bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Demographic, Clinical, and Histological Characteristics of Spitz Nevus Among Iranian Patients: A Retrospective Study From 2016 to 2021
Authors: Aryanian Zeinab , Kamyab Kambiz , Shakoei Safoura , Etesami Ifa , Azhari Vahidehsadat , Hesami Sami , Khayyat Azadeh , Hatami Parvaneh
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

Spitz nevus is a rare benign tumor classified among unusual melanocytic nevi. This study aimed to identify the demographic, clinical, and histopathological characteristics of Spitz nevus among Iranian patients.

Methods

This descriptive, retrospective study involved reviewing the records of patients diagnosed with Spitz nevus at a referral and academic hospital in Iran between 2016 and 2021. Data were extracted regarding demographic characteristics, including age, gender, location, clinical symptoms, disease duration, medical history, and medication history. Additionally, biopsied lesions were evaluated for histopathological features.

Results

A total of 86 patients were evaluated, comprising 37 males (43.5%) and 49 females (55.5%). The mean age was 15.6 years (SD ± 14.8). The most common sites of involvement were the upper extremities (23.3%) and face (17.4%). Disease durations of 1 and 2 years were the most prevalent, observed in 24 (27.9%) and 26 patients (30.2%), respectively. Notably, none of the patients had any underlying diseases. Histopathological evaluation revealed compound Spitz nevus in 25 patients (29.4%), junctional Spitz nevus in 14 patients (16.5%), and dermal Spitz nevus in 10 patients (11.8%).

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive overview of the demographics, clinical presentation, and histopathological features of Spitz nevus among Iranian patients, highlighting the necessity for ongoing research and innovation in diagnostic techniques.
“Exploring the Link Between Oral Lichen Planus and Xerostomia: A Systematic Literature Review”
Authors: AghaHosseini Farzaneh , Tahmasebinasab Maryam , Vatanpour Mehdi
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic disorder affecting the oral mucosa, potentially associated with xerostomia, either independently or concurrently. Research suggests that approximately 45% of patients with erythematous and ulcerative OLP may experience dry mouth sensations. The aim of this systematic review is to assess the current literature regarding the potential relationship or co‐occurrence of xerostomia with OLP. Understanding this association is imperative for the development of comprehensive management strategies and the improvement of patient outcomes.

Method and Material

The study followed the PRISMA 2020 checklist and included human studies, specifically investigating xerostomia in patients with OLP. After screening 897 articles, 9 studies were selected based on predefined criteria Quality assessment was conducted using the Cochrane risk of bias tools: ROB 2 for RCTs and ROBINS‐I for non‐randomized studies Scale was conducted to evaluate potential biases in study design, selection, and outcomes.

Result

A systematic review of nine studies (1960–2023) examining xerostomia in OLP patients found a significant reduction in unstimulated salivary flow rates in many cases. Although evidence links xerostomia with OLP, a definitive causal relationship remains unestablished. Some studies highlighted Candida infection, altered saliva protein expression, and inflammation‐related nerve damage as contributing factors to dry mouth in OLP patients.

Discussion and Conclusion

This systematic review examines the potential relationship between OLP and xerostomia, focusing on factors such as salivary flow, histopathological changes, and immune‐related mechanisms. While some studies suggest a link between OLP and reduced saliva production, no definitive causal relationship has been established. The review identified significant research gaps, including inconsistent methodologies and a lack of standardized criteria. Future studies should explore different OLP forms, receptor interactions, immune responses, and neuropeptides to gain a better understanding of xerostomia's etiopathogenesis and improve management strategies for OLP patients.
Relation Explore Convolutional Block Attention Module for Skin Lesion Classification
Authors: Su Qichen , Hamed Haza Nuzly Abdull , Zhou Dazhuo
Published: December 2024

Skin cancer remains a significant global health concern, demanding accurate and efficient diagnostic solutions. Despite advances in convolutional neural networks for computer vision, automated skin lesion diagnosis remains challenging due to the small lesion region in images and limited inter‐class variation. Accurate classification depends on precise lesion localization and recognition of fine‐grained visual differences. To address these challenges, this paper proposes an enhancement to the Convolutional Block Attention Module, referred to as Relation Explore Convolutional Block Attention Module. This enhancement improves upon the existing module by utilizing multiple combinations of pooling‐based attentions, enabling the model to better learn and leverage complex interactions during training. Extensive experiments are conducted to investigate the performance of skin lesion diagnosis when integrating Relation Explore Convolutional Block Attention Module with ResNet50 at different stages. The best‐performing model achieves outstanding classification results on the publicly available HAM10000 dataset, with an Accuracy of 97.63%, Precision of 88.98%, Sensitivity of 82.86%, Specificity of 97.65%, and F1‐score of 85.46%, using fivefold cross‐validation. The high performance of this model, alongside the clear interpretability provided by its attention maps, builds trust in automated systems. This trust empowers clinicians to make well‐informed decisions, significantly enhancing the potential for improved patient outcomes.
Interactive Pulmonary Lobe Segmentation in CT Images Based on Oriented Derivative of Stick Filter and Surface Fitting Model
Authors: Peng Yuanyuan , Liao Jiawei , Xu Xuemei , Zhang Zixu , Zhu Siqiang
Published: December 2024

Automated approaches for pulmonary lobe segmentation frequently encounter difficulties when applied to clinically significant cases, primarily stemming from factors such as incomplete and blurred pulmonary fissures, unpredictable pathological deformation, indistinguishable pulmonary arteries and veins, and severe damage to the lung trachea. To address these challenges, an interactive and intuitive approach utilizing an oriented derivative of stick (ODoS) filter and a surface fitting model is proposed to effectively extract and repair incomplete pulmonary fissures for accurate lung lobe segmentation in computed tomography (CT) images. First, an ODoS filter was employed in a two‐dimensional (2D) space to enhance the visibility of pulmonary fissures using a triple‐stick template to match the curvilinear structures across various orientations. Second, a three‐dimensional (3D) post‐processing pipeline based on a direction partition and integration approach was implemented for the initial detection of pulmonary fissures. Third, a coarse‐to‐fine segmentation strategy is utilized to eliminate extraneous clutter and rectify missed pulmonary fissures, thereby generating accurate pulmonary fissure segmentation. Finally, considering that pulmonary fissures serve as physical boundaries of the lung lobes, a multi‐projection technique and surface fitting model were combined to generate a comprehensive fissure surface for pulmonary lobe segmentation. To assess the effectiveness of our approach, we actively participated in an internationally recognized lung lobe segmentation challenge known as LObe and Lung Analysis 2011 (LOLA11), which encompasses 55 CT scans. The validity of the proposed methodology was confirmed by its successful application to a publicly accessible challenge dataset. Overall, our method achieved an average intersection over union (IoU) of 0.913 for lung lobe segmentation, ranking seventh among all participants so far. Furthermore, experimental outcomes demonstrated excellent performance compared with other methods, as evidenced by both visual examination and quantitative evaluation.
ACT for OCD: An Example of ACT and Values‐Based Exposures
Authors: Capel Leila K. , Twohig Michael P.
Published: December 2024

Exposure exercises as seen in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention (ERP) are standard in the treatment of obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD). In the last two decades, additional research has been conducted on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and the ways that exposure exercises are conducted from an ACT model. Empirical support for conducting exposures from an ACT model exists. Group level statistics suggest that ACT with ACT‐based exposures is as effective as traditional ERP or CBT. A key component of ACT and values‐based exposures is the focus on teaching psychological flexibility to allow for engagement with values‐based exposures. In this case study, we present an adult woman with OCD who completed 24 sessions of ACT+ values‐based exposures. Client scores on the Y‐BOCS decreased from severe levels to mild‐moderate levels through treatment. Additionally, the client was more actively engaged in her life and reported greater quality of life at the conclusion of treatment. The goal of this case study is to demonstrate how values‐based exposures can be used in the treatment of OCD.
Protecting Against Loneliness: The Mediating Role of Sense of Community
Authors: Samuels Hannah C. , Jeong Ansuk
Published: December 2024

Loneliness is a growing public health concern that impacts individual's well‐being. However, mechanisms that protect against the effects of loneliness have not been examined widely. Guided by prior literature documenting that loneliness and a sense of community are related, this study sought to test the mediating role of a sense of community on loneliness and well‐being and the moderating role of gender. A sample of 2993 Korean adults completed an online survey regarding their sense of community, loneliness, and well‐being. We conducted mediation and moderated mediation analyses. The mediation analysis revealed that sense of community mediates the relationship between loneliness and well‐being suggesting that sense of community may be an important area for intervention. Analyses did not reveal gender differences in the relationship between loneliness and sense of community. The findings of this study may be important when considering the design of community‐based interventions to address loneliness.
Vesicovaginal Reflux: A Masquerader
Authors: Arora Sumedha , Solanki Anupama Bais , Singh Divya , Solanki Fanindra
Published: December 2024

Vesicovaginal reflux (VVR) is a functional disorder seen in girls and women. It may be asymptomatic or cause incontinence and dribbling symptoms. It is often associated with high body mass index (BMI) and infrequent voiding or abnormal voiding position. It is important to be aware of this entity as it can be mistaken for a vesicovaginal or urethrovaginal fistula or hydrocolpos on imaging all of which require surgical treatment. The fluid collecting in the vagina in VVR is urine which refluxes during micturition via the introitus from the urinary bladder into the vagina and can leak out later. In a typical case, urocolpos is seen as an anechoic fluid collection in the vagina during transabdominal sonography of the pelvis with a full bladder. It usually diminishes in size and can disappear when the patient is reassessed after voiding the urine completely. Knowledge of this entity in a patient with the classical body habitus is helpful in preventing an unnecessary imaging odyssey and causing anxiety to the patient. Treatment of VVR is by modification of toileting behavior and weight loss.
Predictors Based on the Radiologic Characteristics for Aggressiveness of Small (< 20 mm) Nonfunctioning Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Ren Shu‐Jie , Yang Fan , Tan Qing‐Quan , Liu Chang , Liu Xu‐Bao , Tan Chun‐Lu , Wang Xing
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives

To find the association between preoperative computed tomography (CT) features combined with tumor marker and known high‐risk factors of small nonfunctioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF‐PNETS), thereby selecting appropriate treatment strategy for these patients.

Method

One hundred fourteen patients with NF‐PNETs< 20 mm who underwent surgical operation were retrospectively analyzed from 2009 to 2023. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to find the relationship between preoperative clinical psychological and CT features and high‐risk factors. The overall survival (OS) rates with and without high‐risk factors were compared.

Results

Of 114 patients, 29(25%) had at least one of these high‐risk factors. Main pancreatic duct dilation (OR, 3.315; 95% CI, 1.079–10.184; p = 0.036), irregular tumor margin (OR, 2.955; 95% CI, 1.021–8.551; p = 0.046), positive tumor marker (OR, 6.047; 95% CI, 1.408–25.963; p = 0.015) were associated with increased odds of having any of these high‐risk factors. The time to death differed significantly between patients with and without high‐risk factors. Patients combining with high‐risk factors were associated with lower 3‐ and 5‐year OS (100% vs. 81.8%, 93.1% vs. 81.8%, respectively; p = 0.035 for both).

Conclusion

Main pancreatic duct dilation, irregular tumor margin and positive tumor marker could screen a subset of patients recommended for surgery.
Development and Validation of a Machine Learning Model for Detection and Classification of Vertigo
Authors: Tang Xiaowu , Ye Weijie , Ou Yongkang , Ye Hongsheng , Zhu Xiran , Huang Dong , Liu Jinming , Zhao Fei , Deng Wenting , Li Chenlong , Cai Weiwei , Zheng Yiqing , Zeng Junbo , Cai Yuexin
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate whether artificial intelligence can improve the diagnostic accuracy of vertigo related diseases.

Experimental Design

Based on the clinical guidelines, clinical symptoms and laboratory test results were extracted from electronic medical records as variables. These variables were then input into a machine learning diagnostic model for classification and diagnosis. This study encompasses two primary objectives: Task 1 to distinguish between patients with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) and non‐BPPV. In Task 2, further classifying non‐BPPV patients into Ménière's Disease (MD), Vestibular Migraine (VM), and Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss accompanied by Vertigo (SSNHLV). The sensitivity, precision, and area under the curve (AUC) metric is primarily used to assess the performance of the machine learning model development phase in a prospective validation cohort.

Results

In our study, 1789 patients were recruited as the training cohort and 1148 patients as the prospective validation cohort. The comprehensive diagnostic performance of the XGBoost model surpasses that of traditional models. The sensitivity, accuracy, and AUC in task 1 were 98.32%, 87.03%, and 0.947, respectively. In task 2, the sensitivity values for MD, SSNHLV, and VM were 89.00%, 100.0%, and 79.40%, respectively. The precision values were 88.80%, 100.0%, and 80.00%, respectively. The AUC values were 0.933, 1.000, and 0.931, respectively. The model can significantly improve the accuracy of diagnosing vertigo diseases.

Conclusions

This system may enhance the accuracy of classification and diagnosis of vertigo diseases. It offers initial therapy or referrals to clinical doctors, particularly in resource‐limited settings.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 2024
Lubrication Performance and Wear Mechanism of Double‐Circular‐Arc Spiral Bevel Gears for Nutation Drive in Mixed Lubrication
Authors: Lin Bin , Pan Ling , Tang Jiating , Tan Shiyang , Zhang Jun
Published: December 2024

A thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication model is combined with a wear model under mixed lubrication to investigate the lubrication performance and wear characteristics of double‐circular‐arc spiral bevel gears for nutation drive. Moreover, the effects of operating conditions on the characteristic parameters of the film are analysed under the mixed lubrication point‐contact conditions. Furthermore, the characteristics of gears in terms of friction coefficient and wear depth are discussed. According to the results, the performance of lubrication and wear during the mutual meshing of the convex tooth surface of the external bevel gear and the concave tooth surface of the inner bevel gear is better than that during the mutual meshing of the other pair of tooth surfaces. The minimum film thickness of the whole meshing process occurs near the inner of the bevel gear due to the joint action of the load and the end edge effect. Moreover, an increase in torque at a certain rotational speed is favourable to the lubrication performance of the meshing process. The wear depth in the double‐circular‐arc spiral bevel gears' meshing process is heavily influenced by the roughness of the tooth surface.
The Effects of Avatar Human‐Likeness on Psychological Closeness in Virtual‐Reality
Authors: Chae Rebecca L. , Lee Hyojin , Kim Eunsoo
Published: December 2024

This research explores the impact of avatar human‐likeness on psychological closeness and its downstream consequences in virtual‐reality work and learning environments. Study 1 suggests that people feel greater psychological closeness to more (vs. less) humanlike avatars. Study 2 applies machine learning to virtual‐reality recordings and shows that people physically move closer to more (vs. less) humanlike avatars. Study 3 extends these findings by showing that avatar human‐likeness positively influences attitudes toward adopting virtual‐reality in education. Finally, Study 4 shows that enhanced psychological closeness to humanlike avatars promotes trust in instructors, leading to more favorable attitudes toward virtual experience. Two additional studies that conceptually replicate the main findings are reported in the Supporting Information. Results are consistent between hypothetical scenarios and real virtual‐reality experiences, controlled experiments using within‐ and between‐subjects designs, and self‐reported measures of closeness and actual physical closeness. These findings provide implications for designing effective virtual‐reality experiences in education and corporate settings, emphasizing the importance of humanlike avatars in fostering closeness and enhancing user experiences.
Identification of macrotrabecular‐massive hepatocellular carcinoma through multiphasic CT‐based representation learning method
Authors: Zhang Zhenyang , Zhang Wanli , He Chutong , Xie Jincheng , Liang Fangrong , Zhao Yandong , Tan Lilian , Lai Shengsheng , Jiang Xinqing , Wei Xinhua , Zhen Xin , Yang Ruimeng
Published: December 2024

Background

Macrotrabecular‐massive hepatocellular carcinoma (MTM‐HCC) represents an aggressive subtype of HCC and is associated with poor survival.

Purpose

To investigate the performance of a representation learning‐based feature fusion strategy that employs a multiphase contrast‐enhanced CT (mpCECT)‐based latent feature fusion (MCLFF) model for MTM‐HCC identification.

Methods

A total of 206 patients (54 MTM HCC, 152 non‐MTM HCC) who underwent preoperative mpCECT with surgically confirmed HCC between July 2017 and December 2022 were retrospectively included from two medical centers. Multiphasic radiomics features were extracted from manually delineated volume of interest (VOI) of all lesions on each mpCECT phase. Representation learning based MCLFF model was built to fuse multiphasic features for MTM HCC prediction, and compared with competing models using other fusion methods. Conventional imaging features and clinical factors were also evaluated and analyzed. Prediction performance was validated by ROC analysis and statistical comparisons on an internal validation and an external testing dataset.

Results

Fusion of radiomics features from the arterial phase (AP) and portal venous phase (PAP) using MCLFF demonstrated superior performance in MTM HCC prediction, with a higher AUC of 0.857 compared with all competing models in the internal validation set. Integration of multiple radiological or clinical features further improved the overall performance, with the highest AUCs of 0.857 and 0.836 respectively achieved in the internal validation and external testing set.

Conclusions

Multiphasic radiomics features of AP and PVP fused by the MCLFF have demonstrated substantial potential in the accurate prediction of MTM HCC. Clinical factors and Radiological features in mpCECT contribute incremental values to the developed MCLFF strategy.
A device‐dependent auto‐segmentation method based on combined generalized and single‐device datasets
Authors: Lim Hyeongjin , Gi Yongha , Ko Yousun , Jo Yunhui , Hong Jinyoung , Kim Jonghyun , Ahn Sung Hwan , Park Hee‐Chul , Kim Haeyoung , Chung Kwangzoo , Yoon Myonggeun
Published: December 2024

Background

Although generalized‐dataset‐based auto‐segmentation models that consider various computed tomography (CT) scanners have shown great clinical potential, their application to medical images from unseen scanners remains challenging because of device‐dependent image features.

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the performance of a device‐dependent auto‐segmentation model based on a combined dataset of a generalized dataset and single CT scanner dataset.

Method

We constructed two training datasets for 21 chest and abdominal organs. The generalized dataset comprised 1203 publicly available multi‐scanner data. The device‐dependent dataset comprised 1253 data, including the 1203 multi‐CT scanner data and 50 single CT scanner data. Using these datasets, the generalized‐dataset‐based model (GDSM) and the device‐dependent‐dataset‐based model (DDSM) were trained. The models were trained using nnU‐Net and tested on ten data samples from a single CT scanner. The evaluation metrics included the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), the Hausdorff distance (HD), and the average symmetric surface distance (ASSD), which were used to assess the overall performance of the models. In addition, DSCdiff, HDratio, and ASSDratio, which are variations of the three existing metrics, were used to compare the performance of the models across different organs.

Result

For the average DSC, the GDSM and DDSM had values of 0.9251 and 0.9323, respectively. For the average HD, the GDSM and DDSM had values of 10.66 and 9.139 mm, respectively; for the average ASSD, the GDSM and DDSM had values of 0.8318 and 0.6656 mm, respectively. Compared with the GDSM, the DDSM showed consistent performance improvements of 0.78%, 14%, and 20% for the DSC, HD, and ASSD metrics, respectively. In addition, compared with the GDSM, the DDSM had better DSCdiff values in 14 of 21 tested organs, better HDratio values in 13 of 21 tested organs, and better ASSDratio values in 14 of 21 tested organs. The three averages of the variant metrics were all better for the DDSM than for the GDSM.

Conclusion

The results suggest that combining the generalized dataset with a single scanner dataset resulted in an overall improvement in model performance for that device image.
Parameter map guided explainable segmentation framework for breast cancer using amide proton transfer weighted imaging
Authors: Yang Qiuhui , Wang Meng , Dou Weiqiang , Ren Ya , Zhang Tianyu , Qian Long , Xu Yi , Li Kefeng , Wang Mingwei , Sun Yue , Liu Zhou , Tan Tao
Published: December 2024

Background

Amide proton transfer weighted (APTw) imaging has demonstrated extensive clinical applications in diagnosing, treating evaluating, and prognosis prediction of breast cancer. There is a pressing need to automatically segment breast lesions on APTw original images to facilitate downstream quantification, which is however challenging.

Purpose

To build a segmentation model on the original images of APTw imaging sequence by leveraging the varying contrasts between breast lesions and their surrounding glandular and fat tissues displayed on the original images of APTw imaging at different frequency offsets.

Methods

This paper proposes a network with multiple tasks, including a breast lesion segmentation model (task I) incorporating multiple images at different frequencies with different contrasts between tumor and surrounding tissues, an automatic classification of pathological task (task II), and an APTw parameter map fitting (task III).

Results

Compared with these advanced segmentation methods such as U‐Net, segment anything model (SAM), segment anything in medical images (Med‐SAM), and transfomer for MRI brain tumor segmentation (TransBTS), our method achieves higher accuracy (ACC). Furthermore, the model's interpretability facilitates the evaluation of how maps with varying gray contrasts contribute to the segmentation. Moreover, improving the ACC of segmentation can be accomplished through tasks such as pathological classification and parametric map fitting.

Conclusions

The pathological classification task and parameter fitting task could improve the ACC of segmentation.
An Improved Spectral Element Differential Method in Solving Nonlinear Thermoelastic Coupling Problems With Discontinuous Interfaces
Authors: Zhao Jianning , Wei Dong , Wang Yuxi , Liu Donghuan
Published: December 2024

In this paper, the spectral element differential method (SEDM) is improved to solve the nonlinear thermoelastic coupling problems with interface thermal resistance and interface gap in composite structures. The utilization of both Lobatto and Chebyshev node sets in SEDM significantly enhances solution efficiency by replacing integration with direct differential. Moreover, for strongly nonlinear problems caused by thermal radiation, unknown terms are incorporated into the stiffness matrix, and the relaxation iteration technique is also employed, the convergence has been improved compared to traditional methods. Importantly, the element format of the SEDM for 3D problems with discontinuous interfaces is given specifically in this paper, and element‐by‐element loop assembly of stiffness matrices is realized. Numerical examples confirm the effectiveness of the present method in efficiently and accurately solving 2D and 3D problems with discontinuous interfaces. The present method not only achieves faster convergence than the traditional finite element method, but also attains higher accuracy with fewer degrees of freedom and shorter computational time. Compared to the spectral element method (SEM), the proposed method significantly reduces the computation time of the stiffness matrix. Furthermore, by employing the coupled SEM‐SEDM approach, computational efficiency is enhanced while maintaining high precision in sensitive regions.
Indications and Outcomes of Fetal Cystoscopy for Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Pierucci Ugo Maria , Paraboschi Irene , Lanfranchi Giulia , Peycelon Matthieu , Pelizzo Gloria , Ruano Rodrigo
Published: December 2024

Fetal lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) encompasses a spectrum of rare congenital anomalies affecting the fetal urinary system, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. This condition, arising from various anatomical anomalies such as posterior urethral valves (PUV), urethral atresia, and cloacal malformations, disrupts normal urine flow, resulting in secondary complications such as pulmonary hypoplasia and renal impairment. Current management strategies, including fetal vesicoamniotic shunting (VAS) and fetal cystoscopy, aim to alleviate obstruction and mitigate associated risks. While VAS has been a longstanding intervention, fetal cystoscopy presents a promising alternative by enabling direct visualization and targeted treatment of urinary tract obstructions. However, fetal cystoscopy is not without challenges, including technical complexities and risks associated with invasive procedures. This review explores the rationale, indications, technical considerations, outcomes, and future innovations of fetal cystoscopy in managing LUTO. It highlights the critical role of accurate diagnosis, patient selection, and procedural expertise in optimizing fetal and maternal outcomes. Despite existing challenges, ongoing advancements in technology and clinical practice hold the potential for further enhancing the safety and efficacy of fetal cystoscopy, underscoring its evolving role in prenatal care.
Rational Design of Black Polyimide With High Comprehensive Properties Derived From DBF‐Based Chromophore
Authors: Liu Yiwu , Li Huipeng , Tan Jinghua , Huang Jie , Yuan Jiazhen , Liu Xueyuan , Guo Jieping , Wu Di , Chen Yue
Published: December 2024

The market need for black polyimide (BPI) in microelectronics and optoelectronics has significantly increased. However, the current BPIs suffer from issues such as inadequate masking effectiveness, inferior electrical performance, and dimensional stability. 3,6‐Di(furan‐2‐yl)pyrrolo[3,4‐c]pyrrole‐1,4(2H,5H)‐dione (DBF) is a typical dye that possesses excellent light‐absorbing ability. In this work, a novel diamine (DBFRFPDA) with DBF‐derived chromophores was successfully synthesized. Utilizing this newly developed diamine and pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA), an inherent BPI (DBFRFPPI) was prepared. The spectral absorption of DBFRFPPI is greatly widened and red‐shifted with the incorporation of DBF‐based chromophores, thus achieving an exceptionally dark hue. DBFRFPPI exhibits a high cut‐off wavelength (λ
cut) of 680 nm and a small CIE‐Lab coordinate L* of 1.02. Moreover, DBFRFPPI shows a small coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and demonstrates outstanding thermal and electrical characteristics. The electronic transitions of DBFRFPPI were investigated using density functional theory. The findings demonstrate that the superior light absorption of DBFRFPPI is chiefly derived from the HOMO→LUMO+1 transition, which takes place within the DBF‐based chromophore moiety. This intrinsic BPI with highly comprehensive properties has important applications in microelectronic fields, especially in flexible copper‐clad laminate (FCCL).
Plastic Bronchitis—A Promising Intervention for a Challenging Condition
Authors: Alhazmi Wedad , Alfadhel Abdulmajeed , Alghamdi Hala , Alharbi Bushra , Abusido Tamer
Published: December 2024

This report describes the case of a 9‐year‐old boy with a single ventricular pathway land complex cardiac issue. After multiple cardiac procedures, including a non‐fenestrated Fontan shunt at the age of 5 years, the patient presented 2 years later with a recurrent history of cough with whitish, thick and rubbery sputum and shortness of breath and was eventually diagnosed with PB. The patient was treated with medical therapy and failed; at this time, ligation of the thoracic duct was performed, which was a life‐saving intervention for him.
Energy Absorption Properties of Circumferential Corrugated Square Gradient Hierarchical Multicellular Structures Under Axial Impact
Authors: Qian Jun , Hou Yifeng , Deng Xiaolin
Published: December 2024

In this study, a novel circumferentially corrugated square gradient hierarchical multicellular structure (CCSGHMS) featuring right‐angle bending fractals is presented, aiming at enhancing the crashworthiness of thin‐walled structures. The integration of corrugated and fractal hierarchical design concepts, coupled with numerical simulation techniques, enables a comparative analysis of thin‐walled structures with zeroth‐ to third‐order hierarchical cross sections. In these findings, it is indicated that the energy absorption and deformation modes of the thin‐walled structures are significantly improved with an increase in hierarchy. When compared to the zeroth‐order square tube, the third‐order CCSGHMS demonstrates a substantial enhancement in energy absorption and impact force efficiency, exhibiting improvements of 11.34 and 2.61 times, respectively. Additionally, the specific energy absorption can increase by as much as 342%. This enhancement is markedly greater than the increase observed in the initial peak crushing force. A geometrical parameter analysis is also conducted, revealing that structural parameters such as the number of wave crests (N), amplitude (A), wall thickness (t), and shape scaling factors (γ1, γ2) significantly influence the impact resistance of circumferentially corrugated square gradient hierarchical tubes. Lastly, the crashworthiness of the proposed circumferentially corrugated square gradient hierarchical tube is compared with that of other multicellular tubes, demonstrating its superior performance.
Pituitary adenoma management and outcomes according to hospital case volume and facility type
Authors: Goshtasbi Khodayar , Michelle Lauren , Torabi Sina J. , Roman Kelsey , Vasudev Milind , Abiri Arash , Mohyeldin Ahmed , Hsu Frank P. K. , Kuan Edward C.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study evaluates the influence of facility volume and type on the treatment and outcomes of pituitary adenoma (PA).

Methods

The 2004–2016 National Cancer Database was queried for patients with PA receiving definitive treatment. Tumor size represented the largest diameter of the primary tumor.

Results

A total of 89,863 patients (53.8% female) with a mean age and tumor size of (51.0 ± 18.0) years (Mean ± SD, later the same) and (19.5 ± 13.2) mm, respectively, were included. Patients were managed at 1,241 unique facilities, categorized into 1057 low‐volume (treating approximately <10 patients annually), 142 intermediate‐volume (treating approximately 10–30 patients annually), and 42 high‐volume facilities (treating approximately 31–105 patients annually). Increasing facility volume and academic centers were both associated with higher rates of surgical treatment as well as lower rates of radiotherapy and shorter postoperative length of hospitalization (all p < 0.001). Kaplan–Meier log‐rank analysis showed that increasing facility volume and academic centers were both significantly associated with improved overall survival (p < 0.001). On multivariate Cox‐regression analysis after adjusting for age, gender, Charlson–Deyo comorbidity index, tumor size, treatment type, and facility type, treatment at intermediate‐volume (HR 1.238, 95% CI 1.155–1.329, p < 0.001) and low‐volume facilities (HR = 1.413, 95% CI 1.306–1.528, p < 0.001) were independent risk factors of all‐cause mortality, while facility type was not independently associated with overall survival.

Conclusion

Management and outcomes of PA appear to be dependent on the treatment facility volume, with high‐volume facilities, but not necessarily facility type, being associated with improved outcomes overall.
Strategies in Electrospun Polymer and Hybrid Scaffolds for Enhanced Cell Integration and Vascularization for Bone Tissue Engineering and Organoids
Authors: Polak Martyna , Karbowniczek Joanna Ewa , Stachewicz Urszula
Published: December 2024

Addressing the demand for bone substitutes, tissue engineering responds to the high prevalence of orthopedic surgeries worldwide and the limitations of conventional tissue reconstruction techniques. Materials, cells, and growth factors constitute the core elements in bone tissue engineering, influencing cellular behavior crucial for regenerative treatments. Scaffold design, including architectural features and porosity, significantly impacts cellular penetration, proliferation, differentiation, and vascularization. This review discusses the hierarchical structure of bone and the process of neovascularization in the context of biofabrication of scaffolds. We focus on the role of electrospinning and its modifications in scaffold fabrication to improve scaffold properties to enhance further tissue regeneration, for example, by boosting oxygen and nutrient delivery. We highlight how scaffold design impacts osteogenesis and the overall success of regenerative treatments by mimicking the extracellular matrix (ECM). Additionally, we explore the emerging field of bone organoids—self‐assembled, three‐dimensional (3D) structures derived from stem cells that replicate native bone tissue's architecture and functionality. While bone organoids hold immense potential for modeling bone diseases and facilitating regenerative treatments, their main limitation remains insufficient vascularization. Hence, we evaluate innovative strategies for pre‐vascularization and discuss the latest techniques for assessing and improving vascularization in both scaffolds and organoids presenting the most commonly used cell lines and biological models. Moreover, we analyze cutting‐edge techniques for assessing vascularization, evaluating their advantages and drawbacks to propose complex solutions. Finally, by integrating these approaches, we aim to advance the development of bioactive materials that promote successful bone regeneration.
Bereavement and type 1 diabetes in childhood: a register-based cohort study in Sweden
Authors: Wernroth Mona-Lisa , Kennedy Beatrice , Fall Katja , Nguyen Diem , Smew Awad I. , Carlsson Per-Ola , Svennblad Bodil , Almqvist Catarina , Fall Tove
Published: December 2024

Aims/hypothesis

The potential impact of childhood bereavement—a severe psychological stressor—on childhood type 1 diabetes development remains unclear. Here, we aimed to bridge this knowledge gap and assess whether bereavement characteristics influenced any impact.

Methods

We conducted a register-based cohort study encompassing 3,598,159 children born in Sweden between 1987 and 2020. Childhood bereavement was defined as the death of a biological mother, father or sibling. Diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in childhood (<18 years) was ascertained through the National Patient Register. We applied a Cox proportional hazards regression model to investigate the impact of childhood bereavement on type 1 diabetes, while adjusting for potential confounders (including parental type 1 diabetes status, country of birth and demographic characteristics).

Results

During follow-up, 86,226 children (2.4%) lost a family member, and 18,817 children (0.52%) were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (median age at onset 9.1 years). We did not detect any overall association between childhood bereavement and type 1 diabetes (adjusted HR 1.04; 95% CI 0.93, 1.17). We found no influence of age at loss, cause of death, familial relationship to the deceased, and time since loss.

Conclusions/interpretation

In this large population-based Swedish study, we observed no evidence supporting a link between childhood bereavement and type 1 diabetes.

Graphical Abstract
Injury patterns of suicide attempts in the head and neck area—a retrospective analysis over 15 years
Authors: Lehner R. , Lochbaum R. , Hoffmann T. K. , Hahn J.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Suicide attempts may involve various parts of the body with different severity grades and therefore represent a multidisciplinary challenge. The head and neck region is highly vulnerable to severe self-inflicted injuries, yet literature on this topic remains limited.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed of patients with suicide attempts in an Otorhinolaryngology (ORL) department of a tertiary referral hospital over a 15-year period. The aim of the study was to analyse their clinical course and injury patterns.

Results

70 patients were included (m: 42/70; f: 28/70). The mean age at suicide attempt was 43.7 years. Women were significantly younger than men (p = 0.046). Seven injury types were differentiated: strangulation (44.3%), stabbing (17.1%), jumping from a height and firearm use (10.0% each), jumping in front of a moving vehicle and ingestion of acids/bases (7.1% each) as well as ingestion of pills (4.3%). Men were dominantly involved in strangulation (14/42; 33.3%) and stabbing (11/42; 26.2%), whereas women appeared with strangulation (17/28; 60.7%) and tablet ingestion (3/28; 10.7%). Men required ORL-specific surgical care significantly more often than women (43.9% vs. 7.1%; p < 0.001). Men chose “violent” methods more frequently than women (90.5% vs. 46.4%; p < 0.001). Women were more likely to receive psychiatric treatment (p = 0.0011).

Conclusions

Violent suicide attempts were more common in males and therefore required more often surgical intervention. Soft attempts and psychiatric diagnoses were more often associated with female gender. Routine laryngoscopy is recommended within 24h after the initial trauma. All individuals were successfully treated in an interdisciplinary setting and survived with moderate morbidity.
Development of a 3D in vitro model to study corpus luteum of felids based on luteinized cells from antral follicles
Authors: Hryciuk Michał M. , Schröter Filip , Claaßen Svenja , Aurich Christine , Wauters Jella , Haße Celina , Braun Beate C.
Published: December 2024

The study aimed to establish a long-term 3D cell culture model using luteinized follicular cells to investigate the functionality and life cycle of the CL in felids. A mixture of cell types from antral follicles was luteinized in vitro and cultured for up to 23 days. The method, initially applied to the domestic cat, was later extended to Persian and Clouded leopards. Antral follicles were isolated and digested with enzymes; then, the cells were subjected to culture. Experimental subsets were treated with/without 1 µg/mL cloprostenol to validate the cell culture model’s suitability for functional studies. In domestic cat samples, microscopic evaluation indicated luteinization, which was confirmed by increased progestagen concentrations and IHC staining for HSD3B and CYP11A1. The gene expression of selected steroidogenic factors (HSD3B1, STAR, CYP11A1) and hormone receptors (LHCGR, PTGFR, PRLR) significantly increased, while CYP17A1 expression decreased. Cloprostenol treatment resulted in reduction of steroidogenic activity, proving its suitability for functional studies. Persian and Clouded leopards’ cell cultures exhibited similar patterns in progestagen secretion and gene expression, compared to domestic cats. This model, with its defined luteinization, as well as high and stable progestagen production, allows future investigation of factors regulating CL life cycle and function.
Explicit convex hull description of bivariate quadratic sets with indicator variables
Authors: De Rosa Antonio , Khajavirad Aida
Published: December 2024

We consider the nonconvex set $${{\mathcal {S}}}_n = \{(x,X,z): X = x x^T, \; x (1-z) =0,\; x \ge 0,\; z \in \{0,1\}^n\}$$

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n

=

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:
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, which is closely related to the feasible region of several difficult nonconvex optimization problems such as the best subset selection and constrained portfolio optimization. Utilizing ideas from convex analysis and disjunctive programming, we obtain an explicit description for the closure of the convex hull of $${{\mathcal {S}}}_2$$

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2

in the space of original variables. In order to generate valid inequalities corresponding to supporting hyperplanes of the convex hull of $${{\mathcal {S}}}_2$$

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2

, we present a simple separation algorithm that can be incorporated in branch-and-cut based solvers to enhance the quality of existing relaxations.
Identification and Verification of Geodynamic Risk Zones in the Western Carpathians Using Remote Sensing, Geophysical and GNSS Data
Authors: Pospíšil Lubomil , Bartoněk Dalibor , Bures Jiri , Svabensky Otakar
Published: December 2024

Previous surveys using the remote sensing (RS) method revealed significant structures in the area of the Western Carpathians. It has not yet been possible to verify and explain the results of these surveys, even though all the phenomena are regional in nature and show many morphological features that clearly indicate recent activity and deformations, including current earthquake foci. The aim of the article was to verify these phenomena and compare them with new findings. A method of combining geomorphological data with satellite image analysis and verification using Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and geophysics data was used. In this work, results are presented confirming the existence of a previously identified nonlinear structure—the "gravity nappe" in the western part of the Low Tatras, and the largest tectonic system Muráň—Malcov is analyzed in detail. Similar structures and tectonic zones, on a smaller scale, can also be found in other areas of the Carpathians. For example, the gravity structure in the Lesser Carpathians and the Ukrainian flysch Carpathians or the linear boundaries interpreted as tectonic systems—the Myjava-Subtatrans, Hron and Transgemerian tectonic zones. Recent movement trends have been confirmed by newly unified data from EUREF Permanent Network (EPN) stations and GNSS campaigns carried out in the last two decades in the given area. Both types of analyzed structures are directly related to the occurring foci of earthquakes.
Breastfeeding Journeys: Comparing Mothers’ Experiences with Autistic and Neurotypical Infants
Authors: Campbell Amy A. , Barroso Julie , Mogos Mulubrhan , Weitlauf Amy , Karp Sharon M.
Published: December 2024

Breastfeeding is a complex task that requires proficiency at several key developmental skills to feed successfully. It is unclear how Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects an infant’s breastfeeding experience and conflicting reports exist on shortened breastfeeding duration in infants later diagnosed with ASD. The purpose of this study was to describe the experiences of mothers breastfeeding both their autistic and neurotypical children to better understand the differences in their breastfeeding experiences and maternal and infant factors that contributed to breastfeeding cessation in their autistic child. Twenty-four mothers of an autistic child who had feeding difficulties in the first 12 months of life, initiated breastfeeding, and also had a neurotypical child participated in semi-structured interviews regarding breastfeeding initiation, cessation, and challenges encountered during breastfeeding. Analysis revealed four major themes: (1) the struggle with latch, including infant behavior that hindered latching; (2) breastfeeding challenges, including problematic breastfeeding behavior by the infant; (3) cessation of breastfeeding, including physical symptoms of the infant that lead to breastfeeding cessation; and (4) breastfeeding the neurotypical sibling, including mother’s detection of different breastfeeding behaviors in neurotypical and autistic child. Breastfeeding behaviors described by mothers may indicate early signs of autism including early sensory sensitivity, lack of regulation, repetitive behaviors, and impaired social behaviors. Further research is needed to discern if these breastfeeding behaviors can be used to help identify early signs of autism and employed as additional surveillance for neurodevelopmental concerns at a young age.
Causal inference from clinical experience
Authors: Tabatabaei Ghomi Hamed , Stegenga Jacob
Published: December 2024

How reliable are causal inferences in complex empirical scenarios? For example, a physician prescribes a drug to a patient, and then the patient undergoes various changes to their symptoms. They then increase their confidence that it is the drug that causes such changes. Are such inferences reliable guides to the causal relation in question, particularly when the physician can gain a large volume of such clinical experience by treating many patients? The evidence-based medicine movement says no, while some physicians and philosophers support such appeals to first-person experience. We develop a formal model and simulate causal inference based on clinical experience. We conclude that in very particular clinical scenarios such inferences can be reliable, while in many other routine clinical scenarios such inferences are not reliable.