bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of scalp, eyelash and eyebrow hair regrowth in patients with severe alopecia areata randomized to placebo in brave AA1 and brave AA2 trials
Authors: Zlotogorski Abraham , Vañó‐Galván Sergio , Piraccini Bianca Maria , Durand Frederick , Yu Guanglei , Chiasserini Chiara , Lu Na , Mostaghimi Arash
Published: June 2024

Background

Alopecia areata (AA) is an auto‐immune disorder characterized by non‐scarring hair loss. With the emergence of effective therapies for severe AA, there is a need to better understand the prognosis of untreated AA, specifically the potential for spontaneous hair regrowth.

Objectives

To describe hair regrowth occurring on placebo during the first 36 weeks of the BRAVE‐AA trials.

Methods

This analysis pools the data of 345 placebo‐treated patients from BRAVE‐AA1 and BRAVE‐AA2, two Phase 3 clinical trials of baricitinib, an oral selective Janus kinase inhibitor, approved for the treatment of adults with severe AA. Scalp hair regrowth was assessed by the mean change from baseline in Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT), the proportion of patients achieving a SALT score ≤20 (less than 20% hair loss); and SALT50 (50% improvement from baseline in SALT score), between Weeks 0 and 36. Patients achieving Clinician Reported Outcome (ClinRO) measures for eyebrow and eyelash hair loss™ scores of 0 or 1 (full coverage or minimal gaps) with a ≥2‐point improvement from baseline were also assessed.

Results

At Week 36, the mean [SD] change from baseline in SALT score was −5.5 [20.9], with 14 (4.1%) and 32 (9.3%) of the 345 placebo‐treated patients achieving a SALT score ≤20 and SALT50, respectively. A total of 9 (3.8%) and 8 (4.3%) patients achieved a ClinRO score of 0 or 1 with a ≥2‐point improvement from baseline for eyebrow (n = 236) and eyelash (n = 186), respectively. Patients achieving a SALT score ≤20 tended to have a lower mean SALT score at baseline and a shorter duration since the onset of AA.

Conclusions

The low likelihood of spontaneous hair regrowth observed in the BRAVE‐AA trials is consistent with other published literature. These results can aid in understanding the prognosis of severe AA when left untreated and, in turn, inform treatment‐related decisions.
Nitrogen release and microbial community characteristics during the decomposition of field‐incorporated corn straw in Northeast China
Authors: Yan Chao , Zhao Sutong , Wu Haimeng , Yang Daocheng , Hou Zhaofang , Shan Fuxin , Yan Shuangshuang , Lyu Xiaochen , Ma Chunmei , Gong Zhenping
Published: June 2024

Straw incorporation increases the amount of nutrients in soil and greatly impacts soil nitrogen and microbial communities. In this study, 15N‐labeled corn straw was used as the material, the experiment consisted of five treament (AS: placing the straw 15 cm above the soil surface, SM: using the straw to mulch the soil surface, B15: burying the straw 15 cm below the ground surface, B30: burying the straw 30 cm below the ground surface, B45: burying the straw 45 cm below the ground surface). The changes in 15N abundance in straw were analyzed. An estimation method for nitrogen release and uptake by field‐incorporated straw was proposed, and the relationships between nitrogen release and uptake and related microbes were established. The results showed that the exchange of nitrogen between maize straw buried in soil at different depths and the environment was not significant. The corn straw exposed to the air absorbed more nitrogen from the environment in the second year of decomposition, and the larger the area exposed to the air was, the more nitrogen was absorbed from the environment. The relative abundances of Burkholderiales, Flavobacteriales, Pseudomonadales, and Sphingobacteriales were significantly positively correlated with the straw decomposition rate and nitrogen release rate. The relative abundance of Rhizobiales was significantly negatively correlated with the straw decomposition rate and nitrogen release rate. The relative abundances of Sphingobacteriales, Flavobacteriales, and Pseudomonadales were significantly negatively correlated with the straw nitrogen uptake rate.
Pelagic ecosystem research incubators (PERIcosms): optimized incubation tanks to investigate natural communities under long term, low nutrient, and low metal conditions
Authors: Seelen Emily A. , Townsend Emily , Gleich Samantha J. , Caron David A. , Dugenne Mathilde , White Angelicque E. , Karl David M. , John Seth G.
Published: June 2024

In vitro incubations using natural marine communities can provide insight into community structure and function in ways that are challenging through field observations alone. We have designed a minimal metal incubation system for controlled and repeatable experimentation of microbial communities. The systems, dubbed Pelagic Ecosystem Research Incubators (PERIcosms), are 115 L, conical tanks designed to sample suspended, settled, and wall associated material for month long periods. PERIcosms combine some of the ecological advantages of large volume mesocosm incubations with the experimental ease and replication of bottle incubations, and their design is accessible for use by researchers without specialized training or travel to a designated incubation facility. Here, we provide a detailed description for the construction and implementation of PERIcosms and demonstrate their potential to promote replicable, diverse communities for several weeks under clean conditions using time‐series results from two field experiments. One field experiment utilized coastal waters collected from Santa Catalina Island, CA and the other oligotrophic waters collected offshore of Honolulu, HI. Biomass metrics (chlorophyll a and particulate carbon) along with 16S/18S DNA based community composition assessments were conducted to show that communities contained within PERIcosms remained alive and diverse for several weeks using a semi‐continuous culturing approach. We detail trace metal clean techniques that can be used to minimize external contamination, particularly for low dissolved iron environments. PERIcosms have the potential to facilitate natural community incubations which are needed to continue advancing our understanding of microbial ecology and geochemistry.
Validation of the German version of the 25‐item hikikomori questionnaire 25
Authors: Hajek André , Teo Alan R. , Zwar Larissa , König Hans‐Helmut
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The 25‐item Hikikomori Questionnaire (HQ‐25) is an instrument developed to measure a condition characterized by extreme social withdrawal that was first described in Japan. This study aimed to translate the HQ‐25 into German and validate the German version (HQ‐25‐G).

Methods

Translation was conducted according to established guidelines. Validation was based on data from a quota sample of individuals living in Germany, ranging from 18 to 74 years old (representing the distribution of age, sex and federal state, n = 5000). Data collection occurred during August and September 2023. We tested reliability, construct validity and concurrent validity. Moreover, HQ‐25 scores for key sociodemographic group were reported.

Results

Internal reliability for the HQ‐25‐G was excellent (Cronbach's alpha = 0.93). We confirmed the original three‐factor model. Moreover, higher hikikomori levels were significantly associated with more depressive symptoms (r = 0.50), more anxiety symptoms (r = 0.45), higher loneliness levels (r = 0.56), higher levels of objective social isolation (r = −0.47), higher levels of perceived social isolation (r = 0.59) and a higher preference for solitude (r = 0.45).

Conclusions

In a large population‐based sample (including younger adults, middle‐aged adults and older adults), the HQ‐25‐G version proves to be a psychometrically robust instrument, which is useful for further exploring the phenomenon of hikikomori within the German‐speaking population.
Multiphoton parallel transmission (MP‐pTx): Pulse design methods and numerical validation
Authors: Drago John M. , Guerin Bastien , Stockmann Jason P. , Wald Lawrence L.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

We propose and evaluate multiphoton parallel transmission (MP‐pTx) to mitigate flip angle inhomogeneities in high‐field MRI. MP‐pTx is an excitation method that utilizes a single, conventional birdcage coil supplemented with low‐frequency (kHz) irradiation from a multichannel shim array and/or gradient channels. SAR analysis is simplified to that of a conventional birdcage coil, because only the radiofrequency (RF) field from the birdcage coil produces significant SAR.

Methods

MP‐pTx employs an off‐resonance RF pulse from a conventional birdcage coil supplemented with oscillating ‐directed fields from a multichannel shim array and/or the gradient coils. We simulate the ability of MP‐pTx to create uniform nonselective brain excitations at 7 T using realistic and field maps. The RF, shim array, and gradient waveform's amplitudes and phases are optimized using a genetic algorithm followed by sequential quadratic programming.

Results

A 1 ms MP‐pTx excitation using a 32‐channel shim array with current constrained to less than 50 Amp‐turns reduced the transverse magnetization's normalized root‐mean‐squared error from 29% for a conventional birdcage excitation to 6.6% and was nearly 40% better than a 1 ms birdcage coil 5 kT‐point excitation with optimized kT‐point locations and comparable pulse power.

Conclusion

The MP‐pTx method resembles conventional pTx in its goals and approach but replaces the parallel RF channels with cheaper, low‐frequency shim channels. The method mitigates high‐field flip angle inhomogeneities to a level better than 3 T CP‐mode and comparable to 7 T pTx while retaining the straightforward SAR characteristics of conventional birdcage excitations, as low‐frequency shim array fields produce negligible SAR.
Iterative learning observer‐based fault‐tolerant control for on‐orbit serving spacecraft with coupled orbit and attitude dynamics
Authors: Li Shiyi , Liu Kerun , Liu Ming
Published: June 2024

This article investigates the problems of coupled orbit and attitude dynamics modeling and control for an on‐orbit serving spacecraft that is going to dock with a target spacecraft. First, a coupled relative orbit and attitude dynamics model of the servicing spacecraft with respect to the target spacecraft is constructed, considering external disturbances and actuators faults. To deal with such effects, two iterative learning observers are then designed respectively for orbit dynamics and attitude dynamics, which are capable of estimating interferences and faults. Combining the estimation information, the final control law is proposed based on the back stepping method. Through the Lyapunov approach, the stability of the closed‐loop control system is analyzed. Finally, a numerical simulation is carried out to bear out the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Experimental study on the continuous preparation of high‐performance thermal conductivity CNTs/EG/SSBR composite based on the shear and elongation flow fields with the assistance of the silanization reaction
Authors: Cheng Yaohua , Wang Qianting , Fang Hui
Published: June 2024

A self‐developed Serial Rubber Continuous Mixing Device (SRCMD) based on the shear and elongation flow fields was adopted to continuously prepare the carbon nanotubes (CNTs)/expanded graphite (EG)/Solution‐polymerized styrene butadiene rubber (SSBR) composite. Meanwhile, the silanization reaction between the Silica and Si69 was introduced to improve the performance of the CNTs/EG/SSBR composite. When comparing the sample prepared using the two‐stage mixing process based on the shear flow field in the internal mixer, the continuously prepared CNTs/EG/SSBR composite with 3 wt% CNTs and 15 wt% EG demonstrates a higher thermal conductivity of 1.32 W/m·K. At the same time, it exhibits significant advantages in terms of mechanical properties, processability and dispersion rating. In addition, the mechanism for the continuous preparation of CNTs/EG/SSBR composite was revealed through visual experiments. This study aims to achieve the real continuous production of high‐performance thermally conductive polymer composites to meet the urgent demand for thermal conductivity materials in 5G technology.

Highlights

Real continuous preparation of CNTs/EG/SSBR composite was realized.

The silanization index of 92.26% between Silica and Si69 was achieved.

Good silanization promotes the construction of thermal conductivity networks.

High‐performance CNTs/EG/SSBR composite with low Payne effect was obtained.
Exacerbation of restless legs syndrome following amygdalohippocampectomy: A case report
Authors: Eguchi Sachiko , Yokotsuka‐Ishida Saeko , Arai Yusuke , Sasayama Daimei , Maeda Takugo , Kanaya Kohei , Fukuyama Tetsuhiro , Nomura Kensuke , Washizuka Shinsuke
Published: June 2024

Background

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological sensorimotor disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. In the perioperative period, patients with RLS may experience an acute exacerbation of symptoms. Although studies on the exacerbation of RLS after brain surgery are limited, we present a case wherein symptoms worsened following left amygdalohippocampectomy.

Case Presentation

A 58‐year‐old woman diagnosed with mesiotemporal lobe epilepsy accompanied by left hippocampal sclerosis underwent a left amygdalohippocampectomy. The patient reported uncomfortable sensations in the lower limbs preoperatively. However, the urge to move her legs was manageable and not distinctly diagnosed with RLS. The symptoms began to deteriorate on the fifth postoperative day primarily affecting the legs and back, with a notable emphasis on the right side. Pramipexole treatment effectively ameliorated these symptoms.

Conclusion

No reports are available highlighting the exacerbation of RLS after amygdalohippocampectomy. Perioperative factors, such as anesthesia and iron deficiency due to hemorrhage, have been proposed as aggravating factors for RLS; however, the asymmetry of RLS, particularly the atypical right‐sided exacerbation in this case, makes it unlikely that this was the primary cause. A negative correlation between opioid receptor availability in the amygdala and RLS severity has been reported, suggesting that amygdalohippocampectomy contributes to the exacerbation of RLS symptoms. This case provides valuable insights into the possible involvement of the amygdala in the pathophysiology of RLS and practical considerations for the clinical management of the condition.
Inconsistencies between prenatal diagnostic and genetic testing laboratories on variant validation of rare monogenic diseases
Authors: Lin Liling , Zhang Ying , Pan Hong , Wang Jingmin , Qi Yu , Ma Yinan
Published: June 2024

Background

The advent of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) has enhanced the diagnostic efficacy for monogenic diseases, while presenting challenges in achieving consistent diagnoses.

Method

We retrospectively analyzed the concordance rate and reasons for the inconsistency between the original diagnostic result from the genetic testing laboratory and the variant validation result from the prenatal diagnostic center. The validation procedure comprised three stages: validation of variant detection, reevaluation of variant classification, and assessment of recurrence risk, which involved verifying the mode of inheritance and parental carriage.

Result

In total, 17 (6%) of the 286 families affected by rare monogenic diseases showed different results during the variant validation procedure. These cases comprised four (23.5%) with variant detection errors, 12 (70.5%) with inconsistent interpretation, and one (6%) with non‐Mendelian inheritance patterns. False‐positive NGS results confirmed by Sanger sequencing were related to pseudogenes and GC‐rich regions. The classification of the 17 variants was altered in the 12 cases owing to various factors. The case with an atypical inheritance pattern was originally considered autosomal recessive inheritance, but was diagnosed as maternal uniparental disomy after additional genetic analysis.

Conclusion

We underscored the significance of variant validation by prenatal diagnostic centers. Families affected by monogenic diseases with reproductive plans should be referred to prenatal genetic centers as early as possible to avoid different results that may postpone subsequent prenatal diagnosis.
Effects of hard and soft confinement on crystal polymorphism and crystal development in electrospun core‐sheath fibers
Authors: Huang Hsiu‐Feng , Tsai Yi‐Hsin , Lo Chieh‐Tsung
Published: June 2024

This study employs coaxial electrospinning to fabricate core‐sheath fibers composed of crystalline poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA) in the core and amorphous polystyrene (PS) in the sheath. The fibers undergo cold crystallization at temperatures either below (hard confinement) or above (soft confinement) the glass transition temperature of PS. These conditions are employed to investigate the crystallization behavior of PLLA under multiple confinement types. The electrospinning of PLLA fibers results in the development of coexisting α‐ and α′‐form crystals. The coaxial electrospinning process enhances the extent of chain stretching of PLLA through the PS solution in the outer layer, thereby promoting the close packing of PLLA chains and facilitating the formation of α crystals. Crystallization within soft confinement enables PLLA chains to relax, leading to an increased population of α crystals; this phenomenon is not observed in electrospun single PLLA fibers. A comparison of the crystal parameters in core‐sheath and single PLLA fibers reveals that the crystallite size and the degree of crystallinity are considerably higher in unconfined single PLLA fibers than in confined core‐sheath fibers. The encapsulation of PLLA into the fiber core strongly inhibits the chain movement of PLLA, resulting in a decrease in PLLA crystallizability.
Influence of microbiome in intraprostatic inflammation and prostate cancer
Authors: Prakash Pranav , Verma Shiv , Gupta Sanjay
Published: June 2024

Background

Chronic infection and inflammation have been linked to the development of prostate cancer. Dysbiosis of the oral and gut microbiomes and subsequent microbial translocation can lead to pathogenic prostate infections. Microbial‐produced metabolites have also been associated with signaling pathways that promote prostate cancer development. A comprehensive discussion on the mechanisms of microbiome infection and the prostate microenvironment is essential to understand prostate carcinogenesis.

Methods

Published studies were used from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database to conduct a narrative review. No restrictions were applied in the selection of articles.

Results

Microbiome‐derived short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) have been found to upregulate multiple signaling pathways, including MAPK and PI3K, through IGF‐1 signaling and M2 macrophage polarization. SCFAs can also upregulate Toll‐like receptors, leading to chronic inflammation and the creation of a pro‐prostate cancer environment. Dysbiosis of oral microbiota has been correlated with prostate infection and inflammation. Additionally, pathogenic microbiomes associated with urinary tract infections have shown a link to prostate cancer, with vesicoureteral reflux potentially contributing to prostate infection.

Conclusions

This review offers a comprehensive understanding of the impact of microbial infections linked to intraprostatic inflammation as a causative factor for prostate cancer. Further studies involving the manipulation of the microbiome and its produced metabolites may provide a more complete understanding of the microenvironmental mechanisms that promote prostate carcinogenesis.
The discovery of indazapyroxamet: a novel 3‐pyridinyl insecticide targeting piercing/sucking insectsa
Authors: Zhang Wenming , Slack Rachel D. , Rossi Michael A. , Hamm Jason , Cordova Daniel , Clark David , Lahm George , Kar Moumita , Sana Kashinath , Xu Ming , DeAngelis Andrew , Fraga Breena
Published: June 2024

In recent years, the registrations for a number of commercial insecticides utilized for piercing/sucking insects have been cancelled or restricted. To meet this growing need for new hemipteran controlling agrochemicals, we discovered a 2‐(pyridin‐3‐yl)‐thiazole compound, with limited insecticidal activity against cotton/melon aphid (Aphis gossypii). The 2‐(pyridin‐3‐yl)‐thiazole moiety offered us a basis to pursue the bicyclic 2‐(pyridin‐3‐yl)‐2H‐indazole carboxamides. Evaluation of such 2‐(pyridin‐3‐yl)‐2H‐indazole carboxamides revealed that even analogs containing only simple alkyl amides attached at the 4 or 5 positions possess promising insecticidal activity. Extensive optimization of this novel class of 2‐(pyridin‐3‐yl)‐2H‐indazole carboxamides led to identifying indazapyroxamet for commercial development. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Excess healthcare resource utilization and costs for commercially insured patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension: A real‐world data analysis
Authors: Weiss Tracey , Ramey Dena R. , Pham Ngan , Shaikh Nazneen Fatima , Tian Dajun , Zhao Xiaohui , Near Aimee M. , Lautsch Dominik , Nathan Steven D.
Published: June 2024

This retrospective study was conducted to evaluate all‐cause healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) and costs in commercially insured patients living with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and explore end‐of‐life (EOL)‐related HCRU and costs. Data from the IQVIA PharMetrics® Plus database (October 2014 to May 2020) were analyzed to identify adults (≥18 years) with PAH (PAH cohort) and those without PH (non‐PH cohort). Patients were required to have data for ≥12 months before (baseline) and ≥6 months after (follow‐up) the first observed PH diagnosis (index date) for PAH cohort or pseudo index date for non‐PH cohort. A PAH EOL cohort was similarly constructed using a broader data window (October 2014 to March 2022) and ≥1 month of follow‐up. Annualized all‐cause HCRU and costs during follow‐up were compared between PAH and non‐PH cohorts after 1:1 matching on propensity scores derived from patient characteristics. EOL‐related HCRU and costs were explored within 30 days and 6 months before the death date and estimated by a claims‐based algorithm in PAH EOL cohort. The annual all‐cause total ($183,616 vs. $20,212) and pharmacy ($115,926 vs. $7862; both p < 0.001) costs were 8 and 14 times higher, respectively, in the PAH cohort versus matched non‐PH cohort (N = 386 for each). In PAH EOL cohort (N = 28), the mean EOL‐related costs were $48,846 and $167,524 per patient within 30 days and 6 months before the estimated death, respectively. Hospitalizations contributed 58.8%–70.8% of the EOL‐related costs. The study findings indicate substantial HCRU and costs for PAH. While pharmacy costs were one of the major sources, hospitalization was the primary driver for EOL‐related costs.
A combined small cell lung carcinoma patient with only small cell carcinoma components in mediastinal lymph node metastasis and chondrosarcoma‐like components in liver metastasis
Authors: Kawaguchi Takako , Yamasaki Kei , Shigemi Saki , Dosaka Hiroki , Hirosawa Riho , Nagasawa Taiga , Fujimoto Satoshi , Shimajiri Shohei , Yatera Kazuhiro
Published: June 2024

A 69‐year‐old ex‐smoker Japanese man presented with a left mediastinal lymph node and left upper lobe tumour. Bronchoscopic biopsy specimens from the enlarged left mediastinal lymph node and left upper lobe tumour revealed small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). He was treated with first‐line chemotherapy with carboplatin, etoposide, and atezolizumab for four courses and subsequent atezolizumab maintenance therapy. However, his left upper lobe lung tumour only increased in size, and left upper lobectomy revealed combined SCLC (adenocarcinoma and chondrosarcoma‐like features). Four months after lobectomy, liver metastasis of chondrosarcoma‐like features (similar to pathological findings of the left upper lobe tumour) were observed. Combined SCLC, including sarcomatous components, is rare and poorly responds to chemotherapy. The metastases of combined SCLC in this patient were of only one type of histological component, making diagnosis and treatment difficult. If treatment for SCLC responds inadequately, considering combined SCLC and actively re‐examining histological diagnosis is necessary.
Traglastversuche an stabilitätsgefährdeten Zweifeldträgern mit U‐Profilen unter Biegung, Druck und Torsion
Authors: Bours Anna‐Lena , Jörg Fabian , Winkler Rebekka , Kuhlmann Ulrike , Knobloch Markus
Published: June 2024

Der Einsatz schlanker Stahlträger fördert die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit von Stahlkonstruktionen im Hochbau. Häufig erfordern diese Träger jedoch einen Nachweis der Stabilität. Die weltweite Forschung auf diesem Gebiet konzentrierte sich bisher hauptsächlich auf Einfeldträger mit doppeltsymmetrischem Querschnitt. Für einfachsymmetrische Querschnitte wie U‐Profile gibt es nur wenige auf versuchsgestützten Untersuchungen basierende Bemessungsregeln. Darüber hinaus wird das Potenzial von Tragsystemen wie Mehrfeldträgern in den normativen Nachweisverfahren nicht vollständig ausgeschöpft. Der vorliegende Beitrag befasst sich daher mit einer experimentellen Studie zum Stabilitätsverhalten von Zweifeldträgern mit U‐Profilen unter Biegung, Druck und Torsion. Mithilfe von Fünf‐Punkt‐Biegeversuchen wurden Tragfähigkeiten bestimmt sowie der Einfluss der konstruktiven Ausbildung des Mittellagers, von Drucknormalkräften, der Bauteilschlankheit und weiterer Parameter auf das Tragverhalten experimentell analysiert. Der Beitrag schafft die wissenschaftliche Grundlage zur Erweiterung des Anwendungsbereichs des Nachweisverfahrens für Bauteile unter Biegung, Druck und Torsion in Anhang C.2 der neuen EN 1993‐1‐1:2022 auf Zweifeldträger mit U‐Profilen.
Lewis‐Acid‐Base Synthesis of [Se3Cl3]2[SnCl6] and [BMIm]2[Ga8As6Cl16O14]
Authors: Bonnin Maxime A. , Suedes Michael D. , Feldmann Claus
Published: June 2024

[Se3Cl3]2[SnCl6] (1) and [BMIm]2[Ga8As6Cl16O14] (2) are prepared by Lewis‐acid‐base reaction of SnCl2 with SeCl4 and As2O3 with GaCl3/[BMIm]Cl at room temperature and at 60 °C. 1 contains [ClSe−Se−SeCl2]+ cations with an Se3 unit and isolated octahedral [SnCl6]2− anions. The cation was yet only obtainable via Se0/Se4+ synproportionation in liquid SO2 with AsF5. The [Ga8As6Cl16O14]2− anion in 2 consists of two central edge‐sharing GaO6 octahedra, surrounded by pseudo‐tetrahedral AsO3 units and tetrahedral GaCl3O and GaCl2O2 units. Moreover, an almost planar central Ga4O4 ring surrounded by six GaAs2O3 rings is characteristic, which was not described before. The title compounds are characterized by X‐ray diffraction based on single crystals and powders, infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, and optical spectroscopy.
Development of a Robotic Bin Picking Approach Based on Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Stuke Tobias , Rauschenbach Thomas , Bartsch Thomas
Published: June 2024

Robotic bin picking systems aim to automate the feeding process of randomly stored objects in industrial production. Despite being a research field for decades, there is still a gap between research and industrial application. The presented work intends to improve the utilization of bin picking for the industrial manufacturing of electrotechnical components. In this context, the development process of a system approach based on machine learning is stated. First, related work is presented and the research issue is derived. Second, a comparison between major machine learning techniques with respect to bin picking is made and a reinforcement learning approach is chosen for this work. Therein, a neural network learns strategies for grasping objects from bulk material depending on their position in the bin. Based on manifold states in a simulation environment, it is the goal to gain a versatile character of the robot system. In this regard, preselection criteria, discrete action primitives and grasp constraints are defined that incorporate domain knowledge to shorten the training effort.
Domain Knowledge Injection Guidance for Predictive Maintenance
Authors: Afroze Lameya , Merkelbach Silke , von Enzberg Sebastian , Dumitrescu Roman
Published: June 2024

With the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies, overall maintenance costs of industrial machines can be reduced by applying predictive maintenance. Unique challenges that often occur in real-time manufacturing environments require the use of domain knowledge from different experts. However, there is hardly any guidance that suggests data scientists how to inject knowledge from predictive maintenance use cases in machine learning models. This paper addresses this lack and presents a guidance for the injection of domain knowledge in machine learning models for predictive maintenance by analyzing 50 use cases from the literature. The guidance is based on the informed machine learning framework by von Rueden et al. [1]. Finally, the guidance gives a recommendation to data scientists on how domain knowledge can be injected into different phases of model development and suggests promising machine learning models for specific use cases. The guidance is applied exemplarily to two predictive maintenance use cases.
Digital Transition, Innovation and Business Models in Airbnb: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Barrera-Martínez Ana María , Parra-López Eduardo
Published: June 2024

The process of digital transition often involves disruptive innovations in the ways we work, processes and how we understand firms. These flexible processes and their ability to be innovative require mechanisms of collective knowledge and uniqueness. Similarly, the application of business models and the management of Airbnb is another field of study, which has not been explored in sufficient depth in the academic literature. However, the applications and possible derivatives of their impact need to be clarified. To this end, a bibliometric analysis is carried out through the VOSviewer and Bibliometrix software’s, grouping the aforementioned constructs and resulting in a total analysis of 4729 published works, 97 countries and 2872 authors. After this process, the reality that links the phenomena of digital transition, innovation, business models and Airbnb will be known and future lines of research are proposed to complete this conclusion.
The B-spline mapping function (BMF): representing anisotropic troposphere delays by a single self-consistent functional model
Authors: He Shengping , Hobiger Thomas , Becker Doris
Published: June 2024

Troposphere’s asymmetry can introduce errors ranging from centimeters to decimeters at low elevation angles, which cannot be ignored in high-precision positioning technology and meteorological research. The traditional two-axis gradient model, which strongly relies on an open-sky environment of the receiver, exhibits misfits at low elevation angles due to their simplistic nature. In response, we propose a directional mapping function based on cyclic B-splines named B-spline mapping function (BMF). This model replaces the conventional approach, which is based on estimating Zenith Wet Delay and gradient parameters, by estimating only four parameters which enable a continuous characterization of the troposphere delay across any directions. A simulation test, based on a numerical weather model, was conducted to validate the superiority of cyclic B-spline functions in representing tropospheric asymmetry. Based on an extensive analysis, the performance of BMF was assessed within precise point positioning using data from 45 International GNSS Service stations across Europe and Africa. It is revealed that BMF improves the coordinate repeatability by approximately $$10\%$$

10
%

horizontally and about $$5\%$$

5
%

vertically. Such improvements are particularly pronounced under heavy rainfall conditions, where the improvement of 3-dimensional root mean square error reaches up to $$13\%$$

13
%

.
Increasing returns and labor markets in a predator–prey model
Authors: Dosi Giovanni , Usula Davide , Virgillito Maria Enrica
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this work is to study the joint interaction of three founding elements of modern capitalism, namely endogenous technical change, income distribution, and labor markets, within a low-dimensional nonlinear dynamic setup extending the Goodwin model. Going beyond the conservative structure typical of the predator–prey model, we insert an endogenous source of energy, namely a Kaldor–Verdoorn (KV) increasing returns specification, that feeds the dynamics of the system over the long run and in that incorporates a transition to an (anti)-dissipative framework. The qualitatively dynamics and ample array of topological structures reflect a wide range of Kaldorian stylized facts, as steady productivity growth and constant shares of income distribution. The intensity of learning regimes and wage sensitivity to unemployment allow to mimic some typical traits of both Competitive and Fordist regimes of accumulation, showing the relevance of the demand-side engine, represented by the KV law, within an overall supply-side framework. High degrees of learning regimes stabilize the system and bring it out of an oscillatory trap. Even under regimes characterized by low degrees of learning, wage rigidity is able to stabilize the business cycle fluctuations and exert a positive effect on productivity growth.
Entanglement of Vortices in the Ginzburg–Landau Equations for Superconductors
Authors: Enciso Alberto , Peralta-Salas Daniel
Published: June 2024

In 1988, Nelson proposed that neighboring vortex lines in high-temperature superconductors may become entangled with each other. In this article we construct solutions to the Ginzburg–Landau equations which indeed have this property, as they exhibit entangled vortex lines of arbitrary topological complexity.
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of renal masses in the pre-transplant setting: literature review with case highlights
Authors: Barkovich Krister J. , Gibson Amanda C. , Brahmbhatt Sneh , Tadisetty Sindhura , Wilds Emory C. , Nelson Leslie W. , Gupta Meera , Gedaly Roberto , Khurana Aman
Published: June 2024

With the rising incidence of chronic kidney disease worldwide, an increasing number of patients are expected to require renal transplantation, which remains the definitive treatment of end stage renal disease. Medical imaging, primarily ultrasonography and contrast-enhanced CT and/or MRI, plays a large role in pre-transplantation assessment, especially in the characterization of lesions within the native kidneys. However, patients with CKD/ESRD often have relative contraindications to CT- and MR-contrast agents, limiting their utilization within this patient population. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), which combines the high temporal and spatial resolution of ultrasonography with intravascular microbubble contrast agents, provides a promising alternative. This review aims to familiarize the reader with the literature regarding the use of CEUS in the evaluation of cystic and solid renal lesions and provide case examples of its use at our institution in the pre-transplant setting.

Graphical abstract
Investigating gunshot wounds in charred bone with XRF spectroscopy: a technical note
Authors: Bonizzoni Letizia , Mazzarelli Debora , Franceschetti Lorenzo , Vitali Chiara , Amadasi Alberto , Cattaneo Cristina
Published: June 2024

The analysis of traces of injuries can be difficult in cases of charred human remains since the alteration and fragmentation are high. The aim of this study is to explore the use of X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) technique as a screening tool for detecting and analyzing gunshot residues (GSR) on cremated and highly fragmented materials, as it is a technique that allows for fast qualitative investigations without altering the sample or requiring sample preparation. The study was carried out on two steps: firstly, on completed skeletonized bones to verify if GSR survive to burning; secondly, we considered a more realistic situation, in which soft tissues were present before the shooting. To this aim, nine adult bovine ribs, four retaining soft tissue, five completely skeletonized, were subjected to a shooting test using two types of 9 mm projectiles (jacketed and unjacketed bullets). The ribs were then burnt until complete calcination in an electric furnace. The entry wound of each rib was analyzed using XRF, revealing traces of GSR. The XRF analysis showed that all samples, except for one, contain Pb and/or Sb near the lesion. Furthermore, the samples hit by unjacketed bullets had a more significant presence of Pb in macroscopic yellow areas, which persisted when moving away from the gunshot. These findings could pave the way for the use of XRF technology, mostly when a fast and immediate scan must be done on osteologic materials by a conservative method.
TRPS1 expression in breast angiosarcoma
Authors: Pancsa Tamás , Pósfai Boglárka , Schubert Anna , Almási Szintia , Papp Eszter , Chien Yi-Che Chang , Kálmán Endre , Kovács Kristóf Attila , Kulka Janina , Varga Linda , Cserni Gábor , Kuthi Levente
Published: June 2024

Angiosarcoma (AS) of the breast, a rare mesenchymal neoplasm, exhibits distinct forms based on etiological and genetic features. While cases with typical clinical presentation and morphology allow for a straightforward diagnosis, challenges arise when clinical data are scarce, diagnostic material is limited, or morphological characteristics overlap with other tumors, including undifferentiated carcinomas. The trichorhinophalangeal syndrome protein 1 (TRPS1), once regarded as highly specific for breast carcinomas, now faces doubts regarding its reliability. This study explores TRPS1 expression in breast AS. Our investigation revealed that 60% of AS cases displayed TRPS1 labeling, contrasting with the 40% lacking expression. Scoring by four independent readers established a consensus, designating 12/35 ASs as unequivocally TRPS1-positive. However, uncertainty surrounded nine further cases due to a lack of reader agreement (being substantial as reflected by a kappa value of 0.76). These findings challenge the perceived specificity of TRPS1, shedding light on its presence in a noteworthy proportion of breast ASs. Consequently, the study underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach in evaluating breast ASs and expands the range of entities within the differential diagnosis associated with TRPS1 labeling.
MAC approaches to communication efficiency and reliability under dynamic network traffic in wireless body area networks: a review
Authors: Herculano Jorge , Pereira Willians , Guimarães Marcelo , Cotrim Reinaldo , de Sá Alirio , Assis Flávio , Macêdo Raimundo , Gorender Sérgio
Published: June 2024

Wireless Body Area Networks (WBANs) are wireless sensor networks that monitor the physiological and contextual data of the human body. Nodes in a WBAN communicate using short-range and low-power transmissions to minimize any impact on the human body’s health and mobility. These transmissions thus become subject to failures caused by radiofrequency interference or body mobility. Additionally, WBAN applications typically have timing constraints and carry dynamic traffic, which can change depending on the physiological conditions of the human body. Several approaches for the Medium Access Control (MAC) sublayer have been proposed to improve the reliability and efficiency of the WBANs. This paper proposes and uses a systematic literature review (SLR) method to identify, classify, and statistically analyze the published works with MAC approaches for WBAN efficiency and reliability under dynamic network traffic, radiofrequency interference, and body mobility. In particular, we extend a traditional SLR method by adding a new step to select publications based on qualitative parameters. As a result, we identify the challenges and proposed solutions, highlight advantages and disadvantages, and suggest future works.
Quantitative evaluation of lower limb varicose veins using photoacoustic imaging
Authors: Urano Moemi , Nagae Kenichi , Matsuda Sachiko , Matsubara Kentaro , Yagi Takayuki , Imanishi Nobuaki , Aiso Sadakazu , Obara Hideaki , Jinzaki Masahiro
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Varicose veins in the lower extremities are dilated subcutaneous varicose veins with a diameter of  ≥ 3 mm, caused by increased venous pressure resulting from backflow of blood due to venous valve insufficiency (Gloviczki in Handbook of venous disorders: guidelines of the American venous forum, Hodder Arnold, London, 2009). When diagnosing varicose veins, the shape and thickness of the blood vessels should be accurately visualized in three dimensions. In this study, we investigated a new method for numerical evaluation of vascular morphology related to varicose veins in the lower extremities, using a photoacoustic imaging (PAI) system, which can acquire high-resolution and three-dimensional images noninvasively.

Methods

Nine patients with varicose veins participated in the study, and their images were captured using an optical camera and PAI system. We visualized the vascular structure, created a blood presence density (BPD) heat map, and examined the correlation between BPD and location of varicose veins.

Results

The obtained photoacoustic (PA) images demonstrated the ability of this method to visualize vessels ranging from as small as 0.2 mm in diameter to large, dilated vessels in three dimensions. Furthermore, the study revealed a correlation between the high-density part of the BPD heat map generated from the PAI images and the presence of varicose veins.

Conclusion

PAI is a promising technique for noninvasive and accurate diagnosis of varicose veins in the lower extremities. By providing valuable information on the morphology and hemodynamics of the varicose veins, PAI may facilitate their early detection and treatment.
A comprehensive assessment of artificial intelligence applications for cancer diagnosis
Authors: Singh Gaurav , Kamalja Anushka , Patil Rohit , Karwa Ashutosh , Tripathi Akansha , Chavan Pallavi
Published: June 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used increasingly to detect fatal diseases such as cancer. The potential reduction in human error, rapid diagnosis, and consistency of judgment are the primary motives for using these applications. Artificial Neural Networks and Convolution Neural Networks are popular AI techniques being increasingly used in diagnosis. Numerous academics have explored and evaluated AI methods used in the detection of various cancer types for comparison and analysis. This study presents a thorough evaluation of the AI techniques used in cancer detection based on extensively researched studies and research trials published on the subject. The manuscript offers a thorough evaluation and comparison of the AI methods applied to the detection of five primary cancer types: breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, skin cancer, and digestive cancer. To determine how well these models compare with medical professionals’ judgments, the opinions of developed models and of experts are compared and provided in this paper.
Endosome mediated nucleocytoplasmic trafficking and endomembrane allocation is crucial to polyglutamine toxicity
Authors: Nan Yuyu , Chen Wenfeng , Chen Fei , Wei Lili , Zeng Aiyuan , Lin Xiaohui , Zhou Wenbin , Yang Yufeng , Li Qinghua
Published: June 2024

Aggregation of aberrant proteins is a common pathological hallmark in neurodegeneration such as polyglutamine (polyQ) and other repeat-expansion diseases. Here through overexpression of ataxin3 C-terminal polyQ expansion in Drosophila gut enterocytes, we generated an intestinal obstruction model of spinocerebellar ataxia type3 (SCA3) and reported a new role of nuclear-associated endosomes (NAEs)–the delivery of polyQ to the nucleoplasm. In this model, accompanied by the prominently increased RAB5-positive NAEs are abundant nucleoplasmic reticulum enriched with polyQ, abnormal nuclear envelope invagination, significantly reduced endoplasmic reticulum, indicating dysfunctional nucleocytoplasmic trafficking and impaired endomembrane organization. Consistently, Rab5 but not Rab7 RNAi further decreased polyQ-related NAEs, inhibited endomembrane disorganization, and alleviated disease model. Interestingly, autophagic proteins were enriched in polyQ-related NAEs and played non-canonical autophagic roles as genetic manipulation of autophagic molecules exhibited differential impacts on NAEs and SCA3 toxicity. Namely, the down-regulation of Atg1 or Atg12 mitigated while Atg5 RNAi aggravated the disease phenotypes both in Drosophila intestines and compound eyes. Our findings, therefore, provide new mechanistic insights and underscore the fundamental roles of endosome-centered nucleocytoplasmic trafficking and homeostatic endomembrane allocation in the pathogenesis of polyQ diseases.

Graphical Abstract
Dried nanocellulose/xanthan as reinforcing fillers in thermoplastic starch
Authors: Hoek Zian , du Toit Elizabeth L. , Niemand Danielle , Wesley-Smith James , Focke Walter W.
Published: June 2024

Nanocellulose fibres are known to enhance the mechanical properties of biopolymers when added as a filler. Nanocellulose irreversibly agglomerates upon drying and is therefore sold as an aqueous gel or suspension, increasing shipping cost and limiting application. This work studied the utility of xanthan gum as a dispersant aid for dried nanocellulose fibres. At levels as low as 15% xanthan gum addition, based on the mass of nanocellulose, prior to drying, agglomeration was significantly decreased. Mild shear rates could disperse the dried nanocellulose to a similar degree as ultrasonication when xanthan gum was present. Several complementary techniques, such as rheology, turbidimetry, and SEM- and TEM-imaging, proved that the native nanocellulose properties could be recovered after drying. Xanthan gum and nanocellulose, when incorporated into thermoplastic starch, showed a synergistic effect regarding the increase in tensile strength of the resultant biopolymer film. The addition of previously dried nanocellulose/xanthan, in a 4:1 ratio, to thermoplastic starch at a starch-cellulose ratio of 20:1, increased the tensile strength from 5.4 to 23.0 MPa. The ability to produce a dispersible and dry nanocellulose product that retains its properties has clear commercial benefits.
Series2vec: similarity-based self-supervised representation learning for time series classification
Authors: Foumani Navid Mohammadi , Tan Chang Wei , Webb Geoffrey I. , Rezatofighi Hamid , Salehi Mahsa
Published: June 2024

We argue that time series analysis is fundamentally different in nature to either vision or natural language processing with respect to the forms of meaningful self-supervised learning tasks that can be defined. Motivated by this insight, we introduce a novel approach called Series2Vec for self-supervised representation learning. Unlike the state-of-the-art methods in time series which rely on hand-crafted data augmentation, Series2Vec is trained by predicting the similarity between two series in both temporal and spectral domains through a self-supervised task. By leveraging the similarity prediction task, which has inherent meaning for a wide range of time series analysis tasks, Series2Vec eliminates the need for hand-crafted data augmentation. To further enforce the network to learn similar representations for similar time series, we propose a novel approach that applies order-invariant attention to each representation within the batch during training. Our evaluation of Series2Vec on nine large real-world datasets, along with the UCR/UEA archive, shows enhanced performance compared to current state-of-the-art self-supervised techniques for time series. Additionally, our extensive experiments show that Series2Vec performs comparably with fully supervised training and offers high efficiency in datasets with limited-labeled data. Finally, we show that the fusion of Series2Vec with other representation learning models leads to enhanced performance for time series classification. Code and models are open-source at https://github.com/Navidfoumani/Series2Vec