bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concurrent BCR‐ABL1 and core binding factor beta rearrangement in de novo acute myeloid leukemia: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Salter Brittany , Ge Sarah , Tam Amy , Demczuk Suzanne , Butcher Darci , McCready Elizabeth , Khalaf Dina
Published: April 2024

A distinct subset of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is characterized by the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome (Ph+), due to reciprocal translocation t(9;22)(q34;q11.2). This chromosomal rearrangement leads to the fusion of the breakpoint cluster region (BCR) gene on chromosome 22 with the ABL1 gene on chromosome 9, generating the BCR::ABL1 fusion gene. The Ph+ AML subtype is associated with poor prognosis and resistance to conventional chemotherapy. Beyond the well‐established BCR::ABL1 fusion, recent studies have shed light on additional genetic abnormalities in Ph+ AML, including associations with rearrangements involving core binding factor beta (CBFB). We describe a case of de novo AML with concurrent BCR::ABL1 and CBFB::MYH11 rearrangements.
Antiviral activity of adenoviral vector expressing human interferon lambda‐4 against influenza virus
Authors: Kim Dong‐Hwi , Kim Jae‐Hyeong , Lim Kyu‐Beom , Lee Joong‐Bok , Park Seung‐Yong , Song Chang‐Seon , Lee Sang‐Won , Lee Dong‐Hun , Choi In‐Soo
Published: April 2024

Interferon lambda (IFNλ), classified as a type III IFN, is a representative cytokine that plays an important role in innate immunity along with type I IFN. IFNλ can elicit antiviral states by inducing peculiar sets of IFN‐stimulated genes (ISGs). In this study, an adenoviral vector expression system with a tetracycline operator system was used to express human IFNλ4 in cells and mice. The formation of recombinant adenovirus (rAd‐huIFNλ4) was confirmed using immunohistochemistry assays and transmission electron microscopy. Its purity was verified by quantifying host cell DNA and host cell proteins, as well as by confirming the absence of the replication‐competent adenovirus. The transduction of rAd‐huIFNλ4 induced ISGs and inhibited four subtypes of the influenza virus in both mouse‐derived (LA‐4) and human‐derived cells (A549). The antiviral state was confirmed in BALB/c mice following intranasal inoculation with 109 PFU of rAd‐huIFNλ4, which led to the inhibition of four subtypes of the influenza virus in mouse lungs, with reduced inflammatory lesions. These results imply that human IFNλ4 could induce antiviral status by modulating ISG expression in mice.
Noninvasive tests maintain high accuracy for advanced fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B patients with different nomenclatures of steatotic liver disease
Authors: Chen Lin , Tao Xuemei , Zeng Minghui , Li Yuqin , Han Jiaxin , Wang Yuekui , Liu Yonggang , Shi Ruifang , Su Rui , Xu Liang , Mi Yuqiang
Published: April 2024

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a new nomenclature proposed in 2023. We aimed to compare the diagnostic efficacy of noninvasive tests (NITs) for advanced fibrosis under different nomenclatures in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). A total of 844 patients diagnosed with CHB and concurrent steatotic liver disease (SLD) by liver biopsy were retrospectively enrolled and divided into four groups. The performances of fibrosis‐4 (FIB‐4), gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase to platelet ratio index (GPRI), aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI), and liver stiffness measurement (LSM) were compared among the four groups. The four NITs showed similar diagnostic efficacy for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), MASLD, and metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in patients with CHB with advanced fibrosis. LSM showed the most stable accuracy for NAFLD (AUC = 0.842), MASLD (AUC = 0.846), and MAFLD (AUC = 0.863) compared with other NITs (p < 0.05). Among the four NITs, APRI (AUC = 0.841) and GPRI (AUC = 0.844) performed best in patients with CHB & MetALD (p < 0.05). The cutoff value for GPRI in patients with CHB & MetALD was higher than that in the other three groups, while further comparisons of NITs at different fibrosis stages showed that the median GPRI of CHB & MetALD (1.113) at F3‐4 was higher than that in the CHB & MASLD group (0.508) (p < 0.05). Current NITs perform adequately in patients with CHB and SLD; however, alterations in cutoff values for CHB & MetALD need to be noted.
Changing respiratory pathogens infection patterns after COVID‐19 pandemic in Shanghai, China
Authors: Wei Muyun , Li Shuangshuang , Lu Xinhua , Hu Kaiming , Li Zhilan , Li Min
Published: April 2024

To assess the positive rate of 11 respiratory pathogens in 2023, providing a comprehensive summary and analysis of the respiratory infection patterns after COVID‐19 pandemic. The study comprised 7544 inpatients suspected of respiratory infections who underwent respiratory pathogen multiplex polymerase chain reaction tests from July 2022 to December 31, 2023. We analyzed the positive rate of 11 pathogens over 18 months and the characterization of infection patterns among different age groups and immune states. Among 7544 patients (age range 4 months to 104 years, 44.99% female), the incidence of infected by at least one of the 11 pathogens was 26.07%. Children (55.18%, p < 0.05) experienced a significantly higher infection probability than adults (20.88%) and old (20.66%). Influenza A virus (8.63%), Mycoplasma pneumoniae (5.47%), and human rhinovirus (5.12%) were the most common pathogens. In children, M. pneumoniae (35.96%) replaced the predominant role of human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) (5.91%) in the pathogen spectrum. Age, immunosuppressed state, and respiratory chronic conditions were associated with a significantly higher risk of mixed infection. Immunosuppressed patients were more vulnerable to human coronavirus (4.64% vs. 1.65%, p < 0.05), human parainfluenza virus (3.46% vs. 1.69%, p < 0.05), and HRSV (2.27% vs. 0.55%, p < 0.05). Patterns in respiratory infections changed following regional epidemic control measures and the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Antibiotics administered as continuous intravenous infusion over 24 hours by elastomeric devices to patients treated at home: a study of infusion efficiency
Authors: Docherty Toni , David Michael , Schneider Jennifer , O'Kane Gabrielle , Morris Joni , Paavola Catherine , Sawers Janelle , O'Mahony Deirdre , Cooper Joyce
Published: April 2024

Background

Elastomeric infusion devices or ‘Infusors’ are commonly used to administer 24‐h continuous intravenous infusions to hospital patients at home, a service which can increase hospital capacity.

Aim

This study sought to determine Infusor efficiency by measuring infusion lengths administered by Infusors to patients in the community setting and reviewing any impacting factors on varying infusion rates, if observed.

Method

Patients and nurses completed data collection forms daily over a 12‐month period. The following information was recorded: time Infusor attached to patient, time Infusor emptied, Infusor ‘empty’ or ‘not empty’ when removed, volume of antibiotic solution remaining, Infusor storage details, antibiotic solution and dose, indication for treatment, and date (season). Statistical analyses was conducted using Stata. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including median and range for continuous variables, and frequency counts and percentages for categorical variables. Ethical approval was granted by Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD) Research Office (Reference no: RESP/14/184), the Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) (Reference no: LNR/14/HAWKE/265) and the study conforms to the Australian National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research. Informed consent was obtained from all participants via a study information leaflet that was provided with the patient questionnaire and patients were informed that their participation in the study was optional. Patients indicated their consent by completing the data collection form for each day of treatment.

Results

A significant number of Infusors (27%) emptied outside the expected infusion duration of 24 h ± 10% (21.6–26.4 h) and Infusors were removed ‘not empty’ when the nurse visited >24 h on 35% of occasions. Infusors were more likely to empty >24 h if they contained piperacillin‐tazobactam 13.5 g (predicted probability = 1.0), in winter (predicted probability = 0.83), and in cooler overnight storage locations (predicted probability = 0.64). Infusors were more likely to empty <24 h if they contained vancomycin (predicted probability = 0.12).

Conclusion

Infusors delivering 24‐h continuous intravenous infusions in the home setting may empty at unpredictable times and may be affected by temperature or solutions with varying doses. Outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy clinicians should be aware of possible unfinished infusions from Infusors.
Prediction model for pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma using nCounter assay
Authors: Oh Young Lyun , Byeon Sun‐Ju , Suh Yong Joon
Published: April 2024

Background

World Health Organization defined pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas (PPGL) as malignant tumors in 2017 because the existing classification system could not reflect locally aggressive behavior sufficiently. However, predicting the likelihood of metastasis remains a crucial part of the treatment strategy.

Methods

From one tertiary care hospital and one secondary hospital, 97 PPGL cases were selected. Medical records of PPGL cases with the presence of formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissue of primary lesion were reviewed. For FFPE tissues, a nCounter assay was conducted to determine differently expressed genes between metastatic and non‐metastatic PPGL groups. Performances of prediction models for the likelihood of metastasis were calculated.

Results

Of a total of 97 PPGL cases, 39, 20, and 38 were classified as benign, malignant, and validation, respectively. In the nCounter assay, CDK1, TYMS, and TOP2A genes showed significant differences in expression. Tumor size was positively correlated with CDK1 expression level. The Lasso regression model showed supreme performance of sensitivity 91.7% and specificity 95.5% when those significant factors were considered.

Conclusion

Machine learning of multi‐modal classifiers can be used to create a prediction model for metastasis of PPGL with high sensitivity and specificity using nCounter assay. Moreover, CDK1 inhibitors could be considered for developing drug treatment.
Activation of ASIC3/ERK pathway by paeoniflorin improves intestinal fluid metabolism and visceral sensitivity in slow transit constipated rats
Authors: Deng Yuan , Zhao Qiong , Zhou Hong‐Yun , Zhang Zi‐Qi , Zhan Yu
Published: April 2024

Slow transit constipation (STC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders in children and adults worldwide. Paeoniflorin (PF), a monoterpene glycoside compound extracted from the dried root of Paeonia lactiflora, has been found to alleviate STC, but the mechanisms of its effect remain unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of PF on intestinal fluid metabolism and visceral sensitization in rats with compound diphenoxylate‐induced STC. Based on the evaluation of the laxative effect, the abdominal withdrawal reflex test, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the visceral sensitivity, fluid metabolism‐related proteins, and acid‐sensitive ion channel 3/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ASIC3/ERK) pathway‐related molecules. PF treatment not only attenuated compound diphenoxylate‐induced constipation symptoms and colonic pathological damage in rats but also ameliorated colonic fluid metabolic disorders and visceral sensitization abnormalities, as manifested by increased colonic goblet cell counts and mucin2 protein expression, decreased aquaporin3 protein expression, improved abdominal withdrawal reflex scores, reduced visceral pain threshold, upregulated serum 5‐hydroxytryptamine, and downregulated vasoactive intestinal peptide levels. Furthermore, PF activated the colonic ASIC3/ERK pathway in STC rats, and ASIC3 inhibition partially counteracted PF's modulatory effects on intestinal fluid and visceral sensation. In conclusion, PF alleviated impaired intestinal fluid metabolism and abnormal visceral sensitization in STC rats and thus relieved their symptoms through activation of the ASIC3/ERK pathway.
Hypoxia‐mediated attenuation of EGLN2 inhibition of the NF‐κB signaling pathway leads to the formation of a loop between HIF‐1α and MUC1‐C promoting chemoresistance in bladder cancer
Authors: Qing Liangliang , Li Qingchao , Yang Yongjin , Xu Wenbo , Wang Yanan , Li Rongxing , You Chengyu , Dong Zhilong
Published: April 2024

The expression pattern of MUC1‐C in tumors is closely linked to tumor progression; however, its specific mechanism remains unclear. The expression of MUC1‐C in cancer and adjacent normal tissues was detected using immunohistochemistry and Western blot. The IC50 of cells to gemcitabine was determined using the CCK8 assay. The effects of hypoxia and MUC1‐C on the behavioral and metabolic characteristics of bladder cancer cells were investigated. Gene expression was assessed through Western blot and polymerase chain reaction. The relationship between the genes was analyzed by co‐immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence and Western blot. Finally, the role of the EGLN2 and NF‐κB signaling pathways in the interaction between MUC1‐C and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) was investigated. MUC1‐C expression is significantly higher in bladder cancer tissues than in adjacent normal tissues, particularly in large‐volume tumors, and is closely correlated with clinical features such as tumor grade. Tumor volume‐mediated hypoxia resulted in increased expression of MUC1‐C and HIF‐1α in bladder cancer cells. Under stimulation of hypoxia, the inhibitory effect of EGLN2 on the NF‐κB signaling pathway was weakened, allowing NF‐κB to promote the positive feedback formation of MUC1‐C and HIF‐1α. Simultaneously, EGLN2‐mediated degradation of HIF‐1α was reduced. This ultimately led to elevated HIF‐1α‐mediated downstream gene expression, promoting increased glucose uptake and glycolysis, and ultimately resulting in heightened chemotherapy resistance and malignancy.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion in natural science education: A review of literature
Authors: Goodwin Catlin M. , McKendree Robert Bud
Published: April 2024

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are relevant in societal discourse and have implications for educators in natural sciences disciplines. A synthesis of DEI research in these disciplines is necessary to identify opportunities to strengthen initiatives and identify future research needs. The purpose of this study was to introduce a review of current literature related to DEI in natural sciences education, exploring the frameworks, methods, and focal areas of current literature as well as synthesizing findings, and recommendations for practice and research. Key findings indicate that while conversations and interventions surrounding issues of DEI are occurring, inequities across various scales of the education system still exist. Recommendations center on the need for critical reflexivity on the part of individuals, programs, and the larger education system to identify inequities and opportunities for change.
Somatic GNA11/GNAQ variants in a cohort of Chinese children with phakomatosis pigmentovascularis
Authors: Zhang Bin , He Rui , Wu Riga , Yang Zhou , Hu Man , Zhang Nan , Guo Wu , Xu Zigang , Ma Lin
Published: April 2024

Importance

Postzygotic mutations in the GNAQ/GNA11 genes, which encode the G‐protein nucleotide binding protein alpha subunits, have been identified in patients with phakomatosis pigmentovascularis (PPV). However, little is known about the Chinese population.

Objective

To identify pathogenic mutations in pediatric patients with PPV within the Chinese population.

Methods

We performed whole‐exome sequencing (WES) using skin lesion tissues from pediatric patients diagnosed with PPV. Additionally, ultradeep‐targeted sequencing was conducted to validate the somatic mutations. A genotype‐phenotype correlation was analyzed by integrating data from previous reports with the findings of the present study.

Results

Thirteen patients were enrolled, all diagnosed with the cesioflammea type of PPV, except for one patient with an unclassifiable type. We identified somatic GNA11 c.547C>T (p.R183C) variant in seven patients and GNAQ c.548G>A (p.R183Q) in four patients, with low allelic fractions ranging from 2.1% to 8.6% through ultradeep sequencing. Besides, a GNAQ c.548G>A (p.R183Q) variant was detected through targeted sequencing in one of two patients who did not exhibit detectable variants via WES. The genotype‐phenotype correlation analysis, involving 15 patients with a GNA11 variant and 10 with a GNAQ variant, revealed that facial capillary malformation (87% vs. 50%, P = 0.075) and ocular melanocytosis (80% vs. 40%, P = 0.087) appeared to be more frequent in patients with GNA11 mutation compared to those with GNAQ mutations. All four patients diagnosed with cesiomarmorata type or overlapping cesioflammea and cesiomarmorata type PPV carried the GNA11 variant.

Interpretation

Our study demonstrated that the majority of PPV patients in the Chinese population carried a postzygotic variant of GNAQ/GNA11, thus further confirming the pathogenic role of GNAQ/GNA11 mosaicism in the development of PPV cesioflammea type.
Primary ciliary dyskinesia in Egypt: First report of cilia ultrastructural defects and novel genetic variants
Authors: Shoman Walaa , Elbanna Amr G. , Fassad Mahmoud R. , Elheneidy Moushira A. R. , Petrarca Laura , 3billion Consortium  , Elsawy Ihab , Fasseeh Nader
Published: April 2024

Background

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a genetic disorder that follows several inheritance patterns predominately autosomal recessive. It is caused by aberrant motile cilia structure and/or function. Diagnosis of PCD is challenging, involving complex technical steps and requiring special expertise. Here, we report the first attempt to employ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to precisely diagnose PCD in Egypt. The study aims to outline the findings of diagnostic procedures, including TEM and genetic analysis, carried out on a cohort of Egyptian patients clinically suspected of having PCD.

Methods

A cohort of 48 individuals underwent testing to determine their PCD status. The diagnostic modalities used included genetic and TEM analysis. Clinical features and diagnostic test outcomes were described.

Results

PCD was confirmed in 27 of the 48 participating cases. Class 1 hallmark defects were the most commonly detected TEM findings. Outer dynein arm defect in addition to microtubular disorganization with inner dynein arm loss was found equally to be the most common diagnostic defects in the confirmed cases. A highly heterogeneous genetic background was found with 14 different affected genes. Of these, CCDC39 was the most commonly mutated one. The variants, c.430‐1G>A in DNAAF6, c.8099C>T in DNAH11, c.263T>C in DNAL1, c.1154dup in NEK10, c.487C>T in HYDIN, and c.90+1G>C in CCDC39 gene were detected novel variants.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of PCD is challenging especially in low‐ and middle‐income countries. As there is no single reference diagnostic test, integrating diagnostic modalities, such as TEM and genetics, can enhance diagnosis.
FOXA1 regulates ribosomal RNA transcription in prostate cancer
Authors: Jia Tianwei , Liu Chenxu , Guo Ping , Xu Yaning , Wang Wenzheng , Liu Xiaoyu , Wang Song , Zhang Xianglin , Guo Haiyang
Published: April 2024

Background

Ribosome biogenesis is excessively activated in tumor cells, yet it is little known whether oncogenic transcription factors (TFs) are involved in the ribosomal RNA (rRNA) transactivation.

Methods

Nucleolar proteomics data and large‐scale immunofluorescence were re‐analyzed to jointly identify the proteins localized at nucleolus. RNA‐Seq data of five prostate cancer (PCa) cohorts were combined and integrated with multi‐dimensional data to define the upregulated nucleolar TFs in PCa tissues. Then, ChIP‐Seq data of PCa cell lines and two PCa clinical cohorts were re‐analyzed to reveal the TF binding patterns at ribosomal DNA (rDNA) repeats. The TF binding at rDNA was validated by ChIP‐qPCR. The effect of the TF on rRNA transcription was determined by rDNA luciferase reporter, nascent RNA synthesis, and global protein translation assays.

Results

In this study, we reveal the role of oncogenic TF FOXA1 in regulating rRNA transcription within nucleolar organization regions. By analyzing human TFs in prostate cancer clinical datasets and nucleolar proteomics data, we identified that FOXA1 is partially localized in the nucleolus and correlated with global protein translation. Our extensive FOXA1 ChIP‐Seq analysis provides robust evidence of FOXA1 binding across rDNA repeats in prostate cancer cell lines, primary tumors, and castration‐resistant variants. Notably, FOXA1 occupancy at rDNA repeats correlates with histone modifications associated with active transcription, namely H3K27ac and H3K4me3. Reducing FOXA1 expression results in decreased transactivation at rDNA, subsequently diminishing global protein synthesis.

Conclusions

Our results suggest FOXA1 regulates aberrant ribosome biogenesis downstream of oncogenic signaling in prostate cancer.
Coadministration of fluconazole to boost subtherapeutic sirolimus concentrations: A case report
Authors: Scherkl Camilo , Meid Andreas D. , Cuntz Sven E. , Classen Laura , Weiss Johanna , Czock David , Haefeli Walter E.
Published: April 2024

Individual sirolimus whole blood concentrations are highly variable, critically influenced by the concomitant use of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A inducers or inhibitors, and also modulated by food. Therapeutic drug monitoring is therefore recommended, especially at treatment start or in circumstances that can influence sirolimus exposure. In this case report, we highlight the challenge of achieving therapeutic sirolimus concentrations and present pragmatic solutions with regimen adaptions, pharmacokinetic enhancement (use of a drug–drug interaction), concentration monitoring, and subsequent modeling of population pharmacokinetics to support treatment decisions. In a 69‐year‐old female patient with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, sirolimus concentrations were stable until she developed cerebral toxoplasmosis with tonic–clonic seizures. During treatment of this acute infection, sirolimus concentrations dropped to subtherapeutic levels and remained largely unaffected by dose increases. [Correction added on 4 May 2024, after first online publication: The word “tacrolimus concentrations” has been changed to “sirolimus concentrations” in the preceding sentence.] Only the simultaneous administration of the CYP3A4 inhibitor fluconazole and a shortening of the sirolimus dosing intervals to a (non‐approved) twice‐daily administration led to successful control of the concentrations, which ultimately even made a dose reduction possible. This intervention resulted in an increase of sirolimus mean trough concentration to 5.85 ng/mL, i.e., into the desired target range. Additionally, a higher ratio of sirolimus trough levels/daily dose from 26.9 to 109 ng/mL/mg/kg/day was achieved with the initiation of fluconazole. Thus, this case report describes the use of clinical pharmacological concepts and pharmacokinetic modeling to optimize treatment strategies in an individual patient. This strategy could be generalized to other CYP inhibitors and other treatment regimens.
Experimental study on the explosion‐resistant performance of blast walls and doors of gas facilities
Authors: Ryu Young Jo , Lee Yong Gil , Park Dal Jae
Published: April 2024

This study aims to provide experimental data necessary for the validation of the test conditions given in the current standard for high‐pressure gas facility KGS FU111. A series of experiments were conducted in a shock tube on 15 specimens (walls and doors) constructed according to the design recommendations in KGS FP112. The design elements of 12 walls are the materials, the thickness, and the holder positions, while the 3 doors were made of steel plates with different types and structures. The shock tube tester used in dividual specimens were exposed to blast overpressure of 0.11 or 0.17 MPa. From the acquired data and visual inspection, we conclude that the current designs of blast mitigation for high‐pressure gas‐storage facilities in KGS FP112 are acceptable for an accidental overpressure of up to 0.17 MPa, provided that both sides of the wall are supported by auxiliary structures such as adjacent barriers. Furthermore, the walls and doors as in KGS FP112 show comparable protection performances. Nevertheless, recommendations for doors are as follows: it may require additional latches and remain closed, and when designing the facility, the doorway may be located in a place with less possibility of direct exposure to the overpressure.
Darker side of industry 4.0 and its impact on triple‐bottom‐line sustainability
Authors: Narkhede Ganesh , Dohale Vishwas , Mahajan Yash
Published: April 2024

While the literature commonly prevails a positive outlook on how Industry 4.0 (I4.0) enhances sustainability, there exists an understudied aspect—the darker side of I4.0—that has negative implications and has not yet been systematically addressed. This research aims to challenge the assumption of a sustainable I4.0 by highlighting the potential negative implications of I4.0 technologies on sustainability, emphasising potential measures to mitigate such effects, and presenting a framework for a sustainable future. A dual research methodology was used to conduct this research work. The systematic literature review (SLR) method was used to synthesise the literature. Additionally, a questionnaire was sent to 34 manufacturing Small and Medium‐Sized Enterprises (SMEs) to measure their current progress towards triple‐bottom‐line (TBL) sustainability. This SLR navigates through the complex multifaceted nature of the dark side of I4.0, including job displacement, wage disparity, cybersecurity risks, socio‐economic disparities, and environmental effects. This study presents a structured five‐step approach that emphasises the integration of cutting‐edge I4.0 technologies with a focus on sustainable development practices to address economic, environmental, and social issues for a sustainable I4.0 future. This article aimed to understand I4.0 as a whole phenomenon from the perspective of TBL sustainability. The originality of this research article lies in uncovering the hitherto less‐understudied negative aspects of I4.0 and presenting a complex interpretation of I4.0 and its impact on TBL sustainability.
The moderating role of catastrophizing in day‐to‐day dynamic stress and depressive symptoms
Authors: Zhan Lei , Lin Li , Wang Xiaoyu , Sun Xianghong , Huang Zheng , Zhang Liang
Published: April 2024

The way individuals handle daily stressors can significantly influence their mental health. Those who struggle with emotion regulation are especially vulnerable to the negative effects of stress. This study explored the role of catastrophizing, a maladaptive emotion regulation strategy, in shaping the relationships between daily stress responses and depressive symptoms. A total of 75 healthy college students participated in the study. We adopted an Ecological Momentary Assessment protocol over 14 consecutive days to capture the day‐to‐day dynamics of stress reactivity and recovery. Our findings indicate that individuals with higher levels of catastrophizing exhibited increased daily stress reactivity and delayed daily stress recovery, consequently raising their likelihood of experiencing amplified depressive symptoms. In contrast, those with lower levels of catastrophizing did not experience the same negative effects of increased daily stress reactivity on their mental health. These results enhance understanding of how real‐life stressors contribute to the development of mental health issues and underscore the importance of adaptive emotion regulation for improved overall health and well‐being.
Vacuum‐Assisted Deposition of Highly Hydrophobic Self‐Assembled Monolayer for High‐Efficiency Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Lee Sang‐Heon , Lee Hyun‐Jung , Kim Do‐Ha , Noh Yong‐Jin , Kwon Sung‐Nam , Kim Do‐Hyung , Na Seok‐In
Published: April 2024

Recently, various carbazole‐based self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) have been investigated for use in the hole transport layer (HTL) of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In particular, [4‐(3,6‐dimethyl‐9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)butyl] phosphonic acid (Me‐4PACz) is attracting attention as an HTL for high‐efficiency PSC due to its potential for high open‐circuit voltage (VOC) and fill factor (FF). However, Me‐4PACz has strong hydrophobicity due to its methyl group (–CH3) and long alkyl chain (C4H8), which makes it difficult to deposit a high‐quality perovskite layer on top of conventionally coated Me‐4PACz. In this study, to overcome these limitations, a new SAM deposition method based on a vacuum‐assisted deposition (VD) process is attempted. As a result, a uniform perovskite layer is deposited on top of Me‐4PACz through a very simple VD process, achieving 20.31% efficiency, which is not only close to the highest efficiency among Me‐4PACz‐based PSCs, but also improved long‐term stability of the device. It is believed that the findings of this study can be a cornerstone for using SAM‐based HTL with high hydrophobicity in the future.
Systematic review: Comparing zk‐SNARK, zk‐STARK, and bulletproof protocols for privacy‐preserving authentication
Authors: Oude Roelink Bjorn , El‐Hajj Mohammed , Sarmah Dipti
Published: April 2024

This systematic literature review examines the implementation and analysis of zk‐SNARK, zk‐STARK, and bulletproof non‐interactive zero‐knowledge proof (NIZKP) protocols in privacy‐preserving applications across diverse sectors. Examining 41 research works obtained through the systematic search queries and filtering criteria published from 2015 to April 2023, we categorized findings into financial, medical, business, general, and other domains. Our analysis highlights significant variations of up to several orders of magnitude in real‐world performance across implementations utilizing NIZKP protocols. However, divergent methodologies in security analyses hindered conclusive comparisons. Addressing research gaps, our future endeavors aim to establish a real‐world benchmark for these protocols.
Flexural fatigue performance and damage evolution analysis of multiscale polypropylene fiber‐reinforced concrete
Authors: Liang Ninghui , You Xiufei , Zhou Kan , Liu Xinrong , Mao Jinwang
Published: April 2024

As an excellent concrete reinforcement material, polypropylene fiber has a high potential for bulk‐scale applications. In this study, a comprehensive experimental campaign was carried out to assess the flexural fatigue performance of multiscale polypropylene fiber‐reinforced concrete (MPFRC). Two types of fine polypropylene fiber (FPF) and one type of coarse polypropylene fiber (CPF) were selected for single doping or hybridization into concrete. The fatigue deformation damage mechanism of polypropylene fiber reinforced concrete (PFRC) was analyzed through acoustic emission (AE) and scanning electron microscopy. Results indicated that the incorporation of polypropylene fibers could significantly improve the strength of concrete, with the best results for MPFRC, where the compressive, tensile, and flexural strength were increased by 13.12%, 20.59%, and 25.49%, respectively, compared to the plain concrete. The fatigue life of PFRC obeyed the Weibull distribution at different stress levels, with the mean fatigue life of MPFRC increasing by up to 6.37 times. The fatigue strain‐to‐cycle ratio curves coincided with the cumulative AE ringing count‐to‐cycle ratio curves, both showed that the fatigue damage process of MPFRC underwent three distinct stages, accounting for 5%, 85%, and 10% of the total fatigue life, respectively. By forming a three‐dimensional mesh structure inside the concrete, polypropylene fibers effectively mitigated internal damage and improved the fatigue performance of the concrete.
Factors influencing water strategy objectives fulfillment: A survey findings from Sudan
Authors: Abdelgalil Eltigani , Mohamed Mohamed , Musa Manahil , Barakat Nagla , Abdelrahman Fathelrahman
Published: April 2024

Challenges faced by countries in their struggle for economic and social development are increasingly related to water. Developing and managing water resources requires an appropriate water strategy. However, many factors influence the achievement of desired goals of water strategies. This qualitative study analyzes factors influencing water strategies to promote appropriate water management. Data was collected during 2019 from 10 states of North Kurdufan, White Nile, Gezira, Sennar, Gedarif, Khartoum, Kassala, Red Sea, River Nile, and Northern state in Sudan. A total of 300 people including water officials, water supply engineers, and community leaders were interviewed. Water availability, community participation, coordination between water institutions, integrated water resources management (IWRM), and finance were identified as factors influencing water strategy objectives fulfillment. Out of 300 respondents in all states, a group of 149 (49.7%), mentioned that water strategy objectives were fulfilled and more than half of the respondents 151 (50.3%) evaluated that water strategy objectives were not fulfilled. A multiple regression statistically significantly predicted water strategy objective achievement, F (5, 295) = 57.6314 p < .005, R = .704. R2 = .485, from water availability, coordination between water‐related institutions, IRWM, and availability of finance. Results show that community participation, water availability, coordination between water‐related institutions, and availability of finance are insignificantly (p > .005) influenced water strategy objective fulfillment. The findings will contribute to the social dimension of water resources management and development.
Visualization
Authors: Münster Sander , Apollonio Fabrizio Ivan , Bluemel Ina , Fallavollita Federico , Foschi Riccardo , Grellert Marc , Ioannides Marinos , Jahn Peter Heinrich , Kurdiovsky Richard , Kuroczyński Piotr , Lutteroth Jan-Eric , Messemer Heike , Schelbert Georg
Published: April 2024

3D computer-based visualization refers to all those methodologies adopted to produce, represent, describe, transmit, and present graphically/visually digital 3D models in a way that is perceivable by the human eye. Visualization is one of the core aspects of 3D reconstruction because it is the most effective medium to synthesize complex data in a visual way and makes the results more accessible and comprehensible not only to professionals but also to laypersons.
Introduction
Authors: Barrientos Armando
Published: April 2024

This Introduction discusses the main features of the approach adopted in the book. It offers a brief review of the main literature, highlighting key influences on the approach in the book, and new departures. It provides a map to the structure and contents of the book.
Methods
Authors: Barrientos Armando
Published: April 2024

This chapter discusses methods appropriate to the study of social protection in Latin America. It reviews and assesses the main methodological approaches employed by researchers in the past. Building on these, it identifies methods appropriate to developing a theoretical perspective capable of explaining the evolution and current configuration of social protection institutions in the region. Recent trends in social research methods reveal a renewed emphasis on causal inference. The application of quasi-experimental methods in the study of the outcomes of social protection interventions, initially in the context of conditional income transfers, has focused attention on the causal effects of social protection interventions. The chapter assesses the challenges associated with the application of causal inference models in the context of research on institutions relying on observational data. It argues the potential outcomes approach offers a systematic framework for incorporating attention to counterfactuals. It makes a case for the use of graphical casual models to help discriminate causal versus non-causal association between variables, thus refining researchers’ hypotheses and linking the model to potential empirical counterparts.
A study of the SYK2 model with twisted boundary conditions
Authors: Murugan Jeff , Slayen Ruach Pillay , Van Zyl Hendrik J. R.
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We study a version of the 2-body Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev (SYK2) model whose complex fermions exhibit twisted boundary conditions on the thermal circle. As we show, this is physically equivalent to coupling the fermions to a 1-dimensional external gauge field A(t). In the latter formulation, the gauge field itself can be thought of as arising from a radial symmetry reduction of a (2 + 1)-dimensional Chern-Simons gauge field Aμ(t,x). Using the diagnostic tools of the out-of-time-order correlator (OTOC) and spectral form factor (SFF), which probe the sensitivity to initial conditions and the spectral statistics respectively, we give a detailed and pedagogical study of the integrable/chaotic properties of the model. We find that the twisting has no effect on the OTOCs and, by extension, the early-time chaos properties of the model. It does, however, have two notable effects on the spectral form factor; an enhancement of the early-time slope and the emergence of an explicit twisting-dependent timescale needed for the manifestation of zero modes. These zero modes are responsible for the late-time exponential ramp in the quadratic SYK model.
No U(1) ‘electric-magnetic’ duality in Einstein gravity
Authors: Monteiro Ricardo
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We revisit the question of whether classical general relativity obeys, beyond the linearised order, an analogue of the global U(1) electric-magnetic duality of Maxwell theory, with the Riemann tensor playing the role analogous to the field strength. Following contradictory claims in the literature, we present a simple gauge-invariant argument that the duality does not hold. The duality condition is the conservation of the helicity charge. Scattering amplitudes of gravitons in general relativity, and of gluons in Yang-Mills theory, violate this selection rule already at tree level. Indeed, the maximally-helicity-violating (MHV) amplitudes are famous for their simplicity. The duality in the linearised theories is, therefore, broken by the interactions. In contrast, the tree-level scattering amplitudes in duality-invariant theories of non-linear electromagnetism are known to obey helicity conservation. While the duality is not a symmetry of the full theory of general relativity, it does hold within a sector of the solution space, including vacuum type D solutions, where the duality is known to rotate between mass and NUT charge.
Bedeutung von künstlicher Intelligenz für die Risikoerkennung vor chirurgischen Eingriffen
Authors: Sanchez Rosenberg Guillermo , Egloff Christian
Published: April 2024

Nach Herzerkrankungen und Schlaganfall ist die postoperative Sterblichkeit innerhalb von 30 Tagen nach dem Indexeingriff die dritthäufigste Todesursache weltweit [24]. In der elektiven Orthopädie liegt die 30-Tage-Mortalitätsrate unter 1 % [4], dennoch können postoperative Komplikationen oft verheerend sein. In der Ära der „qualitativen Gesundheitsversorgung“ ist die Umsetzung von Strategien zur Risikostratifizierung und zur Optimierung der Zuweisung von Gesundheitsressourcen zur Verbesserung der postoperativen Ergebnisse von entscheidender wirtschaftlicher Bedeutung. Dieser Beitrag untersucht die transformative Rolle der künstlichen Intelligenz (KI) bei der Risikobewertung in der Orthopädie als Teil des ganzheitlichen Entscheidungsprozesses zur Verbesserung der Ergebnisse im Gesundheitswesen.
Mathematical analysis of modified level-set equations
Authors: Bothe Dieter , Fricke Mathis , Soga Kohei
Published: April 2024

The linear transport equation allows to advect level-set functions to represent moving sharp interfaces in multiphase flows as zero level-sets. A recent development in computational fluid dynamics is to modify the linear transport equation by introducing a nonlinear term to preserve certain geometrical features of the level-set function, where the zero level-set must stay invariant under the modification. The present work establishes mathematical justification for a specific class of modified level-set equations on a bounded domain, generated by a given smooth velocity field in the framework of the initial/boundary value problem of Hamilton–Jacobi equations. The first main result is the existence of smooth solutions defined in a time-global tubular neighborhood of the zero level-set, where an infinite iteration of the method of characteristics within a fixed small time interval is demonstrated; the smooth solution is shown to possess the desired geometrical feature. The second main result is the existence of time-global viscosity solutions defined in the whole domain, where standard Perron’s method and the comparison principle are exploited. In the first and second main results, the zero level-set is shown to be identical with the original one. The third main result is that the viscosity solution coincides with the local-in-space smooth solution in a time-global tubular neighborhood of the zero level-set, where a new aspect of localized doubling the number of variables is utilized.
Fisheye freshness detection using common deep learning algorithms and machine learning methods with a developed mobile application
Authors: Yildiz Muslume Beyza , Yasin Elham Tahsin , Koklu Murat
Published: April 2024

Fish is commonly ingested as a source of protein and essential nutrients for humans. To fully benefit from the proteins and substances in fish it is crucial to ensure its freshness. If fish is stored for an extended period, its freshness deteriorates. Determining the freshness of fish can be done by examining its eyes, smell, skin, and gills. In this study, artificial intelligence techniques are employed to assess fish freshness. The author’s objective is to evaluate the freshness of fish by analyzing its eye characteristics. To achieve this, we have developed a combination of deep and machine learning models that accurately classify the freshness of fish. Furthermore, an application that utilizes both deep learning and machine learning, to instantly detect the freshness of any given fish sample was created. Two deep learning algorithms (SqueezeNet, and VGG19) were implemented to extract features from image data. Additionally, five machine learning models to classify the freshness levels of fish samples were applied. Machine learning models include (k-NN, RF, SVM, LR, and ANN). Based on the results, it can be inferred that employing the VGG19 model for feature selection in conjunction with an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) for classification yields the most favorable success rate of 77.3% for the FFE dataset.

Graphical Abstract
Transcriptome response of diatom Skeletonema marinoi to lower temperature
Authors: Jing Xiaoli , Zhen Yu , Mi Tiezhu , Yu Zhigang , Wang Yucheng , Wang Xiaohong
Published: April 2024

Temperature is an important environmental factor for phytoplankton. Phytoplankton growth, metabolism, biodiversity, productivity, and distribution are influenced by temperature-driven nutrient stratification and mixing, as well as species’ optimal growth temperatures. There have been a number of studies focused on physiological and biochemical mechanisms of environmental–biological interactions in diatoms, yet the underlying transcriptional regulators remain limited. Here, we performed an RNA-seq-based gene expression analysis to explore the Skeletonema marinoi (isolated from Jiaozhou Bay of Qingdao, 36.13°N, 120.16°E on July 5th, 2013) cellular responses induced by low temperature (12 °C). Digital gene expression profiling of S. marinoi generated 20,319 unigenes, of which 573 differentially expressed genes appeared in the low-temperature treatment group. According to GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, different genes were involved in ten metabolic and biosynthesis pathways: ribosome, lipid, porphyrin, and chlorophyll metabolism showed strong transcriptional cold tolerances. The regulation of genes related to translation processes (e.g., pentatricopeptide repeat), fatty acid metabolism (e.g., acyl-CoA synthetase), and photosynthesis (e.g., porphyrin enzymes) provides new molecular-level insight into cold stress responses in eukaryotic marine phytoplankton. Our study suggests that this Skeletonema species could be a potential candidate for understanding the fate of thermo-sensitive diatom communities and oceanic ecosystems facing climate change.
Insights into plant regeneration: cellular pathways and DNA methylation dynamics
Authors: Lee Seunga , Park Young Seo , Rhee Ji Hoon , Chu Hyojeong , Frost Jennifer M. , Choi Yeonhee
Published: April 2024

Plants, known for their immobility, employ various mechanisms against stress and damage. A prominent feature is the formation of callus tissue—a cellular growth phenomenon that remains insufficiently explored, despite its distinctive cellular plasticity compared to vertebrates. Callus formation involves dedifferentiated cells, with a subset attaining pluripotency. Calluses exhibit an extraordinary capacity to reinitiate cellular division and undergo structural transformations, generating de novo shoots and roots, thereby developing into regenerated plants—a testament to the heightened developmental plasticity inherent in plants. In this way, plant regeneration through clonal propagation is a widely employed technique for vegetative reproduction. Thus, exploration of the biological components involved in regaining pluripotency contributes to the foundation upon which methods of somatic plant propagation can be advanced. This review provides an overview of the cellular pathway involved in callus and subsequent de novo shoot formation from already differentiated plant tissue, highlighting key genes critical to this process. In addition, it explores the intricate realm of epigenetic regulatory processes, emphasizing the nuanced dynamics of DNA methylation that contribute to plant regeneration. Finally, we briefly discuss somaclonal variation, examining its relation to DNA methylation, and investigating the heritability of epigenomic changes in crops.