bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probability‐Distribution‐Configurable True Random Number Generators Based on Spin‐Orbit Torque Magnetic Tunnel Junctions
Authors: Zhang Ran , Li Xiaohan , Zhao Mingkun , Wan Caihua , Luo Xuming , Liu Shiqiang , Zhang Yu , Wang Yizhan , Yu Guoqiang , Han Xiufeng
Published: April 2024

The incorporation of randomness into stochastic computing can provide ample opportunities for applications such as simulated annealing, non‐polynomial hard problem solving, and Bayesian neuron networks. In these cases, a considerable number of random numbers with an accurate and configurable probability distribution function (PDF) are indispensable. Preferably, these random numbers are provided at the hardware level to improve speed, efficiency, and parallelism. In this paper, how spin‐orbit torque magnetic tunnel junctions (SOT‐MTJs) with high barriers are suitable candidates for the desired true random number generators is demonstrated. Not only do these SOT‐MTJs perform excellently in speed and endurance, but their randomness can also be conveniently and precisely controlled by a writing voltage, which makes them a well‐performed Bernoulli bit. By utilizing these SOT‐MTJ‐based Bernoulli bits, any PDF, including Gaussian, uniform, exponential, Chi‐square, and even arbitrarily defined distributions can be realized. These PDF‐configurable true random number generators can then promise to advance the development of stochastic computing and broaden the applications of the SOT‐MTJs.
Anxiety in Alzheimer's disease rats is independent of memory and impacted by genotype, age, sex, and exercise
Authors: Lopez Danielle C. , White Zachary J. , Hall Stephanie E.
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by cognitive impairments; however, heightened anxiety often accompanies and, in some cases, exacerbates cognitive its. The present study aims to understand the influence of multiple variables on anxiety‐like behavior in TgF344‐AD rats and determine whether anxiety impacts memory performance.

METHODS

An elevated plus maze was used to assess anxiety‐like behavior in the established colony (n = 107). Influences of age, sex, genotype, and exercise on anxiety were evaluated via multiple linear regression. Correlation analysis evaluated the relationship between anxiety and memory performance.

RESULTS

Age (P < 0.05) and AD genotype (P < 0.001) were associated with increasing anxiety, while exercise (P < 0.05) was associated with decreasing anxiety. Female AD animals displayed more anxiety‐like behavior versus wild‐type female (P < 0.001) and AD male (P < 0.05) littermates.

DISCUSSION

Concluding that while factors such as age, sex, AD genotype, and training status can impact anxiety levels in the TgF344‐AD model, anxiety level did not impact memory performance.

Highlights

Increased anxiety‐like behavior in TgF344‐AD rats does not correlate with declines in memory performance.

Predictors of higher anxiety‐like behaviors in the TgF344‐AD rat include age, Alzheimer's disease (AD) genotype, and sex with female AD animals experiencing greater anxiety compared to female wild‐type or male AD.

Exercise training leads to decreased anxiety‐like behaviors in the TgF344‐AD rat.
Piezoresistive pressure sensor based on conductive MWCNTs@PANI fiber network for motion sensing and human–machine interface
Authors: Zhou Jingwei , Zhang Limei , Ji Zhengyang , Xu Ruixiang , Jiang Yi
Published: April 2024

Wearable smart sensors have broad prospects in medical health and physical exercise. In this study, the core–shell conductive fiber membrane was prepared by adding multiwalled carbon nanotubes during polymerization of aniline on spun fibers. In comparison to the conventionally utilized polymerized aniline, the integration of carbon nanotube particulates enhances the conductivity and surface area, provides more aniline polymerization sites, and simultaneously increases the stability of the composite film. The pressure sensor has a sensitivity of 61.12, 40.32, and 23.17 kPa−1 in the range of 0–7.1 kPa, 7.1–11.1 kPa, and 11.1–19.54 kPa. In addition, it has a fast response time (loading time of 120 ms and unloading time of only 22 ms) and exhibits excellent cyclic stability through numerous loading–unloading cycles. These properties enable the sensor to be applied to real‐time monitoring of human sports health, such as knee and elbow bending, mouse clicking, beaker holding, and so on. This research method provides a new strategy and technology for conducting polymers as materials for flexible electronic equipment.
An inexpensive moist chamber culture technique for finding microbiota on live tree bark
Authors: Bordelon Ashley P. , Keller Harold W. , Scarborough Angela R.
Published: April 2024

Premise

Traditional moist chamber cultures (MCs) prepared in aseptic laboratory environments using sterile Petri dishes are commonly used to quantify the microbiota of rough‐bark tree species and woody vines. MCs are typically expensive and may be difficult to make, so a less expensive option made from easily available supplies was developed. These cost‐friendly MCs were compared with standard laboratory methods to demonstrate their efficacy.

Methods and Results

Modified MCs were made using inexpensive, store‐bought supplies; compared to a standard laboratory setting, the modified MCs are shown to be less expensive with a faster setup time and larger size that facilitates a variety of tree and woody vine species. MC use resulted in the discovery of new species of fungi and myxomycetes with associated locality records. We provide detailed instructions for creating modified MCs, as well as a list of myxomycete species and their associated bark characteristics, pH values, and water‐holding capacity.

Conclusions

This new, low‐cost MC technique makes the study of microbiota more inclusive and accessible for those in research laboratories, classrooms, and homes, including both amateurs and professionals. MCs are easy to prepare, versatile, and applicable for many areas of botany and the biological sciences, potentially allowing exploration into unexplored areas in urban ecosystems.
Computational Exploration of Naturally Occurring Flavonoids as TGF‐β Inhibitors in Breast Cancer: Insights from Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulations and In‐vitro Cytotoxicity Study
Authors: Shah Umang , Patel Niyati , Patel Mehul , Rohit Shishir , Solanki Nilay , Patel Ashish , Patel Swayamprakash , Patel Vishwa , Patel Rajvi , Jawarkar Rahul D.
Published: April 2024

Breast cancer is a global health concern, demanding innovative treatments. Targeting the Transforming Growth Factor‐beta (TGF‐β) signaling pathway, pivotal in breast cancer, is a promising approach. TGF‐β inhibits proliferation via G1 phase cell cycle arrest, acting as a suppressor initially, but in later stages, it promotes progression by enhancing motility, invasiveness, and metastasis formation. This study explores naturally occurring flavonoids′ interactions with TGF‐β. Using molecular docking against the protein‘s crystal structure (PDB Id: 1PY5), Gossypin showed the highest docking score and underwent molecular dynamics simulation, revealing complex flexibility and explaining how flavonoids impede TGF‐β signaling in breast cancer. ADMET predictions adhered to Lipinski's rule of Five. Insights into flavonoid‐TGF‐β binding offer a novel angle for breast cancer treatment. Flavonoids having a good docking score like gossypin, morin, luteolin and taxifolin shown potent cytotoxic effect on breast cancer cell line, MCF‐7. Understanding these interactions could inspire flavonoid‐based therapies targeting TGF‐β to halt breast cancer growth. These findings pave the way for personalized, targeted breast cancer therapies, offering hope against this formidable disease.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Nanoflower‐Like Zn2SnS4 as Nanozymes for Highly Sensitive Electrochemical Detection of H2O2 Released by Living Cells
Authors: Wen Xia , Ni Jiancong , Zeng Shunmu , Song Zhiping , Qiu Weiwei
Published: April 2024

The sensitive and reliable nanozyme‐based sensor enables the detection of low concentrations of H2O2 in biological microenvironments, it has potential applications as an in‐situ monitoring platform for cellular H2O2 release. The uniformly dispersed bimetallic sulfide (Zn2SnS4) nanoflowers were synthesized via a one‐pot hydrothermal method and the two kinds of metal ions can serve as morphology and structure directing agents for each other in the synthetic process. The nanoparticles were utilized as nanozyme materials to fabricate a novel electrochemical sensor, and it exhibits a distinct electrochemical response towards H2O2 with excellent stability and detection capability (with a minimum detection limit of 1.79 nM (S/N=3)), the excellent characteristics facilitate the precise detection of low concentrations of H2O2 in biological microenvironments. Use the macrophages differentiated from leukemia THP‐1 cells as a representative sensing model, the sensor was successfully utilized for real‐time monitoring of the release of H2O2 induced by living cells, which has significant potential applications in clinical diagnosis and cancer treatment.
A System for the Combined Carbon Capture and Utilization to Produce Renewable Methanol from Biogas
Authors: Moioli Emanuele , Schildhauer Tilman
Published: April 2024

Coupling of biogas upgrading and power‐to‐X is challenging due to the intermittent cheap energy availability. A system was designed that overcomes the technical challenges in this coupling. This is possible by alternating biogas upgrading and methanol synthesis in a reactor operating both as sorption‐enhanced synthesis reactor and as upgrading unit by pressure swing adsorption. It was observed that this concept is feasible in both fixed‐ and fluidized‐bed reactors, and the potential for economic performance improvement was quantified in approximately 20 % increase of the internal rate of return.
Na2S in‐situ infiltrated in actived carbon as high‐efficiency presodiation additives for sodium ion hybrid capacitors
Authors: Pei Mengfan , Liu Dongming , Jin Xin , Li Borui , Jiang Wanyuan , Song Zihui , Jian Xigao , Hu Fangyuan
Published: April 2024

Sodium ion hybrid capacitors (SIHC) are emerging as promising next‐generation energy storage devices with high energy/power density. Presodiation is an essential part of SIHC production due to the lack of sodium sources in the cathode and anode. However, in the current presodiation methods, electrochemical presodiation by galvanostatic current charging and discharging requires a temporary half‐cell or a complex reassembling process, which severely hinders the commercialization of SIHC. Herein, in situ synthesized Na2S infiltrated in activated carbon was used as a sodium salt additive for supplying Na+ in SIHC. Due to a low ratio of Na2S additive attributed to high theoretical specific capacity, the fabricated Na2S/activated carbon composite//HC SIHC can show a higher energy density of 129.71 Wh kg−1 than previously reported SIHC on presodiation of cathode additives. Moreover, the designed SIHC shows an excellent cycling performance of 10,000 cycles, which is attributed to the Na2S additive with the advantages of low decomposition potential and no gas generation. This work provides a novel approach for the fabrication of highly efficient Na2S additive composite cathodes for SIHC.
Computational assessment of carbon fabric reinforced polymer made prosthetic knee: Mechanics, finite element simulations and experimental evaluation
Authors: Amudhan Kannan , Vasanthanathan Arunachalam , Thilak Johnson Anish Jafrin
Published: April 2024

A prosthetic knee is designed to replace the functionality of an anatomical knee in transfemoral amputees. The purpose of a prosthetic knee is to restore mobility and compensate amputees for their impairment. In the present research numerical modelling and simulation of a carbon fabric reinforced polymer made polycentric prosthetic knee with four‐bar mechanism was performed. Virtual prototyping with computer‐aided design and computer‐aided engineering software ensured geometric and structural stability of the knee design. The linkage mechanism, instantaneous centre's location and trajectory were investigated using multibody dynamics and analytical formulations. Computational simulations with a non‐linear finite element model were employed with joints, contact formulations and an orthotropic material model to predict the displacement, stress formulated and life of the knee prosthesis under static and cyclic loading conditions. Finite element analysis assessed the strength and durability of knee in accordance to standards. Maximum Principal stress of 155 MPa and life expectancy of 3.1 × 106 cycles were determined for the composite knee through numerical simulations ensuring a safe design. Experimental testing was also conducted as per standards and the percentage error was estimated to be 2.52%, thereby establishing the validity of the finite element model deployed. This type of simulation‐based approach can be implemented to efficiently and affordably design and prototype a prosthetic knee with desired functioning criteria.
Safety profile of hypnotics or sedatives on community‐dwelling older adults aged 75 or older in Japan: A retrospective propensity‐matched cohort study
Authors: Handa Nobuhiro , Ishizaki Tatsuro , Mitsutake Seigo , Ono Koki , Akishita Masahiro
Published: April 2024

Objective

The purpose of the study is to assess if daily use of hypnotics increases mortality, aspiration pneumonia and hip fracture among relatively healthy individuals aged 75 years or older who lead independent lives in the community.

Method and Patients

Of the adults aged 75 years or older residing in Hokkaido prefecture of Japan (n = 705,538), those who did not meet several exclusion criteria were eligible for generating propensity score‐matched cohorts (n = 214,723). Exclusion criteria included co‐prescribed medications acting on the central nervous system, diagnoses of malignant neoplasm, dementia, depression, etc. We compared 33,095 participants who were prescribed hypnotics for daily use (hypnotic group) with a propensity score‐matched cohort without a prescription (control group). Participants were followed for more than 42 months.

Results

During the 42‐month follow‐up period, the incidence of the three outcome measures in the hypnotics group was significantly higher than that in the control group (aspiration pneumonia p < 0.001, hip fracture p = 0.007, and all‐cause mortality p < 0.001). Sensitivity analyses utilizing inverse probability weighting demonstrated hazard ratios of 1.083 [1.023–1.146] for mortality, 1.117 [1.014–1.230] for aspiration pneumonia, and 1.720 [1.559–1.897] for hip fracture. Meanwhile, the attribute risk differences were 2.7, 1.5, and 1.0 per 1000 patient‐years, respectively.

Conclusions

Although daily use of hypnotics increased the risk of three events, their attribute risk differences were fewer than 3.0 per 1000 patient‐years. The results will help provide guidance on whether it is reasonable to prescribe hypnotics to geriatric population aged 75 or older leading independent lives in the community.

Clinical trial registration

UMIN‐CTR UMIN000048398.
Cornual adenomyosis in Essure® device users and in patients hysterectomized for other causes: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sánchez‐Cuerda Cristina , Elices Margarita , Lobo Paloma , Cabrera Yasmina , Duch Silvia , García Alicia , Rubio José , Álvarez Julio , Álvarez Pilar
Published: April 2024

Objective

To determine whether adenomyosis is present in the cornual portion of hysterectomies of symptomatic sterilization device users and in patients hysterectomized for different benign causes and who presented with pelvic pain and/or menstrual alterations.

Methods

An observational, analytical, cross‐sectional, single‐center, retrospective cohort study was conducted in a secondary level hospital. Cohort 1 consisted of women who had Essure® hysteroscopic sterilization devices inserted between 2009 and 2017, who developed gynecologic symptoms (pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and/or abnormal uterine bleeding) and who underwent a hysterectomy for explantation of the devices. Cohort 2 consisted of women with the same gynecologic symptoms, who underwent a hysterectomy for other benign causes. All surgeries were performed by the gynecology team between 2018 and 2022. A descriptive and comparative analysis of sociodemographic, clinical characteristics, and pathologic findings between cohorts was made.

Results

In total, 96 patients were studied (cohort 1 included 34 women, cohort 2 included 62 women). Pelvic pain was found to be more frequent in the cohort of Essure users (76.47% vs. 50%, P = 0.012), with a ratio of three times higher in this group (odds ratio 3.25, 95% confidence interval 1.27–8.28). Adenomyosis was more frequently found in the Essure group, both at corporal and cornual portions, the latter being five times higher in this cohort (relative risk = 5.47; 95% confidence interval 1.17–25.64).

Conclusions

The present study may be the first to describe cornual adenomyosis related to Essure devices. These devices may play a role in the development of adenomyosis and, consequently, pelvic pain. However, causality is difficult to establish.
Imaging with mass spectrometry: Which ionization technique is best?
Authors: Prentice Boone M.
Published: April 2024

The use of mass spectrometry (MS) to acquire molecular images of biological tissues and other substrates has developed into an indispensable analytical tool over the past 25 years. Imaging mass spectrometry technologies are widely used today to study the in situ spatial distributions for a variety of analytes. Early MS images were acquired using secondary ion mass spectrometry and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization. Researchers have also designed and developed other ionization techniques in recent years to probe surfaces and generate MS images, including desorption electrospray ionization (DESI), nanoDESI, laser ablation electrospray ionization, and infrared matrix‐assisted laser desorption electrospray ionization. Investigators now have a plethora of ionization techniques to select from when performing imaging mass spectrometry experiments. This brief perspective will highlight the utility and relative figures of merit of these techniques within the context of their use in imaging mass spectrometry.
Enhanced expression of activity‐regulated cytoskeleton‐associated protein in the medial prefrontal cortex is involved in working memory performance
Authors: Chen Tsan‐Ju , Wang Dean‐Chuan , Liu Pei‐Chun , Hung Hui‐Shan , Cheng Tsung‐Lin
Published: April 2024

Working memory (WM) is a cognitive function important for guiding the on‐going or upcoming behavior. A memory‐related protein Arc (activity‐regulated cytoskeleton‐associated protein) is implicated in long‐term memory consolidation. Recent evidence further suggests the involvement of hippocampal Arc in spatial WM. The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is a key brain region mediating WM. However, the role of mPFC Arc in WM is still uncertain. To investigate whether mPFC Arc protein is involved in WM performance, delayed non‐match to sample (DNMS) T‐maze task was performed in rats with or without blocking new synthesis of mPFC Arc. In DNMS task, a 10‐s or 30‐s delay between the sample run and the choice run was given to evaluate WM performance. To block new Arc protein synthesis during the DNMS task, Arc antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) were injected to the bilateral mPFC. The results show that, in rats without surgery for cannula implantation and subsequent intracerebral injection of ODNs, WM was functioning well during the DNMS task with a delay of 10 s but not 30 s, which was accompanied with a significantly increased level of mPFC Arc protein, indicating a possible link between enhanced Arc protein expression and the performance of WM. After preventing the enhancement of mPFC Arc protein expression with Arc antisense ODNs, rat's WM performance was impaired. These findings support enhanced mPFC Arc protein expression playing a role during WM performance.
Reclassification of a spindle cell sarcoma after identification of a TFG‐ROS1 fusion: A case demonstrating the clinical benefit of next‐generation sequencing in sarcoma
Authors: Lim John J. , Chen Eleanor Y. , Schaub Stephanie K. , Wagner Michael J.
Published: April 2024

Background

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMTs) are rare mesenchymal soft tissue sarcomas that often present diagnostic challenges due to their wide and varied morphology. A subset of IMTs have fusions involving ALK or ROS1. The role of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) for classification of unselected sarcomas remains controversial.

Methods and Results

We report a case of a metastatic sarcoma in a 34‐year‐old female originally diagnosed as an unclassified spindle cell sarcoma with myofibroblastic differentiation and later reclassified as IMT after NGS revealed a TFG‐ROS1 rearrangement. Histologically, the neoplasm had spindle cell morphology with a lobulated to focally infiltrative growth pattern with scant inflammatory cell infiltrate. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated focal desmin and variable smooth muscle actin staining but was negative for SOX10, S100, and CD34. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was negative for USP6 or ALK gene rearrangements. NGS revealed a TFG‐ROS1 rearrangement and the patient was treated with crizotinib with clinical benefit.

Conclusions

We discuss the role of NGS as well as its potential benefit in patients with unresectable, ALK‐negative metastatic disease. Considering this case and previous literature, we support the use of NGS for patients requiring systemic treatment.
Simulating variable‐order fractional Brownian motion and solving nonlinear stochastic differential equations
Authors: Samadyar Nasrin , Ordokhani Yadollah
Published: April 2024

Stochastic differential equations (SDEs) are very useful in modeling many problems in biology, economic data, turbulence, and medicine. Fractional Brownian motion (fBm) and variable‐order fractional Brownian motion (vofBm) are suitable alternatives to standard Brownian motion (sBm) for describing and modeling many phenomena, since the increments of these processes are dependent of the past and for
these increments have the property of long‐term dependence. Classical mathematical techniques such as Ito's calculus do not work for stochastic computations on fBm and vofBm due to they are not semi‐Martingale for
. Therefore, solving these equations is much more difficult than solving SDEs with sBm. On the other hand, these equations do not have an analytical solution, so we have to use numerical methods to find their solution. In this paper, a computational approach based on hybrid of block‐pulse and parabolic functions (HBPFs) has been introduced for simulating vofBm and solving a modern class of SDEs. The mechanism of this approach is based on stochastic and fractional integration operational matrices, which transform the intended problem to a nonlinear system of algebraic equations. Thus, the complexity of solving the mentioned problem is reduced significantly. Also, convergence analysis of the expressed method has been theoretically examined. Finally, the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed algorithm have been experimentally investigated through some test problems and comparison of obtained results with results of previous papers. High accurate numerical results are obtained by using a small number of basic functions. Therefore, this method deals with smaller matrices and vectors, which is one of the most important advantage of our suggested method. Also, presenting an applicable procedure to construct vofBm is another innovation of this work. To gain this aim, at first, discretized sBm is generated via fundamental features of this process, and afterward, block‐pulse functions (BPFs) and HBPFs are utilized for simulating discretized vofBm. Finally, spline interpolation method has been employed to provide a continuous path of vofBm.
SPINNED: Simulation‐based physics‐informed neural network for deconvolution of dynamic susceptibility contrast MRI perfusion data
Authors: Asaduddin Muhammad , Kim Eung Yeop , Park Sung‐Hong
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To propose the simulation‐based physics‐informed neural network for deconvolution of dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) MRI (SPINNED) as an alternative for more robust and accurate deconvolution compared to existing methods.

Methods

The SPINNED method was developed by generating synthetic tissue residue functions and arterial input functions through mathematical simulations and by using them to create synthetic DSC MRI time series. The SPINNED model was trained using these simulated data to learn the underlying physical relation (deconvolution) between the DSC‐MRI time series and the arterial input functions. The accuracy and robustness of the proposed SPINNED method were assessed by comparing it with two common deconvolution methods in DSC MRI data analysis, circulant singular value decomposition, and Volterra singular value decomposition, using both simulation data and real patient data.

Results

The proposed SPINNED method was more accurate than the conventional methods across all SNR levels and showed better robustness against noise in both simulation and real patient data. The SPINNED method also showed much faster processing speed than the conventional methods.

Conclusion

These results support that the proposed SPINNED method can be a good alternative to the existing methods for resolving the deconvolution problem in DSC MRI. The proposed method does not require any separate ground‐truth measurement for training and offers additional benefits of quick processing time and coverage of diverse clinical scenarios. Consequently, it will contribute to more reliable, accurate, and rapid diagnoses in clinical applications compared with the previous methods including those based on supervised learning.
Robust multishot diffusion‐weighted imaging of the abdomen with region‐based shot rejection
Authors: Lee Philip K. , Zhou Xuetong , Hargreaves Brian A.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Diffusion‐weighted (DW) imaging provides a useful clinical contrast, but is susceptible to motion‐induced dephasing caused by the application of strong diffusion gradients. Phase navigators are commonly used to resolve shot‐to‐shot motion‐induced phase in multishot reconstructions, but poor phase estimates result in signal dropout and Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) overestimation. These artifacts are prominent in the abdomen, a region prone to involuntary cardiac and respiratory motion. To improve the robustness of DW imaging in the abdomen, region‐based shot rejection schemes that selectively weight regions where the shot‐to‐shot phase is poorly estimated were evaluated.

Methods

Spatially varying weights for each shot, reflecting both the accuracy of the estimated phase and the degree of subvoxel dephasing, were estimated from the phase navigator magnitude images. The weighting was integrated into a multishot reconstruction using different formulations and phase navigator resolutions and tested with different phase navigator resolutions in multishot DW‐echo Planar Imaging acquisitions of the liver and pancreas, using conventional monopolar and velocity‐compensated diffusion encoding. Reconstructed images and ADC estimates were compared qualitatively.

Results

The proposed region‐based shot rejection reduces banding and signal dropout artifacts caused by physiological motion in the liver and pancreas. Shot rejection allows conventional monopolar diffusion encoding to achieve median ADCs in the pancreas comparable to motion‐compensated diffusion encoding, albeit with a greater spread of ADCs.

Conclusion

Region‐based shot rejection is a linear reconstruction that improves the motion robustness of multi‐shot DWI and requires no sequence modifications.
Minimizing electric fields and increasing peripheral nerve stimulation thresholds using a body gradient array coil
Authors: Babaloo Reza , Atalar Ergin
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To demonstrate the performance of gradient array coils in minimizing switched‐gradient‐induced electric fields (E‐fields) and improving peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) thresholds while generating gradient fields with adjustable linearity across customizable regions of linearity (ROLs).

Methods

A body gradient array coil is used to reduce the induced E‐fields on the surface of a body model by modulating applied currents. This is achieved by performing an optimization problem with the peak E‐field as the objective function and current amplitudes as unknown variables. Coil dimensions and winding patterns are fixed throughout the optimization, whereas other engineering metrics remain adjustable. Various scenarios are explored by manipulating adjustable parameters.

Results

The array design consistently yields lower E‐fields and higher PNS thresholds across all scenarios compared with a conventional coil. When the gradient array coil generates target gradient fields within a 44‐cm‐diameter spherical ROL, the maximum E‐field is reduced by 10%, 18%, and 61% for the X, Y, and Z gradients, respectively. Transitioning to a smaller ROL (24 cm) and relaxing the gradient linearity error results in further E‐field reductions. In oblique gradients, the array coil demonstrates the most substantial reduction of 40% in the Z–Y direction. Among the investigated scenarios, the most significant increase of 4.3‐fold is observed in the PNS thresholds.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that gradient array coils offer a promising pathway toward achieving high‐performance gradient coils regarding gradient strength, slew rate, and PNS thresholds, especially in scenarios in which linear magnetic fields are required within specific target regions.
Intention of filing tax claims for religious donations: Results from a Muslim American survey
Authors: Siddiqui Shariq A. , Cheema Jehanzeb Rashid
Published: April 2024

This study examined the intention to claim exemption for zakat and other monetary donations on the annual tax return among US Muslims. We used a survey of 575 Muslims living in the United States to test several exploratory hypotheses. Our statistical results suggest that after controlling for other demographic differences, (1) respondents who identified as non‐Sunni (as opposed to Sunni) Muslims, had medium or high (as opposed to low) income, and those who believed that Covid‐19 is a Zakat‐eligible cause had higher odds of claiming an exemption for their Zakat donations; and (2) permanent residents (as opposed to US citizens), high (as opposed to low) income earners, non‐faith‐based donors, and those who believed that Covid‐19 is a Zakat‐eligible cause had higher odds of claiming exemption for their non‐Zakat monetary donations. Implications are discussed.
Feasibility of magnetoencephalography in fetuses with cyanotic congenital heart disease
Authors: Bolin Elijah H. , Escalona‐Vargas Diana , Siegel Eric R. , Mercado Luis , Johnson Tara , Eswaran Hari
Published: April 2024

Key points

What's already known about this topic?

A disproportionate number of children with cyanotic heart disease suffer from neurodevelopmental (ND) impairment, which is believed to be due in part to abnormal cerebral development in utero. Magnetoencephelography (MEG) is a non‐invasive method for assessing neurodevelopment, but has not been studied in fetuses with congenital heart disease (CHD).

What does this study add?

In this preliminary study, we showed the feasibility of performing MEG in fetuses with CHD. Fetuses with CHD had different magnetoencephalographic characteristics when compared with matched controls.
Experimental and molecular dynamics simulation study on antifouling performance of antimicrobial peptide‐modified aluminum alloy surfaces
Authors: Liu Wencheng , Lou Tong , Bai Xiuqin , He Xiaoyan , Yuan Chengqing
Published: April 2024

Marine biofouling poses a major challenge to ship navigation and hinders the development of the shipping industry. Urgent action is required to tackle this problem through the implementation of innovative strategies. Antimicrobial peptides have garnered considerable attention due to their outstanding effectiveness, wide range of activity, and eco‐friendly characteristics. This study involved grafting the antibacterial peptide andricin 01 (AIGHCLGATL) onto the surface of an aluminum alloy, thereby creating a modified surface with antibacterial properties. In summary, amino groups were introduced onto the surface of aluminum alloys through the silanization process using (3‐aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES), and then the peptides were covalently immobilized on the treated surface using glutaraldehyde as a cross‐linking agent. The successful modification of the peptide was confirmed by Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The antimicrobial peptide‐modified aluminum alloy surfaces exhibited significant bactericidal activity, killing 75.3% of Bacillus sp. and 85.5% of Escherichia coli, while achieving antifouling efficiencies of 88.6% and 90.7% against Bacillus sp. and E. coli, respectively. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations showed that the inserted of the peptides into the phospholipid membrane caused a change in the local membrane curvature, which eventually led to membrane rupture. These results provide valuable information for the application of antimicrobial peptides in the field of antifouling and the elucidation of antifouling mechanisms.
An All‐In‐One Integrating Strategy for Designing Platinum(II)‐Based Supramolecular Polymers for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Qin Yanyan , She Pengfei , Wang Yidi , Wong Wai‐Yeung
Published: April 2024

Organic polymer photocatalysts have achieved significant progress in photocatalytic hydrogen evolution, while developing the integrated organic polymers possessing the functions of photosensitizer, electron transfer mediator, and catalyst simultaneously is urgently needed and presents a great challenge. Considering that chalcogenoviologens are able to act as photosensitizers and electron‐transfer mediators, a series of chalcogenoviologen‐containing platinum(II)‐based supramolecular polymers is designed, which exhibited strong visible light‐absorbing ability and suitable bandgap for highly efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution without the use of a cocatalyst. The hydrogen evolution rate (HER) increases steadily with the decrease in an optical gap of the polymer. Among these “all‐in‐one” polymers, Se‐containing 2D porous polymer exhibited the best photocatalytic performance with a HER of 3.09 mmol g−1 h−1 under visible light (>420 nm) irradiation. Experimental and theoretical calculations reveal that the distinct intramolecular charge transfer characteristics and heteroatom N in terpyridine unit promote charge separation and transfer within the molecules. This work could provide new insights into the design of metallo‐supramolecular polymers with finely tuned components for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution from water.
Deep Electron Redistributions Induced by Dual Junctions Facilitating Electroreduction of Dilute Nitrate to Ammonia
Authors: Zhang Lu‐Hua , Zhang Bo , Hong Yaohua , You Yang , Zhou Yuzhuo , Zhan Jiayu , Alonzo Poole David , Yu Fengshou
Published: April 2024

The electronic states of metal catalysts can be redistributed by the rectifying contact between metal and semiconductor e.g., N‐doped carbon (NC), while the interfacial regulation degree is very limited. Herein, a deep electronic state regulation is achieved by constructing a novel double‐heterojunctional Co/Co3O4@NC catalyst containing Co/Co3O4 and Co3O4/NC heterojunctions. When used for dilute electrochemical NO3− reduction reaction (NO3RR), the as‐prepared Co/Co3O4@NC exhibits an outstanding Faradaic efficiency for NH3 formation (FENH3) of 97.9%, –0.4 V versus RHE and significant NH3 yield of 303.5 mmol h−1 gcat−1 at –0.6 V at extremely low nitrate concentrations (100 ppm NO3−‐N). Experimental and theoretical results reveal that the dual junctions of Co/Co3O4 and Co3O4/NC drive a unidirectional electron transfer from Co to NC (Co→Co3O4→NC), resulting in electron‐deficient Co atoms. The electron‐deficient Co promotes NO3− adsorption, the rate‐determining step (RDS) for NO3RR, facilitating the dilute NO3RR to NH3. The design strategy provides a novel reference for unidirectional multistage regulation of metal electronic states boosting electrochemical dilute NO3RR, which opens up an avenue for deep electronic state regulation of electrocatalyst breaking the limitation of the electronic regulation degree by rectifying contact.
What students need to navigate academic standing and SAP policies
Authors: Taylor Z.W. , Pauter Sarah
Published: April 2024

As enrollment in higher education continues to decrease in U.S. institutions, enrollment managers need to explore every opportunity to retain the students they have. One process embedded within the academic and financial units of every institution of higher education are academic standing and satisfactory academic progress (SAP) policies that dictate how students need to maintain certain grade point averages (GPA) and paces of completion to maintain both academic standing and financial aid eligibility.
Disclosures 13: Do you have to keep records of disclosures?
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: April 2024

Recently a registrar asked me whether FERPA required colleges to keep records of any disclosures that her office makes. Her college's attorney had just requested to see a past student's records. The registrar wondered whether she should get an official letter requesting the records and whether that letter, if needed, should include a reason for the disclosure.
Practical strategies for establishing yourself as a responsible leader
Authors: Cain Butler
Published: April 2024

Establishing a reputation as a responsible leader within higher education takes time, effort, and consideration. Fortunately, department chairs and other program managers can follow a variety of practical strategies to improve their standing as reliable leaders. Such strategies create growth opportunities for academic programs, help build trusting relationships, and effectively position people for professional advancement. This article groups strategies into four categories, listed below.
Blockchain: Technology Transforming the Fashion Industry
Authors: Cedrola Elena , Kulaga Barbara , Pomi Grazia Li
Published: April 2024

The use of digital technology in the apparel industry has changed massively in recent years and given the growing social awareness of the public, much of this technology is being applied to support sustainability practices. In this chapter, we look at the challenges faced by industries and how they can be supported by the application of blockchain technology. In particular, as far as fashion industries are concerned, it is mainly used to demonstrate the environmental quality of fashion products to consumers, protect brand image, and secure digital identities. Furthermore, as in several other business areas that we will briefly discuss, blockchain can solve data protection problems, reduce information asymmetry, and avoid fraud, including in payments. Finally, we present some cases, including Aura, the consortium launched by LVMH, through which some luxury brands have overcome individualism to develop a blockchain-based platform.
The role of teledermatology in Mohs micrographic surgery: a review
Authors: Algarin Yanci A. , Jaalouk Dana , Pulumati Anika , Nouri Keyvan
Published: April 2024

This paper explores the role of teledermatology (TD) in Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) at various stages of patient care. The study aims to assess the benefits, limitations, and patient experiences surrounding TD integration into MMS practices. We conducted a PubMed search using keywords related to TD and MMS, categorizing selected articles into pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative stages of MMS. TD reduced waiting times (26.10 days for TD compared to 60.57 days for face-to-face [FTF]) and consultation failure rates (6% for TD vs. 17% for FTF) for MMS preoperative consultations. It also shortened time to treatment by two weeks and led to notable travel savings (162.7 min, 144.5 miles, and $60.00 per person). Telepathology facilitated communication and decision-making during MMS, improving accuracy and efficiency, especially in challenging cases requiring collaboration where physical presence of another surgeon or pathologist is not feasible. Telepathology definitively diagnosed benign lesions and malignant tumors in 81.8% of cases (18/22). Additionally, there was a 95% agreement between conventional light microscopy diagnosis and telepathology in tumors (19/20), and 100% agreement for all 20 Mohs frozen section consultations. For post-operative follow-up, telephone follow-up (TFU) and text messaging proved effective, cost-efficient alternatives with high patient satisfaction (94% in New Zealand and 96% in the U.K.) and early complication identification. This study underscores TD’s multifaceted benefits in MMS: enhanced patient experience preoperatively, improved communication during surgery, and cost-effective postoperative follow-up. Limitations include the financial expense and technical issues that can arise with TD (connectivity problems, delays in video/audio transmission, etc.). Further studies are needed to explore emerging TD modalities in post-operative patient management. The integration of TD into MMS signifies a progressive step in dermatological care, offering convenient, cost-effective, and better solutions with the potential to enhance patient experiences and outcomes.
Platinum-based adjuvant chemoradiotherapy versus adjuvant radiotherapy in patients with head and neck adenoid cystic carcinoma
Authors: Qiu Zichen , Wu Zheng , Zhou Xiong , Lin Minchuan , Su Yong , Tao Yalan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The objective of the study was to assess the effectiveness and toxicity of platinum-based adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (POCRT) in comparison to postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) in patients with head and neck adenoid cystic carcinoma (HNACC).

Materials and methods

This retrospective study analyzed patients diagnosed with HNACC at our center between January 2010 and April 2020. A 1:1 propensity score matching method was used to create a matched cohort.

Results

In this study, 206 patients were analyzed, with 147 patients (71.4%) receiving postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) and 59 patients (28.6%) receiving POCRT. Twenty-one patients experienced local–regional failure. The 3-, 5-, and 10-yr local–regional control (LRC) rate for the cohort were 92.0%, 90.6%, and 86.9%, respectively. In both the entire cohort and the matched cohort, the POCRT group exhibited superior LRC compared to the PORT group (Gray's test, all P < 0.05*). Multivariate analysis identified adjuvant concurrent chemotherapy as an independent prognostic factor for LRC (Competing risks regression, HR = 0.144, 95% CI 0.026–0.802, P = 0.027*). In addition, the POCRT group had higher incidences of upper gastrointestinal toxicity and hematologic toxicities, including leukopenia, neutropenia, and anemia (all P < 0.05*).

Conclusion

In terms of reducing locoregional failures in HNACC patients, POCRT may potentially offer a more effective therapeutic approach than using PORT alone, although it also entails an augmented burden of treatment-related toxicity.
Augmented reality presentation system of skeleton image based on biomedical features
Authors: Sun Yuqing , Yuan Tianran , Wang Yimin , Sun Quanping , Hou Zhiwei , Du Juan
Published: April 2024

Aimed at limitations in the description and expression of three-dimensional (3D) physical information in two-dimentsional (2D) medical images, feature extraction and matching method based on the biomedical characteristics of skeletons is employed in this paper to map the 2D images of skeletons into a 3D digital model. Augmented reality technique is used to realize the interactive presentation of skeleton models. Main contents of this paper include: Firstly, a three-step reconstruction method is used to process the bone CT image data to obtain its three-dimensional surface model, and the corresponding 2D–3D bone library is established based on the identification index of the 2D image and the 3D model; then, a fast and accurate feature extraction and matching algorithm is developed to realize the recognition, extraction, and matching of 2D skeletal features, and determine the corresponding 3D skeleton model according to the matching result. Finally, based on the augmented reality technique, an interactive immersive presentation system is designed to achieve visual effects of the virtual human bone model superimposed and rendered in the world scenes, which improves the effectiveness of information expression and transmission, as well as the user's immersion and embodied experience.
Classification and estimation of case-mix adjusted performance indices for binary outcomes
Authors: Doretti Marco , Montanari Giorgio E.
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we propose a general class of indices that can be used for comparing the performances of organizations providing a given public service to citizens, such as universities, hospitals, nursing homes, employment agencies or other institutions. In particular, we handle the case where evaluation is performed by assessing the probability that a given event has happened as a result of the service provided to users requiring it. Indices are designed for settings where users can be divided into groups with similar characteristics in order to account for case-mix, that is, for the different composition of users within each organization with respect to personal features influencing the probability of the event at hand. For the proposed class, we build a taxonomy leading to nine index types. These different types constitute a useful toolbox to satisfy specific needs and/or criteria set by the evaluator in applied contexts. A general inferential framework is also discussed to deal with settings where, whatever the index chosen, its value has to be estimated from sample data. A simulation study based on a real-world dataset is presented to assess the behavior of indices’ estimators.
An Efficient Inexact Gauss–Seidel-Based Algorithm for Image Restoration with Mixed Noise
Authors: Wu Tingting , Min Yue , Huang Chaoyan , Li Zhi , Wu Zhongming , Zeng Tieyong
Published: April 2024

A challenge in image restoration is to recover a clear image from the blurry observation in the presence of different types of noise. There are few works addressing image deblurring under mixed noise. To handle this issue, we propose a general model based on classical wavelet tight frame regularization. We utilize a convexity-preserving term to obtain a component-wise convex model under a mild condition. Indeed, to reduce the cost of solving subproblems, the inexact Gauss–Seidel-based majorized semi-proximal alternating direction method of multipliers (sGS-imsPADMM) with relative error control is developed. Besides, the global convergence of sGS-imsPADMM is demonstrated. Numerical results for the image restoration problems show that the proposed model and solving approach are superior to some state-of-the-art methods both in numerical analysis and visual quality.