bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How do distinct facets of tree diversity and community assembly respond to environmental variables in the subtropical Atlantic Forest?
Authors: Klipel Joice , Bergamin Rodrigo Scarton , Cianciaruso Marcus Vinicius , da Silva Ana Carolina , Jurinitz Cristiane Follmann , Jarenkow João André , Bordin Kauane Maiara , Molz Martin , Higuchi Pedro , Picolotto Rayana Caroline , Debastiani Vanderlei Júlio , Müller Sandra Cristina
Published: July 2023

This study assessed the impact of altitude, precipitation, and soil conditions on species richness (SR), phylogenetic diversity (PD), and functional diversity (FD) standardized effect sizes in subtropical Brazilian Atlantic Forest tree communities. We considered specific trait information (FDs) for FD, reflecting recent adaptive evolution, contrasting with deeper phylogenetic constraints in FD. Three functional traits (leaf area‐LA, wood density‐WD, and seed mass‐SM) were examined for their response to these gradients. Generalized least squares models with environmental variables as predictors and diversity metrics as response variables were used, and a fourth‐corner correlation test explored trait‐environmental relationships. SR decreased with altitude, while PD increased, indicating niche convergence at higher altitudes. Leaf area and seed mass diversity also decreased with altitude. For LA, both FD and FDs were significant, reflecting filtering processes influenced by phylogenetic inheritance and recent trait evolution. For SM, only the specific trait structure responded to altitude. LA and SM showed significant trait‐environmental relationships, with smaller‐leaved and lighter‐seeded species dominant at higher altitudes. Soil gradients affect diversity. Fertile soils have a wider range of LA, indicating coexistence of species with different nutrient acquisition strategies. WD variation is lower for FDs. SM diversity has different relationships with soil fertility for FDs and FD, suggesting phylogeny influences trait variation. Soil pH influences WD and LA under acidic soils, with deeper phylogenetic constraints (FD). Environmental factors impact tree communities, with evidence of trait variation constraints driven by conditions and resources. Subtropical Atlantic forests' tree assemblies are mainly influenced by altitude, pH, and soil fertility, selecting fewer species and narrower trait spectra under specific conditions (e.g., higher altitudes, pH). Functional diversity patterns reflect both phylogenetic and recent evolution constraints, with varying strength across traits and conditions. These findings highlight the intricate processes shaping long‐lived species assembly across diverse environments in the Southern Brazilian Atlantic Forest.
Continuous assembly required: Perpetual species turnover in two‐trophic‐level ecosystems
Authors: Spaak Jurg W. , Adler Peter B. , Ellner Stephen P.
Published: July 2023

Community assembly is often treated as deterministic, converging on one or at most a few possible stable endpoints. However, in nature, we typically observe continuous change in community composition, which is often ascribed to environmental change. But continuous changes in community composition can also arise in deterministic, time‐invariant community models, especially food web models. Our goal was to determine why some models produce continuous assembly and others do not. We investigated a simple two‐trophic‐level community model to show that continuous assembly is driven by the relative niche width of the trophic levels. If predators have a larger niche width than prey, community assembly converges to a stable equilibrium. Conversely, if predators have a smaller niche width than prey, then community composition never stabilizes. Evidence that food webs need not reach a stable equilibrium has important implications, as many ecological theories of community ecology based on equilibria may be difficult to apply to such food webs.
CVaR‐based method for optimizing the contract bidding strategy of PV power stations
Authors: Xu Qifeng , Qiao Songbo , Chen Mengyao , Ju Jiaxin , Li Zhiyi
Published: July 2023

With the rapid development of the new power system, the proportion of renewable energy participating in the electricity market is constantly increasing, and the uncertainty of renewable energy power output and market clearing price brings risks to its participation in long‐term contract bidding. Therefore, a method of contract bidding involving bidding amount and bidding price of PV power station is proposed. Firstly, the multi‐order weighted Markov chain model is used to forecast the distribution of weather states in the trading cycle, and the fuzzy C‐means (FCM) method is used to cluster the joint samples of power output indicators and market clearing price indicators, and then Latin hypercube sampling is used to generate power output scenarios and market clearing price scenarios. Then, an optimization method for long‐term contract bidding strategy of PV power station considering conditional value at risk (CVaR) and transaction probability is established, and the model is divided into two stages and solved in an alternate iterative way. Finally, an example is used to verify that the constructed model enables PV power stations to effectively avoid risks and obtain more stable revenue.
Epilepsy surgery in early infancy: A retrospective, multicenter study
Authors: Makridis Konstantin L. , Klotz Kerstin Alexandra , Ramantani Georgia , Becker Lena‐Luise , San Antonio‐Arce Victoria , Syrbe Steffen , Wagner Kathrin , Shah Mukesch Johannes , Thomale Ulrich‐Wilhelm , Tietze Anna , Elger Christian E. , Borggraefe Ingo , Kaindl Angela M.
Published: July 2023

Although epilepsy surgery is the only curative therapeutic approach for lesional drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE), there is reluctance to operate on infants due to a fear of complications. A recent meta‐analysis showed that epilepsy surgery in the first 6 months of life can achieve seizure control in about two thirds of children. However, robust data on surgical complications and postoperative cognitive development are lacking. We performed a retrospective multicenter study of infants who underwent epilepsy surgery in the first 6 months of life. 15 infants underwent epilepsy surgery at a median age of 134 days (IQR: 58) at four centers. The most common cause was malformation of cortical development, and 13 patients underwent a hemispherotomy. Two thirds required intraoperative red blood transfusions. Severe intraoperative complications occurred in two patients including death in one infant due to cardiovascular insufficiency. At a median follow‐up of 1.5 years (IQR: 1.8), 57% of patients were seizure‐free. Three patients where reoperated at a later age, resulting in 79% seizure freedom. Anti‐seizure medication could be reduced in two thirds, and all patients improved in their development. Our findings suggest that early epilepsy surgery can result in good seizure control and developmental improvement. However, given the perioperative risks, it should be performed only in specialized centers.
Fuelling the future: Assessing multifuel filling stations for hydrogen and other renewable fuels through life cycle analysis
Authors: Hjort Anders , Heyne Stefan , Fagerström Anton , Bokinge Pontus , Rootzén Johan , Jivén Karl , Nyberg Theo , Poulikidou Sofia , Lewrén Adam , Särnbratt Mirjam
Published: July 2023

Hydrogen could play an important role in reducing the climate impact of the transport sector. This study explores the possibility of using existing biomethane infrastructure to enable the accelerated roll‐out of hydrogen as a transport fuel in a Swedish context. The concept of multifuel filling stations for hydrogen and biomethane are examined based on four cases, where the hydrogen is produced either via electrolysis or biomethane reforming, at a smaller or larger scale, and through either centralised or decentralised production. The cases are compared using established life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology to establish their respective impact from a greenhouse gas (GHG) emission mitigation potential. The LCA results show generally good GHG performance for all production paths being studied with a range from −7 g CO2 eq./MJ hydrogen for hydrogen production based on biomethane via steam reformation (SMR) compared to +19 g CO2 eq. for production based on Swedish National Grid Mix via electrolyser. The SMR is the more efficient technology in mitigating GHG emissions, especially if system expansion is applied. In addition, sensitivity analyses also show that electrolyses production based on renewable wind power will decrease the impact significantly and vice versa that a European Average Electricity Grid Mix (EU – 28) would increase the impact significantly. The findings of this study underline the potential of the gradual introduction of hydrogen as a fuel for transport without the need for large investments in a dedicated fuel‐specific distribution system. The concept could contribute to overcoming the current chicken‐and‐egg catch of achieving both scalable and profitable supply of hydrogen for transport as well as the vehicles using it as fuel.
Development of a bilayer biodegradable packaging material enriched with coffee waste extract for cake preservation
Authors: Yakubu Salimata , Zheng Hui , Chen Jingwen , Amagloh Francis K. , Xu Jingge , Chen Xiaohan , Wang Li , Li Li
Published: July 2023

The study aimed to develop an active packaging, functionalized by spent coffee grounds extracts (SCGE) to preserve cake. The antioxidant extracts were obtained using three extraction methods: conventional extraction (CE), ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE), and microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE). The SCGE obtained with UAE and MAE produced the highest total phenolic contents and antioxidant activities, and were incorporated into bilayer films composed of polylactic acid, konjac glucomannan, and wheat gluten. The SCGE improved the film's antioxidant activity (8.40 to 90. 56%) and oxygen transmission rate (5.05 ± 0.04 to 2.22 ± 0.13). Active packaging with microwave extracts was more effective in preserving cake's lipids than the ultrasound extracts as measured by the peroxide value, thiobarbituric acid, and acid value during 21 days of storage. Overall, the study demonstrates the potential safe utilization of coffee waste in active packaging.
Online data service for geologic formations (Lexicons) of China, India, Vietnam and Thailand with one‐click visualizations onto East Asia plate reconstructions
Authors: Du Wen , Mishra Suyash , Ogg James G. , Qian Yuzheng , Chang Sabrina , Oberoi Karan , Ault Aaron , Zahirovic Sabin , Hou Hongfei , Raju D. S. N. , Mamallapalli O’Neil , Ogg Gabriele M. , Li Haipeng , Scotese Christopher R. , Dong Bui
Published: July 2023

Paleogeography is the merger of sediment and volcanic facies, depositional settings, tectonic plate movements, topography, climate patterns and ecosystems through time. The construction of paleogeographic maps on tectonic plate reconstruction models requires a team effort to compile databases, data sharing standards and map projection methods. Two goals of the Paleogeography Working Group of the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) program for Deep‐Time Digital Earth (DDE) are: (1) to interlink online national lexicons for all sedimentary and volcanic formations, and develop online ones for nations that currently lack these; (2) to target specific regions and intervals for testing/showcasing paleogeography output from the merger of these databases. Following those goals, we developed and applied new cloud‐based lexicon data services and interactive visualization techniques to regions in East Asia. This has been a successful collaboration among computer engineers and plate modellers and has involved stratigraphers in India (ONGC), China (Chengdu Univ. Tech., and Chinese Acad. Geol. Sci.), United States (Paleomap Project, and Purdue Univ.), Australia (GPlates visualization team) and Vietnam (Vietnam Nat. Univ.). Independent online lexicons with map‐based and stratigraphy‐based user interfaces have been developed (as of the date of this submission in March 2022) for all Proterozoic to Quaternary formations on the Indian Plate (over 800) and Vietnam (over 200), the majority of the Devonian through Neogene of China (ca. 2000) and partially for Thailand. A multi‐database search system returns all geologic formations of a desired geologic time from these four independent databases. With one click, users can plot the regional extent of one or of all of those regional formations on different plate reconstruction models of that desired age, and these polygons are filled with the lithologic facies pattern.
Endoscopic‐assisted en‐bloc pterygomaxillectomy: Identifying an efficient and safe location for the pterygoid osteotomy
Authors: García‐Lliberós Ainhoa , Martin‐Jimenez Daniel I. , Mondesir Ronsard J. , Agosti Edoardo , Alexander A. Yohan , Leonel Luciano C. P. C. , Choby Garret , Peris‐Celda Maria , Pinheiro‐Neto Carlos D.
Published: July 2023

Background

For aggressive maxillary sinus and pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) tumors, an en‐bloc pterygomaxillectomy may be indicated.

Methods

Five head specimens were used to study the feasibility of an en‐bloc pterygomaxillectomy. Eighty‐five non‐pathological CT scans were used to compare the superior edge of the inferior turbinate (IT) and the middle turbinate tail (MT) as landmarks for the pterygoid osteotomy.

Results

Through a combined sublabial–subperiosteal incision and transoral route, a mid‐sagittal osteotomy through the hard palate and an axial osteotomy below the infraorbital foramen were performed. For the endoscopic pterygoid osteotomy, an infra‐vidian transpterygoid approach was performed, subsequently removing the pterygomaxillectomy en‐bloc. As landmarks, the osteotomies at the level of the MT tail and IT resected the pterygoid plates completely, but the IT osteotomy was further away from the vidian canal (7.5 vs. 6 mm).

Conclusions

The endoscopic‐assisted en‐bloc pterygomaxillectomy is feasible. The IT landmark is safe and ensures complete resection of the pterygoid plates.
The pivotal role of HbA1c assay to detect hemoglobinopathies: A 5‐year observational retrospective study in the population of Southern France
Authors: Dupuy Anne M. , Cristol Jean P. , Bargnoux Anne S. , Plawecki Maelle , Lotierzo Manuela , Aguilar‐Martinez Patricia , Badiou Stéphanie
Published: July 2023

Background and Aims

Mobility and migration flows are growing from different countries of the world to European countries, including France and in particular the Mediterranean basin. This study aimed to investigate the presence of hemoglobin (Hb) variants in outpatients/inpatients of the Montpellier Hospital (France) in whom an HbA1c assay had been performed and for which the country of birth had been informed.

Methods

This is a retrospective study from January 2016 to December 2020 based on all high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) chromatograms (Tosoh Bioscience HLC‐723G8) having an alarm of suspected Hb variant during HbA1c measurement. The corresponding samples were systematically sent to the hematology laboratory for confirmation and identification of Hb variant. Patient's medical history, clinical and demographic data were extracted from each medical chart. Statistical analyses were performed using XLSTAT® software, version 2016.06.35661.

Results

Three hundred sixty‐three patients were confirmed with Hb variant exhibiting 17 different Hb profiles, highlighting the pivotal role of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) as a detection step. The prevalence of Hb variant in this southern French population was 0.71%, with the highest frequency for the beta‐globin variants (n = 342/363; i.e., 94.2%), including the most common: S, C, E, and D in 200/342 (58.5%), 83/342 (24.3%), 29/342 (8.5%), and 11/342 (3.2%), respectively. Among patients with Hb variants, almost half (165/363; i.e., 45.4%) were born in the African continent with a predominance for Morocco (32/165; i.e., 19.3%) and Algeria (29/165; i.e., 17.5%).

Conclusion

HbA1c assay is a useful tool to detect Hb variants. Hemoglobinopathies are a public health issue in the current French population which is a multiethnic society. Despite the monocentric nature of our study, we note a high frequency of Hb variants in the south of France, which underlines the importance of screening for Hb variants in the whole population.
Pre‐K attendance and social development: The moderating role of kindergarten classroom experiences
Authors: Zimmermann Kathryn , Yang Qingqing , Purtell Kelly , Ansari Arya
Published: July 2023

Although academic benefits of pre‐K are well established, the associations between pre‐K attendance and social and learning behaviours are less clear. Some research suggests that pre‐K attenders may enter and exit kindergarten exhibiting less optimal social and learning behaviours than their non‐attending peers, and little attention has been paid to how aspects of kindergarten experiences, like academic rigour, activity settings and teacher–student relationships, may contribute to these patterns of development. The current study addresses these gaps in knowledge by using nationally representative data from the ECLSK:2011 (n = 14,260) to examine the social and learning behaviours of pre‐K attenders and nonattenders at kindergarten entry and exit. Our results reveal that pre‐K attenders are not consistently underperforming their non‐attending peers on social and learning behaviours in kindergarten. However, teachers reported that pre‐K attenders exhibited more externalising behaviour problems at kindergarten entry and exit, and non‐attenders made greater gains in learning behaviours over the kindergarten year. We also found no evidence of moderation when examining our focal classroom experience variables.
New insights into the interaction between polycystic ovary syndrome and psychiatric disorders: A narrative review
Authors: Hu Runan , Geng Yuli , Huang Yanjing , Liu Zhuo , Li Fan , Dong Haoxu , Ma Wenwen , Song Kunkun , Zhang Mingmin , Zhang Zhuo , Song Yufan
Published: July 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disease characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and ovarian polycystic changes, which combines with reproductive problems, metabolic disorders, and psychological disorders to exhibit a far‐reaching impact on the physical and mental health of women. We reviewed previous research and discovered that psychiatric disorders are more common in PCOS patients and their children, potentially exacerbating the condition and creating a vicious loop. To understand the reasons, relevant articles were collected following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses guidelines from PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, through December 2022. Evidence suggested that PCOS‐related clinical manifestations, hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, obesity, gut dysbiosis, and other variables may increase the risk of psychiatric disorders in patients. In turn, psychiatric disorders may aggravate the pathologic process of PCOS and increase the difficulty of the treatment. We systematically reported the mechanisms underlying the psychiatric disorders‐PCOS interactions, intending to provide potential ways to break the vicious cycle and lay the groundwork for future research. However, research on PCOS and psychiatric disorders were still in initial stages, which limited the scope of this review. More studies are needed to further verify our findings.
Future self‐continuity and depression among college students: The role of presence of meaning and perceived social support
Authors: Xue Lulu , Yan Yun , Fan Hang , Zhang Liping , Wang Siyun , Chen Lipeng
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Future self‐continuity has been shown to have a protective effect against depression. This study aims to investigate the longitudinal relationship between future self‐continuity and depression among college students, and to explore the mediating role of the presence of meaning and the moderating role of perceived social support.

Methods

We conducted two studies in China in 2022 and 2023. Study 1 was a longitudinal cross‐lagged study that examined the relationship between future self‐continuity and depression among 173 participants (49.13% females, Mage = 19.39, SD = 1.63). Study 2 was a cross‐sectional study that explored the mediating role of the presence of meaning and the moderating role of perceived social support among 426 participants (48.59% females, Mage = 19.30, SD = 1.60).

Results

Study 1 showed that future self‐continuity (T1) could significantly predict depression (T2), but depression (T1) could not predict future self‐continuity (T2). Study 2 showed that after controlling for gender, the presence of meaning mediated the relationship between future self‐continuity and depression, whereas perceived social support moderated the first half of the mediated model's pathway and the direct pathway.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that enhancing the future self‐continuity of college students and increasing the level of presence of meaning are effective measures for alleviating depression. Meanwhile, educators and families are called upon to provide more social support to college students.
A mass spectrometry assay for detection of endogenous and lentiviral engineered hemoglobin in cultured cells and sickle cell disease mice
Authors: Wang Xuejun , McKillop William M. , Dlugi Theresa A. , Faber Mary L. , Alvarez‐Argote Juliana , Chambers Christopher B. , Wilber Andrew , Medin Jeffrey A.
Published: July 2023

Sickle cell disease (SCD) results from a sequence defect in the β‐globin chain of adult hemoglobin (HbA) leading to expression of sickle hemoglobin (HbS). It is traditionally diagnosed by cellulose‐acetate hemoglobin electrophoresis or high‐performance liquid chromatography. While clinically useful, these methods have both sensitivity and specificity limitations. We developed a novel mass spectrometry (MS) method for the rapid, sensitive and highly quantitative detection of endogenous human β‐globin and sickle hβ‐globin, as well as lentiviral‐encoded therapeutic hβAS3‐globin in cultured cells and small quantities of mouse peripheral blood. The MS methods were used to phenotype homozygous HbA (AA), heterozygous HbA–HbS (AS) and homozygous HbS (SS) Townes SCD mice and detect lentiviral vector‐encoded hβAS3‐globin in transduced mouse erythroid cell cultures and transduced human CD34+ cells after erythroid differentiation. hβAS3‐globin was also detected in peripheral blood 6 weeks post‐transplant of transduced Townes SS bone marrow cells into syngeneic Townes SS mice and persisted for over 20 weeks post‐transplant. As several genome‐editing and gene therapy approaches for severe hemoglobin disorders are currently in clinical trials, this MS method will be useful for patient assessment before treatment and during follow‐up.
Metabolism‐related gene vaccines and immune infiltration in ovarian cancer: A novel risk score model of machine learning
Authors: Fu Yiyuan , Huang Zheng , Huang Jiezhen , Xiong Jian , Liu Huishu , Wan Xiaoyan
Published: July 2023

Background

The present study aims to develop a metabolic gene signature to evaluate the survival rate of ovarian cancer (OC) patients and analyze the potential mechanisms of metabolic genes in OC because the difficulty in early detection of OC often leads to poor treatment outcomes.

Methods

A non‐negative matrix factorization algorithm was applied to determine molecular subtypes according to metabolism genes. To build a risk prognosis model, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator multivariate Cox analysis was carried out with weighted correlation network analysis (WCGNA). Glycolytic flux and mitochondrial function were evaluated by conducting seahorse analysis.

Results

On the basis of metabolism‐related genes, the two subtypes of OC samples present in The Cancer Genome Atlas database were distinguished. An analysis of WGCNA identified 1056 genes. Lastly, a 10‐gene signature (CMAS, ADH1B, PLA2G2D, BHMT, CACNA1C, AADAC, ALOX12, CYP2R1, SCN1B and ME1) was constructed that demonstrated promising performance in predicting outcome in patients with OC. The RiskScore of the gene signature was linked to microenvironment cell infiltration and immune checkpoint. Higher RiskScores were associated with poorer results for OC patients. Seahorse analysis shows the influence of CMAS in cell energy metabolism.

Conclusions

In the present study, a novel marker for evaluating the survival of OC patients was developed through the creation of a gene signature incorporating metabolism‐related genes. Our knowledge of immunotherapy and microenvironment cell infiltration may be enriched by evaluating metabolism‐related gene modification patterns.
Heart failure‐induced brain myelin changes and differences between sexes
Authors: Roy Bhaswati , Vacas Susana , Ehlert Luke , Townsley Madeline , Carrier Megan , Fonarow Gregg C. , Woo Mary A. , Kumar Rajesh
Published: July 2023

Heart failure (HF) leads to brain injury in autonomic, respiratory, mood, and cognitive control sites, revealed as tissue volume loss, altered metabolites, and impaired diffusion tissue properties. The extent of myelin changes in HF and variations within sexes are unclear. Our aim was to examine regional brain subcortical and white matter myelin integrity in HF patients over control subjects, as well as differences between sexes using T1‐ and T2‐weighted clinical images. We acquired T1‐ and T2‐weighted images from 63 HF patients and 129 controls using a 3.0‐Tesla MRI scanner. Using T1‐ and T2‐weighted images, ratio maps were computed, normalized to a common space, smoothed, and compared between groups (ANCOVA; covariates: age and sex; SPM12, false discovery rate, p < .010), as well as between male versus female HF (ANCOVA; covariate: age; SPM12, uncorrected p < .005). Multiple brain areas in HF showed decreased myelin integrity, including the amygdala, hippocampus, cingulate, insula, cerebellum, prefrontal cortices, and multiple white matter areas, compared to controls. Female HF patients showed more brain injuries in the parietal, prefrontal and frontal, hippocampus, amygdala, pons, cerebellar, insula, and corpus callosum compared to male HF patients. HF subjects showed compromised subcortical and white matter myelin integrity, especially in sites regulating autonomic, respiratory, mood, and cognition, with more changes in females over males. These findings provide a structural basis for the enhanced symptoms identified in female over male HF patients with similar disease severity.
The successive infiltration of various saline waters accelerates the infiltration processes and enhances the salt leaching in a coastal saline soil
Authors: Guo Kai , Liu Xiaojing
Published: July 2023

The local saline water resource has been widely used for soil water and salt managements in saline‐alkali area. The soil desalinization is strongly affected by the infiltration mode, and the melting saline ice infiltration can obtain soil salt leaching effectively. In this work, four melting sections (S1, S2, S3, and S4) were divided artificially according to the changes in meltwater from 5 (W5), 10 (W10), and 15 g L−1 (W15) ice. Various saline water samples of the above four sections with different salinities and volumes were prepared and infiltrated successively into soil columns that were packed with the coastal saline soils. The infiltration parameters, distribution patterns of soil moisture, salt, and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), and soil desalinization in different sections were investigated and analyzed. Results showed that the infiltration of higher salinity water in the initial section increased the infiltration rates of slightly saline and fresh water in the last section. A greater infiltration rate, cumulative infiltration, and infiltration depth were ranked as W5 < W10 < W15. Moreover, the faster infiltration process obtained higher soil water contents throughout the S1, S1 + S2, and S1 + S2 + S3 sections, and more water was ultimately distributed in the deeper soil layer (S1 + S2 + S3 + S4 section). Both the soil salt and SAR increased initially (Section S1) and then decreased in the following sections; >80% of the total leached salt loads occurred in the S2 section for all treatments. Lower levels of soil salt contents and SAR developed within the later infiltration sections. Ultimately, the 30 cm desalinization layer was obtained among all treatments, and the treatments corresponding to the saline ice with higher salinity acquired lower salt contents and SAR values. These results indicate that the successive infiltration of water with various salinity levels, characterized by meltwater from saline ice, accelerated the infiltration process, and resulted in an obvious soil desalinization effect on the coastal saline soil.
Nurse practitioner scope of practice and patient harm: Evidence from medical malpractice payouts and adverse action reports
Authors: Markowitz Sara , Smith Andrew J. D.
Published: July 2023

Many states have recently changed their scope of practice laws and granted full practice authority to nurse practitioners, allowing them to practice without oversight from physicians. Physician groups have argued against this change, citing patient safety concerns. In this paper, we use a ratio‐in‐ratio approach to evaluate whether the transition to full practice authority results in harm to patients as proxied by malpractice payouts and adverse action reports against nurse practitioners. We find no evidence of such harm, and instead find that physicians may benefit from the law change in terms of reduced paid malpractice cases against them.
Morphological engineering of SiO2 interlayer towards meliorative dielectric and thermal properties in β‐SiCw@SiO2/PVDF composites
Authors: Zheng Jian , Gong Ming , Zhou Wenying , Peng Weiwei , Kong Fanrong , Wu Hongju , Wang Guangheng , Cai Huiwu , Yuan Mengxue
Published: July 2023

Polymers with high thermal conductivity (TC) and dielectric constant (ε) but low dielectric loss show enormously potential applications in electrical power systems. To enhance the ε and TC while significantly suppressing the loss of β‐silicon carbide whisker (β‐SiCw)/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), in this study, SiO2 shells with different morphologies were constructed on the superficies of β‐SiCw via a facile oxidation method in air atmosphere. The SiO2 shell’ morphology on the TC and dielectric performances of the β‐SiCw@SiO2/PVDF are systematically explored as a function of the frequency and filler loading. The β‐SiCw@SiO2/PVDF demonstrate astonishingly restricted loss and meliorative TC when compared to the β‐SiCw/PVDF because the SiO2 shell not only suppresses the β‐SiCw from direct contact with one another and impedes the long‐distance charges migration thereby resulting in rather low loss and leakage conductivity, but also restrains the thermal interfacial resistance via increased interfacial compatibility and interactions. The concurrent enhancement effect in the ε and TC but low loss of the composites is more evident in the crystalline SiO2 interlayer with a high TC compared with amorphous one. These results provide insight into the exploration of composite nanodielectrics with large TC and ε but low loss for applications in electrical power systems.

Highlights

Core@shell structured β‐SiCw@SiO2/PVDF were obtained by a facile oxidation.

The great reduction in both loss and conductivity is attributed to the SiO2 shell.

Crystalline SiO2 shell can improve the composites' thermal conductivity.

The SiO2 shell prevents long‐range carrier migration.
Elevated pretreatment squamous cell Carcinoma Antigen indicates unfavorable treatment outcomes in cervical cancer patients receiving definitive radiotherapy
Authors: Liu Dingchao , Wang Weiping , Zeng Zheng , Liu Xiaoliang , Zhou Yuncan , Wang Chen , Li Xiaoyan , Hu Ke
Published: July 2023

Objective

To investigate the prognostic value of pretreatment squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC Ag) levels for treatment failure prediction in patients with cervical cancer.

Methods

A quantity of 985 patients satisfying the eligibility criteria were included, with a median follow‐up duration of 63.7 months. The optimal cutoff value for pretreatment SCC Ag levels was verified by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Five‐year disease‐free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and local control (LC) rates were evaluated utilizing the Kaplan‐Meier method. Log‐rank test and Cox proportional hazards model was implemented to recognize independent prognostic predictors.

Results

The optimal pretreatment SCC Ag cutoff value was 8.85 ng/mL. Patients with pretreatment SCC Ag levels ≥ 8.85 ng/mL presented significantly inferior 5‐year DFS (63.8% vs. 81.8%), OS (71.7% vs. 88.7%), and LC (80.5% vs. 91.0%) compared to those with levels < 8.85 ng/mL (all p < 0.001). The results of the multivariate analysis indicated that the pretreatment SCC Ag level was an independent predictor of treatment failure (HR,1.772; 95% CI, 1.366 to 2.299; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Pretreatment SCC Ag is an effective prognostic factor in patients with cervical cancer undergoing definitive radiotherapy, with a ROC‐identified cutoff value of 8.85 ng/mL and elevated SCC Ag indicates unfavorable outcomes.
Genetic mutations in smoking‐associated prostate cancer
Authors: Elshafei Ahmed , Al‐Toubat Mohammed , Feibus Allison H. , Koul Kashyap , Jazayeri Seyed Behzad , Lelani Navid , Henry Valencia , Balaji K. C.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Tobacco smoking is known to cause cancers potentially predisposed by genetic risks. We compared the frequency of gene mutations using a next generation sequencing database of smokers and nonsmokers with prostate cancer (PCa) to identify subsets of patients with potential genetic risks.

Materials and Methods

Data from the American Association for Cancer Research Project Genomics Evidence Neoplasia Information Exchange (GENIE) registry was analyzed. The GENIE registry contains clinically annotated sequenced tumor samples. We included 1832 men with PCa in our cohort, categorized as smokers and nonsmokers, and compared the frequency of mutations (point mutations, copy number variations, and structural variants) of 47 genes with more than 5% mutation rate between the two categories and correlated with overall survival using logistic regression analysis.

Results

Overall, 1007 (55%) patients were nonsmokers, and 825 (45%) were smokers. The mutation frequency was significantly higher in smokers compared to nonsmokers, 47.6% and 41.3%, respectively (p = 0.02). The median tumor mutational burden was also significantly higher in the samples from smokers (3.59 mut/MB) compared to nonsmokers (1.87 mut/MB) (p < 0.001). Patients with a smoking history had a significantly higher frequency of PREX2, PTEN, AGO2, KMT2C, and a lower frequency of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) and KMT2A mutations than compared to nonsmokers. The overall mortality rate (28.5% vs. 22.8%) was significantly higher among smokers (p = 0.006). On a multivariate logistic regression analysis, the presence of metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis (OR: 2.26, 95% CI: 1.78−2.89, p < 0.001), smoking history (OR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.05−1.65, p = 0.02), and higher frequency of PTEN somatic gene mutation (OR: 1.89, 95% CI: 1.46−2.45, p < 0.001) were independent predictors of increased overall mortality among patients with PCa. Patients with PTEN mutation had poorer overall survival compared to men without PTEN mutations: 96.00 (95% CI: 65.36−113.98) and 120.00 (95% CI: 115.05−160.00) months, respectively (p < 0.001) irrespective of smoking history although the G129R PTEN mutation was characteristically detected in smokers.

Conclusions

PCa patients with a tobacco smoking history demonstrated a significantly higher frequency of somatic genetic mutations. Whereas mutations of PREX2, KMT2C, AGO2, and PTEN genes were higher in smokers, the APC and KMT2A mutations were higher in nonsmokers. The PTEN somatic gene mutation was associated with increased overall mortality among patients with PCa irrespective of smoking history. We found that G129R PTEN mutation known to reduce the PTEN phosphatase activity and K267Rfs*9 a frameshift deletion mutation in the C2 domain of PTEN associated with membrane binding exclusively detected in smokers and nonsmokers, respectively. These findings may be used to further our understanding of PCa associated with smoking.
The causal effect of metabolic syndrome and its components on benign prostatic hyperplasia: A univariable and multivariable Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lv Kaikai , Yang Guorong , Wu Yangyang , Xia Xinze , Hao Xiaowei , Pang Aibo , Han Dong , Yuan Qing , Song Tao
Published: July 2023

Background

Previous observational studies have indicated that metabolic abnormalities are associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The limitations of the research methodology of observational studies do not allow causal inference to be drawn; however, Mendelian randomization (MR) can clarify this.

Methods

Using summary‐level data from genome‐wide association studies, we conducted a two‐sample MR study to examine the causality of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components on BPH (26,358 BPH cases and 110,070 controls). The random‐effects inverse‐variance weighted was employed as the primary method for MR analyses.

Results

We observed that genetically predicted waist circumference (WC) (odds ratio [OR] = 1.236, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.034−1.478, p = 0.020) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (OR = 1.011, 95% CI: 1.002−1.020, p = 0.020) were significantly positively associated with BPH risk. We did not identify a causal effect of MetS (OR = 0.975, 95% CI: 0.922−1.031, p = 0.375), systolic blood pressure (OR = 1.004, 95% CI: 0.999−1.008, p = 0.115), triglycerides (OR = 1.016, 95% CI: 0.932−1.109, p = 0.712), high‐density lipoprotein (OR = 1.005, 95% CI: 0.930−1.086, p = 0.907), and fasting blood glucose (OR = 1.037, 95% CI: 0.874−1.322, p = 0.678) on BPH. In the multivariable MR analysis, we observed that the risk effect of DBP (OR = 1.013, 95% CI: 1.000−1.026, p = 0.047) on BPH persisted after conditioning with WC (OR = 1.132, 95% CI: 0.946−1.356, p = 0.177).

Conclusions

Our study provides genetic evidence supporting the causal effect of DBP on BPH, although the effect of WC needs to be further validated.
Amphiphilic peptide Mastoparan‐B induces conformational changes within the AdeB efflux pump, down‐regulates adeB gene expression, and restores antibiotic susceptibility in an MDR strain of Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Shakibaie Mohammad Reza , Modaresi Farzan , Azizi Omid , Tadjrobehkar Omid , Ghaemi Mohammad Mehdi
Published: July 2023

Mastoparan B (MP‐B) is an amphiphilic peptide with a potent antimicrobial activity against most Gram‐negative bacteria. However, there is little information available on the inhibition of the Acinetobacter baumannii resistance‐nodulation‐cell‐division (RND) efflux pump using this antimicrobial peptide. Here, we carried out a series of in‐silico experiments to find the mechanisms underlying the anti‐efflux activity of MP‐B using a multi‐drug resistant (MDR) strain of A. baumannii (AB). According to our findings, MP‐B demonstrated a potent antibacterial activity against an MDR‐AB (minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC] = 1 μg/mL) followed by a 20‐fold reduction in the adeB gene expression in the presence of sub‐MIC of this peptide. Using Groningen Machine for Chemicals Simulation (GROMACS) via PyMOL Graphical User Interface (GUI), (we observed that, the AdeB transporter had conserved helix‐turn‐helix regions and a tight pore rich in Phe and Ala residues. To understand how inhibition of the AdeB is achieved, we generated 20 apo‐MP‐B poses using the InterPep and SiteMap tools. The high‐quality model was created by homology modeling and used for docking via AutoDock/Vina to identify the MP‐B binding sites. We established that the most apo‐MP‐B formed H‐bonds to the backbone of five amino acids in the Helix‐5. As a result, the dihedral angles of the involved amino acids shift by 9.0–9.6 Ǻ, causing a change in the conformation of the AdeB protein. This led to helix conformation stereoisomerization and block the AdeB activity. MP‐B presumably has dual mechanisms. (1) It blocks the AdeB transporter by changing its conformation. (2) MP‐B influences the adeB gene expression by binding to G‐protein which laterally controls efflux regulators like MarA, RamA, SoxS, and Rob proteins.
Systematic errors that compromise integrity of safety instrumented systems
Authors: Chastain‐Knight Denise
Published: July 2023

A safety instrumented system (SIS) is an important independent protection layer (IPL) to mitigate risk. Many IPLs, such as a basic process control system (BPCS), can provide only one order of magnitude risk reduction (RRF 10). A SIS however, is capable of providing one, two, or three orders of magnitude risk reduction (RRF 10, 100, or 1000). Correct specification, design, and maintenance of a SIS is critical to ensure that the SIS delivers the assigned risk reduction. Issues with SIS lifecycle management can lead to systematic errors such as underestimating the safety integrity level (SIL) target, overestimating the risk reduction provided by design, and inadequate maintenance, testing, or replacement. This paper discusses a few of these systematic errors and provide guidelines to avoid them.
Getting the deal done—While managing process safety risk
Authors: Currie John , Kas Kathleen
Published: July 2023

Historically, chemical complexes originated from a single company that developed a large site with significant infrastructure and diverse operating units. However, as corporate objectives change, companies frequently consider alternative business models such as mergers, acquisitions, leases, and licensing agreements. These deals (referred to as mergers and acquisitions [M&A] in this paper) often result in a shift from the single owner/operator structure toward other ownership, operating, and service provider models. These models can create substantial value; however, if not properly managed, they can also increase risk. Assessing these deals to manage process safety risk is challenging; deals are often confidential, the scope is sometimes fluid, and there is limited time to complete the process safety evaluations. If significant deal risks cannot be mitigated, concerns need to be elevated to upper management so they can be addressed before the deal is signed. Contract provisions may also be needed to clarify expectations and ensure continued safe operation. This paper discusses the challenges in assessing potential M&A deals from a process safety lens and describes a work process for engaging with the M&A team, conducting preliminary screening and more detailed assessments, communicating the results, and incorporating key agreements into the contract language.
Failure analysis and quick recovery of a low‐temperature distillation station
Authors: Xiao Renjie , Huang Shilin , Mi Hongfu , Yang Xinlin , Zhang Di , Wang Guixin
Published: July 2023

A coupling model based on hazard and operability analysis (HAZOP) and fault tree analysis is proposed and used to analyze the failure of a low‐temperature distillation station (LTDS). It is found that the formation of scale in the deamination tower in the LTDS is the most significant cause for the failure. The scale was mainly composed of SrSO4, CaCO₃, CaSO4, and MgCO₃, which were determined by various techniques from the gas‐field water. Dynamic weight loss experiments were conducted to estimate the corrosion rate of 304 steel with different cleaning solutions. The corrosion behaviors of the metal in the deamination tower were further investigated in three types of cleaning solution via potentiodynamic polarization method. The cleaning solution composed of 6% sulfamic acid, LAN826, JFC, and a defoaming agent could safely and quickly remove the scale covering the LTDS at 50°C. In addition, the optimal cleaning time was found to be 6 h.
Signal‐to‐noise and predictable modes of variability in winter seasonal forecasts
Authors: Hodson Daniel L.R. , Sutton Rowan T. , Scaife Adam A.
Published: July 2023

Recent studies suggest seasonal forecasts for European winters are now skilful, but they also identify a “signal‐to‐noise paradox”, wherein models predict the real world more skilfully (higher correlation) than the evolution of their ensemble members. Here, we analyse seasonal hindcasts from the Met Office GloSea5 seasonal forecast system to identify sources of predictability and seek insight into the signal‐to‐noise problem. For the first time, we use an optimal detection method to identify predictable signals over the North Atlantic region within the forecast system on subseasonal time‐scales. We find two primary predictable modes: a Pacific North America (PNA)‐like mode and a North Atlantic oscillation (NAO)‐like mode. The latter is the leading predictable mode in December–January, and its spatial pattern closely resembles the NAO. The PNA‐like mode dominates in January–February. Whereas the PNA‐like mode is driven by Pacific Ocean sea‐surface temperatures, the NAO‐like mode is driven at least partly by Indian Ocean sea‐surface temperatures, not solely due to the common trend. We develop a novel method of comparing the magnitude of these modes in the forecast system and observations that complements previous approaches. This suggests that the signal‐to‐noise problem in GloSea5 is primarily a feature of the December–January NAO‐like mode, with the observed mode being three times larger than in the model. The magnitude of the PNA‐like mode is better captured by the forecasts, although there is still evidence of a weaker signal‐to‐noise problem. This suggests particular mechanisms may lead to the lower signal to noise seen in NAO hindcasts, rather than a global weakness of the forecast system in responding to initialization and external forcing. Our results, though specific to GloSea5, provide insights into the causes of the signal‐to‐noise problem in seasonal forecasts of European winters. They also imply there is significant potential for improving such forecasts and suggest how such improvements may be achieved.
Explainable machine learning for phishing feature detection
Authors: Calzarossa Maria Carla , Giudici Paolo , Zieni Rasha
Published: July 2023

Phishing is a very dangerous security threat that affects individuals as well as companies and organizations. To fight the risks associated with this threat, it is important to detect phishing websites in a timely manner. Machine learning models work well for this purpose as they can predict phishing cases, using information on the underlying websites. In this paper, we contribute to the research on the detection of phishing websites by proposing an explainable machine learning model that can provide not only accurate predictions of phishing, but also explanations of which features are most likely associated with phishing websites. To this aim, we propose a novel feature selection model based on Lorenz Zonoids, the multidimensional extension of Gini coefficient. We illustrate our proposal on a real dataset that contains features of both phishing and legitimate websites.