bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screening Thermochromic Luminescent Materials in Cs‐Cd‐Br Ternary Phase Diagram for Temperature Visualization Applications
Authors: Liao Wei , Zhou Xinquan , Jin Jiance , Wang Yuzhen , Xia Zhiguo
Published: April 2024

Thermochromic luminescent materials (TLMs) with spectral responsiveness to thermal stimuli have received broad attention due to the forefront applications in temperature visualization and sensing technologies. Herein, a phase diagram‐driven strategy for designing TLMs in Cs–Cd–Br ternary system is presented. The room temperature stable Cs7Cd3Br13 crystal is first obtained by utilizing a facile hydrothermal method, and the self‐trapped exciton (STE) luminescence is improved by breaking local symmetry via Mg2+ doping. Then thermochromic luminescence is further realized in Mn2+ co‐doped Cs7Cd3Br13 on the basis of reversible structural transition to metastable Cs2CdBr4 under thermal stimuli. The emission color change from bright yellow to green benefits from the variation of crystal fields around Mn2+, which can be switched by heating and cooling circulations. Finally, the resulting material is used as a demo to visualize the temperature of a homemade high‐frequency induction heating sintering platform.
Mechanism of Musashi2 affecting radiosensitivity of lung cancer by modulating DNA damage repair
Authors: Qu Hongjin , Shi Xiong , Xu Ying , Qin Hongran , Li Junshi , Cai Shanlin , Zhao Jianpeng , Wan Bingbing , Yang Yanyong , Li Bailong
Published: April 2024

Identifying new targets for overcoming radioresistance is crucial for improving the efficacy of lung cancer radiotherapy, given that tumor cell resistance is a leading cause of treatment failure. Recent research has spotlighted the significance of Musashi2 (MSI2) in cancer biology. In this study, we first demonstrated that MSI2 plays a key function in regulating the radiosensitivity of lung cancer. The expression of MSI2 is negatively correlated with overall survival in cancer patients, and the knockdown of MSI2 inhibits tumorigenesis and increases radiosensitivity of lung cancer cells. Cellular radiosensitivity, which is closely linked to DNA damage, is influenced by MSI2 interaction with ataxia telangiectasia mutated and Rad3‐related kinase (ATR) and checkpoint kinase 1 (CHK1) post‐irradiation; moreover, knockdown of MSI2 inhibits the ATR‐mediated DNA damage response pathway. RNA‐binding motif protein 17 (RBM17), which is implicated in DNA damage repair, exhibits increased interaction with MSI2 post‐irradiation. We found that knockdown of RBM17 disrupted the interaction between MSI2 and ATR post‐irradiation and increased the radiosensitivity of lung cancer cells. Furthermore, we revealed the potential mechanism of MSI2 recruitment into the nucleus with the assistance of RBM17 to activate ATR to promote radioresistance. This study provides novel insights into the potential application of MSI2 as a new target in lung cancer radiotherapy.
Right ventricular volume and function by three‐dimensional echocardiography: results of the echocardiographic measurements in normal Chinese adults (EMINCA) II
Authors: Zhang Yu , Wang Ying‐Bin , Yao Gui‐Hua , Tang Hong , Chen Li‐Xin , Yin Li‐Xue , Zhu Tian‐Gang , Yuan Jian‐Jun , Han Wei , Yang Jun , Shu Xian‐Hong , Yang Ya , Wei Yu‐Lin , Guo Yan‐Li , Ren Wei‐Dong , Gao Dong‐Mei , Lu Gui‐Lin , Wu Ji , Yin Hong‐Ning , Mu Yu‐Ming , Tian Jia‐Wei , Yuan Li‐Jun , Ma Xiao‐Jing , Dai Hong‐Yan , Ding Yun‐Chuan , Ding Ming‐Yan , Zhou Qing , Wang Hao , Xu Di , Zhang Mei , Zhang Yun
Published: April 2024

Three‐dimensional (3D) echocardiography is an emerging technique for assessing right ventricular (RV) volume and function, but 3D‐RV normal values from a large Chinese population are still lacking. The aim of the present study was to establish normal values of 3D‐RV volume and function in healthy Chinese volunteers. A total of 1117 Han Chinese volunteers from 28 laboratories in 20 provinces of China were enrolled, and 3D‐RV images of 747 volunteers with optimal image quality were ultimately analyzed by a core laboratory. Both vendor‐dependent and vendor‐independent software platforms were used to analyze the 3D‐RV images. We found that men had larger RV volumes than women did in the whole population, even after indexing to body surface area, and older individuals had smaller RV volumes. The normal RV volume was significantly smaller than that recommended by the American Society of Echocardiography/European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging guidelines in both sexes. There were significant differences in 3D‐RV measurements between the two vendor ultrasound systems and the different software platforms. The echocardiographic measurements in normal Chinese adults II study revealed normal 3D‐RV volume and function in a large Chinese population, and there were significant differences between the sexes, ages, races, and vendor groups. Thus, normal 3D‐RV values should be stratified by sex, age, race, and vendor.
Reduced resource competition based on mCAP and FD‐OZCZ code for VLCP system
Authors: Jin Jianli , Wang Shouwei , Wang Jianping , Shang Qianlong , Song Yuqi , Chen Danyang , Lu Huimin , Feng Lifang , Chen Hongyao , Zou Yulong
Published: April 2024

The advancement of smart cities and intelligent industries has accentuated the necessity for reliable indoor communication and precise indoor positioning. In response, this paper presents an innovative integrated system for indoor visible light communication and positioning, designed to facilitate robust communication and pinpoint accuracy in positioning for indoor applications. We incorporate multiband carrierless amplitude and phase (CAP) modulation to mitigate interference between communication and positioning subcarriers. Unlike the conventional orthogonal frequency division multiplexing‐based subcarrier modulation (OFDM‐SCM), CAP demonstrates reduced out‐of‐band interference and a diminished peak‐to‐average power ratio (PAPR). Moreover, we introduce the frequency domain optical zero correlation zone (FD‐OZCZ) code, integrated within the CAP signal to optimize the distribution of positioning subcarriers. Simulation outcomes substantiate that our proposed CAP, augmented with FD‐OZCZ, outperforms OFDM‐SCM systems in delivering reliable communication and exceptional positioning accuracy.
SPICE‐based modeling of a polarization‐independent active frequency selective surface based tunable absorber with high angular stability
Authors: Bajaj Priyanka , Kundu Debidas , Singh Dharmendra
Published: April 2024

Nowadays, demand for active frequency‐selective surfaces (FSSs) is increasing due to their reconfigurable characteristics. Numerical simulations of reactive elements require a model that can replicate their physical realization. Traditionally, reactive elements are modeled as approximated lumped circuits during electromagnetic simulations. However, such lumped circuits might fail to replicate device characteristics at high frequencies, leading to approximate results. This paper presents an alternative method to model reactive elements using their simulation program with integrated circuit emphasis models (SPICE) in circuit co‐simulations. The proposed modeling method is investigated by realizing a varactor‐loaded active FSS‐based tunable absorber. Simulated results indicate that the proposed absorber provides tunability in a wide frequency range from 0.54 to 2.09 GHz under normal incidence when electrostatic bias varies from 0 to 28 V. Moreover, polarization‐independent and exhibits stable frequency response for oblique incidences up to 80° for dual‐polarizations. These characteristics make it a potential candidate for stealth applications.
Low‐cost ultra‐wideband discrete SPDT switch for K–Ku band in automotive applications and fifth‐generation systems
Authors: Bakhshi Mehran , Faramarzi Vahid , Akbari Mahmood
Published: April 2024

The article details the development and production of an ultra‐wideband discrete single‐pole‐double‐throw (SPDT) Switch, measuring , and functioning within the 23.4–31 GHz frequency range, encompassing 24 and 28 GHz. This switch is specifically engineered to bolster high‐frequency systems in automotive and fifth‐generation applications. Our findings demonstrate that the discrete SPDT switch performs on par with integrated circuits while delivering consistent performance throughout its frequency spectrum. Furthermore, it offers a cost‐effective fabrication process. The switch exhibits an insertion loss ranging from 1.6 to 2.2 dB, with return loss and isolation surpassing 15 and 25 dB, respectively, across the majority of the frequency bandwidths.
Patient trust, quality communication, and medication adherence in rheumatoid arthritis patients highly affected by social determinants of health
Authors: Salt Elizabeth , Wiggins Amanda T. , Francis Diane , Lohr Kristine , Rayens Mary Kay
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Because medication adherence is essential to the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), identifying (1) subgroups at high risk for low medication adherence and (2) modifiable factors potentially contributing to low adherence can impact patient outcomes. This study aims to describe the relationships between anxiety, trust in the provider, quality patient‐provider communication, fatigue, RA knowledge, adverse medication effects, disease activity, RA medications, disease duration, patient satisfaction, and medication intolerance and cluster factors to differentiate RA‐patient subgroups.

Methods

This observational study used correlation analysis, linear regression, and cluster analysis with determination decisions based on Schwarz's Bayesian Criterion.

Results

Medication adherence was higher in non‐Hispanic, White participants, inversely correlated with disease activity and pain intensity, and positively correlated with trust in the provider. Patient satisfaction was higher among those with a shorter time since diagnosis, and was negatively associated with disease activity, pain intensity and interference, fatigue, and anxiety. It was positively associated with RA knowledge, trust in provider and quality of patient‐provider communication. Medication intolerance differed by disease duration and was positively correlated with disease activity, pain interference, and fatigue. Of the two clusters, Cluster 1 participants had greater medication adherence and patient satisfaction, and lower medication intolerance. They were of higher income, employed, and non‐Hispanic, White persons with a shorter disease duration and lower perceived pain intensity/interference, fatigue, and anxiety. They were more knowledgeable about RA with higher trust in their provider and perceived quality of patient‐provider communication.

Discussion/conclusion

A low medication adherence RA‐patient subgroup‐highly affected by social determinants of health and with unique relational and clinical characteristics was identified.
First Bite Syndrome in Transoral Surgery for Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Wistermayer Paul R. , Brown Adam E. , Cave Taylor B. , Klusovsky Laura E. , Chang Brent A. , Hayden Richard E. , Hinni Michael L. , McGary Alyssa , Nagel Thomas H.
Published: April 2024

Objective

First bite syndrome (FBS) is a rare complication of transoral surgery (TOS) for oropharyngeal cancer (oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma [OPSCC]). Risk factors for developing this complication are not well described. In this study, we attempt to identify risks for developing FBS in TOS.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care medical center.

Methods

This study was exempted by the Mayo Clinic institutional review board. We performed a review from January 2017 to November 2022 of all patients who underwent TOS for OPSCC by a single provider. Exclusion criteria included less than 6 months follow up, prior treatment of head and neck cancer, or incomplete records. Demographic data, comorbidities, tumor characteristics, surgical details, adjuvant treatment details, functional outcomes, and oncologic outcomes were assessed. Fisher's Exact test and Kruskal‐Wallis rank sum test were used to identify significant variables, and multivariable logistic regression was used to address confounding.

Results

One hundred and one patients were identified. Eighty‐nine met the inclusion criteria. The mean follow‐up was 34 months (median 33). Seven patients (7.9%) developed FBS. Palatine tumor primary (P = .041), resection of styloglossus/stylopharyngeus (P = .039), and parapharyngeal fat manipulation (P = .015) were associated with the presence of FBS. After adjusting for tumor location, manipulation of parapharyngeal fat maintained significance (P = .025). T and N staging, tumor volume, adjuvant radiation, and ligation of lingual/facial arteries were not associated with the development of FBS. Eighty‐six percent (6/7) of patients had a resolution of FBS at an average of 11.3 months.

Conclusion

Manipulation of the parapharyngeal space is independently associated with developing FBS in TOS in our cohort. Further confirmatory studies are warranted.
Loss of Independence in Older Adults With Operable Oral Cavity Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Le Blanc Gabriella , Richardson Keith , Mlynarek Alex , Hier Michael P. , Sadeghi Nader , Kergoat Marie‐Jeanne , Mascarella Marco
Published: April 2024

Objective

To ascertain the effect of curative‐intent surgery on loss of independence (LOI) in patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC).

Study Design

Retrospective observational study of patients diagnosed from 2014 to 2021.

Setting

Single tertiary care academic center. Patients having undergone curative‐intent surgical treatment for OCSCC from 2014 to 2021 in the cancer registry.

Methods

LOI as the primary outcome was measured based on a combination of decrease in activities of daily living (ADLs) and/or decline in mobility during treatment. Descriptive statistics were used to compare baseline demographics and multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association between LOI and perioperative variables of interest.

Results

Of the 180 patients included in this study, 139 (79%) were fully independent in ADLs/instrumental ADLs prior to surgery. The average age of the cohort was 74 with 49% males. Thirty‐seven (21%) experienced a decline in mobility or increased care needs following surgery, and 18 (10%) experienced an independent decline in functional status. Increasing age, osseous flap reconstruction, high Charlson Comorbidity Index, and major postoperative adverse events were associated with LOI. Fifty‐five percent of patients with LOI had recovered to baseline within 7 months from surgery. LOI was associated with poor treatment tolerance (odds ratio: 4.77, 95% confidence interval: 1.87‐12.2) while adjusting for multiple confounders.

Conclusion

LOI is common in older adults undergoing curative‐intent surgery for OCSCC and associated with poor treatment tolerance.
Relationship of Nocturnal Insomnia Symptoms and Outcomes After Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation
Authors: Dhanda Patil Reena , Suurna Maria V. , Steffen Armin , Soose Ryan , Coxe James , Chan Teresa , Ishman Stacey L.
Published: April 2024

Objective

In patients undergoing hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS), we examined the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) to understand how baseline sleep onset insomnia (SOI), sleep maintenance insomnia (SMI), and early morning awakening (EMA) affected postsurgical outcomes.

Study Design

Observational.

Setting

Multicenter registry.

Methods

We included patients from the Adherence and Outcomes of Upper Airway Stimulation for Obstructive Sleep Apnea International Registry (ADHERE) with a baseline ISI from 2020 to 2023. Regression analysis examined the association of ISI question scores for SOI, SMI, and EMA and outcomes: Apnea‐Hypopnea Index (AHI) reduction, device usage, changes in the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and overall ISI score, final visit (FV) completion, and satisfaction.

Results

No relationship was noted between insomnia subtypes and AHI reduction or FV completion. In the subgroup of patients with baseline moderate/severe insomnia, patients with major impairment for SOI used their device 64 min/day longer than those with minimal impairment. Among all patients, those with baseline major impairment for SOI had a 2.3 points greater improvement in ISI from baseline to FV compared to patients with minimal impairment, while patients with baseline major impairment for SMI had a 2.0 and 3.5 points greater improvement in the ESS and ISI than those with minimal impairment. Patients with EMA and moderate/severe baseline insomnia had decreased odds of being satisfied after surgery.

Conclusion

In ADHERE, nocturnal symptoms of insomnia did not limit HGNS efficacy or therapy use. Conversely, those with worse insomnia subtype impairments at baseline had improved outcomes related to adherence, sleepiness, and insomnia at the FV.
Cardiac adaptation and malformation in twin–twin transfusion syndrome and selective fetal growth restriction: A systematic review
Authors: Noll Anne T. R. , Gijtenbeek Manon , Verweij E. J. T (Joanne) , Lewi Liesbeth , Herling Lotta , Haak Monique C.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

This systematic review explores cardiac adaptation in monochorionic (MC) twins with twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) or selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) and assesses the risk of congenital heart defects (CHDs).

Methods

Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, 63 studies were reviewed (49 on cardiac adaptation, 13 on CHD, one on both). A narrative synthesis of cardiac adaptation patterns was performed. Additionally, a meta‐analysis compared the livebirth prevalence of CHD in TTTS and sFGR against uncomplicated MC twins.

Results

In TTTS recipients, cardiac function may be impaired for diastolic, systolic, as well as global functions, while in donors, cardiac function is generally preserved. In sFGR, large twins may show hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and small twins may show impaired systolic function. Co‐occurrence of TTTS and sFGR magnifies cardiac impact but is often underreported. Meta‐analysis for CHD prevalence revealed a relative risk ratio of 3.5 (95% CI: 2.5–4.9) for TTTS and 2.2 (95%CI: 1.3–3.5) for sFGR compared with uncomplicated MC twins.

Conclusions

This study highlights the well‐documented cardiac adaptation in TTTS, contrasting with limited understanding in sFGR. Elevated CHD risks were observed in both conditions. Enhanced cardiovascular surveillance is warranted in complicated MC twin pregnancies. Future research should explore cardiac adaptation in sFGR and its long‐term consequences.
Perinatal outcomes of fetoscopic selective laser photocoagulation for spontaneous twin‐anemia polycythemia sequence
Authors: Munoz Jessian L. , Buskmiller Cara , Sanz Cortes Magdalena , Donepudi Roopali V. , Belfort Michael A. , Nassr Ahmed A.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Antenatal management of monochorionic pregnancies complicated by twin anemia polycythemia sequence (TAPS) remains sub‐optimally defined. Our objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of fetoscopic selective laser photocoagulation with respect to fetal and neonatal survival.

Methods

A case series is reported with patients referred to the Texas Children's Fetal Center for evaluation and management of suspected spontaneous TAPS without concomitant twin‐to‐twin syndrome from 2014 to 2023. All evaluations were performed by our team and patients with stage II‐IV TAPS were offered expectant management, intrauterine transfusion, or laser therapy. Cases of post‐laser TAPS were excluded from this study. Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes were obtained from electronic medical records.

Results

During a 10‐year time period, 18 patients presented to our center for the management of TAPS. Thirteen patients had stage II–IV TAPS (13/18, 72%) and elected to proceed with laser photocoagulation. All procedures were completed, and “solomonization” was performed for 12/13. Normalization of middle cerebral artery Dopplers in both fetuses was noted after all cases. There was one intrauterine fetal death of the 26 viable fetuses after laser treatment, which was complicated by selective growth restriction. Most patients (12/13) were delivered by Cesarean section at a mean gestational age of 29 ± 3 weeks. Subsequently, there was one ex‐donor neonatal death in an infant who had prenatal hydrops. Overall, 30‐day postnatal survival was 24/26 fetuses (92.3%).

Conclusions

In the setting of spontaneous TAPS, laser therapy is feasible and appears to be an effective approach with overall favorable perinatal outcomes.
Designer‐Supraleiter nehmen Form an
Authors: Wagner Glenn , Soldini Martina O. , Küster Felix , Sessi Paolo , Parkin Stuart , Neupert Titus
Published: April 2024

Es ist uns gelungen, neue Designer‐Supraleiter Atom für Atom aufzubauen. Dazu nutzten wir ein Rastertunnelmikroskop, um Chromatome auf einer Niob‐Oberfläche gezielt in einem zweidimensionalen Gitter anzuordnen. Durch die magnetischen Chromatome entstehen dabei Quantenzustände, die in der supraleitenden Bandlücke des Niobs liegen. Es zeigte sich, dass diese sogenannten Yu‐Shiba‐Rusinov‐Zustände einen eigenen supraleitenden Zustand bilden können. Dessen Eigenschaften hängen von der geometrischen Anordnung der Chromatome ab. Theoretische Berechnungen und Messungen mit dem Rastertunnelmikroskop deuten darauf hin, dass es sich um einen zweidimensionalen topologischen Supraleiter handelt. Solche topologischen Supraleiter würden sich für wesentlich robustere Quantencomputer eignen.
Model fusion for predicting unconventional proteins secreted by exosomes using deep learning
Authors: Zhang Yonglin , Yu Lezheng , Yang Ming , Han Bin , Luo Jiesi , Jing Runyu
Published: April 2024

Unconventional secretory proteins (USPs) are vital for cell‐to‐cell communication and are necessary for proper physiological processes. Unlike classical proteins that follow the conventional secretory pathway via the Golgi apparatus, these proteins are released using unconventional pathways. The primary modes of secretion for USPs are exosomes and ectosomes, which originate from the endoplasmic reticulum. Accurate and rapid identification of exosome‐mediated secretory proteins is crucial for gaining valuable insights into the regulation of non‐classical protein secretion and intercellular communication, as well as for the advancement of novel therapeutic approaches. Although computational methods based on amino acid sequence prediction exist for predicting unconventional proteins secreted by exosomes (UPSEs), they suffer from significant limitations in terms of algorithmic accuracy. In this study, we propose a novel approach to predict UPSEs by combining multiple deep learning models that incorporate both protein sequences and evolutionary information. Our approach utilizes a convolutional neural network (CNN) to extract protein sequence information, while various densely connected neural networks (DNNs) are employed to capture evolutionary conservation patterns.By combining six distinct deep learning models, we have created a superior framework that surpasses previous approaches, achieving an ACC score of 77.46% and an MCC score of 0.5406 on an independent test dataset.
Review of predicting protein stability changes upon variations
Authors: Qiu Yiling , Huang Tao , Cai Yu‐Dong
Published: April 2024

Forecasting alterations in protein stability caused by variations holds immense importance. Improving the thermal stability of proteins is important for biomedical and industrial applications. This review discusses the latest methods for predicting the effects of mutations on protein stability, databases containing protein mutations and thermodynamic parameters, and experimental techniques for efficiently assessing protein stability in high‐throughput settings. Various publicly available databases for protein stability prediction are introduced. Furthermore, state‐of‐the‐art computational approaches for anticipating protein stability changes due to variants are reviewed. Each method's types of features, base algorithm, and prediction results are also detailed. Additionally, some experimental approaches for verifying the prediction results of computational methods are introduced. Finally, the review summarizes the progress and challenges of protein stability prediction and discusses potential models for future research directions.
Highly Collimated Light Emission of Deep‐Ultraviolet Light‐Emitting Diodes Using Fresnel Zone Plate Nanodiffraction Patterns
Authors: Wei Lingjie , Inoue Shin‐ichiro
Published: April 2024

Fresnel zone plates (FZPs) are diffractive optical structures composed of many symmetrical concentric rings and are widely used in nanofocusing and beam collimation. In this article, the effect of substrate thickness on the beam collimation and light‐extraction efficiency (LEE) enhancement of deep‐ultraviolet (DUV) micro‐light‐emitting diodes (micro‐LEDs) with FZPs are experimentally analyzed. The far‐field patterns and LEE enhancements of the DUV micro‐LEDs are effectively controlled by the FZPs. Optimization of the substrate thickness provides FZP‐containing DUV micro‐LEDs that display highly collimated, optics‐free emission with an emission‐angle full width at half maximum of 9° and high LEE enhancement of 1.4 times.
Inorganic photochromic materials: Recent advances, mechanism, and emerging applications
Authors: Du Jiaren , Yang Zetian , Lin Hengwei , Poelman Dirk
Published: April 2024

Inorganic photochromic materials, as emerging photoresponsive materials, have attracted unparalleled interest because of their potential applications in various photoactive devices such as smart windows, optical memories, and photochromic decorations. Over the past decades, great research efforts have been focused on further development of high‐performance photochromic materials, revealing the underlying physical mechanism as well as exploring new advanced applications. However, significant challenges still exist in achieving large photochromic contrast, realizing color‐tunable response, and confirming the detailed photochromic processes. In this review, the latest progress of inorganic photochromic materials is summarized from the aspects of the advance of new materials, the mechanism of photochromism, the techniques for evaluating and revealing photochromism, and the methods for regulating photochromic behavior. The emerging applications of photochromic materials for optical information storage, photocatalysis, optical anti‐counterfeiting, radiation dosimetry and so on are also discussed. The perspectives and challenges of photochromic materials in terms of practical applications are presented. This review aims to provide fundamentals about the mechanism, properties and applications of inorganic photochromic materials and promote the application of photochromic materials in various optical devices.
Evaluation of soil water content and bulk electrical conductivity across the U.S. Climate Reference Network using two electromagnetic sensors
Authors: Wilson Timothy B. , Kochendorfer John , Diamond Howard J. , Meyers Tilden P. , Hall Mark , Lee Temple R. , Saylor Rick D. , Krishnan Praveena , Leeper Ronald D. , Palecki Michael A.
Published: April 2024

Soil bulk electrical conductivity (BEC) was evaluated alongside soil volumetric water content (VWC) and soil temperature measurements using the HydraProbe (model HydraProbe, Stevens Water Monitoring Systems, Inc.) (hereafter called HP) with accuracy range of BEC ≤ 0.3 S m−1, and the time domain reflectometry (TDR)‐315L Probe (model TDR‐315L, Acclima, Inc.) (hereafter called AP) suitable for BEC up to 0.6 S m−1, at 23 stations of the U.S. Climate Reference Network. Previous evaluations revealed inconsistent performance of both sensors in some clay soils using manufacturer‐recommended calibrations in converting dielectric permittivity measurements to VWC. Here, we found that hourly values of BEC reached 0.6 S m−1 in high clay content soils and exceeded 2 S m−1 in high saline soils, and these high values of BEC were associated with poor performance and failures of both HP and AP sensors. Large values of BEC occurred in predominantly saturated soils where VWC values reached about 0.5 m3 m−3 for saline soils and about 0.7 m3 m−3 for clay soils, while low magnitudes of BEC were associated with low soil water content and seldomly saturated soils. Low hourly BEC values of less than 0.1 S m−1 were observed in wide variety of soil types, where sensor performance was typically excellent. The most influential factor on BEC was high soil water content conditions. Although dielectric permittivity measurements in estimating the soil water content were sensitive to BEC as some high clay content and high salinity soils increased BEC, the impact of large BEC on dielectric permittivity measurements was smaller in the well‐drained top soil layers than in deep soil layers that remained near saturation. Soil temperature had only a small impact on BEC. With high clay content and high salinity, the specific area of clay minerals was also associated with the magnitude of BEC.
Small kinetic mixing in string theory
Authors: Hebecker Arthur , Jaeckel Joerg , Kuespert Ruben
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Kinetic mixing between gauge fields of different U(1) factors is a well-studied phenomenon in 4d EFT. In string compactifications with U(1)s from sequestered D-brane sectors, kinetic mixing becomes a key target for the UV prediction of a phenomenologically important EFT operator. Surprisingly, in many cases kinetic mixing is absent due to a non-trivial cancellation. In particular, D3-D3 kinetic mixing in type-IIB vanishes while D3-anti-D3 mixing does not. This follows both from exact CFT calculations on tori as well as from a leading-order 10d supergravity analysis, where the key cancellation is between the C2 and B2 contribution. We take the latter approach, which is the only one available in realistic Calabi-Yau settings, to a higher level of precision by including sub-leading terms of the brane action and allowing for non-vanishing C0. The exact cancellation persists, which we argue to be the result of $${\text{SL}}\left(2,{\mathbb{R}}\right)$$ self-duality. We note that a B2C2 term on the D3-brane, which is often missing in the recent literature, is essential to obtain the correct zero result. Finally, allowing for $${\text{SL}}\left(2,{\mathbb{R}}\right)$$-breaking fluxes, kinetic mixing between D3-branes arises at a volume-suppressed level. We provide basic explicit formulae, both for kinetic as well as magnetic mixing, leaving the study of phenomenologically relevant, more complex situations for the future. We also note that describing our result in 4d supergravity appears to require higher-derivative terms — an issue which deserves further study.
The role of absorption terms in Dirichlet problems for the prescribed mean curvature equation
Authors: Oliva Francescantonio , Petitta Francesco , Segura de León Sergio
Published: April 2024

In this paper we study existence and uniqueness of solutions to Dirichlet problems as $$\begin{aligned} {\left\{ \begin{array}{ll} g(u) \displaystyle -{\text {div}}\left( \frac{D u}{\sqrt{1+|D u|^2}}\right) = f &{} \text {in}\;\Omega ,\\ u=0 &{} \text {on}\;\partial \Omega , \end{array}\right. } \end{aligned}$$

g

(
u
)

-
div

Du

1
+

|
D
u
|

2

=
f

in

Ω
,

u
=
0

on

∂
Ω
,

where $$\Omega $$
Ω
is an open bounded subset of $${{\,\mathrm{\mathbb {R}}\,}}^N$$

R

N

($$N\ge 2$$

N
≥
2

) with Lipschitz boundary, $$g:\mathbb {R}\rightarrow \mathbb {R}$$

g
:
R
→
R

is a continuous function and f belongs to some Lebesgue space. In particular, under suitable saturation and sign assumptions, we explore the regularizing effect given by the absorption term g(u) in order to get solutions for data f merely belonging to $$L^1(\Omega )$$

L
1

(
Ω
)

and with no smallness assumptions on the norm. We also prove a sharp boundedness result for data in $$L^{N}(\Omega )$$

L
N

(
Ω
)

as well as uniqueness if g is increasing.
Is explainable AI responsible AI?
Authors: Taylor Isaac
Published: April 2024

When artificial intelligence (AI) is used to make high-stakes decisions, some worry that this will create a morally troubling responsibility gap—that is, a situation in which nobody is morally responsible for the actions and outcomes that result. Since the responsibility gap might be thought to result from individuals lacking knowledge of the future behavior of AI systems, it can be and has been suggested that deploying explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) techniques will help us to avoid it. These techniques provide humans with certain forms of understanding of the systems in question. In this paper, I consider whether existing XAI techniques can indeed close the responsibility gap. I identify a number of significant limits to their ability to do so. Ensuring that responsibility for AI-assisted outcomes is maintained may require using different techniques in different circumstances, and potentially also developing new techniques that can avoid each of the issues identified.
A metaphysical account of agency for technology governance
Authors: Soltanzadeh Sadjad
Published: April 2024

The way in which agency is conceptualised has implications for understanding human–machine interactions and the governance of technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Traditionally, agency is conceptualised as a capacity, defined by intrinsic properties, such as cognitive or volitional facilities. I argue that the capacity-based account of agency is inadequate to explain the dynamics of human–machine interactions and guide technology governance. Instead, I propose to conceptualise agency as impact. Agents as impactful entities can be identified at different levels: from the low level of individual entities to the high level of complex socio-technical systems. Entities can impact their surroundings through different channels, and more influential channels of impact lead to higher degrees of agency. Technology governance must take into account different channels of impact in the contexts of use, design and regulation.
Quantifier-free induction for lists
Authors: Hetzl Stefan , Vierling Jannik
Published: April 2024

We investigate quantifier-free induction for Lisp-like lists constructed inductively from the empty list $$ nil $$

nil

and the operation $${\textit{cons}}$$
cons
, that adds an element to the front of a list. First we show that, for $$m \ge 1$$

m
≥
1

, quantifier-free $$m$$
m
-step induction does not simulate quantifier-free $$(m + 1)$$

(
m
+
1
)

-step induction. Secondly, we show that for all $$m \ge 1$$

m
≥
1

, quantifier-free $$m$$
m
-step induction does not prove the right cancellation property of the concatenation operation on lists defined by left-recursion.
Electrical bioimpedance spectroscopy as a non-invasive monitoring tool of physiological states of macroalgae tissues: example on the impact of electroporation on 8 different seaweed species
Authors: Robin Arthur , Levkov Klimentiy , González-Díaz César A. , López-Saquisilí Nataly P. , Golberg Alexander
Published: April 2024

In this study, we evaluated Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) as a monitoring tool of the physiological state of Bryopsis, Cystoseira, Stypopodium, Cladophora, Taonia, Padina, Ulva and Sargassum tissues. We analyzed the electrical response differences in the EIS between species and in the same seaweed tissue before and after electroporation. Electroporation using high voltage pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment was used as a model for cell disruption affecting the tissue physiology without being noticeable to the naked-eye. Significant differences in all the seaweeds were observed before and after electroporation. We found that seaweed species with smaller and rounder cells have a clearer dispersion profile (around a frequency of 10–100 kHz) compared to the dispersion profile of seaweed with larger cells with unround form. Those results suggest that EIS could be used as a fast non-invasive monitoring technique of the changes in the physiology of seaweeds.
Detection of honey adulteration by characterization of the physico-chemical properties of honey adulterated with the addition of glucose–fructose and maltose corn syrups
Authors: Gün Ramazan , Karaoğlu Mehmet Murat
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to experimentally investigate the effect of sugar syrup additions on quality measurements of honey and to detect adulteration. For that purpose, two different pure blossom honey samples were adulterated by directly mixing 0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% of commercially available glucose–fructose corn syrup and maltose corn syrup. In this regard, key physico-chemical properties like moisture, pH, free acidity, proline, diastase number, color (L, a, b and Delta-E), electrical conductivity, HMF, sugar profile (glucose, fructose, sucrose and maltose), and C4 sugar analysis were tested. The results of the individual analysis of moisture, pH, free acidity, proline, diastase number, color, electrical conductivity, and HMF failed to detect sugar syrup adulteration. However, when principal component analysis (PCA) was utilized to analyze the data gathered from these tests, adulterations at all-syrup ratios (5–50%) were successfully detected.

Graphical Abstract
Influence of the thickness of oak alternatives on the composition and quality of red wines
Authors: Gombau Jordi , Solé-Clua Ignasi , Sabaté Judit , Mena-Morales Adela , García-Romero Esteban , Giordanengo Thomas , Biolou Thomas , Mourey Nicolas , Cabanillas Pedro , Fort Francesca , Canals Joan Miquel , Zamora Fernando
Published: April 2024

This work studies the influence of the thickness of oak alternatives on the composition and quality of red wines. A red wine was aged in control conditions and also in contact with oak chips, and with thin and thick oak staves for 12 months. As expected, all the wines aged in contact with all the oak alternatives were enriched in total polyphenols and had a higher colour intensity. In addition, the contact with all the oak alternatives enriched the wine in furfural and total furans, vanilla and total aldehydes and ketones, eugenol and total volatile phenols, and in β-methyl-γ-octalactones. However, the thickness of the oak alternative seems to play an important role in the composition and quality of the wine. Specifically, the wines aged in contact with the two types of staves had a more intense colour than the wine aged with oak chips, as well as a higher total phenolic index and higher eugenol concentration. Moreover, the β-methyl-γ-octalactones concentration was higher in the wine supplemented with thick staves. Finally, the wines supplemented with the two types of staves had a higher intensity of the spicy attribute than the wine aged with oak chips. The wine supplemented with thick staves had a higher intensity of candy/pastry, toasted, smoked, complexity, aromatic intensity, sweetness, structure, and persistence. Finally, the panel preferred the wine aged with thick staves followed by, in descending order, the wines aged with thin staves, oak chips, and the control.
Improving the production of carbamoyltobramycin by an industrial Streptoalloteichus tenebrarius through metabolic engineering
Authors: Feng Yun , Jiang Yiqi , Chen Xutong , Zhu Li , Xue Hailong , Wu Mianbin , Yang Lirong , Yu Haoran , Lin Jianping
Published: April 2024

Tobramycin is an essential and extensively used broad-spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic obtained through alkaline hydrolysis of carbamoyltobramycin, one of the fermentation products of Streptoalloteichus tenebrarius. To simplify the composition of fermentation products from industrial strain, the main byproduct apramycin was blocked by gene disruption and constructed a mutant mainly producing carbamoyltobramycin. The generation of antibiotics is significantly affected by the secondary metabolism of actinomycetes which could be controlled by modifying the pathway-specific regulatory proteins within the cluster. Within the tobramycin biosynthesis cluster, a transcriptional regulatory factor TobR belonging to the Lrp/AsnC family was identified. Based on the sequence and structural characteristics, tobR might encode a pathway-specific transcriptional regulatory factor during biosynthesis. Knockout and overexpression strains of tobR were constructed to investigate its role in carbamoyltobramycin production. Results showed that knockout of TobR increased carbamoyltobramycin biosynthesis by 22.35%, whereas its overexpression decreased carbamoyltobramycin production by 10.23%. In vitro electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) experiments confirmed that TobR interacts with DNA at the adjacent tobO promoter position. Strains overexpressing tobO with ermEp* promoter exhibited 36.36% increase, and tobO with kasOp* promoter exhibited 22.84% increase in carbamoyltobramycin titer. When the overexpressing of tobO and the knockout of tobR were combined, the production of carbamoyltobramycin was further enhanced. In the shake-flask fermentation, the titer reached 3.76 g/L, which was 42.42% higher than that of starting strain. Understanding the role of Lrp/AsnC family transcription regulators would be useful for other antibiotic biosynthesis in other actinomycetes.

Key points

• The transcriptional regulator TobR belonging to the Lrp/AsnC family was identified. 

• An oxygenase TobO was identified within the tobramycin biosynthesis cluster.

• TobO and TobR have significant effects on the synthesis of carbamoyltobramycin.
Application of an alchemical free energy method for the prediction of thermostable DuraPETase variants
Authors: Schreiber Sebastian , Gercke David , Lenz Florian , Jose Joachim
Published: April 2024

Non-equilibrium (NEQ) alchemical free energy calculations are an emerging tool for accurately predicting changes in protein folding free energy resulting from amino acid mutations. In this study, this method in combination with the Rosetta ddg monomer tool was applied to predict more thermostable variants of the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) degrading enzyme DuraPETase. The Rosetta ddg monomer tool efficiently enriched promising mutations prior to more accurate prediction by NEQ alchemical free energy calculations. The relative change in folding free energy of 96 single amino acid mutations was calculated by NEQ alchemical free energy calculation. Experimental validation of ten of the highest scoring variants identified two mutations (DuraPETaseS61M and DuraPETaseS223Y) that increased the melting temperature (Tm) of the enzyme by up to 1 °C. The calculated relative change in folding free energy showed an excellent correlation with experimentally determined Tm resulting in a Pearson’s correlation coefficient of r =  − 0.84. Limitations in the prediction of strongly stabilizing mutations were, however, encountered and are discussed. Despite these challenges, this study demonstrates the practical applicability of NEQ alchemical free energy calculations in prospective enzyme engineering projects.

Key points

• Rosetta ddg monomer enriches stabilizing mutations in a library of DuraPETase variants

• NEQ free energy calculations accurately predict changes in Tmof DuraPETase

• The DuraPETase variants S223Y, S42M, and S61M have increased Tm

Graphical Abstract
Baseline parenchymal blood volume is a potential prognostic imaging biomarker in patients with malignant liver tumors treated with transarterial chemoembolization
Authors: Vogl Thomas J. , Emrich Eileen Isabell , Gruber Tatjana , Trojan Jörg , Bernatz Simon
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To assess the prognostic value of Parenchymal Blood Volume (PBV) in predicting survival, tumor response, and PBV response after transarterial chemoembolization (TACE).

Methods

A total of 137 patients with malignant liver tumors who were treated with TACE between 07/2016 and 07/2018 were evaluated. Computed tomography illustrations were reworked at a dedicated workstation to create a PBV map which was overlapped with the associated magnetic resonance image to determine tumor diameter and PBV. Patients were divided into two groups according to their initial PBV value: PBV < 50 or ≥ 50 ml/l.

Results

Retrospectively, for patients with at least 2 TACE and initial PBV < 50 ml/l (n = 27), the tumor volume, regardless of the primary tumor type, decreased by 13.26%, and PBV showed a decrease of 23.11%. For 84 patients with PBV ≥ 50 ml/l, the tumor volume decreased by 24.01%, and PBV showed a more substantial decrease of 44.69% (both p < 0.001). In the overall study population (n = 137), patients with an initial PBV ≥ 50 ml/l (n = 101) survived for an average of 15.05 months, while patients with an initial PBV < 50 ml/l (n = 36) survived for 10.01 months (p < 0.002). Subgroup analysis indicated that median survival in the HCC group was longer at PBV ≥ 50 ml/l. For CRC and other primary tumors, the survival time for high and low initial PBV was almost identical.

Conclusion

Our study reveals a noteworthy correlation between high initial PBV values and a significant reduction in both relative and absolute tumor volume. This association suggests a potential prognostic indicator, indicating that elevated PBV may signify a more favorable response to transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). Additionally, patients with high initial PBV values experienced an extended overall survival time. Notably, the subgroup analysis highlighted a prolonged survival time in the HCC group with elevated initial PBV values. These findings underscore the potential significance of assessing PBV as a predictive factor in the context of TACE, especially in specific tumor entities such as HCC. Further investigations are essential to validate and extrapolate these observations to optimize patient outcomes.

Graphical abstract
A2AR-mediated CXCL5 upregulation on macrophages promotes NSCLC progression via NETosis
Authors: Lei Qingyang , Zhen Shanshan , Zhang Lei , Zhao Qitai , Yang Li , Zhang Yi
Published: April 2024

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are abundant in tumors and interact with tumor cells, leading to the formation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment and tumor progression. Although many studies have explored the mechanisms underlying TAM polarization and its immunosuppressive functions, understanding of its progression remains limited. TAMs promote tumor progression by secreting cytokines, which subsequently recruit immunosuppressive cells to suppress the antitumor immunity. In this study, we established an in vitro model of macrophage and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell co-culture to explore the mechanisms of cell-cell crosstalk. We observed that in NSCLC, the C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CXCL5) was upregulated in macrophages because of the stimulation of A2AR by adenosine. Adenosine was catalyzed by CD39 and CD73 in macrophages and tumor cells, respectively. Nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) mediated the A2AR stimulation of CXCL5 upregulation in macrophages. Additionally, CXCL5 stimulated NETosis in neutrophils. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs)-treated CD8+ T cells exhibited upregulation of exhaustion-related and cytosolic DNA sensing pathways and downregulation of effector-related genes. However, A2AR inhibition significantly downregulated CXCL5 expression and reduced neutrophil infiltration, consequently alleviating CD8+ T cell dysfunction. Our findings suggest a complex interaction between tumor and immune cells and its potential as therapeutic target.