bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vergleichende geobotanische Untersuchungen in der Baschkirischen ASSR 4. Teil: Wiesen‐ und Saumgesellschaften
Authors: Klotz Stefan , Köck Uwe‐Volkmak
Published: August 2024

Der vierte Teil der ”Vergleichenden geobotanischen Untersuchungen in der Baschkirischen ASSR“ enthält die Ergebnisse der pflanzensoziologischen Untersuchungen der Wiesen‐ und Saumvegetation.

Auf der Grundlage der Braun‐Blanquet‐Methode wird die floristisch‐soziologische Struktur der ausgeschiedenen Vegetationseinheiten dargestellt. Die Gesellschaften werden synökologisch charakterisiert und die pflanzengeographisch‐synchorologischen Aspekte im Vergleich mit mitteleuropäischen Pflanzengesellschaften diskutiert.
Neue Hyphomyzeten‐Arten aus Kuba
Authors: Arnold Günter R. W. , Ruiz Rafael F. Castañeda
Published: August 2024

Als Ergebnis von Aufsammlungen impurfekter Pilze (Hyphomycetes) aus verschiedenen Gebieten Kubas werden Scolecobasidiella tropicalis sp. nov., Alysidiopsis foliicola sp. nov., Staheliella nivea sp. nov., Oncopodiella cubensis sp. nov., Riessia sp. und Grallomyces portoricensis Stevens als neue Vertreter der Mykoflora des Landes vorgestellt.
Preliminary image evaluation performance of radiographers in one New Zealand District: a 6‐month prospective study
Authors: Lewis Kim , Mdletshe Sibusiso , Doubleday Andrea , Pieterse Tracey
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Preliminary image evaluation (PIE) is a system where radiographers alert emergency department referrers to the presence or absence of abnormalities on acute extremity X‐ray examinations. PIE and similar systems have been utilised in the United Kingdom (UK) and Australia due to a shortage of radiologists to provide a timely report. As New Zealand (NZ) faces a similar shortage, PIE should be considered to address the negative impact this has on patients. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of regular feedback and education on radiographers' performance when detecting and describing acute abnormalities on extremity X‐ray examinations in ED.

Methods

A prospective longitudinal study design was utilised for this study. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and accuracy of PIEs performed by seven radiographers at a public provincial district in NZ were assessed over a 6‐month period, with the participants provided monthly results along with regular e‐mailed feedback on common errors.

Results

The mean for sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy calculated with a 95% confidence interval over the 6‐month period were 92.8% (89.9, 95.8), 94.9 (93.1, 96.8), and 94.2 (91.9, 96.5), respectively. When the month‐to‐month results were analysed, the results demonstrated an improvement in participants' sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy over the 6‐month period.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrated that radiographers who participated in the study can perform PIE to a high standard that is comparable with the findings from international studies and demonstrated an improvement over 6 months. Therefore, PIE may be useful in NZ to aid ED clinicians in their clinical decisions when a radiology report is unavailable.
Dried plasma spot as an innovative approach to therapeutic drug monitoring of apixaban: Development and validation of a novel liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method
Authors: Cafaro Alessia , Stella Manuela , Baiardi Giammarco , Barco Sebastiano , Pigliasco Federica , Bandettini Roberto , Nanni Luca , Mattioli Francesca , Cangemi Giuliana
Published: August 2024

Apixaban, a direct oral anticoagulant drug (DOAC), typically does not require routine therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM), yet recent guidelines propose its use in specific clinical scenarios. While various antifactor Xa (anti‐FXa) chromogenic assays serve as useful proxies for measuring plasma exposure to apixaban in emergencies, they lack specificity compared with chromatographic methods. This research project is intended to the development and validation of a standardized protocol of liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) in conformity with the ICH guidelines M10 for the measurement of apixaban in both plasma and dried plasma spots (DPSs). Samples preparation included protein precipitation after the addition of a deuterated internal standard (IS), and the chromatographic separation was carried out on a Thermo Scientific™ Accucore™ Polar Premium column (50 mm × 2.1 mm, i.d. 2.6 m). The newly developed LC–MS/MS method for apixaban mesurement from both plasma and DPS resulted linear over a wide concentration range (31.25–500 ng/mL), accurate, and reproducible without matrix effects, allowing for specific and rapid quantification. Stability was assessed on quality controls and a real sample, allowing the setting up of a robust TDM protocol that was applied to five anonymized plasma samples obtained from adult patients undergoing apixaban treatment at steady‐state. In conclusion our novel LC–MS/MS method is adequate for accurate apixaban quantitation from both plasma and DPS matrixes, and may thus facilitate the guidelines suggested implementation of apixaban TDM, even in peripheral hospitals through shipment of DPS at reference laboratories.
Human papillomavirus and Merkel cell polyomavirus in Korean patients with nonsmall cell lung cancer: Evaluation and genetic variability of the noncoding control region
Authors: Jin Hyoung‐Tae , Kim Yong‐Sun , Choi Eun‐Kyoung
Published: August 2024

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is an important causative factor of cervical cancer and is associated with nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a rare and highly fatal cutaneous virus that can cause Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). Although coinfection with oncogenic HPV and MCPyV may increase cancer risk, a definitive etiological link has not been established. Recently, genomic variation and genetic diversity in the MCPyV noncoding control region (NCCR) among ethnic groups has been reported. The current study aimed to provide accurate prevalence information on HPV and MCPyV infection/coinfection in NSCLC patients and to evaluate and confirm Korean MCPyV NCCR variant genotypes and sequences. DNA from 150 NSCLC tissues and 150 adjacent control tissues was assessed via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting regions of the large T antigen (LT‐ag), viral capsid protein 1 (VP1), and NCCR. MCPyV was detected in 22.7% (34 of 150) of NSCLC tissues and 8.0% (12 of 150) of adjacent tissues from Korean patients. The incidence rates of HPV with and without MCPyV were 26.5% (nine of 34) and 12.9% (15 of 116). The MCPyV NCCR genotype prevalence in Korean patients was 21.3% (32 of 150) for subtype I and 6% (nine of 150) for subtype IIc. Subtype I, a predominant East Asian strain containing 25 bp tandem repeats, was most common in the MCPyV NCCR data set. Our results confirm that coinfection with other tumor‐associated viruses is not associated with NSCLC. Although the role of NCCR rearrangements in MCPyV infection remains unknown, future studies are warranted to determine the associations of MCPyV NCCR sequence rearrangements with specific diseases.
Fully automated hybrid approach on conventional MRI for triaging clinically significant liver fibrosis: A multi‐center cohort study
Authors: Zha Jun‐hao , Xia Tian‐yi , Chen Zhi‐yuan , Zheng Tian‐ying , Huang Shan , Yu Qian , Zhou Jia‐ying , Cao Peng , Wang Yuan‐cheng , Tang Tian‐yu , Song Yang , Xu Jun , Song Bin , Liu Yu‐pin , Ju Sheng‐hong
Published: August 2024

Establishing reliable noninvasive tools to precisely diagnose clinically significant liver fibrosis (SF, ≥F2) remains an unmet need. We aimed to build a combined radiomics‐clinic (CoRC) model for triaging SF and explore the additive value of the CoRC model to transient elastography‐based liver stiffness measurement (FibroScan, TE‐LSM). This retrospective study recruited 595 patients with biopsy‐proven liver fibrosis at two centers between January 2015 and December 2021. At Center 1, the patients before December 2018 were randomly split into training (276) and internal test (118) sets, the remaining were time‐independent as a temporal test set (96). Another data set (105) from Center 2 was collected for external testing. Radiomics scores were built with selected features from Deep learning‐based (ResUNet) automated whole liver segmentations on MRI (T2FS and delayed enhanced‐T1WI). The CoRC model incorporated radiomics scores and relevant clinical variables with logistic regression, comparing routine approaches. Diagnostic performance was evaluated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). The additive value of the CoRC model to TE‐LSM was investigated, considering necroinflammation. The CoRC model achieved AUCs of 0.79 (0.70, 0.86), 0.82 (0.73, 0.89), and 0.81 (0.72‐0.91), outperformed FIB‐4, APRI (all p < 0.05) in the internal, temporal, and external test sets and maintained the discriminatory power in G0‐1 subgroups (AUCs range, 0.85–0.86; all p < 0.05). The AUCs of joint CoRC‐LSM model were 0.86 (0.79–0.94), and 0.81 (0.72–0.90) in the internal and temporal sets (p = 0.01). The CoRC model was useful for triaging SF, and may add value to TE‐LSM.
High rates of anal Merkel Cell Polyomavirus and HPV co‐infection among people living with HIV
Authors: Passerini Sara , Fracella Matteo , Benvenuto Domenico , Bugani Ginevra , D'Auria Alessandra , Coratti Eleonora , Babini Giulia , Moens Ugo , Cavallari Eugenio Nelson , Torti Carlo , Antonelli Guido , Ciccozzi Massimo , Pierangeli Alessandra , d'Ettorre Gabriella , Scagnolari Carolina , Pietropaolo Valeria
Published: August 2024

Knowledge of Human Polyomavirus (HPyV) infection in the anal area and its association with sexually transmitted infections such as Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains limited. Therefore, anal specimens from 150 individuals of both sexes were analyzed for screening purposes. HPV DNA was found in 50.7% of cases, with a predominance of high‐risk (HR) genotypes. HPyV DNA was found in 39.3% of samples, with Merkel Cell Polyomavirus (MCPyV) being the most common, with a higher viral load than JCPyV and BKPyV. In addition, MCPyV viral load increased in people living with HIV (PLWH) with HPV infection (p < 0.0001).
Mean sea level, tidal components and surges in Guanabara Bay (Rio de Janeiro) from 1990 to 2021
Authors: Tecchio Rodrigo , de Souza Danilo Couto , da Silva Matheus Bonjour Laviola , de Oliveria Costa Marcia Carolina , de Camargo Ricardo , Harari Joseph
Published: August 2024

Guanabara Bay, located in the Metropolitan Region of Rio de Janeiro, one of the largest urban coastal areas in the Southern Hemisphere, is subject to intense maritime traffic due to the presence of several ports. These facilities are affected by sea level fluctuations, influenced by atmospheric and astronomical forces, which motivates synoptic and climatological analysis, including meteorological and astronomical tidal phenomena. This study aimed to assess the evolution of tidal components and the relative mean sea level (MSL) between 1990 and 2021, as well as the atmospheric influence on extreme meteorological tide events, in which the MSL exceeded ±2 and ±3 (±29.98 and ±44.97 cm) standard deviations. The results have shown that, albeit small, the main tidal components (, , , , , , and ) indicated positive trends in the increase of amplitude and phase, despite the small quantities. For the relative MSL, an increase of 0.30 cm·year−1 was observed in agreement with estimates from global series from satellite altimeters and climate model predictions. Pressure and wind field analyses led to the identification of seasonal variability and the pattern of evolution of atmospheric systems associated with extreme events. In the case of positive surges, very intense winds from the SW, extending along the S/SE Brazilian coast, are caused by the presence of a high‐pressure centre over the continent and low‐pressure centres over the ocean, leading to water piling up. In turn, negative surges are caused by the presence of an anticyclone over the ocean, generating NE winds parallel to the coast of Rio de Janeiro, inducing Ekman transport and lowering the sea level. Therefore, the extreme sea level events in the Guanabara Bay are not triggered by local forces, but rather depend on the temporal persistence and direction of winds along the S/SE Brazilian coast.
Obvious difference of dominant circulation patterns between dry‐type and humid‐type heatwaves in North China
Authors: Ding Ting , Gao Hui , Xie Tiejun
Published: August 2024

Based on the observed maximum temperature (Tmax), relative humidity (RH) and NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data during 1981–2021, basic temporal features and dominant atmospheric circulation patterns of dry‐type and humid‐type heatwaves in North China are investigated and compared. Statistical results indicate the dry heatwaves occur mainly in early summer (from early June to early July), that is, before the rainy season of North China, while the humid heatwaves have a high frequency in mid‐July to mid‐August. During the research period, the increasing trend of dry heatwaves is 0.67 days·decade−1, while the humid heatwaves increase at a greatly higher rate of 1.85 days·decade−1. For the dry heatwave, a high ridge in the subtropical westerlies plays the main role, and the northerly wind in the east of the ridge reduces the air moisture convergence over the region. However, for the humid heatwave, the westward and northward propagations of the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) may make the major contribution, and the southerly wind anomalies in the west of the WPSH enlarge the water vapour to the region. The adiabatic heating in subsiding air at all levels and horizontal temperature advection at lower troposphere are stronger for dry heatwaves than for humid heatwaves, which cause a higher Tmax for the former type. These results highlight the diversity of the heatwaves in North China, which suggests that multiple local and large‐scale subseasonal circulations should be considered to improve the subseasonal to seasonal forecast skills for heat extremes.
Heatwaves in Vietnam: Characteristics and relationship with large‐scale climate drivers
Authors: Pham‐Thanh Ha , Pham‐Thi Ly , Phan Hien , Fink Andreas H. , van der Linden Roderick , Phan‐Van Tan
Published: August 2024

This study analyses the spatio‐temporal variability of heatwave characteristics and their association with large‐scale climate drivers across seven climatic sub‐regions in Vietnam, including the Northwest (R1), Northeast (R2), Red River Delta (R3), North Central (R4), South Central (R5), Central Highlands (R6) and the South (R7). The analysis is based on observed daily maximum temperatures from 102 meteorological stations, spanning the period 1980–2020. The obtained results reveal diverse heatwave patterns across the country. Amongst the seven climatic sub‐regions of Vietnam, the R3 and R4 sub‐regions experienced more frequent heatwaves and a higher number of heatwave days, but shorter durations. In contrast, other sub‐regions had fewer heatwave events and heatwave days but experienced longer‐lasting heatwaves. The intensity of heatwave events varies amongst sub‐regions, with the highest value in the R4 sub‐region, and the lowest in R7. Notably, the R1–R5 sub‐regions are affected by heatwaves over larger areas, compared to others. Additionally, the findings confirm that the lagged influence of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is the primary climatic driver of heatwave characteristics in Vietnam. Generally, heatwaves tend to occur more frequently in the years following El Niño events than after La Niña events. This observation provides opportunities for developing a system of seasonal predictions of heatwaves in Vietnam. The impact of ENSO on the number of heatwave events and heatwave days is evident in five out of seven sub‐regions, with less impact in the R2 and R7 sub‐regions. However, it does not significantly affect heatwave intensity.
Effect of hot‐air drying on drying characteristics and quality of tiger nut
Authors: Chen Pengxiao , Bao Han , Jiang Mengmeng , Zhu Wenxue , Zhao Yating , Zhang Runyang , Zhu Kaihao
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

The delayed drying of newly harvested tiger nuts can lead to mold and rancidity. Timely drying is therefore important. However, few studies have analyzed the impact of hot‐air drying on the quality of tiger‐nut oil and starch, making it essential to establish optimal drying conditions.

RESULTS

The results showed that the drying temperature was the most important factor affecting the drying speed, followed by drying airflow rate and loading capacity. A logarithmic model can describe the hot‐air drying process of tiger nuts. The oil yield of tiger nut was highest after drying at 60 °C, reaching 22.40%. Meanwhile, the starch extracted from after drying at 60 °C had the highest solubility and expansion rate, 4.77% and 9.74%, respectively. Starch has the highest viscosity after drying at 70 °C, and it forms gel easily after aging.

CONCLUSION

High‐quality tiger nuts should be produced under optimal conditions: a hot‐air drying temperature of 60 °C, an airflow rate of 1.0 m s−1, and a loading capacity of 100 g. The results of this study have practical implications for the effective drying of tiger nuts. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Drug sensitivity tumor cell clusters in malignant peritoneal mesothelioma
Authors: Su Yan‐Dong , Ma Ru , Fu Yu‐Bin , Wu He‐Liang , Liang Xin‐Li , Liu Yi‐Tong , Yu Yang , Yang Zhi‐Ran , Li Yan
Published: August 2024

Background

To explore the most effective adjuvant chemotherapy regimen for malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) through patient derived tumor‐like cell clusters (PTC) drug sensitivity test.

Methods

PTC were cultured in vitro with intraoperative specimens, and drug sensitivity test was performed to calculate the most effective chemotherapy regimen for MPM. The patients were divided into conventional and individualized chemotherapy group according to whether they received PTC drug testing. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify independent prognostic factors.

Results

Among 186 MPM patients included, 63 underwent PTC culture and drug sensitivity test. The results showed that the most effective chemotherapy regimen was oxaliplatin + gemcitabine. After propensity score matching, a total of 64 patients were enrolled in the following study, including 32 patients receiving individualized chemotherapy guided by PTC drug results as group 1 and 32 patients receiving conventional chemotherapy as group 2. Survival analysis showed that the median OS of group 1 was not reached, significantly longer than that of group 2 (23.5 months) (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared with conventional chemotherapy, individualized chemotherapy guided by PTC drug sensitivity tests can prolong patient survival, and oxaliplatin + gemcitabine + apatinib could be the optimal adjuvant treatment regimen for MPM.
The influence of fence design on the movement patterns of eastern long‐necked turtles
Authors: Dowling James M. , Bower Deborah S. , Boscarino‐Gaetano Remo , Nordberg Eric J.
Published: August 2024

Fences disturb the movements of terrestrial species, altering migration patterns, limiting access to vital resources, and reducing genetic diversity. With almost 40% of the Earth's land surface converted for agriculture, farm fencing to protect crops and corral livestock is expected to stretch into the millions of kilometers. As semi‐terrestrial ectotherms, freshwater turtles are threatened by fences that limit access to resources and increase risks of desiccation, entanglement, and overheating, often resulting in death. To determine the effect of fences, we quantified the movement patterns for a population of eastern long‐necked turtles (Chelodina longicollis) inhabiting an agricultural landscape near Armidale, New South Wales, Australia from November 2022 to September 2023. There was considerable variation in the distance traveled, home range size, and movement corridor selection between turtles that was not explained by the morphological factors of size, mass, or the loss of a limb (likely due to predation attempts). On average, 38% ± 4.70 ( ± SE) of turtle movements were terrestrial (overland) during their active season (spring and summer) during which they encountered fences frequently because of a complex matrix of paddocks. Fence design dictated the distance turtles traveled to locate a suitable passage point. The majority of fences allowed turtles to pass (turtle‐friendly fences, 71.4% of total fence distance) as opposed to turtle‐unfriendly fences (28.6% of total fence distance). Turtles were required to travel almost 4 times the distance to locate a suitable crossing point (a gap or fault in the fence) when they encountered an unfriendly fence (85.32 m ± 29.81) compared to a turtle‐friendly fence (25.85 m ± 3.58). Our results highlight the need for land managers to avoid small‐diameter exclusion fencing and fence designs containing chicken wire that extend to or below ground level. In settings where small‐diameter wire fencing is required, we recommend the installation of turtle gates for small terrestrial fauna or elevating bottom wires at least 50 mm above ground level to facilitate fence permeability.
A Sixteen‐user Time‐bin Entangled Quantum Communication Network With Fully Connected Topology
Authors: Huang Yiwen , Qi Zhantong , Yang Yilin , Zhang Yuting , Li Yuanhua , Zheng Yuanlin , Chen Xianfeng
Published: August 2024

Quantum key distribution (QKD) promises unconditionally information‐theoretic secure communication guaranteed by the laws of physics and has become one of the most crucial candidates in future security aspects. Developing a large‐scale network with a scalable and integrated scheme is of great significance for expanding the advantages of QKD protocols among multiple users. Here, a sixteen‐user fully connected quantum network by using a novel time‐bin entangled source implemented in the integrated multi‐channel periodically poled lithium niobate waveguides is proposed. Based on this entangled source, the quantum processor prepares 120 entangled photon pairs to allocate 15 links to each user by utilizing dense wavelength division multiplexing technology. To enable the users’ communication with each other simultaneously, a phase‐compensated Mach‐Zehnder Interferometer based on a Fourier‐transform setup to control the relative phase of the interferometer for all the involved wavelength channels is developed. The experimental results show that the network can support sixteen users for long‐distance communication with each other simultaneously. The novel scheme of time‐bin entangled sources paves an efficient way for implementing large‐scale quantum resources in a compact integrated platform, and the time‐bin entangled network promises a new potential for constructing large‐scale and extensible quantum networks with an integrated photonic architecture.
Eco‐Friendly, Recyclable Supramolecular Inks Incorporating Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Ding Chunxiao , Bai Meng , Liu Ruirui , Zhang Xinyue , Ma Ning , Abd‐El‐Aziz Alaa S.
Published: August 2024

In contemporary society, with its emphasis on environmental stewardship, the development of “green” (eco‐friendly) inks is of paramount importance. These inks are utilized across a broad spectrum of applications, ranging from the printing of packaging material to the 3D printing of functional components. This study explores the synthesis of eco‐friendly, biodegradable supramolecular polymer materials predicated on ureido‐pyrimidinone (UPy). The subsequent formulation of these materials into functional inks is achieved by the incorporation of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). These resultant inks exhibit outstanding photothermal conversion properties, robust electrical conductivity, intrinsic self‐repair capabilities, and superior writability. Moreover, this research demonstrates the recyclability of MWCNTs within the ink matrix, exhibiting a recovery efficiency of ≈90%. Such a high recovery rate offers a novel perspective on the sustainable reuse of conductive fillers in polymer‐based inks.
Measure theoretic aspects of the finite Hilbert transform
Authors: Curbera Guillermo P. , Okada Susumu , Ricker Werner J.
Published: August 2024

The finite Hilbert transform , when acting in the classical Zygmund space (over ), was intensively studied in [8]. In this note, an integral representation of is established via the ‐valued measure for each Borel set . This integral representation, together with various non‐trivial properties of , allows the use of measure theoretic methods (not available in [8]) to establish new properties of . For instance, as an operator between Banach function spaces is not order bounded, it is not completely continuous and neither is it weakly compact. An appropriate Parseval formula for plays a crucial role.
Controllable Design and Synthesis of Polyurethane Elastomers Containing Polar Dangling Chains with High Mechanical Properties and Wide Damping Temperature Range
Authors: Zhang Zhenpeng , Li Lin , Jiang Xiaolin , Lu Xun
Published: August 2024

Vibration and noise severely affect the operation of mechanical equipment and is also detrimental to human health. Therefore, the development of high performance damping materials is crucial. However, current methods to improve damping properties often come at the expense of mechanical properties, resulting in inferior mechanical performance of materials. In order to address the issue of imbalance between damping properties and mechanical properties in polyurethane damping elastomers. In this study, polyester dangling chains containing polar groups are synthesized and introduced into polyurethane. The obtained polyurethane exhibited an effective damping temperature range of 154 °C (−54 °C to 100 °C) and a tensile strength of 15.82 MPa. Furthermore, dynamic mechanical analysis and broadband dielectric relaxation spectroscopy are combined to investigate the influence of polar dangling chains on the structure and properties of polyurethane. The degree of microphase separation increases after the introduction of polar dangling chains, indicating enhances intermolecular interaction forces, facilitating the formation of hydrogen bond between the main chain and dangling chains, thereby increasing molecular chain friction and energy dissipation. This work overcomes the challenge of balancing the damping and mechanical properties of polyurethane, providing a new strategy for designing high performance polyurethane damping elastomers.
An inflammatory liquid fingerprint predicting tumor recurrence after liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yang Modan , Lin Zuyuan , Zhuang Li , Pan Linhui , Wang Rui , Chen Hao , Hu Zhihang , Shen Wei , Zhuo Jianyong , Yang Xinyu , Li Huigang , He Chiyu , Yang Zhe , Xie Qinfen , Dong Siyi , Chen Junli , Su Renyi , Wei Xuyong , Yin Junjie , Zheng Shusen , Lu Di , Xu Xiao
Published: August 2024

Tumor recurrence is a life‐threatening complication after liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Precise recurrence risk stratification before transplantation is essential for the management of recipients. Here, we aimed to establish an inflammation‐related prediction model for posttransplant HCC recurrence based on pretransplant peripheral cytokine profiling. Two hundred and ninety‐three patients who underwent LT in two independent medical centers were enrolled, and their pretransplant plasma samples were sent for cytokine profiling. We identified four independent risk factors, including alpha‐fetoprotein, systemic immune‐inflammation index, interleukin 6, and osteocalcin in the training cohort (n = 190) by COX regression analysis. A prediction model named inflammatory fingerprint (IFP) was established based on the above factors. The IFP effectively predicted posttransplant recurrence (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUROC]: 0.792, C‐index: 0.736). The high IFP group recipients had significantly worse 3‐year recurrence‐free survival rates (37.9 vs. 86.9%, p < 0.001). Simultaneous T‐cell profiling revealed that recipients with high IFP were characterized by impaired T cell function. The IFP also performed well in the validation cohort (n = 103, AUROC: 0.807, C‐index: 0.681). In conclusion, the IFP efficiently predicted posttransplant HCC recurrence and helped to refine pretransplant risk stratification. Impaired T cell function might be the intrinsic mechanism for the high recurrence risk of recipients in the high IFP group.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress in diseases
Authors: Liu Yingying , Xu Chunling , Gu Renjun , Han Ruiqin , Li Ziyun , Xu Xianrong
Published: August 2024

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a key organelle in eukaryotic cells, responsible for a wide range of vital functions, including the modification, folding, and trafficking of proteins, as well as the biosynthesis of lipids and the maintenance of intracellular calcium homeostasis. A variety of factors can disrupt the function of the ER, leading to the aggregation of unfolded and misfolded proteins within its confines and the induction of ER stress. A conserved cascade of signaling events known as the unfolded protein response (UPR) has evolved to relieve the burden within the ER and restore ER homeostasis. However, these processes can culminate in cell death while ER stress is sustained over an extended period and at elevated levels. This review summarizes the potential role of ER stress and the UPR in determining cell fate and function in various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic diseases, autoimmune diseases, fibrotic diseases, viral infections, and cancer. It also puts forward that the manipulation of this intricate signaling pathway may represent a novel target for drug discovery and innovative therapeutic strategies in the context of human diseases.
CoCl2‐induced glioma hypoxia environment enhances CD47‐SIRPα to promote tumor immune evasion
Authors: Ding Xiangfei , Hou Jianbing , Hu Xiaosong , Peng Wen , Li Yongsen , Zhao Gaichao , Cui Hongjuan , Wu Zonghui , Liang Ping
Published: August 2024

Elevated levels of tumor‐associated macrophages and microglia in the immune microenvironment of malignant gliomas promote tumor growth and progression. Although immune evasion has been implicated in these processes, the mechanisms underlying the regulation of CD47‐SIRPα‐mediated immune evasion under hypoxic conditions remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the mechanisms through which CD47‐SIRPα modulates immune evasion in a cobalt chloride (CoCl2)‐induced hypoxic microenvironment of malignant gliomas. Human and mouse glioma cell lines were used to investigate immune evasion in vitro. After membrane protein extraction and nucleoplasmic isolation, we downregulated the expression levels of transport receptors to elucidate the regulation of CD47‐SIRPα transport. The CoCl2‐induced hypoxic microenvironment attenuated microglial phagocytosis in glioma cells. Enhanced CD47‐SIRPα interaction promoted immune evasion, which negatively affected tumor clearance. In addition, the intracellular transport of CD47 was promoted in the CoCl2‐induced hypoxic state. This process was regulated by regulator of chromosome condensation 1 (RCC1) and sortilin in the nuclear cytoplasm and cytoplasmic membrane, respectively. These results demonstrate the CD47‐SIRPα‐mediated immune escape mechanism of the CoCl2‐induced glioma hypoxic environment, which is associated with enhanced intracellular transport of CD47. Our findings provide a theoretical basis for the potential development of novel therapies targeting CD47‐SIRPα.
Compact multi‐band eight‐element MIMO antenna with decoupled antenna pairs for 5G mobile terminal applications
Authors: Li Ke , Geng Hanxin , Guo Jinge , Fan Jiale , Luan Yuchen
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a novel design method for a tri‐band multiple in multiple out (MIMO) antenna. The antenna consists of four sets of identical antenna pairs arranged on the two side frames. Three resonant modes can be obtained using a microstrip coupling feed structure by employing different branches in antenna unit design. The working frequencies of the modes can be adjusted independently. Moreover, in each pair of antennas, two antenna units were closely arranged and a decoupling grounding branch was employed between the adjacent antennas to ensure good isolation. The tri‐band eight‐element MIMO antenna operates at 3.5, 4.9, and 5.6 GHz and the isolations were better than 14 dB. The proposed antenna had a low profile of 0.06 and good isolation so it has potential applications in 5G mobile terminals.
Volume changes of deep brain structures in episodic migraine
Authors: Aghayari Sheikh Neshin Saeideh , Shahverdi Samaneh , Broomand Lomer Nima , Yazdanipour Mohammad Ali , Emir Alavi Cyrus , Fallah Arzpeyma Sima , Saberi Alia , Shabani Chobe Mohammad
Published: August 2024

Background and Purpose

Gray matter (GM) volumes have previously shown variations in different regions in patients with migraine, particularly in cortical regions. This study focused on comparative volumetric assessment of deep brain structures, including GM and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), in patients with and without migraine. Furthermore, a relationship between the measured volumes and clinical features of migraine was investigated.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study, 30 patients with episodic migraine and 30 subjects without migraine were investigated through brain MRI. The migraine group had a mean ± standard deviation (SD) age of 39 ± 12 (77% female, 23% male), and the control group had a mean ± SD age of 40.5 ± 11 (70% female, 30% male). Groups were matched in terms of age, gender, and comorbidities. T1‐weighted images were transferred to an automated MRI analysis tool to measure the volumes of interested regions.

Results

Our results showed that GM volumes of caudate nuclei, thalami, mammillary bodies, right nucleus accumbens, and CSF volumes of lateral ventricles in migraine group were significantly higher compared to the control group. In addition, migraine was independently associated with a higher volume of caudates, thalami, mammillary bodies, and lateral ventricles but a lower volume of the third and fourth ventricles. An analysis of migraine clinical features revealed that a longer duration of migraine was associated with a lower GM volume of the right mammillary body and higher CSF volumes of lateral ventricles, and the third ventricle.

Conclusion

Our study supported the hypothesis that migraine is independently associated with the volumes of deep brain structures, specifically the thalamus, caudate, mammillary body, and ventricular system.
Exponential time difference methods with spatial exponential approximations for solving boundary layer problems
Authors: Zhu Liyong , Wang Xinwei , Lu Tianzheng
Published: August 2024

In this work, an efficient and stable exponential time difference method is presented for solving boundary layer problems. By combining exponential time difference schemes with spatial direct discontinuous Galerkin discretization based on exponential boundary layer approximations, the proposed algorithm not only may admit large time step sizes but also could provide good spatial approximations even if on rather coarse spatial grids in the boundary layer. Some energy stabilities of the numerical scheme are rigorously derived. Numerical examples illustrate the accuracy, stability and efficiency of the algorithm.
An explicit fourth‐order hybrid‐variable method for Euler equations with a residual‐consistent viscosity
Authors: Zeng Xianyi
Published: August 2024

In this article, we present a formally fourth‐order accurate hybrid‐variable (HV) method for the Euler equations in the context of method of lines. The HV method seeks numerical approximations to both cell averages and nodal solutions and evolves them in time simultaneously; and it is proved in previous work that these methods are supraconvergent, that is, the order of the method is higher than that of the local truncation error. Taking advantage of the supraconvergence, the method is built on a third‐order discrete differential operator, which approximates the first spatial derivative at each grid point using only the information in the two neighboring cells. Analyses of stability, accuracy, and pointwise convergence are conducted in the one‐dimensional case for the linear advection equation; whereas extension to nonlinear systems including the Euler equations is achieved using characteristic decomposition and the incorporation of a residual‐consistent viscosity to capture strong discontinuities. Extensive numerical tests are presented to assess the numerical performance of the method for both 1D and 2D problems.
Jet slipping mechanism and fabricating of composite fiber by multiple field coupling
Authors: Hong Da , Huang Xinyu , Zhang Zhiming , Ji Qiaoling , Chen Zhen , Xu Qiao
Published: August 2024

The rotary jet spinning process involves the joint action of centrifugal force, gravity, temperature, humidity, and flow fields on the spinning solution. The solution is ejected through the nozzle after flowing from the storage container and stretched in the air to form a composite fiber. At present, the investigation of rotary jet composite spinning primarily focused on the dynamics and kinematics of the spinning solution and jet within the container. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive exploration into the motion and slip phenomena exhibited by the composite spinning solution in air. This article investigates the slip phenomenon between the polymer and the gas contact surface after the spinning solution leaves the spinneret aperture. A slip model is established to analyze the motion and force of the polymer in air. Meanwhile, a mathematical model for the evaporation rate of composite spinning solution motion under the influence of multi‐field coupling is established through theoretical analysis. A numerical simulation of the rotary jet spinning process was conducted to obtain clouds of jet exit velocity. The morphology of composite fibers produced by rotary jet spinning was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, enabling a comparison of diameter distribution and surface quality under different environmental and equipment parameters. This study provides a certain reference for the preparation of high‐quality composite fibers.
Barriers to access of precision guided therapies for children with high‐risk cancer
Authors: Mazariego Carolyn , Daly Rebecca , McGill Brittany , Kelada Lauren , McKay Skye , Hetherington Kate , Ziegler David S. , Wakefield Claire E. , Taylor Natalie
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Accessing compassionate access schemes to obtain novel therapeutic agents for children with hard‐to‐treat cancers can be fraught with challenges such as regulatory barriers and limited resources. This study aimed to explore clinician perspectives on the barriers, impacts and ethical considerations of accessing novel therapeutic agents within the context of a paediatric oncology precision medicine trial.

Methods

We gathered data from 37 semi‐structured interviews with paediatric oncologists participating in the PRecISion Medicine for Children with Cancer (PRISM) study, a precision medicine clinical trial in Australia. The interviews, conducted over 2 years, focused on paediatric oncologist's experiences with the PRISM trial. Interviews were re‐analysed to identify themes related to access pathways and any challenges in obtaining novel agents through thematic analysis. The resulting thematic framework was discussed and refined by a multidisciplinary team.

Results

Three main themes were identified: (i) barriers to access, including poor drug availability, lack of evidence and the time burden of the application process; (ii) impacts of inaccessibility, encompassing medical consequences and financial burden on families; and (iii) ethical considerations, centred around balancing realistic expectations and providing compassionate care to patients and families. Paediatric oncologists expressed frustration with the complex regulatory landscape and the lack of systematic reporting on applications and outcomes of obtaining novel agents. Lengthy wait times for decision notifications were also highlighted, raising concerns about missed therapeutic opportunities for patients.

Conclusion

This study provides insight to the challenges faced when seeking access to novel therapies for paediatric oncology patients. There is a clear need for improved communication, streamlining processes and increased resources to facilitate access to novel agents. Further resource development is necessary to address these complexities in accessing novel therapy agents to ultimately ensure equitable and timely access.
Optimizing Formulation Conditions of PLGA Microparticles to Enhance Indomethacin Encapsulation
Authors: Arabia Martina , Maretti Eleonora , Sedighidarijani Armita , Rustichelli Cecilia , Leo Eliana
Published: August 2024

Drug delivery systems can avoid the drawbacks of Indomethacin (IND), a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug used to treat osteoarthritis and arthritis, which requires high doses to reach therapeutic plasma levels leading to significant systemic side effects. This study aims to optimize poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles (MPs) for intra‐articular IND administration. MPs are prepared by solvent evaporation and freeze‐dried for stability. Initial formulations with Tween 80 yield rubbery samples with low drug loading (1%); replacement of Tween 80 with Gelatin produces a stable powder with syringable MPs (particles size: 7 µm), although, DL (3%) and EE (30%) remain suboptimal, due to IND polymorphic transformation. Differential Scanning Calorimetry and Fourier‐Transform Infrared spectroscopy demonstrate a molecular dispersion of IND in PLGA. Adjusting the aqueous phase to pH 3 in the formulation process, i.e below IND pKa, significantly enhances EE (90%) due to the reduction of drug solubility in the external aqueous phase. In vitro release study shows prolonged IND release over several days, confirming an effective drug encapsulation. This study provides a foundational framework toward the optimization of the successful encapsulation of IND in PLGA MPs, potentially advancing future clinical applications of such drug delivery systems.
Nonresonant Terahertz Detector Based on Improved N‐Polar AlGaN/GaN Plasma Wave High‐Electron‐Mobility Transistors
Authors: Dai Yang , Yuan Ruosong , Li Yukun , Gao Leiyu , Zhang Yiting , Wang Pengzhan , Zhang Yunyao , Lei Xiaoyi , Zhang Han , Zhao Wu
Published: August 2024

The THz photoresponse of four different structures of N‐ and Ga‐polar AlGaN/GaN plasma wave high‐electron‐mobility transistors (HEMTs) has been comparatively investigated. Based on these results, an improved N‐polar plasma wave HEMT detector is proposed: an AlGaN cap layer is introduced in the standard N‐polar HEMT, so as to obtain a lower gate leakage current, thus improving the operating characteristics of plasma wave HEMT. The results show that the responsivity of the improved N‐polar HEMT obtains a significant improvement and as the Al component of AlGaN cap layer increases, the noise equivalent power of the improved N‐polar HEMT has also been optimized.
On the Study of Thickness Gradients in Novel Star Honeycombs: Classical and Combinatorial Designs
Authors: Li Xuelin , Li Zhuangzhuang , Guo Zhuoyu , Lin Jiahui , Zhou Yue , Mo Zonglai , Li Jun
Published: August 2024

Herein, a series of gradient designs are carried out to enhance further the energy absorption capacity of a novel star honeycomb. These include unidirectional and bidirectional gradient designs along the impact direction, while the gradient changes in the non‐impact direction are considered. Via the coupling of bidirectional and unidirectional directions, a combined gradient evolution method is further proposed. The in‐plane compression characteristics of these gradient honeycombs are systematically revealed based on the validated finite element method at low‐, medium‐, and high‐velocity impacts, respectively. The results show that honeycombs with gradient variations in the impact direction are realized as localized modes under both low‐ and medium‐velocity impacts, while honeycombs with gradient design only in the non‐impact direction exhibited global modes and “local + global” modes, respectively; under high‐speed impacts, honeycombs with gradient configurations in the non‐impact direction showed stepped layer‐by‐layer collapses, whereas honeycombs with gradient evolutions only in the impact direction collapsed in I‐shaped layers. Besides, the increase in compressive strength and specific energy absorption of honeycomb with combined gradient configuration can be up to 38.1% and 67.9%. This article provides a new idea of honeycomb gradient evolution, which can provide a reference for improving the energy‐absorption capacity of honeycombs.
Pulmonary perfusion in long‐term survivors of COVID‐19‐related severe acute respiratory distress syndrome treated by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Miksová Lucie , Dytrych Vladimír , Ptáčník Václav , Balík Martin , Linhart Aleš , Bělohlávek Jan , Jansa Pavel
Published: August 2024

COVID‐19 associates with a hypercoagulant state and an increased risk for venous thromboembolic events (VTEs). Whether severe COVID‐19 infection requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support might lead to chronic pulmonary perfusion abnormalities and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary disease/hypertension remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate chronic pulmonary perfusion abnormalities in long‐term survivors of COVID‐19‐related severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) treated by ECMO at our institution. Pulmonary perfusion was examined by ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) single‐photon emission computed tomography or V/Q planar scintigraphy at least 3 months after ECMO explantation, comorbidities and incidence of thromboembolic events were recorded as well. Of 172 COVID‐19 patients treated by ECMO for severe COVID‐19 pneumonia between March 2020 and November 2021, only 80 were successfully weaned from ECMO. Of those, 37 patients were enrolled into the present analysis (27% female, mean age 52 years). Median duration of ECMO support was 12 days. In 24 (65%) patients VTE was recorded in the acute phase (23 patients developed ECMO cannula‐related deep vein thrombosis, 5 of them had also a pulmonary embolism, and one thrombus was associated with a central catheter). The median duration between ECMO explantation and assessment of pulmonary perfusion was 420 days. No segmental or larger mismatched perfusion defects were then detected in any patient. In conclusion, in long‐term survivors of COVID‐19‐related ARDS treated by ECMO, no persistent pulmonary perfusion abnormalities were detected although VTE was common.