bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
α‐Triazolylboronic Acids: A Novel Scaffold to Target FLT3 in AML
Authors: Introvigne Maria Luisa , Destro Lorenza , Mologni Luca , Crippa Valentina , Zardi Paolo , Fini Francesco , Prati Fabio , Caselli Emilia , Zambon Alfonso
Published: September 2024

The treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) presents a challenge to current therapies because of the development of drug resistance. Genetic mutation of FMS‐like tyrosine kinase‐3 (FLT3) is a target of interest for AML treatment, but the use of FLT3‐targeting agents on AML patients has so far resulted in poor overall clinical outcomes.[1] The incorporation of the boronic group in a drug scaffold could enhance the bioavailability and pharmacokinetic profile of conventional anticancer chemotypes. Boronic acids represent an intriguing and unexplored class of compounds in the context of AML, and they are only scantly reported as inhibitors of protein kinases. We identified α‐triazolylboronic acids as a novel chemotype for targeting FLT3 by screening a library of structurally heterogeneous in‐house boronic acids. Selected compounds show low micromolar activities on enzymatic and cellular assays, selectivity against control cell lines and a recurring binding mode in in‐silico studies. Furthermore, control analogues synthesized ad hoc and lacking the boronic acid are inactive, confirming that this group is essential for the activity of the series. All together, these results suggest α‐triazolylboronic acids could be a promising novel chemotype for FLT3 inhibition, laying the ground for the design of further compounds.
Green Power: The Role of Plant‐Based Biochar in Advanced Energy Storage
Authors: Simon Shilpa , Harikumar Parvathy , Sreeja P. B.
Published: September 2024

This comprehensive review aims to provide an overview of recent progress in utilizing plant‐based biochar for supercapacitors. It specifically focuses on biochar derived from plant biomass such as agricultural residues, weeds and aquatic plants, examining their potential in energy storage applications. It explores various synthesis methods like pyrolysis and hydrothermal carbonization and evaluates their impact on biochar's structure and electrochemical properties. Additionally, it examines the electrochemical performance of biochar‐based supercapacitors, focusing on parameters such as capacitance, cycling stability, and rate capability. Strategies to enhance biochar's electrochemical performance, such as surface modification and composite fabrication, are also discussed. Furthermore, it addresses existing challenges and prospects in harnessing plant‐based biochar for supercapacitor applications, highlighting its potential as a sustainable and efficient electrode material for next‐generation energy storage devices.
On the Solvation Properties of Menthol‐Thymol Mixtures. A Molecular Dynamics Investigation
Authors: Dorosh T. , Mangin T. , Engler E. , Schurhammer R. , Chaumont A.
Published: September 2024

Using classical molecular dynamics, we have investigated the solvation of catechol, resorcinol, hydroquinone and 1,4‐benzoquinone at infinite dilution, in a series of menthol ‐ thymol mixtures in which the molar fraction of thymol (xTHY) has been increased by steps of 0.1, from 0 (pure menthol) to 1 (pure thymol). The evolution of the solvation shell around the solutes reveals that when xTHY is increased, the average number of hydrogen bonds (HB) where the solute acts as HB acceptor (HBA) and the solvent as HB donor (HBD) increases, while the amount of HB, in which the solute acts as HBD and the solvent as HBA, decreases. Overall, the total number of HBs between the different benzenediols and the solvent decreases with an increase of xTHY, while for benzoquinone the total number of HB increases. This points to the fact that “acidic” or HBD molecules are better solvated in mixtures with high menthol proportion, while “basic” or HBA molecules, are better solvated in thymol rich mixtures. The results reported herein follow the same trends as experimentally reported Kamlet‐Taft parameters and present insights on how the composition of these “deep eutectic” mixtures maybe tweaked in order to optimize their solvation properties.
Pd(II)‐Catalyzed Conversion Of N‐Troponyl‐Amino Acid Derivatives Into Cationic Troponyl‐Oxazolidines
Authors: Jena Chinmay K. , Sharma Nagendra K.
Published: September 2024

Benzoxazole and benzoxazolidine are constituents of various bioactive natural/synthetic molecules comprising benzenoid aromatic residue. However, non‐benzenoid aromatic scaffolds such as tropone and tropolone are also found in natural products. This report describes the synthesis of unusual cationic troponyl‐oxazolidine derivatives from N‐troponyl‐amino acids/peptides by Pd(II)‐catalyzed transformation. X‐ray studies confirm the formation of the first tropylium cation annelated oxazolidine structures and support the formation of unique supramolecular self‐assembly structures owing to the H‐bonding. The CV studies of new tropylium cations reveal their reduction potential ca −1.2 V. Hence, cationic troponyl‐oxazolidinyl amino acids/peptides could be promising analogs of benzoxazolidine for the development of therapeutic drugs.
Illicit drug use in Limerick City: A stakeholder and policy analysis using multiple streams model
Authors: Duopah Yaa Asuaba , Moran Lisa , Elmusharaf Khalifa , Kelly Dervla
Published: September 2024

Background

The changing drug situation in Ireland has led to the development of various drug policies. This paper aims to use Limerick City as a case study to examine approaches to policy development.

Methodology

The study is qualitative and uses a hybrid technique that combines document, content, and stakeholder analysis. Kingdon's multiple streams model underpins this study. In addition, guidelines for the systematic search for grey literature were adopted as the search strategy.

Results

Problem Stream: Illicit drug use and its related problems have changed. The increasing availability of drugs, increasing usage and changes in the types of drugs being used have led to increased drug‐related crimes, adverse health outcomes and elevated demand for treatment services. Local drug policies and initiatives emerge by recognising drug‐related problems in the region.

Policy Stream: The current national drug strategy 2017–2025 which informs action plans in Limerick is the first to focus on a unified health approach. Some national policies have evolved to ensure that guidelines meet current service needs. However, these changes have occurred in some cases with no clear actions.

Political Stream: Statutory, voluntary and community stakeholders provide drug addiction and drug addiction‐related services, which have evolved rapidly since their first introduction. The Mid‐West Regional Drug Task Force was identified as essential in coordinating stakeholders locally. One area for improvement is limited evidence of the voices of persons who take drugs included in service/policy development. This regional analysis also suggests that local implementation of policies concerning dual diagnosis and supervised injection facilities can be further expanded. Despite the challenges experienced by stakeholders in Limerick, a hands‐on approach has been adopted in the creation of strategies to tackle the drug problem.

Conclusion

The approaches to drug policy development have delivered continuous development of services. However, services remain underdeveloped in areas removed from the capital city of Dublin. Navigating the complex drug landscape reveals that inclusivity, adaptation, and ongoing research are critical components of successful and long‐lasting drug policies.
Optimizing heat transfer within a rectangular channel through intermittent metal foam block configurations: A numerical study
Authors: Al‐Chlaihawi Kadhim , Hasan Moayed , Ekaid Ali
Published: September 2024

A thorough numerical investigation was carried out to examine the heat transfer characteristics within a rectangular channel integrated with metal foam blocks for solar air heating applications. The study employed numerical simulations using the extended Darcy–Forchheimer model with the assumption that there exist local thermal nonequilibrium conditions within the porous foam region. Four configurations, denoted as P–A, P–P, A–P, and A–A, were explored based on the presence or absence of foam blocks relative to the heated section. The study meticulously analyzed the influence of key parameters, such as the number of foam blocks (N = 1–5), permeability (quantified by pore density, ), and Reynolds number (), on the thermohydraulic performance. The results were promising, indicating a significant increase in the average Nusselt number () with the inclusion of foam blocks, albeit accompanied by an undesirable increase in the friction factor. Among the various configurations, the P–A arrangement, where porous blocks are situated at the entrance of the heating channel, exhibited superior thermal performance. Furthermore, the optimal heat transmission rate was attained with a single porous block (N = 1) in the P–A configuration, at a Reynolds number of 16,000 and high permeability (). Conversely, the maximum friction factor was observed with five porous blocks (N = 5) in the A–P configuration, at a Reynolds number of 4000 and low permeability (). The exhaustive analysis of thermohydraulic performance was evaluated using the performance evaluation criterion (PEC), which optimizes the trade‐off between increased heat transfer rate and consequent pressure loss. The P–A arrangement, particularly with higher permeability and a minimal number of porous blocks, demonstrated the highest PEC value of 2.71, representing a significant 171% improvement compared with an empty channel. This study underscores the effectiveness of strategically placing and optimizing metal foam blocks to improve the thermal performance of heat exchanger systems.
The correlation between tumoral CD8 expression and clinical course in patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer using tissue samples acquired by endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition
Authors: Tanisaka Yuki , Ryozawa Shomei , Mizuide Masafumi , Fujita Akashi , Jinushi Ryuhei , Watanabe Ryuichi , Sato Ryo , Yasuda Masanori
Published: September 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between tumoral CD8 expression and the clinical course in patients with unresectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) using tissue samples acquired by endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition (EUS‐TA).

Methods

Patients with unresectable PDAC who underwent EUS‐TA prior to treatment between September 2017 and October 2021 were included. The localization of the CD8‐positive areas was qualitatively evaluated. We divided the patients into high and low groups based on the median percentage of CD8‐positive areas. The correlation between the number of CD8‐positive areas and overall survival was assessed. Furthermore, the response to chemotherapy was assessed in patients who underwent chemotherapy.

Results

A total of 169 patients were included in the analysis. The median overall survival was 171 days (95% confidence interval [CI]: 86–401). The median CD8‐positive area was 0.10% (95% CI: 0.05–0.26). The median overall survival in the high (≥0.1%) and low (<0.1%) CD8‐positive groups were 156 and 213.5 days, respectively (p = .33). The number of CD8‐positive areas was not correlated with the overall survival and response to chemotherapy (p = .69).

Conclusions

Tissue samples acquired using EUS‐TA from patients with unresectable PDAC showed that CD8 expression did not affect the clinical course of patients.
HIV‐negative HHV8‐positive multicentric Castleman's disease coexistent with atypical Kaposi's sarcoma
Authors: Scattone Anna , Loseto Giacomo , Mennuni Biagina Gisella , Mastrandrea Valentina , Buquicchio Rosalba , Foti Caterina , Zito Francesco Alfredo , Filotico Raffaele
Published: September 2024

The co‐occurence of multicentric Castleman's disease (MCD) and Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) represents a rare clinical entity, mostly observed in individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV‐8) is attributed a crucial etiological role in both conditions. This study presents the case of a 75‐year‐old woman who manifested an angiomatous lesion on the right thigh and erythematous firm plaques on the trunk and limbs, accompanied by asthenia, weight loss, and recurrent febrile episodes. Serological markers for HIV yielded negative results. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) and fluorine‐18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18 F FDG PET/CT) revealed multiple enlarged and intensely hypermetabolic lymph nodes in the supraclavicular, cervical, thoracic, and abdominopelvic regions. Subsequent excisional biopsy and immunohistochemical analysis confirmed the diagnosis of HIV‐negative HHV8‐positive MCD coexisting with KS.
The impact of alopecia areata on patients' daily lives: A study using social media in France
Authors: Barbarot S. , Reguiai Z. , Voillot P. , Malaab J. , Schück S. , Tamzali A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Alopecia areata (AA) significantly affects patients' quality of life, leading them to seek community and support on social media platforms.

Objectives

This study aims to explore the disease's impact on patients' lives by analyzing their discussions on these platforms.

Methods

Through a retrospective analysis of French social media posts from January 2011 to October 2022, the study employed algorithm‐based methods and machine learning to identify how AA affects patients' quality of life across physical, psychological, social, and financial dimensions. Additionally, qualitative methods (i.e., saturation) were used to detail the main difficulties faced by patients.

Results

The analysis covered 5075 posts by 4061 patients, primarily from Twitter/X (59.5% of messages) and YouTube (12.9%). It revealed that 81.8% of patients experienced physical impacts, closely linked to psychological issues (66.1%), with many reporting a detrimental cycle of stress and hair loss leading to anxiety and mental fatigue. This cycle adversely affected their self‐image and confidence, resulting in social and professional isolation for 52.0% of patients. Financial strain was also significant, with 35.9% discussing the high costs of treatments and aesthetic maintenance. The primary difficulties included managing stress related to AA (32.1% of messages), handling the disease's duration and relapses (14.1%), and coping with damaged self‐image and self‐esteem issues, such as femininity and societal judgments (11.1%).

Conclusions

This study highlights the profound and multifaceted impact of AA on patients, who often turn to social media for support. The findings underscore the importance of a holistic approach to managing AA, considering its extensive physical, psychological, social, and financial effects. Integrating insights from social media with traditional healthcare and epidemiological research could offer new directions for improving patient support and treatment strategies.
Honey and Aloe vera Solution Increases Survival and Modulates the Tumor Size In Vivo
Authors: Tomasin Rebeka , Ferreira Ianca Carneiro , Sawaya Alexandra Christine Helena Frankland , Mazzafera Paulo , Pascoal Aislan Cristina Rheder Fagundes , Salvador Marcos Jose , Gomes‐Marcondes Maria Cristina Cintra
Published: September 2024

Scope

The combination of honey and Aloe vera is used as a popular complementary treatment for cancer due to their nutraceutical properties. This study aims to investigate the anticancer activity of honey and A. vera solution and its ethanolic extraction through in vitro and in vivo approaches.

Methods and results

After comparisons of honey and A. vera (HA) solution and its ethanolic extraction solution (E) samples by UPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS, the study verifies HA‐treatment affected only Walker tumor cells viability at the highest dose, and E‐treatment has a more cytotoxic/antiproliferative effect in MCF‐7 and Walker‐256 cells. The in vivo results show a higher survival rate in Walker‐256 tumor‐bearing rats (WHA), with higher NK cell infiltration in tumor tissue and a tendency in the WE group. These results are possible due to decreased mannose‐based immunomodulatory polysaccharides and aloin‐A contents in the ethanolic extract solution compared to HA solution.

Conclusion

The current study provides compelling evidence of selectively cytotoxic against tumor cells under honey and A. vera solution and ethanolic extraction solution treatment, due to the cytotoxic/antiproliferative compounds. Therefore, the use of honey and A. vera solution could be used as a basis for coadjuvant therapy in cancer treatment.
An automated commissioning method based on virtual source models: Customizing Monte Carlo dose verification models for individual accelerators
Authors: Cheng Bo , Xu Yuan , Li Shijun , Ren Qiang , Pei Xi , Men Kuo , Dai Jianrong , Xu Xie George
Published: September 2024

Background

In pursuit of precise dose calculation and verification, the importance of beam modelling cannot be overstated, as it ensures an accurate distribution of particles incident upon the human body. The virtual source model, as one of the beam modelling methods, offers the advantage of not requiring detailed accelerator information. Although various virtual source models exist, manual adjustment to these models demands a substantial investment of time and computational resources. There has long been a desire to develop an efficient and automated approach for model commissioning.

Purpose

To develop an automatic commissioning method for the virtual source model to customize the accelerator model for independent Monte Carlo dose verification.

Methods

Initially, the accelerator model is established using the virtual source model and self‐developed Jaw and MLC models. Then, a fully automated iteration process is employed to adjust the parameters of the virtual source model. Three types of objective functions are designed to represent differences from water tank measurements. Each objective function is paired with a specific parameter for adjustment, and their effectiveness is demonstrated through physical evidence. In each iteration, parameters with the highest objective function percentage are chosen for adjustment, and step length is determined based on current objective function values. Iteration is terminated when changes in any direction from the optimal solution no longer produce an improvement. Dose verification model for nine accelerators has been accomplished using this method. Additionally, under the same initial conditions, verification models for Versa HD accelerator (FF and FFF modes) are established using this method, Nelder‐Mead Simplex optimization method, and the Bayesian optimization method to compare the efficiency and quality of these three iterative approaches.

Results

Iterations for all nine accelerators are completed within 30 iterations. The relative dose differences in dose fall‐off region compared to water tank measurements are all less than 2%, and the average gamma passing rates (3%/2 mm) for ArcCHECK measurements in QA plans are all higher than 97%. For Versa HD accelerator in FFF and FF modes, the proposed method achieves an average relative dose difference below 1% within 11 and 13 iterations, respectively. In contrast, the Simplex optimization reached 1% within 78 iterations in FFF mode. Furthermore, the Simplex optimization in FF mode and Bayesian optimization in both modes failed to achieve a 1% difference within 100 iterations.

Conclusions

The proposed iterative method achieves fast and automated commissioning of dose verification models, contributing to accurate and reliable clinical dose verification.
Toward a Track‐Fin Hybrid Driven Bionic Amphibious Robot: Design, Development, and Experiments
Authors: Xia Minghai , Yin Qian , Zhu Qunwei , Zeng Haisen , Lu Zhongyue , Luo Zirong
Published: September 2024

Amphibious robots offer promising applications in field scenarios such as search and rescue, exploration and reconnaissance, and environment monitoring. However, achieving high locomotion performance in terrestrial, aquatic, and soft muddy transition areas remains challenging. This study presents a novel amphibious robot based on the hybrid drive of tracks and bionic fins. The robot is driven by a pair of tracks on land and by a pair of undulating fins underwater, without the need for switching operating modes due to the simultaneous drive of the two components. The structure design is introduced and the united operating strategies are derived for propulsion in multiple environments propulsion. A land–water united controller for the heading angle and track/fin frequency is designed based on a mathematical model. In field experiments, the robot achieved the maximum linear velocities of 2 m/s on land and 0.51 m/s underwater, with maximum yaw rates of 225  and 100 , respectively. The robot could transition seamlessly between land and water in less than 2 s. The closed‐loop control experiments demonstrated that the robot could quickly follow the desired angle with minimal error in both media using the same controller and parameters. The proposed simultaneous drive method enhances the multi‐terrain motion capacity and cross‐medium performance while reducing control complexity of amphibious robot, providing a new perspective for the development of self‐adaptive and high‐performance amphibious robots for practical application.
Isolation, Molecular Characterisation, and Pathogenicity Analysis of a Novel Recombinant ALV‐J Strain Isolated From Chinese Hetian Chickens
Authors: Lei Tianyu , Zhuang Liyun , Dai Tingting , Niu Qun , Bao Yinli , Lin Weiming , Huang Cuiqin , Zheng Xintian
Published: September 2024

Background

Avian leukosis virus subgroup J (ALV‐J) primarily affects poultry, particularly chickens, leading to tumourigenesis and immunosuppression, which results in substantial economic losses. It is important to note that ALV‐J is commonly found in indigenous chicken breeds in China, and the virus's vertical transmission characteristics present a significant threat to the preservation of local chicken breeds.

Objectives

The study aimed to investigate the characteristics and effects of the recombinant ALV‐J strain LY2021J, with a focus on its genetic composition and its potential influence on virulence and pathogenicity.

Methods

LY2021J was isolated using DF‐1 cells and validated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and IFA. The proviral genome was amplified using segmented PCR and then spliced together using DNASTAR software. Genome‐wide genes, including gag, pol, gp85, and long terminal repeat (LTR), were compared. Recombination sites were analysed using RDP5 and SimPlot software. Pathogenicity was evaluated by monitoring symptoms and conducting examinations on SPF chickens.

Results

The outbreak of ALV‐J in China has caused significant economic losses in the poultry industry. Although largely controlled in white‐feather broilers and egg‐laying chickens, ALV‐J has spread to yellow‐feather broilers and local breeds. A strain, LY2021J, isolated from Hetian chickens, showed lower mortality despite severe dysplasia. Genetic analysis revealed high similarity between LY2021J and the Chinese strains JS14NT01 and NX0101, suggesting a shared origin. Recombination with strain ev‐1 and specific 3′ UTR deletions may explain LY2021J's reduced virulence. Continued monitoring and prevention strategies are essential to mitigate ALV‐J's impact.
Giant graviton expansion for general Wilson line operator indices
Authors: Imamura Yosuke , Sei Akihiro , Yokoyama Daisuke
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We propose a giant graviton expansion for Wilson line operator indices in general representations. The inserted line operators are specified by power sum symmetric polynomials pλ labeled by partitions λ. We interpret the partitions as the structure of fundamental string worldsheets wrapping around the temporal circle. The strings may or may not end on giant gravitons, and by summing the contributions from all brane configurations consistent with the specified partitions, we obtain the finite N line operator index. The proposed formula is consistent with known results and passes highly non-trivial numerical tests.
Cybersecurity work at Swedish administrative authorities: taking action or waiting for approval
Authors: Andreasson Annika , Artman Henrik , Brynielsson Joel , Franke Ulrik
Published: September 2024

In recent years, the Swedish public sector has undergone rapid digitalization, while cybersecurity efforts have not kept even steps. This study investigates conditions for cybersecurity work at Swedish administrative authorities by examining organizational conditions at the authorities, what cybersecurity staff do to acquire the cyber situation awareness required for their role, as well as what experience cybersecurity staff have with incidents. In this study, 17 semi-structured interviews were held with respondents from Swedish administrative authorities. The results showed the diverse conditions for cybersecurity work that exist at the authorities and that a variety of roles are involved in that work. It was found that national-level support for cybersecurity was perceived as somewhat lacking. There were also challenges in getting access to information elements required for sufficient cyber situation awareness.
Developing problem-solving efficacy and job performance: Moderation of knowledge-oriented leadership
Authors: Lin Chieh-Peng
Published: September 2024

Drawing upon social cognitive career theory, this study presents the formation of job performance by concurrently justifying problem-solving efficacy as a mediator and knowledge-oriented leadership as a moderator. In the proposed model, job performance is influenced by the learning value of the job, perceived job insecurity, and learning goal orientation (i.e., three predictors) indirectly through problem-solving efficacy. Moreover, knowledge-oriented leadership hypothetically moderates the effects of the three predictors on problem-solving efficacy. Empirical evaluations are demonstrated on the basis of the analyzed data of high-tech workers in Taiwan. Finally, theoretical and practical implications about workplace learning and job performance are discussed.
Monoamine alterations in Alzheimer’s disease and their implications in comorbid neuropsychiatric symptoms
Authors: Saggu Shalini , Bai Ava , Aida Mae , Rehman Hasibur , Pless Andrew , Ware Destany , Deak Ferenc , Jiao Kai , Wang Qin
Published: September 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by relentless cognitive decline and the emergence of profoundly disruptive neuropsychiatric symptoms. As the disease progresses, it unveils a formidable array of neuropsychiatric manifestations, including debilitating depression, anxiety, agitation, and distressing episodes of psychosis. The intricate web of the monoaminergic system, governed by serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, significantly influences our mood, cognition, and behavior. Emerging evidence suggests that dysregulation and degeneration of this system occur early in AD, leading to notable alterations in these critical neurotransmitters’ levels, metabolism, and receptor function. However, how the degeneration of monoaminergic neurons and subsequent compensatory changes contribute to the presentation of neuropsychiatric symptoms observed in Alzheimer’s disease remains elusive. This review synthesizes current findings on monoamine alterations in AD and explores how these changes contribute to the neuropsychiatric symptomatology of the disease. By elucidating the biological underpinnings of AD-related psychiatric symptoms, we aim to underscore the complexity and inform innovative approaches for treating neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD.

Graphical Abstract [created With Biorender.com]
Trending and emerging prospects of physics-based and ML-based wildfire spread models: a comprehensive review
Authors: Singh Harikesh , Ang Li-Minn , Lewis Tom , Paudyal Dipak , Acuna Mauricio , Srivastava Prashant Kumar , Srivastava Sanjeev Kumar
Published: September 2024

The significant threat of wildfires to forest ecology and biodiversity, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, underscores the necessity for advanced predictive models amidst shifting climate patterns. There is a need to evaluate and enhance wildfire prediction methods, focusing on their application during extended periods of intense heat and drought. This study reviews various wildfire modelling approaches, including traditional physical, semi-empirical, numerical, and emerging machine learning (ML)-based models. We critically assess these models’ capabilities in predicting fire susceptibility and post-ignition spread, highlighting their strengths and limitations. Our findings indicate that while traditional models provide foundational insights, they often fall short in dynamically estimating parameters and predicting ignition events. Cellular automata models, despite their potential, face challenges in data integration and computational demands. Conversely, ML models demonstrate superior efficiency and accuracy by leveraging diverse datasets, though they encounter interpretability issues. This review recommends hybrid modelling approaches that integrate multiple methods to harness their combined strengths. By incorporating data assimilation techniques with dynamic forecasting models, the predictive capabilities of ML-based predictions can be significantly enhanced. This review underscores the necessity for continued refinement of these models to ensure their reliability in real-world applications, ultimately contributing to more effective wildfire mitigation and management strategies. Future research should focus on improving hybrid models and exploring new data integration methods to advance predictive capabilities.
Development of brain metastases in patients managed with non-curative thoracic radiotherapy for stage II/III non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Nieder Carsten , Aanes Siv Gyda , Stanisavljevic Luka , Mannsåker Bård
Published: September 2024

Background

This retrospective study analyzed the incidence of subsequent brain metastases after palliative radiotherapy or chemoradiation in patients with stage II/III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Risk factors for brain metastases development and survival after diagnosis were evaluated.

Methods

Different baseline parameters including but not limited to age, stage and target volume size were assessed. Outcomes were abstracted from electronic health records. Uni- and multivariate tests were performed.

Results

The study included 102 patients and found an actuarial risk of brain metastases of 15% (standard error ± 4) at one year and 20% (± 5) at two years. The maximum time interval was 15 months from start of radiation treatment. A non-significant survival difference was observed (median 12 months without versus 8.3 months with brain metastases, p = 0.21). Incidence was higher in patients with N2/3 stage, larger planning target volume size, and younger age (univariately significant factors). Trends were seen for stage III and adenocarcinoma histology. The multivariate analysis confirmed age as the most important risk factor.

Conclusion

The risk of brain metastases development was comparable to that reported in studies of curative chemoradiation. All events occurred within 15 months of follow-up, suggesting that long-term surveillance imaging may not be warranted. Patients younger than 60 years had a very high risk of brain metastases development.
Random forest regression kriging modeling for soil organic carbon density estimation using multi-source environmental data in central Vietnamese forests
Authors: Ho Viet Hoang , Morita Hidenori , Bachofer Felix , Ho Thanh Ha
Published: September 2024

Forest soil organic carbon plays a vital role in the terrestrial carbon cycle. Accurately analyzing the spatial distribution of soil organic carbon density (SOCD) is therefore necessary for sustainable forest management and climate change mitigation. Previous studies explored the potential of random forest (RF) in modeling forest SOCD using various environmental data sources. However, how forest SOCD prediction would be affected by using random forest regression kriging (RFRK), which integrates the predictive power of RF in generating deterministic trends and the capability of the ordinary kriging (OK) in handling spatial autocorrelation structure of residuals, based on the environmental data sources and their combinations remains elusive and deserves further exploration. For this purpose, 104 soil samples were collected at a depth of 30 cm in forest ecosystems of Central Vietnam, and 33 environmental covariates were derived from Sentinel-2 (S2) imagery, Advanced Land Observing Satellite-2 Phased Array L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar-2 (AL2) imagery, digital elevation model (DEM), and climatic data. Using a leave-one-out cross-validation procedure to evaluate and compare the model performances, four metrics, including coefficient of determination (R2), mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and relative improvement (RI), were calculated. The results showed that enhanced RFRK performance for forest SOCD estimation was found with the inclusion of additional environmental data sources, with RFRK based on all data sources achieving a high accuracy (R2 = 0.78, MAE = 8.28 t·ha−1, and RMSE = 10.54 t·ha−1). The comparison of the RF and RFRK models exhibited that additionally interpolated residuals by OK were more accurate than only considering the influences of predictor covariates. The relative improvement of the RFRK models over the RF models in forest SOCD estimation was notable, with $$\:{RI}_{{R}^{2}}$$

RI

R

2

ranging from 8.20 to 65.00%, $$\:{RI}_{MAE}$$

RI

MAE

ranging from 8.18 to 21.07%, and $$\:{RI}_{RMSE}$$

RI

RMSE

ranging from 6.76 to 18.18%. The result from our case study emphasizes the robustness of RFRK using S2, AL2, DEM, and climatic data in accurately predicting forest SOCD.
Molecule-Level Multiscale Design of Nonflammable Gel Polymer Electrolyte to Build Stable SEI/CEI for Lithium Metal Battery
Authors: Sun Qiqi , Gong Zelong , Zhang Tao , Li Jiafeng , Zhu Xianli , Zhu Ruixiao , Wang Lingxu , Ma Leyuan , Li Xuehui , Yuan Miaofa , Zhang Zhiwei , Zhang Luyuan , Qian Zhao , Yin Longwei , Ahuja Rajeev , Wang Chengxiang
Published: September 2024

The risk of flammability is an unavoidable issue for gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs). Usually, flame-retardant solvents are necessary to be used, but most of them would react with anode/cathode easily and cause serious interfacial instability, which is a big challenge for design and application of nonflammable GPEs. Here, a nonflammable GPE (SGPE) is developed by in situ polymerizing trifluoroethyl methacrylate (TFMA) monomers with flame-retardant triethyl phosphate (TEP) solvents and LiTFSI–LiDFOB dual lithium salts. TEP is strongly anchored to PTFMA matrix via polarity interaction between -P = O and -CH2CF3. It reduces free TEP molecules, which obviously mitigates interfacial reactions, and enhances flame-retardant performance of TEP surprisingly. Anchored TEP molecules are also inhibited in solvation of Li+, leading to anion-dominated solvation sheath, which creates inorganic-rich solid electrolyte interface/cathode electrolyte interface layers. Such coordination structure changes Li+ transport from sluggish vehicular to fast structural transport, raising ionic conductivity to 1.03 mS cm−1 and transfer number to 0.41 at 30 °C. The Li|SGPE|Li cell presents highly reversible Li stripping/plating performance for over 1000 h at 0.1 mA cm−2, and 4.2 V LiCoO2|SGPE|Li battery delivers high average specific capacity > 120 mAh g−1 over 200 cycles. This study paves a new way to make nonflammable GPE that is compatible with Li metal anode.
Locally Enhanced Flow and Electric Fields Through a Tip Effect for Efficient Flow-Electrode Capacitive Deionization
Authors: Wang Ziquan , Chen Xiangfeng , Zhang Yuan , Ma Jie , Lin Zhiqun , Abdelkader Amor , Titirici Maria-Magdalena , Deng Libo
Published: September 2024

Low-electrode capacitive deionization (FCDI) is an emerging desalination technology with great potential for removal and/or recycling ions from a range of waters. However, it still suffers from inefficient charge transfer and ion transport kinetics due to weak turbulence and low electric intensity in flow electrodes, both restricted by the current collectors. Herein, a new tip-array current collector (designated as T-CC) was developed to replace the conventional planar current collectors, which intensifies both the charge transfer and ion transport significantly. The effects of tip arrays on flow and electric fields were studied by both computational simulations and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, which revealed the reduction of ion transport barrier, charge transport barrier and internal resistance. With the voltage increased from 1.0 to 1.5 and 2.0 V, the T-CC-based FCDI system (T-FCDI) exhibited average salt removal rates (ASRR) of 0.18, 0.50, and 0.89 μmol cm−2 min−1, respectively, which are 1.82, 2.65, and 2.48 folds higher than that of the conventional serpentine current collectors, and 1.48, 1.67, and 1.49 folds higher than that of the planar current collectors. Meanwhile, with the solid content in flow electrodes increased from 1 to 5 wt%, the ASRR for T-FCDI increased from 0.29 to 0.50 μmol cm−2 min−1, which are 1.70 and 1.67 folds higher than that of the planar current collectors. Additionally, a salt removal efficiency of 99.89% was achieved with T-FCDI and the charge efficiency remained above 95% after 24 h of operation, thus showing its superior long-term stability. "Image missing"
Comprehensive geriatric assessment, and related interventions, to improve outcomes for older patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI): a systematic review
Authors: Chin Katherine , Jones Rosalind , Lester Eleni , Hegarty Alice , Thielemans Lieze , Schiff Rebekah
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a treatment for people with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis, particularly those living with frailty. Increasing frailty is associated with poorer outcomes post-TAVI. Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) has been shown in other settings to improve outcomes in those with frailty, including perioperatively. This systematic review aims to determine whether CGA, or interventions targeting its components, improves outcomes for older people undergoing TAVI.

Methods

EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched on 09/01/23 and then the search was rerun on the 16/04/24. The review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022299955). Included studies had to evaluate either CGA, or a single- or multi-domain intervention targeting components of CGA, in those aged ≥ 65.

Results

From 4091 papers, 24 met the inclusion criteria. Two studies assessed CGA pre-TAVI and reported mixed improvements in functional independence but no change in length of stay or post-operative delirium, although both studies had a serious risk of bias. Fifteen papers described an exercise-based intervention, and 1 paper detailed a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy-based intervention. Seven studies evaluated a multi-component intervention. There were conflicting results reported for the multi-component and single-component interventions. All studies had at least a moderate risk of bias.

Conclusion(s)

There is a lack of evidence to determine whether CGA, or related interventions, improve outcomes for older adults undergoing-TAVI. The evidence for perioperative CGA, and the results of this review, support the need for well-designed trials evaluating whether CGA improves outcomes post-TAVI for older adults living with frailty.
Five days of inpatient scoliosis-specific exercises improve preoperative spinal flexibility and facilitate curve correction of patients with rigid idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Fan Yunli , To Michael K. T. , Kuang Guan-Ming , Lou Nan , Zhu Feng , Tao Huiren , Li Guangshuo , Yeung Eric H. K. , Cheung Kenneth M. C. , Cheung Jason P. Y.
Published: September 2024

Preoperative spine flexibility plays a key role in the intraoperative treatment course of severe scoliosis. In this cohort study, we examined the effects of 5 day inpatient scoliosis-specific exercise (SSE) on the spinal flexibility of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis before surgery. A total of 65 patients were analyzed. These patients were divided into a prospective cohort (n = 43, age: 15 ± 1.6 years, 36 girls and 7 boys, Lenke class 1 and 2, Cobb angle: 64 ± 11°) who underwent spinal fusion in 2020, and a retrospective cohort (n = 22, age: 15 ± 1.5 years, 17 girls and 5 boys, Lenke class 1 or 2, Cobb angle: 63 ± 10°), who underwent surgery between 2018 and 2019 and did not receive preoperative SSE. Rigid scoliosis was defined as a reduction of less than 50% in Cobb angle between the preoperative fulcrum bending and initial standing curve magnitude. In the prospective cohort, 21 patients (Cobb angle: 65 ± 11°) presented with rigid thoracic scoliosis (pre-SSE fulcrum bending: 40 ± 9°, 39% reduction), and therefore received 5-day SSE to improve their preoperative spinal flexibility (SSE group), whereas 22 patients (Cobb angle: 63 ± 12°) presented with flexible thoracic scoliosis (pre-SSE fulcrum bending: 27 ± 8°, 58% reduction), and therefore underwent surgery without preoperative SSE (non-SSE group). For patients who received 5-day preoperative SSE for 4 h every day, the International Schroth Three-Dimensional Scoliosis Therapy technique was implemented with an inpatient model. After 5 days of SSE, improvements in Cobb angle with post-SSE fulcrum-bending radiography (23 ± 7°, 66% reduction) and pulmonary function (forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced expiratory volume: 87% before SSE and 92% after SSE, p < 0.01) were observed. At the postoperative day 5, the degree of scoliosis had reduced from 44 ± 6.6° to 22 ± 6° in the SSE group, which is 1° less than the Cobb angle obtained on post-SSE fulcrum-bending radiography. In the non-SSE group, the degree of scoliosis decreased to 26 ± 5.7°. In the retrospective cohort, the degree of scoliosis decreased to 35 ± 5°, with the group also having higher postoperative pain (Visual Analog Scale score = 7, range = 5–10) and an extended hospitalization duration (11 ± 3 days). At 2-year follow-up, curve correction was found to be maintained without adding-on or proximal junctional kyphosis. Compared with the non-SSE group, the SSE group exhibited a greater curve correction (66%) with a shorter hospitalization duration (5 ± 1 days) and a lower degree of postoperative pain (Visual Analog Scale score = 4, range = 3–8). Taken together, our findings indicate that 5 day SSE improves preoperative spinal flexibility and facilitates curve correction.
Hiding in the shadows: a qualitative exploration of women gamers identities and perceptions of the video gaming context
Authors: Scidone Emelia , Phillips Matthew J. , Pantaleo Ashleigh M.
Published: September 2024

Video gaming has evolved into a complex, digital landscape where gender dynamics are increasingly scrutinised. While women now constitute a significant portion of the gaming population, they face unique challenges in a traditionally male-dominated space. Despite the growing presence of women in gaming, persistent gender inequalities continue to shape their experiences and identities within gaming cultures. This qualitative study explored how women gamers conceptualise their identities and navigate their experiences in the video gaming context, focusing on motivations, well-being, and representation. Utilising a feminist theoretical perspective and social constructionist epistemology, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 12 international women gamers (aged 23–43, M = 28, SD = 5.51). Findings constructed through our reflexive thematic analysis highlighted how women negotiate their identities within often hostile gaming environments, revealing both challenges and sources of resilience. Participants reported using strategies such as concealing their gender and creating private gaming communities to mitigate harassment. However, they also described gaming as a source of empowerment, offering opportunities for identity exploration and stress relief. Our research contributes to understanding gender dynamics in gaming by providing nuanced insights into women’s lived experiences, challenging simplistic narratives about their identities, preferences, and behaviours. Implications for game developers, community managers, and policymakers are discussed, offering guidance for creating more inclusive gaming environments that cater to diverse players and combat gender-based discrimination.
Enhancing environmental decision-making: a systematic review of data analytics applications in monitoring and management
Authors: Ncube Mthokozisi Masumbika , Ngulube Patrick
Published: September 2024

Escalating environmental challenges necessitate paramount decision-making to safeguard ecosystems and resources. However, the burgeoning volume and intricate nature of environmental data often present a formidable challenge in gleaning actionable insights. In this context, integrating data analytics tools within environmental monitoring and management frameworks offers a compelling avenue for progress. These tools facilitate efficient data processing, uncover hidden patterns, and enable predictive modelling, leading to more informed decisions. Despite growing research, a comprehensive understanding of specific data analytics applications, methodologies, and demonstrably effective implementations remains elusive. This systematic review aimed to address this gap. Following PRISMA guidelines, a meticulous search across five databases was conducted using predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Rigorous data extraction captured salient study characteristics, methodologies, data analysis techniques, key findings, and acknowledged limitations. The review revealed that data analytics offers a powerful toolkit for environmental management, transforming decision-making across all stages. Big data and advanced techniques enable proactive strategies through earlier issue detection and improved predictive models. However, maximising this potential requires a multifaceted approach, including standardised data collection, data literacy, ethical frameworks, and stakeholder engagement.
The influence mechanism of urban street environment on juvenile delinquency based on multi-source data fusion: a case study of Manhattan, New York
Authors: Li Bingcheng , Li Gang , Lan Li , Jin Annan , Lin Zhe , Wang Yatong , Chen Xiliang
Published: September 2024

Streets are an important component of urban public spaces and also a high-incidence area for urban crime. However, current research mainly involves adult crime, or fails to distinguish between adult and juvenile crime, which poses a severe challenge to the prevention of juvenile delinquency. Juveniles have lower self-control abilities and are more likely to be influenced by external environmental factors to trigger criminal behavior compared to adults. Therefore, this study uses New York’s Manhattan district as an example, based on CPTED and social disorganization theories, and utilizes street view data and deep learning techniques to extract street environment indicators. The GWR model is used to explore the influence mechanism of urban street environment on juvenile crime. The results of this study, considering spatial heterogeneity, demonstrate the impact of various physical environmental indicators of urban streets on juvenile delinquency, and reveal that some street indicators have differentiated effects on crime in different areas of the city. Overall, our research helps to uncover the relationship between juvenile delinquency and the built environment of streets in complex urban settings, providing important references for future urban street design and juvenile delinquency prevention.