bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced seasonal coronavirus incidence in high‐risk population groups during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Heiskanen Aliisa , Galipeau Yannick , Little Julian , Langlois Marc‐André , Cooper Curtis L.
Published: July 2024

Background

Epidemiological data on seasonal coronaviruses (sCoVs) may provide insight on transmission patterns and demographic factors that favor coronaviruses (CoVs) with greater disease severity. This study describes the incidence of CoVs in several high‐risk groups in Ottawa, Canada, from October 2020 to March 2022.

Methods

Serological assays quantified IgG and IgM antibodies to SARS‐CoV‐2, HCoV‐OC43, HCoV‐NL63, HCoV‐HKU1, and HCoV‐229E. Incident infections were compared between four population groups: individuals exposed to children, transit users, immunocompromised, and controls. Associations between antibody prevalence indicative of natural infection and demographic variables were assessed using regression analyses.

Results

Transit users and those exposed to children were at no greater risk of infection compared to the control group. Fewer infections were detected in the immunocompromised group (p = .03). SARS‐CoV‐2 seroprevalence was greater in individuals with low income and within ethnic minorities.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that nonpharmaceutical interventions intended to reduce SAR‐CoV‐2 transmission protected populations at high risk of exposure. The re‐emergence of sCoVs and other common respiratory viruses alongside SARS‐CoV‐2 may alter infection patterns and increase the risk in vulnerable populations.
Identification and role of differentially expressed genes/proteins between pulmonary tuberculosis patients and controls across lung tissues and blood samples
Authors: Li Qifeng , Maierheba Kuerbanjiang
Published: July 2024

Background

Differentially expressed genes/proteins (DEGs/DEPs) play critical roles in pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) diagnosis and treatment. However, there is a scarcity of reports on DEGs/DEPs in lung tissues and blood samples in PTB patients.

Objective

We aim to identify the DEGs/DEPs in lung tissues and blood samples of PTB patients and investigate their roles in PTB.

Materials and Methods

The lung granulomas and normal tissues were collected from PTB patients for proteomic and transcriptomic analyses. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses annotated the functions of DEGs/DEPs. The GSE107994 data set was downloaded to identify the DEGs/DEPs in peripheral blood. The common DEGs and DEPs were identified. A nomogram was established. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted.

Results

Eighty‐three DEGs/DEPs were identified. These DEGs/DEPs were mainly enriched in the movement of cell or subcellular components, regulation of cellular component biogenesis, and actin filament‐based process as well as in the pathways of inositol phosphate metabolism, adherens junction, phosphatidylinositol signaling system, leukocyte transendothelial migration, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, and tight junction. There were eight common DEGs/DEPs (TYMP, LAP3, ADGRL2, SIL1, LMO7, SULF 1, ANXA3, and PACSIN3) between the lung tissues and blood samples. They were effective in predicting tuberculosis. Moreover, the activated dendritic cells, macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, and regulatory T cells were significantly positively correlated with TYMP (r > .50), LAP3 (r > .50), SIL1 (r > .50), ANXA3 (r > .5), and PACSIN3 (r < .50), while negatively correlated with LMO7 (r < −0.50) (p < .05). ADGRL2 and SULF1 did not have a significant correlation (p > .05).

Limitations

The sample size was small.

Conclusions

Eight common DEGs/DEPs of lung tissues and blood samples were identified. They were correlated with immune cells and demonstrated predictive value for PTB. Our data may facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of PTB.
Multi‐class financial distress prediction based on stacking ensemble method
Authors: Chen Xiaofang , Wu Chong , Zhang Zijiao , Liu Jiaming
Published: July 2024

The motivation of this article is to help financial soundness companies understand their specific financial status so that they can take timely measures to avoid financial distress. Existing multi‐class financial distress prediction (FDP) studies have mainly segmented financial crisis status, with less attention paid to financial soundness companies. To fill this gap, we propose a new multi‐class definition of FDP from the perspective of financial soundness enterprises. The financial states are defined as financial soundness, moderate financial soundness, mild financial soundness and financial distress. We propose a stacking ensemble model for multi‐class FDP. First, deep neural network, multinomial logit regression (MNLogit) and multivariate discriminant analysis models are used as basic classifiers to obtain preliminary prediction results. Second, MNLogit is used to integrate the results from the previous step. To increase the effective information, stock information is then added into the model. The proposed model was trained using data from 2007 to 2019 for Chinese listed companies and tested using data from 2020. The results show that the MacroR‐Pre, MacroR‐Rec, MacroR‐F1 and MacroR‐AUC of the proposed model are better compared with the benchmark model, including individuals and ensembles, with 87.05%, 90.68%, 88.70% and 88.20%.The addition of stock information and non‐financial indicators can improve the accuracy of the multi‐class FDP model by about 8%. The innovativeness of this paper is twofold. First, it proposes a new multi‐class definition of enterprise financial status. Second, a multi‐class FDP based on stacking is constructed, which provides a new method for solving the multi‐class FDP problem. The study shows that the proposed multi‐class definition and stacking model are suitable for analysing financial soundness enterprises, which can help managers effectively grasp the specific financial status and have strong practical significance.
Ultra‐low power consumption flexible sensing electronics by dendritic bilayer MoS2
Authors: Luo Lei , Gao Jiuwei , Zheng Lu , Li Lei , Li Weiwei , Xu Manzhang , Jiang Hanjun , Li Yue , Wu Hao , Ji Hongjia , Dong Xuan , Zhao Ruoqing , Liu Zheng , Wang Xuewen , Huang Wei
Published: July 2024

Two‐dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDs) are promising as sensing materials for flexible electronics and wearable systems in artificial intelligence, tele‐medicine, and internet of things (IoT). Currently, the study of 2D TMDs‐based flexible strain sensors mainly focuses on improving the performance of sensitivity, response, detection resolution, cyclic stability, and so on. There are few reports on power consumption despite that it is of significant importance for wearable electronic systems. It is still challenging to effectively reduce the power consumption for prolonging the endurance of electronic systems. Herein, we propose a novel approach to realize ultra‐low power consumption strain sensors by reducing the contact resistance between metal electrodes and 2D MoS2. A dendritic bilayer MoS2 has been designed and synthesized by a modified CVD method. Large‐area edge contact has been introduced in the dendritic MoS2, resulting in decreased the contact resistance significantly. The contact resistance can be down to 5.4 kΩ μm, which is two orders of magnitude lower than the conventional MoS2 devices. We fabricate a flexible strain sensor, exhibiting superior sensitivity in detecting strains with high resolution (0.04%) and an ultra‐low power consumption (33.0 pW). This study paves the way for future wearable and flexible sensing electronics with high sensitivity and ultra‐low power consumption.

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5‐ALA mediated photodynamic therapy increases natural killer cytotoxicity against oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines
Authors: Molon Angela Cristina , Heguedusch Daniele , Nunes Fabio Daumas , Cecatto Rebeca Boltes , dos Santos Franco Adriana Lino , de Oliveira Rodini Pegoraro Camila , Rodrigues Maria Fernanda Setúbal Destro
Published: July 2024

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) constitutes over 90% of oral cancers, known for its aggressiveness and poor prognosis. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as a promising adjuvant therapy and is linked to immunogenic cell death, activating innate and adaptive anti‐tumor responses. Natural Killer (NK) cells, key players in malignant cell elimination, have not been extensively studied in PDT. This study evaluates whether PDT increases OSCC cell lines' susceptibility to NK cell cytotoxicity. PDT, using 5‐aminolevulinic acid (5‐ALA) and LED irradiation, was applied to Ca1 and Luc4 cell lines. Results showed a dose‐dependent viability decrease post‐PDT. Gene expression analysis revealed upregulation of NK cell‐activating ligands (ULBP1‐4, MICA/B) and decreased MHC class I expression in Ca1, suggesting increased NK cell susceptibility. Enhanced NK cell cytotoxicity was confirmed in Ca1 but not in Luc4 cells. These findings indicate that PDT may enhance NK cell‐mediated cytotoxicity in OSCC, offering potential for improved treatment strategies.
The synergistic effect of photodynamic and sonodynamic inactivation against Candida albicans biofilm
Authors: Gomes Guimarães Gabriela , Alves Fernanda , Gonçalves Isabella , Silva e Carvalho Iago , Toneth Ponce Ayala Erika , Pratavieira Sebastião , Salvador Bagnato Vanderlei
Published: July 2024

Candida albicans biofilm can cause diseases that are resistant to conventional antifungal agents. Photodynamic (PDI), sonodynamic (SDI), and sonophotodynamic (SPDI) inactivation have arisen as promising antimicrobial strategies. This study evaluated these treatments mediated by curcumin against C. albicans biofilms. For this, C. albicans biofilms were submitted to PDI, SDI, or SPDI with different light and ultrasound doses, then, the viability assay was performed to measure the effectiveness. Finally, a mathematical model was suggested to fit acquired experimental data and understand the synergistic effect of light and ultrasound in different conditions. The results showed that SPDI, PDI, and SDI reduced the viability in 6 ± 1; 1 ± 1; and 2 ± 1 log, respectively, using light at 60 J/cm2, ultrasound at 3 W/cm2, and 80 μM of curcumin. The viability reduction was proportional to the ultrasound and light doses delivered. These results encourage the use of SPDI for the control of microbial biofilm.
Efficient synthetic strategies for fused pyrimidine and pyridine derivatives: A review
Authors: Anjirwala Sharmil N. , Patel Saurabh K.
Published: July 2024

Pyrimidine and its derivatives play a paramount role in drug discovery as privileged pharmacophores with considerable chemical and biological significance and its presence in genes. This review aims to assemble a systematic evaluation of synthetic tactics of various fused pyrimidine derivatives containing nitrogen heterocycles such as pyridopyridines, pyridopyrimidines, and pyrimidopyrimidine from a pharmacological point of view and deliver an overview of methodologies presenting the chemistry of fused pyrimidine derivatives. The review details the importance of various catalysts and ring substitution using various electrophilic and nucleophilic reagents. These synthetic strategies were elaborated based on the different synthetic routes that lead to the specific type of pyrimidine and pyridine fused derivatives. The literature accumulates various developments in one‐pot condensation, the Knoevenagel–Michael addition mechanism, microwave and ultrasound irradiation, intramolecular cyclization, nano‐catalytic reactions, and so forth. Short reaction times, catalyst reusability, solvent‐free conditions, excellent yields, and stereo‐selectivity are some of the benefits of certain synthetic approaches.
Microwave assisted synthesis, acetylcholinesterase inhibition and molecular docking studies of furo[2,3‐d]pyrido[1,2‐a]pyrimidin‐4‐one derivatives
Authors: Yalduz Sümeyye , Sarı Sait , Yılmaz Mehmet
Published: July 2024

A series of phenyl, substituted phenyl and thiophene bearing dihydrofuropyrimidin‐4‐ones (3a‐p) were synthesized by Mn(OAc)3 mediated, microwave irradiated radical cyclizations of 2‐hydroxy‐pyridopyrimidin‐4‐one derivatives (1a‐j) with substituted phenylvinylthiophenes (2a‐c) at 70°C in 2 min. Compounds 3a‐j was obtained between 28% and 66% yields. Molecular structures of 3a‐p were determined by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, 19F NMR, FTIR and HRMS techniques. Inhibitory activity of 3a‐p were evaluated against Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and inhibition results of these compounds showed that the compounds had good inhibition with IC50 values between 0.52 and 3.77 μM. In addition, molecular docking studies were carried out on the most potent inhibitory compounds 3d (IC50 = 0.64 μM), 3p (IC50 = 0.52 μM) and standart drug Donepezil. The binding energies for 3d, 3p and Donepezil are −9.12, −10.08 and −12.65 Kcal/mol, respectively. Based on these results, it was determined that, compounds 3d and 3p are promising AChE inhibitors.
Improving radiology information systems for inclusivity of transgender and gender‐diverse patients: what are the problems and what are the solutions? A systematic review
Authors: Ho Nathan , Williams Ally , Sun Zhonghua
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In medical radiation science (MRS), radiology information systems (RISs) record patient information such as name, gender and birthdate. The purpose of RISs is to ensure the safety and well‐being of patients by recording patient data accurately. However, not all RISs appropriately capture gender, sex or other related information of transgender and gender‐diverse (TGD) patients, resulting in non‐inclusive and discriminatory care. This review synthesises the research surrounding the limitations of RISs preventing inclusivity and the features required to support inclusivity and improve health outcomes.

Methods

Studies were retrieved from three electronic databases (Scopus, PubMed and Embase). A quality assessment was performed using the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence‐Based Practice Research and Non‐Research Evidence Appraisal Tools. A thematic analysis approach was used to synthesise the included articles.

Results

Eighteen articles were included based on the predetermined eligibility criteria. The pool of studies included in this review comprised primarily of non‐research evidence and reflected the infancy of this research field and the need for further empirical evidence. The key findings of this review emphasise how current systems do not record the patient's name and pronouns appropriately, conflate sex and gender and treat sex and gender as a binary concept.

Conclusion

For current systems to facilitate inclusivity, they must implement more comprehensive information and data models incorporating sex and gender and be more flexible to accommodate the transient and fluid nature of gender. However, implementation of these recommendations is not without challenges. Additionally, further research focused on RISs is required to address the unique challenges MRS settings present to TGD patients.
Relaxing into differences and energizing into differences: How group‐based play enables demographically diverse adults to co‐create a climate of psychological safety
Authors: Ubaka Adaora , Cardador M. Teresa , Wayne Sandy J.
Published: July 2024

Psychological safety is a beneficial social‐psychological state that promotes positive outcomes in the workplace, such as greater information sharing and enhanced organizational learning. Yet, how psychological safety dynamically develops as a process in groups generally and in demographically diverse groups particularly is understudied. Moreover, there is an insufficient understanding of how peer group members—group members who are not the leader—influence the progression and maintenance of psychological safety. We address these theoretical gaps through an inductive, qualitative study of a group‐based play context. Grounded in data collected from 97 participants, including 56 interviews and 70 h of participant observation, we build a theory that illuminates how psychological safety is co‐created through peer group member interactions during group‐based play. We find that the opportunities afforded by group‐based play disrupt exclusionary dynamics among demographically diverse adults and permit them to shift their relational risk motivation from pursuing goals of individualized self‐protection to pursuing goals of relationship promotion with one another. This breaking out of default, protective relational patterns during group play enables diverse group members to have a greater willingness to (1) engage in relational risk‐taking with each other and (2) support each other's relational risk‐taking—a process we refer to as the relational risk promotion cycle. As diverse group members relationally play off of one another during this cycle, they begin to co‐create a climate of psychological safety, in which they experience discrete events of relaxing and energizing into their differences. Our research makes theoretical contributions to the literatures on psychological safety, diversity in groups and play in organizations. Additionally, our findings suggest a critical role for leaders in which they are not solely creating the conditions for group psychological safety but supporting group members in working together to co‐create a climate of psychological safety for themselves.
Combining network pharmacology and experimental verification to study the anti‐colon cancer effect and mechanism of sulforaphene
Authors: Qu Yang , Li Xiuxia , Li Jianrong , Yu Zhangfu , Shen Ronghu
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Sulforaphene is a derivative of glucosinolate and a potential bioactive substance used for treating colon cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the potential inhibitory effect and mechanisms of sulforaphene in human colon cancer Caco‐2 cells. Network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental verification were performed to elucidate potential sulforaphene mechanisms in the treatment of this condition.

RESULT

Network pharmacology predicted 27 intersection target genes between sulforaphene and colon cancer cell inhibition. Key sulforaphene targets associated with colon cancer cell inhibition were identified as EGFR, MAPK14, MCL1, GSK3B, PARP1, PTPRC, NOS2, CTSS, TLR9, and CTSK. Gene ontology functional enrichment analysis revealed that the above genes were primarily related to the positive regulation of peptidase activity, cytokine production in the inflammatory response, and the cell receptor signaling pathway. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis indicated that sulforaphene mainly inhibited the proliferation of cancer cells by affecting apoptosis as well as the signaling pathways of PD‐1, Toll‐like receptor, T cell receptor, and P13k–Akt. Molecular docking results further confirmed that CTSS, GSK3B, and NOS2 were significantly up‐regulated and had good binding affinity with sulforaphene. In vitro experiments also indicated that sulforaphene had a significant inhibitory effect on human colon cancer Caco‐2 cells.

CONCLUSION

This paper revealed the pharmacodynamic mechanism of sulforaphene in the treatment of colon cancer for the first time. It provides scientific insight into the development of sulforaphene as a medicinal resource. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
A sequence of weather‐driven hydrodynamic events stimulates the formation of harmful algal blooms on an oligotrophic lake
Authors: Kelly Michael R. , Moriarty Vincent W. , Kolar Harry R. , Auger Guillaume A. R. , Henderson Michael E. , Watson Campbell D. , Relyea Rick A. , Scholz Christopher A. , Driscoll Charles T. , Rose Kevin C.
Published: July 2024

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are common in many eutrophic lakes and frequently associated with nutrient excesses, warm waters, and calm conditions. While HABs can also occur in oligotrophic waterbodies, bloom‐stimulating factors remain elusive for these ecosystems. Here, using a high‐frequency sensor platform supported by hydrodynamic modeling, we document a clearly linked sequence of three hydrodynamic events that immediately preceded each HAB event on Skaneateles Lake, NY during 2018. HABs were first preceded by interactions between internal waves in the thermal structure of the lake with the northern slope of the lakebed. These interactions disturbed sediments resulting in upwelling of nutrient‐rich sediment and possibly cyanobacterial cells into the lower water column. Next, moderate winds stimulated Langmuir circulation which facilitated the transport of material from the lower water column to well‐lit surface waters. Finally, the sequence culminated with a calm wind period, which is often classically associated with surface HAB formation. While individual steps in this sequence occurred independently and repeatedly throughout the year, the complete sequence occurred only eight times, immediately preceding each of the eight documented HABs. We empirically derive thresholds for and timing of the sequence to independently predict HAB occurrence and elevated cyanobacteria levels in the lake. The discovery of this specific and repeated event sequence and the identified thresholds provides the potential for forecasting of HABs days in advance. Ongoing climate change impacts, including increasing water column thermal stratification and changing wind speeds may alter the frequency, timing, and duration of this sequence and consequent HAB formation.
Mercaptopropionic Acid Capped ZnMgO for Efficient and Stable Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Shi Hengfei , Ren Zhenwei , Zheng Zhiyong , Zhou Xin , Luo Chengzhao , Ji Huifeng , Zhang Yuze , Chen Hua , Wu Chenglong , Chen Yu
Published: July 2024

ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) and their derivatives are the most commonly used electron transport materials for quantum dot light‐emitting diodes (QLEDs). However, their ubiquitous issues of severe exciton quenching and poor shelf stability render a limited application in practical use. Herein, the mercaptopropionic acid (MPA)‐capped ZnMgO (MPA‐ZMO) NPs with good optoelectronic properties are proposed to address these problems for efficient and stable QLEDs. The massive oxygen vacancy defects at the ZMO NP surface are effectively passivated by MPA, which inhibits the defect‐associated exciton quenching for bright emission. Besides, an improvement in electron mobility and an upward energy band is also achieved for MPA‐capped ZMO NPs, enabling good carrier injection and transportation. The superior optoelectronic properties contribute great enhancements of the device performances with over 30% increase in external quantum efficiency (EQE) from 16.5 to 21.6% and over 2.5‐fold improvement in a lifetime from 2636.41 to 6601.29 h at 1000 cd m−2, together with the impressive QLED shelf stability of less than 5% variation in device efficiency during 3‐week storage, showing one of the best performances among currently reported ZMO‐based QLEDs. Consequently, this work contributes an effective approach to decorating the inorganic metal oxide NPs for efficient and stable QLEDs.
Exploring the dynamic diffusion of low‐carbon technology research and development among enterprises: Based on an evolutionary game model with a two‐level heterogeneous social network
Authors: Lou Wen‐qian , Wu Bin , Chen Feng , Zhu Bo‐wen
Published: July 2024

This study builds an evolutionary game model based on a social network composed of two sub‐networks with different typologies, which respectively depict the connections of enterprises and consumers. Enterprises engage in evolutionary games to determine whether to invest in low‐carbon technology (LCT) research and development (R&D), while consumers select products based on the contrast effect. Our results show that carbon taxation and subsidies can increase the diffusion of LCT R&D, but their marginal effectiveness decreases. Lowering the loan interest rate of enterprises with better green credit can promote LCT R&D diffusion, while excessively lowering the threshold will inhibit that.
Neuroinflammation Parallels 18F‐PI‐2620 Positron Emission Tomography Patterns in Primary 4‐Repeat Tauopathies
Authors: Malpetti Maura , Roemer Sebastian N. , Harris Stefanie , Gross Mattes , Gnörich Johannes , Stephens Andrew , Dewenter Anna , Steward Anna , Biel Davina , Dehsarvi Amir , Wagner Fabian , Müller Andre , Koglin Norman , Weidinger Endy , Palleis Carla , Katzdobler Sabrina , Rupprecht Rainer , Perneczky Robert , Rauchmann Boris‐Stephan , Levin Johannes , Höglinger Günter U. , Brendel Matthias , Franzmeier Nicolai
Published: July 2024

Background

Preclinical, postmortem, and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging studies have pointed to neuroinflammation as a key pathophysiological hallmark in primary 4‐repeat (4R) tauopathies and its role in accelerating disease progression.

Objective

We tested whether microglial activation (1) progresses in similar spatial patterns as the primary pathology tau spreads across interconnected brain regions, and (2) whether the degree of microglial activation parallels tau pathology spreading.

Methods

We examined in vivo associations between tau aggregation and microglial activation in 31 patients with clinically diagnosed 4R tauopathies, using 18F‐PI‐2620 PET and 18F‐GE180 (translocator protein [TSPO]) PET. We determined tau epicenters, defined as subcortical brain regions with highest tau PET signal, and assessed the connectivity of tau epicenters to cortical regions of interest using a 3‐T resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging template derived from age‐matched healthy elderly controls.

Results

In 4R tauopathy patients, we found that higher regional tau PET covaries with elevated TSPO‐PET across brain regions that are functionally connected to each other (β = 0.414, P < 0.001). Microglial activation follows similar distribution patterns as tau and distributes primarily across brain regions strongly connected to patient‐specific tau epicenters (β = −0.594, P < 0.001). In these regions, microglial activation spatially parallels tau distribution detectable with 18F‐PI‐2620 PET.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the spatial expansion of microglial activation parallels tau distribution across brain regions that are functionally connected to each other, suggesting that tau and inflammation are closely interrelated in patients with 4R tauopathies. The combination of in vivo tau and inflammatory biomarkers could therefore support the development of immunomodulatory strategies for disease‐modifying treatments in these conditions. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Severe compound events of low wind and cold temperature for the British power system
Authors: Lücke Lucie J. , Dent Chris J. , Hegerl Gabriele C. , Wilson Amy L. , Schurer Andrew P.
Published: July 2024

Britain's power system has shifted towards a major contribution from wind energy. However, wind is highly variable, and exceptionally low wind events can simultaneously occur with cold conditions, which increase demand. These conditions can pose a threat for the security of energy supply. Here we use bias‐corrected wind supply data and the estimated temperature‐related part of demand to analyse events of potential weather‐related energy shortfall based on the historic meteorological record. We conduct sensitivity studies with varying scenarios of Britain's total wind energy capacity and the temperature sensitivity of national demand. These scenarios are estimates for present‐day conditions as well as potential future changes of the power system. We apply a new methodology to estimate the potential severity of an event for the power system, and analyse the atmospheric conditions associated with the most severe events. We find that events of potentially severe shortfall are relatively rare and short‐lived, and often occur with an atmospheric pattern broadly resembling a negative North Atlantic Oscillation. This broad tendency emerges from a wide range of individual daily weather patterns that cause cold and still conditions. With an increase in wind capacity, it is likely that severe events will become rarer, although the most severe days of the record are relatively insensitive to changes in wind supply and temperature sensitivity of demand under our assumptions.
Global existence and blow‐up of solutions for a class of p$$ p $$‐biharmonic wave equations with damping terms and power sources
Authors: Yu Fanbo , Wu Xiulan , Zhao Yaxin
Published: July 2024

We study a class of damped
‐
type wave equation with homogeneous Dirichlet boundary condition. First of all, we prove the local existence of weak solutions by Galerkin method. Besides, when the energy level is low
, we prove the global existence, decay, and finite time blow‐up of weak solutions through the method of potential well and the technique of differential inequalities. Finally, these results are extended in parallel to the critical case
.
Turing pattern formation in a specialist predator–prey model with a herd‐Holling‐type II functional response
Authors: Alì Giuseppe , Torcicollo Isabella
Published: July 2024

A reaction–diffusion system governing the predator–prey interaction with specialist predator and herd behavior for prey is investigated. Linear stability of the interior equilibrium is studied, and conditions guaranteeing the occurrence of Turing instability, induced by cross‐diffusion, are found, with a full characterization of the Turing instability region in the parameter space. Numerical simulations on the obtained results are provided.
Technical note: Computational study on thermal management schemes for tumor‐treating fields therapy
Authors: Yang Xin , Hu Chunhua , Li Luming
Published: July 2024

Background

The study focuses on thermal management in tumor‐treating fields (TTFields) therapy, crucial for patient compliance and therapeutic effectiveness. TTFields therapy, an established treatment for glioblastoma, involves applying alternating electric fields to the brain. However, managing the thermal effects generated by electrodes is a major challenge, impacting patient comfort and treatment efficiency.

Purpose

This research aims to explore methods for controlling temperature increases during TTFields therapy without reducing its duty cycle. The study emphasizes optimizing electrode configurations and array arrangements to mitigate temperature rise, thereby maintaining therapy effectiveness and patient compliance.

Methods

Using a simplified multi‐layer tissue model and finite element analysis, various electrode configurations and array shapes were tested in COMSOL Multiphysics v6.0. Adjustments included changing the electrode gel layer radius from 8 to 12 mm, electrode spacing, and transitioning to a more uniform array arrangement, such as a square array or a circular array.

Results

The study revealed a strong correlation between high temperatures and edge current density distributions on electrodes. It was found that increasing the electrode gel layer's diameter, enlarging electrode spacing, and adopting a uniform array arrangement markedly mitigated temperature rises. By increasing the gel layer radius from the original 10 to 12 mm, a reduction in the peak temperature increases of approximately 0.3°C was observed. Changing the layout from rectangular to circular with the same area further reduced the peak temperature rise by 0.5°C. Additionally, enlarging the spacing between electrodes also contributed to temperature control. By integrating these strategies, we designed a new circular electrode array with an electrode spacing of 45 mm and a gel radius of 12 mm, successfully reducing the peak temperature from 42.1°C to 40.8°C, effectively achieving temperature control.

Conclusions

The research demonstrates that improving electrode and array configurations can effectively manage temperature in TTFields therapy without compromising treatment duration. This strategy is crucial as TTFields therapy relies on prolonged field exposure for effectiveness. The findings offer valuable insights into thermal management in electrode array design and could lead to enhanced patient compliance and treatment efficacy in TTFields therapy.
Prediction of dose distributions for non‐small cell lung cancer patients using MHA‐ResUNet
Authors: Zhang Haifeng , Yu Yanjun , Zhang Fuli
Published: July 2024

Background

The current level of automation in the production of radiotherapy plans for lung cancer patients is relatively low. With the development of artificial intelligence, it has become a reality to use neural networks to predict dose distributions and provide assistance for radiation therapy planning. However, due to the significant individual variability in the distribution of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) planning target volume (PTV) and the complex spatial relationships between the PTV and organs at risk (OARs), there is still a lack of a high‐precision dose prediction network tailored to the characteristics of NSCLC.

Purpose

To assist in the development of volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans for non‐small cell lung cancer patients, a deep neural network is proposed to predict high‐precision dose distribution.

Methods

This study has developed a network called MHA‐ResUNet, which combines a large‐kernel dilated convolution module and multi‐head attention (MHA) modules. The network was trained based on 80 VMAT plans of NSCLC patients. CT images, PTV, and OARs were fed into the independent input channel. The dose distribution was taken as the output to train the model. The performance of this network was compared with that of several commonly used networks, and the networks' performance was evaluated based on the voxel‐level mean absolute error (MAE) within the PTV and OARs, as well as the error in clinical dose‐volume metrics.

Results

The MAE between the predicted dose distribution and the manually planned dose distribution within the PTV is 1.43 Gy, and the D95 error is less than 1 Gy. Compared with the other three commonly used networks, the dose error of the MHA‐ResUNet is the smallest in PTV and OARs.

Conclusions

The proposed MHA‐ResUNet network improves the receptive field and filters the shallow features to learn the relative spatial relation between the PTV and the OARs, enabling accurate prediction of dose distributions in NSCLC patients undergoing VMAT radiotherapy.
Modified Scaffolds With Magnetic Nanoparticles in Periodontal Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Guzman‐Rocha Dulce Araceli , Aranda‐Herrera Benjamin , Acosta Torres Laura Susana , Arenas‐Arrocena Ma. Concepción , Garcia‐Contreras Rene
Published: July 2024

Nanomaterials have displayed vast potential across a spectrum of biomedical applications, particularly in recent studies aimed at optimizing traditional systems. Metal oxide nanoparticles, like Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), offer unique physicochemical properties ideal for biomedical applications, advancing diagnostics, therapies, tissue engineering and imaging technologies in medicine. Their notable features, such as high specific surface area and porous structure, render them versatile for myriad medical and biological uses. When combined with polymers, MNPs have found utility in nano‐scale treatments targeting specific human ailments, encompassing drug delivery, tissue engineering, and wound care. This review focuses on summarizing the utilization of MNPs examining their structural attributes, magnetic properties, biocompatibility, and their role in scaffolding applications. Furthermore, within the dental domain, periodontitis presents substantial challenges, prompting research into regenerative therapies to foster the growth and specialization of key cell types crucial for effective disease management and tissue revitalization.
On inner independence systems
Authors: de Vries Sven , Raach Stephen , Vohra Rakesh V.
Published: July 2024

A classic result of Korte and Hausmann [1978] and Jenkyns [1976] bounds the quality of the greedy solution to the problem of finding a maximum value basis of an independence system in terms of the rank‐quotient. We extend this result in two ways. First, we apply the greedy algorithm to an inner independence system
contained in . Additionally, following an idea of Milgrom [2017], we incorporate exogenously given prior information about the set of likely candidates for an optimal basis in terms of a set . We provide a generalization of the rank‐quotient that yields a tight bound on the worst‐case performance of the greedy algorithm applied to the inner independence system relative to the optimal solution in . Furthermore, we show that for a worst‐case objective, the inner independence system approximation may outperform not only the standard greedy algorithm but also the inner matroid approximation proposed by Milgrom [2017]. Second, we generalize the inner approximation framework of independence systems to inner approximations of packing instances in by inner polymatroids and inner packing instances. We consider the problem of maximizing a separable discrete concave function and show that our inner approximation can be better than the greedy algorithm applied to the original packing instance. Our result provides a lower bound to the generalized rank‐quotient of a greedy algorithm to the optimal solution in this more general setting and subsumes Malinov and Kovalyov [1980]. We apply the inner approximation approach to packing instances induced by the FCC incentive auction and by two knapsack constraints.
Offshoring procurement systems with internal decentralization
Authors: Wu Zhiqiao , Zhen Xueping , Cai Gangshu (George) , Tang Jiafu
Published: July 2024

The extant literature has mostly blamed the setup costs and added transportation costs for the failures of relocating procurement centers overseas, whereas internal decentralization has long been ignored. In practice, issues such as the arm's length principle and information asymmetry can prevent the headquarters from fully centralizing its divisions when offshoring its procurement center overseas. To examine the impact of internal decentralization, we investigate the decision of a firm's headquarters regarding whether to set up an overseas procurement center and whether to further decentralize the procurement center. This article investigates a stylized model and reveals that, even without the setup and transportation costs, it is not always beneficial for the firm to offshore procurement centers under the impact of transfer pricing unless the tax advantage is big enough. An offshoring procurement system with a decentralized procurement center can outperform one with a centralized procurement center when the tax rate disparity is large, because the headquarters' procurement cost information screening makes it benefit more from a decentralized procurement center when the tax rate gap is big. Besides the intuitive trade‐off between the tax‐saving effect and the double marginalization effect caused by the internal decentralization, some indirect effects—cost‐saving effect of the procurement effort and the tax‐paying asymmetry effect (i.e., the procurement center still pays a positive tax even if the headquarters is not profitable)—are found to have a significant impact on the headquarters' choice. Screening the procurement cost information amplifies the advantage of the procurement independent accounting system when the tax rate disparity is big but decreases it otherwise.
Measuring the device‐level EQE of multi‐junction photonic power converters
Authors: Schachtner Michael , Beattie Meghan N. , Reichmuth S. Kasimir , Wekkeli Alexander , Siefer Gerald , Helmers Henning
Published: July 2024

Multi‐junction photonic power converters (PPCs) are photovoltaic cells used in photonic power transmission systems that convert monochromatic light to electricity at enhanced output voltages. The junctions of a multi‐junction PPC have overlapping spectral responsivity, which poses a unique challenge for spectrally resolved external quantum efficiency (EQE) measurements. In this work, we present a novel EQE measurement technique based on a wavelength‐tunable laser system and characterize the differential multi‐junction device‐level EQE (dEQEMJ) as a function of the monochromatic irradiance over seven orders of magnitude. The irradiance‐dependent measurements reveal three distinct irradiance regimes with different dEQEMJ. For the experimentally studied 2‐junction GaAs‐based device, at medium irradiance with photocurrent densities between 0.3 and 90 mA/cm2, dEQEMJ is independent of irradiance and follows the expected EQE of the current‐limiting subcell across all wavelengths. At higher irradiance, nonlinear device response is observed and attributed to luminescent coupling between the subcells. At lower irradiances, namely, in the range of conventional EQE measurement systems, nonlinear effects appear, which mimic luminescent coupling behavior but are instead attributed to finite shunt resistance artifacts that artificially inflate dEQEMJ. The results demonstrate the importance of measuring the device‐level dEQEMJ in the relevant irradiance regime. We propose that device‐level measurements in the finite shunt artifact regime at low monochromatic irradiance should be avoided.
Medical schools producing the most physical medicine and rehabilitation residents: An analysis of matriculating residents from 2017 to 2021
Authors: Shannon Devon T. , Chase Paige M. , Frei Bailey W. , Anesi Trevor , Yang Aaron J.
Published: July 2024

Background

Residency choice is often influenced by experiences in medical school. It is unclear what potential factors contribute to medical schools producing higher numbers of physical medicine & rehabilitation (PM&R) residents.

Objective

To identify the medical schools producing the most PM&R residents from 2017 to 2021 and potential influencing factors toward this production.

Design

Descriptive, cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education accredited PM&R programs; allopathic/osteopathic/international medical schools.

Interventions

REDCap Survey.

Participants

Representatives from medical schools producing the most PM&R residents.

Methods

The medical schools that produced the most PM&R residents from 2017 to 2021 were identified using publicly available information on the internet. A subgroup of the highest producing schools were surveyed to determine potential factors that contributed to production of PM&R residents.

Main Outcome Measure

Medical schools with the highest number of matriculated PM&R residents from 2017 to 2021; potential factors influencing matriculating PM&R residents.

Results

The medical school that produced the most PM&R residents from 2017 to 2021 was New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. Nine of the 11 medical schools producing the most PM&R residents were osteopathic. Of osteopathic graduates applying to residency, 2.87% matriculated into PM&R residencies compared to 1.21% of allopathic graduates (p < .001), though a greater number of allopathic graduates overall were represented. Among survey respondents 93.3% (14/15) attributed exposure to PM&R faculty/residents and exposure to PM&R through medical school curriculum as perceived factors contributing to production of PM&R residents.

Conclusion

Osteopathic medical schools accounted for most of the schools producing the highest number of PM&R residents. A statistically significant higher percentage of osteopathic graduates were found to pursue PM&R as a career compared to allopathic counterparts although the total number of students entering PM&R was greater from allopathic schools. Potential factors contributing to medical students pursuing PM&R included faculty/resident involvement with medical students, and PM&R exposure through curriculum or interest groups.
The U1‐70K and SRSF1 interaction is modulated by phosphorylation during the early stages of spliceosome assembly
Authors: Paul Trent , Zhang Pengcheng , Zhang Zihan , Fargason Talia , De Silva Naiduwadura Ivon Upekala , Powell Erin , Ekpenyong Ethan , Jamal Shariq , Yu Yanbao , Prevelige Peter , Lu Rui , Zhang Jun
Published: July 2024

In eukaryotes, pre‐mRNA splicing is vital for RNA processing and orchestrated by the spliceosome, whose assembly starts with the interaction between U1‐70K and SR proteins. Despite the significance of the U1‐70K/SR interaction, the dynamic nature of the complex and the challenges in obtaining soluble U1‐70K have impeded a comprehensive understanding of the interaction at the structural level for decades. We overcome the U1‐70K solubility issues, enabling us to characterize the interaction between U1‐70K and SRSF1, a representative SR protein. We unveil specific interactions: phosphorylated SRSF1 RS with U1‐70K BAD1, and SRSF1 RRM1 with U1‐70K RRM. The RS/BAD1 interaction plays a dominant role, whereas the interaction between the RRM domains further enhances the stability of the U1‐70K/SRSF1 complex. The RRM interaction involves the C‐terminal extension of U1‐70K RRM and the conserved acid patches on SRSF1 RRM1 that is involved in SRSF1 phase separation. Our circular dichroism spectra reveal that BAD1 adapts an α‐helical conformation and RS is intrinsically disordered. Intriguingly, BAD1 undergoes a conformation switch from α‐helix to β‐strand and random coil upon RS binding. In addition to the regulatory mechanism via SRSF1 phosphorylation, the U1‐70K/SRSF1 interaction is also regulated by U1‐70K BAD1 phosphorylation. We find that U1‐70K phosphorylation inhibits the U1‐70K and SRSF1 interaction. Our structural findings are validated through in vitro splicing assays and in‐cell saturated domain scanning using the CRISPR method, providing new insights into the intricate regulatory mechanisms of pre‐mRNA splicing.
Structural and Biochemical Analysis of Butanol Dehydrogenase From Thermotoga maritima
Authors: Bai Xue , Xu Ke , Zhao Zhidan , Qin Huiwen , Nam Ki Hyun , Quan Chunshan , Ha Nam‐Chul , Xu Yongbin
Published: July 2024

Butanol dehydrogenase (BDH) plays a crucial role in butanol biosynthesis by catalyzing the conversion of butanal to butanol using the coenzyme NAD(P)H. In this study, we observed that BDH from Thermotoga maritima (TmBDH) exhibits dual coenzyme specificity and catalytic activity with NADPH as the coenzyme under highly alkaline conditions. Additionally, a thermal stability analysis on TmBDH demonstrated its excellent activity retention even at elevated temperatures of 80°C. These findings demonstrate the superior thermal stability of TmBDH and suggest that it is a promising candidate for large‐scale industrial butanol production. Furthermore, we discovered that TmBDH effectively catalyzes the conversion of aldehydes to alcohols and exhibits a wide range of substrate specificities toward aldehydes, while excluding alcohols. The dimeric state of TmBDH was observed using rapid online buffer exchange native mass spectrometry. Additionally, we analyzed the coenzyme‐binding sites and inferred the possible locations of the substrate‐binding sites. These results provide insights that improve our understanding of BDHs.