bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Report of case series: Correlation between pathological and radiological evaluation and clinical course of three cases of metastatic renal cell carcinoma with cytoreductive nephrectomy after combined immuno‐oncology therapy
Authors: Atagi Yuichiro , Tada Kouki , Kouno Reina , Minato Ryoei , Hashine Katsuyoshi
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The pathologic evaluation and clinical course of cytoreductive nephrectomy after combined immuno‐oncology therapy were reviewed to understand the benefits of cytoreductive nephrectomy.

Case presentation

Three patients with clear cell carcinoma underwent tumor biopsy before combined immuno‐oncology therapy. Case 1 was found to have a sarcomatoid component upon nephrectomy and continued with combined immuno‐oncology therapy. Case 2 discontinued combined immuno‐oncology therapy due to adverse events but maintained tumor shrinkage. The patient was found to have viable cells in most nephrectomy specimens but has had no recurrence after combined immuno‐oncology therapy was discontinued. In case 3, the residual tumor was deemed resectable with combined immuno‐oncology therapy, and nephrectomy and metastasectomy were performed. No viable cells were observed in either specimen, and the patient has had no recurrence.

Conclusion

Cytoreductive nephrectomy after combined immuno‐oncology therapy may be useful to allow pathologic evaluation of treatment and provide an indicator for subsequent treatment.
Ultrasound and ultrasound shear‐wave elastography evaluation of ulceroglandular type of tularemia
Authors: Gülmez Ali Osman , Çetin Türkhun , Aydın Sonay , Binay Umut Devrim
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Ultrasound (US) has an important place in imaging ulceroglandular type patients with tularemia. This study is a case series addressing the imaging findings of US and US shear‐wave elastography in ulceroglandular type tularemia.

Description

Three patients, two women, and one man, were included in our case series. The patients were admitted to our hospital with neck swelling, pain, and a palpable mass. After the diagnosis of tularemia was made as a result of the examinations performed on the patients, they were evaluated again with US and US shear‐wave elastography.

Discussion

Since there are many diagnoses including ulceroglandular tularemia in the differential diagnosis of swelling, pain, and palpable mass in the neck, the patient must undergo a thorough evaluation process. US shear‐wave elastography can provide significant benefits in identification and treatment follow‐up in order to understand the ulceroglandular mass formation observed in the neck in tularemia and the stiffness and morphology of the tissues in the lymph nodes where involvement is observed and to distinguish them from the surrounding tissue.
The Manchester Scoring System for predicting BRCA1/2 mutations underperforms in Arabic Omani breast cancer patients
Authors: van Wyk Chantel , Al‐Sayegh Hasan , Al‐Kiyumi Sara I. , Al‐Mamari Ghaida S. , Al Saegh Abeer A.
Published: June 2024

Risk assessment models that are applied to assess the lifetime risk of cancer and pathogenic variant risk are more commonly used in Western populations. Using these models, without validation, for non‐Western populations has been questioned. This study aimed to evaluate the use and consistency of the Manchester Scoring System as a risk assessment model for the Omani population. A retrospective, file‐based analysis was performed on breast cancer patients seen in a genomics department over a two‐year period. Personal cancer history and family history were used to analyze the Manchester scores of 409 breast and/or cancer patients. The results show that, overall, the Manchester scores were low. If this risk assessment model had been used to determine eligibility for a priori service and genetic testing decisions, 12 BRCA pathogenic cases would have been missed. At this time, the Manchester Scoring System does not seem to be the best risk assessment model for use in the Omani population, unless the eligibility threshold of ≥6 is used, which could provide a better sensitivity for the Omani population. We propose using concepts of the Manchester Scoring model to create a scoring system that is more suitable for the Omani and Arabic population.
Clinical practice and outcome of patients with elderly‐onset ulcerative colitis: Insights from a nationwide claims database study in Japan
Authors: Moroi Rintaro , Kakuta Yoichi , Nagai Hiroshi , Shimoyama Yusuke , Naito Takeo , Shiga Hisashi , Kinouchi Yoshitaka , Masamune Atsushi
Published: June 2024

Background and Aim

The number of older patients with ulcerative colitis is increasing; however, limited data exist regarding the differences between elderly‐ and non‐elderly‐onset ulcerative colitis. We aimed to compare the clinical practice and course of elderly‐onset ulcerative colitis with those of non‐elderly‐onset ulcerative colitis.

Methods

We selected older patients with ulcerative colitis and divided them into the elderly‐ and non‐elderly‐onset ulcerative colitis groups according to their age at onset. We compared the cumulative systemic steroid‐free, molecular targeting drug‐free, and surgery‐free rates between the two groups. We performed a multivariate analysis to identify the clinical factors related to systemic steroid administration, the use of molecular targeting drugs, surgery, and death.

Results

We collected data of 2669 and 277 elderly and non‐elderly‐onset ulcerative colitis patients, respectively. The cumulative systemic steroid‐free rate of elderly‐onset ulcerative colitis was significantly lower than that of non‐elderly‐onset ulcerative colitis. However, no difference was observed in the cumulative molecular targeting drugs and surgery‐free rates between the two groups. Elderly‐onset ulcerative colitis significantly increased the risk of systemic steroid administration and death but not the use of molecular targeting drugs and surgery.

Conclusion

The disease severity of ulcerative colitis and clinical practice may not differ between the elderly‐ and non‐elderly‐onset groups. However, elderly‐onset ulcerative colitis was associated with increased mortality risk. Thus, we need to pay attention to the patients' condition and appropriate timing of surgery for patients with elderly‐onset ulcerative colitis.
Two successful pregnancies ‐in patients taking Volanesorsen for familial chylomicronemia syndrome
Authors: Wanninayake Subadra , Ochoa‐Ferraro Antonio , Patel Karishma , Ramachandran Radha , Wierzbicki Anthony S. , Dawson Charlotte
Published: June 2024

Familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS) is a rare inherited disorder characterized by severe hypertriglyceridemia, posing a heightened risk of acute pancreatitis. Recently, Volanesorsen, an APOC3 antisense oligonucleotide, gained approval for FCS treatment in the UK. Caution is advised during pregnancy due to limited safety data, although animal studies show no toxicity/teratogenicity. Two case scenarios are presented: In the first case, a patient with FCS continued Volanesorsen injections without having thrombocytopenia during an unplanned pregnancy until third trimester, maintaining triglyceride control. Upon discovering the pregnancy at 38 weeks, Volanesorsen was ceased, and a low‐fat diet reinstated. Despite a heightened risk of pancreatitis, no episodes of pancreatitis occurred during the pregnancy. In the second case, stopping Volanesorsen before conception led to elevated triglycerides, and an episode of acute pancreatitis at 22 weeks, despite strict very low‐fat diet and fibrate therapy from 14 weeks. At 23 weeks, Volanesorsen was reintroduced concurrently with regular therapeutic plasma exchange. No further episodes of pancreatitis occurred. In both case, fetal health was maintained throughout pregnancy, fetal scans revealed no anomalies, and planned C‐sections delivered healthy babies without congenital issues. Both babies are well and developing normally at 24 and 19 months.
Clinical efficacy of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron‐neutralizing antibodies in immunoglobulin preparations for the treatment of agammaglobulinemia in patients with primary antibody deficiency
Authors: Karbiener Michael , Kindle Gerhard , Meyts Isabelle , Seppänen Mikko R. J. , Candotti Fabio , Kamieniak Marta , Ilk Reinhard , Kreil Thomas R. , Seidel Markus G. ,   ESID‐COVID Consortium
Published: June 2024

Immunocompromised individuals are at significantly elevated risk for severe courses of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). In addition to vaccination, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) have been applied throughout the pandemic, with time of treatment onset and potency against the currently prevailing virus variant identified as relevant factors for medical benefit. Using data from the European Society for Immunodeficiencies (ESID) registry, the present study evaluated COVID‐19 cases in three groups of patients with inborn errors of immunity (IEI; 981 agammaglobulinemia patients on immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IGRT); 8960 non‐agammaglobulinemia patients on IGRT; 14 428 patients without IGRT), and the neutralizing capacity of 1100 immunoglobulin lots against SARS‐CoV‐2 (“Wuhan” and Omicron strains), throughout 3 years. From the first (2020/2021) to the second (2021/2022) cold season, i.e., during the virus drift to the more contagious Omicron variants, an increase in case numbers was recorded that was comparable (~2‐ to 3‐fold) for all three study groups. During the same period, immunoglobulin lots showed a profound nAb increase against the archetypal SARS‐CoV‐2 strain, yet only low levels of Omicron nAbs. Notably, shortly before the third (2022/2023) cold season, Omicron‐neutralizing capacity of released immunoglobulin lots had plateaued at high levels. From the second to the third cold season, COVID‐19 cases dropped markedly. While a ~6‐fold case reduction was recorded for the groups of non‐agammaglobulinemia patients on IGRT and IEI patients not receiving IGRT, the decline was ~30‐fold for the group of agammaglobulinemia patients on IGRT. These findings suggest a substantial COVID‐19‐protective effect of IGRT, at least for distinct groups of antibody‐deficient patients.
Effects of irrigation‐induced surface thermodynamics changes on wind speed in the Heihe River basin, Northwest China
Authors: Song Shuaifeng , Zhang Xuezhen , Liu Juan
Published: June 2024

The Heihe River Basin, located in Northwest China, serves as a major commodity grain base in China due to its state‐of‐the‐art irrigation system. The rapid increase in soil moisture caused by irrigation can alter the land–atmosphere energy fluxes and regulate regional climate. However, the effects and mechanisms of irrigation on wind speed related to thermodynamics remain unclear. Here, we carried out two 10‐year numerical simulations using the Weather Research and Forecast (WRF) model incorporating a real‐time irrigation scheme. By comparing the simulation differences (including and excluding irrigation), we found that irrigation significantly decreased the daily mean and maximum wind speed at 10 m above ground by 0.30 and 0.55 m·s−1, respectively, in the irrigated area during the growth season. Such surface wind slowdown could be explained by irrigation‐induced surface air cooling and, hence, intensifying atmospheric column stability, weakening turbulent momentum transport, as well as opposite‐to‐prevailing winds vector anomaly caused by increased southward pressure gradient. Meanwhile, we also found wind slowdown mainly occurs below 1100 m while acceleration effect above that level. It was highlighted that the surface wind slowdown effect of irrigation substantially improved the performance of the WRF model. Due to the surface wind slowdown effect of irrigation, the positive bias of daily mean and maximum wind speed simulated by the WRF model was reduced by 15.3% and 27.4%, respectively. Our findings implicate the potential importance of irrigation in improving the performance of climate models as well as in explaining the phenomenon of global stilling.
The Art of Creative Inquiry—From Question Asking to Prompt Engineering
Authors: Sasson Lazovsky Gal , Raz Tuval , Kenett Yoed N.
Published: June 2024

As artificial intelligence and natural language processing methods rapidly develop, communication plays a pivotal role in every‐day interactions. In this theoretical paper, we explore the overlap and commonalities between question‐asking and prompt engineering. While seemingly distinct, these processes share a common foundation in essential skills like creativity, critical thinking, and cognitive flexibility. We contend that prompt engineering, the art of crafting cues for language models, and question‐asking, the skill of formulating inquiries, form a symbiotic relationship. Delving into question complexity through Bloom's taxonomy and diverse types of questions, we propose strategies for not only efficient but also engaging prompt design. Our theoretical contribution emphasizes the dynamic role of creativity in both processes, offering intriguing perspectives on human–machine interactions and advancing our understanding of language models and communication skills.
Least angle regression, relaxed lasso, and elastic net for algebraic multigrid of systems of elliptic partial differential equations
Authors: Lee Barry
Published: June 2024

In a sequence of papers, the author examined several statistical affinity measures for selecting the coarse degrees of freedom (CDOFs) or coarse nodes (Cnodes) in algebraic multigrid (AMG) for systems of elliptic partial differential equations (PDEs). These measures were applied to a set of relaxed vectors that exposes the problematic error components. Once the CDOFs are determined using any one of these measures, the interpolation operator is constructed in a bootstrap AMG (BAMG) procedure. However, in a recent paper of Kahl and Rottmann, the statistical least angle regression (LARS) method was utilized in the coarsening procedure and shown to be promising in the CDOF selection. This method is generally used in the statistics community to select the most relevant variables in constructing a parsimonious model for a very complicated and high‐dimensional model or data set (i.e., variable selection for a “reduced” model). As pointed out by Kahl and Rottmann, the LARS procedure has the ability to detect group relations between variables, which can be more useful than binary relations that are derived from strength‐of‐connection, or affinity measures, between pairs of variables. Moreover, by using an updated Cholesky factorization approach in the regression computation, the LARS procedure can be performed efficiently even when the original set of variables is large; and due to the LARS formulation itself (i.e., its ‐norm constraint), sparse interpolation operators can be generated. In this article, we extend the LARS coarsening approach to systems of PDEs. Furthermore, we incorporate some modifications to the LARS approach based on the so‐called elastic net and relaxed lasso methods, which are well known and thoroughly analyzed in the statistics community for ameliorating several major issues with LARS as a variable selection procedure. We note that the original LARS coarsening approach may have addressed some of these issues in similar or other ways but due to the limited details provided there, it is difficult to determine the extent of their similarities. Incorporating these modifications (or effecting them in similar ways) leads to improved robustness in the LARS coarsening procedure, and numerical experiments indicate that the changes lead to faster convergence in the multigrid method. Moreover, the relaxed lasso modification permits an indirect BAMG (iBAMG) extension to the interpolation operator. This iBAMG extension applied in an intra‐ or inter‐variable interpolation setting (i.e., nodal‐based coarsening), as well as in variable‐based coarsening, which will not preserve the nodal structure of a finest‐level discretization on the lower levels of the multilevel hierarchy, will be examined. For the variable‐based coarsening, because of the parsimonious feature of LARS, the performance is reasonably good when applied to systems of PDEs albeit at a substantial additional cost over a nodal‐based procedure.
Animal diseases in the southern part of the Carpathian Basin during the medieval period
Authors: Marković Nemanja , Stevanović Oliver , Krstić Nikola , Marinković Darko , Špehar Perica , Rothschild Bruce
Published: June 2024

This study aims to shed light on animal management influences on the development of pathological changes observed on animal remains from the medieval site of Crkveno Brdo. Animal remains with abnormalities were discovered during archaeological excavations of the medieval settlement at the site of Crkveno Brdo in 2019. The site is situated near Senta in the northern region of modern‐day Serbia. The part of the settlement dated from the 11th to the 15th centuries was excavated. The percentage represented by various mammalian species documents that the most important economic species were cattle and horses, followed by sheep, goats, and pigs. Fishing and hunting were marginal in the settlement subsistence. The analyzed assemblage of bones with lesions consists of 39 specimens with 40 abnormalities. All of the remains exhibiting abnormalities were subjected to macroscopic and stereomicroscope analysis. The specimens with the most prominent changes also underwent x‐ray imaging and histopathological analysis. Almost all lesions were found in domestic animals. The most prevalent lesions in cattle, sheep, goat, and pig were dental and oral pathology, followed by articular abnormalities. In horses, 77% of pathological changes were articular abnormalities, and 11% dental and oral pathology, followed by traumatic lesions and inherited disorders (5.5% each). Congenital morphological variation is represented by a single specimen of horse lumbar vertebra. Pathological alterations were also noted in dogs, as was a severe healed tibiofibular fracture in a frog. Pathological alterations were related to external factors and specifically to patterns of animal management. Dental pathologies in cattle, sheep/goats, and pigs were primary attributed to malnutrition quality; articular abnormalities in horses, similar to aging and environmental factors, most likely work related.
Stakeholders' views on the global guidelines for the sustainable use of non‐native trees
Authors: Novoa Ana , Vimercati Giovanni , Brundu Giuseppe , Richardson David M. , Schaffner Urs , Brunori Antonio , Campagnaro Thomas , Canavan Susan , Celesti‐Grapow Laura , Dechoum Michele , Dehnen‐Schmutz Katharina , Dufour‐Dror Jean‐Marc , Essl Franz , Flory S. Luke , Jäger Heinke , Joshi Jasmin , Karmann Marion , Langdon Barbara , Lapin Katharina , Le Roux Johannes , Lozano Vanessa , Masiero Mauro , Meyerson Laura A. , Nuñez Martin A. , Pauchard Aníbal , Pergl Jan , Porté Annabel J. , Pyšek Petr , Pyšková Jana , Rodriguez Jonatan , Shackleton Ross T. , Silva Joaquim S. , Sitzia Tommaso , Verbrugge Laura , Vítková Michaela , Weldesemaet Yitbarek Tibebe , Westergren Marjana , Wilson John R. U.
Published: June 2024

A large number of non‐native trees (NNTs) have been introduced globally and widely planted, contributing significantly to the world's economy. Although some of these species present a limited risk of spreading beyond their planting sites, a growing number of NNTs are spreading and becoming invasive leading to diverse negative impacts on biodiversity, ecosystem functions and human well‐being. To help minimize the negative impacts and maximize the economic benefits of NNTs, Brundu et al. developed eight guidelines for the sustainable use of NNTs globally—the Global Guidelines for the Use of NNTs (GG‐NNTs).

Here, we used an online survey to assess perceptions of key stakeholders towards NNTs, and explore their knowledge of and compliance with the GG‐NNTs.

Our results show that stakeholders are generally aware that NNTs can provide benefits and cause negative impacts, often simultaneously and they consider that their organization complies with existing regulations and voluntary agreements concerning NNTs. However, they are not aware of or do not apply most of the eight recommendations included in the GG‐NNTs.

We conclude that effectively managing invasions linked to NNTs requires both more communication efforts using an array of channels for improving stakeholder awareness and implementation of simple measures to reduce NNT impacts (e.g. via GG‐NNTs), and a deeper understanding of the barriers and reluctance of stakeholders to manage NNT invasions.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Benzoyl peroxide encapsulation in poly(urea‐formaldehyde) microcapsules for use in dental materials
Authors: Fadel Victoria Sanches , Furtado Paula Roberta Perondi , Meier Marcia Margarete
Published: June 2024

New self‐healing resin composites with tertiary amine microcapsules enhance the mechanical performance of dental restorations. However, a higher concentration of dibenzoyl peroxide (BPO) must be added to the composite to react with the core material when the microcapsules rupture, reducing the shelf life of dental materials due to their reactivity. As a result, one approach to reducing the amount of BPO dissolved in dental resin is to microencapsulate it. Thus, this manuscript described the encapsulation of BPO in poly(urea‐formaldehyde) (PUF) microcapsules (MC) and investigated its effect on the flexural strength of BisGMA/TEGDMA composites. To synthesize hollow MC, poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) was tested as a continuous phase viscosity modifier. The MC were then infiltrated with BPO dissolved in linseed oil as core materials. PAA in continuous phase increased MC diameter due to improved air bubble stability. BPO dissolved in linseed oil was successfully infiltrated into empty PUF MC, causing the MC shell wall to expand. The dental resin had adequate adhesion to the PUF shell, which ruptured under induced stress. Thus, the MC filled with BPO as a healing agent has the potential to reduce the amount of BPO that is typically dissolved in the monomeric phase of dental materials, which can increase the shelf life of self‐healing dental materials.

Highlights

The reactivity of dibenzoyl peroxide (BPO) affects resin stability in dental materials.

When combined with tertiary amines, BPO acts as a healing agent in self‐healing composite materials.

BPO dissolved in linseed oil can be infiltrated in PUF microcapsules and increase its size.

Hollow microcapsules synthesized in a more viscous continuous phase have a larger diameter.

Microencapsulated BPO is released during stress stimuli in dental resin.
Analyzing the influence of diols' chain length on the properties of bio‐based wood adhesive
Authors: Parekh Sonu , Chaudhary Mayankkumar L. , Patel Rutu , Patel Pratik , Gupta Ram K.
Published: June 2024

Traditional adhesives made using urea or phenol formaldehyde are toxic to humans and the environment, and as a result, the industry is very interested in developing bio‐based adhesives. Polyurethane (PU)‐based adhesives are very attractive due to their strong bonding strength, and thermal and chemical stability. Polyols derived from petrochemicals are one of the most important constituents in PU‐based adhesives. Current trends are to find an alternative for petrochemical‐based polyols without compromising the important characteristics of adhesives. In this research, PU adhesives were prepared using soybean oil‐based polyol and isocyanate. Three different diols such as 1,2‐ethanediol (EDO), 1,4‐butanediol (BDO), and 1,6‐hexanediol (HDO) were used to study the effect of crosslinking, amount of crosslinkers (diols), and diol's chain length on the properties of bio‐based adhesives. The adhesive's lap shear strength using metallic and wood coupons was measured. The BDO‐based bio‐adhesives showed the best bonding strength compared to EDO and HDO adhesives. The mechanical strength was observed to be increasing with an increase in the amount of diols up to a certain concentration and then started decreasing. On the oakwood, the bonding strength was increased from 3 to 6.36 MPa after incorporating 10 wt% of BDO which was the highest bonding strength observed among all the other adhesives. The thermal and chemical stability of these adhesives were also studied. Structural characterization confirms no significant changes after being immersed in different solvents for 24 h. This work introduces a sustainable alternative to petroleum‐based adhesives using polyols from vegetable oil.

Highlights

Soybean oil‐based polyol was used for adhesives.

1,2‐Ethanediol, 1,4‐butanediol, and 1,6‐hexanediol were used as crosslinkers.

The bonding strength was measured using wood and metallic coupons.

The bonding strength was observed to be increasing with an increase in the amount of diols.

The highest bonding strength of 6.36 MPa was observed.
Quantum Nonlinear Spectroscopy via Correlations of Weak Faraday‐Rotation Measurements
Authors: Cheung Brian Chung Hang , Liu Ren‐Bao
Published: June 2024

The correlations of fluctuations are key to studying fundamental quantum physics and quantum many‐body dynamics. They are also useful information for understanding and combating decoherence in quantum technology. Nonlinear spectroscopy and noise spectroscopy are powerful tools to characterize fluctuations, but they can access only very few among the many types of higher‐order correlations. A systematic quantum sensing approach, called quantum nonlinear spectroscopy (QNS), is recently proposed for extracting arbitrary types and orders of time‐ordered correlations, using sequential weak measurement via a spin quantum sensor. However, the requirement of a central spin as the quantum sensor limits the versatility of the QNS since usually a central spin interacts only with a small number of particles in proximity and the measurement of single spins needs stringent conditions. Here, the aim is to employ the polarization (a pseudo‐spin) of a coherent light beam as a quantum sensor for QNS. After interacting with a target system (such as a transparent magnetic material), the small Faraday rotation of the linearly polarized light can be measured, which constitutes a weak measurement of the magnetization in the target system. Using a Mach–Zehnder interferometer with a designed phase shift, one can post‐select the effects of the light–material interaction to be either a quantum evolution or a quantum measurement of the material magnetization. This way, the correlated difference photon counts of a certain number of measurement shots, each with a designated interference phase, can be made proportional to a certain type and order of correlations of the magnetic fluctuations in the material. The analysis of the signal‐to‐noise ratios shows that the second‐order correlations are detectable in general under realistic conditions and higher‐order correlations are significant when the correlation lengths of the fluctuations are comparable to the laser spot size (such as in systems near the critical points). Since the photon sensor can interact simultaneously with many particles and interferometry is a standard technique, this protocol of QNS is advantageous for studying quantum many‐body systems.
Epidemiology, biosafety, and biosecurity of Avian Influenza: Insights from the East Mediterranean region
Authors: AL‐Eitan Laith , Khair Iliya , Shakhatreh Zaid , Almahdawi Diana , Alahmad Saif
Published: June 2024

The World Organization for Animal Health defines Avian Influenza Virus as a highly infectious disease caused by diverse subtypes that continue to evolve rapidly, impacting poultry species, pet birds, wild birds, non‐human mammals, and occasionally humans. The effects of Avian influenza viruses have been recognised as a precursor for serious health concerns among affected birds, poultry, and human populations in the Middle East. Furthermore, low and high pathogenic avian influenza viruses lead to respiratory illness with varying severity, depending on the virus subtype (e.g., H5, H7, H9, etc.). Possible future outbreaks and endemics of newly emerging subtypes are expected to occur, as many studies have reported the emergence of novel mutations and viral subtypes. However, proper surveillance programs and biosecurity applications should be developed, and countries with incapacitated defences against such outbreaks should be encouraged to undergo complete reinstation and reinforcement in their health and research sectors. Public education regarding biosafety and virus prevention is necessary to ensure minimal spread of avian influenza endemic.
Coupling hydrological methods with ‘Flow Health’ to simulate ecological flow in the Weihe River Basin, China
Authors: Liu Dandan , Xie Jiancang , Yang Xue , Gao Shuang
Published: June 2024

Reducing river flows significantly affects livelihoods, ecology and industrial production. Therefore, allowing for ecological flow requirements has been applied to limiting human water consumption and is incorporated into water allocation planning. However, the unavailability of ecological data greatly limits e‐flow studies and this lack of sufficient ecosystem data is mostly addressed by using hydrological metrics as surrogates of the river ecosystem. This study employed the nine indicators of the ‘Flow Health’ model to assess river hydrological health and explore optimal ecological flow regimes. The modelling estimated the required flow and the extra flood flows of ecosystem conservation under default and custom thresholds. Ecological flows were calculated for five stations of the Weihe River through coupling with three hydrological methodologies. The index of flow deviation indicated that the flow regimes in Weihe River have partially changed from the reference period. Fish and other aquatic habitats have changed by reduced flows, but the health of the floodplain ecosystem has not been seriously affected. The ecological flow modelling results showed that the extra flow required for the ecology restoration in five stations is concentrated from July to September. The optimal ecological flows in dry seasons by coupling three hydrological methods were less than the average current flow, which is reasonable. This coupling provides ideas on how environmental flow assessments are undertaken in similar regions.
Highly Bright and Stable CsPbX3@Cs4PbX6 Hexagonal Nanoarchitectonics Created by Controlling Dissolution‐Recrystallization of CsPbX3 Nanomaterials
Authors: Xie Cong , Zhang Xiao , Chen Hsueh Shih , Yang Ping
Published: June 2024

CsPbBr3@Cs4PbBr6 hexagonal NCs with a bright photoluminescence (PL) peak of 456 nm are created through the dissolution‐recrystallization of CsPbBr3 nanoplatelets. Small CsPbBr3 nanocrystals are encapsulated in hexagonal Cs4PbBr6 during recrystallization to form a core‐shell structure and keep high brightness and stability. The recrystallization kinetics is systematically investigated to explore the roles of methyl acetate, oleylamine, and n‐hexane. Result further indicates that core/shell NCs remained high PL under a variety of harsh conditions (e.g., light irradiation and heat treatment) because of Cs4PbX6 shell and the controlling of recrystallization. Their initial PL intensity is remained after 4 months of storage under ambient conditions and continuous exposure to UV lamp for 180 min. The bright PL is also maintained even treatment at 120 °C. To indicate the universality of this synthesis method, CsPbX3@Cs4PbX6 hexagonal NCs with different emission colors are fabricated by changing temperature, solvent viscosity, and precursors (e,g, oleylamine and halogens). These core‐shell samples reveal bright and stable green, orange, and red PL. Because of its high stability, the core/shell NCs are dispersed in flexible films to create diverse patterns. The films also exhibit high brightness and excellent stability. This strategy opens a novel avenue for the application of perovskite nanomaterials in the display field.
On the Photothermal Response of DNA–Au Core/Shell Nanotoroids as Potential Agents for Photothermal Therapies
Authors: González‐Colsa Javier , Kuzyk Anton , Albella Pablo
Published: June 2024

Plasmonic nanoparticles play a pivotal role in various research areas due to their exceptional optical and thermo‐optical properties, like high spectral tunability and efficient light‐to‐heat conversion. Gold, with its biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity, and tunable resonances , makes gold nanoparticles ideal for photothermal therapies. Geometries, including spheres, core–shells, rods, disks, stars, nanocages, and nanotoroids, are extensively studied, with the gold nanodoughnut emerging as one of the most promising ones due to its ability to produce high temperatures and rotational stability. Nevertheless, the fabrication of metallic toroidal shapes remains a challenge. Recent advances in DNA‐based nanotechnology, especially DNA‐origami techniques, provide feasible route for the fabrication of this geometry through metallization reactions or attachment of metal nanoparticles. However, particles manufactured using this method possess a DNA core that influences their thermoplasmonic performance. In this work, a theoretical investigation is conducted on the thermoplasmonic response of DNA‐origami‐based core/shell toroids (CSTs) for photothermal applications. Key parameters that optimize the CST thermoplasmonic response are identified, and compared with their solid counterparts and discrete metallic coatings. Additionally, the CSTs tolerance to random rotations is assessed, providing insights into their behavior in fluidic environments and implications for its practical consideration.
Experimental and theoretical investigations on the flexural behavior of precast concrete slabs reinforced with prestressing BFRP bars and fibers
Authors: Zhou Jingyang , Wang Xin , Ding Lining , Kang Sufang , Bai Xingyu , Mahmoud Maha R. I. , Wu Zhishen
Published: June 2024

Prestressing basalt‐fiber‐reinforced polymer (BFRP) bars and three types of fibers were used to enhance precast slabs during construction. Experimental investigation was conducted on one control slab and three reinforced slabs, while equations for the flexural behavior of slabs and optimization were performed. The results demonstrated that the addition of fibers had minimal impact on the compressive strength of concrete, but significantly improved its flexural strengths by up to 36%. Fibers and BFRP bars with a prestress level of 40% enhanced the cracking load by a range of 506% to 584%, and the ultimate load by a range of 28% to 48%, while exerting minimal influence on the yield load. Reinforced slabs exhibited a reduction in yield deflection ranging from 57% to 67%, along with a decrease in ultimate deflection ranging from 33% to 42%. Prestress played a crucial role in controlling slab cracks, whereas fiber type had only minor effects. The equation derived for predicting experimental results regarding normal section cracking moment showed a maximum deviation not exceeding 5%. Material utilization can be improved by reducing slab thickness or the number of prestressing bars, followed by lowering prestress levels and truss numbers. Prioritizing reduction in slab thickness is recommended from a construction perspective.
Sustainability in Three Dimensions
Authors: Werner Gijsbert D. A. , van Riel Arthur , Gijsberts Mérove I. L. , de Visser Marianne
Published: June 2024

In the previous chapter we looked at current trends and developments in Dutch health and social care. We now turn our attention to their implications for the future sustainability of care. As explained in Chap.1, in this report we take a broader than usual view of the concept of sustainability. In this chapter we explore the mechanisms of that wide-ranging interpretation and look at how the three dimensions of sustainability—financial, staffing and societal—are evolving. We do this by reviewing historical developments, the current situation and prognoses for the future. As part of our analysis we also address the finding that the three dimensions are closely interrelated, resulting in everything from mutually reinforcing effects to mutual trade-offs—more of one means less of the other.
The International Legal Framework for Area-Based Marine Management Tools
Authors: Matz-Lück Nele , Al-Hajjaji Shams
Published: June 2024

Area-based management tools (ABMTs) for the marine realm can comprise a multitude of different concepts. They have in common that their main purpose is the conservation of the marine environment and the balancing of different ocean uses. Although marine protected areas (MPAs) are a widely discussed concept and part of ABMTs, the latter term goes further. This is exemplified by theAgreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction(BBNJ Agreement) that includes a definition of ABMTs. Many such tools address specific human ocean uses in a geographically defined area, for example, shipping, fisheries, seabed mining, and other resource extraction. Others are designed to be cross-sectoral and pursue a broader objective such as balancing (all) relevant uses as part of marine spatial planning or more comprehensive protection of biological diversity. This chapter focuses upon international legal agreements that employ area-based management which addresses or potentially affects shipping to explore and compare their scope and purposes. This includes treaties with a global scope (e.g., UNCLOS, MARPOL, SOLAS, BBNJ Agreement) but also some regionally limited instruments (e.g., regional fisheries agreements). One of the leading questions is to what extent the international legal framework on ABMTs is set up in a coherent manner or whether—due to different purposes of ABMTs from different agreements and disconnection—it places burdens upon the shipping sector that are not necessarily justified to enhance sustainability in ocean governance.
Mendelian randomization study on association between grip strength and BMD in different age groups
Authors: Zhu Yingying , Chi Kede , Wang Jiaci
Published: June 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to use the Mendelian randomization study method to verify the causal relationship between grip strength and bone mineral density (BMD) in different ages and different parts of the body.

Materials and methods

The analysis was based on pooled data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Hand grip strength (right) was used as the exposure variable and total body bone mineral density (BMD) of different age groups was used as the outcome variable. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms highly correlated with exposure variables were used as instrumental variables. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the primary analysis method, and the Mendelian randomization Egger (MR-Egger) regression and weighted median methods were used as supplementary evidence for the IVW results. Horizontal pleiotropy and heterogeneity tests were conducted to ensure the stability of the results.

Results

Analyzing the GWAS data on osteoporosis as the outcome variable, the IVW analysis showed that osteoporosis risk was associated with decreased grip strength in the 45–60 age group and the risk of declining lumbar spine BMD was associated with decreased grip strength. However, there was no significant correlation between the risk of osteoporosis in other age groups and changes in grip strength.

Conclusion

A causal relationship exists between decreased grip strength and osteoporosis risk in people aged 45–60 years. The risk of BMD declining in the lumbar spine was associated with reduced grip strength.
Extraction of uranyl from spent nuclear fuel wastewater via complexation—a local vibrational mode study
Authors: Peluzo Bárbara M. T. C. , Moura Renaldo T. , Kraka Elfi
Published: June 2024

Context

The efficient extraction of uranyl from spent nuclear fuel wastewater for subsequent reprocessing and reuse is an essential effort toward minimization of long-lived radioactive waste. N-substituted amides and Schiff base ligands are propitious candidates, where extraction occurs via complexation with the uranyl moiety. In this study, we extensively probed chemical bonding in various uranyl complexes, utilizing the local vibrational modes theory alongside QTAIM and NBO analyses. We focused on (i) the assessment of the equatorial O-U and N-U bonding, including the question of chelation, and (ii) how the strength of the axial U$$=$$
=
O bonds of the uranyl moiety changes upon complexation. Our results reveal that the strength of the equatorial uranium-ligand interactions correlates with their covalent character and with charge donation from O and N lone pairs into the vacant uranium orbitals. We also found an inverse relationship between the covalent character of the equatorial ligand bonds and the strength of the axial uranium-oxygen bond. In summary, our study provides valuable data for a strategic modulation of N-substituted amide and Schiff base ligands towards the maximization of uranyl extraction.

Method

Quantum chemistry calculations were performed under the PBE0 level of theory, paired with the relativistic NESCau Hamiltonian, currently implemented in Cologne2020 (interfaced with Gaussian16). Wave functions were expanded in the cc-pwCVTZ-X2C basis set for uranium and Dunning’s cc-pVTZ for the remaining atoms. For the bonding properties, we utilized the package LModeA in the local modes analyses, AIMALL in the QTAIM calculations, and NBO 7.0 for the NBO analyses.

Graphical abstract
Big data and predictive analytics: A systematic review of applications
Authors: Jamarani Amirhossein , Haddadi Saeid , Sarvizadeh Raheleh , Haghi Kashani Mostafa , Akbari Mohammad , Moradi Saeed
Published: June 2024

Big data involves processing vast amounts of data using advanced techniques. Its potential is harnessed for predictive analytics, a sophisticated branch that anticipates unknown future events by discerning patterns observed in historical data. Various techniques obtained from modeling, data mining, statistics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning are employed to analyze available history to extract discriminative patterns for predictors. This study aims to analyze the main research approaches on Big Data Predictive Analytics (BDPA) based on very up-to-date published articles from 2014 to 2023. In this article, we fully concentrate on predictive analytics using big data mining techniques, where we perform a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) by reviewing 109 articles. Based on the application and content of current studies, we introduce taxonomy including seven major categories of industrial, e-commerce, smart healthcare, smart agriculture, smart city, Information and Communications Technologies (ICT), and weather. The benefits and weaknesses of each approach, potentially important changes, and open issues, in addition to future paths, are discussed. The compiled SLR not only extends on BDPA’s strengths, open issues, and future works but also detects the need for optimizing the insufficient metrics in big data applications, such as timeliness, accuracy, and scalability, which would enable organizations to apply big data to shift from retrospective analytics to prospective predictive if fulfilled.
Disulfidptosis: A new type of cell death
Authors: Xiao Fei , Li Hui-Li , Yang Bei , Che Hao , Xu Fei , Li Gang , Zhou Cheng-Hui , Wang Sheng
Published: June 2024

Disulfidptosis is a novel form of cell death that is distinguishable from established programmed cell death pathways such as apoptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, and oxeiptosis. This process is characterized by the rapid depletion of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) in cells and high expression of solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) during glucose starvation, resulting in abnormal cystine accumulation, which subsequently induces andabnormal disulfide bond formation in actin cytoskeleton proteins, culminating in actin network collapse and disulfidptosis. This review aimed to summarize the underlying mechanisms, influencing factors, comparisons with traditional cell death pathways, associations with related diseases, application prospects, and future research directions related to disulfidptosis.
Examining the Implementation of the VLS Momentum Project: A Hybrid Approach to Supporting Foundational Practices in Early Care and Education
Authors: Lang Sarah. N. , Tebben Erin , Ryu Dahyung , Odean Rosalie , Knight Kristen M. , Tyree Jovanna , Luckey Summer W. , Fox Erin G. , Buettner Cynthia K.
Published: June 2024

Approximately 40% of the U.S. early care and education (ECE) workforce lacks foundational training in research-based, developmentally appropriate practices for working with young children, which can impact the quality of ECE they can provide. To support young children’s positive developmental trajectories, it is critical that all teachers have access to comprehensive, high-quality ECE professional development that helps translate knowledge into practice. This pilot study examined a community-based pilot of the U.S. Federal Agency Virtual Lab School (VLS) platform for ECE teachers in childcare centers providing publicly funded childcare. The 15-month hybrid professional development intervention (internet-based content paired with individualized coaching) was positively received by teachers. Results show that comprehensive, foundational professional development using a hybrid approach is feasible in community based ECE settings. Teachers cited supportive relationships with their coaches and accommodations made by their centers as key facilitators of progress; time pressures and complications associated with the COVID-19 pandemic were barriers that impeded completion. Giving teachers time and support to complete foundational ECE training may help a greater number of ECE teachers achieve competency, and thus, better support all young children receiving care.
Hidden Phytophthora diversity unveiled in tree nurseries of the Czech Republic with traditional and metabarcoding techniques
Authors: Bačová Aneta , Cooke David E. L. , Milenković Ivan , Májek Tomáš , Nagy Zoltán Á. , Corcobado Tamara , Randall Eva , Keillor Beatrix , Cock Peter J. A. , Jung Marília Horta , Jung Thomas , Tomšovský Michal
Published: June 2024

Phytophthora diversity was examined in eight forest and ornamental nurseries in the Czech Republic. A leaf baiting isolation technique and, in two nurseries, also Illumina DNA metabarcoding were used to reveal the diversity of Phytophthora in soil and irrigation water and compare the efficacy of both approaches. In total, baiting revealed the occurrence of 12 Phytophthora taxa in 59.4% of soil samples from seven (87.5%) nurseries. Additional baiting of compost was carried out in two nurseries and two Phytophthora species were recovered. Irrigation water was examined in three nurseries by baiting or by direct isolation from partially decomposed floating leaves collected from the water source, and two Phytophthora species were obtained. Illumina sequencing of soil and water samples was done in two and one nurseries, respectively. Phytophthora reads were identified as 45 Phytophthora taxa, 15 of them previously unknown taxa from Clades 6, 7, 8 and 9. Another 11 taxa belonged to known or undescribed species of the oomycete genera Globisporangium, Hyaloperonospora, Nothophytophthora, Peronospora and Plasmopara. Overall, with both techniques 50 Phytophthora taxa were detected with five taxa (P. taxon organica, P. plurivora, P. rosacearum, P. syringae and P. transitoria) being exclusively detected by baiting and 38 only by DNA metabarcoding. Particularly common records in DNA barcoding were P. cinnamomi and P. lateralis which were not isolated by baiting. Only seven species were detected by both techniques. It is recommended to use the combination of both techniques to determine true diversity of Phytophthora in managed or natural ecosystems and reveal the presence of rare or unknown Phytophthora taxa.