bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DIWGAN‐WBSN: A novel health monitoring approach for wireless body sensor networks
Authors: Jayasutha D. , Hemamalini V. , Sangeetha S. , Yeruva Ajay Reddy
Published: August 2024

Wireless body sensor network (WBSN) is essential for monitoring patients' health problems and offers a low‐cost option for various healthcare applications. In this manuscript, a Novel Health Monitoring Approach for WBSNs (DIWGAN‐WBSN) is proposed, which uses Dual Interactive Wasserstein Generative Adversarial Network (DIWGAN) optimized with War Strategy Optimization Algorithm (WSOA). After sensing the aforementioned attribute information, it is the responsibility of WBSN nodes to transfer the sensed data to the sink node. The Volcano Eruption Algorithm (VEA) is applied to select the optimum cluster heads in WBSN. The results from VEA are fed to the target node; it consists of DIWGAN to classify the health records and to portray the patient's health status. Generally, DIWGAN does not adopt any optimization methods for measuring the ideal parameters and guaranteeing accurate health monitoring and risk assessment. So the proposed WSOA is considered to enhance the DIWGAN. The proposed method is activated in MATLAB; its efficacy is estimated under performance metrics, like precision, specificity, accuracy, and energy utilization. The proposed approach attains 23.9%, 21.34%, and 51.09% higher accuracy; 21.45%, 13.94%, and 20.6% higher precision; 31.32%, 29.61%, and 11.03% higher specificity; and 20.9%, 19.87%, and 24.6% lower energy utilization for HD classification using the Cleveland database than the existing methods like back propagation neural network‐based risk detection in WBSN for health monitoring, random forest algorithm–based health monitoring in WBSN, and ensemble deep learning and feature fusion for health monitoring using WBSN methods, respectively.
Deep learning‐based channel estimation for OFDM‐IM systems over Rayleigh fading channels
Authors: Adiguzel Omer , Develi Ibrahim
Published: August 2024

Deep learning (DL)‐based channel estimation for orthogonal frequency division multiplexing with index modulation (OFDM‐IM) under Rayleigh fading channel conditions is presented in this paper. A deep neural network (DNN) is utilized to estimate the channel response in simulations. The proposed DNN is trained using the channel coefficient derived through the least squares (LS) method. Then channel estimation is conducted using the trained DNN. Within the DNN, the long short‐term memory (LSTM) layer is included as the hidden layer. Different scenarios are handled in simulations and the proposed DNN is compared with traditional channel estimation methods. The simulations demonstrate that the DL‐based channel estimation significantly surpasses the LS and minimum mean‐square error (MMSE) techniques.
Pitfalls in the Cytological Diagnosis of Nodal Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Handa Uma , Mohamedali Rasheeda , Punia Rajpal Singh , Singh Simrandeep , Bhagat Ranjeev , Aggarwal Phiza , Kaur Manveen
Published: August 2024

Background

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is a hematopoietic neoplasm characterized by malignant Reed–Sternberg (RS) cells in an inflammatory background. Although the cytological features of HL are well elucidated in literature, yet many postulated factors cause its misdiagnosis. This study aims to assess the diagnostic reliability of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in HL and evaluate the factors contributing to a false‐negative and false‐positive diagnosis, taking histopathology as the gold standard.

Methods

This was a retrospective study in which 47 cases of HL diagnosed on histopathology were compared with their prior cytological diagnosis.

Results

The patient's age ranged from 3 to 80 years (median: 36 years) with a M:F ratio of 2.9:1. Lymph node aspirations were performed from multiple anatomical sites, out of which the cervical was the most common (57.8%). FNAC was inconclusive in two cases due to unsatisfactory smears. The false‐negative diagnosis of reactive lymphadenitis was given in four cases, and false‐positive in four cases, which included three cases of non‐HL, and one case of malignant small round blue cell tumor. The overall diagnostic accuracy of FNAC in the diagnosis of HL was 82.2%.

Conclusions

The cytological diagnosis of HL can be challenging when classic RS cells are absent. Contributing factors for a false‐negative diagnosis include obscuring reactive inflammatory cells, fibrosis of the involved lymph nodes, partial involvement of the lymph node, and misinterpretation. A thorough clinical examination with evaluation of FNAC smears from multiple areas, and ancillary tests help improve the diagnostic accuracy of cytological diagnosis.
Distribution pattern and driving factors of mite communities in karst cave ecosystems
Authors: Fei Yifan , Shi Zheng , Zhou Yuanyuan , Wei Qiang , Liu Ying , Shen Yan , Chen Hu
Published: August 2024

Mites are among the most abundant invertebrates in subsurface ecosystems, and their community assemblages and distributions are often significantly influenced by the diversity of habitat resources. The cave ecosystem encompasses drastic changes in nonbiological factors, such as changes in lighting conditions from bright to extraordinarily dark and habitat gradients of surface plant resources from abundant to scarce or even disappearing, providing an ideal unique environment for evaluating the assembly mechanism of soil animal communities. Nevertheless, there still needs to be a sufficient understanding of the biodiversity patterns and drivers of mite communities across environmental gradients in karst caves. We conducted a comprehensive survey on the composition and diversity of soil mites in three photometric zones (dark, twilight, and light) of a typical karst cave and its adjoining extractive environments (forest scrub and farmland). Our research aimed to investigate the ecological relationships of mite communities between above‐ and below‐ground habitats and the effects of abiotic factors on mite communities. We collected 49 families, 86 genera, and 1284 mites. In the external cave environment, we captured 1052 mites from 72 genera and 45 families; in the internal cave environment, we captured 232 mites from 46 genera and 29 families. The abundance, richness of genera, and diversity parameters of the mite community decreased from the cave entrance to the cave interior with decreasing light intensity. Oribatid mites dominated the mite community. Protoribates and Scheloribates were the dominant genera, along with Tectocepheus and 11 other genera, which primarily distinguished the mite communities among different habitats. Forty endemic taxa were found in the external cave environment, compared to 14 endemic taxa in the internal cave environment. The mite community showed a strong preference for the cave ecosystem habitat. Temperature, humidity, and soil nitrogen content significantly influenced the distribution pattern of mite communities (VIP > 0.8, p < 0.05).
Comparison of phylogenetic trees defined on different but mutually overlapping sets of taxa: A review
Authors: Li Wanlin , Koshkarov Aleksandr , Tahiri Nadia
Published: August 2024

Phylogenetic trees represent the evolutionary relationships and ancestry of various species or groups of organisms. Comparing these trees by measuring the distance between them is essential for applications such as tree clustering and the Tree of Life project. Many distance metrics for phylogenetic trees focus on trees defined on the same set of taxa. However, some problems require calculating distances between trees with different but overlapping sets of taxa. This study reviews state‐of‐the‐art distance measures for such trees, covering six major approaches, including the constraint‐based Robinson–Foulds (RF) distance RF(−), the completion‐based RF(+), the generalized RF (GRF), the dissimilarity measure, the vectorial tree distance, and the geodesic distance in the extended Billera‐Holmes‐Vogtmann tree space. Among these, three RF‐based methods, RF(−), RF(+), and GRF, were examined in detail on generated clusters of phylogenetic trees defined on different but mutually overlapping sets of taxa. Additionally, we reviewed nine related techniques, including leaf imputation methods, the tree edit distance, and visual comparison. A comparison of the related distance measures, highlighting their principal advantages and shortcomings, is provided. This review offers valuable insights into their applicability and performance, guiding the appropriate use of these metrics based on tree type (rooted or unrooted) and information type (topological or branch lengths).
Small Cationic Boron and Boron‐Nitrogen Rings, Synthesized from Diboranes with Charge‐Delocalizing Guanidinate Substituents
Authors: Vogler Daniel , Horn Julian , Kaifer Elisabeth , Himmel Hans‐Jörg
Published: August 2024

We report the straightforward synthesis and characterization of small polycationic boron and boron‐nitrogen rings, stabilized by charge‐delocalizing guanidinate substituents. Reaction between a ditriflato‐diborane with two electron‐donating bridging bicyclic guanidinate substituents and the corresponding dihydrido‐diborane leads to a dicationic B4 ring with a 4c,4e‐bond in the planar rhomboid B4 skeleton. Reaction of the same ditriflato‐diborane with the corresponding diazido‐diborane gives a dicationic compound with a B4N2 core. On the basis of experimental data in combination with quantum‐chemical calculations, pathways leading to these dicationic boron and boron‐nitrogen rings are suggested, and further preliminary studies demonstrate the scope of this strategy for the synthesis of polycationic boron‐nitrogen rings.
Topical capsaicin modulates the two‐point discrimination threshold—Modulation depends on stimulation modality and intensity
Authors: Frahm Ken Steffen , Andersen Ole Kæseler , Arendt‐Nielsen Lars , Gervasio Sabata , Mørch Carsten Dahl
Published: August 2024

Background

Spatial acuity concerns the ability to localize and discriminate sensory input and is often tested using the two‐point discrimination threshold (2PDT). Sensitization of the pain system can affect the spatial acuity, but it is unclear how 2PDTs of different testing modalities are affected. The aim was to investigate if the 2PDTs for mechanical and heat stimulation at different intensities were modulated by topical capsaicin sensitization.

Methods

30 healthy subjects were divided into either a capsaicin or a placebo group. The 2PDT was tested using two different modalities, mechanical and thermal (laser) delivered at innocuous and noxious intensities. The 2PDT were determined at baseline and re‐assessed 48 h later. In the follow‐up session, the subjects either had a capsaicin patch (8%) or placebo patch placed in the testing area for 30 min before re‐testing the 2PDT.

Results

The 2PDT was highly dependent on stimulation modality and intensity. The lowest 2PDT was found for innocuous mechanical stimuli (40.0 mm, 95% CI 38.1–41.9 mm), and the highest 2PDT was found for innocuous thermal stimuli (81.7 mm, 95% CI 73.9–89.5 mm). Topical capsaicin generally increased the 2PDT, but this was only significant for innocuous mechanical stimuli. The perceived intensity of the stimuli was increased following capsaicin and was generally higher for noxious stimuli than for innocuous stimuli (ANOVA, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study showed that capsaicin provoked pain sensitization increased the 2PDT. The 2PDT tested using innocuous mechanical stimuli showed less variable results indicating that this test is most suitable to detect this aspect of spatial acuity.

Significance Statement

This study investigated how the two‐point discrimination threshold (2PDT) can be modulated by topical capsaicin. The 2PDT was assessed for two different modalities (thermal and mechanical) and for two different intensities (innocuous and noxious) before and after capsaicin. The results showed that the 2PDT was generally impaired following capsaicin, but this was only significant for mechanical innocuous stimuli. Furthermore, it was shown that mechanical innocuous stimuli assessed the 2PDT with lower variability than other combinations.
Synthesis of a Hematite‐Geopolymer Composite: Optimization of Formulation Parameters and Application to the Detection of Pb2+ Ions in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Boutianala Michèle , Pengou Martin , Ngassa Guy Bertrand Piegang , Hou Pengkun , Tchekwagep Jean Jacques Kouadjo , Tchakouté Herve Kouamo , Nanseu‐Njiki Charle Péguy , Ngameni Emmanuel
Published: August 2024

The Composite Centered Experimental Design (CCED) using the response surface methodology was used to optimize the synthesis of a hematite‐geopolymer composite, applied to the preparation of a Pb2+ electrochemical sensor. Two important experimental parameters in the formulation (curing time and hematite content) were considered in the optimization of the synthesis of the composite material. The electrochemical signal of Pb2+ at a carbon paste electrode modified by the synthesized composite was used as a response to identify the best formulation. After applying the generated experimental plan, the optimal composite material was obtained using 17.08% hematite and a curing time of 0.16 days. The characterization of the optimized composite material revealed the presence of a porous structure and a poly(phospho‐ferro‐siloxo) network, but with a fraction of well dispersed and unreacted hematite. Preliminary experiments confirmed that the sensor prepared with the composite showed high stability and reproducibility of the Pb (II) signal, justifying its application for accurate sensing of the metal cation in an aqueous solution. A Pb2+ calibration curve was obtained after optimizing the experimental detection parameters (composition of the carbon paste electrode, pH of the accumulation solution, accumulation time, and electrolysis potential). A detection limit of 0.2 nM (based on a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 3) was obtained for a studied concentration range between 0.04 and 0.48 nM. The designed sensor also showed remarkable selectivity and excellent performance in real media samples (spring, tap, rain, and well water).
A GARCH model selection and estimation method based on neural network with the loss function of mean square error and model confidence set
Authors: Huang Yanhao , Ren Ruibin
Published: August 2024

This paper proposes a method that uses mean square error (MSE) and model confidence set (MCS) as the loss function of back‐propagation neural network (BPNN), aiming to train and find a generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedastic (GARCH) model that has the best forecasting performance of a time series. Combining MSE and the p‐value of MCS can not only estimate better parameters for the GARCH models but also find the best GARCH model to forecast the volatility of a time series. Meanwhile, we divide a time series into several parts and use each part as the input of the BPNN. Through the BPNN, each part of the time series will be turned into several forecasting values. These values will be used to calculate the MSE and the p‐value of MCS, which will then be used to update the parameters of the BPNN. In the end, we use MCS to choose the best GARCH model among the trained GARCH models and compare this method with maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) and the generalized least squares estimation (GLS). The result shows that the p‐value of MCS of the best model estimated by this method is higher than the p‐value of MCS of the best model estimated by MLE and GLS. According to the theory of MCS, a model that has a larger p‐value does have a better forecasting performance. The method proposed by this paper can provide a potential application of neural network in GARCH model forecasting and estimation.
High‐Temperature Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells Based on Protic Ionic Liquids
Authors: Rodenbücher Christian , Korte Carsten , Chen Yingzhen , Wippermann Klaus , Kowalski Piotr M. , Kim Sangwon , Kim Jungtae , Hempelmann Rolf , Kim BeomJun
Published: August 2024

A hydrogen‐based energy system will be the backbone of a future energy grid using renewable energies. It is widely accepted that polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are promising converters of chemical energy stored as hydrogen into electrical energy. An increase of the operation temperature from below 80°C to above about 160°C is considered beneficial, as it would allow for much simpler water management and the use of waste heat. Here, we are investigating protic ionic liquids (PILs) immobilized in a polybenzimidazole polymer as electrolytes for high‐temperature PEMFCs. Ionic liquids are promising for fuel cell applications as they provide high thermal and chemical stability and high proton conductivity. In contrast to aqueous electrolytes, ionic liquids form a dense layered structure at the electrode–electrolyte interface that depends on the potential and on the content of residual water in the electrolyte. We investigate how PILs interact with the host polymer of the membrane revealing that porous polymer structures can be formed by solution casting, which allows for an encapsulation of the ionic liquid within the pores. After doping the polymer with small amounts of phosphoric acid, the membranes showed reasonable conductivity and fuel cell performance.
Study on the Influence of GDL Porosity Distribution Variation on PEMFC Performance Under Assembly Pressure
Authors: Cao Yifei , Xing Yanfeng , Cao Juyong , Zhang Xiaobing , Peng Linfa
Published: August 2024

The porosity of the gas diffusion layer (GDL) significantly impacts the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Assembly pressure in PEMFCs leads to GDL deformation and alterations in porosity distribution. This study integrated a three‐dimensional (3D) GDL deformation model with a 3D two‐phase PEMFC model, employing a four‐term Fourier series model to optimize the fitting of the GDL porosity distribution curve. The approach quantitatively assessed the impact of GDL porosity distribution under assembly pressure on PEMFC performance. Results reveal an arched porosity distribution in GDL, peaking in the middle of low channels adjacent to ribs. High porosity enhances oxygen and heat conduction but excessive porosity may cause uneven current density distribution, hindering GDL drainage. Furthermore, the analysis compares performances at various GDL compression ratios and thicknesses, showing an initial rise then fall in current density with increasing pressure. This represents a trade‐off between the adverse impact of GDL compression on mass transfer losses and the favorable impact of reduced ohmic losses. At the optimal pressure, the current density is 3% higher than neighboring values at the same potential, and within the optimal GDL thickness range, the current density error remains below 1%.
Robustness and exploration of variational and machine learning approaches to inverse problems: An overview
Authors: Auras Alexander , Gandikota Kanchana Vaishnavi , Droege Hannah , Moeller Michael
Published: August 2024

This paper provides an overview of current approaches for solving inverse problems in imaging using variational methods and machine learning. A special focus lies on point estimators and their robustness against adversarial perturbations. In this context results of numerical experiments for a one‐dimensional toy problem are provided, showing the robustness of different approaches and empirically verifying theoretical guarantees. Another focus of this review is the exploration of the subspace of data‐consistent solutions through explicit guidance to satisfy specific semantic or textural properties.
Motivations for suicide attempts and risk factors among youths in Western Iran: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Darabi Fatemeh , Ziapour Arash , Ahmadinia Hassan
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

Suicide attempts are a fundamental problem in health care systems and are known for their complex and multifaceted nature. This study aimed to explore the reasons for suicide attempts and to identify associated factors in western Iran.

Methods

In Asadabad, western Iran, a cross‐sectional study was carried out between April 2020 and March 2021. A nonrandom sampling method was used to select 110 participants, ages 15–35. Structured questionnaires such as the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI‐II), and the Suicide Motivation Scale (IMSA) were used to gather the data. Multiple linear regression, one‐way analysis of variance, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and independent t tests were all used in the data analysis.

Results

The majority of participants (59.1%) were female, with a mean age of 25.78 years. The most common reason for suicide attempts (43.6%) was family issues, and the most popular means (66.4%) were pills and medication. Eighty‐nine percent of participants had symptoms of depression. The mean scores were calculated for motivation for suicide attempts (32.46 ± 16.11), depression (34.60 ± 20.50), and anxiety (34.14 ± 15.69). The analysis showed that the motivation for suicide attempts and anxiety was greater in single persons than in married and divorced persons (p < 0.05). Motivation for suicide attempts was also greater in low‐ to middle‐income individuals with a history of divorce (p < 0.05). The multiple regression model showed that anxiety, sex, education, and medical history significantly influenced the motivation for suicide attempts (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results showed that a wide range of social, economic, and cultural factors and psychiatric disorders, including anxiety and depression, are involved in suicide attempts. This study aimed to design interventions and strategies to prioritize mental health, improve life skills to control stressful events, and focus on high‐risk groups (women, married people, people with low education levels, and those with a history of physical and mental illnesses) for suicide prevention in health promotion programs.
Predicting soil erosion risk using the revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) model and geo‐spatial methods
Authors: Naqvi Syed Ali Asad , Tariq Aqil , Shahzad Mudsar , Khalid Shoaib , Tariq Zara , Salma Ume , Haseeb Muhammad , Soufan Walid
Published: August 2024

Anthropogenic activities like overgrazing, deforestation and mismanaged land use accelerate soil erosion (SE), causing nutritional and organic matter loss. In this study, we predicted the annual rate of soil loss in the Salt Range, extending south from the Pothohar plateau, Pakistan, using the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE). The RUSLE model parameters and erosion probability zones were estimated using remote sensing and Geo‐Spatial methods. The annual average soil loss rates were calculated by considering five geo‐environmental factors, that is, slope length and steepness (LS), rainfall erosivity (R), cover management (C), soil erodibility (K), and conservation practice (P) range from 0–559 527, 1404–4431, 0–1, −0.14 to 1.64, and 0.2–122 respectively. This research determined that the yearly average rate of SE in the Salt Range varies from over 50 to above 350 . The distribution of land area across different SE probability zones reveals that a small portion (2.11%) is classified as High, a moderate portion (7.13%) falls under the category of Moderate, while the majority (90.7%) is classified as Low in terms of proneness towards erosion. The land devoid of vegetation and characterized by steep slopes is especially prone to SE. The Salt Range is highly vulnerable to SE risk due to climatic variations and improper land use practices. The result provides a spatial distribution of SE across the salt range, utilized for management planning processes and conservation at the policy level among decision‐makers and land‐use planners.
Improving rice yield and water productivity in lowland rice systems: A global meta‐analysis exploring the synergy of agro‐ecological practices and water management technologies
Authors: Sounon Orou Bio Zimé , Adjogboto André , Zakari Sissou , Tovihoudji Pierre G. , Akponikpè P. B. Irénikatché , Vanclooster Marnik
Published: August 2024

This meta‐analysis evaluated the impact of agro‐ecological practices and water management techniques on lowland rice yield and water productivity (WP). A total of 573 observations were collected from 56 articles that met specific criteria from 445 publications. Five water management practices were assessed: continuous flooding (CF), soil saturation (SS), moderate (AWDm) and severe (AWDs) alternate wetting and drying, and the aerobic rice system (ARS). The response ratios (RRs) of yield and WP were compared for crop management, soil fertility, weed control and evaporation. The integration of agro‐ecological practices such as short‐cycle rice varieties, crop rotation, organic nutrient application and mechanical weeding with water management led to similar yields across CF, SS, AWDm and AWDs, with ARS consistently yielding the lowest yields. However, medium‐ and long‐cycle varieties under AWDs experienced yield losses of 11 and 13%, respectively. Mineral fertilizer combined with AWDs resulted in a 14% lower yield than did CF. Mechanical weeding increased the rice yield and WP by 10 and 10% in SS, and only WP by 35% in AWDs, whereas chemical weeding decreased the yield by 13% in AWDs. Crop rotation enhanced yield and WP by 13 and 12%, respectively, under AWDm compared to that under CF. WP was greater under AWDs (36%) and AWDm (12%) than under CF.
Comparing interteaching and discussion forums in an asynchronous online classroom
Authors: Shaw Sacha K. G. , Posey Jennifer L. , Zane Thomas , Weiss Mary Jane
Published: August 2024

The current study compared the effects of interteaching and discussion forum activities on quiz and assignment scores in a master's‐level asynchronous research methods course. In an alternating‐treatments design, six participants engaged in interteaching on half of the weeks and in the discussion forum on alternate weeks. Participants in the interteaching condition (M = 96.75) generally scored higher on quizzes than did those in the discussion forum condition (M = 75.95). The results of a paired‐sample t test indicated statistically significant differences between the two conditions at p < .0001, with a substantial effect size of 0.6760. Significant differences in assignment scores were not observed between the interteaching (M = 87.28) and discussion forum (M = 89.08) conditions. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.
Does macroeconomic uncertainty (really) influence managers’ earnings management?
Authors: Cho Kang Ho , Patil Bharat
Published: August 2024

We revisit the literature on using the economic policy uncertainty index (EPU) to estimate macroeconomic uncertainty1. The extant literature has shown mixed evidence on whether macroeconomic uncertainty affects accounting quality. The EPU reflects unrepresentative political risks and thus is expected to substantially mismeasure economic uncertainty. This study investigates the association between macro uncertainty and earnings management by utilizing a novel and more unbiased measure of macro uncertainty, the gross domestic product (GDP) dispersion, and the volatility index (VIX). We find that firms engage more in earnings management when macroeconomic uncertainty is high, consistent with the notion that investors’ attention is limited due to information asymmetry providing earnings management opportunities. We also document that managers’ earnings management not only involves discretionary accruals but also real earnings management. The results are robust to controlling for firm characteristics, to an alternative measure of macroeconomic uncertainty, and to the endogeneity concern.
Prospective Outcomes After Serial Platelet‐Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection in Vocal Fold Scar and Sulcus
Authors: Santa Maria Chloe , Shuman Elizabeth A. , Van Der Woerd Benjamin , Moffatt Clare , Castellanos Carlos X. , Gao William Z. , Bhatt Neel K. , Bensoussan Yael E. , Rodman Jack , La Forest Kacie , Francois Felicia , O'Dell Karla , Chhetri Dinesh K. , Johns Michael M.
Published: August 2024

Objective

Vocal fold scar and sulcus pose significant treatment challenges with no current optimal treatment. Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP), an autologous concentration of growth factors, holds promise for regenerating the superficial lamina propria. This study aims to evaluate the potential benefits of serial PRP injections on mucosal wave restoration and vocal function.

Methods

In a prospective clinical trial across two institutions, patients with vocal fold scar underwent four serial PRP injections, one month apart. Blinded independent laryngologists and expert listeners used pretreatment and one‐month post‐fourth injection videostroboscopy and CAPE‐V assessments to evaluate mucosal wave and voice quality changes, respectively. Additionally, patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) were evaluated.

Results

In the study, 15 patients received 55 PRP injections without adverse effects. Eight patients (53.3%) had mild, three patients (20%) had moderate, and four patients (26.7%) had severe scar.

There was an average reduction of 8.7 points in post‐treatment VHI‐10 scores (p = 0.007). The raters observed an improvement in post‐treatment voice in 73.4% of cases, and CAPE‐V scores showed a reduction of 18.8 points on average (p = 0.036). The videostroboscopic VALI ratings showed an improvement in mucosal wave rating from 2.0 to 4.0. On average, the raters perceived the post‐PRP exams to be better in 56.7% of cases.

Conclusions

PRP has been validated as a safe autologous option for treatment of vocal fold scar. While results for mucosal wave and voice quality varied, there was a consistent improvement in PROMs.

Level of Evidence

3: Prospective cohort study, with blinded analysis Laryngoscope, 134:5021–5027, 2024
Real‐Time Comprehensive Control over Soliton Molecules Enabled By Physics‐Inspired Searching
Authors: Luo Chao , Pu Guoqing , Fang Zhiwei , Wu Yong , Wang Jiajin , Hu Weisheng , Yi Lilin
Published: August 2024

Soliton molecules (SMs), which represent bound aggregations of sub‐solitons, have inherent multi‐dimensional properties, thereby giving them substantial potential for use in optical communications and optical data storage. However, releasing this potential requires the ability to control SMs over these multiple dimensions to allow valid information to be modulated onto these dimensions. Here, a real‐time feedback scheme is proposed that is governed using a specifically designed physics‐inspired searching strategy and provides comprehensive control of the SM's multi‐dimensional properties. This technique can be used to manipulate the inter‐soliton separations and the relative intensities of the SMs within a basic nonlinear‐polarization‐evolution‐based mode‐locked fiber laser (MLFLs). A wide tuning range for the inter‐soliton separation from 2 to 58 ps is achieved and seamless tuning with ultra‐high precision of 0.05 ps is also demonstrated. The relative intensities between solitons can also be controlled separately and a 2D joint regulation procedure is performed. Furthermore, real‐time transmission over a 30‐km‐long single‐mode fiber is demonstrated and spectral period doubling of the SMs is captured, thus providing further confirmation of the validity of the proposed comprehensive control method.
Enhanced Osteogenesis in 2D and 3D Culture Systems Using RGD Peptide and α‐TCP Phase Transition within Alginate‐Based Hydrogel
Authors: Kim Jueun , Choi Yeong‐Jin , Gal Chang‐Woo , Sung Aram , Utami Siwi Setya , Park Honghyun , Yun Hui‐suk
Published: August 2024

Cell‐laden hydrogels have been extensively investigated in various tissue engineering fields by their potential capacity to deposit numerous types of cells in a specific area. They are largely used in soft‐tissue engineering applications because of their low mechanical strength. In addition, sodium alginate is well‐known for its encapsulation, loading capacity and for being easily controllable; however, it lacks cell‐binding ligands and hence the ability to adhere cells. In this study, it is aimed to enhance osteogenesis in cells encapsulated in alginate and improve its mechanical properties by introducing a synthetic peptide and calcium phosphate phase transition. To increase cell–hydrogel interactions and increasing cell viability, an RGD peptide is added to a photocrosslinkable methacrylate‐modified alginate, and alpha‐tricalcium phosphate (α‐TCP) is added to the hydrogel to increase its mechanical strength via phase transition. Cell proliferation, growth, and differentiation are assessed in both 2D and 3D cell cultures. The addition of α‐TCP significantly improved the mechanical properties of the hydrogel. Moreover, the RGD peptide and α‐TCP showed a synergistic effect with significantly improved cell adhesion and osteogenesis in both 2D and 3D cell cultures. Therefore, the functional hydrogel developed in this study can potentially be used for bone tissue regeneration.
Monodomain Liquid Crystal Elastomers Composed of Main‐Chain Type Nematic Polyester Bonded to Rubbery Segments at Both Ends
Authors: Suzuki Ryoji , Ikeda Yuki , Ito Suzune , Hayashi Mikihiro , Kurokawa Naruki , Tokita Masatoshi
Published: August 2024

Monodomain liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are prepared using liquid crystal block copolymers (LCBCPs) comprised of a nematic liquid crystal (NLC) main‐chain polyester linked to cross‐linkable polymethacrylate (PMA) at both ends. LCBCPs at a PMA weight fraction of ≈30% are doped with a tetra‐thiol compound, stretched in one direction, and then illuminated by UV light, yielding LCBCPs that formed microlamellae consisting of alternate stacking crosslinked PMA blocks and NLC polyester blocks. The LC director lay along the stretching direction (SD). Raising the temperature to the NLC isotropization temperature, the crosslinked LCBCP strips fixed at one end contracted reversibly by a factor of 1.2–1.4 along the SD, deforming the microlamellae. The strips fixed at both ends increased the tensile stress to ≈200 kPa while maintaining the microlamellae undeformed. Regardless of strip fixation at one or both ends, the NLC decreased the orientational order. The contraction amounts and the tensile stress of strips are well associated with decreased NLC orientational order.
The effect of mobile reviewing on review helpfulness: The moderation of review solicitation and reviewer popularity
Authors: Li Chunyu , Mo Tingting , Huo Wenjin , Zhu Liye
Published: August 2024

Consumers increasingly read and post online reviews through mobile devices. Drawing upon the motivation, opportunity, and ability framework, we hypothesize the interesting interplay of mobile reviewing, firm review solicitation and reviewer popularity on review helpfulness. Using a large‐scale data set of 1,024,062 reviews from TripAdvisor, we reveal the double‐edged sword effect of mobile reviewing on review helpfulness. Compared to nonmobile reviews, mobile reviews are more emotional, less cognitive and more perceptual, which enhances review helpfulness; however, they are also shorter and less readable, which hurts review helpfulness. Furthermore, hotel review solicitation and reviewer popularity moderate on the aforementioned effects. Compared to organic reviewing, solicitated reviewing weakens both the negative and positive effects of mobile reviewing and elicits more cognitive, more readable, longer but less experiential (i.e., emotional and perceptual) mobile reviews than nonmobile reviews. Meanwhile, compared to unpopular reviewers, popular reviewers mainly strengthen the positive effect of mobile reviewing and write more experiential, more readable, but less cognitive and shorter mobile reviews than nonmobile reviews. Our findings offer practical guidelines for marketers to leverage the power of mobile reviews and downplay their disadvantages, and meanwhile produce meaningful implications for eWOM marketing.
Synergistic rescue of temperature‐sensitive p53 mutants by hypothermia and arsenic trioxide
Authors: Lu Junhao , Chen Lihong , Fatima Zainab , Huang Jeffrey , Chen Jiandong
Published: August 2024

The p53 tumor suppressor is inactivated by mutations in about 50% of tumors. Rescuing the transcriptional function of mutant p53 has potential therapeutic benefits. Approximately 15% of p53 mutants are temperature sensitive (TS) and regain maximal activity at 32°C. Proof of concept study showed that induction of 32°C hypothermia in mice restored TS mutant p53 activity and inhibited tumor growth. However, 32°C is the lower limit of therapeutic hypothermia procedures for humans. Higher temperatures are preferable but result in suboptimal TS p53 activation. Recently, arsenic trioxide (ATO) was shown to rescue the conformation of p53 structural mutants by stabilizing the DNA binding domain. We examined the responses of 17 frequently observed p53 TS mutants to functional rescue by temperature shift and ATO. The results showed that ATO only rescued mild p53 TS mutants with high basal activity at 37°C. Mild TS mutants showed a common feature of regaining significant activity at the semi‐permissive temperature of 35°C and could be further stimulated by ATO at 35°C. TS p53 rescue by ATO was antagonized by the cellular redox mechanism and was rapidly reversible. Inhibition of glutathione (GSH) biosynthesis enhanced ATO rescue efficiency and sustained p53 activity after ATO washout. The results suggest that mild TS p53 mutants are uniquely responsive to functional rescue by ATO due to small thermostability deficits and inherent potential to regain active conformation. Combining mild hypothermia and ATO may provide an effective and safe procedure for targeting tumors with p53 TS mutations.
Ethnic Differences in Atypical Parkinsonism—is South Asian PSP Different?
Authors: Balint Bettina , Neo Shermyn , Magrinelli Francesca , Mulroy Eoin , Latorre Anna , Stamelou Maria , Morris Huw R. , Batla Amit , Bhatia Kailash P.
Published: August 2024

Background

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a progressive atypical parkinsonian condition that results in severe disability. There are few studies of PSP in patients of non‐white European ancestry.

Objectives

We aim to perform deep phenotyping in a South Asian PSP cohort to uncover possible ethnic differences in disease characteristics.

Methods

Consecutive PSP patients had their clinical records reviewed for clinical features operationalized in the Movement Disorder Society (MDS)‐PSP diagnostic criteria and relevant investigations, including imaging and genetic tests. Clinical variables were summarized by descriptive statistics and Kaplan–Meier curves were generated for survival analysis.

Results

Twenty‐seven patients, comprising Indians (78%), Pakistanis (11%) and Sri Lankans (11%) were included. Mean age of symptom onset was 63.8 ± 7.0 years and 22% of patients had an early age of onset (<60 years). The most common presenting symptom was parkinsonism (56%), followed by cognitive dysfunction (37%), falls (33%) and dysarthria (26%). The predominance types at final review were distributed across PSP‐RS (67%), PSP‐PGF (15%), PSP‐P (15%) and PSP‐F (4%). Atypical clinical features like cerebellar signs (33%), REM‐sleep behavior disorder (RBD) (55%), visual hallucinations (22%), and a family history of parkinsonism (20%) were evident in a proportion of patients.

Conclusions

We present a South Asian cohort of PSP patients with a higher than previously reported percentages of early‐onset disease, family history and atypical clinical manifestations. These patients do not fit easily into the PSP phenotypes defined by the current MDS criteria. Dedicated clinicopathological and genetic tests are needed in this population to dissect the pathogenesis of clinically‐defined PSP.
Visualization and characterization of complement activation in acetylcholine receptor antibody seropositive myasthenia gravis
Authors: Huang Yu‐Fang , Sandholm Kerstin , Persson Barbro , Nilsson Bo , Punga Anna Rostedt
Published: August 2024

Introduction/Aims

There are no blood biomarkers to monitor treatment effects in myasthenia gravis (MG) or studies visualizing the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody‐induced membrane attack complex (MAC) at the human muscle membrane. This study aimed to compare levels of complement activation products and native complement components in MG patients and healthy controls (HCs) and to model the AChR antibody‐mediated attacks in human muscle cells.

Methods

We assessed the complement components and activation product levels with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and magnetic bead‐based sandwich assays in plasma and sera of 23 MG patients and matched HCs. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis evaluated the diagnostic accuracy. Complement levels were correlated with the myasthenia gravis composite (MGC) scores. AChR+ MG modeling in human muscle cells used sera from nine MG patients and three HCs.

Results

MG patients had significantly higher plasma levels of C3a (p < .0001), C5 (p = .0003), and soluble C5b‐9 (sC5b‐9; p < .0001) than HCs. The ROC curve analysis showed a clear separation between MG patients and HCs for plasma C3a (AUC = 0.9720; p < .0001) and sC5b‐9 (AUC = 0.8917, p < .0001). MG patients had higher levels of plasma complement Factor I (FI; p = .0002) and lower properdin levels (p < .0001). The MGC had moderate correlations with plasma Factor B (FB), FI, and Factor H. AChR+ MG patient sera triggered the deposition of MAC and reduced AChRs.

Discussion

We suggest validating plasma C3a and sC5b‐9 as blood biomarkers for complement activation in MG. Further, the in vitro study allowed visualization of MAC deposition after applying AChR+ MG sera on human muscle cells.
Analysis of progressive collapse disaster and its anchoring effectiveness in jointed rock tunnel
Authors: Zheng Chengcheng , He Peng , Wang Gang , Hu Jie , Jiang Feng , Yan Zhiqiang , Xiao Zhiyong , Ma Zhenghu
Published: August 2024

The complexity and variability of the structural distribution and combination characteristics of jointed rock masses make the response mechanism of tunnel rock collapse different, and there is a lack of systematic research on the existing perimeter rock instability mode and bolt support scheme. Based on numerical simulations of the block system structure of a nodular rock mass, the existing theory of bolt support is compared and analyzed to explore the scope of their respective applications. Combined with the spatial and temporal transport law of block instability, a new batch instability model of jointed rock tunnels is proposed, which reveals the progressive collapse catastrophe evolution mechanism of a collapsed interlocking block system after the instability of the key blocks and elucidates the coupling mechanism between the bolts and the block system structure as well as their anchoring effectiveness. Finally, for the actual tunnel project, the instability batches of the surrounding rock are identified, and the corresponding optimized design of the bolt support is presented, which has achieved good support effects. The research results can provide important theoretical guidance and practical engineering value for risk avoidance, disaster identification and targeted prevention and control of dangerous rock fall and chain collapse instability disasters in jointed rock body tunnels.
Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria using calf and upper arm circumference as phenotypic criteria for assessing muscle mass demonstrate satisfactory validity for diagnosing malnutrition in hospitalized patients: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Maffini Larissa Farinha , Viegas Gabrielle Maganha , Steemburgo Thais , Souza Gabriela Corrêa
Published: August 2024

Background

Hospitalized individuals present high rates of malnutrition and loss of muscle mass (MM). Imaging techniques for assessing MM are expensive and scarcely available in hospital practice. The Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) proposed a framework for malnutrition diagnosis that includes simple measurements to assess MM, such as calf circumference (CC) and mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC). This study aimed to analyze the validity of the GLIM criteria with CC and MUAC for malnutrition diagnosis, using Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) as the reference standard, in inpatients.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted on 453 inpatient adults in a university hospital. The presence of malnutrition was assessed within 48 h of hospital admission using SGA and GLIM criteria using CC and MUAC as phenotypic criteria for malnutrition diagnosis. Accuracy, agreement tests, and logistic regression analysis adjusted for confounders were performed to test the validity of the GLIM criteria for malnutrition diagnosis.

Results

The patients were aged 59 (46–68) years, 51.4% were male, and 67.8% had elective surgery. Compared with SGA, the GLIM criteria using the two MM assessment measures showed good accuracy (area under the curve > 0.80) and substantial agreement (κ > 0.60) for diagnosing malnutrition. The highest sensitivity was obtained with GLIMCC (89%), whereas GLIMMUAC showed high specificity (>90%). Also, malnutrition identified by GLIMCC and GLIMMUAC was significantly associated with prolonged hospitalization and in‐hospital death.

Conclusion

In the absence of imaging techniques to assess MM, the use of CC and MUAC measurements from the GLIM criteria demonstrated satisfactory validity for diagnosing malnutrition in hospitalized patients.
Model‐based reinforcement learning control of reaction‐diffusion problems
Authors: Schenk Christina , Vasudevan Aditya , Haranczyk Maciej , Romero Ignacio
Published: August 2024

Mathematical and computational tools have proven to be reliable in decision‐making processes. In recent times, in particular, machine learning‐based methods are becoming increasingly popular as advanced support tools. When dealing with control problems, reinforcement learning has been applied to decision‐making in several applications, most notably in games. The success of these methods in finding solutions to complex problems motivates the exploration of new areas where they can be employed to overcome current difficulties. In this article, we explore the use of automatic control strategies to initial boundary value problems in thermal and disease transport. Specifically, in this work, we adapt an existing reinforcement learning algorithm using a stochastic policy gradient method and we introduce two novel reward functions to drive the flow of the transported field. The new model‐based framework exploits the interactions between a reaction‐diffusion model and the modified agent. The results show that certain controls can be implemented successfully in these applications, although model simplifications had to be assumed.
Synthesis of a novel fluorinated polyimide for preparing thermally conductive polyimide composites
Authors: Lee Wondu , Kim Jihoon , Hong Hyeokgi , Noh Hohyeon , Park Dabin , Jung Hyun Min , Kim Jooheon
Published: August 2024

A fluorinated polyimide (PI‐FTD) was synthesized for preparing a thermally conductive PI matrix and composites. Additionally, surface‐treated boron nitride (BN) was incorporated into the PI‐FTD via the solution casting method to form efficient heat paths along the through‐plane direction. The resultant composite demonstrated remarkable characteristics, including an impressive through‐plane thermal conductivity of 3.6 W mK−1, a substantial tensile strength of 69.4 MPa, and excellent thermal stability. When this composite was applied to light‐emitting diodes, it effectively managed heat, reducing the operating temperature by 29°C. The PI‐FTD/BN‐OH composites can potentially improve thermal management in electronic devices.

Highlights

A novel fluorinated polyimide (PI‐FTD) was fabricated.

Introducing CF3 functionalities in the PI‐FTD provides high thermal stability.

BN‐OH reinforced the thermal and mechanical properties of the composites.

The PI‐FTD/BN‐OH composites achieved excellent thermal management.