bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved deep learning for automatic localisation and segmentation of rectal cancer on T2‐weighted MRI
Authors: Zhang Zaixian , Han Junqi , Ji Weina , Lou Henan , Li Zhiming , Hu Yabin , Wang Mingjia , Qi Baozhu , Liu Shunli
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The automatic segmentation approaches of rectal cancer from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are very valuable to relieve physicians from heavy workloads and enhance working efficiency. This study aimed to compare the segmentation accuracy of a proposed model with the other three models and the inter‐observer consistency.

Methods

A total of 65 patients with rectal cancer who underwent MRI examination were enrolled in our cohort and were randomly divided into a training cohort (n = 45) and a validation cohort (n = 20). Two experienced radiologists independently segmented rectal cancer lesions. A novel segmentation model (AttSEResUNet) was trained on T2WI based on ResUNet and attention mechanisms. The segmentation performance of the AttSEResUNet, U‐Net, ResUNet and U‐Net with Attention Gate (AttUNet) was compared, using Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), Hausdorff distance (HD), mean distance to agreement (MDA) and Jaccard index. The segmentation variability of automatic segmentation models and inter‐observer was also evaluated.

Results

The AttSEResUNet with post‐processing showed perfect lesion recognition rate (100%) and false recognition rate (0), and its evaluation metrics outperformed other three models for two independent readers (observer 1: DSC = 0.839 ± 0.112, HD = 9.55 ± 6.68, MDA = 0.556 ± 0.722, Jaccard index = 0.736 ± 0.150; observer 2: DSC = 0.856 ± 0.099, HD = 11.0 ± 10.1, MDA = 0.789 ± 1.07, Jaccard index = 0.673 ± 0.130). The segmentation performance of AttSEResUNet was comparable and similar to manual variability (DSC = 0.857 ± 0.115, HD = 10.0 ± 10.0, MDA = 0.704 ± 1.17, Jaccard index = 0.666 ± 0.139).

Conclusion

Comparing with other three models, the proposed AttSEResUNet model was demonstrated as a more accurate model for contouring the rectal tumours in axial T2WI images, whose variability was similar to that of inter‐observer.
Iron deficiency in astrocytes alters cellular status and impacts on oligodendrocyte differentiation
Authors: Marcora María Silvina , Mattera Vanesa Soledad , Goñi Pilar , Aybar Florencia , Correale Jorge Daniel , Pasquini Juana Maria
Published: April 2024

Iron deficiency (ID) has been shown to affect central nervous system (CNS) development and induce hypomyelination. Previous work from our laboratory in a gestational ID model showed that both oligodendrocyte (OLG) and astrocyte (AST) maturation was impaired. To explore the contribution of AST iron to the myelination process, we generated an in vitro ID model by silencing divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) in AST (siDMT1 AST) or treating AST with Fe3+ chelator deferoxamine (DFX; DFX AST). siDMT1 AST showed no changes in proliferation but remained immature. Co‐cultures of oligodendrocyte precursors cells (OPC) with siDMT1 AST and OPC cultures incubated with siDMT1 AST‐conditioned media (ACM) rendered a reduction in OPC maturation. These findings correlated with a decrease in the expression of AST‐secreted factors IGF‐1, NRG‐1, and LIF, known to promote OPC differentiation. siDMT1 AST also displayed increased mitochondrial number and reduced mitochondrial size as compared to control cells. DFX AST also remained immature and DFX AST‐conditioned media also hampered OPC maturation in culture, in keeping with a decrease in the expression of AST‐secreted growth factors IGF‐1, NRG‐1, LIF, and CNTF. DFX AST mitochondrial morphology and number showed results similar to those observed in siDMT1 AST. In sum, our results show that ID, induced through two different methods, impacts AST maturation and mitochondrial functioning, which in turn hampers OPC differentiation.
Are Children with Autistic Traits More or Less Creative? Links between Autistic Traits and Creative Attributes in Children
Authors: Smees Rebecca , Simner Julia , Rinaldi Louisa J.
Published: April 2024

Autistic traits are found throughout the general population, but their link to creative attributes has received little attention in childhood populations. In adults, autistic traits are linked to both creative benefits and disadvantages, moderated by the autistic trait and the creative domain under investigation. The current study investigates the link between autistic traits and creative attributes (creative personality traits, creative talent, creative artistic choices) in children aged 10–14 years. Autistic traits were measured using the Adolescent‐AQ, both globally (AQ‐Total) and for individual subscales (AQ‐Attention to detail, AQ‐Imagination, and “AQ‐Core”, i.e., combining AQ‐Social skills, AQ‐Attention switching, AQ‐Communication). Using child and parent reports, data from 149 children revealed an association between autistic traits and creative personality traits (both positive and negative) while also showing a (weaker) relationship with creative artistic choices. Global and core autistic symptoms negatively predicted creative personality traits. At the same time, AQ‐Imagination predicted lower creative attributes across nearly all creative domains. Finally, and in contrast, AQ‐Attention to detail positively predicted a number of creative attributes (i.e., creative personality traits, creative talent). Our results show how autistic traits map to a range of creative attributes, across children in the general population.
Chromatographic purification of C‐phycocyanin from Spirulina platensis: assessing antioxidant activity and stability
Authors: Duman Yonca , Tufan Gamze
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The efficient separation and purification of proteins like C‐phycocyanin (C‐PC) from Spirulina platensis are essential for their commercialization, yet they remain challenging. This study investigated three chromatographic methods for C‐PC purification: weak anion exchange chromatography (DEAE), strong anion exchange chromatography (Q Sepharose), and hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC).

RESULTS

Weak anion exchange chromatography achieved a recovery of 36.80 mg unit (57.08%) with a purity of 3.23, outperforming Q Sepharose (yield: 23.21 mg unit means that 46.33%, purity: 2.76) and HIC (yield: 22.95 mg unit means that 17.57%, purity: 3.02). The purified C‐PC consisted of α and β subunits with molecular masses of 16 kDa and 17 kDa, respectively. Further assessment revealed its antioxidant capacity through a 2,2'‐Azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assay. The stability of C‐phycocyanin was tested at different pH levels and temperatures. Maximum stability was observed at pH 7, and pH 4 showed the lowest stability. Glutaraldehyde‐treated C‐PC (GC‐PC) demonstrated gradual degradation up to 50 °C, retaining 73.25% after 30 min. Notably, GC‐PC exhibited stability even at higher temperatures, with degradation rates of 57.32% at 70 °C and 50.96% at 80 °C.

CONCLUSION

Weak anion exchange chromatography proved superior for C‐PC purification, offering higher yields and purity than Q Sepharose and HIC. The purified C‐PC showed promising antioxidant capacity and stability, particularly GC‐PC, which exhibited resistance to degradation, even at elevated temperatures. These findings underscore the potential of C‐PC as a valuable compound for various applications, with DEAE chromatography being an efficient method for its production and commercialization. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Mechanistic insights into chemical corrosion of AA1050 in ethanol‐blended fuels with water contamination via phase field modeling
Authors: Gazenbiller Eugen , Arya Visheet , Reitz Rüdiger , Oechsner Matthias , Zheludkevich Mikhail L. , Höche Daniel
Published: April 2024

Aluminum alloys are widely used in automotive construction, and since the introduction of biogenic ethanol into fuels, the issue of nonaqueous alcoholate corrosion has become an important topic. In this paper, the kinetics of AA1050 temperature‐induced alcoholate pitting corrosion are examined experimentally with a specially constructed microreactor. The generated data are utilized to create a phase field model for the pit growth phase. The effects of ethanol‐blend composition and water content are quantitatively assessed and simulated. Phase field simulations allow for the first time the mechanistic characterization of the chemical corrosion process with a water content of up to 0.3% and an estimation of relevant reaction parameters at temperatures of up to 150°C. The approach can further be utilized to develop strategies for minimizing corrosion risk in‐service.
Revealing the strength and toughness mechanisms of ductile iron in three heat‐treatment processes
Authors: Lin Z. , Jin L. , Chen J. , Chen L. , Zheng Y. , Tu F. , Zhu X. , Wu X. , Cao Y.
Published: April 2024

Microstructural characteristics and mechanical properties of the ductile iron in three heat treatment processes (normalizing, quenching + high‐temperature tempering and isothermal quenching) were investigated in this paper. The pearlite and ferrite with large‐sized spherical graphites can be obtained in the normalized sample, and the spherical graphites with relatively large size can still be observed in the mechanical mixture of tempered martensite and acicular ferrite for the quenched‐tempered sample. Meanwhile, the lower bainite accompanied with the relatively fine spherical graphites are existed in the isothermal‐quenched sample. The difference of tensile strength is mainly caused by the phase composition, distribution and size of the spherical graphites and the effect of the solid solution strengthening. The weaker degree of the debonding damage, higher proportion of high‐angle grain boundaries will improve the impact toughness of the ductile iron. In a word, the optimum combination of strength and toughness is acquired by using isothermal quenching, and the tensile strength and impact toughness are ~1350 MPa and ~10.62 J, respectively.
Synthesis and wear characterization of Al7075/molybdenum disulfide/zirconium diboride hybrid composites
Authors: Dubey M. , Kumar N. , Mohan S.
Published: April 2024

The manuscript presents the synthesis and dry sliding wear performance of Al7075 alloy‐based composites. Five compositions namely Al7075 alloy, Al7075+3 vol % molybdenum disulfide, Al7075+3 vol % molybdenum disulfide+3 vol % zirconium diboride, Al7075+3 vol % molybdenum disulfide+6 vol % zirconium diboride and Al7075+3 vol % molybdenum disulfide+9 vol % zirconium diboride were stir cast and characterized for hardness, x‐ray diffraction, microstructure, and tribological properties. In‐situ formed zirconium diboride particles increase the hardness of Al7075 alloy whereas molybdenum disulfide shows the opposite trend due to its self‐lubricating nature. X‐ray diffraction analysis identifies subsequent phase particles in the matrix while microstructural images exhibit the dispersion and morphology of reinforcement particles. The wear tests and friction coefficient were analyzed with variations of sliding velocity, normal load, sliding distance, and compositions. Further, the obtained wear results were also correlated with microstructure and wear surface topography. Al7075+3 vol % molybdenum disulfide composite shows the lowest coefficient of friction because of its self‐lubricating nature. Al7075+3 vol % molybdenum disulfide+9 vol % zirconium diboride hybrid composite exhibits the lowest wear rate at high velocity as well as at high load and can be potentially used in manufacturing and tribological applications. Moreover, the use of this material may lead to the minimum requirement of external toxic lubricants that make it cost‐effective and environmentally sustainable.
Improved photocatalytic performance via air‐plasma modification of titanium dioxide: Insights from experiments and simulations
Authors: Ugwumadu C. , Olaniyan I. , Jeong H. K. , Drabold D. A.
Published: April 2024

Commercial titanium dioxide is successfully plasma‐treated under ambient conditions for different periods, leading to reduced crystallite size and the creation of oxygen vacancies. Density functional theory‐based calculations reveal the emergence of additional localized states close to the conduction band, primarily associated with under‐coordinated titanium atoms in non‐stoichiometric titanium‐oxide systems. The plasma‐treated samples exhibit improved photocatalytic performance in the degradation of methylene blue compared to untreated samples. Moreover, the 4‐hour plasma‐treated photocatalyst demonstrates commendable stability and reusability. This work highlights the potential of cost‐effective plasma treatment as a simple modification technique to significantly enhance the photocatalytic capabilities of titanium‐oxide materials.
Syndactylized glabrous flaps for multiple finger palmar defects
Authors: Güntürk Özgün Barış , Erol Kubilay , Gürbüz Yusuf , Kayalar Murat
Published: April 2024

Background

Palmar finger or pulp defects require coverage with glabrous tissue to achieve a good match with the lost tissue. The management of multiple finger palmar or pulp defects is challenging because these defects may not always be suitable for local or pedicled flaps. In such situations, syndactylizing free or pedicled flaps can be used.

Patients and methods

We evaluated the results of free glabrous flaps syndactylizing across multiple finger defects. The two flaps used were the superficial branch of the radial artery (SUPBRA) flap and hypothenar free flap. Seven syndactylized glabrous free flaps were used to cover the defects in 16 fingers. The functional results and complaints were also assessed.

Results

Mean flap size was 14.35 cm2. Six flaps survived. Postoperative evaluation data were obtained for the 13 fingers. All the patients returned to their previous work. All patients had a diminished protective sensation of at least 4.31 according to the SWM test. The mean two‐point discrimination score of the patients was 9.9 mm (7–14). One finger had a PIP joint flexion contracture of 30°, no donor‐site complaints were observed.

Conclusion

The advantages of these flaps include single operation site, strong glabrous tissue coverage, low risk of flexion contracture, and adequate tissue size for large defects. Disadvantages include two‐stage and complex microsurgical operations, prolonged treatment, and hospital stay.
Novel nonlinear quantum dust acoustic waves for modified variable coefficients Zakharove–Kusnetsov equation in dusty plasma
Authors: Gaballah Mahmoud , El‐Shiekh Rehab M.
Published: April 2024

In this paper, the direct similarity reduction method is used to reduce the modified variable coefficient Zakharove–Kusnetsov equation (vcmZK), which represents the propagation of quantum dust acoustic waves (QDAWs) in an inhomogeneous magnetized dusty plasma field, into a nonlinear ordinary differential equation (NODE). Moreover, the Jacobi elliptic method is used to solve the NODE, where many novel double periodic, kink, and solitary wave solutions are obtained. Additionally, we have chosen to plot periodic, kink, and soliton QDAWs solutions according to some choices for the variable coefficients. According to the a chieved results, we can conclude that the choices of the functional forms of the variable coefficients can control the QDAWs propagation. Finally, the new discovered results may have many important applications in astrophysics, atmospheric science, nanotechnology, and industrial plasma physics.
Role of parental smoking and environmental tobacco smoke exposure in childhood cancer: A study using hair cotinine analysis and questionnaires
Authors: Guzel Adil , Tacyildiz Nurdan , Bakar‐Ates Filiz , Ozyoruk Derya , Celik Aybuke , Dincaslan Handan , Unal Emel Cabi
Published: April 2024

Objectives

In the etiology of childhood cancers, many genetic and environmental factors play a role. One of these factors could be cigarette smoking, and the main source of tobacco smoke exposure of children is parental smoking. However, establishing a causal relationship between parental smoking and childhood cancers has proven challenging due to difficulties in accurately detecting tobacco smoke exposure

Methods

To address this issue, we used hair cotinine analysis and a questionnaire to get information about tobacco smoke exposures of pediatric cancer patients and healthy children. A total of 104 pediatric cancer patients and 99 healthy children participated in our study. Parental smoking behaviors (pre‐conceptional, during pregnancy, and current smoking) and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposures of children are compared.

Results

We have found no differences between two groups by means of maternal smoking behaviors. However, the rates of paternal pre‐conceptional smoking and smoking during pregnancy were significantly low in cancer patients (p < .05). These data suggest that social desirability bias among fathers of cancer patients may have contributed to this discrepancy. According to questionnaire, cancer patients had significantly lower ETS exposures than healthy children (p < .05). However, ETS exposure assessment through cotinine analysis demonstrated that cancer patients had higher exposure to ETS compared to healthy children (p < .001).

Conclusion

Our findings provide evidence supporting the potential role of smoking as a risk factor for childhood cancers. This study also revealed that questionnaires could cause biases. We suggest that cotinine analysis along with validated questionnaires can be used to prevent biases in studies of tobacco smoke in the etiology of childhood cancers.
Forensic analysis of suicide deaths: Comparing forensic information with public information and investigating factors contributing to psychiatric consultations
Authors: Murakami Ryu , Kamikubo Atsushi , Morioka Daigo , Kuroki Hisanaga
Published: April 2024

Aim

This study aimed to examine the usefulness of forensic information on suicide deaths in Japan for epidemiological studies on suicide and determine the factors that lead people with suicidal ideation to seek psychiatric care prior to attempting suicide.

Methods

We focused on forensic information of 514 suicide deaths that occurred in Osaka City in 2019. First, to examine whether the data used in this study can be generalized to these cases, we compared the information on suicide deaths officially published by Osaka City with that used in this study, utilizing Pearson's χ2 test. Next, the forensic data were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression analysis to confirm the relationship between demographic factors and the likelihood of having a history of psychiatric consultation before suicide.

Results

Both the official information and the data used in this study showed a higher number of males than females who died by suicide, with no significant differences in values between the data sets. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed significant correlations. More females were associated with seeking a psychiatric consultation. However, those with regular jobs or students were more likely to avoid a psychiatric consultation.

Conclusion

The findings of this study provide insights into the phenomenon of suicide deaths by using a forensic perspective. The results of this study suggest that psychiatric consultation may be effective in reducing deaths by suicide. Forensic data should be incorporated into the formulation of suicide‐prevention policies in Japan to conduct a more multifaceted analysis and improve suicide‐prevention measures.
A Concentrically Moveable Erosion Zone Magnetron for In Operando Tailoring of Alloy Nanoparticles in a Gas Aggregation Source
Authors: Drewes Jonas , Ziegler Florian , Morisch Michael , Lemke Jonathan , Rehders Stefan , Ellermann Frowin , Strunskus Thomas , Faupel Franz , Vahl Alexander
Published: April 2024

One particularly interesting approach for the deposition of highly pure nanoparticles (NPs) in a solvent‐ and surfactant‐free process is the gas phase synthesis of nanoparticles using a gas aggregation source (GAS) based on magnetron sputtering. Apart from the possibility of tuning the NP size‐distribution via process parameters, e.g., gas flow, pressure, and aggregation length, multicomponent targets in a GAS enable in operando composition tuning of alloy NPs. However, in the practical application of the GAS, two main challenges have to be addressed: low target utilization and low conversion efficiency. This work describes a magnetron with a concentrically moveable erosion zone (cMEZ magnetron), and showcases its applicability for the deposition of metal (Cu) and metal alloy (CuNi) NPs via GAS. The cMEZ magnetron relies on an in operando reconfigurable outer magnet array, which enables tuning of the position of the erosion zone, impacting target utilization. By weighting the targets and substrates before and after deposition, the conversion efficiency is determined for different operating pressures and magnet configurations. Furthermore, the multicomponent target approach is tested with the cMEZ magnetron, which enabled the in operando composition tuning of the Ni content in CuNi NPs from ≈5 to ≈35 at% only by varying the magnetic field.
Small work pleasures and two types of well‐being
Authors: Strauss Claudia
Published: April 2024

Does wage labor contribute to well‐being beyond providing an income? Well‐being can be understood in eudaimonic terms as the happiness derived from a socially valued life or in hedonic terms as the experience of pleasure. The eudaimonic–hedonic divide is replicated in competing progressive visions of the place of work in a good life. Laborist theories stress the centrality of paid work for a meaningful life. By contrast, for post‐work theories, pleasure is important for well‐being, and work is generally not expected to be pleasurable. Surprisingly, many of the participants in my study of diverse US job seekers described one or more of the jobs they had held as “fun.” Fun connotes enjoyment without deeper meaning, a hedonic rather than eudaimonic account of nonfinancial work rewards. What made a job fun were small work pleasures: enjoyment of the tasks and feeling competent at them, enjoyment of the physical work environment, or enjoyment of social relations on the job. These small pleasures could be found in both standard and nonstandard, precarious jobs. This study indicates the need for a labor politics that improves hedonic well‐being on the job. It also expands an “anthropology of the good” to include ordinary enjoyment.
Tribological characteristics and mechanisms of boronitrogenated methyl epoxyoleate as bio‐based additive in petroleum lubricant
Authors: Tang Chengli , Song Chunyu , Jiang Siwei , Liao Mingjia , Jie Fangfang , Chen Boshui
Published: April 2024

In this work, boronitrogenated methyl epoxyoleate (BNMEO) was prepared by boronization and nitrogenation of methyl epoxyoleate (MEO). The tribological properties of BNMEO and MEO as bio‐based lubricating additives in a petroleum oil were determined on a four‐ball tribometer. The topographies, element compositions, and tribochemical species of the worn surfaces were analyzed by a scanning electron microscope, an energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometer, and an X‐ray photoelectron spectroscope, respectively. Results showed that both BNMEO and MEO, especially the former, were excellent in fortifying load‐carrying capacities and friction‐reducing and antiwear abilities of the oil under mild loads. However, their abilities in improving extreme pressure property of the oil under severe loads were very limited. The prominent ability of BNMEO in reducing friction and wear was characterized by well‐increased maximum nonseizure loads and decreased wear scar diameters and friction coefficients and was attributed to generation of a dense and robust boundary lubrication film which consisted of a matrix of BNMEO with inclusions of aminic compounds, boron oxide, iron oxide, and hydrocarbons, thanks to strong adsorptions and tribo‐oxidations of BNMEO on the metallic surfaces in the tribological processes.
Ultra‐Fast Preparation of High‐Strength Polymer Concrete via Frontal Polymerization at Room Temperature
Authors: Sun Jiongfeng , Wang Rui , Xue Guangjie , Qiao Guofu
Published: April 2024

Concrete, in particular application scenarios, such as crack repair, disaster rescue and relief, and 3D printing, needs to be cured quickly. In this work, a novel synthesis strategy, UV‐initiated frontal polymerization (FP), for fast preparation of high‐strength polymer concrete at room temperature is proposed, and the whole fabrication progress within several minutes, in which coarse aggregates and a small amount of short carbon fibers (CF) are used to enhance mechanical properties and heat conduction and reduce the amounts of chemical adhesives. SEM, DSC, MIP, Ultra depth of field microscope, and Rheometer are employed to characterize the properties of chemical adhesives, polymer concrete, and polymerization process. In addition, the finite element method is used to investigate the internal temperature field status of the FP process. The results indicate that the compressive and flexural strengths of the polymer concrete with 1.0 wt%‐1 mm‐CF‐50 vol.%‐quartz sand exceeded 70 and 20 MPa, respectively, in which the average self‐propagation velocity reached 58 mm min−1. The investigation provides a promising approach for the rapid construction of structural facilities, emergency repair after disasters, 3D printing concrete, etc.
Identification of Codonopsis Radix from different sources by integrating high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprinting with chemometric approaches and Lobetyolin determination
Authors: Liu Xuxia , Liu Xiaoling , Wang Xin , Chen Zhengjun , Nan Danhui , Luo Wenrong , Yang Fude
Published: April 2024

Codonopsis Radix (CR) is often used as both a medicine and a food ingredient. However, identifying CR can be difficult due to various factors such as variety, sulfur fumigation, and storage time. Consequently, a comprehensive strategy based on fingerprinting and chemometric approaches was developed to distinguish different CRs. First, the fingerprints of CR were acquired by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Secondly, various chemical pattern recognition methods were employed to identify CR. Additionally, 14 and 16 major compounds were identified as marker compounds to differentiate between different varieties and sulfur‐fumigated samples, respectively. Furthermore, the amount of Lobetyolin present in different samples was determined, showing that the content of Lobetyolin varied significantly across the samples. Codonopsis pilosula Nannf. var. modesta (Nannf.) L.T.Shen had the highest content of Lobetyolin, followed by Codonopsis tangshen Oliv., and Codonopsis pilosula (Franch.) Nannf. In addition, the content of Lobetyolin was highest when it was non‐sulfur‐fumigated and stored for 0 years. Conclusively, HPLC fingerprint in conjunction with chemical pattern recognition and component content determination, can be employed to differentiate different varieties and sulfur‐fumigated CR. Additionally, it is a reliable, comprehensive, simple, and rapid method for the identification of CR.
The Multiscale Structural Properties and In‐Vitro Digestibility of High Amylose Corn Starch During Autoclaving‐Cooling Treatment
Authors: Li Qiushuang , Ma Lei , Liu Jun , Cheng Yongqiang , Liang Jianfen
Published: April 2024

This work investigates the relationship between multiscale structural properties in high amylose corn starch (HACS) and its in‐vitro digestibility by analyzing the effects of autoclaving‐cooling treatment (ACT). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) shows that HACS displays a higher gelatinization temperature, wider endothermic gelatinization range, and higher enthalpy. Autoclaved corn starch exhibits enhanced thermal stability than the raw corn starch. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) shows that ACT does not change the crystalline type but increases the relative crystallinity (RC). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicates that HACS exhibits a higher degree of order (DO) and double helixes (DHs) than normal corn starch (NCS), which are reduced by ACT. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals that HACS displays denser structures and smaller particle morphologies than NCS. After ACT, the granular of autoclaved corn starch shows a rough fiber network structure. Digestibility analysis reveals a positive correlation between the amylose content and resistant starch (RS) level in raw starch, while ACT promotes significant RS formation. This suggests that amylose promotes ordered structure formation, while autoclaving increased digestive resistance.
Utilizing ensemble machine learning and gray wolf optimization to predict the compressive strength of silica fume mixtures
Authors: Javid Alireza , Toufigh Vahab
Published: April 2024

The concrete compressive strength is essential for the design and durability of concrete infrastructure. Silica fume (SF), as a cementitious material, has been shown to improve the durability and mechanical properties of concrete. This study aims to predict the compressive strength of concrete containing SF by dual‐objective optimization to determine the best balance between accurate prediction and model simplicity. A comprehensive dataset of 2995 concrete samples containing SF was collected from 36 peer‐reviewed studies ranging from 5% to 30% by cement weight. Input variables included curing time, SF content, water‐to‐cement ratio, aggregates, superplasticizer levels, and slump characteristics in the modeling process. The gray wolf optimization (GWO) algorithm was applied to create a model that balances parsimony with an acceptable error threshold. A determination coefficient (R2) of 0.973 demonstrated that the CatBoost algorithm emerged as a superior predictive tool within the boosting ensemble context. A sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the model, identifying curing time as the predominant influence on the compressive strength of SF‐containing concrete. To further enhance the applicability of this research, the authors proposed a web application that facilitates users to estimate the compressive strength using the optimized CatBoost algorithm by following the link: https://sf-concrete-cs-prediction-by-javid-toufigh.streamlit.app/.
Alzheimer's disease drug development pipeline: 2024
Authors: Cummings Jeffrey , Zhou Yadi , Lee Garam , Zhong Kate , Fonseca Jorge , Cheng Feixiong
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

New therapies to prevent or delay the onset of symptoms, slow progression, or improve cognitive and behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD) are needed.

METHODS

We interrogated clinicaltrials.gov including all clinical trials assessing pharmaceutical therapies for AD active in on January 1, 2024. We used the Common Alzheimer's Disease Research Ontology (CADRO) to classify the targets of therapies in the pipeline.

RESULTS

There are 164 trials assessing 127 drugs across the 2024 AD pipeline. There were 48 trials in Phase 3 testing 32 drugs, 90 trials in Phase 2 assessing 81 drugs, and 26 trials in Phase 1 testing 25 agents. Of the 164 trials, 34% (N = 56) assess disease‐modifying biological agents, 41% (N = 68) test disease‐modifying small molecule drugs, 10% (N = 17) evaluate cognitive enhancing agents, and 14% (N = 23) test drugs for the treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms.

DISCUSSION

Compared to the 2023 pipeline, there are fewer trials (164 vs. 187), fewer drugs (127 vs. 141), fewer new chemical entities (88 vs. 101), and a similar number of repurposed agents (39 vs. 40).

Highlights

In the 2024 Alzheimer's disease drug development pipeline, there are 164 clinical trials assessing 127 drugs.

The 2024 Alzheimer's disease drug development pipeline has contracted compared to the 2023 Alzheimer pipeline with fewer trials, fewer drugs, and fewer new chemical entities.

Drugs in the Alzheimer's disease drug development pipeline target a wide array of targets; the most common processes targeted include neurotransmitter receptors, inflammation, amyloid, and synaptic plasticity.

The total development time for a potential Alzheimer's disease therapy to progress from nonclinical studies to FDA review is approximately 13 years.
Dietary intervention for a growing Australian Kelpie with intestinal lipid malabsorption
Authors: Lucke Annegret , Wichert Brigitta , Liesegang Annette
Published: April 2024

A 12‐week‐old male Australian Kelpie was referred for nutritional consultation after being diagnosed with autosomal recessively inherited intestinal lipid malabsorption (ILM). At the timepoint of referral, the dog's bodyweight was below the ideal growth curve, the faecal quality was poor and the patient received a pancreatic enzyme supplement. The patient's diet at referral was based on a commercial dry food for all age groups and contained approximately 20% fat in dry matter (DM). We formulated a highly digestible homemade diet with a low‐fat content (10% DM) while meeting the recommendations for linoleic acid, α‐linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, which supported the nutritional requirements of a growing dog with impaired fat absorption. The diet was adapted according to the different growth phases.

To our knowledge, this is the first case report highlighting the nutritional management of an Australian Kelpie with ILM. After diet adaptation, the patient reached his growth potential.
From pulpit to marketplace: The evolution of religious political parties in Pakistan
Authors: Hussain Kashif
Published: April 2024

This article analyzes the extent of involvement of religious political leaders and their apparent, rather reluctant, acceptance by the Pakistani public seen in recent times. The study also analyzes the role of religious leaders in giving way to right‐wing extremism or Islamic militarism and how this challenges the writ of the state. I hope to shed light on the state‐religious scholars' nexus, forging a lasting impression in the minds of the public of their coexistence. Religious leaders have been seen to support or gain currency at the time of autocratic rulers, which is evident in the history of the martial law regimes of General Zia ul Haq and General Pervez Musharraf. This study also examines the compromise of weak democratic parties in the intervening period between the two dictatorships as well as the recent rise of political as well as religious extremism. I examine the coexistence of the state‐religious scholars' nexus where religious sentiments, often leading to extremist views, are being played for political gains by the religious political leaders.
Exploring Quaternion Neural Network Loss Surfaces
Authors: Bill Jeremiah , Cox Bruce
Published: April 2024

This paper explores the superior performance of quaternion multi-layer perceptron (QMLP) neural networks over real-valued multi-layer perceptron (MLP) neural networks, a phenomenon that has been empirically observed but not thoroughly investigated. The study utilizes loss surface visualization and projection techniques to examine quaternion-based optimization loss surfaces for the first time. The primary contribution of this research is the statistical evidence that QMLP models yield smoother loss surfaces than real-valued neural networks, which are measured and compared using a robust quantitative measure of loss surface “goodness” based on estimates of surface curvature. Extensive computational testing validates the effectiveness of these surface curvature estimates. The paper presents a comprehensive comparison of the average surface curvature of a tuned QMLP model and a tuned real-valued MLP model on both a regression task and a classification task. The results provide strong support for the improved optimization performance observed in QMLPs across various problem domains.
Steel surface roughness parameter prediction from laser reflection data using machine learning models
Authors: Milne Alex , Xie Xianghua
Published: April 2024

Control of surface texture in strip steel is essential to meet customer requirements during galvanizing and temper rolling processes. Traditional methods rely on post-production stylus measurements, while on-line techniques offer non-contact and real-time measurements of the entire strip. However, ensuring accurate measurement is imperative for their effective utilization in the manufacturing pipeline. Moreover, accurate on-line measurements enable real-time adjustments of manufacturing processing parameters during production, ensuring consistent quality and the possibility of closed-loop control of the temper mill. In this study, we formulate the manufacturing issue into a Time Series Extrinsic Regression problem and a Machine Vission problem and leverage state-of-the-art machine learning models to enhance the transformation of on-line measurements into a significantly more accurate Ra surface roughness metric. By comparing a selection of data-driven approaches, including both deep learning such as convolutional, recurrent, and transformer networks and non-deep learning methods such as Rocket and XGBoost, to the close-form transformation, we evaluate their potential using Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) and correlation for improving surface texture control in temper strip steel manufacturing.
Multilevel analysis of six species of Phyllostachys bamboo and Arundo donax: preliminary survey on Italian grown stands
Authors: Greco Silvia , Molari Luisa , Valdrè Giovanni , Garcia Jose Jaime
Published: April 2024

The paper focuses on a multilevel analysis considering six species of bamboo of the Phyllostachys family (P. bambusoides, edulis, iridescens, viridiglaucescens, violacescens, and vivax) and Arundo donax grown in temperate climates, most of them not already studied in the literature. The analysis is divided into three levels. The analysis at the first level (the microscopic scale) includes an anatomical study to assess the shapes and dimensions of the vascular bundles and the sclerenchymatic and parenchymatic tissues. At the second mesoscale level, the percentage and distribution of the fibres, voids and parenchyma are calculated. At the third level, the macroscopic one, a discussion of the influence of the microscopical properties on mechanical properties is carried out. Despite the limited number of specimens analysed at the microscale level, differences between species emerged from the analysis and influenced the macroscopic characteristic values. In particular, the morphology of the components differs, especially in the case of Arundo donax, which presents a unique distribution of its components along the culm wall. Different contents of each component are observed for the species analysed. Moreover, an innovative analysis that focuses on the presence and distribution of voids is presented, which have a fundamental role in the mechanical behaviour of this material. The analysis did not account for the influence of the environment on composition or anatomical and physical characteristics.
Motivations, changes and challenges of participating in food-related social innovations and their transformative potential: three cases from Berlin (Germany)
Authors: Zoll Felix , Harder Alexandra , Manatsa Lerato Nyaradzo , Friedrich Jonathan
Published: April 2024

Dominant agri-food systems are increasingly seen as unsustainable in terms of environmental degradation, mass production or high food waste. In an attempt to counteract these developments and foster sustainability transitions in agri-food systems, a variety of actors are engaging in socially innovative models of food production and consumption. Using a multiple case study approach, our study examines three contrasting alternative economic models in the city of Berlin: community gardens, the app Too Good To Go (TGTG), and a cooperative supermarket. Based on 15 qualitative interviews, we provide insights into their transformative potential by exploring participants' underlying motivations, the changes they have experienced, and the challenges and potential for future development of these models. We find that participation in community gardens and the cooperative supermarket is similarly motivated by social aspects and dissatisfaction with existing food access options, while TGTG users are more motivated by financial reasons. Our study shows that change is experienced mainly at the individual level, e.g. by building new relationships, changing cognitive framings, and learning (new) practices, especially in community-oriented settings. The individualization of change shows that these models have a rather low potential to lead to more systemic accounts of changes. Yet, they can prefigure regime change, describe resistance, and foster cumulative incremental change that may spill over into society. We conclude that in order to sustain this role and drive transitions, it is important to up- and outscale these models; and we provide recommendations on how these models can mutually support their development, establishment, and protection.
Urban food governance without local food: missing links between Czech post-socialist cities and urban food alternatives
Authors: Pixová Michaela , Plank Christina
Published: April 2024

Food is becoming an increasingly important issue in the urban context. Urban food policies are a new phenomenon in Czechia, where urban food alternatives to the current food regime are promoted by food movements or take the form of traditional self-provisioning. This paper examines how urban food governance in Prague and Brno is constituted based on the municipalities’ relations with actors engaged in urban food alternatives. We argue that prioritizing aspects of local food system transformation compliant with the status quo is non-systemic and implies a fragmentation of urban food alternatives based on different levels of social capital and radicality. We conceptualize urban food alternatives as values-based modes of production and consumption and focus on values that guide urban food governance in its participatory and territorial interplay with the actors of urban food alternatives. Our analysis reveals that the values underpinning the two cities’ progressive food policies do not match reality on the ground. We propose four types of relations between the two examined cities and aspects of the local food system transformation. Aspects compliant with the status quo, such as food waste reduction and community gardening are embraced, whereas those requiring more public intervention, such as public procurement, short supply chains, or the protection of cultivable land are disregarded, degraded, or, at most, subject to experimentation as part of biodiversity protection. Chances for a successful transformation of the local food system under such governance are low but can be increased by strengthening social capital and coalition work among urban food alternatives.
Effect of diel light cycles on vertical migration patterns of Lepeophtheirus salmonis (Krøyer, 1837) copepodids measured in an in situ mesocosm
Authors: Hagemann Andreas , Kvæstad Bjarne , Venås Birger
Published: April 2024

The ectoparasitic salmon louse (Lepeophtheirus salmonis Krøyer, 1837) persists as a major hindrance for continued growth of the Norwegian salmon industry. Shielding technologies or management strategies are being used to reduce the likelihood of contact in the net pens between the salmon and the sea lice’s infectious copepodid stage. Knowledge about the vertical distribution and diel migration patterns of the planktonic sea lice stages are inevitably a premise for such water-depth-dependent avoidance technologies to be efficient; however, not many studies have investigated diel vertical migration patterns of sea lice in situ or in relevant scales. In this work, we aimed to monitor the diel migration of L. salmonis copepodids in the vertical plane without the influence of hydrographical forces, using sufficient water column depth of 11 m, natural thermoclines, and natural exogenous light conditions. We followed a cohort of copepodids over the course of 4 days and measured their vertical distribution in the water column twice per hour in a custom made mesocosm, using automatic particle detection and machine learning to analyse position and migration patterns. The L. salmonis copepodid population displayed reverse diel migration, and we found a statistically significant interaction between depth and time. During the day, copepodids were found in the upper 1 m of the water column, before the majority of the population descended to 1–2 m depth during night-time. A small fraction of the population remained in the upper part of the water column also during night-time. A significantly higher fraction of the copepodid population resided in the upper metre during daylight hours compared to other depths. These results could be utilised as input in sea lice dispersal models which are important management tools in today’s sea lice prevention strategies and regulatory frameworks.
Design tactics for tailoring transformer architectures to cybersecurity challenges
Authors: Avci Cigdem , Tekinerdogan Bedir , Catal Cagatay
Published: April 2024

In the rapidly evolving landscape of cyber threats, effective defense strategies are crucial for safeguarding sensitive information and critical systems. Deep learning methods, notably the Transformer architecture, have shown immense potential in addressing cybersecurity challenges. However, customizing, and adapting Transformer architectures for cybersecurity applications presents a challenge, demanding the utilization of effective strategies to achieve optimal performance. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of design tactics employed in tailoring Transformer architectures specifically for cybersecurity problems. Design tactics, defined as strategic solutions to architectural challenges based on well-justified design decisions, are explored in-depth within the context of cybersecurity. By examining the modifications and adaptations made to the original Transformer architecture, this study unveils the design decisions and strategies crucial for successful implementation in diverse cybersecurity domains. The findings emphasize the significance of aligning design tactics with the unique business requirements and quality factors of each specific application domain. This study contributes valuable insights into the utilization of design tactics for customizing Transformer architectures in cybersecurity, paving the way for enhanced defense strategies against the dynamic and evolving nature of cyber threats.
Everyday Diagnostic Work in the Histopathology Lab: CSCW Perspectives on the Utilization of Data-Driven Clinical Decision Support Systems
Authors: Procter Rob , Rouncefield Mark , Tolmie Peter , Verrill Clare
Published: April 2024

In this paper we present an ethnographic study of the work of histopathologists as they grapple with the twin innovations of transitioning to digital biopsy images and the prospective adoption of an AI-based clinical decision support system (CDSS). We explore how they are adapting to the former and their expectations of the latter. The study’s ethnomethodologically-informed ethnography approach brings to light some key issues regarding the nature of diagnostic work, and accountability and trust that are central to the successful adoption of technological innovations in clinical settings.