bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrochemical assessment of groundwater using multivariate statistical methods and water quality indices (WQIs)
Authors: Hamma Bellal , Alodah Abdullah , Bouaicha Foued , Bekkouche Mohamed Faouzi , Barkat Ayoub , Hussein Enas E.
Published: January 2024

Groundwater quality assessment is crucial for the sustainable management of water resources in arid regions, where groundwater is the primary source of water supply and increasing demand raises concerns. The study area in Southwest Algeria relies heavily on groundwater as a source of water supply, and the increasing demand for freshwater raises concerns about the quality of groundwater. To assess the hydrochemical characteristics and water quality of groundwater in the Ain Sefra region, multivariate statistical methods, geochemical modeling and water quality indices were employed. The study revealed that the groundwater samples could be classified into four water groups using hierarchical cluster analysis Q mode (HCA), namely Ca–Mg–HCO3, Ca–Mg–Cl–SO4, Ca–SO4 and Na–Cl. Factor analysis was used to identify the main factors controlling the study area’s hydrochemical processes. The results indicated that water–rock interaction, reverse ion exchange and anthropogenic pollution were the main hydrochemical processes affecting groundwater chemistry. The water quality index indicated that the groundwater was suitable for human consumption, with only 2.32% of the samples being unsuitable. Additionally, the groundwater was suitable for agricultural use, but salinity control was necessary. The saturation index values showed that the groundwater was supersaturated with aragonite, calcite, dolomite, anhydrite and gypsum, and undersaturated with halite. Ca-smectite, Mg-smectite and kaolinite were identified as the primary processes controlling the chemical composition of groundwater. The application of multivariate statistical methods, geochemical modeling and water quality indices provided a comprehensive understanding of the hydrochemical characteristics and water quality of groundwater in the Ain Sefra region. The findings of the study can serve as a useful basis for future studies on groundwater quality assessment in the region.
Seasonal prevalence of the invasive rusty-spotted longhorn beetle, Apriona swainsoni (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), adults in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Anzai Yukari , Sunamura Eiriki , Tamura Shigeaki , Shoda-Kagaya Etsuko
Published: January 2024

Invasive longhorn beetles are serious pests of tree stands worldwide. The rusty-spotted longhorn beetle, Apriona swainsoni (Hope) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Lamiinae), is native to continental Asia, where it is a significant pest of legume trees. Its invasion into non-native ranges and damage to the local legume tree, Maackia amurensis, were first reported from Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, in 2021. This study investigated the biology of A. swainsoni in relation to adult emergence in Japan. Preliminary observations confirmed that A. swainsoni larvae create planned emergence holes on the host surface in late May. By exploiting these planned emergence holes, the adult emergence period was investigated in a field promenade of M. amurensis during the summer of 2022 and 2023. The researchers plugged the holes and recorded plug removal, resulting in the observation of 60 and 227 putative emergence events in respective years, with the majority occurring in early to mid-July. Further, during the summer of 2022, a periodic field survey of adult emergence was conducted, obtaining eight adults. Furthermore, a supplementary survey using infested logs maintained in a field cage demonstrated that the emergence period does not differ between sexes and the male-to-female ratio is one:one. Our results suggest that control efforts to suppress A. swainsoni adults in the field, such as insecticide spraying, should be prioritized in the relatively short, peak emergence period. This work indicates that the plug survey is useful for detecting the emergence period.
Investigation of a Photovoltaic–Thermal Solar Dryer System with Double-Pass Solar Air Collectors and Absorber Surfaces Enhanced with Graphene Nanoparticles
Authors: Öztürk Murat , Yüksel Coşkun , Çiftçi Erdem
Published: January 2024

As a result of increasing energy demand, seeking eco-friendly and sustainable energy resources increases the interest in renewable energy, specifically solar energy. In this study, a novel photovoltaic–thermal solar dryer system with double-pass solar air collectors and nano-enhanced absorber surface was developed, and its performance was experimentally investigated. Initially, a double-pass solar dryer (DPSD) with an absorber surface of flexible aluminum ducts coated with black matte paint was produced. Then, a double-pass solar dryer (NDPSD) consisting of flexible aluminum ducts coated with graphene and black paint was designed. These two systems were experimentally and simultaneously examined, and parameters such as energy and exergy efficiency, drying rate, and moisture ratio, which are the performance indicators of solar air collectors and the drying process, were analyzed. The sustainability parameters were also considered as a part of the analysis. The mean thermal efficiency of the solar air collectors for DPSD and NDPSD was calculated as 57.23 and 73.36%, respectively, where the airflow rates were measured as 0.024 and 0.017 kg/s. Furthermore, under the same airflow rate conditions, while the mean exergy efficiency of the collector was 27.77% for NDPSD, it was calculated as 16.64% for DPSD. Moreover, exergy efficiencies of the drying chamber varied between 27.35% and 82.20% for NDPSD and between 21.03 and 81.25% for DPSD, under the airflow rates of 0.012–0.016 kg/s conditions, respectively.
Flucloxacillin and cefazolin for treatment of Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infection
Authors: Schmidt-Hellerau Kirsten , Breuninger Marianne , Kessel Johanna , Vehreschild Maria J. G. T. , Paul Gregor , Reusch Jomana , Jung Norma , Hellmich Martin , Fätkenheuer Gerd
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Antistaphylococcal penicillins and cefazolin have been used as first line therapy in Methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infection. While efficacy of both regimens seems to be similar, the compounds may differ with regard to tolerability. This study aims to describe the clinical use of cefazolin and flucloxacillin, focussing on discontinuation or change of anti-infective agent due to adverse events.

Methods

This observational prospective study was conducted at two German tertiary care centres with an internal recommendation of flucloxacillin for MSSA-BSI in one, and of cefazolin in the other centre. Adverse events were registered weekly under treatment and at a 90-day follow-up. Descriptive analysis was complemented by a propensity score analysis comparing adverse events (stratified rank-based test applied to the sum of Common Terminology Criteria for adverse events ratings per patient).

Results

Of 71 patients included, therapy was initiated with flucloxacillin in 56 (79%), and with cefazolin in 15 (21%). The propensity score analysis indicates a statistically significant difference concerning the severity of adverse events between the treatment groups in favour of cefazolin (p = 0.019). Adverse events led to discontinuation of flucloxacillin in 7 individuals (13% of all patients receiving flucloxacillin). Clinical outcome was not different among treatment groups.

Conclusion

Using cefazolin rather than flucloxacillin as a first line agent for treatment of MSSA-BSI is supported by these clinical data.
Physical activity trajectories and their associations with health outcomes in older adults with mild cognitive impairment or dementia: a national cohort study
Authors: Chen Yiping , Li Yao , Li Wei , Tian Yuling , Yang Hui
Published: January 2024

Background

Physical activity (PA) is a promising non-pharmacological intervention for this population. However, few studies have investigated their PA trajectories, influencing factors, and their relationship with health outcomes.

Aims

The aim was to identify latent trajectories in PA and their determinants in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia, as well as to assess the associations between PA trajectories and health outcomes based on the capability-opportunity-motivation behavior model.

Methods

This is a cohort study. Data were obtained from a national cohort study and included participants aged 60 years and older with MCI or dementia. PA trajectories were identified using group-based trajectory modelling. Multinomial logistic regression was conducted to identify the predictors of PA trajectories. Linear regression models were used to assess the associations between PA trajectories and health outcomes. This study adhered to the STROBE checklist for reporting.

Results

Three distinct PA trajectories were identified: high-decreasing and rebound class (9.34%), moderate-decreasing class (10.31%), and low-increasing class (80.34%). The logistic regression showed that age, sex, education level, body mass index, residence, depressive symptoms, mobility activities of daily life score, frequency of social activities score were PA predictors. Adjusting for sociodemographic variables, only the high-decreasing and rebound class remained significantly associated with worse self-rated health.

Discussion

This study revealed three PA trajectories among older adults with MCI/dementia. Besides sociodemographic variables, addressing physical function and mental health, providing social support are vital for promoting PA in this population.
Weighted Sobolev Type Inequalities in a Smooth Metric Measure Space
Authors: Wang Pengyan , Chang Huiting
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we obtain weighted Sobolev type inequalities with explicit constants that extend the inequalities obtained by Guo et al. (Math Res Lett 28(5):1419–1439, 2021) in the Riemannian setting. As an application, we prove some new logarithmic Sobolev type inequalities in some smooth metric measure spaces.
When (and how) ideas become arguments: the regulation of party donations in Germany
Authors: Koß Michael
Published: January 2024

This article aims to explain the deviant German case of an early and comprehensive regulation of party donations (combining a high level of transparency and incentives for small donations). Given the limited explanatory power of economic and institutional factors, the article emphasises the causal role of ideas for a policy stabilisation which occurred after 1993. A process-tracing analysis suggests that the 1983–1993 reform period was characterised by a conflict of ideas. During this conflict, ideas regarding undisclosed donations as an anti-democratic interference with democratic political competition came to prevail over ideas regarding all donations as a necessary condition for democratic competition irrespective of their regulation. The key actors in this conflict were, on the one hand, the new Green party which resuscitated the idea of donations being potentially anti-democratic and, on the other hand, the Constitutional Court which ultimately endorsed this ideational legacy promoted by the Greens. After 1993, donations in Germany came to be accepted as a necessary evil whose anti-democratic potential had to be limited by transparency obligations and incentives for small donations. The findings presented here suggest that policymakers need to link attempts to regulate party donations to ideational legacies (if available) to successfully tackle political corruption.
Barriers and facilitators to consuming pulses: a qualitative exploration including effects of trying recipes at home
Authors: Whittall B. , Warwick S. M. , Jackson M. , Appleton K. M.
Published: January 2024

Pulses are a healthy, sustainable, low cost food, but consumption levels are low for a variety of reasons, including practical and cooking concerns. This work aimed to explore barriers and facilitators towards pulse consumption and increasing consumption, and the potential value of cooking suggestions and recipes for changing these perceptions. Two qualitative studies were undertaken. In Study 1, 21 participants (10 males, 11 females, of a range of ages, cooking responsibilities, and experiences with pulses) were interviewed both before and after receiving cooking suggestions and recipes. In Study 2, 12 participants (2 males, 10 females, as above) were interviewed once after trying recipes. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using thematic analysis. Seven themes described barriers and facilitators towards pulse consumption: ‘Enjoyment and Sensory properties’; ‘Benefits and Recommendations’; ‘Practical Concerns’; ‘Cooking Concerns’; ‘Compatibility with current diet’; ‘Personal Influences’; and ‘External Influences’. Some similar themes also referred to increasing consumption: ‘Willingness’; ‘Awareness, Knowledge of Benefits’; ‘Knowledge of Cooking and Practical Concerns’; and ‘Compatibility with current diet’. Cooking suggestions and recipe use resulted in themes on ‘Awareness’; ‘Willingness, Trying New Things’; ‘Small Changes’; and facilitators associated with ‘Enjoyment, Sensory Properties, Practical Concerns, Benefits’ and ‘Knowledge, Cooking Ideas and Confidence, Incorporation, Cooking Solutions’. Barriers related to ‘Risk and Preconceptions’; ‘Awareness, but’ inaction and additional considerations were also found. Our findings demonstrate a positive role for pulse consumption for increased experience, familiarity, and confidence with preparing, cooking, and consuming these healthy and sustainable foods.
Using rodent data to elucidate dopaminergic mechanisms of ADHD: Implications for human personality
Authors: Tripp Gail , Wickens Jeff
Published: January 2024

An altered behavioral response to positive reinforcement has been proposed to be a core deficit in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR), a congenic animal strain, displays a similarly altered response to reinforcement. The presence of this genetically determined phenotype in a rodent model allows experimental investigation of underlying neural mechanisms. Behaviorally, the SHR displays increased preference for immediate reinforcement, increased sensitivity to individual instances of reinforcement relative to integrated reinforcement history, and a steeper delay of reinforcement gradient compared to other rat strains. The SHR also shows less development of incentive to approach sensory stimuli, or cues, that predict reward after repeated cue-reward pairing. We consider the underlying neural mechanisms for these characteristics. It is well known that midbrain dopamine neurons are initially activated by unexpected reward and gradually transfer their responses to reward-predicting cues. This finding has inspired the dopamine transfer deficit (DTD) hypothesis, which predicts certain behavioral effects that would arise from a deficient transfer of dopamine responses from actual rewards to reward-predicting cues. We argue that the DTD predicts the altered responses to reinforcement seen in the SHR and individuals with ADHD. These altered responses to reinforcement in turn predict core symptoms of ADHD. We also suggest that variations in the degree of dopamine transfer may underlie variations in personality dimensions related to altered reinforcement sensitivity. In doing so, we highlight the value of rodent models to the study of human personality.
Revisiting the Linkage Between the Pacific–Japan Pattern and Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall: The Crucial Role of the Maritime Continent
Authors: Hu Peng , Chen Wen , Chen Shangfeng , Yang Ruowen , Wang Lin , Liu Yuyun
Published: January 2024

The Pacific–Japan (PJ) pattern traditionally refers to the meridional dipole mode of rainfall and the low‐level circulation over the tropical western North Pacific and mid‐latitude East Asia. However, recent studies have reported that the PJ pattern can also affect the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) via the anomalous circulation over the North Indian Ocean. We summarize the currently available PJ indices and re‐examine the linkage between the PJ pattern and the ISM. We found that the only PJ indices that are significantly correlated with rainfall in southern India are the two indices containing signals of the Maritime Continent. The Maritime Continent rainfall can also stimulate circulation anomalies in the North Indian Ocean, thereby strengthening the PJ–ISM linkage. When the signals associated with the Maritime Continent are removed, the PJ–ISM linkage becomes weak and insignificant. The PJ indices should be chosen carefully when studying the climatic impacts of the PJ pattern.
Intensification in the Wettest Days to 50 Percent of Annual Precipitation (WD50) Across Europe
Authors: Goffin Benjamin D. , Kansara Prakrut , Lakshmi Venkataraman
Published: January 2024

Due to global warming, precipitation extremes are becoming more frequent and more severe, further exacerbating the uneven distribution of daily precipitation. In this study, we explored how many days in a year it takes to get to a certain amount of the precipitation that falls annually. We analyzed daily precipitation from gridded observations across the European continent and found that it generally took 22 to 34 of the wettest days to contribute to 50% of yearly totals (WD50). We found various degrees of alignment between gridded observations and ground measurements. Building on this, we examined changes in WD50 and detected widespread shifts toward fewer days in WD50 between the periods of 1950–1985 and 1986–2021. In addition, about one quarter of the European land also exhibited significant, decreasing trends in WD50 over the last 7 decades. Overall, this work showed an intensification of annual precipitation regimes.
A Statistical Study of Quasi‐Electrostatic Magnetosonic Waves
Authors: Gao Zhonglei , Zhou Yaxiong , Yang Hongming , Liu Si , Xiao Fuliang , Yang Chang , He Yihua , Zhou Qinghua
Published: January 2024

Quasi‐electrostatic magnetosonic (QEMS) waves have been recently reported, referring to a distinct type of magnetosonic (MS) wave with only the electric fluctuation being detectable. Here a statistical study of QEMS waves is carried out with the Van Allen Probes data. 83% of 40,466 QEMS samples are observed with plasma density ne < 20 cm−3, and intense QEMS waves tend to appear in the lower density region. QEMS waves become strong in the case of more pronounced proton rings around 10 keV and larger suprathermal proton populations. High occurrence rates and large amplitudes of QEMS waves are confined near the dayside equator (|MLAT| < 3°). The wave frequencies are typically slightly below the nth harmonic of proton gyro‐frequency, and the wave intensity gradually decreases with an increasing harmonic number n. Our results further demonstrate that low plasma densities and abundant suprathermal protons are beneficial for intensifying QEMS waves and contribute to the establishment of QEMS wave model.
Rapid Relativistic Electron Enhancements and Associated Particle Injections: A Multi‐Spacecraft Statistical Study
Authors: Xiong Senlin , Dai Lei , Wang Chi , Yang Xiaochao , Wygant John R. , Baker Daniel N.
Published: January 2024

Rapid relativistic electron enhancements (REE) in the outer radiation belt have long been an intriguing phenomenon for space weather. In this study, we investigate rapid REE from October 2012 to December 2017 using multi‐spacecraft observations. A total of 27 rapid REE events are identified from the Van Allen Probes (RBSP) measurements with a 5 times increase of MeV electrons at the center of the outer radiation belt (L = 4.5–5.5) in a half RBSP orbit (∼4.5 hr). All REE events are found to be in association with pulse‐like injections of MeV electrons in the outer radiation belt. Electron fluxes in each injection at L ∼ 6.6 and the overall electron enhancements at L = 4.5–5.5 are quantified. The 500 keV and 0.8–1 MeV electron fluxes are correlated in injections and in overall enhancements. Substorm strength is more intense before/during the REE than intervals after the REE. The statistical study suggests that substorm‐associated MeV electron injections are highly correlated with rapid REE in the outer radiation belt.
Mélange Signatures and Low Oxygen Fugacity in Eclogite Xenoliths From the Crust‐Mantle Transition Below a Mesoproterozoic Collision Belt
Authors: Aulbach Sonja , Höfer Heidi E. , Gerdes Axel , Tinguely Christel , le Roex Anton
Published: January 2024

Mass transfer across the crust‐mantle boundary is a fundamental process governing planetary differentiation, the evolution of geochemical reservoirs and ore formation, controlled by physicochemical conditions at the crust‐mantle interface. In situ trace‐element, clinopyroxene 87Sr/86Sr and garnet Fe3+/ΣFe of kimberlite‐borne eclogite xenoliths from the deep (∼50 km) crust‐mantle transition below the ca. 1.2–1.0 Ga Namaqua‐Natal Fold Belt (southwestern Kaapvaal craton margin) were determined to elucidate their origin and evolution, and to constrain the oxygen fugacity of this pivotal but largely inaccessible environment. Based on a garnet source signature (NMORB‐normalized Er/Lu > 1) in pristine “gabbroic” eclogites with pronounced positive Eu, Sr, and Pb anomalies, the suite is interpreted as originating as plagioclase‐rich cumulates in oceanic crust from melts generated beneath mature oceanic lithosphere, subsequently subducted during the Namaqua‐Natal orogeny. Enriched eclogites have higher measured 87Sr/86Sr in clinopyroxene (up to 0.7054) than gabbroic ones (up to 0.7036), and show increasing bulk‐rock Li, Be and Pb abundances with increasing δ18O in clinopyroxene, and muted Eu‐Sr‐Pb anomalies. These systematics suggest interaction with a siliceous fluid sourced from seawater‐altered oceanic sediment in a subduction mélange setting. Garnet Fe3+/ΣFe in deep crustal eclogites is extremely low (0.01–0.04, ±0.01 1σ), as inherited from the plagioclase‐rich cumulate protolith, and owing to preferred partitioning into clinopyroxene at low temperatures (∼815–1000°C). Average maximum oxygen fugacities (∆logƒO2(FMQ) = −3.1 ± 1.0 to −0.5 ± 0.7 relative to the Fayalite‐Magnetite‐Quartz buffer) are higher than in deeper‐seated on‐craton eclogite xenoliths, but mostly below sulfate stability, limiting the role of S6+ species in oxidizing the mantle wedge.
From Particles to Flocs: Revealing Where Flocculation Occurs in the Nearfield of a Negatively‐Buoyant River Plume in a Large Lake (Lake Geneva)
Authors: Piton Violaine , Lemmin Ulrich , Bourrin François , Wynn Htet Kyi , Kindschi Valentin , Barry David Andrew
Published: January 2024

The dynamics of sediments entering lakes in river plumes is virtually unknown. This field study provides unprecedented evidence of the initiation and evolution of suspended sediment flocculation in the nearfield of the negatively‐buoyant Rhône River plume, flowing as interflow in the thermocline of stratified Lake Geneva. Sediment floc property changes (formation, size, composition, shape) with depth and distance from the mouth, were determined by combining digital holographic camera LISST‐HOLO data with full‐depth in situ profiles of particle size (LISST‐100X), density, turbidity, currents and water samples taken along the plume path. The total suspended matter volume of inflowing Rhône River waters (∼155 mg l−1) mostly consisted of clays (<4 μm), very fine silts (4–8 μm) and small contributions of microflocs (20–100 μm). This composition was also found in the interflow plume core. Above the plume, in the epilimnion, fine silts, microflocs and numerous phytoplanktonic organisms (∼200 μm) were observed, representative of the lake background. High levels of shear (15–27 s−1) and turbulence occurred in the shear layer that formed between the interflow bottom and the hypolimnion below. It was found that macroflocs only formed in this shear layer. In the hypolimnion, sediment load was the lowest and macroflocs (up to ∼300 μm) composed of inorganic particles were dominant. The size of the largest flocs was limited by the size of the smallest turbulent eddies determined by the Kolmogorov microscale. Floc 3D fractal dimensions of ∼2.1–2.5 suggest an intermediate shape complexity between marine snow and sludge flocs.
Can Satellite‐Derived Beach Images Resolve the Responses to Human Activities?
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Wu Chuang , Hu Rijun , Xu Shumei , Xu Zhanrui , Yang Zuosheng
Published: January 2024

Satellite imagery is widely used to study beach changes. Studies based on satellite‐derived results predict that by 2100, half of the world’s beaches will disappear. Although previous studies have been productive and alarming, the reliability of these findings has not been validated. This study presents an initial comprehensive assessment of the reliability of satellite‐derived beach shoreline changes and concludes that despite the use of state‐of‐the‐art subpixel shoreline identification technologies and water‐level correction methods based on beach profile shapes, the errors in satellite‐derived shoreline positions remain significant. Thus, adequate satellite imagery is crucial for enhancing the reliability of satellite‐derived beach changes. Furthermore, the historical water levels when the Landsat and Sentinel‐2 images were taken exhibited significant systematic deviations and both long‐term and short‐term changes. Consequently, the beach changes obtained through the direct statistics obtained from satellite imagery based on big‐data platforms such as the Google Earth Engine (GEE) are susceptible to systematic biases. The study also concluded that satellite‐derived beach changes based on adequate satellite imagery have distinct, significant, and diverse responses to human activities. Given the current context of intensified human activities and notable inaccuracies in satellite‐derived shoreline positions, fully utilizing satellite imagery to study beach changes can help establish stronger connections between beach changes and human activities. This contributes to a better understanding of beach evolution mechanisms and the need for beach restoration and protection, with multiple scientific, engineering, and social implications.
Patient level dataset to study the effect of COVID-19 in people with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Khan Hamza , Geys Lotte , Baneke Peer , Comi Giancarlo , Peeters Liesbet M.
Published: January 2024

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, causing increased vulnerability to infections and disability among young adults. Ever since the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infections, there have been concerns among people with MS (PwMS) about the potential interactions between various disease-modifying therapies and COVID-19. The COVID-19 in MS Global Data Sharing Initiative (GDSI) was initiated in 2020 with the aim of addressing these concerns. This paper focuses on the anonymisation and publicly releasing of a GDSI sub-dataset, comprising data entered by PwMS and clinicians using a fast data entry tool. The dataset includes information on demographics, comorbidities and hospital stay and COVID-19 symptoms of PwMS. The dataset can be used to perform different statistical analyses to improve our understanding of COVID-19 in MS. Furthermore, this dataset can also be used within the context of educational activities to educate different stakeholders on the complex data science topics that were used within the GDSI.
Curated benchmark dataset for ultrasound based breast lesion analysis
Authors: Pawłowska Anna , Ćwierz-Pieńkowska Anna , Domalik Agnieszka , Jaguś Dominika , Kasprzak Piotr , Matkowski Rafał , Fura Łukasz , Nowicki Andrzej , Żołek Norbert
Published: January 2024

A new detailed dataset of breast ultrasound scans (BrEaST) containing images of benign and malignant lesions as well as normal tissue examples, is presented. The dataset consists of 256 breast scans collected from 256 patients. Each scan was manually annotated and labeled by a radiologist experienced in breast ultrasound examination. In particular, each tumor was identified in the image using a freehand annotation and labeled according to BIRADS features and lexicon. The histopathological classification of the tumor was also provided for patients who underwent a biopsy. The BrEaST dataset is the first breast ultrasound dataset containing patient-level labels, image-level annotations, and tumor-level labels with all cases confirmed by follow-up care or core needle biopsy result. To enable research into breast disease detection, tumor segmentation and classification, the BrEaST dataset is made publicly available with the CC-BY 4.0 license.
Global validation of data-assimilative electron ring current nowcast for space weather applications
Authors: Haas Bernhard , Shprits Yuri Y. , Wutzig Michael , Szabó-Roberts Mátyás , García Peñaranda Marina , Castillo Tibocha Angelica M. , Himmelsbach Julia , Wang Dedong , Miyoshi Yoshizumi , Kasahara Satoshi , Keika Kunihiro , Yokota Shoichiro , Shinohara Iku , Hori Tomo
Published: January 2024

The hazardous plasma environment surrounding Earth poses risks to satellites due to internal charging and surface charging effects. Accurate predictions of these risks are crucial for minimizing damage and preparing for system failures of satellites. To forecast the plasma environment, it is essential to know the current state of the system, as the accuracy of the forecast depends on the accuracy of the initial condition of the forecast. In this study, we use data assimilation techniques to combine observational data and model predictions, and present the first global validation of a data-assimilative electron ring current nowcast during a geomagnetic storm. By assimilating measurements from one satellite and validating the results against another satellite in a different magnetic local time sector, we assess the global response and effectiveness of the data assimilation technique for space weather applications. Using this method, we found that the simulation accuracy can be drastically improved at times when observations are available while eliminating almost all of the bias previously present in the model. These findings contribute to the construction of improved operational models in estimating surface charging risks and providing realistic ’source’ populations for radiation belt simulations.
Factors contributing to antibiotic misuse among parents of school-going children in Dhaka City, Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md Wahidul , Shahjahan Muhibullah , Azad Abul Kalam , Hossain Md Jubayer
Published: January 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a pressing global health concern, especially in resource-constrained countries, such as Bangladesh. This study aimed to identify the factors contributing to antibiotic misuse by assessing knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP). A cross-sectional study was conducted from August 20 to August 30, 2022, among 704 parents of school-going children in Dhaka South City. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the KAP, and multivariate models, including linear and ordinal logistic regression, were used to explore the associations between these factors. The findings revealed that approximately 22% of the participants were male and 78% were female. Most parents (58%) had completed higher secondary education. Approximately 45% of the respondents demonstrated moderate knowledge, 53% had uncertain attitudes, and 64% exhibited antibiotic misuse. Factors such as parental age, education level, employment status, income, child's age, and family type significantly influenced KAP. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted education and awareness initiatives to enhance knowledge and responsible antibiotic use among parents, contributing to global efforts against antibiotic resistance. The government should enforce laws and regulations regarding the misuse of antibiotics.
The topological soliton in Peierls semimetal Sb
Authors: Chekmazov Sergey V. , Ksenz Andrei S. , Ionov Andrei M. , Mazilkin Andrey A. , Smirnov Anton A. , Pershina Elena A. , Ryzhkin Ivan A. , Vilkov Oleg Yu. , Walls Brian , Zhussupbekov Kuanysh , Shvets Igor V. , Bozhko Sergey I.
Published: January 2024

Sb is a three-dimensional Peierls insulator. The Peierls instability gives rise to doubling of the translational period along the [111] direction and alternating van der Waals and covalent bonding between (111) atomic planes. At the (111) surface of Sb, the Peierls condition is violated, which in theory can give rise to properties differing from the bulk. The atomic and electronic structure of the (111) surface of Sb have been simulated by density functional theory calculations. We have considered the two possible (111) surfaces, containing van der Waals dangling bonds or containing covalent dangling bonds. In the models, the surfaces are infinite and the structure is defect free. Structural optimization of the model containing covalent dangling bonds results in strong deformation, which is well described by a topological soliton within the Su–Schrieffer–Heeger model centered about 25 Å below the surface. The electronic states associated with the soliton see an increase in the density of states (DOS) at the Fermi level by around an order of magnitude at the soliton center. Scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM/STS) measurements reveal two distinct surface regions, indicating that there are different surface regions cleaving van der Waals and covalent bonds. The DFT is in good agreement with the STM/STS experiments.
Kv3.4 regulates cell migration and invasion through TGF-β-induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition in A549 cells
Authors: Sim Hun Ju , Kim Mi Ri , Song Min Seok , Lee So Yeong
Published: January 2024

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the process by which epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal characteristics. This process induces cell migration and invasion, which are closely related to cancer metastasis and malignancy. EMT consists of various intermediate states that express both epithelial and mesenchymal traits, called partial EMT. Recently, several studies have focused on the roles of voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels associated with EMT in cancer cell migration and invasion. In this study, we demonstrate the relationship between Kv3.4 and EMT and confirm the effects of cell migration and invasion. With TGF-β treatment, EMT was induced and Kv3.4 was also increased in A549 cells, human lung carcinoma cells. The knockdown of Kv3.4 blocked the EMT progression reducing cell migration and invasion. However, the Kv3.4 overexpressed cells acquired mesenchymal characteristics and increased cell migration and invasion. The overexpression of Kv3.4 also has a synergistic effect with TGF-β in promoting cell migration. Therefore, we conclude that Kv3.4 regulates cancer migration and invasion through TGF-β-induced EMT and these results provide insights into the understanding of cancer metastasis.
A novel anoikis-related gene signature predicts prognosis in patients with sepsis and reveals immune infiltration
Authors: Wang Yonghua , Chi Yanqi , Zhu Cheng , Zhang Yuxuan , Li Ke , Chen Jiajia , Jiang Xiying , Chen Kejie , Li Shuping
Published: January 2024

Sepsis is a common acute and severe medical condition with a high mortality rate. Anoikis, an emerging form of cell death, plays a significant role in various diseases. However, the role of anoikis in sepsis remains poorly understood. Based on the datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus and anoikis-related genes from GeneCards, the differentially expressed anoikis-related genes (DEARGs) were identified. Based on hub genes of DEARGs, a novel prognostic risk model was constructed, and the pattern of immune infiltration was investigated by CIBERSORT algorithm. And small molecule compounds targeting anoikis in sepsis were analyzed using Autodock. Of 23 DEARGs, CXCL8, CFLAR, FASLG and TP53 were significantly associated with the prognosis of sepsis (P < 0.05). Based on the prognostic risk model constructed with these four genes, high-risk population of septic patients had significant lower survival probability than low-risk population (HR = 3.30, P < 0.001). And the level of CFLAR was significantly correlated with the number of neutrophils in septic patients (r = 0.54, P < 0.001). Moreover, tozasertib had low binding energy with CXCL8, CFLAR, FASLG and TP53, and would be a potential compound for sepsis. Conclusively, our results identified a new prognostic model and potential therapeutic molecular for sepsis, providing new insights on mechanism and treatment of sepsis.
The boundary of posterior to level V region and the theoretical feasibility of irradiation dose reduction of level Va in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Jiang Chaoyang , Li Xiaokai , Zhang Ling , Gong Baolin , Gao Hui , Li Zhihui , Zhang Tao , Wang Juan
Published: January 2024

The lymph node involvement in the posterior to level V (PLV) region is mainly observed in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Recently, we have reported the distribution of metastatic lymph nodes in the PLV region and there are correlations between the neck node levels (NNL) of NPC, but what is the boundary of the PLV region and how to delineate it remains unclear, and we further to elaborate whether the bilateral level Va should be covered as intermediate-risk nodal regions (CTVn2, about 60 Gy equivalent) for all T and N categories based on these correlations. A total of 1021 consecutive NPC patients with N1-3 stage from January 2012 to December 2020 were reviewed. The lymph node metastasis level of each patient was evaluated according to the updated guidelines proposed in 2013. According to the distribution pattern of lymph node metastasis and the anatomical structure in the PLV region, the boundaries of PLV region was delineated, and whether it is appropriate to cover the bilateral level Va as CTVn2 for all the NPC patients was further discussed. The correlations of level Va with other NNL were studied using logistic regression model. The cranial boundary of PLV region is the caudal border of cricoid cartilage, the caudal boundary is the plane serratus anterior muscle begins to appear, the anterior boundary is the anterior border of trapezius, and the posterior boundary is the convergence of levator scapulae and trapezius. Laterally, the PLV region is limited by the medial edge of trapezius and medially by the lateral surface of levator scapulae. The nodal spread in level Va is based on the lymph node metastasis of level IIb in NPC. The PLV region is a missing NNL of head and neck tumors, especially in NPC. The proposed boundaries of the PLV region can provide a preliminary proposal for the further revision of NNL in head and neck tumors. It is theoretically feasible to reduce the prophylactic irradiation dose of the bilateral level Va in patients with N0 stage or with isolated metastases in level VIIa.
The role of the differential outcomes procedure and schizotypy in the recognition of dynamic facial expressions of emotions
Authors: González-Rodríguez Antonio , García-Pérez Ángel , Godoy-Giménez Marta , Sayans-Jiménez Pablo , Cañadas Fernando , Estévez Angeles F.
Published: January 2024

Emotional facial expression recognition is a key ability for adequate social functioning. The current study aims to test if the differential outcomes procedure (DOP) may improve the recognition of dynamic facial expressions of emotions and to further explore whether schizotypal personality traits may have any effect on performance. 183 undergraduate students completed a task where a face morphed from a neutral expression to one of the six basic emotions at full intensity over 10 s. Participants had to press spacebar as soon as they identified the emotion and choose which had appeared. In the first block, participants received no outcomes. In the second block, a group received specific outcomes associated to each emotion (DOP group), while another group received non-differential outcomes after correctly responding (NOP group). Employing generalized linear models (GLMs) and Bayesian inference we estimated different parameters to answer our research goals. Schizotypal personality traits did not seem to affect dynamic emotional facial expression recognition. Participants of the DOP group were less likely to respond incorrectly to faces showing Fear and Surprise at fewer intensity levels. This may suggest that the DOP could lead to better identification of the main features that differentiate each facial expression of emotion.
The baffle shape effects on natural convection flow and entropy generation in a nanofluid-filled permeable container with a magnetic field
Authors: Abderrahmane Aissa , Younis Obai , Mourad Abed , Laidoudi Houssem , Oreijah Mowffaq , Guedri Kamel , Tag Sayed M.
Published: January 2024

Enhancing heat transfer rates within enclosures is a topic of considerable interest since it has several technical applications. Most heat transfer research projects focus on increasing the heat transfer rates of thermal systems since this will raise the systems' total efficiency. The geometry of the enclosure might have a substantial impact on heat transfer rates. This research studies quantitatively the natural convection of a nanofluid in a complicated form geometry with many baffle configurations. The system's governing equations were addressed by the Galerkin Finite Element Method (GFEM). The main consideration was given to the effects of the following factors: The Darcy number (Da), which ranges from 10–2 to 10–5; the Hartmann number (Ha), which ranges from 0 to 100; the volumetric fraction (ϕ), which ranges from 0 to 0.08, and the Rayleigh number (Ra) (102 to 106). The results suggested that raising Ra increases heat transfer discharge, whereas raising Ha and Da decreases it. In terms of heat transmission, case 1 (the case with a wavenumber of 1 and the zigzag pointing outward) is determined to be the optimum cavity structure, as it obtained the highest mean Nusselt (Nuavg) number when compared to other cases. At the highest studied Ra number, growing (ϕ) from 0 to 0.8 improved Nuavg by 25%, while growing Da from 10–2 to 10–5 and Ha from 0 to 100 declined Nuavg by 57% and 48%, respectively. The reason for the improvement in the values of the (Nu) is due to the speed of fluid movement within the compartment. Also, the shape of fins plays a major role in strengthening and weakening thermal activity.
Environmental impact assessment of battery boxes based on lightweight material substitution
Authors: Li Xinyu , Zhang Yuanhao , Liao Yumin , Yu Guanghai
Published: January 2024

Power battery is one of the core components of electric vehicles (EVs) and a major contributor to the environmental impact of EVs, and reducing their environmental emissions can help enhance the sustainability of electric vehicles. Based on the principle of stiffness equivalence, the steel case of the power cell is replaced with lightweight materials, a life cycle model is established with the help of GaBi software, and its environmental impact is evaluated using the CML2001 method. The results can be summarized as follows: (1) Based on the four environmental impact categories of GWP, AP, ADP (f), and HTP, which are the global warming potential (GWP), acidification potential (AP), abiotic depletion potential (ADP (f)) and human toxicity potential (HTP), the environmental impact of lightweight materials is lower than that of the steel box. Among them, the aluminum alloy box has the largest reduction, and the Carbon Fiber Sheet Molding Compound (CF-SMC) box is the second. (2) In the sensitivity analysis of electric structure, an aluminum alloy box is still the most preferable choice for environmental impact. (3) In the sensitivity analysis of driving mileage, the aluminum alloy box body is also the best choice for vehicle life. (4) Quantitative assessment using substitution factors measures the decrease in greenhouse gas emissions following the substitution of steel battery box with lightweight materials. The adoption of aluminum alloy battery box can lead to a reduction of 1.55 tons of greenhouse gas emissions, with a substitution factor of 1.55 tC sb−1. In the case that composite materials have not been recycled commercially on a large scale, aluminum alloy is still one of the best materials for the integrated environmental impact of the whole life cycle of the battery boxes.
CD57-positive CD8 + T cells define the response to anti-programmed cell death protein-1 immunotherapy in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Sun Wenjia , Qiu Fengqi , Zheng Jing , Fang Liangjie , Qu Jingjing , Zhang Shumeng , Jiang Nan , Zhou Jianying , Zeng Xun , Zhou Jianya
Published: January 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have transformed the treatment landscape of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, accurately identifying patients who will benefit from immunotherapy remains a challenge. This study aimed to discover potential biomarkers for predicting immunotherapy response in NSCLC patients. Single-cell mass cytometry (CyTOF) was utilized to analyze immune cell subsets in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from NSCLC patients before and 12 weeks after single-agent immunotherapy. The CyTOF findings were subsequently validated using flow cytometry and multiplex immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence in PBMCs and tumor tissues, respectively. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. In the CyTOF cohort (n = 20), a high frequency of CD57+CD8+ T cells in PBMCs was associated with durable clinical benefit from immunotherapy in NSCLC patients (p = 0.034). This association was further confirmed in an independent cohort using flow cytometry (n = 27; p < 0.001), with a determined cutoff value of 12.85%. The cutoff value was subsequently validated in another independent cohort (AUC = 0.733). We also confirmed the CyTOF findings in pre-treatment formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues (n = 90; p < 0.001). RNA-seq analysis revealed 475 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between CD57+CD8+ T cells and CD57-CD8+ T cells, with functional analysis identifying DEGs significantly enriched in immune-related signaling pathways. This study highlights CD57+CD8+ T cells as a promising biomarker for predicting immunotherapy success in NSCLC patients.
A dual-channel visible light optical coherence tomography system enables wide-field, full-range, and shot-noise limited human retinal imaging
Authors: Wang Jingyu , Nolen Stephanie , Song Weiye , Shao Wenjun , Yi Wei , Kashani Amir , Yi Ji
Published: January 2024

Visible light optical coherence tomography (VIS-OCT) is an emerging ophthalmic imaging method featuring ultrahigh depth resolution, retinal microvascular oximetry, and distinct scattering contrast in the visible spectral range. The clinical utility of VIS-OCT is hampered by the fundamental trade-off between the imaging depth range and axial resolution, which are determined by the spectral resolution and bandwidth, respectively. To address this trade-off, here we developed a dual-channel VIS-OCT system with three major advancements including the first linear-in-K VIS-OCT spectrometer to decrease the roll-off, reference pathlength modulation to expand the imaging depth range, and per-A-line noise cancellation to remove excess noise, Due to these unique designs, this system achieves 7.2 dB roll-off over the full 1.74 mm depth range (water) with shot-noise limited performance. The system uniquely enables >60° wide-field imaging which would allow simultaneous imaging of the peripheral retina and optic nerve head, as well as ultrahigh 1.3 µm depth resolution (water). Benefiting from the additional near-infrared (NIR) channel of the dual-channel design, this system is compatible with Doppler OCT and OCT angiography (OCTA). The comprehensive structure-function measurement enabled by this dual-channel VIS-OCT system is an advance towards adoption of VIS-OCT in clinical applications.
Synthesis, characterization and in vitro cytotoxicity of gallium(iii)-dithiocarbamate complexes
Authors: Salvarese Nicola , Morellato Nicolò , Gobbi Carolina , Gandin Valentina , De Franco Michele , Marzano Cristina , Dolmella Alessandro , Bolzati Cristina
Published: January 2024

A library of mononuclear [GaIII(DTC)3] complexes, where DTC is an alicyclic or a linear dithiocarbamate chelator, with marked cytotoxic activity is reported. Results pave the way for the development of new anticancer agents.