bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Noise Analysis and Optimization Design of an Electric–Mechanical–Hydraulic Power Coupler for the Vehicle
Authors: Jia Qingxiao , Sun Yue , Zhang Hongxin , Zhang Zhen
Published: April 2024

This article proposes a new electric–mechanical–hydraulic power coupler (EMHPC). The EMHPC is integrated by a swash plate axial piston pump and permanent magnet synchronous motor, which can realize the conversion of electric, mechanical, and hydraulic energy. To analyze the noise characteristics of the EMHPC, the mathematical models of fluid noise and electromagnetic noise are established, respectively. An optimization model is built based on Isight, and the multi‐island genetic algorithm is used to optimize the triangular groove structure. The optimization results show that the sound pressure level of sound field monitoring points decreases at different frequencies, and the vibration displacement of the cylinder block decreases. The maximum sound pressure level of the directivity curve of the radiated sound field decreases by 9 dB. For the electrodynamic structure optimization of the EMHPC, this article establishes a combination approximation model with higher accuracy. The structure of the stator and rotor is optimized based on the combined approximate model. The optimization results show that the sinusoidal property of the radial air‐gap magnetic density curve is better after optimization, and the harmonic amplitude of the radial electromagnetic force decreases. The maximum sound pressure level in the air domain of the external sound field is reduced from 69 to 60 dB. Moreover, the superposition analysis of fluid noise and electromagnetic noise is carried out, and the main noise sources of the EMHPC in different working modes are determined.
RGO‐Modified CoWO4 Nanoparticles as New High‐Performance Electrode Materials with Enhanced Electrochemical Performances for Supercapacitors
Authors: Nandagopal Thangaraj , Balaji Govindan
Published: April 2024

A facile one‐pot hydrothermal method is provided for synthesis of the reduced graphene oxide‐cobalt tungstate (rGO@CoWO4) nanocomposites with the enhanced electrochemical performances for supercapacitors (SCs). The resulting nanocomposites are comprised of CoWO4 nanospheres that are well anchored on graphene sheets by in situ reducing. The BET‐specific surface area of CoWO4, rGO@CoWO4 nanocomposites are 101 and 167 m2 g−1, respectively. The electrochemical evaluations are carried out in a 1 M KOH solution as the electrolyte. The hybrid electrode shows excellent specific capacitance of 1145 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1 with superior rate capability and satisfactory cycling stability (97.2% capacitance preserved after 10 000 cycles). The good electrochemical performance can be attributed to the increased electrical conductivity and the creation of new active sites due to the synergetic effect of rGO and CoWO4 nanospheres. Moreover, the cyclic stability tests demonstrat capacitance retention of about 97.2% after 10 000 cycles, suggesting the potential application of rGO@CoWO4 nanocomposites in energy storage devices. The asymmetric SCs assembled with rGO@CoWO4 and activated carbon exhibit high energy density (39.1 Wh kg−1) and power density (631.2 W kg−1 at 1 A g−1), with remarkable cycle life (96.7% over 10 000 cycles) while still maintaining 24.5 Wh kg−1 at an even higher power density of 5098 W kg−1. The above results indicate that the hybrid rGO@CoWO4 electrodes synthesized by this approach would be a promising candidate for practical application of high‐performance SCs.
Metal‐Free Organic Dyes for NiO‐Based Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells: Recent Developments and Future Perspectives
Authors: Naik Praveen , Elias Liju , Keremane Kavya S. , Babu Dickson D. , Abdellah Islam M.
Published: April 2024

The increasing global demand for energy and growing environmental concerns emphasize the crucial role of solar energy as a sustainable and nondepletable resource. Solar cells, particularly dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), have gained prominence due to their efficient conversion of solar power, ecofriendly manufacturing processes, and noteworthy stability. Current research in sustainable energy focuses on transitioning from metal‐based to metal‐free organic materials. Tandem solar cells, combining n‐type and p‐type semiconductors sensitized with diverse photoactive dyes, show potential to surpass thermodynamic limits in photon conversion efficiency. Notably, the exploration of n‐type DSSCs as photoanodes in tandem architectures is promising. However, the absence of efficient p‐type photoactive cathodes remains a significant obstacle. Global research efforts are dedicated to addressing charge recombination issues in NiO‐based devices to enhance the efficiency of p‐type DSSCs. The success of any DSSC hinges on the selection of dyes/sensitizers with suitable anchoring groups, wide absorption in the visible–NIR region, and a high extinction coefficient. This article comprehensively reviews advancements in developing highly efficient p‐type sensitizers, emphasizing their pivotal role in unlocking the full potential of tandem solar cells.
Rice Straw‐Derived Biochar as Anode Material for Lithium‐Ion Battery: A Step toward Sustainable Development
Authors: Bhatia Drishti , Saroha Anil K.
Published: April 2024

In the present study, sustainable upscaling of rice straw, an agri‐residue, is explored as the way to obtain active material to prepare anode for use in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). The biochar having high carbon and low silica content is prepared by initial chemical treatment of rice straw followed by its pyrolysis. The pristine and modified biochar are characterized using Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller surface area, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, carbon hydrogen nitrogen sulphur elemental analysis, scanning electron microscopy, X‐Ray power diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman analysis and the modified biochar show an enhancement in graphitic carbon content. A coin cell is assembled using anode prepared from modified biochar. The coin cell is subjected to electrochemical testing and had a discharge capacity of 352 mA.h g−1. Further, the coin cell is tested for 100 cycles and a columbic efficiency of 99.7% was obtained. Therefore, biochar derived from pyrolysis of rice straw has the potential to be used as anode material for LIBs.
Mass‐Transfer Mechanism of Nafion Proton‐Exchange Membranes in Fuel Cells—A Review
Authors: Lin Shuyan , Zhao Shuhui , Dou Hongxing , Wei Gang , Li Yongzhe , Gao Shugang , Gao Jiangshan , He Yan
Published: April 2024

The proton‐exchange membrane is a crucial component of proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), and its mass transfer plays a vital role in the performance and energy conversion efficiency of fuel cells. In this article, the fundamental structure and working principle of PEMFCs, as well as the microstructure of the membrane, are introduced. The mass‐transfer mechanism of the membranes is systematically sorted out from the model of mass transfer and the corresponding simulation method, and the mass transfer is quantitatively calculated from the macroscopic perspective. Additionally, methods to improve the mass‐transfer efficiency from both internal and external aspects are discussed. In conclusion, in this article, mass transfer in PEMFCs is comprehensively discussed and a valuable reference is offered for future research and development in this field.
Effect of 1 wt% Dimethyl Sulfoxide on the Electrical and Photovoltaic Parameters of Schottky Diodes and Organic Solar Cells Based on PEDOT:PSS
Authors: Kacus Hatice
Published: April 2024

Herein, the electrical conductivity of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)–poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) polymer is improved by adding dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and electrical characterization of the obtained Schottky diode and organic solar cell (OSC) devices are performed from I–V measurements under the light and dark conditions. The scanning electron microscope images of the poly(3‐hexylthiophene):[6,6]‐phenylC61‐butyric acid methylester active layer and PEDOT:PSS layer are obtained. The series resistance (Rs), barrier height (Фb), and ideality factor (n) parameters are obtained from different techniques as a function of light and dark conditions. Furthermore, photovoltaic parameters are calculated for n‐Si/PEDOT:PSS/Au device without DMSO doping and with DMSO doping as a parameter of the light condition and the interface state densities of these devices are obtained for light and dark conditions. DMSO organic solvent improves the short‐circuit current density (Isc), power convert efficiency (or η), open circuit‐voltage (Voc), shunt resistance (Rsh), and series resistance (Rs) values of OSCs. In summary, DMSO solvent rearranges the conductive of PEDOT:PSS, decreases the work function of this conductive polymer (≈5 eV), decreases energy loss in the charge transportation, and increases photovoltaic parameters of Schottky barrier diode and OSC devices.
The Construction of Nanoflower‐like MoO2@C Composites via Crystal Engineering for Ultrastable Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Hao , Hu Fang , Tang Yixin , Jiang Chaoyan , Yue Chuang , Shu Jie
Published: April 2024

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) offer advantages such as low cost, high safety, and environmental friendliness. However, the crystal structure design of cathode materials such as molybdenum oxide is of vital importance for AZIBs. Herein, a novel nanoflower‐structured molybdenum dioxide (MoO2@C) is synthesized by using MnMoO4 nanoflower‐like precursor. The presence of manganese and reduction process play a crucial role in the formation of nanoflower structure, which enhances the electrochemical performance when it is used as cathode for AZIBs. As a result, the MoO2@C cathode exhibits high initial coulombic efficiency, excellent cycling stability, and outstanding rate capability. Moreover, in situ/ex situ analysis (ex situ X‐Ray diffraction/in situ Raman spectroscopy) is used to reveal Zn‐ion storage mechanism of reversible intercalation and ultrastable structural framework.
Pseudo‐dynamic testing, repairability, and resilience assessment of a large‐scale steel structure equipped with self‐centering column bases
Authors: Elettore Elena , Freddi Fabio , Latour Massimo , Piluso Vincenzo , Rizzano Gianvittorio
Published: April 2024

Recent destructive seismic events have underlined the need for increasing research efforts devoted to the development of innovative seismic‐resilient structures able to reduce seismic‐induced direct and indirect losses. Regarding steel Moment Resisting Frames (MRFs), the inclusion of Friction Devices (FDs) in Beam‐to‐Column Joints (BCJs) has emerged as an effective solution to dissipate the seismic input energy while ensuring a damage‐free behavior. Additionally, recent studies have demonstrated the benefits of implementing similar damage‐free solutions for Column Bases (CBs). In this context, the authors have recently experimentally investigated a Self‐Centering CB (SC‐CB) aimed at residual drift reduction. Previous experimental tests only focused on the response of isolated SC‐CBs under cyclic loads. Conversely, the present paper advances the research through an experimental campaign on a large‐scale steel structure equipped with the proposed SC‐CBs, providing valuable insights into the global structural response and improved repairability. A set of eight Pseudo‐Dynamic (PsD) tests were conducted considering different records and configurations of the structure. The experimental results highlighted the effectiveness of the SC‐CBs in minimizing the residual interstory drifts and protecting the first‐story columns from damage, thus enhancing the structure's resilience. Moreover, the consecutive PsD tests allowed investigating the effectiveness of the reparation process in restoring the seismic performance of the ‘undamaged’ structure. An advanced numerical model was developed in OpenSees and validated against the global and component‐level experimental results. Incremental Dynamic Analyses were finally performed to investigate the influence of the SC‐CBs on the structure's seismic response while accounting for the record‐to‐record variability.
National surveillance using a clinical quality indicator for prolonged antipsychotic use among older Australians with dementia who access aged care services
Authors: Sluggett Janet K. , Caughey Gillian E. , Air Tracy , Cations Monica , Lang Catherine E. , Ward Stephanie A. , Ahern Susannah , Lin Xiaoping , Wallis Kasey , Crotty Maria , Inacio Maria C.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Dementia guidelines recommend antipsychotics are only used for behavioral and psychological symptoms when non‐drug interventions fail, and to regularly review use. Population‐level clinical quality indicators (CQIs) for dementia care in permanent residential aged care (PRAC) typically monitor prevalence of antipsychotic use but not prolonged use. This study aimed to develop a CQI for antipsychotic use >90 days and examine trends, associated factors, and variation in CQI incidence; and examine duration of the first episode of use among individuals with dementia accessing home care packages (HCPs) or PRAC.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study, including older individuals with dementia who accessed HCPs (n = 50,257) or PRAC (n = 250,196). Trends in annual CQI incidence (2011–12 to 2015–16) and associated factors were determined using Poisson regression. Funnel plots examined geographical and facility variation. Time to antipsychotic discontinuation was estimated among new antipsychotic users accessing HCP (n = 2367) and PRAC (n = 15,597) using the cumulative incidence function.

Results

Between 2011–12 and 2015–16, antipsychotic use for >90 days decreased in HCP recipients from 10.7% (95% CI 10.2–11.1) to 10.1% (95% CI 9.6–10.5, adjusted incidence rate ratio (aIRR) 0.97 (95% CI 0.95–0.98)), and in PRAC residents from 24.5% (95% CI 24.2–24.7) to 21.8% (95% CI 21.5–22.0, aIRR 0.97 (95% CI 0.96–0.98)). Prior antipsychotic use (both cohorts) and being male and greater socioeconomic disadvantage (PRAC cohort) were associated with higher CQI incidence. Little geographical/facility variation was observed. Median treatment duration in HCP and PRAC was 334 (interquartile range [IQR] 108–958) and 555 (IQR 197–1239) days, respectively.

Conclusions

While small decreases in antipsychotic use >90 days were observed between 2011–12 and 2015–16, findings suggest antipsychotic use among aged care recipients with dementia can be further minimized.
Gene expression markers in peripheral blood and outcome in patients with platinum‐resistant ovarian cancer: A study of the European GANNET53 consortium
Authors: Obermayr Eva , Mohr Thomas , Schuster Eva , Braicu Elena Ioana , Taube Eliane , Sehouli Jalid , Vergote Ignace , Pujade‐Lauraine Eric , Ray‐Coquard Isabelle , Harter Philipp , Wimberger Pauline , Joly‐Lobbedez Florence , Mahner Sven , Moll Ute Martha , Concin Nicole , Zeillinger Robert
Published: April 2024

Disease progression is a major problem in ovarian cancer. There are very few treatment options for patients with platinum‐resistant ovarian cancer (PROC), and therefore, these patients have a particularly poor prognosis. The aim of the present study was to identify markers for monitoring the response of 123 PROC patients enrolled in the Phase I/II GANNET53 clinical trial, which evaluated the efficacy of Ganetespib in combination with standard chemotherapy versus standard chemotherapy alone. In total, 474 blood samples were collected, comprising baseline samples taken before the first administration of the study drugs and serial samples taken during treatment until further disease progression (PD). After microfluidic enrichment, 27 gene transcripts were analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and their utility for disease monitoring was evaluated. At baseline, ERCC1 was associated with an increased risk of PD (hazard ratio [HR] 1.75, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.20–2.55; p = 0.005), while baseline CDH1 and ESR1 may have a risk‐reducing effect (CDH1 HR 0.66, 95% CI: 0.46–0.96; p = 0.024; ESR1 HR 0.58, 95% CI: 0.39–0.86; p = 0.002). ERCC1 was observed significantly more often (72.7% vs. 53.9%; p = 0.032) and ESR1 significantly less frequently (59.1% vs. 78.3%; p = 0.018) in blood samples taken at radiologically confirmed PD than at controlled disease. At any time during treatment, ERCC1‐presence and ESR1‐absence were associated with short PFS and with higher odds of PD within 6 months (odds ratio 12.77, 95% CI: 4.08–39.97; p < 0.001). Our study demonstrates the clinical relevance of ESR1 and ERCC1 and may encourage the analysis of liquid biopsy samples for the management of PROC patients.
Associations between pathological features and risk of metachronous colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Ye , Win Aung Ko , Makalic Enes , Buchanan Daniel D. , Pai Rish K. , Phipps Amanda I. , Rosty Christophe , Boussioutas Alex , Karahalios Amalia , Jenkins Mark A.
Published: April 2024

Survivors of colorectal cancer (CRC) are at risk of developing another primary colorectal cancer ‐ metachronous CRC. Understanding which pathological features of the first tumour are associated with risk of metachronous CRC might help tailor existing surveillance guidelines. Population‐based CRC cases were recruited from the United States, Canada and Australia between 1997 and 2012 and followed prospectively until 2022 by the Colon Cancer Family Registry. Metachronous CRC was defined as a new primary CRC diagnosed at least 1 year after the initial CRC. Those with the genetic cancer predisposition Lynch syndrome or MUTYH mutation carriers were excluded. Cox regression models were fitted to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the associations. Of 6085 CRC cases, 138 (2.3%) were diagnosed with a metachronous CRC over a median follow‐up time of 12 years (incidence: 2.0 per 1000 person‐years). CRC cases with a synchronous CRC were 3.4‐fold more likely to develop a metachronous CRC (adjusted HR: 3.36, 95% CI: 1.89–5.98) than those without a synchronous tumour. CRC cases with MMR‐deficient tumours had a 72% increased risk of metachronous CRC (adjusted HR: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.11–2.64) compared to those with MMR‐proficient tumours. Compared to cases who had an adenocarcinoma histologic type, those with an undifferentiated histologic type were 77% less likely to develop a metachronous CRC (adjusted HR: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.06–0.94). Existing surveillance guidelines for CRC survivors could be updated to include increased surveillance for those whose first CRC was diagnosed with a synchronous CRC or was MMR‐deficient.
Bonding of ceramics to silver‐coated titanium—A combined theoretical and experimental study
Authors: Vuorinen Vesa , Kouhia Reijo , Könönen Mauno , Kivilahti Jorma K.
Published: April 2024

It would be very beneficial to have a method for joining of ceramics to titanium reliably. Although several techniques have been developed and tested to prevent extensive interfacial chemical reactions in titanium‐ceramic systems, the main problem of the inherent brittleness of interfaces was still unsolved. To overcome this problem also in dental applications, we decided to make use of an interlayer material that needs to meet the following requirements: First, it has to be biocompatible, second, it should not melt below the bonding temperatures, and third, it should not react too strongly with titanium, so that its plasticity will be maintained. Considering possible material options only the metals: gold, platinum, palladium, and silver, fulfill the first and second requirements. To find out—without an extensive experimental testing program—which of the four metals fulfills the third requirement best, the combined thermodynamic and reaction kinetic modeling was employed to evaluate how many and how thick reaction layers are formed between the interlayer metals and titanium. With the help of theoretical modeling, it was shown that silver fulfills the last requirement best. However, before starting to test experimentally the effect of the silver layer on the mechanical integrity of dental ceramic/Ag/Ti joints it was decided to make use of mechanical analysis of the three‐point bending test, the result of which indicated that the silver layer increases significantly the bond strength of the joints. This result encouraged us to develop a new technique for plating silver on titanium. Subsequently, we executed numerous three‐point bending tests, which demonstrated that silver‐plated titanium‐ceramic joints are much stronger than conventional titanium‐ceramic joints. Hence, it can be concluded that the combined thermodynamic, reaction kinetic, and mechanical modeling method can also be a very valuable tool in medical research and development work.
A lightweight hybrid model for the automatic recognition of uterine fibroid ultrasound images based on deep learning
Authors: Cai Peiya , Yang Tiantian , Xie Qinglai , Liu Peizhong , Li Ping
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Uterine fibroids (UF) are the most frequent tumors in ladies and can pose an enormous threat to complications, such as miscarriage. The accuracy of prognosis may also be affected by way of doctor inexperience and fatigue, underscoring the want for automatic classification fashions that can analyze UF from a giant wide variety of images.

Methods

A hybrid model has been proposed that combines the MobileNetV2 community and deep convolutional generative adversarial networks (DCGAN) into useful resources for medical practitioners in figuring out UF and evaluating its characteristics. Real‐time automated classification of UF can aid in diagnosing the circumstance and minimizing subjective errors. The DCGAN science is utilized for superior statistics augmentation to create first‐rate UF images, which are labeled into UF and non‐uterine‐fibroid (NUF) classes. The MobileNetV2 model then precisely classifies the photos based totally on this data.

Results

The overall performance of the hybrid model contrasts with different models. The hybrid model achieves a real‐time classification velocity of 40 frames per second (FPS), an accuracy of 97.45%, and an F1 rating of 0.9741.

Conclusion

By using this deep learning hybrid approach, we address the shortcomings of the current classification methods of uterine fibroid.
Evaluating the use of HEIghten critical thinking assessment to monitor critical thinking in dental students
Authors: Jauregui Catherine E. , Messer Regina , Vitolo Joseph M. , Young Nancy
Published: April 2024

Purpose/Objectives

Critical thinking and evidence‐based dentistry are skills that dental students are required to demonstrate, but monitoring and quantifying progress can be challenging. This study is investigating whether the HEIghten critical thinking assessment (HCTA) could be used as a potential tool, both for use prior to admitting students, and to monitor whether the students’ skills improve over their time at dental school.

Methods

Freshman dental students (n = 92) were given the HCTA during their first semester of dental school. Statistical analyses were then performed to examine the association of Dental Admission Test (DAT) scores (overall, perceptual ability, and total science) and Grade Point Average (GPA) (overall and science) on critical thinking scores (total, analytic, and synthetic).

Results

There was a significant positive association between GPA, DAT scores and critical thinking scores.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that the HCTA may be a useful tool to enable monitoring of students analytical and synthetic skills throughout their time at dental school.
YBX1 promotes stemness and cisplatin insensitivity in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma via the AKT/β‐catenin axis
Authors: Shi Xiaodong , Hu Zhiliang , Bai Shilei , Zong Chen , Xue Hui , Li Yao , Li Fengwei , Chen Liangrui , Xuan Jianbing , Xia Yong , Wei Lixin , Shen Feng , Wang Kui
Published: April 2024

Background

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is a highly aggressive malignancy characterized by a poor prognosis and closely linked to tumor stemness. However, the key molecules that regulate ICC stemness remain elusive. Although Y‐box binding protein 1 (YBX1) negatively affects prognosis in various cancers by enhancing stemness and chemoresistance, its effect on stemness and cisplatin sensitivity in ICC remains unclear.

Methods

Three bulk and single‐cell RNA‐seq datasets were analyzed to investigate YBX1 expression in ICC and its association with stemness. Clinical samples and colony/sphere formation assays validated the role of YBX1 in stemness and sensitivity to cisplatin. AZD5363 and KYA1979K explored the interaction of YBX1 with the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (PKB/AKT) and WNT/β‐catenin pathways.

Results

YBX1 was significantly upregulated in ICC, correlated with worse overall survival and shorter postoperative recurrence time, and was higher in chemotherapy‐non‐responsive ICC tissues. The YBX1‐high group exhibited significantly elevated stemness scores, and genes linked to YBX1 upregulation were enriched in multiple stemness‐related pathways. Moreover, YBX1 expression is significantly correlated with several stemness‐related genes (SOX9, OCT4, CD133, CD44 and EPCAM). Additionally, YBX1 overexpression significantly enhanced the colony‐ and spheroid‐forming abilities of ICC cells, accelerated tumor growth in vivo and reduced their sensitivity to cisplatin. Conversely, the downregulation of YBX1 exerted the opposite effect. The transcriptomic analysis highlighted the link between YBX1 and the PI3K/AKT and WNT/β‐catenin pathways. Further, AZD5363 and KYA1979K were used to clarify that YBX1 promoted ICC stemness through the regulation of the AKT/β‐catenin axis.

Conclusions

YBX1 is upregulated in ICC and promotes stemness and cisplatin insensitivity via the AKT/β‐catenin axis. Our study describes a novel potential therapeutic target for improving ICC prognosis.
Deep Learning Model for Grading and Localization of Lumbar Disc Herniation on Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Xu Yefu , Zheng Shijie , Tian Qingyi , Kou Zhuoyan , Li Wenqing , Xie Xinhui , Wu Xiaotao
Published: April 2024

Background

Methods for grading and localization of lumbar disc herniation (LDH) on MRI are complex, time‐consuming, and subjective. Utilizing deep learning (DL) models as assistance would mitigate such complexities.

Purpose

To develop an interpretable DL model capable of grading and localizing LDH.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

1496 patients (M/F: 783/713) were evaluated, and randomly divided into training (70%), validation (10%), and test (20%) sets.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5T MRI for axial T2‐weighted sequences (spin echo).

Assessment

The training set was annotated by three spinal surgeons using the Michigan State University classification to train the DL model. The test set was annotated by a spinal surgery expert (as ground truth labels), and two spinal surgeons (comparison with the trained model). An external test set was employed to evaluate the generalizability of the DL model.

Statistical Tests

Calculated intersection over union (IoU) for detection consistency, utilized Gwet's AC1 to assess interobserver agreement, and evaluated model performance based on sensitivity and specificity, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05.

Results

The DL model achieved high detection consistency in both the internal test dataset (grading: mean IoU 0.84, recall 99.6%; localization: IoU 0.82, recall 99.5%) and external test dataset (grading: 0.72, 98.0%; localization: 0.71, 97.6%). For internal testing, the DL model (grading: 0.81; localization: 0.76), Rater 1 (0.88; 0.82), and Rater 2 (0.86; 0.83) demonstrated results highly consistent with the ground truth labels. The overall sensitivity of the DL model was 87.0% for grading and 84.0% for localization, while the specificity was 95.5% and 94.4%. For external testing, the DL model showed an appreciable decrease in consistency (grading: 0.69; localization: 0.66), sensitivity (77.2%; 76.7%), and specificity (92.3%; 91.8%).

Data Conclusion

The classification capabilities of the DL model closely resemble those of spinal surgeons. For future improvement, enriching the diversity of cases could enhance the model's generalization.

Level of Evidence

4.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
Embodied and Enactive Creativity: Moving Beyond the Mind–Body Dichotomy in School Education
Authors: Bertin‐Renoux Anne
Published: April 2024

This study explores the ways in which embodied creativity is conceived and implemented in french schools through the study of a corpus of professional articles published since the 1960s in a journal dedicated to physical education. The analysis focuses on pedagogical experiments to foster bodily creativity carried out in primary schools, as part of a wide‐ranging educational reform during the 1970s. Those practices mark a radical break with the grammar of schooling whose worldwide spread is linked to the colonial expansion of western Europe. They revealed many similarities with indigenous pedagogies through the willingness to go beyond the mind–body dichotomy, to value a sensitive and intuitive body, to anchor knowledge in lived experience and to move from a top‐down relationship between teacher and pupil to a more horizontal one. The 1980s marked a return to more traditional methods, but these pedagogical experiments nurtured a conception of embodied and enactive creativity that sought to go beyond a western vision of the body, of action and of the relationship with the world in school education. The convergences with non‐western pedagogies underline the interest of these approaches to explore and foster embodied and enactive creativity.
Sustainable production of sophorolipid biosurfactants using renewable cellulose‐derived feedstocks
Authors: Msanne Joseph , Ashby Richard D. , Harron Andrew , Czerhoniak Alexis
Published: April 2024

Glycolipids produced and secreted by oleaginous yeasts are renewable compounds with important physico‐chemical properties, and multiple biological and industrial applications. The large‐scale production of these compounds has been limited by high production costs and low yields. The sophorolipid‐producing yeast Pseudohyphozyma bogoriensis may possess the ability to grow in fermentation systems using carbon substrates deriving from inexpensive lignocellulosic biomass, while simultaneously secreting high value biomaterials. In this study, comparative analyses between different cellulose‐derived carbon sources including glucose, cellobiose, and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose confirmed the ability of P. bogoriensis to grow and accumulate glycolipids using these substrates. On a dry weight basis, the highest yields of about 4% (wt/wt) glycolipids were obtained when cellobiose was supplemented at 10 g/L in shake‐flask fermentations. When the unconventional carbon substrate sodium carboxymethyl cellulose was supplemented, cultures exhibited a lower glycolipid yield of 0.3% (wt/wt), but the dry weight was higher compared to other substrates. Analytical analyses using various chromatography methods confirmed the chemical profiles, whereas both monoacetylated and diacetylated sophorolipid forms with 22 carbon long‐chain hydroxy fatty acid were identified in all glycolipid extracts. Surface tension (ST) and critical micelle concentration (CMC) measurements showed that glycolipids produced on cellulose‐derived substrates exhibited similar or even superior physical properties compared with glucose. Furthermore, availability of the yeast genome sequences facilitated the identification of putative genes that may be involved in cellulose hydrolysis (e.g., cellulase‐like). Information on genomic and metabolic pathways is a prerequisite for trait improvement toward increasing the production of high value biomaterials.
A Novel Classification System and Surgical Strategies of First Branchial Cleft Anomalies
Authors: Kong Dedi , Li Wei , Zhou Pei , Zhang Yibo , Dai Chunfu
Published: April 2024

Objective

To define a novel classification of first branchial cleft anomalies (FBCAs) based on the relationship between lesions and the facial nerve in terms of radiographic imaging findings and to introduce the corresponding surgical managements.

Methods

The clinical data were retrospectively reviewed. Novel classification was proposed according to the head–neck MRI findings and surgical records. FBCAs limited in the cartilaginous segment of external auditory canal (EAC) or superficial parotid gland capsule were classified as type A. Lesions close to the FN and(or) involved into the parotid gland with no scar formation and no previous parotidectomy were classified as type B. FBCAs adhered to the FN and(or) invaded the parotid gland with scar formation due to previous surgery were classified as type C. Appropriate surgery approaches was also described, which was correlated with classification.

Results

Fifty‐one patients were included, and one patient suffered from bilateral lesions. Thirty‐one, twelve, and nine lesions were classified as type A, type B, and type C FBCAs, respectively. One type A patient (1.92%) suffered from recurrence during follow‐up. Temporary facial palsy (House‐Brackmann II) was identified in 2 type C patients (3.85%) after surgery and recovered to normal within 2 months. One type B patient (1.92%) suffered from facial paralysis due to the FN injury and underwent facial nerve graft simultaneously. No patients with type C complained of hearing loss postoperatively.

Conclusion

This novel classification clearly illustrates definitely relationship between lesion and the facial nerve and appropriate surgical strategies were proposed based on the novel classification.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:4246–4251, 2024
Soil compaction due to agricultural machinery impact: A systematic review
Authors: Zhang Boxiang , Jia Yanfeng , Fan Haoming , Guo Chengjiu , Fu Juan , Li Shuang , Li Mengyuan , Liu Bo , Ma Renming
Published: April 2024

Soil compaction is generally viewed as one of the most serious soil degradation problems and a determining factor in crop productivity worldwide. It is imperative to understand the processes involved in soil compaction to meet the future global challenges of food security. In this work, we used co‐occurring keyword analysis to summarize 3491 papers on soil compaction over the past 40 years, elaborating on the main research focuses such as the causes, influencing factors, and effects of soil compaction on crops, and the mitigation and prevention of soil compaction. This review provides a comprehensive discussion of the effects of soil compaction, including altering soil structure, increasing bulk density (BD) and penetration resistance (PR), and reducing porosity and soil hydraulic properties. Notably, based on the 387 data points of 11 papers about BD, our results demonstrated soil compaction on average, increased BD by 7.6%, 6.9%, and 3.2% in the medium‐, coarse‐, and fine‐textured soils, respectively. Based on the 264 data points of 18 papers, in the 0–30 cm soil layer, compaction increased penetration resistance (by 91% in the coarse‐textured, 84.2% in the medium‐textured, and 8.8% in the fine‐textured soils). Compacted soil limits the access of crop roots to water and nutrients, leading to poor root development and reduced crop productivity. There was a difference in soil compaction sensitivity between the different crops, but crop growth and yield showed an overall worsening trend with increasing degrees of compaction. This review collected data points on 142 crop yields and found that wheat, barley, corn, and soybean yields decreased by an average of 4.1%, 15.1%, 37.7%, and 22.7%, respectively, in the BD range of 1.1–1.8 Mg/cm3 after compaction. Additionally, the effectiveness of different compaction mitigation measures, including natural, tillage, and biological, is systematically discussed. Compared with soil compaction mitigation measures, prevention should be the top priority although there is still a lack of practical prevention methods. Soil conditions and agricultural machinery type are the main factors affecting the risk of soil compaction in the process of soil compaction. Therefore, it is particularly important to optimize the soil working conditions in the field and the type of farm machinery used to reduce the risk of soil compaction. This initiative is pivotal for ensuring sustainable systems for food production and recovering crop productivity from compacted soil.
On solutions of a semilinear measure‐driven evolution equation with nonlocal conditions on infinite interval
Authors: Wu Jiankun , Fu Xianlong
Published: April 2024

This paper studies the existence and asymptotic properties of solutions for a semilinear measure‐driven evolution equation with nonlocal conditions on an infinite interval. The existence result of the solutions for the considered equation is established by Schauder's fixed point theorem. Then, the asymptotic stability of solutions is further proved to show that all the solutions may converge to the unique solution of the corresponding Cauchy problem. In addition, under some conditions the existence of global attracting sets and quasi‐invariant sets of mild solutions is investigated as well. Finally, an example is provided to illustrate the applications of the obtained results.
Existence and stability of solitary waves to the rotation–Camassa–Holm equation
Authors: Tong Hao , Yang Shaojie
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we investigate the existence and stability of solitary waves to the rotation–Camassa–Holm equation which can be considered as a model in the shallow water for the long‐crested waves propagating near the equator with effect of the Coriolis force due to the Earth's rotation. We prove the existence of solitary waves by performing a phase plane analysis. Moreover, utilizing the approach proposed by Grillakis–Shatah–Strauss, we prove the stability of solitary waves.
The lived experience of mothers living with fibromyalgia syndrome: A phenomenological inquiry
Authors: Lo Monaco Marika , Alblooshi Sharifa , Mallaci Bocchio Raffaella , Natoli Giuseppe , Landa Maria Luisa , Corrao Salvatore
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a complex chronic pain condition that negatively impacts women's daily lives, particularly their roles as mothers and wives. A phenomenological qualitative study was conducted to explore the lived experiences of motherhood and daily life among women diagnosed with fibromyalgia.

Methods

A sample of 10 women affected by FMS was recruited between January and February 2020. Participants were interviewed in a face‐to‐face, in‐depth interview using a semi‐structured interview guide. Data were collected until saturation, and Colaizzi's method was used to analyse data.

Results

This qualitative analysis identified five themes: A trauma preceding diagnosis, Pervasive feelings of misunderstanding, A struggle to maintain strength among limitations, Challenges in fulfilling maternal roles, and Persistent sexual discomfort. The latter two themes emerged as the most prominent.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the significant impact of fibromyalgia on women's family lives and suggest the need for a more comprehensive care programme.
Network design with vulnerability constraints and probabilistic edge reliability
Authors: Arslan Okan , Laporte Gilbert
Published: April 2024

The network design problem with vulnerability constraints and probabilistic edge reliability (NDPVC‐PER) is an extension of the NDPVC obtained by additionally considering edge reliability. We consider the design of a telecommunication network in which every origin‐destination pair is connected by a hop‐constrained primal path, and by a hop‐constrained backup path when certain edges in the network fail. The edge failures occur with respect to their reliability, and the network is designed by considering a minimum reliability level. Therefore, a hop‐constrained backup path must be built by considering all simultaneous edge failures that have a certain probability of realization. While there exist models to solve the NDPVC without enumerating all edge subsets, edge reliability cannot be dealt with by applying the techniques applied to the NDPVC. Therefore, we develop models based on a new concept of resilient length‐bounded cuts, and solve the NDPVC‐PER without edge set enumerations. We perform extensive testing of the model to determine the best performing settings, and demonstrate the computational efficiency of the developed model. Our findings on these instances show that, in the dataset considered in this study, increasing the reliability level from 90% to 95% increases the average cost only by 12.4%, while increasing it from 95% to 99% level yields a cost increase of 93.9%.
Clinical analysis of air‐leak syndrome following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in pediatric patients
Authors: Zhao Wei , Wang Rong , Chen Man
Published: April 2024

Background

Air‐leak syndrome (ALS) is considered as an independent risk factor for poor prognosis in adult patients who had received hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), and the 5‐year overall survival (OS) of ALS is less than 30%. However, the clinical features of ALS among post‐transplant pediatric patients have rarely been explored.

Procedures

We retrospectively reviewed 2206 pediatric patients who had received an allo‐HSCT between January 2013 and December 2019 at the Hebei Yanda Lu Daopei Hospital, and analyzed the role of ALS in prognosis following HSCT.

Results

In our research, ALS was divided into two categories: 15 cases of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) and 13 cases of idiopathic pneumonia syndrome (IPS). Following treatment of the ALS, 18 patients survived (18/28, 64.3%), and 10 patients died of respiratory failure or infection (10/28, 35.7%).

Conclusions

The OS of ALS in Hebei Yanda Lu Daopei Hospital is significantly higher than others, and they were cited to be related to early diagnosis and timely FAM treatment in previous reports.
Influence of sodium hydroxide, silane, and siloxane treatments on the moisture sensitivity and mechanical properties of flax fiber composites
Authors: Rothenhäusler Florian , Ouali Ahmed‐Amine , Rinberg Roman , Demleitner Martin , Kroll Lothar , Ruckdaeschel Holger
Published: April 2024

Natural fibers are a sustainable alternative to synthetic fibers due to their high weight‐specific Young's moduli and strengths. However, the mechanical properties of natural fibers are very sensitive to their moisture content. Therefore, chemical treatments are often applied to natural fibers to lower their water absorption and enhance fiber‐matrix interaction. The aim is to study the effects of fiber modifications with sodium hydroxide, silane, and siloxane on the water uptake and tensile properties of flax fiber composites produced via prepreg technology. In addition, the effect of moisture on the composites' tensile properties was investigated by conditioning one part of the tensile specimens according to DIN EN 2823 (at 70°C and 85% relative humidity). The NaOH treatment was the only modification that had positive effects on the Young's modulus and tensile strength in the unconditioned and conditioned state. The increase of the tensile modulus and strength are most likely due to changes in flax fiber composition, crystallinity of the cellulose and the rougher fiber surface of NaOH modified fibers. This shows that chemical treatment of natural fibers may improve the performance level of natural fiber composites and prevent a loss in their mechanical properties in humid environments.

Highlights

Flax fiber modifications with sodium hydroxide, silane, and siloxane.

Flax fiber composite production via prepreg technology.

Water uptake after conditioning at 70°C and 85% relative humidity.

Tensile tests before and after conditioning.

SEM images of modified flax fibers.
Development of high‐performance zinc stannate based multifunctional thermoplastic polyurethane nanocomposite films
Authors: Rana Bharti , Joshi Mangala , Butola Bhupendra Singh , Ali S. Wazed
Published: April 2024

A lot of demand exists for multifunctional TPU that can provide enhanced performance to address a variety of inflatable application needs. To develop multifunctional nanocomposite films for such uses, synthesized zinc stannate (ZnSnO3) nanoparticles are integrated for the first time in a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) matrix. ZnSnO3 was synthesized using hydrothermal method. The morphological analysis vividly displayed the nanocubic structures. As‐synthesized nano ZnSnO3 was added as a nanofiller at varied concentration from 2 to 10 wt% in TPU and nanocomposite films were prepared by solvent intercalation and casting method. These films were thoroughly examined for their multifunctional properties such as UV protection, helium gas barrier and infrared emissivity. Mean value of UV protection factor was improved by 75% at 10 wt% loading of ZnSnO3 whereas 23% improvement was observed in helium gas barrier. Moreover, a good correlation of experimental data with various theoretical models of gas permeability was obtained at lower volume fraction of ZnSnO3. IR emissivity value also showed improvement from 0.802 to 0.842. Thus, the developed TPU‐ZnSnO3 nanocomposite films exhibited a significant improvement in multiple functional properties with improved tensile strength at optimized loading of 6 wt% of ZnSnO3.

Highlights

UPF mean value of ZnSnO3 incorporated TPU film has been improved by 67%.

Helium gas barrier has been improved by approximately 23% at 6 wt% loading.

TPU film exhibited improved properties at optimized loading of 6 wt% of ZnSnO3.

Nanocomposite TPU film can be employed in various weathering inflatables.
Mechanical properties and functionalization of Graphene oxide‐Thermoplastic polyurethane polymer composites regulated by internal microstructure: From disorder arrangement to nacre‐like laminated structure
Authors: Wen Zhen , Zheng Yihao , Wang Wei , Li Yongcun , Wang Zhiyong , Luan Yunbo
Published: April 2024

Graphene oxide (GO) is a two‐dimensional material known for its exceptional mechanical, chemical and electrical characteristics. Here, the mechanical properties and functionalization of GO reinforced thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) polymer composites with GO content ranging from low to high were investigated. It shows that the GO can mix with TPU in any proportion. The microstructure changed from disorder arrangement to a regular nacre‐like staggered structure, accompanied by different kinds of internal defects as the content increases, resulting in multiple peaks in the tensile properties of composite materials. The tensile strength of composites containing 80 wt% GO is 194% higher than that of pure TPU. This result is closely related to the changes in internal microstructure arrangement, the corresponding stress distribution and the transformation of damage mechanisms. Simultaneously, it shows that the composites exhibited shape memory function at low GO content of 1.5 wt% with about 100% shape recovery at 70°C, and electrical conductivity and deicing function at high GO content of 80 wt% after chemical reduction, which can reach a temperature of 107°C at 10 V AC. These findings will help to comprehensively understand the structural and functional integration design of GO reinforced polymer composites.

Highlights

Mechanical properties and functionalization of GO/TPU composites were studied.

Increased GO causes the arrangement to change from disorder to a nacre‐like structure.

Stress distribution and damage mechanisms transformed as the GO content changed.

The GO/TPU composites exhibited shape memory and deicing function.