bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Composite Fe3O4/Si/Poly(N‐Isopropyl Acrylamide)/Au Catalyst for Heck, Suzuki, and Sonogashira Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Kafshboran Hadieh Rahbar , Ghasemi Soheila
Published: January 2025

In this research, a magnetic catalyst with immobilized gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) for C─C cross‐coupling reactions has been introduced. The catalyst consists of Au NPs immobilized on functionalized poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) (PNIPAM) grafted to Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) modified with silica. For the catalyst synthesis, firstly, the Fe3O4 MNP core is prepared, modified with silica, coated with PNIPAM, and subsequently functionalized with amino functional group and EDTA. Finally, it is decorated with Au NPs to create the desired catalyst (Fe3O4/Si/modified PNIPAM‐Au). TEM images of the catalyst confirmed the presence of spherical gold NPs with an approximate size of 13 nm on the catalyst matrix. Also, XPS analysis well proves the presence of zero metallic gold. The catalytic performance of the Au catalyst was evaluated through the C─C coupling transformations, for example, Suzuki–Miyaura, Mizoroki–Heck, and Sonogashira–Hagihara reactions. The results demonstrated significant catalytic activity of the as‐synthesized Au catalyst. Using a magnet, the catalyst could be isolated from the reaction mixture and employed again in eight consecutive coupling reactions. During these reactions, some reduction in catalytic efficiency and gold leaching is observed. Overall, this catalyst shows excellent potential for efficient catalytic reactions, offering the advantages of easy separation, recyclability, and high catalytic activity.
Impact of Chitosan as a Binder in Graphene Gas Sensor for Volatile Organic Compound Detection
Authors: Chachuli Siti Amaniah Mohd , Muhammad ‘Azmi Noor Athirah , Shamsudin N. H. , Coban Omer , Aziz Siti Asma Che
Published: January 2025

Exposure to high amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOC) in the short term can cause headaches, dizziness, worsening asthma symptoms, vomiting, and eye, nose, and throat irritation. Thus, a gas sensor is needed to detect VOC gases. Chitosan as a nonconducting polymer was used as an alternative binder for thick film gas sensors in this study. Chitosan was dissolved in an acetic acid to produce a polymer solution and mixed with graphene nanoflakes to make a graphene gas sensor. Two chitosan binder recipes were used in this study to investigate their performance in gas sensors for the VOCs acetone and ethanol. A single layer and a double layer of graphene were deposited to study their effects on VOC sensing. Single and double layers of graphene gas sensors had little effect on the sensing response to acetone and ethanol vapor. Results revealed that the gas sensors were prepared by binder B responded better than binder A in sensing response to acetone and ethanol with a response value achieved by T2‐2‐S1(3) and, T2‐2‐S1(1) with a response value of 1.0579 and, 1.0532, respectively. In addition, chitosan in graphene gas sensors had outstanding performances, in terms of linearity and repeatability characteristics.
Green Extraction of Peppermint as an Antibacterial Agent in Thermosensitive Hydrogel for Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Rahmi Nindy Samira , Maharani Misyelia Putri , Irianto Khairunnisa , Rizky Intan Adella , Fadillah Aulya Pramuditha , Firdaus Maulidan
Published: January 2025

Diabetic wounds are notoriously problematic to heal, often leading to an increased risk of infection with conventional wound dressings. To address this problem, thermosensitive hydrogels (hydrogel TM) loaded with peppermint extracts as antibacterial agents were developed. The objective of this study was to synthesize and optimize the hydrogel TM formulation and to evaluate its efficacy in accelerating diabetic wound healing through integrative in silico, in vitro, and in vivo approaches. The optimal hydrogel TM formulation was determined using response surface methodology (RSM) and peppermint green extraction via ultrasonic‐assisted extraction (UAE). Characterization of hydrogel TM was performed using FTIR, TGA‐DSC, and SEM, while the peppermint extract was examined by GC/MS. The synthesized hydrogel TM, with optimal formulations of 3.320 %w/v methyl cellulose and 3.671 %w/v trisodium citrate, displayed a gelation temperature of 37 °C. The loading of peppermint extract was proven through a smoother porous structure based on SEM analysis. In silico and in vitro tests demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, and in vivo studies showed complete wound closure within 9 days, proving the efficacy of the hydrogel TM@PM in accelerating diabetic wound healing.
Dissecting Code Features: An Evolutionary Analysis of Kernel Versus Nonkernel Code in Operating Systems
Authors: Zhao Yangyang , Li Chenglin , Chen Zhifei , Ding Zuohua
Published: January 2025

Understanding the evolution of software systems is crucial for advancing software engineering practices. Many studies have been devoted to exploring software evolution. However, they primarily treat software as an entire entity and overlook the inherent differences between subsystems, which may lead to biased conclusions. In this study, we attempt to explore variations between subsystems by investigating the code feature differences between kernel and nonkernel components from an evolutionary perspective. Based on three operating systems as case studies, we examine multiple dimensions, including the code churn characteristics and code inherent characteristics. The main findings are as follows: (1) The proportion of kernel code remains relatively small, and exhibits consistent stability across the majority of versions as systems evolve. (2) Kernel code exhibits higher stability in contrast to nonkernel code, characterized by a lower modification rate and finer modification granularity. The patterns of modification activities are similar in both kernel and nonkernel code, with a preference of changing code and a tendency to avoid the combination of adding and deleting code. (3) The cumulative code size and complexity of kernel files show an upward trajectory as the system evolves. (4) Kernel files exhibit a significantly higher code density and complexity than nonkernel files, featuring a greater number of code line, comments, and statements, along with a larger program length, vocabulary, and volume. Conversely, kernel functions prioritize modularity and maintainability, with a significantly smaller size and lower complexity than nonkernel functions. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the dynamics within operating system codebases and highlight the necessity of targeted maintenance strategies for different subsystems.
Thermodynamic Evaluation of Enhanced CO2 Conversion in Innovative Slag Splashing Processes in Converters
Authors: Zhang Han , Zhao Hongxin , Yuan Zhangfu , Xu Bingsheng , Liu Ke , Zhao Linfei , Kong Dong
Published: January 2025

The innovative slag splashing technique enhances the recycling of CO2 in the steel industry. However, thermodynamic experiments overestimate CO2 conversion because the temperature drop in the process is not taken into account. Therefore, FactSage is employed to reevaluate it. Calculations are validated by comparison with experiments. It is found that employing CO2 for the slag splashing process leads to a decrease in equilibrium temperature. Increasing the carbon addition enhances CO generation and CO2 conversion but results in a further reduced temperature. Elevating the temperatures of the slag and CO2 has no effect on CO generation and CO2 conversion. However, it proves beneficial for increasing the equilibrium temperature. As the most effective measure, increasing the FeO content in the slag improves CO2 conversion while significantly lowering the slag solid fraction. When the initial FeO content is 17.24 mass%, the initial temperature is 1873 K, and the CO2 temperature is 300 K, the optimal carbon addition is 1.5 mass%. By increasing the slag and CO2 temperatures and elevating the initial FeO content, the carbon addition can reach 3.0 mass%, and CO2 conversion reaches 53.29%.
Considerations for Implementation of Model‐Based Systems Engineering in Different Sectors and System Types Based on Academic Literature
Authors: Teper Thomas , Campo Kelly X. , Eaton Casey E. , Bhatia Garima , Mesmer Bryan
Published: January 2025

The emergence and adoption of Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is driven in part by claimed benefits over traditional Document‐Based Systems Engineering. Despite high enthusiasm for MBSE, few studies have evaluated the value of MBSE implementation or the needs in MBSE implementation across various system types and industry sectors, which may require differing drivers of implementation and analyses of added value. This study investigates the perceptions of MBSE across sectors including Commercial, Contractor, and Government, as well as across system types including Astronautical, Aeronautical, and Infrastructure, to determine the perceived drivers and considerations of MBSE implementation across different industries. From 60 academic sources, this study collected and coded over 2900 claims about MBSE using 68 MBSE attributes. Our study's findings determine that the considerations for MBSE implementation likely vary by both sector and by system. Perceptions of MBSE, regardless of application grouping, were largely positive—negative attributes often captured unfavorable perceptions of implementation and tooling immaturity. The findings of this study suggest that practitioners may need to tailor the implementation of MBSE partly to their organizational priorities and needs, and to be cautious of relying only on broadly reported benefits of MBSE.
Comparison of Hernia Sac Transection and Full Sac Reduction for the Treatment of Inguinal Hernias: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Clinical Trials
Authors: Cirocchi Roberto , Popivanov Georgi I. , Cianci Maria Chiara , Morabito Antonino , Matteucci Matteo , Lauricella Sara , Cassini Diletta , Boselli Carlo , Szergyuk Ivan , Tebala Giovanni Domenico , Rizzuto Antonia , Bruzzone Paolo
Published: January 2025

Background

The history of inguinal hernia repair has been marked by the description of several therapies over ages, each with its own approach to managing the hernial sac. An analysis of hernia sac transection (with or without high ligation) versus reduction (invagination) in adults who underwent Lichtenstein open tension‐free inguinal hernia repair and in adult and pediatric patients who underwent suture repair has been the primary aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

The authors conducted a comprehensive review and meta‐analysis. A comprehensive literature search yielded 15 publications, consisting of 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) including 1598 patients and 3 controlled clinical trials (CCTs) including 243 patients. In total, the included patients amounted to 1.841.

Results

Analysis of the data revealed a lower rate of recurrence in patients who had sac reduction (0.35% in randomized controlled trials and 0 in clinical trials) compared to patients who had sac excision and ligation (0.86% in randomized controlled trials and 0.93% in clinical trials). However, this difference was not statistically significant (RCTs: relative risk 2.94 [0.30, 29.24]—CCTs: relative risk 4.46 [0.18, 111.36]).

Conclusion

The reduction of sacs does not result in a statistically significant decrease in recurrence compared to patients who underwent sac excision and subsequent ligation. This study has demonstrated that the various courses of treatment for the inguinal hernia sac have similar primary and secondary outcomes in both adult and pediatric patients.
Understanding the Impact of Obesity on Liver Transplant Outcomes: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Moein Mahmoudreza , Baio Stephen , Contento Robert , Essop Tasiyah , Bahreini Amin , Abedini Mahsa , Abedini Marjan , Shahri Matin Moallem , Jamshidi Abolfazl , Saidi Reza
Published: January 2025

Background

The purpose of this investigation is to assess how effective it is to exclude individuals from the liver transplant (LT) using the body mass index (BMI) as a criterion.

Methods and materials

A retrospective longitudinal analysis of patients with liver transplant outcomes from January 2001 to May 2020 was conducted using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database.

Results

A total of 118,486 LT cases included in the study. Based on their BMI, patients were split into three groups: a BMI < 35 kg/m2, a 35 ≤ BMI < 40 kg/m2, and a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2. The data analysis revealed a significant improvement in 10‐year graft survival in the 2011–2020 group compared to the 2001–2010 group (mean 70% vs. 53% and P < 0.001). Interestingly, a BMI above 35 kg/m2 did not have a significant effect on the graft survival, and in both time frames, there was no clinically significant difference between the recipients of the different BMI spectrum. The patient's survival was also characterized by the same pattern. Primary graft failure was the most significant cause of allograft transplant failure in all the BMI spectrum, except recipients with a BMI < 35 kg/m2, in 2011–2020 group.

Conclusion

The outcomes of LT in patients requiring a LT are not significantly affected using the BMI, considering the advancements in surgical techniques and postoperation improvements, and excluding obese patients based on the BMI alone would be inappropriate.
Current status and trends in the analysis of GMO and new genomic techniques
Authors: Broll Hermann , Bendiek Joachim , Braeuning Albert , Eckermann Kolja Neil , Gebhardt Anuscha , Grohmann Lutz , Keiss Nina , Lämke Jörn , Mankertz Joachim , Schenkel Werner , Vincent Ursula , Weidner Christopher , Querci Maddalena
Published: January 2025

The detection of genetically modified organisms (GMO) is crucial for regulatory compliance and market control. Therefore, detection methods are constantly being developed and improved. New genomic techniques (NGT) present unique challenges for detection due to the minimal genetic changes they introduce. The ‘International Conference on GMO Analysis and New Genomic Techniques’ held in March 2023 in Berlin, explored advances in detection methods, such as Next-Generation Sequencing and digital PCR, and highlighted the need for global cooperation and capacity-building initiatives. The conference emphasized international collaboration and addressed the challenges of establishing robust methods for identifying NGT-derived organisms.
Convergence in regional well-being in the European Union, 2000–2021
Authors: Gallo-Rivera Maria-Teresa , Garrido-Yserte Rubén , Boán-Garcés José-Ramón , Mancha-Navarro Tomás
Published: January 2025

The paper examines the changes in well-being across different regions in EU countries from 2000 to 2021. It evaluates a variety of indicators related to material, personal, and community well-being. The results suggest that assuming perfect substitutability among different dimensions can lead to overestimating progress in regional well-being. Additionally, the study finds that the composite regional well-being index worsened from 2000 to 2014 but may have shown signs of improvement from 2014 to 2021. Also, no signs of convergence were found from 2000 to 2014; in contrast, the convergence path might have recovered from 2014 to 2021. However, the methods used to weigh different dimensions led to variations in regional well-being convergence or divergence patterns.
Data-driven optimisation of process parameters for reducing developed surface area ratio in laser powder bed fusion
Authors: Qin Yuchu , Shi Peizhi , Lou Shan , See Tian Long , Jamal Mikdam , Zeng Wenhan , Blunt Liam , Scott Paul J. , Jiang Xiangqian
Published: January 2025

Optimising process parameters is a key category of approaches to improve the surface quality of laser powder bed fusion parts. So far, many optimisation methods have been presented, which provide effective ideas and approaches for improving surface quality. However, these methods all focus on the improvement of

$$R_a$$

R
a

,

$$S_a$$

S
a

,

$$R_{sk}$$

R

sk

, or

$$R_{\Delta q}$$

R

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q

. These parameters are sufficient for most applications. They are however not suitable for applications where functional performance is linked with surface area. To quantify the quality of surfaces for these applications, the developed surface area ratio (

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S

dr

) is a more appropriate parameter as it can be used to quantitatively express the exposed functional surface area. In this paper, a data-driven method for optimising five process parameters, namely layer thickness, laser power, hatch spacing, point distance, and exposure time, to reduce the developed surface area ratio of laser powder bed fusion parts is proposed. Firstly, experiments are designed, and actual build and measurement experiments are conducted to acquire a fixed amount of data. A Bayesian ridge regression model for predicting a developed surface area ratio from the five process parameters is then trained and tested and compared with several other machine learning models using the acquired data. After that, optimisation of the five process parameters to reduce developed surface area ratio is carried out using the genetic algorithm, in which the objective function values (developed surface area ratios) are predicted using the established Bayesian ridge regression model. Finally, an additional actual build and measurement experiment is conducted to validate the optimisation. The testing results show that the Bayesian ridge regression model can obtain an average R

$$^2$$

2

score of 0.77 and an average mean absolute error of 8.48 on the testing dataset. The validation results suggest that the developed surface area ratios generated by the optimisation are relatively small, and on average, they are 52.11% smaller than the developed surface area ratio under the process parameters recommended by the used laser powder bed fusion system.
Association of LR treatment response category with outcome of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma on explant pathology
Authors: Khurana Aman , Chai Nathan , Gibson Amanda , Owen Joseph , Sobieh Ahmed , Hawk Gregory , Lee James
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Liver transplant (LT) is an effective treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in appropriately selected patients. Locoregional therapy (LRT) is often performed to extend a patient’s eligibility for LT. Imaging has a modest sensitivity of approximately 40–77% for detecting pathologically viable HCC in post-LRT patients. The impact on overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) is unclear. We hypothesize that Liver Imaging Reporting & Data Systems Treatment Response (LI-RADS TR) category is equivalently correlated with long-term survival and overall disease-free progression when compared to explant pathology findings. We additionally hypothesize that neoadjuvant LRT can improve OS and DFS in LT patients initially within MC.

Methods

Patients found to have HCC on explant between January 2005 and December 2021 were included. A total of 167 patients were divided into treatment (any pre-LT LRT except for Y-90 therapy) and control (no pre-LT LRT) groups. Of the patients who received pre-LT LRT, imaging studies were reviewed by two abdominal radiologists using 2018 LI-RADS criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier survival curves and Cox proportional hazard models to assess OS and DFS.

Results

No statistically significant difference in OS or DFS (p = 0.23 and p = 0.22 respectively) was initially found. Given significant difference in age between the groups (p < 0.0001), Cox proportional hazard models were used to adjust for age with statistical significance reached for better OS and DFS in the treatment group (p = 0.05 and p = 0.05 respectively). Contrary to our hypothesis, there was no difference between treatment response groups regarding overall survival or disease-free survival, presumably because of low number of HCC recurrences in our patient population (4%).

Conclusion

Despite not reaching statistical significance, LI-RADS TR categorization demonstrates a good interreader agreement (Kappa 0.6), helping radiologists feel comfortable that modest sensitivity of the LI-RADS TR treatment response category for detecting pathologically active malignancy does not confer a negative clinical outcome.
What Kills Mature Street and Park Trees in Cities? Systematic Quantitative Review of Published Case Studies
Authors: Petrova Anna , Michael Ruby Naomi , Pratt Chris
Published: January 2025

Street and park trees often endure harsher conditions, including increased temperatures and drier soil and air, than those found in urban or natural forests. These conditions can lead to shorter lifespans and a greater vulnerability to dieback. This literature review aimed to identify confirmed causes of street and park tree dieback in urban areas from around the world. Peer-reviewed case studies related to urban tree decline were scanned for the words “urban”, “city”, “cities”, “tree*”, “decline”, “dieback”, “mortality”, and “survival”. From an initial pool of 1281 papers on Web of Science and 1489 on Scopus, 65 original peer-reviewed research papers were selected for detailed analysis. Out of all species reported to decline, 46 were native, while non-natives were represented by 35 species. The most commonly affected trees were Platanus, Fraxinus, Acer, and Ficus. Most studies were conducted in Mediterranean, humid subtropical, and humid continental climates, with the greatest representation from the United States, followed by Australia, Brazil, Iran, Italy, and Russia. Many authors focused on either biotic or abiotic causes of dieback; some explored both, and some also discussed underlying environmental and urban stresses as potential predisposing factors. The majority (81% of the papers) concluded that a decline was caused by either an arthropod or a microorganism. Overall, it was suggested that changing management strategies to improve water availability and soil health might help with tree resilience. Additionally, regular monitoring and research, along with improving tree species selection and implementing biological and chemical control methods, can help prevent or slow down tree decline. Increasing awareness and adopting preventative approaches could help to extend the lifespan of street and park trees in urban environments and mitigate some of the biological threats, especially considering the challenges we may be facing due to the changing climate.
Arginine metabolism in myeloid cells in health and disease
Authors: Karadima Eleftheria , Chavakis Triantafyllos , Alexaki Vasileia Ismini
Published: January 2025

Metabolic flexibility is key for the function of myeloid cells. Arginine metabolism is integral to the regulation of myeloid cell responses. Nitric oxide (NO) production from arginine is vital for the antimicrobial and pro-inflammatory responses. Conversely, the arginase 1 (ARG1)-dependent switch between the branch of NO production and polyamine synthesis downregulates inflammation and promotes recovery of tissue homeostasis. Creatine metabolism is key for energy supply and proline metabolism is required for collagen synthesis. Myeloid ARG1 also regulates extracellular arginine availability and T cell responses in parasitic diseases and cancer. Cancer, surgery, sepsis and persistent inflammation in chronic inflammatory diseases, such as neuroinflammatory diseases or arthritis, are associated with dysregulation of arginine metabolism in myeloid cells. Here, we review current knowledge on arginine metabolism in different myeloid cell types, such as macrophages, neutrophils, microglia, osteoclasts, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). A deeper understanding of the function of arginine metabolism in myeloid cells will improve our knowledge on the pathology of several diseases and may set the platform for novel therapeutic applications.
Effect of artificial intelligence-aided differentiation of adenomatous and non-adenomatous colorectal polyps at CT colonography on radiologists’ therapy management
Authors: Grosu Sergio , Fabritius Matthias P. , Winkelmann Michael , Puhr-Westerheide Daniel , Ingenerf Maria , Maurus Stefan , Graser Anno , Schulz Christian , Knösel Thomas , Cyran Clemens C. , Ricke Jens , Kazmierczak Philipp M. , Ingrisch Michael , Wesp Philipp
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Adenomatous colorectal polyps require endoscopic resection, as opposed to non-adenomatous hyperplastic colorectal polyps. This study aims to evaluate the effect of artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted differentiation of adenomatous and non-adenomatous colorectal polyps at CT colonography on radiologists’ therapy management.

Materials and methods

Five board-certified radiologists evaluated CT colonography images with colorectal polyps of all sizes and morphologies retrospectively and decided whether the depicted polyps required endoscopic resection. After a primary unassisted reading based on current guidelines, a second reading with access to the classification of a radiomics-based random-forest AI-model labelling each polyp as “non-adenomatous” or “adenomatous” was performed. Performance was evaluated using polyp histopathology as the reference standard.

Results

77 polyps in 59 patients comprising 118 polyp image series (47% supine position, 53% prone position) were evaluated unassisted and AI-assisted by five independent board-certified radiologists, resulting in a total of 1180 readings (subsequent polypectomy: yes or no). AI-assisted readings had higher accuracy (76% +/− 1% vs. 84% +/− 1%), sensitivity (78% +/− 6% vs. 85% +/− 1%), and specificity (73% +/− 8% vs. 82% +/− 2%) in selecting polyps eligible for polypectomy (p < 0.001). Inter-reader agreement was improved in the AI-assisted readings (Fleiss’ kappa 0.69 vs. 0.92).

Conclusion

AI-based characterisation of colorectal polyps at CT colonography as a second reader might enable a more precise selection of polyps eligible for subsequent endoscopic resection. However, further studies are needed to confirm this finding and histopathologic polyp evaluation is still mandatory.

Key Points

Question

This is the first study evaluating the impact of AI-based polyp classification in CT colonography on radiologists’ therapy management.

Findings

Compared with unassisted reading, AI-assisted reading had higher accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity in selecting polyps eligible for polypectomy.

Clinical relevance

Integrating an AI tool for colorectal polyp classification in CT colonography could further improve radiologists’ therapy recommendations.

Graphical Abstract
Deep learning for forensic age estimation using orthopantomograms in children, adolescents, and young adults
Authors: Koch Rahel Mara , Mentzel Hans-Joachim , Heinrich Andreas
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Forensic age estimation from orthopantomograms (OPGs) can be performed more quickly and accurately using convolutional neural networks (CNNs), making them an ideal extension to standard forensic age estimation methods. This study evaluates improvements in forensic age prediction for children, adolescents, and young adults by training a custom CNN from a previous study, using a larger, diverse dataset with a focus on dental growth features.

Methods

21,814 OPGs from 13,766 individuals aged 1 to under 25 years were utilized. The custom CNN underwent 1000 epochs of training and validation using 16,000 and 4000 OPGs, respectively. The best model was chosen by the least mean absolute error (MAE) and evaluated with an additional test dataset of 1814 independent OPGs. Furthermore, the CNN was applied to OPGs from 15 available forensic age estimations conducted by experts certified by the Study Group on Forensic Age Diagnostics (AGFAD), and the results were compared.

Results

A MAE of 0.93 ± 0.81 years and a mean-signed error (MSE) of −0.06 ± 1.23 years were achieved in the test dataset. 63% of predictions were accurate within 1 year, and 95% within 2.5 years. Results of the CNN were comparable to those obtained by experts, effectively highlighting discrepancies in the reported ages of individuals.

Conclusion

Using a large and diverse dataset along with custom deep learning techniques, forensic age estimation can be significantly improved, often providing predictions accurate to within 1 year. This approach offers a reliable, robust, and objective complement to standard forensic age estimation methods.

Key Points

Question

The potential of custom convolutional neural networks for forensic age estimation, along with a large, diverse dataset, warrants further investigation, offering valuable support to experts.

Findings

For 1814 test-orthopantomograms, 63% of predictions were accurate within 1 year and 95% within 2.5 years, similar to expert estimates in 15 forensic cases.

Clinical relevance

Many individuals’ fates depend on accurate age estimation. Forensic age estimation can benefit from applying CNN-based methods to further enhance reliability and accuracy.
Surviving on the edge: the role of medieval and modern age charcoal production in the stand composition of colline beech woodlands in NE Hungary (EC Europe)
Authors: Darabos Gabriella , Korponai János , Moskal-del Hoyo Magdalena , Bobek Přemysl , Bede-Fazekas Ákos , Rédei Tamás , Szmorad Ferenc , Standovár Tibor , Magyari Enikő K.
Published: January 2025

This study examines historical forest compositional changes in the Aggtelek Karst region, Hungary, focusing on the relationship between medieval and modern age charcoal burning sites (32 kilns) and the current vegetation. Our aim was to determine woodland composition during the intensive charcoal burning period using wood charcoal analysis and compare it with the present canopy composition to understand Fagus sylvatica (European beech) population dynamics at the margin of its range. Heat map visualization, cluster analysis and Procrustes analyses were used for comparison. The results show European beech as dominant taxon in charcoal spectra in some places, while Quercus, possibly Quercus petraea (sessile oak), and Carpinus betulus (European hornbeam) dominated in others. The findings suggest that beech had varying abundance in the potential beech habitats during the medieval and modern age coppice phases. We found multidirectional changes in canopy composition. Carpinus betulus and Q. petraea dominated the current stands in most cases with F. sylvatica being subordinate. These results suggest that historical forest use and management practices took place in already mixed canopy forests, where Fagus dominance was confined to a few stands only. We demonstrate that the forest stands plausibly represent different stages of secondary succession after last coppice management, leading to varying Carpinus abundance. We discuss the possible role of climate change (summer heat waves, increasing mean annual temperature) and conclude that F. sylvatica and Q. petraea compete with each other in the study region, confirming a transitional zone between the classical Fagus and Quercus climate.
Unveiling the relation between swallowing muscle mass and skeletal muscle mass in head and neck cancer patients
Authors: Hurtado-Oliva Javier , Núñez-Miranda Lucy , Zwart Aniek T. , Vister Jeroen , Plaat Boudewijn E. C. , Steenbakkers Roel J. H. M. , van der Hoorn Anouk , Wegner Inge , Halmos Gyorgy B.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Sarcopenia, characterized by loss of skeletal muscle mass (SMM) and strength, often leads to dysphagia in the elderly. This condition can also worsen treatment outcomes in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients, who are susceptible to swallowing difficulties. This study aimed to establish the correlation between swallowing muscle mass (SwMM) and SMM in HNC patients.

Methods

Data from 157 HNC patients in the OncoLifeS biobank of the University Medical Center Groningen were analyzed using pre-treatment neck CT scans. The SwMM was assessed by the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the tongue complex muscles (TCM), and SMM was indicated by the skeletal muscle index (SMI), calculated from corrected CSA at the third lumbar vertebra (L3). Correlations between SwMM and SMM were analyzed using Pearson or Spearman tests, and multivariable linear regression with SMI as dependent variable was performed.

Results

SwMM was moderately correlated with SMI (r = 0.600, p < 0.001), CSA at C3 (r = 0.538, p < 0.001), and CSA at L3 (r = 0.651, p < 0.001). The CSA at C3 strongly correlated with SMI (r = 0.871, p < 0.001). In multivariable regression analysis, age, sex, and weight were strong predictors of SMI, while the TCM area was a less robust predictor (p = 0.059). Models with CSA at C3 and L3 showed all variables as significant predictors (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Although SwMM was significantly correlated with SMI and holds clinical utility, it is not strong enough to be considered interchangeably with C3 for predicting SMI, suggesting that swallowing muscles represent a different entity than skeletal muscles and not reflect accurately the general muscle mass.
Endoscopic annular chondroperichondrial tympanoplasty, technical description
Authors: Ihsan Gülmez M. , Okuyucu Şemsettin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Tympanoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to cure middle ear infections and restore normal middle ear function. It is one of the most common procedures in otological surgery. Since Wullstein described tympanoplasty, the microscope has been a widely used surgical tool in otological surgery. Transcanal endoscopic ear surgery (TEES) has come to the forefront as an alternative option due to the various limitations of microscopic surgery and the development of otological surgical techniques. When reviewing the types and tecniques of grafts used in tympanoplasty in the current literature, it is clear that the ideal graft material and tecnique to meet all needs has not yet been found. The objective of this study is to describe a novel graft technique, a modification of the cartilage-perichondrium graft obtained from tragal cartilage, which is believed to represent an optimal solution for the desired graft technique at the highest level.

Material&Method

The study included 40 patients who underwent endoscopic annular chondroperichondrial tympanoplasty at Hatay Mustafa Kemal University Hospital between 2015 and 2022. All patients underwent clinical otological examination and pure tone audiometry before and after surgery. Hearing results were expressed as pure tone mean air-bone gap (ABG) at 4 frequencies (500,1000,2000,4000 Hz). For all operations, the primary surgeon was the second author. Patients with inadequate follow-up, revision surgery, inflammatory middle ear mucosa, perforation etiology other than chronic otitis media were not included in the study.

Results

No complications were observed in the patients included in the study. Accordingly, the graft was intact at the end of the 6th month in 38 of the 40 patients operated on. The graft success rate was 95%. The mean preoperative PTA-ABG was 22.1. The mean post-operative PTA-ABG was 5.7. Mean closed PTA-ABG was 16.4.

Conclusion

In parallel with the development of otological surgical technologies, endoscopy is becoming increasingly important in tympanoplasty. We believe that our technique, endoscopic annular chondroperichondrial tympanoplasty, will be an important step in the search for the ideal grafting technique.
Biofeedback rehabilitation in patients with binocular inhibition due to macular disease
Authors: Silvestri Valeria , Piscopo Paola , Turco Simona , Amore Filippo , Rizzo Stanislao , Mandelcorn Mark S. , Tarita-Nistor Luminita
Published: January 2025

Background

To investigate whether patients with binocular reading inhibition due to central vision loss benefit from a new biofeedback (BF) rehabilitation method that aimed at improving fixation stability and at establishing a correspondence between the monocular preferred retinal loci (PRLs) on functioning retina in both eyes.

Methods

Thirty-three patients with bilateral macular disease and with binocular reading inhibition participated in 10 training sessions consisting of 10-min visual stimulation for each eye to stabilize fixation and relocate the PRL (if needed) using the BF module of the MP-1 microperimeter (Nidek Technologies Srl., Vigonza, PD, Italy). Binocular and monocular reading performance, contrast sensitivity, and visual acuity were evaluated pre and post training. Binocular summation/inhibition was evaluated with binocular ratio (BR).

Results

Fixation stability improved significantly post training in both eyes. Maximum reading speed during binocular viewing increased from 57 ± 24wpm pre training to 67 ± 24wpm post training. BR increased for all parameters of reading, visual acuity, and contrast sensitivity. Training resulted in a complete reversal of binocular reading inhibition in 30% of patients.

Conclusions

For patients with binocular inhibition due to central vision loss, BF training to stabilize fixation and to bring the monocular PRLs into correspondence on functioning retina in both eyes is an efficient rehabilitation method to improve binocular performance.
Stairway to health: stair vs elevator usage and its impact on the health of NHS Staff
Authors: Jude Edward B. , Purohit Akul , Puri Sundeep , Heald Adrian H. , Tentolouris Nikolaos
Published: January 2025

Background

Reduced stair usage has been linked to metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The aim of our study was to investigate stair/elevator use by the National Health System (NHS) staff in the UK.

Methods

Anonymised online survey of stair usage. Staff were asked if they never used the elevator (group 1), took the elevator less than 25% (group 2), 25–50% (group 3), or > 50% of the time (group 4), if going up more than one flight of stairs.

Results

Participants (n = 422) comprised of consultants, other doctors, other healthcare professionals, and administration staff. To the question of stair taking, 35.8% belonged to group 1, 30.1% group 2, 12.3% group 3, and 21.8% to group 4. Body mass index (BMI) and presence of at least one co-morbidity increased significantly as stair usage decreased (p < 0.001 and p = 0.005, respectively). Females used the lift significantly more often than males (p = 0.01). Current smokers tended to take the elevator more often than never and ex-smokers (p = 0.061).

Conclusion

Stair walking can reflect overall activity level and less usage can reflect poor health amongst NHS workers. We showed an association between those choosing to take the elevator more and BMI and comorbidity in health care professionals. It is important to encourage staff to engage in targeted physical activity to improve overall health.
Incidence trends of ductal carcinoma in situ in New Zealand women between 1999 and 2022
Authors: Chen Qian , Elwood Mark , Campbell Ian , Cavadino Alana , Aye Phyu Sin , Tin Tin Sandar
Published: January 2025

Background

In New Zealand, BreastScreen Aotearoa (BSA), a biennial national breast screening programme, was implemented in 1998. This study examines the incidence trends of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) in New Zealand women from 1999 to 2022.

Methods

All women with a primary diagnosis of DCIS over the 24-year study period were identified from the New Zealand Cancer Registry and BSA records. Age-standardised incidence rates (ASIR), detection rates (ASDR) and average annual percent changes were calculated.

Results

The annual ASIR was 13.5 per 100,000 New Zealand women, and increased by 0.91% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.26%, 1.66%) annually. Among women aged 45–69 years during 2006–2022, the annual ASIR was 36.3 for programme-detected DCIS, increasing 1.29% (95%CI: 0.13%, 2.73%) per year, and 14.2 for non-programme-detected DCIS, with no significant changes over the study period. The programme-detected ASIRs were highest for Pacific (38.6), Asian (38.2), and Māori (38.0) women. The programme ASDR was 0.55 per 1000 women screened, with no significant changes over time, and was highest for Asian (0.69), and Māori and Pacific (both at 0.65) women.

Conclusion

DCIS incidence increased in New Zealand women from 1999 to 2022, driven by an increase in screening participation, and varied by ethnicity.
Genetic monitoring suggests ongoing genetic change in wild salmon populations due to hybridization with aquaculture escapees
Authors: San Román Itzia Coral , Fleming Ian A. , Duffy Steven J. , Holborn Melissa K. , Smith Nicole , Messmer Amber , Davenport Danielle , Bradbury Ian R.
Published: January 2025

Substantial domestication associated divergence of farmed from wild Atlantic salmon has raised concerns regarding the negative impacts of farm escapees on the genetic integrity and adaptability of wild salmon populations. Studies from across the North Atlantic have repeatedly demonstrated the presence of hybridization and introgression from escapees into wild salmon populations, however longer-term genetic monitoring has rarely been conducted. Here we use targeted SNP panels to evaluate the presence of hybridization and subsequent introgression of escaped farmed salmon into 18 southern Newfoundland rivers and reconstruct the number of escapees contributing to hybrids sampled over an 8-year period encompassing three reported escape events. Ongoing hybridization was observed throughout the entire time series, with F1 young-of-the-year individuals detected every year, as well as a notable increase in the proportion of backcross wild fish. Population estimates of domestic admixture were highest in smaller rivers reaching up to 78%, and the amount of aquaculture-associated European ancestry within individuals ranged as high as 39%. Spatial patterns of hybridization were closely associated with proxies of wild population size based on habitat area. Genetic analyses of relatedness indicated that at least one farm escapee parent was present each year, with the highest estimated numbers occurring after two escape events. This 8-year genetic time series, the longest monitoring period for farm escapee impacts in North America, offers valuable insight into the ongoing genetic impacts of escaped farmed salmon on wild populations.
The Role of Information Processing as an Underlying Mechanism in the Experience of Anxiety Reactivity and Anxiety Perseveration, Two Dissociable Dimensions of Trait Anxiety
Authors: Moore Sophia , Dondzilo Laura , Mazidi Mahdi , MacLeod Colin , Notebaert Lies
Published: January 2025

Purpose

While long considered a unitary dimension, research has moved towards a multidimensional understanding of trait anxiety, and has identified two dissociable dimensions of trait anxiety: anxiety reactivity and anxiety perseveration. Despite the consolidation of this understanding over the past decade, the mechanisms underlying these two dimensions are not well established. The present study examined the novel role of information processing in the experience of anxiety reactivity and perseveration, specifically, how enhanced processing of situational information influences reactivity, and how enhanced processing of implicational information influences perseveration.

Method

Undergraduate university students (N = 142) were exposed to an interview-based stressor. As participants approached this stressor, they were provided with information reflecting one of the two content categories, intended to encourage a situational or implicational processing mode. Anxiety reactivity and anxiety perseveration were measured by assessing changes in state anxiety (measured using a single item visual analogue state anxiety measure) in the lead up and wake of this stressor.

Results

Mixed-design ANOVAs did not reveal a significant relationship between enhanced processing of situational information and anxiety reactivity, nor between enhanced processing of implicational information and anxiety perseveration. An experimental manipulation involving valence revealed that receiving positive information reduced the intensity of state anxiety elevations in the aftermath of the information processing task.

Conclusions

Findings are discussed with reference to limitations and future extensions that could investigate the potential role of cognitive biases in this proposed relationship between enhanced information processing and anxiety reactivity and perseveration.
The EU Taxonomy and the Syndicated Loan Market
Authors: Sautner Zacharias , Yu Jing , Zhong Rui , Zhou Xiaoyan
Published: January 2025

The European Union (EU) Taxonomy on Sustainable Activities is one of the most far-reaching financial market regulations to combat climate change. Using international data from the syndicated loan market, we demonstrate that firms with larger EU Taxonomy-eligible revenue shares paid lower interest rates in the years before the formal introduction of the Taxonomy. Business revenue is Taxonomy-eligible if it originates from “transitional activities” that substantially contribute to climate change mitigation. A one-standard-deviation increase in firm revenue from transitional activities is associated with 5 basis points (bp) lower loan spreads (5% relative to the standard deviation). Effects are more pronounced for firms in countries with greater climate risk exposure and more stringent environmental policies, and when lending institutions have green preferences. The effects of transitional revenue do not simply reflect a borrower’s ESG ratings or broad exposure to climate risks and opportunities. Overall, our results indicate that financial markets already priced in some of the intended effects of the Taxonomy.
The unintended consequences of a quantitative, centralized faculty promotion system: empirical evidence from a developing country
Authors: Sabagh Zaynab , Moshtari Mohammad
Published: January 2025

The Iranian higher education system is expansive, boasting nearly 80,000 faculty members. To guarantee transparency, fairness, and the alignment of professors’ activities with the priorities of higher education policies, its promotion system is centralized and relies heavily on quantitative measures of performance. This study identifies the unintended consequences facing the promotion system in Iranian public universities. The data sources include interviews and discussion sessions with faculty members and policymakers, along with policy and regulatory documents related to the promotion system. The results reveal that the system’s shortcomings have led to low-quality teaching and research activities, devaluation of academic tasks other than research publication, unethical practices, and a decline in faculty well-being. The impact, however, varies depending on each faculty member’s individual profile and institutional factors. Despite the unintended consequences of a centralized quantitative promotion assessment, decentralization does not appear to be feasible or straightforward for all higher education institutions, at least in the short term; not all institutions have the capability and resources to craft and enforce their promotion system. However, the criteria and processes used in the centralized promotion system could be improved by simplifying the measures, enhancing the evaluation processes, adding some qualitative dimensions of assessment, and providing institutional resources for faculty members’ professional development.