bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relapses in early‐stage follicular lymphoma frequently develop via a divergent evolution from their clonally related precursor cells
Authors: Makker Jasmine , Wotherspoon Andrew , Tzioni Maria‐Myrsini , Chen Zi , Guo Sarah , Jiang Dan , Casa Calogero , Cucco Francesco , Du Ming‐Qing
Published: December 2023

Follicular lymphoma (FL) develops through a stepwise acquisition of cooperative genetic changes with t(14;18)(q32;q21)/IGH::BCL2 occurring early at the pre‐B stage of B‐cell development. Patients with FL typically show an indolent clinical course, remitting and relapsing with the eventual development of resistance to treatments. Interestingly, the majority of transformed FL do not progress directly from FL but originate from their clonally related lymphoma precursor (CLP) cells. To examine whether such divergent tumour evolution also underpins the relapses in patients with early‐stage FL, we investigated by targeted next‐generation sequencing 13 cases (stage I = 9, stage II = 4), who showed complete remission (mean: 5 years; range: 1–11.5 years) following local radiotherapy but subsequently relapsed (≥2 in 5). A clonal relationship between the diagnostic FL and relapses was confirmed in 11 cases. In six cases, common and distinct variants were seen between the paired diagnostic and relapsed lymphomas, indicating their divergent evolution from a CLP. In two cases, different B‐cell clones were involved in the diagnostic and relapsed lymphomas, including one case involving two different BCL2 translocations. In the remaining five cases, the relapsed lymphoma developed via a linear progression (n = 4) or a mixed evolutionary path (n = 1). These findings may bear important implications in the routine diagnosis and management of relapsed FL. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Factors associated with the preparedness for bereavement in families of patients with cancer: A secondary analysis of a nationwide bereaved family survey
Authors: Matsuzaka Sakiko , Ohba Akiho , Masukawa Kento , Aoyama Maho , Morita Tatsuya , Kizawa Yoshiyuki , Tsuneto Satoru , Shima Yasuo , Miyashita Mitsunori
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Insufficient preparedness for bereavement can affect a family's psychological health status after bereavement. However, factors associated with preparedness remain unclear. This study aimed to identify factors associated with preparedness for bereavement in families of patients with cancer.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of a nationwide bereaved family survey in Japan, analyzing data from 9123 family members of patients with cancer. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore how sociodemographic factors, health status, and perceived care for patients and families were associated with preparedness for bereavement.

Results

Of the 9123 families, 1338 (15.1%) were not prepared for bereavement. Factors associated with insufficient preparedness for bereavement (all p < 0.001) were found as follows: patients' spouses (OR = 2.54), receiving care in acute hospitals (OR = 1.83), worse psychological health status during caregiving (OR = 2.13), lower social support for family members (OR = 1.90), wrong patients' awareness of medical condition from family's perspective (OR = 1.75–2.12), family preference of more aggressive treatment rather than palliative care (OR = 1.71) or not sure (OR = 2.31), not wanting to know information about the patient's prognosis (OR = 1.64–1.77), end‐of‐life discussion with physician 1 month before patient's death (OR = 1.45), and late or early end‐of‐life discussions with physician and family (OR = 1.78–1.95).

Conclusions

This study's results might assist clinicians in assessing and identifying families who are not prepared for bereavement; however, preparedness for bereavement may have been associated with other factors.
Influence of high temperature during tensile test for stainless steel using acoustic emission
Authors: Mohammad Mazian , Othman Abdul Rahim , Ismail Mohd Faisal
Published: December 2023

This paper explores the application of acoustic emission (AE) monitoring in mechanical and materials studies, specifically focusing on the detection of plastic deformation, fracture, and crack growth. However, the influence of high temperature on AE signals and its effects on mechanical properties are not fully understood due to the limitations of sensors in high‐temperature environments. To address this gap, the study investigates the impact of high temperatures on the mechanical properties of stainless steel SS304 using AE techniques during tensile testing. Two temperature conditions were tested: 600 and 700°C. AE sensors connected to specimens captured AE activity using a designated waveguide, and a Continuous Creep Monitoring Instrument (CCMi) recorded the responses. Sensitivity testing using the pencil‐lead break (PLB) technique ensured the sensor's capability. The proposed frequency‐based analysis method, fast Fourier transform amplitude (FFTA) analysis, was employed to effectively analyze the AE signals. The results revealed significant AE features and frequency distributions associated with elastic deformation, plastic deformation, and fracture regions. These findings establish a foundation for utilizing AE techniques in crack detection and monitoring under high‐temperature loading, contributing to equipment reliability and structural integrity.
Cheers: A Linear‐Scaling KBE + GKBA Code
Authors: Pavlyukh Yaroslav , Tuovinen Riku , Perfetto Enrico , Stefanucci Gianluca
Published: December 2023

The interaction of electrons with quantized phonons and photons underlies the ultrafast dynamics of systems, ranging from molecules to solids, giving rise to a plethora of physical phenomena experimentally accessible using time‐resolved techniques. Green's function methods offer an invaluable interpretation tool since scattering mechanisms of growing complexity can be selectively incorporated in the theory. Cheers is a general‐purpose nonequilibrium Green's function code that implements virtually all known many‐body approximations and is designed for first‐principles studies of ultrafast processes in molecular and model solid‐state systems. The aims of generality, extensibility, efficiency, and user friendliness of the code are achieved through the underlying theory development and the use of modern software design practices. Herein, the necessity for the creation of such a code is motivated and its design and capabilities are overviewed.
Analysis of colloidal activated carbon alternatives for in situ remediation of a large PFAS plume and source area
Authors: Carey Grant R. , Anderson Richard H. , Van Geel Paul , McGregor Rick , Soderberg Keir , Danko Anthony , Hakimabadi Seyfollah Gilak , Pham Anh Le‐Tuan , Rebeiro‐Tunstall Mia
Published: December 2023

This study evaluated optimal locations for in situ remediation of per‐ and poly‐fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in groundwater with colloidal activated carbon (CAC). New Freundlich isotherms for PFAS adsorption to CAC were estimated to illustrate the effect of competitive adsorption with dissolved organic carbon and other PFAS in a groundwater sample. A hypothetical model scenario was constructed based on source area characteristics similar to a site impacted by aqueous film forming foam in South Dakota. Modeling indicates that, even with high PFAS concentrations, CAC would still be capable of maintaining concentrations below proposed maximum contaminant levels in the adsorption zone for at least 30–40 years. Two‐dimensional areal modeling indicates that the future breakthrough of PFAS is likely to occur in the localized core of the plume, and that the corresponding future reinjection of CAC will only need to be conducted over a smaller portion of the original injection footprint. The benefits of implementing a phased remedial approach at PFAS sites are discussed. Source area and mid‐plume CAC treatments are shown to be ineffective at attenuating PFAS concentrations at the downgradient property boundary within a reasonable timeframe when PFAS travel time is relatively slow. Among the CAC alternatives evaluated here, a downgradient CAC permeable reactive barrier has the best performance with respect to protecting downgradient receptors.
Targeting the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway in neurological manifestations of Covid‐19
Authors: Wang Han , Cheng Li , Yu Lanlan , Guo Zhigang
Published: December 2023

The diverse and severe nature of neurological manifestations associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid‐19) has garnered increasing attention. Exploring the potential to decrease neurological complications in Covid‐19 patients involves targeting the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway as a therapeutic strategy. The mTOR pathway, widely recognised for its central role in essential cellular processes like synthesising proteins, facilitating autophagy, and modulating immune responses, has implications in various neurological disorders. Drawing parallels between these disorders and the observed neurological complications in Covid‐19, we present a comprehensive review on the current understanding of mTOR signalling in the context of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection and neuroinflammation.
Stability analysis of nonlinear systems in the presence of event‐triggered impulsive control
Authors: Yu Peilin , Deng Feiqi , Zhao Xueyan , Huang Yongjia
Published: December 2023

This note puts forward continuous event‐triggered impulsive control (CETIC) and dynamic event‐triggered impulsive control (DETIC) to discuss a class of (integral) input‐to‐state stability (iISS, ISS) for nonlinear systems (NSs), where the impulse sequences are produced by certain predesigned event‐triggering conditions. Different from traditionary event‐triggered control (ETC), CETIC indicates that a controller will be stimulated only if the given state‐dependent event condition is invoked. There exist no transfer of control between two continuous impulse triggered instants. Compared with the traditional static ETC, the DETIC can efficaciously lessen controller update and dramatically save energy at the same decay rate. In addition, all sample path solutions (SPS) for the system have the lowest time between events guaranteed to be positive. Utilizing CETIC strategy, we get some Lyapunov conditions to effectually avoid infinite triggering behavior and obtain the ISS‐type stability of the investigative systems. Then, one applies the theoretical consequences to NSs and derive a class of ETC mechanism with impulsive control gains (ICG) by linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Because of the existence of timer, the DETIC strategy naturally excludes Zeno phenomena. Furthermore, conclusions in this thesis permit the upper bound estimation for the differential Lyapunov function coefficient to be time‐varying function instead of a constant in certain extant results, which means the criteria of the Lyapunov technique in this paper is less conservative and looser. Eventually, three examples with related simulations are demonstrated to indicate the rationalization and usefulness of our conclusion.
Roxadustat ameliorates vascular calcification in CKD rats by regulating HIF‐2α/HIF‐1α
Authors: Wang Yujing , Xiao Min , Cai Feng , Li Yang , Shi Tianli , Zhou Xiaoyan , Tian Shuhong , Huang Denggao
Published: December 2023

Vascular calcification (VC) is a common complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD). VC is a gene‐regulated process similar to osteogenic differentiation. There are still no convincing schemes to prevent and reduce the development of VC. It has been reported that hypoxia‐inducing factor 1α (HIF‐1α) and endothelin‐1(ET‐1) are related to VC. In this study, we found that the expression of ET‐1 and HIF‐1α was enhanced after VC, the interaction between HIF‐1α and ET‐1 was confirmed by CO‐IP and luciferase experiments. We found that ET‐1 was an upregulated differential gene of calcified vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) through gene sequencing. However, hypoxia‐inducing factor 2α (HIF‐2α) and HIF‐1α have antagonistic effects on each other. HIF‐1α is a pro‐inflammatory cytokine, and HIF‐2α can improve inflammation and fibrosis. Roxadustat, as a selective PHD3 inhibitor, preferentially activates HIF‐2α. It is still unclear whether roxadustat improves VC in CKD by regulating the expression of HIF‐2α/HIF‐1α. Alizarin red staining and western blot as well as immunohistochemical results showed that roxadustat could significantly reduce the degree of vascular and VSMCs calcification in CKD rats. Serum HIF‐1α and ET‐1 were significantly decreased after roxadustat treatment. In addition, western blot results showed that roxadustat could decrease the expression of HIF‐1α and ET‐1 in vascular tissues and calcified VSMC, but HIF‐2α expression significantly increased. Interestingly, our study confirmed that activation of HIF‐1α or inhibition of HIF‐2α reversed the ameliorating effect of roxadustat on VC, proving that the effect mediated by roxadustat is HIF‐2α/HIF‐1α dependent. We have demonstrated for the first time that roxadustat improves VC in CKD rats by regulating HIF‐2α/HIF‐1α, thus providing a new idea for the application of roxadustat in VC of CKD.
Cocoa Under Heat and Drought Stress
Authors: Mensah Eric Opoku , Vaast Philippe , Asare Richard , Amoatey Christiana A. , Owusu Kwadwo , Asitoakor Bismark Kwesi , Ræbild Anders
Published: December 2023

Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) is an important cash crop in many tropical countries, particularly in West Africa. Heat and drought are both known to affect the physiology of cocoa plants through reduced rates of photosynthesis and transpiration, as well as changed physiological processes such as the functions of photosystems, chlorophyll synthesis, stomatal conductance and expression of heat-shock proteins. This in turn leads to decreased yields and increased risks of mortality under severe heat and drought. To help cocoa plants adapt to climate change, the literature suggests agroforestry as a potential farm management practice. It has been argued that the lack of tree cover in cocoa cultivation systems exposes the crop to heat and direct solar radiation, thus increasing evapotranspiration and the risk of drought. Drawing on data generated from two on-field studies, this chapter assesses the shade effect on cocoa’s physiological responses to drought and heat stress to determine whether shade would be beneficial under climate change scenarios. We conclude that shade improves the physiology of cocoa, but that this may not be sufficient to compensate for the negative effects of high temperatures and severe drought exacerbated by climate change in sub-optimal conditions.
A common origin for the QCD axion and sterile neutrinos from SU(5) strong dynamics
Authors: Cox Peter , Gherghetta Tony , Paul Arpon
Published: December 2023

Abstract

We identify the QCD axion and right-handed (sterile) neutrinos as bound states of an SU(5) chiral gauge theory with Peccei-Quinn (PQ) symmetry arising as a global symmetry of the strong dynamics. The strong dynamics is assumed to spontaneously break the PQ symmetry, producing a high-quality axion and naturally generating Majorana masses for the right-handed neutrinos at the PQ scale. The composite sterile neutrinos can directly couple to the left-handed (active) neutrinos, realizing a standard see-saw mechanism. Alternatively, the sterile neutrinos can couple to the active neutrinos via a naturally small mass mixing with additional elementary states, leading to light sterile neutrino eigenstates. The SU(5) strong dynamics therefore provides a common origin for a high-quality QCD axion and sterile neutrinos.
Running decompactification, sliding towers, and the distance conjecture
Authors: Etheredge Muldrow , Heidenreich Ben , McNamara Jacob , Rudelius Tom , Ruiz Ignacio , Valenzuela Irene
Published: December 2023

Abstract

We study towers of light particles that appear in infinite-distance limits of moduli spaces of 9-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 string theories, some of which notably feature decompactification limits with running string coupling. The lightest tower in such decompactification limits consists of the non-BPS Kaluza-Klein modes of Type I′ string theory, whose masses depend nontrivially on the moduli of the theory. We work out the moduli-dependence by explicit computation, finding that despite the running decompactification the Distance Conjecture remains satisfied with an exponential decay rate $$ \alpha \ge 1/\sqrt{d-2} $$
α
≥
1
/

d
−
2

in accordance with the sharpened Distance Conjecture. The related sharpened Convex Hull Scalar Weak Gravity Conjecture also passes stringent tests. Our results non-trivially test the Emergent String Conjecture, while highlighting the important subtlety that decompactifcation can lead to a running solution rather than to a higher-dimensional vacuum.
The effect of psychoactive bacteria, Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus JB-1, on brain proteome profiles in mice
Authors: Jarosz Łukasz S. , Socała Katarzyna , Michalak Katarzyna , Wiater Adrian , Ciszewski Artur , Majewska Małgorzata , Marek Agnieszka , Grądzki Zbigniew , Wlaź Piotr
Published: December 2023

Rationale

The gut microbiota may play an important role in the development and functioning of the mammalian central nervous system. The assumption of the experiment was to prove that the use of probiotic bacterial strains in the diet of mice modifies the expression of brain proteins involved in metabolic and immunological processes.

Objectives and results

Albino Swiss mice were administered with Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175 or Lactobacillus rhamnosus JB-1 every 24 h for 28 days. Protein maps were prepared from hippocampal homogenates of euthanized mice. Selected proteins that were statistically significant were purified and concentrated and identified using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Among the analysed samples, 13 proteins were identified. The mean volumes of calcyon, secreted frizzled-associated protein 3, and catalase in the hippocampus of mice from both experimental groups were statistically significantly higher than in the control group. In mice supplemented with Lactobacillus rhamnosus JB-1, a lower mean volume of fragrance binding protein 2, shadow of prion protein, and glycine receptor α4 subunit was observed compared to the control.

Conclusion

The psychobiotics Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus JB-1enhances expression of proteins involved in the activation and maturation of nerve cells, as well as myelination and homeostatic regulation of neurogenesis in mice. The tested psychobiotics cause a decrease in the expression of proteins associated with CNS development and in synaptic transmission, thereby reducing the capacity for communication between nerve cells. The results of the study indicate that psychobiotic bacteria can be used in auxiliary treatment of neurological disorders.
Improving the flame retardancy of furfurylated wood by introducing DOPO
Authors: Dong Youming , Fu Zhenyu , Yan Yutao , Shi Jingbo , Hughes Mark , Zhan Xianxu , Li Jianzhang
Published: December 2023

Poor dimensional stability, sensitivity to microorganisms, and flammability restrict the application of wood in certain areas where these properties are critical. Although furfurylation can improve the physical and mechanical properties of wood, the heat and smoke release of furfurylated wood during combustion are dramatic and need to be addressed. As a kind of halogen-free phosphorus flame retardant, 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) and its derivatives exhibit excellent performance in polymer composites. In this study, DOPO was dissolved in furfuryl alcohol (FA) and used to modify wood. The effect of DOPO on the thermal stability, combustion behavior, and physical and mechanical properties of furfurylated wood was investigated. The chemical structure, morphology, and char residue after combustion were also characterized. The studies show that DOPO can react with the FA polymer and is incorporated and homogeneously dispersed in the wood structure. Compared to untreated wood, furfurylated wood has a much higher heat and smoke release during combustion. The addition of DOPO remarkably reduces the heat release of furfurylated wood, and this effect increases as the amount of DOPO increases. When the amount of introduced DOPO of furfurylated wood is 7%, its total heat release is reduced by 37.4% and becomes comparable to the untreated wood. However, DOPO does not suppress smoke production effectively. DOPO improves the thermal stability of furfurylated wood by promoting char formation and inhibiting the diffusion of oxygen and the escape of pyrolysis products. The addition of DOPO has little effect on the physical and mechanical properties of furfurylated wood. The results indicate that the combination of DOPO and furfurylation could be an efficient way to prepare highly stable and fire-resistant wood materials.
Real-time Modelling and ML Data Training for Digital Twinning of Additive Manufacturing Processesa?
Authors: Horr Amir M.
Published: December 2023

Reduced and real-time modelling is one of the main pillars of digital “process models” for twinning of manufacturing processes. Starting from the data processing and model building, a digital twin of additive manufacturing (AM) processes involves creating virtual replica where predictions and corrections can be made in real-time. Developing such fast predictive/corrective digital models involve data training and machine learning (ML) routines, where dynamic and accurate models can be employed for process optimisation and control. In this research work, the overview of the real-time modelling and ML data training have been presented for AM processes using hybrid and reduced order modelling (ROM) techniques. Hence, variations of processing parameters (e.g., temperature, power and feeding speed) for wire arc AM processes are considered to develop a tailored process data base and its associated snapshot matrix. Furthermore, the accuracy and reliability of these digital models for monitoring and optimizing AM processes are investigated using a real-world case study. The performances of different reduced model building, and data interpolation techniques have subsequently been scrutinized to create the most accurate and efficient solver-interpolator combinations for integration of real-time models into digital twins for AM processes.
Identification of novel candidate genes associated with non-syndromic tooth agenesis in Mongolian families
Authors: Semjid Dejidnorov , Ahn Hyunsoo , Bayarmagnai Sapaar , Gantumur Munkhjargal , Kim Sanguk , Lee Jae Hoon
Published: December 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to identify genetic variants associated with non-syndromic tooth agenesis (TA) in nine families from Mongolia using whole-exome sequencing (WES) and bioinformatics analysis.

Material and methods

The study enrolled 41 participants, including three inherited and six non-inherited families. WES analysis was performed on 14 saliva samples from individuals with non-syndromic TA. The potential candidate genes were identified through variant filtering and segregation analysis. The filtered variants were then analyzed in silico mutation impact analysis.

Results

WES analysis identified 21 variants associated with TA, and 5 of these variants met all filtering criteria. These variants were located in the exome region of MAST4, ITGA6, PITX2, CACNA1S, and CDON genes. The variant in PITX2 was found in eight participants from inherited and non-inherited families, while the MAST4 variant was identified in 6 participants from inherited families.

Conclusions

The study identified various genetic variant candidates associated with TA in different family groups, with PITX2 being the most commonly identified. Our findings suggest that MAST4 may also be a novel candidate gene for TA due to its association with the Wnt signaling pathway. Additionally, we found that five candidate genes related to focal adhesion and calcium channel complex were significant and essential in tooth development.

Clinical relevance

Identifying new pathogenic genes associated with TA can improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease, leading to better diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. Early detection of TA based on biomarkers can improve dental management and facilitate orthodontic and prosthetic treatment.
Well-posedness and finite element approximation of mixed dimensional partial differential equations
Authors: Hellman Fredrik , Målqvist Axel , Mosquera Malin
Published: December 2023

In this article, a mixed dimensional elliptic partial differential equation is considered, posed in a bulk domain with a large number of embedded interfaces. In particular, well-posedness of the problem and regularity of the solution are studied. A fitted finite element approximation is also proposed and an a priori error bound is proved. For the solution of the arising linear system, an iterative method based on subspace decomposition is proposed and analyzed. Finally, numerical experiments are presented and rapid convergence using the proposed preconditioner is achieved, confirming the theoretical findings.
Algae–zooplankton relationships during the year-round cyanobacterial blooms in a shallow lake
Authors: Kalinowska Krystyna , Napiórkowska-Krzebietke Agnieszka , Bogacka-Kapusta Elżbieta , Stawecki Konrad , Traczuk Piotr , Ulikowski Dariusz
Published: December 2023

Cyanobacterial blooms have a strong impact on the food web structure, interactions and ecosystem functioning. The aim of this study was to describe the seasonal changes in composition and abundance of heterotrophic nanoflagellates, ciliates, rotifers, and crustaceans in relation to algae and nutrients in a shallow eutrophic lake (north-eastern Poland) dominated by cyanobacteria and exposed to the strong impact of cormorants. Our results showed that algae accounted for a small part of the total phytoplankton abundance (9–40%) and biomass (10–21%) and were dominated by diatoms and cryptophytes. All of the studied groups of planktonic organisms were quite rich in species (95 algal, 79 ciliate, 44 rotifer and 25 crustacean species) and relatively abundant. Copepods formed a substantial part (45–83%) of the total zooplankton biomass during all seasons. Relatively low algal to zooplankton biomass ratio (0.8–1.1) suggests that during spring, summer, and winter algae were not sufficient food resources for metazooplankton, which supplemented its diet with protists (heterotrophic nanoflagellates and ciliates). In a shallow lake dominated by cyanobacteria, winter (ice-covered period) may be a more favourable period for the growth of some groups of algae, ciliates and rotifers than other seasons due to decreasing abundance of cyanobacteria.
Terminology for future-oriented life cycle assessment: review and recommendations
Authors: Arvidsson Rickard , Svanström Magdalena , Sandén Björn A. , Thonemann Nils , Steubing Bernhard , Cucurachi Stefano
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Some future-oriented life cycle assessment (LCA) terms, particularly prospective and ex-ante, show notable increase in use in publications over the last decade. However, scholars have pointed out that it is currently unclear exactly what these terms mean and how they are related. This paper aims to explain defining differences between future-oriented LCA terms and provide terminology recommendations.

Methods

Existing definitions of future-oriented LCA terms were reviewed and analyzed. Workshops were held where defining differences of future-oriented LCA terms were discussed.

Results

Temporal positionality and technology maturity appear to be two critical aspects of future-oriented LCA. Prospective and ex-ante LCA are similar, with the possible difference that ex-ante LCA always involves an increase in technology maturity in the future. Considering the notable similarities, it seems reasonable to converge terms to mitigate field fragmentation and avoid terminology confusion.

Conclusions

To denote LCA studies with a future temporal positionality, we recommend using the term prospective LCA, defined as “LCA that models the product system at a future point in time relative to the time at which the study is conducted”. Furthermore, since technology maturity is clearly a critical aspect for prospective LCA, we recommend prospective LCA studies to clearly define the maturity of the technologies modeled in the production system.
Dynamic performance of submerged floating tunnel with different mooring styles subjected to anchor cable failure
Authors: Wu Zhiwen , Zhang Chuhan , Mou Liwang , Mei Guoxiong , Garg Ankit
Published: December 2023

Submerged floating tunnels (SFTs) are novel structures for transportation across long- and deep-strait regions. Owing to severe wave and current excitation as well as the effects of underwater structures and corrosion, the risk of local anchor cable failure is high, which can result in the progressive failure of the entire structure. In this study, experimental and numerical investigations are conducted to analyze the dynamic behavior of an SFT with different mooring styles under local cable failure. A custom-designed cable failure device and the birth-and-death element method are used to simulate cable failure (i.e., progressive failure) via experiments and numerical simulation, respectively. A physical-scale segmental model of an SFT with different mooring styles under anchor cable failure is developed in this study. A segmental and entire-length mathematical model is developed using the ANSYS program to perform the numerical simulation. The results of the segmental numerical and experimental models indicate good agreement. The dynamic response of an SFT with different mooring styles under cable failure is comprehensively investigated by investigating the effects of key parameters (wave period, buoyant weight ratio, and cable failure mechanism). Moreover, the progressive failure of the SFT under cable failure is investigated via a segment model test and a numerical simulation of its entire length. The present study can serve as a reference for the safer designs of the SFT mooring style.
Influence of advanced engineering measures on displacement and stress field of surrounding rock in tunnels crossing active strike-slip faults
Authors: Zhou Hui , Xiao Jiancheng , He Manchao , Lu Jingjing , Tao Zhigang , Xu Futong , Hou Congcong
Published: December 2023

Based on significant improvements in engineering materials, three advanced engineering measures have been proposed—super anchor cables, high-strength concrete anti-fault caverns, and grouting modification using high-strength concrete-to resist fault dislocation in the surrounding rock near tunnels crossing active strike-slip faults. Moreover, single- or multiple-joint advanced engineering measures form the local rock mass-anti-fault (LRAF) method. A numerical method was used to investigate the influence of LRAF methods on the stress and displacement fields of the surrounding rock, and the anti-fault effect was evaluated. Finally, the mechanism of action of the anchor cable was verified using a three-dimensional numerical model. The numerical results indicated that the anchor cable and grouting modification reduced the displacement gradient of the local surrounding rock near the tunnels crossing fault. Furthermore, anchor cable and grouting modifications changed the stress field of the rock mass in the modified area. The tensile stress field of the rock mass in the modified anchor cable area was converted into a compressive stress field. The stress field in the modified grouting area changed from shear stress in the fault slip direction to tensile stress in the axial tunnel direction. The anti-fault cavern resisted the dislocation displacement and reduced the maximum dislocation magnitude, displacement gradient, and shear stress. Among the three advanced engineering measures, the anchor cable was the core of the three advanced engineering measures. An anchor cable, combined with other LRAF measures, can form an artificial safety island at the cross-fault position of the rock mass to protect the tunnel. The research results provide a new supporting idea for the surrounding rock of tunnels crossing active strike-slip faults.
Role of rs2366152 single-nucleotide variant located in the long noncoding RNA HOTAIR gene in the cervical cancer susceptibility in a Polish population
Authors: Łaźniak Sebastian , Sowińska Anna , Roszak Andrzej , Lianeri Margarita , Pławski Andrzej , Mostowska Adrianna , Jagodziński Paweł Piotr
Published: December 2023

Previous studies have demonstrated an association of the NC_000012.12:g.53962605A > G, (rs2366152) single-nucleotide variant (SNV) situated in the long noncoding homeobox transcript antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR) gene with HPV16-related cervical cancer pathogenesis. However, little is known about the role of rs2366152 in cervical cancer progression and how oral birth control pills use, parity, menopausal status, and cigarette smoking influence the role of rs2366152 in cervical carcinogenesis. HRM analysis was used to determine the rs2366152 SNV prevalence in patients with cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (n = 470) and control group (n = 499) in a Polish Caucasian population. Logistic regression analyses were adjusted for age, using birth control pills, parity, menopausal status, and cigarette smoking. Our genetic studies revealed that the G/A vs. A/A (p = 0.031, p = 0.002) and G/A + G/G vs. A/A (p = 0.035, p = 0.003) genotypes of rs2366152 SNV were significantly related to the grade of differentiation G3 and tumor stage III, respectively. Moreover, cervical cancer risk increased among patients with rs2366152 SNV who smoked cigarettes and used birth control pills. We conclude that rs2366152 may promote the invasion and rapid growth of cervical SCC. Moreover, rs2366152 with cigarette smoking and using birth control pills can also be a risk factor for cervical cancerogenesis.
The Biosecurity Risks of International Forest Tree Seed Movements
Authors: Franić Iva , Cleary Michelle , Aday Kaya Ayşe Gülden , Bragança Helena , Brodal Guro , Cech Thomas L. , Chandelier Anne , Doğmuş-Lehtijärvi Tuğba , Eschen René , Lehtijärvi Asko , Ormsby Michael , Prospero Simone , Schwanda Katharina , Sikora Katarzyna , Szmidla Hanna , Talgø Venche , Tkaczyk Miłosz , Vettraino Anna Maria , Perez-Sierra Ana
Published: December 2023

Purpose of Review

Because tree seeds have been considered a low-risk pathway for the spread of plant pathogenic fungi, their international movement is not subject to strict phytosanitary regulation. However, recent studies have provided scientific evidence that the biosecurity risk of seed trade may not be as negligible as assumed. This review summarises current knowledge about seed trade activity across the world and seed-borne plant pathogenic fungi and highlights knowledge gaps that need to be filled to mitigate the risk of spreading tree pathogens via seeds.

Recent Findings

Several outbreaks of severe tree diseases in natural forests and plantations worldwide have been linked to fungal pathogens spread by seed trade. Indeed, recent studies based on modern sequencing technologies have shown that tree seeds harbour highly diverse fungal communities, including well-known pathogens and fungal taxa belonging to unknown species. While it has become clear that even apparently healthy seeds can carry potentially pathogenic fungi, the likelihood of seed-borne pathogens being introduced and becoming established, spreading and causing impact in the new environment is still unclear which challenges the assessment of the phytosanitary risk posed by seed trade.

Our analyses show that large amounts of tree seeds have been traded among countries and continents. Based on published literature, the risk of spreading pathogenic fungi via tree seed movement is high. However, the role of the taxonomically and functionally diverse fungal communities associated with seeds is still poorly understood. In particular, more research is needed to assess the likelihood of seed-borne fungi being transmitted to the seedlings and spreading and causing impact in the new environment.
Nitrate stimulates adventitious rooting by increasing auxin content and regulating auxin- and root development-related genes expression in apple
Authors: Tahir Muhammad Mobeen , He Xinyue , Liu Yandong , Raza Humayun , Aziz Usman , Fan Li , Asghar Zohaib , Li Shaohuan , Sun Sinuo , Zhang Dong , Bao Lu
Published: December 2023

Adventitious root (AR) formation is critical for cutting survival and nutrient absorption re-establishment. This complex genetic trait involves the interplay of nitrogen, endogenous hormones, and several key genes. In this study, we treated GL-3 apple (Malus domestica) in vitro shoots with nitrate and ammonium to determine their impact on AR formation, hormonal content, and gene expression patterns. Nitrate treatment significantly promotes adventitious rooting by increasing cell division, differentiation, and AR primordia formation compared to ammonium treatment. Elevated indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), reduced abscisic acid, and zeatin riboside concentrations were consistently observed with nitrate, likely crucial for promoting ARs over ammonium. Furthermore, Malus domestica auxin resistance1 (MdAUX1) expression was induced, increasing IAA levels. MdIAA23 was upregulated. Further results indicate that the higher expression levels of Malusdomestica WUSCHEL-relatedHomeobox gene 11 (MdWOX11), Malus domestica lateral organ boundariesdomaingene 16 (MdLBD16), and MdLBD29, and increased cell cycle-related gene expressions, contribute to auxin-stimulated adventitious rooting under nitrate conditions. In conclusion, this study establishes that auxin content and associated genes related to root development and cell cycle contribute to superior ARs in response to nitrate.
Encounter of Religions in Papua New Guinea—Toward a Relationship between Christianity and Original Traditions
Authors: Lužný Dušan , Soukup Martin
Published: December 2023

The text introduces Papua New Guinea as a region where an encounter of various cultural and religious traditions occurred in the last several centuries and which still happens today. Christianization has posed a significant cultural change that has taken place recently and at the same time as modernization. Using examples from Papua New Guinea, the study demonstrates that although Christianity can dominate in a particular society, elements of original Indigenous religions can exist in parallel or can create a syncretic synthesis. The aim of the study is to analyze the types of this coexistence and to identify the factors of maintenance and transformation of Indigenous traditions as a result of Christianization as part of the process of globalization. The study is a contribution to the discussion on the forms of world Christianity.
Real Presence Amid the Shallows: Eucharist and Friendship in a Digital Age
Authors: Briola Lucas
Published: December 2023

This article contends that Christ’s eucharistic offer of friendship, and the habits of attentiveness such real presence demands, must shape the church’s mission in a digital milieu that tends to shallow attention and relationships. It makes this argument in dialogue principally with the theology of Bernard Lonergan and the pontificate of Pope Francis, while aided by the cultural commentary of Nicholas Carr, Sherry Turkle, and Marshall McLuhan. First, I consider how Lonergan’s focus on human knowing and choosing anticipates the recent turn in the Catholic magisterium under Pope Francis that considers the formative effects of digital communication technologies. Second, I show how Lonergan’s account of bias helps explain the shallowing effects of these technologies, for both cognition and community. Third, inspired by Lonergan and Pope Francis, I propose how practices of friendship—informed by Christ’s own friendship extended through Eucharistic presence—can foster habits of real presence able to counter the shallows of our digital age.
The Pharmaceutical Market for Biological Products in Latin America: A Comprehensive Analysis of Regional Sales Data
Authors: Ortiz-Prado Esteban , Izquierdo-Condoy Juan S. , Vasconez-González Jorge Eduardo , Dávila Gabriela , Correa Trigomar , Fernández-Naranjo Raúl
Published: December 2023

The global market for biologics and biosimilar pharmaceutical products is experiencing rapid expansion, primarily driven by the continuous discovery of new molecules. However, information regarding Latin America’s biological market remains limited.
How to Price and to Reimburse Publicly Funded Medicines in Latin America? Lessons Learned from Europe
Authors: Leopold Christine , Poblete Sergio , Vogler Sabine
Published: December 2023

This paper reviews the main pricing policies in Latin American countries, discussing their shortcomings. It also gives an overview of the most common pricing and reimbursement policies in Europe and describes in detail three well-established approaches — international price referencing, value-based pricing, including setting up of health technology assessment, and generic and biosimilar policies — building on country examples.
Biosimilars and Heterogeneous Technological Trajectories in the Argentine Biopharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Lavarello Pablo José , Gutman Graciela , Pita Juan José
Published: December 2023

This paper will review the strategies and learning trajectories followed to tap the opportunities opened by the successive waves of biotechnologies: early imitators followed by late imitators in the first generation of biosimilars (erythropoietin, insulins, interferons), and then sequential entry and skipping stages during the second generation (monoclonal antibodies).
Out-of-Pocket Spending and Financial Equity in the Access to Medicines in Latin America: Trends and Challenges: 2010-2020
Authors: Cortez Rafael , Medici Andre , Singh Rucheta
Published: December 2023

There is evidence of persistent inequalities in household financial protection of health and drugs spending in Latin America. Despite the expansion of coverage, strong inequalities persist in access to health and family spending on drugs in the region. Out-of-pocket spending in medicines is regressive in greater need for affordable medicines.
North–South Plasma Asymmetry Across Mercury's Near‐Tail Current Sheet
Authors: Zhong Jun , Xie Lianghai , Lee Lou‐Chuang , Slavin James A. , Raines Jim M. , Dewey Ryan M. , Ip Wing‐Huen , Saito Yoshifumi , Wei Yong
Published: December 2023

Among nearly 300 near‐Mercury tail current sheet crossings performed by the MESSENGER spacecraft, we identified 37 traversals of an asymmetric current sheet, wherein the lobe densities on opposite sides differ by a factor of three or more. These asymmetric current sheet crossings primarily occur on the dawnside. A global magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulation was found to be in excellent agreement with the observations. The results suggest that the north–south density asymmetry is caused by solar wind entering via an upstream‐connected window in one hemisphere. Furthermore, the Parker spiral interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) controls the near‐tail density asymmetries, whereas Mercury's offset dipole magnetic field controls those in mid‐ or distant‐tail regions. We propose that hemispheric asymmetries in Mercury's magnetospheric convection occur under strong IMF conditions.
Statistical Analysis of Electric Currents Within the Magnetosheath Using Dayside Magnetospheric Multiscale Mission Observations
Authors: Salinas Hector A. , Wilder Frederick D. , Lopez Ramon E. , Strangeway Robert J. , Giles Barbara L. , Burch James L. , Torbert Roy B. , Oka Mitsuo
Published: December 2023

Earth's magnetosheath is the region of shocked plasma that mediates coupling between the solar wind and magnetosphere. Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations predict electric current closure across the magnetosheath from the bow shock to the magnetopause. These currents provide a J × B force that diverts plasma flow along the flanks of the magnetosphere. Observations by the NASA Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission show that within the magnetosheath there are large amplitude, localized currents during periods of intense turbulence. We perform a statistical analysis of magnetic field data from the first 6 years (2015–2021) of the MMS mission during intervals when the satellites are on the dayside and generate statistical maps of electric current derived using the curlometer technique. We find that during the low magnetosonic Mach number regime (MMS < 5), the predicted current closure pattern becomes apparent for northward and southward IMF orientations, but not dawnward or duskward. For MMS > 5, results suggest that for all IMF orientations this large‐scale current closure pattern is not apparent, even after separating out quasi‐perpendicular (θbn ≥ 45°) and quasi‐parallel (θbn < 45°) bow shock conditions. Instead, the magnetosheath is dominated by small‐scale filamented current sheets that may be attributed to magnetosheath turbulence.
Spatiotemporal Variability in Phytoplankton Size Class Modulated by Summer Monsoon Wind Forcing in the Central Arabian Sea
Authors: Chowdhury Mintu , Biswas Haimanti , Silori Saumya , Sharma Diksha
Published: December 2023

The Arabian Sea is an area of intense ocean‐atmospheric coupling that impacts its physicochemical, and biological processes. During the summer monsoon (June‐September), in the central Arabian Sea, a low‐level atmospheric jet blows parallel to the Arabian Peninsula causing open ocean upwelling in the north and downwelling in the south of the jet axis. High wind speeds are witnessed in the jet axis which advect nutrients from the Somali coast. Consequently, hydrography and physicochemical parameters show high spatial variability. In this dynamic region, phytoplankton size class distribution, directly controlled by nutrient supply, can be modulated by monsoon wind variability via upwelling, advection, and entrainment, however, has not been investigated recently. We studied phytoplankton size class related to atmospheric forcing, hydrography, and nutrient stoichiometry in August 2017 and 2018 along 64°E (11°N–21°N). Chemical taxonomy‐based analysis (CHEMTAX and manual) revealed that in the north, upwelling‐driven nutrient enrichment supported microphytoplankton, mostly diatoms contributing ∼50% to phytoplankton biomass. A stronger upwelling due to higher wind forcing in 2018 compared to 2017 resulted in an enhanced nutrient supply as well as an increased contribution of diatoms. Prymnesiophytic nanophytoplankton distribution was linked to mixed layer depths with insignificant spatial variability (20%–30%). Conversely, in the nutrient‐poor southern region, zeaxanthin and DV‐Chla containing picocyanobacteria and prochlorophytes contributed >50% to the total phytoplankton biomass and were associated with high temperatures. Likely, increasing warming and related changes in monsoon intensity might directly influence phytoplankton size classes impacting trophic transfer and carbon cycling.