bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LEVERAGING MBSE USAGE THROUGH MODEL CHECKERS
Authors: MASSON Davy , Olejarz Lucas
Published: September 2024

System modeling is an essential part of the systems engineering process, helping with the design, analysis, and communication of complex systems. The usage of modeling languages like SysML and UML has become increasingly prevalent in this domain. To ensure the “3C” of validation of these models (correctness, completeness and consistency), model checkers play an important aspect.

This paper discusses the role of model checkers in the validation of system models, and their importance in adopting MBSE approach with a quick benefit to system engineers. Different possible implementations are presented including one based on an ontology able to take advantage of semantic analyses. Finally, in order to deal with the number of issues due to the complexity of our models, we suggest correcting them regarding the goal of the model and the project milestones. This last point implies the need of an issue acknowledgement feature making it possible to justify the temporary or definitive rejection of these issues.
Requirement Discovery Using Embedded Knowledge Graph with ChatGPT
Authors: VanGundy Braxton , Phojanamongkolkij Nipa , Brown Barclay , Polavarapu Ramana , Bonner Joshua
Published: September 2024

The field of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) is witnessing a transformation with innovations such as electric aircraft and increasingly automated airspace operations. Within AAM, the Urban Air Mobility (UAM) concept focuses on providing air‐taxi services in densely populated urban areas. This research introduces the utilization of Large Language Models (LLMs), such as OpenAI's GPT‐4, to enhance the UAM Requirement discovery process.

This study explores two distinct approaches to leverage LLMs in the context of UAM Requirement discovery. The first approach evaluates the LLM's ability to provide responses without relying on additional outside systems, such as a relational or graph database. Instead, a vector store provides relevant information to the LLM based on the user's question, a process known as Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG). The second approach integrates the LLM with a graph database. The LLM acts as an intermediary between the user and the graph database, translating user questions into cypher queries for the database and database responses into human‐readable answers for the user. Our team implemented and tested both solutions to analyze requirements within a UAM dataset. This paper will talk about our approaches, implementations, and findings related to both approaches.
Outcomes and Perspectives from the 4th ESA ModelBased Space Systems and Software Engineering Workshop (MBSE2023) on reducing the gap between model‐based systems engineering and domain‐specific approaches
Authors: Christofi Nikolena , Fischer Nils , Chami Mohammad , Horvath Akos , Jung Andreas , De Roquemaurel Marie , Dissaux Pierre , Morlet Catherine , Maleki Elaheh , Verhoef Marcel
Published: September 2024

In the context of its initiative to promote the adoption of model‐based approaches in the development of present and upcoming missions, the European Space Agency (ESA) organised this year its annual workshop on Model‐Based Space Systems and Software Engineering (MBSE2023) at its European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) premises. The aim of this year's workshop was to investigate how the model‐based systems engineering community could contribute to bridging the gap with domain‐specific model‐based approaches used in subsystem design. The World Café Method was used to facilitate the group discussions, the outcomes of which are summarized and presented in this paper.
Configuration Management of Sets of Links in a Federated Tool Environment
Authors: D'Souza Adriana , Hetherington David , Kulcsár Géza , Orozco Bryan , Przybyło Aleksander , Ráth István
Published: September 2024

In the era of document‐centric systems engineering, large organizations developing complex systems had practical methods of associating drawings, specifications, requirements and other information with each other. Mostly these evolved methods involved part numbers and drawing numbers, although sometimes the methods included mundane techniques such as storing drawings in specific drawers in specific filing cabinets. These manual methods were very labor intensive, did not handle changes gracefully, and were somewhat error prone. As computer software and modeling tools began to displace paper drawings and filing cabinets, a “connect and forget” style of linking evolved. We can see this sort of thinking in the relationships in UML and SysML, but also in other places such as the use of Universally unique identifiers (UUIDs) in the XMI file format underlying UML/SysML, the relationships in DOORS and related requirements tools, as well as the original architecture of OSLC which depended on URIs embedded in design artifacts to establish relationships. While these “click to connect” features provided increased convenience compared to the previous manual numbering approaches, these “hard‐coded” links have introduced a new set of problems. The root of most of the new problems comes in the difficulty of managing this sort of extremely large set of direct links as configuration items in their own right. In a larger system, this sort of link set quickly grows to thousands or even millions of links. Managing change, modularity, variants, subsystem reuse, and so on all become very difficult in the presence of such a large, unplanned, and uncontrolled link set. In this paper, we will review the different approaches to creating and managing such sets of links and provide a concise best practices recommendation for the configuration management of such sets of links.
EVALUATING AUTOMOTIVE SPICE® AS PROCESS REQUIREMENTS
Authors: Frank Jan
Published: September 2024

Software and Systems engineering projects in the Automotive industry are often mandated to develop according to the Automotive SPICE® standard. Despite a highly qualified workforce, many projects or organizations fail to implement compliant processes. This paper reinterprets the Automotive SPICE® standard, viewing its base practices as process requirements. Using a set of quality criteria for requirements, the subsequent evaluation of base practices for quality results in an aggregate and individual analysis of the ASPICE base practices. The analyses reveal, amongst others, deficiencies in the aspects of singularity, unambiguity, and reasoning structure. The paper proposes a public, collaborative effort to enrich the requirements with purpose, detail, and structure.
A Configuration Management Strategy for Modelbased Product Line Engineering in Aircraft Systems Development
Authors: Epp Jordan , Robert Thomas , Ruch Olivier , Olechowski Alison
Published: September 2024

Aircraft systems development is complex and time‐consuming. Model‐based Product Line Engineering (MBPLE) aims to reuse assets between projects to accelerate the development of systems at their early stage. Despite guidance from standards, MBPLE practitioners still face the challenge of deploying an appropriate configuration management strategy. This paper presents and demonstrates a configuration management strategy to support practitioners deploying MBPLE for aircraft systems development. We developed this strategy to comply with ISO/IEC 26580 and address pending standard ambiguities using best practices from product lines for systems, software, business processes, and systems of systems. The proposed strategy supports long‐term product line evolution, management of different asset types, and independent product environments.
MBSE for Real World Teams
Authors: Hetherington David , Hoehne Oliver , Roques Pascal , Kuriyama Junji , Nishimura Takashi
Published: September 2024

With the release of the OMG Systems Modeling Language (SysML) (Object Management Group, 2007) there was a surge of enthusiasm for model‐based systems engineering (MBSE). Expectations were high. Cumbersome, fragmented documents would be completely replaced by coherent, fully integrated models. The models would serve as the “Single Version of the Truth” (later transitioning to models being part of the “Authoratative Source of Truth”).

While progress has been made, this utopian vision has largely failed to materialize. Certainly tool and language limitations have been a factor. However, the bigger factor in many communities has been human factors challenges. In our enthusiasm to propagate the MBSE vision, we forgot to perform the most basic systems engineering task: stakeholder analysis. This paper will introduce some of the basic human factors issues that were overlooked. The paper will then discuss three concrete cases in which a community was struggling with the abstract, radical change approach and how the teams involved have modified this approach and tooling to make it more practical and successful for those communities. Finally, the paper will conclude with some recommendations to consider when undertaking the introduction of MBSE methods in a new community.
OMG Standard to Extend SysML to Reliability Engineering
Authors: Hecht Myron , Juknevičius Tomas , Post Kyle , Armonas Andrius
Published: September 2024

This paper describes a Reliability Block Diagram (RBD) Library that has been added to the Risk Analysis and Assessment Modeling Language (RAAML) version 1.1, the Object Management Group (OMG) standard for safety and reliability extensions for SysML. A discussion of relevant reliability concepts is provided followed by a description of the RBD library. An example of the library using an example system is described, followed by plans for further reliability enhancements in future versions of RAAML.
Security Interpretations and Elaborations on Systems Engineering Principles
Authors: Winstead Mark
Published: September 2024

INCOSE's Systems Engineering Vision 2035 includes thirty‐one mentions of security as part of the vision, including security to become as foundational a perspective to system design as performance and safety. INCOSE's Systems Engineering Principles technical product published a “first set of systems principles” (Watson, et al., 2022). This paper examines interpretations of these principles for security as captured in the vision and suggests modifications and possible additional principles to see security more integrated into the systems engineering process.
Systems Architecture Meta‐Model for the MagicGrid Framework
Authors: Aleksandraviciene Aiste , Strolia Zilvinas , Morkevicius Aurelijus
Published: September 2024

Although Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) might be understood and applied across diverse communities and industries differently, its fundamental principles and practices described in INCOSE Systems Engineering Handbook, are common. It is known that successful application of MBSE is impossible without a tool, language, and method as well as harmony among these three. The de‐facto standard modeling language for MBSE is Systems Modeling Language (SysML). However, SysML is only a language, and it is not aligned with terminology systems engineers use daily in their work. This paper studies SysML as the standard language to model systems, and MagicGrid as the framework to bridge the gap between Systems Engineering (SE) terminology described in the INCOSE Systems Engineering Handbook and SysML specification. It proposes a new systems engineering meta‐model to describe a common SE terminology and bind it to the SysML concepts.
Clinical features and response to immune combinations in patients with renal cell carcinoma and sarcomatoid de‐differentiation (ARON‐1 study)
Authors: Ciccarese Chiara , Büttner Thomas , Cerbone Linda , Zampiva Ilaria , Monteiro Fernando Sabino M. , Basso Umberto , Pichler Martin , Vitale Maria Giuseppa , Fiala Ondrej , Roviello Giandomenico , Kopp Ray Manneh , Carrozza Francesco , Pichler Renate , Grillone Francesco , Calabuig Esther Pérez , Zeppellini Annalisa , Küronya Zsófia , Galli Luca , Facchini Gaetano , Sunela Kaisa , Mosca Alessandra , Molina‐Cerrillo Javier , Spinelli Gian Paolo , Ansari Jawaher , Scala Alessandro , Mollica Veronica , Grande Enrique , Buti Sebastiano , Kanesvaran Ravindran , Zakopoulou Roubini , Bamias Aristotelis , Rizzo Mimma , Massari Francesco , Iacovelli Roberto , Santoni Matteo
Published: September 2024

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) carrying sarcomatoid features (sRCC) has aggressive biology and poor prognosis. First‐line immunotherapy (IO)‐based combinations have improved the outcome of clear cell RCC patients, including that of sRCC. Real‐world data confirming the adequate first‐line management of sRCC is largely lacking. We investigated the clinical features and the outcome of sRCC patients treated with IO‐based combinations within the ARON‐1 study population (NCT05287464). The primary objective was to define the incidence and baseline clinical characteristics of sRCC compared with non‐sRCC patients. The secondary objective was to describe the outcome of sRCC patients based on type of first‐line treatment (IO + IO vs. IO + tyrosin kinase inhibitor [TKI]). We identified 1362 mRCC patients with IMDC intermediate or poor risk, 226 sRCC and 1136 non‐sRCC. These two subgroups did not differ in terms of baseline characteristics. The median overall survival (OS) was 26.8 months (95%CI 21.6–44.2) in sRCC and 35.3 months (95%CI 30.2–40.4) in non‐sRCC patients (p = .013). The median progression‐free survival (PFS) was longer in non‐sRCC patients compared to sRCC (14.5 vs. 12.3 months, p = .064). In patients treated with first‐line IO + TKI the median OS was 34.4 months compared to 26.4 months of those who received IO + IO (p = .729). The median PFS was 12.4 months with IO + TKI and 12.3 months with IO + IO (p = .606). In conclusion, we confirm that sRCC are aggressive tumors with poor prognosis. IO‐based combinations improve survival outcomes of sRCC patients, regardless from the type of strategy (IO + IO versus IO + TKI) adopted.
Breast cancer survival analysis in the Republic of Mauritius by age, stage at diagnosis and molecular subtype: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Koon Sun Pat Marvin , Manraj Meera , Manraj Shyam
Published: September 2024

Breast cancer is by far the leading cancer both in terms of incidence and mortality in the Republic of Mauritius, a Small Island Developing State (SIDS). However, few studies assessed its survival by age, stage at diagnosis and molecular subtype. We identified 1399 breast cancer cases newly diagnosed between 2017 and 2020 at the Central Health Laboratory, Victoria Hospital. Cancers were categorized into five molecular subtypes: (1) luminal A, (2) luminal B Her2 negative, (3) luminal B Her2 positive, (4) Her2 enriched and (5) Triple negative. The net 1 and 3‐year survival were estimated for different age groups, staging at time of diagnosis and molecular subtype. We also estimated the excess hazards using a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model. While early stage at diagnosis (stage 1 [44.4%] and stage 2 [20.1%]) were most common compared to late presentation (Stage 3 [25.4%] and stage 4 [10.1%]), luminal B Her2 negative (36.7%) was the most frequent molecular subtype. The net 1‐ and 3‐year breast cancer survival rates were 93.9% (92.3–95.4) and 83.4% (80.4–86.4), respectively. Breast cancer three‐year survival rates were poorest among the youngest patients (<50 years), 77.1% (70.7–83.5), those diagnosed with stage 4 (28.5% [17.1–39.9]) and cancer with a triple negative molecular subtype (71.3% [63.3–79.3]). Emphasis on a national breast cancer screening programme, down staging breast cancer at diagnosis and systematic molecular subtyping of all breast tissues could be pivotal in improving breast cancer survival outcomes in the Republic of Mauritius.
WTAP‐mediated m6A modification of circ_0032463 promotes osteosarcoma progression by sponging miR‐145‐5p and regulating GFRA1 expression
Authors: Huang Zhong , Chen Pengcheng , Liu Yiheng
Published: September 2024

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most frequent bone malignancy in humans. Previous evidence suggest that circ_0032463 is an oncogenic circular RNA (circRNA) in various cancers, including OS. However, the molecular mechanism of circ_0032463 involved in OS is still unclear. Circ_0032463, microRNA‐145‐5p (miR‐145‐5p), GDNF receptor alpha 1 (GFRA1), and Wilms tumor 1‐associated protein (WTAP) levels were determined using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). Cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis were analyzed using 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU), flow cytometry, transwell, and tube formation assays. Western blot analysis was performed to measure matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), MMP9, GFRA1, and WTAP protein levels. Binding between miR‐145‐5p and circ_0032463 or GFRA1 was confirmed using a dual‐luciferase reporter and pull‐down assay. The biological role of circ_0032463 on OS cell growth was also analyzed using a xenograft tumor model in vivo. Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation assay validated the interaction between WTAP and circ_0032463. Circ_0032463, GFRA1, and WTAP levels were increased, and miR‐145‐5p was decreased in OS tissues and cells. Circ_0032463 deficiency might hinder OS cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and promote apoptosis in vitro. Mechanically, circ_0032463 worked as a miR‐145‐5p sponge to increase GFRA1 expression. Repression of circ_0032463 knockdown on tumor cell growth was proved in vivo. Besides, N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification facilitates the biogenesis of circ_0032463. Taken together, m6A‐mediated biogenesis of circ_0032463 facilitates OS cell malignant biological behavior partly via regulating the miR‐145‐5p/GFRA1 axis, suggesting a promising molecular marker for OS treatment.
Enterprise environmental performance under China's framework for Central Environmental Protection Inspection: Quasi‐natural experimental evidence
Authors: Li Xiang , Lan Hailin , Zeng Ping
Published: September 2024

In 2016, China launched the Central Environmental Protection Inspection (CEPI) to address environmental pollution. Using a triple‐difference method with data from China's A‐share listed companies between 2010 and 2019, we find that CEPI significantly improves the environmental performance of firms. The improvements are driven by increased environmental awareness, stricter enforcement and greater investment in environmental protection. Fiscal and environmental decentralization positively reinforce the policy's effectiveness. Regions with high public participation, media attention, and visibility experience greater benefits. This research highlights the importance of combining policy initiatives with active public and media engagement to achieve significant environmental improvements.
Elevation‐dependent warming and possible‐driving mechanisms over global highlands
Authors: Abbas Haider , Daramola Mojolaoluwa Toluwalase , Xu Ming
Published: September 2024

Elevation‐dependent warming (EDW) has been a topic of intense debate due to limited observed data in global highland areas. This study aims to fill this gap by utilizing CRU and ERA5 datasets from 1981 to 2021 to explore the trends of climate change and its elevation dependency. The anomalies of temperature indicators (Tmean, Tmax, and Tmin) in both ERA5 and CRU showed significant warming trends over global highlands. Moreover, the response of temperature indicators to elevation across global highlands is not spatially uniform. The linear regression model based on the elevation showed significant warming signals for the temperature indicators at various elevations over the global highlands. On a regional scale, Tmean and Tmax predominantly showed linear EDW over EU highlands, while Tmean in Asian highlands exhibited EDW signals at 4–5 km. Tmin showed EDW at 2.5–5.5 km with ERA5 and 3–5 km with CRU. In the Andes, EDW was prominent at 2.5–4 km. Overall, EDW signals are evident in all studied regions but vary across them. While assessing the driving factors, the results of this study indicate that total column water vapour (TCWV), snow depth (SD), snow albedo, and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) correlated positively with the temperature indicators. These findings emphasize the significance of elevation‐specific interactions between environmental factors and temperature in forecasting temperature changes in mountainous areas. Additionally, temperature exhibited coherence with teleconnection indices from the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Asian and European (EU) highlands exhibited interzonal coherence with the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, while North American (NA) highlands showed coherence, followed by South American (SA) highlands. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of EDW and its implications for highland regions globally, including the potential for more severe depletion of snow/ice resources in a warmer future.
Effects of rhamnolipid replacement of chlortetracycline on growth performance, slaughtering traits, meat quality and antioxidant function in broilers
Authors: Shi Yonghao , Zhou Qilu , Wu Chao , Liu Jinsong , Yang Caimei , Yang Ting , Zhang Ruiqiang
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Rhamnolipids (RLS) are surfactants that improve the growth performance of poultry by improving the absorption of nutrients. This study aims to investigate the effects of RLS replacement of chlortetracycline (CTC) on growth performance, slaughtering traits, meat quality, antioxidant function and nuclear‐factor‐E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway in broilers. A total of 600 one‐day‐old Arbor Acres chicks were randomly assigned to five groups with eight replicates in each group, raised for 42 days. Broilers were respectively fed a basal diet with no CTC or RLS, 75 mg kg−1 CTC, and 250, 500, 1000 mg kg−1 RLS.

RESULTS

Dietary supplementation with RLS linearly increased the average daily gain, average daily feed intake, carcass yield, eviscerated yield, ether extract, enhanced total superoxide and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, overexpressed the relative expressions of Nrf2, heme oxygenase 1, Copper/zinc superoxide dismutase, Manganese superoxide dismutase, GPx and catalase and decreased the lightness value at 24 h, drip loss and malondialdehyde contents of broilers (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, broilers fed 1000 mg kg−1 RLS reduced the drip loss and broilers fed 500 mg kg−1 RLS increased muscle crude fat content (P < 0.05). Compared with the CTC group, dietary supplementation with 1000 mg kg−1 RLS increased eviscerated yield (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

RLS could improve growth performance, crude fat content, meat quality and antioxidant capacity and activate relative expression of genes in the Nrf2 signaling pathway in broilers. It could be used as an antibiotic substitute in diets and the recommended supplemental dose of RLS in feed of broilers is 1000 mg kg−1. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Narrow‐Band Imaging in Head and Neck Carcinomas: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Fu Zi‐Yue , Li Da‐Peng , Shen Chuan‐Lu , Wang Jian‐Peng , Han Yan‐Xun , Chen Shan‐Wen , Ding Zhao , Zhang Lei , Liang Bing‐Yu , Yin Si‐Yue , Yang Yi‐Pin , Zhang Yu‐Lin , Li Yan , Liu Ye‐Hai , Pan Hai‐Feng , Wu Kai‐Le , Liu Yu‐Chen
Published: September 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess the diagnostic performance of narrow‐band imaging (NBI) in monitoring patients with head and neck carcinomas posttreatment and to compare it with that of white light endoscopy (WLE).

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science (WOS), Cochrane Library, China Biology Medicine disc (CBM disc), China National Knowledge Internet (CNKI), Wanfang Data, China Science and Technology Journal Database (CSTJ), Chinese Clinical Trial Register.

Review Methods

Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA), literature published before July 2024 was searched. Patients who underwent surgery, radiotherapy (RT), or chemo‐RT for head and neck carcinomas with posttreatment follow‐up using NBI were analyzed. The main outcomes were sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) for NBI and WLE in posttreatment follow‐up.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity, and DOR for NBI and WLE in posttreatment follow‐up for head and neck carcinomas were 95% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 88%–98%), 96% (95% CI: 92%–98%), 433 (95% CI: 120–1560) and 72% (95% CI: 49%–87%), 72% (95% CI: 4%–99%), 7 (95% CI: 0–191). Additionally, the area under the curve (AUC) values for NBI and WLE were 0.99 (95% CI: 0.97–0.99) and 0.75 (95% CI: 0.71–0.79), respectively. The number of lesions and patients, treatment modality, follow‐up time, disease, and endoscopic system might be sources of heterogeneity.

Conclusion

Compared to WLE, NBI demonstrated superior diagnostic performance in follow‐up patients with head and neck carcinoma posttreatment. NBI offers technical support and a clinical foundation for early detection of head and neck carcinoma recurrence.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 2024
Wadge degrees of Δ20$\mathbf{\Delta }^0_2$ omega‐powers
Authors: Finkel Olivier , Lecomte Dominique
Published: September 2024

We provide, for each natural number and each class among , , , a regular language whose associated omega‐power is complete for this class.
Existence of solutions for critical Neumann problem with superlinear perturbation in the half‐space
Authors: Deng Yinbin , Shi Longge , Zhang Xinyue
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we consider the existence and multiplicity of solutions for the critical Neumann problem

where , , , , , is the outward unit normal vector at the boundary , is the usual critical exponent for the Sobolev embedding and is the critical exponent for the Sobolev trace embedding . By establishing an improved Pohozaev identity, we show that problem () has no nontrivial solution if . Applying the mountain pass theorem without the condition and the delicate estimates for the mountain pass level, we obtain the existence of a positive solution for all and the different values of the parameters and . Particularly, for , , , we prove that problem () has a positive solution if and only if . Moreover, the existence of multiple solutions for () is also obtained by dual variational principle for all and suitable .
What, no logos? Why some minimalists prefer quiet luxury
Authors: Taylor Charles R. , Borenstein Benjamin , Pangarkar Aniruddha
Published: September 2024

Minimalism is a philosophy based on reduction of consumption and holding fewer possessions that has gained great momentum and popularity worldwide. While prior literature suggests that not all minimalists engage in luxury consumption, a segment of minimalists labeled inconspicuous minimalists are theorized to not only focus on having fewer possessions, but also to have a preference for high product quality and subtlety in design that translates into a higher propensity to purchase “quiet luxury” products. This research empirically examines the relationship between inconspicuous minimalism and luxury consumption. In four experimental studies, we find that contrary to popular belief, certain minimalists are in fact likely to purchase luxury goods. Moreover, we find that inconspicuous minimalists prefer “quiet” versions of luxury brands that are more discreet (no logos), and that these luxury purchases are motivated by a desire for social connectedness to knowledgeable “elites” who share similar cultural capital and values. These findings suggest that inconspicuous minimalists are motivated by social factors, but not by traditional Veblen style conspicuous consumption motives in which the buyer has a desire to impress the masses.
Aortic aneurysm: pathophysiology and therapeutic options
Authors: Yang Guang , Khan Abbas , Liang Wei , Xiong Zibo , Stegbauer Johannes
Published: September 2024

Aortic aneurysm (AA) is an aortic disease with a high mortality rate, and other than surgery no effective preventive or therapeutic treatment have been developed. The renin–angiotensin system (RAS) is an important endocrine system that regulates vascular health. The ACE2/Ang‐(1–7)/MasR axis can antagonize the adverse effects of the activation of the ACE/Ang II/AT1R axis on vascular dysfunction, atherosclerosis, and the development of aneurysms, thus providing an important therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of AA. However, products targeting the Ang‐(1–7)/MasR pathway still lack clinical validation. This review will outline the epidemiology of AA, including thoracic, abdominal, and thoracoabdominal AA, as well as current diagnostic and treatment strategies. Due to the highest incidence and most extensive research on abdominal AA (AAA), we will focus on AAA to explain the role of the RAS in its development, the protective function of Ang‐(1–7)/MasR, and the mechanisms involved. We will also describe the roles of agonists and antagonists, suggest improvements in engineering and drug delivery, and provide evidence for Ang‐(1–7)/MasR's clinical potential, discussing risks and solutions for clinical use. This study will enhance our understanding of AA and offer new possibilities and promising targets for therapeutic intervention.
Tumor‐associated exosomes in cancer progression and therapeutic targets
Authors: Liu Xiaomin , Wu Fan , Pan Wei , Liu Guangchao , Zhang Hui , Yan Dawei , Zheng Saijing , Ma Zhongliang , Ren Xiaojun
Published: September 2024

Exosomes are small membrane vesicles that are released by cells into the extracellular environment. Tumor‐associated exosomes (TAEs) are extracellular vesicles that play a significant role in cancer progression by mediating intercellular communication and contributing to various hallmarks of cancer. These vesicles carry a cargo of proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules that can be transferred to recipient cells, modifying their behavior and promoting tumor growth, angiogenesis, immune modulation, and drug resistance. Several potential therapeutic targets within the TAEs cargo have been identified, including oncogenic proteins, miRNAs, tumor‐associated antigens, immune checkpoint proteins, drug resistance proteins, and tissue factor. In this review, we will systematically summarize the biogenesis, composition, and function of TAEs in cancer progression and highlight potential therapeutic targets. Considering the complexity of exosome‐mediated signaling and the pleiotropic effects of exosome cargoes has challenge in developing effective therapeutic strategies. Further research is needed to fully understand the role of TAEs in cancer and to develop effective therapies that target them. In particular, the development of strategies to block TAEs release, target TAEs cargo, inhibit TAEs uptake, and modulate TAEs content could provide novel approaches to cancer treatment.
Striding towards a greener future: Unlocking the potential of natural resources and employment dynamics in green energy transition in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Okere Kingsley I. , Dimnwobi Stephen Kelechi , Fasanya Ismail O.
Published: September 2024

The adoption and utilization of renewable energy offer potential benefits such as enhanced energy efficiency, cost savings, and ecological advantages. However, a key research question addressed in this analysis is whether natural resource rent and employment dynamics influence renewable energy consumption in Africa. Previous research has predominantly focused on the aggregate employment rate, overlooking the nuances of labor diversity across sectors and employment types. Hence, this study evaluates the importance of natural resource rent and employment in driving the transition to green energy in sub‐Saharan Africa from 1991 to 2022. It employs the innovative method of moments quantile regression (MMQR) model for this purpose. The findings reveal a positive connection between natural resource rent and the adoption of green energy. When considering employment types, the study observes that self‐employment and wages/salaried workers undermine clean energy utilization. Moreover, the study highlights that employment across key economic sectors also plays a role. While employment in the agriculture and service sectors fosters green energy utilization, employment in the industrial sector impedes renewable energy consumption. To advance the development of green energy in Africa, this study underscores a range of policy options.
Does banking relationships promote environmental, social, and governance performance? Empirical evidence from A‐share listed firms in China
Authors: Wang Menghan , Zhao Qi , Gong Xiaoxiao
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the impact of banking relationships on corporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance using data from A‐share listed firms in China from 2009 to 2019. Results show that banking relationships negatively impact corporate ESG performance. Mechanism analysis finds that banking relationships increase agency costs and financial investment, thereby diminishing ESG performance. Corporate executives with banking backgrounds and banks holding firm shares dampen ESG performance, whereas firms holding bank shares do not yield significant impact on ESG performance. Our study also finds that the negative impact of banking relationships on ESG performance is mitigated by analyst attention and supervisory institutional investors.
Machine‐learning‐assisted intelligent synthesis of UiO‐66(Ce): Balancing the trade‐off between structural defects and thermal stability for efficient hydrogenation of Dicyclopentadiene
Authors: Lin Jing , Ban Tao , Li Tian , Sun Ye , Zhou Shenglan , Li Rushuo , Su Yanjing , Kasemchainan Jitti , Gao Hongyi , Shi Lei , Wang Ge
Published: September 2024

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), renowned for structural diversity and design flexibility, exhibit potential in catalysis. However, the pursuit of higher catalytic activity through defects often compromises stability, requiring a delicate balance. Traditional trial‐and‐error method for optimizing synthesis parameters within the complex chemical space is inefficient. Herein, taking the typical MOF UiO‐66(Ce) as an illustrative example, a closed loop workflow is built, which integrates machine learning (ML)‐assissted prediction, multi‐objective optimization (MOO) and experimental preparation to synergistically optimize the defect content and thermal stability of UiO‐66(Ce) for efficient hydrogenation of dicyclopentadiene (DCPD). An automatic data extraction program ensures data accuracy, establishing a high‐quality database. ML is employed to explore the intricate synthesis‐structure‐property correlations, enabling precise delineation of pure‐phase subspace and accurate predictions of properties. After two iterations, MOO model identifies optimal protocols for high defect content (>40%) and thermal stability (>300°C). The optimized UiO‐66(Ce) exhibits superior catalytic performance in hydrogenation of DCPD, validating the precision and reliability of our methodology. This ML‐assisted approach offers a valuable paradigm for solving the trade‐off riddle in materials field.
Initiation of noninvasive ventilation in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Jimenez Jose Victor , Tang Michael J. , Wilson Mathew W. , Morrison Alexander H. , Ackrivo Jason , Choi Philip J.
Published: September 2024

Introduction/Aims

Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) has been shown to improve survival and symptom burden in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, limited data exist regarding the clinical and physiological parameters at the time of NIV initiation. This study aimed to describe the clinical characteristics and respiratory physiological markers in a cohort of ALS patients with chronic respiratory failure.

Methods

This is a single‐center retrospective cohort study of patients with ALS assessed for NIV initiation between February 2012 and January 2021. NIV was initiated based on insurance eligibility criteria: daytime hypercapnia, defined by partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) >45 mm Hg using diurnal transcutaneous CO2 (TcCO2) as a surrogate, a maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) <60 cmH2O or forced vital capacity (FVC) <50% predicted normal.

Results

We identified 335 patients with ALS and chronic respiratory failure referred to an outpatient home ventilation clinic for NIV initiation. The mean age was 64 years ±11; 151 (45%) were female, 326 (97%) were white, and 100 (29%) had bulbar‐onset ALS. At the time of NIV initiation, the mean FVC was 64% ± 19%, the mean MIP; 41 cmH2O ± 17, and diurnal TcCO2; 40 ± 6 mmHg. The most common reasons for NIV initiation were MIP <60 cmH2O (58%) and multiple concomitant indications (28%). Within 1 year of NIV initiation, 126 (37%) patients were deceased.

Discussion

We found that impairment in inspiratory force was the most common reason for NIV initiation and often preceded significant declines in FVC.
Personal and Social‐Built Environmental Factors of Glucose Variability Among Multiethnic Groups of Adults With Type 2 Diabetes: Research Protocol Using Ecological Momentary Assessment, Continuous Glucose Monitoring, and Actigraphy
Authors: Nam Soohyun , Jeon Sangchoon , Ash Garrett I. , Weinzimer Stuart , Dunton Genevieve F. , Parekh Niyati , Grey Margaret , Chen Kai , Lee Minjung , Sajdlowska Anna , Whittemore Robin
Published: September 2024

Glucose variability (GV)—the degree of fluctuation in glucose levels over a certain period of time—is emerging as an important parameter of dynamic glycemic control. Repeated glycemic oscillations have been reported to be the link to diabetes complications. This prospective observational study aims to: (1) identify multilevel risk factors (personal and social‐built environmental factors) associated with high GV; (2) identify “within‐person predictors” of high GV leveraging the intra‐person data to inform future personalized diabetes interventions; and (3) examine which lifestyle factors either mediate or moderate the relationship between emotional well‐being and GV among diverse adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D). We will recruit 200 adults with T2D from the community. All participants will complete baseline surveys assessing demographics, lifestyle, social‐built environmental, and clinical factors. Real‐time dynamic glucose levels will be measured using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Sleep, physical activity, diet/eating, and emotional well‐being will be measured with an actigraphy device and a real‐time self‐report tool (ecological momentary assessment [EMA]) across 14 days. Two 24‐h dietary recall data will be collected by online video calls. Generalized linear models, multilevel models, and structural equation models will be developed to achieve the study aims. The findings from the study will identify high‐risk groups of high GV who would benefit from CGM to improve diabetes outcomes and inform the future development of personalized just‐in‐time interventions targeting lifestyle behaviors with an increased understanding of GV and by supporting healthcare providers' clinical decisions.
The impact of urbanization on growth patterns of non‐adults in medieval England
Authors: White Sina D. , Newman Sophie L. , Primeau Charlotte , Mahoney Patrick , Deter Chris A.
Published: September 2024

Increasing urbanization seen during the medieval period (7th to 16th centuries) is associated with adverse living conditions that may have negatively impacted childhood growth via the influence of infectious diseases and nutritional deficiencies due to increasing population density and periodic food shortages. This study aims to compare the growth of non‐adults (less than 12 years of age) from urban, proto‐urban, and rural environments from medieval England to determine whether settlement type influenced child health, and by proxy overall population health, during this period. Tibial and femoral maximum diaphyseal lengths and dental age of non‐adults (0–12 years) from urban St. Gregory's Priory (n = 60), urban York Barbican (n = 16), proto‐urban Black Gate (n = 38), and rural Raunds (n = 30) were examined using z‐scores. The results reveal that non‐adults < 2 years from St. Gregory's Priory had the lowest growth values followed by Raunds, Black Gate, and York Barbican with the highest growth values. Further, non‐adults 2–12 years from York Barbican had the lowest growth values followed by Raunds, Black Gate, and St. Gregory's Priory with the higher growth values. The femoral and tibial diaphyseal growth values are explored within the context of breastfeeding and weaning practices, stability of economies, and environmental conditions.
Understanding public confidence in the police within democratic and authoritarian regimes
Authors: McCarthy Daniel , Ho Lawrence Ka‐ki , Chan Jason Kwun‐Hong , Brunton‐Smith Ian
Published: September 2024

Studies of public confidence in the police have enabled important insights into the factors responsible for achieving public support. Empirically tested in overwhelmingly democratic nations, there remain questions about the generalizability of this work to different types of political regimes, especially authoritarian nations. Using Wave 7 of the World Values Survey (n = 38,838) we assess whether predictors of police confidence operate in similar or different ways within the most democratic and authoritarian nations. Both regimes share similar underpinnings of confidence (corruption, religious identity, neighborhood trust, and government performance). Yet, key differences exist (i.e., country‐level differences measuring insecurity and instability, press freedom and corruption).
Reversal of Fetal Compromise Following In Utero Treatment of Vein of Galen Malformation Using Glue
Authors: Gowda Mamatha , Krishnaraj Ariharan , Ambalakkuthan Murugesan , Chinta Navya , Selvan Tamil
Published: September 2024

Objective

To treat the fetus presenting with in utero compromise due to a large vein of Galen malformation (VOGM) using glue embolization.

Methods

The fetus that was referred for termination of pregnancy at 30 weeks of gestation due to severe cardiomegaly, mild pericardial effusion and large VOGM was evaluated using ultrasound. There was reversed end diastolic flow in the umbilical artery Doppler indicating imminent fetal demise in the premature fetus weighing <1200 g. Considering the request of parents, a treatment similar to recently reported cases of VOGM embolization in utero was attempted as an emergency procedure to salvage the baby. Due to unavailability of coils, financial constraints and urgent need for intervention, n‐butyl cyanoacrylate glue with lipiodol was used to embolize the venous outflow of VOGM outflow under ultrasonographic guidance.

Results

There was immediate correction of the umbilical artery Doppler waveform with the establishment of a normal flow pattern. The cardiomegaly resolved over 3 weeks and fetal MRI done 2 weeks later showed normal brain architecture with no evidence of hemorrhage or infarction. Pregnancy was continued for 4 weeks after the procedure and terminated at 36 weeks. A female baby weighing 1900 g was delivered by Cesarean section with an Apgar of 8/10. Though initially the baby did well, with mild ventriculomegaly reported on postnatal day 5, she eventually presented at 3 months of age with cardiac failure. As the MRI showed encephalomalacia, due to uncertainty of neurological outcome, further treatment was not pursued by the parents and the baby died a few days later.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report on the use of glue to treat VOGM prenatally. Though technically successful in correcting the in utero compromise, the baby eventually expired. Cases of in utero embolization using coils and glue have shown success in reversing prenatal pathology and improving survival. However, long‐term outcomes including neurological status are yet to be reported.
Investigate Performance of ATGF nanocomposite based on guar gum polymer for adsorption of Congo Red dye and alpha lipoic acid drug from wastewater: study kinetics and simulation
Authors: Tazimifar Fatemeh , Nazarizadeh Pegah , Akbarzadeh Ali Reza
Published: September 2024

In this study, the synthesized nanocomposite novel arginine/thiourea/guar gum/ferrite (ATGF) adsorbent was evaluated for the adsorption of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) and Congo Red (CR) from wastewater. The synthesized nanocomposite was examined by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller theory (BET), Termal gravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT‐IR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), and energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX). For the removal of ALA and CR from aqueous solution, the capacity of the nanocomposite was investigated by working on a series of experiments such as the effect of adsorbent dose, initial concentration, contact time, pH and temperature. The adsorption kinetics of these two pollutants were investigated using pseudo‐first‐order and pseudo‐second‐order velocity equations. The nanocomposite kinetics follow pseudo‐second‐order. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were investigated. The results show that the Langmuir isotherm model gives the maximum adsorption capacity of ALA as 96.93 mg g−1 and of CR as 229.34 mg g−1 on the nanocomposite. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
A cognitive‐behavioural psychoeducation intervention on childhood anxiety for school staff: A quantitative feasibility study
Authors: Nicola Elene , Mastroyannopoulou Kiki , Pass Laura
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a newly developed online psychoeducation intervention on childhood anxiety for school staff using a within groups pre‐post design. The intervention is informed by cognitive behavioural therapy principles. Seventy six participants volunteered to attend a brief online training, and complete two brief questionnaires pre and post the training. Following the intervention, school staff reported that they were significantly less likely to respond to children's anxious behaviours with anxiety‐promoting responses (i.e., sanctions, avoidance reinforcement and overprotection), and were more likely to respond with autonomy‐promoting responses in line with cognitive behavioural theory (i.e., problem‐solving, reward and encouragement). On average, participants found the intervention engaging, useful, suitable, appropriate and easy‐to‐access. Participants also reported that they felt more confident in understanding childhood anxiety and implementing anxiety strategies in their work following the intervention. Areas of development were noted regarding the drop‐out rates of the online intervention. Overall, the novel, online intervention appears to be a feasible and acceptable method for those who participated. In addition, the preliminary outcomes show promise and warrant further investigation. Limitations of the study are discussed with suggestions for future research and areas for improvement.