bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Location of Recurrences after Trimodality Treatment for Glioblastoma with Respect to the Delivered Radiation Dose Distribution and Its Influence on Prognosis
Authors: Guberina Nika , Padeberg Florian , Pöttgen Christoph , Guberina Maja , Lazaridis Lazaros , Jabbarli Ramazan , Deuschl Cornelius , Herrmann Ken , Blau Tobias , Wrede Karsten H. , Keyvani Kathy , Scheffler Björn , Hense Jörg , Layer Julian P. , Glas Martin , Sure Ulrich , Stuschke Martin
Published: May 2023

Background: While prognosis of glioblastoma after trimodality treatment is well examined, recurrence pattern with respect to the delivered dose distribution is less well described. Therefore, here we examine the gain of additional margins around the resection cavity and gross-residual-tumor. Methods: All recurrent glioblastomas initially treated with radiochemotherapy after neurosurgery were included. The percentage overlap of the recurrence with the gross tumor volume (GTV) expanded by varying margins (10 mm to 20 mm) and with the 95% and 90% isodose was measured. Competing-risks analysis was performed in dependence on recurrence pattern. Results: Expanding the margins from 10 mm to 15 mm, to 20 mm, to the 95%- and 90% isodose of the delivered dose distribution with a median margin of 27 mm did moderately increase the proportion of relative in-field recurrence volume from 64% to 68%, 70%, 88% and 88% (p < 0.0001). Overall survival of patients with in-and out-field recurrence was similar (p = 0.7053). The only prognostic factor significantly associated with out-field recurrence was multifocality of recurrence (p = 0.0037). Cumulative incidences of in-field recurrences at 24 months were 60%, 22% and 11% for recurrences located within a 10 mm margin, outside a 10 mm margin but within the 95% isodose, or outside the 95% isodose (p < 0.0001). Survival from recurrence was improved after complete resection (p = 0.0069). Integrating these data into a concurrent-risk model shows that extending margins beyond 10 mm has only small effects on survival hardly detectable by clinical trials. Conclusions: Two-thirds of recurrences were observed within a 10 mm margin around the GTV. Smaller margins reduce normal brain radiation exposure allowing for more extensive salvage radiation therapy options in case of recurrence. Prospective trials using margins smaller than 20 mm around the GTV are warranted.
CT and MR Imaging of Retroperitoneal Sarcomas: A Practical Guide for the Radiologist
Authors: Porrello Giorgia , Cannella Roberto , Randazzo Angelo , Badalamenti Giuseppe , Brancatelli Giuseppe , Vernuccio Federica
Published: May 2023

Primary retroperitoneal sarcomas (RPS) represent around 10–16% of all sarcomas, with liposarcomas and leiomyosarcomas being the most common subtypes. RPS have some peculiar characteristics, imaging appearances, worse prognosis, and complications compared to other locations of sarcoma. Commonly, RPS primarily present as large masses, progressively encasing adjacent structures, causing mass effect, and complications. RPS diagnosis is often challenging, and these tumors may be overlooked; however, failure to recognize RPS characteristics leads to a worse prognosis for the patients. Surgery is the only recognized curative treatment, but the anatomical constraints of the retroperitoneum limit the ability to achieve wide resection margins; therefore, these tumors have a high rate of recurrence, and require long-term follow-up. The radiologist has an important role in the diagnosis of RPS, the definition of their extent, and their follow-up. Specific knowledge of the main imaging findings is required to reach an early diagnosis, and, ultimately, to guarantee the best patient management. This article provides an overview of the current knowledge regarding cross-sectional imaging features of patients with retroperitoneal sarcomas, presenting tips and tricks to improve imaging diagnosis of RPS.
Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Gallbladder Drainage for Malignant Biliary Obstruction: A Systematic Review
Authors: McDonagh Padraic , Awadelkarim Bidour , Leeds John S. , Nayar Manu K. , Oppong Kofi W.
Published: May 2023

Background: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD) is a rescue technique for patients with malignant biliary obstruction who fail conventional treatment with ERCP or EUS-guided biliary drainage. The technique has been successfully employed in the management of acute cholecystitis in patients not fit for surgery. However, the evidence for its use in malignant obstruction is less robust. This review article aims to evaluate the data available at present to better understand the safety and efficacy of EUS-guided gallbladder drainage. Methods: A detailed literature review was conducted and several databases were searched for any studies relating to EUS-GBD in malignant biliary obstruction. Pooled rates with 95% confidence intervals were calculated for clinical success and adverse events. Results: Our search identified 298 studies related to EUS-GBD. The final analysis included 7 studies with 136 patients. The pooled rate of clinical success (95% CI) was 85% (78–90%, I2: 0%). The pooled rate of adverse events (95% CI) was 13% (7–19%, I2: 0%). Adverse events included: peritonitis, bleeding, bile leakage, stent migration, and stent occlusion. No deaths directly related to the procedure were reported; however, in some of the studies, deaths occurred due to disease progression. Conclusion: This review supports the use of EUS-guided gallbladder drainage as a rescue option for patients who have failed conventional measures.
Molecular Biology of Pediatric and Adult Ovarian Germ Cell Tumors: A Review
Authors: Pinto Mariana Tomazini , Eiras Martins Gisele , Vieira Ana Glenda Santarosa , Galvão Janaina Mello Soares , de Pádua Souza Cristiano , Macedo Carla Renata Pacheco Donato , Lopes Luiz Fernando
Published: May 2023

Ovarian germ cell tumors (OGCTs) are rare in adults; indeed, they occur predominantly in children, adolescents, and young adults, and they account for approximately 11% of cancer diagnoses in these groups. Because OGCTs are rare tumors, our current understanding of them is sparse; this is because few studies have investigated the molecular basis of pediatric and adult cancers. Here, we review the etiopathogenesis of OGCTs in children and adults, and we address the molecular landscape of these tumors, including integrated genomic analysis, microRNAs, DNA methylation, the molecular implications of treatment resistance, and the development of in vitro and in vivo models. An elucidation of potential molecular alterations may provide a novel field for understanding the pathogenesis, tumorigenesis, diagnostic markers, and genetic peculiarity of the rarity and complexity of OGCTs.
Incidence Trends and Main Features of Gastro-Intestinal Stromal Tumours in a Mediterranean Region: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Vaamonde-Martín Ricardo J. , Ballesta-Ruiz Mónica , Sánchez-Gil Antonia , Fernández Juan Ángel , Martínez-Barba Enrique , Martínez-García Jerónimo , Gatta Gemma , Chirlaque-López María D.
Published: May 2023

Gastro-Intestinal Stromal Tumours (GISTs) are a kind of neoplasm whose diagnosis in common clinical practice just started in the current century, implying difficulties for proper registration. Staff from the Cancer Registry of Murcia, in southeastern Spain, were commissioned by the EU Joint Action on Rare Cancers into a pilot study addressing GIST registration that also yielded a population-based depiction of GISTs in the region, including survival figures. We examined reports from 2001 to 2015 from hospitals as well as cases already present in the registry. The variables collected were sex, date of diagnosis, age, vital status, primary location, presence of metastases, and risk level according to Joensuu’s Classification. In total, 171 cases were found, 54.4% occurred in males, and the mean age value was 65.0 years. The most affected organ was the stomach, with 52.6% of cases. Risk level was determined as “High” for 45.0%, with an increment of lower levels in recent years. Incidence for the year 2015 doubled that of 2001. Overall, the 5-year net survival estimation was 77.0%. The rising incidence magnitude is consistent with trends in other European countries. Survival evolution lacked statistical significance. A more interventional approach in clinical management could explain the increase in the proportion of “Low Risk GISTs” and the first occurrence of “Very Low Risk” in recent years.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Clinical Care for Uveal Melanoma Patients—A Systematic Review from an Ophthalmic Perspective
Authors: Jaarsma-Coes Myriam G. , Klaassen Lisa , Marinkovic Marina , Luyten Gregorius P. M. , Vu T. H. Khanh , Ferreira Teresa A. , Beenakker Jan-Willem M.
Published: May 2023

Conversely to most tumour types, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was rarely used for eye tumours. As recent technical advances have increased ocular MRI’s diagnostic value, various clinical applications have been proposed. This systematic review provides an overview of the current status of MRI in the clinical care of uveal melanoma (UM) patients, the most common eye tumour in adults. In total, 158 articles were included. Two- and three-dimensional anatomical scans and functional scans, which assess the tumour micro-biology, can be obtained in routine clinical setting. The radiological characteristics of the most common intra-ocular masses have been described extensively, enabling MRI to contribute to diagnoses. Additionally, MRI’s ability to non-invasively probe the tissue’s biological properties enables early detection of therapy response and potentially differentiates between high- and low-risk UM. MRI-based tumour dimensions are generally in agreement with conventional ultrasound (median absolute difference 0.5 mm), but MRI is considered more accurate in a subgroup of anteriorly located tumours. Although multiple studies propose that MRI’s 3D tumour visualisation can improve therapy planning, an evaluation of its clinical benefit is lacking. In conclusion, MRI is a complementary imaging modality for UM of which the clinical benefit has been shown by multiple studies.
The Role of MET in Resistance to EGFR Inhibition in NSCLC: A Review of Mechanisms and Treatment Implications
Authors: Feldt Susan L. , Bestvina Christine M.
Published: May 2023

Utilizing targeted therapy against activating mutations has opened a new era of treatment paradigms for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). For patients with epidermal growth factor (EGFR)-mutated cancers, EGFR inhibitors, including the third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) osimertinib, significantly prolong progression-free survival and overall survival, and are the current standard of care. However, progression after EGFR inhibition invariably occurs, and further study has helped elucidate mechanisms of resistance. Abnormalities in the mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) oncogenic pathway have been implicated as common alterations after progression, with MET amplification as one of the most frequent mechanisms. Multiple drugs with inhibitory activity against MET, including TKIs, antibodies, and antibody–drug conjugates, have been developed and studied in advanced NSCLC. Combining MET and EGFR is a promising treatment strategy for patients found to have a MET-driven resistance mechanism. Combination TKI therapy and EGFR-MET bispecific antibodies have shown promising anti-tumor activity in early clinical trials. Future study including ongoing large-scale trials of combination EGFR-MET inhibition will help clarify if targeting this mechanism behind EGFR resistance will have meaningful clinical benefit for patients with advanced EGFR-mutated NSCLC.
Nano-Hollow Zeolite-Encapsulated Highly Dispersed Ultra-Fine Fe Nanoparticles as Fischer–Tropsch Catalyst for Syngas-to-Olefins
Authors: Hu Rui , Wang Tianye , Wang Yifan , Zhu Yuan , Xie Li , Xing Enhui , Wu Yu , Da Zhijian
Published: May 2023

A nano-hollow zeolite-encapsulating ultra-fine Fe nanoparticle catalyst denoted as Fe@n-hS-HT was successfully synthesized through a simple water steam treatment of the Fe@n-hS catalyst prepared by the “dissolution–recrystallization” (D-R) method. The Fe@n-hS-HT catalyst had a hierarchical porous structure and a high dispersion of Fe2O3 particles with a size of 3.4 nm. Furthermore, the results of several characterization methods, such as XRD, HAADF-STEM, and H2-TPR, further demonstrated the transformation of the skeleton Fe in Fe@n-hS into Fe2O3, which was uniformly dispersed in the Fe@n-hS-HT catalyst. Meanwhile, Fe@n-hS-HT had significantly higher selectivity and yield of C2-C4= than the reference catalysts Fe/S and Fe@n-hS, which provided strong proof for the confined catalysis of the metal@zeolite catalyst.
The Vicious Cycle of Melanoma-Microglia Crosstalk: Inter-Melanoma Variations in the Brain-Metastasis-Promoting IL-6/JAK/STAT3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Izraely Sivan , Ben-Menachem Shlomit , Malka Sapir , Sagi-Assif Orit , Bustos Matias A. , Adir Orit , Meshel Tsipi , Chelladurai Maharrish , Ryu Suyeon , Ramos Romela I. , Pasmanik-Chor Metsada , Hoon Dave S. B. , Witz Isaac P.
Published: May 2023

Previous studies from our lab demonstrated that the crosstalk between brain-metastasizing melanoma cells and microglia, the macrophage-like cells of the central nervous system, fuels progression to metastasis. In the present study, an in-depth investigation of melanoma-microglia interactions elucidated a pro-metastatic molecular mechanism that drives a vicious melanoma-brain-metastasis cycle. We employed RNA-Sequencing, HTG miRNA whole transcriptome assay, and reverse phase protein arrays (RPPA) to analyze the impact of melanoma-microglia interactions on sustainability and progression of four different human brain-metastasizing melanoma cell lines. Microglia cells exposed to melanoma-derived IL-6 exhibited upregulated levels of STAT3 phosphorylation and SOCS3 expression, which, in turn, promoted melanoma cell viability and metastatic potential. IL-6/STAT3 pathway inhibitors diminished the pro-metastatic functions of microglia and reduced melanoma progression. SOCS3 overexpression in microglia cells evoked microglial support in melanoma brain metastasis by increasing melanoma cell migration and proliferation. Different melanomas exhibited heterogeneity in their microglia-activating capacity as well as in their response to microglia-derived signals. In spite of this reality and based on the results of the present study, we concluded that the activation of the IL-6/STAT3/SOCS3 pathway in microglia is a major mechanism by which reciprocal melanoma-microglia signaling engineers the interacting microglia to reinforce the progression of melanoma brain metastasis. This mechanism may operate differently in different melanomas.
Proteasomes of Autophagy-Deficient Cells Exhibit Alterations in Regulatory Proteins and a Marked Reduction in Activity
Authors: Xiong Qiuhong , Feng Rong , Fischer Sarah , Karow Malte , Stumpf Maria , Meßling Susanne , Nitz Leonie , Müller Stefan , Clemen Christoph S. , Song Ning , Li Ping , Wu Changxin , Eichinger Ludwig
Published: May 2023

Autophagy and the ubiquitin proteasome system are the two major processes for the clearance and recycling of proteins and organelles in eukaryotic cells. Evidence is accumulating that there is extensive crosstalk between the two pathways, but the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. We previously found that autophagy 9 (ATG9) and 16 (ATG16) proteins are crucial for full proteasomal activity in the unicellular amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum. In comparison to AX2 wild-type cells, ATG9¯ and ATG16¯ cells displayed a 60%, and ATG9¯/16¯ cells a 90%, decrease in proteasomal activity. Mutant cells also showed a significant increase in poly-ubiquitinated proteins and contained large ubiquitin-positive protein aggregates. Here, we focus on possible reasons for these results. Reanalysis of published tandem mass tag-based quantitative proteomic results of AX2, ATG9¯, ATG16¯, and ATG9¯/16¯ cells revealed no change in the abundance of proteasomal subunits. To identify possible differences in proteasome-associated proteins, we generated AX2 wild-type and ATG16¯ cells expressing the 20S proteasomal subunit PSMA4 as GFP-tagged fusion protein, and performed co-immunoprecipitation experiments followed by mass spectrometric analysis. The results revealed no significant differences in the abundance of proteasomes between the two strains. However, we found enrichment as well as depletion of proteasomal regulators and differences in the ubiquitination of associated proteins for ATG16¯, as compared to AX2 cells. Recently, proteaphagy has been described as a means to replace non-functional proteasomes. We propose that autophagy-deficient D. discoideum mutants suffer from inefficient proteaphagy, which results in the accumulation of modified, less-active, and also of inactive, proteasomes. As a consequence, these cells exhibit a dramatic decrease in proteasomal activity and deranged protein homeostasis.
Hepatic Oxi-Inflammation and Neophobia as Potential Liver–Brain Axis Targets for Alzheimer’s Disease and Aging, with Strong Sensitivity to Sex, Isolation, and Obesity
Authors: Fraile-Ramos Juan , Garrit Anna , Reig-Vilallonga Josep , Giménez-Llort Lydia
Published: May 2023

Research on Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has classically focused on alterations that occur in the brain and their intra- and extracellular neuropathological hallmarks. However, the oxi-inflammation hypothesis of aging may also play a role in neuroimmunoendocrine dysregulation and the disease’s pathophysiology, where the liver emerges as a target organ due to its implication in regulating metabolism and supporting the immune system. In the present work, we demonstrate organ (hepatomegaly), tissue (histopathological amyloidosis), and cellular oxidative stress (decreased glutathione peroxidase and increased glutathione reductase enzymatic activities) and inflammation (increased IL-6 and TNF𝛼) as hallmarks of hepatic dysfunction in 16-month-old male and female 3xTg-AD mice at advanced stages of the disease, and as compared to age- and sex-matched non-transgenic (NTg) counterparts. Moreover, liver–brain axis alterations were found through behavioral (increased neophobia) and HPA axis correlations that were enhanced under forced isolation. In all cases, sex (male) and isolation (naturalistic and forced) were determinants of worse hepatomegaly, oxidative stress, and inflammation progression. In addition, obesity in old male NTg mice was translated into a worse steatosis grade. Further research is underway determine whether these alterations could correlate with a worse disease prognosis and to establish potential integrative system targets for AD research.
Therapeutic Strategies Targeting Respiratory Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury: From Preclinical Development to Clinical Translation
Authors: Michel-Flutot Pauline , Lane Michael A. , Lepore Angelo C. , Vinit Stéphane
Published: May 2023

High spinal cord injuries (SCIs) lead to permanent functional deficits, including respiratory dysfunction. Patients living with such conditions often rely on ventilatory assistance to survive, and even those that can be weaned continue to suffer life-threatening impairments. There is currently no treatment for SCI that is capable of providing complete recovery of diaphragm activity and respiratory function. The diaphragm is the main inspiratory muscle, and its activity is controlled by phrenic motoneurons (phMNs) located in the cervical (C3–C5) spinal cord. Preserving and/or restoring phMN activity following a high SCI is essential for achieving voluntary control of breathing. In this review, we will highlight (1) the current knowledge of inflammatory and spontaneous pro-regenerative processes occurring after SCI, (2) key therapeutics developed to date, and (3) how these can be harnessed to drive respiratory recovery following SCIs. These therapeutic approaches are typically first developed and tested in relevant preclinical models, with some of them having been translated into clinical studies. A better understanding of inflammatory and pro-regenerative processes, as well as how they can be therapeutically manipulated, will be the key to achieving optimal functional recovery following SCIs.
Comparative Fracture Resistance Analysis of Translucent Monolithic Zirconia Dioxide Milled in a CAD/CAM System
Authors: Abad-Coronel Cristian , Paladines Ángeles , Ulloa Ana Liz , Paltán César A. , Fajardo Jorge I.
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the fracture resistance of definitive zirconia dioxide restorations obtained using a computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) system. Methods: Two groups of ten samples were analyzed for each material (n: 20); the first group was Zolid Gen X Amann Girrbach (ZGX) and the second group was Cercon HT Dentsply Sirona (CDS). The restorations were designed with identical parameters and milled with a CAD/CAM system. Each specimen was load tested at a speed of 0.5 mm/min, with a direction parallel to the major axis of the tooth and with an initial preload of 10 N until fracture using a universal testing machine (Universal/Tensile Testing Machine, Autograph AGS-X Series) equipped with a 20 kN load cell. The results obtained were recorded in Newtons (N), using software connected to the testing machine. Results: Statistically significant differences were found, and the fracture resistance of the monolithic zirconia crowns was lower in the CDS group (1744.84 ± 172.8 N) compared to the ZGX group (2387.41 ± 516 N). Conclusions: The monolithic zirconia CAD-CAM zirconia crowns showed sufficient fracture resistance when used in posterior molar and premolar zones with either material, as they withstood fracture loads greater than the maximum masticatory force.
Polymorphism of Genes and Their Impact on Beef Quality
Authors: Kostusiak Piotr , Slósarz Jan , Gołębiewski Marcin , Grodkowski Grzegorz , Puppel Kamila
Published: May 2023

The single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) form of genes is a valuable source of information regarding their suitability for use as specific markers of desirable traits in beef cattle breeding. For several decades, breeding work focused on improving production efficiency through optimizing the feed conversion ratio and improving daily gains and meat quality. Many research teams previously undertook research work on single-nucleotide polymorphism in myostatin (MSTN), thyroglobulin (TG), calpain (CAPN), and calpastatin (CAST) proteins. The literature review focuses on the most frequently addressed issues concerning these genes in beef cattle production and points to a number of relevant studies on the genes’ polymorphic forms. The four genes presented are worth considering during breeding work as a set of genes that can positively influence productivity and production quality.
Thermal Stability of Lead-Free Transparent Cloisonné Glazes
Authors: Lee Minsu , Kim Hohyeong , Park Jae Young
Published: May 2023

Glazes of (70 − x) ZnO-30 B2O3-x Bi2O3 with different Bi2O3 contents were prepared by the conventional melt quench technique. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) curves were obtained to determine the glass transition temperature (Tg) and crystallization temperature (Tc) of the glazes. The activation energy of the glass transition (Eg) and crystallization (Ec) were calculated using the Moynihan and Kissinger models, respectively. The glass transition temperature (Tg) decreased linearly with increasing Bi2O3 content. This is because the larger Bi3+ ions reduced network connectivity and opened up the structure. The Tg increased gradually with increasing heating rate (β). This is because the higher heating rate provided more energy for the glass to transition to the liquid state. The activation energy of the glass transition (Eg) decreased with increasing Bi2O3 content. This indicates that the glass-forming ability of the system increased with increasing Bi2O3 content. The energy corresponding to the amorphous-to-crystalline transformation during nucleation and crystal growth (Ec) increased with increasing Bi content to about 30%, and then decreased above 40%. This suggests that higher Ec values have an advantage in preventing crystallization in the crystallization danger region. It can be seen that the addition of Bi2O3 in (70 − x) ZnO-30 B2O3-x Bi2O3 glazes affects the density and distribution of oxygen atoms in the glass structure. It can also be seen that the increased Bi content promotes the formation of Bi-O-Bi bonds, which act as network modifiers to reduce the number of non-cross-linked oxygen atoms and increase network connectivity.
Dispersion and Demineralization Inhibition Capacity of Novel Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles Varnish on Enamel Surfaces against Streptococcus mutans (an In Vitro Study)
Authors: Hamalaw Sonya Jamal , Kareem Fadil Abdulla , Noori Arass Jalal
Published: May 2023

This research analyzed the dispersion and impact of magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgONPs) varnish on inhibiting enamel demineralization. A novel MgONPs varnish was prepared in absolute ethanol with rosin in 10%, 5%, 2.5%, and 1.25% concentrations. The samples were classified into six groups, including four tested with MgONPs varnish, one commercial 5% NaF varnish, and control groups of non-protected and sound dental enamel groups. Each group included five enamel samples and three broths of 20 mL per sample. The examinations were started by applying different concentrations of varnishes on the enamel surfaces, which were then exposed to Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) in three sequences of time for 144 h. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) were used to examine the MgONPs’ dispersion. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) was used to quantify the calcium (Ca) released from the enamel. The SEM and EDX evaluations of the enamel samples showed a significantly increased dispersion for the 5% MgONPs varnish, with the highest median. The ICP-OES test showed significant inhibition levels of the Ca release capacity in the 2.5% and 1.25% MgONPs varnishes, similar to the 5% NaF varnish. The MgONPs varnish revealed increasing dispersion of MgONPs, from 1.25% to 5%, and the maximum protection capacity was associated with the 1.25% and 2.5% varnishes, which was similar to the 5% NaF varnish in inhibiting the demineralization effect on enamel.
Adsorption and Surface Diffusion of Atomic Ru on TiN and SiO2: A First-Principles Study
Authors: Ahn Changhyun , Jung Ju Hyeon , Kim Jae Jung , Lee Dong-Chan , Shong Bonggeun
Published: May 2023

Ruthenium (Ru) has been suggested as one of the promising materials for nanoscale interconnects to substitute copper (Cu) that is currently used in the semiconductor industry. Through density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we present the rationales for varying deposition behavior of Ru on different types of substrates. For the SiO2 and TiN substrates, with and without adsorbed hydrogen, our calculation results reveal the adsorption sites and their adsorption energy, the surface diffusion paths and their activation energy, and the surface diffusion coefficients. We confirm that the adsorption of Ru is more stable on TiN than on SiO2 substrates, and that the surface diffusion of Ru adatom is faster on TiN than on SiO2 surface.
The Influence of CO2-Cured Boiler Cinder on the Mechanical Strength of RPC Exposed to NaCl Erosion
Authors: Bai Ligai , Liu Haiyuan , Wang Hui
Published: May 2023

Boiler cinder is a kind of mining waste that may cause environmental pollution. Based on this reason, a processing method needs to be carried out. In this study, the influence of CO2-cured boiler cinder on the compressive and flexural strengths of reactive powder cement concrete (RPC) under NaCl actions is investigated. The mass loss rates (MLR) and the relative dynamic modulus of elasticity (RDME) are measured to reflect the resistance of NaCl erosion. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectrum are obtained for revealing the mechanism of the macro performance. Results show that the relationship between the MLR and the mass ratio of CO2-cured boiler cinder fits the quadratic function with NaCl erosion. Meanwhile, the MLR during NaCl action are decreased by increasing the amount of CO2-cured boiler cinder. The MLR range from 0% to 5.3% during NaCl action, and the decreasing rate of MLR by CO2 curing on boiler cinder is 0%–51.3%. The function of RDME and the mass ratio of CO2-cured boiler cinder accords with the positive correlation quadratic function. The mechanical strengths decrease when NaCl erosion is encountered. The mechanical strengths’ decreasing rates of RPC are elevated with the increasing number of NaCl freeze–thaw cycles and the NaCl dry–wet alternations. The increasing rates of flexural and compressive strengths of RPC by 13.1%–36.3% and 11.2%–50.4% are achieved by adding CO2-cured boiler cinder. As observed from the TGA and SEM’s results, the addition of CO2-cured boiler cinder can increase the thermogravimetric value and the compactness of hydration products.
One-Step Preparation of Si-Doped Ultra-Long β-Ga2O3 Nanowires by Low-Pressure Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Tang Minglei , Wang Guodong , Wu Songhao , Xiang Yang
Published: May 2023

In this work, we prepared ultra-long Si-doped β-Ga2O3 nanowires on annealed Al2O3-film/Si substrate by low-pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) assisted by Au as catalyst. The length of nanowires exceeds 300 μm and diameters range from ~30 to ~100 nm in one-dimensional structures. The nanowires show good crystal quality and exhibit (201) orientation, confirmed by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. The PL spectrum obtained from these β-Ga2O3 nanowires has three obvious blue luminescence peaks at 398 nm (3.12 eV), 440 nm (2.82 eV), and 492 nm (2.51 eV). The electrical properties obtained from Si-doped β-Ga2O3 nanowires exhibit good conductivity. A metal-semiconductor-metal device is made by using Ti/Au as the electrode, and the device current reaches 200 pA at a bias voltage of 3 V. Our results show that ultra-long Si-doped β-Ga2O3 nanowires can be grown directly on the surface of Al2O3-film/Si substrates. These nanowires have a very high length-diameter ratio and good electrical properties. A possible mechanism for Si doping is also presented.
High Mobility and Flexibility in the Habitat Use of Early Juvenile Pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) Based on a Mark-Recapture Experiment
Authors: Blabolil Petr , Jůza Tomáš , Čech Martin , Peterka Jiří
Published: May 2023

Disentangling the role of factors responsible for juvenile fish dispersal is essential to understand the ecology of individual species, setting the corresponding conservation status and evaluating the potential risk in case of invasion. Because of their small body size and high sensitivity to environmental conditions, juvenile fish movements have largely been explained by external factors such as wind-induced water currents. In this study, early hatched pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) of hatchery origin were marked with oxytetracycline hydrochloride, stocked into a bay near the dam of a deep reservoir, and then monitored at approximately 10-day intervals using fix-frame trawling for 43 and 51 days after stocking, in 2007 and 2008, respectively. In both years, marked pikeperch were captured throughout the study period in the bay and closed dam section of the reservoir. After one month, individuals were captured in the middle section of the reservoir, approximately 5 km upstream from the stocking site. Four individuals were recaptured in the tributary section of the reservoir, about 10 km upstream from the stocking site during the last sampling in 2007. The farthest distance detection followed periods of strong wind. During daytime sampling, marked pikeperch were captured in both the warm epipelagic layer above the thermocline and the cold bathypelagic layer below the thermocline. The later sampling represented a community of vertically migrating individuals originally thought to consist only of reservoir-born and reservoir-experienced fish. This study suggested the high mobility and flexibility of 0+ pikeperch, as well as their unexpected behavioral plasticity.
Overview of Committed Quantities in Commodity Demand Analysis with a Focus on Energy
Authors: Mjelde James W. , Duangnate Kannika
Published: May 2023

An overview of the literature considering committed quantities in demand estimation for various commodities with an emphasis on energy commodities is presented. This overview provides a definition and the history of committed quantities, along with different theoretical modeling methodologies. Committed quantities are quantities that are consumed in the short run with little regard for price. Previous studies suggest that committed quantities for various commodities range from 15 to 98% of consumption. The inclusion of committed quantities appears to improve estimates generally, but it is not clear-cut. Problems arise when estimated committed quantities are negative or larger than the consumption amount. This review concludes with a recommendation that further research is necessary to resolve such issues, provide an improved understanding of the committed quantities in estimation, and fill in knowledge gaps concerning committed quantities ranging from theoretical to practical issues.
Large Language Models and Logical Reasoning
Authors: Friedman Robert
Published: May 2023

In deep learning, large language models are typically trained on data from a corpus as representative of current knowledge. However, natural language is not an ideal form for the reliable communication of concepts. Instead, formal logical statements are preferable since they are subject to verifiability, reliability, and applicability. Another reason for this preference is that natural language is not designed for an efficient and reliable flow of information and knowledge, but is instead designed as an evolutionary adaptation as formed from a prior set of natural constraints. As a formally structured language, logical statements are also more interpretable. They may be informally constructed in the form of a natural language statement, but a formalized logical statement is expected to follow a stricter set of rules, such as with the use of symbols for representing the logic-based operators that connect multiple simple statements and form verifiable propositions.
Deep Neural Networks for Spatial-Temporal Cyber-Physical Systems: A Survey
Authors: Musa Abubakar Ahmad , Hussaini Adamu , Liao Weixian , Liang Fan , Yu Wei
Published: May 2023

Cyber-physical systems (CPS) refer to systems that integrate communication, control, and computational elements into physical processes to facilitate the control of physical systems and effective monitoring. The systems are designed to interact with the physical world, monitor and control the physical processes while in operation, and generate data. Deep Neural Networks (DNN) comprise multiple layers of interconnected neurons that process input data to produce predictions. Spatial-temporal data represents the physical world and its evolution over time and space. The generated spatial-temporal data is used to make decisions and control the behavior of CPS. This paper systematically reviews the applications of DNNs, namely convolutional, recurrent, and graphs, in handling spatial-temporal data in CPS. An extensive literature survey is conducted to determine the areas in which DNNs have successfully captured spatial-temporal data in CPS and the emerging areas that require attention. The research proposes a three-dimensional framework that considers: CPS (transportation, manufacturing, and others), Target (spatial-temporal data processing, anomaly detection, predictive maintenance, resource allocation, real-time decisions, and multi-modal data fusion), and DNN schemes (CNNs, RNNs, and GNNs). Finally, research areas that need further investigation are identified, such as performance and security. Addressing data quality, strict performance assurance, reliability, safety, and security resilience challenges are the areas that are required for further research.
Methods of Annotating and Identifying Metaphors in the Field of Natural Language Processing
Authors: Ptiček Martina , Dobša Jasminka
Published: May 2023

Metaphors are an integral and important part of human communication and greatly impact the way our thinking is formed and how we understand the world. The theory of the conceptual metaphor has shifted the focus of research from words to thinking, and also influenced research of the linguistic metaphor, which deals with the issue of how metaphors are expressed in language or speech. With the development of natural language processing over the past few decades, new methods and approaches to metaphor identification have been developed. The aim of the paper is to map the methods of annotating and identifying metaphors in the field of natural language processing and to give a systematic overview of how relevant linguistic theories and natural language processing intersect. The paper provides an outline of cognitive linguistic metaphor theory and an overview of relevant methods of annotating linguistic and conceptual metaphors as well as publicly available datasets. Identification methods are presented chronologically, from early approaches and hand-coded knowledge to statistical methods of machine learning and contemporary methods of using neural networks and contextual word embeddings.
A Coupled Wildfire-Emission and Dispersion Framework for Probabilistic PM2.5 Estimation
Authors: Melecio-Vázquez David , Lautenberger Chris , Hsieh Ho , Amodeo Michael , Porter Jeremy R. , Wilson Bradley , Pope Mariah , Shu Evelyn , Waeselynck Valentin , Kearns Edward J.
Published: May 2023

Accurate representation of fire emissions and smoke transport is crucial for current and future wildfire-smoke projections. We present a flexible modeling framework for emissions sourced from the First Street Foundation Wildfire Model (FSF-WFM) to provide a national map for near-surface smoke conditions exceeding the threshold for unhealthy concentrations of particulate matter at or less than 2.5 µm, or PM2.5. Smoke yield from simulated fires is converted to emissions transported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s HYSPLIT model. We present a strategy for sampling from a simulation of ~65 million individual fires, to depict the occurrence of “unhealthy smoke days” defined as 24-h average PM2.5 concentration greater than 35.4 µg/m3 from HYSPLIT. The comparison with historical smoke simulations finds reasonable agreement using only a small subset of simulated fires. The total amount of PM2.5 mass-released threshold of 1015 µg was found to be effective for simulating the occurrence of unhealthy days without significant computational burden.
Experimental Analysis of Lightweight Fire-Rated Board on Fire Resistance, Mechanical, and Acoustic Properties
Authors: Yew Ming Chian , Yew Ming Kun , Yuen Richard Kwok Kit
Published: May 2023

Using lightweight fire-rated board (LFRB) presents cost-effective opportunities for various passive fire protection measures. The aim of the project is to develop an LFRB with enhanced fire resistance, acoustic properties, and mechanical properties. These properties were determined using a Bunsen burner, furnace, energy-dispersive X-ray, impedance tube instrument, and Instron universal testing machine. To fabricate the LFRBs, vermiculite and perlite were blended with flame-retardant binders, and four types of LFRBs were produced. A fire test was conducted to compare the fire-resistance performance of the LFRBs with a commercially available flame-retardant board. The B2 prototype showed exceptional fire-resistant properties, with a temperature reduction of up to 73.0 °C, as compared to the commercially available fire-rated magnesium board. Incorporating nano chicken eggshell into the specially formulated flame-retardant binder preserved the LFRBs’ structural integrity, enabling them to withstand fire for up to 120 min with an equilibrium temperature of 92.6 °C. This approach also provided an absorption coefficient of α = 2.0, a high flexural strength of 3.54 MPa, and effective flame-retardancy properties with a low oxygen/carbon ratio of 2.60. These results make the LFRBs valuable for passive fire protection applications in the construction and building materials industry.
Object Detection through Fires Using Violet Illumination Coupled with Deep Learning
Authors: Zhang Haojun , Dong Xue , Sun Zhiwei
Published: May 2023

Fire accidents threaten public safety. One of the greatest challenges during fire rescue is that firefighters need to find objects as quickly as possible in an environment with strong flame luminosity and dense smoke. This paper reports an optical method, called violet illumination, coupled with deep learning, to significantly increase the effectiveness in searching for and identifying rescue targets during a fire. With a relatively simple optical system, broadband flame luminosity can be spectrally filtered out from the scattering signal of the object. The application of deep learning algorithms can further and significantly enhance the effectiveness of object search and identification. The work shows that this novel optics–deep learning combined method can improve the object identification accuracy from 7.0% with the naked eye to 83.1%. A processing speed of 10 frames per second can also be achieved on a single CPU. These results indicate that the optical method coupled with machine learning algorithms can potentially be a very useful technique for object searching in fire rescue, especially considering the emergence of low-cost, powerful, compact violet light sources and the rapid development of machine learning methods. Potential designs for practical systems are also discussed.
The Potential Role of Epigenetic Modifications on Different Facets in the Periodontal Pathogenesis
Authors: Laberge Samuel , Akoum Daniel , Wlodarczyk Piotr , Massé Jean-Daniel , Fournier Dominique , Semlali Abdelhabib
Published: May 2023

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the supporting structures of teeth. In the literature, the association between the pathogenicity of bacteria and environmental factors in this regard have been extensively examined. In the present study, we will shed light on the potential role that epigenetic change can play on different facets of its process, more particularly the modifications concerning the genes involved in inflammation, defense, and immune systems. Since the 1960s, the role of genetic variants in the onset and severity of periodontal disease has been widely demonstrated. These make some people more susceptible to developing it than others. It has been documented that the wide variation in its frequency for various racial and ethnic populations is due primarily to the complex interplay among genetic factors with those affecting the environment and the demography. In molecular biology, epigenetic modifications are defined as any change in the promoter for the CpG islands, in the structure of the histone protein, as well as post-translational regulation by microRNAs (miRNAs), being known to contribute to the alteration in gene expression for complex multifactorial diseases such as periodontitis. The key role of epigenetic modification is to understand the mechanism involved in the gene-environment interaction, and the development of periodontitis is now the subject of more and more studies that attempt to identify which factors are stimulating it, but also affect the reduced response to therapy.
Diagnostic Yield of Exome Sequencing in Fetuses with Sonographic Features of Skeletal Dysplasias but Normal Karyotype or Chromosomal Microarray Analysis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tse Kai Yeung , Surya Ilham Utama , Irwinda Rima , Leung Kwok Yin , Ting Yuen Ha , Cao Ye , Choy Kwong Wai
Published: May 2023

Skeletal dysplasias are a group of diseases characterized by bone and joint abnormalities, which can be detected during prenatal ultrasound. Next-generation sequencing has rapidly revolutionized molecular diagnostic approaches in fetuses with structural anomalies. This review studies the additional diagnostic yield of prenatal exome sequencing in fetuses with prenatal sonographic features of skeletal dysplasias. This was a systematic review by searching PubMed for studies published between 2013 and July 2022 that identified the diagnostic yield of exome sequencing after normal karyotype or chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) for cases with suspected fetal skeletal dysplasias based on prenatal ultrasound. We identified 10 out of 85 studies representing 226 fetuses. The pooled additional diagnostic yield was 69.0%. The majority of the molecular diagnoses involved de novo variants (72%), while 8.7% of cases were due to inherited variants. The incremental diagnostic yield of exome sequencing over CMA was 67.4% for isolated short long bones and 77.2% for non-isolated cases. Among phenotypic subgroup analyses, features with the highest additional diagnostic yield were an abnormal skull (83.3%) and a small chest (82.5%). Prenatal exome sequencing should be considered for cases with suspected fetal skeletal dysplasias with or without a negative karyotype or CMA results. Certain sonographic features, including an abnormal skull and small chest, may indicate a potentially higher diagnostic yield.
Factors Contributing to the Long-Term Sea Level Trends in the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic and Canary Islands
Authors: Vargas-Yáñez Manuel , Tel Elena , Marcos Marta , Moya Francina , Ballesteros Enrique , Alonso Cristina , García-Martínez M. Carmen
Published: May 2023

We present an attempt to estimate the long-term changes in Relative Sea Level (RSL), in addition to the different factors contributing to such trends on a local and regional scale, using a statistical linear model. The time series analysis corresponded to 17 tide-gauges, grouped in three different areas: the northern and western Atlantic coasts of the Iberian Peninsula, the Canary Islands, and the southern and eastern coasts of the Iberian Peninsula and Balearic Islands. The analysis was performed for two periods: 1948–2019, using tide-gauge data; and 1993–2019, using both tide-gauge and altimetry data for comparison. The trends for the period 1948–2019 ranged between 1.09 ± 0.14 (Canary Islands) and 2.05 ± 0.21 mm/yr for the northern and western Atlantic Iberian Peninsula. Altimetry data during the period 1993–2019 yielded quite homogeneous results for all the locations and regions, ranging between 2.7 ± 0.4 and 3.0 ± 0.3 mm/yr. In contrast, the results obtained from tide-gauge data for this recent period showed a large dispersion, very likely due to local effects, or perhaps even to levelling or instrumental errors. Nevertheless, when the results were averaged for each area, the observed trends were comparable to the altimetry results, with values of 2.3 ± 0.8, 2.7 ± 0.5, and 2.8 ± 0.8 mm/yr for the three regions of study. A stepwise forward linear regression was used to relate the observed RSL variability to the atmospheric forcing and the thermosteric and halosteric components of the sea level. Surprisingly, the thermosteric and halosteric contributions were not significantly correlated to the observed RSL in many cases; consequently, the steric, the total addition of mass, the mass of salt, and the freshwater contributions to the observed sea level trends could not be reliably estimated. This result seems to have been the consequence of the scarcity of temperature and salinity data; this hypothesis was confirmed, with the exception of the tide-gauge data for L’Estartit. This location is close to a well sampled region. In this case, the atmospheric variables and the thermosteric and halosteric terms accounted for 80% of the observed RSL variance, and the contributions of these terms could be estimated. The freshwater contribution for this location was between 1.3 and 1.4 mm/yr, consistent with recent estimations of the contributions of glaciers and Greenland and Antarctica Ice Sheets. These results highlight the importance of monitoring programs and routine sampling for the determination of the different factors contributing to the sea level variability.