bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating human impacts on rocky reefs using measures of complexity and relief from 3D photogrammetry
Authors: Wright Jessica , Chamberlain Jon
Published: February 2024

The structural complexity of a habitat is linked with the health and biodiversity of the ecosystem. Computational methods analyzing 3D representations of the environment allow for accurate measurement; however, rocky reef environments that feature gullies, arches, stacks, and ledges may be inaccurately represented using standard measures of complexity. This article presents a novel assessment of structural complexity through relief calculated from 3D reconstructions of marine environments, tailored for rocky reefs with vertical features. This method is tested in two case studies: a tropical coral reef in Indonesia and a rocky (chalk) reef in the United Kingdom. Chalk reef relief was not correlated with vector dispersion or fractal dimension and was weakly correlated with rugosity (); however, in two comparison tropical reef datasets, relief correlated moderately with vector dispersion on both coral reefs () and moderately‐strongly with rugosity (). On the chalk reef, tailored complexity metrics confirmed the previous finding that catch‐size Cancer pagurus abundance (≥115 mm) was correlated with fractal dimension (), indicating that adults preferred elevated, complex reefs. Analysis showed correlations between relief and low‐severity chalk damage () and between relief and abrasion damage (), whereas previous research had indicated that damage was not correlated with complexity (assessed computationally with rugosity, fractal dimension, and vector dispersion). Surveying marine environments with multicamera arrays and 3D photogrammetry can drastically reduce the time and cost of fieldwork surveys and provide accurate measures of complexity across survey sites. Adapting complexity metrics to habitat‐specific topography provides valuable insight (in this case, into rocky reef marine habitats). Findings from the UK case study support the continued monitoring of the Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ).
Aqueous Zinc Metal Batteries with Anode Stabilized by Plasma Treatment
Authors: Ming Fangwang , Alshareef Ayman H. , Mohammed Omar F.
Published: February 2024

Aqueous Zn batteries have recently attracted significant attention due to the various benefits offered by Zn metal anodes. However, the formation of dendrites and unwanted side reactions between the Zn anode and the aqueous electrolyte remain challenging problems. Herein, a straightforward plasma treatment that converts the surface of the Zn metal into ZnF2is proposed. Calculations using density function theory reveal that the diffusion energy barrier for Zn atoms on the ZnF2surface (0.02 eV) is considerably lower than that on the regular Zn surface (0.25 eV). As a result, the Zn anode treated with plasma (referred to as Plasma‐Zn) exhibits a highly reversible Zn plating/stripping process and significantly suppresses dendrite formation for more than 1300 h. Furthermore, when combined with polyaniline (PANi)‐intercalated V2O5in a full cell configuration (Plasma‐Zn//PANi‐intercalated V2O5), it demonstrates enhanced rate capability, delivering a discharge capacity of 258 mAh g−1at 2000 mA g−1, along with improved long‐term stability, retaining 72% of its capacity after 1000 cycles at 1000 mA g−1.
Setting the stage: A selected oral history of culturally responsive evaluation
Authors: Boyce Ayesha S. , Bowman (Lunaape/Mohican) Nicole R. , Hall Melvin E. , Neubauer Leah C.
Published: February 2024

Dr. Hood was the first culturally responsive evaluation oral historian. For justice, culture, and equity to be mainstreamed, he understood that these concepts must be conveyed in multiple formats, settings, and arenas. He authentically brought what had been in the minds, hearts, tongues, and work of many before him to the written word—he expanded and authenticated history. We, the volume editors, have taken a cue from Dr. Hood's astute observations about the nature of history. As such, we connect CRE's past, present, and future and set the stage for this volume by sharing a living history and sentiments as told by contemporary CRE scholars.
Impact of managing yellow rust (Puccinia striiformis f.sp. tritici) by the use of fungicide sprays and resistant varieties on the physiochemical qualities of bread wheat
Authors: Kebede Metiku , Shikur Elfinesh , Handaro Fikre
Published: February 2024

Yellow rust disease caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici is one of the major threats to wheat production in Ethiopia. In this paper, the impact of yellow rust on the physical qualities of bread wheat was studied. For this purpose, combinations of four bread wheat varieties (Digalu, Hidase, Danda'a, and Honkolo) and two fungicides (Nativo SC 300 and Tilt® 250E.C.) were tested at two different hotspot areas (Albazar and Alicho) in the Silte Zone, Southern Ethiopia, under natural epidemics of the disease during the 2018 growing season. A randomized complete block design in factorial arrangement with three replications was used to set up the experiment. A significant (p < .01) increase in hectoliters weight and wet gluten content were observed due to the application of Nativo SC 300; however, grain protein content did not respond significantly (p > .01) at both locations. Wheat varieties with high yellow rust severity exhibited maximum values of area under the disease progress curve and physical quality loss percentage (%). The highly susceptible wheat variety Digalu exhibited the highest values of hectoliter weight losses (%), and the actual losses ranged from 5.5% to 29.5%. Except for grain protein content, there was a significant negative correlation between the values of terminal rust severity, average coefficient infection, and area under the disease progress curve and that of hectoliters weight and wet gluten content, with correlation coefficients ranging from −0.85** to −0.33**. It is possible to improve the physiochemical properties of bread wheat through the application of foliar fungicides by selecting the appropriate genotypes that have an acceptable level of resistance to yellow rust.
The neural mechanisms of identifiable victim effect in prosocial decision‐making
Authors: Zhao Hailing , Xu Yashi , Li Lening , Liu Jie , Cui Fang
Published: February 2024

The phenomenon known as the “identifiable victim effect” describes how individuals tend to offer more assistance to victims they can identify with than to those who are vague or abstract. The neural underpinnings of this effect, however, remain elusive. Our study utilized functional magnetic resonance imaging to delve into how the “identifiable victim effect” influences prosocial decision‐making, considering different types of helping costs, across two distinct tasks. Participants were instructed to decide whether to help a victim with personal information shown (i.e., the identifiable victim) and an unidentifiable one by costing their money (task 1) or physical effort (task 2). Behaviorally, we observed a pronounced preference in both tasks for aiding identifiable victims over anonymous ones, highlighting a robust “identifiable victim effect.” On a neural level, this effect was associated with heightened activity in brain areas like the bilateral temporoparietal junction (TPJ) when participants confronted anonymous victims, potentially indicating a more intensive mentalizing process for less concrete victims. Additionally, we noted that the TPJ's influence on value judgment processes is mediated through its functional connectivity with the medial prefrontal cortex. These insights contribute significantly to our understanding of the psychological and neural dynamics underlying the identifiable victim effect.
Functionalization of Cubane Formation of C−C and C−Heteroatom Bonds
Authors: Yasukawa Tomohiro , Håheim Katja S. , Cossy Janine
Published: February 2024

Functionalized cubanes are attractive scaffolds for medicinal chemists as they are bioisosteres of benzene rings. The replacement of a benzene ring by a cubane, in a bioactive compound, can have a beneficial effect on the biological activity of such compound. Thus, the design of new molecular cubyl building blocks is of importance. In this review, we will focus on the functionalization of cubanes by creating C−C, C−heteroatom bonds e. g. C−N, C−O, C−B, C−P and C−S bonds. Different methods are reported involving organometallics, radicals, and ionic species. Mechanisms are included when relevant.
Towards operation‐stabilizing perovskite solar cells: Fundamental materials, device designs, and commercial applications
Authors: Qin Jianfang , Che Zhigang , Kang Yifei , Liu Chenjing , Wu Dongdong , Yang Haiying , Hu Xiaotian , Zhan Yan
Published: February 2024

Over the last decade, perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have drawn extensive attention owing to their high power conversion efficiency (single junction: 26.1%, perovskite/silicon tandem: 33.9%) and low fabrication cost. However, the short lifespan of PSCs with initial efficiency still blocks their practical applications. This operational instability may originate from the intrinsic and extrinsic degradation of materials or devices. Although the lifetime of PSCs has been prolonged through component, crystal, defect, interface, encapsulation engineering, and so on, the systematic analysis of failure regularity for PSCs from the perspective of materials and devices against multiple operating stressors is indispensable. In this review, we start with elaboration of the predominant degradation pathways and mechanism for PSCs under working stressors. Then the strategies for improving long‐term durability with respect to fundamental materials, interface designs, and device encapsulation have been summarized. Meanwhile, the key results have been discussed to understand the limitation of assessing PSCs stability, and the potential applications in indoor photovoltaics and wearable electronics are demonstrated. Finally, promising proposals, encompassing material processing, film formation, interface strengthening, structure designing, and device encapsulation, are provided to improve the operational stability of PSCs and promote their commercialization.

image
Effects of different frequencies music on cortical responses and functional connectivity in patients with minimal conscious state
Authors: Yin Jiahui , Xu Gongcheng , Xie Hui , Liu Ying , Dou Zulin , Shao Bin , Li Zengyong
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study was to investigate brain activation and functional network patterns during musical interventions in different frequency bands using functional near‐infrared spectroscopy, and to provide a basis for more effective music therapy strategy selection for patients in minimally conscious state (MCS). Twenty six MCS patients and 20 healthy people were given music intervention with low frequency (31–180 Hz), medium frequency (180–4k Hz), and high frequency (4k–22k Hz) audio. In MCS patients, low frequency music intervention induced activation of left prefrontal cortex and left primary sensory cortex (S1), also a left‐hemisphere lateralization effect of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). And the functional connectivity of right DLPFC‐right S1 was significantly improved by high frequency music intervention. The low frequency and high frequency music may contribute more than medium frequency music to the recovery of consciousness. This study also validated the effectiveness of fNIRS in studies of brain function in MCS patients.
Unmasking market turmoil by decoding stock market dynamics post‐fraud allegations: Evidence from Adani‐Hindenburg case
Authors: Sapra Nishant , Kakran Shubham , Sidhu Arpit , Kumar Ashish
Published: February 2024

The article investigates how the devastating repercussions of fraud allegations, as outlined in the Hindenburg report, are actively and critically affecting the stock prices of the Adani Group. This investigation, which explores the foundation of the accused companies' financial health and market trust, is crucial. These ramifications go far beyond Adani Group and are highly relevant to potential investors globally, highlighting the urgent need for a thorough comprehension of these dynamics in the context of the global market environment. The journey from stock market crash to market correction is analyzed using the theoretical lens of Risk Aversion theory. At the same time, the Efficient Market Hypothesis (EMH) assumptions are being tested. The study employs a long‐term event study approach to analyze the stock price impact of the Hindenburg report using the Cumulative Abnormal Returns (CAR) methodology. For analysis, a sample of six Adani group companies and relevant stakeholders like creditors, LIC, immediate counterparts of each company, and NIFTY bank indices are considered. The study finds that the stock prices of four out of six Adani Group companies declined significantly after the Hindenburg report, defying the assumptions of the EMH. Risk‐seeking investors' regulatory assurance and investment may have helped in a market correction. The associated banks (lenders to Adani) and Banking indices depicted a price decline on the second and third days, which reversed on the fourth day, indicating a diminished spillover effect. Moreover, no competitor besides Tata Power saw abnormally large gains. This study analyses the event from the lens of Risk aversion and tests the assumption of EMH. The study concludes that these findings have practical implications for investors (risk‐averse and risk‐seeking), policymakers, and researchers.
Lnc00113 promotes triple‐negative breast cancer progression via the NOB‐1/MAPK signaling axis
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Jin Yunjie , Huang Jianwei , Feng Chu , Chen Xi , Zuo Liang , Liu Guyue , Chen Fei , Fan Jiashu , Fang Lin
Published: February 2024

Background

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents the most aggressive form of breast cancer. While the involvement of long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) in the progression of TNBC has been demonstrated, the role of Lnc00113 in TNBC remains unexplored. We aimed to explore the function of Lnc00113 in TNBC.

Methods

Expression levels and the clinical significance of Lnc00113 were assessed in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The expression levels of Lnc00113 in TNBC tissues and cell lines were examined using qRT‐PCR (quantitative Real‐Time Polymerase chain reaction). The proliferation, apoptosis and invasion abilities were evaluated using CCK‐8 (Cell Counting Kit‐8), EdU (5‐Ethynyl‐2'‐deoxyuridine), apoptosis and transwell assays following Lnc00113 knockdown/overexpression. Dual‐luciferase and fluorescence in situ hybridization assays were employed to detect the correlation between Lnc00113, miR‐107 and Nin‐one binding protein (NOB‐1).

Results

We identified significant upregulation of Lnc00113 in TNBC tissues and cell lines, with high Lnc00113 expression correlating with advanced pathological staging and poorer prognosis in the TCGA database. Functional assessments through knockdown/overexpression experiments revealed that Lnc00113 promoted TNBC cell proliferation, apoptosis and invasion. Fluorescence in situ hybridization experiments showed cytoplasmic localization of both Lnc00113 and NOB‐1. Dual‐luciferase assays demonstrated direct binding between Lnc00113 and miR‐107, while miR‐107 directly interacted with NOB‐1. Mechanistically, our findings indicated that Lnc00113 promotes TNBC progression through the miR‐107/NOB‐1/MAPK signaling axis.

Conclusion

Lnc00113 emerges as a potential driver of TNBC growth and progression through modulation of the NOB‐1/MAPK signaling axis, providing insights into diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for TNBC.
The Minimum Admissible Detuning Efficiency of MRI Receive‐Only Surface Coils
Authors: Marhabaie Sina , Labbé Aimé , Quesson Bruno , Poirier‐Quinot Marie
Published: February 2024

Background

The minimum admissible detuning efficiency (DE) of a receive coil is an essential parameter for coil designers. A receive coil with inefficient detuning leads to inhomogeneous B1 during excitation. Previously proposed criteria for quantifying the DE rely on indirect measurements and are difficult to implement.

Purpose

To present an alternative method to quantify the DE of receive‐only surface coils.

Study Type

Theoretical study supported by simulations and phantom experiments.

Phantoms

Uniform spherical (100 mm diameter) and cylindrical (66 mm diameter) phantoms.

Field Strength/Sequence

Dual repetition time B1 mapping sequence at 1.5T, and Bloch‐Siegert shift B1 mapping sequence at 3.0T.

Assessment

One non‐planar (80 × 43 mm2) and two planar (40 and 57 mm diameter) surface coils were built. Theoretical analysis was performed to determine the minimum DE required to avoid B1 distortions. Experimental B1 maps were acquired for the non‐planar and planar surface coils at both 1.5T and 3.0T and visually compared with simulated B1 maps to assess the validity of the theoretical analysis.

Statistical Tests

None.

Results

Based on the theoretical analysis, the proposed minimum admissible DE, defined as DEthr = 20 Log (Q) + 13 dB, depended only on the quality factor (Q) of the coil and was independent of coil area and field strength. Simulations and phantom experiments showed that when the DE was higher than this minimum threshold level, the B1 field generated by the transmission coil was not modified by the receive coil.

Data Conclusion

The proposed criterion for assessing the DE is simple to measure, and does not depend on the area of the coil or on the magnetic field strength, up to 3T. Experimental and simulated B1 maps confirmed that detuning efficiencies above the theoretically derived minimal admissible DE resulted in a non‐distorted B1 field.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Comparison of plasma proteomic profiles of patients with Epstein‐Barr virus‐associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and infectious mononucleosis
Authors: Haruta Kazunori , Suzuki Takako , Yamaguchi Makoto , Fukuda Yuto , Torii Yuka , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Ito Yoshinori , Kawada Jun‐ichi
Published: February 2024

Primary Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) infection occasionally causes EBV‐infectious mononucleosis (EBV‐IM) and EBV‐hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (EBV‐HLH). Although EBV‐IM is mostly mild and self‐limiting, EBV‐HLH is a life‐threatening disease characterized by excessive immune activation. However, the pathogenesis of EBV‐HLH is yet to be fully elucidated. A diagnostic biomarker for EBV‐HLH is desirable because early diagnosis and treatment are critical for the effective management of patients. In this study, the proteomic profiling of plasma was performed using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry to identify proteins specific to EBV‐IM and EBV‐HLH. Furthermore, pathway analysis was performed for the proteins upregulated in patients with EBV‐IM and EBV‐HLH. Compared to healthy controls, 63 and 18 proteins were upregulated in patients with EBV‐IM and EBV‐HLH, respectively. Pathway and process enrichment analyses revealed that the complement system was the most enriched category of upregulated proteins in EBV‐IM, whereas proteins related to immune effector processes were the most enriched in EBV‐HLH. Among the 18 proteins upregulated in EBV‐HLH, seven were exclusive to EBV‐HLH. These specific proteins were associated with three pathways, and apolipoprotein E was commonly found in all the pathways. Proteomic analysis may provide new insights into the host response to EBV infection and the pathogenesis of EBV‐related diseases.
Cervicovaginal microbiota long‐term dynamics and prediction of different outcomes in persistent human papillomavirus infection
Authors: Zhang Ningqing , Chen Zuyi , Huang Meirong , Lu Qin , Yang Hui , Xiang Jialin , Yang Jianru , Peng Yanfeng , Wang Guangli , Han Niwei , Min Xun , Huang Jian
Published: February 2024

Persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection can lead to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cervical cancer, posing serious threats to the health of women. Although the cervicovaginal microbiota is strongly associated with CIN, the dynamics of the microbiota during CIN development are unknown. In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed 3‐year longitudinal data from 72 patients diagnosed with a persistent HPV infection almost all caused by high‐risk HPV types. Patients were categorized into groups with HPV persistent infection (n = 37), progression to CIN (n = 16), and CIN regression (n = 19) based on infection outcome during the follow‐up period. Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed on consecutively collected cervical samples to explore the composition and dynamics of the cervicovaginal microbiota during the development and regression of CIN. Our results showed that the composition of the cervicovaginal microbiota varied among women with different HPV infection outcomes and remained relatively stable during the follow‐up period. Notably, the serial follow‐up data showed that these microbial alterations were present for at least 1–2 years and occurred before pathologic changes. In addition, microbial markers that were highly discriminatory for CIN progression or regression were identified. This study provides evidence for a temporal relationship between changes in the cervicovaginal microbiota and the development of CIN, and our findings provide support for future microbial intervention strategies for CIN.
Differences in neonatal gastric tubes during insertion into a 3D model in relation to risk of potential perforation
Authors: Bartos Hilda‐Brigitta , Diez Sonja , König Alexander , Görlach Jannis , Besendörfer Manuel , Mahnken Andreas H. , Drommelschmidt Karla , Weiss Christel , Müller Hanna
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Perforation of esophagus or stomach is a potential complication during and after insertion of a gastric tube in neonates. The aim of this study was to analyze different types of gastric tubes in a three‐dimensional (3D) model of neonatal esophagus and stomach regarding potential perforations.

Methods

A 3D model of esophagus and stomach was created based on computed tomography data of a term neonate. Three types of gastric tubes were inserted into the 3D model, the localization was examined by radioscopy and the behavior, stiffness and manageability of each gastric tube was evaluated.

Results

Insertion of gastric tubes with higher stiffness was easier. The rates of correct localization differed significantly between the gastric tubes with the highest rate of correct localization in the softest tube (48.5%) and the lowest rate in the tube with the highest stiffness (21.2%). Additionally, the softest tube showed the lowest rate of localization of its tip at the stomach wall.

Conclusions

The study illustrates differences between various types of gastric tubes regarding stiffness, behavior and resiliency. Softer gastric tubes may be beneficial. These differences may be relevant in neonatal care of very immature and very sick infants.
At the Intersection of Science and Education: The Process of Scientists and Educators Co‐developing Authentic Learning Experiences for K‐16 Students
Authors: Granville Kayleigh , Baird Cora , Carlson Charles , Berg Peter
Published: February 2024

Students lose interest in science as they progress from elementary to high school. There is a need for authentic, place‐based science learning experiences that can increase students' interest in science. Scientists have unique skillsets that can complement the work of educators to create exciting experiences that are grounded in pedagogy and science practices. As scientists and educators, we co‐developed a lesson plan for high school students on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, a historically underserved coastal area, that demonstrated realistic scientific practices in students' local estuaries. After implementation of the lesson plan, we observed that students had a deeper understanding of ecosystem processes compared to their peers who had not been involved, were enthusiastic about sharing their experiences, and had a more well‐rounded ability to think like a scientist than before the lesson plan. We share our experiences and five best practices that can serve as a framework for scientists and educators who are motivated to do similar work. Through collaboration, scientists and educators have the potential to bolster student science identities and increase student participation in future scientific endeavors.
Channelized hotelling observer‐based low‐contrast detectability on the ACR CT accreditation phantom: Part II. Repeatability study
Authors: Fan Mingdong , Zhou Zhongxing , McCollough Cynthia , Yu Lifeng
Published: February 2024

Background

Objective and quantitative evaluation for low‐contrast detectability that correlates with human observer performance is lacking for routine CT quality control testing. Channelized Hotelling observer (CHO) is considered a strong candidate to fill the need but has long been deemed impractical to implement due to its requirement of a large number of repeated scans in order to provide accurate and precise estimates of index of detectability (d’). In our previous work, we optimized a CHO model observer on the American College of Radiology (ACR) CT accreditation phantom and achieved accurate measurement of d’ with only 1–3 repeat scans.

Purpose

In this work, we aim to validate the repeatability of the proposed CHO‐based low‐contrast evaluation on four scanner models using the ACR CT accreditation phantom.

Methods

The repeatability test was performed on four different scanners from two major CT manufacturers: Siemens Force and Alpha; Canon Prism and Prime SP. An ACR CT phantom was scanned 10 times, each time after repositioning of the phantom. For each repositioning, 3 repeated scans were acquired at 24, 12, and 6 mGy on all four scanner models. CHO was applied at the measured dose levels for different low‐contrast object sizes (4–6 mm). The CHO was also applied to images created using deep learning‐based reconstructions on Canon Prism and to four different scan/reconstruction modes on the Siemens Alpha, a photon‐counting‐detector (PCD)‐CT. The repeatability was evaluated by the probability that a measurement would fall within the ±15% tolerance (P<15%).

Results

With the CHO setting optimized for the ACR phantom and the use of 3 repeated scans and 9 non‐overlapping slices per scan, the CHO measurement could provide high repeatability with P<15% of 98.8%–99.9% at 12 mGy with IR reconstruction on all four scanners. On scanner A, P<15% were 91.5%–99.9% at the three dose levels and for all three object sizes while the numbers were 93.6%–99.998% on scanner B. P<15% were 96.5%–97.2% for the two deep learning reconstructions and 97.0%–99.97% for the four scan/reconstruction modes on the PCD‐CT.

Conclusion

The CHO provided highly repeatable measurements with over 95% probability that a CHO measurement would lie within the ±15% tolerance for most of the dose levels and object sizes on the ACR phantom. The repeatability was maintained when the CHO was applied to images created with a commercial deep learning‐based reconstruction and various scan/reconstruction modes on a PCD‐CT. This study demonstrates that practical implementation of CHO for routine quality control and performance evaluation is feasible.
TPA: Two‐stage progressive attention segmentation framework for hepatocellular carcinoma on multi‐modality MRI
Authors: Gao Lei , Wang Weilang , Meng Xiangpan , Zhang Shuhang , Xu Jun , Ju Shenghong , Wang Yuan‐Cheng
Published: February 2024

Background

Dynamic contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and measurement of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The multi‐modality information contained in the multi‐phase images of DCE‐MRI is important for improving segmentation. However, this remains a challenging task due to the heterogeneity of HCC, which may cause one HCC lesion to have varied imaging appearance in each phase of DCE‐MRI. In particular, some phases exhibit inconsistent sizes and boundaries will result in a lack of correlation between modalities, and it may pose inaccurate segmentation results.

Purpose

We aim to design a multi‐modality segmentation model that can learn meaningful inter‐phase correlation for achieving HCC segmentation.

Methods

In this study, we propose a two‐stage progressive attention segmentation framework (TPA) for HCC based on the transformer and the decision‐making process of radiologists. Specifically, the first stage aims to fuse features from multi‐phase images to identify HCC and provide localization region. In the second stage, a multi‐modality attention transformer module (MAT) is designed to focus on the features that can represent the actual size.

Results

We conduct training, validation, and test in a single‐center dataset (386 cases), followed by external test on a batch of multi‐center datasets (83 cases). Furthermore, we analyze a subgroup of data with weak inter‐phase correlation in the test set. The proposed model achieves Dice coefficient of 0.822 and 0.772 in the internal and external test sets, respectively, and 0.829, 0.791 in the subgroup. The experimental results demonstrate that our model outperforms state‐of‐the‐art models, particularly within subgroup.

Conclusions

The proposed TPA provides best segmentation results, and utilizing clinical prior knowledge for network design is practical and feasible.
Proteomic analysis of spermathecal fluid reveals factors related to long‐term sperm storage in ant queens
Authors: Gotoh Ayako
Published: February 2024

Ant queens can maintain a large number of sperm cells for over a decade after mating at the beginning of their adult lives until they die. This sperm storage ability is prominent; however, the cellular mechanisms involved remain unclear. Sperm cells are maintained in the female sperm storage organ—the spermatheca—which supplies a suitable environment for sperm cells. To reveal the molecular basis of the long‐term sperm storage mechanisms in ant queens, protein profiles enriched in the spermathecal fluid relative to the hemolymph were identified in Lasius japonicus using data‐independent acquisition‐based quantitative proteomics technology. Proteins related to the extracellular matrix, antioxidants, metabolic pathways, proteases, chaperones, and with uncharacterized functions were especially abundant with higher log ratio values in the spermathecal fluid relative to the hemolymph. These enriched proteins were shared with highly expressed genes previously detected by transcriptome analyses of the spermatheca in queens of Crematogaster osakensis that belong to a different subfamily than L. japonicus. It is likely that the ability for long‐term sperm storage evolved early in the ant lineage. Therefore, the common proteins identified in these two ant species are possibly crucial for this ability.
Fertilization, pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes after IVF, rescue ICSI, and ICSI in unexplained infertility: A retrospective study
Authors: Qiu Fenglong , Zuo Yanghua , Xue Huiying , Zhang Rongxue
Published: February 2024

Conventional intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is not recommended for nonmale infertile patients to avoid fertilization failure (FF) in view of controversies regarding safety issues. Among the strategies that may help to promote the use of in vitro fertilization (IVF) for women with a high risk of FF, rescue ICSI (R‐ICSI) has attracted attention. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of short‐term insemination combined with early R‐ICSI in the treatment of unexplained infertility. A total of 952 controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) cycles for unexplained infertility were divided into short‐term IVF (short‐term insemination without R‐ICSI, n = 500), R‐ICSI (short‐term insemination with R‐ICSI, n = 141), and ICSI (conventional ICSI, n = 311) groups. Patients underwent consecutive transfer cycles until live birth, or until all embryos from the first COS cycle were used. Laboratory data and clinical outcomes from short‐term IVF, R‐ICSI, and ICSI groups were compared. Short‐term IVF and ICSI groups were superior to R‐ICSI group in polyspermy rate, available embryo rate, and top‐quality embryos rate. Short‐term IVF, R‐ICSI, and ICSI groups underwent 705 (500 fresh and 205 frozen‐thawed cycles), 190 (141 fresh and 49 frozen‐thawed cycles), and 445 (311 fresh and 134 frozen‐thawed cycles) transfer cycles, resulting in 294, 76, and 190 live birth cycles, respectively. Comparison of pregnancy outcomes among these three groups demonstrated similar clinical pregnancy rates and live birth rates in fresh and frozen‐thawed embryo transfer cycles. There was no significant difference in the cumulative live birth rate among these three groups. R‐ICSI group showed similar neonatal outcomes compared with short‐term IVF and ICSI groups, including the rates of low birth weight, fetal macrosomia, small for gestational age and large for gestational age. Short‐term insemination combined with early R‐ICSI achieved satisfactory pregnancy and neonatal outcomes, albeit with a high polyspermy rate, which was an effective alternative to avoid excessive use of ICSI in unexplained infertility.
A standardised method for improving the readability of patient education materials for total hip & knee arthroplasty patients
Authors: Baumann John , Marshall Samuel , O’Malley John , DeFroda Steven
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Orthopaedic Patient Education Materials (PEMs) related to total hip and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have repeatedly been shown to not meet American Medical Association and National Institutes of Health recommendations for readability. PEMs that are written with too much complexity limit the ability of some readers to comprehend the material. These complex PEMs also limit the health literacy of patients, a key determinant of health status and outcomes. The purpose of this study was to improve the readability of total hip and TKA‐related PEMs by limiting the use of sentences with ≥15 words and limiting the use of words with ≥ three syllables.

Methods

The readability of all 26 PEMs in this study was assessed before and after editing. Editing of articles included limiting the use of sentences with ≥15 words and limiting the use of words with ≥three syllables while preserving PEM content.

Results

A total of 26 PEMs were available for use in this study after the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The percentage of original PEMs at or below the recommended sixth‐grade reading level was 0% (0 out of 26), while the percentage of edited PEMs at or below the sixth‐grade reading level was 50% (13 out of 26).

Conclusions

Using this standardised method for reducing sentence length to <15 words and limiting the use of words with >2 syllables, while preserving key content, significantly improved the readability of PEMs related to total hip and TKA.
Examining the effect of weight‐related recruitment information on participant characteristics: A randomized field experiment
Authors: Wang Christy , Hunger Jeffrey M. , Liao Joseph , Figueroa David , Lopez Alejandra , Tomiyama A. Janet
Published: February 2024

Objective

Although 82% of American adults have a body mass index (BMI) of over 25, individuals with elevated BMI are considered difficult to recruit for studies. Effective participant identification and recruitment are crucial to minimize the likelihood of sampling bias. One understudied factor that could lead to sampling bias is the study information presented in recruitment materials. In the context of weight research, potential participants with higher weight may avoid studies that advertise weight‐related procedures. Thus, this study experimentally manipulated the phrasing of weight‐related information included in recruitment materials and examined its impact on participants' characteristics.

Methods

Two visually similar flyers, either weight‐salient or neutral, were randomly posted throughout a university campus to recruit participants (N = 300) for a short survey, assessing their internalized weight bias, anticipated and experienced stigmatizing experiences, eating habits, and general demographic characteristics.

Results

Although the weight‐salient (vs. neutral) flyer took 18.5 days longer to recruit the target sample size, there were no between flyer differences in respondents' internalized weight bias, anticipated/experienced weight stigma, disordered eating behaviors, BMI, or perceived weight. Absolute levels of these variables, however, were low overall.

Conclusion

Providing detailed information about study procedures allows participants to have more autonomy over their participation without differentially affecting participant characteristics.
Engineering the optical, and dielectric properties of (PVA: PVP)/BaSnO3 polymer nanocomposites as promising films for optoelectronics and energy storage applications
Authors: Al‐Sulami Ahlam I. , Al‐Nashri Alanoud A. , Al‐Mhyawi Saedah , Hameed Talaat A.
Published: February 2024

This work is devoted to optimizing the optical and dielectric parameters of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA): polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) (1:1) polymer nanocomposites by controlling barium stannate contents (BaSnO3) aspiring to engage it into flexible optoelectronics and thermally stable capacitors. Herein, high purity BaSnO3 was synthesized by solid‐state route and loaded with different ratios (5–20 wt%) into PVA/PVP blend to form films by solution casting method. Further, the degree of crystallinity (Xc) was highly increased upon increasing the filler contents (BaSnO3), as confirmed by X‐ray diffractometer measurement. The surface morphology pictured by a field emission scanning electron microscope revealed the variation of the surface from smooth to rough surface upon insertion of BaSnO3. The thermodynamic parameters including enthalpy (ΔH), entropy (ΔS), and Gibb's free energy (ΔG) were extracted from TGA measurements and studied in detail. The optical characteristics of plain PVA/PVP and polymer nanocomposite films are explored by UV–Vis–NIR spectrophotometer. The presence of charge‐transfer complexes within the polymer nanocomposites was certified via shifting of band gap energy from 5.02 to 4.33 eV and variation of band tailing energy (Eu) from 0.22 to 0.44 eV. The real and imaginary part of optical conductivity (σp1, σp2) was confirmed to be enhanced with the insertion of BaSnO3. It is also found that the dielectric constant and DC current increased with the insertion of BaSnO3 content, while the dielectric loss decreases. The findings recommend these polymer nanocomposites as a good candidate for green energy applications and high‐performance capacitors.
Ultra high density carbon fiber derived from isotactic polypropylene fiber without skin‐core structure
Authors: Yang Minghang , Sun Luzhen , Liu Qiongxia , Deng Yu , Liu Cheng , Li Nan , Xu Jian , Chen Yousi , Jian Xigao
Published: February 2024

Polypropylene (PP)‐based carbon fibers were prepared by sulfonation process of isotactic PP fibers with concentrated sulfuric acid, followed by stress‐less carbonization under nitrogen atmosphere. The stabilization behaviors of PP fiber under different sulfonation temperatures and time were discussed. The carbonization behavior of the stabilized PP fibers under different carbonization temperatures, as well as the mechanical performance of the obtained carbon fibers were investigated. The results indicated that linear PP molecule were effectively converted into thermally stable structure at higher temperature (≥130°C) in short time (2 h) through sulfonation‐desulfonation reaction, among which ordered graphite structure has been formed prior to the carbonization process. Meanwhile, the carbon fibers were considerably densified by increasing the sulfonation temperature and carbonization temperature, and a bulk density of 1.96 g/cm3 was achieved. Moreover, the temperature and time of the sulfonation process as well as the temperature of the carbonization process were regulated, and carbon fibers with tensile strength of 262.3 MPa was obtained, which was superior to that of 208.1 MPa for the linear low density polyethylene‐based carbon fibers reported previously. Isotactic PP was proved to be a promising candidate to develop carbon fibers with tunable graphite structure and mechanical performance.
Financial assistance and other financial coping strategies after a pediatric cancer diagnosis
Authors: Lin Jackie J. , Evans Erica M. , Praxedes Kathleen , Agrawal Anurag K. , Winestone Lena E.
Published: February 2024

Background

Families experience financial burden and household material hardship (HMH) after a pediatric cancer diagnosis. This study investigates types of financial assistance and other financial coping strategies (FCS) adopted by families during the first year after diagnosis.

Methods

Retrospective survey of caregivers of pediatric patients diagnosed with cancer from 2015 to 2019. The survey collected data on demographics, diagnosis, income, HMH, and private, hospital, and government assistance received and other FCS adopted after diagnosis. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were used to analyze FCS by income. Subgroup analysis of families experiencing HMH was used to identify predictors of receiving government assistance.

Results

Of 156 respondents, 52% were low‐to‐middle income, 29% had public insurance, and 22% had non‐English language preference. Low‐to‐middle‐income families were more likely to incur debt (odds ratio [OR] 6.24, p < .001) and reduce consumption (OR 2.16, p = .03) than high‐income families, and this association persisted in multivariable analysis. Among families with housing, food, and energy insecurity, 40%, 70%, and 39%, respectively, received hospital or government assistance specific to the experienced hardship. In subgroup analysis of families with HMH, after adjusting for income and other confounders, non‐English language preference was associated with lower odds of receiving government assistance.

Conclusions

After a pediatric cancer diagnosis, low‐to‐middle‐income families are more likely to incur debt than high‐income families. Most families experiencing food insecurity received some food assistance, while housing and energy assistance were less common. Future studies should investigate methods to equitably improve access to financial assistance and minimize long‐term financial consequences.
Social determinants of health predict health outcomes following pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: Klages Kimberly L. , Schwartz Laura E. , Crabtree Endia J. Santee , Brokamp Cole , Rasnick Erika , Dandoy Christopher E. , Davies Stella M. , Pai Ahna L. H.
Published: February 2024

Background

Pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) is an intensive medical procedure that places substantial financial and logistical burdens on families and is associated with significant health risks, such as graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD), and infections. The influence of the social determinants of health (SDoH) on outcomes following pediatric HCT is understudied. This study aimed to examine whether SDoH predicts outcomes following pediatric HCT.

Procedure

Data were collected from 84 children who received HCT (Mage = 5.8 years, SD = 3.7) and their primary caregiver. Detailed demographic information was collected from caregivers at baseline, and child health information was extracted from the electronic medical records. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the association between SDoH and health outcomes within a 24‐month period following pediatric HCT.

Results

After controlling for malignancy as reason for transplant and donor type, lower family income predicted the incidence of chronic GVHD. Neighborhood deprivation, total family income, public health insurance, caregiver relationship status, caregiver educational attainment, and perceived family financial difficulties did not predict acute GVHD or the number of infections.

Conclusions

Total family income is a simple family indicator of SDoH that predicts chronic GVHD after pediatric allogeneic HCT. These findings provide further support for the importance of screening of child and family SDoH risks to ensure that fundamental needs can be met to mitigate potential health disparities for up to 2 years following pediatric HCT.
Physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic modeling of the drug–drug interaction between ivacaftor and lefamulin in cystic fibrosis patients
Authors: Amiel Magali , Ke Alice , Gelone Steven P. , Jones Hannah M. , Wicha Wolfgang
Published: February 2024

Lefamulin is being evaluated as a treatment for bacterial exacerbations in cystic fibrosis (CF). Ivacaftor is approved for the treatment of patients with CF. Lefamulin is a moderate CYP3A inhibitor and co‐administration with ivacaftor may result in a drug–drug interaction (DDI). A CF population was built based on literature using the Simcyp Simulator. A previously developed and validated physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for ivacaftor was used. A PBPK model for lefamulin was developed and verified. Predicted concentrations and pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters for both ivacaftor and lefamulin in healthy subjects and patients with CF were in reasonable agreement with observed data (within 1.4‐fold, majority within 1.25‐fold). The lefamulin model as a CYP3A4 perpetrator was validated using a different Ki value for oral (p.o.) and intravenous (i.v.) routes. The simulated changes in area under the curve of ivacaftor in patients with CF when co‐administered with p.o. and i.v. lefamulin were weak‐to‐moderate. The predicted change in ivacaftor PK when co‐administered with oral lefamulin was less than observed between ivacaftor and fluconazole. These results suggest a low liability for a DDI between lefamulin and ivacaftor in patients with CF.
High‐Speed Laser Surface Structuring for Thermal Spray Coating Preparation
Authors: Kraft Sebastian , Peters Ole , Schille Jörg , Mušálek Radek , Martan Jiří , Dlouhá Žaneta , Klečka Jakub , Matějíček Jiří , Houdková Šárka , Moskal Denys , Vilémová Monika , Löschner Udo
Published: February 2024

The preparation of surfaces for coating processes is indispensable for maximal adhesion and good coating results. These technical surfaces can be treated by chemical, mechanical, or physical procedures. In thermal spray coating, grit blasting is a standard process for surface preparation. This mechanical roughening and activation of the surfaces is fast and easy to handle. On the negative side, the grit gets wasted and the generated pattern is inflexible. Therefore, attempts to substitute grit blasting with a laser application is discussed in this article. Herein, a theoretical evaluation of high‐speed laser surface texturing (LST) is performed to find limits and points for the optimization of these processes. To estimate the surface processing rates, continuous wave, nanosecond, and ultrashort pulse laser machined dimples and grooves are investigated, and results of the spray coatings are presented afterward. The steel substrates are coated with Stellite 6 and tungsten. Adhesion tests and coating structures are analyzed. In terms of the optimization of the laser texturing, in situ temperature measurements show the influence of the laser process speed on the thermal load of the substrate. The influence of the number of scanning repetitions on heat accumulation during LST is also analyzed.
Building coercive Lyapunov–Krasovskii functionals based on Razumikhin and Halanay approaches
Authors: Loko Epiphane , Chaillet Antoine , Karafyllis Iasson
Published: February 2024

In this article, we provide a systematic and constructive way to build a Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional for time‐delay systems whose stability can be established through the Razumikhin or the Halanay approaches. The constructed Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional turns out to be coercive, meaning sandwiched between functions of the state history norm, and to dissipate in terms of the whole history norm. We present these results in the framework of input‐to‐state stability (ISS) in order to further account for the influence of input disturbances. A special emphasis is also given on exponential stability and exponential ISS. We illustrate our findings though the study of a coupled ODE‐PDE model of a chemical reactor, and show that, unlike most results in that area, our approach happens to ensure ISS in terms of the supremum norm of the state.