bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ensemble Learning Algorithms based on Road Accident Data Prediction
Authors: Reddy Gondi Konda , Vullam Nagagopi Raju , Sekhar G. Soma , Sundaragiri Dheeraj , Shaik Subhani
Published: February 2025

Road accidents are common nowadays due to traffic, and road conditions. It affected life threats to propel lives. So to follow instructions of specific road conditions and safe driving. All this information about accidents, to learn lessons from these incidents and implement novel strategies to avoid accidents under any conditions. Environmental factors also play a key role in road accidents even if drivers are carefully driving vehicles. In our research paper, we construct an accident prediction model using ensemble machine learning techniques. Due to this classification system to implement of safety measures and accident prediction. Different types of elements like weather, road conditions, lighting, and vehicle conditions are used to predict road accidents. Our dataset’s attributes are accidents, vehicles, and casualties. Our statistical results generate Logistic Regression, which gives the highest accuracy rate among all machine learning algorithms.
Intelligent Transportation System Using Multi Stream Feature
Authors: Thanusree Tulasi , Chaitanya Gunti Sai , Elizabeth Yama Ruth , Indrani V. , Prasanthi A.
Published: February 2025

Traffic flow prediction accuracy is very important for intelligent transportation systems (ITS). Many studies have proposed different methods for traffic flow prediction including ARIMA, ANN and SVM. With the development of deep learning technology, the evolutionary models of RNN such as LSTM (Long Short-Term Memory) and GRU (Gated Recurrent Units) models have been found to perform well in traffic flow prediction. This paper aims at investigating the use of the Random Forest Regressor Model, an ensemble learning algorithm, for improved and accurate traffic prediction. Random Forest algorithm is highly robust and is well suited for large datasets with many features, thus making it suitable for traffic forecasting. In this research, historical traffic data is used to train the model together with other variables such as traffic flow, weather and time. The Random Forest model performance is compared with the traditional prediction methods using Mean Squared Error. It shows that the Random Forest model is better than the conventional methods and can give better accurate forecasts of traffic flow and can be used in real time traffic management. It presents the actual and predicted vehicle count per hour.
Intelligent book recommendation system using ML techniques
Authors: P Bhagya Sri. , G Sindhu Sri. , K Jaya Sri. , V Leela Poojitha. , Sk Sajida Sultana.
Published: February 2025

The current research focuses on a recommendation system based on Decision Tree, Naive Bayes, Ridge Classifier, and Random Forest, using a new hybrid method combining Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN). The Decision Tree model reaches a good trade-off for precision, recall, and F1 metrics, acting as a benchmark. On the other hand, the hybrid model greatly surpasses the remaining ones in such a way that precision is as high as 89.35%, recall is 59.01%, and F1 is up to 71.30%, thus reinforcing the notion that it finds user preferences for recommendations more effectively. By combining collaborative filtering with similarity-based recommendations, the system can model user-item interaction and thus improve the quality of book recommendations. The above findings imply that the hybrid model holds good potential to deliver better recommendations in a more relevant and acceptable way, countering the implicit limitations of their single-algorithm counterparts and increasing user satisfaction.
Analysis and comparison of glass fibre reinforced gypsum panel (gfrg) with conventional methods using etabs
Authors: Pande Shreyas , Kawale Shraddha , Mandal Praveen Kumar , More Swati Jagannath
Published: February 2025

Glass Fiber Reinforced Gypsum (GFRG) panel, commonly known as Rapid Wall, represents a promising building material for both load-bearing and non-load-bearing wall panels. Recognized for its energy efficiency and eco-friendly attributes, GFRG panels offer a viable solution for the pressing demand for cost-effective, large-scale affordable housing. Additionally, they can serve as intermediate floor slabs or roof slabs when combined with Reinforced Concrete (RCC) as a composite material. In this study, a comparative analysis between GFRG and traditional building methods has been conducted. The incorporation of concrete infill and vertical reinforcement rods in the Rapid Wall panel enhances its vertical and lateral load capacities, facilitating faster construction processes and contributing to environmental preservation. Notably, the concrete infill, combined with vertical reinforcement rods, reinforces the panel's resistance to termites, heat, rot, corrosion, water, and fire, making it a superior alternative to conventional bricks or concrete blocks. The assessment of the models involves equivalent static analysis, focusing on parameters such as Story Drift, Story Moment, and Story Shear for both conventional and GFRG panel methods. The objective of this project is to propose a solution—Rapid Wall construction technology—that is not only cost-effective but also feasible for large-scale implementation within a short timeframe, ensuring enhanced safety compared to conventional methods. The potential applications of this technology extend to addressing the mass housing requirements in India and replacing outdated construction techniques and materials. By adopting Rapid Wall technology, substantial resources, including money, time, and materials such as sand and water, can be conserved. Furthermore, the implementation of this technology contributes to environmental sustainability, promoting a better and more sustainable built environment.
Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen’s Strasbourg Years (1872–1879): W.C. Röntgen – Two Decades before the Discovery of X-rays (with GPX Track “Röntgen in Strasbourg”)
Authors: Rabe Jan , Busch Uwe , Michels Marcel , Schlemmer Heinz-Peter
Published: February 2025

Two decades before his groundbreaking discovery of X-rays in 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen worked from 1872–1879 as an assistant, private lecturer, and finally associate professor at the University of Strasbourg, which was then part of the German Empire. This period was briefly interrupted in 1875/76 by Röntgen’s first professorship at the Agricultural Academy in Hohenheim.

Based on publications about W. C. Röntgen and research in a total of seven archives (Strasbourg, Hohenheim, Remscheid-Lennep, Würzburg), this work describes his professional career and private life during this period.

In addition to his workplaces, a total of seven places of residence were identified for this period, four of which are described for the first time. A GPX track leading past the Strasbourg addresses is available for download. Archival material documenting his career during this period has been compiled. All of Röntgen’s publications from this period are also listed. A detailed exchange of letters between Bertha Röntgen and a friend provides an insight into the Röntgen couple’s private life.

This early period in W. C. Röntgen’s career forms the basis for his successful career with three subsequent full professorships, including his discovery of X-rays in 1895.
Endovascular Treatment of Visceral Artery Aneurysms: Data Analysis of the DeGIR/DGNR Quality Management System
Authors: Weiss Daniel , Jannusch Kai , Wilms Lena Marie , Peters Helena Anne , Nadjiri Jonathan , Antoch Gerald , Ziayee Farid , Minko Peter
Published: February 2025

Visceral artery aneurysms (VAA) are rare, and data on their occurrence and treatment are often outdated or heterogeneous. The objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of features and interventional treatment options for VAA.

We analyzed demographic, procedural, and clinical data on VAA from 2018 to 2022 based on data derived from the German Society for Interventional Radiology and Minimally Invasive Therapy (DeGIR) registry regarding demographic details, aneurysm characteristics, treatment processes, and outcomes such as technical success, complication rates, and radiation exposure. Group comparisons between aneurysm locations and types were calculated as dependent variables as well as occurrence of incomplete embolization, complication rates, technical success, duration of intervention, and dose-area-product (DAP).

In total 647 patients were enrolled. The mean age was 66 years, with 68.5% male. The most affected arteries were splenic (27.5%) and renal (21.3%). True aneurysms were most common (56.7%). Technical success was 91.2%, while primary incomplete embolization occurred in 47.3%. Complications were observed in 4.8%, with a 0.2% mortality. Mean intervention duration was 67 min, mean fluoroscopic time was 36 min and mean DAP was 9560 cGycm2. There were no significant differences in primary incomplete embolization, complication rate, correct placement of embolization material, duration, and DAP based on aneurysm location. Aneurysm types showed a significant difference in incomplete embolization, with dissections having the highest rates and longest durations of intervention and highest DAP.

The analysis of DeGIR quality management data reveals consistently high technical success and low complication rates in endovascular treatment of VAA. Dissecting aneurysms exhibit the highest rates in incomplete embolization, requiring the longest interventions and increased radiation. Enhancing the DeGIR registry with follow-up features would benefit assessing VAA occlusion rates. The data provide a comprehensive nationwide overview of how interventional radiology can impact treatment strategy.
Veränderte neuronale Verarbeitung von oVEMPs bei Patienten mit Multiple Sklerose
Authors: Schulte-Göbel Lisa , Linxweiler Maximilian , Fassbender Klaus , Fousse Mathias , Walter Silke , Bozzato Alessandro , Schick Bernhard , Hecker Dietmar
Published: February 2025

Die Multiple Sklerose ist eine Erkrankung des zentralen Nervensystems, die sich in der gestörten Reizweiterleitung durch Schädigung der Myelinschicht widerspiegelt. Neben den visuell evozierten Potenzialen sind es immer mehr auch die vestibulär evozierten myogenen Potenziale (VEMPs), die zur Befundung mitbetrachtet werden. Aufgrund eines geringen Signal-Rausch-Abstandes werden üblicherweise einige 100 Reizantworten gemittelt, um aus diesen Kurven Amplitudenhöhe und Latenzen zu bestimmen. Dieses Verfahren filtert jedoch Informationen aus der Messung heraus, welche weitere Erkenntnisse über den Krankheitszustand liefern könnten.

16 junge Patienten mit MS und einem EDSS-Score von 1,4±0,6 wurden mit 92 gesunden Probanden gleichen Alters verglichen. Als Parameter wurden aus den taktil ausgelösten oVEMPs die n10-Amplitude, die n10-Latenz, das AR sowie 5 neue Parameter aus der neuen Analysemethode herangezogen.

Die n10-Amplitude gesamt sowie die n10-Amplitude links waren grenzwertig signifikant unterschiedlich. Demgegenüber waren die n10-Amplitude rechts und der LSD-Parameter nicht signifikant unterschiedlich. Alle n10-Latenzen und das AR sowie alle Parameter aus der neuen Analyse waren signifikant unterschiedlich zwischen den Gruppen.

Die vorliegende Studie bestätigt die zum einen schon bekannten Veränderungen in der Registrierung von oVEMPs bei Patienten mit MS gegenüber gesunden Probanden, und zum anderen haben die neuen Parameter das Potenzial, den aktuellen Krankheitszustand besser zu beschreiben und detaillierte Informationen über den aktuellen Zustand der Myelinisierung bzw. die Lokalisierung der pathophysiologischen Prozesse im ZNS zu geben.
Knee angle reproduction tests: influences of body orientation,
movement direction and limb dominance
Authors: Wieber Juliane , Preece Abigail , Rein Robert , Braunstein Bjoern
Published: February 2025

Applying joint position sense tests under different test conditions may introduce
reproduction error bias, which can result in different therapeutic consequences.
This study investigated the effects of body orientation, movement direction, and
limb dominance on the active knee angle reproduction error. Subjects underwent
active contralateral knee angle reproduction tests in a seated versus prone
position, from a starting point of knee flexion versus knee extension, and with
the dominant versus nondominant limb setting the target angle. The test order
was randomly determined for each subject. The primary outcome was the absolute
active knee angle reproduction error (°). The data of 54 healthy subjects
(mean±standard deviation, age: 26±5 years, height: 174±11 cm, body mass:
69.9±14.4 kg, and Tegner activity score: 5.8±1.9) showed that the reproduction
error was greater in the seated position than in the prone position. The use of
the dominant limb as the reference limb was associated with significantly
greater errors in the seated position, but not in the prone position. In
conclusion, directly comparing the results obtained in the prone and seated
positions is not recommended. However, the dominance of the reference limb might
be relevant when testing patients and comparing healthy and injured knees.
Reoperation following cesarean birth: an analysis of incidence, indications, and procedures using a national surgical database
Authors: Burns Luke Patrick , Triebwasser Jourdan E , Hong Christopher X.
Published: February 2025

Objective:
To determine the incidence of reoperation after uncomplicated cesarean birth, describe the types of procedures and indications for reoperation, and identify risk factors associated with reoperation using a national surgical database.
Study Design:
A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database, encompassing data from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2021. A total of 43,492 patients who underwent cesarean birth were included. Patients who underwent concurrent non-gynecologic procedures or hysterectomy were excluded. The primary outcomes measured were the incidence of unplanned reoperation within 30 days of cesarean birth, types of reoperative procedures, indications for reoperation, and associated risk factors. Statistical analyses included Student’s t-test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, Chi-squared test, and multivariable logistic regression.
Results:
Out of 43,492 cesarean deliveries, 397 (0.9%) required unplanned reoperation. Significant risk factors for reoperation included smoking (aOR 1.96, 95% CI 1.49-1.56), hypertension (aOR 1.83, 95% CI 1.27-2.62), bleeding disorders (aOR 2.11, 95% CI 1.15-3.89), ASA class > 3 (aOR 2.23, 95% CI 1.29-3.84), and concurrent myomectomy (aOR 4.39, 95% CI 1.06-18.2). The most common indications for reoperation were postpartum hemorrhage (47%), wound disruption or infection (18%), and hematoma or hemoperitoneum (14%). The most frequently performed reoperative procedures were exploratory laparotomy without hysterectomy (27%), uterine curettage (23%), and wound debridement or drainage (22%).
Conclusion:
Reoperation following cesarean birth is a relatively uncommon but significant event, occurring in 0.9% of cases. Key risk factors include smoking, hypertension, bleeding disorders, ASA class > 3, and concurrent myomectomy. This study provides comprehensive data on the clinical characteristics and indications for reoperation following cesarean birth in a diverse, multi-institutional U.S. cohort. The findings highlight the need for enhanced perioperative monitoring and targeted interventions for high-risk patients to improve maternal outcomes.
Homeopathic Management of Residual Paralysis as a Sequel to Bell's Palsy: Experience from Two Case Reports
Authors: Archana Archana , Gupta Ekta , Varanasi Roja
Published: February 2025

Bell's palsy is a peripheral facial nerve palsy of unknown etiology and is the most common cause of one-sided facial nerve palsy (70%). Although this condition is self-limiting, long-term effects are also reported. Reversibility of nerve function depends on the health of both the facial nerve (if intact) and the facial muscles. We present here two cases of Bell's palsy graded III and II on the House–Brackmann facial nerve grading system treated with individualized homeopathic medicine with substantial improvement. Homeopathic medicines Sepia and Lachesis were used to treat these cases in a personalized and tailored manner as per the homeopathic principles. Possible causal attribution of changes was assessed by the modified Naranjo criteria. The case report is valuable to the profession for providing evidence of the successful treatment of neurological disorders such as facial nerve palsy.
Percutaneous Transesophageal Gastrostomy
Authors: Hufnagle John , Fish Adam , Masi Athena , Lee Jessica
Published: February 2025

Gastrostomy tube placement is a well-established technique for providing long-term feeding or decompression to patients with dysphagia or the need for gastric venting. However, direct transabdominal access to the stomach is not feasible in some patients, such as those without a safe percutaneous route to the stomach, with conditions that may inhibit tract healing, and/or at high risk of peritonitis. For these patients, percutaneous transesophageal gastrostomy (PTEG) is a safe and effective technique for providing gastric access for enteral feeding or decompression. PTEG placement involves ultrasound-guided percutaneous access to the cervical esophagus using a fluid-filled balloon as a target. Since the peritoneum is not breached during PTEG placement, the risks of peritoneal spillage of enteric contents and intra-abdominal hemorrhage are avoided. However, placement requires a safe esophagostomy window and has contraindications and complications distinct from direct transabdominal access. Here, we describe the approach to patient workup and PTEG placement, present a few special situations that can be encountered, and discuss existing data regarding patient outcomes.
Primary Leiomyosarcoma of Bone: A Rare Case Series with Review of Literature
Authors: Goyal Jitin , Parihar Bineeta , Agarwal Nitin , Manna Sulagna , Sharma Anila , Puri Sunil Kumar
Published: February 2025

Leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is an uncommon malignant spindle cell neoplasm of smooth muscles, accounting approximately 7% of soft tissue sarcoma. Primary LMS involving bone is an exceptional entity with very few cases described in the literature. The clinical, imaging, and pathological findings were analyzed retrospectively in three confirmed cases of primary LMS of bone. Pain and swelling were the patients' clinical symptoms. On imaging, LMS was often described as a solitary ill-defined lytic lesion with cortical breach depicted on radiograph or computed tomography (CT) scan. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reveals a heterogeneous intermediate-hyperintense signal lesion on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) with postcontrast enhancement. Histopathology reveals spindle cells arranged in fascicles with nuclear atypia and smooth muscle actin (SMA) positivity on immunohistochemistry (IHC)—consistent with diagnosis of LMS. The patients underwent surgical gross total resection with curative intent, followed by adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy depending upon the stage and histological grade of LMS. On follow-up, the patients were disease free with no evidence of recurrence.
Testing Patterns and Prevalence of gBRCA Mutations among Women with Breast Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study
Authors: Ali S. Sana , Pinninti Rakesh , Kodandapani Susheela , M.V Kranthi Kumar , Tewani Rohan , A.Y Nirupama , Agiwal Varun , Naidu Chandra C.K. , Hariharan Nisha , Rajappa Senthil
Published: February 2025

Introduction Pathogenic germline mutations in BRCA (gBRCAm) genes can heighten the risk of breast cancer (BC) among carriers. Economic constraints and patient testing hesitancy challenge adherence to hereditary germline testing guidelines. As a result, clinicians prioritize hereditary BC screening based on patient willingness, affordability, and therapeutic benefit.

Objectives The objectives of the study were (1) to identify the pattern of hereditary cancer germline testing among women diagnosed with BC and (2) to determine the prevalence of gBRCAm among the women with BC who underwent hereditary cancer germline testing.

Materials and Methods A retrospective study was conducted at a cancer hospital between October 2023 and January 2024. We aimed to assess the germline testing patterns of physicians in our hospital by examining the clinical profile of patients with BC who underwent hereditary cancer multigene (30 gene panel) mutation testing using next-generation sequencing between January 2021 and December 2023. A simultaneous analysis was performed with a multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification to detect deletions and duplications in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The classification of the variants as pathogenic and variants of uncertain significance (VUS) was determined by the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guideline.

Results Of the 3,600 patients with BC during this study period, only 325 (9%) underwent germline testing. The testing patterns indicated that the median age of those tested was 48.4 years (standard deviation [SD]: 10.1; range: 20–77), 189 patients (58.2%) were younger than 50 years, and 103 patients (31.7%) had a family history of cancer. Family history of BC was reported in 95 (29.2%) patients. Bilateral BC was noted in 19 patients (5.8%), while ovarian cancer was reported in 9 (2.8%) patients. Triple-negative BC (TNBC), hormone receptor–positive BC, and HER2-positive BC were reported in 52, 42.8, and 17.2% patients, respectively. Pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) germline BRCA mutations were detected in 48 (14.7%) patients (BRCA1 in 29/325 [8.9%] patients and BRCA2 in 19/325 [5.8%] patients). The highest prevalence was seen among TNBC (36/169, 21.3%) patients. P/LP gBRCAm prevalence among those with and without notable family history was 27/103 (26.2%) and 21/222 (9.5%), respectively; age less than 50 years and greater than 51 years was noted in 32/189 patients (16.9%) and 16/136 (11.8%) patients, respectively. VUS was noted in 29 patients (BRCA1 in 4 patients [8.9%] and BRCA2 in 25 patients).

Conclusions Measures to ensure equitable access to genetic testing can improve testing rates and enhance patient outcomes through personalized care.
Optimizing Oncological Care in Patients with End-Stage Chronic Kidney Disease on Dialysis: Indian Scenario
Authors: Sreenath Nihanthy D. , Kushwaha Naveen Kumar , R. Kaushik M. , Govind Rajath
Published: February 2025

Background In India, around 55,000 patients are on dialysis, with a 10–20% annual increase. With the growing dialysis population in India, cancer risk among end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients is increasing. Managing chemotherapy in these patients is challenging due to limited data and guidelines, leading to treatment uncertainty.

Objectives This study provides real-world data from India on the clinical management and outcomes of cancer patients with ESRD undergoing dialysis while receiving chemotherapy.

Material and Methods This prospective study analyzed data from five cancer patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on hemodialysis prior to diagnosis of cancer treated at a tertiary oncology center in India. We analyzed the demographic details, cancer staging, treatment regimens, and dosage adjustments. Treatment modifications due to renal dysfunction, toxicities, and patient outcomes were also reviewed over a 12-month follow-up.

Results The cohort consisted of 80% (4/5 pts) females, with a median age of 57.8 years. Hypertensive and diabetic nephropathy were the leading causes of ESRD. Cancers included breast (3/5 pts), lung (1/5 pts), and ovarian (1/5 pts), with varying stages of diagnosis. 80% (4/5) of patients required tailored drug management. The Ovarian cancer patient experienced severe hypersensitivity to carboplatin, which was managed conservatively. No grade 3/4 immune-related adverse events occurred, and all patients were alive and disease-free at the one-year follow-up.

Conclusion Carefully tailored treatment strategies and a coordinated multidisciplinary approach allowed positive outcomes for cancer patients on dialysis, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches. These findings highlight the importance of refining treatment protocols for this complex group.
Diuretic Renography in a Sitting Position with F + 10(sp) Method for Diagnostic Management of Primary Megaureter in Adults
Authors: Tartaglione Girolamo , Ieria Francesco Pio , Bertolo Riccardo , Bove Pierluigi , Vittori Matteo
Published: February 2025

Objective Primary megaureter is a disease defined as the dilatation of the ureter caused by a congenital abnormality of the lower ureteral tract. Adult patients with primary megaureters typically present with no symptoms, making conservative management the preferred treatment. However, if an obstruction is present, we recommend ureteral reimplantation. The major diagnostic challenge is to distinguish which patients need surgical intervention. Ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging urogram findings of obstruction may be misleading because they are based on morphological aspects, and persistence of contrast in the upper urinary tract is not specific for obstruction. Renal scintigraphy is the key test for choosing surgical or conservative treatment; historically, the criterion for surgical treatment is the decrease of split renal function (SRF) less than 40%. Unfortunately, SRF might be only an indirect finding of obstruction; otherwise, the 20-minute/peak ratio may offer urologists an earlier, direct, and reliable index of urine outflow in monitoring ureteral flow. This study suggests that the F + 10(sitting position) test, which measures diuretic renography (DR) in a sitting position, is a new and useful way to find out how well primary megaureters are working for diagnosing and treating them. It focuses on the 20-minute/peak ratio that can be found when gravity is favorable.

Methods Twenty-eight adult patients (15 males, 13 females) affected by primary megaureter were retrospectively enrolled. Twenty-six patients had unilateral megaureter, and 2 patients had bilateral megaureter, for a total of 30 megaureters radiologically confirmed (16 left, 14 right). In total, we performed twenty-eight 99mTc-mercaptoacetyltriglycine DR in a sitting position using the F + 10 (sitting position) method. In our series, 17 patients received conservative treatment, and 11 patients underwent ureteral reimplantation.

Results Based on the 20-minute/peak ratio values, 17 out of 30 megaureters were diagnosed as obstructed. A discordance between SRF and 20-minute/peak ratio findings has been seen. No side effects were seen.

Conclusion A decrease in SRF is an indirect and late index of obstruction. Twenty-minute/peak ratio measured by DR in sitting position may improve the sensitivity and accuracy of the test for diagnosis of obstructive megaureters.
Reflections on 30 Years of Taking Care of Patients with Pelvic Floor Disorders
Authors: Hull Tracy L.
Published: February 2025

Over the past three decades care of patients with pelvic floor disorders has changed dramatically. Fecal incontinence surgery that initially was repair or encircling the anal sphincter now is treated as a first line with sacral nerve stimulation. Rectal prolapse surgery has benefited from minimally invasive approaches and an abdominal approach is considered even in older frail individuals. Medication for constipation has dramatically helped more patients avoid surgery. A multidisciplinary approach with surgeons operating during the same anesthesia on the middle/anterior pelvis and posterior pelvis is common. Evaluation of outcomes and patient-reported outcomes are the norm. We have come a long way toward care of this group of patients, but we still have huge steps to achieve to optimize care as we look toward the next 30 years.
Exploring the Effects of Ketofol and Etomidate on Cerebral Blood Flow and Oxygenation during Anesthesia Induction in Supratentorial Tumor Patients: A Randomized Double-Blind Study
Authors: Chakraborty Siddharth , Gupta Priyanka , Pathak Sharmishtha , Kaushal Ashutosh , Shekhar Shivam , Yadav Aditya R.
Published: February 2025

Objectives During anesthesia induction, fluctuations in systemic hemodynamic may also alter cerebral hemodynamic, especially in patients with intracranial tumors, as these patients might have impaired cerebral autoregulation. This study compared the effects of ketofol (a mixture of ketamine and propofol) and etomidate on cerebral blood flow, oxygenation, and systemic hemodynamics during anesthesia induction for craniotomy in patients with supratentorial tumors.

Materials and Methods This prospective, randomized, double-blind study included 50 patients aged 18 to 65 years, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classes I to II, undergoing elective craniotomy. Patients were assigned to receive either ketofol or etomidate for induction. Middle cerebral artery (right and left side) mean flow velocity (mFV) and pulsatility index (PI) were measured using transcranial Doppler, and cerebral oxygenation (rSO2%) of both hemispheres was measured using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) during the first 10 minutes (1, 3, 5, and 10 minutes) following anesthesia induction.

Statistics An independent sample “t” test and one-way analysis of variance was used for continuous data. Chi-squared test was used for categorical data. Linear correlation between two continuous variables was explored using Pearson's correlation (normally distributed data) and Spearman's correlation (non-normally distributed data). A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results Both groups showed a fall in mFV (cm/s) following induction, with a greater fall in the etomidate group (38.32 ± 2.54 vs. 28.88 ± 3.07; p = 0.001). In the etomidate group, mFV returned to baseline within 3 minutes and rose after laryngoscopy, while it remained below baseline in the ketofol group. rSO2 decreased immediately postinduction but was better preserved in the ketofol group. Mean arterial pressure and heart rate significantly increased during laryngoscopy in the etomidate group (p < 0.001).

Conclusion Ketofol provided more stable cerebral hemodynamics, cerebral oxygenation, and systemic parameters compared with etomidate during anesthesia induction in patients undergoing craniotomy for supratentorial tumors.
Populism in international relations: champion diplomacy
Authors: Eiran Ehud , Ish-Shalom Piki , Kornprobst Markus
Published: February 2025

This article examines how populism reconfigures diplomacy. We contend that populist leaders practice a new form of diplomacy, i.e., champion diplomacy, which poses significant problems for negotiating and implementing international agreements. Portraying themselves as championing the causes of the people in its supposed struggle against the elites, champion diplomats sideline career diplomats, use simple and often coarse language, and prefer direct public diplomatic encounters, often on social media, over more traditional diplomatic channels. This complicates getting to the negotiation table, makes it more difficult to come up with meaningful agreements, and causes problems for implementing them. Our empirical research of two cases, US nuclear diplomacy towards North Korea and the Abraham Accords between Israel as well as the United Arab Emirates, Bahrein, Morocco and Sudan provides strong evidence for our claims. Our findings have important implications for diplomacy and international order more generally. With populist practices increasingly diffusing in diplomatic conduct, even beyond non-populist leaders, concluding workable agreements among states becomes more and more difficult.
Visual storytelling through the void: a quantitative analysis of empty shot distribution across film genres
Authors: Song Yao , Li Weilin , Wang Zhongrui , Hu Yirong
Published: February 2025

Empty shots, serving as a distinctive cinematic technique, hold significant prominence within movie narratives, intricately shaping the visual interplay between shot duration and human presence. Despite studies demonstrating the application of empty shots in films, a dearth of quantitative analysis of empty shots across different genres exists, alongside a lack of accurate definitions and associated detection. This study introduces a novel approach that combines methods to define empty shots and assess their occurrence from 1905 to 2019 (N = 2464). The sample was selected based on the criterion of rating and popularity. Utilizing an advanced computer vision tool, empty shots were identified and examined for their distribution across film genres. Our findings reveal significant variations in empty shots among different movie genres. A three-tier classification system for genres was suggested, considering the proportions of empty shots and their roles in cinematic storytelling. By employing a viewer-centric framework and harnessing quantitative analysis, this study advances the definition of empty shots, and its empirical findings elucidate the diverse narrative functions of empty shots across various film genres, thereby enriching the scholarly discourse on the utilization of empty shots in the cinematic language.
Improving the efficiency of carbon dots luminescent solar concentrators
Authors: Ross Leigh Ann
Published: February 2025

Two changes yield an unprecedented absorption increase, leading to better photovoltaic systems
Aerodynamic interactions of birds revealed through fluid dynamics simulations
Authors: Ross Leigh Ann
Published: February 2025

Migrating birds may inspire new applications in biomimicry.
Dual-metal hybrid metasurface for liquid-tunable infrared polarization-selective perfect absorption
Authors: Dai Chenjie , Zhou Qianqian , Liu Tianyu , Chen Shanjun , Cheng Shubo , Xu Degao , Shui Tao , Yang Wen-xing
Published: February 2025

Nanostructure-based metasurfaces provide a promising route for arbitrarily manipulating light waves, especially versatile absorption. Although various meta-absorbers have been studied for perfect absorption, it remains a challenge to achieve high-contrast polarization-dependent absorption with dynamic tunability. Here, a dual-metal hybrid metasurface is demonstrated for polarization-selective perfect absorption and reflection with liquid tuning capabilities in the infrared band. Based on the metal–insulator–metal architecture, the metasurface composed of Al/Ti nanostrips enables an intense absorption resonance at x-polarization and reflects light as a mirror at y-polarization, thus acting as a high-performance linear polarizer. The absorption peak wavelength can be continuously tailored from 1200 to 1850 nm with an average absorption > 99% by scaling the unit-cell period of metasurfaces. Furthermore, the perfect absorption wavelength of the metasurface exhibits a large range switch (>750 nm) through immersion tuning, and its absorption remains above 99.5%. The proposed dual-metal hybrid metasurface for liquid-tunable absorption can promote practical technologies of dynamic polarizers, photodetectors, and optical imaging.
Hybrid-contact Schottky-barrier IGZO thin-film transistors with low barrier sensitivity and high stability
Authors: Li Yuzhi , Zou Shenghan , Cai Guangshuo , Lan Linfeng , Gong Zheng
Published: February 2025

In this work, we investigated the electrical characteristics of Schottky-barrier indium–gallium–zinc oxide (IGZO) thin-film transistors (SBTFTs) by simulation and experiment. The effects of barrier height and channel layer thickness on the electrical properties of hybrid-contact vs single-contact SBTFTs were systematically explored via simulation. The results showed that devices utilizing hybrid-contact architectures exhibit higher output currents and are much less sensitive to variations in barrier height compared to single-contact devices, implying that these devices can more easily achieve consistent electrical properties. Experimentally, hybrid-contact IGZO SBTFTs were fabricated using chemically stable cobalt (Co) as the source/drain electrodes. The devices, utilizing an optimized two-step annealing process, exhibited ultra-small hysteresis and excellent electrical stability under both negative bias illumination temperature stress and positive bias temperature stress. The underlying mechanism responsible for the suppressed hysteresis was thoroughly analyzed. This work opens up a feasible way toward fabricating low-cost metal-oxide SBTFTs with minimized barrier sensitivity and high stability.
Exploring atom-pairwise and many-body dispersion corrections for the BEEF-vdW functional
Authors: Keller Elisabeth , Blum Volker , Reuter Karsten , Margraf Johannes T.
Published: February 2025

The Bayesian error estimation functional (BEEF-vdW) is widely used in surface science and catalysis, because it provides a balanced description of molecular, surface, and solid state systems, along with reliable error estimates. However, the nonlocal van-der-Waals density functional (vdW-DF2) employed in BEEF-vdW can be computationally costly and displays relatively low accuracy for molecular systems. Therefore, this work explores whether atom-pairwise and many-body dispersion treatments represent viable alternatives to using the vdW-DF2 functional with BEEF-vdW. To this end, we investigate the performance of commonly used atom-pairwise corrections [i.e., the Tkatchenko–Scheffler (TS) and the exchange-hole dipole moment (XDM) approaches] and many-body dispersion (MBD) treatments for molecular, surface, and solid-state systems. The results indicate that atom-pairwise methods such as TS and particularly XDM provide a good balance of cost and accuracy across all systems.
Cutoff frequency increase of gate recessed AlGaN/GaN MISHFETs with amorphous AlN insulator
Authors: Kordoš Peter , Gregušová Dagmar , Mikulics Martin , Hardtdegen Hilde Helen
Published: February 2025

The RF performance of gate recessed MISHFET devices with an amorphous AlN layer was investigated by small-signal (S-parameter) measurements. They reveal current gain and unilateral power gain cutoff frequencies of 125 and 138 GHz, respectively. These device parameters were achieved for gate recessed MISHFET devices after applying a selective “step by step” etching T-gate formation procedure. The results indicate that the combination of an amorphous AlN dielectric layer with the gate recessed AlGaN/GaN MISHFET structures affects the RF performance in devices prepared for high frequency operation advantageously.
Hydrodynamic characteristics of a floating vegetated platform exposed to regular waves
Authors: Li Jiahao , Yin Zegao , Wang Yanxu
Published: February 2025

This study proposes a breakwater consisting of a floating vegetated platform (FVP) for environmentally friendly protection of coastal areas. A series of laboratory experiments and a two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics numerical model were used to examine the hydrodynamic characteristics of an FVP under regular waves, where the platform was simulated as a rigid body, and the vegetation was simulated as porous media. The results indicate that, with increasing wave steepness, the wave reflection and transmission coefficients decrease, as do the surge, heave, and pitch response amplitude operators of the FVP. However, the wave energy dissipation coefficient and the dimensionless maximum sea-side and lee-side mooring-line forces increase. The fitted wave transmission coefficient and the dimensionless maximum sea-side and lee-side mooring-line forces decrease with increasing relative FVP length, as do the surge, heave, and pitch response amplitude operators. However, the wave energy dissipation coefficient increases. In addition, the genetic programing method used to derive the empirical formulas for predicting the hydrodynamic coefficients of FVP is verified by experimental or numerical results.
Strain-engineering the lattice thermal conductivity of 2D kagome silica
Authors: Wang Yang , Wang Xiaoying , Hao Yuzhou , Li Xuejie , Liu Yujie , Sun Jun , Ding Xiangdong , Gao Zhibin
Published: February 2025

Two-dimensional (2D) materials exhibit a significant potential for thermal management and thermoelectric energy generation due to their unique electrical and thermal transport properties that enhance performance. Their notable stretchability indicates the feasibility of employing strain engineering to optimize both electronic and thermal properties. In this study, we apply first-principles computational methods and the Boltzmann transport equation to explore the impact of strain and higher-order anharmonicity from four-phonon (4ph) scattering on the thermal conductivity (κL) of 2D silica. Our results indicate that under a small strain of 3%, κL increases due to the decrease in the phonon scattering rate and phonon phase space. However, under larger strains (8%), κL decreases significantly due to an increased phonon–phonon scattering rates. These findings provide deeper insights into the thermal transport behavior of 2D silica, paving the way for future research in strain and phonon engineering in 2D materials.
Development of a Hermite-like weighted compact nonlinear scheme based on the two-stage fourth-order temporal accurate framework
Authors: Xie Weihao , He Zhiwei , Wang GuangXue , Zhang Huaibao
Published: February 2025

We develop in this work a fifth-order Hermite-like weighted compact nonlinear scheme (HL-WCNS) within the framework of a two-stage fourth-order Lax–Wendroff type time discretization [Li and Du, “A two-stage fourth order time-accurate discretization for Lax–Wendroff type flow solvers I. Hyperbolic conservation laws,” SIAM J. Sci. Comput. 38, A3046–A3069 (2016)] based on the generalized Riemann problem (GRP) solver for hyperbolic conservation laws in this paper. While in the conventional WCNS, only the nodal values are solved, the HL-WCNS also evolves the midpoint values using a two-stage fourth-order temporal accurate scheme. The midpoint flow variables and the nodal values are obtained using the information particularly provided by the GRP solver. The obtained midpoint values approximate the first derivatives at the nodes. Then, a high-order nonlinear interpolation is proposed using the nodal values and their derivatives over a more compact stencil. There is no additional effort to compute the first derivative of the flow variable as in the standard Hermite weighted essentially nonoscillatory (WENO) schemes or discontinuous Galerkin (DG) approach. An efficient limiting technique to enforce the positivity-preserving property is proposed in conjunction with the proposed scheme, specifically designed to address strong discontinuities. Owing to its compact stencils in space and time, this new scheme has been demonstrated with high numerical resolution through benchmark test cases.
Synthesis of water-soluble and stable carbon quantum dot nanofluid mediated by Scenedesmus extract for enhanced crude oil recovery
Authors: Liu Yulong , Li Mei , Lu Xiaobin , Yu Jiuzheng , Zhang Zizhi , She Yuehui , Zhang Fan
Published: February 2025

Under the background of ecological civilization construction in the new era of “carbon neutrality and carbon peaking,” there is an urgent need to develop more efficient and environmentally friendly methods to address the challenges posed by traditional enhanced crude oil recovery (EOR) technologies. Scenedesmus was cultured in the laboratory, with its main components—pigments, proteins, and lipids—utilized as modifiers and dispersants for carbon quantum dots (C-Dots). The resulting bio-nanofluid exhibits excellent water solubility and stability, with a particle size of less than 10 nm. The EOR mechanisms of the bio-nanofluid are as follows: Altering wettability and reducing the adsorption capacity of oil and water on the surface of quartz sheets. Inhibiting asphaltene deposition through adsorption and dispersion. Demonstrating a remarkable macroscale oil-washing effect, achieving an efficiency of 99.47%, coupled with self-cleaning properties. At the microscale, the bio-nanofluid penetrates oil droplets, breaking them into numerous fine oil particles. Core displacement experiments further validate the bio-nanofluid's efficacy, showing significant oil displacement capability. At an optimal concentration of 500 ppm, the EOR performance in low-permeability cores reaches 18.37%. The integration of bio-nanotechnology into oilfield applications, while balancing “economic benefits” with “sustainable development” objectives, presents a promising avenue for future development.
Cavitation evolution and radiation noise of a pre-swirl pump-jet propulsor in oblique flow
Authors: Zheng Sijie , Huang Qiaogao , Li Han , He Xing , Li Xinming , Lu Bo , Zhou Li
Published: February 2025

During the submarine's surfacing process, the rotor of the pump-jet propulsor (PJP) is subjected to nonuniform hydrodynamic loads and cavitation, inducing cavitation-induced noise. In this paper, the hybrid Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes/Large Eddy Simulation method, the Schnerr–Sauer model and Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings equations are adopted to explore the hydrodynamics, excitation force, radiation noise, cavitation evolution of the PJP with different cavitation numbers σn and oblique angles θ. The results show that when the σn decreases from 1.5 to 1.0, the rapid development of cavitation causes the hydrodynamic performance of the PJP to deteriorate rapidly, and the total thrust coefficient KT decreases by 28.5%. The influence of σn on the excitation force is less than that of the θ. When θ equals 0 deg, its excitation force is approximately 1.5 times that when θ is 6 deg. As θ increases from 6 deg to 24 deg, the excitation force increases rapidly, and the excitation force of KT increases by 4 times. The contribution of the excitation force to noise is reflected below 300 Hz, while the noise in the range of 300–5000 Hz is caused by cavitation. When θ is equal to 0 deg, the spatial distribution of cavitation is relatively uniform, the cavitation volume change rate is the fastest, and the collapse frequencies are almost the same. The cavitation-induced noises are superimposed on each other, and its total sound pressure level is nearly 7 dB higher than that when θ is 6 deg. This research provides a theoretical basis for the anticavitation and low-noise design of the PJPs.
Enterobacter hormaechei
replaces virulence with carbapenem resistance via porin loss
Authors: Perault Andrew I. , John Amelia St. , DuMont Ashley L. , Shopsin Bo , Pironti Alejandro , Torres Victor J.
Published: February 2025

Pathogenic
Enterobacter
species are of increasing clinical concern due to the multidrug-resistant nature of these bacteria, including resistance to carbapenem antibiotics. Our understanding of
Enterobacter
virulence is limited, hindering the development of new prophylactics and therapeutics targeting infections caused by
Enterobacter
species. In this study, we assessed the virulence of contemporary clinical
Enterobacter hormaechei
isolates in a mouse model of intraperitoneal infection and used comparative genomics to identify genes promoting virulence. Through mutagenesis and complementation studies, we found two porin-encoding genes,
ompC
and
ompD
, to be required for
E. hormaechei
virulence. These porins imported clinically relevant carbapenems into the bacteria, and thus loss of OmpC and OmpD desensitized
E. hormaechei
to the antibiotics. Our genomic analyses suggest porin-related genes are frequently mutated in
E. hormaechei
, perhaps due to the selective pressure of antibiotic therapy during infection. Despite the importance of OmpC and OmpD during infection of immunocompetent hosts, we found the two porins to be dispensable for virulence in a neutropenic mouse model. Moreover, porin loss provided a fitness advantage during carbapenem treatment in an ex vivo human whole blood model of bacteremia. Our data provide experimental evidence of pathogenic
Enterobacter
species gaining antibiotic resistance via loss of porins and argue antibiotic therapy during infection of immunocompromised patients is a conducive environment for the selection of porin mutations enhancing the multidrug-resistant profile of these pathogens.