bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial Distribution and Influencing Factors of Traditional Villages in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
Authors: Li Donghao , Gao Xinchun , Lv Siyang , Zhao Wanwan , Yuan Meng , Li Pengtao
Published: November 2023

This paper takes 207 traditional villages in Inner Mongolia as the research object and uses the ArcGIS10.7 software platform, using the nearest neighbor index, coefficient of variation analysis, spatial autocorrelation analysis, imbalance index, kernel density estimation method, geographical detector, and other methods to explore the spatial distribution characteristics and influencing factors of traditional villages in Inner Mongolia. The research shows that: (1) the spatial distribution of traditional villages in Inner Mongolia is condensed; the distribution of cities is uneven; and the overall distribution pattern of ‘two main and two vice’ is presented. (2) The traditional villages are mainly distributed in the altitude area of 500–1500 m, and their spatial distribution characteristics are positively correlated with the annual average temperature, annual precipitation, total population, the proportion of the primary industry, and the number of intangible cultural heritage, and negatively correlated with the slope, river distance, highway density, per capita GDP, urbanization, and the proportion of the secondary industry. (3) The results of GeoDetector2018 software show that socio-economic factors are the primary factors affecting the spatial distribution of traditional villages in Inner Mongolia, followed by natural geographical factors. The interaction and synergy between the influencing factors have increased significantly, which jointly affects the spatial pattern of the distribution of traditional villages in Inner Mongolia. The purpose of the study is to provide reference for the protection and development of traditional villages in Inner Mongolia and the implementation of the national rural revitalization strategy.
An Experimental Comparison of Airborne Sound Insulation between Dovetail Massive Wooden Board and Cross-Laminated Timber Elements
Authors: Ilgın Hüseyin Emre , Lietzén Jesse , Karjalainen Markku
Published: November 2023

Adhesives and metallic fasteners play a pivotal role in the domain of engineered wood products (EWPs). Nevertheless, owing to their origins in petroleum, adhesives can pose environmental hazards, whereas metal fasteners can complicate end-of-life disposal and reusability. Nonetheless, a resolution emerges in the form of dovetail massive wooden board elements (DMWBEs), characterized by their pure wood composition and absence of adhesive metal connections. The existing literature pertaining to DMWBEs has predominantly focused on inadequate structural analysis and model testing of connection specifics rather than appraising the efficacy of a structural member, such as a floor slab. This article presents a comparative analysis between a DMWBE and a correspondingly sized cross-laminated timber (CLT) panel, focusing on their respective airborne sound insulation capabilities. Experimental samples of model scale with dimensions of 200 mm thickness, 1160 mm width, and 1190 mm length were employed for both CLT and DMWBE. The evaluation of airborne sound insulation performance was conducted in accordance with ISO 10140-2 standards. The findings underscored the superior performance of DMWBE (Rw = 43 dB) in contrast to CLT (Rw = 40 dB) concerning airborne sound insulation efficacy. Additionally, the damping of the panel increased due to the different composition of the DMWBE, as evidenced by a higher measured total loss factor (TLF) compared with CLT.
Optimizing Cement Asphalt Mortar Mixtures for Bridge Expansion Joints in Tropical Climates: Performance and Durability Assessment
Authors: Kim Kyungnam , Kim Yeong-Min , Le Tri Ho Minh
Published: November 2023

In this study, the suitability of various Cement Asphalt Mortar (CAM) mixtures for bridge expansion joint applications in tropical climates was quantitatively assessed. A comprehensive analysis encompassed key properties, including mixing stability, flowability, unconfined compressive strength, expansion characteristics, and resistance to acidic and alkali environments. The influence of high-temperature exposure on unconfined compressive strength and the microstructural features were also examined. The results revealed a discernible trend: lower cement content, in conjunction with anionic Asphalt Emulsion (AE) or epoxy resin, significantly enhanced mixing stability and flowability while contributing to improved unconfined compressive strength and chemical degradation resistance. Notably, epoxy resin emerged as a valuable component in mitigating high-temperature-induced strength reduction, indicating potential promise for CAM mixture design. SEM analysis visually supported these findings by highlighting the microstructural distinctions among CAM mixtures. Quantitatively, the findings indicated that CAM mixtures with a 25% cement content and 75% anionic AE exhibited an 11% improvement in mixing stability, along with a 13% enhancement in flowability, relative to the control mixture with 100% cement. Additionally, CAM mixtures incorporating epoxy resin (at various percentages) with anionic AE exhibited a significant 15% resistance to high-temperature-induced UCS reduction, surpassing other mixtures. The SEM micrographs visually confirmed the superior microstructural connectivity achieved with epoxy resin, further validating the observed enhancements. These quantitative results offer a robust foundation for tailoring CAM mixture compositions to optimize their suitability for rigorous infrastructure projects in tropical climates.
Ontology-Based Semantic Construction Image Interpretation
Authors: Zheng Yuan , Khalid Masood Mustafa , Seppänen Olli , Törmä Seppo , Aikala Antti
Published: November 2023

Image-based techniques have become integral to the construction sector, aiding in project planning, progress monitoring, quality control, and documentation. In this paper, we address two key challenges that limit our ability to fully exploit the potential of images. The first is the “semantic gap” between low-level image features and high-level semantic descriptions. The second is the lack of principled integration between images and other digital systems used in construction, such as construction schedules and building information modeling (BIM). These challenges make it difficult to effectively incorporate images into digital twins of construction (DTC), a critical concept that addresses the construction industry’s need for more efficient project management and decision-making. To address these challenges, we first propose an ontology-based construction image interpretation (CII) framework to formalize the interpretation and integration workflow. Then, the DiCon-SII ontology is developed to provide a formalized vocabulary for visual construction contents and features. DiCon-SII also acts as a bridge between images and other digital systems to help construct an image-involved DTC. To evaluate the practical application of DiCon-SII and CII in supporting construction management tasks and as a precursor to DTC, we conducted a case study involving drywall installation. Via this case study, we demonstrate how the proposed methods can be used to infer the operational stage of a construction process, estimate labor productivity, and retrieve specific images based on user queries.
Business Renaissance: Opportunities and Challenges at the Dawn of the Quantum Computing Era
Authors: How Meng-Leong , Cheah Sin-Mei
Published: November 2023

Quantum computing is emerging as a groundbreaking force, promising to redefine the boundaries of technology and business. This paper provides an in-depth examination of the quantum realm, beginning with its fundamental principles and extending to its implications for today’s industries. We discuss how quantum algorithms threaten existing cryptographic measures while also uncovering vast opportunities in sectors like finance, healthcare, and logistics. The narrative then shifts to the evolution of new business models, exemplified by Quantum-as-a-Service (QaaS) and enhanced AI capabilities. Alongside the myriad opportunities, we address the challenges and ethical concerns surrounding the swift rise of quantum technologies. By emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts among businesses, policymakers, and technologists, the article advocates for a balanced and responsible approach to quantum adoption. Through this analytical lens, the article paints a comprehensive picture of the impending quantum era, presenting both its transformative potential and the complexities it brings to our interconnected world.
Rectum and Bladder Toxicity in Postoperative Prostate Bed Irradiation: Dose–Volume Parameters Analysis
Authors: Hasterok Maja , Szołtysik Monika , Nowicka Zuzanna , Goc Bartłomiej , Gräupner Donata , Majewski Wojciech , Rasławski Konrad , Rajwa Paweł , Jabłońska Iwona , Magrowski Łukasz , Przydacz Mikołaj , Krajewski Wojciech , Masri Oliwia , Miszczyk Marcin
Published: November 2023

Although prostate cancer treatment is increasingly effective, its toxicities pose a major concern. The aim of our study was to assess the rate of adverse events (AEs) and the prognostic value of dose–volume histogram (DVH) parameters for the occurrence of treatment toxicity in patients treated with post-prostatectomy prostate bed radiotherapy (RT). The AEs were scored according to the CTCAE v.5.0. The rectum and bladder were contoured according to the RTOG Guidelines. The DVH parameters were assessed using data exported from the ECLIPSE treatment-planning system. Genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity were analysed using consecutive dose thresholds for the percentage of an organ at risk (OAR) receiving a given dose and the QUANTEC dose constraints. A total of 213 patients were included in the final analysis. Acute grade 2 or higher (≥G2) GU AEs occurred in 18.7% and late in 21.3% of patients. Acute ≥G2 GI toxicity occurred in 11.7% and late ≥G2 in 11.2% of the patients. Five patients experienced grade 4 AEs. The most common adverse effects were diarrhoea, proctitis, cystitis, and dysuria. The most significant predictors of acute ≥G2 GI toxicity were rectum V47 and V46 (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001) and rectum wall V46 (p = 0.001), whereas the most significant predictors of late ≥G2 GI AEs were rectum wall V47 and V48 (p = 0.019 and p = 0.021). None of the bladder or bladder wall parameters was significantly associated with the risk of acute toxicity. The minimum doses to bladder wall (p = 0.004) and bladder (p = 0.005) were the most significant predictors of late ≥G2 GU toxicity. Postoperative radiotherapy is associated with a clinically relevant risk of AEs, which is associated with DVH parameters, and remains even in patients who fulfil commonly accepted dose constraints. Considering the lack of survival benefit of postoperative adjuvant RT, our results support delaying treatment through an early salvage approach to avoid or defer toxicity.
Single-Stage Immediate Breast Reconstruction with Acellular Dermal Matrix after Breast Cancer: Comparative Study and Evaluation of Breast Reconstruction Outcomes
Authors: Dueñas-Rodríguez Basilio , Navarro-Cecilia Joaquín , Luque-López Carolina , Sánchez-Andujar Belén , Garcelán-Trigo Juan Arsenio , Ramírez-Expósito María Jesús , Martínez-Martos José Manuel
Published: November 2023

We evaluate postoperative complications, aesthetic results and satisfaction outcomes in patients with breast cancer after intervening with a skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomy with an immediate prosthetic reconstruction with or without a biological mesh. Patients with multifocal breast cancer, ductal carcinoma in situ with an indication for a mastectomy and cT2 tumors with no response to primary systemic treatment were included, whereas patients aged >75 years, with inflammatory carcinoma, and severe circulatory disorders were excluded. Patients in the control group were reconstructed using a prosthesis, whereas the study group included patients reconstructed using a prosthesis and biological acellular porcine dermal mesh (Strattice™). In both groups, the result was assessed using the BREAST-Q instrument. A total of 51 patients (62 intervened breasts) were included in the study group and 38 patients (41 intervened breasts) in the control group. Implant loss and removal occurred in three patients in the study group (5.9%) and nine patients in the control group (24.3%; p = 0.030). Infections appeared in three patients in the study group (4.8%) and three patients in the control group (7.3%; p = 1.00). Skin necrosis appeared in 5 patients in the study group (12.2%) and 11 patients in the control group (21.6%; p = 0.367). Seroma appeared in five patients in the study group (12.2%) and five patients in the control group (8.1%; p = 0.514). The BREAST-Q questionnaire is a comparison between both groups regarding “satisfaction with breasts after surgery” (p = 0.026), “sexual well-being after intervention” (p = 0.010) and “satisfaction with the information received” (p = 0.049). We have noted a statistically significant decrease in implant loss in women receiving an implant with a biological mesh. A higher satisfaction was observed in patients reconstructed using Strattice™, with statistically significant differences in three items.
An Approach towards the Conversion of Biomass Feedstocks into Biofuel Using a Zeolite Socony Mobil-5-Based Catalysts via the Hydrothermal Liquefaction Process: A Review
Authors: Jideani Thandiswa , Chukwuchendo Emmanuel , Khotseng Lindiwe
Published: November 2023

The conversion of biomass to biofuels as a renewable energy source is continuously gaining momentum due to the environmental concerns associated with using fossil fuels. Biomass is a cost-effective, long-term natural resource that may be converted to biofuels such as biodiesel, biogas, bio-oil, and biohydrogen using a variety of chemical, thermal, and biological methods. Thermochemical processes are one of the most advanced biomass conversion methods, with much potential and room for improvement. Among various thermochemical processes, hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) is a promising technology that can convert higher water-content feedstocks into biofuel with significantly lower oxygen content and higher calorific value without requiring the biomass to be dried first. In HTL, temperature, pressure, residence time, catalyst, and solvent all play a vital role in bio-oil quality. This study provides a comprehensive review of the research and development on the effects of catalysts and the need to optimise existing catalysts for optimum biomass conversion into high-value bio-oil and other products. The catalyst of interest is ZSM-5, a heterogenous catalyst that has been seen to increase the hydrocarbon content and decrease oxygenated compounds and other unwanted by-products. The use and modification of this catalyst will play a vital role in generating renewable and carbon-neutral fuels.
Immunological Misfiring and Sex Differences/Similarities in Early COVID-19 Studies: Missed Opportunities of Making a Real IMPACT
Authors: Bhargava Aditi , Knapp Johannes D.
Published: November 2023

COVID-19-associated intensive care unit (ICU) admissions were recognized as critical health issues that contributed to morbidity and mortality in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients. Severe symptoms in COVID-19 patients are often accompanied by cytokine release syndrome. Here, we analyzed publicly available data from the Yale IMPACT cohort to address immunological misfiring and sex differences in early COVID-19 patients. In 2020, SARS-CoV-2 was considered far more pathogenic and lethal than other circulating respiratory viruses, and the inclusion of SARS-CoV-2 negative patients in IMPACT cohorts confounds many findings. We ascertained the impact of several important biological variables such as days from symptom onset (DFSO); pre-existing risk factors, including obesity; and early COVID-19 treatments on significantly changed immunological measures in ICU-admitted COVID-19 patients that survived versus those that did not. Deceased patients had 19 unique measures that were not shared with ICU patients including increased granzyme-B-producing GzB+CD8+ T cells and interferon-γ. Male COVID-19 patients in ICU experienced many more changes in immunological and clinical measures than female ICU patients (25% vs. ~16%, respectively). A total of 13/124 measures including CCL5, CCL17, IL-18, IFNα2, Fractalkine, classical monocytes, T cells, and CD4Temra exhibited significant sex differences in female vs. male COVID-19 patients. A total of nine measures including IL-21, CCL5, and CD4Temra differed significantly between female and male healthy controls. Immunosuppressed patients experienced the most decreases in CD4Temra and CD8Tem cell numbers. None of the early COVID-19 treatments were effective in reducing levels of IL-6, a major component of the cytokine storm. Obesity (BMI >30) was the most impactful risk factor for COVID-19-related deaths and worst clinical outcomes. Our analysis highlights the contribution of biological sex, risk factors, and early treatments with respect to COVID-19-related ICU admission and progression to morbidity and mortality.
The Anti-Cancer Activity of the Naturally Occurring Dipeptide Carnosine: Potential for Breast Cancer
Authors: Maugeri Salvatore , Sibbitts Jay , Privitera Anna , Cardaci Vincenzo , Di Pietro Lucia , Leggio Loredana , Iraci Nunzio , Lunte Susan M. , Caruso Giuseppe
Published: November 2023

Carnosine is an endogenous dipeptide composed of β-alanine and L-histidine, possessing a multimodal pharmacodynamic profile that includes anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities. Carnosine has also shown its ability to modulate cell proliferation, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and even glycolytic energy metabolism, all processes playing a key role in the context of cancer. Cancer is one of the most dreaded diseases of the 20th and 21st centuries. Among the different types of cancer, breast cancer represents the most common non-skin cancer among women, accounting for an estimated 15% of all cancer-related deaths in women. The main aim of the present review was to provide an overview of studies on the anti-cancer activity of carnosine, and in particular its activity against breast cancer. We also highlighted the possible advantages and limitations involved in the use of this dipeptide. The first part of the review entailed a brief description of carnosine’s biological activities and the pathophysiology of cancer, with a focus on breast cancer. The second part of the review described the anti-tumoral activity of carnosine, for which numerous studies have been carried out, especially at the preclinical level, showing promising results. However, only a few studies have investigated the therapeutic potential of this dipeptide for breast cancer prevention or treatment. In this context, carnosine has shown to be able to decrease the size of cancer cells and their viability. It also reduces the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), cyclin D1, NAD+, and ATP, as well as cytochrome c oxidase activity in vitro. When tested in mice with induced breast cancer, carnosine proved to be non-toxic to healthy cells and exhibited chemopreventive activity by reducing tumor growth. Some evidence has also been reported at the clinical level. A randomized phase III prospective placebo-controlled trial showed the ability of Zn–carnosine to prevent dysphagia in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy. Despite this evidence, more preclinical and clinical studies are needed to better understand carnosine’s anti-tumoral activity, especially in the context of breast cancer.
Reporter Gene-Based qRT-PCR Assay for Rho-Dependent Termination In Vivo
Authors: N Monford Paul Abishek , Jeon Heungjin , Wang Xun , Lim Heon M.
Published: November 2023

In bacteria, the Rho protein mediates Rho-dependent termination (RDT) by identifying a non-specific cytosine-rich Rho utilization site on the newly synthesized RNA. As a result of RDT, downstream RNA transcription is reduced. Due to the bias in reverse transcription and PCR amplification, we could not identify the RDT site by directly measuring the amount of mRNA upstream and downstream of RDT sites. To overcome this difficulty, we employed a 77 bp reporter gene argX, (coding tRNAarg) from Brevibacterium albidum, and we transcriptionally fused it to the sequences to be assayed. We constructed a series of plasmids by combining a segment of the galactose (gal) operon sequences, both with and without the RDT regions at the ends of cistrons (galE, galT, and galM) upstream of argX. The RNA polymerase will transcribe the gal operon sequence and argX unless it encounters the RDT encoded by the inserted sequence. Since the quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) method detects the steady state following mRNA synthesis and degradation, we observed that tRNAarg is degraded at the same rate in these transcriptional fusion plasmids. Therefore, the amount of tRNAarg can directly reflect the mRNA synthesis. Using this approach, we were able to effectively assay the RDTs and Rho-independent termination (RIT) in the gal operon by quantifying the relative amount of tRNAarg using qRT-PCR analyses. The resultant RDT% for galET, galTK, and at the end of galM were 36, 26, and 63, individually. The resultant RIT% at the end of the gal operon is 33%. Our findings demonstrate that combining tRNAarg with qRT-PCR can directly measure RIT, RDT, or any other signal that attenuates transcription efficiencies in vivo, making it a useful tool for gene expression research.
Ceramic Filters for the Efficient Removal of Azo Dyes and Pathogens in Water
Authors: Oaikhena Marvellous , Oluwalana-Sanusi Abimbola E. , Mokoena Puseletso P. , Mabuba Nonhlangabezo , Tshabalala Themba , Chaukura Nhamo
Published: November 2023

Overcoming the scarcity of safe and sustainable drinking water, particularly in low-income countries, is one of the key challenges of the 21st century. In these countries, the cost of centralized water treatment facilities is prohibitive. This work examines the application of low-cost ceramic filters as point-of-use (POU) devices for the removal of methylene blue, o-toluidine blue, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus typhi from contaminated water. The ceramic filters had typical kaolinite functional groups, making them suitable for the removal of dyes and pathogens. Surface charge measurements indicated strongly anionic filters, while thermal properties confirmed the carbonization of the biowaste additive leaving behind a porous kaolinite structure which subsequently dehydroxylated into meta kaolinite. In addition, morphological data showed heterogeneous filter surfaces. Increased biomass content improved the permeability, water adsorption, flow rate, and apparent porosity of the filter. The ceramic filter removed methylene blue (42.99–59.74%), o-toluidine (79.95–92.71%), Staphylococcus aureus (98–100%), and Staphylococcus typhi (75–100%). Overall, the study demonstrated the effectiveness of POU ceramic filters in removing organic pollutants in contaminated water while serving as disinfectants.
Investigation of the Al-Mo-B(CN) Coatings Deposited Using Magnetron Sputtering of Al-Mo-B4C Target Produced by Detonation Spray Coating
Authors: Zaitsev Sergey Viktorovich , Sirota Viacheslav , Kovaleva Marina , Prokhorenkov Dmitriy , Skiba Andrey , Limarenko Mihail
Published: November 2023

In this work, a metal–ceramic composite target for magnetron sputtering was manufactured by a robotic complex for detonation spraying of coatings equipped with a multi-chamber detonation accelerator. The powder composition (30Mo-30Al-40B4C) was sprayed onto the copper plate base of the composite target cathode. The obtained cathode target with Al-Mo-B4C coating (thickness 280–300 μm) was used to deposit the Al-Mo-B(CN) coating (DC mode) on flat specimens of AISI 316 steel and silicon using equipment for magnetron sputtering UNICOAT 200. The Al-Mo-B4C coating has a lamella-type structure with inclusions of boron carbide particles. The structure and morphology of the coatings were studied using methods of optical analysis, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Mechanical and tribological properties of the Al-Mo-B(CN) thin coatings were studied using a nanoindenter, a scratch tester, and a tribometer under a fluid-free friction regime at room temperature. The Al-Mo-B(CN) coating (thickness ~1 μm) exhibited a dense homogeneous fine-grained design without columnar elements and had an amorphous structure. The formation of the MoB2 and AlN phase with an admixture of oxygen in the form of aluminum oxide, molybdenum oxide, and boron oxide was determined using XPS analysis. The Al-Mo-B(CN) coating possessed a hardness of 13 GPa, an elasticity modulus of 114 GPa, an elastic recovery of 45%, a friction coefficient of 0.8 against a steel 100 Cr6 ball, and an adhesion strength of 11 N.
Frost-Heaving Behavior and Enhancement Approaches of Cement-Based Grout Materials under Freeze–Thaw Conditions
Authors: Wei Yongfeng , Dou Hui , Gao Jiangtao , Su Run , Ma Shengjun
Published: November 2023

In the seasonally frozen regions, during the grouting of prestressed bridge ducts in low-temperature environments, incompletely cured grout materials undergo volumetric changes due to freeze–thaw cycling, resulting in structural cracks along the prestressing ducts of the bridge, thereby diminishing the bridge’s operational lifespan. In order to investigate the freeze–thaw characteristics of grouting materials under the influence of freeze–thaw cycles and propose improvement measures, the influence of various additives on the freeze–thaw stress characteristics of mortar under freeze–thaw cycle conditions was elucidated through freeze–thaw stress tests. The mechanisms for improving the freeze–thaw characteristics of grouting materials were explored through analyses of free water content, setting time, compressive strength, XRD, and SEM. In light of the requirements for comprehensive performance of grouting materials, composite additives are employed to enhance the freeze–thaw performance of the grout. The results indicate that reducing the water-cement ratio, incorporating calcium formate, sulfoaluminate cement, air-entraining agents, and carbamide all have a positive impact on mitigating frost-heaving stress in grout materials. However, the improvement mechanisms differ, and employing a single measure alone is insufficient to effectively reduce frost-heaving stress while meeting performance criteria such as compressive strength, setting time, and flowability. Free water content emerges as a crucial indicator determining the magnitude of frost-heaving stress in grout materials, with 11.5% of free water content representing the critical threshold for frost heaving in grout materials. Utilizing composite admixtures can simultaneously decrease free water content, lower the freezing point of free water, and alleviate frost-heaving deformation, resulting in a more efficient reduction of frost-heaving stress. When the admixture content reaches 9.9%, frost-heaving stress is eliminated, and the comprehensive performance parameters, including compressive strength, setting time, and flowability, meet the specified requirements. Overall, the conclusions of this research will offer a scientific foundation for the choice of cold-resistant grouting materials, the mitigation of grout material freeze–thaw risk, and the improvement of quality assurance levels in bridge construction within seasonally frozen areas.
The Shape Modulation of Laser-Induced Nanowelded Microstructures Using Two Colors
Authors: Rogers Ariel , Niyonshuti Isabelle I. , Ou Jun , Shrestha Diksha , Okyere Deborah , Chen Jingyi , Wang Yong
Published: November 2023

The light-based nanowelding of metallic nanoparticles is of particular interest because it provides convenient and controlled means for the conversion of nanoparticles into microstructures and the fabrication of nanodevices. In this study, we investigated the wavelength dependence of laser-induced nanowelded shapes of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). We observed that the nanowelded microstructures illuminated with only a 405 nm laser were more branched than those formed via illumination using both the 405 nm and 532 nm lasers. We quantified this observation by two compactness descriptors and examined the dependence of the power of the 532 nm laser. More importantly, to understand the experimental observations, we formulated and tested a hypothesis by calculating the wavelength-dependent electric field enhancement due to the surface plasmon resonance of the AgNPs and nanowelded microstructures when illuminated with lights at the two wavelengths. Based on the different patterns of hot spots for welding AgNPs from these calculations, numerical simulations successfully reproduced the different shapes of nanowelded microstructures, supporting our hypothesis. This work suggests the possibility of light-based control of the shapes of laser-induced nanowelded microstructures of metallic nanoparticles. This work is expected to facilitate the development of broader applications using the nanowelding of metallic nanoparticles.
Study of the Formation of Precursor Clusters in an Aqueous Solution of KH2PO4 by Small-Angle X-ray Scattering and Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Sukhanov Andrey E. , Konarev Petr V. , Timofeev Vladimir I. , Garipov Ildar F. , Smirnova Ekaterina S. , Peters Georgy S. , Ilina Kseniia B. , Pisarevsky Yury V. , Alekseeva Olga A. , Kovalchuk Mikhail V.
Published: November 2023

The structure of an aqueous solution of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH2PO4, KDP) was studied by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and molecular dynamics (MD). According to SAXS data, the octameric species (KH2PO4)8 are formed in solution in addition to K+, (H2PO4)−, and KH2PO4, while the presence of other types of oligomers is not observed. When the temperature drops below the saturation temperature (~60 °C), the volume fraction of octamers increases sharply, reaching 50% at 4 °C. The results of MD calculations of the temporal stability relationships of dimers (KH2PO4)2, tetramers (KH2PO4)4, and octamers (KH2PO4)8 show that the dimers and tetramers disintegrate rapidly (50–100 ps), while the octamers remain stable. A comparative analysis of the bonds between the octamers and the KDP crystal lattice was carried out when the octamer was inserted during crystal growth in the directions [001] and [100]. The possible relationship of the obtained results with the changes in the anisotropy of growth rates (habitus) of KDP crystals at different degrees of supersaturation is discussed.
Using Artificial Intelligence to Stratify Normal versus Abnormal Chest X-rays: External Validation of a Deep Learning Algorithm at East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust
Authors: Blake Sarah R. , Das Neelanjan , Tadepalli Manoj , Reddy Bhargava , Singh Anshul , Agrawal Rohitashva , Chattoraj Subhankar , Shah Dhruv , Putha Preetham
Published: November 2023

Background: The chest radiograph (CXR) is the most frequently performed radiological examination worldwide. The increasing volume of CXRs performed in hospitals causes reporting backlogs and increased waiting times for patients, potentially compromising timely clinical intervention and patient safety. Implementing computer-aided detection (CAD) artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms capable of accurate and rapid CXR reporting could help address such limitations. A novel use for AI reporting is the classification of CXRs as ‘abnormal’ or ‘normal’. This classification could help optimize resource allocation and aid radiologists in managing their time efficiently. Methods: qXR is a CE-marked computer-aided detection (CAD) software trained on over 4.4 million CXRs. In this retrospective cross-sectional pre-deployment study, we evaluated the performance of qXR in stratifying normal and abnormal CXRs. We analyzed 1040 CXRs from various referral sources, including general practices (GP), Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments, and inpatient (IP) and outpatient (OP) settings at East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust. The ground truth for the CXRs was established by assessing the agreement between two senior radiologists. Results: The CAD software had a sensitivity of 99.7% and a specificity of 67.4%. The sub-group analysis showed no statistically significant difference in performance across healthcare settings, age, gender, and X-ray manufacturer. Conclusions: The study showed that qXR can accurately stratify CXRs as normal versus abnormal, potentially reducing reporting backlogs and resulting in early patient intervention, which may result in better patient outcomes.
Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder: Current Concepts on the Diagnostic Work-Up and Evidence-Based Protocol for Radiological Evaluation
Authors: Picasso Riccardo , Pistoia Federico , Zaottini Federico , Marcenaro Giovanni , Miguel-Pérez Maribel , Tagliafico Alberto Stefano , Martinoli Carlo
Published: November 2023

Adhesive capsulitis is an idiopathic and disabling disorder characterized by intense shoulder pain and progressive limitation of active and passive glenohumeral joint range of motion. Although adhesive capsulitis has been traditionally considered a diagnosis of exclusion that can be established based on a suggestive medical history and the detection of supporting findings at the physical exam, imaging studies are commonly requested to confirm the diagnostic suspicion and to exclude other causes of shoulder pain. Indeed, clinical findings may be rather unspecific, and may overlap with diseases like calcific tendinitis, rotator cuff pathology, acromioclavicular or glenohumeral arthropathy, autoimmune disorders, and subacromial/subdeltoid bursitis. Magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic resonance arthrography, and high-resolution ultrasound have shown high sensitivity and accuracy in diagnosing adhesive capsulitis through the demonstration of specific pathological findings, including thickening of the joint capsule and of the coracohumeral ligament, fibrosis of the subcoracoid fat triangle, and extravasation of gadolinium outside the joint recesses. This narrative review provides an updated analysis of the current concepts on the role of imaging modalities in patients with adhesive capsulitis, with the final aim of proposing an evidence-based imaging protocol for the radiological evaluation of this condition.
Ultrasound on the Frontlines: Empowering Paramedics with Lung Ultrasound for Dyspnea Diagnosis in Adults—A Pilot Study
Authors: Kowalczyk Damian , Turkowiak Miłosz , Piotrowski Wojciech Jerzy , Rosiak Oskar , Białas Adam Jerzy
Published: November 2023

Lung transthoracic ultrasound (LUS) is an accessible and widely applicable method of rapidly imaging certain pathologies in the thorax. LUS proves to be an optimal tool in respiratory emergency medicine, applicable in various clinical settings. However, despite the rapid development of bedside ultrasonography, or point-of-care (POCUS) ultrasound, there remains a scarcity of knowledge about the use of LUS in pre-hospital settings. Therefore, our aim was to assess the usefulness of LUS as an additional tool in diagnosing dyspnea when performed by experienced paramedics in real-life, pre-hospital settings. Participants were recruited consecutively among patients who called for an emergency due to dyspnea in the Warsaw region of Poland. All the enrolled patients were admitted to the Emergency Department (ED). In the prehospital setting, a paramedic experienced in LUS conducted an ultrasonographic examination of the thorax, including Bedside Lung Ultrasound in Emergency (BLUE) and extended Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (eFAST) protocols. The paramedic’s diagnosis was compared to the ED diagnosis, and if available, to the final diagnosis established on the day of discharge from the hospital. We enrolled 44 patients in the study, comprising 22 (50%) men and (50%) women with a median age of 76 (IQR: 69.75–84.5) years. The LUS performed by paramedic was concordant with the discharge diagnosis in 90.91% of cases, where the final diagnosis was established on the day of discharge from the hospital. In cases where the patient was treated only in the ED, the pre-hospital LUS was concordant with the ED diagnosis in 88.64% of cases. The mean time of the LUS examination was 63.66 s (SD: 19.22). The inter-rater agreement between the pre-hospital diagnosis and ER diagnosis based on pre-hospital LUS and complete ER evaluation was estimated at k = 0.822 (SE: 0.07; 95%CI: 0.68, 0.96), indicating strong agreement, and between the pre-hospital diagnosis based on LUS and final discharge diagnosis, it was estimated at k = 0.934 (SE: 0.03; 95%CI: 0.88, 0.99), indicating almost perfect agreement. In conclusion, paramedic-acquired LUS seems to be a useful tool in the pre-hospital differential diagnosis of dyspnea in adults.
A Deep Diagnostic Framework Using Explainable Artificial Intelligence and Clustering
Authors: Thunold Håvard , Riegler Michael , Yazidi Anis , Hammer Hugo
Published: November 2023

An important part of diagnostics is to gain insight into properties that characterize a disease. Machine learning has been used for this purpose, for instance, to identify biomarkers in genomics. However, when patient data are presented as images, identifying properties that characterize a disease becomes far more challenging. A common strategy involves extracting features from the images and analyzing their occurrence in healthy versus pathological images. A limitation of this approach is that the ability to gain new insights into the disease from the data is constrained by the information in the extracted features. Typically, these features are manually extracted by humans, which further limits the potential for new insights. To overcome these limitations, in this paper, we propose a novel framework that provides insights into diseases without relying on handcrafted features or human intervention. Our framework is based on deep learning (DL), explainable artificial intelligence (XAI), and clustering. DL is employed to learn deep patterns, enabling efficient differentiation between healthy and pathological images. Explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) visualizes these patterns, and a novel “explanation-weighted” clustering technique is introduced to gain an overview of these patterns across multiple patients. We applied the method to images from the gastrointestinal tract. In addition to real healthy images and real images of polyps, some of the images had synthetic shapes added to represent other types of pathologies than polyps. The results show that our proposed method was capable of organizing the images based on the reasons they were diagnosed as pathological, achieving high cluster quality and a rand index close to or equal to one.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Up-Front PET/CT and MRI for Detecting Cervical Lymph Node Metastases in T1–T2 Oral Cavity Cancer—A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Madsen Christoffer Bing , Rohde Max , Gerke Oke , Godballe Christian , Sørensen Jens Ahm
Published: November 2023

The diagnostic accuracy of up-front 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for detecting cervical lymph node metastases in patients with T1–T2 oral squamous cell carcinoma is reported with large discrepancies across the literature. We investigated the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and accuracy of up-front PET/CT for detecting cervical lymph node metastases in this patient group and compared the performance to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this prospective cohort study, 76 patients with T1–T2 oral squamous cell carcinoma underwent an up-front PET/CT and MRI at the Odense University Hospital from September 2013 to February 2016. Sentinel node biopsy and elective neck dissection were used for histopathological verification of the imaging modalities. Up-front PET/CT was significantly more sensitive than neck MRI (74% vs. 27%, p = 0.0001), but less specific (60% vs. 88%, p = 0.001). The accuracy of PET/CT and neck MRI was comparable (66% vs. 63%, p = 0.85), the PPV was slightly in favor of neck MRI (56% vs. 62%, p = 0.73), the NPV was slightly in favor of PET/CT (77% vs. 63%, p = 0.16). Neither PET/CT nor neck MRI should stand alone for N-staging T1–T2 oral cavity cancer.
MRI and CT Fusion in Stereotactic Electroencephalography (SEEG)
Authors: Pérez Hinestroza Jaime , Mazo Claudia , Trujillo Maria , Herrera Alejandro
Published: November 2023

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by spontaneous recurrent seizures. While 20% to 30% of epilepsy cases are untreatable with Anti-Epileptic Drugs, some of these cases can be addressed through surgical intervention. The success of such interventions greatly depends on accurately locating the epileptogenic tissue, a task achieved using diagnostic techniques like Stereotactic Electroencephalography (SEEG). SEEG utilizes multi-modal fusion to aid in electrode localization, using pre-surgical resonance and post-surgical computer tomography images as inputs. To ensure the absence of artifacts or misregistrations in the resultant images, a fusion method that accounts for electrode presence is required. We proposed an image fusion method in SEEG that incorporates electrode segmentation from computed tomography as a sampling mask during registration to address the fusion problem in SEEG. The method was validated using eight image pairs from the Retrospective Image Registration Evaluation Project (RIRE). After establishing a reference registration for the MRI and identifying eight points, we assessed the method’s efficacy by comparing the Euclidean distances between these reference points and those derived using registration with a sampling mask. The results showed that the proposed method yielded a similar average error to the registration without a sampling mask, but reduced the dispersion of the error, with a standard deviation of 0.86 when a mask was used and 5.25 when no mask was used.
Unveiling Dynamical Symmetries in 2D Chaotic Iterative Maps with Ordinal-Patterns-Based Complexity Quantifiers
Authors: Novak Benjamin S. , Aragoneses Andrés
Published: November 2023

Effectively identifying and characterizing the various dynamics present in complex and chaotic systems is fundamental for chaos control, chaos classification, and behavior-transition forecasting, among others. It is a complicated task that becomes increasingly difficult as systems involve more dimensions and parameters. Here, we extend methods inspired in ordinal patterns to analyze 2D iterative maps to unveil underlying approximate symmetries of their dynamics. We distinguish different families of chaos within the systems, find similarities among chaotic maps, identify approximate temporal and dynamical symmetries, and anticipate sharp transitions in dynamics. We show how this methodology displays the evolution of the spatial correlations in a dynamical system as the control parameter varies. We prove the power of these techniques, which involve simple quantifiers as well as combinations of them, in extracting relevant information from the complex dynamics of 2D systems, where other techniques are less informative or more computationally demanding.
The Effects of Aging Populations on U.S. Communities
Authors: Chung Seunghun , Hean Oudom
Published: November 2023

As the population in affluent countries has been experiencing rapid aging, understanding its impact on the regional economy has become an important research topic. In this study, we investigate whether regional population aging has affected the economy in the United States. Using instrumental variables based on age structure, we have identified significant positive impacts on employment growth and negative impacts on the population growth rate. Additionally, there was no significant impact on local wages but a positive impact on rent levels. This can be interpreted as evidence that a higher proportion of the elderly population actually enhances local production and consumption amenity levels, as suggested by the spatial equilibrium model. These results imply that regional population aging may not have a significant negative impact on the regional economy.
On Being Twice Exceptional in Sweden—An Interview-Based Case Study about the Educational Situation for a Gifted Student Diagnosed with ADHD
Authors: Holmgren Anna-Carin , Backman Ylva , Gardelli Viktor , Gyllefjord Åsa
Published: November 2023

The gifted education research area is rapidly expanding in Sweden. In the context of very limited research nationally, demands are increasing for steering documents and addressing of student and teacher needs in practice. However, Swedish research on students that are ‘twice exceptional’—students classified as being both gifted and disabled (for instance, through a neurodevelopmental disorder such as ADHD)—is nearly non-existent. In this study, we present an exploratory single case study of a female student in school year seven based on semi-structured individual interviews with the student and her two guardians regarding her educational situation. The data were first inductively coded and triangulated in collaboration between three of the authors. A fourth author later independently and deductively coded one-third of the data based on the previously inductively determined thematic structure and conducted a consensus interrater reliability check, exceeding 85% percent agreement. The three main themes are as follows: (1) multiplex perspectives on academic outcomes and expectations, (2) the intersection between twice exceptionality and academic work, and (3) information and perceptions about twice exceptionality. The results indicate several educational challenges and opportunities for twice exceptional students. Further research is needed regarding twice exceptional students in Sweden.
Hybrid Form of Differential Evolutionary and Gray Wolf Algorithm for Multi-AUV Task Allocation in Target Search
Authors: Chen Ziyun , Zhang Dengsheng , Wang Chengxiang , Sha Qixin
Published: November 2023

For underwater target exploration, multiple Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) have shown significant advantages over single AUVs. Aiming at Multi-AUV task allocation, which is an important issue for collaborative work in underwater environments, this paper proposes a Multi-AUV task allocation method based on the Differential Evolutionary Gray Wolf Optimization (DE-GWO) algorithm. Firstly, the working process of the Multi-AUV system was analyzed, and the allocation model and objective function were established. Then, we combined the advantages of the strong global search capability of the Differential Evolutionary (DE) algorithm and the excellent convergence performance of Gray Wolf Optimization (GWO) to solve the task assignment of the Multi-AUV system. Finally, a reassignment mechanism was used to solve the problem of AUV failures during the task’s execution. In the simulation comparison experiments, the DE-GWO, GWO, DE, and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithms were carried out for different AUV execution capabilities, respectively.