bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Study on Mechanical Behaviors of New Type of Steel Shear-Connection Horizontal Joint in Prefabricated Shear Wall Structure
Authors: Wu Xiaohui , Wang Yanfeng , Ji Shaofeng , Liu Mengze , Wang Dayang
Published: November 2023

The shear connection joint is an important component of the prefabricated shear wall structure system, which plays a dual role in ensuring reasonable force transmission and structural integrity. A new type of steel shear-connection horizontal joint was proposed in this study. In order to verify the effectiveness of the proposed new joint, the established numerical model and its constitutive relationship were first verified based on the existing experimental results. Then, the influence effect on the mechanical behaviors of this new type of joint was further investigated with 20 computational cases. The corresponding influencing laws were established, and optimal parameter ranges were suggested. Finally, a simplified constitutive model—namely, a bilinear constitutive model based on the M-θ relationship—of the new steel shear-connection joint is further advanced and deduced. The results show that the proposed new joint can provide stable shear capacity and superior energy dissipation capacity. The interlocking slot in the new steel shear-connection joint is suggested to be designed with a slot length of 20~30 mm, a slot number of two or three, and a slot thickness of 20~30 mm so as to guarantee superior mechanical behaviors. The advanced bilinear constitutive model can effectively capture the mechanical characteristics of the new joints, in which the maximum error is only 7.67% between theory and simulation.
Potential of Fecal Carcinoembryonic Antigen for Noninvasive Detection of Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Li Xianzhe , Stassen Lara , Schrotz-King Petra , Zhao Zitong , Cardoso Rafael , Raut Janhavi R. , Bhardwaj Megha , Brenner Hermann
Published: November 2023

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is more abundant in feces than in serum; however, evidence for the role of fecal CEA (FCEA) in the detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) is limited. We conducted a systematic review of studies that evaluated FCEA for the noninvasive detection and diagnosis of CRC. PubMed and Web of Science were searched for relevant studies published until 18 January 2023. Information on publication year, study design, country, study population characteristics, FCEA and serum CEA (SCEA) concentrations, and diagnostic performance was summarized. Two authors independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias and applicability of each included study. Seven studies published between 1979 and 2021, all conducted in clinical settings and together involving 399 CRC patients and 889 controls, were identified. Significant differences in FCEA concentrations were observed between CRC and control groups in all studies. Methods for detecting FCEA varied, with the electronic chemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) being used in the most recent studies. Reported sensitivities, specificities, and area under the curves of FCEA ranged from 50.0% to 85.7%, 73.0% to 100.0%, and 0.704 to 0.831, respectively. In direct comparisons, the diagnostic performance of FCEA was better than that of SCEA. The potential role of FCEA as a novel, noninvasive, easily measurable biomarker for the diagnosis of CRC requires further evaluation in screening settings.
Immunoassay Urine Drug Testing among Patients Receiving Opioids at a Safety-Net Palliative Medicine Clinic
Authors: Halphen John M. , Arthur Joseph A. , Pacheco Soraira , Nguyen Linh M. T. , Samy Nikitha N. , Wilson Nathaniel R. , Sattler Gregory , Wing Shane E. , Paulino Rex A. D. , Feng Christine , Shah Pulin , Olayiwola Simbiat , Cannell Bradley , Addimulam Supriyanka , Patel Riddhi , Hui David
Published: November 2023

Background: Few studies have examined the use of immunoassay urine drug testing of cancer patients in palliative care clinics. Objectives: We examined the frequency of immunoassay urine drug test (UDT) abnormalities and the factors associated with aberrancy at a safety-net hospital palliative medicine clinic. Methods: A retrospective review of the electronic medical records of consecutive eligible patients seen at the outpatient palliative medicine clinic in a resource-limited safety-net hospital system was conducted between 1 September 2015 and 31 December 2020. We collected longitudinal data on patient demographics, UDT findings, and potential predictors of aberrant results. Results: Of the 913 patients in the study, 500 (55%) underwent UDT testing, with 455 (50%) having the testing within the first three visits. Among those tested within the first three visits, 125 (27%) had aberrant UDT results; 44 (35%) of these 125 patients were positive for cocaine. In a multivariable regression model analysis of predictors for aberrant UDT within the first three visits, non-Hispanic White race (odds ratio (OR) = 2.13; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03–4.38; p = 0.04), history of illicit drug use (OR = 3.57; CI: 1.78–7.13; p < 0.001), and history of marijuana use (OR = 7.05; CI: 3.85–12.91; p < 0.001) were independent predictors of an aberrant UDT finding. Conclusion: Despite limitations of immunoassay UDT, it was able to detect aberrant drug-taking behaviors in a significant number of patients seen at a safety-net hospital palliative care clinic, including cocaine use. These findings support universal UDT monitoring and utility of immunoassay-based UDT in resource-limited settings.
Krüppel-like Factor-9 and Krüppel-like Factor-13: Highly Related, Multi-Functional, Transcriptional Repressors and Activators of Oncogenesis
Authors: Simmen Frank A. , Alhallak Iad , Simmen Rosalia C. M.
Published: November 2023

Specificity Proteins/Krüppel-like Factors (SP/KLF family) are a conserved family of transcriptional regulators. These proteins share three highly conserved, contiguous zinc fingers in their carboxy-terminus, requisite for binding to cis elements in DNA. Each SP/KLF protein has unique primary sequence within its amino-terminal and carboxy-terminal regions, and it is these regions which interact with co-activators, co-repressors, and chromatin-modifying proteins to support the transcriptional activation and repression of target genes. Krüppel-like Factor 9 (KLF9) and Krüppel-like Factor 13 (KLF13) are two of the smallest members of the SP/KLF family, are paralogous, emerged early in metazoan evolution, and are highly conserved. Paradoxically, while most similar in primary sequence, KLF9 and KLF13 display many distinct roles in target cells. In this article, we summarize the work that has identified the roles of KLF9 (and to a lesser degree KLF13) in tumor suppression or promotion via unique effects on differentiation, pro- and anti-inflammatory pathways, oxidative stress, and tumor immune cell infiltration. We also highlight the great diversity of miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circular RNAs which provide mechanisms for the ubiquitous tumor-specific suppression of KLF9 mRNA and protein. Elucidation of KLF9 and KLF13 in cancer biology is likely to provide new inroads to the understanding of oncogenesis and its prevention and treatments.
A Retrospective Chart Review of Treatment Patterns and Overall Survival among a Cohort of Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Mycosis Fungoides in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom
Authors: Assaf Chalid , Illidge Timothy M. , Waser Nathalie , He Mary , Li Tina , Zomas Athanasios , Bent-Ennakhil Nawal , Little Meredith , Ortiz-Romero Pablo L. , Pimpinelli Nicola , Dalal Mehul , Bagot Martine
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: Most patients with mycosis fungoides (MF), a form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), develop relapsed/refractory (R/R) disease following front-line systemic therapy. This report describes treatment patterns and outcomes from the subpopulation with R/R MF. (2) Methods: This observational, retrospective, cohort study analyzed patient records (1984–2016) from 27 clinical sites in Europe. Outcomes included treatments received, response to first-, second- and third-line treatment, overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). (3) Results: Of 104 patients with MF, 100 received second-line and 61 received third-line therapy. The median (range) times from the start of first-line therapy to the first R/R MF and from the first to the second R/R MF were 11.2 (0.3–166.5) and 13.5 (0.0–174.6) months, respectively. Second-and third-line treatment options varied and comprised systemic therapies (85% and 79% of patients, respectively), radiotherapy (32% and 34%, respectively) and topical therapies (48% and 36%, respectively). The median (95% confidence interval [CI]) OS from the diagnosis of the first R/R MF was 11.5 (6.5–not reached [NR]) years and was higher with non-chemotherapy (NR) versus chemotherapy (6.5 years); the estimated median PFS (95% CI) from the time of the first R/R MF was 1.3 (1.0–2.1) years. (4) Conclusions: High rates of R/R disease were observed after second- and third-line treatments in this real-world cohort, with longer median OS in patients receiving non-chemotherapy treatment versus chemotherapy. Following the standard management of MF and using recently approved targeted therapies can help improve patient outcomes in advanced-stage MF.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features Associated with a High and Low Expression of Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes: A Stratified Analysis According to Molecular Subtypes
Authors: Zhou Jiejie , Jin Yi , Miao Haiwei , Lu Shanshan , Liu Xinmiao , He Yun , Liu Huiru , Zhao Youfan , Zhang Yang , Liu Yan-Lin , Pan Zhifang , Chen Jeon-Hor , Wang Meihao , Su Min-Ying
Published: November 2023

A total of 457 patients, including 241 HR+/HER2− patients, 134 HER2+ patients, and 82 TN patients, were studied. The percentage of TILs in the stroma adjacent to the tumor cells was assessed using a 10% cutoff. The low TIL percentages were 82% in the HR+ patients, 63% in the HER2+ patients, and 56% in the TN patients (p < 0.001). MRI features such as morphology as mass or non-mass enhancement (NME), shape, margin, internal enhancement, presence of peritumoral edema, and the DCE kinetic pattern were assessed. Tumor sizes were smaller in the HR+/HER2− group (p < 0.001); HER2+ was more likely to present as NME (p = 0.031); homogeneous enhancement was mostly seen in HR+ (p < 0.001); and the peritumoral edema was present in 45% HR+, 71% HER2+, and 80% TN (p < 0.001). In each subtype, the MR features between the high- vs. low-TIL groups were compared. In HR+/HER2−, peritumoral edema was more likely to be present in those with high TILs (70%) than in those with low TILs (40%, p < 0.001). In TN, those with high TILs were more likely to present a regular shape (33%) than those with low TILs (13%, p = 0.029) and more likely to present the circumscribed margin (19%) than those with low TILs (2%, p = 0.009).
A New Era of Integration between Multiomics and Spatio-Temporal Analysis for the Translation of EMT towards Clinical Applications in Cancer
Authors: Fonseca Teixeira Adilson , Wu Siqi , Luwor Rodney , Zhu Hong-Jian
Published: November 2023

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is crucial to metastasis by increasing cancer cell migration and invasion. At the cellular level, EMT-related morphological and functional changes are well established. At the molecular level, critical signaling pathways able to drive EMT have been described. Yet, the translation of EMT into efficient diagnostic methods and anti-metastatic therapies is still missing. This highlights a gap in our understanding of the precise mechanisms governing EMT. Here, we discuss evidence suggesting that overcoming this limitation requires the integration of multiple omics, a hitherto neglected strategy in the EMT field. More specifically, this work summarizes results that were independently obtained through epigenomics/transcriptomics while comprehensively reviewing the achievements of proteomics in cancer research. Additionally, we prospect gains to be obtained by applying spatio-temporal multiomics in the investigation of EMT-driven metastasis. Along with the development of more sensitive technologies, the integration of currently available omics, and a look at dynamic alterations that regulate EMT at the subcellular level will lead to a deeper understanding of this process. Further, considering the significance of EMT to cancer progression, this integrative strategy may enable the development of new and improved biomarkers and therapeutics capable of increasing the survival and quality of life of cancer patients.
Hyaluronic Acid Induction Promotes the Differentiation of Human Neural Crest-like Cells into Periodontal Ligament Stem-like Cells
Authors: Alhasan M. Anas , Tomokiyo Atsushi , Hamano Sayuri , Sugii Hideki , Ono Taiga , Ipposhi Keita , Yamashita Kozue , Mardini Bara , Minowa Fumiko , Maeda Hidefumi
Published: November 2023

Periodontal ligament (PDL) stem-like cells (PDLSCs) are promising for regeneration of the periodontium because they demonstrate multipotency, high proliferative capacity, and the potential to regenerate bone, cementum, and PDL tissue. However, the transplantation of autologous PDLSCs is restricted by limited availability. Since PDLSCs are derived from neural crest cells (NCs) and NCs persist in adult PDL tissue, we devised to promote the regeneration of the periodontium by activating NCs to differentiate into PDLSCs. SK-N-SH cells, a neuroblastoma cell line that reportedly has NC-like features, seeded on the extracellular matrix of PDL cells for 2 weeks, resulted in the significant upregulation of PDL marker expression. SK-N-SH cell-derived PDLSCs (SK-PDLSCs) presented phenotypic characteristics comparable to induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived PDLSCs (iPDLSCs). The expression levels of various hyaluronic acid (HA)-related genes were upregulated in iPDLSCs and SK-PDLSCs compared with iPSC-derived NCs and SK-N-SH cells, respectively. The knockdown of CD44 in SK-N-SH cells significantly inhibited their ability to differentiate into SK-PDLSCs, while low-molecular HA (LMWHA) induction enhanced SK-PDLSC differentiation. Our findings suggest that SK-N-SH cells could be applied as a new model to induce the differentiation of NCs into PDLSCs and that the LMWHA–CD44 relationship is important for the differentiation of NCs into PDLSCs.
Skin Barrier Function: The Interplay of Physical, Chemical, and Immunologic Properties
Authors: Baker Paola , Huang Christina , Radi Rakan , Moll Samara B. , Jules Emmanuela , Arbiser Jack L.
Published: November 2023

An intact barrier function of the skin is important in maintaining skin health. The regulation of the skin barrier depends on a multitude of molecular and immunological signaling pathways. By examining the regulation of a healthy skin barrier, including maintenance of the acid mantle and appropriate levels of ceramides, dermatologists can better formulate solutions to address issues that are related to a disrupted skin barrier. Conversely, by understanding specific skin barrier disruptions that are associated with specific conditions, such as atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, the development of new compounds could target signaling pathways to provide more effective relief for patients. We aim to review key factors mediating skin barrier regulation and inflammation, including skin acidity, interleukins, nuclear factor kappa B, and sirtuin 3. Furthermore, we will discuss current and emerging treatment options for skin barrier conditions.
The Neutralization of the Eosinophil Peroxidase Antibody Accelerates Eosinophilic Mucin Decomposition
Authors: Kobayashi Yoshiki , Chu Hanh Hong , Bui Dan Van , Yun Yasutaka , Nguyen Linh Manh , Mitani Akitoshi , Suzuki Kensuke , Asako Mikiya , Kanda Akira , Iwai Hiroshi
Published: November 2023

Eosinophilic airway inflammation, complicated by bronchial asthma and eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (ECRS), is difficult to treat. The disease may become refractory when eosinophilic mucin associated with eosinophil peroxidase (EPX) and autoantibodies fills in the paranasal sinus and small airway. This study investigated the functional role of an anti-EPX antibody in eosinophilic mucin of ECRS in eosinophilic airway inflammation. Eosinophilic mucin was obtained from patients with ECRS. The effects of the anti-EPX antibody on dsDNA release from eosinophils and eosinophilic mucin decomposition were evaluated. Immunofluorescence or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were performed to detect the anti-EPX antibody and its supernatant and serum levels in eosinophilic mucin, respectively. The serum levels of the anti-EPX antibody were positively correlated with sinus computed tomography score and fractionated exhaled nitrogen oxide. Patients with refractory ECRS had higher serum levels of the anti-EPX antibody than those without. However, dupilumab treatment decreased the serum levels of the anti-EPX antibody. Immunoglobulins (Igs) in the immunoprecipitate of mucin supernatants enhanced dsDNA release from eosinophils, whereas the neutralization of Igs against EPX stopped dsDNA release. Furthermore, EPX antibody neutralization accelerated mucin decomposition and restored corticosteroid sensitivity. Taken together, the anti-EPX antibody may be involved in the formulation of eosinophilic mucin and be used as a clinical marker and therapeutic target for intractable eosinophilic airway inflammation.
Spatial Transcriptomics Reveals Signatures of Histopathological Changes in Muscular Sarcoidosis
Authors: Lequain Hippolyte , Dégletagne Cyril , Streichenberger Nathalie , Valantin Julie , Simonet Thomas , Schaeffer Laurent , Sève Pascal , Leblanc Pascal
Published: November 2023

Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic disease characterized by non-caseating granuloma infiltrating various organs. The form with symptomatic muscular involvement is called muscular sarcoidosis. The impact of immune cells composing the granuloma on the skeletal muscle is misunderstood. Here, we investigated the granuloma–skeletal muscle interactions through spatial transcriptomics on two patients affected by muscular sarcoidosis. Five major transcriptomic clusters corresponding to perigranuloma, granuloma, and three successive muscle tissue areas (proximal, intermediate, and distal) around the granuloma were identified. Analyses revealed upregulated pathways in the granuloma corresponding to the activation of T-lymphocytes and monocytes/macrophages cytokines, the upregulation of extracellular matrix signatures, and the induction of the TGF-β signaling in the perigranuloma. A comparison between the proximal and distal muscles to the granuloma revealed an inverse correlation between the distance to the granuloma and the upregulation of cellular response to interferon-γ/α, TNF-α, IL-1,4,6, fibroblast proliferation, epithelial to mesenchymal cell transition, and the downregulation of muscle gene expression. These data shed light on the intercommunications between granulomas and the muscle tissue and provide pathophysiological mechanisms by showing that granuloma immune cells have a direct impact on proximal muscle tissue by promoting its progressive replacement by fibrosis via the expression of pro-inflammatory and profibrosing signatures. These data could possibly explain the evolution towards a state of disability for some patients.
NK92 Expressing Anti-BCMA CAR and Secreted TRAIL for the Treatment of Multiple Myeloma: Preliminary In Vitro Assessment
Authors: Motais Benjamin , Charvátová Sandra , Walek Zuzana , Hájek Roman , Bagó Juli R.
Published: November 2023

Multiple myeloma (MM) has witnessed improved patient outcomes through advancements in therapeutic approaches. Notably, allogeneic stem cell transplantation, proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, and monoclonal antibodies have contributed to enhanced quality of life. Recently, a promising avenue has emerged with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA), expressed widely on MM cells. To mitigate risks associated with allogenic T cells, we investigated the potential of BCMA CAR expression in natural killer cells (NKs), known for potent cytotoxicity and minimal side effects. Using the NK-92 cell line, we co-expressed BCMA CAR and soluble tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (sTRAIL) employing the piggyBac transposon system. Engineered NK cells (CAR-NK-92-TRAIL) demonstrated robust cytotoxicity against a panel of MM cell lines and primary patient samples, outperforming unmodified NK-92 cells with a mean difference in viability of 45.1% (±26.1%, depending on the target cell line). Combination therapy was explored with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib (BZ) and γ-secretase inhibitors (GSIs), leading to a significant synergistic effect in combination with CAR-NK-92-TRAIL cells. This synergy was evident in cytotoxicity assays where a notable decrease in MM cell viability was observed in combinatorial therapy compared to single treatment. In summary, our study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of the CAR-NK-92-TRAIL cells for the treatment of MM. The synergistic impact of combining these engineered NK cells with BZ and GSI supports further development of allogeneic CAR-based products for effective MM therapy.
Evaluation of Potential Predictive Biomarkers for Defining Brain Radiotherapy Efficacy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients with Brain Metastases: A Case Report and a Narrative Review
Authors: Luciano Angelo , Liguori Luigi , Polcaro Giovanna , Sabbatino Francesco , Pepe Stefano
Published: November 2023

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the second most common cancer worldwide, resulting in 1.8 million deaths per year. Most patients are diagnosed with a metastatic disease. Brain metastases are one of the most common metastatic sites and are associated with severe neurological symptoms, shorter survival, and the worst clinical outcomes. Brain radiotherapy and systemic oncological therapies are currently used for controlling both cancer progression and neurological symptoms. Brain radiotherapy includes stereotactic brain ablative radiotherapy (SBRT) or whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT). SBRT is applied for single or multiple (up to ten) small (diameter less than 4 cm) lesions, whereas WBRT is usually applied for multiple (more than ten) and large (diameter greater than 4 cm) brain metastases. In both cases, radiotherapy application may be viewed as an overtreatment which causes severe toxicities without achieving a significant clinical benefit. Thus far, a number of scoring systems to define the potential clinical benefits derived from brain radiotherapy have been proposed. However, most are not well established in clinical practice. In this article, we present a clinical case of a patient with advanced NSCLC carrying a BRAFV600E mutation and brain metastases. We review the variables in addition to applicable scoring systems considered to have potential for predicting clinical outcomes and benefits of brain radiotherapy in patients with advanced NSCLC and brain metastases. Lastly, we highlight the unmet need of specific scoring systems for advanced NSCLC patients with brain metastases carrying oncogene alterations including BRAFV600E mutations.
Micro-Vickers Hardness of Cu and Cu2O Dual Phase Composite Films Electrodeposited from Acidic Aqueous Solutions Containing Polyethylene Glycol
Authors: Kawakami Reina , Saeki Ryusei , Munetoh Shinji , Ohgai Takeshi
Published: November 2023

Metallic copper (Cu) and copper oxide (Cu2O) dual phase composite films were fabricated via a cathodic reduction process in an acidic aqueous solution dissolving polyethylene glycol (PEG) to investigate the structure and micro-Vickers hardness. By dissolving PEG in an aqueous electrolyte, the cathode potential was depolarized to the noble region during the electrodeposition, and the average crystallite size of electrodeposited Cu/Cu2O composite films was decreased down to around 40 nm. The metallic copper films electrodeposited from the solution without PEG was preferentially orientated in (220), while that containing PEG was composed of Cu and Cu2O dual phase composite films with random crystal orientation. The micro-Vickers hardness of the Cu/Cu2O composite films that were electrodeposited from the solution containing PEG was achieved up to 2.53 GPa. This improvement in mechanical performance can be explained by the grain refinement effect and the electrochemical phase transformation effect from a copper metallic state to the oxide.
Ovarian Cancer: From Precursor Lesion Identification to Population-Based Prevention Programs
Authors: Sowamber Ramlogan , Lukey Alexandra , Huntsman David , Hanley Gillian
Published: November 2023

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a heterogeneous group of malignancies, including high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSC). HGSC is often diagnosed at advanced stages and is linked to TP53 variants. While BRCA variants elevate risk, most HGSC cases occur in individuals without known genetic variants, necessitating prevention strategies for people without known high-risk genetic variants. Effective prevention programs are also needed due to the lack of traditional screening options. An emerging primary prevention strategy is opportunistic salpingectomy, which involves removing fallopian tubes during another planned pelvic surgery. Opportunistic salpingectomy offers a safe and cost-effective preventative option that is gaining global adoption. With the publication of the first cohort study of patients who underwent salpingectomy, specifically for cancer prevention, attention has turned to broadening opportunities for salpingectomy in addition to more targeted approaches. Prevention opportunities are promising with increasing adoption of salpingectomy and the increased understanding of the etiology of the distinct histotypes of ovarian cancer. Yet, further research on targeted risk-reducing salpingectomy with thoughtful consideration of equity is necessary to reduce death and suffering from ovarian cancer.
Exploring the External Environmental Drivers of Honey Bee Colony Development
Authors: Capela Nuno , Sarmento Artur , Simões Sandra , Lopes Sara , Castro Sílvia , Alves da Silva António , Alves Joana , Dupont Yoko L. , de Graaf Dirk C. , Sousa José Paulo
Published: November 2023

Honey bees play an important role in agricultural landscapes by providing pollination services. Throughout the season, colonies increase their population and collect resources from the available flowering plants. Besides internal mechanisms, such as the amount of brood or the availability of bees to perform foraging flights, colonies are also influenced by the climate and the surrounding landscape. Therefore, exposure to different environmental contexts leads to distinct development rates. In this study, we show how colonies develop under three different landscape contexts and explore which external variables (mostly climate and resources availability) influence the colonies’ development. We installed three apiaries in three different landscapes in the Iberian Peninsula, with temporal and spatial variation in climatic conditions and resource availability. The availability of resources and their use, as well as the development of colonies throughout the season, were thoroughly investigated. These data were used to take the first step into creating an ecologically relevant landscape by calculating the number of available resources in the landscape at different points in time, based on plants’ beekeeping interest as well as nectar and production. Furthermore, climatic variables were transformed into the amount of available foraging minutes that bees had to collect resources, and a theoretical threshold of optimal vs. sub-optimal conditions was also explored. Interestingly, the main drivers of colony development (measured by daily weight increase) were not the same in the tested apiaries, evidencing how colonies are indeed intrinsically connected with the surrounding environmental scenario. Therefore, results from field testing are extremely context-dependent and should be interpreted with caution when being extrapolated to other environmental scenarios.
Biological Integrity of Azorean Native Forests Is Better Measured in Cold Season
Authors: Tsafack Noelline , Lhoumeau Sébastien , Ros-Prieto Alejandra , Navarro Loic , Kocsis Timea , Manso Sónia , Figueiredo Telma , Ferreira Maria Teresa , Borges Paulo A. V.
Published: November 2023

The Azorean archipelago, recognized as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, is home to a diverse and unique community of arthropod species, highlighting a notable degree of endemism. However, the native forests that support these species are facing significant degradation due to habitat loss and fragmentation. In this study, we aimed to determine the ideal season for measuring the biological integrity of forest sites using a biological integrity index (IBI) based on arthropod communities captured with Sea, Land, and Air Malaise (SLAM) traps. Drawing on more than thirty years of research experience in the Azorean forests, we selected twelve reference sites, six representing preserved native forest and six representing disturbed native forest, and compared how IBI values vary between seasons. IBI values exhibited consistent variations between seasons in disturbed sites, indicating that measuring the biological integrity in these areas can be conducted at any time of the year without a specific seasonal preference. In contrast, significant differences were observed in pristine forest sites, with the winter season and the combination of winter and spring data (cold semester) showing notably higher values compared to other seasons and semesters. This finding suggests that measuring the biological integrity of preserved sites is best optimized in the cold seasons, while the detection of exotic species impact is most effective in summer and autumn. Consequently, if resources are limited, monitoring efforts should be concentrated in the winter and summer seasons to obtain the maximum and minimum values of IBI, respectively. Additionally, our study suggests that the summer season is the optimal time to detect potentially invasive exotic species.
Calculation of Kidney Volumes with Magnetic Resonance in Patients with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: Comparison between Methods
Authors: Di Pietro Stefano , Torcitto Alfredo Gaetano , Marcantoni Carmelita , Giordano Gabriele , Campisi Christian , Failla Giovanni , Saporito Licia , Giunta Rosa , Veroux Massimiliano , Foti Pietro Valerio , Palmucci Stefano , Basile Antonio
Published: November 2023

Autosomal dominant polycystic renal disease (ADPKD) is the most frequent kidney inheritable disease, characterized by the presence of numerous bilateral renal cysts, causing a progressive increase in total kidney volume (TKV) and a progressive loss of renal function. Several methods can be used to measure TKV by using MRI, and they differ in complexity, accuracy and time consumption. This study was performed to assess the performance of the ellipsoid method and the semi-automatic segmentation method, both for TKV and SKV (single kidney volume) computation. In total, 40 patients were enrolled, and 78 polycystic kidneys analyzed. Two independent operators with different levels of experience evaluated renal volumetry using both methods. Mean error for ellipsoid method for SKV computation was −2.74 ± 11.79% and 3.25 ± 10.02% for the expert and the beginner operator, respectively (p = 0.0008). A Wilcoxon test showed a statistically significant difference between the two operators for both methods (SKV p = 0.0371 and 0.0034; TKV p = 0.0416 and 0.0171 for the expert and the beginner operator, respectively). No inter-operator significant difference was found for the semi-automatic method, in contrast to the ellipsoid method. Both with a Wilcoxon test and Bland–Altman plot, statistically significant differences were found when comparing SKV and TKV measurements obtained with the two methods for both operators, even if the differences are stronger for the beginner operator than for the expert one. The semi-automatic segmentation method showed more inter-observer reproducibility. The ellipsoid method, in contrast, appears to be affected by greater inter-observer variability, especially when performed by operators with limited experience.
Myocardial and Vascular Involvement in Patients with Takayasu Arteritis: A Cardiovascular MRI Study
Authors: Almasi Simin , Asadian Sanaz , Hosseini Leila , Rezaeian Nahid , Ghasemi asl Shakiba , Ranjbar Abdolmohammad , Sadat-Ebrahimi Seyyed-Reza , Mahmoodieh Behnaz , Salmanipour Alireza
Published: November 2023

We aimed to explore the cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) of Takayasu arteritis (TA) and its cardiovascular complications. CMR was conducted on 37 TA patients and 28 healthy individuals. We evaluated the CMR findings and adverse cardiovascular complications at the time of the CMR (ACCCMR). After 8 to 26 months, the major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) were evaluated. The TA included 25 women (67.6%), aged 36 ± 16 years old, and 28 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction was significantly lower in the TA group than in the control group (51 ± 9% vs. 58 ± 1.7%; p < 0.001). Aortic mural edema was present in 34 patients (92%) and aortic mural hyperenhancement in 36 (97%). Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) was significantly lower in the TA group (median [interquartile range] = 13.70 [3.27] vs. 18.08 [1.35]; p < 0.001). ACCCMR was seen in 13 TA patients (35.1%), with the most common cardiac complication being myocarditis (16.2%). During a median follow-up of 18 months (8–26 months), nine patients developed MACCEs, of which the most common was cerebrovascular accident in five (13.5%). The LVGLS of the CMR had the strongest association with complications. Myocardial strain values, especially LVGLS, can reveal concurrent and future cardiovascular complications in TA patients.
Association between Sarcopenia and Poor Glycemic Control in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Alfaro-Alvarado Fabián Alonso , Rosas-Barrientos José Vicente , Ocharan-Hernández María Esther , Díaz-Chiguer Dylan , Vargas-De-León Cruz
Published: November 2023

Background: Aging is associated with a decrease in muscle mass. Insulin resistance and hyperglycemia accelerate muscle loss, leading to a deterioration in strength, muscle mass, and physical capacity in older adults. This study was conducted to determine the association between sarcopenia and poor glycemic control in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in older adults with T2D in geriatric outpatient clinics. Sarcopenia was diagnosed as per the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EWGSOP2) criteria. According to glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, participants were classified into glycemic control (HbA1c ≤ 7.5%) and poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 7.5%) groups. Results: Older adults with sarcopenia were found to have poor glycemic control compared to adults without sarcopenia (62.3% vs. 47.9%, p = 0.007). Logistic regression analysis showed an association between poor glycemic control and the presence of sarcopenia (odds ratio (OR): 1.79, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.17–2.75) and low muscle mass (OR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.07–2.73). Conclusions: Poor glycemic control is associated with the presence of sarcopenia and low muscle mass, which highlights the need to implement better treatment strategies in order to reduce the loss of muscle mass.
Sub-Diffraction Photon Trapping: The Possible Optical Energy Eigenstates within a Tiny Circular Aperture with a Finite Depth
Authors: Gündüz Ozan Turhan , Leitgeb Erich , Sabah Cumali
Published: November 2023

One of the challenging riddles that is set by light is: do photons have wavefunctions like other elementary particles do? Wave–particle duality has been a prevailing fact since the beginning of quantum theory thought; in electromagnetism, light is already a kind of undulation, so what about the waves of probability then? Well, Quantum Field Theory (QFT) has a rigorous explanation and supports the idea when they are considered as fields of particles via second quantization; they do have wavefunctions of probability, and it does not have anything to do with the regular oscillations. They can be related to the energy and momentum signatures of harmonic oscillations, resembling an imitation of the behavior of a classical harmonic oscillator, which then has a wavefunction to solve the corresponding time-independent Schrödinger equation. For the last half century, electrical engineering has owned the best out of these implications of Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) and QFT by engineering better semiconductor techniques with finely miniaturized transistors and composite devices for digital electronics and optoelectronics fields. More importantly, these engineering applications have also greatly evolved into combined fields like quantum computing that have introduced a completely new and extraordinary world to electronics applications. The study takes advantage of the power of QFT to mathematically reveal the bosonic modes (Laguerre–Gaussian) that appear in a sub-diffraction cylindrical aperture. In this way, this may lead to the construction of the techniques and characteristics of room-temperature photonic quantum gates which can isolate photon modes under a diffraction limit.
A Lightweight Multi-Scale Quadratic Separation Convolution Module for CNN Image-Classification Tasks
Authors: Wang Yunyan , Chen Peng
Published: November 2023

Currently, most convolutional networks use standard convolution for feature extraction to pursue accuracy. However, there is potential room for improvement in terms of the number of network parameters and model speed. Therefore, this paper proposes a lightweight multi-scale quadratic separable convolution module (Mqscm). First, the module uses a multi-branch topology to maintain the sparsity of the network architecture. Second, channel separation and spatial separation methods are used to separate the convolution kernels, reduce information redundancy within the network, and improve the utilization of hardware computing resources. In the end, the module uses a variety of convolution kernels to obtain information on different scales to ensure the performance of the network. The performance comparison on three image-classification datasets shows that, compared with standard convolution, the Mqscm module reduces computational effort by approximately 44.5% and the model training speed improves by a range of 14.93% to 35.41%, maintaining performance levels comparable to those of deep convolution. In addition, compared with ResNet-50, the pure convolution network MqscmNet reduces the parameters by about 59.5%, saves the training time by about 29.7%, and improves the accuracy by 0.59%. Experimental results show that the Mqscm module reduces the memory burden of the model, improves efficiency, and has good performance.
Research on a Link Prediction Algorithm Based on Hypergraph Representation Learning
Authors: Fu Kang , Yan Guanghui , Luo Hao , Chang Wenwen , Li Jingwen
Published: November 2023

Link prediction is a crucial area of study within complex networks research. Mapping nodes to low-dimensional vectors through network embeddings is a vital technique for link prediction. Most of the existing methods employ “node–edge”-structured networks to model the data and learn node embeddings. In this paper, we initially introduce the Clique structure to enhance the existing model and investigate the impact of introducing two Clique structures (LECON: Learning Embedding based on Clique Of the Network) and nine motifs (LEMON: Learning Embedding based on Motif Of the Network), respectively, on experimental performance. Subsequently, we introduce a hypergraph to model the network and reconfigure the network by mapping hypermotifs to two structures: open hypermotif and closed hypermotif, respectively. Then, we introduce hypermotifs as supernodes to capture the structural similarity between nodes in the network (HMRLH: HyperMotif Representation Learning on Hypergraph). After that, taking into account the connectivity and structural similarity of the involved nodes, we propose the Depth and Breadth Motif Random Walk method to acquire node sequences. We then apply this method to the LEMON (LEMON-DB: LEMON-Depth and Breadth Motif Random Walk) and HMRLH (HMRLH-DB: HMRLH-Depth and Breadth Motif Random Walk) algorithms. The experimental results on four different datasets indicate that, compared with the LEMON method, the LECON method improves experimental performance while reducing time complexity. The HMRLH method, utilizing hypernetwork modeling, proves more effective in extracting node features. The LEMON-DB and HMRLH-DB methods, incorporating new random walk approaches, outperform the original methods in the field of link prediction. Compared with state-of-the-art baselines, the proposed approach in this paper effectively enhances link prediction accuracy, demonstrating a certain level of superiority.
Low-Profile UWB-MIMO Antenna System with Enhanced Isolation Using Parasitic Elements and Metamaterial Integration
Authors: Tighilt Yamina , Bensid Chahrazed , Sayad Djamel , Mekki Samira , Zegadi Rami , Bouknia Mohamed Lamine , Elfergani Issa , Singh Pankaj , Rodriguez Jonathan , Zebiri Chemseddine
Published: November 2023

A new compact UWB multiple-input–multiple-output (MIMO) antenna is presented in this paper. The proposed antenna, with a compact size of 30 × 20 × 1.6 mm3, consists of a two-element microstrip line-fed pentagonal-shaped patch associated with a parasitic element and a partial ground plane. Three complementary split-ring resonator (CSRR) structures are integrated into the defected ground with the aims of reducing the mutual coupling and enhancing the bandwidth. A UWB impedance bandwidth is achieved covering the FCC band (3.1–10.6 GHz), corresponding to a reflection coefficient below −10 dB and a reduced mutual coupling below −22 dB. Additionally, acceptable limits of the diversity performance parameters are obtained. Furthermore, all the simulated outcomes of the suggested antenna are convenient for UWB-MIMO wireless applications. Measures carried out on the fabricated prototype of the antenna demonstrate good agreement between both the simulation and measurement results of the optimized two-port MIMO antenna.
Study of the Genetic Adaptation Mechanisms of Siberian Larch (Larix sibirica Ledeb.) Regarding Climatic Stresses Based on Dendrogenomic Analysis
Authors: Novikova Serafima V. , Oreshkova Natalia V. , Sharov Vadim V. , Zhirnova Dina F. , Belokopytova Liliana V. , Babushkina Elena A. , Krutovsky Konstantin V.
Published: November 2023

Dendrogenomics is a new interdisciplinary approach that allows joint analysis of dendrological and genomic data and opens up new ways to study the temporal dynamics of forest treelines, delineate spatial and temporal population structures, decipher individual tree responses to abiotic and biotic stresses, and evaluate the adaptive genetic potential of forest tree populations. These data are needed for the prediction of climate change effects and mitigation of the negative effects. We present here an association analysis of the variation of 27 individual tree traits, including adaptive dendrophenotypes reflecting the individual responses of trees to drought stress, such as the resistance (Rt), recovery (Rc), resilience (Rs), and relative resilience (RRs) indexes measured in 136 Siberian larch trees in 5 populations in the foothills of the Batenevsky Ridge (Kuznetsk Alatau, Republic of Khakassia, Russia), with variation of 9742 SNPs genotyped using ddRADseq in the same trees. The population structure of five closely located Siberian larch populations was relatively weak (FST = 0.018). We found that the level of individual heterozygosity positively correlated with the Rc and RR indices for the five studied drought periods and partly with the Rs indices for three drought periods. It seems that higher individual heterozygosity improves the adaptive capabilities of the tree. We also discovered a significant negative relationship between individual heterozygosity and the Rt index in four out of five periods, which means that growth slows down during droughts more in trees with higher individual heterozygosity and is likely associated with energy and internal resource reallocation toward more efficient water and energy usage and optimization of larch growth during drought years. We found 371 SNPs with potentially adaptive variations significantly associated with the variation of adaptive dendrophenotypes based on all three different methods of association analysis. Among them, 26 SNPs were located in genomic regions carrying functional genes: 21 in intergenic regions and 5 in gene-coding regions. Based on the obtained results, it can be assumed that these populations of Siberian larch have relatively high standing adaptive genetic variation and adaptive potential underlying the adaptations of larch to various climatic conditions.
Climate Change-Driven Cumulative Mountain Pine Beetle-Caused Whitebark Pine Mortality in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Authors: Macfarlane William W. , Howell Brian , Logan Jesse A. , Smith Ally L. , Rasmussen Cashe C. , Spangler Robert E.
Published: November 2023

An aerial survey method called the Landscape Assessment System (LAS) was used to assess mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae)-caused mortality of whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis) across the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (59,000 km2; GYE). This consisted of 11,942 km of flightlines, along which 4434 geo-tagged, oblique aerial photos were captured and processed. A mortality rating of none to severe (0–4.0 recent attack or 5.0–5.4 old attack) was assigned to each photo based on the amount of red (recent attack) and gray (old attack) trees visible. The method produced a photo inventory of 74 percent of the GYE whitebark pine distribution. For the remaining 26 percent of the distribution, mortality levels were estimated based on an interpolated mortality surface. Catchment-level results combining the photo-inventoried and interpolated mortality indicated that 44 percent of the GYE whitebark pine distribution showed severe old attack mortality (5.3–5.4 rating), 37 percent showed moderate old attack mortality (5.2–5.29 rating), 19 percent showed low old attack mortality (5.1–5.19 rating) and less than 1 percent showed trace levels of old attack mortality (5.0–5.09). No catchments were classified as recent attacks indicating that the outbreak of the early 2000’s has ended. However, mortality continues to occur as chronic sub-outbreak-level mortality. Ground verification using field plots indicates that higher LAS mortality values are moderately correlated with a higher percentage of mortality on the ground.