bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Heat‐Up Planning of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell with and without Hot Air Recycling by Considering Energy, Time, and Temperature Gradient
Authors: Hami Masoud , Mahmoudimehr Javad
Published: March 2023

A solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) needs to be heated to a high temperature to be able to start generating electricity. This study aims to manage the heat‐up process of a SOFC by considering the three objectives of time duration, energy consumption, and temperature gradient, simultaneously. Mass flow rate (MFR) and rate of temperature rise (RTR) of the hot air, passing through the cathode channel of the SOFC, are considered as decision variables. The transient heat‐up process is numerically simulated for six different MFR values (5–50 mg s−1) and six different RTR values (0.1–5 K s−1). The results indicate that higher RTR leads to lower heat‐up duration, lower energy consumption, but higher temperature gradient. Also, higher MFR results in lower heat‐up duration, lower temperature gradient, but higher energy consumption. The results also reveal that hot air recycling increases thermal efficiency from below 40% to nearly 100%. Finally, when hot air recycling is employed and all the objectives are considered simultaneously, the heat‐up plan with a RTR of 0.5 K s−1 and a MFR of 50 mg s−1 is selected as the best choice by using linear programming technique for multidimensional analysis of preference.
Effects of implementation intentions and mental imagery on subjective binge eating
Authors: Tanis Jorg , Vroling Maartje S. , Maas Joyce , Martijn Carolien , Keijsers Ger P. J.
Published: March 2023

Objective

Binge‐eating disorder (BED) and bulimia nervosa (BN) are characterised by binge eating. Changing unwanted behaviour is difficult, as intentions do not automatically lead to action. Implementation intentions (IIs) may help bridging the gap between intentions and behaviour. IIs are ‘if‐then’ plans promoting goal attainment. Effects are moderated by degree of plan formation. Using mental imagery (MI) to impress IIs may strengthen plan formation and goal attainment.

Method

In a students' sample with subjective binge eating, we compared IIs without MI, IIs with MI, and a control condition regarding their ability to reduce binge eating. Participants received three II‐sessions and kept food diaries for 4 weeks.

Results

Results showed a significant and medium to large reduction of binge eating in both II‐conditions compared to the control condition, that was sustained for 6 months. No additional effects of MI were found.

Conclusions

Applying IIs results in long‐lasting reductions in subjective binge eating. The absence of additional effects of MI may be due to floor effects. Also, participants in the IIs without MI condition may have applied MI without being instructed to do so. In future research, ideally with a clinical sample, it is recommended to prevent or control for this.
Perspective on human papillomavirus infection treatment by vaginal microbiota
Authors: Zhong Lingyan , Zheng Jianxujie , Lin Ling , Cong Qing , Qiao Liang
Published: March 2023

Cervical cancer continues to be a major public health problem affecting middle‐aged women. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by infection of high‐risk human papillomaviruses (hr‐HPV), thus tremendous efforts have been paid to accelerate the clearance of HPV. Vaginal microbiota has been considered to play a vital role in the regulation of cervical health, including HPV clearance. Several studies have focused on the relief of HPV‐related indicators using various microbes from vaginal microbiota, but the mechanism underlined is not fully understood. This perspective summarizes the current in vitro and in vivo experiments as well as clinical trials on the applications of vaginal microbiota to treat HPV infection and proposes topics that can be studied in the future. It is expected that more studies on the mechanism of vaginal microbiota‐regulated HPV infection treatment using in vivo and in vitro models, as well as more clinical trials using various microbes for HPV clearance will be carried out in the future.
An analysis of three chatbots: BlenderBot, ChatGPT and LaMDA
Authors: O'Leary Daniel E.
Published: March 2023

Google, Facebook, OpenAI, and others have released access to versions of language chatbots that they have developed. These chatbots have been trained on massive amounts of text using neural networks for language processing. Using an approach similar to security penetration testing, this paper investigates and compares three different chatbots, assessing potential strengths and limitations of these systems. The paper presents several findings, including a comparison of those systems across answers to common questions, an analysis of the use of names and activities to guide discussion in two systems, an analysis of the extent of differences in responses arising from “regeneration” of a question, the determination of a weakness in a system of knowing “who” invented something, development of a potential new subfield, sensitive topic classifiers, and an analysis of some of the implications of these findings. As part of this analysis, I find emerging topics in chatbots, such as “topic stalemate” and the use of sensitive topic classifiers.
Impact of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor agonist drugs in a model of nephrotoxicity in rats
Authors: Ali Azza A. , Saad Eman B. , El‐Rhman Rana H. Abd , El‐Raouf Ola M. Abd , Gad Amany M.
Published: March 2023

Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the basic anticancer drugs, nonetheless its use is restricted due to noxious side effects. Kidney failure is one of the main side effects that restrict its medical use. The current study assessed the nephroprotective effects of fenofibrate and pioglitazone against the renal injury induced by doxorubicin in rats and illustrated the probable mechanisms underlying these protective effects. For this purpose, Male Sprague–Dawley rats weighing (200–230 g) were allocated into seven groups treated for 15 days as following: control (50% corn oil + 50% DMSO p.o), fenofibrate (100 mg/kg p.o) and pioglitazone (10 mg/kg p.o) as well as four groups of DOX (15 mg/kg i.p on 11th day). DOX groups included DOX alone and DOX with protective drugs fenofibrate, pioglitazone or both of them. As a result of doxorubicin nephrotoxicity; serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen were remarkably elevated. Moreover, renal glutathione was significantly reduced while tissue lipid peroxidation malondialdehyde, tumor necrosis factor‐α, nuclear factor‐kappa B p65 (NF‐κB p65), interleukin‐1β, p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (p38‐MAPK) and caspase‐3 (Casp‐3) were significantly augmented. Treatment with fenofibrate and pioglitazone either alone or in combination markedly attenuated DOX‐induced injury by suppression of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis. The above‐mentioned biochemical markers were affirmed by histological assessment. In conclusion, fenofibrate, pioglitazone, and their combination possess potential prophylactic effects against doxorubicin‐induced renal injury through modulation of p38‐MAPK/NF‐κB p65 pathway with superiority to the combination.
On the computation of frequency‐dependent molecular magnetizabilities via dynamical charge and current electron densities
Authors: Summa Francesco Ferdinando , Zanasi Riccardo , Lazzeretti Paolo
Published: March 2023

In the computation of molecular dynamic magnetizabilities and magnetic dipole moments, three different reference points are required: (i) origin of coordinate system, (ii) origin of vector potential , and (iii) origin of multipole expansion. This study shows that methods relying on continuous translation of origin of the current density induced by optical magnetic fields provide an effective solution to the problem of choices (i) and (ii), in that they yield origin independent within the algebraic approximation, for any basis set. Frequency‐dependent magnetizabilities are also invariant with respect to (iii), as a consequence of symmetry, for a number of molecular point groups. In molecules of lower symmetries, computed magnetizabilities depend on origin of the multipole expansion. Large basis set computations carried out for water, ammonia, methane, ethane, ethylene, boranylborane, and hydroxilamine, at the DFT level, have been reported to document these statements. A comparison is made for results obtained within the conventional common origin approach for static magnetic field. Sum rules for invariance of computed properties are discussed. Representations of streamlines and stagnation graphs of dynamical current density vector field induced in the water molecule by monochromatic waves of four frequencies are displayed.
Detection of organochlorine pesticides in estuarine sediments of protected wetlands in Taiwan using high‐resolution gas chromatography/high‐resolution mass spectrometry and gas chromatography‐electron capture detector
Authors: Lai Yin‐Hung , Chi Ki‐Hsien , Zhou Wei‐Xiang , Hsu Yuan‐Cheng , Weng Ying‐Ming
Published: March 2023

Trace residues of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in estuarine surface sediments were investigated at three protected wetlands in southern Taiwan using high‐resolution gas chromatography/high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRGC/HRMS) and gas chromatography‐electron capture detector (GC‐ECD). This study facilitates the development of new strategies for investigating OCPs, particularly at background levels. Linear relationships were obtained between total OCP concentrations (∑OCP), as analyzed by HRGC/HRMS, and the sediment's total organic carbon (TOC) and water content. It contrasted with the results acquired by GC‐ECD, where no significant relationship was found. GC‐ECD is a rugged option for daily routine practice, particularly in cases of patterns yielded by GC‐ECD is clear; the HRGC/HRMS method provides more reliable qualitative and quantitative capabilities and is highly recommended for studying the fate of OCPs and carrying out risk assessments. The average ∑OCP of these three wetlands by HRGC/HRMS was found in a range of 0.214 to 1.049 ng/g dry weight. The highest OCP level might be attributed to associated irrigation systems receiving massive discharges of domestic sewage from an urban area upstream of the wetland. The ratio of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) to its metabolites indicated that the DDT residue in these areas was from aged input. According to sediment quality guidelines, adverse ecotoxicological effects of OCPs upon sediments were not expected in these protected wetlands.
Mechanochemical β‐Halogenation of nickel(II) porphyrins at room temperature
Authors: Chen Jia‐Xin , Wang Yu‐Ting , Chen Chi‐Min , To Ching Tat
Published: March 2023

A room temperature and solvent‐free β‐chlorination and β‐bromination protocol for meso‐tetraarylporphyrinato nickel(II) complexes to access the β‐octahalogenated derivatives by ball‐milling is communicated. Various ball‐milling parameters were systematically studied.
Twins Early Development Study (TEDS): A genetically sensitive investigation of mental health outcomes in the mid‐twenties
Authors: Lockhart Celestine , Bright Joanna , Ahmadzadeh Yasmin , Breen Gerome , Bristow Shannon , Boyd Andy , Downs Johnny , Hotopf Matthew , Palaiologou Elisavet , Rimfeld Kaili , Maxwell Jessye , Malanchini Margherita , McAdams Tom A. , McMillan Andrew , Plomin Robert , Eley Thalia C.
Published: March 2023

The Twins Early Development Study (TEDS) is a longitudinal study following a cohort of twins born 1994–1996 in England and Wales. Of the 13,759 families who originally consented to take part, over 10,000 families remain enrolled in the study. The current focus of TEDS is on mental health in the mid‐twenties. Making use of over 25 years of genetically sensitive data, TEDS is uniquely placed to explore the longitudinal genetic and environmental influences on common mental health disorders in early adulthood. This paper outlines recent data collection efforts supporting this work, including a cohort‐wide mental health assessment at age 26 and a multi‐phase Covid‐19 study. It will also provide an update on data linkage efforts and the Children of TEDS (CoTEDS) project.
A Graph Theory Study of Resting‐State Functional MRI Connectivity in Children With Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Authors: Liu HongKun , Zheng HongYi , Zhang GengBiao , Zhuang JiaYan , Li WeiJia , Wu BiXia , Zheng WenBin
Published: March 2023

Background

The effect of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning on the topology of brain functional networks is unclear, especially in children whose brains are still developing.

Purpose

To investigate the topological alterations of the whole‐brain functional connectome in children with CO poisoning and characterize its relationship with disease severity.

Study Type

Cross‐sectional and prospective study.

Subjects

A total of 26 patients with CO poisoning and 26 healthy controls.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3.0 T MRI system/echo planar imaging (EPI) and 3D brain volume imaging (BRAVO) sequences.

Assessment

We used the network‐based statistics (NBS) method to explore between‐group differences in functional connectivity strength and a graph‐theoretical‐based analytic method to explore the topology of brain networks.

Statistical Tests

Student's t‐test, chi‐square test, NBS, Pearson correlation coefficient, and false discovery rate correction. The statistical significance threshold was set at P < 0.05.

Results

The case group's brain functional network topology was impaired in comparison to the control group (reduced global efficiency and small‐worldness, increased characteristic path length). According to node and edge analyses, the case group showed topologically damaged regions in the frontal lobe and basal ganglia, as well as neuronal circuits with weaker connections. Also, there was a significant correlation between the patients' coma time and the degree (r = −0.4564), efficiency (r = −0.4625), and characteristic path length (r = 0.4383) of the nodes in the left orbital inferior frontal gyrus. Carbon monoxide hemoglobin content (COHb) concentration and right rolandic operculum node characteristic path length (r = −0.3894) were significantly correlated. The node efficiency and node degree of the right middle frontal gyrus (r = 0.4447 and 0.4539) and right pallidum (r = 0.4136 and 0.4501) significantly correlated with the MMSE score.

Data Conclusion

The brain network topology of CO poisoned children is damaged, which is manifested by reduced network integration and may lead to a series of clinical symptoms in patients.

Evidence Level

2.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
Home‐field advantage in litter decomposition: A critical review from a microbial perspective
Authors: Ma Anran , Liu Hong , Song Cheng , Tian Enling , Wang Xingzu
Published: March 2023

Litter decomposition is a key component of biogeochemical recycling. It is highly sensitive to changes in microbial community assembly. An interesting phenomenon in litter decomposition is the home‐field advantage (HFA), where litter decomposes faster in native locations than in foreign sites. However, the role of the HFA in litter decomposition remains controversial. This review examines current evidence relating to the HFA using the leaf economics spectrum theory and the Lotka–Volterra niche competition model and explains its influence on the microbial assembly process. Here, it is proposed that the microbial community assembly could help to explain the HFA at spatiotemporal scales. This review improves understanding of the role of the succession of microbial communities in HFA litter decomposition and in the elemental cycle of forest systems.
The workforce revolution: Reimagining work, workers, and workplaces for the future
Authors: Lim Weng Marc
Published: March 2023

As the world experiences unprecedented changes driven by groundbreaking technological advancements, increasing competitive pressures, shifting demographics, evolving societal expectations, and ongoing global crises or mega‐disruptions, the nature of work is evolving at an accelerated pace. This editorial introduces The Workforce Revolution, a critical movement that aims to reimagine work, workers, and workplaces for the future to harness these transformations effectively. As businesses and organizations adapt to new realities, innovative leadership and human resource management strategies become indispensable to ensure long‐term success and sustainability. This issue of Global Business and Organizational Excellence explores the latest research, trends, and insights on the topic, providing valuable guidance to leaders and managers as they shape the future of work. Articles within this issue cover a range of topics, including employee expectation‐organizational performance gaps, positive and negative workplace behaviors, toxic and responsible leadership, traditional and transformational roles of human resources, and the future of work in the new normal. By equipping leaders and managers with the knowledge to navigate these complexities, the journal aims to foster a more resilient and adaptable workforce, poised to thrive in the dynamic landscape of the future.
The effect of single kinetic oscillation stimulation treatment on nonallergic rhinitis
Authors: Sainio Sara , Blomgren Karin , Laulajainen‐Hongisto Anu , Lundberg Marie
Published: March 2023

Objective

Kinetic oscillation stimulation (KOS) is a new treatment method for nonallergic rhinitis (NAR), usually delivered twice with a 2‐ to 4‐week interval, and thought to stabilize autonomous dysregulation in the nasal mucosa. We aimed to assess the long‐term (1 year) results following one KOS treatment amongst patients with NAR.

Methods

KOS was administered through a latex balloon placed in the patient's nasal cavity. The balloon is connected to a device that fills the balloon with air pulses, thus vibrating the balloon for 10 min per side. Outcomes were evaluated through patient‐reported outcome measures (Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test 22 [SNOT‐22], Total Nasal Symptom Score [TNSS], Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation [NOSE], and 15D) and measures of patency (rhinomanometry, acoustic rhinometry, peak nasal inspiratory flow [PNIF], and clinical inferior turbinate size). Pre‐treatment actions were repeated at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.

Results

In all 49 patients, we found significant improvement in the SNOT‐22, NOSE, and TNSS scores. At 12 months, SNOT‐22 improved from 44 to 34, NOSE from 60 to 45, TNSS from 8 to 7, and PNIF from 80 to 100 L/min (p < .005 for all). We observed no major complications.

Conclusion

One KOS treatment appears to provide NAR patients with a subjective symptom improvement for at least 1 year, thus possibly decreasing the need for invasive treatment methods.

Level of Evidence

III.
RFC5, regulated by circ_0038985/miR‐3614‐5p, functions as an oncogene in the progression of colorectal cancer
Authors: Yao Huihui , Zhou Xin , Zhou Aina , Chen Junjie , Chen Guoliang , Shi Xinyu , Shi Bo , Tai Qingliang , Mi Xiuwei , Zhou Guoqiang , Wang Suo , Sun Jinbing , Yang Xiaodong , Yang Yi , Cao Huihua , Zhou Diyuan , Sun Liang , Yao Yizhou , He Songbing
Published: March 2023

Replication factor C 5 (RFC5) is involved in a variety of biological functions of cancer. However, the expression pattern of RFC5 and the underlying mechanisms in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain elusive. Here, we show that RFC5 is significantly upregulated in CRC tissues and cells. Patients with CRC and increased RFC5 levels have an unfavorable prognosis. RFC5 can promote the proliferation, migration, and invasion of CRC cells and inhibit the apoptosis of CRC cells. Additionally, upstream of RFC5, we constructed the competing endogenous RNA network and confirmed that RFC5 in this network was inhibited by miR‐3614‐5p by directly targeting its 3′‐untranslated regions. We verified that circ_0038985, which is positively correlated with RFC5, directly targeted miR‐3614‐5p. Overexpression of circ_0038985 promoted CRC cell migration and invasion, and these effects were partially reversed by the reintroduction of miR‐3614‐5p. Moreover, we found that RFC5 may promote the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFa)/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2)/extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase (ERK) pathway. The knockdown of RFC5 reduced CRC tumorigenesis in vivo. Collectively, these data demonstrate that the circ_0038985/miR‐3614‐5p/RFC5 axis plays a critical role in the progression of CRC, and RFC5 may promote CRC progression by affecting the VEGFa/VEGFR2/ERK pathway.
E‐platform finance versus bank finance: pricing, quality design, and competition analysis
Authors: Bi Gongbing , Wu Juan , Xu Yang
Published: March 2023

Some e‐platforms such as Amazon and JD.com are increasingly active in financing business, but theoretical research on this business is not comprehensive enough. This paper uses game theory model to compare the equilibrium of e‐platform financing (EPF) and bank financing (BF) in terms of pricing, quality, suppliers' competition, participants' profits, and consumer welfare. We find that a monopolistic supplier can always enjoy a lower loan interest rate and borrow more loans to improve production quantity or quality under EPF, which benefits to the participants and consumers. Interestingly, the e‐platform provides free loans and only profits from commission fee under some conditions. When there are two suppliers competing for the market share, the absolute advantage of EPF will change. If the supply chain or market environment is bad (production cost or commission rate is high; the potential market or initial budget is low), the e‐platform will offer lower interest rates than bank to reduce the strength gap between the suppliers; thus, the capital‐constrained supplier prefers EPF, which shows that the EPF business is an effective means to regulate upstream competition. However, when there are more competitive suppliers, the preferences of the suppliers with less initial capital are the same as the scenario of the two competitive suppliers, while the preference of the supplier with more initial capital is just the opposite. Finally, if the commission rate is endogenous, we demonstrate that the e‐platform will offer free loans but charge a relatively high commission fee.
An in silico study on the detectability of field cancerization through parenchymal analysis of digital mammograms
Authors: Hernández Angie , Miranda David A. , Pertuz Said
Published: March 2023

Background

Parenchymal analysis has shown promising performance for the assessment of breast cancer risk through the characterization of the texture features of mammography images. However, the working principles behind this practice are yet not well understood. Field cancerization is a phenomenon associated with genetic and epigenetic alterations in large volumes of cells, putting them on a path of malignancy before the appearance of recognizable cancer signs. Evidence suggests that it can induce changes in the biochemical and optical properties of the tissue.

Purpose

The aim of this work was to study whether the extended genetic mutations and epigenetic changes due to field cancerization, and the impact they have on the biochemistry of breast tissues are detectable in the radiological patterns of mammography images.

Methods

An in silico experiment was designed, which implied the development of a field cancerization model to modify the optical tissue properties of a cohort of 60 voxelized virtual breast phantoms. Mammography images from these phantoms were generated and compared with images obtained from their non‐modified counterparts, that is, without field cancerization. We extracted 33 texture features from the breast area to quantitatively assess the impact of the field cancerization model. We analyzed the similarity and statistical equivalence of texture features with and without field cancerization using the t‐test, Wilcoxon sign rank test and Kolmogorov‐Smirnov test, and performed a discrimination test using multinomial logistic regression analysis with lasso regularization.

Results

With modifications of the optical tissue properties on 3.9% of the breast volume, some texture features started to fail to show equivalence (p < 0.05). At 7.9% volume modification, a high percent of texture features showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) and non‐equivalence. At this level, multinomial logistic regression analysis of texture features showed a statistically significant performance in the discrimination of mammograms from breasts with and without field cancerization (AUC = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.75–1.00).

Conclusions

These results support the idea that field cancerization is a feasible underlying working principle behind the distinctive performance of parenchymal analysis in breast cancer risk assessment.
Continuity of discounted values and the structure of optimal policies for periodic‐review inventory systems with setup costs
Authors: Feinberg Eugene A. , Kraemer David N.
Published: March 2023

This paper proves continuity of value functions in discounted periodic‐review single‐commodity total‐cost inventory control problems with continuous inventory levels, fixed ordering costs, possibly bounded inventory storage capacity, and possibly bounded order sizes for finite and infinite horizons. In each of these constrained models, the finite and infinite‐horizon value functions are continuous, there exist deterministic Markov optimal finite‐horizon policies, and there exist stationary deterministic Markov optimal infinite‐horizon policies. For models with bounded inventory storage and unbounded order sizes, this paper also characterizes the conditions under which policies are optimal in the finite horizon and an policy is optimal in the infinite horizon.
How a highly acidic SH3 domain folds in the absence of its charged peptide target
Authors: Jaramillo‐Martinez Valeria , Dominguez Matthew J. , Bell Gemma M. , Souness Megan E. , Carhart Anna H. , Cuibus M. Adriana , Masoumzadeh Elahe , Lantz Benjamin J. , Adkins Aaron J. , Latham Michael P. , Ball K. Aurelia , Stollar Elliott J.
Published: March 2023

Charged residues on the surface of proteins are critical for both protein stability and interactions. However, many proteins contain binding regions with a high net charge that may destabilize the protein but are useful for binding to oppositely charged targets. We hypothesized that these domains would be marginally stable, as electrostatic repulsion would compete with favorable hydrophobic collapse during folding. Furthermore, by increasing the salt concentration, we predict that these protein folds would be stabilized by mimicking some of the favorable electrostatic interactions that take place during target binding. We varied the salt and urea concentrations to probe the contributions of electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions for the folding of the yeast SH3 domain found in Abp1p. The SH3 domain was significantly stabilized with increased salt concentrations due to Debye–Huckel screening and a nonspecific territorial ion‐binding effect. Molecular dynamics and NMR show that sodium ions interact with all 15 acidic residues but do little to change backbone dynamics or overall structure. Folding kinetics experiments show that the addition of urea or salt primarily affects the folding rate, indicating that almost all the hydrophobic collapse and electrostatic repulsion occur in the transition state. After the transition state formation, modest yet favorable short‐range salt bridges are formed along with hydrogen bonds, as the native state fully folds. Thus, hydrophobic collapse offsets electrostatic repulsion to ensure this highly charged binding domain can still fold and be ready to bind to its charged peptide targets, a property that is likely evolutionarily conserved over 1 billion years.
Validation of the prognostic value of a three‐gene signature and clinical parameters‐based risk score in prostate cancer patients
Authors: Saemundsson Arni , Xu Li‐Di , Meisgen Florian , Cao Rong , Ahlgren Göran
Published: March 2023

Background

The study aimed to validate the prognostic value of the Prostatype® risk score (P‐score), which includes a three‐gene signature and conventional risk factors, in a retrospective cohort.

Methods

All 716 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer from 2008 to 2010 at Skåne University Hospital, Sweden, were included. After excluding patients based on pathological and clinical eligibility criteria, RNA quality, and presence of metastases at diagnosis, a final cohort comprising 316 patients was further analyzed. Expression levels of three genes (IGFBP3, F3, and VGLL3) were measured in archived formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded core needle biopsies. The gene expression data were combined with clinical parameters (Gleason score, prostate‐specific antigen, and clinical tumor stage) to calculate the P‐score for each patient. Predictive performance of the P‐score in terms of prostate cancer‐specific mortality (PCSM), distant metastasis and adverse pathological outcomes were investigated.

Results

The P‐score predicted both PCSM (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.6) and metastasis (HR = 1.46). The P‐score had an area under curve (AUC) of 0.93 when predicting the PCSM risk at 10 years (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.89–0.98), which was significantly better than both D'Amico (AUC: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.72–0.90, p < 0.001) and UCSF‐CAPRA (AUC: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.80–0.96, p < 0.05). Decision curve analysis showed a higher net benefit of the P‐score compared to both D'Amico and CAPRA. All three risk scores performed similarly in the prediction of distant metastases. For patients who underwent radical prostatectomy (RP), a higher P‐score correlated with adverse pathological features such as pathologic tumor stage T3‐4 (p < 0.0001) and ≥International Society of Urological Pathology grade group 3 (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Our findings provide evidence for the prognostic value of the P‐score. The P‐score predicted the risk for PCSM more accurately than the D'Amico and CAPRA scores. Performance was similar when predicting the risk for development of distant metastases within 10 years. Moreover, the P‐score correlated with adverse pathological outcomes in RP specimens. Thus, the P‐score could provide useful information for patients and their doctors to make informed decisions at the time of diagnosis.
Carboxymethyl Cellulose–Polyethylene Glycol/Montmorillonite Composite Film and its Absorption of Methylene Blue
Authors: Li Yali , Zhang Beibei , Li Yun , Yan Bingfei , Ding Haiyan , Yang Shubin
Published: March 2023

Herein, a biodegradable carboxymethyl cellulose–polyethylene glycol/montmorillonite (CMC–PEG/MMT) composite film is prepared with good mechanical properties and adsorption properties to remediate methylene blue (MB) from contaminated water. The morphology, composition and structure of the materials are analyzed by scanning electron microscope, thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. The adsorption performance, swelling, and contact angle of the composite films are evaluated. The composite film shows a higher (≈98.5%) removal percentage for MB in ambient temperatures within 1.5 h. It is indicated in the results that the addition of CMC can enhance the adsorption capacity due to the effect of −NH2, −COOH, and −OH functional groups. Adsorption of MB by CMC–PEG/MMT composite film is an exothermic and spontaneous, which is fitted well in pseudo‐second‐order rate equation and Langmuir adsorption model. The adsorption mechanisms are studied in detail. It is strongly believed that this research enhances the application of clay mineral–based material as well as organic wastewater management in a wide range.
Realization of Low Dislocation Density AlN on Patterned Sapphire Substrate by Hydride Vapor‐Phase Epitaxy for Deep Ultraviolet Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Lee Seung-Jae , Jeon Seong Ran , Jung Sung Hoon , Choi Young-Jun , Oh Hae-Gon , Lee Hae-Yong , Kwon Min-Ki , Hong Soon-Ku
Published: March 2023

Herein, the characteristics of AlN epilayers grown directly on hole‐type patterned sapphire substrate (HPSS) by hydride vapor‐phase epitaxy (HVPE) are reported. To investigate the effect of HPSS, the threading dislocation densities (TDDs) of AlN films grown simultaneously on HPSS and flat sapphire substrate (FSS) are analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. The corresponding TDD is measured to be 4.38 × 108 cm−2 for the AlN sample grown on HPSS, which is significantly lower than the value of 1.48 × 109 cm−2 on the FSS. The usability of the AlN/HPSS template for deep ultraviolet (DUV) light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) is proven by growth of AlGaN‐based LED structure emitting at 278 nm with single peak emission in a metal‐organic chemical vapor deposition reactor. The light output power of flip‐chip LED grown and fabricated on AlN/HPSS template is enhanced by a factor of 1.25 when compared with LED on AlN/FSS template at 350 mA injecting current. These results suggest that the high‐quality AlN template grown on properly designed HPSS by HVPE can make a significant contribution toward the realization of highly efficient nitride‐based DUV‐LEDs.
Insights into Effects of Annealing Environment on the Changes in Structural Properties and Electrochemical Performance of Nitrogen‐Doped Zinc Oxide Nanosheets
Authors: Mary Manoj Alisha , Rose Viannie Leema
Published: March 2023

Herein, the effect of the postannealing process on the structural properties of nitrogen‐doped Zinc oxide nanostructures (N‐ZnO) synthesized by a single‐step hydrothermal method is reported. Detailed structural and compositional characterizations are performed using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Also, the amount of nitrogen doping has been optimized using different concentrations of the precursor solutions and they are subjected to different postannealing environments. The postannealing process is found to alter the defect structure in ZnO significantly. The samples showing the highest nitrogen doping are further evaluated in detail to know their structural variations. The incorporation of nitrogen into the ZnO structure and the effects of the postannealing process substantially alter the electrochemical characteristics by changing the surface properties of ZnO nanosheets. The effect of these structural variations on the electrochemical performance of ZnO is also explored. Under optimized conditions, the highest conductivity of N‐ZnO nanostructures obtained suggests the material as an outstanding candidate for electrochemical applications.
Seeded Growth of AlN Layers on Al‐ and N‐Polar AlN Seeds by the Cu–Al–Ca Solution Growth Method
Authors: Han Jiafu , Chen Jianli , Li Lujie , Yu Yonggui , Ma Wencheng , Qi Xiaofang , Wu Yicheng , Xu Yongkuan
Published: March 2023

Herein, the growth behavior of aluminum nitride (AlN) layers on the Al‐polar and N‐polar surfaces of AlN seeds is investigated by the Cu–Al–Ca solution growth method. AlN layers with a thickness of 50–60 μm grow on N‐polar seeds in 5 h, whereas the thickness of the AlN layer on the Al‐polar seeds reaches approximately 35–50 μm. Optical microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction (HRXRD), Raman spectroscopy, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy are performed to investigate the morphology and crystal quality of the grown AlN layers. The N‐polar and Al‐polar surfaces show hillock growth, which is consistent with the hexagonal structure of AlN. However, the surfaces show differences in terms of hillock size (smaller on the N‐polar surface). The HRXRD rocking curves of (002) and (102) show full‐width at half‐maximum (FWHM) values of 160.25 and 33.53 arcsec, respectively. From Raman analysis, the FWHM values of the AlN layers on the N‐polar and Al‐polar seeds are 6.1 and 10.6 cm−1, respectively. The PL results show 310, 460, and 590 nm emission peaks of the AlN layer, which may be caused by oxygen impurity and VN (nitrogen vacancy) and Ali (aluminum gap).
Postannealing Temperature Effects on the Etching Behavior and Field Emission Properties of Cu‐Implanted Diamond
Authors: Yan-Yan Shen , Qian-Shan Ouyang , Ting Qi , Shun-Tao Jia , Hong-Jun Hei , Yan-Xia Wu , Jie Gao , Sheng-Wang Yu
Published: March 2023

To investigate the postannealing temperature effects on the surface etching behavior and electron field emission (EFE) properties of the Cu‐implanted microcrystalline diamond (MCD) films, they are subjected to furnace annealing in a temperature range of 600–900 °C under N2 atmosphere at a rapid annealing rate. The etching behavior happens when the samples are annealed at 700 °C and above. The EFE performances enhance first and then decrease with the increasing annealing temperature. The optimum EFE property with a low turn‐on field of 6.42 V μm−1 is obtained after the Cu‐implanted MCD film is annealed at 700 °C. The enhancement in EFE properties originates from the presence of nanographitic phase and the formation of electron‐rich Cu nanoparticles, which encourage a higher efficient electron transport. In contrast, the structural studies reveal that when the samples annealed at 800 °C and above, Cu nanoparticles evaporate from the diamond surface and the sp2‐bonded carbon decomposes. Consequently, etch pits appear on the surface of the MCD sample. Moreover, it demonstrates that graphitization is the dominant mechanism of the diamond surface etching behavior and the enhancing of EFE properties.
Co‐design of adaptive event‐triggered scheme and output feedback controller for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems
Authors: Behnia Atefeh , Shafiei Mohammad Hossein
Published: March 2023

This article proposes a new co‐design adaptive event‐triggered (AET) robust control method based on output feedback to stabilize nonlinear systems with parametric uncertainties. The proposed event‐triggered mechanism (ETM) is obtained based on the finite gain stability. First, in the case of pre‐designed control gains, an AET robust controller is designed to guarantee the stability of the closed‐loop system. Then, a new approach is presented to co‐design the control gain and the adaptive event‐triggered mechanism, simultaneously. The proposed ETM which is presented in the form of linear matrix inequalities, leads to an increase in the average of inter‐event times. Moreover, the stability in the presence of the event‐based system and avoidance of the Zeno phenomenon have been ensured. Finally, to indicate the capability of the proposed methods, two examples are simulated. Simulation results show that in the proposed method the feasibility margin and the quality of the response are well maintained, and the number of samplings is reduced.
CsPbBr3 Quantum Dots‐Sensitized Mesoporous TiO2 Electron Transport Layers for High‐Efficiency Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Duan Linrui , Zhang Hong , Eickemeyer Felix T. , Gao Jing , Zakeeruddin Shaik M. , Grätzel Michael , Luo Jingshan
Published: March 2023

The carrier transport layer plays a critical role in high efficiency and stable perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, CsPbBr3 quantum dots‐sensitized mesoporous TiO2 (CPB–TiO2) electron transport layer for fabricating high‐quality perovskite films with enhanced phase stability is developed. The CPB–TiO2 layer enhances the perovskite crystallinity, phase stability, and reduces the nonradiative carrier recombination in PSCs. As a result, the CPB–TiO2 significantly improves the power conversion efficiency of FAPbI3 PSCs from 23.11% to 24.46% and reduces the device hysteresis. The CPB–TiO2–FAPbI3 device shows enhanced stability, retaining 90% of its initial efficiency after 500 h operation at maximum power point tracking under 1 sun illumination, whereas the control device degrades to 80% of initial performance in the first 200 h. In addition, this strategy is applicable to CsPbI3 perovskite, which provides a new and general strategy for preparing high‐efficiency PSCs.
Independent Judicial Councils and Democratic Quality: A Set-Theoretical Approach
Authors: Castillo-Ortiz Pablo
Published: March 2023

Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis, this chapter provides for more complex scrutiny of the relationship between formally independent judicial councils and democratic quality. The chapter shows that the lack of formally independent judicial councils was logically necessary for countries to obtain a low electoral democracy score. Furthermore, the chapter shows one important difference between countries with low electoral democracy scores and countries with intermediate ones: countries with intermediate electoral democracies scores had more solid judicial systems, with formally independent judicial councils.
Law and Marine Genetic Resources
Authors: Gameiro Maria Inês
Published: March 2023

From a legal perspective, these are exciting times for marine genetic resources (MGR). After years of debate about MGR beyond national jurisdiction, famously encapsulated in the idea of the “deepest of ironies” in ocean affairs, a United Nations process began, focused on drafting an Agreement on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ) and with a clear mandate to address MGR. This agreement has the capacity to unravel issues that remain to be solved, particularly when linking MGR with the marine scientific research regime established by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and with the provisions of the Nagoya Protocol and the TRIPS Agreement, or when addressing MGR under national jurisdiction.

This chapter will consider the web of legal regimes for MGR, including the complexities surrounding marine spaces, such as the extended continental shelf. After providing a comprehensive analysis of both international law—UNCLOS, CBD, the TRIPS Agreement and the upcoming BBNJ Agreement—and national legislation, the chapter will conclude that an all-encompassing approach is required when dealing with MGR.
Einleitung
Authors: Peschke Thomas
Published: March 2023

In dem vergangenen Jahrzehnt haben sich steuerliche Beihilfen zu einem der wichtigsten Themen innerhalb des europäischen Wettbewerbsrechts entwickelt. Es geht hierbei vordergründig um die Frage, nach welchen Kriterien eine steuerliche Maßnahme eines Mitgliedstaates als Beihilfe i.S.d. Art. 107 Abs. 1 AEUV zu qualifizieren ist. Diese Frage erfährt nicht nur juristische, sondern auch politische Brisanz, weil sich dahinter ein Kompetenzkonflikt zwischen der Europäischen Union und den einzelnen Mitgliedstaaten verbirgt.
Auslegung der Tatbestandsmerkmale einer steuerrechtlichen Beihilfe
Authors: Peschke Thomas
Published: March 2023

Soweit in den Verträgen nicht etwas anderes bestimmt ist, sind staatliche oder aus staatlichen Mitteln gewährte Beihilfen gleich welcher Art, die durch die Begünstigung bestimmter Unternehmen oder Produktionszweige den Wettbewerb verfälschen oder zu verfälschen drohen, mit dem Binnenmarkt unvereinbar, soweit sie den Handel zwischen Mitgliedstaaten beeinträchtigen (Art. 107 Abs. 1 AEUV). Diese Norm statuiert nicht bloß eine von vielen weiteren Regeln des Gemeinsamen Binnenmarkts, sondern eines der fundamentalen Prinzipien des Europäischen Wettbewerbsrechts. Der Begriff der „Beihilfe“ ist nicht legaldefiniert und erst durch die Rechtsprechung des EuGH und die Praxis der Kommission konkretisiert worden.
Anomaly Detection for Automated Visual Inspection: A Review
Authors: Rippel Oliver , Merhof Dorit
Published: March 2023

Anomaly detection (AD) methods that are based on deep learning (DL) have considerably improved the state of the art in AD performance on natural images recently. Combined with the public release of large-scale datasets that target AD for automated visual inspection (AVI), this has triggered the development of numerous, novel AD methods specific to AVI. However, with the rapid emergence of novel methods, the need to systematically categorize them arises. In this review, we perform such a categorization, and identify the underlying assumptions as well as working principles of DL-based AD methods that are geared towards AVI. We perform this for 2D AVI setups, and find that the majority of successful AD methods currently combines features generated by pre-training DL models on large-scale, natural image datasets with classical AD methods in hybrid AD schemes. Moreover, we give the main advantages and drawbacks of the two identified model categories in the context of AVI’s inherent requirements. Last, we outline open research questions, such as the need for an improved detection performance of semantic anomalies, and propose potential ways to address them.
Strategic spatial planning, “smart shrinking” and the deployment of CAVs in rural Japan
Authors: Banerjee Ian , Furutani Tomoyuki
Published: March 2023

The experiments taking place around connected and automated vehicles (CAVs) in global innovation networks today are largely technological in nature. This research takes a relational view of CAVs by investigating how they can be conceptualized within the larger context of strategic spatial planning. To do so, it takes Japan as a case study and explores how the current government is applying the tools of its new National Spatial Strategy (NSS) to strategically steer the development of its main economic and social sectors, including transport and the deployment of CAVs.
Contentious Politics of Mapping for (De)forestation in Indonesia: From the National to Provincial and Community Levels
Authors: Okamoto Masaaki , Ali Made , Watanabe Kazuo
Published: March 2023

Democratization and decentralization have accelerated the dispersion of power, even in the cartography of Indonesia. Different actors from the national to the provincial and community levels have started to create maps that reflect their own purposes and interests. As far as forest and peatland areas are concerned, some maps aim to reconfirm the reality of deforestation and the opening of peatland for plantations. Others aim to reclaim the forest and peatland. Without clear and binding regulations on the mapping, a plurality of maps has prevailed at all levels in Indonesia. This is increasingly reinforced by the fact that map-based land use has become the norm of spatial planning, making the creation of a legally binding map quintessentially important for any stakeholder. The cases from the national, Riau provincial, and community levels in this chapter demonstrate that all the mapping processes have failed to create a consensus map: while pro-environment mapping is not easily accepted, the rubber-stamp mapping of illegal forest and peatland opening is no longer simply accepted as before.
The Dimension of Gender in Peatland Management in Rantau Baru Village
Authors: Dewi Kurniawati Hastuti
Published: March 2023

Although harnessing full community participation in natural resource management produces positive ecological and economic outcomes, the specific roles of men and women in peatland communities are often overlooked. This study investigates the differentiated knowledge and roles of both men and women in peatland management in Rantau Baru, a fishing and farming Peat Care Village (Desa Peduli Gambut) in Riau Province, Indonesia. Primary data were collected through a survey of 152 households conducted from January–February 2020 and subsequent follow up interviews with community members. Modifying the Harvard Analytical Framework, the study examines knowledge levels of men and women as well as productive (peatland cultivation and fishery) activity, reproductive or domestic (childcare and household finance) activity, and sociopolitical (community meetings) activity. It finds that men are significantly more knowledgeable about peatlands than women and that peatland agricultural activities are dominated by men, but that gender roles are more evenly distributed in fishery activities. Women and men play complementary roles in “reproductive activities” of the household, but women do not participate nearly as much as men in the public sphere of “sociopolitical activities,” such as attending community, association, and village meetings. The study provides new insight into the community’s knowledge of peatland according to gender, and the potential role of both male and female community members in peatland restoration. Any project or program on peatland restoration should recognize the basic features and differences of gender roles and the specific needs of men and women to ensure the optimal contribution of all community members to peatland management and restoration.