bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An overview of polymer-based-bioresorbable drug-eluting stents
Authors: Arora Rimzhim , Mohanta Monalisha , Jaiswal Sandeep , Thirugnanam A. , Mohanta Paramjeet
Published: September 2024

Coronary artery disease treatments like coronary artery bypass grafting and percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty have several drawbacks, such as their invasive nature. Two main types of stents, bare metal stents (BMSs) and drug-eluting stents (DESs), are implemented to overcome these difficulties. The BMS offers strong mechanical support but can cause in-stent thrombosis and restenosis. Conventional DES, comprising a metal platform coated with drug-conjugated polymers, initially lowers restenosis but can cause early thrombosis and late in-stent restenosis. To overcome these limitations, biodegradable DESs are being explored to provide short-term support without long-term complications. However, biodegradable metal-based DES can trigger immunogenic reactions when degraded. The next generation of stents is shifting toward bioresorbable polymer-based DES because their degradation products are compatible with the metabolic system of the body. This review discusses the in vivo degradation mechanisms of bioresorbable polymers such as polyglycolic acid, polylactic acid, and polycaprolactone (PCL) acid polymers. It was observed that these polymers primarily degrade via ester bond hydrolysis, influenced by polymer properties such as molecular weight, morphology, glass transition temperature, and composition. Additionally, this overview highlights ongoing advancements in bioresorbable polymer-based scaffolds like DESolve[Formula: see text]NX and FANTOM[Formula: see text]. These bioresorbable scaffolds are fabricated from poly-L-lactide acid and desamino tyrosine-based polymers, respectively. Polylactic-co-glycolic acid-coated platinum–chromium stents have also demonstrated effective performance, being fully absorbed within 4–6 months postimplantation. Moreover, PCL acid-based drug-eluting bifurcation stents have shown promise in treating cardiovascular diseases. However, the review emphasizes the necessity for continued research to address the existing challenges and enhance patient outcomes.
Unwanted Surprises
Authors: Neville-Neil George V.
Published: September 2024

There is the higher-order question of whether loosely typed languages with coercion are really a good idea in the first place. If you don't know what you're operating on, or what the expected output range might be, then maybe you ought not to be operating on that data in the first place. But now these languages have gotten into the wild and we'll never be able to hunt them down and kill them soon enough for my liking, or for the greater good.
Deep Learning Aided Intelligent Reflective Surfaces for 6G: A Survey
Authors: Tariq Muhammad , Ahmad Sohail , Ahmad Jan Mian , Song Houbing
Published: September 2024

The envisioned sixth-generation (6G) networks anticipate robust support for diverse applications, including massive machine-type communications, ultra-reliable low-latency communications, and enhanced mobile broadband. Intelligent Reflecting surface (IRS) have emerged as a key technology capable of intelligently reconfiguring wireless propagation environments, thereby enhancing overall network performance. Traditional optimization techniques face limitations in meeting the stringent performance requirements of 6G networks due to the intricate and dynamic nature of the wireless environment. Consequently, deep learning (DL) techniques are employed within the IRS framework to optimize wireless system performance. This article provides a comprehensive survey of the latest research in DL-aided IRS models, covering optimal beamforming, resource allocation control, channel estimation and prediction, signal detection, and system deployment. The focus is on presenting promising solutions within the constraints of different hardware configurations. The survey explores challenges, opportunities, and open research issues in DL-aided IRS, considering emerging technologies such as digital twins, computer vision, blockchain, network function virtualization, integrated sensing and communication, software-defined networking, mobile edge computing, unmanned aerial vehicles, and non-orthogonal multiple access. Practical design issues associated with these enabling technologies are also discussed, providing valuable insights into the current state and future directions of this evolving field.
Efficient Quantum Circuit Simulation by Tensor Network Methods on Modern GPUs
Authors: Pan Feng , Gu Hanfeng , Kuang Lvlin , Liu Bing , Zhang Pan
Published: September 2024

Efficient simulation of quantum circuits has become indispensable with the rapid development of quantum hardware. The primary simulation methods are based on state vectors and tensor networks. As the number of qubits and quantum gates grows larger in current quantum devices, traditional state-vector-based quantum circuit simulation methods prove inadequate due to the overwhelming size of the Hilbert space and extensive entanglement. Consequently, brutal force tensor network simulation algorithms become the only viable solution in such scenarios. The two main challenges faced in tensor network simulation algorithms are optimal contraction path finding and efficient execution on modern computing devices, with the latter determining the actual efficiency. In this study, we investigate the optimization of such tensor network simulations on modern GPUs and propose general optimization strategies from two aspects: computational efficiency and accuracy. First, we propose to transform critical Einstein summation operations into GEMM operations, leveraging the specific features of tensor network simulations to amplify the efficiency of GPUs. Second, by analyzing the data characteristics of quantum circuits, we employ extended precision to ensure the accuracy of simulation results and mixed precision to fully exploit the potential of GPUs, resulting in faster and more precise simulations. Our numerical experiments demonstrate that our approach can achieve a 3.96× reduction in verification time for random quantum circuit samples in the 18-cycle case of Sycamore, with sustained performance exceeding 21 TFLOPS on one A100. This method can be easily extended to the 20-cycle case, maintaining the same performance, accelerating by 12.5× compared to the state-of-the-art CPU-based results and 4.48–6.78× compared to the state-of-the-art GPU-based results reported in the literature. Furthermore, the strategies presented in this article hold general applicability for accelerating problems that can be tackled by contracting tensor networks such as graphical models and combinatorial optimizations.
Realizing In-Memory Computing using Reliable Differential 8T SRAM for Improved Latency
Authors: Dahiya Ayush , Mittal Poornima , Rohilla Rajesh
Published: September 2024

Traditional von Neumann computing architectures suffer from high energy and lower speed as compared to the requirements of modern applications like those required in neural network accelerators. A modified differential eight transistor (8
+
T) static random access memory (SRAM)-based in-memory computing (IMC) structure was presented for realizing bit-wise Boolean logic operations. The 8
+
T SRAM-IMC is designed at the 32 nm technology node with throughput of 2.1849, 2.4815, 2.5795, 2.6240, 2.6495, 2.6619, 2.6690, 2.6732, and 2.6749 giga outputs per second for 0.5 to 1.3 V supply voltage range, respectively. The differential 8T cell used to implement logic operations supports NAND and NOR operations with minimal overhead while also performing the standard storage operation with added stability over the conventional 6T and 8T SRAM cells. The SRAM-IMC offers reliable Boolean logic operations by using asymmetric sensing strategy for all process corners, TT, SS, SF, FS, and FF for an operating temperature range of 220 K to 400 K. Monte Carlo simulation considering global threshold voltage deviation of 50 mV was performed for various operating conditions to study the impact of variations on design parameters such as latency.
Effect of High-Temperature Operation on Voltage Cycling Induced PEMFC Degradation: From Automotive Customer Drive Cycles to an Accelerated Stress Test
Authors: Trogisch Niklas , Babik Danilo , Orfanidi Alin , Jegert Gunther , Albert Albert , Eichel Rüdiger-A.
Published: September 2024

Degradation of the Pt catalyst during load cycling constitutes a major durability issue for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) in automotive applications. In this study commercial 5 cm2 electrodes were exposed to 20 k voltage cycles between 0.6–0.9 VRHE at temperatures ranging from 75 to 120 °C. The electrochemical surface area (ECSA), the roughness factor (rf), and the oxygen transport resistance were investigated over the course of the test. The degradation was mainly governed by Pt agglomeration and was accelerated with increasing temperature. Interestingly, operation at high temperature (120 °C and 30% RH) caused the same ECSA loss as at standard conditions (90 °C and 90% RH), suggesting that when maintaining dry conditions high-temperature operation is not critical for the durability of the catalyst material. The experimental results were used to validate an existing 0D catalyst degradation model, which was then applied to an automotive customer drive cycle. The calculated degradation over the whole automotive lifetime (excluding startup shutdown and idle events) equals 20 k voltage cycles (0.6–0.9 V, 10 s hold time) at 90 °C and 30% RH, which provides a guideline for the assessment of the suitability of novel catalyst materials for automotive applications.
Applicability of Graphene Oxide Interlayers in PEMs for Reducing Crossover in Electrochemical Acetone Hydrogenation Reactors
Authors: Komma Miriam , Marth Axel , Maier Maximilian , Hutzler Andreas , Böhm Thomas , Thiele Simon
Published: September 2024

Reactant and product crossover is challenging for proton exchange membrane (PEM)-based electrochemical systems, as it leads to efficiency losses and safety issues. Blocking interlayers can reduce the permeability of PEMs. In this work, a reduction in organic crossover by up to 55% is reached by implementing graphene oxide (GO) flakes in a Nafion membrane for application in an acetone hydrogenation reactor. Additionally, the GO-membrane’s hydrogen crossover is reduced significantly. Those effects are accompanied by an up to 12% increased OCV and scale with the GO interlayer loading. The performance of the MEAs containing GO composite membranes is slightly reduced. This performance loss is traced back to an increased high-frequency resistance (HFR) of the GO composite membranes, the effect of an additional interface resistance resulting from the GO interlayer, and manufacturing-dependent variations in the electrochemically active surface area. Impedance analysis suggests a rearrangement of the GO flakes during operation, reflected by a decreasing HFR and interfacial resistance of the blocking interlayer after the net 15 h lasting electrochemical test protocol. This observation is supported by transmission electron microscopy, which shows structural variations in the GO interlayer at EoT. Nonetheless, the reduction in organic and hydrogen crossover is maintained at EoT.
Dynamic changes in gene expression of growing nonhuman primate antral follicles
Authors: VandeVoort Catherine A. , Chaffin Charles L. , Schall Peter Z. , Latham Keith E.
Published: September 2024

Changes in gene expression in oocytes, granulosa, and cumulus cells were determined in nonhuman primate antral stage ovarian follicles transitioning through progressively larger sizes without exogenous hormonal stimulation. Only a small number of genes displayed altered mRNA expression levels in any of the three cell types. Most of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) decreased in granulosa cells or increased in cumulus cells. These results identified upstream regulators of antral follicle development.
Analysis and Design of a Multiplex, Delay‐and‐Sum (MDAS) Beamformer Architecture to Implement a Fixed‐Focus Receive Beamformer for Portable Ultrasound Imaging Systems
Authors: Dashti Sadegh , Shoaei Omid
Published: September 2024

A multiplex, delay‐and‐sum (MDAS) architecture is proposed to implement a fixed‐focus receive beamformer such as the first stage of the synthetic aperture sequential beamforming (P‐SASB) and synthetic transmit beams combined with the P‐SASB (STB‐P‐SASB) beamforming methods. The output image of this architecture has a resolution and contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) almost similar to that of the delay‐and‐sum (DAS) architecture. In the analog part of this architecture, there is no need to use any analog memory and in the digital part, the need to use high‐speed memories and interpolation filter is eliminated. In this architecture for each input channel, the power consumption in the mixed‐signal part is increased by approximately 1.14 mW in comparison to that of the DAS architecture. On the other hand, due to the elimination of the power consumption related to the interpolation filter in the digital part, the total power consumption of the MDAS architecture increases by a maximum of 9.2% compared to the DAS architecture. Also, the silicon area required to implement the mixed‐signal part of the MDAS architecture when implementing the first stage of P‐SASB and STB‐P‐SASB beamforming methods is reduced by about 3 times and increased by a maximum of 25%, respectively, compared to that of the DAS architecture.
A Space Vector–Based Long‐Range AOA Localization Algorithm With Reference Points
Authors: Wang Chenxin , Fu Wenxing , Zhang Tong , Yang Guangyu
Published: September 2024

In long‐range missions based on angle‐of‐arrival positioning, the angle measurement error of unmanned aerial vehicles is a major source of error. Therefore, reducing the unmanned aerial vehicle angle measurement error is crucial to achieve accurate remote positioning. In this paper, we propose a space vector–based method to correct the space vector of the target for the unmanned aerial vehicles when there are fewer than three available reference points, which in turn corrects the angular value of the target relative to the unmanned aerial vehicles. Simulation results show that when the distance between the reference point and the unmanned aerial vehicles is smaller than the distance between the target and the unmanned aerial vehicles, the azimuth measurement error can be reduced to 55% of the original error for the case of a single reference point, while the pitch angle measurement error remains almost unchanged. In the case of more than two reference points, the azimuth measurement error can be reduced to 1e5 and the pitch angle measurement error can be reduced to 30% of the original error. This method can be adapted to the rapid positioning task for high‐speed and high‐mobility targets without iteration, low computation, good correction effect, and the need of prior known data set reference.
Investigating Indoor Air Pollution Sources and Student’s Exposure Within School Classrooms: Using a Low‐Cost Sensor and Source Apportionment Approach
Authors: Rose Owain G. , Bousiotis Dimitrios , Rathbone Catrin , Pope Francis D.
Published: September 2024

Indoor air quality is becoming one of the most important factors for public health, as people tend to spend more time indoors, either at home or at work. This paper combines the use of calibrated low‐cost particulate matter (PM) sensors with source apportionment algorithms to understand the factors that affect the indoor air quality within a typical UK school. Low‐cost optical particle counter (OPC) sensors were placed in three different classrooms within the school, measuring PM concentrations during a typical school week and the subsequent holiday period, to understand the role of occupancy within schools for air quality. When students were in attendance during school hours (09:00–15:30), the classroom with the greatest average PM levels had PM2.5 and PM10 mass concentrations of 14.4 and 51.0 μg/m3, respectively. During school hours, when students were present, all classrooms had average PM2.5 concentrations greater than 8.1 μg m−3 and average PM10 concentrations greater than 13.1 μg m−3. Notably, the English studies classroom exceeded the 24‐h WHO ambient PM10 guideline (45 μg m−3). Employing the non‐negative matrix factorization (NMF) algorithm for source apportionment revealed that between 93% and 98% of PM1 observed within classrooms derived from outdoor sources. This contribution diminished as particle size increased, with outdoor sources accounting for 74%–89% of PM2.5, and 19%–40% of PM10, respectively. The differences in classroom PM concentration and source percentages are attributed to differences in lesson activities, lesson frequency, flooring (carpeted versus hard flooring), location within the school, and proximity to outdoor sources such as roads. The approach described within the paper is easily translated to other indoor locations and could also be straightforwardly scaled due to its relatively low cost. Thereby, it allows for air quality management in locations crucial for the public health and educational outcomes of children.
Antifungal Drug Susceptibility Profile of Candida kefyr Isolated from Clinical Samples and Dairy Products
Authors: Zareshahrabadi Zahra , Khaliji Samin , Roudbari Maryam , Zomorodian Kamiar
Published: September 2024

Exploring drug susceptibility is a critical endeavor in the scientific community, setting the stage for advancements in understanding and combating various pathogens. Candida kefyr has emerged as a significant pathogen, particularly affecting immunocompromised individuals with hematologic malignancies and HIV/AIDS conditions. This study aimed to assess the antifungal susceptibility profile of Candida kefyr isolates obtained from clinical samples and dairy products. A total of 134 Candida kefyr yeast isolates were retrieved from three distinct groups: (1) healthy individuals (n = 41), (2) patients (n = 24) including hematologic malignancy (n = 9), HIV/AIDS (n = 7), and diabetes (n = 8), (3) dairy products (milk, yogurt, and cheese, n = 69) stored at −70°C in the Shiraz University of Medical Science. All Candida kefyr isolates were previously identified using conventional and molecular methods. Susceptibility to antifungal drugs, including caspofungin, fluconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, and amphotericin B, was determined using the microdilution method following CLSI‐M27‐A3 protocols, with results interpreted according to CLSI‐M27‐S4 guidelines. The study emphasizes the clear variation in antifungal susceptibility testing of Candida kefyr strains when compared across different groups, including patients, healthy people, and dairy products. According to the results, across all groups, a high minimum inhibitory concentration of fluconazole is evident, and healthy individuals show the highest minimum inhibitory concentration geometric means (4.0681). Also, 79.1% of the isolates were wild type to amphotericin B, with the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration compared to other antifungals tested. This suggests that amphotericin B was more effective against Candida kefyr. These findings showed fewer susceptibilities of Candida kefyr to both triazole and echinocandin classes of antifungal agents. Additionally, it is noteworthy that individuals without medical conditions exhibited higher minimum inhibitory concentration rates to these antifungal agents in comparison to those with underlying health conditions. Consequently, timely diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic interventions emerge as imperative in the effective management of candidiasis cases.
Supplementary Table 4 from Systematic Evaluation of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors as OATP1B1 Substrates Using a Competitive Counterflow Screen
Authors: Drabison Thomas , Boeckman Mike , Yang Yan , Huang Kevin M. , de Bruijn Peter , Nepal Mahesh R. , Silvaroli Josie A. , Chowdhury Anika T. , Eisenmann Eric D. , Cheng Xiaolin , Pabla Navjotsingh , Mathijssen Ron H.J. , Baker Sharyn D. , Hu Shuiying , Sparreboom Alex , Talebi Zahra
Published: September 2024

Table S4. Molecular Docking Negative
Supplementary Table 1 from Systematic Evaluation of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors as OATP1B1 Substrates Using a Competitive Counterflow Screen
Authors: Drabison Thomas , Boeckman Mike , Yang Yan , Huang Kevin M. , de Bruijn Peter , Nepal Mahesh R. , Silvaroli Josie A. , Chowdhury Anika T. , Eisenmann Eric D. , Cheng Xiaolin , Pabla Navjotsingh , Mathijssen Ron H.J. , Baker Sharyn D. , Hu Shuiying , Sparreboom Alex , Talebi Zahra
Published: September 2024

Table S1. List of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and OATP1B-type Transporter interactions
Figure S4 from BRCA Status Dictates Wnt Responsiveness in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Chehade Hussein , Gogoi Radhika , Adzibolosu Nicholas K. , Galoforo Sandra , Fehmi Rouba-Ali , Kheil Mira , Fox Alexandra , Kim Seongho , Rattan Ramandeep , Hou Zhanjun , Morris Robert T. , Matherly Larry H. , Mor Gil , Alvero Ayesha B.
Published: September 2024

(A) qPCR analysis of Wnt inhibitors Dkk1, Notum, and Axin2 in ID8 mouse ovarian cancer cells. Data are presented as mean +/- SEM (n=3). Ordinary one-way ANOVA with Dunnett’s multiple comparison test was used to calculate statistical significance; (B) Western blot analysis validates upregulation of Axin2 upon loss of BRCA2.
Figure S3 from BRCA Status Dictates Wnt Responsiveness in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Chehade Hussein , Gogoi Radhika , Adzibolosu Nicholas K. , Galoforo Sandra , Fehmi Rouba-Ali , Kheil Mira , Fox Alexandra , Kim Seongho , Rattan Ramandeep , Hou Zhanjun , Morris Robert T. , Matherly Larry H. , Mor Gil , Alvero Ayesha B.
Published: September 2024

Chord diagrams of top 10 differentially regulated Pathways and involved DEGs in BRCA1mt vs HRwt
Table S3 from Development and Application of Genetic Ancestry Reconstruction Methods to Study Diversity of Patient-Derived Models in the NCI PDXNet Consortium
Authors: Lott Paul C. , Chiu Katherine , Quino Juanita Elizabeth , Vang April Pangia , Lloyd Michael W. , Srivastava Anuj , Chuang Jeffrey H. , Carvajal-Carmona Luis G.
Published: September 2024

1000Genomes K=10 Admixture Estimates downloaded from ftp://ftp.1000genomes.ebi.ac.uk/vol1/ftp/release/20130502/supporting/admixture_files/ALL.wgs.phase3_shapeit2_filtered.20141217.maf0.05.10.Q. Super-population designations were added to the partitions by sorting each partition and determining the corresponding designation for each partition.
Data from Development and Application of Genetic Ancestry Reconstruction Methods to Study Diversity of Patient-Derived Models in the NCI PDXNet Consortium
Authors: Lott Paul C. , Chiu Katherine , Quino Juanita Elizabeth , Vang April Pangia , Lloyd Michael W. , Srivastava Anuj , Chuang Jeffrey H. , Carvajal-Carmona Luis G.
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Precision medicine holds great promise for improving cancer outcomes. Yet, there are large inequities in the demographics of patients from whom genomic data and models, including patient-derived xenografts (PDX), are developed and for whom treatments are optimized. In this study, we developed a genetic ancestry pipeline for the Cancer Genomics Cloud, which we used to assess the diversity of models currently available in the National Cancer Institute–supported PDX Development and Trial Centers Research Network (PDXNet). We showed that there is an under-representation of models derived from patients of non-European ancestry, consistent with other cancer model resources. We discussed these findings in the context of disparities in cancer incidence and outcomes among demographic groups in the US, as well as power analyses for biomarker discovery, to highlight the immediate need for developing models from minority populations to address cancer health equity in precision medicine. Our analyses identified key priority disparity-associated cancer types for which new models should be developed.
Significance:
Understanding whether and how tumor genetic factors drive differences in outcomes among U.S. minority groups is critical to addressing cancer health disparities. Our findings suggest that many additional models will be necessary to understand the genome-driven sources of these disparities.
A Risk Prediction Model for New-Onset Chronic Kidney Disease in the Elderly
Authors: Luo Wei , Lei Li , Lai Jinchuan , Liu Yumiao , Liang Hongbin , Yan Shaohua , Gao Xiong , Chen Hongshan , Nai Wenqing , Zhang Xinlu , Zhang Qiuxia , Xiao Min , Xiu Jiancheng
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Worsening renal function poses a significant health risk to elderly individuals. This study aimed to construct a simple risk prediction model for new-onset chronic kidney disease (CKD) among elderly populations. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, 5,416 elderly residents (aged ≥65 years) who underwent physical examinations as part of the National Basic Public Health Service project at least twice between January 2017 and July 2021 were included. The endpoint was new-onset CKD, defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 during the follow-up period. Predictors of new-onset CKD were selected using multivariable Cox regression and a stepwise approach. A risk prediction model based on the selected predictors was constructed and evaluated using the concordance index (C-index) and area under curve (AUC). External validation was conducted to verify the model’s performance. Results: During the median follow-up period of 2.3 years, the incident of new-onset CKD was 20.1% (n = 1,088). Age, female gender, diabetes, elevated triglyceride levels, and baseline eGFR were selected as predictors. The model demonstrated good predictive performance across the cohort, with a C-index of 0.802. The AUCs for 2-year, 3-year, and 4-year predictions were 0.831, 0.829, and 0.839, respectively. External validation confirmed the model’s efficacy, with a 2-year AUC of 0.735. Conclusion: This study developed a simple yet effective risk prediction model for new-onset CKD among elderly populations. The model facilitates prompt identification of elderly individuals at risk of renal function decline in primary care, enabling timely interventions.
Associations between the Vessel Density in Deep Vascular Plexus and Macular Edema Recurrences in Patients with Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Xu Yupeng , Zhang Min , Wang Haiyan , Yu Suqin
Published: September 2024

Introduction: The aim of this study was to study the relationships between vessel density (VD) in different retinal vascular plexus and retinal vein occlusion-macular edema (RVO-ME) recurrence using wide-field swept source optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Methods: Patients with a history of central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) or branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) with macular edema in the Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, from May 25, 2020, to January 12, 2023, were retrospectively reviewed and recruited. All patients were followed up for at least 6 months and divided in the release group and the recurrence group. The optical coherence tomography and OCTA examination were performed. Demographics, retinal structural, and angiographic data were collected and compared between two groups. The ordinal logistic regression was performed to assess the risk factors for RVO-ME. Results: A total of 85 patients were enrolled in this study. Among them, 30 patients had CRVO, while 55 had BRVO. The VD in the 6–9 mm ring in deep vascular plexus (DVP) was significantly higher in the recurrence group (25.414 ± 6.068% in the release group vs. 27.574 ± 7.767% in the recurrence group, p = 0.036). More patients with mean VD of the 6–9 mm ring in DVP no less than 30% were observed in the recurrence group (observed n = 20, expected n = 14.4, p = 0.043). The ordinal logistic regression reported that patients with mean VD of the 6–9 mm ring in DVP ≥30% had risk of RVO-ME increased to 11.508 (95% CI: 1.745–75.944, p = 0.011), when compared to the patients with mean VD of the 6–9 mm ring in DVP <20%, even with RVO type, baseline central macular thickness weighed. Conclusion: High vessel density of the 6–9 mm ring in DVP, especially those ≥30%, was associated with macular edema recurrences in patients with retinal vein occlusion.
Skin Cancer Detection in Diverse Skin Tones by Machine Learning Combining Audio and Visual Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Walker Bruce N. , Blalock Travis Wayne , Leibowitz Rebecca , Oron Yoram , Dascalu Daphne , David Eli Omid , Dascalu Avi
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Skin cancer (SC) is common in fair skin (FS) at a 1:5 lifetime incidence for nonmelanoma skin cancer. In order to assist clinicians’ decisions, a risk intervention technology was developed, which combines a dual-mode machine learning of visual and sonified (pixel to sound) data. The addition of an audio technology enhances malignant features of lesions, increases sensitivity and was previously validated under a prospective clinical setting in FS. In dark skin (DS), although rare by a 10–30 factor, skin cancer is diagnosed at more advanced stages resulting in a delayed diagnosis and affecting life quality and expectancy. It is known as well that SC diagnostic accuracy by machine learning in DS is decreased as compared to FS. The present study tests the use of sonification aided by artificial intelligence algorithms to compare diagnostics of different skin tones. Methodology: Biopsy-validated smartphone images were diagnosed in a retrospective study by a dual audio-visual convoluted neural network. A total of 60 Fitzpatrick I-III were compared to 72 Fitzpatrick IV-VI. A dichotomous diagnostic output, either malignant or benign, was assessed for sensitivity, specificity and area under the curves (AUCs) for the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results: ROC curve analytics indicated an AUC of 0.858 (95% CI: 0.795–0.921) and 0.856 (95% CI: 0.759–0.953) for fair and DS (p = NS). Sensitivity of Fitzpatrick I-III skin and Fitzpatrick IV-VI were 84.4% (71.8–96.9) and 79.6% (63.4–93.8), respectively (p = NS). Specificity of Fitzpatrick I-III skin and Fitzpatrick IV-VI were 84.2% (72.6–95.8) and 85.3% (73.4–97.2), respectively (p = NS). The positive predictive and negative predictive values as well as accuracy (0.817 vs. 0.847) were all within the same range (p = NS). Conclusions: The results demonstrate that the dual-modality classifier identifies skin cancer of FS and DS similarly well. Sonification of malignant signs of a skin lesion demonstrates promising results, even with smartphone images, which should be considered as a tool to achieve more effective and accessible healthcare.
A Piano for Visuals: Affordances of Scan Processing Instruments
Authors: Holzer Derek
Published: September 2024

The analog technology of scan processing was developed and used during the 1970s as a means of electronic image animation. Because their real time modes of operation strongly resemble those of electronic music instruments, scan processors can be considered instruments for composing and playing moving images. Despite being replaced by cheaper digital tools in commercial studios during the 1980s, scan processing has a distinctive aesthetic that continues to inspire both visual artists and instrument designers. This article examines how the affordances of scan processing instruments arise from specific combinations of user, technology and situation by surveying a number of technical and artistic use cases involving two different instruments: the VP-8 Image Analyzer and the Rutt/Etra Video Synthesizer. The article also demonstrates how reenacting an instrument works through its historical affordances using current technological means to address contexts of the present day.
Passage of Water: Artistic Exploration of Earth’s Freshwater with Google and NASA
Authors: Kang Yiyun , Choi Jeanyoon
Published: September 2024

Passage of Water is Yiyun Kang’s artwork in collaboration with Google Arts & Culture and NASA to highlight the significance of freshwater. Kang uses the datasets and scientific expertise that NASA satellites and scientists provide and employs immersive storytelling and audiovisual techniques to address the climate crisis and its impact on freshwater. The Passage of Water web artwork was launched on the Google Arts & Culture platform on 30 November 2023. Author Kang then adapted the online experiment to an in-person exhibition at the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP28) Dubai, UAE, from 30 November to 12 December 2023.
UrbanAI Art: Toward Artist-Driven AI Art
Authors: Lahtinen Jussi , Oksanen Atte
Published: September 2024

UrbanAI Art is based on the concept of artist-driven artificial intelligence (AI) art. Acknowledging the potential of AI, artists use their work as input, and they manage the overall concept and production of artist-oriented, concept-oriented, and unique artwork. Hence, each artist-driven AI art piece is distinctive and original. UrbanAI Art by Jussi Lahtinen is based on his Metropolis series (2015–) and is built from code that he developed together with game designers at Moido Games, especially Henri Sarasvirta. UrbanAI Art was released in spring 2023, and has since been screened at major events in Europe.
(Nip)ulations: The Nipulator Electronic Bra and the Embodiment of the Image Processing Tool
Authors: Panzarino Monica
Published: September 2024

The Nipulator electronic bra is a custom-built, wearable device that uses hardware potentiometers (or knobs), a hacked DJ Hero microcontroller, and Cycling ’74 Max/MSP/Jitter software patches to (nip)ulate the author’s voice and/or image in real-time. The bra functions both as an instrument for live video and sound processing as well as feminist art object, and has been featured in several single-channel videos, and performances for an audience. This essay discusses how the author’s work with rare and historically significant image and sound processing tools like the Sandin Image Processor, Jones Frame Buffer, and Paik/Abe Raster Manipulation Unit (aka “Wobbulator”), influenced the creation of The Nipulator, as well as her experimental media art practice more generally. Other artistic, feminist, and personal influences are also considered, and a thorough description of the bra’s design, technical evolution, and challenges with regards to durability is provided.
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1
-Regularized ICA: A Novel Method for Analysis of Task-Related fMRI Data
Authors: Endo Yusuke , Takeda Koujin
Published: September 2024

We propose a new method of independent component analysis (ICA) in order to extract appropriate features from high-dimensional data. In general, matrix factorization methods including ICA have a problem regarding the interpretability of extracted features. For the improvement of interpretability, sparse constraint on a factorized matrix is helpful. With this background, we construct a new ICA method with sparsity. In our method, the ℓ1-regularization term is added to the cost function of ICA, and minimization of the cost function is performed by a difference of convex functions algorithm. For the validity of our proposed method, we apply it to synthetic data and real functional magnetic resonance imaging data.
Orthogonal Gated Recurrent Unit With Neumann-Cayley Transformation
Authors: Zadorozhnyy Vasily , Mucllari Edison , Pospisil Cole , Nguyen Duc , Ye Qiang
Published: September 2024

In recent years, using orthogonal matrices has been shown to be a promising approach to improving recurrent neural networks (RNNs) with training, stability, and convergence, particularly to control gradients. While gated recurrent unit (GRU) and long short-term memory (LSTM) architectures address the vanishing gradient problem by using a variety of gates and memory cells, they are still prone to the exploding gradient problem. In this work, we analyze the gradients in GRU and propose the use of orthogonal matrices to prevent exploding gradient problems and enhance long-term memory. We study where to use orthogonal matrices and propose a Neumann series–based scaled Cayley transformation for training orthogonal matrices in GRU, which we call Neumann-Cayley orthogonal GRU (NC-GRU). We present detailed experiments of our model on several synthetic and real-world tasks, which show that NC-GRU significantly outperforms GRU and several other RNNs.
KLIF: An Optimized Spiking Neuron Unit for Tuning Surrogate Gradient Function
Authors: Jiang Chunming , Zhang Yilei
Published: September 2024

Spiking neural networks (SNNs) have garnered significant attention owing to their adeptness in processing temporal information, low power consumption, and enhanced biological plausibility. Despite these advantages, the development of efficient and high-performing learning algorithms for SNNs remains a formidable challenge. Techniques such as artificial neural network (ANN)-to-SNN conversion can convert ANNs to SNNs with minimal performance loss, but they necessitate prolonged simulations to approximate rate coding accurately. Conversely, the direct training of SNNs using spike-based backpropagation (BP), such as surrogate gradient approximation, is more flexible and widely adopted. Nevertheless, our research revealed that the shape of the surrogate gradient function profoundly influences the training and inference accuracy of SNNs. Importantly, we identified that the shape of the surrogate gradient function significantly affects the final training accuracy. The shape of the surrogate gradient function is typically manually selected before training and remains static throughout the training process. In this article, we introduce a novel k-based leaky integrate-and-fire (KLIF) spiking neural model. KLIF, featuring a learnable parameter, enables the dynamic adjustment of the height and width of the effective surrogate gradient near threshold during training. Our proposed model undergoes evaluation on static CIFAR-10 and CIFAR-100 data sets, as well as neuromorphic CIFAR10-DVS and DVS128-Gesture data sets. Experimental results demonstrate that KLIF outperforms the leaky Integrate-and-Fire (LIF) model across multiple data sets and network architectures. The superior performance of KLIF positions it as a viable replacement for the essential role of LIF in SNNs across diverse tasks.
Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses revealed Geastrum yunnanense sp. nov. (Geastrales, Basidiomycota) from Southwest China
Authors: YANG XIN , SU JIANGQING , ZHOU HONGMIN , ZHAO CHANGLIN
Published: September 2024

A new species (Geastrum yunnanense) from Yunnan Province in Southwest China is described and illustrated based on morphological and molecular evidence. This species is characterized by the globular or ovate endoperidial body, shallowly saccate exoperidium, and spherical basidiospores (2.0–2.5 × 1.9–2.5 µm in diameter). Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and large subunit (nrLSU) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated, and the phylogenetic analyses were performed with maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. The phylogenetic analyses inferred from ITS+nrLSU dataset indicated that G. yunnanense nested within the genus Geastrum, forming a monophyletic lineage sister to G. velutinum, and G. javanicum. A full description, illustrations, and phylogenetic analysis results for the new species are provided.
Scrophularia anatolica (Scrophulariaceae): A new species from eastern Anatolia (Turkey)
Authors: SİNAN ALİ , YAPAR YAKUP , BEHÇET LÜTFI
Published: September 2024

Scrophularia anatolica sp. nov. (Scrophulariaceae) is described from Eastern Anatolia (Bingöl‒Turkey). The new species is related to S. erzincanica and S. lucida, but it differs from S. erzincanica by scarious bracts and bracteole margins, broad calyx lobes with scarious and dentate margins, and from S. lucida by life duration, plant length, staminode shape, calyx lobes ovate to orbicular, dentate scarious margin and stamens long exerted from corolla. Ecological data and conservation status of the new species are also presented. A distribution map of the new taxon and related species is provided.
Hohenbergia alba and Hohenbergia sparsiflora, two striking new bromeliads from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: CAVALCANTE BRAYAN PAIVA , SILVA CLÉCIO DANILO DIAS DA , SOUZA EVERTON HILO DE , VERSIEUX LEONARDO M. , MARTINELLI ADRIANA PINHEIRO
Published: September 2024

We present two new species, Hohenbergia alba and H. sparsiflora, endemic to the Brazilian Atlantic Forest in the southern region of the state of Bahia. These species were identified as understory epiphytes in forest fragments near highways. These newly described species are morphologically similar to the “giant Hohenbergia species group”, characterized by their significantly larger size compared to species found in the highlands and dryer environments. Notable unique features include the compact rosette and a 3-4-branched inflorescence with white-colored petals for H. alba and sparsely-flowered spikes for H. sparsiflora, a feature not yet reported for the genus. Additionally, we provide illustrations, and a comparative table of morphological data of these species and related taxa, as well as information on the conservation status and phenology.
Investigation of the distribution patterns in moinids (Crustacea: Cladocera: Moinidae) forming ephippia with two resting eggs
Authors: NERETINA ANNA N. , ALONSO MIGUEL , KOTOV ALEXEY A.
Published: September 2024

During last two decades, morphological and genetic studies of the microcrustaceans from the family Moinidae Goulden, 1968 (Crustacea: Branchiopoda: Cladocera) were intensified. However, species diversity within this family remains underestimated. It refers to both subtropical and tropical areas of different continents that have traditionally been less studied compared with Central Europe and some other Palaearctic regions. In addition to this, only a restricted set of morphological characteristics is used for the discrimination of species within the genus Moina Baird, 1850. Most common moinid taxa are considered species complexes rather than single species, making any biogeographic reconstruction difficult. Here, we present an investigation of distribution patterns in moinids that form ephippia with two resting eggs based on both a reexamination of data from the literature and from specimens in museum and personal collections. Also, we redescribed morphology of poorly known taxa from the arid regions of the Old World—Moina belli Gurney, 1904 and M. kaszabi Forró, 1988 and clarify their diagnostic morphological characters and distributional ranges. We found that M. belli and M. kaszabi are morphologically very similar. In both species, setae 1 and 2 of thoracic limb I are armed bilaterally by fine, densely located short setulae. Reliable differences between M. belli and M. kaszabi concern armature of the valve posteroventral portion. Among the moinids with two resting eggs in the ephippium, M. belli and M. kaszabi are morphologically closer to M. macrocopa (Straus, 1820) and M. americana Goulden, 1968. All these species have: (1) a dorsal head pore; (2) fine long hairs on head, valve and preanal margin of postabdomen; (3) thoracic limb I of male with a long exopodite. In general, an investigated group of moinids includes both species with relatively compact and very broad distributional ranges. We concluded that maximum diversity of the moinids forming ephippia with two resting eggs is characteristic of southern portions of Palaearctic and Nearctic zoogeographical regions and approximately corresponds to subtropical climate zone. We need to underline that M. macrocopa and M. americana have a great invasive potential. Both species were anthropogenically introduced in South America and have been successfully naturalized there. Their distribution in tropical regions of the Old World and Australia requires new precise investigations. A group of moinids forming ephippia with two resting eggs can be considered as a convenient model for biogeographical reconstructions, including studies on changes in aquatic ecosystems due to global climate warming, eutrophication and the introduction of non-native species. There is no doubt that subsequent joint application of morphological and genetic data will shed more light on the global phylogeographic structure of the entire family Moinidae.
Sphyrna alleni sp. nov., a new hammerhead shark (Carcharhiniformes, Sphyrnidae) from the Caribbean and the Southwest Atlantic.
Authors: GONZALEZ CINDY , POSTAIRE BAUTISSE , DRIGGERS WILLIAM , CABALLERO SUSANA , CHAPMAN DEMIAN
Published: September 2024

Hammerhead sharks (Family Sphyrnidae) comprise a monophyletic Miocene radiation of carcharhiniform sharks characterized by their laterally expanded and dorsoventrally compressed head (‘cephalofoil’). The bonnethead shark (Sphyrna tiburo) is currently described as a single amphi-American hammerhead species composed of the subspecies Sphyrna tiburo tiburo in the Western Atlantic Ocean (WA) and S. tiburo vespertina in the Eastern Pacific Ocean (EP). Variation in mitochondrial DNA and cephalofoil shape suggest a species complex, with S. tiburo occurring in the U.S., Mexico, and Bahamas; S. aff. tiburo occurring from Belize to Brazil; and S. vespertina occurring in the EP. Morphometric, meristic, and genetic variation was used to resolve the bonnethead shark complex in the Western Atlantic. Twenty-three specimens (12 S. aff. tiburo from Belize and 11 S. tiburo from U.S.) were subject to sixty-one morphometric measurements and three meristic characters (counts of the number of precaudal vertebrae, lower and upper rows of functional teeth). An allometric formula was used to standardize any effect caused by differences in size of the individuals and data were analyzed with univariate and multivariate statistics. Sphyrna aff. tiburo and S. tiburo have non-overlapping vertebral counts (80-83 and 71-74 respectively) but no morphometric differences were detected. Although not captured in morphometric analysis, the cephalofoil of S. aff. tiburo has a more pointed anterior margin than S. tiburo that together with lobule shaped posterior margins gives the cephalofoil a distinctive shovel-shaped appearance. Concatenated mitochondrial sequences and 12 nuclear microsatellite markers clearly separated S. aff. tiburo and S. tiburo. We conclude that this complex comprises two species in the Western Atlantic, S. tiburo and S. alleni sp. nov., and we provide a description of the latter, which is distinguished by precaudal vertebral counts (80-83), a shovel-shaped cephalofoil with rounded posterior margins, and robust differences in mitochondrial and nuclear genetic markers. We suggest nuclear genetic and meristic examination of EP bonnetheads is needed to update the taxonomical status and redescribe S. vespertina.
New species and new records of Indonemoura (Plecoptera: Nemouridae) from Xizang of southwestern China
Authors: LIU DONGXIA , YANG DING , LI WEIHAI
Published: September 2024

A new species of stonefly (Plecoptera: Nemouridae), Indonemoura sejila sp. n., is described from the Xizang Autonomous Region and the affinities towards a similar species, I. nigrihamita concava Li & Yao, 2017, is discussed. Indonemoura geminus Zwick, 1977 and I. indica (Kimmins, 1947) are recorded from China for the first time.