bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Component‐level seismic fragility database of suspended piping systems in buildings
Authors: Shang Qingxue , Tang Zhenyun , Wang Tao
Published: December 2024

Nonstructural components (NSCs) contribute about 80%–90% of the construction investment in a modern public building. The post‐earthquake safety and normal operation of NSCs are necessary to achieve performance‐based design and resilient buildings. The piping system is one of the most essential nonstructural systems to preserve the post‐earthquake functionality of public buildings. To accurately evaluate the seismic performance and vulnerability of piping systems in buildings, a component‐level seismic fragility database is urgently to be developed. System composition, failure modes of piping systems, and induced consequences during previous earthquakes are introduced first in this article. Then a concise description of component‐level fragility methodology suggested by the Applied Technology Council is presented. Seismic fragility database of piping components including pipes, piping joints, and seismic braces through quasi‐static tests are developed based on the fragility analysis method. Experimental results from available literature are summarized and presented in the form of seismic fragility curves. Specific hysteretic curves of these components are also presented, which are used for the calibration of numerical models. In addition, the future research directions on the seismic fragility of piping components are summarized and prospected. The developed component‐level seismic fragility database can be used to help understand the seismic performance and post‐earthquake damage states of the piping system. Seismic performance assessment and seismic fragility analysis of modern piping systems can be conducted using the developed database and numerical simulation method.
The two‐ and three‐dimensional response spectra: Orientation‐independent intensity measures more suitable for seismic structural design
Authors: Barragán Ramírez Enrique
Published: December 2024

This paper presents two physics‐based, orientation‐independent intensity measures that truly captures the three‐dimensional motion of an orthogonal array of accelerometers and are more appropriate for seismic structural design. This is achieved by processing all three components of the record simultaneously, rather than simply combining the results of processing each component in isolation. Compared to other commonly accepted orientation‐independent intensity measures, it was found that horizontal seismic demand may be systematically underestimated by as much as 29% in the worst‐case scenario. In addition, these new measures are much more computationally efficient than the current ones, as they reduce the number of response spectra calculations per seismic record to just 2 or 3, depending on the measure. Thus, the orientation‐independent intensity measures introduced here optimize the processing of seismic records and may help to reduce the uncertainty of the estimation of the seismic acceleration for structural design.
CLN6‐related continuum phenotype caused by aberrant splicing
Authors: Invernizzi Federica , Castellotti Barbara , Reale Chiara , Panteghini Celeste , Colangelo Isabel , Solazzi Roberta , Ragona Francesca , Giordano Lucio , Galli Jessica , Rossi Sebastiano Davide , Marucci Gianluca , Cuccarini Valeria , Didato Giuseppe , Gellera Cinzia , Garavaglia Barbara , Granata Tiziana , Canafoglia Laura
Published: December 2024

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are genetically heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorders, characterized by progressive cognitive and motor decline, epilepsy, visual impairment, and shortened life‐expectancy. CLN6‐related NCLs include both late‐infantile and adult myoclonic form. We report a 21‐year‐old patient, with mild developmental delay, who developed occipital seizures at 14 years, and subsequently cognitive decline, cortical myoclonus, and photosensitivity at low and higher frequencies. Overall, the picture suited progressive myoclonus epilepsy. Electroretinogram was normal. A skin biopsy revealed a mixed storage of curvilinear and fingerprint profiles. A brain MRI showed severe cortical atrophy. Performing genetic analyses, two biallelic variants were identified in the CLN6 gene, each inherited from one of the healthy parents, one c.722T>C, p.(Met241Thr) already described in the late‐infantile form and the other one c.486+28T>C, intronic and novel, causing aberrant splicing. In the patient, the expression of the allele containing c.722T>C variant was increased, in comparison with the carrier parent. The peculiar genetic pattern observed in the patient could explain a milder clinical picture when compared with late‐infantile form, since CLN6 expression was partially preserved. However, the presence of a delay, and the early cognitive decline suggested a continuum phenotype connecting late‐infantile and adult CLN6‐related forms.

Plain Language Summary

We report a patient with CLN6 disease who developed symptoms at an intermediate age: 9 years for mild intellectual disability and 14 years for occipital seizures and progressive myoclonus epilepsy, without visual impairment. The patient is compound heterozygous for a CLN6 missense variant c.722T>C, p.(Met241Thr) already described in the late‐infantile form and for a novel intronic variant c.486+28T>C, causing aberrant splicing. In the patient, the expression of the allele containing c.722T>C variant was increased, compared with the carrier parent. The splice site variant had a milder effect. The peculiar genetic pattern may explain the continuum phenotype between late‐infantile and adult forms.
Forecasting the Volatility of US Oil and Gas Firms With Machine Learning
Authors: Díaz Juan D. , Hansen Erwin , Cabrera Gabriel
Published: December 2024

Forecasting the realized volatility of oil and gas firms is of interest to investors and practitioners trading on the energy spot and derivative markets. In this paper, we assess whether several machine learning (ML) techniques can offer superior forecasts compared to HAR models for predicting realized volatility at the firm level. Moreover, we investigate whether economically motivated variables and technical indicators contain valuable information for forecasting firm volatility beyond those contained in various volatility factors previously identified in the literature. Our results demonstrate that certain ML techniques provide superior forecasting accuracy compared to the benchmark model. Additionally, we identify variables such as the 1‐month treasury bill and the aggregate VIX index as significant drivers of realized firm volatility in the oil and gas industry.
Speaking Truthfully about Provider‐Assisted Death
Authors: Sams Richard W. , Jaggard Peter
Published: December 2024

This letter responds to the essay “Language Matters: The Semantics and Politics of ‘Assisted Dying,’” by Anna M. Elsner, Charlotte E. Frank, Marc Keller, Jordan O. McCullough, and Vanessa Rampton, in the September‐October 2024 issue of the Hastings Center Report.
Health Professional Shortage Area Bonus Payments and Access to Care Under Medicare
Authors: Brunt Christopher S.
Published: December 2024

For over 3 decades, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has provided a bonus payment for outpatient physician services provided to beneficiaries under Medicare Part B in areas designated as Primary Care Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) during the previous calendar year. Despite the longstanding existence of the program, no studies have explicitly evaluated how previously established physicians practicing in areas subject to an HPSA designation respond to the bonus payments. Using 2012–2019 physician‐level data with stacked event study models that control for several characteristics, including the underlying criteria used to construct HPSA scores, I find little to no statistically significant changes in access to care (as measured through total annual beneficiaries treated or services delivered to Medicare beneficiaries) in the years leading up to HPSA designation. However, once physicians become eligible for a 10% bonus payment, their annual number of beneficiaries treated and volume of services decline, consistent with recent empirical work and CMS's actuarial assumptions about how physicians respond to changes in reimbursement.
The fraction of cancer attributable to modifiable risk factors in Turkey in 2018
Authors: Tozduman Busra , Ergor Gul
Published: December 2024

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Turkey, with nearly one in six deaths attributed to the disease. In 2018, Turkey recorded 211,273 new cancer cases. Many cancers are linked to modifiable lifestyle risk factors, such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, obesity, and inadequate diet and physical activity. Modifying these risk factors could potentially prevent 30%–50% of cancer cases and deaths. This study aims to estimate the population attributable fraction (PAF) of cancer cases and deaths due to various modifiable risk factors in Turkey. Modifiable cancer risk factors were identified as smoking, infections, obesity, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, inadequate intake of fruits, vegetables, fiber, and calcium. Data on exposure prevalence and cancer incidence were sourced from national surveys and reports. Relative risks (RRs) were obtained from global studies. PAFs were calculated using Levin's equation, accounting for overlaps between risk factors. In 2018, 32% of the cancer cases were attributable to lifestyle risk factors. Smoking was the most significant factor, accounting for 28.4% of cases in men, while high BMI was the leading factor in women, contributing to 11.5% of cases. Lifestyle risk factors were responsible for 41.6% of cancer deaths, with smoking being the leading cause. Lifestyle risk factors contribute significantly to cancer incidence and mortality in Turkey. Prioritizing interventions to reduce tobacco use and obesity could substantially lower the cancer burden. These results are crucial for developing effective cancer prevention strategies and informing public health policies.
miR‐105‐5p/PTEN Axis Modulates the Immune Response and Epithelial‐Mesenchymal Transition of Colon Cancer via NF‐κB Activation
Authors: Yao Fei , Hu Biwen , Li SenJuan , Cao Chenxi , Ling Yiting
Published: December 2024

The underlying regulating mechanisms of miR‐105‐5p/PTEN in colon cancer (CC) progression are still unknown. MiR‐105‐5p and PTEN expressions were determined using RT‐PCR. PTEN protein levels were examined by western blot. Also, the contents of inflammatory cytokines (IL–1β, TNF–α, and IL‐6) were measured via ELISA. An inflammation model was constructed via LPS. NF–κB p65 expression was assessed via immunofluorescence assay. A xenograft tumor model was constructed in BALB/c nude mice. The functions of miR‐105‐5p were investigated by establishing a xenograft tumor model, H&E staining, TUNEL assay, immunohistochemistry assay, ELISA, RT‐PCR, and western blot. In this research, We found that miR‐105‐5p expressions were upregulated in CC cells. MiR‐105‐5p depletion notably augmented PTEN expressions and enhanced immune response, while impeded EMT and distinctly declined the levels of p‐IκBα and Nuc‐NF‐κB p65 in LoVo cells. Whereas, these effects were notably counteracted by PTEN depletion. MiR‐105‐5p upregulation exerted the opposite effects in CaCo2 cells. LPS markedly increased miR‐105‐5p expressions and suppressed PTEN expressions in LoVo cells. MiR‐105‐5p depletion offset LPS‐triggered promoting effects on EMT and suppressing effects on the immune response. Meanwhile, in vivo assay proved that miR‐105‐5p depletion markedly impeded tumor growth and EMT, yet facilitated apoptosis and immune response. It also distinctly deactivated the NF‐κB pathway. To sum up, these data indicated that miR‐105‐5p depletion might impede EMT, yet enhance the immune response in CC by elevating PTEN expressions via deactivation of the NF‐κB pathway.
Separation of cadaverine from fermentation broths by salting‐out
Authors: Zheng Huijie , Liu Hansheng , Shi Xueqi , Liu Shuwen , Su Weiyi , Li Hao
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Cadaverine is an important diamine to synthesize nylon. However, the lower product concentration in the cadaverine production makes the downstream separation more complex and costly, and has become a bottleneck for large‐scale production. Therefore, in this study, the salting‐out was used to efficiently separate cadaverine in the simulated fermentation broth.

RESULTS

After analyzing the pH of readily soluble potassium salts, three alkaline salting‐out agents—K3PO4, K2CO3 and K4P2O7—were utilized to perform the salting‐out separation of cadaverine. The effects of the type and concentration of salting‐out agents and cadaverine concentration on the distribution and selection behavior of cadaverine in the simulated fermentation broth were investigated. Particularly, when the concentration of cadaverine was 10 wt% and the K3PO4 concentration was 500 g/kg, the recovery rate of cadaverine in the simulated fermentation broth with K3PO4 salting‐out agent was as high as 99.6%, which was significantly higher than that of other salting‐out agents, and only 0.01 wt% cadaverine remained in the aqueous phase.

CONCLUSION

The salting‐out ability of the three inorganic salts to cadaverine in the simulated fermentation broth was K3PO4>K2CO3>K4P2O7. Furthermore, within a certain range of cadaverine concentrations, the content of cadaverine in the aqueous phase and the amount of water residue in the organic phase could be calculated using a linear regression equation. Since inorganic salts have the advantages of good stability, low cost, non‐toxicity and harmlessness, the salting‐out process established in this study shows good potential for industrial application. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Developmental Plasticity in Growth and Performance Blur Taxonomic Boundaries in South American True Toads (Rhinella)
Authors: Mariotto Lucas Ferriolli , Lofeu Leandro , Kohlsdorf Tiana
Published: December 2024

Developmental plasticity can affect traits directly related to survival, and some changes may promote or impair population persistence in changing environments. At the same time, it can also originate new complex phenotypes, surpassing species‐specific boundaries. Therefore, plastic responses have the potential to participate in processes of micro and macroevolution. In this study, we evaluate plastic responses to different thermal regimes during development in traits related to survival and also used for taxonomic classification of two true‐toad species, Rhinella icterica and Rhinella ornata. We raised tadpoles representing distinct operational taxonomic units (OTUs) at different temperatures, and the resulting phenotypic patterns suggest canalization in R. icterica and complex variation revealed by plasticity among R. ornata OTUs. Plastic responses to thermal regimes produced differences among the OTUs in traits associated with specific survival strategies of Rhinella species. Some changes surpassed taxonomic boundaries and rescued lineage‐specific phenotypic patterns, establishing unusual phenotypic combinations for these species. Our results illustrate the contribution of developmental plasticity for processes involving phenotypic differentiation among species in traits directly related to survival.
Simultaneous Bilateral T1, T2, and T1ρ Relaxation Mapping of Hip Joint With 3D‐MRI Fingerprinting
Authors: Monga Anmol , de Moura Hector Lise , Zibetti Marcelo V.W. , Youm Thomas , Samuels Jonathan , Regatte Ravinder R.
Published: December 2024

Background

Three‐dimensional MR fingerprinting (3D‐MRF) has been increasingly used to assess cartilage degeneration, particularly in the knee joint, by looking into multiple relaxation parameters. A comparable 3D‐MRF approach can be adapted to assess cartilage degeneration for the hip joint, with changes to accommodate specific challenges of hip joint imaging.

Purpose

To demonstrate the feasibility and repeatability of 3D‐MRF in the bilateral hip jointly we map proton density (PD), T1, T2, T1ρ, and ∆B1+ in clinically feasible scan times.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Eight healthy subjects, three patients with mild osteoarthritis (OA), and one of the OA patients had femoral acetabular impingement (FAI). A National Institute of Standards and Technology/International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (NIST/ISMRM) system phantom was also used.

Field Strength/Sequence

3 T, 3D‐MRF sequence for bilateral hip joint mapping. Reference sequences include Volume Interpolated Breath‐hold Examination (VIBE) for T1 mapping, and magnetization‐prepared fast low‐angle shot (TFL) for T2 and T1ρ mapping.

Assessment

The signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), repeatability, scan time, and accuracy of T1, T2, and T1ρ maps of 3D‐MRF sequence were evaluated on a NIST/ISMRM phantom and human subjects. Differences in the parametric maps between OA and healthy subjects were assessed.

Statistical Tests

Regression, Bland–Altman, Kruskal–Wallis, and Wilcoxon tests were used to assess for accuracy, repeatability, and subregional variation. The P‐value <0.05 indicated statistically significant.

Results

A 3D‐MRF sequence sensitive to PD, T1, T2, T1ρ, and ∆B1+ within 15 minutes, achieving high SNR and low test–retest coefficient of variance (T1: 3.36%, T2: 3.99%, T1ρ: 5.93%). Mild hip OA patients, including one with mild OA and FAI, showed elevation of 29.4 ± 9% (T2) and 32.4 ± 4.4% (T1ρ) in femoral lateral compartment of the hip joint compared to healthy controls.

Data Conclusion

3D‐MRF may be a feasible approach for simultaneous, quantitative mapping of bilateral hip joint cartilage in healthy and mild OA patients.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Rapid clearance of cutaneous lesions with anifrolumab in SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus) and DLE (discoid lupus erythematosus)
Authors: Parriel E. , Bulai‐Livideanu C. , Severino‐Freire M. , Delpuech A. , Faguer S. , Belliere J. , Huart A. , Paul C.
Published: December 2024

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that affects multiple organs, including the skin. Activation of the Type I interferon pathway is a key pathophysiological factor in SLE. Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a chronic cutaneous form of lupus and treatment is challenging with an increased risk of disfigurement and poor quality of life. Treatment of cutaneous manifestations is challenging and current standard therapies remain inadequate. Anifrolumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the Type 1 interferon receptor subunit 1. Phase III clinical trials (TULIP‐1, TULIP‐2 and MEDI‐546) have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing SLE activity and improving lupus‐associated skin manifestations.

Objectives

The aim of this retrospective study was to provide information on the early effect of anifrolumab in patients with cutaneous manifestations of lupus with and without systemic involvement.

Methods

A retrospective study evaluating the early effect of anifrolumab in six patients with refractory cutaneous manifestations of lupus, including those with DLE with and without associated SLE. The outcome measure was the change in Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index (CLASI) score at 1–2 months. Photographs were performed before and after treatment.

Results

The mean baseline CLASI score was 14.2 ± 10.6 (median: 10.5). At 1–2 months, the CLASI score was 5.7 ± 5.3 (median: 3.0). The clinically remarkable efficacy was visible in most patients after the first injection of anifrolumab.

Conclusions

We observed the rapid efficacy of anifrolumab within the first 2 months in patients with refractory cutaneous manifestations of SLE and CLE. Limitations include the small sample size and lack of a control group. Overall, anifrolumab represents a potential therapeutic option for severe or resistant cutaneous lupus and warrants further investigation. Research is needed to determine its optimal use and efficacy in different cutaneous lupus subtypes.
Authors, wordsmiths and ghostwriters: Early career researchers' responses to artificial intelligence
Authors: Clark David , Nicholas David , Swigon Marzena , Abrizah Abdullah , Rodríguez‐Bravo Blanca , Revez Jorge , Herman Eti , Xu Jie , Watkinson Anthony
Published: December 2024

Presents the results of a study of the impact of artificial intelligence on early career researchers (ECRs). An important group to study because their millennial mindset may render them especially open to AI. We provide empirical data and a validity check of the numerous publications providing forecasts and prognostications. This interview‐based study—part of the Harbingers project on ECRs—covers a convenience sample of 91 ECRs from all fields and seven countries using both qualitative and quantitative data to view the AI experience, engagement, utility, attitudes and representativeness of ECRs. We find that: (1) ECRs exhibit mostly limited or moderate levels of experience; (2) in regard to engagement and usage there is a divide with some ECRs exhibiting little or none and others enthusiastically using AI; (3) ECRs do not think they are unrepresentative when compared to their colleagues; (4) ECRs who score highly on these measures tend to be computer scientists, but not exclusively so; (5) the main concerns regarding AI were around authenticity, especially plagiarism; (6) a major attraction of AI is the automation of ‘wordsmithing’; the process and technique of composition and writing.
High‐dimensional Bayesian optimization for metamaterial design
Authors: Tian Zhichao , Yang Yang , Zhou Sui , Zhou Tian , Deng Ke , Ji Chunlin , He Yejun , Liu Jun S.
Published: December 2024

Metamaterial design, encompassing both microstructure topology selection and geometric parameter optimization, constitutes a high‐dimensional optimization problem, with computationally expensive and time‐consuming design evaluations. Bayesian optimization (BO) offers a promising approach for black‐box optimization involved in various material designs, and this work presents several advanced techniques to adapt BO to address the challenges associated with metamaterial design. First, variational autoencoders (VAEs) are employed for efficient dimensionality reduction, mapping complex, high‐dimensional metamaterial microstructures into a compact latent space. Second, mutual information maximization is incorporated into the VAE to enhance the quality of the learned latent space, ensuring that the most relevant features for optimization are retained. Third, trust region‐based Bayesian optimization (TuRBO) dynamically adjusts local search regions, ensuring stability and convergence in high‐dimensional spaces. The proposed techniques are well incorporated with conventional Gaussian processes (GP)‐based BO framework. We applied the proposed method for the design of electromagnetic metamaterial microstructures. Experimental results show that we achieve a significantly high probability of finding the ground‐truth topology types and their geometric parameters, leading to high accuracy in matching the design target. Moreover, our approach demonstrates significant time efficiency compared with traditional design methods.
Characterization of LiF TLD‐100 in carbon ion beams for remote audits
Authors: Taylor Paige A. , Mirandola Alfredo , Ciocca Mario , Hartzell Shannon , Magro Giuseppe , Alvarez Paola , Peterson Christine B. , Peeler Christopher R. , Koay Eugene J. , Howell Rebecca M. , Kry Stephen F.
Published: December 2024

Background

A passive dosimeter framework for the measurement of dose in carbon ion beams has yet to be characterized or implemented for regular use.

Purpose

This work determined the dose calculation correction factors for absorbed dose in thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) in a therapeutic carbon ion beam. TLD could be a useful tool for remote audits, particularly in the context of clinical trials as new protocols are developed for carbon ion radiotherapy.

Methods

TLD‐100 were irradiated in a carbon ion beam at the Centro Nazionale di Adroterapia Oncologica (CNAO) in Pavia, Italy. The dose correction factors for linearity, fading, and beam quality were characterized. Fading was characterized from 5 to 100 days post‐irradiation. For linearity, the TLDs were irradiated to absorbed doses ranging from 1 to 15 Gy in both the entrance of a high‐energy pristine carbon ion peak and the center of a 2 cm spread‐out Bragg peak. For beam quality, the TLD was irradiated to the same absorbed dose (3 Gy) in several pristine carbon ion Bragg peaks, as well as in several spread‐out Bragg peaks. Each correction factor was calculated and compared to photon correction factors. The correction factors were also compared between high and low dose‐averaged linear energy transfer (LETD) in the carbon ion beams. The absorbed dose was compared between ion chamber and TLD‐100 in the several tissue substitute phantom materials, applying the carbon ion TLD correction factors.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in the TLD fading correction factor between photons, low LETD carbon ion beams, or high LETD carbon ion beams. The TLD linearity correction factor did differ between photons, low LETD carbon ions, and high LETD carbon ions. The beam quality correction factor was large and changed linearly with LETD. The overall uncertainty of the carbon ion absorbed dose calculation was 3.9% at the one‐sigma level, driven largely by a 3.5% uncertainty in the beam quality correction. TLD measurements were within 1.2% of ion chamber measurements in the phantom material for polyethylene, solid water (Gammex and Sun Nuclear), acrylic, blue water, and techtron HPV. TLD measurements in balsa wood were within 3.0% and cork was 6.6% low compared to ion chamber.

Conclusion

TLD‐100 can be used for passive dosimetry in a therapeutic carbon ion beam. Importantly, the linearity and beam quality correction factors are both different from photon therapy, and dependent on LETD of the carbon ion beam. This opens the possibility of TLD use for carbon ion output audits, phantom audits, and in vivo dose measurements, but may be subject to more complicated management and slightly larger uncertainties than are achieved in photon beams.
Improved Fictitious Soil Pile Model for Simulating the Base Soil Under the High‐Strain Condition
Authors: Guan Chengjun , Wen Minjie , Zhang Yiming , Ding Pan , Chen Menghuan , Dai Haofeng , Yang Qingping , Tu Yuan
Published: December 2024

The dynamic pile‐soil interaction significantly affects the accuracy of pile vibration response analysis. However, currently, there is no well‐established method for simulating pile toe soil under high‐strain dynamic loading (HSDL), which presents a major challenge for pile driving analysis. This paper proposes a fictitious soil pile model to simulate reactions and stress wave propagation in the base soil under HSDL. The pile toe soil was regarded as a fictitious soil pile extending downward to the bedrock at a certain cone angle, considering the non‐linear soil stiffness, radiation damping, and hysteretic damping. The solution of the soil responses was given by differential iterative method combined with MTLAB programming. The model's accuracy was validated against a three‐dimensional (3D) finite element model and the Smith model. Sensitivity analysis was performed on parameters such as discreteness, time interval, cone angle, and non‐linear stiffness. The model shows advantages in simulating stress wave propagation in pile toe soil under HSDL, with attenuation rates decreasing with depth and wave speeds stabilizing after an initial decrease. The soil elastic modulus, pile diameter, cone angle, and impact loads influence the attenuation rate, while only the elastic modulus significantly affects wave speed. The results could be helpful for the simulation of the pile toe soil under HSDL and the study of the attenuation of stress waves in the soil.
A Method for Sharing English Education Resources in Multiple Virtual Networks Based on 6G
Authors: He Hongliu
Published: December 2024

The rapid advancement of communication technologies, particularly in English language learning, is sharing education with the implementation of sixth‐generation (6G) networks, offering immersive and interactive learning experiences. The purpose of the research is to establish an advanced method for sharing English education resources across multiple virtual networks enabled by 6G technology. Traditional resource‐sharing systems lack the effectiveness and optimization requirement for large‐scale instructional assignments, especially in virtual settings with various user demands. To address this, the study proposed a novel Dynamic Tunicate Swarm Refined Graph Neural Networks (DTS‐RGNN) model to optimize resource allocation and improve the efficiency of resource sharing among educational tasks. The approach uses TSO for resource allocation scalable through 6G technology and GNN for task assignment according to the previous performances and interaction with the students to balance resource utilization. The experimental group performed writing (90%), sharing (91%), listening (85%), and reading (75%), finishing the task in 5.5 s at 1000 GB. Throughput increased by 5.0 GBps and resource utilization efficiency improved to (96%) and student outcomes showed high satisfaction (93%), retention (89%), and engagement (90%). The findings demonstrated the proposed method significantly improves the sharing of online English education resources, promoting more interactive and effective language learning experiences in virtual networks.
Unveiling human–wildlife interactions in the context of livestock grazing abandonment and the return of large carnivores, ungulates and vultures: A stakeholder perspective
Authors: Acebes P. , Muñoz‐Gálvez F. J. , Iglesias‐González Z. , García‐Llorente M. , López‐García D.
Published: December 2024

Pastoral practices remain a widespread economic activity across European mountain regions. However, the viability of this activity may be threatened by the recovery of large wild vertebrates associated with passive rewilding, leading to the so‐called human–wildlife conflicts. Reconciling the return of large wild vertebrates and pastoral practices is therefore a major challenge for the European Union (EU), as it poses political, socio‐economic and conservation challenges.

We analyse the social dimension of the recovery of large carnivores, ungulates and strict avian scavengers, through a multi‐stakeholder approach in two rural territories in central Spain exposed to different degrees of land abandonment. Based on in‐depth interviews, we identify potential conflicts and disagreements between the different stakeholders, search for strategies to promote the coexistence of large wild vertebrates and extensive grazing systems and seek emergent discourses for reconciling and boosting agrarian production and biodiversity conservation.

Our findings show a consensus among stakeholders on the general increase and recovery of large wild vertebrate populations. We then collected divergent positions on what this recovery means for social groups, showing opposing views between urban and rural people; while conservationists considered this increase positively, land users generally—but not always—perceived this recovery as a threat to their livelihoods.

We identified disagreements within social groups and divergent positions displayed between cattle farmers and sheep and goat farmers. The latter showed forms of management closer to agroecological visions, thus allowing coexistence.

The coexistence of pastoral practices and wild vertebrates involves navigating a complex interplay of ecological, social and economic factors. The negative impacts of wildlife on livestock can be minimized, but only through the collective implementation of measures by all parties. Furthermore, the recognition and valuation of pastoral practices and the empowerment of land users may facilitate coexistence. Mutual recognition and participation of local stakeholders seems an unavoidable step in developing more collaborative approaches that respect the needs and aspirations of rural communities while contributing to the EU's restoration and conservation goals.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
GA071518‐16E39: A new adapted soft red winter wheat cultivar to Georgia and the US Southeast Region
Authors: Mergoum Mohamed , Johnson Jerry W. , Sutton Steve , Lopez Benjamin , Bland Daniel , Buck James W. , Buntin G. D. , Mailhot Daniel J. , Harrison Stephen A. , Murphy J. Paul , Mason Richard E. , Sutton Russell L. , Babar Md A. , Ibrahim Amir M. H. , Boyles Richard , Brown‐Guedira Gina L. , Baik Byung‐Kee , Chen Z. , Marshall David , Cambron Sue E. , Chen X. , Cowger Christina
Published: December 2024

The production of soft red winter wheat (SRWW) (Triticum aestivum L.) in the US southeast (SE) region is important. However, wheat production faces many challenges including many stresses resulting in substantial losses in yield and quality. To address these challenges, developing new cultivars with high yield potential with resistance to major pests in the region and good quality is warranted. The SRWW breeding programs ate the University of Georgia (UGA) and the regional institutions including the Southern Universities GRAINS (SUNGRAINS) programs aims to solve these problems. The release of ‘GA071518‐16E39’ (Reg. no. CV‐1210, PI 698826) SRWW in 2019, is among many adapted cultivars developed and released by the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. GA071518‐16E39 has broad adaptation to the US SE region, but specifically well fit to the Georgia environments. It is a high yielding cultivar with excellent resistance to most dominant diseases including leaf (caused by Puccinia triticina Erikss.) and stripe (caused by P. striiformis Westend.) rusts, Soil‐borne wheat mosaic virus, and Hessian fly insect [Mayetiola destructor (Say)] including major prevalent biotypes (B, C, O, and L) in the region. GA071518‐16E39 is moderately resistant to powdery mildew (caused by Erisyphe graminis) and moderate susceptible to Fusarium head blight (caused by Fusarium graminearum Schwabe) which is reflected in relatively lower levels of disease severity and Deoxynivalenol toxin. GA071518‐16E39 has excellent grain volume weight and milling and baking quality as a SRWW.
Predicting Solute Diffusivity and Transport Kinetics in Polymers Using Quantile Random Forests
Authors: Elder Robert M. , Duelge Kaleb J. , Young Joshua A. , Simon David D. , Saylor David M.
Published: December 2024

Additives and contaminants in polymer‐based medical devices may leach into patients, posing a potential health risk. Physics‐based mass transport models can estimate the leaching kinetics, but they require upper‐bound estimates of solute diffusivity in the polymer. Experiments to measure can be costly and time‐consuming. Alternatives to estimate exist, but they suffer from several drawbacks, such as requiring experimental data to calibrate or specialized knowledge to apply, being limited to certain polymers, or being too time‐consuming given the plethora of polymer/solute combinations in devices. Here, we leverage a large database of diffusivity measurements and apply a machine learning method—quantile random forests (QRF)—to predict bounds on for arbitrary polymer/solute combinations, using only the solute structure and readily available polymer properties (glass transition temperature and density). The most influential factors for determining are these polymer properties and several descriptors related to solute size (e.g., molecular weight ), structure, and interactions. Note that application of the model is limited to the applicability domain defined herein and polymers with relatively low fractional‐free‐volume. We demonstrate the ability of the model to predict and diffusion‐limited transport kinetics, where it compares favorably to other available methods while also overcoming the aforementioned drawbacks.
Editor's Note
Authors: Mick Connie Snyder
Published: December 2024

This note from the editor provides a brief summary of the articles contained in this issue and invites readers to respond and submit their own work.
Difference in the Perceptions of Asthma Control Between Children With Asthma and Their Parents
Authors: Bousema Sara , van Zwet Miranda E. , Ossendrijver Ieteke , Bindels Patrick J. E. , Bohnen Arthur M. , Pijnenburg Mariëlle , Boeft Madelon van Tilborg‐den , Elshout Gijs
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Asthma is the most prevalent chronic condition in children in primary care. Asthma control can be quantified using the Childhood Asthma Control Test (C‐ACT), which includes questions for both children and their parents. However, there can be discrepancies between children and parents in their perceptions of asthma control.

Objective

This longitudinal study determines the difference in the perceptions of asthma control between children in primary care and their parents using the C‐ACT, measured at five points in time.

Method

Children aged 6–12 with asthma who are being treated in primary care were eligible. Data was obtained using electronic questionnaires from the Rotterdam Asthma Trial from baseline to 18 months follow‐up. The primary outcome was a difference in C‐ACT scores between parents and their children. The data was analyzed using Spearman's correlation and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

We included 90 children and their parents. The mean age of the children was 9.6 years (SD 1.7). At baseline, the children gave a median C‐ACT score of 9/12 (IQR 2.5) and the parents gave a median score of 14/15 (IQR 3.0). Children's median C‐ACT scores were significantly lower throughout the study period (p < 0.001). The Spearman test showed moderate to strong correlation (0.659–0.775, and the ICC showed good agreement (0.750–0.813).

Conclusion

This study showed that parents gave significantly higher scores for the individual items of the C‐ACT than their children. Considering the child's perspective on their symptoms is crucial when deciding on additional asthma treatment measures.
Evaluation of Nucleated Red Blood Cells in Peripheral Blood Increases the Predictive Value of Pediatric Critical Illness Score in Infants With Severe Pneumonia at 28 Days
Authors: Yu Diao , Huang Yuran , Xu Shipeng , Zeng Ling , Luo Yunfeng , Wang Hongli , Hu Lan
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of combining nucleated red blood cells (NRBC) with the pediatric critical illness score (PCIS) in infants with severe pneumonia at 28 days.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted at the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of the First People's Hospital of Bijie and included infants with severe pneumonia from September 1, 2021, to August 31, 2022. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were extracted from electronic medical records, and the differences between the groups were compared. Variables showing significant differences were included in binary multivariable logistic regression analysis to explore independent risk factors for mortality in infants with severe pneumonia. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the predictive value of patient outcomes at 28 days.

Results

The study included 128 patients; at 28 days, 96 survived (survivor group), and 32 had died (nonsurvivor group). Compared with the survivor group, the nonsurvivor group had lower levels of platelets [348 (239–496) versus 431 (324–540) ×109/L; p = 0.023], albumin [35.7 ± 5.2 vs. 37.9 ± 4.4 g/L; p = 0.022], CD3 [36.9 ± 1.7 vs. 47.6 ± 1.8%; p ＜ 0.001], CD4 [20.4 ± 1.2 vs. 23.6 ± 1.9%; p ＜ 0.001], IgG [4.9 ± 1.0 vs. 6.4 ± 0.7 g/L; p ＜ 0.001], IgA [0.5 ± 0.1 vs. 0.8 ± 0.1 g/L; p ＜ 0.001], 25‐hydroxyvitamin D(25(OH)D) [21.1 ± 1.0 vs. 30.7 ± 1.36 ng/mL; p ＜ 0.001], PCIS [72.8 ± 7.8 vs. 87.5 ± 6.2; P＜0.001], and a greater NRBC level [0.450 (0.162–0.832) vs. 0.185 (0.100–0.500) ×109/L; p = 0.005]. Binary multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that the NRBC count (odds ratio (OR) = 2.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.427–4.239; p = 0.001) and PCIS (OR = 0.775, 95% CI: 0.644–0.934; p = 0.008) were independent predictors of 28‐day survival in infants with severe pneumonia. The PCIS had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.782 (95% CI: 0.680–0.884), NRBC had an AUC of 0.719 (95% CI: 0.622–0.816), and when the NRBC and PCIS were combined, the AUC was 0.929 (95% CI: 0.880–0.978).

Conclusion

The NRBC count and PCIS are risk factors for the prognosis of infants with severe pneumonia, and their combination can increase the predictive value of patient outcomes at 28 days.
The Potential Effect of Endogenous Antimicrobial Peptides in Cancer Immunotherapy and Prevention
Authors: Tran Tuan Hiep , Le Thanh Huong , Tran Thi Thu Phuong
Published: December 2024

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are crucial constituents of inherent immunity and serve as vital components of human host defense, playing a pivotal role in combating invading microbial pathogens. Beyond their antimicrobial functions, AMPs also exhibit various other biological activities including apoptosis induction, wound healing promotion, and immune modulation. These peptides are found in various exposed tissues or surfaces throughout the body, such as eyes, skin, mouth, ears, respiratory tract, lungs, digestive, and urinary system. Additionally, certain AMPs such as LL‐37, HNP, and lactoferrin have shown potential as candidates for anticancer activity. Given the limited selectivity between normal and cancer cells exhibited by many current immunotherapeutic agents, the inherent properties of AMPs make them promising candidates for cancer treatment. Their abundance, bioavailability, safety profile, efficiency, and harmony with the host immune system position them as attractive tools in the fight against cancer. This review is aimed at exploring the potential anticancer properties of AMPs and elucidating their relationship with immunology and cancer immunotherapy.
Light Extraction and External Quantum Efficiency of 235 nm Far–Ultraviolet‐C Light‐Emitting Diodes on Single‐Crystal AlN Substrates
Authors: Schilling Marcel , Hartmann Carsten , Guttmann Martin , Juda Uta , Muhin Anton , Höpfner Jakob , Wernicke Tim , Straubinger Thomas , Kneissl Michael
Published: December 2024

The effect of bulk AlN single‐crystal substrate thickness on the light extraction efficiency and external quantum efficiency of far ultraviolet‐C light emitting diodes (far‐UVC LEDs) has been investigated. AlGaN multi‐quantum well LEDs designed for emission around 235 nm are grown by metal organic vapor phase epitaxy on low defect density bulk AlN substrates as well as on AlN/sapphire templates. As the AlN substrate is thinned step‐by‐step from 550 to 70 μm by chemo‐mechanical polishing, the output power of LEDs increased from 3 μW for a thickness of 550 to 110 μW for a thickness of 70 μm (on‐wafer at a dc current of 100 mA). From the Lambert–Beer law an effective absorption coefficient of (84 ± 4) cm−1 is derived for the AlN substrate. Monte Carlo ray‐tracing simulations for an AlN substrate thickness of 70 μm yield an on‐wafer LEE of (0.9 ± 0.1)% and the internal quantum efficiency was estimated to be (5.6 ± 1.5)%.
Accuracy of the Imageless Mode of the ROSA Robotic System for Targeted Resection Thickness in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Single Surgeon Case‐Series Study
Authors: Gamie Zakareya , Kenanidis Eustathios , Douvlis Georgios , Milonakis Nikolaos , Maslaris Alexander , Tsiridis Eleftherios
Published: December 2024

Background

We investigated the accuracy of targeted resection thickness in patients undergoing primary Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) using the ROSA robotic system.

Methods

Calliper measurements of the distal femur (DF), proximal tibia (PT), and posterior condyles (PC) were taken in 44 patients from June 2023 to January 2024.

Results

Planned and actual resection depth difference was 0.67 mm ± 0.6 mm (mean ± SD) (p = 0.217) and 0.94 mm ± 1.15 mm (p = 0.4) for medial and lateral DF, 0.93 mm ± 0.81 mm (p = 0.001) and 0.89 mm ± 0.8 mm (p = 0.008) for medial and lateral PT, and 1.1 mm ± 0.97 mm (p = 0.001) and 1.04 mm ± 0.79 mm (p = 0.001) for medial and lateral PC, respectively.

Conclusion

The ROSA robotic system can achieve a high degree of accuracy for planned resection thickness. Results are valid only for the imageless ROSA TKA in patients with primary knee osteoarthritis.
A Spatial Registration Method Based on Point Cloud and Deep Learning for Augmented Reality Neurosurgical Navigation
Authors: Liu Zifeng , Yang Zhiyong , Jiang Shan , Zhou Zeyang
Published: December 2024

Background

In order to achieve spatial registration for surgical navigation, a spatial registration method based on point cloud and deep learning is proposed.

Methods

Neural networks are used to register medical image point clouds and patient surface point clouds to complete spatial registration of surgical navigation. An image processing method is designed to convert medical images into point clouds, and a structured light robot is used to extract patient surface point clouds.

Results

Coarse registration was conducted through a neural network, followed by fine registration using the ICP algorithm, achieving a rotational registration error (RRE) of 0.961° and a translational registration error (TRE) of 0.118 mm. In phantom experiments, the surface registration error was 0.622 mm, and the target registration error was 0.748 mm.

Conclusions

The proposed spatial registration method based on point cloud and deep learning improves the accuracy and efficiency of neurosurgical navigation.
Computer‐Guided Navigation System Efficiency Evaluation Using Surgical Instruments for Spinal Fusion
Authors: Lopukhov Evgenii O. , Frolov Ilya A. , Solovyev Mikhail A. , Prokhorenko Leonid S. , Mishchenkov Denis. S. , Klimov Daniil D. , Vorotnikov Andrei A. , Poduraev Yuri V. , Grin Andrei A. , Levchenko Oleg V.
Published: December 2024

Background

Navigation surgical systems have been widely used in spinal fusion to ensure accuracy and safety during pedicle screw insertion.

Methods

The research was performed under laboratory conditions, using stereotactic navigation, surgical instruments for spinal fusion, development of additional devices and software. During the experiments, all stages of the computed tomography‐guided navigation system use were performed—preoperative preparation of patient data and planning to provide visual control of the navigation of surgical instruments during the insertion of screws.

Results

The 20 screws were inserted into the vertebrae of the lumbar spine phantom with an average pedicle width of 12.6 ± 1.29 mm with 100% clinical accuracy. The 30 screws were inserted into cadaveric sheep vertebrae with an average pedicle width of 6.56 ± 0.58 mm with 96.67% efficiency.

Conclusions

The proposed navigation technique of the CT‐guided navigation system is highly effective in the navigation process of surgical instruments and pedicle screws during spinal fusion.