bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient Perspectives in Postlaryngectomy Communication Rehabilitation and Outcomes
Authors: Perryman Mollie , Kraft Shannon
Published: November 2024

Objective

To evaluate patient‐reported outcomes in postlaryngectomy communication rehabilitation.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey study.

Setting

(a) Patients who underwent laryngectomy at a single institution and (b) members of the International Association of Laryngectomees (IAL).

Methods

We examined demographics, treatment history, speech rehabilitation methods and outcomes postlaryngectomy.

Results

A total of 157 participants responded to the survey (124 IAL; 33 institutional cohort). The most used primary methods of communication were tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) 61.5%, electrolarynx (EL) 24.4%, and writing 9%. In all categories, except for communication in a noisy environment, alaryngeal voice was rated superior to aphonic communication (P < .05). Subset analysis of the alaryngeal voice cohort demonstrated higher communication efficacy for TEP compared to other modalities in all environments except for conversation with family and friends. Among TEP users, a history of a regional flap for reconstruction compared to free tissue transfer was associated with higher communication effectiveness scores (16.3 vs 10.6; P = .0085). Neither treatment modality (primary vs. salvage laryngectomy vs. radiation therapy) nor engagement in speech therapy impacted communication effectiveness scores for alaryngeal voice users.

Conclusion

Alaryngeal voice users reported higher efficacy of communication in most social contexts compared to aphonic communicators. Among alaryngeal voice users, TEP speech performed better in most social situations compared to an EL. Treatment characteristics including timing of surgery and radiation therapy were not associated with the ability to acquire alaryngeal voice, while the extent of resection and the type of reconstruction did show potential to impact voicing outcomes in patients who desire to pursue alaryngeal voicing techniques.
What motivates West African cocoa farmers to value trees? Taking the 4 W approach to the heart of the field
Authors: Dago Marie Ruth , Zo‐Bi Irié Casimir , Konan Isaac Kouamé , Kouassi Aimé Kouadio , Guei Stéphane , Jagoret Patrick , N'Guessan Anny Estelle , Sanial Elsa , Tankam Chloé , Traoré Soulemane , Hérault Bruno
Published: November 2024

West Africa, the largest cocoa‐producing region globally, has experienced significant deforestation in recent decades, leading countries to implement large‐scale agroforestry policies; however, most studies on farmers' adoption of agroforestry fail to consider the social (Who?), historical (When?), geographical (Where?), and ecological (What?) factors that influence their motivations to value trees.

Drawing from a sample of 150 farmers responsible for the management of 12,096 trees, we quantified the motivations of farmers for 10 material and immaterial uses of trees and used a Bayesian modelling framework to explore the relative importance of the 4 W framework in explaining general motivations, specific to each use, as well as the varying levels of specialization in tree management strategies among farmers.

The distribution of use values by category shows that the highest values are associated with (i) agronomic uses (such as shade for cocoa trees and soil fertilization), (ii) food for human consumption, (iii) social purposes, and (iv) medicinal uses.

All four aspects of the 4 W framework significantly contribute to understanding farmers' deep motivations, while the influence of each 4 W determinant varies based on the specific material and immaterial uses being considered.

The level of specialization or diversification in cocoa farmers' motivations is significantly influenced by their knowledge of tree species and cocoa tree density, with knowledgeable farmers exhibiting greater diversification, while higher cocoa tree density and the presence of remnant trees lead to more specialized strategies that hinder agroforestry adoption.

From a political perspective, it is urgent that stakeholders involved in the promotion of agroforestry consider all dimensions of the farmer‐field system. The diversity of farmers' life histories (Who), of cultivated landscapes (Where), of field systems (What), and of time trajectories (When) present both constraints and opportunities with which farmers must contend to transition to much‐desired agroforestry systems.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Prediction of mechanical properties of flax/basalt short fiber hybrid polylactic acid composites based on Micro‐CT
Authors: Mu Wenlong , Zhang Shikun , Chen Xianglin , Li Shijie , Chen Liangyu , Chen Hongli
Published: November 2024

Research on the performance design and prediction method of low carbon degradable composite materials is of great significance for realizing energy saving and emission reduction of automobile industry. In this study, plant short fiber reinforced polylactic acid composite (PFRP) was prepared by injection molding method and reinforced with basalt fiber to obtain flax/basalt short fiber hybrid reinforced composite (FBFRP). The mechanical properties of the composites were evaluated by quasi‐static tensile/ bending test and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was observed that addition of basalt fiber further enhances the properties of the composite, and the properties of the composite are the best when the mass fraction of flax and basalt fiber is 30% and 9%. The fiber distribution inside FBFRP was analyzed by micro‐computed tomography (Micro‐CT) technology. Based on the real spatial characteristics of the fibers inside the materials, a microcosmic representative volume element (RVE) model of hybrid composites was established by writing a random adsorption algorithm script in Python. By defining the damage constitutive of each component, the macroscopic equivalent mechanical property parameters were obtained, and the influence of the interface thickness on the simulation results was studied. On this basis, the tensile and bending failure simulation of macro‐composite materials is carried out, and the mechanical properties prediction of hybrid fiber composites based on multi‐scale method is successfully realized.

Highlights

Using Micro‐CT technique and random adsorption algorithm, the RVE model based on the real fiber distribution inside the composite was obtained.

Through cross‐scale simulation, the macroscopic equivalent mechanical properties of the composite were obtained.

The effect of fiber‐matrix interface thickness on the simulation results is considered.
Effect of Internet‐Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Psychological Distress and Quality of Life Among Breast Cancer Survivors: A Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Li Mengjie , Liu Fangli , Han Xinxin , Li Jiaxin , Fan Yujun
Published: November 2024

Objectives

This meta‐analysis was to critically evaluate the effectiveness of Internet‐based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (ICBT) on psychological distress and quality of life in breast cancer survivors.

Methods

A search was conducted across eleven databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, ProQuest, CINAHL, CBM, CNKI, VIP and Wanfang) to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published from databases inception to September 2023. Two reviewers independently conducted study screening, data extraction, and quality assessment of the included studies. Review Manager 5.4 and Stata 18.0 were utilized for analysis.

Results

Ten studies with 1409 patients were included. Meta‐analysis indicated that ICBT alleviated anxiety [SMD = −0.34, 95% CI (−0.64, −0.04), p = 0.03] and depression [SMD = −0.43, 95% CI (−0.76, −0.09), p = 0.01] in breast cancer patients. Therapist‐guided ICBT outperformed self‐guided ICBT, with interventions lasting ≤ 9 weeks better than > 9 weeks, and module quantity didn't affect the results. Additionally, ICBT significantly improved quality of life [SMD = 0.37, 95% CI (0.21, 0.52), p < 0.001], yet didn't reduce fatigue [SMD = −0.13, 95% CI (−0.59, 0.34), p = 0.60], insomnia [MD = −2.24, 95% CI (−5.77, 1.28), p = 0.21], or fear of progression [SMD = −0.10, 95% CI (−0.31, 0.11), p = 0.34].

Conclusions

ICBT, especially therapist‐guided and lasting for ≤ 9 weeks, can effectively relieve anxiety and depression, as well as enhance breast cancer patients' quality of life. Nevertheless, it fails to improve fatigue, insomnia, or fear of progression. High‐quality, large‐sample studies must be conducted in the future for further validation.
Social Support and Treatment Delays in Breast Cancer Patients Within an Integrated Health Care System
Authors: Kroenke Candyce H. , Kwan Marilyn L. , Gomez Scarlett L. , Shim Veronica , Ergas Isaac J. , Roh Janise , Kushi Lawrence H.
Published: November 2024

Objective

We evaluated associations between social support and delays to surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy in a cohort of women with breast cancer (BC) from a large integrated healthcare system in Northern California.

Methods

This study included 3983 women from the Pathways Study diagnosed from 2005 to 2013 with stages I‐IV BC, who had surgery as their first line of treatment and who responded to the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support survey ∼2 months following diagnosis. A second set of analyses included those receiving adjuvant chemotherapy (N = 1761). We used log binomial regression to evaluate associations of social support, and types of support, with relative prevalence of delays from diagnosis to definitive surgery > 30 days, delays to chemotherapy from diagnosis > 90 days, and delays to chemotherapy from definitive surgery > 60 days. We further examined analyses stratified by sociodemographic factors and disease severity.

Results

Twenty‐one percent had surgery delays and 18.3% had chemotherapy delays from diagnosis (24.7% from surgery). Adjusted for covariates, women in the lowest tertile of social support were more likely to have delays to surgery (prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.27, 95% confidence interval (CI):1.08–1.48, p‐continuous = 0.01) and chemotherapy (PR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.08–2.02, p = 0.05) from diagnosis, due to associations of low tangible and emotional support with delays. We noted no effect modification in these analyses. By contrast, low social support was related to chemotherapy delays from diagnosis in women < 54 (PR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.33–2.88) but not ≥ 54 (PR = 1.09, 95% CI: 0.79–1.49) years of age, p‐interaction = 0.05. Other tests of effect modification were nonsignificant.

Conclusions

Low social support was associated with delays to BC surgery and chemotherapy.
Health‐Related Quality of Life and Experiences of Minor Children With Parental Cancer—A Family‐Based Multilevel Analysis of Determinants
Authors: Heuser Christian , Ernstmann Nicole , Heier Lina , Nakata Hannah , Geiser Franziska , Karger André , Icks Andrea , Brüne Manuela , Haastert Burkhard , Horbach‐Bremen Rebecca , Brümmendorf Tim , Petermann‐Meyer Andrea
Published: November 2024

Objective

Children in families with parental cancer may experience emotional, social or physical problems. The aims are to analyze child, parent and family‐based determinants of children's health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and their experiences of parental cancer.

Methods

As part of a mixed‐methods, multicenter, prospective, interventional non‐randomized study “Family‐SCOUT,” a family‐centered intervention in the form of care and case management was developed. Children's HRQoL (KIDSCREEN‐10) was assessed at baseline (study inclusion). Descriptive analyses and family cluster‐adjusted linear mixed models were performed. Qualitative coding of children's experiences reported in an open‐ended text field of the questionnaire was performed.

Results

Four hundred and seventy‐two families with 472 parents with cancer and 649 children were included in the study of which N = 346 were analyzed. The average age of the children was 12.8 years. 48% of the children were female. Family cluster‐adjusted mixed linear model showed significant associations between children's HRQoL (dependent variable) and children's age (−0.44, p = 0.023, 95%‐CI = −0.82 to −0.06) and between families (ICCnull model = 0.377, Pseudo‐R2 = 0.443). Children experienced changes in the family situation, such as daily routines and communication among all family members, death of a parent, COVID‐19‐related difficulties, and supportive social relationships.

Conclusions

Child, parent and family‐based factors appear to be related to children's HRQoL. Research on children's HRQoL and experiences in the context of parental cancer underscores the need for a multidimensional and family‐based approach to support these children.
Psychological Risk Factors on Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Patients: Insights From National Readmission Database Analysis
Authors: Zhang Qi , Yu Qiuyan , Chen Qian , Dong Hongjing , Fang Min , Liu Na , Li Wen , Wang Hui , Zhao Nan , Zhu Xunxun , Zhang Kui , Zhou Chi
Published: November 2024

Background

Psychosocial risk factors (PSRFs) have emerged as important nontraditional risk factors for poor medical outcomes but have not been well‐studied in the field of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Objectives

In this study, we retrospectively examined in‐hospital and short‐term outcomes in patients with PSRFs who underwent HSCT.

Methods

We used the National Readmission Database (NRD) to identify patients who underwent HSCT between 2011 and 2020. Patients were stratified based on the presence of either 0 or ≥ 1 PSRFs, which included factors such as mental illness, substance abuse, cognitive problems, a low income level, and an uninsured status. Patients were also classified into allogeneic‐HSCT (allo‐HSCT) and autologous‐HSCT (auto‐HSCT) groups. Our primary endpoints were in‐hospital and short‐term outcomes.

Results

In this nationally representative cohort, 90,747 patients underwent auto‐HSCT, while 26,600 patients underwent allo‐HSCT. In the auto‐HSCT group, individuals with PSRFs exhibited notably higher in‐hospital mortality (2.4% vs. 2.8%; p < 0.001) and 30‐day all‐cause readmission rates (14.4% vs. 17.8%; p < 0.001) compared to those without PSRFs. Similarly, within the allo‐HSCT group, patients with PSRFs had significantly higher in‐hospital mortality (5.4% vs. 6.4%; p < 0.001) and 30‐day all‐cause readmission rates (27.3% vs. 31.2%; p < 0.001) compared to those without PSRFs. After adjusting for risk factors, the presence of PSRFs emerged as a substantial predictor for heightened 30‐day readmission in allo‐HSCT and auto‐HSCT.

Conclusion

The presence of PSRFs is correlated with poorer in‐hospital and short‐term outcomes after both allo‐HSCT and auto‐HSCT, with a more pronounced effect observed in allo‐HSCT. This research underscores the significance of pinpointing high‐risk patients and implies support for merging PSRFs after HSCT is beneficial.
Membrane tension‐dependent conformational change of Isoleucine 106 of loop B diminishes water permeability in FaPIP2;1
Authors: Caviglia Agustín , Espinoza‐Muñoz Nicolás , Alvear‐Arias Juan José , Galizia Luciano , Guastaferri Florencia , Zimmermann Rosario , Sigaut Lorena , Amodeo Gabriela , González Carlos , Ozu Marcelo , Garate José Antonio
Published: November 2024

Aquaporins (AQPs) are membrane proteins specialized in facilitating water transport across membranes. Mechanical stress is one of the various stimuli that regulate AQPs. Briefly, there are several studies that report a decrease in permeability upon an increase in membrane tension. However, the molecular details of this mechanosensitive (MS) response are still a matter of debate. Our work attempts to close that gap in knowledge by providing evidence of a conformational change that occurs inside the pore of the strawberry aquaporin FaPIP2;1. Via osmotic shock experiments and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we found that a residue of loop B, I106, is key to the blocking of the permeation pathway and such a change is almost exclusively found under membrane tensile stress. In detail, osmotic shock experiments exhibited a nonlinear increment in water fluxes for increasing osmolarities, evidencing a decrease in the FaPIP2;1 permeability. MD simulations under membrane tension showed the same trend, with a significant increase in states with a low water permeability. The latter was correlated with a conformational change in I106 that generates a permeation barrier of around 18 kJ mol−1, effectively closing the pore. This work constitutes the first report of a PIP type aquaporin reacting to tensile stress in the membrane. Our findings could pave the way to test whether this conformational change is also responsible for mechanical gating in the other MS aquaporins, both those already reported and those still waiting to be found.
Kunitz‐type trypsin inhibitor from durian (Durio zibethinus) employs a distinct loop for trypsin inhibition
Authors: Deetanya Peerapon , Limsardsanakij Kakanang , Sabat Grzegorz , Pattaradilokrat Sittiporn , Chaisuekul Chatchawan , Wangkanont Kittikhun
Published: November 2024

Kunitz‐type trypsin inhibitors are ubiquitous in plants. They have been proposed to be a part of a defense mechanism against herbivores. Trypsin inhibitors also have potential applications in the biotechnology industry, such as in mammalian cell culture. We discovered that durian (Durio zibethinus) seed contains Kunitz‐type trypsin inhibitors as identified by N‐terminal sequencing and mass spectrometry. Eleven new trypsin inhibitors were cloned. The D. zibethinus trypsin inhibitors (DzTIs) that are likely expressed in the seed were produced as recombinant proteins and tested for trypsin inhibitory activity. Their inhibitory activity and crystal structures are similar to the soybean trypsin inhibitor. Surprisingly, a crystal structure of the complex between DzTI‐4, the DzTI with the lowest inhibitory constant, and bovine trypsin revealed that DzTI‐4 utilized a novel tryptophan‐containing β1‐β2 loop to bind trypsin. Site‐direct mutagenesis confirmed the inhibitory role of this loop. DzTI‐4 was not toxic to the HEK293 cells and could be used in place of the soybean trypsin inhibitor for culturing the cells under serum‐free conditions. DzTI‐4 was not toxic to mealworms. However, a mixture of DzTIs extracted from durian seed prevented weight gain in mealworms, suggesting that multiple trypsin inhibitors are required to achieve the antinutritional effect. This study highlights the biochemical diversity of the inhibitory mechanism of Kunitz‐type trypsin inhibitors and provides clues for further application of these inhibitors.
Villagers' Resistance to Gentrification‐Led Displacement in the Guanxi Society: Lessons From Rural Guangzhou, China
Authors: Huang Shizhen , Liu Yuting , Chen Qingyi , Zhang Yuanlin
Published: November 2024

The antigentrification campaign has gained global attention because it is crucial for realising social justice, particularly against displacement. Numerous literature has focused on government management, however, there is a dearth of research on the resistance undertaken by the potential displacees. Therefore, this paper explores villagers' survivability when facing displacement threats within China's guanxi society. The guanxi provides a fresh lens on Chinese social development, distiling intergroup relationships into four states that reveal power dynamics within gentrification and enable a nuanced analysis of displacement and resistance. The case of Xiaozhou Village is examined, tracing villagers' living dynamics over the past three decades. The study reveals that villagers have effectively resisted sociocultural displacement pressure and exclusionary displacement by maintaining or preserving their fields. Guanxi provides a perspective for examining how villagers legally possess capital, engage in habitus‐driven competition against gentrifiers, and ultimately support their community cohesion. This paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the uneven micro‐geopolitics of gentrification and offers insights into the effective mitigation of displacement.
Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes Achieved by PVK Embellish ZnO Electron‐Transporting Layers
Authors: Sun Xinzhi , Bai Jalin , Peng Jingyu
Published: November 2024

Currently, in metal halide perovskite light‐emitting devices, the interface between functional layers is crucial as it determines the injection and distribution of charge carriers. Herein, by inserting a poly[9‐vinylcarbazole] (PVK) layer between the sol–gel ZnO and perovskite layers, excessive electron injection is blocked, thereby improving the distribution of charge carriers in the device. Additionally, the trap density in the perovskite film is reduced. The performance of the device is enhanced, achieving a maximum current efficiency of 17.5 cd A−1, which represents a significant 30% improvement compared to devices without the PVK layer. This new understanding offers important implications for the operational mechanism of quantum light‐emitting diode.
A Control Chart for the Joint Monitoring of Mean and Variance With Klein's Supplementary Rule
Authors: Quinino Víctor Brito , Costa Marcelo Azevedo , Trindade Anderson Laécio Galindo
Published: November 2024

Supplementary run rules have been employed since the 1950s to enhance the performance of control charts, such as the control chart, which aims to control the process mean, or control chart, which aims to control the process variance. One simple, effective, and popular suggestion is Klein's 2‐of‐2, which signals an out‐of‐control process only when two sequential sample averages are observed above the upper control limit or below the lower control limit. We propose to implement Klein's 2‐of‐2 for a more complex control chart, the joint control chart, which aims to simultaneously monitor the mean and the variance of a process. Compared with the traditional control chart, using this rule for the control chart reduces the average run length (ARL) and standard deviation of the run length (SDRL) for detecting small process shifts while maintaining high applicability owing to the ease of use in employing the 2‐of‐2 rule in practical environments. Klein's run rule was implemented in the control chart through a 15‐state Markov chain, and its performance was compared with the basic control chart as well as the exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) chart, known to have excellent capabilities in detecting small process average shifts at the cost of a more complex control scheme. The newly proposed Klein control chart demonstrated superior performance compared to the traditional control chart and competitive performance even against the more complex joint EWMA control chart.
Ultralarge Hyperpolarizability, Novel Ladder‐Type Heteroarenes Electro‐Optic Chromophores: Influence of Fused Heterocyclic π‐System and Push–Pull Effect on Nonlinear Optical Properties
Authors: Sun Hejing
Published: November 2024

A new series of ladder‐type heteroarenes electro‐optic (EO) chromophores based on unique fused oligothiophene, oligofuran, and oligopyrrole bridge with a strong push–pull effect were designed, and their distinctive electric structure and nonlinear optical (NLO) properties were investigated by multiple methods, including DOS analysis, CPKS method, SOS model, TSM model, and hyperpolarizability density analysis. Interestingly, it is found that the introduction of different strengths of donor and acceptor moieties, the nature of ladder‐type heteroarenes bridge, and the medium polarity play critical roles in achieving ultra‐large hyperpolarizabilities. Encouragingly, the DN1‐6Fu‐AS1 and DN1‐6Py‐AS1 both exhibit ultra‐large βprj values (up to 12965.5 × 10−30 esu) and βtot value (up to 13238.2 × 10−30 esu), owing to their exceptionally low transitions energy and large variation of dipole moment. The DO2‐6Fu‐AO2, DO2‐6Th‐AO2, DO2‐6Fu‐AS1, and DO2‐6Th‐AS1, exhibit very deep HOMO levels, which are expected to have superior air stability and effectively prevent large leakage currents. Hirshfeld surface analysis and interaction region indicator analysis were employed to explore the noncovalent interactions in the dimer. The DO2‐6Fu‐AS1 and DO2‐6Py‐AS1 show the outstanding electro‐optical Pockels effect, and DN1‐6Fu‐AO2 exhibit large SHG responses. These unique and brand‐new push‐pull ladder‐type heteroarenes chromophores are promising candidates for chip‐scale EO modulators, and electronic and photonic devices in emerging communication, energy, analog, and digital technologies.
Identification of the chemical constituents in the leaves and twigs of Nerium oleander by ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole Orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Ling Yun , Yu Jingmou , Huang Yi , Chen Mengmo , Zhang Qing
Published: November 2024

Rationale

Nerium oleander L. (Apocynaceae) is a medium‐sized evergreen flowering tree and is distributed widely in China. Various parts of N. oleander have been used medicinally and are reported to possess a wide range of biological activities, including cardiotonic, cytotoxic, and central nervous system depressant activities. However, there is a lack of in‐depth understanding of the chemical constituents in various parts of N. oleander.

Methods

An ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole Orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap HRMS) method was developed for the qualitative analysis of the chemical constituents in the leaves and twigs of N. oleander.

Results

As a result, 50 compounds, including phenolic derivatives, flavonoids, cardenolides, and triterpenoids, were identified in N. oleander. Among them, 50 compounds were identified in the leaves of N. oleander, whereas 25 compounds were identified in the twigs of N. oleander. It is noteworthy that 16 phenolic derivatives and 4 flavonoids were first detected in this plant and 10 cardenolides were deduced as potential new compounds.

Conclusions

This study provided an effective method for comprehensively analyzing the complex system of medicinal plants and enriched the chemical compositions in N. oleander.
Lead‐Free All Inorganic Rubidium Copper Halide Rb2CuX3 (X = Cl, Br) for UVC Photodetector with Fast Response
Authors: Kumar Ankit , Kumar Praveen , Saini Ankush , Bag Monojit , Kar Prasenjit
Published: November 2024

Recently, lead halide perovskites have shown great potential in the photodetection field. Unfortunately, the existence of toxic lead elements restricts their practical application. Herein, high‐quality 1D lead‐free crystals Rb2CuX3 (X = Cl, Br) are successfully synthesized in an acidic medium. Rb2CuCl3 and Rb2CuBr3 display violet photoluminescence emission peaks at 401 and 388 nm with a high exciton lifetime of 12.78 and 59.67 µs, respectively, which is due to self‐trapped excitons (STE). Furthermore, a photodetector is fabricated to detect harmful UVC radiation with Rb2CuBr3 as a light absorber. The proposed photodetector has a responsivity of 0.92 mA W−1 and a specific detectivity of 1.57 × 109 Jones with a fast response speed of 2.67/2.70 µs for rise/fall time, respectively. In addition, both the samples show good stability against open air, and continuous ultraviolet light (254 nm), as well as good thermal stability which is necessary for device fabrication. Thus, the present study suggests that stable, non‐toxic, and environment‐friendly Rb2CuX3 (X = Cl, Br) can be a promising candidate for future UVC optoelectronic devices.
Mechanistic Insights into Gas Adsorption on 2D Materials
Authors: Joshi Manisha , Ren Xiaojun , Lin Tongxi , Joshi Rakesh
Published: November 2024

Owing to their exceptional characteristics, such as one‐atom thickness, high specific surface area, and tunability of surfaces, 2D materials are excellent templates to study the surface‐dependent gas adsorption phenomenon. Moreover, the properties of 2D materials like morphology, bandgap, structure, and carrier mobility can be modulated easily by modification methods such as functionalization, defect and doping engineering. These modifications create and activate unconventional inert and active sites, leading to the selective adsorption of gases via mechanisms such as charge transfer kinetics, Schottky‐barrier modification, and surface interactions. These methods enhance the adsorption sites by adding covalent and non‐covalent moieties to the 2D surface and play a critical role in developing ultrafast gas sensing with high sensitivity, selectivity, fast response/recovery rates, and low detection limits. Here, this perspective is presented on the mechanism of the adsorption process of gases on modified 2D surfaces based on recent studies related to adsorption‐dependent applications of 2D materials.
A Novel kgd‐Topological Covalent Organic Framework with Optimum Pore Size for Efficient Benzene/Cyclohexane Separation
Authors: Cai Borui , Wu Wenhao , Miao Xiaozeng , Yang Xi , Duan Limin , Lin Daohui , Yang Kun
Published: November 2024

Separation of benzene and cyclohexane is essential for obtaining high‐purity cyclohexane in the chemical industry and for resource recovery from exhaust gas, but is one of the most challenging separation processes due to their highly similar boiling points and kinetic diameters. Herein, based on the isoreticular contraction strategy, a novel covalent organic framework (i.e., HFPB‐TAB‐COF) with kgd topological structure and average pore size of 5.70 Å, between the kinetic diameters of benzene (5.60 Å) and cyclohexane (6.10 Å), is synthesized for benzene/cyclohexane separation by pore confinement effect. HFPB‐TAB‐COF has the highest ideal adsorbed solution theory (IAST) selectivity of 36.0 for benzene/cyclohexane separation, and can produce 0.48 mmol g−1 cyclohexane with purity of +99% from 50:50 (v:v) benzene/cyclohexane mixture under dynamic condition, higher than reported separation materials. Optimizing the pore size of COFs by isoreticular contraction strategy can trigger the pore confinement effect for better meeting the separation challenge in industry.
Atomically Precise Metal–Metal Oxide Interface in Polyoxometalate‐Noble Metal Hybrid Clusters
Authors: Wang Hai‐Ning , Meng Xing , Cao Yitao , Li Shun‐Li , Lan Ya‐Qian
Published: November 2024

Metal‐metal oxide hybrid materials, typically composed of metal nanoparticles anchored on metal oxides matrix, are devoted enormous attentions as famous heterogeneous catalysts. The interactions between noble metals and metal oxides as well as their interfaces have been proven to be the origin of their excellent catalytic performance. Deep understandings on the interactions between noble metals and metal oxides at atomic precision, thus to precisely assess their contributions to catalysis, can serve as basic principles for catalyst design. In recent years, polyoxometalates (POMs), which in principle can be regarded as atomically precise metal oxide clusters, have been shown to have strong affinity to noble metals, thus forming diverse kinds of POM‐noble metal hybrid clusters. Their well‐resolved atomically precise structures and hybrid nature promise them as ideal platforms to understand the interfaces and interactions between noble metals and metal oxides. In this review, metal‐metal oxide interface is classified into different categories based on the different configurations of hybrid clusters, and aims to understand the interface structures and electronic correlations between POMs and noble metals at the atomic precision. Based on these basic understandings, the study provides the perspectives on the challenges and research efforts to be paid in the future.
Long‐term outcomes following the resection of screen‐detected right‐sided colon cancer
Authors: Lucocq James , Trinder Thomas , Symeonidou Elli , Homyer Katy , Baig Hassan , Patil Pradeep , Muthukumarasamy Girivasan
Published: November 2024

Background

The relative outcomes following the resection of screen‐detected right‐sided colon cancer compared to symptomatic cases are unknown. In this study, short and long‐term outcomes after right‐sided colectomy in screen‐detected colon cancer are compared with symptomatic cases, both emergency and elective.

Methods

A prospective observational cohort study of patients, including both screen‐detected and symptomatic patients (elective and emergency resections), undergoing right‐sided colectomy for colon cancer (2010–2020) in a tertiary care unit was conducted. Each patient was followed up for long‐term recurrence and survival.

Results

A total of 909 patients (median age, 70; IQR, 58–82; male, 52%) were included (151 patients (16.6%) screen‐detected; 598 (65.8%) elective and 160 (17.6%) emergency). Screen‐detected patients were more likely to have T1 or T2 lesions compared to elective and emergency groups (T1: 14.6% vs. 3.8% vs. 0.6% p < 0.001; T2: 16.6% vs. 8.9% vs. 3.1% p < 0.001), but were less likely to have T3 or T4 lesions (p < 0.001), respectively. Rates of N0 were higher in the screen‐detected group (68.9% vs. 63.5% vs. 41.9%, respectively; p < 0.001). 98% of the screen‐detected group achieved R0 resection compared to 93.3% of elective and 79.4% of emergency patients (p < 0.001). At 5‐years following resection, overall survival for the screen‐detected, elective, and emergency groups were 85.4%, 75.4%, and 53.1%, respectively (p < 0.001). Recurrence at 5‐year post‐resection were 8%, 15.1%, and 22.5% for the screen‐detected, elective, and emergency groups, respectively (p < 0.001).

Discussion

When considering right‐sided colon cancer alone, screen‐detected cancers have a lower long‐term recurrence rate, lower rates of postoperative complication, and superior survival compared to symptomatic groups following resection.
AD3: Introducing a Score for Anomaly Detection Dataset Difficulty Assessment Using VIADUCT Dataset
Authors: Lehr Jan , Philipps Jan , Sargsyan Alik , Pape Martin , Krüger Jörg
Published: November 2024

The field of visual Industrial Anomaly Detection (IAD) has brought forth many new semi-supervised learning methods in recent years. At the same time, there have been few new datasets for benchmarking the methods. The most popular dataset is MVTec-AD dataset, because of its diversity of categories and availability of industrial objects. But many methods already achieve AUROC scores of more than 99 % on the MVTec-AD dataset. The defects of the categories that the dataset provides appear to be easily detectable. Furthermore, there is no existing approach to statistically describe the defects that need to be found in IAD datasets. This paper presents a new dataset for visual industrial anomaly detection and a novel approach for Anomaly Detection Dataset Difficulty assessment with the AD3 score. The new dataset named VIADUCT contains 49 categories and 10,986 high resolution images from eleven different sectors. Through the support of several manufacturing companies, numerous real inspection problems are presented through the dataset. It contains a large number of different defects with detailed pixel-wise annotations. The VIADUCT dataset is compared with other state of the art datasets to underline its added value. Therefore, we provide an overview for each dataset regarding the number of categories, images, defect categories and defects. In addition to these obvious comparisons the defects of the datasets are described with the AD3 score. This novel score is used to analyze the size of the defects and the similarity between the defect and its corresponding object. Using seven selected methods from industrial anomaly detection, a benchmark is performed on the new dataset, showing that there is still potential for improvement. It is shown that the VIADUCT dataset is the largest dataset in the field of image-based industrial anomaly detection. In addition to its very small defects which are hard to recognize, the dataset also offers the greatest variance of possible defects and the most defect classes. Describing the datasets with AD3 score it can be found that VIADUCT dataset have the most inconspicuous defects. With the AD3 score we are able to create a-priori knowledge for every single defect in IAD datasets. The AD3 score correlates with the results of the IAD method benchmark, showing that it can be used to estimate defect detection difficulty. In the future, new objects can be assessed to see whether defects can be recognized using IAD methods before an energy-intensive benchmark is performed. The simple calculation of the AD3 score generates valuable a-priori knowledge and can save resources.
Stochastic Epigenetic Modification and Evolution of Sex Determination in Vertebrates
Authors: Branciamore Sergio , Rodin Andrei S. , Riggs Arthur D.
Published: November 2024

In this report, we propose a novel mathematical model of the origin and evolution of sex determination in vertebrates that is based on the stochastic epigenetic modification (SEM) mechanism. We have previously shown that SEM, with rates consistent with experimental observation, can both increase the rate of gene fixation and decrease pseudogenization, thus dramatically improving the efficacy of evolution. Here, we present a conjectural model of the origin and evolution of sex determination wherein the SEM mechanism alone is sufficient to parsimoniously trigger and guide the evolution of heteromorphic sex chromosomes from the initial homomorphic chromosome configuration, without presupposing any allele frequency differences. Under this theoretical model, the SEM mechanism (i) predated vertebrate sex determination origins and evolution, (ii) has been conveniently and parsimoniously co-opted by the vertebrate sex determination systems during the evolutionary transitioning to the extant vertebrate sex determination, likely acting "on top" of these systems, and (iii) continues existing, alongside all known vertebrate sex determination systems, as a universal pan-vertebrate sex determination modulation mechanism.
Motion in the depth direction appears faster when the target is closer to the observer
Authors: Yoshimura Yusei , Kizuka Tomohiro , Ono Seiji
Published: November 2024

The target velocity at the retina and the initial phase of target motion are known to affect the perceived velocity of a target in planar motion. For depth motion, however, the role of this information in velocity perception remains unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to reveal the role of the angular velocity derived from the vergence angle and the initial phase of target motion on the perceived velocity for depth motion. We devised two experimental tasks with five stimuli and used a two-alternative forced-choice paradigm to investigate velocity perception. In the tasks, a target moving toward or away from the observer was used. The five stimuli in each task moved between 40 and 240 cm (standard stimulus), 20 and 240 cm, 20 and 220 cm, 40 and 260 cm, and 60 and 260 cm from the participants. In the comparison of the standard stimulus with other stimuli, the stimuli approaching or receding from a distance of 20 cm were perceived as faster than the standard stimulus approaching or receding from a distance of 40 cm. We also showed that the stimuli that receded starting from a distance of 60 cm were perceived as moving slower than the standard stimulus. Our results suggest that larger changes in angular velocity affect velocity perception for depth motion; thus, observers perceive the target velocity as faster when the target is closer to the observer.
Multitask multilayer-prediction model for predicting mechanical ventilation and the associated mortality rate
Authors: El-Rashidy Nora , Tarek Zahraa , Elshewey Ahmed M. , Shams Mahmoud Y.
Published: November 2024

Mechanical ventilation (MV) is a crucial intervention in the intensive care unit (ICU) for severely ill patients. However, it can potentially contribute to lung damage due to the opening and closing of small airways and alveoli. This study aims to enhance the accuracy of mechanical ventilation prediction using a comprehensive dataset from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC-III). The data were extracted with three time frames, 6, 12, and 24 h. Then, 6 h left as a time gap and the ventilation as well as the mortality during the next 48 h. The proposed model consists of two layers: Layer 1 predicts ventilation and mortality in the ICU, while Layer 2 predicts the duration of ventilation. Classification techniques are applied to identify patients in need of ventilators, employing multilayer multitask long short-term memory (LSTM) models. Regression tasks use neural networks (multilayer perception). The optimum feature subset was obtained using particle swarm optimization (PSO). Additionally, this study examines the correlation between ventilation and mortality among patients with and without acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The findings of this research can enhance health-care outcomes and inform policymakers about resource allocation in overwhelmed health services. The best results were obtained when utilizing the first 24 h for prediction. The proposed MTL model achieved promising performance of 0.944, 0.923, 0.951, and 0.921 for the first task and 0.971, 0.961, 0.963, and 0.970 for the second task for accuracy, precision, recall, score, and AUC, respectively.
How I do it: Surgical interruption of high-flow dural arteriovenous fistulas at the foramen magnum region
Authors: Egashira Yusuke , Kumagai Masaki , Enomoto Yukiko , Izumo Tsuyoshi
Published: November 2024

Background

Dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) in the foramen magnum region (FMR) are rare entity of dAVFs. There is no established treatment for FMR-dAVFs owing to their rarity and anatomical complexity. Herein, we report cases of high-flow dAVFs located at the posteromedial part of the FMR that were successfully treated by surgical interruption.

Methods

We demonstrated the surgical procedures for the interruption of high-flow FMR-dAVF with representative images and videos. In both cases, endovascular transarterial embolization was performed prior to surgical interruption.

Conclusion

As this type of FMR-dAVF has high-risk clinical features, curative surgical treatment is highly desirable.
Data augmentation methods of dynamic model identification for harbor maneuvers using feedforward neural network
Authors: Wakita Kouki , Miyauchi Yoshiki , Akimoto Youhei , Maki Atsuo
Published: November 2024

A dynamic model for an automatic berthing and unberthing controller has to estimate harbor maneuvers, which include berthing, unberthing, approaching maneuvers to berths, and entering and leaving the port. When the dynamic model is estimated by the system identification using feedforward neural networks, a large number of tests or trials are required to measure the various motions of harbor maneuvers. However, the amount of data that can be obtained is limited due to the high costs and time-consuming nature of full-scale ship trials. Therefore, this paper introduces data augmentation to improve the generalization performance of dynamic models identified from a limited dataset. This study used slicing and jittering as data augmentation methods and confirmed their effectiveness by numerical experiments using the free-running model tests. Results of numerical experiments demonstrated that slicing and jittering are effective data augmentation methods but could not improve generalization performance for extrapolation states of the original dataset.
Cost-utility of cochlear implantation in single-sided deafness and asymmetric hearing loss: results of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Marx Mathieu , Mounié Michaël , Mosnier Isabelle , Venail Frédéric , Mondain Michel , Uziel Alain , Bakhos David , Lescanne Emmanuel , N’Guyen Yann , Bernardeschi Daniele , Sterkers Olivier , Godey Benoit , Creff Gwenaëlle , Schmerber Sébastien , Bonne Nicolas-Xavier , Vincent Christophe , Fraysse Bernard , Deguine Olivier , Costa Nadège
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To determine the Incremental Cost-Utility Ratio (ICUR) of cochlear implantation in the treatment of adult patients with single-sided deafness (SSD) and asymmetric hearing loss (AHL).

Methods

This prospective multicenter pragmatic study including a randomized controlled trial (RCT) enrolled 155 subjects with SSD or AHL. Subjects chose a treatment option between: abstention, Contralateral Routing Of the Signal hearing aids, Bone Conduction Device or Cochlear Implant (CI). Participants who opted for CI were then randomized between two arms: “immediate CI” where the cochlear implantation was performed within one month and “initial observation” where subjects were first observed. The ICUR of CI was determined at 6 months follow-up by comparing the two arms. Utility was measured using EuroQoL- 5 dimensions (EQ-5D), to calculate the gain in Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALY). Individual costs were extracted from the French National Health Insurance database. A Markovian MultiState (MMS) model assessed the ICUR evolution over the lifetime horizon.

Results

Among the 155 included participants, 51 opted for a CI and were randomized. For a 6 months follow-up period, the ICUR was €422,279/QALY gained after CI. Using the MMS model, the ICUR of CI decreased to €57,561/QALY at 10 years follow-up, €38,006/QALY at 20 years, and dropped to €26,715 at 50 years. In the participants with severe tinnitus, mean ICUR was €31,105/QALY at 10 years.

Conclusions

CI can be considered as an efficient treatment in SSD and AHL from 20 years follow-up in the global population, and before 10 years follow-up in patients with severe associated tinnitus.
Turbulence Structure and Mixing in Strongly Stable Couette Flows over Thermally Heterogeneous Surfaces: Effect of Heterogeneity Orientation
Authors: Mironov Dmitrii , Sullivan Peter
Published: November 2024

Direct numerical simulations (DNS) of plane Couette flows over thermally heterogeneous surfaces at bulk Reynolds number $$Re=10^4$$

R
e
=

10
4

and bulk Richardson number $$Ri=0.25$$

R
i
=
0.25

are performed. The focus of the present study (that extends previous work by the authors) is the effect of surface heterogeneity orientation on boundary-layer structure. The temperature of the upper and lower walls is either homogeneous or varies sinusoidally, where the temperature-wave crests are either normal or parallel to the mean flow (HETx and HETy cases, respectively). Importantly, the horizontal-mean surface temperature is the same in all simulations. The stratification is strong enough to quench turbulence over a homogeneous surface, but turbulence survives over heterogeneous surfaces. In all heterogeneous cases, both molecular diffusion and turbulence transfer momentum down the gradient of mean velocity. The total (turbulent plus diffusive) heat flux is down-gradient, but quasi-organized eddy motions generated by the surface thermal heterogeneity induce heat transfer up the gradient of the mean temperature. Comparative analysis of HETx and HETy cases shows that the configuration with the spanwise heterogeneity is more turbulent and more efficient in transporting momentum and heat vertically than its counterpart with the streamwise heterogeneity. Vertical profiles of mean fields and turbulence moments differ considerably between the HETx and HETy cases, e.g., the streamwise heat flux differs not only in magnitude but also in sign. A close examination of the second-order turbulence moments, vertical-velocity and temperature skewness, and the flow eddy structure helps explain the observed differences between the HETx and HETy cases. The implications of our DNS findings for modelling turbulence in stably-stratified environmental and industrial flows with surface heterogeneity are discussed.