bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The many “costs” of transportation: Examining what cancer caregivers experience as transportation obstacles
Authors: Thomson Maria D. , Van Houtven Courtney Harold , Xu Rebecca , Siminoff Laura A.
Published: July 2023

Background

Transportation has been identified as a specific source of burden for cancer caregivers. This study examined cancer caregivers' subjective experiences and objectives costs associated with transportation over a 6‐month period of providing end‐of‐life care to a family member or friend.

Methods

This was a multi‐site longitudinal, prospective cohort study that followed 223 caregiver–patient dyads. Data were collected using biweekly, semi‐structured interviews for up to 6 months and collection of all caregiving related receipts. Interviews were coded and analyzed using a comparative, iterative analysis and actual out of pockets costs were described using descriptive statistics.

Results

Over the 6‐month study period most caregivers (n = 143; 74%) discussed transportation at one or more timepoints. Average biweekly transportations costs to caregivers were $43.6. Caregivers described (n = 56; 39%) multiple direct and indirect costs of transportation, and 58% (n = 84) discussed the need for transportations services or assistance at the institutional level.

Conclusions

Caregivers described the multifaceted costs of transportation they experienced which are in line with previous work. Alongside descriptions of direct costs, caregivers described key opportunity costs, such as personal and work time forgone to transporting patients. Caregivers also made suggestions for institutional and/or civic based solutions to facilitate reliable modes of transportation, rather than individual‐level intervention.
Limit risk, liability by derailing pathway to violence
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: July 2023

CLEARWATER, FLORIDA — When higher education leaders take a proactive rather than reactive approach to active assailants, they can limit the risks and liabilities for their institutions.
Students report sexual assault to peers, not authorities
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: July 2023

According to a survey conducted by Vector Solutions, students are much more likely to report allegations of sexual assault to their peers than to the authorities or academic administrators.
An exploratory study of consumer switching behavior in platform businesses: A mixed methods approach
Authors: Ryu JungWon , Han Sang‐Lin , Park Taeyoung
Published: July 2023

This study investigates consumer switching behavior factors in platform businesses. This study reports a two‐phase study of switching behavior. The first phase, Latent Dirichlet Allocation topic analysis, was conducted by collecting reviews and comments to find out consumers' potential switching behavior factors. The second phase was the interview with the consumer who did the switching behavior as to why they made the switching behavior. Besides, among the potential switching behavior factors, actual switching behavior factors were compared. It links quantitative and qualitative phases in exploratory sequential mixed methods design. The switching behavior factors were identified by applying the push‐pull‐mooring framework. The result of the study on music platforms' push effects is price perception, pull effects are promotion and algorithm recommendation, and mooring effects are payment convenience, switching cost, and reward. In Over‐the‐top (OTT), platforms' push effect is a lack of content, pull effects are promotion, WOM, and diversity of content, and mooring effects are content expectations, social networks, payment convenience, and convenience of watching. In e‐commerce platforms' push effects are technical issues, delivery cost, and lack of trust, pull effects are service line extension, and convenience of use, mooring effects are reward, payment convenience, and convenience of access to my data. This work contributes to the growing body of studies investigating the switching behavior factor in each platform business. Also, the study makes recommendations to aid platform marketing managers in understanding the impact of push‐pull‐mooring variables.
A Tetradentate Ligand Enables Iron‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Ketones in a CO‐ or Isocyanide‐Free Fashion
Authors: Yang Lei , Tan Xuefeng , Zhao Menglong , Wen Jialin , Zhang Xumu
Published: July 2023

We herein reported the design and synthesis of a ferrocene‐based tetradentate ligand that is featured with modular synthesis and rigid skeleton. Its iron(II) complex facilitates asymmetric direct hydrogenation of ketones without the participation of extra strong‐field ligand such as CO and isocyanide. Hydride donor lithium aluminum hydride (LAH) converted non‐reactive Fe(II) species to reactive Fe(II) hydride species. With this catalyst, various chiral alcohols including the intermediate for montelukast could be prepared with satisfactory yields and enantioinduction.
Recycling von Silikonen ohne Qualitätsverlust
Authors: Sutthoff Rene
Published: July 2023

Mit viel Leidenschaft für das Thema Kreislaufwirtschaft und dem Antrieb, den CO2‐Fußabdruck von Silikon zu reduzieren und einem richtungweisenden “Magic Fit”, wie sie das Treffen mit Chemiker Stephan Enthaler nennen, haben die Gründerinnen von New Dawn Silicones, Tina Rose und Klara Yoon, eine ressourceneffiziente Recyclingtechnologie entwickelt, mit der Alt‐Silikone ohne Qualitätsverlust wiederverwendet werden können
Amorphous Ni−Mo−B−O Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Simultaneous Production of Hydrogen and Value‐added Chemicals
Authors: Hao Xue , Cai Tong , Ma Jingxuan , She Guangwei , Zhang Haoyue , Wang Wei , Yu Jiacheng , Mu Lixuan , Shi Wensheng
Published: July 2023

Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) coupled with biomass conversion is a sustainable route to produce clean energy H2 and value‐added chemicals simultaneously. Herein, an amorphous Ni−Mo−B−O bifunctional electrocatalyst was synthesized through a facile electrodeposition method and employed as a cathode for HER to produce H2 and as an anode for the conversion of hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA). Besides leading to the formation of amorphous structures, the introduction of Mo and B can increase the electron density and optimize the electronic structure of the electrocatalyst, thus substantially increasing the catalytic activity of the catalyst. After continuous reaction at a constant potential of 0.58 V vs. Hg/HgO for 8 hours, the conversion of HMF reached 98.86 %, and the selectivity of the target product FDCA was as high as 92.97 %. Finally, a two‐electrolyzer system was constructed using the amorphous Ni−Mo−B−O as both cathode and anode to achieve simultaneous H2 production in the cathode chamber and FDCA production in the anode chamber at a low voltage. This work presents a promising strategy for the design and synthesis of high‐performance non‐noble metal electrocatalysts for efficient and cost‐effective H2 production.
DoE‐Assisted Development of a 2H−MoS2‐Catalyzed Approach for the Production of Indole Derivatives
Authors: Gentile Giuseppe , Morant‐Giner Marc , Cardo Lucia , Melchionna Michele , Fornasiero Paolo , Prato Maurizio , Filippini Giacomo
Published: July 2023

2H−MoS2 is an appealing semiconductor because of its Earth‐abundant nature, cheapness, and low toxicity. This material has shown promising catalytic activity for various energy‐related processes, but its use in catalysis for C−C bond forming reactions towards useful organic compounds is still largely unexplored. The lack of examples in organic synthesis is mainly due to the intrinsic difficulties of using bulk 2H−MoS2 (e. g., low surface area), which implies the reliance on high catalytic loadings for obtaining acceptable yields. This makes the optimization process more expensive and tedious. Here, we report the development of a 2H−MoS2‐mediated synthesis of valuable bis(indolyl)methane derivatives, using indoles and benzaldehydes as starting materials. Exploiting the Design of Experiments (DoE) method, we identified the critical parameters affecting the catalytic performance of commercial 2H−MoS2 powder and optimized the reaction conditions. Lastly, we demonstrated that the catalytic system has versatility and good tolerance towards functional group variations of the reagents.
The American Council of Education Fellowship: A Pathway to Higher Education Leadership
Authors: Fatzinger Jim , Ayers‐Palmore Kenya
Published: July 2023

When considering the opportunities for service in higher education's most visible leadership roles, such as the presidency, multiple pathways internal to higher education exist, including academic affairs, advancement, business administration, student affairs, government relations, and less often, leadership roles originating outside academia. While most institutional leaders do not answer to shareholders, according to the American Council on Education (2023), they are “among the most important leaders in the country.” No matter which pathway to a senior leadership role, opportunities for serving higher education's diverse stakeholders, including but not limited to students, faculty, staff, families, and communities, abound. At the center of academic leadership, 86% of provosts, according to the 2022 Inside Higher Education Survey of College and University Chief Academic Officers (CAOs), agree that “healthy undergraduate education requires healthy departments.”
Know what it takes to advance to senior‐level positions
Authors: Calhoun Daniel W. , Tolman Steven
Published: July 2023

As student affairs faculty, we equip our students with the knowledge and skills to be successful in their first job, but we also provide them with the tools to start thinking about their last job. For many, that last job is an executive position, such as director, dean, vice president, or president. One of the exercises we commonly conduct early in our programs and then revisit in the final semester is helping students create a professional development plan. As part of this exercise, students must assess their skillset and put it in the context of entry‐level and senior‐level jobs. This reflection includes reviewing employment postings in The Chronicle of Higher Education and HigherEdJobs.com to see the qualifications for their “dream job.”
Synthesis of Silolide Dianions via Reduction of Dichlorosiloles: Important Role of the Solvent
Authors: Szathmári Balázs , Fekete Csaba , Kelemen Zsolt , Holczbauer Tamás , Nyulászi László , Kovács Ilona
Published: July 2023

The reduction of 1,1‐dichloro‐2,5‐bistrimethylsilyl‐3,4‐diphenylsilole to silolide dianion by alkali metals was investigated. As previously demonstrated, the outcome of the reaction depends strongly on the applied alkali metal, solvent, reaction conditions, and substituent pattern. We showed that lithium is a powerful reducing agent in THF or DME solvents, the reaction is even faster than the same reaction with sodium. The X‐ray structures of the corresponding dilithio and disodium silolide dianion were investigated, interestingly recrystallization of the dilithio salt results in a coordination polymer. In order to support the synthetic work DFT calculations were performed.
Lipase‐mediated plant oil hydrolysis—Toward a quantitative glycerol recovery for the synthesis of pure allyl alcohol and acrylonitrile
Authors: Melcher Felix , Vogelgsang Ferdinand , Haack Martina , Masri Mahmoud , Ringel Marion , Roth Arne , Garbe Daniel , Brück Thomas
Published: July 2023

Plant based triacylglycerides are a sustainable feedstock for the chemical, bioenergy, food and cosmetic sector. While fatty acids conversion has been intensively studied, processes for glycerol valorization have been scarce. In contrast to chemical hydrolysis of plant triacylglycerides enzymatic hydrolysis methods provide a cleaner glycerol stream. This study focuses on the selection of a commercial lipase capable of quantitative hydrolysis of rapeseed‐ and high oleic sunflower oils. Enzymatic process using only water as the reaction medium allows simplified recovery of pure glycerol. Among the six commercial lipase preparations tested, Candida rugosa lipase was identified as the most effective biocatalyst. Catalytic behavior in buffer and pure water was equivalent. Glycerol generated using a washed lipase was recovered by just three purification steps. The FTIR spectrum of the recovered glycerol was equivalent to pure glycerol standard. Over the entire recovery process, 82%–88% of the theoretical glycerol yield could be obtained. Purified glycerol was further didehydroxylated to allyl alcohol by a formic acid mediated open distillation process. The enriched allyl alcohol had a quality, which allows to use it for the synthesis of bio‐based acrylonitrile.
Creating new water‐soluble Iso‐ and n‐fatty acid arginate hydrochloride with antimicrobial properties
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , Huang Kun , Fan Xuetong , Strahan Gary D. , Nuńez Alberto , Sarker Majher I. , Ngo Helen
Published: July 2023

Typically, short‐ and long‐chain lipids from oils exhibit different antimicrobial activities and therefore have been used in agriculture and aquaculture, biomedical therapeutic and antibacterial fields. However, these fatty acids have limitations in terms of bioactive efficacy, thermostability and aqueous solubility. In this study, water‐soluble iso‐fatty acid arginate hydrochloride derivatives with antimicrobial properties were produced by introducing branched (iso‐) chain and other linear‐ (n‐) chain fatty acids to the “arginine” amino acid molecule. The two‐step synthetic route was straightforward and provided an efficient 88% and 76% product yields for ethyl n‐oleoyl arginate hydrochloride and ethyl iso‐oleoyl arginate hydrochloride, respectively. ATR‐FT‐IR, NMR, and LC‐MS‐Q‐TOF techniques were used to thoroughly characterize and confirm the products. These arginate products had strong antimicrobial activities against Listeria innucua, a Gram‐positive bacterium with minimum inhibitory concentrations and minimum bactericidal concentrations ranging from 1.8 µg mL−1 to 29.1 µg mL−1. Therefore, the study demonstrated the development of a novel class of antimicrobial compounds from iso‐fatty acids and arginates.
Progress and perspectives of in situ polymerization method for lithium‐based batteries
Authors: Xiao Guanyou , Xu Hao , Bai Chen , Liu Ming , He Yan‐Bing
Published: July 2023

The application of lithium‐based batteries is challenged by the safety issues of leakage and flammability of liquid electrolytes. Polymer electrolytes (PEs) can address issues to promote the practical use of lithium metal batteries. However, the traditional preparation of PEs such as the solution‐casting method requires a complicated preparation process, especially resulting in side solvents evaporation issues. The large thickness of traditional PEs reduces the energy density of the battery and increases the transport bottlenecks of lithium‐ion. Meanwhile, it is difficult to fill the voids of electrodes to achieve good contact between electrolyte and electrode. In situ polymerization appears as a facile method to prepare PEs possessing excellent interfacial compatibility with electrodes. Thus, thin and uniform electrolytes can be obtained. The interfacial impedance can be reduced, and the lithium‐ion transport throughput at the interface can be increased. The typical in situ polymerization process is to implant a precursor solution containing monomers into the cell and then in situ solidify the precursor under specific initiating conditions, and has been widely applied for the preparation of PEs and battery assembly. In this review, we focus on the preparation and application of in situ polymerization method in gel polymer electrolytes, solid polymer electrolytes, and composite polymer electrolytes, in which different kinds of monomers and reactions for in situ polymerization are discussed. In addition, the various compositions and structures of inorganic fillers, and their effects on the electrochemical properties are summarized. Finally, challenges and perspectives for the practical application of in situ polymerization methods in solid‐state lithium‐based batteries are reviewed.
Impact of perioperative characteristics on the recurrence risk and survival of patients with uterine leiomyosarcoma
Authors: Gracia Myriam , Yildirim Yusuf , Macuks Ronalds , Mancari Rosanna , Achimas‐Cadariu Patriciu , Cusine‐Lopez Laura , Novak Zoltan , Dallaku Kastriot , Zapardiel Ignacio ,   SARCUT Study Group
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To analyze the impact of perioperative characteristics on the risk of recurrence in patients with uterine leiomyosarcomas.

Methods

A sub‐analysis of the SARComa of the UTerus (SARCUT) study, which is a multicentric cross‐sectional pan‐European study that included 390 patients diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma, between 2001 and 2007. Perioperative factors related to risk of recurrence and survival were analyzed.

Results

The 5‐year and 10‐year disease‐free survivals (DFS) were 46% and 55%, respectively. Overall survival at 5 and 10 years was 34% and 47%, respectively. The most important factors related to global recurrence were the incomplete cytoreduction (hazard ratio [HR] 2.87; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.91–4.31); performing bilateral adnexectomy (HR 2.71; 95% CI 1.23–5.93); tumor persistence after any treatment (HR 2.38; 95% CI 1.39–4.06); and adjuvant chemotherapy administration (HR 2.55; 95% CI 1.82–3.58) or adjuvant radiotherapy (HR 2.26; 95% CI 1.53–3.32). The major factors significantly associated with pelvic relapse were tumor persistence after any treatment (HR 3.63; 95% CI 1.83–7.20) and adjuvant radiotherapy (HR 2.74; 95% CI 1.44–5.20). Incomplete cytoreduction was the most important factor associated with distant relapse (HR 1.91; 95% CI 1.22–2.97). The most important factors related to overall survival were tumor persistence after any treatment (HR 4.59; 95% CI 2.51–8.40), incomplete cytoreduction (HR 3.68; 95% CI 2.44–5.56), tumor margin involvement (HR 2.41; 95% CI 1.64–3.55) and adjuvant chemotherapy (HR 1.91; 95% CI 1.31–2.78).

Conclusions

Complete cytoreduction is the main prognosis factor impacting the DFS and overall survival of patients with uterine leiomyosarcoma. Adjuvant chemotherapy administration was associated with decreased rates of DFS and overall survival. The adjuvant radiotherapy was associated with a higher risk of global recurrence.
MRElastography of the Pancreas: Bowel Preparation and Repeatability Assessment in Pancreatic Cancer Patients and Healthy Controls
Authors: Wassenaar Nienke P.M. , van Schelt Anne‐Sophie , Schrauben Eric M. , Kop Marnix P.M. , Nio C. Yung , Wilmink Johanna W. , Besselink Marc G.H. , van Laarhoven Hanneke W.M. , Stoker Jaap , Nederveen Aart J. , Runge Jurgen H.
Published: July 2023

Background

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) stromal viscoelasticity can be measured using MR elastography (MRE). Bowel preparation regimens could affect MRE quality and knowledge on repeatability is crucial for clinical implementation.

Purpose

To assess effects of four bowel preparation regimens on MRE quality and to evaluate repeatability and differentiate patients from healthy controls.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

15 controls (41 ± 16 years; 47% female), 16 PDAC patients (one excluded, 66 ± 12 years; 40% female) with 15 age‐/sex‐matched controls (65 ± 11 years; 40% female). Final sample size was 25 controls and 15 PDAC.

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, spin‐echo echo‐planar‐imaging, turbo spin‐echo, and fast field echo gradient‐echo.

Assessment

Four different regimens were used: fasting; scopolaminebutyl; drinking 0.5 L water; combination of 0.5 L water and scopolaminebutyl. MRE signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) was compared between all regimens. MRE repeatability (test–retest) and differences in shear wave speed (SWS) and phase angle (ϕ) were assessed in PDAC and controls. Regions‐of‐interest were defined for tumor, nontumorous (n = 8) tissue in PDAC, and whole pancreas in controls. Two radiologists delineated tumors twice for evaluation of intraobserver and interobserver variability.

Statistical Tests

Repeated measures analysis of variance, coefficients of variation (CoVs), Bland–Altman analysis, (un)pairedt‐test, Mann–Whitney U‐test, and Wilcoxon signed‐rank test.P‐value<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Preparation regimens did not significantly influence MRE‐SNR. Therefore, the least burdensome preparation (fasting only) was continued. CoVs for tumor SWS were: intrasession (12.8%) and intersession (21.7%), and intraobserver (7.9%) and interobserver (10.3%) comparisons. For controls, CoVs were intrasession (4.6%) and intersession (6.4%). Average SWS for tumor, nontumor, and healthy tissue were: 1.74 ± 0.58, 1.38 ± 0.27, and 1.18 ± 0.16 m/sec (ϕ: 1.02 ± 0.17, 0.91 ± 0.07, and 0.85 ± 0.08 rad), respectively. Significant differences were found between all groups, except for ϕ between healthy–nontumor (P = 0.094).

Data Conclusion

The proposed bowel preparation regimens may not influence MRE quality. MRE may be able to differentiate between healthy tissue–tumor and tumor–nontumor.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Mammal taphonomy from a singular Late Pleistocene debris‐flow tank deposit in northeastern Brazil
Authors: De Andrade Luana Cardoso , Oliveira Édison Vicente , De Araújo Júnior Hermínio Ismael , Barbosa Fernando Henrique De Souza
Published: July 2023

An integrated taphonomic analysis was applied to a tank deposit from the Zabelê Palaeontological Site (ZPS) in northeast Brazil. The unique sedimentological evidence documents the origin of the mammal assemblage via debris flow. Optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dates put the ZPS in the later Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 3, which was a time when it was colder and there were fewer trees. The study revealed that the Zabelê's periphery accumulation was the result of the short transport of specimens and their entrainment by debris flow. This hydraulic transport caused the preferential orientation of the bioclasts (north–southwest). Comparisons were made with other Pleistocene tank deposits, suggesting the occurrence of common megamammal taxa. Temporal mixing was evidenced by the long time interval recorded by OSL ages and the co‐occurrence of distinct degrees of fragmentation, weathering, and fossil diagenesis. Permineralization and staining of Fe3+ and Mn colour patterns were identified as fossilization processes with preservation of the original bone hydroxyapatite without substitution. The comparison with other tank deposits revealed common signatures (disarticulated and fragmented with moderate abrasion) and signs of reworking. Finally, the savanna‐adapted herbivore megamammals from ZPS, such as Eremotherium, Notiomastodon, Toxodon, and Glyptotherium, are congruent with the forest decline from MIS 3 to the Last Glacial Maximum.
Topological duality for orthomodular lattices
Authors: McDonald Joseph , Bimbó Katalin
Published: July 2023

A class of ordered relational topological spaces is described, which we call orthomodular spaces. Our construction of these spaces involves adding a topology to the class of orthomodular frames introduced by Hartonas, along the lines of Bimbó's topologization of the class of orthoframes employed by Goldblatt in his representation of ortholattices. We then prove that the category of orthomodular lattices and homomorphisms is dually equivalent to the category of orthomodular spaces and certain continuous frame morphisms, which we call continuous weak p‐morphisms. It is well‐known that orthomodular lattices provide an algebraic semantics for the quantum logic . Hence, as an application of our duality, we develop a topological semantics for using orthomodular spaces and prove soundness and completeness.
Bowtie‐free graphs and generic automorphisms
Authors: Siniora Daoud
Published: July 2023

We show that the countable universal ω‐categorical bowtie‐free graph admits generic automorphisms. Moreover, we show that this graph is not finitely homogenisable.
The entrancing role of dietary polyphenols against the most frequent aging‐associated diseases
Authors: Shah Muhammad Ajmal , Faheem Hafiza Ishmal , Hamid Ayesha , Yousaf Rimsha , Haris Muhammad , Saleem Uzma , Shah Ghulam Mujtaba , Alhasani Reem H. , Althobaiti Norah A. , Alsharif Ifat , Silva Ana Sanches
Published: July 2023

Aging, a fundamental physiological process influenced by innumerable biological and genetic pathways, is an important driving factor for several aging‐associated disorders like diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. In the modern era, the several mechanisms associated with aging have been deeply studied. Treatment and therapeutics for age‐related diseases have also made considerable advances; however, for the effective and long‐lasting treatment, nutritional therapy particularly including dietary polyphenols from the natural origin are endorsed. These dietary polyphenols (e.g., apigenin, baicalin, curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, kaempferol, quercetin, resveratrol, and theaflavin), and many other phytochemicals target certain molecular, genetic mechanisms. The most common pathways of age‐associated diseases are mitogen‐activated protein kinase, reactive oxygen species production, nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells signaling pathways, metal chelation, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase, and inflammation. Polyphenols slow down the course of aging and help in combatting age‐linked disorders. This exemplified in the form of clinical trials on specific dietary polyphenols in various aging‐associated diseases. With this context in mind, this review reveals the new insights to slow down the aging process, and consequently reduce some classic diseases associated with age such as aforementioned, and targeting age‐associated diseases by the activities of dietary polyphenols of natural origin.
Extracorporeal bladder vibration assay enables early detection and recurrence monitoring for bladder cancer
Authors: Cui Junqi , Wang Xia , Lin Jiali , Zou Yun , Wang Hongkang , Jiang Wenyan , Chen Jiajia , Rao Yamin , Xu Bin , Li Long
Published: July 2023

Cystoscopy is the current gold standard for diagnosing bladder cancer (Bca), but its invasive nature often results in patient discomfort. This study aims to debise a new strategy to enhance BCa detection. We collected data from 30 BCa patients between January and June 2022. We obtained spontaneously voided urine specimens from these patients before and after administering extracorporeal bladder vibration. These specimens underwent routine cytologic examination and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Furthermore, we conducted a follow‐up 3 months postoperation. We recollected urine specimens before and after extracorporeal bladder vibration, repeating the cytologic examination and FISH. Our findings indicated an increase in the number of exfoliated cells in patients' urine postvibration compared to previbration. The liquid‐based cell staining results showed an increased detection rate of abnormal cells in the urinary sediment of patients with both low and high‐grade urothelial carcinoma postvibration. Similarly, the FISH results revealed an increased detection rate of CEP3 and CEP7 positive cells postvibration. Additionally, 3 months postoperation, we found abnormal cells in the urine of one patient previbration and in three patients postvibration. Further cystoscopic biopsy confirmed that these three patients had developed tumor recurrence. Our study substantiates that the extracorporeal bladder vibration assay significantly enhances BCa detection and the prediction of tumor recurrence. This method is simple, quick, and cost‐effective, making it a promising approach worthy of widespread clinical application.
Load balancing clustering and routing for IoT‐enabled wireless sensor networks
Authors: Singh Shashank , Anand Veena
Published: July 2023

Internet of things (IoT) devices are equipped with a number of interconnected sensor nodes that relies on ubiquitous connectivity between sensor devices to optimize information automation processes. Because of the extensive deployments in adverse areas and unsupervised nature of wireless sensor networks (WSNs), energy efficiency is a significant aim in these networks. Network survival time can be extended by optimizing its energy consumption. It has been a complex struggle for researchers to develop energy‐efficient routing protocols in the field of WSNs. Energy consumption, path reliability and Quality of Service (QoS) in WSNs became important factors to be focused on enforcing an efficient routing strategy. A hybrid optimization technique presented in this paper is a combination of fuzzy c‐means and Grey Wolf optimization (GWO) techniques for clustering. The proposed scheme was evaluated on different parameters such as total energy consumed, packet delivery ratio, packet drop rate, throughput, delay, remaining energy and total network lifetime. According to the results of the simulation, the proposed scheme improves energy efficiency and throughput by about 30% and packet delivery ratio and latency by about 10%, compared with existing protocols such as Chemical Reaction Approach based Cluster Formation (CHRA), Hybrid Optimal Based Cluster Formation (HOBCF), GWO‐based clustering (GWO‐C) and Cat Swarm Optimization based Energy‐Efficient Reliable sectoring Scheme with prediction algorithms (P_CSO_EERSS). The study concludes that the protocol suitable for creating IoT monitoring system network lifetime is an important criteria.
An integrative approach for the design of bioactive polycaprolactone‐based scaffold for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Zusmanovitch Itay , Asbi Thabet , Regev Oshrat , Zigdon Giladi Hadar , Bianco‐Peled Havazelet
Published: July 2023

Treatment of large bone defects is challenging and requires coordination between cells, cytokines, and mechanical demands. Scaffold for bone tissue engineering should provide mechanical properties and allow cells adherence, proliferation, and osteodifferentiation. The current study aims to create an improved scaffold for bone tissue engineering, which is tailored to meet crucial scaffold requirements for a successive transplant. To achieve this goal, we adopted an integrative approach that considers simultaneously all essential design criteria, including high porosity, a wide range of pore sizes, a hydrophilic and rough surface, and biofunctionalization, for better bioactivity. We choose polycaprolactone (PCL) because of its mechanical stiffness and combined several methodologies to improve PCL bioactivity. The scaffolds were thoroughly characterized and tested in vitro with two cell lines and in vivo, demonstrating enhanced cell adhesion and proliferation onto and inside the scaffold. We demonstrate that our integrative approach has led to high hydrophilicity, high porosity with interconnected pores, stiffness, and improved bioactivity compared with the other studied scaffolds. These new scaffolds serve as a promising platform for bone engineering.
Circularly polarized luminescence in chiral orientationally ordered soft matter systems
Authors: Liu Jiao , Song Zhen‐Peng , Sun Lu‐Yao , Li Bing‐Xiang , Lu Yan‐Qing , Li Quan
Published: July 2023

Circularly polarized luminescent (CPL) materials have received significant attention in the field of fundamental science recently. These materials offer substantial advancement of technological applications, such as optical data storage, displays, and quantum communication. Various strategies have been proposed in self‐assembled materials consisting of inorganic, organic, and hybrid systems, particularly in the chiral orientationally ordered soft matter systems (e.g., chiral liquid crystals (LCs) and LC polymers). However, developing scientific approaches to achieve the pronounced and steerable circularly polarized light emission remains challenging. Herein, we present a comprehensive review on the recent development of CPL materials based on chiral LCs, including thermotropic LCs (cholesteric LCs and bent‐core LCs), lyotropic LCs (nanocellulose LCs and polyacetylene‐based LCs), and LC polymers (cholesteric LC‐based polymers, helical nanofibers, and helical network). In addition, the fundamental mechanisms, design principles, and potential applications based on these chiral LCs and LC polymers in soft matter systems are systematically reviewed. This review summarizes with a prospect on the latent challenges, which can strengthen our understanding of the basic principles of CPL in chiral orientationally ordered soft matter systems and provide a new insight into the progress in several fields, such as chemistry, materials science, optics, electronics, and biology.
Investigate, Explore, Create: Incorporating Biographies into the K–8 Classroom Using the Biography Clearinghouse
Authors: Shimek Courtney , Dawes Erika Thulin
Published: July 2023

Biographies are one of our best tools for diversifying the curriculum. In this article, we describe The Biography Clearinghouse, a free resource designed to inspire teachers to use high‐quality biographies in their classrooms. We then elaborate on curricular possibilities in K‐8 classrooms. We end with a discussion of the Investigate, Explore, and Create framework established by The Biography Clearinghouse and provide examples of teaching suggestions using two picturebook biographies and a chapter book biography.
A Non-technical Introduction to Machine Learning
Authors: Colliot Olivier
Published: July 2023

This chapter provides an introduction to machine learning for a non-technical readership. Machine learning is an approach to artificial intelligence. The chapter thus starts with a brief history of artificial intelligence in order to put machine learning into this broader scientific context. We then describe the main general concepts of machine learning. Readers with a background in computer science may skip this chapter.
Mobile Devices, Connected Objects, and Sensors
Authors: Mondragón-González Sirenia Lizbeth , Burguière Eric , N’diaye Karim
Published: July 2023

Brain disorders are a leading cause of global disability. With the increasing global proliferation of smart devices and connected objects, the use of these technologies applied to research and clinical trials for brain disorders has the potential to improve their understanding and create applications aimed at preventing, early diagnosing, monitoring, and creating tailored help for patients. This chapter provides an overview of the data these technologies offer, examples of how the same sensors are applied in different applications across different brain disorders, and the limitations and considerations that should be taken into account when designing a solution using smart devices, connected objects, and sensors.
Image Registration: Fundamentals and Recent Advances Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Chen Min , Tustison Nicholas J. , Jena Rohit , Gee James C.
Published: July 2023

Registration is the process of establishing spatial correspondences between images. It allows for the alignment and transfer of key information across subjects and atlases. Registration is thus a central technique in many medical imaging applications. This chapter first introduces the fundamental concepts underlying image registration. It then presents recent developments based on machine learning, specifically deep learning, which have advanced the three core components of traditional image registration methods—the similarity functions, transformation models, and cost optimization. Finally, it describes the key application of these techniques to brain disorders.
Classic Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Faouzi Johann , Colliot Olivier
Published: July 2023

In this chapter, we present the main classic machine learning methods. A large part of the chapter is devoted to supervised learning techniques for classification and regression, including nearest neighbor methods, linear and logistic regressions, support vector machines, and tree-based algorithms. We also describe the problem of overfitting as well as strategies to overcome it. We finally provide a brief overview of unsupervised learning methods, namely, for clustering and dimensionality reduction. The chapter does not cover neural networks and deep learning as these will be presented in Chaps.3,4,5, and6.
Main Existing Datasets for Open Brain Research on Humans
Authors: Couvy-Duchesne Baptiste , Bottani Simona , Camenen Etienne , Fang Fang , Fikere Mulusew , Gonzalez-Astudillo Juliana , Harvey Joshua , Hassanaly Ravi , Kassam Irfahan , Lind Penelope A. , Liu Qianwei , Lu Yi , Nabais Marta , Rolland Thibault , Sidorenko Julia , Strike Lachlan , Wright Margie
Published: July 2023

Recent advances in technology have made possible to quantify fine-grained individual differences at many levels, such as genetic, genomics, organ level, behavior, and clinical. The wealth of data becoming available raises great promises for research on brain disorders as well as normal brain function, to name a few, systematic and agnostic study of disease risk factors (e.g., genetic variants, brain regions), the use of natural experiments (e.g., evaluate the effect of a genetic variant in a human population), and unveiling disease mechanisms across several biological levels (e.g., genetics, cellular gene expression, organ structure and function). However, this data revolution raises many challenges such as data sharing and management, the need for novel analysis methods and software, storage, and computing.

Here, we sought to provide an overview of some of the main existing human datasets, all accessible to researchers. Our list is far from being exhaustive, and our objective is to publicize data sharing initiatives and help researchers find new data sources.
Machine Learning in Neuroimaging of Epilepsy
Authors: Lee Hyo Min , Gill Ravnoor Singh , Bernasconi Neda , Bernasconi Andrea
Published: July 2023

Epilepsy is a prevalent chronic condition affecting about 50 million people worldwide. A third of patients suffer from seizures unresponsive to medication. Uncontrolled seizures damage the brain, are associated with cognitive decline, and have negative impact on well-being. For these patients, the surgical resection of the brain region that gives rise to seizures is the most effective treatment. In this context, due to its unmatched spatial resolution and whole-brain coverage, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a central role in detecting lesions. The last decade has witnessed an increasing use of machine learning applied to multimodal MRI, which has allowed the design of tools for computer-aided diagnosis and prognosis. In this chapter, we focus on automated algorithms for the detection of epileptogenic lesions and imaging-derived prognostic markers, including response to anti-seizure medication, postsurgical seizure outcome, and cognitive reserves. We also highlight advantages and limitations of these approaches and discuss future directions toward person-centered care.
Transformers and Visual Transformers
Authors: Courant Robin , Edberg Maika , Dufour Nicolas , Kalogeiton Vicky
Published: July 2023

Transformers were initially introduced for natural language processing (NLP) tasks, but fast they were adopted by most deep learning fields, including computer vision. They measure the relationships between pairs of input tokens (words in the case of text strings, parts of images for visual transformers), termed attention. The cost is exponential with the number of tokens. For image classification, the most common transformer architecture uses only the transformer encoder in order to transform the various input tokens. However, there are also numerous other applications in which the decoder part of the traditional transformer architecture is also used. Here, we first introduce the attention mechanism (Subheading 1) and then the basic transformer block including the vision transformer (Subheading 2). Next, we discuss some improvements of visual transformers to account for small datasets or less computation (Subheading 3). Finally, we introduce visual transformers applied to tasks other than image classification, such as detection, segmentation, generation, and training without labels (Subheading 4) and other domains, such as video or multimodality using text or audio data (Subheading 5).
Neuroimaging in Machine Learning for Brain Disorders
Authors: Burgos Ninon
Published: July 2023

Medical imaging plays an important role in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment monitoring of brain disorders. Neuroimaging includes different modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), or single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT).

For each of these modalities, we will explain the basic principles of the technology, describe the type of information the images can provide, list the key processing steps necessary to extract features, and provide examples of their use in machine learning studies for brain disorders.
Electroencephalography and Magnetoencephalography
Authors: Corsi Marie-Constance
Published: July 2023

In this chapter, we present the main characteristics of electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG). More specifically, this chapter is dedicated to the presentation of the data, the way they can be acquired and analyzed. Then, we present the main features that can be extracted and their applications for brain disorders with concrete examples to illustrate them. Additional materials associated with this chapter are available in the dedicated Github repository.
Einleitung
Authors: Künnemann Andreas
Published: July 2023

In diesem Kapitel wird zunächst eine Einführung in die Thematik vorgenommen. Dabei erfolgt ein historischer Abriss zur Entwicklung der Variationsrechnung zu einem eigenständigen Teilgebiet der Mathematik, welches in vielen Anwendungsbereichen von zentraler Bedeutung geworden ist. Des Weiteren werden die Aufgaben und Ziele der Arbeit formuliert, bevor abschließend der Aufbau dieses Buches ausführlich dargelegt wird.
Objectives of Using Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) by Omani Teachers During the Covid-19
Authors: Al-Badi Aaisha , Al Harassi Nabahan , Alkharusi Hussain
Published: July 2023

This paper aimed to explore the objectives of the Omani teachers' use of MOOCs during the pandemic of Covid-19. The quantitative approach was applied to collect the data through questionnaires to reveal the teachers' objectives and reasons for using MOOCs during Covid-19. Therefore, the population of this study was the Omani teachers who teach in the Muscat Governorate, in public schools, and from different subject specializations, with various years of teaching experience. The findings of this study showed that the majority (97%) of the Omani teachers, in Muscat specifically, use MOOCs during the Covid-19 pandemic as MOOCs give a meaningful learning through providing access to good quality education with no fees given, following with (94.7%) use MOOCs to get new insights and experiences in their teaching subject. The same percentage (#%) use MOOCs to update their knowledge and skills related to innovative technologies and teaching strategies. However, 31.5% of the participants disagree with using MOOCs for enhancing peer support. In addition, 26% of them disagree with using MOOCs because of encouraging peer support. Also, the study revealed no significant gender differences in the objectives of the Omani teachers’ use of MOOCs during the pandemic of Covid-19. This study recommended having a database of the MOOCs learners’ profiles to make it easier to reach them, analyze their needs, and develop MOOCs for them to make their learning more effective and meaningful.
How to Make Learning Process Smoother for Students Through Teaching Practices: Action Research
Authors: Alreshidi Nawaf Awadh
Published: July 2023

This action research seeks to make students’ learning of mathematics smoother through teaching. This kind of research aims to improve students’ learning by improving the teacher’s performance. The study comprises two stages. In the first stage, the sample consisted of four students (age M = 12 years; SD = 1), who were taught about ratios, proportions, and percentages over a total of five lessons. Data were collected through field observations. The data were then thematically analyzed to develop an improvement plan for the next teaching session. The findings revealed that the students suffered from a lack of understanding, a lack of big ideas, a lack of necessary prior knowledge, and misconceptions. Planned improvements were implemented for four different students in the second stage, followed by reflection (age M = 12 years; SD = 1). In the second teaching session, students were taught the same topics over five lessons. The plan worked well, as no surface-level learning or learning difficulties emerged. The overall results suggested that posing questions in different learning situations, developing big ideas, and assessing prior knowledge are helpful in making students’ learning deeper and easier.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of E-Learning in Private Schools of Amman, Jordan During and After the Corona Pandemic
Authors: Hasan Nivin , Murshid Emran Abu
Published: July 2023

This paper aimed to measure the impact of COVID-19 on education in private schools of Amman, Jordan during and after corona pandemic. A questionnaire consisting of (10) paragraphs aimed to answer the study's questions and hypotheses. The study population consisted of (20) private schools in Jordan distributed in the capital city of Amman, where they were selected using the simple random method. Results show that the effectiveness of e-learning during corona pandemic was ranging from medium to low and there is no noticeable difference of teacher’s gender on the effectiveness of e-learning, teacher’s years of experiences has a positive relationship with the effectiveness of e-learning. As for the success of e-learning during corona pandemic, results show that it was low due to the presence of several challenges, the most important of which are technical, social, economic, and infrastructural challenges. The study recommended that e-learning could act as a support education system to the traditional (face-to-face) education, and it could be more effective when applied to literary courses, in addition to promoting the efficiency and readiness of teaching staff, students and parents to implement e-learning through holding workshops in this regard.
The Reality of E-learning Assessment Practices in Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Attiat Madher Mohammad
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the reality of e-learning assessment practices in Jordanian universities during the Corona pandemic, as well as the challenges they faced, by investigating Jordanian university students’ attitudes using an electronic questionnaire whose psychometric properties were validated. The measure included four areas: The conduct of controlling online exams, the diversity of its forms and practices, its quality, and the challenges of the online assessment. A total of 312 randomly selected male and female students participated in the study. The results revealed two types of procedures for controlling online exams, namely, controlling the exam characteristics and conditions of its applications. In addition, controlling online exams using the available technical means. It also demonstrated a great diversity in the practices of formative assessment compared to a small diversity in the practices of the final assessment. A prominent level of quality in the characteristics of the questions, their structure, the gradation of their difficulty, and their levels of knowledge was evident. As for the challenges facing online assessment only, they were related to technical, financial technical aspects. The study suggested identifying the available sources for use during the exam, diversifying the type of questions in the final exams, and non-exam assessment in classwork, and focusing on the quality characteristics of the exam to prevent cheating, more than focusing on technical tuning procedures for the virtual environment of the exams.