bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ZNF384 fusion transcript levels for measurable residual disease monitoring in adult B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Shi Zong‐Yan , Wang Xu , Chen Wen‐Min , Li Ling‐Di , Hao Yue , Li Jin‐Ying , Sun Kai , Zhao Xiao‐Su , Jiang Hao , Jiang Qian , Huang Xiao‐Jun , Qin Ya‐Zhen
Published: January 2024

Zinc finger protein 384 (ZNF384) rearrangement defined a novel subtype of B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL). The prognostic significance of ZNF384 fusion transcript levels represented measurable residual disease remains to be explored. ZNF384 fusions were screened out in 57 adult B‐ALL patients at diagnosis by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and their transcript levels were serially monitored during treatment. The reduction of ZNF384 fusion transcript levels at the time of achieving complete remission had no significant impact on survival, whereas its ≥2.5‐log reduction were significantly associated with higher relapse free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) rates after course 1 consolidation (p = 0.022 and = 0.0083) and course 2 consolidation (p = 0.0025 and = 0.0008). Compared with chemotherapy alone, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) significantly improved RFS and OS of patients with <2.5‐log reduction after course 1 consolidation (p < 0.0001 and = 0.0002) and course 2 consolidation (p = 0.0003 and = 0.019), whereas exerted no significant effects in patients with ≥2.5‐log reduction (all p > 0.05). ZNF384 fusion transcript levels after course 1 and course 2 consolidation strongly predict relapse and survival and may guide whether receiving allo‐HSCT in adult B‐ALL.
Association between glucocorticoid receptor beta and steroid resistance: A systematic review
Authors: Hasan Md. Mojahidur , Tory Sehreen
Published: January 2024

Background

Glucocorticoids are the most commonly used anti‐inflammatory drugs for a variety of diseases, despite the fact that resistance to them is growing in a number of conditions. There is currently no biomarker that can be used to identify steroid resistance. According to a number of studies, an overexpression of the glucocorticoid receptor beta (GR‐β) isoform is associated with steroid‐resistant illness. Our goal is to find out whether or not steroid‐resistant disorders are associated with an increased level of GR‐β expression.

Methods

We conducted searches in the databases of Web of Science and PubMed until January 17, 2023. This systematic review was done according to the preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. The Joanna Briggs Institute Appraisal scale was used to assess the quality of the included studies.

Results

After the initial search, we identified 556 papers and finally included 20 studies. Twelve of these studies found an elevated level of GR‐β in the steroid resistant group. All five studies on asthma, two out of three on nasal polyps, both studies on ulcerative colitis found an up regulation of GR‐β in steroid resistant group as compared to steroid‐sensitive groups. GR‐β was also shown to be elevated in patients with allergic rhinitis, Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis. In the majority of the investigations, higher levels of GR‐β were identified in peripheral blood mononuclear cells through the use of reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Conclusion

GR‐β was associated with steroid‐resistant diseases. It was overexpressed in steroid‐resistant diseases and has the potential to be used as a biomarker for disorders involving steroid resistance.
Ocular toxicity associated with anti‐HER2 agents in breast cancer: A pharmacovigilance analysis using the FAERS database
Authors: Chen Heng , Yang Guoping , Ma Junlong
Published: January 2024

Anti‐human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) agents have exhibited pronounced tumor‐inhibitory activity, yet the accompanying ocular toxicity has frequently been underestimated. We aim to conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis of ocular toxicity risk related to various anti‐HER2 agents. We executed a retrospective pharmacovigilance investigation based on the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database, covering the period from Q2 2018 to Q1 2023. The disproportionality analysis was performed to assess ocular toxicity risk. Multivariate logistic regression was implemented to mitigate potential biases. Moreover, the time to onset of ocular toxicity was also evaluated. A total of 3467 ocular adverse event (AE) reports concerning anti‐HER2 agents were collected. At the preferred term (PT) level, there were 69 positive signals, among which excessive eye blinking, abnormal sensation in the eye, and asthenopia presented a significant risk. In comparison to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), antibody drugs were associated with a broader range of ocular disorders at Standardized MedDRA Queries (SMQ)levels, including conjunctival disorders, corneal disorders, ocular infections, ocular motility disorders, optic nerve disorders, and retinal disorders. In terms of onset time, pertuzumab displayed an earlier onset at 21.5 days, while trastuzumab deruxtecan had the latest at 91.5 days. In summary, our study reveals varying degrees of ocular toxicity related to anti‐HER2 agents, with a significantly higher risk observed in antibody drugs. Additionally, novel ocular toxicity signals, not documented in product labels, have been detected. In the future, further research will be necessary to validate our findings.
Quantitative imaging of dynamic myocardial blood flow using dual‐head rapidly rotating gantry single‐photon emission computed tomography to enhance coronary artery disease diagnosis
Authors: Bai Yongli , Bai Bingyue , Miao Gang , Wang Wenzhi , Wang Longmei , Ma Dan , Shi Wenjing
Published: January 2024

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of myocardial blood flow (MBF) and myocardial flow reserve (MFR) for diagnosing coronary artery disease (CAD) using dynamic single‐photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) with a dual‐head rapidly rotating gantry (RRG) and to compare this method with conventional myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI), which can be obtained in a one‐stop manner.

Methods

A total of 93 patients with suspected or confirmed CAD who underwent RRG SPECT/CT were retrospectively enrolled. They underwent invasive coronary angiography (ICA) and conventional MPI within 3 weeks. Based on the ICA results, the performance of MBF quantitative and semi‐quantitative parameters were compared at patient and vessel levels using ≥50% and ≥75% stenosis as the criteria for CAD diagnosis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of two types of parameters.

Results

For patient‐level analysis, the area under ROC curves (AUCs) for stress MBF (sMBF), MFR, summed stress score (SSS), and summed different score (SDS) were 0.971, 0.939, 0.612, and 0.546, respectively, for ≥50% stenosis as positive, and were 0.983, 0.932, 0.735, and 0.509, respectively, for ≥75% stenosis as positive criteria. For vessel‐level analysis, the AUCs of sMBF, MFR, SSS, and SDS were 0.981, 0.933, 0.636, and 0.560, respectively, for ≥50% stenosis as positive and were 0.984, 0.933, 0.767, and 0.583, respectively, for ≥75% stenosis as positive criteria.

Conclusions

Compared with semi‐quantitative parameters of conventional MPI, MBF quantitative parameters of dual‐head RRG SPECT had higher diagnostic performance for CAD.
Preliminary investigation of objective and subjective experiences of relatives of individuals with hoarding behaviors
Authors: Mayes Tina L. , Dozier Mary E. , Davidson Eliza J. , Rosenfarb Irwin F. , Bratiotis Christiana , Ayers Catherine R.
Published: January 2024

Objective

Families of individuals with hoarding symptoms report substantial burden; however, there has been no investigation of potential positive experiences. The objective of this study was to examine the experiences reported by individuals with a relative with elevated hoarding symptoms using a cross‐sectional design. The current investigation expands on the literature in this area by incorporating a detailed interview of experiences in conjunction with validated measures of hoarding symptomology.

Methods

Twenty‐nine adults with relatives with elevated hoarding symptoms completed self‐report measures of hoarding severity for themselves and their relative and a clinician‐administered assessment of their experiences with their family member with hoarding symptoms.

Results

Participants endorsed significant burden across a range of areas, including permanent changes in their daily routine. The majority (93%) of participants reported at least one positive experience, with 69% endorsing companionship as a benefit of the relationship. Greater symptom severity of the relative with hoarding symptoms was associated with greater subjective burden and decreased positive experiences.

Conclusion

Our results add further evidence to the potential for interpersonal psychotherapy to lead to a reduction in hoarding symptomology.
GULP1 deficiency reduces adipogenesis and glucose uptake via downregulation of PPAR signaling and disturbing of insulin/ERK signaling in 3T3‐L1 cells
Authors: Kim Soon‐Young , Park Seung‐Yoon , Kim Jung‐Eun
Published: January 2024

Obesity and metabolic disorders caused by alterations in lipid metabolism are major health issues in developed, affluent societies. Adipose tissue is the only organ that stores lipids and prevents lipotoxicity in other organs. Mature adipocytes can affect themselves and distant metabolism‐related tissues by producing various adipokines, including adiponectin and leptin. The engulfment adaptor phosphotyrosine‐binding domain‐containing 1 (GULP1) regulates intracellular trafficking of glycosphingolipids and cholesterol, suggesting its close association with lipid metabolism. However, the role of GULP1 in adipocytes remains unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the function of GULP1 in adipogenesis, glucose uptake, and the insulin signaling pathway in adipocytes. A 3T3‐L1 cell line with Gulp1 knockdown (shGulp1) and a 3T3‐L1 control group (U6) were established. Changes in shGulp1 cells due to GULP1 deficiency were examined and compared to those in U6 cells using microarray analysis. Glucose uptake was monitored via insulin stimulation in shGulp1 and U6 cells using a 2‐NBDG glucose uptake assay, and the insulin signaling pathway was investigated by western blot analysis. Adipogenesis was significantly delayed, lipid metabolism was altered, and several adipogenesis‐related genes were downregulated in shGulp1 cells compared to those in U6 cells. Microarray analysis revealed significant inhibition of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor signaling in shGulp1 cells compared with U6 cells. The production and secretion of adiponectin as well as the expression of adiponectin receptor were decreased in shGulp1 cells. In particular, compared with U6 cells, glucose uptake via insulin stimulation was significantly decreased in shGulp1 cells through the disturbance of ERK1/2 phosphorylation. This is the first study to identify the role of GULP1 in adipogenesis and insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake by adipocytes, thereby providing new insights into the differentiation and functions of adipocytes and the metabolism of lipids and glucose, which can help better understand metabolic diseases.
Evaluation of the type of fetal umblical‐portal anastomosis in late‐onset fetal growth restriction: A case–control study
Authors: Kaymak Didem , Madazli Riza
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the type of umbilical‐portal anastomosis in late‐onset fetal growth restriction (LO‐FGR) and appropriate for gestational age (AGA) fetuses. To investigate the impact of the type of umbilical‐portal anastomosis on the adverse outcomes in LO‐FGR.

Method

This study observed 150 pregnancies with AGA fetuses and 62 pregnancies with fetuses with LO‐FGR. In each case, the point of reference for measuring the abdominal circumference was established. The type of umbilical‐portal anastomosis was evaluated as T‐shaped, X‐shaped, and H‐shaped according to the shape of main portal vein and portal sinus. Incidences of the type of umbilical‐portal anastomosis in AGA and LO‐FGR fetuses were evaluated.

Results

T‐shaped anastomosis was the most common (56.7%) in the AGA group and X‐shaped (66.1%) in the LO‐FGR group. In LO‐FGR, T‐shape anastomosis was significantly lower and X‐shape anastomosis was significantly higher than AGA (p < 0.001). X‐shaped anastomosis was associated with LO‐FGR and the RR was 2.3 (95% CI 1.5–3.6; p < 0.001). Incidences of admission to NICU and emergency C/S for fetal distress were higher in fetuses with X ‐shaped anastomosis in the LO‐FGR (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

X‐shaped umbilical‐portal anastomosis have a prognostic significance in LO‐FGR fetuses.
Are MOOCs a new way of learning in engineering education in light of the literature? A systematic review and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Turan Zeynep , Yilmaz Rabia Meryem
Published: January 2024

Background

Massive open online courses (MOOCs) have gained popularity as a form of distance education, highlighting the need for additional research. Various studies have systematically examined scholarly research on MOOCs. However, the reviewed academic publications on the use of MOOCs in engineering education are limited.

Purpose/Hypothesis(es)

This study aims to examine the implementation of MOOCs in engineering education using systematic review and bibliometric analysis methods.

Design/Method

This study examines 68 studies from the Web of Science database that fall within the scope of the systematic review and 257 studies for bibliometric analysis.

Results

Since 2018, there has been a growing number of studies exploring the uses of MOOCs in engineering education. The quantitative research method is the most preferred, while the mixed method is the least preferred. The study found that using MOOCs in engineering education resulted in positive student perceptions and satisfaction. However, the lack of interactivity between learners and instructors or among learners was the most frequently reported problem. Moreover, the bibliometric analysis indicates that reviewed studies extensively explore learners' engagement, interactions, and feedback processes. Recently, academic research focused on sentiment analysis, deep learning, educational technology, machine learning, and text mining.

Conclusions

There is a need for further investigation into utilizing MOOCs in engineering education. This study's evaluation of MOOCs' pros and cons yields essential insights for optimizing their use in engineering education. By leveraging the positive aspects outlined in the study, educators can enhance engineering students' satisfaction and participation in MOOCs. These findings offer a valuable resource for researchers exploring MOOC‐related topics in engineering education.
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided biopsy using a three‐prong asymmetry tip needle for pancreatic tumors and peridigestive tract lesions: Retrospective single‐center study
Authors: Shionoya Kento , Tonozuka Ryosuke , Mukai Shuntaro , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Tanaka Reina , Yamamoto Kenjiro , Nagai Kazumasa , Mastunami Yukitoshi , Kojima Hiroyuki , Itoi Takao
Published: January 2024

Background

Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition is vital for diagnosing pancreatic and peridigestive tract lesions. A new three‐prong asymmetry tip needle has been developed for this procedure. In this study, we retrospectively assessed the diagnostic ability, tissue collection volume, and procedural adverse events of the three‐prong asymmetry tip needle for solid pancreatic, subepithelial, and other organ lesions.

Methods

We analyzed the data of 58 consecutive patients who underwent endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition using a three‐prong asymmetry tip needle between August 2022 and April 2023 at a single care center.

Results

The tissue collection rate was 91.4% with 89.7% accuracy, 89.3% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% positive predictive value, and 25% negative predictive value. No significant differences in collection rates or diagnostic performance were observed based on the target organ, puncture route, or lesion size. Using our original assessment method, the average histological core tissue score was 3.1 ± 0.8, whereas the blood contamination volume was 2.5 ± 0.8. Only one of 58 patients (1.7%) developed a pancreatic fistula of moderate severity as an adverse event.

Conclusions

The three‐prong asymmetry tip needle demonstrated good diagnostic capability and adequate sample volume with safety for pancreatic, subepithelial, and other organ lesions.
Altered neurovascular coupling in migraine without aura
Authors: Zhou Qichen , Zhang Chao , Du Jiaxin , Xin Ziyue , Qi Yapeng , Wang Yihan , Li Shen‐Jie , Wang Weikan , Zhou Chenglin , Liu Jian‐Ren , Du Xiaoxia
Published: January 2024

Neurovascular coupling (NVC) provides new insights into migraine, a neurological disorder impacting over one billion people worldwide. This study compared NVC and cerebral blood flow (CBF) in patients with migraine without aura (MwoA) and healthy controls. About 55 MwoA patients in the interictal phase and 40 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls underwent resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging and arterial spin‐labeling perfusion imaging scans. The CBF and resting‐state neuronal activity indicators, including the amplitudes of low‐frequency fluctuation (ALFF), regional homogeneity (ReHo), and degree centrality (DC), were calculated for each participant. The global and regional NVCs were assessed using cross‐voxel CBF‐neuronal activity correlations and CBF/neuronal activity ratios. Patients with MwoA showed increased CBF/ALFF ratios in the left media, superior and inferior frontal gyri, and anterior cingulate gyrus, increased CBF/DC ratios in the left middle and inferior frontal gyri, and increased CBF/ReHo ratios in the right corpus callosum and right posterior cingulate gyrus. Lower CBF/ALFF ratios in the right rectal gyrus, the left orbital gyrus, the right inferior frontal gyrus, and the right superior temporal gyrus were also found in the MwoA patients. Furthermore, the CBF/ALFF ratios in the inferior frontal and superior temporal gyri were positively correlated with the Headache Impact Test scores and Hamilton anxiety scale scores in the MwoA patients. These findings provide evidence for the theory that abnormal NVC contributes to MwoA.
Configuration and timing of the postglacial marine incursion along the eastern Ungava Peninsula (Nunavik, Canada): implications for deglaciation models
Authors: Lefebvre‐Fortier Claudie , Roy Martin , Dubé‐Loubert Hugo , Brouard Etienne , Schaefer Joerg M.
Published: January 2024

The final deglaciation stages of the Laurentide Ice Sheet in northern Quebec–Labrador were marked by the incursion of the d'Iberville Sea into the coastal areas of Ungava Bay. Remote and field mapping of raised marine strandlines along the Ungava Peninsula east coast show that the maximum marine limit decreases from south (165 m) to north (100 m), reflecting differential uplift linked to an ice mass remnant located to the southwest of the bay. Reconstruction of the uppermost marine limit in two east–west transects extending into the Peninsula interior reveals distinct sea‐level stands with limited extents towards the west, indicating that the early stages of the marine incursion occurred in contact with the ice margin. The reconstruction also identifies the maximum eastward extent of ice‐dammed lakes that occupied the Arnaud River and Aux‐Feuilles River valleys. 10Be surface exposure dating of marine strandlines yielded consistent 10Be ages that indicate a rapid deglaciation of Ungava Bay between 8900 ± 200 a (north) and 7900 ± 200 a (south). These results provide constraints on the position of the Labrador Sector eastern and western ice margins during the late deglaciation, in addition to the timing of ice and meltwater discharges from the Ungava Bay region.
Do Maternal Heart Diseases Affect Fetal Cardiac Functions?
Authors: Okutucu Gulcan , Oluklu Deniz , Gulen Yildiz Esra , Bastemur Ayse Gulcin , Tanacan Atakan , Kara Ozgur , Şahin Dilek
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To investigate whether fetal cardiac function is affected by underlying heart disease in pregnant women.

Methods

A total of 100 pregnant women who were ≥34 gestational weeks were included in the study, 40 in the maternal heart disease (MHD) group diagnosed with heart disease and 60 in the control group. All cardiac diseases in pregnant women were diagnosed preconceptionally and categorized according to the New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification system. Fetal cardiac functions of study groups were evaluated by M‐mode, color tissue Doppler imaging (c‐TDI), and pulsed wave Doppler.

Results

Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and myocardial performance index (MPI) values were significantly higher and isovolumetric relaxation time was prolonged in the MHD group. The MPI value was found higher in MHD group with NYHA Class II compared to those with NYHA Class I. No significant change in any of the fetal tricuspid annular peak velocity values measured by c‐TDI in the MHD group. There were no differences in fetal cardiac functions and perinatal outcomes between pregnant women with acquired and congenital heart diseases. Patients in NYHA Class II had lower birth weight, 1st and 5th minute APGAR scores, and higher neonatal intensive care unit admission rates.

Conclusions

Underlying heart diseases in pregnant women can cause alterations in the systolic and diastolic function of the fetal heart. High fetal MPI values detected in cardiac patients may indicate that cardiac pathologies during pregnancy affect fetal cardiac globular myocardial function. Cardiac pathologies that progress with restricted physical activity may cause changes in fetal cardiac function and may be associated with adverse perinatal outcomes.
Electrochemical impedance study of corrosion of pure Ni, Fe, Cr, and Fe‐5Cr alloy in molten nitrides
Authors: Zhao Guangyao , Han Yu , Yang Lingxu , Wang Ying , Zeng Chaoliu
Published: January 2024

Molten nitrates or nitrate–nitrite mixtures have been used as heat transfer fluid as well as thermal energy storage medium in concentrated solar power plants and other industrial applications. However, containment materials in contact with these molten salts are subjected to molten salt corrosion, which has been a concern over the years. In this investigation, the corrosion behavior of pure Ni, Fe, Cr, and Fe‐5Cr alloy (in weight percent) has been examined at 400°C in molten nitrates using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and gravimetric tests. It is shown that Ni, Fe, and Fe‐5Cr exhibit mass gain, with the best corrosion resistance for Ni followed by Fe‐5Cr and Fe, while pure Cr goes through fast dissolution, forming hexavalent chromium product K3Na(CrO4)2. The increase of salt basicity from Solar Salt to Hitec could accelerate the dissolution of Cr. Nevertheless, the formation of an inner Cr‐containing scale could still offer the alloy good protection because the external insoluble Ni or Fe oxides can protect it from dissolution.
Large‐Scale Screening: Phenotypic and Mutational Spectrum in Isolated and Combined Dystonia Genes
Authors: Thomsen Mirja , Marth Katrin , Loens Sebastian , Everding Judith , Junker Johanna , Borngräber Friederike , Ott Fabian , Jesús Silvia , Gelderblom Mathias , Odorfer Thorsten , Kuhlenbäumer Gregor , Kim Han‐Joon , Schaeffer Eva , Becktepe Jos , Kasten Meike , Brüggemann Norbert , Pfister Robert , Kollewe Katja , Krauss Joachim K. , Lohmann Ebba , Hinrichs Frauke , Berg Daniela , Jeon Beomseok , Busch Hauke , Altenmüller Eckart , Mir Pablo , Kamm Christoph , Volkmann Jens , Zittel Simone , Ferbert Andreas , Zeuner Kirsten E. , Rolfs Arndt , Bauer Peter , Kühn Andrea A. , Bäumer Tobias , Klein Christine , Lohmann Katja
Published: January 2024

Background

Pathogenic variants in several genes have been linked to genetic forms of isolated or combined dystonia. The phenotypic and genetic spectrum and the frequency of pathogenic variants in these genes have not yet been fully elucidated, neither in patients with dystonia nor with other, sometimes co‐occurring movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objectives

To screen >2000 patients with dystonia or PD for rare variants in known dystonia‐causing genes.

Methods

We screened 1207 dystonia patients from Germany (DysTract consortium), Spain, and South Korea, and 1036 PD patients from Germany for pathogenic variants using a next‐generation sequencing gene panel. The impact on DNA methylation of KMT2B variants was evaluated by analyzing the gene's characteristic episignature.

Results

We identified 171 carriers (109 with dystonia [9.0%]; 62 with PD [6.0%]) of 131 rare variants (minor allele frequency <0.005). A total of 52 patients (48 dystonia [4.0%]; four PD [0.4%, all with GCH1 variants]) carried 33 different (likely) pathogenic variants, of which 17 were not previously reported. Pathogenic biallelic variants in PRKRA were not found. Episignature analysis of 48 KMT2B variants revealed that only two of these should be considered (likely) pathogenic.

Conclusion

This study confirms pathogenic variants in GCH1, GNAL, KMT2B, SGCE, THAP1, and TOR1A as relevant causes in dystonia and expands the mutational spectrum. Of note, likely pathogenic variants only in GCH1 were also found among PD patients. For DYT‐KMT2B, the recently described episignature served as a reliable readout to determine the functional effect of newly identified variants. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Dynamic analysis and optimal control of influenza model with discrete age structure
Authors: Chen Ya , Zhang Juping
Published: January 2024

Age heterogeneity in influenza transmission leads to significant differences in infection risk among different age groups. In this paper, an influenza model with vaccination and discrete age structure is constructed. First, we obtain the basic reproduction number
and prove that the disease‐free equilibrium
is globally stable at
. When
, the disease will persist uniformly, and there is a unique positive equilibrium, which is globally asymptotically stable under certain conditions. The model is used to analyze influenza data from 2016 to 2017 in China. By comparing various prevention and control measures, it can be found that by wearing masks to reduce contact between different age groups, while increasing vaccine coverage and reducing vaccine failure rates, the prevention and control goals can be achieved in the shortest time. However, if only the vaccine coverage rate is increased and the vaccine protection rate is strengthened, the time to reach the control target is 8 months later than the above case, and the cost is the lowest.
Social network learning: Uncertainty, heterogeneity, and the application in principal–agent relationships
Authors: Hong Yilin , Ding Chuan , Liu Peng
Published: January 2024

This paper employs algebraic transformation to describe complex social network learning (SNL) behaviors under continuous expected payoff. Three distinct algorithms are then introduced that factor in uncertainty and heterogeneity. We find that individuals' strategies tend to converge through SNL. We then construct a framework for studying the convergence process in the principal–agent relationship by applying our SNL algorithms to distinct scenarios. Our results show that network topology plays a significant role in changes in the payoffs and the convergence speed of individuals' strategies. We also evaluate the impacts of uncertainty, heterogeneity, agents' output efficiency and risk aversion, and individual's centrality on the effectiveness of SNL.
A finely segmented semi‐monolithic detector tailored for high‐resolution PET
Authors: Kuhl Yannick , Mueller Florian , Naunheim Stephan , Bovelett Matthias , Lambertus Janko , Schug David , Weissler Bjoern , Gegenmantel Eike , Gebhardt Pierre , Schulz Volkmar
Published: January 2024

Background

Preclinical research and organ‐dedicated applications use and require high (spatial‐)resolution positron emission tomography (PET) detectors to visualize small structures (early) and understand biological processes at a finer level of detail. Researchers seeking to improve detector and image spatial resolution have explored various detector designs. Current commercial high‐resolution systems often employ finely pixelated or monolithic scintillators, each with its limitations.

Purpose

We present a semi‐monolithic detector, tailored for high‐resolution PET applications with a spatial resolution in the range of 1 mm or better, merging concepts of monolithic and pixelated crystals. The detector features LYSO slabs measuring (24 × 10 × 1) mm3, coupled to a 12 × 12 readout channel photosensor with 4 mm pitch. The slabs are grouped in two arrays of 44 slabs each to achieve a higher optical photon density despite the fine segmentation.

Methods

We employ a fan beam collimator for fast calibration to train machine‐learning‐based positioning models for all three dimensions, including slab identification and depth‐of‐interaction (DOI), utilizing gradient tree boosting (GTB). The data for all dimensions was acquired in less than 2 h. Energy calculation was based on a position‐dependent energy calibration. Using an analytical timing calibration, time skews were corrected for coincidence timing resolution (CTR) estimation.

Results

Leveraging machine‐learning‐based calibration in all three dimensions, we achieved high detector spatial resolution: down to 1.18 mm full width at half maximum (FWHM) detector spatial resolution and 0.75 mm mean absolute error (MAE) in the planar‐monolithic direction, and 2.14 mm FWHM and 1.03 mm MAE for DOI at an energy window of (435–585) keV. Correct slab interaction identification in planar‐segmented direction exceeded 80%, alongside an energy resolution of 12.7% and a CTR of 450 ps FWHM.

Conclusions

The introduced finely segmented, high‐resolution slab detector demonstrates appealing performance characteristics suitable for high‐resolution PET applications. The current benchtop‐based detector calibration routine allows these detectors to be used in PET systems.
Streamlined pin‐ridge‐filter design for single‐energy proton FLASH planning
Authors: Ma Chaoqiong , Zhou Jun , Chang Chih‐Wei , Wang Yinan , Patel Pretesh R. , Yu David S. , Tian Sibo , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: January 2024

Background

FLASH radiotherapy (FLASH‐RT) with ultra‐high dose rate has yielded promising results in reducing normal tissue toxicity while maintaining tumor control. Planning with single‐energy proton beams modulated by ridge filters (RFs) has been demonstrated feasible for FLASH‐RT.

Purpose

This study explored the feasibility of a streamlined pin‐shaped RF (pin‐RF) design, characterized by coarse resolution and sparsely distributed ridge pins, for single‐energy proton FLASH planning.

Methods

An inverse planning framework integrated within a treatment planning system was established to design streamlined pin RFs for single‐energy FLASH planning. The framework involves generating a multi‐energy proton beam plan using intensity‐modulated proton therapy (IMPT) planning based on downstream energy modulation strategy (IMPT‐DS), followed by a nested pencil‐beam‐direction‐based (PBD‐based) spot reduction process to iteratively reduce the total number of PBDs and energy layers along each PBD for the IMPT‐DS plan. The IMPT‐DS plan is then translated into the pin‐RFs and the single‐energy beam configurations for IMPT planning with pin‐RFs (IMPT‐RF). This framework was validated on three lung cases, quantifying the FLASH dose of the IMPT‐RF plan using the FLASH effectiveness model. The FLASH dose was then compared to the reference dose of a conventional IMPT plan to measure the clinical benefit of the FLASH planning technique.

Results

The IMPT‐RF plans closely matched the corresponding IMPT‐DS plans in high dose conformity (conformity index of <1.2), with minimal changes in V7Gy and V7.4 Gy for the lung (<3%) and small increases in maximum doses (Dmax) for other normal structures (<3.4 Gy). Comparing the FLASH doses to the doses of corresponding IMPT‐RF plans, drastic reductions of up to nearly 33% were observed in Dmax for the normal structures situated in the high‐to‐moderate‐dose regions, while negligible changes were found in Dmax for normal structures in low‐dose regions. Positive clinical benefits were seen in comparing the FLASH doses to the reference doses, with notable reductions of 21.4%–33.0% in Dmax for healthy tissues in the high‐dose regions. However, in the moderate‐to‐low‐dose regions, only marginal positive or even negative clinical benefit for normal tissues were observed, such as increased lung V7Gy and V7.4 Gy (up to 17.6%).

Conclusions

A streamlined pin‐RF design was developed and its effectiveness for single‐energy proton FLASH planning was validated, revealing positive clinical benefits for the normal tissues in the high dose regions. The coarsened design of the pin‐RF demonstrates potential advantages, including cost efficiency and ease of adjustability, making it a promising option for efficient production.
Harmonisation of assessments of attention, social, emotional, and behaviour problems using the Child Behavior Checklist and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire
Authors: Baumann Nicole , Anderson Peter J. , Johnson Samantha , Marlow Neil , Wolke Dieter , Jaekel Julia
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Retrospective harmonisation of data obtained through different instruments creates measurement error, even if the underlying concepts are assumed the same. We tested a novel method for item‐level data harmonisation of two widely used instruments that measure emotional and behavioural problems: the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ).

Methods

Item content of the CBCL and SDQ was mapped onto four dimensions: emotional problems, peer relationship problems, hyperactivity/inattention and conduct problems. A diverse test sample was drawn from four prospective longitudinal birth cohort studies in Australia and Europe who used one or both instruments. The pooled sample included 5188 data points assessing children and adolescents aged 6–13 years (N = 257–704 participants per cohort). Measurement invariance was assessed using latent variable multi‐group confirmatory factor analysis.

Results

Fifteen items from the CBCL and SDQ were mapped onto four dimensions allowing for measurement invariance testing as part of a stepwise process. Partial strict invariance between CBCL and SDQ assessments was established for all four dimensions.

Conclusions

The harmonised dimensions of emotional, peer relationship, hyperactivity/inattention and conduct problems are invariant across the CBCL and SDQ suggesting that these dimensions can be reliably compared with limited measurement error.
Color Capability of RGB Laser Displays
Authors: Bergquist Johan
Published: January 2024

The high color saturation of laser light sources suggests that RGB laser displays should have superior color reproduction, although standardized gamut rings and ISO test images reveal this is not always true, and conventional chromaticity gamut area metrics must be abandoned.
Followership in British Christian churches: A comparative study
Authors: Zigan Krystin , Héliot YingFei G. , Grys Alan Le
Published: January 2024

Emerging research on followership has overwhelmingly been focused on for‐profit organizations. This research investigates four British congregations from different Christian denominations to explore how differing contexts shape the understanding of followership in nonprofit organizations. Using implicit followership theory, we analyze the value sets deriving from theological‐ideological, institutional, and local contexts and explore informants' perceptions of ideal followership attributes. By conducting 26 semi‐structured interviews with three different types of actors, we found that church members found themselves in a dialectic relationship between institutional norms and local settings, which shape the way followership is perceived. In terms of follower attributes, we identified faith‐related and ethical as well as relational attributes to be prevalent. With this research, we advance current understandings of how effective leader‐follower relationships in nonprofit organizations can be formed highlighting the importance of differing contexts for perceiving the role of followers.
Morphological adaptation of expanded vermiculite in polylactic acid and polypropylene matrices for superior thermoplastic composites
Authors: Ariturk Gizem , Bilge Kaan , Seven Senem Avaz , Menceloglu Yusuf Ziya
Published: January 2024

The morphological transformation of expanded vermiculite (VC) during injection molding with brittle PLA and ductile PP polymers along with its positive and negative contribution to mechanical response is investigated. Polymer/VC mixtures with 30 wt. % VC are prepared by thermokinetic high shear mixing at 4000 rpm without any ex‐situ exfoliation agents or compatibilizers. Obtained composite mixtures are then injection molded onto three‐point bending and tensile test specimens. Performed mechanical tests suggested a significant increase in tensile (110%) and flexural modulus (112%) of PP30VC samples. Presented fractographic and morphological investigations suggested that the root cause of measured improved tensile (36%) and bending strength (26%) of PP is the fibrillation of VC associated with PP/VC interactions under high shear. A similarly increasing trend for tensile (147%) and bending modulus (137%) was observed for PLA30VC samples. Contrary to PP30VC, a decreasing pattern was present in the case of tensile (−40%) and bending strength (−13%) of PLA30VC. The root cause for such reduction is determined to be (i) in situ exfoliation of VC inside PLA matrix and transformation of VC into micrometer‐sized platelets; (ii) evaporation of trapped water/crystalline water in the interlayer region of VC which caused in situ degradation of PLA during manufacturing.

Highlights

Vermiculite‐loaded PP and PLA composites are produced at high shear.

Composites have superior modulus compared to neat polymers.

Fibrillation of platelet vermiculite is observed in only the PP matrix.
The improved thermal conductivity and heat dissipation capacity of elastomer‐based thermal interface materials through promoting the surface interactions and complete networks
Authors: Chen Jiaqi , He Rizheng , Chen Hongfeng , Sun Zhijian , Zhang Zhiyi , Liu Yaqing , An Dong , Wong Chingping
Published: January 2024

Polymer‐based thermal interface materials (TIMs) with excellent thermal conductivity and heat dissipation capabilities play a crucial role in addressing the issue of heat accumulation in advanced integrated electronics. However, establishing improved surface interactions and complete networks to enhance efficient phonon transfer remains a significant challenge. To tackle this problem, surface modification and ice‐templating techniques are commonly employed to create the robust interface crosslinks and continuously thermal conductive pathways. Herein, 2‐mercaptobenzimidazole (MB) was used as a reducing and modifying agent to functionalize graphene oxide (rGO‐MB) within the three‐dimensional networks, which was prepared using a combination of hydrothermal and ice‐templating methods. As a result, the reduced graphene oxide/natural rubber (rGO‐MB/NR) TIMs exhibited a remarkable through‐plane thermal conductivity of 0.93 W m−1 K−1 with a filler loading of 3 wt%. The enhanced interface interactions between rGO‐MB and NR, combined with the establishment of a three‐dimensional network, significantly contributed to the improved thermal conductivity and heat dissipation capabilities. Moreover, the obtained TIMs demonstrated favorable mechanical properties (5.06 MPa, 502%) and excellent insulation performance (3 × 1013 Ω cm). These findings provide the valuable insights into potential solutions for mitigating heat accumulation issues in next‐generation electronics.

Highlights

rGO‐MB with thiol groups was obtained by the hydrothermal method.

Interactions between rGO‐MB and NR mainly depended on the chemical bonds.

rGO‐MB/NR TIMs owned the improved thermal management performance.
Preparation and characterization of ethylene‐propylene‐diene monomer rubber/metal hydroxide composites by electron beam irradiation
Authors: Kim Jeong‐In , Lee Byoung‐Min , Kim Hyun‐Rae , Park Jong‐Seok , Jung Seung‐Tae , Nho Young‐Chang , Kim Jaewoo , Choi Jae‐Hak
Published: January 2024

Ethylene‐propylene‐diene monomer (EPDM) rubber has widespread uses in various applications due to its ozone and oxidation stability, weatherability, electrical insulation, and elasticity. However, its further use is limited by low flame retardancy and low thermal stability. This study incorporated metal hydroxide flame retardant to enhance flame retardancy and electron beam cross‐linking to simultaneously enhance mechanical properties, thermal stability, and flame retardancy. The utilization of electron beam irradiation resulted in an increase in gel content and a decrease in swelling ratio with increasing absorbed doses, indicating the successful formation of cross‐linked network structures. The hot‐set elongation was significantly reduced to 0.6%–0.8%, while the decomposition temperature increased with increasing absorbed doses, indicating improved thermal stability. The results from limiting oxygen index measurements and burning tests demonstrate that the flame retardancy of EPDM was improved by the combined effect of metal hydroxide flame retardant and electron beam cross‐linking.

Highlights

EPDM/metal hydroxide composites were prepared via electron beam irradiation.

Metal hydroxide flame retardants were incorporated to enhance flame retardancy.

EBI simultaneously enhanced mechanical property and thermal stability.
Characteristics of turion development in two aquatic carnivorous plants: Hormonal profiles, gas exchange and mineral nutrient content
Authors: Adamec Lubomír , Plačková Lenka , Doležal Karel
Published: January 2024

Turions are vegetative, dormant, and storage overwintering organs formed in perennial aquatic plants in response to unfavorable ecological conditions and originate by extreme condensation of apical shoot segments. The contents of cytokinins, auxins, and abscisic acid were estimated in shoot apices of summer growing, rootless aquatic carnivorous plants, Aldrovanda vesiculosa and Utricularia australis, and in developing turions at three stages and full maturity to reveal hormonal patterns responsible for turion development. The hormones were analyzed in miniature turion samples using ultraperformance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. Photosynthetic measurements in young leaves also confirmed relatively high photosynthetic rates at later turion stages. The content of active cytokinin forms was almost stable in A. vesiculosa during turion development but markedly decreased in U. australis. In both species, auxin content culminated in the middle of turion development and then decreased again. The content of abscisic acid as the main inhibitory hormone was very low in growing plants in both species but rose greatly at first developmental stages and stayed very high in mature turions. The hormonal data indicate a great strength of developing turions within sink–source relationships and confirm the central role of abscisic acid in regulating the turion development.
Creating saponin‐free yellow pea seeds by CRISPR/Cas9‐enabled mutagenesis on β‐amyrin synthase
Authors: Hodgins Connor L. , Salama Eman M. , Kumar Rahul , Zhao Yang , Roth Susan A. , Cheung Irene Z. , Chen Jieyu , Arganosa Gene C. , Warkentin Thomas D. , Bhowmik Pankaj , Ham Byung‐Kook , Ro Dae‐Kyun
Published: January 2024

Dry pea (Pisum sativum) seeds are valuable sources of plant protein, dietary fiber, and starch, but their uses in food products are restricted to some extent due to several off‐flavor compounds. Saponins are glycosylated triterpenoids and are a major source of bitter, astringent, and metallic off‐flavors in pea products. β‐amyrin synthase (BAS) is the entry point enzyme for saponin biosynthesis in pea and therefore is an ideal target for knock‐out using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to produce saponin deficient pea varieties. Here, in an elite yellow pea cultivar (CDC Inca), LC/MS analysis identified embryo tissue, not seed coat, as the main location of saponin storage in pea seeds. Differential expression analysis determined that PsBAS1 was preferentially expressed in embryo tissue relative to seed coat and was selected for CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. The efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing of PsBAS1 was systematically optimized in pea hairy roots. From these optimization procedures, the AtU6‐26 promoter was found to be superior to the CaMV35S promoter for gRNA expression, and the use of 37°C was determined to increase the efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. These promoter and culture conditions were then applied to stable transformations. As a result, a bi‐allelic mutation (deletion and inversion mutations) was generated in the PsBAS1 coding sequence in a T1 plant, and the segregated psbas1 plants from the T2 population showed a 99.8% reduction of saponins in their seeds. Interestingly, a small but statistically significant increase (~12%) in protein content with a slight decrease (~5%) in starch content was observed in the psbas1 mutants under phytotron growth conditions. This work demonstrated that flavor‐improved traits can be readily introduced in any pea cultivar of interest using CRISPR/Cas9. Further field trials and sensory tests for improved flavor are necessary to assess the practical implications of the saponin‐free pea seeds in food applications.