bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The core variety and representing measures in the truncated moment problem
Authors:   School of Mathematics, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, U.S.A., Blekherman Grigoriy , Fialkow Lawrence ,   Department of Computer Science, State University of New York, New Paltz, NY 12561, U.S.A.
Published: August 2022

The truncated moment problem asks for conditions so that a linear functional L on the vector space of real n-variable polynomials of degree at most d can be written as integration with respect to a positive Borel measure μ on Rn. More generally, let L act on a finite dimensional space of Borel-measurable functions defined on a T1 topological space S. Using an iterative geometric construction, we associate to L a subset of S called the \textit{core variety} CV(L). Our main result is that L has a representing measure μ if and only if CV(L) is nonempty. In this case, L has a finitely atomic representing measure, and the union of the supports of such measures is precisely CV(L).
Birkhoff--James orthogonality to a subspace of operators defined between Banach spaces
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700032, India, Mal Arpita , Paul Kallol ,   Department of Mathematics, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700032, India
Published: August 2022

This paper deals with the study of Birkhoff--James orthogonality of a linear operator to a subspace of operators defined between arbitrary Banach spaces. In case the domain space is reflexive and the subspace is finite dimensional we obtain a complete characterization. For arbitrary Banach spaces, we obtain the same under some additional conditions. For an arbitrary Hilbert space H, we also study orthogonality to a subspace of the space of linear operators L(H), both with respect to operator norm as well as numerical radius norm.
A note on crossed products of rotation algebras
Authors:   School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Glasgow, University Gardens, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, U.K., Bonicke Christian , Chakraborty Sayan ,   Department of Mathematics, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal, Bhopal Bypass Road, Bhopal, 462066, India, He Zhuofeng ,   Research Center for Operator Algebras, School of Mathematical Sciences, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Practice, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China, Liao Hung-Chang ,   Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Ottawa, 150 Louis-Pasteur Private, Ottawa, ON K1N 9A7, Canada
Published: August 2022

We compute the K-theory of crossed products of rotation algebras Aθ, for any real angle θ, by matrices in SL(2,Z) with infinite order. Using techniques of continuous fields, we show that the canonical inclusion of Aθ into the crossed products is injective at the level of K0-groups. We then give an explicit set of generators for the K0-groups and compute the tracial ranges concretely.
An Analytical Study of Regular Waves Generated by Bottom Wave Makers in a 3-Dimensional Wave Basin
Authors: Jung Jae-Sang , Lee Changhoon
Published: August 2022

Analytical solutions for regular waves generated by bottom wave makers in a 3-dimensional wave basin were derived in this study. Bottom wave makers which have triangular, rectangular and combination of two shapes were adopted. The 3-dimensional velocity potential was derived based on the linear wave theory with the bottom moving boundary condition, kinematic and dynamic free surface boundary conditions in a wave basin. Then, analytical solutions of 3-dimensional particle velocities and free surface displacement were derived from the velocity potential. The solutions showed physically valid results for regular waves generated by bottom wave makers in a wave basin. The analytical solution for obliquely propagating wave generation from bottom wave maker which works like a snake was also derived. Numerical results of the solution agree well with theoretically predicted results.
NÃO SE FAZEM MAIS FILHOS COMO ANTIGAMENTE
Authors: Souza Guaraci Adeodato Alves de
Published: August 2022

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DESPROTEGIDAS E SILENCIADAS: VIOLÊNCIA DOMÉSTICA CONTRA AS MULHERES EM TEMPOS DE ISOLAMENTO SOCIAL E PANDEMIA COVID-19
Authors: Oliveira Tamires Aparecida Batista de , Cruz Maria Helena Santana
Published: August 2022

A dominação masculina pode ser pensada como um fenômeno que se molda à ordem simbólica do mundo social. Assim, a violência contra a mulher é uma realidade enraizada na estrutura da sociedade e na tradição cultural, reflexo de um longo período de desigualdade de gênero que permeia a organização social, a dinâmica econômica e as relações de poder. A partir da análise da estrutura patriarcal que rege essas relações e da dominação do masculino sobre o feminino, este artigo busca investigar o papel das políticas públicas no enfrentamento e prevenção da violência doméstica; entender a estrutura de ordem masculina que cria as condições de dominação; e analisar a ocorrência de violência doméstica no Brasil. A pesquisa é bibliográfica, de natureza qualitativa, levanta reflexões acerca da violência, dialogando com conceitos centrais de violência doméstica e de violência simbólica cunhado por Pierre Bourdieu.
Contemporary Patterns of End-of-Life Care Among Medicare Beneficiaries With Advanced Cancer
Authors: Kwon Youngmin , Hu Xin , Shi Kewei Sylvia , Zhao Jingxuan , Jiang Changchuan , Fan Qinjin , Han Xuesong , Zheng Zhiyuan , Warren Joan L. , Yabroff K. Robin
Published: February 2025

Importance

Considerable efforts have been dedicated to improving the quality of end-of-life care among patients with advanced cancer in the past decade. Whether the quality has shifted in response to these efforts remains unknown.

Objective

To examine contemporary patterns of end-of-life care among patients with advanced cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study used a recent linkage of Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results and Medicare data to characterize patterns of end-of-life care. The cohort included fee-for-service Medicare decedents aged 66 years or older who were originally diagnosed with distant-stage breast, prostate, pancreatic, or lung cancers and died between 2014 and 2019. Analyses were conducted between June 1, 2023, and July 31, 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes included monthly use of acute care, systemic therapy, and supportive care (ie, palliative and hospice care and advanced care planning) in the last 6 months of life. Additionally, a claims-based indicator was evaluated of potentially aggressive care in the last 30 days of life, defined as experiencing more than 1 acute care visit, in-hospital mortality, late receipt of systemic therapy, or hospice entry.

Results

The study included 33 744 Medicare decedents with advanced cancer (mean [SD] age, 75.7 [6.9] years; 52.1% male). From 6 months before death to month of death, there was an increase in the mean (SE) number of acute care visits (from 14.0 [0.5] to 46.2 [0.5] per 100 person-months), hospice use (from 6.6 [0.4] to 73.5 [0.5] per 100 person-months), palliative care (from 2.6 [0.2] to 26.1 [0.6] per 100 person-months), and advanced care planning (from 1.7 [0.6] to 12.8 [1.1] per 100 person-months). Overall, 45.0% of decedents experienced any indicator of potentially aggressive care.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found persistent patterns of potentially aggressive care, but low uptake of supportive care, among Medicare decedents with advanced cancer. A multifaceted approach targeting patient-, physician-, and system-level factors associated with potentially aggressive care is imperative for improving quality of care at the end of life.
Digital Screen Time and Myopia
Authors: Ha Ahnul , Lee Yun Jeong , Lee Marvin , Shim Sung Ryul , Kim Young Kook
Published: February 2025

Importance

The association of digital screen time with myopia has been documented, but the dose-response association and safe exposure threshold remain unclear.

Objective

To evaluate the dose-response association of time spent on digital screens with myopia risk.

Data Sources

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library databases, CINAHL, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched for full-length articles from peer-reviewed journals without restrictions on study design, publication date, or language from inception to November 25, 2024.

Study Selection

Primary research articles investigating the association of exposure to digital screen devices (ie, smartphones, tablets, game consoles, computers, or television) with myopia-related outcomes (ie, prevalent or incident myopia and the rate of myopia progression) were identified by reviewers.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Two independent reviewers extracted data using a standardized procedure in accordance with the Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines. A random-effects, dose-response meta-analysis (DRMA) was utilized to examine the pattern of the association of screen time with myopia.

Main Outcome and Measures

Increased odds of myopia per hour of daily screen time.

Results

In the linear DRMA of 45 studies with 335 524 participants (mean [SD] age, 9.3 [4.3] years), an additional hour of daily screen time was associated with higher odds of myopia (odds ratio [OR], 1.21; 95% CI, 1.13-1.30). The nonlinear DRMA of 34 studies with 314 910 participants also indicated higher odds of myopia with increasing screen time, ranging from 1 hour of daily exposure (OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01-1.09) to 4 hours (OR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.56-2.40). The dose-response curve showed myopia risk increasing significantly between 1 to 4 hours of daily screen time, and then rising more gradually after 4 hours.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this systematic review and DRMA, a daily 1-hour increment in digital screen time was associated with 21% higher odds of myopia and the dose-response pattern exhibited a sigmoidal shape, indicating a potential safety threshold of less than 1 hour per day of exposure, with an increase in odds up to 4 hours. These findings can offer guidance to clinicians and researchers regarding myopia risk.
Long‐term Outcomes of Children Born to Anti‐Ro Antibody Positive Mothers with and without Rheumatic Disease
Authors: Diaz Talia , Danguecan Ashely , Dominguez Daniela , Knight Andrea , Laskin MD Carl A. , Levy Deborah M. , Jaeggi Edgar , Misztal Melissa , Mandhane Piushkumar , Moraes Theo , Ng Lawrence , Silverio Franklin , Silverman Earl D. , Simons Elinor , Turvey Stuart E. , Subbarao Padmaja , Hiraki Linda T.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Estimate the prevalence of allergic, neurodevelopmental, and autoimmune diagnoses in children born to anti‐Ro antibody positive mothers.

Methods

A cohort study of children born to anti‐Ro antibody positive mothers followed in the Neonatal Lupus Erythematosus clinic (NLE) at SickKids Hospital. Participants ≥ 1 year of age were invited to complete a health status questionnaire. Prevalence of allergic, neurodevelopmental, and autoimmune disease diagnoses were compared between from the NLE cohort and the non‐NLE population‐based CHILD Cohort Study. Descriptive statistics were used for demographics, NLE manifestations and outcomes. Fisher's exact tests compared the prevalence of diagnoses between subgroups. We tested the association between allergies and neurodevelopmental conditions and NLE with logistic regression models. A P‐value of <0.006 was considered significant.

Results

We included 321 participants with anti‐Ro antibody positive mothers. Median age at survey completion: 6 years, 51% female, 50% (n=162) NLE. No significant difference in any disease prevalence between children with and without NLE manifestations (p = 0.57) nor between children born to mothers with and without a rheumatic disease (p = 0.11). Disease prevalence was similar between the NLE and CHILD cohorts, allergic disease 30% vs 22%, p= 0.25, neurodevelopmental conditions 5% vs 2%, p=0.45, autoimmune disease 4% vs 2%, p=0.68.

Conclusions

In a large, multiethnic cohort of infants born to anti‐Ro antibody positive mothers, there was no significant difference in the prevalence of allergic, neurodevelopmental, or autoimmune diseases between children with and without NLE, nor between those born to anti‐Ro antibody positive mothers and a population‐based, non‐NLE cohort.
Court forestalls NIH cuts – for now
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2025

The Trump Administration lowered the indirect cost rate research institutions can charge the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), and other National Institutes of Health (NIH) research funders to 15%. This is much lower than the 60% allowed in the past and recently. As a result, some academic medical centers immediately cut back on travel and other spending for their researchers.
Programmable Logic Functions‐Integrated Acoustic In‐Sensor Computing
Authors: Zhang Liang , Tan Ting , Chen Yinghua , Yan Zhimiao
Published: February 2025

In‐sensor computing supports edge computing by reducing data transmission, but logic and arithmetic operations are still underdeveloped in acoustic sensors. Mechanical computing with metamaterials integrates these functions directly into sensors by responding to external stimuli, offering a promising solution. However, current mechanical logic switching depends on structural transformations, limiting logic function density. Therefore, a reprogrammable logic method is proposed using a geometrically imbalanced graded phononic crystal (GiGPnC). By designing graded unit cells, the structure produces two types of asymmetric scattering effects on antisymmetric Lamb waves, and creating constructive and destructive interference at the point defect. These four acoustic frequency responses correspond to all input‐output mappings of a two‐input one‐output system, enabling mechanical computing. Then, reprogrammable realizations of seven basic logic gates and combinational logic are experimentally demonstrated, including a 1‐bit half‐subtractor and a 4‐bit even parity generator, on a single GiGPnC. This frequency‐response‐based reprogrammable method can be extended to more complex logic functions. This reprogrammable design paradigm is expected for acoustic in‐sensor computing centered on mechanical computing can promote the development of edge computing and Internet of Things (IoT).
Machine Learned Structure‐Property Correlation Between Nanohelices and Circular Dichroism
Authors: Wu Juanshu , Pu Yingming , Wang Jin , Gu Bing , Chen Xin , Chen Hongyu
Published: February 2025

Rational design of chiral nanostructures with desired Circular Dichroism (CD) spectra requires a quantitative structure‐property relationship, which has so far been unavailable. Using a data‐driven method, the aim is to establish such a relationship for nanohelices, a prevalent structural element of chiral nanostructures. Given the challenges in synthesizing nanohelices and separating racemic mixtures, obtaining extensive CD data has been difficult. Instead, CD spectra of 1260 nanohelices are stimulated using finite‐difference time‐domain method. This dataset is used to train a convolutional neural network that can accurately predict the CD spectra using a few key structural parameters such as pitch and curl. Moreover, an inverse design model is developed that can generate the right helix with the desired CD. To establish quantitative relationships, Shapley Additive explanations analysis and case studies are devised for the prediction model. The algorithm efficiently analyzes the structure‐property correlation, revealing the specific degrees of structural influence on the spectroscopic characteristics. Furthermore, the neural‐network‐based model can be extended via transfer learning to predict CD spectra of nanohelices made of other noble metals (Ag, Cu). It is believed that AI‐based approaches can significantly broaden the scope of wet‐chemistry nanosynthesis and computational techniques in the design of chiral nanostructures.
Self‐Powered Frequency‐Selective Acoustic Sensor Based on Bound States in the Continuum
Authors: Song Chao , Huang Sibo , Ma Hongyu , Xie Shuhuan , Tsai Din Ping , Zhu Jie , Li Yong
Published: February 2025

Sound is a clean, renewable, and abundant energy source present ubiquitously in nature. However, it is often underutilized due to its low energy density in most environments. This study introduces a two‐state system that supports a Friedrich–Wintgen bound state in the continuum (BIC), achieving an unprecedented enhancement in sound energy density—up to 1849 times the incident sound intensity. By integrating this BIC‐supporting system with energy conversion mechanisms, such as piezoelectric films, high‐performance acoustic energy harvesting and sensing is realized. As a proof‐of‐concept, a self‐powered acoustic sensor system is developed. This sensor leverages the high‐quality‐factor nature of a BIC, providing exceptional passive frequency selectivity and the ability to activate a light‐emitting diode (LED) at the target frequency of 501 Hz with an offset of only 4 Hz. This work represents a groundbreaking advancement in sound‐energy enhancement, paving the way for BIC‐induced acoustic harvesters and sensors, with promising applications in wireless sensor networks and the Internet of Things.
Hybrid Self‐Assembled Molecular Interlayers for Efficient and Stable Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Cao Shuguang , Luo Shizi , Zheng Tongjun , Bi Zhuoneng , Mo Jiamei , Gutsev Lavrenty G. , Emelianov Nikita A. , Ozerova Victoria V. , Slesarenko Nikita A. , Gutsev Gennady L. , Aldoshin Sergey M. , Sun Fangyuan , Tian Yanqing , Ramachandran Bala R. , Troshin Pavel A. , Xu Xueqing
Published: February 2025

Self‐assembled molecules (SAMs) have been widely employed as hole transport layers (HTLs) in inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the carbazole core of [4‐(3,6‐dimethyl‐9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)butyl]phosphonic acid (Me‐4PACz) is insufficiently effective for passivating defects at the “bottom” of perovskite films, and the weak anchoring ability of phosphate groups toward the NiOx substrate appears to promote the formation of dimers, trimers, and higher‐order oligomers, resulting in molecular accumulation. Herein, a novel technique is proposed to combine Me‐4PACz with different thiol molecules to modify the buried interface of PSCs. Molecular dynamics simulations and infrared scattering‐type scanning near‐field optical microscopy (IR s‐SNOM) results show that co‐depositing Me‐4PACz with thiol molecules forms hybrid SAMs that densely and uniformly cover the NiOx surface. The island‐like structure of the hybrid SAMs serves as a template for forming the perovskite bulk heterojunction composed of interpenetrating networks of MA‐rich and FA‐rich domains, enabling efficient charge generation and suppressed bimolecular recombination. Particularly, (3‐mercaptopropyl) trimethoxysilane (MPTMS) effectively prevents Me‐4PACz aggregation by forming a multi‐dentate anchor on the NiOx surface through hydrolytic condensation of ─OCH3 groups, while its ─SH groups passivate uncoordinated Pb2+ at the perovskite/HTL interface. Consequently, the resulting hybrid SAMs‐modified PSC achieve a champion photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.4% and demonstrated better operational stability.
Functional Silver‐Loaded Porous Composite Scaffold for Bone Tissue Bacterial Infection
Authors: Hu An'nan , Zhou Jian
Published: February 2025

Chronic osteomyelitis poses a significant clinical challenge in orthopedic care, contributing to substantial socioeconomic burdens. To address this issue, we engineered three‐dimensional porous gelatin/β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) composite scaffolds incorporating silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), designed to combine antimicrobial efficacy with osteoconductive potential. The AgNP‐loaded scaffolds were synthesized and characterized. Biocompatibility and antibacterial activity were systematically evaluated. Results indicated that AgNP incorporation preserved the scaffolds’ interconnected porous architecture while improving hydrophilicity, water absorption capacity, and mechanical resilience. Cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assays revealed no statistically significant inhibition of cell proliferation relative to AgNP‐free controls (P > 0.05), with scanning electron microscopy confirming robust cellular adhesion and proliferation. Osteogenic marker expression was markedly elevated in composite scaffolds compared to controls, with these enhancements remaining unaffected by optimal AgNP loading. Sustained Ag+ ion release persisted for six weeks, correlating with prolonged antibacterial efficacy against common pathogens. Collectively, the AgNP‐loaded gelatin/β‐TCP scaffolds demonstrated synergistic antibacterial activity, cytocompatibility, and osteogenic promotion. These properties position the composite as a promising biomaterial for addressing infection‐related bone defects, offering a dual therapeutic strategy to mitigate microbial colonization while supporting tissue regeneration.
In Situ Construction of Flexible Low‐Dimensional van der Waals Material Photodetectors
Authors: Chen Yu , Liang Huanrong , Guan Xinyi , Ma Yuhang , Zheng Zhaoqiang , Ma Churong , Du Chun , Yao Jiandong
Published: February 2025

By virtue of the excellent flexibility, conformability, portability, and aesthetics, wearable photodetectors have attracted worldwide research enthusiasm over the past decade. However, traditional bulk covalent semiconductors are difficult to be applied to wearable photodetectors due to their pronounced rigidity. Profiting from the self‐passivated surface, excellent carrier mobility, and strong light‐harvesting ability, low‐dimensional van der Waals materials (LDvdWMs) have shown immense potential for application in wearable optoelectronic devices. Nevertheless, the preparation of flexible photodetectors through exfoliation/transfer or solution methods has suffered from severe drawbacks spanning low production yield, severe contamination, and uncompetitive device properties. Therefore, researchers have been committed to exploring alternative preparation strategies. In response to this, the current review systematically summarizes the latest research advancements in directly constructing LDvdWM photodetectors on flexible substrates, including developing low‐melting‐point targeted materials, electron‐beam‐enabled crystallization, photonic crystallization, modified chemical vapor deposition, and pulsed‐laser deposition, with the elaboration on the fundamental mechanisms enabling in situ deposition of LDvdWMs. Finally, the tricky challenges standing in the way in this field have been epitomized and potential solutions addressing them have been proposed. On the whole, this review underscores distinctive pathways for the development of flexible LDvdWM photodetectors, which probably usher in next‐generation wearable optoelectronic technologies.
Machine Learning in Intravascular Ultrasound: Validating Automated Lesion Assessment for Complex Coronary Interventions
Authors: Galo Jason , Chaturvedi Abhishek , Al‐Qaraghuli Abdullah , Rubio Pablo M. , Zhang Cheng , Kahsay Yirga , Verma Beni Rai , Chitturi Kalyan R. , Mintz Gary S. , Waksman Ron , Case Brian C. , Hashim Hayder , Garcia‐Garcia Hector M.
Published: February 2025

Background

Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is essential for assessing complex coronary lesions, but remains underutilized in part due to difficulties in image interpretation. The AVVIGO IVUS Automated Lesion Assessment (ALA) software, which uses machine learning (ML) for automatic segmentation, promises to simplify lesion assessment. This study evaluated the agreement in stent size selection between ALA, an independent core laboratory (CL), and an expert interventional cardiologist (IC) for complex lesions.

Aims

The primary endpoint was the agreement in stent size selection, within 0.25 mm, of AVVIGO ALA automatic segmentation of Class I lesions against the gold‐standard measurement by an independent CL analysis and against an expert IC, (H. H.). The secondary endpoint was to assess the relative differences between AVVIGO ALA and CL, AVVIGO ALA and IC, and CL and IC, in vessel and lumen areas.

Methods

Patients with complex coronary lesions, including left main bifurcation, long, and severely calcified lesions, were retrospectively analyzed using IVUS with ALA. Stent size selection and area measurements by ALA were compared against a CL and IC using established sizing methods.

Results

In 48 patients, ALA demonstrated high agreement with CL (92%–100%) and IC (91%–98.5%) in stent size selection across lesion subtypes using recommended sizing methods. Lumen‐based sizing achieved higher agreement than vessel‐based sizing, particularly in calcified lesions (100% vs. 87%). The variability in relative difference in measurements between ALA and CL was greater than IC and CL in distal vessel and lesion vessel areas. The relative difference in measurements between ALA and IC was greater in vessel‐based sizing compared to lumen‐based sizing in the distal reference marker.

Conclusion

AVVIGO ALA demonstrated high agreement in stent size selection compared to a CL and expert IC. ML's ability to automate IVUS analysis may improve operator efficiency, reduce radiation exposure, and enhance the adoption of intravascular imaging in routine practice. It remains to be seen if it will impact of adoption of IVUS to guide complex PCI.
Evolutionary LightGBM‐Based Intrusion Detection System for IoT Networks
Authors: Singal Khushi , Kandhoul Nisha , Dhurander Sanjay K.
Published: February 2025

With the rapid growth of the Internet of Things (IoT), securing interconnected devices is becoming increasingly critical. This paper introduces the LightShield intrusion detection system (IDS) to enhance intrusion detection in IoT environments using high‐performance computing. LightShield features preprocessing of IoT data, ReliefF algorithm for feature selection, and a novel detection model based on LightGBM, a gradient boosting framework. The system leverages GPU acceleration for faster model validation, enabling real‐time monitoring. By adapting to IoT characteristics, LightShield provides flexible, scalable defense against evolving cyber threats. Results show its potential to improve security in IoT ecosystems, offering valuable insights into anomaly‐based intrusion detection and the future of secure IoT networks. The binary classification model displayed exceptional precision with a 99.82% accuracy in detecting potential attacks, and the multiclass classification model achieved a commendable 97.25% accuracy in classifying distinct attack types.
Indoor Person Position Estimation With Channel State Information With Privacy Consideration
Authors: Yanagimoto Hidekazu , Tokioka Wataru , Hashimoto Kiyota , Matsuo Tokuro
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a CSI‐based human detection system with commodity sensors: M5Stack. Especially, we remedy too sensitivity to individual with respect to measured CSI. Monitoring systems considering privacy proof is important for monitoring the elderly and children. In this paper, we carry out experiments on indoor human location estimation using Channel State Information (CSI). Specifically, to improve recognition accuracy in cases where training data and test data are generated from different persons, we proposed a method that includes dimensionality reduction using Principal Component Analysis (PAC) as a preprocessing. In our experiments, we clarify problems of CSI‐based method and solve the problems using the proposed method. In the evaluation experiments, we achieved an improvement of 10%–30% depending on individuals.
Ornithogenic alteration of a tundra ecosystem from decades of intense herbivory and dense nesting
Authors: Kellett Dana K. , Alisauskas Ray T.
Published: February 2025

Migratory animals can serve as ecological links between geographically distant ecosystems. Moreover, when seasonally linked ecosystems differ in carrying capacity of migrant species, those with high capacity may support population growth with consequences to shared ecosystems with lower capacity through trophic cascades. Agricultural production has increased carrying capacity of lesser snow (Anser caerulescens caerulescens) and Ross's geese (Anser rossii, collectively, “light geese”) in southern agricultural landscapes where these species winter and stage during migration to and from northern breeding areas, resulting in population increase. In subarctic and arctic ecosystems where carrying capacity for geese is lower, high abundance and densities of light geese have caused trophic cascades during summer breeding. This has raised concern for resilience of northern ecosystems to withstand cumulative and intense pressures of above‐ and belowground herbivory and nest construction. We investigated the empirical relationship between intensity of vegetation disturbance by multidecadal foraging and nest construction by up to ~1.3 million geese and shifts in (1) plant community composition and (2) taxon richness of freshwater plant communities near Karrak Lake, in Canada's central arctic. Intense use by nesting light geese caused shifts from lowland communities dominated by grasses and sedges (collectively, graminoids), Sphagnum spp., and willows (Salix spp.) to those comprised of exposed peat, non‐Sphagnum mosses, marsh ragwort (Tephroseris palustris), mare's tail (Hippuris vulgaris), and particularly birch (Betula glandulosa). Community change was less apparent in upland regions that were naturally less vegetated even in the absence of avian herbivores, but fruticose lichens, crowberry (Empetrum nigrum), and white heather (Cassiope tetragona) dominated undisturbed plant communities, whereas crustose lichens and bearberry (Arctostaphylos spp.) comprised disturbed communities. We did not find evidence for dominance by a limited number of species with long‐term occupancy by light geese, as taxon richness was equivocal between disturbed and undisturbed plant communities. Cessation of foraging and nesting pressure increased taxon richness and reestablishment of locally eradicated plant species. Overall, herbivory and nesting effects were not uniform across this widespread nesting colony and, together with underlying influence from abiotic gradients, increased heterogeneity in the mosaic of vegetation communities.
Substantial role of under‐ice limnological processes in diatom dynamics in the alpine lakes of the Chinese Loess Plateau
Authors: Zhang Xiaosen , Han Huiru , Zhang Zhiping , Shen Zhongwei , Zhang Jingyue , Ma Keming , Liu Jianbao
Published: February 2025

Recent climate warming has resulted in the reduction of lake ice cover and significant changes in phytoplankton communities, but due to the traditional view of low production under lake ice in winter as well as the logistical challenges of winter conditions to field sampling, the influence of under‐ice limnological processes on winter diatom dynamics is rarely directly examined and thus remains unclear. Here, lake pelagic diatoms were monitored covering both the open‐water season and two ice‐covered winter seasons in three alpine lakes on the Chinese Loess Plateau to track diatom succession dynamics and assess the potential influences of under‐ice light and nutrient availability on diatom community. The results show clearly that diatom compositional changes during the open‐water season in all the lakes were simply linked with lake physical mixing/stratification regimes, while diatom community composition was not consistent between the two winter seasons in each lake under the combined influence of changing under‐ice nutrient and light conditions. In deep Lake Gonghai, total phosphorus (TP) explained equally the changes in winter diatom community with temperature, ice cover and associated light availability; in shallow Lake Pipahai, total nitrogen (TN) functioned as the major nutrient factor but was less important than light penetration through the ice; and in Lake Mayinghai, dissolved silica (DSi) outweighed the light effect of winter temperature and ice cover. Despite differing relative importance of nutrient factors between the different morphological types of lakes, winter diatom community changes in each lake were significantly linked with temperature, ice cover and associated changes in under‐ice light availability. This study provides a detailed picture that winter temperature and under‐ice limnological processes play a substantial role in diatom community dynamics in the alpine lakes of the Chinese Loess Plateau, and improves the understanding of limnological and ecological processes under ice and their driving mechanisms.
Semiparametric Copula‐Based Confidence Intervals on Level Curves for the Evaluation of the Risk Level Associated to Bivariate Events
Authors: Folcher Albert , Quessy Jean‐François
Published: February 2025

If is a random pair with distribution function , one can define the level curve of probability as the values of such that . This level curve is at the base of bivariate versions of return periods for the assessment of risk associated with extreme events. In most uses of bivariate return periods, the values taken by on this level curve are accorded equal significance. This paper adopts an innovative point‐of‐view by showing how to build confidence sets for the values of a pair of continuous random variables on a level curve. To this end, it is shown that the conditional distribution of given that the pair belongs to the level curve can be written in terms of the copula that characterizes its dependence structure. This allows for the definition of confidence sets on the level curve. It is suggested that the latter be estimated semi‐parametrically, where the copula is assumed to belong to a given parametric family, and the marginals are replaced by their empirical counterparts. Formulas are derived for the Farlie–Gumbel–Morgenstern, Archimedean, Normal, and Student copulas. The methodology is illustrated on the risk level associated with the daily concentration of atmospheric pollutants.
Shaking Table Test of a Large‐Scale Shield Tunnel Based on an Innovative Loading Device: Theory and Validation
Authors: Hong Junliang , Luo Junjie , Huang Xiangyun , Lu Jiahui , Liu Yanhui , Zhou Fulin
Published: February 2025

The current centrifuge and shaking table test for a shield tunnel is constrained by the equipment available, leading to a low similarity ratio between the test model and an inconsistent relationship between the soil and structure. Hence, the design of a steel frame, composed of steel plates and springs, has been proposed as an innovative loading device for performing shaking table experiments on large‐scale shield tunnels. The proposed loading device, inspired by the response displacement method, incorporates the steel frame to provide support for the tunnel model and transfer the seismic loading from the shaking table, while the springs serve as a representation of the soil‐tunnel interaction. In order to validate the accuracy and effectiveness of the loading device, the device, and tunnel are simplified as Euler‐Bernoulli beams and linked together with springs to establish an analytical model, and the high‐order partial differential equation of the beam is solved to derive analytical solutions for the device and the tunnel. Furthermore, results from the numerical analysis and geotechnical box test on a shaking table system have also been obtained. Based on these results, the loading device is proven to be an effective method of applying seismic loading to the tunnel while maintaining its stability. With the use of the loading device, the shaking table test for a large‐scale shield tunnel could be successfully executed, resolving the issue of mismatched similarity between the soil and tunnel model.
Aggressive Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma in the Setting of GATA2 Deficiency
Authors: Aljabi Brejjette , Stewart James A. , Withrow Kirk , Thomas Carissa M.
Published: February 2025

Background

GATA2 deficiency is a rare genetic disorder associated with hematologic, infectious, and neoplastic complications. We report a case of a patient with GATA2 deficiency who developed aggressive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the head and neck, an atypical manifestation of this condition.

Methods

A 34‐year‐old Hispanic male, a nonsmoker, presented with a large, exophytic right facial mass. Biopsy revealed HPV‐negative SCC. Computed tomography (CT) showed a right periorbital mass invading the nasal cavity and a contralateral mass in the left parotid extending into the masticator space. The patient underwent extensive surgery, including right orbital exenteration, total rhinectomy, partial glossectomy, left radical parotidectomy, excision of the left mandibular condyle, and bilateral neck dissections. Reconstruction included a left temporalis muscle flap, internal fixation of the left zygoma, intermaxillary fixation, and a staged anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flap for the right facial defect. He developed postoperative Pseudomonas surgical site infections in the left face and ALT donor site and was treated with antibiotics and antifungals based on intraoperative culture results. The patient's postoperative course involved multiple interventions to address complications and support recovery. He developed bilateral local and regional recurrences rapidly after surgery and ultimately elected for palliative care.

Results

Due to the aggressive nature of this case in a young, nonsmoking patient, combined with the atypical infections, genetic testing was performed for immunodeficiency syndromes. He was ultimately diagnosed with GATA2 deficiency.

Conclusion

This case highlights the aggressive nature of SCC in the context of GATA2 deficiency and underscores the importance of genetic testing in patients with unusual malignancy presentations and suspected immunodeficiency. Genetic testing in the patient's children allows for early diagnosis of GATA2 deficiency and provides an opportunity for curative intervention through hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Leveraging Local and Global Features for Enhanced Segmentation of Brain Metastatic Tumors in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Mansouri Nejad Mojtaba , Rostami Habib , Keshavarz Ahmad , Ghimatgar Hojat , Rayani Mohamad Saleh , Gonbadi Leila
Published: February 2025

Metastatic brain tumors present significant challenges in diagnosis and treatment, contributing to high mortality rates worldwide. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a pivotal diagnostic tool for identifying and assessing these tumors. However, accurate segmentation of MRI images remains critical for effective treatment planning and prognosis determination. Traditional segmentation methods, including threshold‐based algorithms, often struggle with precisely delineating tumor boundaries, especially in three‐dimensional (3D) images. This article introduces a 3D segmentation framework that combines Swin Transformers and 3D U‐Net architectures, leveraging the complementary strengths of these models to improve segmentation accuracy and generalizability for metastatic brain tumors. We train multiple 3D U‐Net and Swin U‐Net models, selecting the best‐performing architectures for segmenting tumor voxels. The outputs of these networks are then combined using various strategies, such as logical operations and stacking the outputs with the original images, to guide the training of a third model. Our method employs an innovative ensemble approach, integrating these outputs into a unified prediction model to enhance performance reliability. Experimental analysis on a newly released metastasis brain tumor dataset, which to the best of our knowledge has been tested for the first time using our models, yielded an impressive accuracy of 73.47%, validating the effectiveness of the proposed architectures.
Evaluation of Burn Wound Healing and Skin Regeneration in Animal Model Using Alginate/PVA Nanofibrous Wound Dressings Containing Dragon's Blood
Authors: Seyedi Danial , Salehi Majid , Zamani Sepehr , Cheraghali Danial , Dehghani Farzaneh , Mehrabi Mohsen
Published: February 2025

The challenge of healing burn wounds is significant importance in global healthcare systems, with a high demand for advanced wound dressings to aid in the treatment of such injuries. Promising options include bioactive electrospun scaffolds made from polymers with antimicrobial properties, which can prevent infections and promote faster healing. This study involved the creation of a nanofibrous scaffold using the electrospinning technique, which consisted of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), alginate (Alg), and Dragon's blood (DB). The scaffold was then analyzed for both its morphology and chemical composition. Results indicated that the DB was present in the nanofibrous scaffold, which had a uniform and unbranched appearance with fibers measuring approximately 300–400 nm in diameter. Additionally, mechanical property testing revealed promising results that fall within the range of human skin. The scaffold's wound healing potential was evaluated through various measurements, including water contact angle, drug release, water vapor permeability, blood compatibility, blood clotting index, and antibacterial activity. Results from an in vivo study on burn wounds showed that scaffolds containing 20% DB exhibited excellent wound healing ability with 80.3% wound closure after 21 days. This was attributed to the highest collagen synthesis, re‐epithelization and remodeling of the burned skin. Therefore, PVA/Alg/DB nanofibrous scaffolds hold promise as a wound dressing to treat burn injuries.
Comparing the Efficacy of Various Insulin Types: Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Modeling of Glucose Clamp Effects in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Chang Yi Chien , Jusko William J.
Published: February 2025

This study compares the pharmacokinetics and efficacy of various subcutaneously (SC) dosed insulin analogs, including rapid‐acting, intermediate‐acting, long‐acting, and regular human insulin, using mechanistic pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) models. These models were applied to data from euglycemic clamp studies in healthy volunteers, where insulin pharmacokinetics and its effects on glucose utilization were monitored. Data from published studies were digitized and modeled using MONOLIX (Version 2024). The PK model described insulin absorption via sequential first‐order processes and linear elimination. The PD effects were captured using a model combination of biophase, indirect, and receptor down‐regulation components. While PK parameters—especially absorption rates—varied between insulin types, a common set of nonlinear PD parameters was sought to account for dose‐related differences in glucose utilization. The maximum glucose stimulation () was 163, and the insulin concentration for a half‐maximal effect () were 1156 pmol/L for insulin lispro, regular human insulin, neutral protamine hagedorn (NPH) insulin, and insulin glargine; 674 pmol/L for insulin aspart; and 5335 pmol/L for insulin detemir. Insulin detemir showed similar overt effects as the other insulin types but with smaller clearances and lower potency. This mechanism‐based glucose–insulin model demonstrated that most insulin analogs exhibit similar receptor‐ and transporter‐related parameters. The model, with specific PK but unified PD parameters, may enable clinical optimization of insulin therapy by highlighting differences in pharmacokinetics and operating common intrinsic glucose utilization parameters.
Awe‐inspired: Appraising awe's consequences for consumers and brands
Authors: Cavanaugh Lisa A.
Published: February 2025

This article builds on Keltner's conceptual model of awe, innovation, and choice (Keltner, 2025). This article expands on the framework in two main ways by outlining (1) when awe could have positive versus negative consequences for consumer choice and (2) how focusing on distinctive aspects of the consumer behavior setting may further enhance understanding of awe. Building on these themes, this article proposes several areas for research: examining granular aspects of the core appraisals, further characterizing different cognitive functions, considering consequences for different consumer choice domains (e.g., decision making, indulgence, customization), and focusing on how different kinds of relationships (e.g., brand communities), types of prosocial action (e.g., donating vs. volunteering), and forms of brand generated awe (direct vs. indirect) impact consumer behavior. This article offers specific propositions to encourage future research on how awe may impact consumers and brands.
Acceptability of an annual tenofovir alafenamide implant for HIV prevention in South African women: findings from the CAPRISA 018 Phase I clinical trial
Authors: Gengiah Tanuja N. , Heck Craig J. , Lewis Lara , Mansoor Leila E. , Harkoo Ishana , Myeni Nqobile , Baum Marc M. , Moss John A. , Rooney James F. , Hankins Catherine , Pozzetto Bruno , Abdool Karim Salim S. , Abdool Karim Quarraisha
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Long‐acting HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis promises to improve uptake, adherence and persistence challenges experienced with daily oral tablets. We assessed the acceptability of an annual tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) implant in South African women enrolled from 9 July 2020 until 31 May 2022 in a Phase I trial.

Methods

Six women received one TAF implant for 4 weeks (Group 1), after which 30 women were randomized (4:1, TAF to placebo ratio) to receive 1 or 2 TAF or placebo implants for 48 weeks (Group 2), before trial discontinuation. Acceptability assessments were conducted pre‐ and post‐implant removal. Implant attributes (size, quantity, insertion site, palpability, visibility) and physical experiences (insertion/removal procedures, implant site reactions [ISRs]) were rated on a scale of 1 (highly unacceptable) to 6 (highly acceptable), with 4 being the acceptability threshold. The mean (range) of the mean acceptability scores across all pre‐removal visits were calculated, including stratification by removal timing (early vs. scheduled). Implant likes and dislikes were also assessed.

Results

The median participant age was 26 years. Prior to implant removal, the mean (range) acceptability scores were 5.4 (3.6–6.0) for product attributes and 5.1 (1.7–6.0) for physical experiences. Eleven (31%) participants had early implant removals, occurring on average 19 weeks (range 2–27 weeks) after insertion. The proportion of study visits reporting adherence measure as unacceptable in early versus scheduled removals: ISRs (50% vs. 19%), visibility (30% vs. 15%), palpability (14% vs. 8%), pain (16% vs. 4%) and implant quantity (13% vs. 1%). Pre‐removal acceptability scores for ISRs (p = 0.003) and physical experiences (p = 0.05) were significantly associated with early removal. Overall, mean (range) acceptability scores were 5.8 (4.0–6.0) and 5.9 (4.7–6.0) for lifestyle compatibility and likelihood of recommendation, respectively. After removal, 39% of participants found ISRs unacceptable, followed by 22% citing implant visibility. Potential for long‐term HIV protection, followed by discreet and convenient use, were most liked, while ISRs were the most disliked aspect.

Conclusions

While implant attributes, physical experiences and insertion/removal procedures were largely acceptable, local ISRs significantly reduced tolerability and acceptability, resulting in higher‐than‐expected early removals. The potential benefits of an annual TAF implant may be undermined unless tolerability is improved.