bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serology supportive of recent coxsackievirus B infection is correlated with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C)
Authors: Kordi Ramesh , Chang Arthur J. , Hicar Mark D.
Published: February 2025

Rarely, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) will lead to myocarditis associated with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). It remains unclear why MIS-C only targets specific children. To explore an association between coxsackievirus infections with MIS-C, we investigated the sero-epidemiology of CV in admitted pediatric patients in relation to the pandemic. This retrospective case–control study was performed by chart review of children (age ≤21 years) admitted to a tertiary care hospital with CV serological testing from January 2017 to August 2023. Clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings were used to classify patients as MIS-C and CV-unlikely or CV-possible for non-MIS-C patients. Out of 182 admissions (179 patients, median age, 6), CVB complement fixation (CF) assay on serotypes B1–B6 and CVA immunofluorescence assay IgG on serotypes A7, A9, A16, and A24 were positive in at least one serotype in 59.2% and 80.7% of cases, respectively. We observed a significant drop in CVB CF seropositivity during the peak of social distancing in 2020. The likelihood of elevated CVB CF titers was significantly higher in MIS-C than the CV-unlikely group (OR: 1.92, 95% CI: 1.02–3.63,
P
: 0.04) and showed a trend toward higher values in African Americans than Whites (OR: 1.57, 95% CI: 0.98–2.50,
P
: 0.057). The frequency of MIS-C was considerably higher in African Americans than Whites (18.1% versus 9%,
P
: 0.1). A higher likelihood of elevated CVB CF titers in patients with MIS-C compared with those unlikely to have acute CV infection along with a relatively higher frequency of MIS-C in African Americans warrants further investigation into the role of CVB infection in MIS-C development.

IMPORTANCE

The emergence of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic raised major concerns in providers caring for children. This condition presents a hyper-inflammation state that can lead to severe complications, including myocarditis and cardiogenic shock. The pathogenesis of MIS-C has not been fully understood. Understanding the pathogenesis of this condition is not only important for developing effective treatments but also for applying preventive strategies. A two-hit hypothesis leading to MIS-C has been proposed. Coxsackievirus infections are prevalent during childhood and can also cause myocarditis, and coxsackievirus B specifically has been shown to cause persistent RNA presence in host cells, leading to continued inflammation. Herein, we show that elevated coxsackievirus B titers are associated with MIS-C cases, implying a role of successive infections with these viruses contributing to such a hyperinflammatory state. This study supports the need for larger investigations into this association.
Glacial events and continental weathering evolution of syn-, inter-, and post-glaciation during the middle–late Neoproterozoic period in the southwestern Tarim Craton, China
Authors: Hu Haiyan , Liu Qian , Zhao Guochun , Lu Lihui , Han Yigui , Shao Dong , Cao Xuyang , Yao Jinlong , Zhang Donghai , Jing Jiahao , Liu Jingyuan
Published: February 2025

A better understanding of Neoproterozoic glacial events and continental chemical weathering signals during syn-, inter-, and post-glaciation is crucial to the study of global glaciation. Middle−late Neoproterozoic glacial strata have been identified at the southwestern margin of the Tarim Craton in China, but their sedimentary environment, the evolutionary history of chemical weathering intensity, and how the strata relate to the Neoproterozoic glacial events remain unclear. This study presents new sedimentological, geochronological, and geochemical data to address these concerns. The sedimentology indicates an environmental transition from continental to marine that included two glaciations (i.e., associated with the Bolong and Yutang formations in the southwestern Tarim Craton, China). Based on the maximum depositional age of the interglacial sediments from the Kelixi Formation, which is between 666 Ma and 662 Ma, the Bolong and Yutang glaciations are considered to correspond to the Sturtian and Marinoan glaciations. The glacial features reveal that the Bolong and Yutang formations recorded four glacial cycles and a glacial retreat process, respectively. Thus, a dynamic glacial environment with open ocean conditions prevailed during Cryogenian time. The relatively high corrected chemical index of alteration (CIAcorr) values in otherwise low CIAcorr values documented in the Bolong Formation suggest the existence of warm and humid intervals in the Sturtian glaciation, whereas the low CIAcorr values recorded in the Yutang Formation imply a cold event during the Marinoan glaciation. Also, a three-stage progression of weathering from strong to moderate to fluctuating is suggested by the varying CIAcorr values throughout the Cryogenian interglaciation. Our data also show significantly rising CIAcorr values during the glacial−interglacial transitions, which suggests intensive chemical weathering following the Sturtian and Marinoan deglaciations.
Eligibility for faricimab in a real-world diabetic macular oedema population: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Westborg Inger , Al-Najjar Ayat , Norberg Helena
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To investigate the eligibility for faricimab in a real-world diabetic macular oedema (DMO) population to the YOSEMITE and RHINE trials, and to compare the eligible DMO populations to the trial populations.

Design, settings and participants

This retrospective cross-sectional analysis used data from the Swedish Macula Registry (SMR) between 1 January 2019 and 31 August 2023. Eligibility criteria mirrored the main criteria of the YOSEMITE and RHINE trials: (1) DMO diagnosis, (2) treatment-naïve, (3) 18 years or older, (4) central retinal thickness (CRT) 325 µm or higher and (5) best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) ranging from 25 to 73 letters. Individuals with registered proliferative diabetic retinopathy (DR) at the start of treatment were excluded. A secondary selection of eligible individuals was conducted using the same criteria, except for BCVA, which ranged from 25 to 77 letters according to national guidelines (treatment practice).

Main outcome measures

Characteristics at the initial visit of the two eligible SMR populations were compared with baseline data from the clinical trials, respectively.

Results

In total, 3777 individuals with DMO were selected from SMR. Of these, 2357 (62.4%) individuals were treatment-naïve, all were 18 years or older, 1928 (51.0%) exhibited CRT≥325 µm, 1175 (31.1%) had 25–73 letters based on phase III studies, while 1528 (40.5%) had 25–77 letters according to treatment practice. After excluding individuals with registered proliferative DR 1171 (31.0%) individuals in the SMR met all criteria based on phase III studies, while 1522 (40.3%) individuals fulfilled the criteria according to treatment practice. The SMR and treatment practice populations were older (YOSEMITE 67.5±11.6 vs 62.8±10.0 years, p<0.001 and RHINE 67.5±11.6 vs 61.6±10.1 years, p<0.001) than those in the phase III studies and had lower CRT (YOSEMITE 446±96 vs 486±131 µm, p<0.001 and RHINE 446±96 vs 471±127 µm, p=0.001).

Conclusion

Approximately 30% of DMO patients in the SMR met the main trial criteria from YOSEMITE and RHINE, while around 40% met the criteria based on treatment practice. The SMR and treatment practice cohorts were older and had less severe DMO than the trial cohorts. Further research into the safety profile of faricimab in clinical settings is necessary, along with the consideration of additional eligibility criteria when implementing faricimab in ophthalmology practice.
Deaths in children in England from SARS-CoV-2 infection during the first 2 years of the pandemic: a cohort study
Authors: Odd David , Stoianova Sylvia , Williams Tom , Thursby-Pelham Anna , Ladhani Shamez N , Oligbu Godwin , Fleming Peter , Luyt Karen
Published: February 2025

Objective

The aim of this analysis was to describe the epidemiology, demographics and characteristics of children and young people (CYP) who died of SARS-CoV-2 infection in England during the first 2 years of the pandemic.

Design

The cohort investigated in this study is all CYP, born alive at, or after, 22 weeks of gestation, who died before their 18th birthday between 1 February 2020 and 31 March 2022 in England. All cases were reviewed to identify if SARS-CoV-2 probably, or possibly, contributed to death. Mortality rates were calculated, assuming a Poisson distribution, for the whole population, and split by demographics and patient characteristics.

Setting

England.

Participants

6389 CYP deaths in England reported to the National Child Mortality Database (NCMD).

Main outcome

Risk of death.

Results

88 of the 6389 deaths of CYP were identified as deaths probably due to COVID-19. Thus, COVID-19 was responsible for 1.4% of all deaths of CYP in this 26-month period. Overall mortality rate due to COVID-19 in CYP was 3.59 (2.88–4.42) per 1 000 000 person years, being highest in the youngest (< 5 years; 4.68 (3.16–6.68)) and oldest (16/17 years; 4.83 (2.57–8.26)) CYP. Asian and Black CYP had higher mortality than those from white backgrounds (p<0.001), and mortality rate increased with increasing deprivation. The majority (61/77, 79.2) of CYP who died of COVID had a documented life limiting condition.

Conclusions

Mortality rates were highest in less than 5 years old. Despite social changes, and shielding of vulnerable CYP, children with life-limiting (but not necessarily life-threatening) conditions, appeared to have the highest mortality rates, similar to that seen in adults with comparable underlying conditions. The risk of death in more deprived neighbourhoods and in those from Asian and Black ethnic backgrounds was increased, and this was not explained by their other demographic characteristics.
Recognizing pain phenotypes: biopsychosocial sources of variability in the transition to chronic postsurgical pain
Authors: Schreiber Kristin L , Wilson Jenna M , Chen Yun-Yun Kathy
Published: February 2025

Chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) is a cause of new chronic pain, with a wide range of reported incidence. Previous longitudinal studies suggest that development of CPSP may depend more on the constellation of risk factors around a patient (pre-existing pain phenotype) rather than on the extent of surgical injury itself. The biopsychosocial model of pain outlines a broad array of factors that modulate the severity, longevity, and impact of pain. Biological variables associated with CPSP include age, sex, baseline pain sensitivity, and opioid tolerance. Psychological factors, including anxiety, depression, somatization, sleep disturbance, catastrophizing, and resilience, and social factors, like education and social support, may also importantly modulate CPSP. Prevention efforts have targeted acute pain reduction using multimodal analgesia (regional anesthesia and intraoperative analgesic adjuvant medications). However, studies that do not measure or take phenotypic risk factors into account (either using them for enrichment or statistically as effect modifiers) likely suffer from underpowering, and thus, fail to discern subgroups of patients that preventive measures may be most helpful to. Early preoperative identification of a patient’s pain phenotype allows estimation of their constellation of risk factors and may greatly enhance successful, personalized prevention of postoperative pain. Effective preoperative employment of behavioral interventions like cognitive–behavioral therapy, stress reduction, and physical and mental prehabilitation may particularly require knowledge of a patient’s pain phenotype. Preoperative assessment of patients’ pain phenotypes will not only inform high-quality personalized perioperative care clinically, but it will enable enriched testing of novel therapies in future scientific studies.
N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists for the prevention of chronic postsurgical pain: a narrative review
Authors: Mojica Jeffrey Jon , Eddy Grace , Schwenk Eric S
Published: February 2025

The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) has been linked to the development of chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP), defined as pain after surgery that does not resolve by 3 months. Once the combination of a painful stimulus and glutamate binding activates the NMDAR, calcium influx triggers signaling cascades that lead to processes like central sensitization and CPSP. Three of the most widely studied perioperative NMDAR antagonists include ketamine, magnesium, and methadone, with ketamine having garnered the greatest amount of attention. While multiple studies have found improved analgesia in the acute postoperative period, fewer studies have focused on long-term outcomes and those that have are often underpowered for CPSP or have not included those patients at highest risk. Existing meta-analyses of ketamine for CPSP are inconsistent in their findings, and studies of magnesium and methadone are even more limited. Overall, the evidence supporting NMDAR antagonists for CPSP is weak and we recommend that future studies focus on high-risk patients and potentially include combinations of NMDAR antagonists administered together for the longest duration feasible. The results of ongoing trials could have a major influence on the overall direction of the evidence supporting NMDAR antagonists in preventing CPSP.
Prevalence of and recommendation for measuring chronic postsurgical pain in children: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Rosenbloom Brittany N , Frederiksen Simona Denise , Wang Vienna , Birnie Kathryn A , Park Christine S , Gordon Grace , Rasic Nivez , Stinson Jennifer N , Rabbitts Jennifer A
Published: February 2025

Background

According to the prior 2017 review (Rabbittset al), approximately 20% of children and adolescents develop chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP; ie, pain persisting >3 months after surgery) after major surgeries, which is associated with adverse functional and psychological consequences. A major barrier was that definitions of CPSP applied were highly variable. Since that prior review was conducted (n=4 studies in meta-analysis), numerous relevant studies have been published warranting an update.

Objective

The aims of this current review were to: (1) provide an updated prevalence estimate for pediatric CPSP and (2) examine definitions of pediatric CPSP applied in current research.

Evidence review

Prospective, observational studies examining CPSP using a validated self-report pain intensity measure in children were included. 4884 unique publications were screened with 20 articles meeting inclusion criteria. Risk of bias using Quality in Prognostic Study tool ranged from low to high.

Findings

The pooled prevalence of CPSP among mostly major surgeries was 28.2% (95% CI 21.4% to 36.1%). Subgroup analysis of spinal fusion surgeries identified a prevalence of 31% (95% CI 21.4% to 43.5%). Using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation, the certainty in prevalence estimates was moderate. Studies used a range of valid pain intensity measures to classify CPSP (eg, Numeric Rating Scale), often without pain interference or quality of life measures.

Conclusions

The overall prevalence of pediatric CPSP is higher than estimated in the prior review, and quality of studies generally improved though with some heterogeneity. Standardizing the measurement of CPSP will facilitate future efforts to combine and compare data across studies.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022306340.
Recovery rates of white spruce and balsam fir on seismic lines in NW Alberta, Canada
Authors: Jones Caren , Kononovs Daniels , Trepanier Kaitlyn , Harvey Jill E. , Petty Aaron , Degenhardt Dani
Published: February 2025

Anthropogenic disturbances have significantly impacted Alberta's boreal forest, particularly through an extensive network of seismic lines created during oil and gas exploration. These linear disturbances (3-10 m wide) fragment woodland caribou habitat, leading to the loss and degradation of ecosystem services. Natural tree regeneration on seismic lines can help reduce predator presence in caribou habitats; thus, achieving a minimum density of 2000 stems per hectare (sph) with trees at least 3 m tall is considered essential for recovery. However, there are currently no regulatory mandates for seismic line restoration, resulting in limited understanding of forest recovery dynamics, particularly tree regrowth rates. This study aimed to address this gap by comparing the growth of two common conifer species—white spruce and balsam fir—on seismic lines versus adjacent mature forests in northwest Alberta's upland conifer mixedwood stands. Findings indicate that both species may take approximately 30 to 50 years to achieve the 3 m height and 2000 sph target necessary for potential predator-use reduction. While it remains uncertain how this regeneration rate will affect woodland caribou habitat restoration, further investigations through modeling exercises will explore its implications for land use planning.
Instability analysis of massive static phantom wormholes via the spectral method
Authors: Batic Davide , Dutykh Denys
Published: February 2025

Using the spectral method, we investigate the scalar and axial quasinormal modes (QNMs) of massive static phantom wormholes. Our results reveal the existence of purely imaginary QNMs that were not identified in previous studies, suggesting potential (in)stabilities as the ratio of the Schwarzschild radius to the wormhole throat varies within a specific range. For scalar perturbations, instabilities arise when this ratio exceeds 1.0, with the threshold value of 1.0 itself included. In the case of axial perturbations, the onset of instability occurs at smaller ratios, reflecting the impact of gravitational waves on the wormhole’s stability. The findings suggest that the wormhole remains stable when the throat size significantly exceeds the Schwarzschild radius. Our results align with existing literature but offer new insights into the stability conditions of phantom wormholes.
Constraints on the parameters of the neutrino extension of the Standard Model
Authors: Gorkavenko Volodymyr , Khasai Oleksandr , Ruchayskiy Oleg , Tsarenkova Mariia
Published: February 2025

Heavy neutral leptons (HNLs) are hypothetical particles proposed as a potential explanation for neutrino oscillations and the generation of the baryon asymmetry in the Universe. This paper focuses on HNLs with masses significantly above the electroweak scale. It is challenging to test for the presence of such particles directly. However, they leave behind effective interactions of Standard Model particles, leading in particular to charged lepton flavor violation (cLFV) processes. Non-observation of cLFV processes puts therefore constraints on the parameters of the HNLs. In this paper, we find the relations between the effective operators in the realistic case when neutrino masses are non-zero and the HNLs are non-degenerate. This allows us to strengthen the existing cLFV constraints on the tau-flavors from much stronger constraints on muon and electron flavors. We also link the baryon asymmetry of the Universe to the same higher-dimensional effective operators, providing complementary bounds on these parameters.
Superior monogamy and polygamy relations and estimates of concurrence
Authors: Cao Yue , Jing Naihuan , Misra Kailash , Wang Yiling
Published: February 2025

It is well known that any well-defined bipartite entanglement measure

$$\mathcal {E}$$

E

obeys

$$\gamma $$

γ

th-monogamy relations Eq. (1.1) and assisted measure

$$\mathcal {E}_{a}$$

E
a

obeys

$$\delta $$

δ

th-polygamy relations Eq. (1.2). Recently, we presented a class of tighter parameterized monogamy relation for the

$$\alpha $$

α

th

$$(\alpha \ge \gamma )$$

(
α
≥
γ
)

power based on Eq. 1.1. This study provides a family of tighter lower (resp. upper) bounds of the monogamy (resp. polygamy) relations in a unified manner. In the first part of the paper, the following three basic problems are focused:

tighter monogamy relation for the

$$\alpha $$

α

th (

$$0\le \alpha \le \gamma $$

0
≤
α
≤
γ

) power of any bipartite entanglement measure

$$\mathcal {E}$$

E

based on Eq. (1.1);

tighter polygamy relation for the

$$\beta $$

β

th (

$$ \beta \ge \delta $$

β
≥
δ

) power of any bipartite assisted entanglement measure

$$\mathcal {E}_{a}$$

E
a

based on Eq. (1.2);

tighter polygamy relation for the

$$\omega $$

ω

th (

$$0\le \omega \le \delta $$

0
≤
ω
≤
δ

) power of any bipartite assisted entanglement measure

$$\mathcal {E}_{a}$$

E
a

based on Eq. (1.2).

In the second part, using the tighter polygamy relation for the

$$\omega $$

ω

th (

$$0\le \omega \le 2$$

0
≤
ω
≤
2

) power of CoA, we obtain good estimates or bounds for the

$$\omega $$

ω

th (

$$0\le \omega \le 2$$

0
≤
ω
≤
2

) power of concurrence for any N-qubit pure states

$$|\psi \rangle _{AB_{1}\cdots B_{N-1}}$$

|
ψ
⟩

A

B
1

⋯

B

N
-
1

under the partition

$$AB_{1}$$

A

B
1

and

$$B_{2}\cdots B_{N-1}$$

B
2

⋯

B

N
-
1

. Detailed examples are given to illustrate that our findings exhibit greater strength across all the region.
Effect of electrode type on electric and thermoelectric properties of M@C60: M = P, As, and Se
Authors: Oda Anhar A. , Al-Jobory Alaa A.
Published: February 2025

Investigation electron transport via molecular nanoscale junctions is one of the fundamental steps in developing improved high-performance thermoelectric materials for cooling and converting waste heat into electricity. Density functional theory (DFT) and non-equivalent Green’s function are applied to investigate the electric and thermoelectric properties of Fullerene [Formula: see text] doped with three metalloid ions from the periodic table. The M@C[Formula: see text] (M = P, As and Se) systems have two types of electrodes (gold and graphene). The results show that the electric conductance of G with gold leads is higher than the conductance attached to the graphene leads. Also, [Formula: see text] doped by Se is the best compared with P and as for both gold and graphene electrodes. Moreover, the calculations of HOMO-LUMO resonance shifted toward the high energy (low wavelength) in order [Formula: see text] due to the electronegativity, which is ordering [Formula: see text], with the Fano-resonance fixed around E–E[Formula: see text]. Meanwhile, the value of Seebeck coefficient S for graphene leads is higher than S linked to the gold lead. Also, the merit figure for ZT and thermal electricity has been investigated.
Structural and optoelectronic properties of CuS nano particles prepared by Co-precipitation method
Authors: Gajbar Prakash S. , Humbe Shankar S. , Sonawane Makrand E. , Gattu Ketan P. , Tonpe Dipak A. , Kutwade Vishnu V. , Khan Faizan M. , Firdous Shaikh Sumaiyya , Sharma Ramphal
Published: February 2025

Metal chalcogenide copper sulfide nanoparticles exhibit a broad spectrum of applications, encompassing solar cells, photovoltaics, optical devices, ionic materials and more. In this investigation, CuS nanoparticles were synthesized through a facile co-precipitation method. The synthesis involved employing copper sulfate and thiourea as precursors for Cu and S, respectively. Quantitative analysis, confirming the presence of Cu–S and S–S bonds, was conducted through Raman spectroscopy. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was employed to ascertain the structural phases. The semiconducting behavior of the synthesized CuS nanoparticles was studied through UV–Vis spectroscopy, correlating optical absorption and energy bandgap. The comprehensive findings suggest that the prepared CuS nanoparticles hold promise for advancements in photovoltaic technology and optical devices.
Image Compression–Encryption Algorithm Based on 3D Discrete Chaotic System and Josephus Circle
Authors: Wang Yang , Zhang Wenjing , Wang Xiaotong , Zhao Bing
Published: February 2025

Numerous image encryption schemes are hindered by weak correlations with plaintex images, inadequate image reconstruction quality, and inefficient transmission and storage. To address these problems, this paper proposes an image compression–encryption algorithm that combines a three-dimensional discrete chaotic system, Josephus circle and compression perception. First, a new three-dimensional discrete hyperchaotic system is constructed, utilizing a hash function to generate the initial value of the chaotic system, through which the measurement matrix and the sequences required for the encryption process are constructed. An encryption algorithm based on chaotic sequence and Josephus circle is designed. Finally, the proposed compressed encryption algorithm is simulated and tested, and the results of experimental tests indicate that the proposed algorithm provides robust security and high-quality reconstruction performance.
Construction of Metro Rail Weld Irregularity Spectrum and Its Application to the Analysis of Dynamic Wheel–Rail Interaction
Authors: Xie Chenxi , Tao Gongquan , Yang Xiaoxuan , Guan Qinghua , Li Wei , Wen Zefeng
Published: February 2025

Rail weld irregularities (RWIs) significantly influence the dynamic wheel–rail interaction. Evaluating and controlling these irregularities is essential for ensuring operational safety. In this study, the characteristics of RWIs measured on more than ten metro lines were analyzed, and the power spectral density of the RWIs based on the measurement results was established. Based on the spectrum, a simulation method for RWIs was presented to obtain a realistic RWI with information on wavelengths and amplitudes. A dynamic model based on the vehicle–track coupled dynamics theory was established and verified using the measured axle box acceleration. The influence of the RWIs on the dynamic wheel–rail interaction was investigated using the RWIs as inputs for the dynamic model. The effectiveness of the RWI simulation method was verified by comparing the responses induced by the measured, formulaic, and simulated RWIs. Finally, a method for determining the safety limit of RWI based on the response distribution and reliability theory was proposed. The safety reliability of the four types of RWI with complex wave was analyzed using the proposed method. These results are expected to provide guidelines for maintaining RWI in metro lines.
Chiral Buckling of Odd Elastic Circular Plates
Authors: Lai Andi , Li Yuhang , Wu Kai , Zhou Jiawei , Fu Guo , Dai Lizhao
Published: February 2025

The stress–strain relationship of the active system can be characterized by odd elasticity proposed in continuum mechanics, which leads to complex mechanical behavior by converting energy into nonconservative forces. However, current research on odd elasticity has predominantly concentrated on non-Hermitian dynamics. In this paper, the buckling model of odd elastic circular plates is established in the polar coordinate system, and the critical load and buckling modes are obtained by the separation variable method and the Galerkin method. The results show that the non-Hermitian eigenvalue matrix leads to the existence of the imaginary component of the critical load, and the buckling deformation is localized in the center or the periphery of the circular plate. The results also show that the existence of active forces makes odd elastic circular plates exhibit anomalous tensile buckling and active buckling, which both display chiral deformation patterns. The research in this paper can provide a theoretical reference for the design of directional flexion control and intelligent energy-absorbing devices.
Azumaya loci of the quantum Euclidean 2n-space
Authors: Mukherjee Snehashis
Published: February 2025

In this paper, the Azumaya loci of the coordinate ring [Formula: see text] of the quantum Euclidean [Formula: see text]-space are computed assuming the parameter [Formula: see text] is an odd [Formula: see text]th root of unity.
THE EVALUATION OF LEADERSHIP STYLES ON EMPLOYEE INNOVATIVE WORK BEHAVIOUR OF PROJECT MANAGERS IN THE HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF EMOTION INTELLIGENCE
Authors: HAIDER SYED ARSLAN , TEHSEEN SHEHNAZ , DANTAS RUI MIGUEL , CORREIA ANABELA , MATA MÁRIO NUNO , ANTHONY MARY , HOSSAIN SYED MONIRUL
Published: February 2025

Effective leadership plays a pivotal role within an organisation, as inadequate leadership can have adverse effects on both its financial performance and brand reputation. In response to a growing demand for enhanced leadership, this research delves into the impact of different leadership styles, including transformational, laissez-faire, and transactional, on the innovative work behaviour of employees within the healthcare sector of Pakistan. The study also explores how Emotional Intelligence (EI) acts as a mediating factor in this relationship. The research design adopted a cross-sectional approach, collecting data at a single point in time from 417 project managers and healthcare sector employees in Pakistan. The analysis employed Smart PLS 4 software which revealed a positive correlation between transformational leadership and Employee Innovative Work Behaviour (EIWB), while no significant relationships were observed with laissez-faire and transactional leadership styles. However, it is important to note that EI played an indirect but positive role in influencing EIWB.
Relationship between hydrocarbon genration-expulsion and deformation in exhumated Lower Cretaceous kitchen of the Austral-Magallanes basin, Southern Patagonia
Authors: Giunta A. , Spacapan J.B. , Comerio M.A. , Fernández Kavanagh L. , Pineda J.A. , Fantín J. , Dominguez F.R. , Periale S.L. , Ruiz R. , Ghiglione M.
Published: February 2025

The thermal evolution of the hydrocarbon exhumated kitchen of the Rio Mayer Formation (Lower Cretaceous) in the Austral-Magallanes basin, was characterized in two profiles outcropping in the Southern Patagonian Andes. This study presents an integration of fluid inclusions, organic petrology, geochemistry, and apatite fission-track data incorporated into a one-dimensional (1D) basin and petroleum system modeling, to evaluate the timing of hydrocarbon generation and expulsion processes. In Ea. La Federica (internal fold-thrust belt domain), the lower organic-rich interval of Rio Mayer Formation is at present-day conditions in oil window, with development of natural fractures filled with fibrous calcite crystals. In Ea. Cristina, the unit is in dry gas window (basement domain), with natural fractures filled with granular calcite and quartz. The kitchens began the generation and expulsion processes from the west (Lower Cretaceous) to east (Upper Cretaceous - Eocene), i.e., from basement to internal and external fold-thrust belt domains. The advance of the orogenic wedge deactivated and exhumated those kitchens from west to east as well. The western kitchen was deactivated during the Late Cretaceous, while eastern kitchen, during the Eocene.

These successive compressional pulses conditioned the eastward migration of the hydrocarbon generation front and would have favored the charge of reservoirs located in the westward (foreland region). The results of this study emphasize the importance to consider the temporal source kitchens activation related to Andean deformation, in order to a better comprehension of basin-scale controls related to source rock evolution and petroleum system development.
Carbonate build-up growth model combining seismic attributes and stratigraphic-sedimentological forward modeling: Presalt of the Campos Basin
Authors: Gomes de Carvalho Paula , de Paula Faria Desiree Liechoscki , Maul Alexandre Rodrigo , Abrantes Júnior Francisco Romério
Published: February 2025

The oil & gas industry faces challenges in estimating reservoir properties in regions without well data. To overcome this, a combination of seismic attributes and drilled well information is used to predict the unknown drilled portion of the reservoir. Integrating these data sets enhances geological and flow models, leading to better reservoir predictability and improved strategies for reservoir development and production. This study focuses on a lacustrine carbonate environment and employs a stratigraphic-sedimentological modeling approach. The aim is to understand sedimentation times and propose a growth model for carbonate build-ups based on prior integrated studies using seismic attributes. The modeling methodology was applied to the BM-C-33 Exploratory Hydrocarbon Block in the Campos Basin, Brazilian offshore. The Macabu Formation was chosen as the target unit. Seismic attribute-driven carbonate mound features were identified and categorized into different sedimentation periods. Geological processes were then modeled, incorporating parameters such as topographic and bathymetric surfaces, lake level variations, subsidence mapping, and rates of carbonate deposition. Four depositional domains for lacustrine carbonates were considered: high-energy sediment domain, build-ups domain, low-energy sediment domain, and clayey sediment domain. By integrating seismic attributes and well data, more reliable growth models of the carbonate mounds were developed. The results demonstrate the efficiency of the methodology in improving the understanding and representation of carbonate reservoirs, facilitating the characterization of the studied region, sand mitigating associated project risks, such as identifying new drilling locations.
Social Media Apps: A Paradigm for Examining Usability of Mobile Apps for Working Age Adults with Mild-Moderate Cognitive Disabilities
Authors: Huang Morris , McGrew Greg , Bodine Cathy
Published: February 2025

An estimated 79% of the US population used some form of social media regularly in 2019, highlighting a powerful platform for fostering connections with others. This aspect is particularly beneficial for people with cognitive disabilities (PwCDs) who may experience extreme social isolation. Studies have linked social media use amongst PwCDs to increased mental well-being and social capital, and PwCDs have reported corresponding increases in self-esteem and social connection. However, research also indicates that usability issues with social media user interfaces (UIs) often create barriers that deter participation of PwCDs. In this study, we investigate the usability of five social media apps for PwCDs, with the goal of identifying key UI features that facilitate/impede user performance and experience. The five apps selected for testing were: Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Snapchat, and Tumblr. Six to eight basic tasks were defined for each app, establishing a usability testing framework designed to compare similar tasks across apps. 19 working-age participants diagnosed with mild/moderate cognitive disabilities by their care provider were recruited and tested with each app across five different sessions. Mixed-methods data analysis and source of error analysis were performed for the resultant data. Snapchat and Pinterest were found to have the highest and lowest rates of task failure, respectively, consistent with the participant preference data on satisfaction and perceived usability. The fundamental task types with the highest rate of participant failure across all apps entailed either selecting or creating media, consistent with the identified qualitative theme that PwCDs tend to avoid using more active features in mobile apps due to their higher task complexity. Ten key types of usability issues were identified across all five apps, with the top issues identified as poor icon design and misleading icons, unclear user interface hierarchy, lack of user interface element separation and contrast, and similar task approaches with very different outcomes.
Unified Text-Image Space Alignment with Cross-Modal Prompting in CLIP for UDA
Authors: Jiao Yifan , Cai Chenglong , Bao Bing-Kun
Published: February 2025

Unsupervised Domain Adaptation (UDA) aims to transfer models trained on a labeled source domain to an unlabeled target domain. Due to the excellent generalization ability of Vision Language Models (VLMs) such as CLIP in downstream tasks, most recent methods apply CLIP to UDA tasks through learning domain-specific text prompts for source and target domains separately. However, these methods fail to dynamically adjust image features based on the characteristics of their respective domains, thereby limiting their alignment with domain-specific text prompts in CLIP’s joint space, which is a key factor in improving classification performance in the target domain. To bridge this gap, we propose a Unified Text-Image Space Alignment with Cross-Modal Prompting (UTISA) framework for UDA. Firstly, we introduce a cross-modal prompt learning (CMP) module to generate domain-specific image prompts and layer-specific image prompts for the visual branch to encode domain-specific knowledge globally and locally. Secondly, under the guidance of image prompts, we introduce a domain-aware multi-layer feature fusion (DMF) module to construct multi-layer domain features for each domain and enhance the image features with these multi-layer domain features, which enables the image features to better reflect the characteristics of their respective domains, thereby promoting their alignment with domain-specific text prompts. Moreover, we introduce a perturbation-driven regularization (PDR) mechanism for the target domain to enhance the robustness and generalization of the model. The experiments demonstrate that UTISA achieves the best performance on three mainstream UDA benchmarks, including 87.9% on OfficeHome, 90.9% on VisDA-2017, 62.4% on DomainNet.
Prompt2Task: Automating UI Tasks on Smartphones from Textual Prompts
Authors: Huang Tian , Yu Chun , Shi Weinan , Peng Zijian , Yang David , Sun Weiqi , Shi Yuanchun
Published: February 2025

UI task automation enables efficient task execution by simulating human interactions with graphical user interfaces (GUIs), without modifying the existing application code. However, its broader adoption is constrained by the need for expertise in both scripting languages and workflow design. To address this challenge, we present Prompt2Task, a system designed to comprehend various task-related textual prompts (e.g., goals, procedures), thereby generating and performing the corresponding automation tasks. Prompt2Task incorporates a suite of intelligent agents that mimic human cognitive functions, specializing in interpreting user intent, managing external information for task generation, and executing operations on smartphones. The agents can learn from user feedback and continuously improve their performance based on the accumulated knowledge. Experimental results indicated a performance jump from a 22.28% success rate in the baseline to 95.24% with Prompt2Task, requiring an average of 0.69 user interventions for each new task. Prompt2Task presents promising applications in fields such as tutorial creation, smart assistance, and customer service.
ENDEMIC: End-to-End Network Disruptions – Examining Middleboxes, Issues, and Countermeasures – A Survey
Authors: Benhabbour Ilies , Dacier Marc
Published: February 2025

Network middleboxes are important components in modern networking systems, impacting approximately 40% of network paths according to recent studies. This survey article delves into their endemic presence, enriches the original 2002 RFC with over two decades of findings, and emphasizes the significance of their impact in terms of security and performance. Furthermore, it categorizes network middleboxes based on their functions, objectives, and alterations. In today’s world, network middleboxes emerge as a dual-edged sword. While important for network operations, they also pose security risks. We present the various challenges they introduce, including their contribution to Internet ossification, their potential for censorship, monitoring, and traffic differentiation. Substantial effort remains to make their presence more visible to end users. This article explores potential solutions, ranging from prevention and detection to curative measures. Ultimately, we aim to establish this survey as a foundational resource for addressing challenges revolving around the notion of network middleboxes, thereby fostering further research and innovation in this area.
FPGA-Based Large-Scale Sorting with Optimized Bandwidth Utilization
Authors: Sun Mingqian , Xie Guangwei , Zhang Fan , Guo Wei , Fan Xitian , Chen Li , Du Jiayu
Published: February 2025

Fast sorting of large-scale data is an essential task for data centers. In previous works, the existing computational model of sorting kernel still results in lower bandwidth utilization on the external memory bus. And the execution of merge operations in merge sort circuit on FPGAs depends on control commands from the host CPU. In this case, the merge sort circuit is not fully offloaded to hardware layer for acceleration, resulting in a performance loss. We design an on-chip merge sort controller to efficiently command the merge sort process. The proposed controller has the ability to schedule multiple on-chip computing kernels simultaneously in a more efficient mode, thus ensuring that the circuit has a better bandwidth utilization. Meanwhile, fundamental factors affecting the performance of merge sort are studied and analyzed, and we propose a high-performance merge sort architecture. Results show that using the proposed controller-centered architecture, an overall improvement of 20-30% in sorting throughput can be achieved. Compared with the state-of-the-art previous merge sorting implementation on FPGA, our circuit can achieve 1.22/1.46

\(\times\)

speedup.
Performance of Lung Cancer Prediction Models for Screening-detected, Incidental, and Biopsied Pulmonary Nodules
Authors: Li Thomas Z. , Xu Kaiwen , Krishnan Aravind , Gao Riqiang , Kammer Michael N. , Antic Sanja , Xiao David , Knight Michael , Martinez Yency , Paez Rafael , Lentz Robert J. , Deppen Stephen , Grogan Eric L. , Lasko Thomas A. , Sandler Kim L. , Maldonado Fabien , Landman Bennett A.
Published: February 2025

“Just Accepted” papers have undergone full peer review and have been accepted for publication in Radiology: Artificial Intelligence. This article will undergo copyediting, layout, and proof review before it is published in its final version. Please note that during production of the final copyedited article, errors may be discovered which could affect the content. Purpose To evaluate the performance of eight lung cancer prediction models on patient cohorts with screening-detected, incidentally-detected, and bronchoscopically-biopsied pulmonary nodules. Materials and Methods This study retrospectively evaluated promising predictive models for lung cancer prediction in three clinical settings: lung cancer screening with low-dose CT, incidentally, detected pulmonary nodules, and nodules deemed suspicious enough to warrant a biopsy. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of eight validated models including logistic regressions on clinical variables and radiologist nodule characterizations, artificial intelligence (AI) on chest CTs, longitudinal imaging AI, and multimodal approaches for prediction of lung cancer risk was assessed in 9 cohorts ( n = 898, 896, 882, 219, 364, 117, 131, 115, 373) from multiple institutions. Each model was implemented from their published literature, and each cohort was curated from primary data sources collected over periods within 2002 to 2021. Results No single predictive model emerged as the highest-performing model across all cohorts, but certain models performed better in specific clinical contexts. Single timepoint chest CT AI performed well for screening-detected nodules but did not generalize well to other clinical settings. Longitudinal imaging and multimodal models demonstrated comparatively good performance on incidentally-detected nodules. When applied to biopsied nodules, all models showed low performance. Conclusion Eight lung cancer prediction models failed to generalize well across clinical settings and sites outside of their training distributions. ©RSNA, 2025
Inflammation-induced PFKFB3-mediated glycolysis promoting myometrium contraction through the PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway in preterm birth mice
Authors: He Jing , Li Xuan , Yu Huihui , Xu Chenyi , Tian Ruixian , Zhou Ping , Yin Zongzhi
Published: February 2025

Expression of PFKFB3, a key enzyme in glycolysis, was significantly upregulated both in the mUSMCs and myometrium of mice during late pregnancy after lipopolysaccharide stimulation. Activation of the PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway enhanced PFKFB3 expression, which is involved in the initiation of glycolysis. Inflammation-activated PFKFB3 via the PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway, which enhances the cellular glycolytic process and thus promotes myometrium contraction in pregnancy.
Placenta hIGF1 nanoparticle treatment in guinea pigs mitigates FGR-associated fetal sex-dependent effects on liver metabolism-related signaling pathways
Authors: Davenport Baylea N. , Williams Alyssa , Regnault Timothy R.H. , Jones Helen N. , Wilson Rebecca L.
Published: February 2025

A placenta-specific nonviral polymer-based nanoparticle gene therapy that improves placenta nutrient transport and near-term fetal weight ameliorates growth restriction-associated changes to fetal liver activity, and cholesterol and glucose/nutrient homeostasis genes/proteins that might confer protection against increased susceptibility to aberrant liver physiology in later life. This knowledge may have implications toward removing predispositions that increase the risk of metabolic diseases, including diabetes, dyslipidemia, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in later life.
DNA Methylation in Long-term Memory
Authors: Chen Xinyue , Peng Yueqing , Liu X. Shawn
Published: February 2025

Understanding neural mechanisms of memory has been one of the key questions in biology. Long-term memory specifically, allows one to travel mentally without constraints of time and space (1). A long-term memory must have gone through a series of temporal processes: encoding, consolidation, storage, and retrieval. Decades of studies have revealed cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying each process. In this paper, we will first review the emerging concept of memory engrams and technologies of engram labeling, as these methods provide a new avenue to study the molecular mechanisms for memory. Then, we will focus on DNA methylation and its role in long-term memory. Lastly, we will discuss some key remaining questions in this field and their implications in memory-related disease.
Regulation of stem cell function by NAD+
Authors: Feng Yufan , Qiu Huixian , Chen Danica
Published: February 2025

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a coenzyme in cellular metabolism, has never ceased to capture the fascination of scientists since its discovery in 1906. The expansion of NAD+’s function from cellular metabolism to DNA repair, gene regulation, cell signaling, and aging reflects the central role of cellular metabolism in orchestrating the diverse cellular pathways. In the past decade, NAD+ has emerged to be a key regulator of stem cells, opening the door to potential approaches for regenerative medicine. Here we reflect on how the field of NAD+ regulation of stem cells has evolved since a decade ago, when sirtuins, NAD+-dependent enzymes, were shown to be critical regulators of stem cells. We review the recent development on how NAD+ is regulated in stem cells to influence fate decision. We discuss the difference in NAD+ regulation of normal and cancer stem cells. Finally, we consider the consequences of NAD+ regulation of stem cells for health and diseases.