bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eligibility to COAPT trial in the daily practice: A real‐world experience
Authors: Zancanaro Edoardo , Buzzatti Nicola , Denti Paolo , Guicciardi Nicolò Azzola , Melillo Enrico , Monaco Fabrizio , Agricola Eustachio , Ancona Francesco , Alfieri Ottavio , De Bonis Michele , Maisano Francesco
Published: June 2024

Background

The COAPT Trial was the first ever to demonstrate a survival benefit in treating functional mitral regurgitation (FMR). That was achieved through transcatheter mitral repair in selected patients. The exact proportion of patients fulfilling COAPT selection criteria in the real‐world is unknown.

Aims

To assess the applicability of COAPT criteria in real world and its impact on patients’ survival.

Methods

We assessed the clinical data and follow‐up results of all consecutive patients admitted for FMR at our Department between January 2016 and May 2021 according to COAPT eligibility. COAPT eligibility was retrospectively assessed by a cardiac surgeon and a cardiologist.

Results

Among 394 patients, 56 (14%) were COAPT eligible. The most frequent reasons for exclusion were MR ≤ 2 (22%), LVEF < 20% or >50% (19%), and non‐optimized GDMT (21.3%).

Among Non‐COAPT patients, weighted 4‐year survival was higher in patients who received MitraClip compared to those who were left in optimized medical therapy (91.5% confidence interval [CI: 0.864, 0.96] vs. 71.8% [CI: 0.509, 0.926], respectively, p = 0.027).

Conclusions

Only a minority (14%) of real‐world patients with FMR referred to a tertiary hospital fulfilled the COAPT selection criteria. Among Non‐COAPT patients, weighted 4‐year survival was higher in patients who received MitraClip compared to those who were left in optimized medical therapy (91.5% [0.864, 0.96] vs. 71.8% [0.509, 0.926], respectively, p = 0.027).
Synthesis of Sulfilimines via Visible‐Light‐Mediated Triplet Energy Transfer to Sulfonyl Azides
Authors: Arichi Norihito , Amano Tsuyoshi , Wu Shuhan , Inuki Shinsuke , Ohno Hiroaki
Published: June 2024

Sulfilimines and their derivatives have garnered considerable interest in both synthetic and medicinal chemistry. Photochemical nitrene transfer to sulfides is known as a conventional synthetic approach to sulfilimines. However, the existing methods have a limited substrate scope stemming from the incompatibility of singlet nitrene intermediates with nucleophilic functional groups. Herein, we report the synthesis of N‐sulfonyl sulfilimines via visible‐light‐mediated energy transfer to sulfonyl azides, uncovering the previously overlooked reactivity of triplet nitrenes with sulfides. This reaction features broad functional group tolerance, water compatibility, and amenability to the late‐stage functionalization of drugs. Thus, this work represents an important example of energy transfer chemistry that overcomes challenges in traditional synthetic methods.
Aspekte der Energiewende. Teil 2: Wie kann der zukünftige heimische Bedarf an PTX‐Produkten gedeckt werden und was werden sie kosten?
Authors: Machhammer Otto , Janisch Ingo
Published: June 2024

Aufbauend auf den Kosten zur Herstellung von PTX‐Produkten wird ein einfaches Rechenmodell zur Ermittlung der Kosten für deren Schiffstransport und Reformierung zu Wasserstoff vorgestellt. Die für die PTX‐Produktion erforderliche Energie wird ausschließlich von Windparks bereitgestellt. Exemplarisch werden die Kosten für den Transport der Power‐to‐X (PTX)‐Produkte NH3, MeOH, flüssiger organischer Wasserstoffträger (LOHC) und von Fischer‐Tropsch‐Diesel aus Chile (Haru Oni) und Marokko (Tarfaya) ermittelt. Verglichen werden diese Kosten mit den Kosten der Wasserstoff‐Produktion an drei heimischen Standorten mit sehr guten bis sehr mäßigen Windverhältnissen in der Reihenfolge Dornum (norddeutsche Küste), Senftenberg (Lausitz) und Ludwigshafen (Rheingraben). Daneben wird auch ein Kostenvergleich für Fischer‐Tropsch‐Diesel angestellt und die Flächenbedarfe für die heimische Produktion werden ermittelt.
Numerical investigation on mixing behaviour in the contact zone of an industrial‐scale dissolved air flotation tank
Authors: Chen Xiuzhen , Huang Jingdong , Hao Yubing
Published: June 2024

The mixing behaviour of the wastewater and the recycle bubbly water in the contact zone could affect the separation performance of dissolved air flotation systems. In this study, the mixing characteristics in the contact zone of an industrial‐scale dissolved air flotation tank were investigated using the computational fluid dynamics method. At first, the influence of the turbulence model on the simulation results was clarified. It is demonstrated that the realizable k‐ε model could predict the gas holdup distribution with better accuracy, and the maximum relative deviation between the predicted gas holdup and the experimental results is only 10%. The influence of the geometry and operating parameters on the mixing process was then studied numerically. It is found that the mixing performance in the contact zone could be improved by decreasing the height position of the nozzle inlet in a certain range. The reason is that microbubbles disperse better in the bottom region and a double circulation flow state forms in the contact zone when the nozzle inlet is installed at a low height. Additionally, the mixing process could be further enhanced by decreasing the diameter of the nozzle inlet. As to the operating conditions, increasing the recycle ratio could not only increase the gas holdup but also improve the mixing performance in the contact zone. When the recycle flow rate remains constant, increasing the wastewater flow rate will lead to a decrease in gas holdup and deterioration of the mixing effect.
Inline monitoring of lactobionic acid production from cheese whey by Pseudomonas taetrolens in a stirred bioreactor using electrical conductivity
Authors: Romano Roberta , Alberini Federico , Raddadi Noura , Fava Fabio , Paglianti Alessandro
Published: June 2024

In this study, we introduce a novel experimental approach and present a simplified mathematical model for a quick monitoring of a biotec process producing lactobionic acid (LBA). It relies on monitoring the electrical conductivity of the fermentation broth and it is designed to predict the concentration of LBA throughout the microbial cheese whey valorization via LBA production. Following a systematic series of experiments conducted to refine the mathematical model, we performed conductivity monitoring during LBA production from “caciotta” and “squacquerone” wheys by Pseudomonas taetrolens in a 3 L stirred tank bioreactor. Throughout the bioproduction process, the conductivity values exhibited an upward trend corresponding to the increase in LBA concentration. Our findings underscore the feasibility and advantages of employing inline conductivity monitoring during LBA production from various cheese wheys. The results emphasize that conductivity measurements can effectively estimate product concentration in a fermentation process, particularly when there is a shift in ionic concentration. Furthermore, these conductivity measurements offer valuable insights for monitoring and optimizing the working conditions in a fermentation process.
Cost‐Effectiveness and Budget Impact Analysis of Apixaban and Rivaroxaban Versus Warfarin in the Prevention of Stroke in Patients With Non‐Valvular Atrial Fibrillation (NVAF) in Iran
Authors: Tajik Amirmohammad , Abbasi Azam , Goudarzi Zahra , Izadi‐Moud Azadeh , Varmaghani Mehdi
Published: June 2024

Introduction

This study evaluates the cost‐effectiveness of Apixaban and Rivaroxaban, compared to Warfarin, for stroke prevention in patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation in Iran.

Method

A Markov model with a 30‐year time horizon was employed to simulate and assess different treatment strategies' cost‐effectiveness. The study population comprised Iranian adults with NVAF, identified through specialist consultations, hospital visits, and archival record reviews. Direct medical costs, direct nonmedical, and indirect costs were included. Quality‐adjusted life years (QALY) were assessed using an EQ‐5D questionnaire. This study utilized a cost‐effectiveness threshold of $11 134 per QALY.

Results

Apixaban demonstrated superior cost‐effectiveness compared to Rivaroxaban and Warfarin. Over 30 years, total costs were lower in the Apixaban and Rivaroxaban groups compared to the Warfarin group ($126.18 and $109.99 vs. $150.49). However, Apixaban showed higher total QALYs gained compared to others (0.134 vs. 0.133 and 0.116). The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio for comparing Apixaban to Warfarin was calculated at −1332.83 cost per QALY, below the threshold of $11 134, indicating Apixaban's cost‐effectiveness. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the findings, with ICER consistently remaining below the threshold. Over 5 years (2024−2028) of Apixaban usage, the incremental cost starts at USD 70 250 296 in the first year and gradually rises to USD 71 770 662 in the fifth year. DSA and PSA were assessed to prove the robustness of the results.

Conclusion

This study shows that Apixaban is a cost‐effective option for stroke prevention in non‐valvular atrial fibrillation patients in Iran compared to Warfarin.
A review of vortex pinning in REBa2Cu3O7‐x coated conductors
Authors: Wang Tong‐Xin , Huang Da‐Xing , Ding Fa‐Zhu , Dong Hao , Yu Hao , Dun Chao‐Chao , Gu Hong‐Wei
Published: June 2024

REBa2Cu3O7‐x (REBCO) exhibits outstanding qualities such as a high irreversible field (7 T) and strong current‐carrying capacity (77 K, 106 A cm−2), making it ideal for high magnetic field applications such as fusion, accelerators, and nuclear magnetic resonance. However, the degradation of in‐field critical current density (Jc) due to vortex motion is a significant hurdle. Research indicates that improving vortex pinning can notably enhance Jc in REBCO, showing promise for its future high‐field applications. This review explores vortex pinning mechanisms, artificial pinning centers (APCs), and how environmental conditions affect pinning characteristics, highlighting advancements in vortex pinning for REBCO in magnetic fields. Different methods for introducing APCs are discussed and compared for evaluating their efficacy in achieving optimal nanoparticle distributions and consequent superconducting performance improvements, underscoring the importance of nano‐defect features (type, size, and distribution) in optimizing the superconducting properties of the REBCO. Additionally, the review tackles current challenges, shares recent research breakthroughs, and outlines future research directions for designing pinning landscapes to further improve REBCO performance.
SERPINC1, a new prognostic predictor of colon cancer, promote colon cancer progression through EMT
Authors: Le Zhenghong , Chen Shuran , Feng Yan , Lu Weichen , Liu Mulin
Published: June 2024

Background

Liver metastasis of CRC is still the main cause of poor prognosis in patients with CRC. Previous studies have suggested that serpin family C member 1(SERPINC1) is involved in the development of a variety of tumours, but its effect on colorectal cancer progression has been poorly elucidated.

Methods

Based on the GEO database, this study identifies the core gene SERPINC1 associated with liver metastasis in CRC. We used transcriptomic data and immunohistochemical staining to explore the expression of SERPINC1 in normal, cancer, and liver metastases tissue from CRC patients. Clinical data obtained from our hospital were used to explore the impact of SERPINC1 on the prognosis of colon cancer patients. Mechanistically, the biological functions exerted by SERPINC1 in CRC were predicted by bioinformatics, and the results were validated by the results of the experiments in vitro. Cell lines with knockdown of SERPINC1 were performed a series assay such as trans well, CCK‐8 and colony formation assay to explore the relationship between SERPINC1 and proliferation and metastasis of CRC cells. Finally, the effect of SERPINC1 on the sensitivity of colon cancer patients to immune checkpoint therapy was evaluated.

Results

In CRC liver metastatic tissues, we found significantly high expression of SERPINC1. Briefly, 212 CRC cohorts showed that SERPINC1 was significantly associated with TNM stage and plasma CA19‐9 and CEA in CRC patients. Univariate and multivariate Cox demonstrated that SERPINC1 was significantly associated with 5‐year survival after radical surgery for colorectal cancer (p < 0.001). Bioinformatics predicted that SERPINC1 affects metastasis of colon cancer through epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Colony formation assay and CCK‐8 assay showed that SERPINC1 promotes malignant proliferation of CRC cells, trans well assay showed that SERPINC1 promotes distant migratory behaviour of CRC cells and protein blotting assay showed that SERPINC1 may promote migration by promoting the TGF‐β1‐mediated EMT of CRC cells. In addition, several immunotherapy cohorts also reflected that the expression of SERPINC1 reduced the sensitivity of CRC patients to immune checkpoint therapy.

Conclusion

Our study identified SERPINC1 as a novel liver metastasis‐associated gene in CRC. Targeting SERPINC1 may be a novel therapeutic strategy for patients with liver metastases from CRC.
Primary Pulmonary Meningioma With Associated Multiple Micronodules: A Case Report With Comprehensive Diagnostic Overview
Authors: Zhu Daoqi , Ou Zhuan , Yan Guangning , Cao Jiawang , Xu Enwu
Published: June 2024

Background

Primary pulmonary meningioma (PPM) is an exceedingly rare neoplasm originating in the meninges within the lung. Despite sharing similarities with its central nervous system (CNS) counterparts, PPM presents unique diagnostic challenges and therapeutic considerations owing to its infrequent occurrence.

Case

This case report describes a 73‐year‐old male who underwent chest computed tomography (CT), which revealed a mass in the posterior basal segment of the right lower lobe, suggestive of a low‐grade malignant tumor approximately 30–40 mm in size. Single‐port video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) was performed to resect the mass via localized lesion excision (lung wedge resection). Intraoperative frozen section pathology indicated a low‐grade malignant epithelial tumor, leading to a decision for maximal lung function preservation, considering the patient's advanced age. The surgical team opted for a localized excision to ensure negative margins. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of epithelioid PPM, a rare subtype even among PPM cases (World Health Organization [WHO] Grade I). The patient was discharged 9 days after surgery without complications and resumed normal daily activities 1 month postoperatively. The rarity of PPM precludes a standardized treatment protocol, with surgical resection as the primary approach. However, the efficacy of adjunctive therapies remains uncertain due to limited evidence.

Conclusion

This case report contributes to a better understanding of PPM and emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and individualized treatment planning for this rare entity.
Analysis and design of high‐frequency multiple‐output wireless power transfer system with load‐independent class‐E/F inverter
Authors: Wang Hanxiao , Komiyama Yutaro , Wei Xiuqin , Konishi Akihiro , Nguyen Kien , Sekiya Hiroo
Published: June 2024

This paper proposes a high‐frequency multiple‐receiver wireless power transfer (WPT) system with a load‐independent class‐E/F inverter. Each receiver has a post‐regulator, which changes the equivalent resistance seen from the inverter to obtain the necessary power for output voltage regulation. Because the load‐independent class‐E/F inverter generates constant AC current (
), the transmitter supplies the minimum required power to the receivers by the change of the equivalent resistances. Besides, the load‐independent inverter consistently achieves zero‐voltage switching (ZVS) without any control. As a result, no information feedback by wireless communication is necessary for output regulation and ZVS achievement, simplifying the system configuration and improving the transient response of the control. This paper presents analytical expressions of the proposed system. Besides, the experiment was carried out with a two‐receiver WPT system. The implemented system worked well by individual and independent output regulation of the post regulator at each receiver. The implemented WPT system achieved the power‐delivery efficiency of 83.4% at the 6.78 MHz transmission frequency and the total output power of 40 W.
Fluid resuscitation with balanced electrolyte solutions results in faster resolution of diabetic ketoacidosis than with 0.9% saline in adults – A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Szabó Gergő Vilmos , Szigetváry Csenge , Turan Caner , Engh Marie Anne , Terebessy Tamás , Fazekas Alíz , Farkas Nelli , Hegyi Péter , Molnár Zsolt
Published: June 2024

Fluid resuscitation during diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is most frequently performed with 0.9% saline despite its high chloride and sodium concentration. Balanced Electrolyte Solutions (BES) may prove a more physiological alternative, but convincing evidence is missing. We aimed to compare the efficacy of 0.9% saline to BES in DKA management. MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases were searched for relevant studies using predefined keywords (from inception to 27 November 2021). Relevant studies were those in which 0.9% saline (Saline‐group) was compared to BES (BES‐group) in adults admitted with DKA. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias. The primary outcome was time to DKA resolution (defined by each study individually), while the main secondary outcomes were changes in laboratory values, duration of insulin infusion, and mortality. We included seven randomized controlled trials and three observational studies with 1006 participants. The primary outcome was reported for 316 patients, and we found that BES resolves DKA faster than 0.9% saline with a mean difference (MD) of −5.36 [95% CI: −10.46, −0.26] hours. Post‐resuscitation chloride (MD: −4.26 [−6.97, −1.54] mmoL/L) and sodium (MD: −1.38 [−2.14, −0.62] mmoL/L) levels were significantly lower. In contrast, levels of post‐resuscitation bicarbonate (MD: 1.82 [0.75, 2.89] mmoL/L) were significantly elevated in the BES‐group compared to the Saline‐group. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups regarding the duration of parenteral insulin administration (MD: 0.16 [−3.03, 3.35] hours) or mortality (OR: −0.67 [0.12, 3.68]). Studies showed some concern or a high risk of bias, and the level of evidence for most outcomes was low. This meta‐analysis indicates that the use of BES resolves DKA faster than 0.9% saline. Therefore, DKA guidelines should consider BES instead of 0.9% saline as the first choice during fluid resuscitation.
Incorporation of Ionic Conductive Polymers into Sulfide Electrolyte‐Based Solid‐State Batteries to Enhance Electrochemical Stability and Cycle Life
Authors: Kim Juhyoung , Choi Woonghee , Hwang Seong‐Ju , Kim Dong Wook
Published: June 2024

Sulfide‐based inorganic solid electrolytes are promising materials for high‐performance safe solid‐state batteries. The high ion conductivity, mechanical characteristics, and good processability of sulfide‐based inorganic solid electrolytes are desirable properties for realizing high‐performance safe solid‐state batteries by replacing conventional liquid electrolytes. However, the low chemical and electrochemical stability of sulfide‐based inorganic solid electrolytes hinder the commercialization of sulfide‐based safe solid‐state batteries. Particularly, the instability of sulfide‐based inorganic solid electrolytes is intensified in the cathode, comprising various materials. In this study, carbonate‐based ionic conductive polymers are introduced to the cathode to protect cathode materials and suppress the reactivity of sulfide electrolytes. Several instruments, including electrochemical spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, confirm the chemical and electrochemical stability of the polymer electrolytes in contact with sulfide‐based inorganic solid electrolytes. Sulfide‐based solid‐state cells show stable electrochemical performance over 100 cycles when the ionic conductive polymers were applied to the cathode.
Development and validation of a prediction model for heart failure in patients with heart valvular regurgitation
Authors: Xiao WenKang , Yuan Jia‐Lin , Chen YunYi , Ma GuiPing , Zhang ChaoQiong , Sun Le , Hong ChuangXiong , Ye Taochun
Published: June 2024

Aims

Patients with heart valvular regurgitation is increasing; early screening of potential patients developing heart failure (HF) is crucial.

Methods

From 1 November 2019 to 31 October 2023, a total of 509 patients with heart valvular regurgitation hospitalized in the Department of Cardiovascular Disease of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Traditional Medicine were enrolled. Three hundred fifty‐six cases were selected as the training set for modelling, and 153 cases were selected as the validation set for the internal validation of the model.

Results

A predictive model of heart failure with the following nine risk factors was developed: atrial fibrillation (AF), pulmonary infection (PI), coronary artery disease (CAD), creatinine (CREA), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), d‐dimer (DDi), left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter (LVEDd), mitral regurgitation (MR) and aortic regurgitation (AR). The model was evaluated by the C‐index [the training set: area under curve (AUC) 0.937, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.911–0.963; the validation set: AUC 0.928, 95% CI 0.890–0.967]. Hosmer–Lemeshow test (the training set: χ2 10.908, P = 0.207; the validation set: χ2 4.896, P = 0.769) revealed that both the training and validation sets performed well in terms of model differentiation and calibration. Decision curve analysis showed that both the training and validation sets have higher net benefits, indicating that the model has good utility. Ten‐fold cross‐validation showed that the training set has high similarities with the validation set, which means that the model has good stability.

Conclusions

The occurrence of heart failure in patients with valvular regurgitation has a significant correlation with AF, PI, CAD, CREA, LDL‐C, DDi, LVEDd, MR and AR. Based on these risk factors, a prediction model for heart failure was developed and validated, which showed good differentiation and utility, high accuracy and stability, providing a method for predicting heart failure.
Enhancing placebo analgesia: Unravelling the powerful interplay of ownership and verbal suggestion
Authors: Yeung Victoria Wai Lan
Published: June 2024

Background

Placebo analgesic research demonstrates pain reduction after using a placebo analgesic. Recent studies have documented that sometimes possessing a placebo analgesic induces placebo analgesia. These prior studies used a ‘cream’ as the stimulus and proposed that the effect is driven by an expectancy of obtaining benefits from the owned analgesic. This paper examines three pivotal components of placebo analgesia: placebo form, ownership and expectancy induced by verbal suggestion. We investigate analgesic expectancy between cream versus oil form of placebo stimulus and systematically isolate the effects of ownership, verbal suggestion and their interaction, comparing with the effect of use, to decipher the dynamics of placebo analgesia.

Methods

Study 1 (N = 46) evaluated analgesic expectancy between cream and oil. Study 2 (N = 119) exposed participants to a placebo analgesic oil and randomized them into PU (possess and use), PA (possess and anticipate), P (possess‐only) or A (anticipate‐only) conditions. Pain outcomes were assessed using a cold pressor test. Comparing PA and P conditions assessed the verbal suggestion effect, comparing PA and A conditions evaluated the possession effect, while comparing PU and PA conditions shed light on the use effect.

Results

In Study 1, participants showed comparable analgesic expectancy for cream and oil. In Study 2, both PA and PU groups performed equally well, reporting higher pain threshold, F(3, 115) = 5.14, p = 0.002,  = 0.12; and a greater probability of persistent hand submersion than P and A groups, X2(3) = 8.06, p = 0.045.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the significance of integrating possession with expectancy to induce placebo analgesia, which has clinical implications.

Significance

This study delves into the intricate dynamics of placebo analgesia, shedding light on the significant influence of ownership and verbal suggestion. Through a meticulous exploration of the relationship between ownership and expectancy induced by verbal suggestion, we propose novel avenues for enhancing placebo responses. This research has implications for clinical practice and pain management strategies, potentially revolutionizing approaches to pain relief and therapeutic outcomes. Our findings contribute to a paradigm shift in understanding placebo analgesia, emphasizing the pivotal interaction between ownership and verbal suggestion.
Solar‐powered mixed‐linker metal–organic frameworks for water harvesting from arid air
Authors: Yan Xueli , Xue Fei , Zhang Chunyang , Peng Hao , Huang Jie , Liu Feng , Lu Kejian , Wang Ruizhe , Shi Jinwen , Li Naixu , Chen Wenshuai , Liu Maochang
Published: June 2024

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of promising nanomaterials for atmospheric water harvesting (AWH), especially in arid remote areas. However, several challenges are still faced for practical applications because of the dissatisfied water adsorption/desorption properties in terms of the capability, kinetics, and stability. Herein, we report the facile synthesis of a nano‐sized octahedral nitrogen‐modified MOF‐801 that exhibits superior solar‐powered AWH performance using a custom‐made device, with a state‐of‐the‐art water harvesting ability up to from air upon 12‐h test under a relative humidity (RH) of 30% and simulated sunlight irradiation. The nitrogen‐modified MOF‐801 with rapid sorption–desorption kinetics, uptakes of water at 30% RH within 30 min and releases 90% of the captured water within 10 min under 1‐sun illumination. The success relies on N‐doping‐induced mixed‐linkers in the form of 2,3‐diaminobutanedioic acid and fumaric acid in the unique pore structures of the MOFs for rapid and high‐capacity water capture. The N‐doped MOF‐801 with water uptake capacity, fast adsorption kinetics, and cycle stability sheds light on the practical use of MOFs for effective solar‐powered water harvesting from droughty air.

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The significance of multimodality approach in the management of non‐lesional drug‐resistant focal parietal lobe epilepsies
Authors: Hartnett Patrick , Zomorodi Naseem , Goodkin Howard P. , Zawar Ifrah
Published: June 2024

Due to extensive connectivity of the parietal lobe, non‐lesional drug‐resistant (DRE) parietal lobe epilepsies (PLEs) are difficult to localize and often imitate other epilepsies. Therefore, patients with PLEs have low rates of seizure freedom following epilepsy surgery. Previous studies have highlighted the need to combine EEG and semiology for more accurate localization of PLEs. As sophisticated tools for localization become more available, the use of multiple different neuroimaging and neurophysiologic diagnostic tests may more readily identify PLE. We hereby report a unique case of a complex localization in a non‐lesional PLE, which was initially falsely localized to frontal lobe. This case underscores the utility of voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) in identifying an epileptogenic lesion on a non‐lesional MRI and the significance of multimodality approach including PET, magnetoencephalopathy (MEG), interictal and ictal EEG, semiology and cortical stimulation for accurate localization of PLEs. Understanding epilepsy through multimodality approach in this fashion can help with accurate localization especially in difficulty to localize and deceptive non‐lesional PLEs.

Plain Language Summary

Parietal lobe epilepsies are hard to pinpoint in the brain and can mimic other types of epilepsy, especially when brain MRIs appear normal. As sophisticated tools for locating epilepsies in the brain become more available, using multiple diagnostic tests may help identify parietal lobe epilepsies more easily. We describe a unique case of a parietal lobe epilepsy patient with normal brain MRI whose epilepsy was initially misidentified as being in the frontal lobe. Using various advanced diagnostic tests, we accurately found the epilepsy's true location in the parietal lobe and successfully treated the patient with surgery.
Less sample‐cooperative spectrum sensing against large‐scale Byzantine attack in cognitive wireless sensor networks
Authors: Wu Jun , Dai Mingyuan , Teng Xuyang , Wu Chao , He Meilin , Liang Haoyu , Chen Hao , Jin Ye , Cao Weiwei
Published: June 2024

Cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) has emerged as a promising strategy for identifying available spectrum resources by leveraging spatially distributed sensors in cognitive wireless sensor networks (CWSNs). Nevertheless, this open collaborative approach is susceptible to security threats posed by malicious sensors, specifically Byzantine attack, which can significantly undermine CSS accuracy. Moreover, in extensive CWSNs, the CSS process imposes substantial communication overhead on the reporting channel, thereby considerably diminishing cooperative efficiency. To tackle these challenges, this article introduces a refined CSS approach, termed weighted sequential detection (WSD). This method incorporates channel state information to validate the global decision made by the fusion center and assess the trust value of sensors. The trust value based weight is assigned to sensing samples, which are then integrated into a sequential detection framework within a defined time window. This sequential approach prioritizes samples based on descending trust values. Numerical simulation results reveal that the proposed WSD outperforms conventional fusion rules in terms of the error probability, sample size, achievable throughput, and latency, even under varying degrees of Byzantine attack. This innovation signifies a substantial advancement in enhancing the reliability and efficiency of CSS.
Forecasting Crude Oil Volatility Using the Deep Learning‐Based Hybrid Models With Common Factors
Authors: Yang Ke , Hu Nan , Tian Fengping
Published: June 2024

Based on empirical evidence of the Chinese commodity futures volatility dynamics, we propose a novel and flexible hybrid model, denoted as SAE‐HAR‐DL, which combines a supervised autoencoder (AE) with the deep learning‐based HAR model framework to capture essential common factor information and uses the reconstruction error of the AE component as a regularizer to enhance the generalization ability of the testing subsample. The empirical findings strongly support the effectiveness of this model in accurately forecasting crude oil futures volatility in the post‐COVID‐19 era, compared to the HAR, HAR‐PCA, and HAR‐DL models. Moreover, a robustness check also demonstrates the positive contribution of common factors to the volatility prediction of other commodity futures. Notably, we establish that these common factors act as effective regularizers, mitigating prediction losses within the HAR model in extreme risk events such as the COVID‐19 pandemic and the Russia–Ukraine conflict.
The Pay‐for‐Success Contract: A Valuation Note
Authors: Andrikopoulos Andreas , Tsekrekos Andrianos E.
Published: June 2024

Pay‐for‐success contracts are social and financial innovations in social policy and capital markets, respectively. This paper argues that they exhibit option‐like payoffs and implements standard option‐pricing arguments in assessing the value of investing in pay‐for‐success contracts. Sensitivities vis‐à‐vis contract specifications are reflected in the valuation formula and help reach investment and social policy decisions. These sensitivities are demonstrated via a numerical application that uses parameters drawn from the Massachusetts Juvenile Justice Pay for Success Initiative, the largest pay‐for‐success initiative in the United States at the time of its launch.
Stochastic Class‐Attention Net to Detect the Breast Carcinoma Subtypes With Test Time Augmentation
Authors: Harshey Vivek , Pharwaha Amar Partap Singh
Published: June 2024

Despite advances in medical sciences, breast cancer remains a deadly disease globally, primarily affecting women. Fortunately, studies claim that breast cancer is treatable if diagnosed early. Late diagnoses have poor prognoses and can affect the patient's quality of life. Therefore, a significant research body is dedicated to establishing and identifying the disease at an initial stage. Deep learning (DL) techniques are garnering attention for aiding medical professionals in detecting this disease using histopathology (HP) image modality. The heterogeneous nature of this disease subtypes results in the imbalances of benign and malignant subtypes. From a DL point of view, this becomes an imbalanced problem deserving special care. Unfortunately, current DL‐based techniques do not fully address this issue and suffer from poor metrics and robustness. In this work, we present a DL‐based breast cancer automatic detection system (BCADS) using a novel architecture stochastic class‐attention net (SCAN). This technique performed better when combined with label smoothing and test time augmentation. This work outperforms the previously reported results for binary and multiclass on the BreaKHis dataset. Also, we validated our method on separate BACH and BCNB datasets to prove its effectiveness and clinical relevancy. We hope that the designed BCADS will help the treating doctor and pathologist in a meaningful way and thus help to reduce the impact of this deadly disease.
Implementing culturally responsive and trauma‐informed practices with checklists and goal setting
Authors: Beaulieu Lauren , Kwak Daniel , Jimenez‐Gomez Corina , Morgan Gabrielle
Published: June 2024

We discuss the use of two empirically validated behavior‐change methods—checklists and goal setting—and designed a checklist to assist behavior analysts in improving their behavioral services to be more culturally responsive and trauma informed. We also present pilot data evaluating the use of the checklist and goal setting on the inclusion of culturally responsive and trauma‐informed practices in behavior support plans designed for students in a public school. The training package was effective for both participants, and the participants' weekly goals corresponded to the observed changes in their behavior plans. Moreover, both participants strongly agreed that the checklist was valuable and easy to use and reported increases in their perceived abilities to implement culturally responsive and trauma‐informed practices posttraining.
Hydroxyapatite synthesis and characterization from waste animal bones and natural sources for biomedical applications
Authors: Okpe Promise Chinonso , Folorunso Oladipo , Aigbodion Victor Sunday , Obayi Camillus
Published: June 2024

Hydroxyapatites (HAps) synthesized from waste animal bones have recently gained attention due to their outstanding properties. This is because there is a need to fabricate scaffolds with desirable mechanical strength, ability to withstand high temperatures, and insoluble in solvents such as water, acetone, ethanol, and isopropyl alcohol. This study is an extensive summary of many articles on the routes of synthesis/preparation of HAp, and the optimum processing parameter, and the biomedical application areas, such as: drug administration, dental implants, bone tissue engineering, orthopedic implant coatings, and tissue regeneration/wound healing. A broad catalog of the synthesis methods (and combination methods), temperature/time, shape/size, and the calcium‐to‐phosphorous (Ca/P) value of diverse waste animal bone sources were reported. The alkaline hydrolysis method is proposed to be suitable for synthesizing HAp from natural sources due to the technique's ability to produce intrinsic HAp. The method is also preferred to the calcination method owing to the phase transformation that takes place at high temperatures during calcinations. However, calcinations aid in removing impurities and germs during heating at high temperatures. When compared to calcination technique, alkaline hydrolysis method results in crystalline HAp; the higher degree of crystallinity is disadvantageous to HAp bioactivity. In addition, the standardization and removal of impurities and contaminants, thorough biocompatibility to ensure clinical safety of the HAp to the human body, and improvement of the mechanical strength and toughness to match specific requirements for the various biomedical applications are the important areas for future studies.
Application of lactobacillus casei and lactobacillus plantarum to develop dried functional apple and banana
Authors: Sabahi Sahar , Noori Seyyed Mohammad Ali , Ekrami Alireza , Hosseini Seyed Ahmad , Seyedtabib Maryam , Akrami Sousan
Published: June 2024

The goal of this research was to create dried fruits loaded with probiotic microorganisms (Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus plantarum). In separate bottles for each probiotic microbe, apple and banana pieces have been submerged into the impermeability solution with gentle shaking. The vacuum pressure was applied. By the conclusion of the incubation time, L. casei and L. plantarum colonies were enumerated (CFU/g). The scanning electron microscope method was applied to confirm the penetration of impregnation solutions into the intercellular spaces of fruit tissue. On day 28, the population of L. plantarum was 5 log CFU/g for apples and 5.5 log CFU/g for bananas. After storage, the number of L. casei in apples was 5 log CFU/g and 5.5 log CFU/g, respectively. L. casei was found on the surface of apple and banana tissue. After one‐week, whole phenolic content of probiotic‐enriched bananas and apples augmented. After storage, the antioxidant activity of all samples decreased greatly. The sensory qualities of the samples were excellent throughout storage in terms of color, quality, scent, sensitivity, chewiness, and general adequacy. As a result, dried apples and bananas infused with L. plantarum and L. casei might be a novel probiotic meal.

Research Highlights

Dried apples and bananas infused with L. plantarum and L. casei are novel probiotic meal.

After one‐week, whole phenolic content of probiotic‐enriched bananas and apples augmented.

The sensory qualities of the samples were excellent throughout storage in terms of color, quality, scent, sensitivity, chewiness, and general adequacy.
Total syntheses of fungal isoindolinones corallocins B and C
Authors: Hori Kazuki , Onuma Shunsuke , Nakazato Yuta , Mashiko Tomoya , Kasamatsu Akihiko , Matsuzawa Akinobu , Kamo Shogo , Sugita Kazuyuki
Published: June 2024

The first total syntheses of corallocins B and C are described herein. The Suzuki–Miyaura coupling was key to completion. Because these two natural products have been reported to induce neurotrophin expression in human astrocytes, they are expected to serve as new drug leads for neurodegenerative diseases.
Molecular characterization of rotavirus indicates predominance of G9P[4] genotype among children with acute gastroenteritis: First report after vaccine introduction in Pakistan
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Rana Muhammad Suleman , Salman Muhammad , Alam Muhammad Masroor , Khurshid Adnan , Umair Massab , Ullah Nadeem , Anas Muhammad , Ahmed Muzzamil , Ayub Aaima , Habib Sabahat , Zohaib Ali , Javed Aneela
Published: June 2024

Globally, Group A rotavirus (RVA) is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in children under 5 years old, with Pakistan having the highest rates of RVA‐related morbidity and mortality. The current study aims to determine the genetic diversity of rotavirus and evaluate the impact of Rotarix‐vaccine introduction on disease epidemiology in Pakistan. A total of 4749 children, hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis between 2018 and 2020, were tested at four hospitals in Lahore and Karachi. Of the total, 19.3% (918/4749) cases were tested positive for RVA antigen, with the positivity rate varying annually (2018 = 22.7%, 2019 = 14.4%, 2020 = 20.9%). Among RVA‐positive children, 66.3% were under 1 year of age. Genotyping of 662 enzyme‐linked immuno sorbent assay‐positive samples revealed the predominant genotype as G9P[4] (21.4%), followed by G1P[8] (18.9%), G3P[8] (11.4%), G12P[6] (8.7%), G2P[4] (5.7%), G2P[6] (4.8%), and 10.8% had mixed genotypes. Among vaccinated children, genotypes G9P[4] and G12P[6] were more frequently detected, whereas a decline in G2P[4] was observed. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the continued circulation of indigenous genotypes detected earlier in the country except G9 and P[6] strains. Our findings highlight the predominance of G9P[4] genotype after the vaccine introduction thus emphasizing continual surveillance to monitor the disease burden, viral diversity, and their impact on control of rotavirus gastroenteritis in children.
Species‐level characterization of the cervicovaginal microbiota and its role in human papillomavirus‐associated cervical carcinogenesis
Authors: Logel Margaret , El‐Zein Mariam , Franco Eduardo L. , Gonzalez Emmanuel
Published: June 2024

The cervicovaginal microbiome may contribute to human papillomavirus (HPV)‐associated cervical carcinogenesis, but studies have been limited by low‐resolution analysis methods. Using a high‐resolution bioinformatics pipeline, we evaluated the relationship of the cervicovaginal microbiome with HPV and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). The cervicovaginal microbiome of 186 women was characterized by sequencing 16S rRNA regions (V3–V4 and V5–V6) and annotated with the high‐resolution ANCHOR pipeline. Samples were genotyped for HPV using the Roche‐Cobas 4800 assay. We fitted logistic regression models using stepwise forward selection to select species (presence/absence) as correlates of CIN1+ and constructed a linear microbiome‐based score using the regression coefficients. An HPV‐based score was calculated from a separate logistic regression model to detect CIN1+ . Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were performed; the area under the curve (AUC) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were compared between scores. Overall, 66.7% of participants were HPV‐positive. 77 unique species were identified: 8 using V3–V4, 48 using V5–V6, and 21 shared. Twelve species were retained via stepwise selection. The AUCs for the microbiome‐, and HPV‐based scores were 0.7656 (95% CI 0.6885–0.8426), and 0.7529 (95% CI 0.6855–0.8204), respectively. Bacterial species may be involved in cervical carcinogenesis as the microbiome‐ and HPV‐based scores performed similarly for CIN1+ detection.
Synergistic Effect of Multilayered Alginate/Poly(SBMA) Coatings on Marine Antifouling Property
Authors: Lee Jinwoo , Kim Inho , Kang Sung Min
Published: June 2024

Alginate (Alg) coatings have attracted attention as protective layers on solid surfaces for marine antifouling applications due to their strong water binding capability and environmentally friendly characteristics. However, the effectiveness of Alg coatings in preventing marine fouling diminishes upon interaction with divalent cations present in seawater. To address this issue, post‐modification of the Alg coating is conducted. The carboxyl groups of Alg, which are susceptible sites for interaction with divalent cations, are conjugated with polymerization initiators through metal‐mediated coordination bond formation. Subsequently, poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) (poly(SBMA)) brushes are grown from the initiator‐immobilized Alg coatings, resulting in the formation of multilayered Alg/poly(SBMA) coatings. In marine diatom adhesion assays using Amphora Coffeaeformis, multilayered Alg/poly(SBMA) coatings exhibited superior antifouling performance compared to single‐layered Alg or poly(SBMA) coating controls.
The chameleon in consumers: Development and validation of a scale to measure Consumers' Cognitive Flexibility
Authors: Benninger Nadine , Roosen Jutta
Published: June 2024

This paper introduces a new scale, the Consumers' Cognitive Flexibility Scale (CCF‐Scale). Consumers' Cognitive Flexibility (CCF) is conceptualized as the adaptation to changes in the environment and to product options by exhibiting flexible thoughts, feelings, and actions. This scale is a new measure of consumers' mental capabilities to understand and evaluate unknown products. Especially, really new products (RNPs) are highly innovative and different from well‐known products in the market. A flexible mindset can help integrate RNPs into existing knowledge structures. The CCF‐Scale was developed and tested with four prestudies and four representative studies with 1057, 696, 494 German, and 506 US consumers. The prestudies were used to ensure face and content validity and to select products for criterion validity. The findings demonstrate a reliable and valid scale in both countries consisting of 14 items with three CCF‐facets: Coping (with consumption problems), Perspective (change for product/information evaluation), and Alignment (to changes in the environment). Results show that the CCF‐facets help explain RNP‐acceptance across different categories (e.g., food, furniture, and digital services). One limitation is the article's focus on RNPs. Still, marketers can use these findings to adjust instructions on how to use RNPs and to communicate more effectively, for example by using analogies.
Understanding the application of evolutionary psychology in consumer behavior: A review and future research agenda
Authors: Taheran Faegheh , Thomas Veronica L. , Fowler Kendra , Mortazavi Abdolali
Published: June 2024

This paper is the first to offer a comprehensive literature review of the role of evolutionary psychology (EP) in marketing and consumer behavior. This study takes a holistic approach, combining techniques of a systematic review with bibliometric analysis, to provide a performance analysis and identify theories and methodologies used in the literature. Most importantly, by studying the current state of EP, we elucidate six major themes: the role of gender in families, the role of affect in consumer behavior, food preferences and shopping behavior, motivations for and consequences of status signaling, the impact of ovulation on consumer motives and behaviors, and contributions to the greater good. The findings enable researchers to understand the current state of the literature. Further, to advance the application of EP in consumer behavior, we identify gaps related to each theme and offer research questions that can serve as catalysts for future research. Thus, we offer two primary contributions: a comprehensive overview of the literature as it relates to methods, theories, and themes and detailed guidance that can be used to invigorate research on EP.