bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Green communication systems via a wavefront multiplexing technique
Authors: Yeh Hen‐Geul , Lee Joe 
Published: August 2024

AbstractA green communication scheme using an orthogonal wavefront (WF) multiplexing (Muxing) scheme spatially combined with orthogonal frequency‐division multiplexing (OFDM) techniques is proposed. It forms a spatial WF OFDM transceiver. The WF Muxing technique serves as the preprocessing and postprocessing method of the WF OFDM transceiver. With coordinated multiple point forward transmission, this spatial WF OFDM system establishes a communication network. It can be applied to multiple base stations (BSs) with down links to single or multiple mobile units (MUs). Although signals are received non‐coherently due to different distances between BSs and MUs, they can be compensated and coherently combined via adaptive equalizers at MUs. This is achieved by using pilot signals with an optimization method at the receiver of MUs. Simulation results demonstrate that the WF OFDM scheme obtains the same bit error rate (BER) as predicted by theory in an additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channel. Moreover, the required effective equivalent isotropically radiated power (EIRP) from BSs to the MUs is significantly reduced due to multiple non‐coherent transmission. Accordingly, the interference to adjacent frequency bands’ signals will be low. This green communication network is achieved via the combination of WF Muxing, OFDM, and optimization at the receiver together. More investigations are needed to show that this WF OFDM transceiver can be applied to frequency selective mobile fading channels.
Emerging Market Vaccine Manufacturers: Untapped Potential for Improving Health and Social Outcomes Globally
Authors: Hayman Benoit , Petty Jeffrey S. 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTThe suboptimal level of vaccine research and development globally contributes to millions of people losing their lives to vaccine‐preventable diseases each year, the vast majority of whom live in developing countries. Vaccine manufacturers based in developing countries are increasingly participating in vaccine research and development to improve the availability of these life‐saving vaccine products. To understand the extent to which these emerging market vaccine manufacturers can contribute to global vaccine research and development, and thus improve health and societal outcomes, we examined the capabilities, priorities, and strategies of these organizations. We identified that emerging market manufacturers often engage in partnerships and solicit external support to alleviate the technical and financial hurdles associated with the complexity and cost of vaccine development. Focusing on unmet medical needs facilitates emerging market manufacturers' access to partners and external support and is critical in establishing a reputation in the global vaccine research and development ecosystem.
Enhancing epoxy composite materials through lime‐treated sugarcane bagasse and glass fiber reinforcement: Morphological, mechanical, and flame‐retardant insights
Authors: Nguyen Tuan Anh , Oanh Doan Thi Yen , Van Ngo Thuy , Nguyen Thi Thu Phuong , Nguyen Minh Viet , Nguyen Thi Huong , Bui Thi Thu Trang , Le Thi Hong Nhung , Nguyen Manh Ha , Nguyen Quang Tung 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the utilization of sugarcane bagasse and glass fiber to reinforce epoxy composites, enhancing both mechanical and fire resistance properties. Initially, bagasse is collected, sun‐dried, and finely ground before being treated with lime water at concentrations of 3%, 5%, and 7% by weight. The treated bagasse is then mixed with epoxy resin and a hardening agent, followed by a curing process. For samples incorporating glass fibers, the fibers are manually integrated and cured similarly. The methodology involved detailed preparation of the bagasse, its treatment, and subsequent integration with epoxy resin. The mixture was processed under controlled conditions to ensure uniformity and quality. Mechanical properties such as tensile strength, flexural strength, compressive strength, and impact resistance were measured. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was employed to assess thermal stability, while fire resistance was evaluated using the limiting oxygen index (LOI) and the 94‐V test method. Results demonstrated significant improvements in both mechanical and thermal properties with the addition of bagasse and glass fibers. The optimal treatment was identified at a 5% lime water concentration, yielding a tensile strength of 295.08 MPa, flexural strength of 371.24 MPa, compressive strength of 255.39 MPa, and Izod impact strength of 157.04 kJ/m2. TGA results showed the highest thermal stability at 5% concentration, with decomposition temperatures peaking at 402.52 °C. Fire resistance was markedly enhanced, achieving an LOI of 29.8% and meeting V2 level standards according to the 94‐V test method. In conclusion, treating sugarcane bagasse with a 5% lime water solution significantly enhances the mechanical and fire‐resistant properties of epoxy composites. The combination of sugarcane bagasse and glass fiber creates a robust material with high thermal stability and fire resistance, making it a viable option for applications requiring these enhanced properties.
Wind Speed‐Up in Wind Farm Wakes Quantified From Satellite SAR and Mesoscale Modeling
Authors: Hasager Charlotte Bay , Imber James , Fischereit Jana , Fujita Aito , Dimitriadou Krystallia , Badger Merete 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTSatellite synthetic aperture radar (SAR) provides ocean surface wind fields at 10 m above sea level. The objective is to investigate the capability of SAR satellite StriX observations for mapping offshore wind farm wakes. The focus is on the conditions under which an apparent wind speed‐up is generated, measured in 48% of the 67 images available. The results compare well to Sentinel‐1 observations, showing a 34% wind speed‐up rate during several years based on 1171 images. Three wind speed‐up cases have been studied in detail using the mesoscale Weather, Research, and Forecasting (WRF) model with two wind farm parameterizations. At 10 m above sea level, the SAR‐based observations and WRF model compare for most cases, though only when turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) is included in the wind farm parameterization. The TKE mixes higher momentum downward in a stable atmosphere, causing surface wind speed‐up near the surface.
Integrating vision‐based AI and large language models for real‐time water pollution surveillance
Authors: Samuel Dinesh Jackson , Sermet Yusuf , Cwiertny David , Demir Ibrahim 
Published: August 2024

AbstractWater pollution has become a major concern in recent years, affecting over 2 billion people worldwide, according to UNESCO. This pollution can occur by either naturally, such as algal blooms, or man‐made when toxic substances are released into water bodies like lakes, rivers, springs, and oceans. To address this issue and monitor surface‐level water pollution in local water bodies, an informative real‐time vision‐based surveillance system has been developed in conjunction with large language models (LLMs). This system has an integrated camera connected to a Raspberry Pi for processing input frames and is further linked to LLMs for generating contextual information regarding the type, causes, and impact of pollutants on both human health and the environment. This multi‐model setup enables local authorities to monitor water pollution and take necessary steps to mitigate it. To train the vision model, seven major types of pollutants found in water bodies like algal bloom, synthetic foams, dead fishes, oil spills, wooden logs, industrial waste run‐offs, and trashes were used for achieving accurate detection. ChatGPT API has been integrated with the model to generate contextual information about pollution detected. Thus, the multi‐model system can conduct surveillance over water bodies and autonomously alert local authorities to take immediate action, eliminating the need for human intervention.Practitioner PointsCombines cameras and LLMs with Raspberry Pi for processing and generating pollutant information.Uses YOLOv5 to detect algal blooms, synthetic foams, dead fish, oil spills, and industrial waste.Supports various modules and environments, including drones and mobile apps for broad monitoring.Educates on environmental healthand alerts authorities about water pollution.
Ethnographic Film, Fourth Cinema and Situated Knowledge Practices—from Colonial Film to Collaborative Research
Authors: Bee Julia 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe text attempts to understand the development of collaborative audiovisual knowledge practices in anthropology as situated and diffractive knowledge (Haraway, Barad, Smith). By considering specific stages in the history of collaborative and participatory projects, the article argues that collaborative filmmaking is not only a decentering of one-sided authorship and one-sided modes of representation, but also a media-specific form of knowledge that is bound to and embedded in social contexts. Through the example of colonial film, the article describes stations of demarcation and attempts to decolonize film. Current film experiments with marginalized groups have their origins in “shared anthropologies” (Rouch) and have further developed this approach through more consistent forms of Fourth Cinema and power sharing with Indigenous communities. Film is thus also able to depict amateur knowledge practices within collaborative research projects.
Pre-stroke Functional Status in Patients Undergoing Mechanical Thrombectomy: How Relevant Are False Estimations in the Emergency Setting?
Authors: Hasl Marian Maximilian , Pinho João , Baldus Sophie Gina , Gerhards Anna , Wiesmann Martin , Schulz Jörg B. , Reich Arno , Nikoubashman Omid 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The modified Rankin scale (mRS) is frequently used in the emergency setting to estimate pre-stroke functional status in stroke patients who are candidates to acute revascularization therapies (ps-mRS). We aimed to describe the agreement between pre-stroke mRS evaluated in the emergency department (ED-ps-mRS) and pre-stroke mRS evaluated comprehensively post-admission (PA-ps-mRS).

Methods
Retrospective study of consecutive ischemic stroke patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy, with available ED-ps-mRS and PA-ps-mRS. ED-ps-mRS was evaluated by the treating neurologist and documented in the emergency stroke treatment protocol. PA-ps-mRS was retrospectively evaluated with information registered in the clinical record. Collection of baseline characteristics and 3‑month outcomes. Patients with ED-overestimated pre-stroke functional status (ED ps-mRS ≤ 2 and PA-ps-mRS ≥ 3) were compared to correct low and high ED-ps-mRS groups.

Results
We included 409 patients (median age 77 years, 50% female, median NIHSS 14). Concordance of dichotomized ED-ps-mRS and PA-ps-mRS (0–2 vs. 3–5) was found in 81.4% (Cohen’s kappa = 0.476, p < 0.001). ED-overestimated pre-stroke functional status was found in 69 patients (17%). Patients with ED-overestimated pre-stroke functional status were older (p < 0.001), more frequently presented diabetes (p < 0.001), previous stroke (p = 0.014) and less frequently presented 3‑month functional independence (p < 0.001) compared to patients with correct low ED-ps-mRS. No differences in pre-stroke baseline characteristics between overestimated and correct high ED-ps-mRS was found.

Conclusion
Disagreement between dichotomized ED-ps-mRS and PA-ps-mRS (0–2 vs. 3–5) occurred in 1/5 of patients. Overestimation of pre-stroke functional status may falsely reduce the expected proportion of patients achieving favourable 3‑month functional outcomes.
Conversion chemoradiotherapy combined with nab-paclitaxel plus cisplatin in patients with locally advanced borderline-resectable or unresectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a phase i/ii prospective cohort study
Authors: Yu Nuo , Chen Xiankai , Li Jiao , Kang Xiaozheng , Wang Zhen , Zhang Ruixiang , Qin Jianjun , Li Yong , Zheng Qingfeng , Feng Guojie , Deng Lei , Zhang Tao , Wang Wenqing , Liu Wenyang , Wang Jianyang , Feng Qinfu , Lv Jima , Zhou Zongmei , Xiao Zefen , Bi Nan , Li Yin , Wang Xin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of nab-paclitaxel plus cisplatin as the regimen of conversional chemoradiotherapy (cCRT) in locally advanced borderline resectable or unresectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

Methods
Patients with locally advanced ESCC (cT3‑4, Nany, M0‑1, M1 was limited to lymph node metastasis in the supraclavicular area) were enrolled. All the patients received the cCRT of nab-paclitaxel plus cisplatin. After the cCRT, those resectable patients received esophagectomy; those unresectable patients continued to receive the definitive chemoradiotherapy (dCRT). The locoregional control (LRC), overall survival (OS), event-free survival (EFS), distant metastasis free survival (DMFS), pathological complete response (pCR), R0 resection rate, adverse events (AEs) and postoperative complications were calculated.

Results
45 patients with ESCC treated from October 2019 to May 2021 were finally included. The median follow-up time was 30.3 months. The LRC, OS, EFS, DMFS at 1 and 2 years were 81.5%, 86.6%, 64.3%, 73.2 and 72.4%, 68.8%, 44.8%, 52.7% respectively. 21 patients (46.7%) received conversional chemoradiotherapy plus surgery (cCRT+S). The pCR rate and R0 resection rate were 47.6 and 84.0%. The LRC rate at 1 and 2 years were 95.0%, 87.1% in cCRT+S patitents and 69.3%, 58.7% in dCRT patients respectively (HR, 5.14; 95%CI, 1.10–23.94; P = 0.021). The toxicities during chemoradiotherapy were tolerated, and the most common grade 3–4 toxicitiy was radiation esophagitis (15.6%). The most common postoperative complication was pleural effusion (38.1%) and no grade ≥ IIIb complications were observed.

Conclusion
nab-paclitaxel plus cisplatin are safe as the regimen of conversional chemoradiotherapy of ESCC.
Self-powered wearable biosensor based on stencil-printed carbon nanotube electrodes for ethanol detection in sweat
Authors: Marchianò Verdiana , Tricase Angelo , Macchia Eleonora , Bollella Paolo , Torsi Luisa 
Published: August 2024

AbstractHerein we introduce a novel water-based graphite ink modified with multiwalled carbon nanotubes, designed for the development of the first wearable self-powered biosensor enabling alcohol abuse detection through sweat analysis. The stencil-printed graphite (SPG) electrodes, printed onto a flexible substrate, were modified by casting multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), electrodepositing polymethylene blue (pMB) at the anode to serve as a catalyst for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) oxidation, and hemin at the cathode as a selective catalyst for H2O2 reduction. Notably, alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) was additionally physisorbed onto the anodic electrode, and alcohol oxidase (AOx) onto the cathodic electrode. The self-powered biosensor was assembled using the ADH/pMB-MWCNTs/SPG||AOx/Hemin-MWCNTs/SPG configuration, enabling the detection of ethanol as an analytical target, both at the anodic and cathodic electrodes. Its performance was assessed by measuring polarization curves with gradually increasing ethanol concentrations ranging from 0 to 50 mM. The biosensor demonstrated a linear detection range from 0.01 to 0.3 mM, with a detection limit (LOD) of 3 ± 1 µM and a sensitivity of 64 ± 2 μW mM−1, with a correlation coefficient of 0.98 (RSD 8.1%, n = 10 electrode pairs). It exhibited robust operational stability (over 2800 s with continuous ethanol turnover) and excellent storage stability (approximately 93% of initial signal retained after 90 days). Finally, the biosensor array was integrated into a wristband and successfully evaluated for continuous alcohol abuse monitoring. This proposed system displays promising attributes for use as a flexible and wearable biosensor employing biocompatible water-based inks, offering potential applications in forensic contexts.
Graphical Abstract
A novel water-based graphite ink modified with multiwalled carbon nanotubes designed for the development of a wearable self-powered biosensor enabling alcohol abuse detection through sweat analysis.
Feasibility Study for the Use of Gene Electrotransfer and Cell Electrofusion as a Single-Step Technique for the Generation of Activated Cancer Cell Vaccines
Authors: Ušaj Marko , Pavlin Mojca , Kandušer Maša 
Published: August 2024

AbstractCell-based therapies hold great potential for cancer immunotherapy. This approach is based on manipulation of dendritic cells to activate immune system against specific cancer antigens. For the development of an effective cell vaccine platform, gene transfer, and cell fusion have been used for modification of dendritic or tumor cells to express immune (co)stimulatory signals and to load dendritic cells with tumor antigens. Both, gene transfer and cell fusion can be achieved by single technique, a cell membrane electroporation. The cell membrane exposed to external electric field becomes temporarily permeable, enabling introduction of genetic material, and also fusogenic, enabling the fusion of cells in the close contact. We tested the feasability of combining gene electrotransfer and electrofusion into a single-step technique and evaluated the effects of electroporation buffer, pulse parameters, and cell membrane fluidity for single or combined method of gene delivery or cell fusdion. We determined the percentage of fused cells expressing green fluorescence protein (GFP) in a murine cell model of melanoma B16F1, cell line used in our previous studies. Our results suggest that gene electrotransfer and cell electrofusion can be applied in a single step. The percentage of viable hybrid cells expressing GFP depends on electric pulse parameters and the composition of the electroporation buffer. Furthermore, our results suggest that cell membrane fluidity is not related to the efficiency of the gene electrotransfer and electrofusion. The protocol is compatible with microfluidic devices, however further optimization of electric pulse parameters and buffers is still needed.
Graphical Abstract
Elevated Heavy Metal(loid) Blood and Feather Concentrations in Wetland Birds from Different Trophic Levels Indicate Exposure to Environmental Pollutants
Authors: Bjedov Dora , Bernal-Alviz Jorge , Buelvas-Soto Jorge Andrés , Jurman Laura Ana , Marrugo-Negrete José Luis 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe research assessed the exposure to total mercury (THg), lead (Pb), and arsenic (As) in Colombian wetland species of different trophic levels Platalea ajaja, Dendrocygna autumnalis and Nannopterum brasilianus. The results show high THg blood levels in P. ajaja (811.00 ± 349.60 µg L–1) and N. brasilianus (209.50 ± 27.92 µg L–1) with P. ajaja possibly exhibiting adverse effects. Blood Pb concentration was high in D. autumnalis (212.00 ± 208.10 µg L–1) and above the threshold for adverse effects, suggesting subclinical poisoning. Levels of blood As were below the assumed threshold for detrimental effect (20 μg L−1). The mean concentration of feather THg was below the assumed natural background levels (5 µg g−1) for all three species. Feather Pb levels exceeded the levels for assumed threshold effects in all sampled N. brasilianus (7.40 ± 0.51 µg g–1). Results for feather As concentration were below the threshold for adverse impacts in all species, although a positive correlation between As and THg concentrations was detected in P. ajaja feathers. The overall results could help understand how metal(loid)s biomagnify through trophic levels and how wetland species may serve as environmental indicators. By exploring the interactions of metal(loid)s within different matrices and body, this study offers insights into the dynamics of contaminant accumulation and distribution in the environment. This concept can be applied to wetlands worldwide, where bird species can serve as indicators of ecosystem health and the presence of contaminants such as heavy metals and metalloids.
Outcome prediction based on [18F]FDG PET/CT in patients with pleural mesothelioma treated with ipilimumab and nivolumab +/- UV1 telomerase vaccine
Authors: Thunold Solfrid , Hernes Eivor , Farooqi Saima , Öjlert Åsa Kristina , Francis Roslyn J. , Nowak Anna K. , Szejniuk Weronika Maria , Nielsen Søren Steen , Cedres Susana , Perdigo Marc Simo , Sørensen Jens Benn , Meltzer Carin , Mikalsen Lars Tore Gyland , Helland Åslaug , Malinen Eirik , Haakensen Vilde Drageset 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The introduction of immunotherapy in pleural mesothelioma (PM) has highlighted the need for effective outcome predictors. This study explores the role of [18F]FDG PET/CT in predicting outcomes in PM treated with immunotherapy.

Methods
Patients from the NIPU trial, receiving ipilimumab and nivolumab +/- telomerase vaccine in second-line, were included. [18F]FDG PET/CT was obtained at baseline (n = 100) and at week-5 (n = 76). Metabolic tumour volume (MTV) and peak standardised uptake value (SUVpeak) were evaluated in relation to survival outcomes. Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to assess differences in MTV, total lesion glycolysis (TLG), maximum standardised uptake value (SUVmax) and SUVpeak between patients exhibiting an objective response, defined as either partial response or complete response according to the modified Response Criteria in Solid Tumours (mRECIST) and immune RECIST (iRECIST), and non-responders, defined as either stable disease or progressive disease as their best overall response.

Results
Univariate Cox regression revealed significant associations of MTV with OS (HR 1.36, CI: 1.14, 1.62, p < 0.001) and PFS (HR 1.18, CI: 1.03, 1.34, p = 0.02), while multivariate analysis showed a significant association with OS only (HR 1.35, CI: 1.09, 1.68, p = 0.007). While SUVpeak was not significantly associated with OS or PFS in univariate analyses, it was significantly associated with OS in multivariate analysis (HR 0.43, CI: 0.23, 0.80, p = 0.008). Objective responders had significant reductions in TLG, SUVmax and SUVpeak at week-5.

Conclusion
MTV provides prognostic value in PM treated with immunotherapy. High SUVpeak was not associated with inferior outcomes, which could be attributed to the distinct mechanisms of immunotherapy. Early reductions in PET metrics correlated with treatment response.

Study registration
The NIPU trial (NCT04300244) is registered at clinicaltrials.gov. https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04300244?cond=Pleural+Mesothelioma&cntry=NO&draw=2&rank=4
Computation of random time-shift distributions for stochastic population models
Authors: Morris Dylan , Maclean John , Black Andrew J. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractEven in large systems, the effect of noise arising from when populations are initially small can persist to be measurable on the macroscale. A deterministic approximation to a stochastic model will fail to capture this effect, but it can be accurately approximated by including an additional random time-shift to the initial conditions. We present a efficient numerical method to compute this time-shift distribution for a large class of stochastic models. The method relies on differentiation of certain functional equations, which we show can be effectively automated by deriving rules for different types of model rates that arise commonly when mass-action mixing is assumed. Explicit computation of the time-shift distribution can be used to build a practical tool for the efficient generation of macroscopic trajectories of stochastic population models, without the need for costly stochastic simulations. Full code is provided to implement the calculations and we demonstrate the method on an epidemic model and a model of within-host viral dynamics.