bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controlled Enzymatic Synthesis of Polyesters Based on a Cellulose–Derived Triol Monomer: A Design of Experiment Approach
Authors: Warne Cicely M. , Fadlallah Sami , Allais Florent , Guebitz Georg M. , Pellis Alessandro
Published: March 2024

Regioselective enzymatic polycondensation of the bio–based cellulose derived polyol, Triol–citro, and dimethyl adipate using Candida antarctica Lipase B (CaLB) was investigated. A Design of Experiment approach with MODDE® Pro 13 was used to determine important factors in the branching behavior of this polymer, and reactant ratio, temperature, reaction time and enzyme wt % were the studied factors. Multifunctional polyesters with pendant hydroxy groups were synthesized and fully characterized using 2D NMR techniques to determine degree of branching. Branching was minimal, with a maximum of 16 % observed, and monomer ratio, temperature and reaction time were all determined to be significant factors. In this work, Mn of up to 13 kDa were achieved, while maintaining degree of branching below 15 %, resulting in a linear polyester with the potential to be further functionalized.
Fully Conjugated Covalent Organic Framework Nanosheets for Visible–Light–Driven Organic Synthesis in Water
Authors: Ma Si , Hou Yuxin , Yang Liuliu , Yue Huijuan , Xia Hong , Liu Xiaoming
Published: March 2024

Covalent organic framework (COF) nanosheets have recently garnered great attention as a new class of functional materials. As one of the sustainable processes, however, the photocatalytic organic synthesis in water has not been investigated using COF nanosheets as a photocatalyst to date. Herein, we reported the synthesis of a fully conjugated COF nanosheets with carboxyl functional group through a cooperative strategy of chemical exfoliation and group transformation. The new COF nanosheets was found to be an efficient heterogeneous photocatalyst for a wide range of organic synthesis including selective oxidation of sulfides and oxidative coupling of benzylamines in water under visible–light illumination. This work contributes a new roadmap for the design and synthesis of functional COF–based nanosheets, but also further extends the application boundary of the ultrathin COF nanosheets.
Examining the interaction between prenatal stress and polygenic risk for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder on brain growth in childhood: Findings from the DREAM BIG consortium
Authors: López‐Vicente Mónica , Szekely Eszter , Lafaille‐Magnan Marie‐Elyse , Morton J. Bruce , Oberlander Tim F. , Greenwood Celia M. T. , Muetzel Ryan L. , Tiemeier Henning , Qiu Anqi , Wazana Ashley , White Tonya
Published: March 2024

This study explored the interactions among prenatal stress, child sex, and polygenic risk scores (PGS) for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) on structural developmental changes of brain regions implicated in ADHD. We used data from two population‐based birth cohorts: Growing Up in Singapore Towards healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) from Singapore (n = 113) and Generation R from Rotterdam, the Netherlands (n = 433). Prenatal stress was assessed using questionnaires. We obtained latent constructs of prenatal adversity and prenatal mood problems using confirmatory factor analyses. The participants were genotyped using genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphism arrays, and ADHD PGSs were computed. Magnetic resonance imaging scans were acquired at 4.5 and 6 years (GUSTO), and at 10 and 14 years (Generation R). We estimated the age‐related rate of change for brain outcomes related to ADHD and performed (1) prenatal stress by sex interaction models, (2) prenatal stress by ADHD PGS interaction models, and (3) 3‐way interaction models, including prenatal stress, sex, and ADHD PGS. We observed an interaction between prenatal stress and ADHD PGS on mean cortical thickness annual rate of change in Generation R (i.e., in individuals with higher ADHD PGS, higher prenatal stress was associated with a lower rate of cortical thinning, whereas in individuals with lower ADHD PGS, higher prenatal stress was associated with a higher rate of cortical thinning). None of the other tested interactions were statistically significant. Higher prenatal stress may promote a slower brain developmental rate during adolescence in individuals with higher ADHD genetic vulnerability, whereas it may promote a faster brain developmental rate in individuals with lower ADHD genetic vulnerability.
Environmental DNA reveals the ecology and seasonal migration of a rare sturgeon species in the Ural River
Authors: Abileva Gulmira , Turzhanova Ainur , Zhamangara Aizhan , Khapilina Oxana , Kalendar Ruslan
Published: March 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) technology is an essential tool for monitoring living organisms in ecological research. The combination of eDNA methods with traditional methods of ecological observation can significantly improve the study of the ecology of rare species. Here, we present the development and application of an eDNA approach to identify rare sturgeons in the lower reaches of the Ural River (Zhaiyk) (~1084 km). The presence of representatives of the genus Sturgeon was detected at all sites in spring (nine sites) and autumn (ten sites) while they were absent during the summer period, consistent with their semi‐anadromous ecology. Detection in spring and autumn indicates the passage of spring and winter forms to the lower and upper spawning grounds, respectively. This study confirms the difficulties of species‐specific identification of Eurasian sturgeon and provides the first documented eDNA detection of specimens of the genus Sturgeon in the Ural River. It also provides a biogeographic snapshot of their distribution, experimentally confirming their seasonal migrations in the lower reaches of the river. The successful detection of sturgeon motivates further eDNA surveys of this and other fish species for accurate species identification and population assessment, opening up prospects for the management of these threatened species.
LocalPoly interpolation: Generalizing tricubic for Cn continuity in M‐dimensional spaces
Authors: Åblad Edvin
Published: March 2024

Tricubic interpolation, originally introduced by Lekien and Marsden (Int J Numer Methods Eng. 2005; 63(3): 455–471), has been a cornerstone in the field of interpolation, providing continuous interpolations within three‐dimensional spaces. However, real‐world applications often demand higher levels of smoothness within ‐dimensional spaces. This paper introduces LocalPoly interpolation, a novel generalization of tricubic interpolation that extends to continuity and dimensions. A key property is the use of solely local data for interpolation, allowing for on‐demand computation of interpolation polynomials, which is particularly advantageous in scenarios where a minor subset of the space is of interest. We rigorously prove the continuity achieved by the LocalPoly interpolation method; the proof features a numerically exact method for computing polynomial coefficients. The enhanced continuity is of great relevance in optimization algorithms, where efficient convergence often relies on the availability of information. The paper explores the use of LocalPoly interpolation applied to a squared distance field in , offering insights into computational efficiency and practical implications. It also discusses future research directions to address the method's limitations in terms of dimensionality, making it a valuable addition to the toolbox of interpolation methods for various scientific and engineering applications.
Chemical characterization and effect of Ziziphora clinopodioides green‐synthesized silver nanoparticles on cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities in streptozotocin‐induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar diabetic male rats
Authors: Pirabbasi Elham , Zangeneh Mohammad Mahdi , Zangeneh Akram , Moradi Rohallah , Kalantar Mojtaba
Published: March 2024

The present research studied the cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities of biogenically synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Ziziphora clinopodioides (Z. clinopodioides) as a green mediator. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis) were employed to determine AgNPs. In the in vivo experiment, the model rats were categorized into different groups receiving 50, 100, 200, and 400 μg/kg of AgNPs and diabetic, positive, and normal groups (n = 10) using a random division. A single dose of streptozotocin (STZ) at 60 mg/kg was administered to induce diabetes and hepatotoxicity in rats. The administration of AgNPs was performed via intragastric administration for 25 days. On the final day, the levels of glucose and biochemical enzymes, namely aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT), and gamma‐glutamyltransferase (GGT), were assessed in the serum. Following tissue processing, liver sections with a thickness of 5 μm were prepared. Later, the total volume of different liver components, such as hepatocytes, sinusoids, portal vein, central vein, hepatic arteries, and bile ducts, was measured. The portal vein and bile duct volumes did not vary significantly in groups treated by AgNPs. However, the volume of the central vein and hepatic arteries exhibited noticeable variations in groups treated by AgNPs. After administration of streptozotocin, the volume of hepatocytes and sinusoids increased significantly. However, treatment with a high dose of AgNPs significantly decreased the volume of hepatocytes and sinusoids. In diabetic rats, administering AgNPs reduced the fasting blood glucose levels compared to the model group. In addition, AgNPs decreased the elevated levels of AST and ALP enzymes in a manner that depended on the dosage of AgNPs used. This research demonstrates the hepatoprotective and antidiabetic properties of AgNPs, suggesting their potential implications as hepatoprotective and antidiabetic supplements to prevent diabetes.
Evaluation of machine learning models for cytochrome P450 3A4, 2D6, and 2C9 inhibition
Authors: Gong Changda , Feng Yanjun , Zhu Jieyu , Liu Guixia , Tang Yun , Li Weihua
Published: March 2024

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes are involved in the metabolism of approximately 75% of marketed drugs. Inhibition of the major drug‐metabolizing P450s could alter drug metabolism and lead to undesirable drug–drug interactions. Therefore, it is of great significance to explore the inhibition of P450s in drug discovery. Currently, machine learning including deep learning algorithms has been widely used for constructing in silico models for the prediction of P450 inhibition. These models exhibited varying predictive performance depending on the use of machine learning algorithms and molecular representations. This leads to the difficulty in the selection of appropriate models for practical use. In this study, we systematically evaluated the conventional machine learning and deep learning models for three major P450 enzymes, CYP3A4, CYP2D6, and CYP2C9 from several perspectives, such as algorithms, molecular representation, and data partitioning strategies. Our results showed that the XGBoost and CatBoost algorithms coupled with the combined fingerprint/physicochemical descriptor features exhibited the best performance with Area Under Curve (AUC)  of 0.92, while the deep learning models were generally inferior to the conventional machine learning models (average AUC reached 0.89) on the same test sets. We also found that data volume and sampling strategy had a minor effect on model performance. We anticipate that these results are helpful for the selection of molecular representations and machine learning/deep learning algorithms in the P450 model construction and the future model development of P450 inhibition.
Catalase‐functionalized ZnO and graphene oxide used as electrocatalyst for the selective detection of hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Sharma Swati , Jain Utkarsh , Rosario Warren , Singh Varshika , Hooda Vinita , Chauhan Nidhi
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

This study focuses on the fabrication of a biosensor for the electrocatalytic and selective hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) recognition with bovine liver catalase (CAT) immobilized over a cysteine (c) modified zinc oxide nanoparticles/graphene oxide (c‐ZnO/GO) interface. The selectivity and sensitivity of the biosensor were augmented by the use of CAT and GO, respectively. The problem of CAT activity inhibition by GO was specifically solved by the incorporation of ZnO. Also, the cystine functionalization helped in better immobilization of CAT.

RESULTS

This unique approach was first validated with in silico computations that calculated the binding affinities to study the interactions between different components of the biosensor. The electrochemical studies confirmed the step‐by‐step modification of the sensor, where along with GO, c‐ZnO nanoparticles also showed excellent electro‐conductivity by fundamentally improving the peak currents towards H2O2. The proposed bio‐nano interface exhibited superb electrocatalytic performance and specific detection capability for H2O2 across a broad linear range (0.1 to 40 μmol L−1), featuring a low detection limit (0.1 μmol L−1), as well as commendable reproducibility and storage durability. Furthermore, the biosensor yielded satisfactory outcomes for H2O2 detection in milk samples.

CONCLUSION

Sensing performance of nano‐bio interfaces can be augmented by using the appropriate nano‐composites and their efficacy confirmed through computational techniques such as molecular docking. The biosensor can be further repurposed into a wearable device by integration with lab‐on‐a‐chip platforms. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
A new Doppler index, cerebro‐placental‐uterine ratio, and fetal cardiac parameters in early onset preeclampsia
Authors: Oğuz Yüksel , Ağaoğlu Recep Taha , Ulusoy Can Ozan , Öztürk Özge , Özgürlük İzzet , Soysal Çağanay , Yılmaz Vural Zehra , Yakut Yücel Kadriye
Published: March 2024

Objective

Our aim was to investigate the significance of cerebro‐placento‐uterine ratio CPUR, a new Doppler index, and fetal cardiac parameters (Mod MPI, EFT) in early–onset preeclampsia (EOPE) and to examine whether these parameters are related to perinatal outcome.

Study design

Forty participants diagnosed with EOPE (preeclampsia cases diagnosed before 34 weeks of gestation) and 40 healthy pregnant women were included in this study. Demographic data were recorded. Doppler parameters such as middle cerebral artery (MCA), umbilical artery (UA), and uterine artery (Ut‐A), and left modified myocardial performance index (Mod–MPI) and epicardial fat thickness (EFT) were measured. Cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) was determined by dividing MCA pulsatility index (PI) by UA PI. CPUR was calculated as the ratio of CPR to mean UtA–PI (CPUR = CPR/UtA–PI). All parameters were compared between the EOPE and control groups. Correlation tests were used to examine the relationship between Doppler parameters and perinatal outcome. p values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

The pulsatility index of the middle cerebellar artery, CPUR and CPR values were statistically lower in the EOPE group than in the control group (p = 0.002; p = <0.001; p = <0.001; respectively). No statistical differences were found between groups for isovolumetric contraction time (ICT), isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT), ejection time (ET), left mod‐MPI, EFT (p = 0.117; p = 0.093; p = 0.398; p = 0.882; p = 0.202, respectively). Umbilical artery Doppler pulsatility index (PI), mean uterine artery Doppler pulsatility index (PI), were higher in the EOPE group than in the control group (p = 0.006; and p = <0.001, respectively). The CPUR value for predicting EOPE was ≤1.3652 with 74. 4% sensitivity and 94.9% specificity. Positive correlations were found between CPUR, CPR, and some neonatal parameters.

Conclusion

CPUR, a new index combining fetal and uterine Doppler indices, may add contribution to predict adverse perinatal outcome and EOPE.
Comprehensive exploration on transfer and human health risk of potential toxic element in soil‐rice system from the Pearl River Delta
Authors: Huang Changchen , Hou Qingye , Yang Zhongfang , Yu Tao , You Yuanhang , Wu Zhiliang
Published: March 2024

The transfers of potential toxic elements (PTEs) from root soil to rice grains and its driving factors are of major worldwide concern. And it is still not clear whether the parent material has influence on the transfers of PTEs in soil. Thus, the aim of this study is to investigate the transfers of PTEs in soil‐rice system from different parent materials area, identify its driving factors and evaluate human health risk. 157 sets of root soil and rice grains samples collected from the areas with quaternary sediments, acidic magmatic rocks and terrigenous clastic rocks in the Pearl River Delta, China. Pearson correlation analysis, discriminant analysis, redundancy analysis, path analysis and human health risk model were utilized for data processing and analysis. The results reveal that parent materials play a primary role affecting the transfers of PTEs in soil‐rice system, and its influence on transfers of PTEs is achieved by governing physicochemical properties of soil. And physicochemical parameters like MgO, SiO2, Al2O3, TFe2O3, and organic matter (OM) exerted significant influence on transfers of PTEs. The influences of some physicochemical parameters on the transfers of PTEs are most significantly in the area of quaternary sediments. The values of the total non‐carcinogenic and the total carcinogenic risks for children and adults caused by rice consumption are much higher than the corresponding risk limits, and the main contributing elements are Pb, As, and As, Cd, respectively. The human health risks caused by rice consumption are greatest in the area with quaternary sediments.
2‐Pyran‐4‐Ylidene Malononitrile Based Conjugated Microporous Polymers as Metal‐Free Heterogeneous Photocatalysts for Organic Synthesis
Authors: Liu Yuanbo , Yang Liuliu , Hou Yuxin , Zhang Zhenwei , Xiao Xiao , Yue Huijuan , Liu Xiaoming
Published: March 2024

Photoactive conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs) as heterogeneous photocatalysts provide a sustainable alternative to classical metal‐based semiconductor photosensitizers. However, previously reported CMPs are typically synthesized through metal catalyzed coupling reactions, which bears product separation, but also increases the price of materials. Herein, a new type of sp2 carbon linked DCM‐CMPs are successfully designed and synthesized by organic base catalyzed Knoevenagel reaction using 2,6‐Dimethyl‐4H‐pyran‐4‐ylidene‐malononitrile and aromatic polyaldehydes as monomers. The new polymers feature inherent porosity, excellent stability, and fully π‐conjugated skeleton with broad visible‐light absorption. They effectively induce the synthesis of benzimidazole compounds under light irradiation, and exhibit wide substrate adaptability with outstanding recyclability.
Smart data augmentation: One equation is all you need
Authors: Zhang Yuhao , Tang Lu , Huang Yuxiao , Ma Yan
Published: March 2024

Class imbalance is a common and critical challenge in machine learning classification problems, resulting in low prediction accuracy. While numerous methods, especially data augmentation methods, have been proposed to address this issue, a method that works well on one dataset may perform poorly on another. To the best of our knowledge, there is still no one single best approach for handling class imbalance that can be uniformly applied. In this paper, we propose an approach named smart data augmentation (SDA), which aims to augment imbalanced data in an optimal way to maximize downstream classification accuracy. The key novelty of SDA is an equation that can bring about an augmentation method that provides a unified representation of existing sampling methods for handling multi‐level class imbalance and allows easy fine‐tuning. This framework allows SDA to be seen as a generalization of traditional methods, which in turn can be viewed as specific cases of SDA. Empirical results on a wide range of datasets demonstrate that SDA could significantly improve the performance of the most popular classifiers such as random forest, multi‐layer perceptron, and histogram‐based gradient boosting.
The impact of 24/7 news coverage on the mental health of Israelis in the ‘Iron Swords’ War: A cross‐sectional analysis among television audience
Authors: Kaim Arielle , Bodas Moran
Published: March 2024

This study aims to assess the impact of continuous 24/7 news broadcasting on the mental well‐being of Jewish Israelis during the ‘Iron Swords’ War and compare it to findings from the 2014 Conflict. An internet‐based cross‐sectional panel survey was conducted on 11–12 October 2023, during the ‘Iron Swords’ War. The study focused on Israel's adult Jewish population, enabling comparisons with a previous 2014 study. Participants reported news consumption changes, attitudes towards newscasts (burdensome, relaxing, stressful, addictive, Fear Of Missing Out [FOMO], avoidance), opinions on 24/7 news, and anxiety symptoms. Among 802 adult Jewish participants in Israel, 83.8% increased news consumption. While more than 70% of respondents found the newscast stressing at least a medium level, more than 40% said they do not try to avoid them at all. Nearly 24% found it much addictive. Women and younger individuals reported more FOMO, stress, and addiction. More than 70% reported experiencing at least one anxiety symptom, and 21% of all four. Linear regression explained 42.9% of the variance of reported anxiety, with gender, age, news stress, addiction, and FOMO as predictors. The current study results show an increase in all measurements compared to a separate study conducted using the same tools in 2014. Jewish Israelis struggled with news consumption during the recent war, harming mental health. Heightened anxiety was observed, compared to 2014, and affected all demographics.
Fire resistance of concrete‐filled steel tube beam‐column under elevated temperatures and cyclic loading
Authors: Bayrak Barış , Maali Mahyar , Kılıç Mahmut , Maali Merve , Aydın Abdulkadir Cüneyt
Published: March 2024

This article aims to provide an overview of the fire resistance of concrete‐filled steel tube beam columns and the importance of fire resistance in building design and construction. Ten experimental models were developed to predict the behavior of different types of concrete‐filled steel tubes and beams‐columns under Fire resistance conditions (ISO‐834) under cyclic loading in two groups. The results show the type of concrete effect on moment‐rotation characteristics. Also, increasing the length of the stiffener on the column increases the load and moment capacity, but also affects the failure mode. Moreover, the ideal situation is to use PP fiber concrete in concrete‐filled steel tube structural elements where displacement and rotation capacity are prominent. Withal, the recycling of fire‐exposed steel beam‐to‐column tube element is available by filling the inner space with C50 and/or polypropylene fiber reinforced concrete, also as a fireproof member.
Domain Adaptation Curriculum Learning for Scene Text Detection in Inclement Weather Conditions
Authors: Liu Yangxin , Zhou Gang , Tian Jiakun , Deng En , Lin Meng , Jia Zhenhong
Published: March 2024

Scene text detection has been widely studied on haze‐free images with reliable ground truth annotation. However, detecting scene text in inclement weather conditions remains a major challenge due to the severe domain distribution mismatch problem. This paper introduces a domain adaptation curriculum learning method to address this problem. The scene text detector is self‐trained in an easy‐to‐hard manner using the pseudo‐labels predicted from foggy images. Thus, our method reduces the pseudo‐labeling noise level. Then, a feature alignment module is introduced to help the network learn domain‐invariant features by training a domain classifier. Experimental results show that our method improved significantly on both synthetic foggy data sets and natural foggy data sets, outperforming many state‐of‐the‐art scene text detectors. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
A Simple Strategy for Bidding to Balancing Market of Photovoltaic Power
Authors: Taniguchi Tetsuki , Cui Jindan , Fang Xue , Oozeki Takashi , Ueda Yuzuru
Published: March 2024

Assuming the bidding on balancing market of photovoltaic (PV) system, critical issues are adequate determination of amount of bid and decision making on whether to make a bid or not. This study proposes a rule‐based scheme handling this problem regarding the trade‐off between opportunity loss and penalty event where the actually generated power becomes less than the bid. The amount of bid is adjusted by utilizing trend information of PV output error, and the execution of bidding is decided based on probability of exclusion from the market calculated using queueing theory. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Circ_0027791 contributes to the growth and immune evasion of hepatocellular carcinoma via the miR‐496/programmed cell death ligand 1 axis in an m6A‐dependent manner
Authors: Yu Furong , Fang Peifei , Fang Yonghong , Chen Daojun
Published: March 2024

Emerging evidence indicates the critical roles of circular RNAs in the development of multiple cancers, containing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Herein, our present research reported the biological function and mechanism of circ_0027791 in HCC progression. Circ_0027791, microRNA‐496 (miR‐496), programmed cell death ligand 1 (PDL1), and methyltransferase‐like 3 (METTL3) levels were detected by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). Cell viability, proliferation, invasion, and sphere formation ability were detected using 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐2‐thiazolyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2‐H‐tetrazolium bromide, 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine, transwell, and sphere formation assays. Macrophage polarization was detected using flow cytometry assay. To understand the role of circ_0027791 during the immune escape, HCC cells were cocultured with peripheral blood mononuclear cells or cytokine‐induced killer (CIK) cells in vitro. A xenograft mouse model was applied to assess the function of circ_0027791 in vivo. After prediction using circinteractome and miRDB, the binding between miR‐496 and circ_0027791 or PDL1 was validated based on a dual‐luciferase reporter assay. Interaction between METTL3 and circ_0027791 was determined using methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP)‐qPCR, RIP‐qPCR, and RNA pull‐down assays. Circ_0027791, PDL1, and METTL3 expression were upregulated, and miR‐496 was decreased in HCC patients and cells. Moreover, circ_0027791 knockdown might repress proliferation, invasion, sphere formation, M2 macrophage polarization, and antitumor immune response. Circ_0027791 knockdown repressed HCC tumor growth in vivo. In mechanism, circ_0027791 functioned as a sponge for miR‐496 to increase PDL1 expression. In addition, METTL3 mediated the m6A methylation of circ_0027791 and stabilized its expression. METTL3‐induced circ_0027791 facilitated HCC cell progression partly regulating the miR‐496/PDL1 axis, which provided a new prognostic and therapeutic marker for HCC.
Exploring gene biomarkers and targeted drugs for ferroptosis and cuproptosis in osteosarcoma: A bioinformatic approach
Authors: Ji Yingnan , Liu Lv , Liu Yu , Ma Yudong , Ji Zhenhua , Wu Xiaodan , Zhu Qi
Published: March 2024

Osteosarcoma predominantly affects adolescents and young adults and is characterized as a malignant bone tumor. In recent decades, substantial advancements have been achieved in both diagnosing and treating osteosarcoma. Resulting in enhanced survival rates. Despite these advancements, the intricate relationship between ferroptosis and cuproptosis genes in osteosarcoma remains inadequately understood. Leveraging TARGET and GEO datasets, we conducted Cox regression analysis to select prognostic genes from a cohort of 71 candidates. Subsequently, a novel prognostic model was engineered using the LASSO algorithm. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated that patients stratified as low risk had a substantially better prognosis compared with their high‐risk counterparts. The model's validity was corroborated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Additionally, we ascertained independent prognostic indicators, including clinical presentation, metastatic status, and risk scores, and crafted a clinical scoring system via nomograms. The tumor immune microenvironment was appraised through ESTIMATE, CIBERSORT, and single‐sample gene set enrichment analysis. Gene expression within the model was authenticated through PCR validation. The prognostic model, refined by Cox regression and the LASSO algorithm, comprised two risk genes. Kaplan–Meier curves confirmed a significantly improved prognosis for the low‐risk group in contrast to those identified as high‐risk. For the training set, the ROC area under the curve (AUC) values stood at 0.636, 0.695, and 0.729 for the 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year checkpoints, respectively. Although validation set AUCs were 0.738, 0.668, and 0.596, respectively. Immune microenvironmental analysis indicated potential immune deficiencies in high‐risk patients. Additionally, sensitivity to three small molecule drugs was investigated in the high‐risk cohort, informing potential immunotherapeutic strategies for osteosarcoma. PCR analysis showed increased mRNA levels of the genes FDX1 and SQLE in osteosarcoma tissues. This study elucidates the interaction of ferroptosis and cuproptosis genes in osteosarcoma and paves the way for more targeted immunotherapy.
N, P co‐doped carbon quantum dot and ammonium polyphosphate as the synergistic flame retardant for epoxy resin
Authors: Wang Song , Zhou Yue , Wu Weidong , Hong Jiayi , Li Sanxi , Zhang Ailing
Published: March 2024

An N, P co‐doped carbon quantum dot (NP‐CQD) was prepared using citric acid as the carbon source and hexachlorotripolyphosphonitrile as the nitrogen and phosphorus source. The structure and morphology of NP‐CQD were characterized. Subsequently, NP‐CQD was blended with ammonium polyphosphate (APP) to come into being a synergistic phosphorus‐nitrogen flame retardant system (SPFRS). The SPFRS was applied in epoxy resin (EP) to enhance the flame retardancy of EP. Thermal stability, flame retardancy, combustion behavior, and char residue morphology of the EP samples were determined by multiple testing methods such as thermogravimetric analysis, vertical burning (UL‐94) and limiting oxygen index (LOI) tests, microscale combustion calorimetry test, and scanning electron microscopy. When the weight ratio of NP‐CQD to APP was kept at 1:9 and 8% SPFRS was added to EP, the obtained flame‐retardant EP (EP/CQD‐APP2:18) passed the UL‐94 V‐0 level and the LOI value of EP/CQD‐APP2:18 reached 33.2%. The MCC test showed that the heat release capacity (HRC) of EP/CQD‐APP2:18 was reduced by 48.7% compared with pure EP. Morphology observation on the char residue of EP/CQD‐APP2:18 after the UL‐94 test indicated that the addition of SPFRS promoted the formation of the dense char residue layer to improve the flame retardancy of EP.

Highlight

An N, P co‐doped carbon quantum dot (NP‐CQD) was prepared and applied as a flame retardant.

NP‐CQD and ammonium polyphosphate (APP) showed synergistic flame retardancy in epoxy resin.

The proper weight ratio of NP‐CQD to APP was 1:9.
Enhancing Student Services: Machine Learning Chatbot Intent Recognition for High School Inquiries
Authors: Assayed Suha Khalil , Alkhatib Manar , Shaalan Khaled
Published: March 2024

Purpose- This paper aims to develop a novel chatbot to improve student services in high school by transferring students’ enquiries to a particular agent, based on the enquiry type. In accordance to that, comparison between machine learning and neural network is conducted in order to identify the most accurate model to classify students’ requests.

Methodology- In this study we selected the data from high school students, since high school is one of the most essential stages in students’ lives, as in this stage, students have the option to select their academic streams and advanced courses that can shape their careers according to their passions and interests. A new corpus is created with (1004) enquiries. The data is annotated manually based on the type of request. The labelhigh-school-coursesis assigned to the requests that are related to elective courses and standardized tests during high school. On the other hand, the labelmajors & universitiesis assigned to the questions that are related to applying to universities along with selecting the majors. Two novel classifier chatbots are developed and evaluated, where the first chatbot is developed by using a Naive Bayes Machine Learning Algorithm, while the other is developed by using Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN)-LSTM.

Findings- Some features and techniques are used in both models in order to improve the performance. However, both models have conveyed a high accuracy score which exceeds (91%). The models have been validated as a pilot testing by using high school students as well as experts in education and six questions and enquiries are presented to the chatbots for the evaluation.

Implications and future work- This study can add value to the team of researchers and developers to integrate such classifiers into different applications. As a result, this improves the users’ services, in particular, those implemented in educational institutions. In the future, it is certain that intent recognition will be developed with the addition of a voice recognition feature which can successfully integrated into smartphones.
The Impact of Fostering Parasocial Relationship Between Influencing Entrepreneurs and Social Media Followers on the Brand Image and the Purchase Intentions of Start-Up Companies
Authors: Awawdeh Esraa , Alhassan Rouaa , Alalya Amer
Published: March 2024

Purpose:this research tends to study the parasocial relationship between influencers on social media and their followers, and how it impacts the purchase intentions of the startup companies and their brand images.

Findings: The parasocial relationship has a moderate impact on the purchase intentions, while it has a strong impact on the brand image, while the brand image has a strong positive impact on the purchase intentions.

Conclusion:parasocial relationship can be used in an effective way to build the brand image of the company and to increase the purchase intentions.
A cosmic window on the dark axion portal
Authors: Hong Heejoung , Min Ui , Son Minho , You Tevong
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Axions and dark photons are common in many extensions of the Standard Model. The dark axion portal — an axion coupling to the dark photon and photon — can significantly modify their phenomenology. We study the cosmological constraints on the dark axion portal from Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) bounds on the energy density of dark radiation, ∆Neff. By computing the axion-photon-dark photon collision terms and solving the Boltzmann equations including their effects, we find that light axions are generally more constrained by ∆Neff than from supernova cooling or collider experiments. However, with dark photons at the MeV scale, a window of parameter space is opened up above the supernova limits and below the experimental exclusion, allowing for axion decay constants as low as fa ~ 104 GeV. This region also modifies indirectly the neutrino energy density, thus relaxing the cosmological upper bound on the sum of neutrino masses. Future CMB measurements could detect a signal or close this open window on the dark axion portal.
Bootstrapping high-energy observables
Authors: Bhat Faizan , Chowdhury Debapriyo , Sinha Aninda , Tiwari Shaswat , Zahed Ahmadullah
Published: March 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we set up the numerical S-matrix bootstrap by using the crossing symmetric dispersion relation (CSDR) to write down Roy equations for the partial waves. As a motivation behind examining the local version of the CSDR, we derive a new crossing symmetric, 3-channels-plus-contact-terms representation of the Virasoro-Shapiro amplitude in string theory that converges everywhere except at the poles. We then focus on gapped theories and give novel analytic and semi-analytic derivations of several bounds on low-energy data. We examine the high-energy behaviour of the experimentally measurable rho-parameter, introduced by Khuri and Kinoshita and defined as the ratio of the real to the imaginary part of the amplitude in the forward limit. Contrary to expectations, we find numerical evidence that there could be multiple changes in the sign of this ratio before it asymptotes at high energies. We compare our approach with other existing numerical methods and find agreement, with improvement in convergence.
The work of art in the age of artificial intelligibility
Authors: McLoughlin John
Published: March 2024

The emergence of complex deep-learning models capable of producing novel images on a practically innumerable number of subjects and in an equally wide variety of artistic styles is beginning to highlight serious inadequacies in the ethical, aesthetic, epistemological and legal frameworks we have so far used to categorise art. To begin tackling these issues and identifying a role for AI in the production and protection of human artwork, it is necessary to take a multidisciplinary approach which considers current legal precedents, the practice of software engineering, historical attitudes towards technological innovation and a sustained technical analysis of the models themselves. This paper queries the location and nature of substantive artistic work in the developmental stages of an AI-generated image, offering critiques of existing assumptions and posing questions for future research. The emergence of convincing AI creative output, artistic or literary, has significant long-term implications for the humanities, including the need for re-appraisal of foundational ideas about authorship and creativity in general. The effects of artificial intelligence, whether generalised or task-specific, cannot be ignored or displaced now that easy-access, scalable image and text production is a reality.
Flank fractures on spiral bevel gears—transfer of analytical methods for the estimation of residual stresses from cylindrical gears to bevel gears
Authors: Truong Thi Tra My , Ulrich Carsten , Schumann Stefan , Schlecht Berthold
Published: March 2024

The classic flank and root load capacity calculation on the component surface forms the basis for the design of power gears today. However, flank fractures also occur in practice, particularly with large-module gears and/or low case-hardening depths. It is a fatigue damage with crack initiation in the tooth interior, its prevention requires the calculation of the stresses below the surface. In addition to understanding the load stresses, the inhomogeneous load bearing capacity and the residual stress profile in case-hardened gears are also of great importance. There are various calculation approaches for this in the area of cylindrical gears, but these have not yet been transferred to the complex geometry of spiral bevel gears. The focus of this publication is on estimating the residual stresses in the tooth volume by generating a three-dimensional residual stress tensor field in the bevel gear tooth based on the two-dimensional calculation approaches used to date on cylindrical gears. In combination with the stress tensor-time curves from a tooth contact simulation with the LTCA tool BECAL, this can be fed into different failure hypotheses, which is illustrated using an example.
Gaps in treatment of epileptic seizures in a Zambian rural area
Authors: Mambo Richard , Phiri Andrew M. , Trevisan Chiara , Zulu Gideon , Mubanga Chishimba M. , Mwelwa Chembensofu , Phiri Isaac K. , Schmidt Veronika , Magnussen Pascal , Dorny Pierre , Gabriël Sarah , Winkler Andrea S. , Mwape Kabemba E.
Published: March 2024

Background

Epilepsy is a multifactorial neurological disorder, including parasitic infections of the brain such as neurocysticercosis (NCC). People with epileptic seizures (PWES) in low and middle-income countries often do not receive appropriate treatment, which besides epileptic seizures, may also lead to reduced quality of life and possibly death. The objective of this study was to describe gaps in treatment of epileptic seizures in a Zambian rural area.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Sinda district of Zambia between August and October 2018. PWES identified from clinic records and with the help of community healthcare workers were recruited. Two questionnaires, one to PWES and the other to local healthcare workers, were administered to describe the treatment gap.

Results

A total of 146 PWES and 43 healthcare workers were interviewed. Of the 146 PWES, 131 had taken anti-seizure medication (ASM) at some point since their seizure onset, of which 49.6% were on current treatment. Only 18.3% were on continuous ASM, an overall treatment gap of 83.6%. Over 55% of healthcare workers did not know the relationship between epilepsy and NCC. The risk factors associated with lack of appropriate treatment were stock-outs of ASMs, lack of diagnostic equipment, poor patient follow-up, and PWES opting for traditional medicine.

Conclusion

The treatment gap is substantial in Sinda district. The causes are multifactorial, involving shortcomings at the level of healthcare facilities, communities, and individuals. Directed training of healthcare workers and significant improvements in the supply and dispensing of ASMs will be key in substantially reducing the gap.
Extracellular matrix protein 1 (ECM1) is a potential biomarker in B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Wu Li-Xin , Zhao Ming-Yue , Yan Nan , Zhou Ya-Lan , Cao Lei-Ming , Qin Ya-Zhen , Jiang Qian , Xu Lan-Ping , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Huang Xiao-Jun , Jiang Hao , Ruan Guo-Rui
Published: March 2024

B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is characterized by the highly heterogeneity of pathogenic genetic background, and there are still approximately 30–40% of patients without clear molecular markers. To identify the dysregulated genes in B cell ALL, we screened 30 newly diagnosed B cell ALL patients and 10 donors by gene expression profiling chip. We found that ECM1 transcription level was abnormally elevated in newly diagnosed B cell ALL and further verified in another 267 cases compared with donors (median, 124.57% vs. 7.14%, P < 0.001). ROC analysis showed that the area under the curve of ECM1 transcription level at diagnosis was 0.89 (P < 0.001). Patients with BCR::ABL1 and IKZF1 deletion show highest transcription level (210.78%) compared with KMT2A rearrangement (39.48%) and TCF3::PBX1 rearrangement ones (30.02%) (all P < 0.05). Also, the transcription level of ECM1 was highly correlated with the clinical course, as 20 consecutive follow-up cases indicated. The 5-year OS of patients (non-KMT2A and non-TCF3::PBX1 rearrangement) with high ECM1 transcription level was significantly worse than the lower ones (18.7% vs. 72.9%, P < 0.001) and high ECM1 transcription level was an independent risk factor for OS (HR = 5.77 [1.75–19.06], P = 0.004). After considering transplantation, high ECM1 transcription level was not an independent risk factor, although OS was still poor (low vs. high, 71.1% vs. 56.8%, P = 0.038). Our findings suggested that ECM1 may be a potential molecular marker for diagnosis, minimal residual disease (MRD) monitoring, and prognosis prediction of B cell ALL.

Trial registration Trial Registration Registered in the Beijing Municipal Health Bureau Registration N 2007–1007 and in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry [ChiCTR-OCH-10000940 and ChiCTR-OPC-14005546]; http://www.chictr.org.cn.
Python toolbox for android GNSS raw data to RINEX conversion
Authors: Hernández Olcina Jorge , Anquela Julián Ana B. , Martín Furones Ángel E.
Published: March 2024

Global navigation satellite system (GNSS) data collected from Android devices have gained increasing importance in various applications, ranging from geospatial positioning to environmental monitoring. However, the lack of standardized tools for converting Android GNSS raw data into receiver independent exchange (RINEX) format poses a significant challenge for researchers and practitioners. In response to this need, we present a comprehensive Python toolbox designed to streamline the conversion process and enhance the usability of Android GNSS data. The proposed toolbox leverages Python’s versatility to provide a user-friendly interface for converting Android GNSS raw data into the widely adopted RINEX format. Key features include robust data parsing algorithms, support for multiple GNSS constellations, and compatibility with diverse Android device configurations. Furthermore, the toolbox’s open-source nature encourages community collaboration and allows for continual improvement and adaptation to emerging GNSS technologies. We anticipate that this Python toolbox will serve as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners working with Android GNSS data, facilitating standardized data interchange and promoting reproducibility in GNSS-based studies.
First tarsometatarsal joint mobility in hallux valgus during gait: A synchronized ultrasound and three-dimensional motion capture analysis
Authors: Tashiro Tsubasa , Ikuta Yasunari , Maeda Noriaki , Arima Satoshi , Morikawa Masanori , Kaneda Kazuki , Ishihara Honoka , Tsutsumi Shogo , Kawai Miki , Brand Andreas , Nakasa Tomoyuki , Adachi Nobuo , Komiya Makoto , Urabe Yukio
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To quantify the vertical translation between the first metatarsal and medial cuneiform during the stance phase of gait in young individuals with and without hallux valgus.

Design

This cross-sectional observational study included 34 young adults (male, n = 4; female, n = 30) who were divided into three groups according to the hallux valgus angle: control (< 20°, n = 13), mild hallux valgus (≥ 20° to < 30°, n = 12), and moderate hallux valgus (≥ 30°, n = 9). The mobility of the first tarsometatarsal joint was evaluated during the stance phase using B-mode ultrasound synchronized with a motion analysis system.

Results

The medial cuneiform shifted more plantar during the early phase in mild hallux valgus and during the middle and terminal phases in moderate hallux valgus than in control. The severity of the hallux valgus was correlated with a trend toward plantar shift of the medial cuneiform. The first metatarsal was located more dorsal than the medial cuneiform; however, there was no significant variation. No significant differences in the peak ankle plantarflexion angle and moment were noted between the groups.

Conclusion

The hypermobility of the first tarsometatarsal joint, especially plantar displacement of the medial cuneiform in the sagittal plane, was found in young individuals with hallux valgus during the stance phase of gait, and the mobility increased with the severity of hallux valgus. Our findings suggest the significance of preventing hallux valgus deformity early in life.
Nuclear moments: recent developments
Authors: Stone Nicholas J.
Published: March 2024

The author has for many years kept a watching brief on the experimental study of nuclear electro-magnetic moments. Accurate values of nuclear magnetic dipole and electric quadrupole moments are a major product and the life blood of hyperfine interaction studies and their manifold applications. This paper outlines recent changes in the type of moment measurements being undertaken and the effect of modern complex electronic configuration computation on the extracted moment values.