bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bilateral investment treaties and sovereign default risk: Evidence for emerging markets
Authors: Eichler Stefan , Nauerth Jannik André
Published: May 2024

This paper analyses the impact of bilateral investment treaties (BITs) on sovereign default risk using monthly data for 29 emerging markets from 1996 to 2016. Under a BIT, foreign investors can use an international arbitration scheme to enforce compensation claims against the host country's government. We focus on the so far unexplored legal risk associated with BITs since a higher likelihood of government expropriations implicitly increases public debt. We do not find a significant unconditional effect of BITs on sovereign default risk (measured by the month‐over‐month percentage change in a country's Emerging Market Bond Index). Considering the heterogeneity of BITs and political risk, we find robust and strong negative effects of BITs on sovereign bond returns. In countries with high political risk of expropriation (measured by low executive constraints), we find that the implementation of BITs with strong investor protection is associated with a significantly negative impact on sovereign bond returns (−0.45 percentage points), which compares to roughly 11.7% of bond returns' monthly standard deviation.
A case report on the microcystic stromal tumor of the ovary: A rare type of ovarian tumor
Authors: Bandhon Bushra Zaman , Navaneethan Sivarajasingam , Patton David
Published: May 2024

Synopsis

A microcystic stromal tumor (MCST) is considered a benign tumor. However, reported cases of recurrence and metastases indicate that it has got malignant features. Its recurrence is strongly linked to undertreatment.
Histological analysis of laser‐enabled tissue coring with a novel 2910 nm erbium‐doped fluoride glass fiber laser
Authors: Murray Taryn N. , Maredia Hasina , Friedman Paul M.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

There remains an unmet need for a laser‐enabled tissue coring device that can effectively improve face and neck skin laxity and rhytides. We investigate a novel 2910 nm erbium‐doped fluoride glass fiber laser (2910 nm fiber laser) (UltraClear; Acclaro Medical) for laser‐coring of submental tissue.

Methods

Five subjects, Glogau scale III−IV, were treated with a single pulse of the laser‐coring mode of the 2910 nm fiber laser in the submentum. A 4 mm punch biopsy was immediately performed. Biopsy specimens were sectioned and stained with hematoxylin and eosin and placed on glass slides. All sections were reviewed, and sections containing the center of the transected core were analyzed for depth and diameter of the ablative microchannel and width of the surrounding zone of coagulation.

Results

A total of 15 intact micro‐cores were analyzed. Histological analysis revealed an average ± standard deviation microchannel diameter of 242.5 ± 65.2 µm, an average ablative depth of 980 ± 318.8 µm, and an average zone of coagulation of 104 ± 32 µm.

Conclusions

Laser‐enabled tissue coring with a novel 2910 nm fiber laser can safely achieve a wider microchannel diameter with ablative depth extending to the mid and deep dermis, which has the potential for collagen contraction and tissue tightening. Laser‐coring to this ablation diameter and depth and with the surrounding zone of coagulation was found to be safe without adverse effects of post‐inflammatory erythema or scarring in our study.
Self‐gifting and temporal selves: Insights from first‐time older motherhood
Authors: Liu Chihling , Karanika Katerina , Hogg Margaret K.
Published: May 2024

Prior literature has long established self‐gifts as a form of symbolic self‐communication that can be particularly meaningful and impactful for individuals to enhance self‐concept clarity and self‐definition during life transitions. However, little is known about how life transitions may bring about changes in the practices and meanings of self‐gifting. Drawing on individual interviews with 22 first‐time older mothers, this research uses temporal self‐appraisal theory as the theoretical lens and temporal landmarks as a sensitizing framework to explore how people's past, present, and future selves may unfold and interact in influencing their self‐gifting practices and meanings. Our findings contribute to a fuller understanding of the temporal nature of self‐gifting by highlighting the varying self‐gifting orientations that emerge from the interaction, reflecting changes in temporal self‐appraisals and how they enable a sense of self‐(dis)continuity for psychological well‐being. The temporal perspective of self‐gifts offers a theoretical framework for understanding how self‐gifts, a form of symbolic self‐communication, express, manage, or facilitate perceived self‐changes and the need for self‐continuity. The marketing implications and applications of the theoretical framework are also discussed.
Prediction method of regional carbon dioxide emissions in China under the target of peaking carbon dioxide emissions: A case study of Zhejiang
Authors: Xu Shuaixi , Lv Zeyan , Wu Jiezhen , Chen Lijun , Wu Junhong , Gao Yi , Lin Chengmiao , Wang Yan , Song Die , Cui Jiecan
Published: May 2024

All provinces of China respond to the central government, predict future carbon dioxide emissions, and formulate action plans detailing how the province intends to fulfill its target of carbon emission peaking before 2030. Based on the bottom‐up energy consumption prediction and top‐down goal verification, this paper constructs a set of regional carbon dioxide emission prediction methods. Compared to the traditional bottom‐up prediction method, this method could simplify the parameters while improving the prediction accuracy. This model is used to predict and analyze the process of carbon dioxide emission peaking in Zhejiang. The results show that the mean absolute percentage error of the retrospective prediction value is only 1.56%. Zhejiang will reach carbon dioxide emission peaking around 2029–2030, and the peak value will be 569.7 million tons. Different factors have different effects on the process of carbon dioxide emission peaking. There is a strong correlation between the peak time of carbon dioxide emission and the production time of major energy‐consuming projects in Zhejiang. Meanwhile, if the 16 nuclear reactors are not put into operation, Zhejiang will not be able to achieve the goal of carbon dioxide emission peaking. Besides, the basic data used in this model is mainly from the local statistical departments of the region. Thus, it can be applied to other provinces and regions conveniently.
Assessing the impact of bias correction approaches on climate extremes and the climate change signal
Authors: Zhang Hong , Chapman Sarah , Trancoso Ralph , Toombs Nathan , Syktus Jozef
Published: May 2024

We assess the impact of three bias correction approaches on present day means and extremes, and climate change signal, for six climate variables (precipitation, minimum and maximum temperature, radiation, vapour pressure and mean sea level pressure) from dynamically downscaled climate simulations over Queensland, Australia. Results show that all bias‐correction methods are effective at removing systematic model biases, however the results are variable and season‐dependent. Importantly, our results are based on fully independent cross‐validation, an advantage over similar studies. Linear scaling preserves the climate change signals for temperature, while quantile mapping and the distribution‐based transfer function modify the climate change signal and patterns of change. The Perkins score for all the values above the 95th percentile and below the 5th percentile was used to evaluate how well the climate model matches the observational data. Bias correction improved Perkins score for extremes for some variables and seasons. We rank the bias‐correction methods based on the Kling–Gupta efficiency (KGE) score calculated during the validation period. We find that linear scaling and empirical quantile mapping are the best approaches for Queensland for mean climatology. On average, bias correction led to an improvement in the KGE score of 23% annually. However, in terms of extreme values, quantile mapping and statistical distribution‐based transfer function approaches perform best, and linear scaling tends to perform worst. Our results show that, except linear scaling, all approaches impact the climate change signal.
Numerical simulation of a highly efficient perovskite solar cell based on FeSi2 photoactive layer
Authors: Njema George G. , Kibet Joshua K. , Rono Nicholas , Meyer Edson L.
Published: May 2024

The primary aim of this work is to investigate the use iron di‐silicide (FeSi2) as a photoactive layer in order to achieve superior performance in the solar cell architecture—ITO/TiO2/FeSi2/CuSCN/Ni. The optimum thickness of the absorber layer was found to be 1000 nm, which gave optimal properties of the proposed cell—a short‐circuit current density (Jsc) of 51.41 mAm−2, an open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.93 V, a fill factor (FF) of 77.99%, and power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 37.17%. The introduction of an ultrathin interfacial layer between the electron transport layer (ETL), the perovskite interface, and the hole transport layer (HTL) enhanced the electrical output of the proposed solar cell. The Jsc increased to 51.86 mAcm−2, Voc rose to 0.97 V, while FF and PCE increased to 82.86% and 41.84%, respectively. Accordingly, the proposed cell architecture is promising and can be introduced into the manufacturing workflow for commercial applications. Moreover, because of its exceptional photon absorption capabilities, FeSi2 is a potentially excellent photoactive material for solar cell fabrication. The detailed findings of this study have therefore indicated that high‐performance FeSi2‐based solar can be achieved in future.
Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging of cerebrospinal fluid dynamics: Current techniques and future advancements
Authors: Wright Adam M. , Wu Yu‐Chien , Feng Li , Wen Qiuting
Published: May 2024

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) plays a critical role in metabolic waste clearance from the brain, requiring its circulation throughout various brain pathways, including the ventricular system, subarachnoid spaces, para‐arterial spaces, interstitial spaces, and para‐venous spaces. The complexity of CSF circulation has posed a challenge in obtaining noninvasive measurements of CSF dynamics. The assessment of CSF dynamics throughout its various circulatory pathways is possible using diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with optimized sensitivity to incoherent water movement across the brain. This review presents an overview of both established and emerging diffusion MRI techniques designed to measure CSF dynamics and their potential clinical applications. The discussion offers insights into the optimization of diffusion MRI acquisition parameters to enhance the sensitivity and specificity of diffusion metrics on underlying CSF dynamics. Lastly, we emphasize the importance of cautious interpretations of diffusion‐based imaging, especially when differentiating between tissue‐ and fluid‐related changes or elucidating structural versus functional alterations.
Dynamic optimization of nonlinear differential game problems using orthogonal collocation with analytical sensitivities
Authors: Xiao Long , Liu Miao , Shi Benyun , Liu Ping , Liu Xinggao
Published: May 2024

This article presents an effective computational method based on the orthogonal collocation on finite element for nonlinear pursuit‐evasion differential game problems. The original problems are transformed into two dynamic optimization problems at first, so that the difficulty of obtaining the solution is reduced. To improve the convergence rate and the efficiency, the sensitivities describing the influence of control and interval parameters on state are derived through the discretized dynamic equations for the resulting nonlinear programming problem. The convergence speed is introduced to measure the performance in the upper level iteration. The main structure and the algorithm of the method are also given. Two demonstrative differential game problems with different scenarios from practice are studied. Compared with the approach without sensitivity information, the proposed method needs less function evaluations and saves at least 68.4% of the computational time. The research results show the effectiveness of proposed approach.
Axisymmetric virtual elements for problems of elasticity and plasticity
Authors: Yaw Louie L.
Published: May 2024

The virtual element method (VEM) allows discretization of elasticity and plasticity problems with polygons in 2D and polyhedrals in 3D. The polygons (and polyhedrals) can have an arbitrary number of sides and can be concave or convex. These features, among others, are attractive for meshing complex geometries. However, to the author's knowledge axisymmetric virtual elements have not appeared before in the literature. Hence, in this work a novel first order consistent axisymmetric VEM is applied to problems of elasticity and plasticity. The VEM specific implementation details and adjustments needed to solve axisymmetric simulations are presented. Representative benchmark problems including pressure vessels and circular plates are illustrated. Examples also show that problems of near incompressibility are solved successfully. Consequently, this research demonstrates that the axisymmetric VEM formulation successfully solves certain classes of solid mechanics problems. The work concludes with a discussion of results for the current formulation and future research directions.
A systematic review of in‐person versus remotely delivered interventions for youth with chronic pain
Authors: MacKenzie Nicole E. , Marbil Mica Gabrielle , Soltani Sabine , Lorenzetti Diane L. , Birnie Kathryn A.
Published: May 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic prompted a rapid shift from in‐person to virtually‐delivered care. Many youth with chronic pain have the ability to access care virtually; however, little is known about the efficacy of pain care for youth with chronic pain delivered virtually when compared to in‐person. Such evidence is essential to guide youth in making decisions about their care, but also to inform what options health professionals present to youth. The purpose of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to examine the efficacy of interventions that are delivered in‐person versus virtually for youth with chronic pain. Five databases (i.e., CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, APA PsycINFO, and Web of Science) were searched in October 2022 to identify randomized controlled trials that compare single/multimodal interventions for pediatric chronic pain delivered in‐person versus virtually. A total 3638 unique studies were identified through database and other searching, two of which satisfied established criteria for inclusion in this review. Both studies compared psychological interventions delivered virtually versus in‐person for youth with chronic pain and showed comparable efficacy across modalities. The planned meta‐analyses could not be conducted due to different outcomes within each study that could not be combined. This systematic review highlights a critical gap in the evidence regarding the efficacy of virtually delivered interventions for youth with chronic pain. This evidence is necessary to inform treatment decisions for youth, and further research is required to develop the evidence to inform clinical interventions, especially as virtual treatments continue to be offered.
Direct prostacyclin transition in pediatric patients with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Merrill Kelly , Davis Anne , Jackson Emma , Riker Meredith , Kirk Christa , Yung Delphine
Published: May 2024

Pediatric patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are commonly treated with the prostacyclin analog treprostinil in IV, SQ, inhaled or oral form, or the prostacyclin receptor agonist selexipag. Patients who transition between these medications often follow recommendations for gradual up‐ and down‐titrations that take place over several days in the hospital or several weeks as an outpatient. However, hospital resources are limited, and long transitions are inconvenient for patients and families. We report a case series of eight pediatric patients with PAH transitioned directly between prostacyclins with no overlapping doses. Direct medication transitions occurred in the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU), at home and in cardiology clinic. Equivalent doses for selexipag were estimated using information extrapolated from experience, published materials and selexipag study guidelines. All patients completed direct transition as planned and remained on transition dose for at least 1 week. In most cases selexipag was up‐titrated at home after establishing initial transition dose. In select patients, direct prostacyclin transition in pediatric patients with PAH is safe, effective, convenient for families and reduces the use of hospital resources.
Hyporheic exchange flows in a mountainous river catchment identified by distributed temperature sensing
Authors: Peters Kristin , Grantz Sven F. , Kiesel Jens , Lewandowski Jörg , Fohrer Nicola
Published: May 2024

Elevated stream temperatures under low‐flows, exacerbated by global warming, are a stressor that affects aquatic species directly or in combination with other stressors. Stream temperatures are influenced by energy fluxes across the air–water interface as well as by hydrological exchange processes occurring at the water–riverbed interface. Small‐scale stream temperature dynamics influenced by exchange flows are still underrepresented in stream temperature research. To investigate high‐resolution temperature dynamics and hydrological exchange processes at the sediment–water interface we applied fiber‐optic distributed temperature sensing (FO‐DTS) at two sites in the mountainous Kinzig catchment combined with mapping and measurement of additional environmental conditions. Two types of temperature anomalies could be observed at one site under conditions of low flow and high air temperature. Dampening effects coincided with riverine features such as pools, vegetation roots, fine sediment, and signs of streambank seepage which indicated hyporheic exchange flows. Increased heating of the substrate during the day was identified in shallow sections where sediment was exposed to the air and shading from riparian vegetation was patchy. At another site, at which the cable could not be buried because of the sediment composition, temperature anomalies in the overlying water indicated diffuse groundwater exfiltration. The results show that small‐scale processes in the hyporheic zone, low water tables, and riparian shading influence stream temperature in mountainous streams and can be identified with FO‐DTS under suitable conditions. The results improve our understanding of stream temperatures (in the hyporheic zone) and provide important information on how to improve hydrological modeling.
Characterizing engagement in the science practices: A study of preservice elementary teachers
Authors: Bennion Adam , Davis Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2024

Preservice elementary teachers enter their science methods courses with a range of prior experience with science practice. Those prior experiences likely inform much of their science pedagogy and goals. In this study, the authors examine how a cohort of preservice elementary teachers engaged in science practice as they learned content in a physics course. Drawing on course documents, videorecords, and artifacts from in‐class lab work and interviews with nine participants, the authors used an asset‐based, mixed methods approach. The authors developed rubrics to assess the level of sophistication the participants used while engaging in science practice on a scale of 1 (pre‐novice) to 4 (experienced). They used descriptive statistics and ANOVA's to interpret the performance of the participants in addition to grounded theory open coding of interviews to determine the participants' level of prior experience with science practice. The findings suggest that these preservice teachers primarily engaged in science practices at a novice level. In general, their sophistication scores on the rubric aligned with their prior experience. The findings suggest that while one content course steeped in science practice was not enough to significantly change preservice teachers' engagement, it can provide a needed starting place and that it likely takes time to develop these skills. The findings have implications for both teacher educators and researchers who hope to increase the use of science practice as a method of learning science content.
A Sustainable Approach for Enhancing Cationic Dyes Adsorption in Single and Multiple Systems using Novel Nano Ferrites Modified with Walnut Shell
Authors: Jasrotia Rimzim , Singh Rajinder , Sharma Dimple , Singh Jandeep , Mittal Sunil , Singh Harminder
Published: May 2024

Walnut shell has been used in various experimental studies for different dyes removal, but it is exciting to study the adsorption behaviour of bio‐waste (walnut shell) in combination with spinel zinc ferrite which resulted in the formation of a novel material having magnetic properties and help in easy separation after the wastewater treatment. Novel magnetic walnut shell zinc ferrite (WSZF) composite has been synthesized and used to remove Malachite Green and Methylene Blue from aqueous solution in single and binary dye systems. Different techniques have been used to characterize the composite such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, X‐Ray Diffraction, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy, Thermogravimetric Analysis and pHzpc. Adsorption of dyes were studied to see the effect of time, pH, adsorbent dose, dye concentration and temperature. The Lagergren pseudo second order model fitted well among various kinetic models employed. Langmuir adsorption isotherm best fitted with maximum adsorption capacities of 86.20 and 169.5 mg/g in single dye and 23.92 and 18 mg/g respectively in binary dye system for Malachite Green and Methylene Blue. Process was spontaneous and ΔH° were found positive, confirmed endothermic process of adsorption. The composite‘s regeneration capacity was studied for five cycles and at the end of five cycle the efficiency of the material was found to be around 80 % for both single as well as binary dye systems. It is concluded that the chosen WSZF will be the optimum solution for cationic dyes removal.
Advancement of Next‐Generation DNA Sequencing through Ionic Blockade and Transverse Tunneling Current Methods
Authors: Kumawat Rameshwar L. , Jena Milan Kumar , Mittal Sneha , Pathak Biswarup
Published: May 2024

DNA sequencing is transforming the field of medical diagnostics and personalized medicine development by providing a pool of genetic information. Recent advancements have propelled solid‐state material‐based sequencing into the forefront as a promising next‐generation sequencing (NGS) technology, offering amplification‐free, cost‐effective, and high‐throughput DNA analysis. Consequently, a comprehensive framework for diverse sequencing methodologies and a cross‐sectional understanding with meticulous documentation of the latest advancements is of timely need. This review explores a broad spectrum of progress and accomplishments in the field of DNA sequencing, focusing mainly on electrical detection methods. The review delves deep into both the theoretical and experimental demonstrations of the ionic blockade and transverse tunneling current methods across a broad range of device architectures, nanopore, nanogap, nanochannel, and hybrid/heterostructures. Additionally, various aspects of each architecture are explored along with their strengths and weaknesses, scrutinizing their potential applications for ultrafast DNA sequencing. Finally, an overview of existing challenges and future directions is provided to expedite the emergence of high‐precision and ultrafast DNA sequencing with ionic and transverse current approaches.
Defective Tungsten Oxides with Stacking Faults for Proton Exchange Membrane Green‐Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Qu Ming‐Rong , Cheng Yi‐Ran , Duan Heng‐Li , Qin You‐Yi , Feng Si‐Hua , Su Xiao‐Zhi , Yuan Yi‐Fei , Yan Wen‐Sheng , Cao Liang , Xu Jie , Wu Rui , Yu Shu‐Hong
Published: May 2024

Defects can introduce atomic structural modulation and tailor performance of materials. Herein, it demonstrates that semiconductor WO3 with inert electrocatalytic behavior can be activated through defect‐induced tensile strains. Structural characterizations reveal that when simply treated in Ar/H2 atmosphere, oxygen vacancies will generate in WO3 and cause defective structures. Stacking faults are found in defects, thus modulating electronic structure and transforming electrocatalytic‐inert WO3 into highly active electrocatalysts. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are performed to calculate *H adsorption energies on various WOx surfaces, revealing the oxygen vacancy composition and strain predicted to optimize the catalytic activity of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Such defective tungsten oxides can be integrated into commercial proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyser with comparable performance toward Pt‐based PEM. This work demonstrates defective metal oxides as promising non‐noble metal catalysts for commercial PEM green‐hydrogen generation.
Unraveling the immunogenic cell death pathways in gastric adenocarcinoma: A multi‐omics study
Authors: Gu Renjun , Chen Zilu , Dong Mengyue , Li Ziyun , Wang Min , Liu Hao , Shen Xinyu , Huang Yan , Feng Jin , Mei Kun
Published: May 2024

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) is a prevalent malignant tumor of the gastrointestinal (GI) system. However, the lack of reliable biomarkers has made its diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment challenging. Immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a type of programmed cell death that is strongly related to the immune system. However, its function in GC requires further investigation.

Method

We used multi‐omics and multi‐angle approaches to comprehensively explore the prognostic features of ICD in patients with stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD). At the single‐cell level, we screened genes associated with ICD at the transcriptome level, selected prognostic genes related to ICD using weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) and machine learning, and constructed a prognostic model. In addition, we constructed nomograms that incorporated pertinent clinical features and provided effective tools for prognostic prediction in clinical settings. We also investigated the sensitivity of the risk subgroups to both immunotherapy and drugs. Finally, in addition to quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence was used to validate the expression of ICD‐linked genes.

Results

Based on single‐cell and transcriptome WGCNA analyses, we identified 34 ICD‐related genes, of which 11 were related to prognosis. We established a prognostic model using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm and identified dissimilarities in overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) in risk subgroups. The nomograms associated with the ICD‐related signature (ICDRS) demonstrated a good predictive value for clinical applications. Moreover, we detected changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME), including biological functions, mutation landscapes, and immune cell infiltration, between the high‐ and low‐risk groups.

Conclusion

We constructed an ICD‐related prognostic model that incorporated features related to cell death. This model can serve as a useful tool for predicting the prognosis of GC, targeted prevention, and personalized medicine.
All separable supersymmetric AdS5 black holes
Authors: Lucietti James , Ntokos Praxitelis , Ovchinnikov Sergei G.
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We consider the classification of supersymmetric black hole solutions to five-dimensional STU gauged supergravity that admit torus symmetry. This reduces to a problem in toric Kähler geometry on the base space. We introduce the class of separable toric Kähler surfaces that unify product-toric, Calabi-toric and orthotoric Kähler surfaces, together with an associated class of separable 2-forms. We prove that any supersymmetric toric solution that is timelike, with a separable Kähler base space and Maxwell fields, outside a horizon with a compact (locally) spherical cross-section, must be locally isometric to the known black hole or its near-horizon geometry. An essential part of the proof is a near-horizon analysis which shows that the only possible separable Kähler base space is Calabi-toric. In particular, this also implies that our previous black hole uniqueness theorem for minimal gauged supergravity applies to the larger class of separable Kähler base spaces.
Two-loop non-planar four-point topology with massive internal loop
Authors: Ahmed Taushif , Chaubey Ekta , Kaur Mandeep , Maggio Sara
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We study a set of two-loop non-planar master integrals needed for the NNLO QCD corrections to diphoton and dijet production at hadron colliders. The top-sector topology contains an internal massive fermion loop and is known to contain elliptic curves. Leveraging the method of differential equations, we provide a comprehensive discussion for deriving an ϵ-factorized differential equation related to the most intricate sector within the Feynman integral family. Despite the dependence on multiple scales and the presence of two elliptic sectors, we demonstrate how to leverage the properties of their maximal cuts and the factorization of the Picard-Fuchs operator to deal with the complexity of the analytic computation. In particular, we construct a transformation matrix that brings the differential equations into a format enabling the convenient expression of analytic results in terms of Chen’s iterated integrals.
Field-assisted sintering of high-entropy alloy-reinforced aluminium matrix composites: phase identification and microstructural properties
Authors: Salifu Smith , Olubambi Peter Apata
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the design, phase identification, and microstructural properties of high-entropy alloy (HEA)-reinforced aluminium (Al) matrix composites. Thermophysical expressions for HEAs were employed during the design phase of the HEA; both theoretical frameworks and experimental analyses were used to anticipate stable phases while a field-assisted sintering technique was employed to consolidate the samples. Calculation of phase diagram (CALPHAD) predictions for the phases present in the HEA align with valence electron concentration (VEC) calculations as both predicted the presence of BCC and FCC phases. The microhardness results reveal a substantial increase in the hardness value of the composites as compared to the pure Al, such that as low as 5 wt% HEA addition resulted in over a 100% improvement, while the densification of the composites was found to decrease with an increase in the wt% of HEA. SEM micrographs and XRD analyses show fair dispersion, bonding, and phase integration in the HEA-reinforced composites.
How to evaluate perfusion imaging in post-treatment glioma: a comparison of three different analysis methods
Authors: Herings Siem D. A. , van den Elshout Rik , de Wit Rebecca , Mannil Manoj , Ravesloot Cécile , Scheenen Tom W. J. , Arens Anne , van der Kolk Anja , Meijer Frederick J. A. , Henssen Dylan J. H. A.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) perfusion weighted (PW)-MRI can aid in differentiating treatment related abnormalities (TRA) from tumor progression (TP) in post-treatment glioma patients. Common methods, like the ‘hot spot’, or visual approach suffer from oversimplification and subjectivity. Using perfusion of the complete lesion potentially offers an objective and accurate alternative. This study aims to compare the diagnostic value and assess the subjectivity of these techniques.

Methods

50 Glioma patients with enhancing lesions post-surgery and chemo-radiotherapy were retrospectively included. Outcome was determined by clinical/radiological follow-up or biopsy. Imaging analysis used the ‘hot spot’, volume of interest (VOI) and visual approach. Diagnostic accuracy was compared using receiving operator characteristics (ROC) curves for the VOI and ‘hot spot’ approach, visual assessment was analysed with contingency tables. Inter-operator agreement was determined with Cohens kappa and intra-class coefficient (ICC).

Results

29 Patients suffered from TP, 21 had TRA. The visual assessment showed poor to substantial inter-operator agreement (κ = -0.72 – 0.68). Reliability of the ‘hot spot’ placement was excellent (ICC = 0.89), while reference placement was variable (ICC = 0.54). The area under the ROC (AUROC) of the mean- and maximum relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) (VOI-analysis) were 0.82 and 0.72, while the rCBV-ratio (‘hot spot’ analysis) was 0.69. The VOI-analysis had a more balanced sensitivity and specificity compared to visual assessment.

Conclusions

VOI analysis of DSC PW-MRI data holds greater diagnostic accuracy in single-moment differentiation of TP and TRA than ‘hot spot’ or visual analysis. This study underlines the subjectivity of visual placement and assessment.
Evaluating breast ultrasonography as a complementary diagnostic method in girls with central precocious puberty
Authors: Bıyıklı Erhan , Helvacıoğlu Didem , Buğdaycı Onur , Tosun Buşra Gürpınar , Turan Serap , Güran Tülay , Bereket Abdullah
Published: May 2024

Background

Assessment of breast development by physical examination can be difficult in the early stages and in overweight girls.

Objective

To investigate ultrasonography (US) for evaluation of early breast development.

Materials and methods

In a prospective study, 125 girls (age 7.1 ± 1.5 years) with breast development before 8 years underwent US breast staging, breast volume, and elastography, in addition to clinical/hormonal evaluation for precocious puberty. Accuracy of US for determining breast development and predicting progression to central precocious puberty was investigated.

Results

Physical examination revealed glandular breast enlargement in 100 and predominantly lipomastia in 25. Breast US in the former confirmed glandular breast development in 92 (group 1, physical examination and US positive), but not in 8 (group 2, physical examination positive, US negative). Comparison of the two groups demonstrated lower Tanner and US staging, bone age/chronological age, basal luteinizing hormone (LH), breast volume, and uterine volume in group 2. In the 25 lipomastia patients, US demonstrated no breast tissue in 19 (group 3, physical examination and US negative), but US stage ≥ II in 6 (group 4, physical examination negative, US positive) without differences in clinical parameters. After follow-up of 19.8 ± 4.2 months, 46/125 subjects were diagnosed with precocious puberty. US stage, total breast volume, and shear-wave speeds were significantly higher in these 46 patients. Multivariate analyses demonstrated breast volume > 3.4 cc had odds ratio of 11.0, sensitivity of 62%, and specificity of 89, in predicting progression to precocious puberty, being second only to stimulated LH for all variables.

Conclusion

Breast US is a useful predictive tool for diagnosis of precocious puberty in girls. Higher US stages and higher breast volume on US increased the likelihood of eventual diagnosis of precocious puberty.

Graphical Abstract
Autologous Fat Breast Reconstruction with Implant Completion-Experience with 29 Consecutive Cases and 33 Breasts
Authors: Gronovich Yoav , Skorochod Ron , Maisel-Lotan Adi
Published: May 2024

Background

Implant-based breast reconstruction is the most prevalent form of breast reconstruction. Autologous fat grafting (AFG) was conceptualized as an alternative to implant-based breast reconstruction and was found to be a reliable reconstruction modality. However, usually, a few grafting rounds are required to create the desired shape and size of the breast. Current literature describes ample experience with AFG as an adjunct to implant-based breast reconstruction for improving appearance. However, the utilization of breast implants following initial AFG has been sparingly described. The primary advantage of this study is the creation of new fat tissue as a breast mound. The reconstruction is then concluded by inserting an implant into this new mound. This approach reduces the overall number of fat injections needed to achieve the desired outcome, as well as the total volume of the implant.

Methods

This IRB-approved retrospective study was conducted between January 2015 and December 2021. All women who underwent delayed breast reconstruction with AFG during this timeframe and wanted to complete it with a silicone implant as a last stage were included in the study.

Results

A total of 29 patients (33 breasts) underwent delayed breast reconstruction with AFG and a silicone implant as the final stage. In all cases, the results were satisfying without any major complications. Minor complications were observed with one patient and included an infection.

Conclusions

The findings of this study have demonstrated the effectiveness of this procedure together with patient satisfaction, thus highlighting the potential advantages that this approach offers.

Level of Evidence III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Biochar for the Mitigation of Metal/Metalloid Stress in Plants
Authors: Sarraf Mohammad , Janeeshma Edappayil , Arif Namira , Yadav Vaishali , Zahra Noreen , Bouzroud Sarah , Mirmazloum Iman , Yadi Reza , Hasanuzzaman Mirza
Published: May 2024

Metal(loid) pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues, threatening all living organisms. Metal(loid) stress adversely impacts plant growth, physiology, and overall productivity. Numerous physicochemical approaches have been developed and employed to counteract and reduce the detrimental effects of metal(loid)s. However, these methods have raised environmental concerns, leading to questions about their appropriateness and efficacy. Consequently, alternative and eco-friendly solutions, such as the application of biochar, have gained prominence. Biochar is a carbon-rich material derived from the pyrolysis and hydrothermal processes of various organic materials. Due to its exceptional physicochemical properties, biochar is believed to enhance soil quality and fertility. Several global studies have underscored the positive role of biochar in reducing the uptake of metal(loid)s by plants in polluted soils. In this article, we explore various facets of plant reactions to metal(loid)s toxicity and attempt to draw links between biochar use and improvements in plant physiology and performance. We also review the effectiveness of biochar in phytoremediation, its influence on nutrient adsorption mechanisms, and its role in assisting plant growth and defense systems.
MCAD: Multi-classification anomaly detection with relational knowledge distillation
Authors: Li Zhuo , Ge Yifei , Yue Xuebin , Meng Lin
Published: May 2024

With the wide application of deep learning in anomaly detection (AD), industrial vision AD has achieved remarkable success. However, current AD usually focuses on anomaly localization and rarely investigates anomaly classification. Furthermore, anomaly classification is currently requested for quality management and anomaly reason analysis. Therefore, it is essential to classify anomalies while improving the accuracy of AD. This paper designs a novel multi-classification AD (MCAD) framework to achieve high-accuracy AD with an anomaly classification function. In detail, the proposal model based on relational knowledge distillation consists of two components. The first one employs a teacher–student AD model, utilizing a relational knowledge distillation approach to transfer the interrelationships of images. The teacher–student critical layer feature activation values are used in the knowledge transfer process to achieve anomaly detection. The second component realizes anomaly multi-classification using the lightweight convolutional neural network. Our proposal has achieved 98.95, 96.04, and 92.94% AUROC AD results on MNIST, FashionMNIST, and CIFAR10 datasets. Meanwhile, we earn 97.58 and 98.10% AUROC for AD and localization in the MVTecAD dataset. The average classification accuracy of anomaly classification has reached 76.37% in fifteen categories of the MVTec-AD dataset. In particular, the classification accuracy of the leather category has gained 95.24%. The results on the MVTec-AD dataset show that MCAD achieves excellent detection, localization, and classification results.
Reduced expression of central innate defense molecules in pancreatic biopsies from subjects with Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Tegehall Angie , Ingvast Sofie , Krogvold Lars , Dahl-Jørgensen Knut , Korsgren Olle
Published: May 2024

Aims/Hypothesis

Defensins play a crucial role in the innate immune system's first defense against microbial threats. However, little is known about the defensin system in the pancreas, especially in relation to Type 1 diabetes. We explore the expression of defensins in different disease stages of Type 1 diabetes and correlated obtained findings to the degree of inflammation, providing new insights into the disease and the innate immune system.

Material and methods

Pancreases from non-diabetic human organ donors of different age groups and donors with Type 1 diabetes with different disease duration were examined. Sections from head, body and tail of the pancreas were stained for eight different defensins and for immune cells; CD3+, CD45+, CD68+ and NES+ (granulocytes).

Results

In non-diabetic adult controls the level of expression for defensins Beta-1,Alpha-1, Cathelicidin and REG3A correlated with the level of inflammation. In contrast, individuals with Type  1 diabetes exhibit a reduction or absence of several central defensins regardless of the level of inflammation in their pancreas. The expression of Cathelicidin is present in neutrophils and macrophages but not in T-cells in subjects with Type 1 diabetes.

Conclusions

Obtained findings suggest a pancreatic dysfunction in the innate immune system and the bridging to the adaptive system in Type 1 diabetes. Further studies on the role of the local innate immune system in Type 1 diabetes is needed.
An Ultrasonic Rock Bolt Sensing Technology (I): Methodology and Laboratory Studies
Authors: Sun Zhigang , Wu Kuo-Ting , Krüger Silvio E. , Rocheleau David , Royer Renée , MacDonald Devan , Lacroix Roger , Anderson Ted
Published: May 2024

Rock bolts play a critical role in ground support in mining, tunneling and construction. Being able to obtain timely information on rock bolt load condition and deformation could help immensely in safeguarding workers’ safety, optimization of ground support system, and ensuring stability and longevity of underground structures. The objective of this work was to develop a practical ultrasonic rock bolt sensing technology for monitoring axial load and deformation of a full-bodied rock bolt in both elastic and plastic deformation regimes. To this end, empirical mathematical models involving simultaneous use of times of flight of longitudinal and shear ultrasonic waves propagating along the axial direction of the rock bolt were developed, sensors were designed and fabricated, and laboratory studies were conducted. The results showed that the technology was able to measure load change, provide early detection of yield, and measure both plastic and total elongations of the rock bolt undergoing a pull test. Additionally, sectional load and elongation information could be obtained by applying the technology to rock bolts divided into sections by drilled holes along their shanks, therefore, providing the capability to assess the condition of grouted bolts at different depths within a rock mass. This work has laid the groundwork for the deployment of the technology in the field.
Synthesis, characterization and stability of phosphonium phenolate zwitterions derived from a (diphenylphosphino)phenol derivative and oxiranes
Authors: Steiner Matthias R. , Marschner Christoph , Baumgartner Judith , Hlina Johann A. , Slugovc Christian
Published: May 2024

Phosphonium phenolate zwitterions have been synthesized from 2,4-di-tert-butyl-6-(diphenylphosphino)phenol and five different oxirane derivatives. The reaction does not proceed at a detectable rate when the two reactants are combined in dichloromethane at room temperature. Despite the substantial ring strain, the reaction proceeds only with the addition of methanol, which acts as a hydrogen transfer shuttle, allowing a slow conversion to the desired zwitterions. The compounds have been fully characterized and single crystal X-ray crystallography has been performed on the methyloxirane and the phenyl glycidyl ether-derived zwitterion. The phosphonium phenolate units exhibit an ylidic bonding situation as evidenced by spectroscopic and crystallographic analysis. Glycidyl ethers were found to react faster than alkyl and aryloxiranes. Decomposition studies of the zwitterions showed high thermal stability in solution under ambient conditions. Under forced conditions (150 °C, 6 h), decomposition to the corresponding phosphine oxide and secondary aliphatic alcohols, the formally hydrogenated oxirane derivative, was observed.

Graphical abstract
A novel technique for thulium laser enucleation of the prostate: anterior releasing with ThuLEP (ARTh technique)
Authors: Öztürk Hakan
Published: May 2024

Thulium laser enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP) is a highly effective approach to the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. We present here a description of the “ARTh Technique” and the benefits it offers in terms of improved visualization, short operation times, and easy recognition of the dissection plane, describing specifically the anterior release (AR) technique using ThuLEP(Th). Included in this retrospective study were 32 consecutive patients operated on between January 2022-November 2022. Parameters were measured before and after the procedure: the International Prostate Symptom Score(IPSS), maximum flow rate(Qmax), post-void residual urine(PVR) prostate-specific antigen(PSA), prostate volume, operation-time, morcellation-time, catheterization-time and presence of transient urinary incontinence, and compared. The median age of patients undergoing enucleation of the prostate using the ARTh technique was 64 years (range: 44–83). The median prostate volume of the patients was 83.5 ml(50–128 ml), preoperative-IPSS was 24.8(15–33), postoperative-IPSS was 7(5–11), preoperative-Qmax was 8.1 ml/Sects. (5–11.5 ml/sec), postoperative-Qmax was 26.9 ml/Sect. (20.8–34 ml/sec), preoperative-PVR was 145 ml(75–258 ml), postoperative-PVR was 36.2 ml(0–66 ml), total operation time was 51.4 min(28–82 min), enucleation time was 36.9 min(19–51 min) and morcellation time was 15.3 min(8–27 min). The ARTh technique is a safe procedure that allows the surgeon to easily recognize and adhere to the defined dissection plane, thus decreasing operation times, significantly reducing the rate of postoperative transient urinary incontinence (TUI).