bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Phase I Study of the Oral Dual-Acting Pan-PI3K/mTOR Inhibitor Bimiralisib in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Janku Filip , Choong Grace M. , Opyrchal Mateusz , Dowlati Afshin , Hierro Cinta , Rodon Jordi , Wicki Andreas , Forster Martin D. , Blagden Sarah P. , Yin Jun , Reid Joel M. , Muller Helene , Cmiljanovic Natasa , Cmiljanovic Vladimir , Adjei Alex A.
Published: March 2024

Background: Bimiralisib is a pan-PI3K/mTOR inhibitor demonstrating antitumor efficacy in preclinical models. The objectives of this study were to identify a maximum tolerated dose (MTD), pharmacokinetics (PK), a dosing schedule, and adverse events (AEs) in patients with advanced solid tumors. Patients and Methods: Patients received oral bimiralisib to determine the MTD of one continuous (once daily) and two intermittent schedules (A: Days 1, 2 weekly; B: Days 1, 4 weekly) until progression or unacceptable AEs occurred. Results: The MTD for the continuous schedule was 80 mg, with grade three fatigue as the dose-limiting toxicity (DLT). No MTD was reached with intermittent schedules, with only one DLT in schedule B. PK analysis suggested that 140 mg (schedule A) was within the biologically active dose range and was selected for further exploration. The most frequent treatment-emergent AEs were hyperglycemia (76.2%) in the continuous schedule, and nausea (56–62.5%) in schedules A and B. The most frequent treatment-emergent > grade three AE for all schedules combined was hyperglycemia (28.6%, continuous schedule; 12.0%, schedule A; 12.5%, schedule B). There was one partial response in a head and neck squamous cancer patient with a NOTCH1T1997M mutation. Conclusions: Bimiralisib demonstrated a manageable AE profile consistent with this compound class. Intermittent schedules had fewer > grade three AEs, while also maintaining favorable PK profiles. Intermittent schedule A is proposed for further development in biomarker-selected patient populations.
Ten-Year Results of Accelerated Partial-Breast Irradiation with Interstitial Multicatheter Brachytherapy after Breast-Conserving Surgery for Low-Risk Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Rodríguez-Ibarria Nieves G. , Pinar Beatriz , García Laura , Cabezón Auxiliadora , Rey-Baltar Dolores , Rodríguez-Melcón Juan Ignacio , Lloret Marta , Lara Pedro C.
Published: March 2024

Patients with an early carcinoma of the breast are commonly treated by breast-conserving surgery (BCS) and postoperative radiotherapy. Partial-breast irradiation has gained acceptance in the last few years. Between December 2008 and December 2017, 182 low-risk breast cancer patients treated by BCS in the four university hospitals of the province of Las Palmas and treated with APBI using interstitial multicatheter brachytherapy were included in this study. After a mean follow-up for survivors of 10 years, the treatment was shown to be safe, as no severe acute/late toxicity (grade ≥ 3) was observed. The 10-year IBTR was 1.7% (95%CI: 0.7–2.7%), and the cause-specific survival was 94.9% (95%CI: 93.2–96.6%). We suggest that multicatheter brachytherapy after BCS is safe and effective in early breast cancer patients.
Performance of MRI for Detection of ≥pT1b Disease in Local Staging of Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Van Vynckt Leonie , Tummers Philippe , Denys Hannelore , Göker Menekse , Hendrickx Sigi , Naert Eline , Salihi Rawand , Van de Vijver Koen , van Ramshorst Gabriëlle H. , Van Weehaeghe Donatienne , Vandecasteele Katrien , Villeirs Geert M. , De Visschere Pieter J. L.
Published: March 2024

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used for the preoperative local staging of endometrial cancer (EC). The presence of ≥pT1b disease (i.e., tumor invasion in ≥50% of the myometrium, into the cervical stroma or spread outside the uterus) has important prognostic value and implications for the decision to perform lymphadenectomy. The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of MRI for the detection of ≥pT1b disease and to evaluate whether tumor size measured via MRI was predictive for ≥pT1b disease, independent of imaging signs of deep invasion. MRI T-staging and tumor diameter and volume were correlated with histopathology of the hysterectomy specimen in 126 patients. MRI had a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of 70.0%, 83.3%, 79.2%, 75.3% and 77.0%, respectively, for the detection of ≥pT1b disease. A tumor diameter of ≥40 mm and volume of ≥20 mL measured via MRI were predictive for ≥pT1b disease at rates of 78.3% and 87.1%, respectively. An EC size of at least 5 mm upon MRI was predictive for ≥pT1b disease in more than 50% of cases. Our results support the use of MRI in the preoperative staging of EC and suggest including size criteria in EC staging guidelines.
Decrease in Heparan Sulphate Binding in Tropism-Retargeted Oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus (ReHV) Delays Blood Clearance and Improves Systemic Anticancer Efficacy
Authors: Vannini Andrea , Parenti Federico , Forghieri Cristina , Vannini Gaia , Barboni Catia , Zaghini Anna , Gianni Tatiana , Campadelli-Fiume Gabriella
Published: March 2024

The role of the interaction with cell-surface glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) during in vivo HSV infection is currently unknown. The rationale of the current investigation was to improve the anticancer efficacy of systemically administered retargeted oHSVs (ReHVs) by decreasing their binding to GAGs, including those of endothelial cells, blood cells, and off-tumor tissues. As a proof-of-principle approach, we deleted seven amino acids critical for interacting with GAGs from the glycoprotein C (gC) of R-337 ReHV. The modification in the resulting R-399 recombinant prolonged the half-life in the blood of systemically administered R-399 and enhanced its biodistribution to tumor-positive lungs and to the tumor-negative liver. Ultimately, it greatly increased the R-399 efficacy against metastatic-like lung tumors upon IV administration but not against subcutaneous tumors upon IT administration. These results provide evidence that the increased efficacy seen upon R-399 systemic administration correlated with the slower clearance from the circulation. To our knowledge, this is the first in vivo evidence that the partial impairment of the gC interaction with GAGs resulted in a prolonged half-life of circulating ReHV, an increase in the amount of ReHV taken up by tissues and tumors, and, ultimately, an enhanced anticancer efficacy of systemically administered ReHV.
The Exon Junction Complex Factor RBM8A in Glial Fibrillary Acid Protein-Expressing Astrocytes Modulates Locomotion Behaviors
Authors: Asthana Shravan , Mott Jennifer , Tong Mabel , Pei Zifei , Mao Yingwei
Published: March 2024

The role of RNA Binding Motif Protein 8a (RBM8A), an exon junction complex (EJC) component, in neurodevelopmental disorders has been increasingly studied for its crucial role in regulating multiple levels of gene expression. It regulates mRNA splicing, translation, and mRNA degradation and influences embryonic development. RBM8A protein is expressed in both neurons and astrocytes, but little is known about RBM8A’s specific role in glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP)-positive astrocytes. To address the role of RBM8A in astrocytes, we generated a conditional heterozygous knockout (KO) mouse line of Rbm8a in astrocytes using a GFAP-cre line. We confirmed a decreased expression of RBM8A in astrocytes of heterozygous conditional KO mice via RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing, as well as qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot. Interestingly, these mice exhibit significantly increased movement and mobility, alongside sex-specific altered anxiety in the open field test (OFT) and elevated plus maze (OPM) tests. These tests, along with the rotarod test, suggest that these mice have normal motor coordination but hyperactive phenotypes. In addition, the haploinsufficiency of Rbm8a in astrocytes leads to a sex-specific change in astrocyte density in the dentate gyrus. This study further reveals the contribution of Rbm8a deletion to CNS pathology, generating more insights via the glial lens of an Rbm8a model of neurodevelopmental disorder.
Implementing Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) in Clinical Practice: Advantages, Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Brlek Petar , Bulić Luka , Bračić Matea , Projić Petar , Škaro Vedrana , Shah Nidhi , Shah Parth , Primorac Dragan
Published: March 2024

The integration of whole genome sequencing (WGS) into all aspects of modern medicine represents the next step in the evolution of healthcare. Using this technology, scientists and physicians can observe the entire human genome comprehensively, generating a plethora of new sequencing data. Modern computational analysis entails advanced algorithms for variant detection, as well as complex models for classification. Data science and machine learning play a crucial role in the processing and interpretation of results, using enormous databases and statistics to discover new and support current genotype–phenotype correlations. In clinical practice, this technology has greatly enabled the development of personalized medicine, approaching each patient individually and in accordance with their genetic and biochemical profile. The most propulsive areas include rare disease genomics, oncogenomics, pharmacogenomics, neonatal screening, and infectious disease genomics. Another crucial application of WGS lies in the field of multi-omics, working towards the complete integration of human biomolecular data. Further technological development of sequencing technologies has led to the birth of third and fourth-generation sequencing, which include long-read sequencing, single-cell genomics, and nanopore sequencing. These technologies, alongside their continued implementation into medical research and practice, show great promise for the future of the field of medicine.
The Influence of Additional Treatments on the Survival of Patients Undergoing Transarterial Radioembolization (TARE)
Authors: Quartuccio Natale , Ialuna Salvatore , Scalisi Daniele , D’Amato Fabio , Barcellona Maria Rosa , Bavetta Maria Grazia , Fusco Giorgio , Bronte Enrico , Musso Emma , Bronte Fabrizio , Picciotto Viviana , Carroccio Antonio , Verderame Francesco , Malizia Giuseppe , Cistaro Angelina , La Gattuta Fabio , Moreci Antonino Maria
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to present our preliminary experience with transarterial radioembolization (TARE) using Yttrium-90 (90Y), compare the cancer-specific survival (CSS) of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and colorectal cancer (CRC) liver metastases undergoing TARE, and investigate the influence of additional treatments on CSS. Our database was interrogated to retrieve patients who had undergone TARE using Yttrium-90 (90Y) glass or resin microspheres. Kaplan–Meier curves and the log-rank test were employed to conduct survival analysis for the different groups (p < 0.05). Thirty-nine patients were retrieved (sex: 27 M, 12 F; mean age: 63.59 ± 15.66 years): twenty-three with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and sixteen with CRC liver metastasis. Globally, the patients with HCC demonstrated a significantly longer CSS than those with CRC liver metastasis (22.64 ± 2.7 vs. 7.21 ± 1.65 months; p = 0.014). Among the patients with CRC liver metastasis, those receiving TARE and additional concomitant treatments (n = 10) demonstrated a longer CSS than the CRC patients receiving only TARE (9.97 ± 2.21 vs. 2.59 ± 0.24 months; p = 0.06). In the HCC group, there was a trend of a longer CSS in patients (n = 8) receiving TARE and additional treatments (27.89 ± 3.1 vs. 17.69 ± 3.14 months; p = 0.15). Patients with HCC seem to achieve a longer survival after TARE compared to patients with CRC liver metastases. In patients with CRC liver metastases, the combination of TARE and additional concomitant treatments may improve survival.
Events as Elements of Physical Observation: Experimental Evidence
Authors: Müller J. Gerhard
Published: March 2024

It is argued that all physical knowledge ultimately stems from observation and that the simplest possible observation is that an event has happened at a certain space–time location X→=x→,t. Considering historic experiments, which have been groundbreaking in the evolution of our modern ideas of matter on the atomic, nuclear, and elementary particle scales, it is shown that such experiments produce as outputs streams of macroscopically observable events which accumulate in the course of time into spatio-temporal patterns of events whose forms allow decisions to be taken concerning conceivable alternatives of explanation. Working towards elucidating the physical and informational characteristics of those elementary observations, we show that these represent hugely amplified images of the initiating micro-events and that the resulting macro-images have a cognitive value of 1 bit and a physical value of Wobs=Eobsτobs≫h. In this latter equation, Eobs stands for the energy spent in turning the initiating micro-events into macroscopically observable events, τobs for the lifetimes during which the generated events remain macroscopically observable, and h for Planck’s constant. The relative value Gobs=Wobs/h finally represents a measure of amplification that was gained in the observation process.
“Bye-Bye Germs”: Respiratory Tract Infection Prevention—An Education Intervention for Children
Authors: Younie Sarah , Crosby Sapphire , Firth Charlie , McNicholl Johanna , Laird Katie
Published: March 2024

Becoming one of the first studies in the field to do so, specially developed educational interventions (Germ’s Journey), designed to teach children about respiratory tract infection prevention, were delivered to 273 pupils aged five to six across five primary schools in the U.K. The intervention aimed to increase understanding of pathogens and respiratory tract illness, transmission and infection prevention, and preparedness for future pandemics due to a lack of such resources for young children at present. To assess the impact of the intervention, children were asked five questions related to knowledge of pathogens, transmission of infection, and infection prevention directly before and after activity-based workshops, as well as one month later. Responses were scored for pupils’ level of knowledge; differences in the frequency of responses between the time points were analysed using Pearson’s chi-squared test. Teachers also took part in semi-structured interviews to evaluate the workshop from the educators’ points of view. Children showed increased knowledge in all three areas immediately after the workshops. This improvement was retained to a lesser or equal extent one month following the learning intervention workshop. The consistent use of teaching resources and interventions such as Germ’s Journey should be implemented in the school curriculum in order to increase understanding and reduce the transmission of respiratory tract illness. Specially designed activity-based workshops using a range of learning skills can help young children to understand the link between pathogens, and infection transmission and control.
“Educational Facials”: A Healing Tool for the Beautiful Struggle
Authors: Kokka Kari , Cody Michelle
Published: March 2024

Critical educators of Color often work to support their students to work toward justice. However, because we live and work in a society imbued with white supremacy, cisheteropatriarchy, and additional systems of oppression, students and colleagues may resist efforts toward equity and racial justice, especially in mathematics education with women of Color instructors. In this paper, two mathematics educators, a Japanese American woman and a Black woman, elaborate a theory of educational facials, first coined by the second author in 2015. The theory of educational facials is an analytic tool for healing from and navigating harmful school climates. The authors operationalize the theory of educational facials as a lens to investigate examples from their own experiences negotiating unhealthy environments. The article shares descriptions of types of educational facials (e.g., do-it-yourself empowerment educational facial) and concludes with discussion of systemic change to promote healthy, liberatory, justice-oriented school spaces.
Evaluation of Grain Size Effects on Porosity, Permeability, and Pore Size Distribution of Carbonate Rocks Using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Technology
Authors: Wang Shutong , Chang Yanhai , Wang Zefan , Sun Xiaoxiao
Published: March 2024

Core analysis is an accurate and direct method for finding the physical properties of oil and natural gas reservoirs. However, in some cases coring is time consuming and difficult, and only cuttings with the drilling fluid can be obtained. It is important to determine whether cuttings can adequately represent formation properties such as porosity, permeability, and pore size distribution (PSD). In this study, seven limestone samples with different sizes were selected (Cubes: 4 × 4 × 4 cm, 4 × 4 × 2 cm, 4 × 2 × 2 cm and 2 × 2 × 2 cm, Core: diameter of 2.5 cm and a length of 5 cm, Cuttings: 1–1.7 mm and 4.7–6.75 mm in diameter), and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements were performed on these samples to obtain porosity, PSD, and permeability. The results showed that the porosity of cubes and cuttings with different sizes are consistent with cores, which is about 1%. Whereas the PSDs and permeabilities of the two cutting samples (less than in size 6.75 mm) differ significantly within cores. It is suggested that interparticle voids and mechanical pulverization during sample preparation have a negligible effect on porosity and a larger effect on PSD and permeability. Combined with factors such as wellbore collapse and mud contamination suffered in the field, it is not recommended to use cuttings with a particle size of less than 6.75 mm to characterize actual extra-low porosity and extra-low permeability formation properties.
Assessing High-Voltage Shore Connection Safety: An In-Depth Study of Grounding Practices in Shore Power Systems
Authors: Hsu Shih-Hsien , Tzu Fu-Ming , Chang Wei-Huang , Chen Yi-Dong
Published: March 2024

There is growing concern regarding air pollutants (NOx, SOx, and PM) and carbon emissions from ocean-going vessels in harbor areas and the role of high-voltage shore connection (HVSC) systems in mitigating these emissions during vessel berthing. The HVSC operates as a TN grounding system in humid environments, and it needs a proper grounding design to ensure safety when faults occur. This article intends to examine the overvoltage resulting from fault currents and its implications for the safety of operators when a single line-to-ground fault takes place within the design of HVSC grounding systems. The assessment is carried out by employing actual scenarios and parameters from a container berth at Kaohsiung Harbor in Taiwan. Considering site conditions, such as the wet ground surface, human body resistance, and electric shock duration, the tolerable safe voltage level is derived using IEEE Std. 80 and IEC 60479-1. Based on the shore power system grounding architecture specified in IEEE/IEC 80005-1, an equivalent circuit model is constructed to calculate the fault currents using symmetrical component analysis. The actual touch voltages generated in various locations are analyzed under scenarios of connecting or disconnecting the equipotential bonding between the ship and the shore using neutral grounding resistor (NGR) designs. This article delves into the scenarios of electric shock that may occur during the operation of an actual container ship’s shore power system. It evaluates whether various contact voltage values exceed current international standards and verifies the grounding design and safety voltage specifications of IEEE/IEC 80005-1. According to the results of this study, the use of NGR and protective earthed neutral (PEN) conductors in HVSC is crucial. This can limit fault currents, reduce touch voltage, and ensure the safety of personnel and equipment. Therefore, ensuring and monitoring equipment conductors and adopting NGRs of appropriate sizes are crucial elements in maintaining electrical safety in HVSC systems.
State-of-Health Estimation for Industrial H2 Electrolyzers with Transfer Linear Regression
Authors: Yan Xuqian , Locci Carlo , Hiss Florian , Nieße Astrid
Published: March 2024

Water electrolysis to generate green hydrogen is the key to decarbonization. Tracking the state-of-health of electrolyzers is fundamental to ensuring their economical and safe operation. This paper addresses the challenge of quantifying the state-of-health of electrolyzers, which is complicated by the influence of operating conditions. The existing approaches require stringent control of operating conditions, such as following a predefined current profile and maintaining a constant temperature, which is impractical for industrial applications. We propose a data-driven method that corrects the measured voltage under arbitrary operating conditions to a reference condition, serving as a state-of-health indicator for electrolyzers. The method involves fitting a voltage model to map the relationship between voltage and operating conditions and then using this model to calculate the voltage under predefined reference conditions. Our approach utilizes an empirical voltage model, validated with actual industrial electrolyzer operation data. We further introduce a transfer linear regression algorithm to tackle model fitting difficulties with limited data coverage. Validation on synthetic data confirms the algorithm’s effectiveness in capturing the true model coefficients, and application on actual operation data demonstrates its ability to provide stable state-of-health estimations. This research offers a practical solution for the industry to continuously monitor electrolyzer degradation without the need for stringent control of operating conditions.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation of Filling a Hydrogen Type 3 Tank at a Constant Mass Flow Rate
Authors: Monteiro José Miguel , Ribeiro Leonardo , Monteiro Joaquim , Baptista Andresa , Pinto Gustavo F.
Published: March 2024

Hydrogen storage in high-pressure tanks can be performed with different filling strategies. Many studies have been carried out on supplies with increasing pressure rates. The present work aims to carry out CFD numerical simulations, using Ansys Fluent®, in a type 3 tank of 70 MPa normal working pressure (NWP) using a constant flow rate, to analyze the influence of inlet key parameters such as initial temperature, mass flow rate, and material properties on the evolution of temperature, pressure, and velocity. From the analysis of the results, it was possible to discover linear relationships between the increase in the total equilibrium temperature and the final hydrogen temperature, as well as a linear increasing relationship between inlet and final temperatures when the equilibrium temperature was fixed. Considering fully adiabatic walls resulted in a significant increase in temperature with no predictable pattern. The difference between total and static temperatures found in the inlet tube decreased with the decrease in mass flow rate and subsequently the Mach number. The choice of a polymer for the tank lining led to higher temperatures when compared to an aluminum lining.
Optimal Allocation of Photovoltaic-Green Distributed Generation for Maximizing the Performance of Electrical Distribution Networks
Authors: Majeed Ammar Abbas , Abderrahim Mohamed , Alkhazraji Afaneen Anwer
Published: March 2024

Renewable energy sources provide an environmentally sustainable solution to meet growing energy demands. Consequently, photovoltaics (PV) is regarded as a promising form of green distributed generation (GDG). The penetration of PV-GDG into distribution networks (DNs) is crucial, presenting a significant opportunity to improve power grid quality and reduce power losses. In this study, a comprehensive investigation was conducted to determine the optimal location, number, and capacity of PV-GDG penetrations with DN to achieve these objectives. Therefore, employing the Newton–Raphson (NR) technique and particle swarm optimization (PSO) approach for case studies, the analysis focused on the IEEE 33 bus test system as a benchmark test and the Iraq–Baghdad DN at 11 kV and 0.416 kV as a real case study. The outcomes revealed that integrating 4 × 1 MW PV-GDG units in a centralized configuration at bus 13 of the 11 kV Rusafa DN in the first scenario significantly reduced power losses and alleviated voltage drops across the network. In contrast, the second scenario entailed the utilization of dispersed PV panels with a capacity of 10 kW installed on rooftops at all 400 consumer load points with a cumulative capacity of 4 MW. This approach exemplified the enhancement of DN performance by significantly maximizing the power loss reduction and minimizing the voltage drops across the buses, exceeding the results achieved in the first scenario. The software applications employed in the practical implementation of this study included the CYMDist 9.0 Rev 04 program, PVsyst 7.2.20 software, and MATLAB R2022b.
Environmental Impact Reduction of a Trolleybus System in the City of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Rodrigues Gabriel Santos , Reis João Gilberto Mendes dos , Orynycz Olga , Tucki Karol , Matijošius Jonas , Machado Sivanilza Teixeira
Published: March 2024

Several cities worldwide are studying the replacement of their trolleybus systems with diesel buses or battery electric buses, due to their flexibility and lower operational costs. Diesel buses are considered a major cause of gas emissions in cities, while battery electric buses employ cutting-edge technology, but there is still discussion around the topic due to their technology costs, autonomy, and the sustainability of battery packs. In this study, we evaluated the trolleybus system’s potential for reducing emissions, noise pollution, and greenhouse gases (GHGs) when compared to diesel buses. Furthermore, we compared the trolleybus system with battery electric buses in terms of cost and environmental benefits. To do so, a case study was conducted in São Paulo, Brazil, the largest city in Latin America, which operates the second-highest trolleybus system on the American continent. Our results show that the trolleybus system is a feasible alternative to diesel buses when considering environmental aspects. It can be seen as a complementary service for urban transport systems in the city’s transition to clean energy. Finally, the study implications indicate the need for further investigation of the benefits of in-motion-charge technology to generate flexibility in trolleybus systems, and the involvement of stakeholders in the transition matrix energy process in urban bus systems beyond the direct costs.
Advancements and Future Directions in the Application of Machine Learning to AC Optimal Power Flow: A Critical Review
Authors: Jiang Bozhen , Wang Qin , Wu Shengyu , Wang Yidi , Lu Gang
Published: March 2024

Optimal power flow (OPF) is a crucial tool in the operation and planning of modern power systems. However, as power system optimization shifts towards larger-scale frameworks, and with the growing integration of distributed generations, the computational time and memory requirements of solving the alternating current (AC) OPF problems can increase exponentially with system size, posing computational challenges. In recent years, machine learning (ML) has demonstrated notable advantages in efficient computation and has been extensively applied to tackle OPF challenges. This paper presents five commonly employed OPF transformation techniques that leverage ML, offering a critical overview of the latest applications of advanced ML in solving OPF problems. The future directions in the application of machine learning to AC OPF are also discussed.
Numerical Study of the Thermo-Hydro-Mechanical Coupling Impacts of Shallow Geothermal Borehole Groups in Fractured Rock Mass on Geological Environment
Authors: Ran Yujin , Peng Jia , Tian Xiaolin , Luo Dengyun , Yang Bin , Pei Peng , Tang Long
Published: March 2024

Fractured rock mass is extensively distributed in Karst topography regions, and its geological environment is different from that of the quaternary strata. In this study, the influences on geological environment induced by the construction and operation of a large-scale borehole group of ground source heat pumps are analyzed by a thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) coupling numerical model. It was found that groundwater is redirected as the boreholes can function as channels to the surface, and the flow velocity in the upstream of borehole group is higher than those downstream. This change in groundwater flow enhances heat transfer in the upstream boreholes but may disturb the original groundwater system and impact the local geological environment. Heat accumulation is more likely to occur downstream. The geo-stress concentration appears in the borehole area, mainly due to exaction and increasing with the depth. On the fracture plane, tensile stress and maximum shear stress simultaneously occur on the upstream of boreholes, inducing the possibility of fracturing or the expansion of existing fractures. There is a slight uplift displacement on the surface after the construction of boreholes. The correlations of the above THM phenomena are discussed and analyzed. From the modeling results, it is suggested that the consolidation of backfills can minimize the environmental disturbances in terms of groundwater redirection, thermal accumulation, occurrence of tensile stress, and possible fracturing. This study provides support for the assessment of impacts on geological environments resulting from shallow geothermal development and layout optimization of ground heat exchangers in engineering practices.
Numerical Simulation Study on the Influence of Cracks in a Full-Size Core on the Resistivity Measurement Response
Authors: Zheng Hanwen , Zhang Zhansong , Guo Jianhong , Fang Sinan , Wang Can
Published: March 2024

The development of fractured oil fields poses a formidable challenge due to the intricate nature of fracture development and distribution. Fractures profoundly impact core resistivity, making it crucial to investigate the mechanism behind the resistivity response change in fracture cores. In this study, we employed the theory of a stable current field to perform a numerical simulation of the resistivity response of single-fracture and complex-fracture granite cores, using a full-size granite core with cracks as the model. We considered multiple parameters of the fracture itself and the formation to explore the resistivity response change mechanism of the fracture core. Our findings indicate that, in the case of a core with a single fracture, the angle, width, and length of the fracture (fracture occurrence) significantly affect core resistivity. When two fractures run parallel for a core with complex fractures, the change law of core resistivity is similar to that of a single fracture. However, if two fractures intersect, the relative position of the two fractures becomes a significant factor in addition to the width and length of the fracture. Interestingly, a 90° difference exists between the change law of core resistivity and the change law of the resistivity logging response. Furthermore, the core resistivity is affected by matrix resistivity and the resistivity of the mud filtrate, which emphasizes the need to calibrate the fracture dip angle calculated using dual laterolog resistivity with actual core data or special logging data in reservoirs with different geological backgrounds. In the face of multiple fractures, the dual laterolog method has multiple solutions. Our work provides a reference and theoretical basis for interpreting oil and gas in fractured reservoirs based on logging data and holds significant engineering guiding significance.
Effects of Flooding and Shade on Survival, Growth, and Leaf Gas Exchange of Bottomland Tree Species across the Great Lakes Region (USA)
Authors: Keller Gwendolen J. , Bronson Dustin , Slesak Robert A. , Windmuller-Campione Marcella A.
Published: March 2024

Forested wetlands are common ecosystems within the Great Lakes region (Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin), USA. Projected increases in extreme flooding events and shifting disturbance regimes create challenges for tree regeneration. Forest managers are considering the use of enrichment planting to increase tree species diversity, but limited information is available that quantifies the interactions between the flooding and shade tolerances of candidate tree species. We used a microcosm experiment to manipulate shade and flooding conditions to determine the effects on early survival, growth, and leaf gas exchange of 23 different tree species that vary in shade and flood tolerance. Seedlings were planted in pots and placed in 227 L tanks that were randomly assigned to light reduction (full sun, 40% and 70% reduced sunlight) and flood treatments (water levels of 0, 14, or 27 cm below the soil surface). In general, flooding treatments had a greater influence on seedling growth and leaf gas exchange rates than light reduction treatments. Of the species studied, bald cypress (Taxodium distichum (L.) Rich.) was the most flood-tolerant, but American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis L.) and river birch (Betula nigra L.) were also highly tolerant of flooding conditions throughout the entire growing season. The flood tolerances of the remaining species varied, but none were tolerant of water table depths within 14 cm of the soil surface for the entire growing season. Most species did not respond to the shade treatments in terms of early growth, survival, and leaf gas exchange. When considering species for planting in forested wetlands, matching the flood tolerance of candidate species to local site hydrology is an important step.
Differentiating Historical Open Forests and Current Closed Forests of the Coastal Plain, Southeastern USA
Authors: Tatina Robert , Hanberry Brice B. , Willis John L.
Published: March 2024

The southeastern United States was historically characterized by open forests featuring fire-adapted species before land-use change. We compared tree composition and densities of historical tree surveys (1802 to 1841) to contemporary tree surveys, with the application of a similarity metric, in the Coastal Plain ecological province of Mississippi, southeastern USA. We detected the boundary between historical pine and oak-pine open forests and differentiated historical and current forests. In the Coastal Plain, historical open forests converted from fire-tolerant longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) dominance, with pines comprising 88% of all trees, to loblolly (Pinus taeda) and slash (P. elliottii) pines within monocultures (45% of all trees). Wetland and successional tree species increased to 33% of all trees. Contemporary forests have greater tree densities, transitioning from closed woodlands (range of 168 to 268 trees ha−1) to closed forests (336 trees ha−1). In the ecotonal boundary of the northern Coastal Plain between historical pine and pine-oak woodlands, the pine component shifted over space from 88% to 34% of all trees due to a greater oak component. Fire-tolerant shortleaf pine and oak dominance converted to planted loblolly pine (52% of all trees), while successional tree species increased (20% of all trees). Historical tree densities represented woodlands (range of 144 to 204 trees ha−1) but developed into closed forests (400 trees ha−1). Historical Coastal Plain longleaf pine woodlands differed more from historical ecotonal oak-pine woodlands than contemporary forests differed from each other, demonstrating unique historical ecosystems and landscape-scale homogenization of ecosystems through forestation.
Construction of a Core Collection of Korean Pine (Pinus koraiensis) Clones Based on Morphological and Physiological Traits and Genetic Analysis
Authors: Yan Pingyu , Zhang Lei , Hao Junfei , Sun Guofei , Hu Zhenyu , Wang Jiaxing , Wang Ruiqi , Li Zhixin , Zhang Hanguo
Published: March 2024

To improve the ecological and economic benefits of Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis), we analysed and evaluated its germplasm resources. This promotes in-depth research and utilisation of germplasm resources, providing excellent genetic resources for Korean pine breeding. We performed genetic analysis based on morphological and physiological traits and nuclear SSR molecular marker data was performed by collecting 314 clones (5 ramets of each clone) of Korean pine from eight (8) locations within the Korean pine range. The core collection underwent testing and evaluation for representativeness using variable rate (VR), coincidence rate (CR), variance difference percentage (VD), mean difference percentage (MD), Shannon index (I), and other indicators. The results indicated significant differences in morphological and physiological traits among the populations. All traits had a coefficient of variation (CV) greater than 10%, except for the water content of the needles (WC), which had an average CV of 17.636%. The populations showed high overall genetic diversity, with the HL (Helong) population exhibiting the highest genetic diversity, with an Ne (number of effective alleles), I, and He (expected heterozygosity) of 3.171, 1.103, and 0.528, respectively. Genetic variation mainly originated from individuals within populations, while the variation between populations was relatively small, at only 3%. The population did not exhibit any distinct subpopulation structures and was mainly derived from two admixed gene pools. Six core sets were obtained using different sampling strategies, and subset 6 was identified as the core collection, consisting of 114 individuals, representing a selection rate of 36.31%. In conclusion, the most appropriate method for constructing the core collection of Korean pines is the M-strategy (maximizing the number of alleles), based on both phenotypic and molecular data. The resulting core collection effectively represents the genetic diversity of the entire population effectively.
Synthesis of Lignin/PAN Fibers from Sawdust
Authors: Nazhipkyzy Meruyert , Maltay Anar B. , Lesbayev Bakhytzhan , Assylkhanova Dana D.
Published: March 2024

Carbon nanofibers based on lignin from wood waste have a promising potential for the ability to produce electrodes that can modernize existing energy storage technology. The most important detail is that the low cost, as well as the availability of the initial products for the production of lignin, will reduce the cost of energy storage devices and contribute to improving the environment. In this study, pine sawdust and elm sawdust were used as raw materials for the production of lignin, which accumulate in large quantities in metal workshops in Almaty. Lignin extraction was carried out using an organosolvent method, which is environmentally friendly, low-cost, uses minimal amounts of strong acids and metal catalysts, does not pollute water, and does not emit sulfur dioxide (SO2). A comprehensive study of the characteristics of the obtained lignins from wood waste was carried out. Infrared spectroscopy (IR) revealed that the obtained lignin contains aromatic, phenolic, hydroxyl, methyl, and methoxyl groups. The results of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy showed the presence of a high number of syringyl (S) links compared to guaiacyl (G), which contribute to increased efficiency in the thermal processing of lignin. Also, this study investigated the use of the obtained lignins to produce continuous fibers by electrospinning. The effect of lignin mass on the viscosity of the lignin/polyacrylonitrile (PAN) solution and the effect of the carbonization temperature on the physico-chemical characteristics of the lignin/PAN solution were investigated. The following research methods were used for this purpose: Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), electron scanning microscopy, energy dispersion analysis, IR, NMR, and optical microscopy. The conditions for the production of lignin-containing carbon fibers at temperatures of 800, 900, and the carbonation heating rate, is an important parameter in the production of carbon fibers as it strongly affects the characteristics of the resulting carbon fibers. The heating rate affects were studied, and it was found that, at a heating rate of 5 °C/min and a carbonation temperature of 800 °C, porous carbon nanofibers with a diameter of 47 nm are formed in a nitrogen medium for 60 min.
Hydrogels for Cardio and Vascular Tissue Repair and Regeneration
Authors: Motta Ilenia , Soccio Michelina , Guidotti Giulia , Lotti Nadia , Pasquinelli Gianandrea
Published: March 2024

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death globally, affects the heart and arteries with a variety of clinical manifestations, the most dramatic of which are myocardial infarction (MI), abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), and intracranial aneurysm (IA) rupture. In MI, necrosis of the myocardium, scar formation, and loss of cardiomyocytes result from insufficient blood supply due to coronary artery occlusion. Beyond stenosis, the arteries that are structurally and functionally connected to the cardiac tissue can undergo pathological dilation, i.e., aneurysmal dilation, with high risk of rupture. Aneurysms of the intracranial arteries (IAs) are more commonly seen in young adults, whereas those of the abdominal aorta (AAA) are predominantly seen in the elderly. IAs, unpredictably, can undergo rupture and cause life-threatening hemorrhage, while AAAs can result in rupture, internal bleeding and high mortality rate. In this clinical context, hydrogels, three-dimensional networks of water-seizing polymers, have emerged as promising biomaterials for cardiovascular tissue repair or protection due to their biocompatibility, tunable properties, and ability to encapsulate and release bioactive molecules. This review provides an overview of the current state of research on the use of hydrogels as an innovative platform to promote cardiovascular-specific tissue repair in MI and functional recovery or protection in aneurysmal dilation.
Flexible Composite Hydrogels Based on Polybenzoxazine for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Asrafali Shakila Parveen , Periyasamy Thirukumaran , Bari Gazi A. K. M. Rafiqul , Kim Seong-Cheol
Published: March 2024

Polybenzoxazines (Pbzs) are advanced forms of phenolic resins that possess many attractive properties, including thermal-induced self-curing polymerization, void-free polymeric products and absence of by-product formation. They also possess high Tg (glass transition temperature) and thermal stability. But the produced materials are brittle in nature. In this paper, we present our attempt to decrease the brittleness of Pbz by blending it with polyvinylalcohol (PVA). Benzoxazine monomer (Eu-Ed-Bzo) was synthesized by following a simple Mannich condensation reaction. The formation of a benzoxazine ring was confirmed by FT-IR and NMR spectroscopic analyses. The synthesized benzoxazine monomer was blended with PVA in order to produce composite films, PVA/Pbz, by varying the amount of benzoxazine monomer (1, 3 and 5 wt. % of PVA). The property of the composite films was studied using various characterization techniques, including DSC, TGA, water contact angle analysis (WCA) and SEM. WCA analysis proved that the hydrophobic nature of Pbz (value) was transformed to hydrophilic (WCA of PVA/Pbz5 is 35.5°). These composite films could play the same role as flexible electrolytes in supercapacitor applications. For this purpose, the composite films were immersed in a 1 M KOH solution for 12 h in order to analyze their swelling properties. Moreover, by using this swelled gel, a symmetric supercapacitor, AC//PVA/Pbz5//AC, was constructed, exhibiting a specific capacitance of 170 F g−1.
A POT1 Founder Variant Associated with Early Onset Recurrent Melanoma and Various Solid Malignancies
Authors: Abu Shtaya Aasem , Kedar Inbal , Bazak Lily , Basel-Salmon Lina , Barhom Sarit Farage , Naftali Michal , Eskin-Schwartz Marina , Birk Ohad S. , Polager-Modan Shirley , Keidar Nitzan , Reznick Levi Gili , Levi Zohar , Yablonski-Peretz Tamar , Mahamid Ahmad , Segol Ori , Matar Reut , Bareli Yifat , Azoulay Noy , Goldberg Yael
Published: March 2024

POT1 (Protection of Telomeres 1) is a key component of the six-membered shelterin complex that plays a critical role in telomere protection and length regulation. Germline variants in the POT1 gene have been implicated in predisposition to cancer, primarily to melanoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). We report the identification of POT1 p.(I78T), previously ranked with conflicting interpretations of pathogenicity, as a founder pathogenic variant among Ashkenazi Jews (AJs) and describe its unique clinical landscape. A directed database search was conducted for individuals referred for genetic counselling from 2018 to 2023. Demographic, clinical, genetic, and pathological data were collected and analyzed. Eleven carriers, 25 to 67 years old, from ten apparently unrelated families were identified. Carriers had a total of 30 primary malignancies (range 1–6); nine carriers (82%) had recurrent melanoma between the ages of 25 and 63 years, three carriers (27%) had desmoid tumors, three (27%) had papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), and five women (63% of female carriers) had breast cancer between the ages of 44 and 67 years. Additional tumors included CLL; sarcomas; endocrine tumors; prostate, urinary, and colorectal cancers; and colonic polyps. A review of a local exome database yielded an allelic frequency of the variant of 0.06% among all ethnicities and of 0.25% in AJs. A shared haplotype was found in all carriers tested. POT1 p.(I78T) is a founder disease-causing variant associated with early-onset melanoma and additional various solid malignancies with a high tumor burden. We advocate testing for this variant in high-risk patients of AJ descent. The inclusion of POT1 in germline panels for various types of cancer is warranted.
Exploring the Relationship between Running-Related Technology Use and Running-Related Injuries: A Cross-Sectional Study of Recreational and Elite Long-Distance Runners
Authors: Chowdhary Kuntal , Crockett Zachary , Chua Jason , Soo Hoo Jennifer
Published: March 2024

In recent years, the surge in sport and exercise participation, particularly in running, has coincided with the widespread adoption of running-related technology, such as fitness trackers. This study investigates the correlation between the use of running-related technology and running-related injuries among recreational and elite long-distance runners. We conducted a quantitative, cross-sectional online survey of 282 adult runners. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a multivariable logistic regression analysis. Participants, with an average age of 37.4 years, reported varied running experience, with 90.07% utilizing running-related technology during their runs to some degree, primarily smartwatches like Garmin and Apple Watch. Running-related technology users showed a higher likelihood of experiencing running-related injuries compared to non-users (OR = 0.31, p < 0.001). However, those who utilized the metrics obtained from running-related technology to guide their training decisions did not exhibit a higher risk of injury. This nuanced relationship highlights the importance of considering individual training behaviors and the potential psychological impacts of technology on running practices. The study underscores the need for future research integrating biomechanical and psychosocial factors into running-related technology to enhance injury prevention strategies.