bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of rehabilitation services in violent versus nonviolent traumatic spinal cord injury
Authors: Barnett Heather M. , Wilson Josh M. , Kunapaisal Thitikan , Nehra Deepika , Vavilala Monica S. , Hoffman Jeanne M. , Crane Deborah A.
Published: November 2023

Background

Violence is the third leading cause of spinal cord injury (SCI) in the United States, and people with violence‐related SCI have worse long‐term outcomes compared to other traumatic SCI etiologies. Little is known, however, about the underlying reasons for these differences. Access to and utilization of rehabilitation services may differ in this population, but their outpatient care has not been previously investigated.

Objective

To evaluate differences in utilization patterns of outpatient rehabilitation services between people with violence‐related SCI and other traumatic SCI etiologies.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Academic tertiary care hospital system.

Patients

A total of 41 patients with violence‐related SCI residing in King County at the time of injury who completed inpatient rehabilitation (IPR) in our institution were identified from the hospital trauma registry and matched with 41 control patients with nonviolent traumatic SCI.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

The number of appointments attended, canceled, and missed during the first year after discharge from IPR were obtained by chart review for physical medicine & rehabilitation (PM&R) physicians and therapy services.

Results

People with violence‐related SCI had decreased follow‐up with outpatient rehabilitation services after IPR discharge compared to non‐violent traumatic SCI, including PM&R (2.50 ± 2.44 vs. 3.76 ± 2.21 visits, β = −1.28, p = .017), physical therapy (8.91 ± 11.02 vs. 17.57 ± 15.26, β = −9.79, p = .009), occupational therapy (4.28 ± 7.90 vs. 10.04 ± 14.42, β = −6.18, p = .033), and recreational therapy (0.293 ± 0.955 vs. 1.37 ± 2.86, β = −1.07, p = .035). The rate of missed appointments was also higher among people with violence‐related SCI compared to controls for PM&R (25.2% ± 28.5% vs. 9.9% ± 16.5%, β = 14.6%, p = .014) and physical therapy (26.0% ± 32.0% vs 4.2% ± 13.2%, β = 22.1%, p = .009).

Conclusions

Individuals with violence‐related SCI had fewer follow‐up appointments with PM&R physicians and other allied health professionals and were more likely to miss scheduled appointments compared to other traumatic SCI etiologies. Decreased outpatient follow‐up may affect long‐term outcomes for people with violence‐related SCI.
Ewing's sarcoma in a young man mimicking lateral elbow pain: A case report with 2 years follow‐up
Authors: Zanconato Laura , Rossettini Giacomo , Mourad Firas , Cotrozzi Maurizio , Carità Enrico , Di Filippo Luigi , Turolla Andrea , Smania Nicola , Picelli Alessandro , Valè Nicola , Maselli Filippo
Published: November 2023

Background and Purpose

Lateral elbow pain represents a common musculoskeletal disorder, mostly non‐specific and benign. In rare cases, it can be the first symptom of a severe disease such as Ewing's sarcoma (ES). ES is the second most common primary malignant bone tumor in the young population, with a high probability of an unfavourable prognosis.

Case Presentation

This case report presents the history of a young man presenting to the physical therapist with a diagnosis of “epicondylitis” in the right elbow, which was later revealed to be an aggressive ES of the ulna. Findings raising clinical doubts were (a) constant pain even at night and not dependent on load, (b) significant loss of function, (c) patient's young age, and (d) a palpable mass in the elbow.

Results

After diagnosis, the patient received medical (chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery) and a rehabilitation program. After treatment, the patient improved elbow function, decreased disability and returned to social participation, maintaining positive outcomes at the 2‐year follow‐up.

Discussion

In summary, this case report emphasizes the importance of differential diagnosis and screening for referral of red flags in physical therapy. Moreover, it describes the rehabilitation of a patient with ES, enriching the scientific literature in the field.
Widespread amyloid aggregates formation by Zika virus proteins and peptides
Authors: Giri Rajanish , Bhardwaj Taniya , Kapuganti Shivani K. , Saumya Kumar Udit , Sharma Nitin , Bhardwaj Aparna , Joshi Richa , Verma Deepanshu , Gadhave Kundlik
Published: November 2023

Viral pathogenesis typically involves numerous molecular mechanisms. Protein aggregation is a relatively unknown characteristic of viruses, despite the fact that viral proteins have been shown to form terminally misfolded forms. Zika virus (ZIKV) is a neurotropic one with the potential to cause neurodegeneration. Its protein amyloid aggregation may link the neurodegenerative component to the pathogenicity associated with the viral infection. Therefore, we investigated protein aggregation in the ZIKV proteome as a putative pathogenic route and one of the alternate pathways. We discovered that it contains numerous anticipated aggregation‐prone regions in this investigation. To validate our prediction, we used a combination of supporting experimental techniques routinely used for morphological characterization and study of amyloid aggregates. Several ZIKV proteins and peptides, including the full‐length envelope protein, its domain III (EDIII) and fusion peptide, Pr N‐terminal peptide, NS1 β‐roll peptide, membrane‐embedded signal peptide 2K, and cytosolic region of NS4B protein, were shown to be highly aggregating in our study. Because our findings show that viral proteins can form amyloids in vitro, we need to do a thorough functional study of these anticipated APRs to understand better the role of amyloids in the pathophysiology of ZIKV infection.
Bacillus velezensis WB induces systemic resistance in watermelon against Fusarium wilt
Authors: Chen Zhongnan , Wang Zhigang , Xu Weihui
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Our previous findings indicated that Bacillus velezensis WB could control Fusarium wilt by changing the structure of the microbial community in the watermelon rhizosphere. However, there are few studies on its mechanism in the pathogen resistance of watermelon. Therefore, in this study, we determined the mechanism of B. velezensis WB‐induced systemic resistance in watermelon against Fusarium wilt through glasshouse pot experiments.

RESULTS

The results showed that B. velezensis WB significantly reduced the incidence and disease index of Fusarium wilt in watermelon. B. velezensis WB can enhance the basal immunity of watermelon plants by: increasing the activity of phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL), peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and β‐1,3‐glucanase; accumulating lignin, salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA); reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations; and inducing callus deposition in watermelon plant cells. RNA‐seq analysis showed that 846 watermelon genes were upregulated and 612 watermelon genes were downregulated in the WF treatment. This process led to the activation of watermelon genes associated with auxin, gibberellin, SA, ethylene and JA, and the expression of genes in the phenylalanine biosynthetic pathway was upregulated. In addition, transcription factors involved in plant resistance to pathogens, such as MYB, NAC and WRKY, were induced. Gene correlation analysis showed that Cla97C10G195840 and Cla97C02G049930 in the phenylalanine biosynthetic pathway, and Cla97C02G041360 and Cla97C10G197290 in the plant hormone signal transduction pathway showed strong correlations with other genes.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicated that B. velezensis WB is capable of inducing systemic resistance in watermelon against Fusarium wilt. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Exploring the Potential of MXene Contacts on Wide‐Bandgap Dion–Jacobson Perovskite Solar Cell: A Numerical Study
Authors: Gohri Shivani , Madan Jaya , Pandey Rahul
Published: November 2023

The stability and performance challenges in conventional 3D perovskite solar cells (PSCs), attributed to perovskite structure and transport layers, prompt the exploration of 2D perovskites. However, the presence of transport layers and conventional contacts is still challenging as it creates interface defects and pinholes. In this study, a new transport‐layer‐free device structure, i.e., MXene–2D perovskites–MXene‐based metal–semiconductor–metal PSCs, is introduced to resolve the stability‐ and performance‐related issues. The proposed solar cell incorporates PeDAMAPb2I7as the absorber layer and MXenes (Hf2NF2/Ta4C3F2) as electrodes. The Dion–Jacobson perovskites solar cell is also investigated for optimum thickness and defect tolerance level of PeDAMAPb2I7. In the results, it is indicated that the device delivered the maximum efficiency of 5.63% at a 500 nm thick absorber layer with a defect density of 1 × 1013 cm−3. Further, the quest to find suitable MXene contact for electron extraction is met by analyzing the proposed solar cell with nine different MXene layers (Hf2NF2, Hf2CF2, Zr2NF2, Ta2CF2, Ti4C3, Ti3C2, Zr2C, Sc2C, Ti2C). In the results, it is indicated that Hf2NF2has a 3.2 eV work function, making it the optimal choice, achieving 5.63% efficiency.
Design and aircraft‐in‐the‐loop validation of structured‐H∞ self‐scheduled fault‐tolerant controllers
Authors: Waitman S. , Marcos A. , Sato M.
Published: November 2023

This paper presents the design of a self‐scheduled fault‐tolerant controller for the lateral/directional motion of MuPAL‐ research aircraft using a polynomial‐scheduled structured H control. The controller is designed to be tolerant against loss‐of‐efficiency faults in the aileron and rudder, but based on industrial best practices it is scheduled with respect to an overall fault level instead of with respect to the individual faults. The performance and robustness of the resulting controller is verified first using frequency and time domain analysis, and subsequently it is validated in the Aircraft‐In‐the‐Loop configuration of MuPAL‐, where the real aircraft is operated in research Fly‐By‐Wire mode by the pilot on‐ground while coupled to an emulation computer that simulates the aircraft flying motion. The results show good behavior of the controlled aircraft across the defined fault scenarios.
Prominent examples of flip processes
Authors: Araújo Pedro , Hladký Jan , Hng Eng Keat , Šileikis Matas
Published: November 2023

Flip processes, introduced in [Garbe, Hladký, Šileikis, Skerman: From flip processes to dynamical systems on graphons], are a class of random graph processes defined using a rule which is just a function from all labelled graphs of a fixed order into itself. The process starts with an arbitrary given ‐vertex graph . In each step, the graph is obtained by sampling random vertices of and replacing the induced graph by .

Using the formalism of dynamical systems on graphons associated to each such flip process from ibid. we study several specific flip processes, including the triangle removal flip process and its generalizations, ‘extremist flip processes’ (in which is either a clique or an independent set, depending on whether has less or more than half of all potential edges), and ‘ignorant flip processes’ in which the output does not depend on .
Extended reality (XR)—A magic box of digitalization in driving sustainable development of the construction industry: A critical review
Authors: Li Hongyang , Fang Shuying , Chen Long , Menadue Vanessa , Martin Skitmore
Published: November 2023

Against a background of global resource shortage and climate change, there is an urgency for the construction industry to aim towards sustainable development. With the rapid development of information technology, the emergence of extended reality (XR) has provided new ideas and options for sustainable construction (SC). Such technologies are applied in research and practice of the whole construction lifecycle, which can well meet the requirements of SC. This paper presents a critical review of XR applications in SC, aiming to systematically summarize the specific uses and advantages of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) technologies. This study also examines the gap in research into the imbalance between the use of technology and the construction stages involved. Most XR applications focus on the preconstruction stage, while visualization and interactivity are the main features for further application. Through qualitative analyses, different applications of XR are introduced in stages throughout the entire lifecycle of building projects. In addition, the current challenges and limitations are presented, and several suggestions are proposed to facilitate further advancements in SC research and practice in the near future. This review provides valuable information to help stakeholders understand the advances in XR research and benefit future exploration and practice in the field.
Thermally Reduced Graphene Oxide Membranes From Local Kazakhstan Graphite “Ognevsky”
Authors: Kuanyshbekov Tilek , Guseinov Nazim , Tolepov Zhandos , Kurbanova Bayan , Tulegenova Malika , Akatan Kydyrmolla , Kantay Nurgamit , Zhasasynov Elzhas
Published: November 2023

The properties of pure graphene and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) are close, so thermal annealing is a simple, safe and more cost‐effective alternative, in comparison to other methods to produce graphene oxide (GO) on a significant scale. In this work, for the first time, for the production of GO and its membrane with subsequent thermal reduction, local Kazakhstan “Ognevsky” graphite was used as the initial raw material. The GO membrane was obtained by vacuum filtration and subjected to thermal annealing at various temperatures in a hydrogen atmosphere. It was noticed, that after the thermal recovery of GO membranes, their physical and chemical properties changed. This changes show the possibility of using GO new membranes as a potential material for sensitive elements, such kind of gas and humidity sensors. In this regard, GO and RGO membranes were studied by: SEM, EDX, FTIR, XRD, TGA and Raman spectroscopy. This work demonstrates a new and efficient strategy for manufacturing high performance RGO membranes from local raw materials.
Design, Synthesis, Anticancer Screening and Molecular Modelling Studies of Novel Thiazoles
Authors: Abu Nuwar Mohammad , Jaradat Da'san M. M. , Chandrasekaran Balakumar , Natsheh Iyad , Rasras Anas J. , Alzubi Mohammad S. H. , Karpoormath Rajshekhar , Khalili Fawwaz , Hamadneh Lama , Dahadha Adnan A. , Arafat Tawfiq
Published: November 2023

A library of novel benzamide‐thiazolyl‐chalcone compounds was synthesized via Claisen‐Schmidt reaction and spectroscopically characterized using FT‐IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, LC–MS, and HR‐MS. The synthesized compounds were biologically evaluated using in vitro MTT assay against different cancer cell lines (MCF‐7, MDA‐AMB‐231, Caco‐2, A549, and H1299). Amongst all compounds screened, (E)‐N‐(5‐(3‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐3‐oxoprop‐1‐en‐1‐yl)thiazol‐2‐yl)benzamide and (E)‐N‐(5‐(3‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐3‐oxoprop‐1‐en‐1‐yl)thiazol‐2‐yl)benzamide showed potent anti‐proliferation against breast (MCF‐7) and colon cancer cell lines reaching 88.56 % and 84.36 % with IC50 values of 44.00 μM and 58.88 μM, respectively. All synthesized compounds exhibited no significant cytotoxicity to normal cells. Structure‐activity relationship studies demonstrated the effect of electron‐donating and electron‐withdrawing groups on the anticancer activity of the molecules under investigation. This was also corroborated by theoretical DFT studies. Thus, these molecules may serve as potential lead candidates for further development of novel anticancer agents against breast and colon cancers.
Influence of Oxygen on PdCoO2: Structure, Thermogravimetry, Photoemission, Magnetic and μ‐Raman Spectroscopic Studies
Authors: John Lisa , Murugesan S. , Balakrishnan S. , Ambika N. , Chakraborty Soumee , Sathyanarayana A. T. , Ravindran T. R. , Sivaraman N. , Gnanasekar K. I.
Published: November 2023

Molten salt synthesized PdCoO2 annealed in argon and air exhibits a reversible weight change of about 2.5 %. Le Bail refinements confirm rhombohedral structures without any appreciable change in the lattice parameters for the given weight change. X‐ray photoemission studies show that oxygen uptake/loss did not change the oxidation states of Pd from its nominal +1 state whereas Co4+ is detected in addition to the Co3+ and the fraction of Co4+ increases marginally with oxygen gain. The impact of weight change on the magnetization of PdCoO2 is very low with a minimum difference. As the low‐spin Co3+ ions are non‐magnetic, the observed magnetization with a ferromagnetic transition at ~25 K is attributed to the low‐spin Co4+ ions in the lattice. Raman active bands observed at 700 cm−1 (A1g) and 508 cm−1 (Eg) correspond to the Pd−O stretching and bending modes respectively with Co3+ environment. Additional peaks at 681 and 473 cm−1 with relatively less intensity arise from the weaker Pd−O bond with oxygen linked to Co4+.
Vanadium (IV) Complex Synthesized Using Natural Product Lawsone as Efficient Catalyst for Oxidation of Activated sp3 C−H Bond
Authors: Nariya Pratik , Prajapati Sachin , Thakore Sonal
Published: November 2023

The vanadium (IV) complex has been synthesized from naturally occurring lawsone and characterized by FT‐IR, UV‐Visible, ESI‐MS, powder XRD, and EPR spectroscopy. DFT calculation was performed for the optimization of complex geometry. The selective oxidation of diphenylmethane to benzophenone with tert‐butylhydrogenperoxide (TBHP) as an oxidant, was evaluated using the vanadium (IV) complex. The effect of several reaction parameters, such as temperature, catalyst quantity, and solvent type, was investigated. Under the optimal reaction conditions, diphenylmethane was transformed to benzophenone with a 96 % conversion with complete selectivity confirmed by GC‐MS. Further, the scope of the catalyst could be extended for the oxidation of other substrate having benzylic sp3 C−H bond.
TMSOTf‐Promoted Synthesis of Quinazolin‐4(3H)‐one Utilizing DMSO as a Carbon Source
Authors: Kumar Sumit , Sivakumar. Ragupathy , Padala Kishor , Maiti Barnali
Published: November 2023

An efficient TMSOTf‐promoted multicomponent reaction has been developed for the one‐pot synthesis of quinazolin‐4 (3H)‐ones. Using the TMSOTf as a Lewis acid promoter and DMSO as a carbon source, the reaction of isatoic anhydride, primary amines yielded a variety of quinazolines‐4 (3H)‐ones. Additionally, TMSOTf promoted the reaction of 2‐amino‐N‐substituted benzamide with DMSO yielding the same scaffolds in high yields. However, the use of DMSO‐d6 as a solvent in the reaction enabled the incorporation of the −CD moiety in quinazolines‐4 (3H)‐one skeleton. This proves that DMSO plays a twin role as a C1 source and solvent. Various functional groups containing a wide range of quinazolin‐4 (3H)‐ones and other heterocycles were developed employing this methodology. Also, the synthetic methodology has been extended for the synthesis of 3‐(2‐carboxyphenyl)‐4‐(3H)‐quinazolinone, as an anti‐endotoxic drug.
Virtual Screening Based on Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Potential Ebola Receptor Inhibitors
Authors: Sinha Prashasti , Yadav Anil Kumar
Published: November 2023

Galidesivir (BCX4430) is known to treat different viruses under Filoviridae family and it has proved as a potential antiviral drug against Ebola virus. Therefore, for treating Ebola virus in particular there is a need for the identification a drug compound. In this work, derivatives of Pyrrolopyrimidine are designed to investigate their antiviral activity against Ebola virus receptors (VP24, VP30, VP35 and VP40). FBDD‐based virtual screening resulted in eight compounds, based on pharmacokinetics and Density Functional Theory (DFT) analysis; four compounds were shortlisted. Further, docking simulation resulted that, compound 4 exhibited −9.8, −9.6, −9.7, −9.5 kcal/mol binding energy against each Ebola receptor, respectively. The predicted docking results of the above compound against each receptor were better than BCX4430. Docking results were validated and compared to BCX4430 by performing Molecular Dynamic simulations at 100 ns, in order to study the Root Mean Square Deviation, Root Mean Square Fluctuation, Radius of Gyration and MM/PBSA of the docked complexes. Therefore, the study lays the foundation for the designed and screened compound to act as a probable drug compound against Ebola.
A Bacterial Responsive Microneedle Dressing with Hydrogel Backing Layer for Chronic Wound Treatment
Authors: Yang Li , Gao Yiwen , Liu Qingyun , Li Wenjing , Li Zimu , Zhang Dan , Xie Rixin , Zheng Yi , Chen Hongzhong , Zeng Xiaowei
Published: November 2023

The treatment of chronic wounds still presents great challenges due to being infected by biofilms and the damaged healing process. The current treatments do not address the needs of chronic wounds. In this study, a highly effective dressing (Dox‐DFO@MN Hy) for the treatment of chronic wounds is described. This dressing combines the advantages of microneedles (MNs) and hydrogels in the treatment of chronic wounds. MNs is employed to debride the biofilms and break down the wound barrier, providing rapid access to therapeutic drugs from hydrogel backing layer. Importantly, to kill the pathogenic bacteria in the biofilms specifically, Doxycycline hydrochloride (Dox) is wrapped into the polycaprolactone (PCL) microspheres that have lipase‐responsive properties and loaded into the tips of MNs. At the same time, hydrogel backing layer is used to seal the wound and accelerate wound healing. Benefiting from the combination of two advantages of MNs and hydrogel, the dressing significantly reduces the bacteria in the biofilms and effectively promotes angiogenesis and cell migration in vitro. Overall, Dox‐DFO@MN Hy can effectively treat chronic wounds infected with biofilms, providing a new idea for the treatment of chronic wounds.
Branched Terminal Alkyl Chain Enabling 15.7% Efficiency Oligothiophene Donor
Authors: Chen Qianqian , Li Yulu , Hu Dingqin , Lu Shirong , Xiao Zeyun
Published: November 2023

Optimizing the alkyl chains in a terminal group is one of the most efficient strategies to enhance the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of all small molecule organic solar cells (ASM‐OSCs). Oligothiophene, as an easily synthesized small molecule (SM) donor with an explicit structure, can influence intermolecular packing, planarity, and crystallinity through optimization of the alkyl chain in the terminal group. Herein, two SMs, Tz6T‐P and Tz6T‐iP, are synthesized using the n‐propyl and isopropyl isomers, respectively, as alkyl chains in the terminal group. Compared with the linear chain (n‐propyl) of Tz6T‐P, the rigid branch chain (isopropyl) in Tz6T‐iP exhibits an almost complanate configuration in the ground state and higher crystallinity. Consequently, Tz6T‐iP features lower levels of bimolecular recombination and trap‐assisted recombination, higher ability for exciton dissociation and charge collection, and longer carrier lifetimes. Tz6T‐iP achieves a PCE of 15.7% for oligothiophene‐based ASM‐OSCs. These results provide innovative strategies, demonstrating that branching the terminal alkyl chain can adjust planarity, crystallinity, and separation morphology for the structural design of photovoltaic materials.
A paradigm shift in designing circular steel buildings: Some key principles and pioneering projects
Authors: Charlier Marion , Vassart Olivier
Published: November 2023

The building and construction sector is responsible for approximately 40 % of global carbon emissions, and if improvement is not made in the short term, this impact will probably double in the next 20 years. Recently, the European Green Deal set a target of achieving net‐zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, for which the construction industry will need to apply drastic measures given the significance of its impact on the global emissions. Efficient ways of proceeding in that direction, allowing to quantify and effectively reduce the carbon emissions of buildings and infrastructures, rely on life‐cycle assessments (LCA) and circularity concepts. Applying the latter in practice requires a paradigm shift, which is necessary to implement in the earliest stages of a construction project if an effective, robust and realistic result is targeted. This article covers some key principles which can be kept in mind for the preparation of a circular construction project, as well as some pioneering projects in Europe which highlight a real possibility of delivering circular steel buildings.
Rapid analysis of hydrogen cyanide in fresh cassava roots using NIRSand machine learning algorithms: Meeting end user demand for low cyanogenic cassava
Authors: Kanaabi Michael , Namakula Fatumah B. , Nuwamanya Ephraim , Kayondo Ismail S. , Muhumuza Nicholas , Wembabazi Enoch , Iragaba Paula , Nandudu Leah , Nanyonjo Ann Ritah , Baguma Julius , Esuma Williams , Ozimati Alfred , Settumba Mukasa , Alicai Titus , Ibanda Angele , Kawuki Robert S.
Published: November 2023

This study focuses on meeting end‐users’ demand for cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) varieties with low cyanogenic potential (hydrogen cyanide potential [HCN]) by using near‐infrared spectrometry (NIRS). This technology provides a fast, accurate, and reliable way to determine sample constituents with minimal sample preparation. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of machine learning (ML) algorithms such as logistic regression (LR), support vector machine (SVM), and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) in distinguishing between low and high HCN accessions. Low HCN accessions averagely scored 1–5.9, while high HCN accessions scored 6–9 on a 1–9 categorical scale. The researchers used 1164 root samples to test different NIRS prediction models and six spectral pretreatments. The wavelengths 961, 1165, 1403–1505, 1913–1981, and 2491 nm were influential in discrimination of low and high HCN accessions. Using selected wavelengths, LR achieved 100% classification accuracy and PLS‐DA achieved 99% classification accuracy. Using the full spectrum, the best model for discriminating low and high HCN accessions was the PLS‐DA combined with standard normal variate with second derivative, which produced an accuracy of 99.6%. The SVM and LR had moderate classification accuracies of 75% and 74%, respectively. This study demonstrates that NIRS coupled with ML algorithms can be used to identify low and high HCN accessions, which can help cassava breeding programs to select for low HCN accessions.
Evolution toward intelligent communications: Impact of deep learning applications on the future of 6G technology
Authors: Abd Elaziz Mohamed , Al‐qaness Mohammed A. A. , Dahou Abdelghani , Alsamhi Saeed Hamood , Abualigah Laith , Ibrahim Rehab Ali , Ewees Ahmed A.
Published: November 2023

The sixth generation (6G) represents the next evolution in wireless communication technology and is currently under research and development. It is expected to deliver faster speeds, reduced latency, and greater capacity compared to the current 5G wireless technology. 6G is envisioned as a technology capable of establishing a fully data‐driven network, proficient in analyzing and optimizing end‐to‐end behavior and handling massive volumes of real‐time data at rates of up to terabits per second (Tb/s). Moreover, 6G is designed to accommodate an average of 1000+ substantial connections per person over the course of a decade. The concept of a data‐driven network introduces a new service paradigm, which offers fresh opportunities for applications within 6G wireless communication and network design in the future. This paper aims to provide a survey of existing applications of 6G that are based on deep learning techniques. It also explores the potential, essential technologies, scenarios, challenges, and related topics associated with 6G. These aspects are crucial for meeting the requirements for the development of future intelligent networks. Furthermore, this work delves into various research gaps between deep learning and 6G that remain unexplored. Different potential deep learning applications for 6G networks, including privacy, security, environmentally friendly communication, sustainability, and various wireless applications, are discussed. Additionally, we shed light on the challenges and future trends in this field.

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Computational Intelligence

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Explainable AI

Technologies > Machine Learning
Current status on pair-produced muon-philic vectorlike leptons in multilepton channels at the LHC
Authors: Kawamura Junichiro , Shin Seodong
Published: November 2023

Abstract

In this work, we obtain the current limits on the pair production of vectorlike leptons decaying to a Standard Model gauge boson and a lepton in the second generation using the Run-2 data at the LHC. Since there is no dedicated search out of Run-2 data, we recast the ATLAS analyses searching for the type-III seesaw heavy leptons in the multi-lepton channels. There is no limit for the SU(2)L singlet vectorlike lepton beyond about 100 GeV, while the limit is about 780 GeV for the doublet one. Thus, dedicated searches for the vectorlike leptons are necessary, especially for the singlet one. We also study the general cases of the vectorlike lepton decays and future sensitivities at the HL-LHC.
Conformal Renormalization of topological black holes in AdS6
Authors: Anastasiou Giorgos , Araya Ignacio J. , Corral Cristóbal , Olea Rodrigo
Published: November 2023

We present a streamlined proof that any Einstein-AdS space is a solution of the Lu, Pang and Pope conformal gravity theory in six dimensions. The reduction of conformal gravity into Einstein theory manifestly shows that the action of the latter can be written as the Einstein-Hilbert term plus the Euler topological density and an additional contribution that depends on the Laplacian of the bulk Weyl tensor squared. The prescription for obtaining this form of the action by embedding the Einstein theory into a Weyl-invariant purely metric theory, was dubbed Conformal Renormalization and its resulting action was shown to be equivalent to the one obtained by holographic renormalization. As a non-trivial application of the method, we compute the Noether-Wald charges and thermodynamic quantities for topological black hole solutions with generic transverse section in Einstein-AdS6 theory.
Graft failure within 2 years of isolated anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is associated with increased risk of secondary meniscus tears
Authors: Sproul David , Agarwal Amil , Malyavko Alisa , Mathur Abhay , Kreulen R. Timothy , Thakkar Savyasachi C. , Best Matthew J.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

A debilitating complication following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is a secondary meniscus tear. Currently, the literature is mixed regarding the risk factors associated with the incidence of secondary meniscus tears. The aim of this study was to investigate risk factors associated with meniscus tears following an isolated primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. ACL graft failure was hypothesized to be the strongest risk factor for secondary meniscal injury occurrence.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was performed using the PearlDiver Database. Patients with a primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction were identified in the database. Patients with concomitant knee ligament injury or meniscus injury present at the time the index procedure were excluded. Patients were grouped to those who had a secondary meniscus tear within 2 years following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and those who did not. Univariate analysis and multivariable regression analysis was conducted to identify significant risk factors for a secondary meniscus tear.

Results

There were 25,622 patients meeting criteria for inclusion in this study. Within 2 years from the primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, there were 1,781 patients (7.0%) that experienced a meniscus tear. Graft failure had the highest odds of having a postoperative meniscus tear within 2 years (OR: 4.1; CI 3.5–4.8; p < 0.002). Additional significant risk factors included tobacco use (OR: 2.0; CI 1.0–3.1; p < 0.001), increased Charlson Comorbidity Index (OR: 1.2; CI 1.1–1.4), male gender (OR: 1.1; CI 1.1–1.2; p < 0.001), obesity (OR: 1.1; CI 1.1–1.2; p < 0.001), delayed surgery (OR:1.1; CI 1.1–1.2; p < 0.002), and patients age 30 and older (OR: 1.0; CI 1.0–1.0; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study found that anterior cruciate ligament graft failure is the strongest predictor of post‐operative meniscus tears. Other risk factors, including tobacco use, increased CCI, male gender, obesity, delayed surgery, and age 30 and older, were established, with several being modifiable. Therefore, targeted preoperative optimization of modifiable risk factors and postoperative protocols may reduce the risk of secondary meniscus tears.

Level of evidence

Level III, prognostic trial.
Application of ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrostomy in the treatment of a solitary kidney with hydronephrosis due to renal tuberculosis
Authors: Zhang Bingsong , Li Lei , Zhang Gengchen , Wang Jinshan , Cao Bingsheng , Li Zhuo
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To investigate the value of ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrostomy and nephrostomy tube replacement for treating a solitary kidney with hydronephrosis due to renal tuberculosis.

Methods

Clinical data of patients with a solitary kidney with hydronephrosis caused by renal tuberculosis who underwent ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrostomy in our hospital from January 2011 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The associated success rate and complications were statistically analyzed, pre- and post-catheterization changes in serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were compared, success rate and complications of nephrostomy tube replacement in patients with long-term catheterization were statistically analyzed, and the impact of long-term catheterization on patient life was investigated.

Results

Overall, 32 patients aged 17–75 years (average age: 44.1 ± 16.9 years) underwent ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrostomy. Sixty-three punctures were performed; the puncture success rate was 100%. The levels of serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen of patients decreased after catheterization, and the differences between the pre-catheterization and post-catheterization were significant (P < 0.05). There were 1, 3, and 12 cases of serious, minor, and fistula-related complications, respectively. The mean duration of the indwelling catheter was 56.7 ± 36.2 (range, 13–120) months. The number of nephrostomy tube replacements was 344 times, and the success rate was 100%. All patients could take care of the puncture point by themselves.

Conclusion

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrostomy and nephrostomy tube replacement have a high success rate and few complications, which can improve the renal function of patients. It is of great value for treating a solitary kidney with hydronephrosis caused by renal tuberculosis.
Population-wide evaluation of artificial intelligence and radiologist assessment of screening mammograms
Authors: Kühl Johanne , Elhakim Mohammad Talal , Stougaard Sarah Wordenskjold , Rasmussen Benjamin Schnack Brandt , Nielsen Mads , Gerke Oke , Larsen Lisbet Brønsro , Graumann Ole
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To validate an AI system for standalone breast cancer detection on an entire screening population in comparison to first-reading breast radiologists.

Materials and methods

All mammography screenings performed between August 4, 2014, and August 15, 2018, in the Region of Southern Denmark with follow-up within 24 months were eligible. Screenings were assessed as normal or abnormal by breast radiologists through double reading with arbitration. For an AI decision of normal or abnormal, two AI-score cut-off points were applied by matching at mean sensitivity (AIsens) and specificity (AIspec) of first readers. Accuracy measures were sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and recall rate (RR).

Results

The sample included 249,402 screenings (149,495 women) and 2033 breast cancers (72.6% screen-detected cancers, 27.4% interval cancers). AIsens had lower specificity (97.5% vs 97.7%; p < 0.0001) and PPV (17.5% vs 18.7%; p = 0.01) and a higher RR (3.0% vs 2.8%; p < 0.0001) than first readers. AIspec was comparable to first readers in terms of all accuracy measures. Both AIsens and AIspec detected significantly fewer screen-detected cancers (1166 (AIsens), 1156 (AIspec) vs 1252; p < 0.0001) but found more interval cancers compared to first readers (126 (AIsens), 117 (AIspec) vs 39; p < 0.0001) with varying types of cancers detected across multiple subgroups.

Conclusion

Standalone AI can detect breast cancer at an accuracy level equivalent to the standard of first readers when the AI threshold point was matched at first reader specificity. However, AI and first readers detected a different composition of cancers.

Clinical relevance statement

Replacing first readers with AI with an appropriate cut-off score could be feasible. AI-detected cancers not detected by radiologists suggest a potential increase in the number of cancers detected if AI is implemented to support double reading within screening, although the clinicopathological characteristics of detected cancers would not change significantly.

Key Points

• Standalone AI cancer detection was compared to first readers in a double-read mammography screening population.

• Standalone AI matched at first reader specificity showed no statistically significant difference in overall accuracy but detected different cancers.

• With an appropriate threshold, AI-integrated screening can increase the number of detected cancers with similar clinicopathological characteristics.
3D C-arm navigated acromioclavicular joint stabilization
Authors: Böhringer Alexander , Gebhard Florian , Dehner Christoph , Eickhoff Alexander , Cintean Raffael , Pankratz Carlos , Schütze Konrad
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Surgical treatment options for acromioclavicular joint separations are varied. Frequently, suspension devices (SD) are inserted for stabilization under arthroscopic view. This study investigates the feasibility and accuracy of three-dimensional (3D) digital-volume-tomography (DVT) C-arm navigated implantation with regard to the general trend toward increasingly minimally invasive procedures.

Materials and methods

The implantation of a TightRope® suture button system (SD) via a navigated vertical drill channel through the clavicle and coracoid was investigated in 10 synthetic shoulder models with a mobile isocentric C-arm image intensifier setup in the usual parasagittal position. Thereby, in addition the placement of an additive horizontal suture cerclage via a navigated drill channel through the acromion was assessed.

Results

All vertical drill channels in the Coracoclavicular (CC) direction could be placed in a line centrally through the clavicle and the coracoid base. The horizontal drill channels in the Acromioclavicular (AC) direction ran strictly in the acromion, without affecting the AC joint or lateral clavicle. All SD could be well inserted and anchored. After tensioning and knotting of the system, the application of the horizontal AC cerclage was easily possible. The image quality was good and all relevant structures could be assessed well.

Conclusion

Intraoperative 3D DVT imaging of the shoulder joint using a mobile isocentric C-arm in the usual parasagittal position to the patient is possible. Likewise, DVT navigated SD implantation at the AC joint in CC and AC direction on a synthetic shoulder model. By combining both methods, the application in vivo could be possible. Further clinical studies on feasibility and comparison with established methods should be performed.
Device therapy for patients with atrial fibrillation and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Zhang Zixi , Xiao Yichao , Dai Yongguo , Lin Qiuzhen , Liu Qiming
Published: November 2023

Device therapy is a nonpharmacological approach that presents a crucial advancement for managing patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This review investigated the impact of device-based interventions and emphasized their potential for optimizing treatment for this complex patient demographic. Cardiac resynchronization therapy, augmented by atrioventricular node ablation with His-bundle pacing or left bundle-branch pacing, is effective for enhancing cardiac function and establishing atrioventricular synchrony. Cardiac contractility modulation and vagus nerve stimulation represent novel strategies for increasing myocardial contractility and adjusting the autonomic balance. Left ventricular expanders have demonstrated short-term benefits in HFpEF patients but require more investigation for long-term effectiveness and safety, especially in patients with AF. Research gaps regarding complications arising from left ventricular expander implantation need to be addressed. Device-based therapies for heart valve diseases, such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement and transcatheter edge-to-edge repair, show promise for patients with AF and HFpEF, particularly those with mitral or tricuspid regurgitation. Clinical evaluations show that these device therapies lessen AF occurrence, improve exercise tolerance, and boost left ventricular diastolic function. However, additional studies are required to perfect patient selection criteria and ascertain the long-term effectiveness and safety of these interventions. Our review underscores the significant potential of device therapy for improving the outcomes and quality of life for patients with AF and HFpEF.
Unpacking the p-factor. Associations Between Maladaptive Personality Traits and General Psychopathology in Female and Male Adolescents
Authors: Benzi Ilaria Maria Antonietta , Fontana Andrea , Di Pierro Rossella , Parolin Laura , Ensink Karin
Published: November 2023

Adolescence is a period of rapid physical, psychological, and neural maturation that makes youth vulnerable to emerging psychopathology, highlighting the need for improved identification of psychopathology risk indicators. Recently, a higher-order latent psychopathology factor (p-factor) was identified that explains latent liability for psychopathology beyond internalizing and externalizing difficulties. However, recent proposals suggest reconceptualizing the p-factor model in terms of impairments in personality encompassing difficulties in both self-regulation (borderline features) and self-esteem (narcissistic features), but this remains untested. To address this, this study examined the p-factor structure and the contribution of borderline and narcissistic features using two cross-sectional data collections. In Study 1, 974 cisgender adolescents (63% assigned females at birth; age range: 13–19; Mage = 16.68, SD = 1.40) reported on internalizing and externalizing problems (YSR) to test via structural equation models (SEM) different theoretical models for adolescent psychopathology. In Study 2, 725 cisgender adolescents (64.5% assigned females at birth; age range: 13–19; Mage = 16.22, SD = 1.32) reported internalizing and externalizing problems (YSR), borderline personality features (BPFSC-11), and narcissistic personality traits (PNI), to explore, via SEM, the contribution of borderline and narcissistic traits to the p-factor and accounting for gender differences. Results confirmed the utility of a bi-factor model in adolescence. Furthermore, findings highlighted the contribution of borderline features and narcissistic vulnerability to general psychopathology. The study provides the first evidence supporting a p-factor model reconceptualized in terms of personality impairments encompassing difficulties in self-regulation and self-esteem in adolescents.
Examining the Relationship Between Screening for Postpartum Depression and Associated Child Health Service Utilization and Costs: A Study Using the All Our Families Cohort and Administrative Data
Authors: Premji Shainur , McNeil Deborah Ann , Santana Maria Jose , Spackman Eldon
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Despite a recognized association between maternal postpartum depression (PPD) and adverse child health outcomes, evidence examining the relationship between PPD symptoms and associated child health service utilization and costs remains unclear. In addition, there is a paucity of evidence describing the relationship between early identification of maternal PPD and associated health service utilization and costs for children. This study aims to address this gap by describing the secondary associations of screening for maternal PPD and annual health service utilization and costs for children over their first five years of life.

Methods

Mothers and children enrolled in the prospective All Our Families cohort were linked to provincial administrative data in Alberta, Canada. Multivariable generalized linear models were used to estimate the average annual inpatient, outpatient, physician, and total health service utilization and costs from a public health system perspective for children of mothers screened high risk for PPD, low/moderate risk for PPD, or unscreened.

Results

Total mean costs were greatest for children during their first year of life than other years. Those whose mothers were not screened had significantly lower costs compared to those whose mothers were screened low/moderate risk, despite equivalent health service utilization.

Discussion

Findings from this study describe the secondary associations of screening for maternal PPD using a public health system perspective. More research is required to fully understand variations in health costs for children across maternal PPD screening categories.
A global user profile framework for effective recommender systems
Authors: Mekouar Loubna , Iraqi Youssef , Damaj Issam
Published: November 2023

Modern Recommender Systems (RSs) compete to maintain rich user profiles that can accurately reflect user behavior, interests, and service contexts. While benefiting from an online service supported by an RS, user preferences and interests may rapidly change over time. To keep up with the changes from the user perspective, an RS should maintain the making of effective personalization as supported by robust profile construction methods. Building an effective user profile database requires exhaustive data and behavior analysis over extended periods. In this paper, we delve into traditional RS architectures to identify limitations, gaps, and opportunities for improvements in existing user profile mechanisms. To that end, a Global User Profile Framework (GUPF) is proposed towards achieving increased effectiveness. Furthermore, the adoption of the developed framework is exemplified by presenting different potential scenarios. The presented work concludes with the identification of important venues and research directions that are enabled by the proposed GUPF.