bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Analyses of Bioequivalence Assessment Methods for In Vitro Permeation Test Data
Authors: Leon Sami , Rantou Elena , Kim Jessica , Choi Sungwoo , Choi Nam Hee
Published: August 2024

For topical, dermatological drug products, an in vitro option to determine bioequivalence (BE) between test and reference products is recommended. In particular, in vitro permeation test (IVPT) data analysis uses a reference‐scaled approach for two primary endpoints, cumulative penetration amount (AMT) and maximum flux (J
max), which takes the within donor variability into consideration. In 2022, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a draft IVPT guidance that includes statistical analysis methods for both balanced and unbalanced cases of IVPT study data. This work presents a comprehensive evaluation of various methodologies used to estimate critical parameters essential in assessing BE. Specifically, we investigate the performance of the FDA draft IVPT guidance approach alongside alternative empirical and model‐based methods utilizing mixed‐effects models. Our analyses include both simulated scenarios and real‐world studies. In simulated scenarios, empirical formulas consistently demonstrate robustness in approximating the true model, particularly in effectively addressing treatment–donor interactions. Conversely, the effectiveness of model‐based approaches heavily relies on precise model selection, which significantly influences their results. The research emphasizes the importance of accurate model selection in model‐based BE assessment methodologies. It sheds light on the advantages of empirical formulas, highlighting their reliability compared to model‐based approaches and offers valuable implications for BE assessments. Our findings underscore the significance of robust methodologies and provide essential insights to advance their understanding and application in the assessment of BE, employed in IVPT data analysis.
Tech expert provides guidance for understanding benefits, pitfalls of AI
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: August 2024

PHILADELPHIA — About half of people who use artificial intelligence (more widely referred to as AI) don’t want anyone else to know. That's because they're worried about seeming replaceable in their jobs, especially if they work in academia. Or they’re concerned that AI use might not be permitted or that it qualifies as some form of cheating, according to Beth Ziesenis, Owner of yournerdybestfriend.com.
Malignant Transformation of Post-Radiation Induced Erosive Lichen Planus to Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Regester R. Maxwell , Kwan Kevin R. , Fernandez Jennifer M. , Sutton Adam , Arthur Megan
Published: August 2024

Radiation therapy is commonly used to treat various types of malignancies during or after radiation. Approximately 95% percent of patients develop common skin manifestations including dermatitis, atrophy and fibrosis. Rare manifestations, including non-melanoma skin cancers, morphea, cutaneous angiosarcoma and bullous pemphigoid, have been reported post-treatment. The development of lichen planus (LP) from radiation therapy is exceedingly rare, with only 14 previous cases reported. Of these, none were associated with malignant transformation. Malignant transformation from LP is uncommon, with reported cases mainly in oral manifestations of LP at rates of ∼1%–2%. Classic cutaneous manifestations of LP have not been associated with an increased risk of malignancy. We report a unique case of erosive cutaneous LP with malignant transformation in a previously radiated site. Our case highlights a novel cutaneous adverse event to radiation treatment and emphasises the importance of considering erosive LP on the differential when evaluating recalcitrant erosions in a previously radiated area and to monitor closely for transformation to squamous cell carcinoma.
Angstrom‐Scale 2D Channels Designed For Osmotic Energy Harvesting
Authors: Ding Zhengmao , Gu Tiancheng , Zhang Minghao , Wang Kaiqiang , Sun Daoheng , Li Jinjin
Published: August 2024

Confronting the impending exhaustion of traditional energy, it is urgent to devise and deploy sustainable clean energy alternatives. Osmotic energy contained in the salinity gradient of the sea‐river interface is an innovative, abundant, clean, and renewable osmotic energy that has garnered considerable attention in recent years. Inspired by the impressively intelligent ion channels in nature, the developed angstrom‐scale 2D channels with simple fabrication process, outstanding design flexibility, and substantial charge density exhibit excellent energy conversion performance, opening up a new era for osmotic energy harvesting. However, this attractive research field remains fraught with numerous challenges, particularly due to the complexities associated with the regulation at angstrom scale. In this review, the latest advancements in the design of angstrom‐scale 2D channels are primarily outlined for harvesting osmotic energy. Drawing upon the analytical framework of osmotic power generation mechanisms and the insights gleaned from the biomimetic intelligent devices, the design strategies are highlighted for high‐performance angstrom channels in terms of structure, functionalization, and application, with a particular emphasis on ion selectivity and ion transport resistance. Finally, current challenges and future prospects are discussed to anticipate the emergence of more anomalous properties and disruptive technologies that can promote large‐scale power generation.
Designing Heterodiatomic Carbon Hydrangea Superstructures via Machine Learning‐Regulated Solvent‐Precursor Interactions for Superior Zinc Storage
Authors: Huang Qi , Hu Chengmin , Qin Yang , Jin Yaowei , Huang Lu , Sun Yaojie , Song Ziyang , Xie Fengxian
Published: August 2024

Carbon superstructures with exquisite morphologies and functionalities show appealing prospects in energy realms, but the systematic tailoring of their microstructures remains a perplexing topic. Here, hydrangea‐shaped heterodiatomic carbon superstructures (CHS) are designed using a solution phase manufacturing route, wherein machine learning workflow is applied to screen precursor‐matched solvent for optimizing solvent‐precursor interaction. Based on the established solubility parameter model and molecular growth kinetics simulation, ethanol as the optimal solvent stimulates thermodynamic solubilization and growth of polymeric intermediates to evoke CHS. Featured with surface‐active motifs and consecutive charge transfer paths, CHS allows high accessibility of zincophilic sites and fast ion migration with low energy barriers. A anion−cation hybrid charge storage mechanism of CHS cathode is disclosed, which entails physical alternate uptake of Zn2+/CF3SO3− ions at electroactive sites and chemical bipedal redox of Zn2+ ions with carbonyl/pyridine motifs. Such a beneficial electrochemistry contributes to all‐round improvement in Zn‐ion storage, involving excellent capacities (231 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1; 132 mAh g−1 at 50 A g−1), high energy density (152 Wh kg−1), and long‐lasting cyclability (100 000 cycles). This work expands the design versatilities of superstructure materials and will accelerate experimental procedures during carbon manufacturing through machine learning in the future.
Enhancing the Efficiency and Stability of Perovskite Solar Cells Using Chemical Bath Deposition of SnO2 Electron Transport Layers and 3D/2D Heterojunctions
Authors: Tian Shun , Gao Xiao‐Xin , Reyes David , Syzgantseva Olga A. , Baytemirov Milorad M. , Shibayama Naoyuki , Kanda Hiroyuki , Schouwink Pascal A. , Fei Zhaofu , Zhong Liping , Tiranito Farzaneh Fadaei , Fang Yanyan , Dyson Paul J. , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: August 2024

Chemical bath deposition (CBD) is an effective technique used to produce high‐quality SnO2 electron transport layers (ETLs) employed in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). By optimizing the CBD process, high‐quality SnO2 films are obtained with minimal oxygen vacancies and close energy level alignment with the perovskite layer. In addition, the 3D perovskite layers are passivated with n‐butylammonium iodide (BAI), iso‐pentylammonium iodide (PNAI), or 2‐methoxyethylammonium iodide (MOAI) to form 3D/2D heterojunctions, resulting in defect passivation, suppressing ion migration and improving charge carrier extraction. As a result of these heterojunctions, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the PSCs increased from 21.39% for the reference device to 23.70% for the device containing the MOAI‐passivated film. The 2D perovskite layer also provides a hydrophobic barrier, thus enhancing stability to humidity. Notably, the PNAI‐based device exhibited remarkable stability, retaining approximately 95% of its initial efficiency after undergoing 1000‐h testing in an N2 environment at room temperature.
Recent advances in self‐immobilizing fluorescent probes for in vivo imaging
Authors: Zhang Yong , Lv Xuemei , Wang Yafu , Chen Xueqian , Zhang Jinchao , Su Dongdong
Published: August 2024

In situ precise detection of bioactive molecules with high sensitivity and spatiotemporal resolution is essential for studying physiological events and disease diagnosis. The utilization of versatile fluorescent probes in fluorescence imaging offers a powerful tool for in vivo imaging of biomarkers closely associated with pathological conditions. However, the dynamic behavior leading to rapid clearance of small molecule probes from regions of interest severely compromises their potential for precise imaging. Notably, self‐immobilizing fluorescent probes that selectively recognize diseased tissues while improving in situ retention and enrichment enable accurate high‐fidelity fluorescence imaging. In this review, we aim to summarize the strategies employed for recent advances in the performance and precision of in vivo fluorescence imaging using self‐immobilizing techniques. Lastly, we discuss the prospects and potential challenges associated with self‐immobilizing fluorescent probes to promote further development and application of more delicate fluorescent probes.
Thermal radiation effect in electroosmosis regulated peristalsis transport of Williamson hybrid nanofluid via an asymmetric tapered channel
Authors: Chaudhary Santosh , Chouhan Kiran Kunwar
Published: August 2024

Electroosmosis effects in a peristaltic transport of nanofluids are significant for developing the biomimetic pumping structure at a microscopic extent in physiological medications, for instance, ocular drug delivery systems. The present article addresses the numerical assessment of a peristaltically driven electro‐osmotic flow of a Williamson hybrid nanofluid. The flow is intended to be two‐dimensional, incompressible, unsteady, and subjected to an asymmetric tapered micro‐channel. The characteristics of hybrid nanofluid, which consists of silver (Ag) and copper (Cu) as nanoparticles with base fluid‐blood, are explored in a relative manner with regular nanofluid Ag‐blood. Further, the study includes the impact of linear thermal radiation, energy dissipation through viscosity and resistance phenomena with an externally applied consistent magnetic field. The mathematical model is simplified using dimensionless similarity transformations and numerically solved via MATLAB software. Variations in momentum, thermal energy, and entropy generation against various emerging physical parameters are deliberated through graphical results. Longitudinal velocity towards the center line and heat transfer rate is also analyzed through numerical data illustrated in table form. This study introduces a novel mathematical model for the peristaltically driven electroosmosis flow of Ag‐Cu/blood hybrid nanofluid in a tapered asymmetric microchannel, incorporating external electric and magnetic field effects.
Estimation of confined compressive strength of LRS‐FRP concrete specimens with computational intelligence
Authors: Chang Sleek , Arora Harish Chandra , Kumar Aman , Kontoni Denise‐Penelope N. , Kumar Prashant , Kapoor Nishant Raj , Singh Jagbir
Published: August 2024

Reinforced concrete structures deteriorate due to changes in temperature, corrosion, and attacks of sulfate and chloride contents. Retrofitting techniques like fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) jacketing, known for their strength and corrosion resistance, are increasingly used to strengthen and retrofit deteriorated structural elements. Large rupture strain (LRS)‐FRP composite, composed of polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene naphthalate, both of which have high tensile strength and high strain at rupture have been used in the studies of many researchers. This research aims to develop a reliable and accurate machine learning (ML) model to estimate the compressive strength of LRS‐FRP confined specimens. A total of 303 LRS‐FRP confined specimens were gathered after a thorough literature review to develop ML models, utilizing the linear regression, support vector regression, regression tree, and artificial neural network (ANN) algorithms. Additionally, 44 analytical models (AMs) were used to compare the performance of the developed ML models. The results revealed that the performance of the developed ANN model was higher among all the ML and AMs. The R‐value and the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) value of the developed ANN model were 0.9822 and 6.17%, respectively. The sensitivity analysis results show that the height of the specimens had the highest impact followed by the diameter of the specimen, the number of FRP layers and thickness, and then the tensile strength of LRS‐FRP. The ANN‐based mathematical expression is simple and easy to use to predict the compressive strength of the LRS‐FRP strengthened specimens.
Introduction
Authors: Englund Lena
Published: August 2024

Recent years have seen migration become increasingly contested and debated, in Europe particularly since the so-called migrant crisis of 2015–2016, and in the United States in relation to the Trump administration 2017–2021. This book is a reaction to the aftermath and ongoing negotiation of both periods, focusing on contemporary writing that examines and addresses experiences of migration in European or American contexts. In addition to analysis of selected texts, this book investigates political narratives of migration that the material addresses and in the context of which the stories emerge. Different discourses surrounding migration also appear in media reviews and reports about the material examined. The introductory chapter addresses the title of the book and the themes examined in the five main chapters and offers a brief discussion of how migration has been theorized an analysed in cultural contexts. The importance of stories is emphasized and how they can be used to argue for a change in how migration is depicted, for greater political and social responsibility particularly in terms of treatment of asylum seekers and undocumented people.
Aspirations and Expectations
Authors: Englund Lena
Published: August 2024

The material examined in this chapter; the essay collections The Good Immigrant (2017) and The Good Immigrant USA (2020) as well as Imbolo Mbue’s novel Behold the Dreamers (2017), address the topic of expectations and aspirations in personal, relational, cultural, societal, and political contexts. The titles of the collections reveal complex forces at play: the ‘good’ immigrant is represented as encountering prejudice and stereotyping along the way, caught between aspirations and expectations on all sides, many of which are more limiting than encouraging. Mbue’s novel offers a fictional account of the struggling African migrant without legal residence permit, versus their wealthy, somewhat ignorant employer. The texts examined revolve around migration as a choice, often in search of better prospects. The United States is represented in both essay collections as well as in Mbue’s novel as the land of hopes and dreams, the place to go in search of careers, wealth, and futures.
Three-dimensional analysis of posttreatment tooth movements despite bonded retainers: part II—lower jaw
Authors: Klaus Katharina , Kleinert Tobias , Ruf Sabine
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Complications of bonded lingual retainers in terms of unexpected tooth movements have been reported with increasing frequency during the last decade, but the vast majority of the literature comprises case reports. The purpose of the present retrospective case–control study was to analyze the amount and direction of unwanted tooth movements despite lower bonded retainers, to analyze possible predisposing pretreatment- and treatment-related factors, and to seek for movement thresholds which could enhance the rapid and objective identification of critical cases.

Methods

Plaster casts of 1026 patients who completed orthodontic treatment and a subsequent retention phase of 2 years were screened for unintentional tooth movements. The study group comprised 39 patients with tooth movements in the lower jaw, while 39 randomly selected patients without visible tooth movements served as the control group. For all patients, plaster casts after debonding of multibracket appliances (T1) and after supervised retention (T2) were digitized, and a three-dimensional (3D) digital superimposition based on the best fit of premolars and molars was undertaken. Thereafter, translational as well as rotational movements were measured in all three planes of space. Pretreatment- and treatment-related factors of the study and control groups were compared. A severity classification based on rotational movement thresholds was applied to seek a critical amount of translational movements.

Results

The mean translational movements ranged between 0 and 0.4 mm and the average rotational movements between 0 and 1.6°. Large individual movements up to 1.9 mm translation and 16° rotation were seen. A twist-effect with opposite movements of the canines along the Y‑axis could be confirmed. Compared to the control group, patients of the study group had a smaller intercanine distance at all timepoints. In addition, study group patients presented a slightly larger intercanine expansion during treatment and were more often affected by retainer bonding site detachments. Applying the severity classification based on rotational thresholds, translational movements of 0.5–1.0 mm along the X‑ and Y‑axis could serve as a critical threshold. It can be assumed that extrusive translational movements along the Z‑axis seem to be of specific nature and perhaps do not reflect a retainer complication in terms of unwanted tooth movements.

Conclusions

Patients with a larger intercanine distance after active treatment and those with more frequent retainer bonding site detachments could be at higher risk for unwanted tooth movements during fixed retention. Sagittal and transverse movements of 0.5–1.0 mm should sensitize the practitioner for further measures.
A New Fibrin-Heparine Coated Self-Expanding Stent for the Rescue Treatment of Intracranial Stenosis—a Multicentric Study
Authors: Dorn Franziska , Voss Yves Leonard , Zidan Mousa , Neuhaus Stephanie , Lehnen Nils , Stracke Paul , Schwindt Wolfram , Ergawy Mostafa , Dyzmann Christian , Moehlenbruch Markus , Jesser Jessica , Vollherbst Dominik , Moreu Manuel , Pérez-García Carlos , Bester Maxim , Flottmann Fabian , Simgen Andreas , Schob Stefan , Berlis Ansgar , Maurer Christoph , Buhk Jan Hendrik , Hentschel Hannah , Loehr Christian , Eckert Bernd , Saura Javier , Delgado Fernando , Paech Daniel , Nordmeyer Hannes
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Rescue intracranial stenting is necessary to provide sufficient recanalization after mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in patients with acute large vessel occlusions (LVO) due to an underlying intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD). The CREDO heal is a novel stent that provides a potentially lower thrombogenicity due to surface modification. We present the first multicentric experience with the CREDO heal for acute rescue stenting.

Methods

Data of 81 patients who underwent rescue stenting after MT at 12 centers in Germany and Spain were prospectively collected and retrospectively evaluated.

Results

Final mTICI 2b‑3 was reached in 95.1% after median two MT maneuvers and stenting. Four periprocedural complications resulted in clinical deterioration (4.9%). Intraparenchymal hemorrhage occurred in one patient (1.2%) and functional independence at FU was reached by 42% of the patients. Most interventions were performed under Gp IIb/IIIa inhibitors.

Conclusion

CREDO heal was effective and safe in our case series. However, more data is needed to define the optimal antithrombotic regime. The use under single antiplatelet medication is not supported by our study.
Microwave radar diagnostics of piston motion in a free-piston-driven expansion tube
Authors: Kurosaka Y. , Shimamura K.
Published: August 2024

Application of microwave radar is a useful approach to gauge piston motion in a free-piston driver. One difficulty associated with conventional microwave technique is its spatial resolution during rapid velocity shifts at diaphragm rupture timings. This study, while departing from the standard practice of analyzing standing wave peaks, introduces an alternative by examining the phase shift of the microwave in-phase and quadrature signals. A compact free-piston-driven expansion tube, MX6.0, is used as the test bed for this technique. A microwave frequency of 4.2 GHz is used to take measurements in a compression tube with a diameter of 50 mm and a length of 2.0 m, tracking the motion of the piston. After arranging the microwave radar systems, the piston velocity and displacement trajectory are measured. Compared to the lower-resolution measurements using conventional microwave wavelength intervals, the use of microwave phase allowed for an exceptionally high spatial resolution in analyzing the piston motion.
Accuracy of vestibular schwannoma segmentation using deep learning models - a systematic review & meta-analysis
Authors: Łajczak Paweł , Matyja Jakub , Jóźwik Kamil , Nawrat Zbigniew
Published: August 2024

Vestibular Schwannoma (VS) is a rare tumor with varied incidence rates, predominantly affecting the 60–69 age group. In the era of artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning (DL) algorithms show promise in automating diagnosis. However, a knowledge gap exists in the automated segmentation of VS using DL. To address this gap, this meta-analysis aims to provide insights into the current state of DL algorithms applied to MR images of VS.

Methodology

Following 2020 PRISMA guidelines, a search across four databases was conducted. Inclusion criteria focused on articles using DL for VS MR image segmentation. The primary metric was the Dice score, supplemented by relative volume error (RVE) and average symmetric surface distance (ASSD).

Results

The search process identified 752 articles, leading to 11 studies for meta-analysis. A QUADAS- 2 analysis revealed varying biases. The overall Dice score for 56 models was 0.89 (CI: 0.88–0.90), with high heterogeneity (I2 = 95.9%). Subgroup analyses based on DL architecture, MRI inputs, and testing set sizes revealed performance variations. 2.5D DL networks demonstrated comparable efficacy to 3D networks. Imaging input analyses highlighted the superiority of contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging and mixed MRI inputs.

Discussion

This study fills a gap in systematic review in the automated segmentation of VS using DL techniques. Despite promising results, limitations include publication bias and high heterogeneity. Future research should focus on standardized designs, larger testing sets, and addressing biases for more reliable results. DL have promising efficacy in VS diagnosis, however further validation and standardization is needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this meta-analysis provides comprehensive review into the current landscape of automated VS segmentation using DL. The high Dice score indicates promising agreement in segmentation, yet challenges like bias and heterogeneity must be addressed in the future research.
Large and interactive pipefish females display ornaments for longer with many males around
Authors: Waffender Anna , Henshaw Jonathan M. , Ahnesjö Ingrid , Kvarnemo Charlotta
Published: August 2024

Why do animals display sexual ornaments – to attract mates, to compete for access to them, or both? In the broad-nosed pipefish (Syngnathus typhle), ornamented females commonly compete for access to males, whereas choosy males provide uniparental care. During courtship, females show a dynamic ornament, consisting of a row of dark B-shaped signs along the sides of their trunk. Here, we focus on the social context of female ornamentation and mating success (egg transfer) under experimentally female and male biased adult sex ratios. We found that the duration of female B-sign displays was not explained by adult sex ratios alone, but rather by sex ratios in combination with female body length and the number of female interactions. In detail, duration of B-sign display increased more steeply with the number of female-female interactions under the male biased adult sex ratio: that is, when more mating opportunities were available. Similarly, display duration increased with female body length, but only under the male biased adult sex ratio. In addition, successful egg transfer occurred more often in the male biased treatment and correlated significantly with female display duration in the same treatment. Taken together, these results suggest that in the context of the broad-nosed pipefish, the ornamental B-signs in females primarily serve as a sexually selected attractive signal. Our results highlight the importance of an interactive mating environment, male availability, and female size.
The role of ultra-processed foods in plant-based diets: associations with human health and environmental sustainability
Authors: Daas Merel C. , Vellinga Reina E. , Pinho Maria Gabriela M. , Boer Jolanda M. A. , Verschuren W. M. Monique , van der Schouw Yvonne T. , van’t Veer Pieter , Biesbroek Sander
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Investigate the associations of ultra-processed foods (UPF) in healthful (hPDI) and unhealthful (uPDI) plant-based diets with all-cause mortality, greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE), and blue water consumption (BWC).

Methods

Analyses were based on 35,030 participants (20–70 years; 74% females) from the EPIC-NL cohort who were followed up from 1993 to 1997 through 2014. Plant-based diet indices (hPDI and uPDI) and UPF consumption were calculated from a validated FFQ, assessed at baseline. Cox proportional hazard and multiple linear regression models were used to estimate associations between combined quartiles of the PDI indices and UPF consumption.

Results

With lower hPDI and higher UPF diets as the reference, we observed the following. Risk estimates of all-cause mortality were 0.98 (95% CI: 0.83, 1.16) for lower UPF consumption, 0.86 (95% CI: 0.68, 1.08) for higher hPDI, and 0.78 (95% CI: 0.66, 0.89) for combined higher hPDI and lower UPF consumption. Results with the uPDI were inconclusive. Mean differences in GHGE and BWC were 1.4% (95% CI: 0.3, 2.4) and 1.6% (95% CI: -0.5, 3.7) for lower UPF consumption, -7.4% (95% CI: -8.6, -6.4) and 9.6% (95% CI: 7.2, 12.0) for higher hPDI, and − 6.8% (95% CI: -7.4, -6.1) and 13.1% (95% CI: 11.6, 14.8) for combined higher hPDI and lower UPF consumption. No apparent conflict between environmental impacts was observed for the uPDI; GHGE and BWC were lower for higher uPDI scores.

Conclusion

Mortality risk and environmental impacts were mostly associated with the amount of plant-based foods and to a lesser extent UPF in the diet. Shifting to a more healthful plant-based diet could improve human health and reduce most aspects of environmental impact (GHGE, but not BWC) irrespective of UPF consumption.
Minimally invasive subperiosteal pocket technique for Osia 2 system- implantation without fixation
Authors: Bere Zsofia , Nagy Roland , Posta Balint , Perenyi Adam , Fyrlund Henrik , Jarabin Janos , Dimak Balazs , Rovo Laszlo
Published: August 2024

The CochlearTM Osia® 2 is an active transcutaneous implant designed to treat patients with different types of hearing loss. Due to its size, implantation needs appropriate practice since the necessity of extended flap creation and bone work can be an issue in some cases. The goal of our study was to determine whether fixation of the OSI200 implant was necessary for the performance of patients with conductive or mild mixed hearing loss.

The vibroacoustic performance of the Osia 2 system, with and without BI300 fixation, was evaluated through tests conducted on a head model. In addition, three patients underwent surgery using the modified minimally invasive subperiosteal pocket technique; the OSI200 implant was placed in a tight subperiosteal pocket without fixing it with the BI300 implant. To evaluate the audiological performance of the non-fixated Osia 2 system, we compared the preoperative unaided pure tone and suprathreshold testing with the Baha 5 sound processor and the non-fixated Osia 2 system aided thresholds.

Initial results indicate that omitting fixation does not significantly impair the function of the Osia 2 system. The findings of the clinical assessment support the fact that the Osia 2 system performed better than the Baha 5 system on Softband, both in pure tone and suprathreshold tests.

According to our results, we have found that utilizing the subperiosteal pocket method and implanting Osia 2 without BI300 fixation may be a viable option. This approach has shown promising results in terms of improving hearing ability with minimalization of surgery related complications.
Exhaled Volatile Organic Compounds Detection in Pneumonia Screening: A Comprehensive Meta-analysis
Authors: He Juan , Zhong Ran , Xue Linlu , Wang Yixuan , Chen Yang , Xiong Zihui , Yang Ziya , Chen Sitong , Liang Wenhua , He Jianxing
Published: August 2024

Background

Pneumonia is a common lower respiratory tract infection, and early diagnosis is crucial for timely treatment and improved prognosis. Traditional diagnostic methods for pneumonia, such as chest imaging and microbiological examinations, have certain limitations. Exhaled volatile organic compounds (VOCs) detection, as an emerging non-invasive diagnostic technique, has shown potential application value in pneumonia screening.

Method

A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, with the retrieval time up to March 2024. The inclusion criteria were diagnostic studies evaluating exhaled VOCs detection for the diagnosis of pneumonia, regardless of the trial design type. A meta-analysis was performed using a bivariate model for sensitivity and specificity.

Results

A total of 14 diagnostic studies were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled results demonstrated that exhaled VOCs detection had a combined sensitivity of 0.94 (95% CI: 0.92–0.95) and a combined specificity of 0.83 (95% CI: 0.81–0.84) in pneumonia screening, with an area under the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve (AUC) of 0.96. The pooled diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) was 104.37 (95% CI: 27.93–390.03), and the pooled positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR) were 8.98 (95% CI: 3.88–20.80) and 0.11 (95% CI: 0.05–0.22), indicating a high diagnostic performance.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential of exhaled VOCs detection as an effective, non-invasive screening method for pneumonia, which could facilitate future diagnosis in pneumonia. Further high-quality, large-scale studies are required to confirm the clinical utility of exhaled VOCs detection in pneumonia screening. Study registration: PROSPERO, Review no. CRD42024520498.
Peptidomimetic inhibitors of the VEGF-A165/NRP-1 complex obtained by modification of the C-terminal arginine
Authors: Tymecka Dagmara , Redkiewicz Patrycja , Lipiński Piotr F. J. , Misicka Aleksandra
Published: August 2024

Inhibitors of the interaction between Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A165 (VEGF-A165) hold significant promise as therapeutic and diagnostic agents directed against cancers overexpressing NRP-1. In our efforts in this field, a few series of strong and fairly stable peptide-like inhibitors of the general formula Lys(Har)1-Xaa2-Xaa3-Arg4 have been previously discovered. In the current work, we focused on Lys(Har)-Dap/Dab-Pro-Arg sequence. The aim was to examine whether replacing C-terminal Arg with its homologs and mimetics would yield more stable yet still potent inhibitors. Upon considering the results of modelling and other factors, ten novel analogues with Xaa4 = homoarginine (Har), 2-amino-4-guanidino-butyric acid (Agb), 2-amino-3-guanidino-propionic acid (Agp), citrulline (Cit), 4-aminomethyl-phenylalanine [Phe(4-CH2-NH2)] were designed, synthesized and evaluated. Two of the proposed modifications resulted in inhibitors with activity slightly lower [e.g. IC50 = 14.3 μM for Lys(Har)-Dab-Pro-Har and IC50 = 19.8 μM for Lys(Har)-Dab-Pro-Phe(4-CH2-NH2)] than the parent compounds [e.g. IC50 = 4.7 μM for Lys(Har)-Dab-Pro-Arg]. What was a surprise to us, the proteolytic stability depended more on position two of the sequence than on position four. The Dab2-analogues exhibited half-life times beyond 60 h. Our results build up the knowledge on the structural requirements that effective VEGF-A165/NRP-1 inhibitors should fulfil.
Phone-based virtual exploration of green space increases positive affect in students with test anxiety: a pre-post experimental study with qualitative insights
Authors: O’Meara Alison , Connery Tadgh , Chan Jason , Hearn Cleidi , Cassarino Marica , Setti Annalisa
Published: August 2024

Nature confers a host of benefits including recovering from stress, replenishing attentional resources, improving mood, and decreasing negative thinking. Virtual nature, i.e. exposure to natural environments through technological means, has proven to also be efficacious in producing benefits, although more limitedly. Previous studies with immersive virtual reality with university students have shown that one bout of virtual nature can reduce negative affect in students with high test anxiety and can reduce feeling of worry and panic after several weeks of daily exposure. The present study aimed at replicating the effect of one bout of virtual nature on affect and extend it to cognition in a sample of university students with different levels of test anxiety. An inexpensive goggle + phone apparatus was utilized and the one bout of virtual nature was self-administered. 48 university students took part in the study, randomized between viewing a 360 degrees video of nature or of an urban environment. They completed the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule and the Cognitive Reflection Test before and after the exposure to the virtual environments and responded to open-ended questions about their experience of the intervention. Results showed improvements in positive affect in students with higher anxiety were obtained in the nature condition, no other effects were found. Qualitative appraisal indicated that participants in the nature condition felt more relaxed and focused, however the technical issues were detrimental to the benefits. In conclusion one bout of virtual nature could support students with higher test anxiety when confronted with examinations.
Improving the lesion appearance on FLAIR images synthetized from quantitative MRI: a fast, hybrid approach
Authors: Xu Fei , Mandija Stefano , Kleinloog Jordi P. D. , Liu Hongyan , van der Heide Oscar , van der Kolk Anja G. , Dankbaar Jan Willem , van den Berg Cornelis A. T. , Sbrizzi Alessandro
Published: August 2024

Objective

The image quality of synthetized FLAIR (fluid attenuated inversion recovery) images is generally inferior to its conventional counterpart, especially regarding the lesion contrast mismatch. This work aimed to improve the lesion appearance through a hybrid methodology.

Materials and methods

We combined a full brain 5-min MR-STAT acquisition followed by FLAIR synthetization step with an ultra-under sampled conventional FLAIR sequence and performed the retrospective and prospective analysis of the proposed method on the patient datasets and a healthy volunteer.

Results

All performance metrics of the proposed hybrid FLAIR images on patient datasets were significantly higher than those of the physics-based FLAIR images (p < 0.005), and comparable to those of conventional FLAIR images. The small difference between prospective and retrospective analysis on a healthy volunteer demonstrated the validity of the retrospective analysis of the hybrid method as presented for the patient datasets.

Discussion

The proposed hybrid FLAIR achieved an improved lesion appearance in the clinical cases with neurological diseases compared to the physics-based FLAIR images, Future prospective work on patient data will address the validation of the method from a diagnostic perspective by radiological inspection of the new images over a larger patient cohort.
Cultivar fingerprinting and SNP-based pedigree reconstruction in Danish heritage apple cultivars utilizing genotypic data from multiple germplasm collections in the world
Authors: Larsen Bjarne , Howard Nicholas P. , Denancé Caroline , Durel Charles-Eric , Pedersen Carsten , Sätra Jonas Skytte af , Garkava-Gustavsson Larisa , Troggio Michela , van de Weg Eric
Published: August 2024

Heirloom Danish apple cultivars are historically and pomologically important, part of the cultural heritage, and have valuable adaptation to regional climate conditions. However, lack of information about their genetic identity and pedigree relatedness with other cultivars hampers proper cultivar identification, germplasm curation, genebank management, and future regional breeding efforts. Many Danish apple cultivars are maintained in the national collection “The Pometum”, maintaining around 850 apple accessions. Additional material is maintained in public or private Danish collections. However, no information exists regarding genotypic duplicates between these collections and germplasm collections in other countries, pedigree inferences across collections, and genotypically unique accessions at the genebank level.

To provide such information, 976 accessions from Denmark were genotyped with simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers and the Illumina Infinium 20K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array. The resulting genotypic data were compared to large databases of genotypic data from germplasm collections in multiple countries to identify genotypic duplicates and conduct pedigree reconstruction. The germplasm maintains 305 unique genotypic profiles which were not found in other germplasm collections. The study exposed previously unknown synonyms, accessions not true-to-type, and novel pedigree relationships involving accessions from multiple collection sites. The most frequent parents of Danish germplasm were ‘Hvid Vinter Pigeon’ and ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ whereas ‘Reinette Franche’ was the most common grandparent. The accession-level information will benefit germplasm curation, cultivar identification, genebank management, and future breeding efforts, and shed new light on cultivar history and origin.
Ground, Ceiling and Wall Effect Evaluation of Small Quadcopters in Pressure-controlled Environments
Authors: David Du Mutel de Pierrepont Franze Iris , Parin Riccardo , Capello Elisa , Rutherford Matthew J. , Valavanis Kimon P.
Published: August 2024

Multicopters are used for a wide range of applications that often involve approaching buildings or navigating enclosed spaces. Opposed to the open spaces in obstacle-free environments commonly flown by fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles, multicopters frequently fly close to surfaces and must take into account the airflow variations caused by airflow rebound. Such disturbances must be identified in order to design algorithms capable of compensating them. The evaluation of ground, ceiling and wall effects using two different test stands is proposed in this work. Different propellers and sensors have been considered for testing. The first test setup used was placed inside terraXcube’s large climatic chamber allowing a precise control of temperature and pressure of around 20°C and 1000 hPa, respectively. The second test setup is located at the University of Denver (DU) Unmanned Systems Research Institute (DU$$^2$$

2

SRI) laboratory with a stable pressure of around 800 hPa. Two different fixed 6 degrees of freedom force-torque sensors have been used for the experiments, allowing to sample forces and moments in three orthogonal axes. The tests simulate a hovering situation of a quadcopter at different distances to either the ground, the ceiling or a wall. The influence of the propeller size, rotation speed, pressure and temperature have also been considered and used for later dimensionless coefficient comparison. A thorough analysis of the measurement uncertainty is also included based on experimental evaluations and manufacturer information. Experimental data collected in these tests can be used for the definition of a mathematical model in which the effect of the proximity to the different surfaces is evaluated.
Social Anxiety is Related to Worse Recognition Memory of Angry Faces
Authors: Keith Ashley E. , Hamrick Hannah C. , Judah Matt R. , Zabelina Darya
Published: August 2024

Many studies have examined attention biases as a risk factor of social anxiety disorder (SAD). Fewer studies have examined biases in memory, and the results are discrepant. Because memory depends on attention, it is possible that memory biases depend on whether stimuli are attended, such as when they are task-relevant. The aim of the present study was to investigate how social anxiety is associated with biased recognition memory of threatening social stimuli. Participants (N = 159) completed a task in which a semi-transparent face and house spatially overlapped. Participants were cued to identify the gender of the face or whether the house had a deck. 50% of the faces expressed anger, and 50% were neutral. Participants then completed a surprise recognition memory test. Social anxiety was associated with worse recognition of angry faces, but not neutral faces, regardless of whether the trial required them to attend to the face or the house. The finding did not hold for a broader measure of anxiety. Additionally, recognition memory of neutral faces was worse when they were not task-relevant, regardless of social anxiety. The results suggest that reduced memory of angry facial expressions is associated with social anxiety. Support was not found for the dependence of this bias on attention.
Synthesis, thermal, and mechanical characterisation of metakaolin-based geopolymers coloured with grape marc extract
Authors: Pelosi Chiara , Pulidori Elena , D’Angelo Antonio , Tiné Maria Rosaria , Catauro Michelina
Published: August 2024

Over the years, several materials have been used for restoration purposes, with different types of dyes and colour hues. Recently, some researchers have proposed geopolymers (GPs) or amorphous aluminosilicate polymers for these purposes. In this work, an alcohol-based grape marc extract (GME, obtained via dark maceration assisted with ultrasound) was used as a natural dyeing agent for metakaolin-based GPs. The geopolymerisation occurrence was assessed by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis, while the colour of the resulting material was determined through the colorimetric analysis in the L*a*b* colour space. Additionally, the thermal stability of GME and GPs was investigated by thermogravimetry coupled with FT-IR spectroscopy. The microstructure, the reticulation stability, and the antimicrobial activity of GPs were examined through the scanning electron microscopy, the pH and ionic conductivity measurements, integrity, and mass loss tests. Overall, a coloured geopolymer with suitable thermal, antimicrobial, and mechanical properties was obtained, justifying its potential use in restoration or, more generally, in the construction field.

Graphical abstract
Is Marriage Associated With Decreases or Increases in Sexism?
Authors: Overall Nickola C. , Cross Emily. J. , Sibley Chris. G.
Published: August 2024

The current study examines whether a pivotal event central to gender relations—marriage—is associated with changes in sexism. Drawing upon a nationally representative study assessing sexist attitudes across 14 years, event-aligned piecewise latent growth models examined change in hostile and benevolent sexism (1) across the years prior to marriage, (2) within the year immediately post marriage, and (3) across the years following marriage (N = 1,615). Matching average trajectories established in prior research, hostile sexism and women’s benevolent sexism showed small declines across the years prior to marriage. Immediately post marriage, however, men’s hostile sexism and women’s hostile and benevolent sexism significantly increased from pre-marriage levels, before returning to declining trajectories across the following years. By contrast, men’s benevolent sexism was stable prior to marriage, did not change within the year immediately post marriage, but then significantly departed from the pre-marriage trajectory by declining across the years following marriage. These novel findings reveal that investigating meaningful life events provides new insight into the factors that may be associated with changes in sexism. The results also open new avenues to advance understanding of the relationship experiences and motivations that may reinforce and reduce sexist attitudes.
The Mediating Role of Perception of Society Between Income Inequality and Life Satisfaction. Insights from the European Social Survey
Authors: Koponen Samuli , Kouvo Antti
Published: August 2024

The mechanisms between inequality and well-being are not fully known. There is a body of knowledge assuming personal information on the social environment can be important here. In this article, we consider this perception of society (POS) as a mediator between income inequality and life satisfaction. Our research questions are: 1) How are various measures of income inequality associated with life satisfaction, and 2) does the POS mediate the effect of inequality on life satisfaction? The individual-level data come from the European Social Survey 2008 (N = 56,752) and the macro-level data from OECD and World Bank. We use a comprehensive and psychometrically valid measure of the POS to capture individuals' full societal perceptions. The data is analysed with a multilevel linear regression and the mediation effect is tested with a Sobel test. The results reveal significant differences between indicators of income inequality in their ability to predict life satisfaction. Moreover, POS is strongly associated with life satisfaction and mediates the association of income inequality on life satisfaction. In addition, we observed the so-called ‘saturation effect.’ The effect of POS depends on objective conditions—the better the society, the smaller the effect.