bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subpixel motion artifacts correction and motion estimation for 3D‐OCT
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Zhong Haozhe , Wang Sainan , He Bin , Cao Liangqi , Li Ming , Jiang Miaowen , Li Qin
Published: July 2024

A number of hardware‐based and software‐based strategies have been suggested to eliminate motion artifacts for improvement of 3D‐optical coherence tomography (OCT) image quality. However, the hardware‐based strategies have to employ additional hardware to record motion compensation information. Many software‐based strategies have to need additional scanning for motion correction at the expense of longer acquisition time. To address this issue, we propose a motion artifacts correction and motion estimation method for OCT volumetric imaging of anterior segment, without requirements of additional hardware and redundant scanning. The motion correction effect with subpixel accuracy for in vivo 3D‐OCT has been demonstrated in experiments. Moreover, the physiological information of imaging object, including respiratory curve and respiratory rate, has been experimentally extracted using the proposed method. The proposed method offers a powerful tool for scientific research and clinical diagnosis in ophthalmology and may be further extended for other biomedical volumetric imaging applications.
Ovarian cancer identification technology based on deep learning and second harmonic generation imaging
Authors: Kang Bingzi , Chen Siyu , Wang Guangxing , Huang Yuhang , Wu Han , He Jiajia , Li Xiaolu , Xi Gangqin , Wu Guizhu , Zhuo Shuangmu
Published: July 2024

Ovarian cancer is among the most common gynecological cancers and the eighth leading cause of cancer‐related deaths among women worldwide. Surgery is among the most important options for cancer treatment. During surgery, a biopsy is generally required to screen for lesions; however, traditional case examinations are time consuming and laborious and require extensive experience and knowledge from pathologists. Therefore, this study proposes a simple, fast, and label‐free ovarian cancer diagnosis method that combines second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging and deep learning. Unstained fresh human ovarian tissues were subjected to SHG imaging and accurately characterized using the Pyramid Vision Transformer V2 (PVTv2) model. The results showed that the SHG imaged collagen fibers could quantify ovarian cancer. In addition, the PVTv2 model could accurately differentiate the 3240 SHG images obtained from our imaging collection into benign, normal, and malignant images, with a final accuracy of 98.4%. These results demonstrate the great potential of SHG imaging techniques combined with deep learning models for diagnosing the diseased ovarian tissues.
Boron, nitrogen, and sulfur co‐doped carbon dots as a fluorescence probe for label‐free analysis of Hg2+
Authors: Ding Yu , Chen Yanyan , Wang Chaozhan
Published: July 2024

Hg2+ is one of the most toxic heavy metals, posing a serious threat to the human body and the environmental ecosystem. In order to detect Hg2+ rapidly, accurately, and sensitively, a kind of boron, nitrogen, and sulfur co‐doped carbon dots (B,N,S‐CDs) were synthesized by a simple, economical, and direct hydrothermal method. The average size of the prepared B,N,S‐CDs is 2.7 ± 0.7 nm, and the high photoluminescence quantum yield is 67.6%. Furthermore, due to the efficient quenching effect of Hg2+, such B,N,S‐CDs are considered to serve as an efficient fluorescence sensing platform for label‐free and sensitive detection of Hg2+ with a detection limit of 72 nM. The selectivity experiments reveal that the B,N,S‐CDs are selective and specific for Hg2+ even in the presence of other interfering substances. Most importantly, the Hg2+ sensing platform based on B,N,S‐CDs can be successfully applied to the determination of Hg2+ in tap water and real lake water samples. This stable and inexpensive carbon material exhibits excellent sensitivity and selectivity, potentially suitable for Hg2+ monitoring in environmental applications.
Development of a research agenda for medical grade footwear in the Netherlands: A multidisciplinary multiphase project to determine the key research questions to advance scientific knowledge in the field
Authors: van Netten Jaap J. , Dahmen Rutger , Holtkamp Fred , Aussems Johanna P. , Jansen Gaston , Mik Esther , Bus Sicco A.
Published: July 2024

Background

The field of medical grade footwear is dynamic. Originally, a field where individual knowledge, expertise and skills determined the footwear and its outcomes, now becoming a more evidence‐based and data‐driven field with protocols and systems in place to create appropriate footwear. However, scientific evidence concerning medical grade footwear is still limited. Evidently, all stakeholders, from patients to pedorthists to rehabilitation physicians, will profit from a larger evidence‐base in this field. A widely supported research agenda is an essential first step to advance and facilitate new knowledge.

Methods

We formed a multidisciplinary team and followed the methodology from Dutch medical societies for the development of a research agenda on medical grade footwear. This consisted of seven steps: (1) inventory of relevant questions with users and professionals; (2) analyses of responses; (3) analyses of existing knowledge and evidence; (4) formulating research questions; (5) prioritising research questions by users and professionals; (6) finalising the research agenda and (7) implementing the research agenda.

Results

In phase 1, 109 participants completed a survey, including 50% pedorthists, 6% rehabilitation physicians and 3% users. Participants provided 228 potential research questions. In phases 2–4, these were condensed to 65 research questions. In phase 5, 152 participants prioritised these 65 research questions, including 50% pedorthists, 13% rehabilitation physicians and 9% users. In phase 6, the final research agenda was created, with 26 research questions, categorised based on the International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health ‘process description assistive devices’. In phase 7, an implementation meeting was held with over 50 stakeholders (including users and professionals), resulting in seven applications for research projects based on one or more research questions from the research agenda.

Conclusions

This research agenda structures and guides knowledge development within the field of medical grade footwear in the Netherlands and elsewhere. We expect that this will help to stimulate the field to tackle the research questions prioritised and with that to advance scientific knowledge in this field.
Hemodynamic Force Based on Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging: State of the Art and Perspective
Authors: Hou Yangzhen , Zhou Hui , Li Yajuan , Mao Ting , Luo Jing , Yang Ji
Published: July 2024

Intracardiac blood flow has long been proposed to play a significant role in cardiac morphology and function. However, absolute blood pressure within the heart has mainly been measured by invasive catheterization, which limits its application. Hemodynamic force (HDF) is the global force of intracavitary blood flow acquired by integrating the intraventricular pressure gradient over the entire ventricle and thus may be a promising tool for accurately characterizing cardiac function. Recent advances in magnetic resonance imaging technology allow for a noninvasive measurement of HDF through both 4D flow cardiac MRI and cine cardiac MRI. The HDF time curve provides comprehensive data for both qualitative and quantitative analysis. In this review, a series of HDF parameters is introduced and a summary of the current literature regarding HDF in clinical practice is presented. Additionally, the current dilemmas and future prospects are discussed in order to contribute to the future research.

Level of Evidence

5.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
Performance and projections of the NEX‐GDDP‐CMIP6 in simulating precipitation in the Brazilian Amazon and Cerrado biomes
Authors: de Mendonça Leonardo Melo , Blanco Claudio José Cavalcante , da Silva Cruz Josias
Published: July 2024

The objective of this work is to provide projections of mean annual and monthly precipitation for the Brazilian Amazon and Cerrado biomes, in the near‐term (2021–2040), medium‐term (2041–2060) and long‐term (2081–2100). The intermediate and most pessimistic Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) greenhouse gas emissions scenarios were considered. Thus, 34 high‐resolution global climate models (GCMs) from the NASA Earth Exchange Global Daily Downscaled Projections (NEX‐GDDP) Phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) were evaluated. The base period evaluated was from 1981 to 2010. The NEX‐GDDP simulations are bias‐corrected and spatially disaggregated. The Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station v2.0 was chosen as the source of observed data due to low availability in situ data. The Kling‐Gupta efficiency (KGE) and the global performance indicator were implemented in Google Earth Engine to evaluate the GCMs. The results show that the GCMs perform satisfactorily, except for KACE‐1‐0‐G and IITM‐ESM. The median KGE is 0.86 for the biomes. Thus, the Ensemble Model of 32 GCMs (EM‐32) indicates a reduction in precipitation in the biomes, except the northern Cerrado. In the most pessimistic scenario, changes in annual precipitation range from 3% to −33% until the end of the century. The north‐central Amazon and the northwestern Cerrado are the most affected regions. In general, the monthly precipitations between September and November show the most intense decreasing rates. It is estimated that 91% and 23% of areas in the Amazon and Cerrado biomes, respectively, show robust signs of reduction in mean annual precipitation. Thus, EM‐32 shows more intense and robust climate projections, in comparison to the total annual precipitation of the subset of 33 raw CMIP6 models from Working Group I of the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report. Therefore, the EM‐32 precipitation projections can be applied to future hydrological and hydrosedimentological investigations.
Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty approximates healthy knee kinematics more closely than total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Copp Elizabeth H. , Gale Tom H. , Byrapogu Venkata Kalyan C. , Urish Kenneth L. , Anderst William J.
Published: July 2024

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) are effective surgeries to treat end‐stage knee osteoarthritis. Clinicians assume that TKA alters knee kinematics while UKA preserves native knee kinematics; however, few studies of in vivo kinematics have evaluated this assumption. This study used biplane radiography to compare side‐to‐side tibiofemoral kinematics during chair rise, stair ascent, and walking in 16 patients who received either TKA or UKA. We hypothesized that TKA knees would have significant kinematic changes and increased asymmetry with the contralateral knee, while UKA knee kinematics would not change after surgery and preoperative knee symmetry would be maintained. Native bone and implant motion were tracked using a volumetric model‐based tracking technique. Six degrees of freedom kinematics were calculated throughout each motion. Kinematics were compared between the operated and contralateral knees pre‐ and post‐surgery using a linear mixed‐effects model. TKA knees became less varus with the tibia more medial, posterior, and distal relative to the femur. UKA knees became less varus with the tibia less lateral on average. Postoperative TKA knees were in less varus than UKA knees on average and at low flexion angles, with an internally rotated tibia during chair rise and stair ascent. At high flexion angles, the tibia was more medial and posterior after TKA than UKA. Side‐to‐side kinematic symmetry worsened after TKA but was maintained or improved after UKA. Greater understanding of kinematic differences between operated and contralateral knees after surgery may help surgeons understand why some patients remain unsatisfied with their new knees.
Microkinetic analysis of the CO2 effect on OCM over a La‐Sr/CaO catalyst
Authors: Cheng Yonggang , Mendes Pedro S. F. , Yazdani Parviz , Thybaut Joris W.
Published: July 2024

Given its role as a primary side product and a potential soft oxidant in the oxidative coupling of methane (OCM), understanding the effect of CO2 co‐feeding on OCM emerges as a key milestone to optimize the process. To grasp the molecular impact of CO2, a mechanistic investigation over a La‐Sr/CaO catalyst was carried out via microkinetic modeling. Seven catalyst descriptors with a precise physico‐chemical meaning were regressed for both pure O2 and CO2 co‐feeding in order to assess eventual structural changes induced in the catalyst by the presence of CO2 in the feed. Global significance was achieved in both regressions and experimental trends were successfully reproduced by the specifically determined catalyst descriptors. CO2 co‐feeding is deemed responsible for generating a new active phase, for example, by converting metal oxides into (oxy‐)carbonates, among others, resulting in a decrease in active site density (D16) from 10 × 10−5 mol/m2 to 7 × 10−5 mol/m2. In the presence of the CO2‐induced phase, the catalyst exhibits higher attraction for unsaturated hydrocarbons as indicated by the higher initial sticking probabilities of CH3• (D11) and C2H4 (D15), which increase from 4.9 × 10−4 to 8 × 10−2 and from 2.1 × 10−2 to 3 × 10−2, respectively. Additionally, there are also lower the overall energy barriers for the activation of hydrocarbons on the catalyst, stemming from the decrease in the H abstraction enthalpy from CH4 (D1) from 14 to 6 kJ/mol. The operating conditions, in particular the O2 content, are critical in distinguishing the effect of CO2 co‐feeding. While at typical operating conditions, CO2 promotes the total oxidation of methane, in the prerequisite of reduced amount of O2, it may also act as an additional oxygen donor. This work provides molecular details on the CO2 induced changes in catalyst properties but also provides unprecedent quantified insights of the reaction mechanism underlying experimental observations.
Acute ultraviolet B irradiation increases cholesterol and decreases Cyp7a1 expression in the liver of female mice
Authors: Yamane Takumi , Okumoto Takahiro , Tamura Tomoko , Oishi Yuichi
Published: July 2024

Recent studies have demonstrated that ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation impacts both skin and hepatic functions. In this study, we investigated the effects of UVB irradiation on cholesterol metabolism in the liver. Hairless mice were exposed to UVB (1.6 J/cm2) irradiation. Dorsal skin and liver samples were collected 24 h after exposure. Total RNA was extracted from the skin and liver tissues, and used for DNA microarray analysis and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Hepatic mRNA expression of Cyp7a1 revealed a 4.4‐fold decrease in the UVB (+) group compared to that in the UVB (−) group. No differences were observed in the expression of the other genes related to cholesterol metabolism. Additionally, the level of hepatic total cholesterol in the UVB (+) group was significantly higher than in the UVB (−) group. These findings suggest that acute UVB irradiation increases total cholesterol levels and decreases Cyp7a1 expression in the liver.
Evaluating the eDNA spatial signal in natural populations and its application for the monitoring of the threatened Harttiella (Siluriformes, Loricariidae)
Authors: Condachou Céline , Coutant Opale , Brosse Sébastien , Murienne Jérôme
Published: July 2024

To face the current downward trajectory of freshwater biodiversity loss, the implementation of effective biodiversity monitoring programs is of utmost importance. Environmental DNA offers unprecedented opportunities for this aim but several challenges still need to be addressed before implementing efficient species monitoring using eDNA. One of them is optimizing the eDNA sampling scheme to maximize the eDNA detection probability. For instance, in flowing freshwaters, the transport of eDNA downstream from its source can impact the eDNA detection probability, and blur the link between eDNA detection and the local occurrence of the species. Here, we investigated the eDNA spatial range of Harttiella lucifer (Siluriformes, Loricariidae), a threatened neotropical siluriform fish inhabiting French Guianese mountain streams, and confined to waterfalls and fast‐flowing environments. Environmental samples were collected at 11 sites from the H. lucifer population to 2000 m downstream. A species‐specific dPCR approach was applied to quantify the amount of DNA present in each sample and evaluate the eDNA detection probability of H. lucifer according to the distance from its source. Results showed an accumulation of eDNA at 50 and 100 m downstream from H. lucifer population. The evaluation of detection probabilities revealed that 300 m downstream from H. lucifer population, the probability of detection drops to 50%. This study suggests that eDNA drift in neotropical small streams is limited to a few tens meters downstream. These findings demonstrate that in neotropical small streams, eDNA provides a picture of the local fish fauna rather than integrating information over large spatial scales.
Pixelation with Concentration‐Encoded Effective Photons for Quantitative Molecular Optical Sectioning Microscopy
Authors: Wang Geng , Iyer Rishyashring R. , Sorrells Janet E. , Aksamitiene Edita , Chaney Eric J. , Renteria Carlos A. , Park Jaena , Shi Jindou , Sun Yi , Boppart Stephen A. , Tu Haohua
Published: July 2024

Irreproducibility in molecular optical sectioning microscopy has hindered the transformation of acquired digital images from qualitative descriptions to quantitative data. Although numerous tools, metrics, and phantoms have been developed, accurate quantitative comparisons of data from different microscopy systems with diverse acquisition conditions remains a challenge. Here, they develop a simple tool based on an absolute measurement of bulk fluorophore solutions with related Poisson photon statistics, to overcome this obstacle is developed. Demonstrated in a prototypical multiphoton microscope, this tool unifies the unit of pixelated measurement to enable objective comparison of imaging performance across different modalities, microscopes, components/settings, and molecular targets. The application of this tool in live specimens identifies an attractive methodology for quantitative imaging, which rapidly acquires low signal‐to‐noise frames with either gentle illumination or low‐concentration fluorescence labeling.
Epidermal growth factor receptor‑targeted antibody nimotuzumab combined with chemoradiotherapy improves survival in patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a propensity score matching real‐world study
Authors: Zhang Peng , Zhang Xinxin , Lang Jinyi , Wu Shaoxiong , Sun Yan , Wang Peiguo , Qiu Sufang , Huang Xiaodong , Ren Guoxin , Liu Kun , Du Xiaojing , Xiao Shaowen , Wang Zhongqiu , Weng Youliang , Zhang Ye , Zhou Hang , Tu Wenyong , Zhang Chenping , Yi Junlin
Published: July 2024

Patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA‐HNSCC) have poor survival outcomes. The real‐world efficacy of nimotuzumab plus intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT)‐based chemoradiotherapy in patients with LA‐HNSCC remains unclear. A total of 25,442 HNSCC patients were screened, and 612 patients were matched by propensity score matching (PSM) (1:1). PSM was utilized to balance known confounding factors. Patients who completed at least five doses of nimotuzumab were identified as study group. The primary end point was 3‐year overall survival (OS) rate. Log‐rank test examined the difference between two survival curves and Cloglog transformation test was performed to compare survival at a fixed time point. The median follow‐up time was 54.2 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 52.7–55.9) months. The study group was associated with improved OS (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.57–0.99, p = 0.038) and progression‐free survival (PFS) (HR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.58–0.96, p = 0.021). Subgroup analysis revealed that aged 50–60 year, IV, N2, radiotherapy dose ≥ 60 Gy, without previous surgery, and neoadjuvant therapy have a trend of survival benefit with nimotuzumab. Nimotuzumab showed favorable safety, only 0.2% had nimotuzumab‐related severe adverse events. Our study indicated the nimotuzumab plus chemoradiotherapy provides survival benefits and safety for LA‐HNSCC patients in an IMRT era.
Registered general nurses' health assessment practices in a tertiary hospital: A focused ethnography study
Authors: Salifu Mohammed Awal , Salifu David Abdulai , Gross Janet
Published: July 2024

Aim

To explore the assumptions and values that influence nursing health assessment practices among registered general nurses in general medical and surgical wards.

Design

The study was designed as a focused ethnography.

Methods

A semi‐structured interview guide was used to explore prevailing nursing health assessment practices of 13 registered general nurses in an attempt to explore the assumptions and values influencing health assessment practices in the study setting. Data were analysed inductively using an interpretive qualitative content analysis method.

Results

Nursing health assessment practices, and underlying assumptions and values were underpinned by a central theme of a culture of low expectation relating to nursing health assessment. The culture of low expectation was highlighted in five themes: (1) Unsystematic Assessment of Health Status, (2) Purpose of Nursing Health Assessment, (3) The Role of Nursing Educational and Regulatory Institutions, (4) Ward Ethos and (5) The Role of Organizational and Ward Leadership.

Implication

The adoption of a holistic nursing health assessment framework with a clearly defined purpose of aiding nursing diagnoses can guide patient‐centred care delivery and facilitate early recognition of physiological deterioration.

Patient or Public Contribution

Thirteen registered general nurses were interviewed, and the initial findings returned to them for validation.

Conclusion

The potential contribution of nursing health assessment to nursing practice and patient outcomes may not be fully realized if nursing health assessment is not situated within a holistic health assessment model with a clearly defined purpose for nursing practice.
Experimental study on mechanical responses of 3D needle‐punched composite preforms at different needling densities: Failure structures, tensile and interlayer peeling strengths
Authors: Han Zian , Wang Xi , Wu Hui , Gao Xiaoping , Xu Peng , Pan Tiandi , Gao Mingze , You Geyi , Du Peijian
Published: July 2024

In this study, needle‐punched quartz fiber felt / fabrics preforms (NQFFPs) with a wide needling densities (NDs) range from 70 to 280 punches/cm2 were manufactured, then the inner correlation among the NDs, mechanical properties and structural failure modes were studied and revealed. Firstly, the effects of NDs on mechanical strengths, which included tensile and interlayer peeling strengths of NQFFPs, were analyzed through experimental methods. Moreover, MATLAB software was applied to fit the NDs‐mechanical strength curves, then best fitting equations were defined to characterize the change rules between NDs and mechanical strengths. Additionally, with NDs increment, tensile strengths decreased from 0.727 to 0.0925 MPa, whereas interlayer peeling strengths increased from 83.46 to 135.04 N/m. Afterwards, the 3D image technology was utilized to capture failure morphologies of NQFFPs at different NDs from tensile and interlayer peeling experiments, which furtherly revealed the failure mechanisms of NQFFPs at different NDs. This work is significant for the engineering manufacturing and application of needle‐punched preforms and the composites.

Highlights

Failure structure characteristics of NQFFPs at different NDs were captured.

Change rules between NDs and strengths were characterized by math equations.

The correlation among NDs, fracture morphologies and strengths was revealed.
An oil‐on‐water minimum quantity lubrication technology for high‐quality grinding of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites
Authors: Li Pulin , Zhao Huan , Yan Xin , Wen Zihang , Wang Rongguo , Ding Han
Published: July 2024

Carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) composites, known for their excellent mechanical properties and environmental sustainability, are highly sought‐after in aerospace, energy, and many other fields. Grinding could be used to realize the high‐accuracy and low‐damage machining of CFRTP components. However, due to the temperature sensitivity and water absorption of CFRTP, dry and flood lubrication grinding could cause thermal damage and hygrothermal aging, respectively. In addition, these methods could lead to dust and excessive cutting fluids harmful to the environment. Addressing these bottlenecks, this study is the first to propose using oil‐on‐water minimum quantity lubrication (OoW‐MQL) to grind CFRTP. Experiments including various lubricating conditions and grinding parameters were performed to investigate the grinding performance. Experimental results showed that OoW‐MQL with the oil–water proportion of 1:1 outperformed the other lubricating conditions, achieving the best surface quality with the lowest grinding forces and temperatures. The optimal oil–water proportion remained almost unchanged under different grinding parameters. Furthermore, importance analysis using the extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) algorithm demonstrated that oil–water proportion was the most critical factor affecting surface roughness. This study proves the feasibility of OoW‐MQL and provides technical guidance for high‐quality grinding of CFRTP.

Highlights

Oil‐on‐water minimum quantity lubrication (OoW‐MQL) was proposed to grind carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) composites.

The experimental results of grinding forces, grinding temperatures, surface roughness and surface morphologies were analyzed, which proved that OoW‐MQL with oil–water proportion (1,1) had outstanding lubricating and cooling capability.

The effect of grinding parameters on the optimal oil–water proportion was proved to be negligible through comparative tests under grinding parameters of high force and high temperature.

Quantitative analysis using the extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) algorithm identified the oil–water proportion as the most critical factor influencing surface roughness.
Comparative study of CF4 + X + He (X = C4F8 or C4H2F6) plasmas for high aspect ratio etching of SiO2 with ACL mask
Authors: Choi Gilyoung , Efremov Alexander , Kwon Kwang‐Ho
Published: July 2024

This work compared C4F8 and C4H2F6 gases (as third components in CF4 + He gas mixture) for the high aspect ratio etching of SiO2 through the amorphous carbon layer (ACL) mask. The research scheme included the study of gas‐phase plasma characteristics, etching kinetics, and etching profiles. It was found that CF4 + C4F8 + He and CF4 + C4H2F6 + He gas mixtures are featured by quite close plasma parameters, the kinetics of electron‐impact processes, and ion bombardment intensities. At the same, the use of C4H2F6 provides a bit lower F atom density together with a bit higher polymerizing ability. All these factors cause lower absolute etching rates for both SiO2 and ACL but provide better SiO2/ACL/ACL selectivity and profile features.
A new endophytic Penicillium oxalicum with aphicidal activity and its infection mechanism
Authors: Song Yuxin , Liu Xiaoli , Zhao Kangbo , Ma Ruyi , Wu Wenjun , Zhang Yuanyuan , Duan Longfei , Li Xinnuo , Xu Hong , Cheng Min , Qin Baofu , Qi Zhijun
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Aphid infestation adversely affects the yield and quality of crops. Rapid reproduction and insecticidal resistance have made controlling aphids in the field challenging. Therefore, the present study investigated the insecticidal property of Penicillium oxalicum (QLhf‐1) and its mechanism of action against aphids, Hyalopterus arundimis Fabricius.

RESULTS

Bioassay revealed that the control efficacy of the spores against aphids (86.30% and 89.05% on the third day and fifth day after infection, respectively) were higher than other components, such as the mycelium. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that QLhf‐1 invaded the aphid cuticle through spores and used the aphid tissues as a nutrient source for growth and reproduction, causing stiffness and atrophy and a final death. Three extracellular enzymes, lipase, protease, and chitinase had a synergistic effect with spores, and they acted together to complete the infection process by degrading the aphid body wall and accelerating the infection process.

CONCLUSION

The newly discovered endophytic penicillin strain P. oxalicum ‘QLhf‐1’ can effectively kill aphids. The results provided strong evidence for the biological control of aphids, and lay a foundation for the development and utilization of QLhf‐1. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Balloon pulmonary angioplasty for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary disease without pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Kiko Takatoyo , Asano Ryotaro , Endo Hiroyuki , Nishi Naruhiro , Hayashi Hiroya , Kotoku Akiyuki , Horinouchi Hiroki , Ueda Jin , Aoki Tatsuo , Tsuji Akihiro , Fukuda Tetsuya , Ogo Takeshi
Published: July 2024

Balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) is beneficial for patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary disease (CTEPD) with pulmonary hypertension (PH). However, the clinical benefit of BPA for the patients with CTEPD without PH remains unknown. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and long‐term outcomes of BPA in patients with CTEPD without PH. We retrospectively analyzed the data from 84 CTEPD patients with mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) < 25 mmHg and 39 CTEPD patients with mPAP ≤ 20 mmHg (without PH). Among the 39 patients with CTEPD without PH, 14 underwent BPA (BPA‐treated group), and the remaining 25 received no treatment (untreated group). In the patients with CTEPD without PH, BPA led to improvements in symptoms, pulmonary vascular resistance (3.6 ± 1.6 to 2.6 ± 1.1 Wood units, p < 0.001), peak oxygen consumption (16.1 ± 4.0 to 18.8 ± 4.3 mL/kg/min, p = 0.033), minute ventilation versus carbon dioxide production slope (41.4 ± 12.2 to 35.1 ± 6.7, p = 0.026), and mPAP/cardiac output slope (7.0 ± 2.6 to 4.4 ± 2.0 mmHg/L/min, p = 0.004) and facilitated the discontinuation of home oxygenation therapy, with no serious complications. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed no significant difference in all‐cause mortality between the untreated and BPA‐treated groups. BPA may be a safe treatment option for the patients with CTEPD without PH that can alleviate symptoms, improve exercise capacity, and facilitate weaning from home oxygen therapy. Further prospective randomized trials are needed to confirm these findings.
An Almost Deterministic Cooling by Measurements
Authors: Yan Jia‐shun , Jing Jun
Published: July 2024

Nondeterministic measurement‐based techniques are efficient in reshaping the population distribution of a quantum system but suffer from a limited success probability of holding the system in the target state. To save the experimental cost, a two‐step protocol is proposed to cool a resonator down to the ground state with a near‐unit probability by exploiting the state‐engineering mechanisms of both conditional and unconditional measurements on an ancillary qubit. In the first step, the unconditional measurements on the ancillary qubit are applied to reshape the target resonator from a thermal state to a reserved Fock state. The measurement sequence can be efficiently optimized by reinforcement learning for maximum fidelity. In the second step, the population on the reserved state can be faithfully transferred in a stepwise way to the resonator's ground state with a near‐unit fidelity by the conditional measurements on the qubit. Properly designing the projection operator and the measurement interval enables the Kraus operator to act as a lowering operator for neighboring Fock states. Through dozens of measurements in all, the initial thermal average population of the resonator can be reduced by five orders in magnitude with a success probability of over 95%.
Electrocatalysis Using Cobalt Porphyrin Covalently Linked with Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes: Hydrazine Sensing and Hydrazine‐Assisted Green Hydrogen Synthesis
Authors: Tasleem Mohammad , Singh Varsha , Tiwari Ananya , Ganesan Vellaichamy , Sankar Muniappan
Published: July 2024

Acid‐treated multi‐walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) covalently functionalized with cobalt triphenothiazine porphyrin (CoTriPTZ‐OH) A3B type porphyrin, containing three phenothiazine moieties (represented as MWCNT‐CoTriPTZ) is synthesized and characterized by various spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. The nanoconjugate, MWCNT‐CoTriPTZ, exhibits a pair of distinct redox peaks due to the Co2+/Co3+ redox process in 0.1 M pH 7.0 phosphate buffer. Further, it electrocatalytically oxidizes hydrazine at a low overpotential with a high current. This property is advantageously utilized for the sensitive determination of hydrazine. The developed electrochemical sensor exhibits high sensitivity (0.99 µAµM−1cm−2), a low limit of detection (4.5 ppb), and a broad linear calibration range (0.1 µM to 3.0 mM) for the determination of hydrazine. Further, MWCNT‐CoTriPTZ is exploited for hydrazine‐assisted green hydrogen synthesis. The high efficiency of hydrazine oxidation is confirmed by the low onset potential (0.45 V (vs RHE)) and 0.60 V (vs RHE) at the current density of 10 mA.cm−2. MWCNT‐CoTriPTZ displays a high current density (77.29 mA.cm−2) at 1.45 V (vs RHE).
K‐Doping Suppresses Oxygen Redox in P2‐Na0.67Ni0.11Cu0.22Mn0.67O2 Cathode Materials for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhou Bei , Wong Deniz , Fu Zhongheng , Guo Hao , Schulz Christian , Karkera Guruprakash , Hahn Horst , Bianchini Matteo , Wang Qingsong
Published: July 2024

In P2‐type layered oxide cathodes, Na site‐regulation strategies are proposed to modulate the Na+ distribution and structural stability. However, their impact on the oxygen redox reactions remains poorly understood. Herein, the incorporation of K+ in the Na layer of Na0.67Ni0.11Cu0.22Mn0.67O2 is successfully applied. The effects of partial substitution of Na+ with K+ on electrochemical properties, structural stability, and oxygen redox reactions have been extensively studied. Improved Na+ diffusion kinetics of the cathode is observed from galvanostatic intermittent titration technique (GITT) and rate performance. The valence states and local structural environment of the transition metals (TMs) are elucidated via operando synchrotron X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). It is revealed that the TMO2 slabs tend to be strengthened by K‐doping, which efficiently facilitates reversible local structural change. Operando X‐ray diffraction (XRD) further confirms more reversible phase changes during the charge/discharge for the cathode after K‐doping. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that oxygen redox reaction in Na0.62K0.03Ni0.11Cu0.22Mn0.67O2 cathode has been remarkably suppressed as the nonbonding O 2p states shift down in the energy. This is further corroborated experimentally by resonant inelastic X‐ray scattering (RIXS) spectroscopy, ultimately proving the role of K+ incorporated in the Na layer.
On the value of instance selection for bug resolution prediction performance
Authors: Miloudi Chaymae , Cheikhi Laila , Idri Ali , Abran Alain
Published: July 2024

Software maintenance is a challenging and laborious software management activity, especially for open‐source software. The bugs reports of such software allow tracking maintenance activities and were used in several empirical studies to better predict the bug resolution effort. These reports are known for their large size and contain nonrelevant instances that need to be preprocessed to be suitable for use. To this end, instance selection (IS) has been proposed in the literature as a way to reduce the size of the datasets, while keeping the relevant instances. The objective of this study is to perform an empirical study that investigates the impact of data preprocessing through IS on the performance of bug resolution prediction classifiers. To deal with this, four IS algorithms, namely, edited nearest neighbor (ENN), repeated ENN, all‐k nearest neighbors, and model class selection, are applied on five large datasets, together with five machine learning techniques. Overall, 125 experiments were performed and compared. The findings of this study highlight the positive impact of IS in providing better estimates for bug resolution prediction classifiers, in particular using repeated ENN and ENN algorithms.
Bulk water services delivery challenges in the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati district municipality in South Africa's North West Province
Authors: Mouton Nelda , Motshabi Tshepo , Jeje Kafigi , Henrico Alfred
Published: July 2024

This study thoroughly examines the difficulties in providing bulk water services in Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati district municipality in the North West Province, with the end goal of giving comprehensive suggestions for operational and strategic improvements. The study adopted a qualitative research approach, employing semistructured interviews for gathering data from officials of various municipalities responsible for overseeing infrastructure within the geographical confines of the municipalities they serve. The findings identified themes indicative of the focus areas contributing to the bulk water services delivery challenges. These emphasized the importance of fostering a collaborative work environment, thus promoting organizational learning, and implementing effective change management to elevate service delivery standards. It identifies the necessity for heightened operational efficiency and advocates for a cultural shift within municipal operations. Strategic planning, marked by the creation and regular refinement of master plans, is highlighted alongside the implementation of robust project management practices. The study emphasizes the critical need for synchronizing municipal planning processes with statutory requirements and the changing demands of the local community. The research advocates for a flexible and responsive approach to master planning, which is indispensable for adapting to shifts in administrative frameworks and community needs. The study recommends the development of a dynamic master plan for water services, one that is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the evolving legislative landscape and community priorities. It also suggests that municipal authorities should ensure that the planning process remains inclusive and responsive to the residents' needs. Furthermore, training and capacity‐building initiatives for municipal officials could be instrumental in enhancing their ability to adapt to these changing demands and legislative environments.
Keratometry
Authors: Olsen Thomas
Published: July 2024

The technique of measuring the corneal power by keratometry is reviewed. The importance of the keratometer index for the translation of the radius into dioptric power is explained, and evidence is given that the conventional index of 1.3375 gives a corneal power which is higher than the physiological value. The effect of spherical aberration on the keratometer reading is shown by numerical examples using exact ray tracing. Ray tracing is used to analyze tomographically obtained elevation data to calculate the effective corneal power as a function of pupil size. The ray-traced corneal power at 3 mm pupil was found to be about 1 D lower than the standard keratometer diopter value. Finally, it is shown how the Stiles–Crawford effect moderates the effect of spherical aberration for large pupil sizes.
American History of IOL Power Calculation
Authors: Hoffer Kenneth J.
Published: July 2024

The history of ultrasound axial length measurement and formula development for IOL power calculation in America are described beginning with the initial trials in April 1974, and through the trials and tribulations the author experienced in trying to improve the accuracy of the procedure through instrumentation and formulas as well as efforts to teach others how to perform it and improve it. This includes the first studies showing the sound velocities of the eye, the normal biometric measurements of the cataractous eye, and the development of the first calculators and computer programs for using the formulas.
Aladdin Optical Biometer
Authors: Foggi Alessandro
Published: July 2024

This chapter is a full description and analysis of the technology behind the Aladdin Optical biometer. It includes a complete description of how it works for biometry measurements including a thorough discussion of its corneal topography capabilities as well as the determination of corneal power and evaluation of keratoconus as well as spherical aberration. There is a complete description of IOL power capabilities and how to use the IOL power software and included formulas in the instrument.
CSO IOL Calculation Module
Authors: Vestri Gabriele , Versaci Francesco , Savini Giacomo , Aramberri Jaime
Published: July 2024

The IOL (Intraocular Lens) calculation software available in CSO’s (Costruzione Strumenti Oftalmici) instruments is a ray-tracing application based on the measured parameters of the ocular anterior segment. The altimetric data of the anterior and posterior corneal surfaces and the positions of the iris and scleral spurs are used in combination with the altimetric data of the IOL to build a three-dimensional model of the eye. For each simulated ray entering the pupil of the eye, the software calculates its intersection with any optical interface and applies Snell’s refraction law to get the direction of the refracted ray. The position of the IOL is predicted with a proprietary algorithm based on the positions of the iris and scleral spurs. With a given IOL model and power, this software predicts the postoperative sphere, cylinder, refractive map, point spread function (PSF) and focusing chart. Unlike standard thin-lens formulas, this method is not affected by previous corneal surgery and can be used in eyes with any corneal disease or surgical history.
Holladay Formulas
Authors: Cooke David L. , Aramberri Jaime
Published: July 2024

The Holladay formulas are thin-lens vergence formulas designed to calculate the intraocular lens (IOL) power. In this chapter, the general formulation of this type of formula is described. The Holladay 1 formula was the first theoretical formula that used two variables to predict the position of the IOL (effective lens position, ELP). The Holladay 2 formula increased the number of variables involved in the ELP prediction. Recently, an axial length adjustment has improved the performance of these formulas in long and short eyes. The refractive outcomes published in the most relevant studies are discussed. The Holladay IOL Consultant software contains these formulas and offers many useful tools to the cataract surgeon.
Intraoperative Aberrometry
Authors: Ianchulev Sean
Published: July 2024

Intraoperative aberrometry (IA) has advanced high-precision ocular biometry from the clinic into the surgical suite. Additional optical biometric data during cataract surgery can enhance surgical decision-making and help improve fidelity and refractive outcomes of IOL implantation. This is particularly timely in the age of premium IOLs and higher patient expectations for reduced post-surgical refractive errors, spectacle independence, and astigmatism correction. IA is one of the first examples of automated biometric systems with cloud-based connectivity in ophthalmology.
Ladas Super Formula: Origin and Evolution with AI
Authors: Ladas John , Devgan Uday , Jun Albert , Siddiqui Aazim
Published: July 2024

The original Ladas Super Formula 1.0 included parts of the Hoffer Q, the Holladay 1, and the SRK/T formulas, with Wang-Koch axial length adjustment in long eyes. The use of multiple formulas was shown to lead to better outcomes by selecting the most accurate formula for a particular eye.

The Ladas Super Formula 2.0 was developed on the 1.0 framework and integrates artificial intelligence supervised learning to predict the refractive error, based on three input variables: axial length, corneal power, and anterior chamber depth. The formula undergoes continuous adjustments as data from large datasets are available. The published clinical results are reported.
The T2 Formula
Authors: Sheard Richard , Smith Guy , Cooke David L.
Published: July 2024

The authors examined each of the steps of the SRK/T formula algorithm for non-physiological behaviour by varying the input variables and plotting a graph of the output value. They identified a non-physiological behaviour in the calculation of corrected axial length and a non-physiological behaviour in the calculation of corneal height. The SRK/T cusp arises from the equations employed to predict the corneal height. Elimination of the cusp, therefore, requires a new method for corneal height calculation. One solution is to use a regression formula derived from real data, and if a linear regression model is employed the resulting formula will be free of non-physiological anomalies. The development of the T2 formula achieved its goal of eliminating the SRK/T cusp and, in consequence, delivered a statistically and clinically significant performance improvement in what was, at the time, the largest independent study to examine the performance of the SRK/T formula.
IOL Power Choice in Children
Authors: McClatchey Scott K. , McClatchey Thaddeus S.
Published: July 2024

The choice of IOL power for a child should take into consideration the myopic shift that results from ocular growth with age. The goal of cataract surgery in children is twofold: optimal management of vision in childhood and emmetropia in adult life. The former requires spectacles to manage the changing refractive error in the growing eye, as well as often-intensive treatment for amblyopia. The latter requires a combination of careful choice of the initial postoperative refraction based on age, with a goal of achieving an adult refractive error that can be easily managed with spectacles or contact lenses. Ideally, a child should have a small amount of initial hypermetropia. The growth of the eye follows a logarithmic curve with age. The eye grows as the child grows: rapidly at first, then slowing down over time. This growth induces a myopic shift.
Fellow Eye Calculation
Authors: Olsen Thomas
Published: July 2024

When we see a refractive prediction error of the first eye, we may ask the question of how to use that information to improve the prediction for the second eye. Having ruled out any misreadings, recording errors, IOL constant, IOL power label error, or other obvious mistakes, we still see that the prediction error in the first eye correlates with that of the second eye. Based on correlation analysis, it is possible to empirically adjust for the error and improve the second eye prediction, irrespective of the formula used. The refraction error can be translated to the IOL power of the second eye. Another option is to use the IOL position of the first eye in a ray-tracing thick lens model of the second eye.
Clinical Refraction
Authors: Srivannaboon Sabong
Published: July 2024

Postoperative refraction is important in any evaluation of the accuracy of IOL power formulas or biometry instruments as well as for optimizing personalized lens constants. The subject of clinical refraction is covered in detail including eyes with various types of IOLs such as monofocal, bifocal trifocal, multifocal, and EdoF modalities. A description of the defocus curves for these lenses is demonstrated.