical problems identified during discussions, and setting guidelines for resource‐adapted treatment regimens.

Conclusions

The POEM CDF identified areas for multi‐institutional regional studies and led to a twinning project between two centers in the region for improving diagnostic infrastructure. Such forums can identify specific resource limitations in pediatric cancer and direct efforts for targeted capacity building.
Diffuse interstitial lung disease in a male fetus with periventricular nodular heterotopia and filamin A mosaic variant
Authors: Desnous Beatrice , Carles Guillaume , Riccardi Florence , Stremler Nathalie , Baravalle Melissa , El‐Louali Fedouah , Testud Benoit , Milh Mathieu
Published: December 2023

Background

Most periventricular nodular heterotopias (PNHs) are associated with a mutation in the filamin A (FLNA) gene in Xq28. This condition is associated with cardiovascular malformations, connective tissue abnormalities, epilepsy, and intellectual deficiency of varying severity.

Materials and Methods

We report a new FLNA gene mutation in a male patient associated with PNH and diffuse interstitial lung disease.

Results

A 23‐year‐old woman was referred at 31 gestational weeks to evaluate a suspected mega cisterna magna and ventricular septal defect with atrioventricular valve alignment in a male fetus. The fetal magnetic resonance imaging showed PNH associated with corpus callosum dysgenesis and a mega cisterna magna. At 2 months of age, the infant was diagnosed with severe respiratory distress with hypoxemia. A chest CT scan demonstrated a diffuse interstitial lung pattern with emphysema, multiple atelectasis foci, and signs of pulmonary hypertension. Rapid worsening led to his death at 4 months. Targeted sequencing of the FLNA gene identified a de novo hemizygous variant in 75% mosaic in lymphocyte cells, resulting in incomplete FLNA function loss.

Discussion & Conclusion

On the diagnosis of antenatal PNH, the possibility of such lung involvement should be considered in the prognostic evaluation during prenatal counseling.
Triple‐chain segments regulation enable shape memory and photo deformation of smart polyimide
Authors: Wan Baoquan , Pu Tongtong , Xing Yunqi , Zha Jun‐Wei
Published: December 2023

Integration of controllable deformation with excellent thermal stability, mechanical, and insulation properties can greatly expand the versatility of smart polyimides (PIs). However, the unique molecular structure of PI makes it difficult for its molecular chain to move, which is not conducive to the reversible transformation of highly stable PI under environmental conditions. In this study, a PI film integrating shape memory and photo deformation is prepared by constructing a chemical network with PI oligomer as the hard, hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) as the soft, and azobenzene as the functional chain segment. The PI films still have a high glass transition temperature Tg ~ 225°C, a high Young's modulus E ~ 3.5 GPa, and a good breakdown strength Eb ~ 176 kV/mm. Moreover, as the network point of the chemical network, the trifunctional crosslinking agent makes the PI produce the shape memory effect induced by light and heat. UV light can drive crosslinked photoresponsivity PI film to have special shape transformation under specific conditions, using azobenzene as photoresponsivity group. This study provides a new idea for the preparation of multifunctional PI, which makes it potentially applicable in the field of smart electric and electronic engineering.
Structural flexibility and heterogeneity of recombinant human glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)
Authors: Gogishvili Dea , Illes‐Toth Eva , Harris Matthew J. , Hopley Christopher , Teunissen Charlotte E. , Abeln Sanne
Published: December 2023

Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) is a promising biomarker for brain and spinal cord disorders. Recent studies have highlighted the differences in the reliability of GFAP measurements in different biological matrices. The reason for these discrepancies is poorly understood as our knowledge of the protein's 3‐dimensional conformation, proteoforms, and aggregation remains limited. Here, we investigate the structural properties of GFAP under different conditions. For this, we characterized recombinant GFAP proteins from various suppliers and applied hydrogen‐deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX‐MS) to provide a snapshot of the conformational dynamics of GFAP in artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) compared to the phosphate buffer. Our findings indicate that recombinant GFAP exists in various conformational species. Furthermore, we show that GFAP dimers remained intact under denaturing conditions. HDX‐MS experiments show an overall decrease in H‐bonding and an increase in solvent accessibility of GFAP in aCSF compared to the phosphate buffer, with clear indications of mixed EX2 and EX1 kinetics. To understand possible structural interface regions and the evolutionary conservation profiles, we combined HDX‐MS results with the predicted GFAP‐dimer structure by AlphaFold‐Multimer. We found that deprotected regions with high structural flexibility in aCSF overlap with predicted conserved dimeric 1B and 2B domain interfaces. Structural property predictions combined with the HDX data show an overall deprotection and signatures of aggregation in aCSF. We anticipate that the outcomes of this research will contribute to a deeper understanding of the structural flexibility of GFAP and ultimately shed light on its behavior in different biological matrices.
Nested extended state observer design for uncertain nonlinear systems under time‐varying disturbance
Authors: Su Guanghao , Wang Zhenlei
Published: December 2023

With rising demands on system performance and reliability in engineering practice, researchers are increasingly interested in disturbance rejection control, of which state and disturbance observation is the essential element. The extended state observer (ESO, or extended high‐gain observer) is extensively utilized to compensate disturbance, nevertheless, the neglect of lumped disturbance's first derivative and peak phenomenon in classical ESO design impose obstacles to further promotion. In this article, nested ESO (NestedESO) is proposed to estimate states and disturbance simultaneously for general uncertain nonlinear systems under time‐varying disturbance. In NestedESO framework, low‐gain generalized ESO is implemented to obtain a rough estimation of lumped disturbance in the first stage. Then, a novel proportion‐filter‐derivative disturbance estimation refinement mechanism is introduced to provide accurate disturbance estimation. With refined disturbance estimation, modified Luenburger observer is put forward to reconstruct state. Besides, extension to sampled‐data systems is investigated to adapt the networked signal transmission scenario. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the validity and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Conversion of Photoluminescence Blinking Types in Single Colloidal Quantum Dots
Authors: Yang Changgang , Li Yang , Hou Xiaoqi , Zhang Mi , Zhang Guofeng , Li Bin , Guo Wenli , Han Xue , Bai Xiuqing , Li Jialu , Chen Ruiyun , Qin Chengbing , Hu Jianyong , Xiao Liantuan , Jia Suotang
Published: December 2023

Almost all colloidal quantum dots (QDs) exhibit undesired photoluminescence (PL) blinking, which poses a significant obstacle to their use in numerous luminescence applications. An in‐depth study of the blinking behavior, along with the associated mechanisms, can provide critical opportunities for fabricating high‐quality QDs for diverse applications. Here the blinking of a large series of colloidal QDs is investigated with different surface ligands, particle sizes, shell thicknesses, and compositions. It is found that the blinking behavior of single alloyed CdSe/ZnS QDs with a shell thickness of up to 2 nm undergoes an irreversible conversion from Auger‐blinking to band‐edge carrier blinking (BC‐blinking). Contrastingly, single perovskite QDs with particle sizes smaller than their Bohr diameters exhibit reversible conversion between BC‐blinking and more pronounced Auger‐blinking. Changes in the effective trapping sites under different excitation conditions are found to be responsible for the blinking type conversions. Additionally, changes in shell thickness and particle size of QDs have a significant effect on the blinking type conversions due to altered wavefunction overlap between excitons and effective trapping sites. This study elucidates the discrepancies in the blinking behavior of various QD samples observed in previous reports and provides deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying diverse types of blinking.
Evolution of High‐Index Facets Pt Nanocrystals Induced by N‐Defective Sites in the Integrated Electrode for Enhanced Methanol Oxidation
Authors: Li Yuhui , Yang Jirong , Liu Feng , Shi Chaoyang , Zhu Enze , Yin Shubiao , Yu Jie , Xu Mingli
Published: December 2023

Highly efficient and durable Pt electrocatalysts are the key to boost the performance of fuel cells. The high‐index facets (HIF) Pt nanocrystals are regarded as excellent catalytic activity and stability catalysts. However, nucleation, growth and evolution of high‐index facets Pt nanocrystals induced by defective sites is still a challenge. In this work, tetrahexahedron (THH) and hexactahedron (HOH) Pt nanocrystals are synthesized, which are loaded on the nitrogen‐doped reduced graphene oxide (N‐rGO) support of the integrated electrodes by the square wave pulse method. Experimental investigations and density functional theory (DFT) calculations are conducted to analyze the growth and evolution mechanism of HIF Pt nanocrystals on the graphene‐derived carbon supports. It shows that the H adsorption on the N‐rGO/CFP support can induce evolution of Pt nanocrystals. Moreover, the N‐defective sites on the surface of N‐rGO can lead to a slower growth of Pt nanocrystals than that on the surface of reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Pt/N‐rGO/CFP (20 min) shows the highest specific activity in methanol oxidation, which is 1.5 times higher than that of commercial Pt/C. This research paves the way on the design and synthesis of HIF Pt nanocrystal using graphene‐derived carbon materials as substrates in the future.
Challenges and Strategies of Aluminum Anodes for High‐Performance Aluminum–Air Batteries
Authors: Zhang Yuxin , Lv Chaonan , Zhu Yuanxin , Kuang Jialin , Wang Haiyan , Li Yixin , Tang Yougen
Published: December 2023

Aluminum–air battery (AAB) is a promising candidate for next‐generation energy storage/conversion systems due to its cost‐effectiveness and impressive theoretical energy density of 8100 Wh kg−1, surpassing that of lithium‐ion batteries. Nonetheless, the practical applicability of AABs is hampered by the occurrence of serious self‐corrosion side reactions and substantial capacity loss, resulting in suboptimal anode utilization. Consequently, improving the anode utilization to facilitate the construction of high‐performance AABs have attracted widespread attention. Herein, the fundamentals and strategies to enhance aluminum anode utilization are reviewed from modifications of aluminum anodes and electrolytes. This comprehensive review may provide a scientific tool for the development of novel AABs in the future.
Kinetic Analysis of Bubble Thermal Expansion in High‐Temperature Molten Steel
Authors: Zhu Fucheng , Li Jing , Li Yingbo
Published: December 2023

The refinement of clean steel is significantly influenced by the behavior of bubbles in high‐temperature molten steel. However, the thorough examination of the thermal expansion behavior of bubbles and its effects on two‐phase flow dynamics in high‐temperature molten steel is scarce. This study investigates the thermal expansion process of low‐temperature bubbles in high‐temperature molten steel and the resulting dynamics of two‐phase flow, employing a volume of fluid model coupled with the energy equation method. The water model physics experiment investigates the rising characteristics of bubbles inside a water–air system and validates the accuracy of numerical simulations. Results reveal that bubble temperature reaches 1873 K during a 0.1 s periodic variation, exhibiting three stages: severe heating, expansion cooling, and contraction heating. The inertia of the fluid causes the bubble to overexpansion and overcontraction, and the energy conversion between the two phases causes expansion cooling and superheating (max temperature: 2642 K). A mathematical model is built to characterize the dynamic behavior of two‐phase flow and the thermal expansion behavior of gas bubbles of arbitrary initial size in molten steel.
How to early integrate operational diagnosis objectives in model‐driven engineering processes: A methodological proposal based on fault and behavior trees
Authors: Christofi Nikolena , Baron Claude , Pucel Xavier , Pantel Marc , Canu David , Ducamp Christophe
Published: December 2023

To help operators perform their diagnosis tasks more efficiently, the authors put forward a novel methodology introducing a new type of model, dedicated to operations, co‐created in parallel with the design models, in the preliminary stages of system development, using the language semantics of behavior trees. In this paper, the authors present the need for this new model type as expressed by the industry and justify their choice for adopting behavior trees, while illustrating in detail the proposed methodology.
Perineal myiasis caused by Wohlfahrtia magnifica in mares in central France
Authors: Bouquet Julien
Published: December 2023

Three cases of Wohlfahrtia magnifica perineal myiasis on mares living in the Indre Department (central France) are reported. W. magnifica, whose geographical dispersion towards the plains has been known since the 1980s, continues its progression in France. Altitude is not a limiting factor for this fly, unlike climate. However, we assume that climate change and its ecological consequences, associated with the natural resistance of the maggot and commercial transactions, will not be an obstacle to the W. magnifica development in France.
Associations with landscape and local‐scale wetland habitat conditions vary among migratory shorebird species during stopovers
Authors: Elmore Jared A. , Londe David W. , Davis Craig A. , Fuhlendorf Samuel D. , Loss Scott R.
Published: December 2023

Wetlands provide many ecosystem services and functions, including critical stopover habitat for numerous migratory bird species. Yet, loss and degradation of wetlands due to land use and land cover changes have greatly reduced wetland extent worldwide, leading to declines of many migratory shorebirds globally. In the Western Hemisphere, wetlands of the North American Great Plains provide important stopover habitat for shorebirds; however, much remains to be learned about shorebird habitat use during stopovers in this region, including species‐specific associations with landscape‐scale wetland availability and characteristics of individual wetlands. To improve understanding of shorebird habitat use during migration, we conducted shorebird surveys at > 14 000 wetlands throughout Oklahoma, USA, from 2007 to 2009. For 16 shorebird species, we analyzed associations between observed abundance and wetland variables, including within‐wetland characteristics and availability of wetlands at multiple spatial scales surrounding survey locations. We found that the scale at which observed abundance of shorebirds was associated with wetland extent varied among species; 10 species responded most strongly to wetland extent at the 500 m scale, but 5 species and 1 species responded most strongly at 1000 and 2000 m scales, respectively. Observed abundance for most species was generally associated with higher wetland density at broad scales, presence of extensive shallow water, more usable area, and limited vegetation within wetlands, yet there was considerable interspecific variation in the strength and in some cases direction of effects of these within‐wetland characteristics. This interspecies variability highlights the importance of conserving a variety of wetland types with differing characteristics that support the entire shorebird community during migration. By informing optimal habitat requirements for shorebirds during a critical stage of their annual cycle, knowledge gained about species‐specific habitat needs from studies like ours can assist with development of conservation and management strategies that contribute to halting and reversing global shorebird declines.
An Assessment of the Validity of Damköhler’s Hypotheses for Different Choices of Reaction Progress Variable in Homogenous Mixture Moderate or Intense Low-Oxygen Dilution (MILD) Combustion
Authors: Awad Hazem S. A. M. , Abo-Amsha Khalil , Ahmed Umair , Chakraborty Nilanjan
Published: December 2023

The applicability of Damköhler’s hypotheses for homogenous mixture (i.e. constant equivalence ratio) moderate or intense low-oxygen dilution (MILD) combustion processes (with methane as the fuel) has been assessed using three-dimensional direct numerical simulation data with a skeletal mechanism. Two homogeneous MILD combustion cases with different levels of $${{\text{O}}}_{2}$$

O
2

concentration (4.8% and 3.5% by volume) and different turbulence intensities have been investigated to analyse the influence of dilution level, turbulence intensity and the choice of the reaction progress variable definition (i.e. different choices of major species for turbulent burning velocity and flame surface area evaluations) on the applicability of Damköhler’s hypotheses in MILD combustion. It has been found that the normalized volume-integrated burning rate remains of the same order of magnitude as that of the normalized flame surface area only for the reaction progress variable definition based on a species mass fraction which has a Lewis number close to unity (e.g. $${{\text{CH}}}_{4}$$

CH
4

) but the level of applicability deteriorates when the Lewis number of the species mass fraction, based on which the reaction progress variable is defined, deviates significantly from unity (e.g. $${{\text{CO}}}_{2}$$

CO
2

). Moreover, it has been demonstrated that the flame surface area calculation from the OH mole fraction-based information can lead to significant departures from Damköhler’s first hypothesis. It is also found that the relative magnitudes of normalised volume-integrated burning rate and normalised flame surface area are significantly affected by the level of dilution and the choice of the reaction progress variable definition. Damköhler’s second hypothesis, which provides a relation between the normalised turbulent burning velocity and the ratio of turbulent to molecular diffusivities, has been found to hold in an order of magnitude sense in homogeneous mixture MILD combustion only for the reaction progress variable definition based on species that has a Lewis number close to unity (e.g. $${{\text{CH}}}_{4}$$

CH
4

) but the level of disagreement increases as the Lewis number of the reaction progress variable deviates significantly from unity (e.g. $${{\text{CO}}}_{2}$$

CO
2

).
QTL Mapping and Genetic Map for the Ornamental Sunflower in China
Authors: Liu Jixia , Shan Junjian , Wang Ping
Published: December 2023

Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping and genetic map are of great significance for ornamental sunflowers in China. In this study, a total of 956.50 Mbp data were obtained, the average Q30 was 93.76%, the average GC content was 42.43%, and the GC distribution of the parents and F2 population of the ornamental sunflowers was normal. At the same time, the double-end comparison efficiency of control data was 90.28%, and the enzyme digestion efficiency was 92.01%. The Specific-Locus Amplified Fragment (SLAF) library construction was normal. Furthermore, a total of 734,893 SLAF markers were obtained, among which 127,855 were polymorphic SLAF markers and 38,908 could be used for genetic map construction, and the effective polymorphism of the parents was 5.29%. Moreover, we constructed a total of 17 linkage groups, with 6181 markers in the QTL mapping, the total map distance was 2608.66 cM, the marker integrity in the figure above was 99%, the proportion of double exchange was 0.05, the sequencing depth of the parents was 42.455 × , and the progeny was 9.24 × . The relationship of traits (plant height, stem diameter, disk diameter, number of petals, leaf number, stigma color, petal color, petiole color) and QTL mapping was closely related to show the best of ornamental effect.
Currency Carry, Momentum, and Global Interest Rate Volatility
Authors: Zeng Ming
Published: December 2023

Returns to currency carry and momentum compensate for the risk of global interest rate volatility (IRV), with risk exposures explaining 92% of the cross-sectional return variations. This unified explanation stems from its impact on foreign exchange intermediaries. An intermediary-based exchange rate model shows that a higher global IRV increases the uncertainty of future risk-taking and tightens current financial constraints. Position unwinding triggers loss of carry and momentum. Additional empirical results confirm this economic channel. Global IRV risk is also negatively priced in other currency strategies and momentum. The explanatory power is not driven by existing measures of uncertainty or intermediary constraints.
Identification of candidate genes involved with dicamba resistance in waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus) via transcriptomics analyses
Authors: Bobadilla Lucas K. , Tranel Patrick J.
Published: December 2023

Waterhemp [Amaranthus tuberculatus (Moq.) Sauer] is one of the most troublesome weeds in the United States. An A. tuberculatus population (CHR) was identified in Illinois, USA, as resistant to herbicides from six different site-of-action groups. Recently, the same population was also recognized as dicamba resistant. This study aimed to identify key resistance genes and the putative dicamba resistance mechanism in A. tuberculatus via transcriptomics analysis. Multiple differentially expressed (DE) genes and co-expression gene modules were identified as associated with dicamba resistance. Specifically, genes encoding glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), ATP-binding cassette transporters, peroxidases, and uridine diphosphate (UDP)-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) were identified. Results indicated enhanced oxidative stress tolerance as the primary mechanism for reducing dicamba toxicity. Results also point to potential glycosylation via UGTs and conjugation via GSTs of dicamba and its by-products. This is the first transcriptomics characterization of dicamba resistance in A. tuberculatus. Multiple non-target-site resistance genes were identified, indicating a cross-resistance pattern in the CHR population leading to a putative-enhanced oxidative stress response. Regions of multiple DE genes (i.e., genomic hot spots) across the A. tuberculatus genome corroborate previous results and potentially add to the complexity of non-target-site resistance traits.
Ionospheric Response to Solar EUV Radiation Variations Using GOLD Observations and the CTIPe Model
Authors: Vaishnav Rajesh , Jacobi Christoph , Berdermann Jens , Schmölter Erik , Dühnen Hanna , Codrescu Mihail
Published: December 2023

To understand the global response of thermospheric‐ionospheric (TI) parameters to variations in solar irradiance measurements from the Global‐Scale Observations of the Limb and Disk (GOLD) ultraviolet imaging spectrograph, solar radio flux F10.7, predictions from the Coupled Thermosphere Ionosphere Plasmasphere electrodynamics (CTIPe) model, and International Global Navigation Satellite System Service total electron content maps (TEC) have been used. Various parameters such as GOLD O/N2, O2, and the nighttime peak electron density (Nmax) have been compared with the CTIPe model simulations. The GOLD observed Nmax shows a number of significant features including a winter anomaly and an equatorial ionization anomaly. The comparison with solar proxies showed that the GOLD QEUV correlates very well with the EUV observations compared to the F10.7 index. The study also examined the relationship between the solar proxies and Nmax on different time scales and found that Nmax responded significantly to QEUV at both medium‐ and long‐term timescales. Furthermore, a low correlation between Nmax in the equatorial region and solar proxies was found. A delayed ionospheric TEC response against solar flux variations within the 27‐day solar rotation was investigated. This ionospheric delay of TEC with respect to solar flux was observed to be less than 1 day, which was reproduced in model simulations. The current study has shown that the GOLD observations can be used to investigate the delayed ionospheric response and to gain a better understanding of the influence of solar activity on the TI system.
The Impact of Climatic Conditions, Human Activities, and Catchment Characteristics on the Propagation From Meteorological to Agricultural and Hydrological Droughts in China
Authors: Cheng Xing , Xu Yuyue , Chen Jianli , Liu Qing
Published: December 2023

Droughts are one of the most frequent and destructive natural disasters worldwide. In the past decades, drought events in China are frequent and caused severe socio‐economic losses. To better predict and manage droughts, the spatiotemporal characteristics of the three types of droughts and propagation time (PT) from meteorological to agricultural and hydrological droughts in China during 1982–2014 were analyzed based on drought indices, while the causes of drought propagation were discussed. The results showed that meteorological droughts exhibited an insignificant trend. Agricultural droughts mainly aggravated in the northeastern and central regions. And the hydrological droughts were long‐lasting and exacerbated in most areas. The propagation speed from meteorological to agricultural and hydrological droughts was extremely rapid (1–2 months) in southeast China, and the relationships among droughts were close (correlation coefficient/R > 0.6). The propagation from meteorological to hydrological droughts was slower (6–8 months) in central China. In northwest China, the association between meteorological and hydrological droughts was weak (R < 0.4). Climatic conditions (especially temperature) played a dominant role in the propagation from meteorological to agricultural and hydrological droughts, explaining 63.3% and 52.6% of the variations in the PT, respectively. Urbanization, agricultural activities, elevation, and vegetation contributed to the propagation from meteorological to agricultural droughts. Reservoirs, agricultural activities, and vegetation also affected the propagation from meteorological to hydrological droughts by regulating hydrological processes. These findings are of vital significance to the prediction, warning, and management of different droughts.
A prospective cohort study of periostin as a serum biomarker in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis treated with nintedanib
Authors: Okamoto Masaki , Fujimoto Kiminori , Johkoh Takeshi , Kawaguchi Atsushi , Mukae Hiroshi , Sakamoto Noriho , Ogura Takashi , Ikeda Satoshi , Kondoh Yasuhiro , Yamano Yasuhiko , Komiya Kosaku , Umeki Kenji , Nishikiori Hirotaka , Tanino Yoshinori , Tsuda Toru , Arai Naoki , Komatsu Masamichi , Sakamoto Susumu , Yatera Kazuhiro , Inoue Yoshikazu , Miyazaki Yasunari , Hashimoto Seishu , Shimizu Yasuo , Hozumi Hironao , Ohnishi Hiroshi , Handa Tomohiro , Hattori Noboru , Kishaba Tomoo , Kato Motoyasu , Inomata Minoru , Ishii Hiroshi , Hamada Naoki , Konno Satoshi , Zaizen Yoshiaki , Azuma Arata , Suda Takafumi , Izuhara Kenji , Hoshino Tomoaki
Published: December 2023

This study investigated the utility of periostin, a matricellular protein, as a prognostic biomarker in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) who received nintedanib. Monomeric and total periostin levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 87 eligible patients who participated in a multicenter prospective study. Forty-three antifibrotic drug-naive patients with IPF described in previous studies were set as historical controls. Monomeric and total periostin levels were not significantly associated with the change in forced vital capacity (FVC) or diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) during any follow-up period. Higher monomeric and total periostin levels were independent risk factors for overall survival in the Cox proportional hazard model. In the analysis of nintedanib effectiveness, higher binarized monomeric periostin levels were associated with more favorable suppressive effects on decreased vital capacity (VC) and DLCO in the treatment group compared with historical controls. Higher binarized levels of total periostin were associated with more favorable suppressive effects on decreased DLCO but not VC. In conclusion, higher periostin levels were independently associated with survival and better therapeutic effectiveness in patients with IPF treated with nintedanib. Periostin assessments may contribute to determining therapeutic strategies for patients with IPF.
Increased sodium fluorescein transport by corticosteroids is inhibited by a LAT-1 specific inhibitor in retinal pigment epithelial cells in vitro
Authors: Misawa Norihiko , Honda Shigeru
Published: December 2023

To investigate whether aldosterone (ALD) and hydrocortisone (HC) change the gene expression of SLC7A5, which encodes the large neutral amino acid transporter small subunit 1 (LAT1), and the transport activity of LAT1 in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in vitro. ARPE-19 cells were grown to confluence. After withdrawing the serum, ALD or HC was added with several doses and incubated, and SLC7A5 gene expression was measured. The influx and efflux transport of sodium fluorescein (Na-F) were evaluated using the Transwell culture system. SLC7A5 gene expression was upregulated by ALD and downregulated by HC in a dose-dependent manner. Both ALD and HC significantly increased the influx and efflux Na-F transport of RPE cells at a dose that did not change the expression of SLC7A5. JPH203, a specific inhibitor of LAT1, significantly reduced accelerated Na-F transport. Both ALD and HC increased the gene expression of zonula occludin-1 (ZO-1) although they did not change the immunoreactivity of ZO-1 in RPE cells. LAT1 may play an important role in increasing Na-F transport associated with ALD and HC administration. A specific LAT1 inhibitor may effectively regulate the increased material transport of RPE induced by ALD and HC.
Biomechanical study of posterior cruciate ligament tibial arrest avulsion fracture fixation with triple tibial channel net sutures
Authors: Li Yuan , Liu Jun-Cai , Wu Ju , Peng Xu , Sun Guan-Jun , Li Zhong , Yin Yi
Published: December 2023

To investigate the biomechanical properties of posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures of the tibia fixed using four different methods, including triple tibial channel net suture fixation. In 40 porcine knees, a standardized bony avulsion of the posterior cruciate ligament was generated. Double tibial bone channel suture fixation was performed in group A, double-head hollow compression screw fixation was performed in group B, triple tibial bone channel net suture fixation was performed in group C, and cortical suspension EndoButton fixation was performed in group D. The constructs were cyclically loaded 500 times (10 to 100 N) to measure the initial displacement and stiffness values. Subsequently, loading to failure was performed, and the yield load and peak load were measured. The results were analysed by one-way ANOVA, with significance set at P < 0.05. The initial displacement in group D (1.00 ± 0.20 mm) was lower than that in group C (1.46 ± 0.33 mm, P = 0.000), group B (1.91 ± 1.71 mm, P = 0.000) and group A (3.91 ± 0.79 mm, P = 0.000), but there was no significant difference between groups B and C (P = 0.055). The initial stiffness in group A (50.59 ± 6.89 N/mm) was lower than that in group C (67.21 ± 12.80 N/mm, P = 0.001), group D (71.18 ± 9.20 N/mm, P = 0.000) and group B (78.67 ± 5.91 N/mm, P = 0.000). However, there was no significant difference between groups B and D or between groups C and D (P = 0.111 and P = 0.391). The yield load in group A (554.86 ± 71.43 N) was lower than that in group C (767.00 ± 34.53 N, P = 0.000), group D (777.62 ± 73.03 N, P = 0.000) and group B (837.50 ± 55.73 N, P = 0.000). There was no significant difference between groups C and D (P = 0.729). The peak load in group A (667.38 ± 61.54 N) was lower than that in group C (842.00 ± 26.20 N, P = 0.000), group D (867.63 ± 63.42 N, P = 0.000) and group B (901.25 ± 54.38 N, P = 0.000). There was no significant difference between groups C and D (P = 0.346). Different failure modes were found among the four groups. The triple tibial bone channel suture fixation group showed better initial stability and fixation strength, which was comparable to that in the cortical suspension EndoButton fixation group and double-head hollow compression screw fixation group and significantly stronger than that in the double tibial bone channel suture fixation group. This study analysed the dynamic and static indexes of posterior cruciate ligament tibial avulsion fractures fixed by four different fixation methods under cyclic loading tests and single failure loading tests, providing a theoretical basis for clinical treatment.
A phase shift keying modulator integrated single‐feed circular polarization agile array antenna
Authors: Phyoe Thet Paing , Hasan Maodudul , Nishiyama Eisuke , Toyoda Ichihiko
Published: December 2023

This paper proposes a novel design of a circular polarization agile array antenna using two phase shift keying (PSK) modulators. The proposed antenna includes four dual linear polarization microstrip patch antenna elements, two PSK modulators, two quarter‐wavelength slot transmission lines, microstrip‐slot line transitions, and a single feed network. The PSK modulator generates phase switching of either 180° or 0° of the vertical signals of each antenna element with the aid of the four diodes. The quarter‐wavelength slot transmission lines are added to adjust the 90° phase difference between orthogonal signals of the array antenna. By controlling the PSK modulators, the proposed antenna can achieve dual circular polarization switching capabilities. A prototype antenna is used to demonstrate the antenna concept. The measured results confirm the concept with a good agreement between the simulated and measured performances. The proposed antenna has no complex circuits for RF and DC signals, and it provides a compact structure.
A Tool to Identify and Engage Patients on Risky Opioid Regimens
Authors: Griffin Ashley C. , Perez Taryn , Avoundjian Tigran , Becker William , Midboe Amanda M.
Published: December 2023

Background Concerns around opioid safety for patients living with chronic pain have led to a growing number of collaborative and multimodal pain care initiatives. A major challenge in these efforts has been identifying and engaging patients on high-risk opioid regimens in a timely manner.

Objectives In this clinical informatics case report, we describe the development and implementation of a web-based tool to support providers as they implement an integrated pain support clinical initiative at primary care clinics across three health care systems.

Methods The tool identifies patients on risky opioid medication regimens and generates autopopulated patient outreach letters. It contains three core functions that: (1) identify patients prescribed high-dose opioids or coprescribed opioids and benzodiazepines, (2) generate automated letters for patients with an upcoming primary care appointment, and (3) allow clinic staff to write back to a database to track outreach and referrals. Qualitative stakeholder feedback was gathered through interviews and user testing to assess perceived usefulness and ease of use of the tool.

Results Over a 24-month period, the tool identified 1,125 patients prescribed risky medication regimens and generated 1,315 total letters as some patients became reeligible. Stakeholder feedback revealed that the tool was useful to quickly find patients on risky medication regimens and efficient in generating prepopulated letters that could be mailed in large batches. Additional feedback led to iterative refinements and improved system capabilities that varied across clinics.

Conclusion Deploying clinical informatics tools that prioritize, engage, and track high-risk patient populations supports reduction of risky medication regimens. Such tools can reduce workload burden on busy primary care staff, particularly during implementation studies, and enhance patient-centered care through the use of direct-to-consumer outreach.
Battery equalization improves efficiency, safety, and lifespan for powering electric vehicles
Authors: Johnson-Groh Mara
Published: December 2023

Cuk circuits combined with a flyback transformer allows batteries in series to be quickly and efficiently equalized.
Expert Evidence and Digital Open Source Information
Authors: Gillett Matthew , Fan Wallace
Published: December 2023

Digital open source information (DOSI) has emerged as a significant source of evidence for the International Criminal Court (‘the Court’) and other jurisdictions applying international criminal law. However, its use in litigation raises questions about who can be considered an expert in DOSI and what methods and safeguards they should adopt. This article examines how the Court can receive DOSI via expert evidence while maintaining rigorous fact-finding standards. It addresses challenges that DOSI introduces to the paradigm of expert testimony, including the lack of an overarching formalized system of DOSI accreditation, the typically group-based nature of DOSI investigations and the scope for misinterpretations and biases to result in erroneous conclusions. It proposes a novel six-factor test for the Court’s identification of sufficiently qualified DOSI specialists as expert witnesses. At the same time, it highlights that DOSI specialists should utilize transparent, accessible and replicable methodologies, with quality control feedback loops, peer review processes and bias controls. The aim of the article is to facilitate the use of DOSI evidence to resolve atrocity crimes cases, while also maintaining rigorous fact-finding standards and conforming with due process and fair trial rights.
Current assessment and management of measurable residual disease in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in the setting of CAR-T-cell therapy
Authors: Lin Minghao , Zhao Xiaosu , Chang Yingjun , Zhao Xiangyu
Published: December 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T-cell therapy has achieved remarkable success in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Measurable/minimal residual disease (MRD) monitoring plays a significant role in the prognostication and management of patients undergoing CAR-T-cell therapy. Common MRD detection methods include flow cytometry (FCM), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and next-generation sequencing (NGS), and each method has advantages and limitations. It has been well documented that MRD positivity predicts a poor prognosis and even disease relapse. Thus, how to perform prognostic evaluations, stratify risk based on MRD status, and apply MRD monitoring to guide individual therapeutic decisions have important implications in clinical practice. This review assesses the common and novel MRD assessment methods. In addition, we emphasize the critical role of MRD as a prognostic biomarker and summarize the latest studies regarding MRD-directed combination therapy with CAR-T-cell therapy and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT), as well as other therapeutic strategies to improve treatment effect. Furthermore, this review discusses current challenges and strategies for MRD detection in the setting of disease relapse after targeted therapy.