bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using machine learning-based radiomics to differentiate between glioma and solitary brain metastasis from lung cancer and its subtypes
Authors: Zhu Feng-Ying , Sun Yu-Feng , Yin Xiao-Ping , Zhang Yu , Xing Li-Hong , Ma Ze-Peng , Xue Lin-Yan , Wang Jia-Ning
Published: December 2023

Objective

To establish a machine learning-based radiomics model to differentiate between glioma and solitary brain metastasis from lung cancer and its subtypes, thereby achieving accurate preoperative classification.

Materials and methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on MRI T1WI-enhanced images of 105 patients with glioma and 172 patients with solitary brain metastasis from lung cancer, which were confirmed pathologically. The patients were divided into the training group and validation group in an 8:2 ratio for image segmentation, extraction, and filtering; multiple layer perceptron (MLP), support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), and logistic regression (LR) were used for modeling; fivefold cross-validation was used to train the model; the validation group was used to evaluate and assess the predictive performance of the model, ROC curve was used to calculate the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the model, and the area under curve (AUC) was used to assess the predictive performance of the model.

Results

The accuracy and AUC of the MLP differentiation model for high-grade glioma and solitary brain metastasis in the validation group was 0.992, 1.000, respectively, while the sensitivity and specificity were 1.000, 0.968, respectively. The accuracy and AUC for the MLP and SVM differentiation model for high-grade glioma and small cell lung cancer brain metastasis in the validation group was 0.966, 1.000, respectively, while the sensitivity and specificity were 1.000, 0.929, respectively. The accuracy and AUC for the MLP differentiation model for high-grade glioma and non-small cell lung cancer brain metastasis in the validation group was 0.982, 0.999, respectively, while the sensitivity and specificity were 0.958, 1.000, respectively.

Conclusion

The application of machine learning-based radiomics has a certain clinical value in differentiating glioma from solitary brain metastasis from lung cancer and its subtypes. In the HGG/SBM and HGG/NSCLC SBM validation groups, the MLP model had the best diagnostic performance, while in the HGG/SCLC SBM validation group, the MLP and SVM models had the best diagnostic performance.
The Spectral Gap and Low-Energy Spectrum in Mean-Field Quantum Spin Systems
Authors: Manai Chokri , Warzel Simone
Published: December 2023

A semiclassical analysis based on spin-coherent states is used to establish a classification and novel simple formulae for the spectral gap of mean-field spin Hamiltonians. For gapped systems, we provide a full description of the low-energy spectra based on a second-order approximation to the semiclassical Hamiltonian, hence justifying fluctuation theory at zero temperature for this case. We also point out a shift caused by the spherical geometry in these second-order approximations.
Boundary mixing. Part 1. Transport of buoyancy and passive tracer
Authors: Li Scott W. , Woods Andrew W.
Published: December 2023

Diapycnal mixing plays a key role in the thermohaline circulation of the deep ocean. Field observations have suggested that this mixing is intensified over the rough topography along the boundaries of the ocean. In this study, we experimentally explore the transport of salinity and tracer in a horizontally stirred, stratified fluid with a steady vertical buoyancy flux. The mechanical mixing occurs either uniformly across the tank or near a sidewall. To compare uniform and boundary mixing, first we explore the steady state dynamics and find that, in both cases, the surfaces of constant density are horizontal. With uniform mixing, vertical transport of buoyancy occurs uniformly throughout the tank while, with boundary mixing, transport is confined to the turbulent region and the interior space remains quiescent and does not mix or have any net movement. We then explore the transient evolution of the stratification when the source of buoyancy is removed from the base of the system. In the boundary mixing case, the resulting divergence of the turbulent diffusive flux in the boundary region leads to a reduction in the buoyancy of the fluid in the boundary region, and a net upflow develops in the boundary region. In turn, this drives a downwelling in the interior. Vertical gradients in the rate of downwelling lead to stretching of isopycnals and, together, these processes enable the interior stratification to evolve. The experiments highlight that, with boundary mixing, the main transport of buoyancy occurs near the boundaries even though the interior is stratified; independent measurements of tracer mixing in the interior show that this fluid may be quiescent and stratified even though there is a large flux being transported in the boundary region. This has important implications for the interpretation of mixing data in the ocean. In a companion paper, (Li and Woods Part 2), we explore the interaction of a net upwelling with such boundary mixing.
Wavy Marangoni effect and strategic slip-pattern-driven species transport in micro-confined sandwiched liquid films
Authors: Agrawal Shubham , Das Prasanta Kumar , Dhar Purbarun
Published: December 2023

In microfluidic systems, analyte/reagent mixing is essential to achieve rapid chemical/biochemical reactions. The low Reynolds number (Re) flow, however, makes passive mixing difficult and necessitates the use of some external stimulus to cause disturbance in the system. Here, we report how a periodic thermocapillary effect may interact with strategically patterned wall wettability and boost the mixing dynamics in a micro-confined ternary-liquid film system. Approximate, yet without compromise on the physics involved, analytical solutions to the energy and Navier–Stokes equations under creeping flow conditions are obtained to comprehend the thermal and hydrodynamic characteristics of the thermo-capillarity. In the binary fluid limit, our model is validated with the findings of Pendse & Esmaeeli (Intl J. Therm. Sci., vol. 49, 2010, pp. 1147–1155), and good agreement is found. The flow characteristics in the ternary-liquid system due to discrete wall temperatures is also demonstrated via finite-element-based numerical simulations, and agreement with the semi-analytical solution is noted. The qualitative study of the flow pattern reveals that enhanced mixing is obtained as a result of vortical motion created by the interplay of the periodic thermo-capillarity-driven interfacial flow and wall slip. The observation is further consolidated from the numerical simulation of the species transport equation. The species distribution so obtained is compared with fully developed laminar flow for the same inlet concentration. Our study further investigates the effects of the fluids’ relative thermal conductivity, wall slip length, relative film thickness and thermal (or slip) phase differences on the mixing efficiency of the proposed arrangement. While wall slip, relative film thickness and relative thermal conductivity regulate mixing in the top and bottom layers, phase difference determines how well the middle fluid layer mixes. Slip at the walls creates vortex distortions to get a strong churning effect. The lower thermal conductivity of the top and bottom fluids weakens the thermocapillary flow; however, the dominance of the patterned slip improves mixing in such cases.
Lawyer CEOs
Authors: Henderson M. Todd , Hutton Irena , Jiang Danling , Pierson Matthew
Published: December 2023

We study when CEOs with legal expertise are valuable for firms. In general, lawyer CEOs are negatively associated with frequency and severity in employment civil rights, contract, labor, personal injury, and securities litigation. This effect is partly induced by the CEO’s management of litigation risk and reduction in other risky policies. Lawyer CEOs are further associated with an increase in gatekeepers providing additional legal oversight and a decrease in innovative activities with high litigation risk. Lawyer CEOs are more valuable during periods of enhanced compliance requirements and regulatory pressure and in industries with high litigation risk or better growth opportunities.
For deep networks, the whole equals the sum of the parts
Authors: Kellman Philip J. , Baker Nicholas , Garrigan Patrick , Phillips Austin , Lu Hongjing
Published: December 2023

Deep convolutional networks exceed humans in sensitivity to local image properties, but unlike biological vision systems, do not discover and encode abstract relations that capture important properties of objects and events in the world. Coupling network architectures with additional machinery for encoding abstract relations will make deep networks better models of human abilities and more versatile and capable artificial devices.
Where do the hypotheses come from? Data-driven learning in science and the brain
Authors: Anderson Barton L. , Storrs Katherine R. , Fleming Roland W.
Published: December 2023

Everyone agrees that testing hypotheses is important, but Bowers et al. provide scant details about where hypotheses about perception and brain function should come from. We suggest that the answer lies in considering how information about the outside world could be acquired – that is, learned – over the course of evolution and development. Deep neural networks (DNNs) provide one tool to address this question.
The model-resistant richness of human visual experience
Authors: Liu Jianghao , Bartolomeo Paolo
Published: December 2023

Current deep neural networks (DNNs) are far from being able to model the rich landscape of human visual experience. Beyond visual recognition, we explore the neural substrates of visual mental imagery and other visual experiences. Rather than shared visual representations, temporal dynamics and functional connectivity of the process are essential. Generative adversarial networks may drive future developments in simulating human visual experience.
Modelling human vision needs to account for subjective experience
Authors: Koculak Marcin , Wierzchoń Michał
Published: December 2023

Vision is inseparably connected to perceptual awareness which can be seen as the culmination of sensory processing. Studies on conscious vision reveal that object recognition is just one of the means through which our representation of the world is built. We propose an operationalization of subjective experience in the context of deep neural networks (DNNs) that could encourage a more thorough comparison of human and artificial vision.
Seafloor Shapes on the Flanks of Mid-Ocean Ridges Linked to Magma Supply
Authors: Owen Rebecca
Published: December 2023

New research suggests the source of morphologic variation on mid-ocean ridges might be deeper than scientists thought.
AGU Publications Opens Science: Making Science Accessible and Equitable
Authors: Wooden Paige , Lunn Jenny , Vrouwenvelder Kristina , Moerchen Margaret , Ricci Mia , Giampoala Matt , Sedora Brian
Published: December 2023

To celebrate the Year of Open Science, we highlight our efforts to make AGU journals and books more open, accessible, and inclusive.
Tropical Atmospheric Response of Atlantic Niños to Changes in the Ocean Background State
Authors: Svendsen Lea , Rodríguez‐Fonseca Belén , Mohino Elsa , Crespo Lander , Losada Teresa
Published: December 2023

Since the 1970s, Atlantic Niños during boreal summer have been linked to Pacific La Niñas the following winter. Earlier studies have explained the appearance of the Atlantic‐Pacific teleconnection with changing Atlantic Niño configurations. Here we find that the non‐stationarity of this teleconnection can also be explained by changes in the ocean background state, without changing the Atlantic Niño configuration. Experiments with different atmospheric general circulation models are performed where the same Atlantic Niño pattern is prescribed to different global ocean background states. The 1975–1985 global mean sea surface temperature forces a Walker Circulation response and low‐level convergence over the Maritime Continent, increasing the chance of triggering a La Niña‐like event in the Pacific. These results suggest that ENSO‐predictions could be improved in certain periods by considering tropical Atlantic variability.
Impact of Mass Redistribution on Regional Sea Level Changes Over the South China Sea Shelves
Authors: Thompson B. , Jevrejeva S. , Zachariah J. , Faller D. G. , Tkalich P.
Published: December 2023

This study investigates long‐term sea level changes in the South China Sea (SCS) using a validated high‐resolution regional ocean model simulation for the Maritime Continent. The contributions of ocean mass redistribution and steric sea level are examined to understand the sea level variations. The ocean bottom pressure (OBP) serves as an indicator of sea level variations linked to alterations in ocean mass flux. The OBP accounts for over 80% of the total sea level change over the shelves, while the steric sea level emerges as the dominant factor, contributing over 50% to the sea level change in the deep SCS. Luzon Strait transport shows a weakening trend in the last six decades, resulting in higher heat accumulation and larger steric expansion in the deep SCS. The ocean mass redistribution acts as a mechanism to balance the contrasting steric induced sea level changes over the deep SCS and shallow continental shelves.
Analyzing the Impact of Evolving Combustion Conditions on the Composition of Wildfire Emissions Using Satellite Data
Authors: Anderson Lindsey D. , Dix Barbara , Schnell Jordan , Yokelson Robert , Veefkind J. Pepijn , Ahmadov Ravan , de Gouw Joost
Published: December 2023

Wildfires have become larger and more frequent because of climate change, increasing their impact on air pollution. Air quality forecasts and climate models do not currently account for changes in the composition of wildfire emissions during the commonly observed progression from more flaming to smoldering combustion. Laboratory measurements have consistently shown decreased nitrogen dioxide (NO2) relative to carbon monoxide (CO) over time, as they transitioned from more flaming to smoldering combustion, while formaldehyde (HCHO) relative to CO remained constant. Here, we show how daily ratios between column densities of NO2 versus those of CO and HCHO versus CO from the Tropospheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI) changed for large wildfires in the Western United States. TROPOMI‐derived emission ratios were lower than those from the laboratory. We discuss reasons for the discrepancies, including how representative laboratory burns are of wildfires, the effect of aerosols on trace gas retrievals, and atmospheric chemistry in smoke plumes.
Paleozoic Decollement Displaced the Surface Trace of Iapetus Ocean Closure in Northern Appalachians
Authors: Levin V. , Hillenbrand I. , Menke W. , Yuan H.
Published: December 2023

The northern Appalachians record accretion of Laurentia‐ and Gondwana‐derived terranes to Laurentian margin during the formation of Pangea. Terrane bounding structures, key to reconstructing this history, are poorly understood at depth. We use teleseismic receiver functions to probe the crust beneath Appalachian terranes in Québec and Maine. We identify an eastward‐dipping intra‐crustal boundary extending beneath the trace of the Iapetus Ocean closure that separates the peri‐Laurentian Dunnage and the peri‐Gondwanan Gander terranes. Systematic fabric in rocks is a likely cause of anisotropic seismic properties associated with it. Depth and position associate this boundary with a previously identified décollement separating authochtonous Laurentian basement from rocks emplaced during Pangea's assembly. Neither the décollement nor the crust‐mantle boundary under our profile change beneath the surface trace of the Iapetus Ocean closure, suggesting that it has been transported to the northwest relative to the actual boundary between mantle lithospheres of former Laurentia and Gondwana.
Interannual and Interhemispheric Comparisons of Q2DW Bimodal and Unimodal Structures During the 2003–2020 Summer Period
Authors: Tang Liang , Gu Sheng‐Yang
Published: December 2023

By analyzing Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry and the Modern‐Era Retrospective analysis for Research Applications Version 2 reanalysis observations from 2003 to 2020, we found that the structural variation of the westward quasi‐2‐day wave (Q2DW) is related to the mean zonal wind in the background atmosphere, and the zonal wavenumber 3 (W3) is more affected by the background atmosphere than the zonal wavenumber 4 (W4). Our study focuses on the spatial structure of ∼50–95 km and ∼50°S–50°N. The spatial structure of W3 and W4 in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres is unimodal and bimodal, while the bimodal structure of W3 in the Southern Hemisphere is more obvious in some years. In the unimodal structure, W3 has a higher (altitude) peak in the Southern Hemisphere (∼82 km) than in the Northern Hemisphere (∼70 km), while W4 peaks at ∼70 km in both hemispheres. In the bimodal structure, W3 in the Southern Hemisphere fluctuates mostly at ∼82 km, followed by ∼68 km, while W3 in the Northern Hemisphere fluctuates mostly at ∼70 km, followed by ∼82 km. The spatial structure of W4 in both hemispheres fluctuates mainly at ∼70 km, followed by ∼82 km. In addition, W3 is stronger in the Southern Hemisphere than the Northern Hemisphere, W4 is stronger in the Northern Hemisphere than the Southern Hemisphere, and peak amplitudes of both W3 and W4 are larger in a bimodal structure than unimodal structure. The diagnostic analysis shows that the interannual and interhemispheric structure changes of Q2DWs may be due to the larger mean flow instabilities, background winds, and refractive index in the mesosphere, which make the bimodal structure of W3 and W4 obtain larger energy for propagation and amplification, resulting in higher (altitude) and larger amplitudes. This indicates that the background atmosphere of the mesosphere can affect the spatial structure of Q2DWs.
Risk of metabolic abnormalities in osteoarthritis: a new perspective to understand its pathological mechanisms
Authors: Wei Guizheng , Lu Ke , Umar Muhammad , Zhu Zhenglin , Lu William W. , Speakman John R. , Chen Yan , Tong Liping , Chen Di
Published: December 2023

Although aging has traditionally been viewed as the most important risk factor for osteoarthritis (OA), an increasing amount of epidemiological evidence has highlighted the association between metabolic abnormalities and OA, particularly in younger individuals. Metabolic abnormalities, such as obesity and type II diabetes, are strongly linked to OA, and they affect both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing joints, thus suggesting that the pathogenesis of OA is more complicated than the mechanical stress induced by overweight. This review aims to explore the recent advances in research on the relationship between metabolic abnormalities and OA risk, including the impact of abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism, the potential pathogenesis and targeted therapeutic strategies.
Evaluation of vehicle running performance on ash-covered roads
Authors: Nishizawa Tatsuji , Yoshimoto Mitsuhiro , Kubo Tomohiro , Honda Ryo , Nakada Setsuya , Kametani Nobuko , Ishimine Yasuhiro , Yamamoto Shinya
Published: December 2023

The scale of volcanic eruptions influences the effects of wide-ranging disasters involving ashfall, such as the disruption of lifelines and paralysis of urban functions. This highlights the importance of vehicle availability on ash-covered roads for disaster management personnel involved in rescue and recovery efforts and for citizens who must evacuate or continue their social lives. We conducted tests to scientifically verify the running ability of vehicles on ash-covered roads. Results revealed that all-wheel-drive vehicles showed better running performance than two-wheel-drive vehicles, which get stuck when ashfall thickness exceeds 10 cm. Most of the vehicle’s drive power is consumed as energy to scrape ash grains from under the tires, hindering sufficient propulsion. In addition, the tires sink into the ash layer, which increases driving resistance and causes the vehicle to get stuck. Running ability on ash-covered roads is mainly determined by the relation between the “drive system” of the vehicle and the “thickness of ash” on the roads. In addition, road surface conditions, including ash thickness, could change in time and space because of traffic volume and weather conditions.
Soft-stable interface in grasping multiple objects by wiring-tension
Authors: Nguyen Pho Van , Sunil Dhyan Bohra , Chow Wai Tuck
Published: December 2023

Efficiently manipulating objects in a group state poses an emerging challenge for soft robot hands. Overcoming this problem necessitates the development of hands with highly stable structures to bear heavy loads and highly compliant designs to universally adapt to various object geometries. This study introduces a novel platform for the development of robot hands aimed at manipulating multiple objects in each trial. In this setup, the objects come into soft contact with an elastic wire affixed to the finger skeletons. This combination results in a harmonious hybrid finger, inheriting both the soft, flexible properties of the wire and the robust stability provided by the finger skeleton. To facilitate this approach, a theoretical model was proposed to estimate the kinematics of manipulating multiple objects using wiring-based fingers. Based on this model, we designed a hybrid gripper comprising two wiring-based fingers for conducting experimental evaluations in manipulating four groups of samples: a pair of bevel gears, a pair of bevel gears plus a pneumatic connector, a pair of glue bottles, and a pair of silicon bottles. The experimental results demonstrated that our proposed gripper reached good performance with high success rates in durability tests conducted at various lifting velocities and high adaption with objects in soft-friendly ways. These findings hold promise for efficiently manipulating multiple complex objects in each trial without the need for complex control systems.
Individual differences in rhythm perception modulate music-related motor learning: a neurobehavioral training study with children
Authors: Martins Marta , Reis Ana Mafalda , Gaser Christian , Castro São Luís
Published: December 2023

Rhythm and motor function are intrinsically linked to each other and to music, but the rhythm-motor interplay during music training, and the corresponding brain mechanisms, are underexplored. In a longitudinal training study with children, we examined the role of rhythm predisposition in the fine motor improvements arising from music training, and which brain regions would be implicated. Fifty-seven 8-year-olds were assigned to either a 6-month music training (n = 21), sports training (n = 18), or a control group (n = 18). They performed rhythm and motor tasks, and structural brain scans before and after training were collected. Better ability to perceive rhythm before training was related to less gray matter volume in regions of the cerebellum, fusiform gyrus, supramarginal gyrus, ventral diencephalon, amygdala, and inferior/middle temporal gyri. Music training improved motor performance, and greater improvements correlated with better pre-training rhythm discrimination. Music training also induced a loss of gray matter volume in the left cerebellum and fusiform gyrus, and volume loss correlated with higher motor gains. No such effects were found in the sports and control groups. In summary, children with finer-tuned rhythm perception abilities were prone to finer motor improvements through music training, and this rhythm-motor link was to some extent subserved by the left cerebellum and fusiform gyrus. These findings have implications for models on music-related plasticity and rhythm cognition, and for programs targeting motor function.
Promotion of hydrogen evolution from seawater via poly(aniline-co-4-nitroaniline) combined with 3D nickel nanoparticles
Authors: Moradi-Alavian Saleh , Kazempour Amir , Mirzaei-Saatlo Meysam , Ashassi-Sorkhabi Habib , Mehrdad Abbas , Asghari Elnaz , Lamb Jacob J. , Pollet Bruno G.
Published: December 2023

This work reports the synthesis of poly (aniline-co-4-nitroaniline) deposited on a three-dimensional nanostructured nickel (3D-Ni) film, where both layers were fabricated via potentiostatic electrodeposition. The obtained electrocatalyst exhibited excellent electrochemical activity for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) with small overpotentials of − 195 and − 325 mV at − 10 and − 100 mAcm−2, respectively, and a low Tafel slope of 53.3 mV dec−1 in seawater. Additionally, the electrocatalyst exhibited good stability after 72 h operation under a constant potential of − 1.9 V vs. RHE. The efficient HER performance of the as-prepared catalyst was found to originate from the synergy between the conducting polymer and three-dimensional nickel nanoparticles with a large electrochemical active surface area. Moreover, the results obtained from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements revealed that the presence of 3D-Ni layer improved the kinetics of HER by reducing the charge transfer resistance for the electrocatalyst.
Infusion of propofol with bispectral index monitoring does not reduce the amount of propofol used during transvaginal oocyte retrieval procedure
Authors: Bilgen Sevgi , Erdogan Dilek , Ökten Sabri Berkem
Published: December 2023

In our study we aimed to investigate whether the use of bispectral index (BIS) monitoring would decrease total propofol consumption during the transvaginal oocyte retrieval procedure. This was a prospective, randomized, controlled, parallel-group clinical trial. The study was conducted in the operating room, and postoperative recovery room. One hundred and thirty, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I–II patients, over age 18, undergoing transvaginal oocyte retrieval were included in this study. All patients were administered 2 μg/kg fentanyl, and 2 mg/kg propofol for the induction of anesthesia. The patients were divided into two groups. Patients in the group bolus were given 0.5 mg/kg of propofol when necessary, according to the observer's range of motion. Patients in the group BIS were given 10 mg/kg/h propofol infusion adjusted to keep the BIS value between 40 and 60. The primary outcome was the total dose of propofol administered per patient. The secondary outcomes were the time to reach the value of 5 on the Modified Observer's Assessment of Alertness Sedation Scale (MOASs), the time to reach Post Anesthetic Discharge Scoring System (PADSS) ≥ 9 of the patients, satisfaction of the patient, and the gynecologist. The amount of total propofol was higher in the group BIS than in the group bolus administered according to the patient's clinic. There was no difference in the time to reach the value of 5 on the MOASs between the groups. The time to reach PADSS ≥ 9 was longer in the group BIS than in the group bolus. There was no difference between the two groups in terms of the satisfaction of the patient and the gynecologist. Administration of propofol as an infusion with BIS monitoring did not reduce the amount of propofol administered to patients during transvaginal oocyte retrieval.

Clinical trial registration number: NCT05631925—30/11/2022.
Enhancing cochlear duct length estimation by incorporating second-turn parameters
Authors: Alahmadi Asma , Abdelsamad Yassin , Dhanasingh Anandhan , Almuhawas Fida , Alsanosi Abdulrahman
Published: December 2023

Estimating insertion depth, cochlear duct length (CDL), and other inner ear parameters is vital to optimizing cochlear implantation outcomes. Most current formulas use only the basal turn dimensions for CDL prediction. In this study, we investigated the importance of the second turn parameters in estimating CDL. Two experienced neuro-otologists blindly used segmentation software to measure (in mm) cochlear parameters, including basal turn diameter (A), basal turn width (B), second-turn diameter (A2), second-turn width (B2), CDL, first-turn length, and second-turn length (STL). These readings were taken from 33 computed tomography (CT) images of temporal bones from anatomically normal ears. We constructed regression models using A, B, A2, and B2 values fitted to CDL, two-turn length, and five-fold cross-validation to ensure model validity. CDL, A value, and STL were longer in males than in females. The mean B2/A2 ratio was 0.91 ± 0.06. Adding A2 and B2 values improved CDL prediction accuracy to 86.11%. Therefore, we propose a new formula for more accurate CDL estimation using A, B, A2, and B2 values. In conclusion, the findings of this study revealed a notable improvement in the prediction of two-turn length (2TL), and CDL by clinically appreciable margins upon adding A2 and B2 values to the prediction formulas.
In-silico study of drug delivery to atherosclerosis in the human carotid artery using metal–organic frameworks based on adhesion of nanocarriers
Authors: Shamloo Amir , Naseri Tahoora , Rahbary Ali , Bakhtiari Mohammad Ali , Ebrahimi Sina , Mirafzal Iman
Published: December 2023

This study investigates nanocarriers (NCs) for drug delivery targeting carotid artery atherosclerosis. This targeted drug delivery mechanism is based on ligand–receptor bindings facilitated by coating NCs with P-selectin aptamers, which exhibit high affinities for P-selectin plaque receptors. Recognizing the significant advantages of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), such as their high drug-loading percentages, we chose them as nanocarriers for this research. Our evaluation considers critical factors: NC surface density (the number of attached nanocarriers per unit of plaque area), toxicity (percentage of NCs missing the target), and efficient drug transfer to plaque tissue. Employing molecular dynamics (MD) for drug loading calculations via van der Waals interactions and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for toxicity, surface density, and drug transfer assessments, we achieve a comprehensive analysis. A cardiac cycle-based metric guides optimal MOF release conditions, establishing an ideal dosage of 600 NCs per cycle. MOF-801 exhibits outstanding drug delivery performance, particularly in plaque targeting. While a magnetic field enhances NC adhesion, its impact on drug transfer is limited, emphasizing the need for further optimization in magnetic targeting for NC-based therapies. This study provides crucial insights into NC drug delivery performance in carotid artery atherosclerosis, advancing the field of targeted drug delivery for atherosclerosis treatment.
Conical shell X-ray beam tomosynthesis and micro-computed tomography for microarchitectural characterisation
Authors: Arnold Emily L. , Elarnaut Farid , Downes David , Evans J. Paul O. , Greenwood Charlene , Rogers Keith D.
Published: December 2023

Bone quality is commonly used to diagnose bone diseases such as osteoporosis, with many studies focusing on microarchitecture for fracture prediction. In this study a bovine distal femur was imaged using both micro-computed tomography (µCT) and tomosynthesis using focal construct geometry (FCG) for comparison of microarchitectural parameters. Six regions of interest (ROIs) were compared between the two imaging modalities, with both global and adaptive methods used to binarize the images. FCG images were downsampled to the same pixel size as the µCT images. Bone morphometrics were determined using BoneJ, for each imaging modality, binarization technique and ROI. Bone area/total area was found to have few significant differences between FCG and µCT (p < 0.05 for two of six ROIs). Fractal Dimension had only one significant difference (p < 0.05 for one of six ROIs) between µCT and downsampled FCG (where pixel size was equalized). Trabecular thickness and trabecular spacing were observed to follow trends as observed for the corresponding µCT images, although many absolute values were significantly different (p < 0.05 for between one and six ROIs depending on image types used). This study demonstrates the utility of tomosynthesis for measurement of microarchitectural morphometrics.
Paracetamol versus ibuprofen in treating episodic tension-type headache: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Alnasser Ammar , Alhumrran Hassan , Alfehaid Mustafa , Alhamoud Mustafa , Albunaian Nada , Ferwana Mazen
Published: December 2023

Tension-type headache (TTH) is the most common type of headache worldwide. It is defined and classified according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders. TTH is treated with over-the-counter medications, mostly paracetamol or ibuprofen. The purpose was to assess the effectiveness of paracetamol versus ibuprofen in treating episodic tension-type headache (ETTH) through direct and indirect comparisons of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We included RCTs comparing paracetamol with a placebo, ibuprofen with a placebo, or paracetamol with ibuprofen for acute ETTH treatment that were published between 1988 and 2022. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Web of Science. The Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool was used to assess the risk of bias. We identified 14 studies including 6521 people with ETTH. None of the studies had a low risk of bias for all domains; this was most likely due to inadequate reporting and a small sample size. Ibuprofen (odds ratio (OR): 1.73, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.17–2.56) showed better efficacy than paracetamol (OR: 1.62, 95% CI 1.24–2.13) for pain-free status at 2 h, while paracetamol (OR: 1.42, 95% CI 0.87–2.30) showed better efficacy than ibuprofen (OR: 1.20, 95% CI 0.58–2.48) for pain-free status at 1 h. Paracetamol was associated with the lowest likelihood of rescue medication use (OR: 0.49, 95% CI 0.37–0.65). Ibuprofen was associated with a lower likelihood of the occurrence of any events and gastrointestinal adverse events compared with placebo and paracetamol (OR: 0.95, 95% CI 0.64–1.41 and OR: 0.81, 95% CI 0.44–1.50, respectively). Paracetamol and ibuprofen showed better efficacy than placebo in treating ETTH; there was no statistically significant difference in efficacy between the two drugs. For individuals at a higher risk (like renal insufficiency or risk of GI bleeding), paracetamol may be considered as a preferred option instead of Ibuprofen. Further meta-analyses of head-to-head trials are needed for direct comparisons in the future.

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022340936.
A real-world study on the effectiveness of BBIBP-CorV and CoronaVac in Nanjing area
Authors: Huang Min , Jia Lu , Ye Sheng , Pang Rongrong , Ma Chengping , Zhang Jiajuan , Dai Shuming , Zhang Ke , Dai Yudong , Fu Qiang , Zhang Libo
Published: December 2023

Since the advent of COVID-19 vaccine, the long-term monitoring and evaluation of vaccine effectiveness worldwide has never stopped. Real-world research of the mainstream vaccines in China (BBIBP-CorV and CoronaVac) is extremely valuable as a supplement to clinical research data. Venous blood of this study was collected from 111 blood donors and from 6 volunteers, who had received 2 doses of SAR-CoV-2 vaccine. Cross-sectional study and cohort study was adopted. Venous blood of 11 COVID-19 convalescent plasma donors was collected as a positive control. The seroconversion rate of neutralizing antibodies in 111 vaccine recipients was 90.99% (101/111); The level of SAR-CoV-2 antibodies peaked around 28 days after inoculation, then fast descended followed by gentle descended until it was still detectable around 280 days later. The changes in antibody levels were similar to those of the 6 participants and those of convalescent plasma donors after infection. 5 of the 6 participants still maintained a high level of neutralizing antibodies (> 60% of the peak value) around 28 days after receiving 2 doses of vaccine; one participant had an antibody reaction that was almost always negative for 4 weeks. BBIBP-CorV and CoronaVac can produce good immune effects in most vaccinators aged 20 to 59 years in Nanjing area. Nevertheless, significant individual discrepancies of the humoral immunity are still existed.
Natural products applied in acute kidney injury treatment: polymer matters
Authors: Yu Bo , Jin Qiao , Ji Jian
Published: December 2023

The applications of renal-targeting natural polymers and polymer-delivered natural drugs for the treatment of lethal acute kidney injury are summarized.
Stepwise optimization of tumor-targeted dual-action platinum(iv)-gemcitabine prodrugs
Authors: Kastner Alexander , Mendrina Theresa , Babu Tomer , Karmakar Subhendu , Poetsch Isabella , Berger Walter , Keppler Bernhard K. , Gibson Dan , Heffeter Petra , Kowol Christian R.
Published: December 2023

An albumin-binding cisplatin(iv)-gemcitabine complex was step-by-step improved based on stability, reduction, albumin-binding and in vivo data yielding a carboplatin(iv) complex with distinctly improved overall survival and anticancer activity.
Correction: Accelerating materials discovery using integrated deep machine learning approaches
Authors: Xia Weiyi , Tang Ling , Sun Huaijun , Zhang Chao , Ho Kai-Ming , Viswanathan Gayatri , Kovnir Kirill , Wang Cai-Zhuang
Published: December 2023

Correction for ‘Accelerating materials discovery using integrated deep machine learning approaches’ by Weiyi Xia et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2023, 11, 25973–25982, https://doi.org/10.1039/d3ta03771a.
Surface pre-sacrifice behavior of thiourea-based 2D perovskites for high-performance perovskite solar cells
Authors: Zheng Haiying , Dong Xinhe , Wang Chao , Chen Feifan , Liu Guozhen
Published: December 2023

A surface pre-sacrifice strategy was developed to passivate interface defects and stabilize 3D perovskite by introducing 1,2-dimethylisothiourea cation. The prepared high-quality 2D/3D perovskite device shows an enhanced PCE of 22.26%.
The Use of Electronic Health Records for Behavioral Phenotyping of School-Age Children With Unilateral Hearing Loss: A Methodological Approach
Authors: Davis Hilary , Tang Leigh Anne , M. Picou Erin , Bastarache Lisa , Tharpe Anne Marie
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

This methodological study describes a technique for extracting information from de-identified electronic health records (EHRs) to identify occurrences of permanent unilateral hearing loss (UHL) and associated educational comorbidities.

Method:

This was an exploratory methodological study utilizing approximately 3.3 million de-identified medical records. Structured and unstructured data were extracted using both automated and manual methods. When both methods were available, positive and negative predictive values were calculated to evaluate the utility of using automated methods.

Results:

We defined a cohort of 471 records that met our criteria of school-age children with permanent UHL and no additional significant disabilities/diagnoses. Fifty-one percent of the children reflected in this cohort had indicators of adverse educational progress, defined as documentation of receiving educational services, speech-language therapy, and/or parental/teacher concern, with 12% of records reflecting overlapping services/concerns. Negative predictive values were generally high and positive predictive values were generally low, suggesting automated searches are useful for excluding factors of interest, but not finding them.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates the feasibility of using EHRs in examining UHL in school-age children. By restricting our cohort to individuals who were seen in audiology clinic, we were able to capture variables such as educational difficulty that are not routinely ascertained in medical contexts. The proportion of children in this cohort demonstrating a marker of adverse educational progress is consistent with numerous prior observational studies, thus providing validity to this ascertainment approach. We describe challenges encountered in creating this cohort and detail our hybrid approach to ascertaining key variables accurately.
Fault diagnosis for multiple current sensors in grid‐connected inverter based on average modulation voltage
Authors: Zhang Fan , Zhang Zhiwei , Jin Guangfeng , Wang Tianzhen , Han Jingang , Razik Hubert , Wang Yide
Published: December 2023

Grid‐connected inverters are the core equipment in the renewable power system. There are multiple current sensors which may affect the driving module of the switch in inverter. In multiple current sensor fault diagnosis, the coupling between fault components makes fault diagnosis difficult. This paper presents an offset fault diagnosis method of multiple current sensors based on the average modulation voltage model. Based on the influence of current sensor offset fault in the system, the average modulation voltage model is established in three‐phase stationary coordinates. The difference between the measured value of the current and the actual value is estimated through the model when the offset fault occurs. And then the fault is located. Experimental results show that the fault can be located accurately and fault tolerant control can be performed by this method when there are offset faults in multiple sensors simultaneously.
Resilience enhancement of distribution networks based on demand response under extreme scenarios
Authors: Xu Gang , Guo Zixuan
Published: December 2023

In the context of rare but high‐impact extreme scenarios, such as natural disasters, it is crucial to utilize all available resources, including microgrids and distributed power sources, to restore critical loads in the distribution network as much as possible. This paper proposes a two‐stage resilience enhancement strategy for distribution networks considering post‐disaster topology reconstruction and demand response, aiming to facilitate the recovery of critical loads after disasters. In the first stage, a heuristic algorithm is introduced to determine the post‐disaster topology of the distribution network. In the second stage, by employing a step‐wise elastic load curve, user demand response is incorporated to maximize the socio‐economic value of the restoration, and resilience metrics are computed. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed resilience restoration strategy is validated through simulations on Case33 and Case69 systems.
Effects of water deficit regimes on yield components and berry composition of ‘Black Kishmish’ under Mediterranean region
Authors: Soltekin Oguzhan , Altındisli Ahmet
Published: December 2023

The effects of different irrigation treatments on yield components and berry composition of ‘Black Kismish’ table grape were investigated in this study. Research was carried out in the experimental vineyards of Viticulture Research Institute, Manisa, Türkiye. Research took place for three consecutive (2015-2016-2017) years and three treatments were compared: T100 (control) irrigated to the field capacity, T65 and T35 irrigated 65% and 35% of T100 treatment, respectively. It was determined that yield value obtained by Full Irrigation was 11% and 18% higher than T65 and T35, respectively. In addition, some of the bio-active compounds such as total anthocyanin content, total phenolic compounds, total flavonoid content, antioxidant capacity and maturity parameters were increased with water stress. Also, color index of red grapes increased with deficit irrigation treatments. As a result, to ensure optimum yield and quality in Manisa conditions, it was determined that table grape growing without irrigation was not suitable and the irrigation requirement of the grapevine should be fully supplied during the growing season for high grape yield. When the water footprint and functional food concepts were taken into consideration, water deficit treatments (T65 and T35) became prominent due to the use of less water and higher nutrient content of the grapes obtained.
Precipitation variability in a temperate coastal region and its impacts on Tannat and Albariño cultivars
Authors: Tachini Ramiro , Fourment Mercedes , Ferrer Milka
Published: December 2023

Climate is one of the main components that define the development and behaviour of the plant, conditioning the health status and the final quality of the grapes. The objective was to describe the precipitation (PP) variability during the last 32 years and how Tannat and Albariño responded in three growing seasons (GS). We analyzed PP data from two agro-meteorological stations and calculated descriptive indexes. In addition, we measured vine water potential, plant physiological parameters, grapes’ final composition and health status at harvest in 2019, 2020 and 2021. In the last 32 years, PP during GS ranged from 133-1154 mm and 10-599 mm during the grape ripening period. An average of 51 days had PP, which means one event every four days. However, when analyzing the dry periods (moving average of 15 days with PP<6 mm), 24 events per GS were recorded with a variability from 0-101, which shows the alternation between excess and deficit of water in the terroir. Regarding plant response, both cultivars showed differences in soluble solids, pH and berry weight between GS. In particular, Albariño showed differences in bunch weight. In contrast, Tannat showed differences in total acidity, anthocyanins, leaf area, yield with the incidence of Botrytis cinerea sp., pruning weight and bunch weight between GS. Therefore, the inter-annual variability had an impact on Tannat performance. Still, Albariño was more stable than Tannat between rainy and dry GS, an interesting option for winegrowers searching for durable and sustainable products.
Waste valorization in winery and distillery industry by producing biofertilizers and organic amendments
Authors: Mendoza K. , Linares V. , Hatta B. , Tinoco Y. , Alvarado J. , Di Laura A.
Published: December 2023

La industria vitivinícola y de destilación de bebidas espirituosas generan una notable cantidad de subproductos y residuos, cuya gestión inadecuada puede generar problemas socioeconómicos y riesgos ambientales debido a algunas características de disponibilidad estacional y elementos contaminantes. Tradicionalmente, las estrategias de valorización se han enfocado en el compostaje, para uso directo como mejorador de suelos en el viñedo. Sin embargo, este proceso requiere un tiempo prolongado y gran disposición de espacio libre (aeróbico), pudiendo causar fitotoxicidad y un efecto antimicrobiano. Una estrategia alternativa de tratamiento de estos residuos orgánicos es la digestión anaeróbica, después de la cual, en un periodo menor a 25 días y en una reducida área de trabajo, se obtienen dos digestatos: un líquido y un sólido, aptos para el uso agrícola en el viñedo. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la factibilidad de aprovechar las lías de vinificación y las vinazas de destilación para la elaboración de biofertilizantes y enmiendas orgánicas mediante digestión anaeróbica usando consorcios microbianos y estimar su valorización económica a mediana escala para una bodega vitivinícola del valle de Cañete (Perú). Se monitoreó la evolución del proceso de digestión (pH, Conductividad Eléctrica y Temperatura) para finalmente realizar una caracterización fisicoquímica y microbiológica de los digestatos obtenidos. Los resultados muestran que los productos elaborados presentan una significativa concentración de materia orgánica y fitonutrientes (Nitrógeno, Fosforo, Potasio, etc.) en un medio ligeramente ácido (pH entre 3.8 y 5.8), debido a la presencia de algunas especies de bacterias acido-lácticas y Bacillus, lo que podría conferirles propiedades como bioestimulantes y agentes de biocontrol. La estabilidad de los productos (pH, color y olor) fue evaluada durante 30 días más, mostrando excelentes condiciones higiénicas, debido a la ausencia de microorganismos patógenos, posibilitando su incorporación junto a otras enmiendas durante la mitad de la temporada vitícola. Por lo tanto, la valorización de estos subproductos y residuos vitivinícolas en la producción de biofertilizantes y enmiendas orgánicas para uso agrícola, podría suplir en gran parte el uso de fertilización sintética y recuperar la fertilidad del suelo. Los beneficios socio-económicos y ambientales serían múltiples, dentro de un enfoque de transición agroecológica y de economía circular.