bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Postradiotherapy MRI‐Detected Lymph Node Necrosis and Pre‐ and Posttreatment Epstein–Barr Virus‐DNA for Risk Stratification in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Cao Di , Li Shaolong , Li Haojiang , Liu Lizhi , Wang Xiaoyi , Quan Tingting
Published: November 2022

Background

Residual lymphadenopathy and detectable Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) DNA after radiotherapy (RT) are known negative prognostic factors for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, there is a need to distinguish between patients with residual disease that will metastasize and those who will not.

Purpose

To develop a prognostic model to improve the risk stratification of NPC patients after RT.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Three hundred eighty‐seven NPC patients treated with RT between January 2010 and January 2013.

Field Strength/Sequence

T1‐, T2‐weighted and enhanced T1‐weighted imaging at 1.5 or 3.0 T pretreatment and 3–4 months post‐RT.

Assessment

Post‐RT central nodal necrosis (CNN) and other nodal characteristics on MRI were assessed by three radiologists independently. EBV DNA was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The association between these variables and the primary endpoint (5‐year distant metastasis‐free survival [DMFS], time from the day of diagnosis to any distant metastasis) was analyzed. Nomograms A (pre‐/posttreatment EBV‐DNA + N stage + post‐RT retropharyngeal lymph node [RLN] CNN), B (tumor‐node‐metastasis [TNM] stage + pretreatment EBV‐DNA), and C (TNM stage + post‐RT EBV‐DNA) were developed.

Statistical Tests

Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed with the Cox regression model. Nomograms were developed based on the Cox regression model and two prognostic models. The concordance index (C‐index) and calibration curve were used to evaluate the discriminative ability of the nomograms and TNM stage. P‐values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

Post‐RT RLN CNN was an independent prognostic factor for 5‐year DMFS (hazard ratio, 2.88 [1.48–5.62]). Nomogram A (C‐index 0.728 [0.660–0.797]) demonstrated better risk discrimination than nomogram B (0.638 [0.571–0.705]), nomogram C (0.707 [0.636–0.778]), and the TNM stage (0.587 [0.515–0.659]) for 5‐year DMFS in NPC.

Data Conclusion

Nomogram A combining pretreatment EBV‐DNA and N stage with post‐RT EBV‐DNA and RLN CNN improved the prognostic risk stratification for DMFS in NPC.

Evidence Level

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Oropharyngeal samples versus lesion specimens at diagnosis in patients infected with monkeypox virus in Northern France
Authors: Ouafi Mahdi , Regueme Alexandre , Alcaraz Isabelle , Riviere Pierre , Bazus Helène , Salmon‐Rousseau Arnaud , Cappeliez Bertrand , Cartier Noémie , Guigon Aurélie , Lazrek Mouna , Bocket Laurence , Faure Emmanuel , Robineau Olivier , Hober Didier , Alidjinou Enagnon Kazali
Published: November 2022

The ongoing outbreak of monkeypox virus (MPXV) is the largest one in historically non‐endemic countries. Early reports described atypical epidemiological and clinical presentations. We investigated MPXV DNA detection in oropharyngeal samples (OPS), and compared the viral load to that in lesion samples at diagnosis in patients infected with MPXV. We retrospectively included patients suspected to have monkeypox in Northern France, who underwent a MPXV PCR in the Virology Laboratory, University Hospital of Lille, from May 23 to August 18, 2022. Overall, a total of 228 patients (376 samples) were included. A positive result in at least one sample was found in 138 patients (60.5%). We compared PCR results between OPS and lesion samples (i.e., cutaneous or anal/rectal samples) in patients with both samples. A positive result in OPS was observed in 54 out of 60 patients (90%). The viral load in OPS (median Ct value = 29.5; interquartile range [IQR] = 24.7−34) was significantly lower than that in lesion samples (median Ct value = 17.8; IQR = 16.3 and 19.7) (p < 0.0001). This report shows that pharyngeal sampling does not bring additional information for the initial diagnosis in patients presenting with typical lesions.
A new zwitterionic surfactant with high interfacial activity and high salt tolerance derived from methyl oleate through an eco‐friendly aryl‐introducing method
Authors: Liu Fang‐Hui , Gao Cheng‐Long , Zhang Cui‐Cui , Gang Hong‐Ze , Mu Bo‐Zhong , Yang Shi‐Zhong
Published: November 2022

Surfactants, that can reduce the interfacial tension between crude oil and formation water to ultra‐low, are needed in tertiary oil recovery. A bio‐based zwitterionic surfactant, N‐phenylpropanaldehyde epoxy acetal octadecanoicamido propyl‐N, N‐dimethyl hydroxy sulfonate (PADS), was derived from methyl oleate. In the process of synthesizing PADS, a new reactive site was introduced by epoxidizing methyl oleate and then the benzene ring was introduced by acetalization, which was a greener new method of introducing benzene ring into hydrophobic chains of surfactants. PADS was identified by ESI‐MS and NMR, and its interfacial activity was measured by interfacial tensiometer. The results showed that PADS possessed excellent interfacial activity and potential for low‐dose application. Under alkali‐free conditions, it could reduce the interfacial tension between crude oil and simulated formation water to ultra‐low in a wide concentration range (0.005–3 g/L). In addition, although the NaCl concentration was 230 g/L in the system, PADS still had good interfacial activity and could maintain ultra‐low oil–water interfacial tension. The protocol of epoxidation and acetalization provides a new feasible path to preparing bio‐based surfactants with high interfacial activity.
Silencing of UCA1 attenuates the ox‐LDL‐induced injury of human umbilical vein endothelial cells via miR‐873‐5p/MAPK8 axis
Authors: Zhang Shu‐Xin , Yu Cheng‐Hong
Published: November 2022

LncRNA UCA1 plays a vital role in cardiovascular diseases. Endothelial cell dysfunction is a prerequisite for atherosclerosis (AS) development. However, the pathophysiological role of UCA1 in endothelial cell dysfunction induced by ox‐LDL remains obscure. Here, we observed that UCA1 was upregulated in the sera of patients with AS and ox‐LDL‐treated endothelial cells. UCA1 knockdown dramatically reduced the cell apoptosis induced by ox‐LDL and the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and ROS in endothelial cells. Mechanistically, we found that UCA1 directly targeted miR‐873‐5p. UCA1 knockdown increased, while UCA1 overexpression decreased the expression of miR‐873‐5p. Further, we found that mitogen‐activated protein kinase 8 (MAPK8) was a downstream target gene of miR‐873‐5p. MAPK8 overexpression or miR‐873‐5p knockdown reduced the enhancement of ox‐LDL‐induced cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, and pro‐inflammatory cytokine production conferred by UCA1 knockdown. In conclusion, UCA1 can protect Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells from ox‐LDL‐induced injury via the miR‐873‐5p/MAPK8 axis.
Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on patients with myasthenia gravis: A survey of the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America MG patient registry
Authors: De León Andrés M. , Aban Inmaculada , McPherson Tarrant , Granit Volkan , Benatar Michael , Cutter Gary , Lee Ikjae
Published: November 2022

Introduction/aims

Factors associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection among the myasthenia gravis (MG) population are incompletely understood. This study aimed to characterize the behavior of MG patients during the pandemic and to examine risk factors associated with COVID‐19 infection.

Methods

A “COVID‐19 Survey” was sent to MG Patient Registry participants in the summer of 2020 (CSS20) and winter of 2021 (CWS21). Survey results were summarized descriptively. Demographics, disease characteristics, medication use, and survey results were compared between those reporting COVID‐19 diagnosis (COVID), COVID‐19 like symptoms without diagnosis (COVID‐Like), and asymptomatic participants.

Results

A total of 454 and 665 participants completed the CSS20 and CWS21 surveys respectively; 326 participants completed both. Most continued follow‐up visits and MG treatments. The frequency of COVID‐like symptoms was similar between CSS20 and CWS21, while COVID‐19 exposure (6% vs. 27%), COVID‐19 testing among symptomatic individuals (35% vs. 78%), and COVID‐19 diagnosis (0.2% vs. 6%) were higher in the CWS21. Cough, fever, fatigue, myalgia, anosmia/ageusia, and hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions were more frequent in the COVID compared to the COVID‐Like group. COVID‐19 exposure (odds ratio [OR] 7.88), number of people in the household (OR 1.31), and report of MG exacerbation before the pandemic (OR 2.6) were independently associated with COVID‐19 infection.

Discussion

COVID‐19 affected MG patients increasingly through the early pandemic. While face‐to‐face contact with a COVID‐19 infected individual was an obvious risk factor, MG patients who had more people in the household and unstable disease were at elevated risk for COVID‐19 infection.
When do arts organizations merge? A window of opportunity for nonprofit mergers
Authors: Lee Rawon
Published: November 2022

Negative repercussions of the COVID‐19 pandemic have escalated a continued interest in mergers. Research on the reasons or preconditions for merger implementation remains insufficient, however. This study focused on mergers involving arts organizations (“arts mergers”) and identified a set of conditions that open up a window of opportunity for nonprofit merger implementation. Two arts mergers have been studied using grounded theory. This study finds that nonprofit mergers are implemented when a shared concern for long‐term financial viability is coupled with foreseeable merger benefits and provision of merger support by external sources. Additionally, this study reports new findings on arts mergers and their unique traits. Findings suggest that support for mergers or similar types of interorganizational integration can be an effective means for strengthening the long‐term sustainability of nonprofits and the sector at large.
The effects of commercialization on nonprofit efficiency and the moderating roles of government funding and organizational size
Authors: Hung ChiaKo , Berrett Jessica
Published: November 2022

Despite concerns raised by some scholars, recent publications have demonstrated that commercialization brings multiple benefits to nonprofits. However, while discussion of the positive effect of commercialization on nonprofit efficiency is on the rise in the literature, very few studies have empirically assessed the relationship. This study fills this gap by examining whether commercialization contributes to greater nonprofit efficiency and under what conditions this effect is more likely. Using fixed effects models with 2008–2018 data, the results from this study indicate that commercialization contributes to nonprofit efficiency in the performing arts subsector. Moreover, findings suggest that the relationship is more positive when performing arts nonprofits receive less government funding. The study concludes with implications for research and practice.
Starch remains from human teeth reveal the Bronze and Early Iron Ages vegetal diet of Xinjiang, Northwest China
Authors: You Sen , Wang Long , Olsen John W. , Guan Ying , Zhang Quanchao
Published: November 2022

China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region has long been a vital link between Europe and Eastern Asia. Xinjiang's geographical location and natural environment have led to unique dietary habits and traditions among both the region's modern inhabitants and their ancient forebears. Here, we report on the analysis of human dental residue samples unearthed from the Jiayi Cemetery, a 10th to 2nd century BCE mortuary complex located in the Turpan Basin, Xinjiang, generating ancient starch granules produced by vegetal foodstuffs. Morphological analysis of starch granules and comparative data indicate that crops of Triticeae tribe and subfamily Panicoideae comprised a large portion of the diet, whereas common legumes, nuts, root, and tuber were also present, although in relatively smaller proportions. The discovery of these plant starch granules in archaeological context provides direct evidence of the Jiayi population's vegetal diet and sheds light on agricultural practices during this period. With supporting evidence drawn from zooarchaeological, archaeobotanical, and paleo‐isotopic studies of Bronze Age sites in Xinjiang, we conclude that the people interred in the Jiayi Cemetery practiced cereal crop cultivation and animal husbandry in the Late Bronze and Early Iron Ages. The species of cereal crops represented suggest meaningful economic communication between Central and West Asia.
Utilities Can Lead the Way in Wise Water Use
Authors: Dimenna Lynda
Published: November 2022

Water is an essential resource, but this resource is limited. To protect it, water utilities must be able to provide safe, clean water to customers while minimizing their impact on the water supply and doing their best to increase efficiency where possible.
Asset Monitoring Stretches Infrastructure Investments
Authors: Kroll Dan
Published: November 2022

It's common sense to monitor and control for factors that can influence water and wastewater infrastructure longevity. Fortunately, there are a variety of lab and field methods available to help extend the useful life of infrastructure assets.
Modernize Asset Maintenance With Lessons From the Past
Authors: Blackwell Cole
Published: November 2022

Implementing an appropriate mix of maintenance approaches is key to maintaining water system assets over the long term.
Effect of ammonium polyphosphate on fire‐retardant, mechanical, and vibrational analysis of epoxy/glass/ramie hybrid composite
Authors: Thiyagu Chenniappan , NarendraKumar Uttamchand
Published: November 2022

Hybrid polymer composites (synthetic and/or natural fiber) are highly prominent in the fields of automotive, aerospace, construction, and marine. This work aims at developing a novel epoxy/glass/ramie (EGR) hybrid composite incorporated with ammonium polyphosphate (APP) using a vacuum bag technique, thus by changing the weight percentage of APP. The hybrid composites were characterized for the fire‐retardant (vertical and horizontal burning test), mechanical (hardness, tensile, and flexural testing), wettability, porosity (ethanol infiltration), and vibrational properties. The flammability data show that the hybrid composites made of 10, 15, and 20 weight percentages of APP obtained V‐1, V‐0, and V‐0 grades in the UL‐94 vertical burning test. Furthermore, there is an enhancement in hardness properties, but it reduces the tensile and flexural strength. However, the integration of APP reduces the water absorption rate of the composite from 11% to 5%. This study found that APP‐reinforced EGR hybrid composite improves fire resistance, thereby reducing the water absorption rate, which hikes the usage of the material for structural application.
Inherited pulmonary surfactant metabolism disorders in Argentina: Differences between patients with SFTPC and ABCA3 variants
Authors: Balinotti Juan E. , Mallie Camila , Maffey Alberto , Colom Alejandro , Epaud Ralph , de Becdelievre Alix , Fanen Pascale , Delestrain Céline , Medín Martín , Teper Alejandro
Published: November 2022

Background

Patients with inherited pulmonary surfactant metabolism disorders have a wide range of clinical outcomes and imaging findings. Response to current anti‐inflammatory therapies has been variable and efficacy is unclear.

Objective

To describe and compare genetic, clinical, histological, and computed tomography (CT) outcomes in a cohort of patients with variants in the genes encoding surfactant protein C (SP‐C) or adenosine triphosphate‐binding cassette transporter A3 (ABCA3) in Argentina.

Methods

Observational cohort retrospective study. Patients carrying variants in genes encoding SP‐C and ABCA3 proteins were included.

Results

Fourteen patients met the inclusion criteria: SFTPC n = 6, ABCA3 n = 8 (seven were heterozygous and one compound heterozygous). Neonatal respiratory distress was more frequent and severe in neonates with variants in the ABCA3 gene. The onset of the disease occurred in infancy before the age of 20 months in all cases. Patients with ABCA3 pathogenic variants had a severe clinical course, while long‐term outcomes were more favorable in individuals with SFTPC variants. Initial CT findings were ground glass opacities and intraparenchymal cysts in both groups. Over time, signs of lung fibrosis were present in 57% of patients with ABCA3 variants and in 33% of the SFTPC group. The efficacy of anti‐inflammatory interventions appears to be poor, especially for patients with ABCA3 pathogenic variants.

Conclusions

Clinical, histological, and radiological features are similar in patients with SFTPC and ABCA3 variants; however, the latter have more severe clinical course. Current anti‐inflammatory regimens do not appear to stop the progression of the disease.
A backbone‐dependent rotamer library with high (ϕ, ψ) coverage using metadynamics simulations
Authors: Mortensen Jennifer C. , Damjanovic Jovan , Miao Jiayuan , Hui Tiffani , Lin Yu‐Shan
Published: November 2022

Backbone‐dependent rotamer libraries are commonly used to assign the side chain dihedral angles of amino acids when modeling protein structures. Most rotamer libraries are created by curating protein crystal structure data and using various methods to extrapolate the existing data to cover all possible backbone conformations. However, these rotamer libraries may not be suitable for modeling the structures of cyclic peptides and other constrained peptides because these molecules frequently sample backbone conformations rarely seen in the crystal structures of linear proteins. To provide backbone‐dependent side chain information beyond the α‐helix, β‐sheet, and PPII regions, we used explicit‐solvent metadynamics simulations of model dipeptides to create a new rotamer library that has high coverage in the (ϕ, ψ) space. Furthermore, this approach can be applied to build high‐coverage rotamer libraries for noncanonical amino acids. The resulting Metadynamics of Dipeptides for Rotamer Distribution (MEDFORD) rotamer library predicts the side chain conformations of high‐resolution protein crystal structures with similar accuracy (~80%) to a state‐of‐the‐art rotamer library. Our ability to test the accuracy of MEDFORD at predicting the side chain dihedral angles of amino acids in noncanonical backbone conformation is restricted by the limited structural data available for cyclic peptides. For the cyclic peptide data that are currently available, MEDFORD and the state‐of‐the‐art rotamer library perform comparably. However, the two rotamer libraries indeed make different rotamer predictions in noncanonical (ϕ, ψ) regions. For noncanonical amino acids, the MEDFORD rotamer library predicts the χ1 values with approximately 75% accuracy.
Antidiabetic drugs, glycemic control and risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Nygård Lotta H. , Talala Kirsi , Taari Kimmo , Tammela Teuvo L. J. , Auvinen Anssi , Murtola Teemu J.
Published: November 2022

Background

Diabetes has been associated with an increased risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, the role of antidiabetic drugs as a BPH risk factor is unclear. The objective of our study was to examine the risk of BPH by antidiabetic drug use and glycemic control in a large population‐based cohort of Finnish men.

Methods

A total of 74,754 men in the Finnish Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer (FinRSPC) free of BPH at baseline in 1996–1999 were linked to the national medication reimbursement database for information on physician‐prescribed antidiabetic drug purchases. Information on recorded BPH procedures and diagnoses was obtained from the National Care Register for Health Care, and for a subgroup of 17,739 men, information on blood glucose levels (BGLs) from the Fimlab Laboratories database. Cox regression with antidiabetic drug use and BGL as time‐dependent variables was used to analyze the risks for starting BPH medication, recorded BPH diagnosis, and undergoing BPH surgery. The analysis was adjusted for age, use of statins, antihypertensive medication, and nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs.

Results

Of the subjects, 14,012 men (18.7%) used antidiabetic medication. Of the subgroup with fasting blood glucose data available, 7487 (42.2%) had diabetic level. The risks for BPH diagnosis (HR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.03–1.13) and surgery (HR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.09–1.24) were slightly elevated among antidiabetic drug users compared to nonusers. The association was strongest for insulin use. Similarly, risk of BPH surgery was increased in men with diabetic blood glucose compared to normoglycemic men. The risk association was attenuated by use of antidiabetic drugs.

Conclusions

Diabetic BGL and antidiabetic medication use, especially insulin, are associated with an elevated risk of BPH surgery compared to nondiabetic men. These findings support the roles of insulin use and untreated hyperglycemia as possible BPH risk factors.
Mean square leader‐following consensus of heterogeneous multi‐agent systems with Markovian switching topologies and communication delays
Authors: Guo Haihua , Meng Min , Feng Gang
Published: November 2022

This article considers the mean square leader‐following output consensus problem of heterogeneous multi‐agent systems under randomly switching topologies and time‐varying communication delays. By modeling the switching topologies as a time‐homogeneous Markov process and taking the communication delays into consideration, a distributed observer is proposed to estimate the state of the leader. A novel distributed output feedback controller is then designed. By constructing a novel switching Lyapunov functional, an easily‐verifiable sufficient condition to achieve the mean square leader‐following output consensus is given. Finally, two simulation examples are presented to show the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Comparative study on overall and local static performance of steel open‐web girders
Authors: Yuchun Wang , Zhiqiang Bai , Huagang Zhang , Kejian Ma , Jing Chen , Zidong Tian , Fang Yu
Published: November 2022

To quantify the mechanical properties of five types of steel open‐web girders that have been tested or applied in practical engineering, a systematic study of the overall and local mechanical properties of steel open‐web girders based on the same dimensions and material conditions was presented. An overall study of the quasi‐intersection beam method for shear deformation was introduced for 8 × 8 grid open‐web girders to derive the determinants of the load distribution factor. Based on the load distribution factors, the essence and formula of any shear key node domain (SKND) were derived theoretically. The reliability of the numerical model was verified by tests on the H‐type unidirectional SKNDs, which led to a comparative load–displacement study of unidirectional and bidirectional SKNDs. Quantitative results of the overall flexural capacity and SKND load capacity of the H‐type, TH‐type, TS‐type, T‐type, and DT‐type open‐web girders were obtained. The maximum shear deformation in the elastic phase of the five open‐web girders accounted for 39.04% to 54.76% of the overall deformation. In this study, the adjustment factors of the modeling analysis based on the current practical design of equivalent dense‐ribbed solid beams (DRSBs) were revised. A method of SKND's design load capacity under the action of bidirectional forces was put forward for the first time.
Methods for downhole soil water sensor calibration—Complications of bulk density and water content variations
Authors: Evett Steven R. , Marek Gary W. , Colaizzi Paul D. , Copeland Karen S. , Ruthardt Brice B.
Published: November 2022

Downhole soil volumetric water content (VWC) sensors are used in access tubes to assess the soil water content at multiple depths. If sensor readings are spaced closely enough vertically and are accurate enough, then accurate soil profile water content storage and change in storage can be determined over the depth range of readings, leading to accurate estimates of evapotranspiration (ET) if readings extend to well below the root zone. Even if sensing only covers the active root zone, soil water depletion may be determined well enough to inform irrigation scheduling. While sensor accuracy is dependent on many factors, including the sensor's physical principle of operation, soil‐specific calibration is typically required for good accuracy. In soils with multiple horizons (layers) of different texture, bulk density (BD), or chemical composition, horizon‐specific calibrations may be necessary. We describe methods and equipment used for downhole sensor calibration to typical accuracy of <0.01 m3 m−3 with specific reference to calibration of 10 neutron scattering meters in a soil that required three different horizon‐specific calibrations. Our results contrast with the factory calibration, which would result in a 38‐mm error in water stored in a 1.5‐m deep profile of our soil. We describe variability of measured VWC and BD with depth, distance, and water content and the errors that result from using BD to convert mass basis (g g−1) water content data to VWC data, which can be as much as 35 mm (7.26% underestimation) for soil water storage in a 1.5‐m deep profile of our soil.
Automatic planning of the lower extremities for total marrow irradiation using volumetric modulated arc therapy
Authors: Lambri Nicola , Dei Damiano , Hernandez Victor , Castiglioni Isabella , Clerici Elena , Crespi Leonardo , De Philippis Chiara , Loiacono Daniele , Navarria Pierina , Reggiori Giacomo , Rusconi Roberto , Tomatis Stefano , Bramanti Stefania , Scorsetti Marta , Mancosu Pietro
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Total marrow (and lymphoid) irradiation (TMI-TMLI) is limited by the couch travel range of modern linacs, which forces the treatment delivery to be split into two plans with opposite orientations: a head-first supine upper-body plan, and a feet-first supine lower extremities plan. A specific field junction is thus needed to obtain adequate target coverage in the overlap region of the two plans. In this study, an automatic procedure was developed for field junction creation and lower extremities plan optimization.

Methods

Ten patients treated with TMI-TMLI at our institution were selected retrospectively. The planning of the lower extremities was performed automatically. Target volume parameters (CTV_J‑V98% > 98%) at the junction region and several dose statistics (D98%, Dmean, and D2%) were compared between automatic and manual plans. The modulation complexity score (MCS) was used to assess plan complexity.

Results

The automatic procedure required 60–90 min, depending on the case. All automatic plans achieved clinically acceptable dosimetric results (CTV_J‑V98% > 98%), with significant differences found at the junction region, where Dmean and D2% increased on average by 2.4% (p < 0.03) and 3.0% (p < 0.02), respectively. Similar plan complexity was observed (median MCS = 0.12). Since March 2022, the automatic procedure has been introduced in our clinic, reducing the TMI-TMLI simulation-to-delivery schedule by 2 days.

Conclusion

The developed procedure allowed treatment planning of TMI-TMLI to be streamlined, increasing efficiency and standardization, preventing human errors, while maintaining the dosimetric plan quality and complexity of manual plans. Automated strategies can simplify the future adoption and clinical implementation of TMI-TMLI treatments in new centers.
Calciprotein Particle Synthesis Strategy Determines In Vitro Calcification Potential
Authors: Zeper Lara W. , Smith Edward R. , ter Braake Anique D. , Tinnemans Paul T. , de Baaij Jeroen H. F. , Hoenderop Joost G. J.
Published: November 2022

Circulating calciprotein particles (CPP), colloids of calcium, phosphate and proteins, were identified as potential drivers of the calcification process in chronic kidney disease. The present study compared CPP produced using different protocols with respect to particle morphology, composition, particle number and in vitro calcification potency. CPP were synthesized with 4.4 mM (CPP-A and B) or 6 mM (CPP-C and D) phosphate and 2.8 mM (CPP-A and B) or 10 mM (CPP-C and D) calcium, with either bovine fetuin-A (CPP-C) or fetal bovine serum (CPP-A, B and D) as a source of protein, and incubated for 7 (CPP-A2) or 14 days (CPP-B2), 12 h (CPP-C2, D2 and B1) or 30 min (CPP-D1). Particle number was determined with nanoparticle tracking and calcium content was measured in CPP preparations and to determine human vascular smooth muscle cell (hVSMC) calcification. Morphologically, CPP-C2 were the largest. Particle number did not correspond to the calcium content of CPP. Both methods of quantification resulted in variable potencies of CPP2 to calcify VSMC, with CPP-B2 as most stable inducer of hVSMC calcification. In contrast, CPP-B1 and D1 were unable to induce calcification of hVSMC, and endogenous CPP derived from pooled serum of dialysis patients were only able to calcify hVSMC to a small extent compared to CPP2.

CPP synthesized using different protocols appear morphologically similar, but in vitro calcification potency is dependent on composition and how the CPP are quantified. Synthetic CPP are not comparable to endogenous CPP in terms of the calcification propensity.
Large-scale demonstration of machine learning for the detection of volcanic deformation in Sentinel-1 satellite imagery
Authors: Biggs Juliet , Anantrasirichai Nantheera , Albino Fabien , Lazecky Milan , Maghsoudi Yasser
Published: November 2022

Radar (SAR) satellites systematically acquire imagery that can be used for volcano monitoring, characterising magmatic systems and potentially forecasting eruptions on a global scale. However, exploiting the large dataset is limited by the need for manual inspection, meaning timely dissemination of information is challenging. Here we automatically process ~ 600,000 images of > 1000 volcanoes acquired by the Sentinel-1 satellite in a 5-year period (2015–2020) and use the dataset to demonstrate the applicability and limitations of machine learning for detecting deformation signals. Of the 16 volcanoes flagged most often, 5 experienced eruptions, 6 showed slow deformation, 2 had non-volcanic deformation and 3 had atmospheric artefacts. The detection threshold for the whole dataset is 5.9 cm, equivalent to a rate of 1.2 cm/year over the 5-year study period. We then use the large testing dataset to explore the effects of atmospheric conditions, land cover and signal characteristics on detectability and find that the performance of the machine learning algorithm is primarily limited by the quality of the available data, with poor coherence and slow signals being particularly challenging. The expanding dataset of systematically acquired, processed and flagged images will enable the quantitative analysis of volcanic monitoring signals on an unprecedented scale, but tailored processing will be needed for routine monitoring applications.
On piecewise linear approximations of bilinear terms: structural comparison of univariate and bivariate mixed-integer programming formulations
Authors: Bärmann Andreas , Burlacu Robert , Hager Lukas , Kleinert Thomas
Published: November 2022

Bilinear terms naturally appear in many optimization problems. Their inherent non-convexity typically makes them challenging to solve. One approach to tackle this difficulty is to use bivariate piecewise linear approximations for each variable product, which can be represented via mixed-integer linear programming (MIP) formulations. Alternatively, one can reformulate the variable products as a sum of univariate functions. Each univariate function can again be approximated by a piecewise linear function and modelled via an MIP formulation. In the literature, heterogeneous results are reported concerning which approach works better in practice, but little theoretical analysis is provided. We fill this gap by structurally comparing bivariate and univariate approximations with respect to two criteria. First, we compare the number of simplices sufficient for an $$ \varepsilon $$
ε
-approximation. We derive upper bounds for univariate approximations and compare them to a lower bound for bivariate approximations. We prove that for a small prescribed approximation error $$ \varepsilon $$
ε
, univariate $$ \varepsilon $$
ε
-approximations require fewer simplices than bivariate $$ \varepsilon $$
ε
-approximations. The second criterion is the tightness of the continuous relaxations (CR) of corresponding sharp MIP formulations. Here, we prove that the CR of a bivariate MIP formulation describes the convex hull of a variable product, the so-called McCormick relaxation. In contrast, we show by a volume argument that the CRs corresponding to univariate approximations are strictly looser. This allows us to explain many of the computational effects observed in the literature and to give theoretical evidence on when to use which kind of approximation.
A Weekly Diary Study on Playful Study Design, Study Engagement, and Goal Attainment: The Role of Proactive Personality
Authors: Wang Huatian , Ren Yue , Liu Wei
Published: November 2022

Students’ learning processes are heavily impeded by the COVID-19 pandemic. Students are experiencing more online learning environment and less face-to-face idea exchange, which may make them feel exhausted and demotivated. Using self-determination and proactivity theories, we propose and examine whether playful study design (PSD)—a proactive study strategy including designing fun and designing competition in learning tasks—is effective in fostering study engagement, which, in turn, improves study goal attainment during the COVID-19 period. Moreover, we examine whether students who are high in proactive personality will benefit more (e.g., reach a higher level of study engagement) when using the PSD strategy. We collected data using a weekly diary approach during four consecutive weeks, including 97 people and 308 within-person observations. Results of multilevel analyses showed that weekly PSD was positively related to weekly study engagement, and in turn, facilitated weekly goal attainment. Moreover, we found that proactive personality moderated and strengthened the positive associations between PSD and goal attainment, study engagement and goal attainment, but not for the relationship between PSD and study engagement. Overall, we provide one of the first attempts to demonstrate how PSD strategy can be used in student study life to improve study engagement and reach their goals. We shed light on how proactive personality can safeguard the success of PSD strategy. Theoretical and practical contributions are discussed.
Language Change and Cognitive Linguistics
Authors: Nesset Tore
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this Cambridge Element is to bring together three subfields of the language sciences: cognitive, historical (diachronic), and Russian linguistics. Although diachrony has inspired a number of important works in recent years, historical linguistics is still underrepresented in cognitive linguistics, and the most influential publications mainly concern the history of English. This is an unfortunate bias, especially since its lack of morphological complexity makes English a typologically unusual language. In this Cambridge Element, the author demonstrates that Russian has a lot to offer the historically oriented cognitive linguist, given its well-documented history and complex phonology and morpho-syntax. Through seven case studies the author illustrates the relevance of four basic tenets of Cognitive Grammar: the cognitive, semiotic, network, and usage-based commitments.
Prefacing unexplored archives from Central Andean surface-to-bedrock ice cores through a multifaceted investigation of regional firn and ice core glaciochemistry
Authors: Clifford Heather M. , Potocki Mariusz , Rodda Charles , Dixon Daniel , Birkel Sean , Handley Michael , Korotkikh Elena , Introne Douglas , Schwanck Franciele , Tavares Flavia A. , Bernardo Ronaldo T. , Lindau Filipe G. L. , Gomez Oscar Vilca , Jara-Infantes Harrison , Urviola Victor Bustínza , Perry L. Baker , Maurer Jonathan , Seimon Anton , Schwikowski Margit , Casassa Gino , Hou Shugui , Kurbatov Andrei V. , Miner Kimberley R. , Simões Jefferson C. , Mayewski Paul A.
Published: November 2022

Shallow firn cores, in addition to a near-basal ice core, were recovered in 2018 from the Quelccaya ice cap (5470 m a.s.l) in the Cordillera Vilcanota, Peru, and in 2017 from the Nevado Illimani glacier (6350 m a.s.l) in the Cordillera Real, Bolivia. The two sites are ~450 km apart. Despite meltwater percolation resulting from warming, particle-based trace element records (e.g. Fe, Mg, K) in the Quelccaya and Illimani shallow cores retain well-preserved signals. The firn core chronologies, established independently by annual layer counting, show a convincing overlap indicating the two records contain comparable signals and therefore capture similar regional scale climatology. Trace element records at a ~1–4 cm resolution provide past records of anthropogenic emissions, dust sources, volcanic emissions, evaporite salts and marine-sourced air masses. Using novel ultra-high-resolution (120 μm) laser technology, we identify annual layer thicknesses ranging from 0.3 to 0.8 cm in a section of 2000-year-old radiocarbon-dated near-basal ice which compared to the previous annual layer estimates suggests that Quelccaya ice cores drilled to bedrock may be older than previously suggested by depth-age models. With the information collected from this study in combination with past studies, we emphasize the importance of collecting new surface-to-bedrock ice cores from at least the Quelccaya ice cap, in particular, due to its projected disappearance as soon as the 2050s.
Effectiveness of the low-FODMAP diet in improving non-celiac gluten sensitivity: a systematic review
Authors: Fernandes Dias Luisa Bittencourt de Aquino , Kobus Rafaela Alexia , Bagolin do Nascimento Amanda
Published: November 2022

Non-celiac gluten sensitivity is characterised by the presence of gastrointestinal and extraintestinal symptoms following gluten ingestion. Recent studies suggested an association between non-celiac gluten sensitivity and the consumption of fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAP). This systematic review aimed to examine literature evidence on the relationship between non-celiac gluten sensitivity and FODMAP intake. A comprehensive search was carried out for randomised clinical trials addressing gastrointestinal symptoms as the primary outcome, published between 2010 and 2020 in Portuguese, English or Spanish, and indexed in Scopus, PubMed, SciELO, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Embase or VHL (LILACS) databases. The systematic review was performed using the population, intervention, comparison and outcome (PICO) framework. A total of 1133 articles were retrieved for further assessment. Three articles were selected for systematic review, one of which included two interventions with different periods and assessments. Quality of evidence was assessed according to the GRADE protocol. The selected articles used different instruments to measure gastrointestinal symptoms and quality of life, hindering comparison of data. Clinical trials identified an association between decreased gastrointestinal symptoms and FODMAP restriction. There are few studies on the topic, and those available used different instruments to assess gastrointestinal symptoms and quality of life. Nevertheless, current evidence supports the gluten-free diet still represents first-line therapy. However, a FODMAP restriction can decrease gastrointestinal symptoms in individuals with non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Further research is needed to confirm this finding.
The twofold challenge for Karen Baptist intellectuals in colonial Burma: A national claim and its failure
Authors: Fujimura Hitomi
Published: November 2022

Two years after the Anglo-Burmese War, with the British colonial takeover of Burma complete and yet still subject to outbreaks of rebellions, a small group of Karen Baptist intellectuals in Rangoon who formed the Karen National Association (KNA), attempted to assert a political claim to Karen nationhood. This article focuses on two letters, in English and Sgaw Karen, presented by Karen delegates on the occasion of the ceremony to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1887 in Rangoon, to investigate the colonial politics of loyalty and national claim. It argues that the letters were written for two different audiences, and by doing so the Karen Baptists were asserting dual claims; one directed at the British colonial authorities and the other, the wider population of Karen in Burma, with their multiple Karennic languages and religious and other affiliations. Both appeals failed to get the desired responses, however. This article then discusses the contradiction that this assertion of Karen nationhood alienated the Baptist leaders from their own diverse community.
An Indigenous perspective on the conservation of an insular endemic: the prehensile-tailed skink Corucia zebrata on the Solomon Islands
Authors: Pikacha Patrick G. , Boseto David , Tigulu Ikuo , Boseto Hensllyn , Hurutarao Josef , Lavery Tyrone H.
Published: November 2022

The prehensile-tailed skink Corucia zebrata is endemic to the Solomon Islands. It is the most traded reptile from the country. During 2000–2019, CITES reported the legal export of 10,567 individuals. Although the level of this trade is well documented, impacts on the skink's survival in its native range are comparatively unknown. During January–May 2020, we surveyed 146 people on 12 islands to collect information on the habitats preferred by the prehensile-tailed skink, to understand perceptions of the species' conservation status and identify any potential threats. Respondents reported lowland and hill forests as being favoured habitats, with low proportions of respondents identifying coastal and montane forests as suitable habitat. Habitat loss (72%), hunting (17%), and predation (6%) were identified as the main threats. People younger than 30 years of age reported killing the skinks more frequently than did people over the age of 30. Prehensile-tailed skinks have a relatively small home range, long reproductive cycle, and are vulnerable to numerous threats. We thus recommend a halt to the current practice of exporting wild-caught prehensile-tailed skinks, and replacement by a well-regulated captive breeding programme.
Towards customised sovereignty: West Nordic societies in the new great power rivalry
Authors: Kobzeva Mariia
Published: November 2022

Two factors historically played a decisive role in the West Nordic region’s affairs: its strategic location and small societies’ long struggle for independence. The current power balance shift challenges the progress of Iceland, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland towards strengthening their independence and sovereignty. The research suggests a theoretical contemplation of the West Nordic region’s shifting practices of sovereignty in current affairs with Russia and China amid the US’ patronage. Drawing on the model of Patron-Client relations, the article considers the US as a patron state for the West Nordic region, whereas Iceland, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland are discussed as clients. The Kingdom of Denmark is regarded as a junior patron due to its intermediate position in relations with the US on the one hand and the Faroe Islands and Greenland on the other. Russia and China are addressed as patron adversaries. The research enquires as to whether any of the two US opponents advertise themselves as alternative patrons for the West Nordic region and what explains the weak or alarmist US reactions to Russia and China initiatives in the region. Special focus is on the comparison of the three great powers’ behaviour in the region. Major findings raise the discussion of customisation of sovereignty and its consequences for future relations in the West Nordic and globally.
Changing Cultural Landscapes: The Case of Post-German Territories in Poland
Authors: Bedyński Wojciech
Published: November 2022

Cultural landscapes of Central-Eastern Europe have been devastated by the Second World War and its consequences. Thinking of demolished cities and destroyed historical buildings, one can easily forget about the intangible part of the landscape, so to the narratives standing behind what we see. These were more affected by the unprecedented mass forced migrations that happened after the military actions had ceased. Among the territories that almost completely changed their population over a very short time after the war were the so-called ‘Recovered Territories’, i.e. former German lands attributed to Poland after the Yalta and Potsdam conferences. New inhabitants, who in the majority came there from former Polish territories in the East, found themselves in a ‘land without landscape’, where everything needed new names and reinterpretation.
Modeling Urban Impact on Zhengzhou Storm on July 20, 2021
Authors: Huang Xiaowen , Wang Dashan , Li Laurent Z. X. , Li Qi , Zeng Zhenzhong
Published: November 2022

The heavy storm event that occurred from 18 to 22 July 2021, in Henan province caused severe floods and casualties, especially in the provincial city, Zhengzhou. While the impacts of large‐scale synoptic systems and local‐scale orographic effects on the storm event have been studied, the role of urbanization remains unexplored. Using Weather Research and Forecasting model, the study designed two numerical experiments, differentiated by the presence of urban land cover, to investigate the urban impact on the storm event over Henan province, with a focus on Zhengzhou. Urbanization increases precipitation in the major urban area of Zhengzhou and its south, western Kaifeng, and western Xuchang, where the largest increases reach from 188.2 to 304.4 mm. Further investigation into Zhengzhou city reveals that urbanization leads to shifted precipitation center and stagnation in the major urban area, resulting in earlier peak rainfall time and more concentrated precipitation. Elevated surface temperature and sensible heat are identified before the peak rainfall arrives, which leads to increased planet boundary layer height, suggesting the contribution of the urban heat island effect. Thermal perturbation and increased surface roughness over urban areas promote vertical uplift and moisture convergence, increasing water vapor and forming storm system drags during the peak precipitation time, thus bringing earlier and higher amounts of precipitation to the major urban area and its south. The study calls for the consideration of the urban effect of extreme storm events and the precaution against waterlogging over urban areas in rapid‐developing cities.