bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Method to Evaluate the Credibility of Domain Knowledge Network Using Validated Expert Knowledge
Authors: Li Yin , Zhou Ying , Liao Li , Li Bixin
Published: November 2024

We are living in an era of knowledge explosion, where all kinds of knowledge are emerging and becoming more and more complicated with the development of new techniques and new ideas. When we study knowledge and apply them to understand and solve problems, the credibility of knowledge is becoming our main concerns. Usually, high credible domain knowledge can guide us correctly understand all concepts and the relationships between them in this domain. Due to its good layer structure and scalability, domain knowledge network is widely used to represent knowledge in knowledge engineering, artificial intelligence and others in recent years. How to ensure the credibility of domain knowledge network? This is an important and interesting topic.

In this paper, we propose a method to evaluate the knowledge credibility for domain knowledge network, which means that we can start from the layer structure of domain knowledge network, and evaluate the credibility of knowledge layer by layer using validated expert knowledge such as domain dictionary, domain ontology and domain expert experience.

We conduct experiments with six domain knowledge network constructed based on network data and six domain knowledge network constructed manually based on published books or domain dictionaries, which describe the same domain knowledge in pairs. Experimental results show that the knowledge credibility of domain knowledge network constructed from validated expert knowledge is significantly higher than the knowledge credibility of domain knowledge network constructed directly from network data, which satisfy our expectation and also prove the effectiveness of our credibility evaluation method.
COVID-19 REINFECTION PROCESSES: MATHEMATICAL MODELING, DATA FITTING WITH TIME-VARYING PARAMETERS, AND OPTIMAL CONTROL STUDIES
Authors: YANG JIE , WANG XUAN , LOU JIE
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we construct a COVID-19 dynamic model that included both the initial and reinfected population compartments, and conduct a structural identifiability analysis of the model parameters to ensure the robustness of the parameter fitting results. We use some actual statistical data from North Carolina to fit the model and estimate the values of some important parameters. In order to accurately fit the parameters in the model, we improve the physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) method in this paper, so that the fitting results can be reproduced on Matlab. The results of this study show that the transmission capacity of the virus in the reinfected person is only slightly lower than that of the first infected person, and vaccination is not effective in reducing the transmission rate of the virus. The death rate of the reinfected is much higher than that of the first infected person. Finally, we conduct a cost-effectiveness study using optimal control methods and found that, while it is easier to reduce reinfection by combining multiple strategies, the most effective strategy for reducing reinfection is to increase treatment cure rates and reduce direct or indirect contact among those who have recovered.
Core–EP orthogonal elements in a ring with involution
Authors: Stanimirović Olivera , Mosić Dijana
Published: November 2024

Our goal is to study a new concept of the core–EP orthogonality for elements of a ring with involution, extending this concept presented for Drazin invertible bounded linear operators and the concept of the core orthogonality for elements of a ring with involution. Various properties and characterizations of core–EP orthogonal elements are proved as well as their matrix representation forms. For a pair of core–EP orthogonal elements, we propose equivalent conditions for the core–EP additivity to hold. We apply the core–EP orthogonality to introduce and study the strong core–EP orthogonality for elements of a ring with involution. Thus, some results for operators are generalized and a number of new results are given.
On the coordinate rings of double Danielewski varieties
Authors: Sun Xiaosong , Zeng Shuai
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we study the double Danielewski varieties which arose from the research on the classical Cancellation Problem. We describe the Makar-Limanov invariant and locally nilpotent derivations of the coordinate rings of these varieties.
On the minimal degree and base size of finite primitive groups
Authors: Mastrogiacomo Fabio
Published: November 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite permutation group acting on [Formula: see text]. A base for [Formula: see text] is a subset [Formula: see text] such that the pointwise stabilizer [Formula: see text] is the identity. The base size of [Formula: see text], denoted by [Formula: see text], is the cardinality of the smallest possible base. The minimal degree of [Formula: see text], denoted by [Formula: see text], is the smallest cardinality of the support of a non-trivial element of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we establish a new upper bound for [Formula: see text] when [Formula: see text] is primitive, and subsequently prove that if [Formula: see text] is a primitive group different from the Mathieu group of degree [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the degree of [Formula: see text]. This bound is best possible, up to a multiplicative constant.
Multi-bandwidth reconstruction for photoacoustic tomography using cascade U-net
Authors: Qin Zezheng , Ma Lingyu , Lei Zhigang , Ma Yiming , Fu Weiwei , Sun Mingjian
Published: November 2024

Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) employs short laser pulses to excite absorbing materials, producing ultrasonic waves spanning a broad spectrum of frequencies. These ultrasonic waves are captured surrounding the sample and utilized to reconstruct the initial pressure distribution tomographically. Despite the wide spectral range of the laser-generated photoacoustic signal, an individual transducer can only capture a limited segment of the signal due to its constrained bandwidth. Herein, we have developed a multi-bandwidth ring array photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) system, incorporating a probe with two semi-ring arrays: one for high frequency and the other for low frequency. Utilizing the two semi-ring array PAIs, we have devised a specialized deep learning model, comprising two serially connected U-net architectures, to autonomously generate multi-bandwidth full-view PAIs. Preliminary results from simulations and in vivo experiments illustrate the system’s robust multi-bandwidth imaging capabilities, achieving an excellent PSNR of 34.78 dB and a structural similarity index measure (SSIM) of 0.94 in the high-frequency reconstruction of complex mouse abdominal structures. This innovative PACT system is notable for its capability to seamlessly acquire multi-bandwidth full-view PAIs, thereby advancing the application of PAI technology in the biomedical domain.
Ground models for tailings management
Authors: Menzies Tristan Jónsson
Published: November 2024

Tailings and tailings storage facilities (TSF) are an unavoidable by-product of mining, the improper design, construction and management of which has historically caused significant environmental and societal impacts. The 2020 ‘Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management’ (GISTM) was introduced into tailings management practice to ‘achieve the ultimate goal of zero harm to people and the environment and zero tolerance for human fatality’ and provides the framework by which facility operators, designers, consultants and other stakeholders approach tailings management. GISTM includes the requirement of a site characterization, considered to be equivalent to an Engineering Geological Model (EGM). The development of robust site characterization(s) for tailings management is considered to require a series of interrelated ground models that make up the EGM and critically include a conceptual geological model, a total geological history approach and a component of digital modelling. This paper provides a framework for the development of ground models for tailings management through the complete TSF lifespan, from concept to closure, by the reinterpretation of existing ground model literature in a mine-waste specific and GISTM compliant context.
GSyncCode: Geometry Synchronous Hidden Code for One-step Photography Decoding
Authors: Zhao Chengxin , Ling Hefei , Shen Jialie , Fang Han , Xie Sijing , Fang Yaokun , Li Zongyi , Li Ping
Published: November 2024

Invisible hyperlinks and hidden barcodes have recently emerged as a hot topic in offline-to-online messaging, where an invisible message or barcode is embedded in an image and can be decoded via camera shooting. Current schemes involve a two-step decoding process: starting with vertex localization of the embedded region to correct the perspective distortion introduced by shooting, followed by decoding the message from the corrected region. However, vertex localization can be complex and time-consuming, which affects the efficiency and accuracy of message decoding. To address this issue, this article proposes a geometry synchronous decoding scheme called GSyncCode, allowing for one-step extraction of a Data Matrix code from the photograph. Instead of correction before decoding, GSyncCode directly decodes a geometry-transformed Data Matrix that is synchronized with the embedded region. A barcode scanner is then used to efficiently retrieve messages. We design a Haar transform-based encoder HaarUNet and a HaarLoss visual function to select the key component of the Data Matrix for embedding. They improve the visual quality of the embedded image by reducing redundant embedding signals. Extensive simulated and real-world experiments demonstrate the superiority of GSyncCode in both decoding efficiency and accuracy. Our codes are published at:
https://github.com/zcx-language/GSyncCode
.
State of Health Estimation for Lithium-Ion Batteries Based on Fusion Health Features and Adaboost-GWO-BP Model
Authors: Tong Liang , Li Yiyang , Chen Yong , Kuang Rao , Xu Yonghong , Zhang Hongguang , Peng Baoying , Yang Fubin , Zhang Jian , Gong Minghui
Published: November 2024

To accurately predict the state of health (SOH) of lithium-ion batteries and improve the safety and reliability of battery management systems, a new SOH estimation method based on fusion health features (HFs) and adaptive boosting integrated grey wolf optimizer to optimize back propagation neural network (Adaboost-GWO-BP) is proposed. First, five kinds of multi-type HFs were extracted from the battery charging process, and the correlation between the proposed HFs and SOH was verified by Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients. Then, the indirect health feature (IHF) was obtained by multidimensional scaling dimensionality reduction to reduce data redundancy and improve the correlation between HFs and SOH. The GWO-BP model was then used to establish the nonlinear mapping relationship between IHF and SOH. In order to overcome the problem of low accuracy of battery SOH estimation in a single model, the Adaboost algorithm in ensemble learning is introduced to enhance the accuracy of the model estimation. Finally, the proposed method is verified by NASA dataset, and compared with other models. In the comparative experiments, mean absolute error and root mean square error of the proposed method for SOH estimation is less than 0.81% and 1.26%, which has higher accuracy compared to other models.
Low Concentration C2H2 Detection by NiO/SnO2 Nanostructured Heterojunction Based MEMS Sensor
Authors: Zhao Jiguang , Tan Zejie , Tian Bing , Zhao Liang , Zhao Fan , Wang Hairong
Published: November 2024

Low concentration detection and analysis of dissolved characteristic gas Acetylene (C2H2) in oil is one of the effective methods for power transformer condition maintenance to ensure safety. The MEMS gas sensor based on the nanostructured material has become a research hotpot for detecting the C2H2. In this work, SnO2 and NiO thin films were successively deposited by RF sputtering, followed by annealing at different temperatures to prepare NiO/SnO2 heterostructures, and the C2H2 sensor chips were prepared by MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) compatible process by using the SnO2/NiO thin films as sensitive materials. The results showed that the detection limit of the MEMS sensor based on the NiO/SnO2 (NiO/SnO2-2) film annealed at 450 °C was as low as 0.2 × 10−6 toward C2H2. The sensor exhibits a high response at 260 °C (S = 7.9 toward 1.4 × 10−6 C2H2), which is about 4.5 times that of pure SnO2(1.8). Meanwhile, it has an extremely short response time (13 s and 19 s). This study reveals that dissolved acetylene gas in transformer oil can be detected more efficiently by the sensor with nanostructured heterojunctions as sensitive materials.
2D Disposable Textile Stochastic Sensors Based on a Nanolayer of Diamond Like Carbon – Ag Modified with Metalloporphyrins for On-Site Assessment of Patulin in Apple Juice
Authors: Stefan-van Staden Raluca-Ioana , Popa-Cobianu Maria-Lavinia , Gheorghe Damaris-Cristina , Surdu-Bob Cristina Carmen
Published: November 2024

Pаtulin is а mycotoxin synthеsizеd by Pеnicillium, Byssochlаmys, аnd Аspеrgillus gеnеrа especially in wаtеr аnd sugаr-rich fruits such аs аpplеs аnd grаpеs, аs wеll аs in sеаfood, tomаtoеs, аnd cеrеаls. Due to its high toxicity for humans, it is essential to have on-site screening methods for fruits, vegetables, seafood and their processing products like apple juice. Therefore, a disposable textile sensor based on combined diamond like carbon – Ag nanolayer which was modified with two porphyrins: Zinc-protoporphyrin IX (znpp-IX), and 2,3,7,8,12,13,17,18-octaethyl-21H,23H-porphine Manganese(III)chloride (mnoep) to give two different 2D sensors were designed. The 2D sensors were used for the on-site assay of patulin in different types of apple juices. The wide working concentration ranges allow the reliable assay of patulin from 1 amol l−1 to 1 mmol l−1 and with high sensitivities (up to 1 × 1011 s−1mol−1l) and with limits of quantificationup to 0.10 pmol l−1. Recoveries higher than 95.00% with relative standard deviation lower than 1.00% were recorded for the assay of patulin in apple juice.
Dynamic driving pressure predicts ventilator-induced lung injury in mice with and without endotoxin-induced acute lung injury
Authors: Wallbank Alison , Sosa Alexander , Colson Andrew , Farooqi Huda , Kaye Elizabeth , Warner Katharine , Albers David J. , Sottile Peter D. , Smith Bradford J.
Published: November 2024

Elastic net regression analysis of ventilation waveforms recorded during mechanical ventilation of initially healthy and lung-injured mice shows that low driving pressure is a computational biomarker associated with better ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) outcomes and supports the use of driving pressure to guide ventilator adjustments to prevent VILI.
Effects of hyperthermia and acidosis on mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation
Authors: Davis Michael S. , Bayly Warwick M. , Hansen Cristina M. , Barrett Montana R. , Blake Cara A.
Published: November 2024

This study reports the use of a novel method for the measurement of ATP synthesis and concurrent mitochondrial respiration. Although acidosis is often considered a leading cause of exercise fatigue, this study shows that tissue hyperthermia, which often occurs concurrently with acidosis, has a larger role in decreasing the maximal rate of skeletal muscle ATP synthesis.
The interaction of adenosine and dopamine in modulating the consequences of central nervous system oxygen toxicity
Authors: You Benming , Shi Guorong , Zhang Yanan , Fu Xiang , Li Qian , Wang Yu , Huang Guoyang , Fang Yiqun , Li Runping
Published: November 2024

The interaction between adenosine and dopamine is critically important in determining the incidence of oxygen convulsion. Simultaneous regulation of both adenosine and dopamine offers a superior approach to counteract oxygen convulsion, achieving a synergistic effect exceeding the sum of their individual impacts. These findings provide new directions and insights for future in-depth and systematic exploration of the pathogenesis of central nervous system oxygen toxicity.
Voluntary activation of maximal single and all finger power grip contractions
Authors: Chauhan Daanish , Aruneethan Tivyan , Tran Tina , Zarnett-Klein Jennifer , Shah Eshaan , Behnia Sarira , Paris Michael T.
Published: November 2024

The deficit in finger flexion force when multiple digits are engaged is well characterized and often attributed to reduced motor unit activation. Using a custom-built, multifinger dynamometer, we report that the index-finger force deficit may not be related to a deficit in voluntary activation. Furthermore, the index-finger force deficit was greater in females compared with males, but this was also not related to sex-related differences in voluntary activation.
Stress appraisal is associated with sympathetic neural reactivity to mental stress in humans
Authors: Bigalke Jeremy A. , John-Henderson Neha A. , Carter Jason R.
Published: November 2024

The present study investigated the association between stress appraisal and muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) reactivity to the Trier Social Stress Test. Appraisal of the stress task as a threat (i.e., perceived inability to cope with the demands of the task) was associated with exaggerated MSNA reactivity to mental stress in humans. Threat appraisal is associated with exaggerated sympathetic reactivity to stress, potentially underlying the commonly observed interindividual variability in MSNA responsiveness to mental stress.
Synthesis of Sustainable OPC‐Blended Geopolymer Concrete: Experimental and Modeling Study
Authors: Zhou Peng , Bahrami Alireza , Gan Bin , Wang Zhou
Published: November 2024

Geopolymer concrete (GPC) has been developed using supplementary cementitious materials to reduce the carbon footprint associated with conventional concrete production. This study aimed to explore the production and simultaneous modeling of the properties of GPC using fly ash (FA) as the primary binder and ordinary Portland cement (OPC) as a partial replacement. Mechanical tests revealed that replacing FA with up to 30% OPC resulted in a 28‐day compressive strength (CS) of 33.52 MPa and a flexural strength (FS) of 15.21 MPa. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicated the formation of nepheline and albite, which are associated with sodium aluminosilicate hydrate gel, a primary strength giving product in GPC. Additionally, gene expression programming (GEP), an artificial intelligence technique, was employed to predict the mechanical properties utilizing the experimental data. The prediction models demonstrated high accuracy, with a correlation coefficient greater than 0.90. The study’s results provide valuable insights into the performance of OPC‐blended FA‐based GPC and propose easy‐to‐use empirical formulations for standard mix design and proportioning of alternative blended GPC, promoting the application of sustainable concrete.
Cysteine Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist—Montelukast—Treatment Improves Experimental Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms in Mice
Authors: Li Kexin , Li Meng , Wei Panpan , Tian Kangli , Liu Haole , Fu Weilai , Hou Haiwen , Chen Yajie , Xu Baohui , Li Yankui , Zhao Sihai
Published: November 2024

Background: Cysteinyl leukotrienes (LTs) and their receptors are involved in the pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). However, whether CysLT1 receptor antagonists such as montelukast can influence experimental nondissecting AAA remains unclear.

Methods: Nondissecting AAAs were induced in C57BL/6J mice by transient aortic luminal infusion of porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE). All animals were administrated montelukast (1 or 10 mg/kg, daily) or vehicle by gavage beginning 1 day before PPE infusion for 14 days. On day 0 (baseline) and day 14 after PPE infusion, abdominal aortic diameters were directly measured. Aortic aneurysmal segment samples were collected, and histopathological analysis was performed.

Results: Compared to vehicle treatment, montelukast significantly decreased PPE infusion–induced aortic expansion in a dose‐dependent manner (0.09‐mm reduction at a low dose and 0.19‐mm reduction at a high dose). Histopathological analysis also revealed that compared with vehicle treatment, montelukast treatment, especially in the high‐dose group, significantly improved PPE‐induced aortic elastin degradation and medial smooth muscle cell depletion. Both doses of montelukast also markedly decreased the number of local leucocytes, including macrophages, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and B cells, infiltration and accumulation in aortic aneurysmal lesions. Montelukast treatment also downregulated matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) and MMP9 expression and inhibited mural angiogenesis in aneurysmal aortas.

Conclusion: Montelukast treatment improves experimental nondissected AAAs in mice partly by improving aortic inflammation.
Subsidence and Induced Subsoil Cracking in the Southeastern of Mexico City
Authors: García Silvia , Merlos Joel , Trejo Paulina
Published: November 2024

Cracking of soils associated with subsidence is a complex and multiparametric problem. Local soil conditions could be responsible for the dramatic differential settlements and fissures manifest when the water pumping reduces the volume of the compressible strata. This situation is of extreme importance due to the level of damage to urban infrastructure and buried facilities (gas, water, and drainage) as well as to housing structures. In this research, using a simple geotechnical model of subsidence (finite element method, Mohr–Coulomb criterion) parametric combinations of materials and basement geometry are tested to define the geotechnical settings more susceptible to deformation and derived cracking. These approximations are compared with measurements and field surveys in Mexico City to validate the hypothesis. Defining the zones that are more susceptible to respond with cracking due to the phenomenon of subsidence can be especially important when designing urban development programs, restoration campaigns for buried pipes, even for construction and operation of new pumping wells.
Effects of Fermented Pomegranate Peel Polyphenols on the Growth Performance, Immune Response, Hepatopancreatic Health, and Disease Resistance in White Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)
Authors: Yu Zhoulin , Liu Guangye , Li Sijie , Hong Yucong , Zhao Shuyan , Zhou Meng , Tan Xiaohong
Published: November 2024

This study evaluated the growth performance, immune response, hepatopancreatic health, and disease resistance in Litopenaeus vannamei fed diets supplemented with fermented pomegranate peel polyphenols (FPPP) for 45 days. Five diets were formulated to contain various levels of FPPP: FP0 (no FPPP), FPPP inclusion at 0.015% (FP1), 0.030% (FP2), 0.060% (FP3), and 0.120% (FP4). The results indicated there were no significant variations in weight gain rate (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR), and feed conversion rate (FCR) of shrimp in all treatment groups (p > 0.05), but the survival (SR) of shrimp was significantly higher in all groups with the addition of FPPP (p < 0.05). Compared with FP0 group, the contents of total protein (TP) and globulin (GLB) in serum biochemical indexes of FP3 and FP4 groups were significantly increased, and the content of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) was significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Compared with FP0 group, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), acid phosphatase (ACP), and lysozyme (LZM) in the hepatopancreas and serum of FP3 and FP4 groups were significantly increased (p < 0.05). Similarly, the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px), total antioxidant capacity (T‐AOC), and phenoloxidase (PO) in the hepatopancreas and serum of FP2 group were significantly higher than those of FP0 group (p < 0.05). In addition, the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the hepatopancreas and serum of shrimp in FPPP‐added groups was decreased (p < 0.05). Compared with FP0 group, the expression levels of SOD, CAT, glutathione S‐transferase (GST), LZM, prophenoloxidase (ProPO), penaeidin‐3 (Pen3), Crustin, immune deficiency (Imd), Toll, and Relish genes were significantly upregulated in the hepatopancreas of shrimp in FP3 and FP4 groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, increasing the addition level of FPPP resulted in a more compact hepatosomal arrangement of the shrimp’s hepatopancreas, a more visible star‐shaped lumen structure, and a significantly higher number of B cells. Finally, the cumulative SR of shrimp in FPPP groups was significantly higher than that in FP0 group after 7 days of infection with Vibrio alginolyticus (p < 0.05). In summary, dietary supplementation of FPPP can improve SR, immunity, and hepatopancreatic health and resistance to Vibrio alginolyticus of L. vannamei.
Biofilm‐Forming Antibiotic‐Resistant Bacteria in Water From Distribution Systems: Occurrence and Public Health Implications
Authors: Bello Olorunjuwon O. , Oni Mathew O. , Bello Temitope K. , Ilemobayo Aderonke M. , Ajagunna Adebanke M. , Osho Adeleke
Published: November 2024

Biofilm is a structurally‐connected microbial community, covered by a self‐produced polymeric matrix and adhered to biotic or abiotic surfaces. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of biofilm‐producing antibiotic‐resistant bacteria in water from distribution systems. Water samples were taken from 32 tanks across Ondo City and Akure metropolis, Nigeria. Information regarding the sanitation status of the tanks was gathered by observation and oral interviews. The physicochemical properties were determined using standard methods. Using the pour plate technique. Agars included serially diluted water samples were inoculated onto plate count agar, mannitol salt agar, Salmonella-Shigella agar, MacConkey agar, and cetrimide nutrient agar to assess total viable bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella and Shigella, coliforms, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively. Eosin‐methylene blue agar was used to cultivate Escherichia coli and Enterobacter aerogenes. Pure isolates were characterised using API kits and assessed for antibiotic resistance and biofilm production employing the Kirby‐Bauer and tissue culture plate techniques, respectively. The ages of the water tanks ranged from 1 to 25 years old; all tanks had cover‐lids; 13 (40.63%) had water guards while 12 (37.5%) underwent water treatment. The physicochemical properties chiefly fell within WHO standards for drinking water. One hundred and eighty‐seven isolates were obtained. S. aureus (15.51%) had the highest frequency while Salmonella enterica (3.2%) had the lowest frequency. Thirty‐six percent of the isolates were strong biofilm producers, while 20.67% Gram‐negative and 18.69% Gram‐positive bacterial isolates were antibiotic‐resistant. This study revealed a high occurrence of biofilm‐forming bacteria and prevalence of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria in water distribution systems, emphasizing the urgency of improving water quality for public health protection.
Influence of Deep Margin Elevation Technique With Two Restorative Materials on Stress Distribution of e.max Endocrown Restorations: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: MahmoudiYamchi Fariba , Abbasi Mahdi , Atri Faezeh , Ahmadi Elham
Published: November 2024

Objective: The impact of the deep margin elevation (DME) technique and its associated materials on the stress distribution in ceramic endocrowns remains to be fully understood. This finite element analysis (FEA) aimed to assess the effects of flowable composite and resin‐modified glass ionomer (RMGI) as DME materials on the maximum Von Mises stress (VMS) values and overall stress distribution within ceramic endocrowns and the surrounding tooth structure.

Materials and Methods: A mandibular molar featuring a class II mesio occlusal (MO) cavity with the gingival margin of the mesial cavity positioned 2 mm below the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) was prepared and scanned using a Medit i500 scanner. The digital file was then transferred to computer‐aided design (CAD) software to create the models. The study generated four scenarios: an intact tooth model (model of intact tooth (MIT)), a prepared tooth model without a DME layer (model without DME (MWD)), a model with a 2 mm DME layer using composite material (model with DME of composite (MDC)), and a model employing RMGI (model with DME of RMGI (MDR)). Stress distribution under axial loads was evaluated based on the Von Mises criterion.

Results: The MIT model demonstrated the highest stress concentration at the CEJ region yet exhibited lower stress levels than others. The MWD model showed the highest stress levels. No significant differences in stress distribution patterns were observed between the MDR and MDC models. All models displayed similar stress distributions in the bone.

Conclusion: Regardless of the material used, incorporating a DME layer in cavities extending below the CEJ is advisable to achieve uniform stress distribution. Minimizing tooth preparation and preserving tooth structure are recommended.

Clinical Significance: Employing a DME layer in cavities with margins below the CEJ is beneficial for reducing stress, irrespective of the material choice.
Participant Experience of Taking Part in Periodontal Experimental Studies
Authors: Wu Yi-Chu , Schumacher Fernanda L. , Tatakis Dimitris N.
Published: November 2024

Objective: Despite the plethora of published periodontal interventional and experimental studies, there are no reports evaluating the experience of the participants as a research subject or their willingness for repeat participation in a similar study. This study aimed to determine the participants’ experience and willingness to participate again in periodontal experimental studies and to explore factors that affect the participants’ research experience.

Materials and Methods: Questionnaires from four completed experimental wound healing studies with 76 total participants were extracted and analyzed. The participants answered the same specific questions at their last study visit. The questions asked were “overall experience in the study” and “willingness to participate in the study again,” with each question providing five levels/possible answers. Questionnaires also provided an opportunity for participants to offer open‐ended comments about their participation. Frequency distribution and logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the association between the participant’s responses and study characteristics.

Results: All 76 participants answered the specific questions. Overall, 88.2% of participants had a positive experience from their research participation, and 65.8% of them would participate again in such a study. Of the 76 participants, 50 were in studies that included multiple (≥2) experimental wounds, while 26 received only a single experimental wound. Participation experience was negatively associated with the number of wounds received (p < 0.001), while willingness to participate again was positively associated with participation experience (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Within the present study limitations, volunteers participating in periodontal experimental studies have an overall positive experience and express willingness for repeat participation.
Response to Systemic Therapies in Patient-Derived Cell Lines from Primary and Recurrent Adult Granulosa Cell Tumors
Authors: Brink Geertruid J. , Hami Nizar , Mertens Sander , Nijman Hans W. , van Lonkhuijzen Luc R.C.W. , Roes Eva Maria , Lok Christine A.R. , de Kroon Cornelis D. , Piek Jurgen M.J. , Hofhuis Ward , Snippert Hugo J.G. , Groeneweg Jolijn W. , Witteveen Petronella O. , Zweemer Ronald P.
Published: November 2024

In patients with the rare adult-type granulosa cell tumor (aGCT), surgery is the primary treatment for both primary and recurrent disease. In cases of inoperable disease, systematic therapy is administered, but variable response rates and drug resistance complicate predicting the most effective therapy. Drug screen testing on patient-derived cell lines may offer a solution. In a national prospective study on aGCT, fresh tissue was cultured into 2D cell lines, testing 27 clinical and experimental drugs. Dose–response curves and synergy were calculated using GraphPad Prism and CompuSyn software. We established 34 patient-derived cell lines from tissue of 20 patients with aGCT. Of these, seven patients had a primary diagnosis of aGCT and 13 patients had recurrent disease. In eight patients, multiple tumor locations were cultured. On each cell line, 10 monotherapies and 17 combinations of drugs were tested. Carboplatin/gemcitabine showed efficacy and synergy in almost all patient-derived cell lines. Synergy could not be detected in the regular carboplatin/paclitaxel and carboplatin/etoposide combinations. Experimental combinations alpelisib/fulvestrant and alpelisib/gemcitabine showed efficacy of more than 75%. Drug screens on patient-derived tumor cell lines reflect the reality of the variable response of systemic therapy in patients with aGCT. In future research, this technique may be used to personalize the systemic treatment of patients with aGCT in a clinical study. The good response to carboplatin/gemcitabine in our patient-derived cell lines can then be confirmed in a clinical setting.
The HSP90 Inhibitor Pimitespib Targets Regulatory T Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Tsuge Ayaka , Watanabe Sho , Kawazoe Akihito , Togashi Yosuke , Itahashi Kota , Masuda Mari , Sai Atsuo , Takei Shogo , Muraoka Hiromi , Ohkubo Shuichi , Sugiyama Daisuke , Yan Yue , Fukuoka Shota , Doi Toshihiko , Shitara Kohei , Koyama Shohei , Nishikawa Hiroyoshi
Published: November 2024

Regulatory T (Treg) cells play key roles in cancer immunity by suppressing a range of antitumor immune responses and contributing to resistance to PD-1 blockade therapy. Given their critical roles in self-tolerance, local control of immunosuppression by Treg cells, such as in the tumor microenvironment, has been intensively studied. Inhibition of HSP90, a chaperone with vital roles in regulating proteostasis in cancer cells, impedes cancer progression by interrupting oncogenic signaling pathways and potentially modulating antitumor immunity, but we have very little mechanistic insight into these immune modulatory effects. In this study, we show that the number of Treg cells is selectively reduced by the HSP90 inhibitor pimitespib in animal models and patients with gastric cancer in a clinical trial (EPOC1704). Pimitespib reduced the highly immunosuppressive human FOXP3high effector Treg cells by inhibiting their proliferation and decreasing their expression of effector molecules, which improved the priming and activation of antigen-specific CD8+ T cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that pimitespib selectively degraded STAT5, a key transducer of the IL2 signaling pathway, which is essential for Treg cell development and maintenance, and consequently compromised FOXP3 expression, leading to selective impairment of immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment by Treg cells. Thus, pimitespib treatment combined with PD-1 blockade exhibited a far stronger antitumor effect than either treatment alone in animal models. Through these data, we propose that HSP90 inhibition is a promising therapeutic option for Treg cell–targeted cancer immunotherapy.
Diagnostic Accuracy and Clinical Utility of Fine-Needle Aspiration in Breast Lesions: A Correlation with Surgical Pathology
Authors: Hrizat Alaa S. , Doxzon Kelly A. , Post Robert P. , Brachtel Elena F.
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is a valuable diagnostic tool for evaluating breast lesions, yet its use is less frequent compared to core needle biopsies in high-resource settings. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic performance and clinical utility of FNA in correlation with surgical pathology outcomes. Methods: We performed a 3-year retrospective search (2021–2023) using our institutional database to identify cases of breast mass FNAs performed by interventional radiologists under ultrasound guidance. We retrieved and re-evaluated all glass slides from the archive. Additionally, we reviewed the cytopathology reports and correlated the cytologic diagnoses with concurrent or subsequent surgical pathology results. Results: A total of 65 breast FNA cases from patients were reviewed. The diagnostic outcomes were 55% negative for malignancy, 23% insufficient for diagnosis, 11% atypical, 8% suspicious for malignancy, and 3% positive for malignancy. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value of FNA for detecting malignancy were 76%, 96%, 93%, and 85%, respectively. One false positive case, categorized as atypical due to degenerative changes, was later confirmed as benign apocrine metaplasia. Three false-negative cases, initially categorized as non-diagnostic, were later diagnosed as invasive ductal carcinoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and papillary carcinoma. An additional false-negative case, categorized under negative for malignancy, was later diagnosed as invasive ductal carcinoma. Conclusion: Breast FNAs, while less frequently performed than core needle biopsies, provide significant diagnostic insights, particularly for cystic lesions. The study demonstrates high specificity and PPV for FNA in detecting malignancy, underscoring its value as a diagnostic tool when integrated with imaging and clinical assessment. These findings support the continued use of FNA in the diagnostic evaluation of breast lesions.
Abdominal Compared With Coronary Artery Calcification and Incident Cardiovascular Events and Mortality in Black Adults
Authors: Abe Temidayo A. , Yan Fengxia , Olanipekun Titilope , Blaha Michael , Effoe Valery , Udongwo Ndausung , Mentz Robert J. , Oshunbade Adebamike , Terry James G. , Ghali Jalal K. , Yimer Wondwosen K. , Kamanu Chukwuemezie , Onuorah Ifeoma , Hall Michael , Onwuanyi Anekwe , Correa Adolfo , Echols Melvin
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Black adults show heightened cardiovascular risk compared with other groups despite comparable or lower coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores, indicating potential cardiovascular risk underestimation by CAC. Abdominal aortic calcification (AAC), preceding CAC, may predict cardiovascular events better in Black adults who are prone to early atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and excess events at low CAC scores.

METHODS:

We included 2551 participants from the JHS (Jackson Heart Study) visit 2 examination (2005–2008) without cardiovascular disease, followed through 2016. Cox regression estimated hazard ratios for incident cardiovascular events defined as a composite of myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, and all-cause mortality. The predictive value of CAC and AAC, when added to the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association cardiovascular risk algorithm (pool cohort equation), was assessed.

RESULTS:

Mean age was 57±10 years; 66% were women. Over a follow-up period of 12.6 years, 287 (11.3%) cardiovascular events and 360 (14.1%) mortality cases were observed. Adjusting for demographic and clinical variables, each 2-fold increase in CAC and AAC was associated with cardiovascular events (CAC: hazard ratio, 1.10 [95% CI, 1.06–1.13]; AAC: hazard ratio, 1.10 [95% CI, 1.06–1.13]) and all-cause mortality CAC: hazard ratio, 1.04 [95% CI, 1.01–1.08]; AAC: hazard ratio, 1.05 [95% CI, 1.01–1.08]). The incremental value of CAC (0.17 [95% CI, 0.08–0.23]) and AAC (0.15 [95% CI, 0.07–0.29]) to the pool cohort equation by net reclassification index was comparable. Notably, 45% of participants with 0 CAC showed some degree of AAC. Each 2-fold increase in AAC was associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events (hazard ratio, 1.07 [95% CI, 1.01–1.19]) but not all-cause mortality among participants with 0 CAC.

CONCLUSIONS:

AAC is comparable to CAC in predicting cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality among Black adults, potentially valuable when CAC is absent.
Caregiving and Hypertension in Younger Black Women: The Jackson Heart Study
Authors: Arabadjian Milla E. , Li Yiwei , Jaeger Byron C. , Colvin Calvin L. , Kalinowski Jolaade , Miles Miriam A. , Jones Lenette M. , Taylor Jacquelyn Y. , Butler Kenneth R. , Muntner Paul , Spruill Tanya M.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Caregiving has been associated with high blood pressure in middle-aged and older women, but this relationship is understudied among younger Black women, a population at high risk for hypertension. We examined the associations of caregiving stress and caregiving for high-needs dependents with incident hypertension among reproductive-age women in the JHS (Jackson Heart Study), a cohort of community-dwelling Black adults.

METHODS:

We included 453 participants, aged 21 to 44 years, with blood pressure <140/90 mm Hg, and not taking antihypertensive medication at baseline (2000–2004). Caregiving stress over the past 12 months was assessed via a single item in the global perceived stress scale. Caregiving for a high-needs dependent status was assessed via a question on hours per week spent caregiving for children (≤5 years or disabled) or older adults. Incident hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure ≥140 mm Hg, diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mm Hg, or self-report of taking antihypertensive medication at follow-up exams in 2005 to 2008 and 2009 to 2013.

RESULTS:

Over a median follow-up of 7.4 years, 43.5% of participants developed hypertension. Participants with moderate/high versus no/low caregiving stress had a higher incidence of hypertension (51.7% versus 40.6%). Higher caregiving stress was associated with incident hypertension after adjustment for sociodemographic and clinical factors, health behaviors, and depressive symptoms (hazard ratio, 1.39 [95% CI, 1.01–1.94]). Being a caregiver for a high-needs dependent was not associated with incident hypertension (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.88 [95% CI, 0.64–1.21]).

CONCLUSIONS:

Higher caregiving stress among reproductive-age Black women was associated with incident hypertension. Hypertension prevention approaches for this high-risk population may include caregiving stress management strategies.
Efficacy and Safety of a Dedicated Device for Cerebral Venous Thrombectomy: A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Xu Yi , Wu Yan , Jiang Miaowen , Song Baoying , Li Chuanhui , Wu Chuanjie , Duan Jiangang , Meng Ran , Zhou Chen , Li Sijie , Yan Feng , Chen Jian , Li Ming , Ji Xunming
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Lack of a dedicated thrombectomy device for cerebral venous thrombosis hinders the recanalization ability of endovascular treatment (EVT). Novel NiTi-braided stent retriever (Venous-TD) is a dedicated venous sinus thrombectomy device. This study aims to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of Venous-TD.

METHODS:

In this pilot, prospective, randomized, single-blind, parallel-group control, single-center clinical study, patients with cerebral venous thrombosis from Beijing Xuanwu Hospital were included. Randomization was performed to EVT with either the Venous-TD or Angioguard with Sterling balloon (control group). The primary efficacy outcome was the proportion of immediate complete recanalization during EVT. Secondary outcomes included the proportion of functional independence and moderate to severe residential headache at 180 days after EVT. Safety outcomes included peri-procedural complications, all-cause mortality, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage after EVT.

RESULTS:

A total of 61 patients were enrolled and randomized. Thirty-one patients were randomized to the Venous-TD group, and 30 were randomized to the control group. The median (interquartile range) age was 28 (21–45) in the Venous-TD group and 34 (24–43) in the control group. The proportion of patients with a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score >8 on admission was 8 (25.8%) in the Venous-TD group and 11 (36.7%) in the control group. During EVT, Venous-TD significantly improved the proportion of complete recanalization compared with Angioguard (23 [76.7%] versus 6 [20.0%]; relative risk, 3.833 [95% CI, 1.825–8.054]). The proportions of long-term functional independence at 180 days in the Venous-TD group and the control group were not significantly different. The proportion of patients with severe residual headache at 180 days in the Venous-TD group was significantly lower than that in the control group (3 [9.7%] versus 10 [35.7%]; relative risk, 0.271 [95% CI, 0.083–0.886]). Safety outcomes showed no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

This trial indicated that Venous-TD did not increase complications in EVT of cerebral venous thrombosis and can significantly increase the proportion of complete recanalization. A multicenter phase III randomized control trial assessing efficacy and safety of Venous-TD is warranted.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT05291585
On the Comparative Utility of Entropic Learning versus Deep Learning for Long-Range ENSO Prediction
Authors: Groom Michael , Bassetti Davide , Horenko Illia , O’Kane Terence J.
Published: November 2024

This paper compares the ability of deep learning and entropic learning methods to predict the probability of the Niño-3.4 index being above 0.4° (El Niño), below −0.4° (La Niña), or within both of these thresholds (neutral) at lead times of 3 up to 24 months. In particular, the performance, interpretability, and training cost of entropic learning methods, represented by the entropy-optimal scalable probabilistic approximation (eSPA) algorithm, are compared with deep learning methods, represented by a long short-term memory (LSTM) classifier, trained on the same dataset. Using only monthly data derived from a surface-forced ocean model over the period 1958–2018, the problem manifests as a canonical small-data challenge. Relative to the LSTM model, eSPA exhibits equivalent or better performance in terms of area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for all lead times with a smaller computational cost by two and three orders of magnitude. Comparisons of AUC with other state-of-the-art deep learning models in the literature show that eSPA appears to also be more accurate than these models across all three classes. Composite images are generated for each of the cluster centroids from each trained eSPA model at each lead time. At shorter lead times, the composite images for the most significant clusters correspond to patterns representing mature or emerging/declining El Niño or La Niña states, while at longer lead times, they correspond to precursor states consisting of extratropical anomalies. Finally, modifications to the baseline dataset are explored, showing that improvements can be made in the parsimony of the trained eSPA model without sacrificing predictive power.
Pediatric Silent Sinus Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Chernov Evan S. , Ghanem Anthony , Gonzales Parilla Leonardo , Carroll William W.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Silent sinus syndrome (SSS) is a rare condition involving idiopathic maxillary sinus underdevelopment, orbital floor resorption, enophthalmos, and hypoglobus. SSS is more commonly described in adults, with only very limited literature in the pediatric population. Given the rarity of the condition, there is a lack of consensus regarding proper diagnostic criteria and treatment strategies. We present a case of pediatric SSS and a review of other cases in the literature.

Methods

Case report and systematic review.

Results

A 12-year-old female patient was referred for incidental MRI findings suggestive of SSS. Examination revealed minimal enophthalmos with some hypoglobus. A CT scan of the sinuses confirmed the diagnosis of SSS, and the patient underwent a right sided endoscopic modified medial maxillectomy/mega-antrostomy with image guidance given the significant maxillary hypoplasia. A literature review of CINAHL, PubMed, and Scopus identified 15 studies that referenced pediatric SSS cases.

Conclusions

This article reports a case of pediatric SSS and compares the presenting symptoms, diagnostic criteria, and surgical intervention to other cases of pediatric SSS. As pediatric SSS is a very rare disease, this case offers a possible treatment strategy for a severely atelectatic maxillary sinus.