bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the Electrochemical Behavior of Concrete‐Coated Steel in 1 M Sulfuric Acid Using an Extract of Diplotaxis simplex L.
Authors: Marouane Saoudi Mohamed , Ben Hjal Amira , Alouani Khaled
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to evaluate Diplotaxis simplex (DS) extract as an eco‐friendly corrosion inhibitor in a harsh 1 M H2SO4 solution, focusing on its effectiveness against both general and localized concrete corrosion. Electrochemical methods, including linear polarization, were employed to assess the DS extract‘s corrosion inhibition capabilities. The results demonstrate DS extract's exceptional inhibitory properties, with inhibition efficiency increasing with higher concentrations. This enhanced performance is attributed to the extract‘s phenolic compounds, containing nitrogen and oxygen heteroatoms with π‐electrons. Notably, sinapic acid, a known corrosion inhibitor for steel in acidic environments, was found in DS extract.

Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) further validated the findings, showing an 84.22 % inhibition efficiency at a DS extract concentration of 300 ppm. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis of the electrode surface confirmed the formation of a protective layer, supporting DS extract's potential as a concrete corrosion inhibitor in aggressive environments.

In summary, this study highlights DS extract's potent corrosion inhibition properties, making it a promising candidate for safeguarding concrete structures against corrosion. These findings offer exciting prospects for sustainable corrosion protection strategies in challenging settings.
The Origin of Thermal Gradient‐Induced Voltage in Polyelectrolytes
Authors: Sultana Ayesha , Würger Alois , Khan Ziyauddin , Liao Mingna , Jonsson Magnus P. , Crispin Reverant , Zhao Dan
Published: December 2023

Ionic thermoelectric materials can generate large thermal voltages under temperature gradients while also being low‐cost and environmentally friendly. Many electrolytes with large Seebeck coefficients are reported in recent years, however, the mechanism of the thermal voltage is remained elusive. In this work, three types of polyelectrolytes are studied with different cations and identified a significant contribution to their thermal voltage originating from a concentration gradient. This conclusion is based on studies of the loss and gain of water upon temperature changes, variations in conductivity with water content and temperature, and the voltages induced by changes in water content. The results are analyzed by the “hopping mode” dynamics of charge transport in electrolytes. The hydration of different cations influences the water concentration gradient, which affects the barrier height and ion‐induced potential in the electrodes. This work shows that the hydro‐voltage in ionic thermoelectric devices can be one order of magnitude larger than the contribution from thermodiffusion‐induced potentials, and becomes the main contributor to energy harvesting when implemented into ionic thermoelectric supercapacitors. Together with the rationalized theoretical discussion, this work clarifies the mechanism of thermal voltages in electrolytes and provides a new path for the development of ionic thermoelectric materials.
The Functioning of the Self During the Interlinkage of Action: A Radical Interactionist Perspective
Authors: Athens Lonnie
Published: December 2023

The present‐day state of our knowledge of the self as a soliloquy has not moved far beyond where the American pragmatists, John Dewey and George Herbert Mead, left it almost a century ago. Since their writings underpin the view of the self that current followers of the perspective of symbolic interactionism have adopted, their work still remain relevant today. To advance the development of the self as a soliloquy significantly beyond the point that it currently stands, however, I propose an explanation from the radical interactionist's perspective to account for the self's operation during the interlinkage of the individual acts that results, in conflictive or cooperative social acts. The individual act is reconceived from this new viewpoint, as unfolding over four stages: (1) need, (2) design, (3) re‐design, and (4) ending. While analyzing the self's operation during each one of these stages, I take special pains to explain the indispensable part that domination plays in bringing about their interlinkage, without which social acts of either type could not be completed. I argue that radical interactionism offers a more nuanced and realistic conception of the self's functioning during the interlinking of individual acts than its older cousin, symbolic interactionism, because unlike the latter, which rests on the assumption of sociality, the former is based on the assumption of domination. Thus, radical interactionism can much better account for how the self operates during the interlinking of individual acts that end in both conflictive and cooperative social acts and not only one or the other.
Spin‐Thermoelectric Generation of Insulator‐Based Generators Incorporating a Single‐Crystal Yttrium Iron Garnet Film in Relation to Domain Magnetization Processes
Authors: Imamura Masaaki , Asada Hironori , Matsuda Ryota , Tashima Daisuke , Kitagawa Jiro
Published: December 2023

Normalized VSTE–H loops measured for generators fabricated from LPE‐grown yttrium iron garnet Y3–xBixFe5O12 (YIG/Bi:YIG) films agree well with the normalized M–H curves observed for those films by using a vibrating sample magnetometer. VSTE and M are the spin‐thermoelectric (STE) voltage and the YIG/Bi:YIG magnetization depending on an external field H, respectively. The coincidence between VSTE–H loops and M–H curves indicates that VSTE strongly depends on the magnetic property of ferrimagnetic insulator YIG films incorporated in STE generators. We try explaining the STE generation with VSTE–H loops from a viewpoint of domain magnetization processes in single‐crystal YIG/Bi:YIG films grown by liquid phase epitaxy (LPE). We exemplify that our idea about the fundamental mechanism of STE generation in an insulator‐based generator also well explains the mode of spin waves generated under a temperature gradient ∇T parallel to a plane of Pt/YIG bilayer interface. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Quantitative analyses of sennosides A and B in eight ethical bofutsushosan extract products
Authors: Shii Takashi , Iguchi Tomoki , Kuroda Minpei , Shimazaki Tamami , Suzuki Ryuichiro , Mimaki Yoshihiro
Published: December 2023

Aim

Currently, no information regarding the sennosides A and B content is provided on bofutsushosan extract products for ethical use. In this study, sennosides A and B in bofutsushosan extract products from eight different pharmaceutical companies and those in bofutsushosan decoction were quantitatively analyzed. Additionally, since it has been reported that sennoside A is unstable to heat, the relationship between the different decoction times of Rhubarb and the total extracted amounts of sennosides A and B was investigated. Finally, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)‐based metabolomics analysis was performed on Rhubarb extracts to evaluate the variability in the quality of Rhubarb.

Methods

Solutions of bofutsushosan extract products, bofutsushosan decoction, and Rhubarb decoction were subjected to solid‐phase extraction, and then were analyzed using HPLC. The five Rhubarb extracts prepared from five different lots were subjected to NMR‐based metabolomics analysis.

Results

The quantities of sennosides A and B varied among the bofutsushosan extract products, with a maximum interproduct variation of approximately five‐fold. Sennosides A and B were not significantly unstable to heat up to 60 min. The five Rhubarb samples were classified into three independent clusters.

Conclusion

It is recommended that the quantities of sennosides A and B in Kampo extract products, including Rhubarb, be described in the package insert. When preparing Rhubarb‐containing Kampo medicines, sennosides A and B decomposition can be ignored for decoction times of up to 60 min. Further studies on the biological activity of secondary metabolites other than sennosides A and B are necessary for Rhubarb quality control.
Novel disulfidptosis‐derived gene blueprint stratifying patients with breast cancer
Authors: Tang Xiaojiang , Ping Baohua , Liu Yang , Zhou Yuhui
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Breast cancer remains the predominant cancer among females, accounting for about 24.2% of all cancer cases. Alarmingly, it is the primary cause of cancer‐related mortality in women under 45.

Methods

This research analyzed RNA sequencing data from 1082 TCGA‐BRCA and 107 GSE58812 breast cancer patients. Single‐cell RNA data from five patients in the GSE118389 data set were also studied. Using Random forest and COX regression, we developed a prognostic model. Pathway analysis employed GSVA and GO, while immune profiles were assessed via ssGSEA and MCPcounter. Mutation patterns utilized maftools, and drug sensitivity scores were derived from the GDSC database with oncoPredict.

Results

Analysis of the GSE118389 data set identified three distinct cell types: immune, epithelial, and stromal. P53 and VEGF were notably enriched. Five key genes (TMEM251, ADAMTSL2, CDC123, PSMD1, TLE1) were pinpointed for their prognostic significance. We introduced a disulfidptosis‐associated score as a novel risk factor for breast cancer prognosis. Survival outcomes varied significantly between training and validation sets. Comprehensive immune profiling revealed no difference in activated CD8‐positive T cells between risk groups, but a positive correlation of NK cells, neutrophils, cytotoxic lymphocytes, and monocytic cells with the riskscore was noted. Importantly, a negative association between the drug Nelarabine and riskscore was identified.

Conclusion

This research underscores the significance of a disulfidptosis‐associated gene signature in breast cancer prognosis.
By-product Phosphogypsum Valorisation Possibilities in the Context of Circular Economy of Building Materials
Authors: Fornés Ignacio Villalón , Vaiciukyniene Danute , Nizeviciene Dalia , Bajare Diana , Borg Ruben Paul , Bistrickaite Reda
Published: December 2023

Phosphogypsum (PG) is the most significant solid waste in the world. However, only 15% of it is recycled, and the rest is stored in useless and environmentally-damaging stockpiles, which are continually growing. Therefore circular economy of PG through its utilisation in useful applications, is relevant and critical from an ecological perspective. In this context, its utilisation in building materials is among the most promising and attractive recycling possibilities, since PG typically exhibits excellent binding properties. However the applicability of PG is often restrained by its radiological risks and economic non-competitivity in comparison to traditional building materials, such as natural gypsum. In some cases, these obstacles refer to cultural prejudices and misinformation rather than real issues. Therefore, through a comprehensive literature review, this article considers the real potential of PG in building materials, providing useful information to interested stakeholders.
Circular Strategies in Lightweight Steel-Framed (LSF) Buildings and the Research Project Tyre4BuildIns
Authors: Santos Paulo , Ungureanu Viorel , Durães Luisa
Published: December 2023

According to the UN sustainable development goals, energy and waste management are two of the major concerns of humankind, these being related with the search for a more sustainable built environment. Innovative materials (e.g., recycled rubber-aerogel composite thermal insulation) and advanced construction systems, such as Lightweight Steel Framing (LSF), may contribute to a more sustainable built environment, due to their inherent advantages in comparison to traditional ones. Recently, the European Commission adopted the newly updated European Circular Economy Action Plan (ECEAP), which will be implemented not only to waste materials, such as End-of-Life Tyres (ELT), but also to the construction industry and the built environment. In the first part of the paper, the LSF construction system is described, including its suitability for circular strategies, such as modular construction. In the second part, the Tyre4BuildIns research project is described, which was conceived to develop a new eco-friendly and cost-effective thermal insulation material, made from a mixture of recycled tyre rubber (waste) and an advanced high-performance insulation material (aerogel). It was concluded that, compared to traditional construction, the LSF modular construction system can contribute significantly to a more sustainable built environment, being more suitable for the implementation of circular strategies. Furthermore, the Tyre4BuildIns project allowed the development of an eco-friendly high performance thermal insulation composite material based on recycled tyre rubber and aerogel, contributing to enhance the thermal performance of LSF building elements.
$$ \overline{\textrm{D}3} $$-branes and gaugino condensation
Authors: Bena Iosif , Dudaş Emilian , Graña Mariana , Lo Monaco Gabriele , Toulikas Dimitrios
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Anti-D3 branes at the bottom of warped throats, commonly used to uplift the cosmological constant in String-Theory de Sitter proposals, source a plethora of supersymmetry-breaking fluxes, that can interact nontrivially with other ingredients of the flux compactification. In this paper we perform a complex-structure decomposition of these fluxes, and compute the effect of the (0,3) flux component on the stabilization of Kähler moduli via D7-branes gaugino condensation. This allows us to obtain a new constraint on the validity of this stabilization mechanism. This effect does not appear hard to satisfy in de Sitter construction proposals that use long warped throats, but may be problematic in proposals where the warping is small.
Exploring the flavor structure of quarks and leptons with reinforcement learning
Authors: Nishimura Satsuki , Miyao Coh , Otsuka Hajime
Published: December 2023

Abstract

We propose a method to explore the flavor structure of quarks and leptons with reinforcement learning. As a concrete model, we utilize a basic value-based algorithm for models with U(1) flavor symmetry. By training neural networks on the U(1) charges of quarks and leptons, the agent finds 21 models to be consistent with experimentally measured masses and mixing angles of quarks and leptons. In particular, an intrinsic value of normal ordering tends to be larger than that of inverted ordering, and the normal ordering is well fitted with the current experimental data in contrast to the inverted ordering. A specific value of effective mass for the neutrinoless double beta decay and a sizable leptonic CP violation induced by an angular component of flavon field are predicted by autonomous behavior of the agent. Our finding results indicate that the reinforcement learning can be a new method for understanding the flavor structure.
The prediction of acute toxicity (LD50) for organophosphorus-based chemical warfare agents (V-series) using toxicology in silico methods
Authors: Noga Maciej , Michalska Agata , Jurowski Kamil
Published: December 2023

Nerve agents are organophosphate chemical warfare agents that exert their toxic effects by irreversibly inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, affecting the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft. Due to the risk of exposure to dangerous nerve agents and for animal welfare reasons, in silico methods have been used to assess acute toxicity safely. The next-generation risk assessment (NGRA) is a new approach for predicting toxicological parameters that can meet modern requirements for toxicological research. The present study explains the acute toxicity of the examined V-series nerve agents (n = 9) using QSAR models. Toxicity Estimation Software Tool (ver. 4.2.1 and ver. 5.1.2), QSAR Toolbox (ver. 4.6), and ProTox-II browser application were used to predict the median lethal dose. The Simplified Molecular Input Line Entry Specification (SMILES) was the input data source. The results indicate that the most deadly V-agents were VX and VM, followed by structural VX analogues: RVX and CVX. The least toxic turned out to be V-sub x and Substance 100A. In silico methods for predicting various parameters are crucial for filling data gaps ahead of experimental research and preparing for the upcoming use of nerve agents.
Serum IL-17 and TNFα as prognostic biomarkers in systemic sclerosis patients: a prospective study
Authors: Kosałka-Węgiel Joanna , Lichołai Sabina , Pacholczak-Madej Renata , Dziedzina Sylwia , Milewski Mamert , Kuszmiersz Piotr , Korona Anna , Gąsior Jolanta , Matyja-Bednarczyk Aleksandra , Kwiatkowska Helena , Zaręba Lech , Siwiec-Koźlik Andżelika , Koźlik-Siwiec Paweł , Wach Anita , Pociej-Marciak Weronika , Sanak Marek , Musiał Jacek , Bazan-Socha Stanisława , Korkosz Mariusz
Published: December 2023

Recent reports have demonstrated that endothelial injury is critical in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc) and is associated with increased levels of circulating inflammatory biomarkers. This study aims to analyze the serum concentrations of selected cytokines and evaluate their relationship with SSc clinics and the long-term course of the disease. This study included 43 SSc patients and 24 matched healthy controls. In both groups, we measured serum levels of inflammatory cytokines related to the inflammatory response, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α, interferon (IFN)γ, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-17, and fibroblast activation protein (FAP). Additionally, in SSc patients, we evaluated the presence of four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located in the promotor region of the TNFA gene, namely rs361525, rs1800629, rs1799964, and rs1799724, which might be related to increased TNFα concentrations. The main aim consisted of associating inflammatory cytokines with (1) clinical disease characteristics and (2) longitudinal observation of survival and cancer prevalence. SSc patients were characterized by a 17% increase in serum TNFα. There was no other difference in serum cytokines between the studied groups and diffuse vs. limited SSc patients. As expected, evaluated serum cytokines correlated with inflammatory biomarkers (e.g., IL-6 and C-reactive protein). Interestingly, patients with higher IL-17 had decreased left ventricle ejection fraction. During the median 5-year follow-up, we recorded four cases of neoplastic diseases (lung cancer in two cases, squamous cell carcinoma of unknown origin, and breast cancer with concomitant multiple myeloma) and nine deaths. The causes of death included lung cancer (n = 2), renal crisis (n = 1), multiple-organ failure (n = 1), and unknown reasons in five cases. Surprisingly, higher TNFα was associated with an increased cancer prevalence, while elevated IL-17 with death risk in the follow-up. Furthermore, the AG rs361525 genotype referred to higher TNFα levels than GG carriers. Both AG rs361525 and CT rs1799964 genotypes were associated with increased cancer risk. Higher serum concentrations of TNFα characterize the SSc patients, with the highest values associated with cancer. On the other hand, increased IL-17 in peripheral blood might predict poor SSc prognosis. Further research is needed to validate these findings.
Tracking of apolipoprotein B levels measured in childhood and adolescence: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Stanesby Oliver , Zhou Zhen , Fonseca Ricardo , Kidokoro Tetsuhiro , Otahal Petr , Fraser Brooklyn J. , Wu Feitong , Juonala Markus , Viikari Jorma S. A. , Raitakari Olli T. , Tomkinson Grant R. , Magnussen Costan G.
Published: December 2023

To quantify the tracking of apolipoprotein B (apoB) levels from childhood and adolescence and compare the tracking of apoB with low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, a systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was performed in October 2023 (PROSPERO protocol: CRD42022298663). Cohort studies that measured tracking of apoB from childhood/adolescence (< 19 years) with a minimum follow-up of 1 year, using tracking estimates such as correlation coefficients or tracking coefficients, were eligible. Pooled correlations were estimated using random-effects meta-analysis. Risk of bias was assessed with a review-specific tool. Ten studies of eight unique cohorts involving 4677 participants met the inclusion criteria. Tracking of apoB was observed (pooled r = 0.63; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.53–0.71; I2 = 96%) with no significant sources of heterogeneity identified. Data from five cohorts with tracking data for both lipids showed the degree of tracking was similar for apoB (pooled r = 0.59; 95% CI = 0.55–0.63) and LDL cholesterol (pooled r = 0.58; 95% CI = 0.47–0.68). Study risk of bias was moderate, mostly due to attrition and insufficient reporting.

Conclusion: ApoB levels track strongly from childhood, but do not surpass LDL cholesterol in this regard. While there is strong evidence that apoB is more effective at predicting ASCVD risk than LDL cholesterol in adults, there is currently insufficient evidence to support its increased utility in pediatric settings. This also applies to tracking data, where more comprehensive data are required.

What is known:• Apolipoprotein B is a known cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.• Apolipoprotein B levels are not typically measured in pediatric settings, where low-density lipoprotein cholesterol remains the primary lipid screening measure.

What is new:• This meta-analysis of 10 studies showed apolipoprotein B levels tracked strongly from childhood but did not exceed low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in this regard.• More comprehensive tracking data are needed to provide sufficient evidence for increased utility of apolipoprotein B in pediatric settings.
Fractional higher order thin film equation with linear mobility: gradient flow approach
Authors: Lisini Stefano
Published: December 2023

We prove existence of weak solutions of a fractional thin film type equation with linear mobility in any space dimension and for any order of the equation. The proof is based on a gradient flow technique in the space of Borel probability measures endowed with the Wasserstein distance.
Various Color Light Emission from Single, Double, and Triple Eu3+/Tb3+/Tm3+ Doped Borate Glass Excited by UV Light
Authors: Kashif Ismail , Ratep Asmaa
Published: December 2023

Lithium-aluminum-borate glasses doped with single, double, or triple Tm3+, Tb3+, or Eu3+ ions, respectively, at several concentrations were prepared. Structural characterization was performed using optical absorption and luminescence spectroscopy. The transition for the rare earth ions under study was observed in optical absorption and some for-host glass at wavelengths less than 300 nm. The luminescence of Eu3+, Tb3+, and Tm3+ is presented as bright red, green, and blue emissions, respectively. White light was produced by adjusting the excitation wavelength and doping concentration of Tm2O3, Eu2O3, and Tb4O7. The sample doped with triple rare earth ions produced color emissions from Tb and Tm to Eu, which varied in hue based on the excitation wavelengths of 350, 360, and 370 nm. The glass samples under investigation may be promising for optoelectronic devices and security applications such as data encryption.
An efficient deep neural network channel state estimator for OFDM wireless systems
Authors: Hassan Hassan A. , Mohamed Mohamed A. , Shaaban Mohamed N. , Ali Mohamed Hassan Essai , Omer Osama A.
Published: December 2023

Channel state estimation (CSE) is essential for orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) wireless systems to deal with multipath channel fading. To attain a high data rate with the use of OFDM technology, an efficient CSE and accurate signal detection are required. The use of machine learning (ML) to improve channel estimates has attracted a lot of attention lately. This is because ML techniques are more adaptable than traditional model-based estimation techniques. The present study proposes a receiver for low-spectrum usage in OFDM wireless systems on Rayleigh fading channels using deep learning (DL) long short-term memory (LSTM). Before online deployment and data retrieval, the proposed DL LSTM estimator gathers channel state information from transmit/receive pairs using offline training. Based on the simulation results of a comparative study, the proposed estimator outperforms conventional channel estimation approaches like minimum mean square error and least squares in noisy and interfering wireless channels. Furthermore, the proposed estimator outperforms the DL bidirectional LSTM (BiLSTM)-based CSE model. In particular, the proposed CSE performs better than other examined estimators with a reduced number of pilots, no cycle prefixes, and no prior knowledge of channel statistics. Because the proposed estimator relies on a DL neural network approach, it holds promise for OFDM wireless communication systems.
Evaluating metrics for quantifying the climate-change effects of land-based carbon fluxes
Authors: Brandão Miguel , Kirschbaum Miko U. F. , Cowie Annette L.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Growing concern over climate change has increased interest in making use of the biosphere to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by replacing fossil energy with bioenergy or increasing land-based carbon storage. An assessment of the effectiveness of these options requires detailed quantification of their climate-change mitigation potential, which must employ appropriate metrics to translate biophysical changes into climate-change impacts. However, the various currently available metrics use different proxy measures (e.g. radiative forcing, temperature changes, or others) as surrogates for climate-change impacts. Use of these different proxies can lead to contradictory conclusions on the most suitable policy options. We aim to provide criteria for the objective evaluation of metrics to build understanding of the significance of choice of metric and as a step towards building consensus on the most appropriate metric to use in different contexts.

Methods

We compared fifteen available metrics that represent conceptual differences in the treatment of biospheric carbon fluxes and the proxies used to approximate climate-change impacts. We proposed a set of evaluation criteria related to the metrics’ relevance, comprehensiveness, ease of application and acceptance by the research and policy community. We then compared the different metrics against these criteria.

Results and conclusions

The different metrics obtained scores from 10 to 21 (out of 30). The Climate-Change Impact Potential scored highest against the criteria, largely because it relates climate-change impacts to three different aspects of temperature changes; thus, it most comprehensively covers the different aspects of climate-change impacts. Therefore, according to our evaluation criteria, it would be the most suitable metric for assessing the effect of different policy options on marginal climate-change impacts. We demonstrated that the proposed evaluation criteria successfully differentiated between the fifteen metrics and could be used as a basis for selecting the most appropriate metric for specific applications.
Altered functional brain networks in problematic smartphone and social media use: resting-state fMRI study
Authors: Áfra Eszter , Janszky József , Perlaki Gábor , Orsi Gergely , Nagy Szilvia Anett , Arató Ákos , Szente Anna , Alhour Husamalddin Ali Mohammad , Kis-Jakab Gréta , Darnai Gergely
Published: December 2023

Nowadays, the limitless availability to the World Wide Web can lead to general Internet misuse and dependence. Currently, smartphone and social media use belong to the most prevalent Internet-related behavioral addiction forms. However, the neurobiological background of these Internet-related behavioral addictions is not sufficiently explored. In this study, these addiction forms were assessed with self-reported questionnaires. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging was acquired for all participants (n = 59, 29 males) to examine functional brain networks. The resting-state networks that were discovered using independent component analysis were analyzed to estimate within network differences. Significant negative associations with social media addiction and smartphone addiction were found in the language network, the lateral visual networks, the auditory network, the sensorimotor network, the executive network and the frontoparietal network. These results suggest that problematic smartphone and social media use are associated with sensory processing and higher cognitive functioning.
Emerging treatment strategies in chronic B-cell malignancies—News from ICML 2023
Authors: Bohn Jan-Paul
Published: December 2023

Implementation of targeted drugs in the treatment landscape of indolent B‑cell malignancies has facilitated long-term remissions and reduced treatment-related toxicities for a substantial proportion of patients across several disease entities. Yet, adverse prognostic genetic aberrations such as TP53 dysfunctions and short-lived remissions after front-line therapy cannot be fully compensated with currently licensed novel agents thereby predisposing affected patients to inferior clinical outcomes in the long run. Moreover, acquired resistance and increasing drug intolerability typically evolving with continuous treatment remain challenges to overcome in daily clinical practice. With these unmet medical needs in mind, several clinical trials are currently investigating the efficacy and feasibility of time-limited novel drug combinations across several indolent B‑cell malignancies. This short review aims to give an update on novel clinical trial data presented at the International Conference of Malignant Lymphoma 2023.
Demokratiezufriedenheit und Institutionenvertrauen in Baden-Württemberg
Authors: Vetter Angelika , Brettschneider Frank
Published: December 2023

In Baden-Württemberg sind vor allem jene Menschen mit dem Funktionieren der Demokratie zufrieden, die die Wirtschaftslage positiv einschätzen, die das Gefühl haben, dass sich Politik responsiv verhält, und die einer Regierungspartei zuneigen. Sie vertrauen auch politischen Institutionen eher. Ferner stärkt dialogische Bürgerbeteiligung sowohl die Demokratiezufriedenheit als auch das Institutionenvertrauen von Menschen. Allerdings nicht immer. Vor allem die Zufriedenheit mit dem Beteiligungsverfahren ist wichtig. Erst danach spielt die Zufriedenheit mit dem Ergebnis der Beteiligung eine Rolle. Auch bei Menschen, die nicht einer der Regierungsparteien zuneigen, stärkt dialogische Beteiligung die Demokratiezufriedenheit und das Vertrauen. Allerdings: Bewerten Teilnehmende an Bürgerbeteiligung sowohl das Verfahren als auch das Ergebnis negativ, dann sind ihre Demokratiezufriedenheit und ihr Institutionenvertrauen sogar geringer als bei jenen, die nicht an Bürgerbeteiligung teilgenommen haben. Diesen Analysen liegen repräsentative Umfragen aus den Jahren 2021 und 2022 in Baden-Württemberg zugrunde.
Raw Materials Used in Traditional Pottery from Northern Morocco: Possible Alternative Material for a Sustainable Future in the Fran Ali Area
Authors: Hilali Fatima , El Kharim Younes , Hilali Hasnaa , Bounab Ali , El Idrissi Hicham , Draoui Khalid , El Hadri Mustapha , Ahniche Mohamed
Published: December 2023

The colluvium and saprolite deposits in the Fran Ali area (Oued Laou, northern Morocco) constitute the main source of raw materials used in traditional pottery. These materials are becoming scarce, however, so alternative materials with the same characteristics are needed; this would ensure the sustainability of pottery activities in the area. The objective of the present study was to examine ten representative samples of clayey materials extracted from the Fran Ali area, i.e. the Ikhadimene, Dar Haddoune, Ihadounene, Aqqbat Ajjoua, and Isalahene sites. The geological materials consist mainly of grayish to brownish phyllites, thin layers of yellowish clay, thicker intervals of reddish-yellow soils ranging in depth from 1 to 4 m, and reddish colluvium soils. The physical properties of these materials were determined using semi-wet sieving and Atterberg limit tests, while chemical, mineralogical, and thermal properties were obtained from the methylene blue test (MBT), the calcimetry test, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric and differential thermal (TGA/DTGA) analysis. The results suggest that the soils contain 21–35% clay, 28–34% silt, and 37–52% sand. They are moderately plastic, with methylene blue adsorption capacities ranging from 3 to 7% and minimal CaCO3 carbonate contents (1–4%). Samples are dominated by SiO2 (51–57%), Al2O3 (17–21%), and Fe2O3 (8–10%). Mineralogically, they are composed of illite (19–27%), chlorite (0–22%), kaolinite (5–9%), and quartz (29–32%). Thermal analysis showed a relatively large mass loss of ~10%. The samples are deemed to be moderately plastic. The results indicate that this raw material is acceptable for pottery fabrication, given the small proportion of irregular interlayer content and its average geotechnical properties. In addition, extraction of the colluvium material is not sustainable because of the relative scarcity of the material. Given the mineralogical similarity between the weathered layers (colluvium) and their parent rock (shales), the present results suggest that the latter is a suitable alternative to the former.
Empathy
Authors: Genzer Shir , Ben Adiva Yoad , Perry Anat
Published: December 2023

Empathy provides a cognitive and emotional bridge that connects individuals and promotes prosocial behavior. People empathize with others via two complementary perceptual routes: Cognitive Empathy or the ability to accurately recognize and understand others' emotional states, and Affective Empathy or the ability to 'feel with' others. This Element reviews past and current research on both cognitive and affective empathy, focusing on behavioral, as well as neuroscientific research. It highlights a recent shift towards more dynamic and complex stimuli which may capture better the nature of real social interaction. It expands on why context is crucial when perceiving others' emotional state, and discusses gender differences, biases affecting our understanding of others, and perception of others in clinical conditions. Lastly, it highlights proposed future directions in the field.
The United States facing allies’ populist blackmail: Why the Philippines and Turkey threatened to realign with China and Russia
Authors: Paquin Jonathan
Published: December 2023

Given China and Russia’s increasingly aggressive behaviour, balance of threat theory posits that formal US allies should close ranks behind the United States. The literature on alliance politics reinforces this logic by showing that alliances deter aggression and reduce the occurrence of war. Recent developments, however, have somewhat undermined these claims, as the president of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, and the president of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, publicly threatened to break ranks with Washington and to realign with China and Russia respectively. How can we make sense of such defiant behaviour? This article argues that populist blackmail elucidates this phenomenon and compares it to three alternative propositions: conventional bandwagoning, bandwagoning for profit, and hard hedging. Based on empirical evidence, the article reveals that the provocative statements of Duterte and Erdogan were not a genuine push for realignment with Beijing and Moscow, but rather political strategies designed to enhance their bargaining power with Washington in the hopes of securing certain concessions, while simultaneously galvanising domestic support to justify their raison d’être and to secure their hold on power. Furthermore, the article infers that two concomitant factors – political grievances and the perceived lack of security assurance – propelled both presidents to resort to blackmail.
Protecting Power Grids from Space Weather
Authors: Fritts Rachel
Published: December 2023

A new paper explores ways to mitigate the impact of geomagnetically induced currents on the New Zealand power grid.
In vitro modeling of the human dopaminergic system using spatially arranged ventral midbrain–striatum–cortex assembloids
Authors: Reumann Daniel , Krauditsch Christian , Novatchkova Maria , Sozzi Edoardo , Wong Sakurako Nagumo , Zabolocki Michael , Priouret Marthe , Doleschall Balint , Ritzau-Reid Kaja I. , Piber Marielle , Morassut Ilaria , Fieseler Charles , Fiorenzano Alessandro , Stevens Molly M. , Zimmer Manuel , Bardy Cedric , Parmar Malin , Knoblich Jürgen A.
Published: December 2023

Ventral midbrain dopaminergic neurons project to the striatum as well as the cortex and are involved in movement control and reward-related cognition. In Parkinson’s disease, nigrostriatal midbrain dopaminergic neurons degenerate and cause typical Parkinson’s disease motor-related impairments, while the dysfunction of mesocorticolimbic midbrain dopaminergic neurons is implicated in addiction and neuropsychiatric disorders. Study of the development and selective neurodegeneration of the human dopaminergic system, however, has been limited due to the lack of an appropriate model and access to human material. Here, we have developed a human in vitro model that recapitulates key aspects of dopaminergic innervation of the striatum and cortex. These spatially arranged ventral midbrain–striatum–cortical organoids (MISCOs) can be used to study dopaminergic neuron maturation, innervation and function with implications for cell therapy and addiction research. We detail protocols for growing ventral midbrain, striatal and cortical organoids and describe how they fuse in a linear manner when placed in custom embedding molds. We report the formation of functional long-range dopaminergic connections to striatal and cortical tissues in MISCOs, and show that injected, ventral midbrain-patterned progenitors can mature and innervate the tissue. Using these assembloids, we examine dopaminergic circuit perturbations and show that chronic cocaine treatment causes long-lasting morphological, functional and transcriptional changes that persist upon drug withdrawal. Thus, our method opens new avenues to investigate human dopaminergic cell transplantation and circuitry reconstruction as well as the effect of drugs on the human dopaminergic system.
Improved ergonomic layout design of metro control center based on virtual simulation technology and genetic algorithm
Authors: Qiu Hanzhao , Fang Weining , Wang Jianxin , Chen Yueyuan
Published: December 2023

For the existing control center layout methods do not have targeted measures to implement human factors requirements, this paper puts forward a specific human factors design method for metro control center layout. This method covers the overall process of ergonomic standards and actual engineering requirements in personal space determination, overall location design, and personnel post layout. It introduces discrete personnel simulation to assist in physical control center layout design for the controllers’ safety. To make the posts between the unified lines and the connections between the lines more reasonable, an improved genetic algorithm is used to solve the Systematic Layout Planning. This design flow and algorithm can be quickly adapted according to the project's actual needs and the application of human factors guidelines. This method is also suitable for the layout planning and design of similar large spaces, large numbers of people, and complex associated control centers.
Fe3+ and Al3+ removal by phosphate and hydroxide precipitation from synthetic NMC Li-ion battery leach solution
Authors: Chernyaev Alexander , Zhang Jianxin , Seisko Sipi , Louhi-Kultanen Marjatta , Lundström Mari
Published: December 2023

The removal of trivalent iron and aluminum was studied from synthetic Li-ion battery leach solution by phosphate and hydroxide precipitation (pH 2.5–4.25, t = 3 h, T = 60 °C). Phosphate precipitation exhibited both crystal nucleation initiation (pH 2 vs. pH 3) as well as complete (~ 99%) Fe and Al removal at lower pH compared to hydroxide precipitation (pH 3 vs. 3.5). The precipitation time of phosphate was shorter (40 min) than that of hydroxide precipitation (80 min). At pH 4 the loss of valuable metals (Li, Ni, Co) in the precipitate was negligible in the phosphate cake, whereas in the hydroxide process the co-precipitation was 4–5% for Li, Ni and Co. The filtration rate of phosphate precipitate was shown to be significantly faster. The presence of fluoride did not have any notable effect on phosphate precipitation, whereas in hydroxide precipitation, it potentially had a negative effect on aluminum extraction.
Integrated analysis identities Rho GTPases related molecular map in patients with gastric carcinoma
Authors: Ma Shaowei , Wang Ying , Li Weibo , Qiu Shaofan , Zhang Xiangyu , Niu Ren , Zhao Fangchao , Zheng Yu
Published: December 2023

The intricate involvement of Rho GTPases in a multitude of human malignancies and their diverse array of biological functions has garnered substantial attention within the scientific community. However, their expression pattern and potential role in gastric cancer (GC) remain unclear. In this study, we successfully identified two distinct subtypes associated with Rho GTPase-related gene (RGG) through consensus clustering analysis, which exhibited significant disparities in overall survival and the tumor microenvironment. Subsequently, an extensively validated risk model termed RGGscore was meticulously constructed to prognosticate the outcomes of GC patients. This model was further assessed and validated using an external cohort. Notably, the high RGGscore group was indicative of a poorer prognosis. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses unveiled the RGGscore as an autonomous prognostic indicator for GC patients. Subsequent external validation, utilizing two cohorts of patients who underwent immunotherapy, demonstrated a significant correlation between a low RGGscore and improved response to immunotherapy. Additionally, the expression levels of three genes associated with RGGscore were examined using qRT-PCR. Taken together, a pioneering RGGscore model has been successfully established, showcasing its potential efficacy in offering valuable therapeutic guidance for GC.
Effects of l-ascorbic acid on growth, non-specific immunity, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal and hepatopancreatic histology of red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii
Authors: Khalil Hala S. , Ahmed Hamdy Omar , Elkhouly Nehal , El Basuini Mohammed F. , El-Nokrashy Asmaa M. , Hessein Amira A. A. , Khaled Asmaa A. , Rashad Amr M. A. , Kord Mohamed , Alkenawy Diaa , Abdel-Tawwab Mohsen , Abdel-Latif Hany M. R.
Published: December 2023

This study investigated the dietary effects of coated l-ascorbic acid (LA) on growth, feed utilization, survival, serum biochemical indices, immunity, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal and hepatopancreatic histology of the pre-adult red swamp crayfish. Four isoproteinous and isolipidic diets were formulated to contain several LA levels as 0, 1300, 1600, and 1900 mg/kg and designated as control (LA0), LA13, LA16, and LA19, respectively. However, the analyzed LA concentrations in diets were 0.00, 199.57, 360.45, and 487.50 mg/kg in LA0, LA13, LA16, and LA19, respectively. Triplicate treatments of crayfish (21.60 ± 0.14 g) were fed the test diets and reared in fiberglass tanks with a density of 20 individuals per each for eight weeks. Results revealed that all LA treatments had significantly enhanced growth performance compared to the control. Of interest, the LA16 treatment recorded the highest final tank biomass, biomass gain, total feed intake, condition factor, and muscle yield among the other treatments. The tank feed conversion ratio was significantly decreased in LA treatments compared to the control. Moreover, dietary LA16 and LA19 had significantly higher survival rates (93.3%) compared to (85.0%) in the LA0 group. All dietary doses of LA significantly increased serum parameters (total protein, albumin, globulin, lysozyme activity) and respiratory burst activity compared to the LA0 treatment. Dietary LA16 significantly boosted the hepatopancreatic antioxidant capacity, manifested by decreased malondialdehyde concentrations, increased catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase enzyme activities, and reduced glutathione content compared to the LA-free diet. A normal histoarchitecture of the hepatopancreatic tubules was found in all LA treatments except with some minor degenerative changes in the tubular lumen, and hepatopancreatic cells associated with enlarged nuclei were found in the LA19. However, normal intestinal histoarchitecture was found in all treatments with no recorded intestinal lesions. Of interest, the polynomial regression performed on the analyzed LA concentrations suggested that 380 mg/kg would be suitable to provide maximal biomass gain for pre-adult crayfish. In conclusion, results revealed that coated LA could enhance the growth, immunity, and antioxidant capacity of pre-adult red swamp crayfish, suggesting its potential as a functional and necessary micronutrient for crayfish diets.
Influence of grasping postures on skin deformation of hand
Authors: Zhai Yanru , Wu Shaoguo , Hu Qinyue , Zhou Wenjing , Shen Yue , Yan Xuefeng , Ma Yan
Published: December 2023

To investigate the influence of different grasping postures on the hand’s skin deformation, a handheld 3D EVA SCANNER was used to obtain 3D models of 111 women in five postures, including a straight posture and grasping cylinders with various diameters (4/6/8/10 cm). Skin relaxation strain ratio ($${\lambda }_{p}$$

λ
p

) and surface area skin relaxation strain ratio ($${\lambda }_{m}$$

λ
m

) were used as measures of skin deformation between two landmarks and multiple landmarks, respectively. The effects of grasping posture on skin deformation in different directions were analyzed. The results revealed significant variations in skin deformation among different grasping postures, except for the width of middle finger metacarpal and the length of middle finger’s proximal phalanx. The $${\lambda }_{p}$$

λ
p

increased with decreasing grasping object diameter, ranging from 5 to 18% on the coronal axis, and from 4 to 20% on the vertical axis. The overall variation of $${\lambda }_{m}$$

λ
m

ranged from 5 to 37.5%, following the same trend as $${\lambda }_{p}$$

λ
p

except for the surface area of tiger’s mouth, which exhibited a maximum difference of 10.9% with significant differences. These findings have potential applications in improving the design of hand equipment and understanding hand movement characteristics.