bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated analysis of heart sound signals in screening for structural heart disease in children
Authors: Papunen I. , Ylänen K. , Lundqvist O. , Porkholm M. , Rahkonen O. , Mecklin M. , Eerola A. , Kallio M. , Arola A. , Niemelä J. , Jaakkola I. , Poutanen T.
Published: September 2024

Our aim was to investigate the ability of an artificial intelligence (AI)-based algorithm to differentiate innocent murmurs from pathologic ones. An AI-based algorithm was developed using heart sound recordings collected from 1413 patients at the five university hospitals in Finland. The corresponding heart condition was verified using echocardiography. In the second phase of the study, patients referred to Helsinki New Children’s Hospital due to a heart murmur were prospectively assessed with the algorithm, and then the results were compared with echocardiography findings. Ninety-eight children were included in this prospective study. The algorithm classified 72 (73%) of the heart sounds as normal and 26 (27%) as abnormal. Echocardiography was normal in 63 (64%) children and abnormal in 35 (36%). The algorithm recognized abnormal heart sounds in 24 of 35 children with abnormal echocardiography and normal heart sounds with normal echocardiography in 61 of 63 children. When the murmur was audible, the sensitivity and specificity of the algorithm were 83% (24/29) (confidence interval (CI) 64–94%) and 97% (59/61) (CI 89–100%), respectively.

Conclusion: The algorithm was able to distinguish murmurs associated with structural cardiac anomalies from innocent murmurs with good sensitivity and specificity. The algorithm was unable to identify heart defects that did not cause a murmur. Further research is needed on the use of the algorithm in screening for heart murmurs in primary health care.

What is Known:• Innocent murmurs are common in children, while the incidence of moderate or severe congenital heart defects is low. Auscultation plays a significant role in assessing the need for further examinations of the murmur. The ability to differentiate innocent murmurs from those related to congenital heart defects requires clinical experience on the part of general practitioners. No AI-based auscultation algorithms have been systematically implemented in primary health care.

What is New:• We developed an AI-based algorithm using a large dataset of sound samples validated by echocardiography. The algorithm performed well in recognizing pathological and innocent murmurs in children from different age groups.
The fed-batch production of mannosylerythritol lipids by Ustilago maydis DSM 4500 from hydrophilic carbon sources
Authors: Valkenburg André D. , Teke George M. , Pott Robert W. M. , van Rensburg Eugéne
Published: September 2024

Glycolipids are a class of widely studied biosurfactants with excellent applicability in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. This class of biosurfactants includes mannosylerythritol lipids (MELs), which have gained particular interest due to their moisturizing and healing activity for dry and damaged human skin, arising from conditions such as eczema. Traditionally, MELs have been produced by growing certain basidiomycetous yeasts on vegetable oils. However, oils are a comparatively expensive substrate, which negatively affects the economic performance of MEL production. In addition to this, vegetable oils significantly complicate the downstream processing required to produce a product with the required purity for most applications. To address these challenges, this study investigated MEL-A production exclusively from hydrophilic carbon sources by Ustilago maydis DSM 4500. By implementing a fed-batch production strategy, maximum MEL-A concentration of 0.87 g/L was achieved from glucose exclusively. Also, adding micronutrients (such as MnSO4) to MEL-A production showed a 24.1% increase in the product titer, implying other metabolites are formed, favoring MEL production.
Reachability of Fair Allocations via Sequential Exchanges
Authors: Igarashi Ayumi , Kamiyama Naoyuki , Suksompong Warut , Yuen Sheung Man
Published: September 2024

In the allocation of indivisible goods, a prominent fairness notion is envy-freeness up to one good (EF1). We initiate the study of reachability problems in fair division by investigating the problem of whether one EF1 allocation can be reached from another EF1 allocation via a sequence of exchanges such that every intermediate allocation is also EF1. We show that two EF1 allocations may not be reachable from each other even in the case of two agents, and deciding their reachability is PSPACE-complete in general. On the other hand, we prove that reachability is guaranteed for two agents with identical or binary utilities as well as for any number of agents with identical binary utilities. We also examine the complexity of deciding whether there is an EF1 exchange sequence that is optimal in the number of exchanges required.
Improving patient’s medical history classification using a feature construction approach based on situation awareness and granular computing
Authors: Lepore Mario , Plenzich Elvira , Tufano Roberto , Cerulli Raffaele , Maccioni Raffaele
Published: September 2024

Healthcare decision support systems aid physicians in disease classification by analyzing patients’ medical histories to suggest preliminary diagnoses. As physicians largely base their analysis on anamnesis, integrating this process into an automated recommendation system can expedite decision-making and transition to relevant clinical investigations, thus enhancing efficiency in diagnosing potential pathologies. In this research, an innovative method for feature construction is introduced, drawing on the concepts of Situation Awareness and Granular Computing. The aim of this method is to enhance the performance of out-of-the-box classification algorithms used in machine learning. The approach is specifically tailored to mimic physicians’ cognitive processes when analyzing a patient’s medical history, resulting in the generation of new, information-dense features that can be used for classification tasks. By employing this strategy, a deeper comprehension of the data can be achieved, as well as a more precise categorization of anamneses in relation to possible medical conditions. To authenticate the efficacy of the proposed technique, three major disease categories, namely cardiac, gastrointestinal, and thyroid, were considered. The dataset comprised 1213 medical histories. The experimental results indicate that the study’s six classifiers attained a balanced accuracy exceeding 90%. Among these, the SVM classifier demonstrated the highest balanced accuracy at 93%. Overall, the proposed approach resulted in an average increase of 16 percentage points in balanced accuracy, representing an improvement over the traditional methods commonly employed in machine learning. This approach could be integrated into a clinical decision support system, aiding physicians in accurately identifying necessary investigations and expediting diagnosis.
Zircon U–Pb CA–ID–TIMS constraints on the chronology of the Late Carboniferous–early Permian continental Döhlen Basin and its correlation with the Thuringian Forest Basin (Central and Eastern Germany)
Authors: Käßner Alexandra , Tichomirowa Marion , Rößler Ronny , Görz Ines
Published: September 2024

We present new zircon U–Pb chemical abrasion–isotope dilution–thermal ionization mass spectrometry (CA–ID–TIMS) ages of two Late Carboniferous–early Permian continental basins in Germany. Three volcanic rocks from the Döhlen Basin (Saxony), and two tuff samples of the Thuringian Forest Basin (Thuringia) were dated. Our data indicate that all four formations of the Döhlen Basin were deposited in the interval of approx. 300 Ma to 298 Ma. The tuff samples of the Thuringian Forest Basin provided ages that overlap with the Döhlen Basin data. The Niederhäslich Formation of the Döhlen Basin and the Manebach and Goldlauter formations of the Thuringian Forest Basin contain fossil-rich lacustrine horizons, which have been correlated to a variety of formations in other European basins through the use of insect, amphibian, or conchostracan assemblage zones. Our new data thus provide new absolute age constraints for different fossil assemblage zones. Furthermore, the data can be considered a strong indication for simultaneous large-scale volcanic activity between 300 and 298 Ma. A relation between volcanic and post-Variscan transtensional tectonic activity is proposed because both the Döhlen Basin and the Thuringian Forest Basin are bound to NW trending strike-slip faults.

Graphical abstract
Fusion versus decompression alone for lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis and spinal stenosis: a target trial emulation with index trial benchmarking
Authors: Unterfrauner Ines , Muñoz Laguna Javier , Serra-Burriel Miquel , Burgstaller Jakob M. , Uçkay Ilker , Farshad Mazda , Hincapié Cesar A.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The value of adding fusion to decompression surgery for lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis and spinal canal stenosis remains debated. Therefore, the comparative effectiveness and selected healthcare resource utilization of patients undergoing decompression with or without fusion surgery at 3 years follow-up was assessed.

Methods

Using observational data from the Lumbar Stenosis Outcome Study and a target trial emulation with index trial benchmarking approach, our study assessed the comparative effectiveness of the two main surgical interventions for lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis—fusion and decompression alone in patients with lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis and spinal canal stenosis. The primary outcome-measure was change in health-related quality of life (EuroQol Health Related Quality of Life 5-Dimension 3-Level questionnaire [EQ-5D-3L]); secondary outcome measures were change in back/leg pain intensity (Numeric Rating Scale), change in satisfaction (Spinal Stenosis Measure satisfaction subscale), physical therapy and oral analgesic use (healthcare utilization).

Results

153 patients underwent decompression alone and 62 had decompression plus fusion. After inverse probability weighting, 137 patients were included in the decompression alone group (mean age, 73.9 [7.5] years; 77 female [56%]) and 36 in the decompression plus fusion group (mean age, 70.1 [6.7] years; 18 female [50%]). Our findings were compatible with no standardized mean differences in EQ-5D-3L summary index change score at 3 years (EQ-5D-3L German: 0.07 [95% confidence interval (CI), − 0.25 to 0.39]; EQ-5D-3L French: 0.18 [95% CI, − 0.14 to 0.50]). No between-group differences in change in back/leg pain intensity or satisfaction were found. Decompression plus fusion was associated with greater physical therapy utilization at 3 years follow-up.

Conclusion

Decompression alone should be considered the primary option for patients with lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis and spinal stenosis.
Antibiotic susceptibility of orofacial infections in Bratislava: a 10-year retrospective study
Authors: Vavro Michal , Dvoranová Bronislava , Czakó Ladislav , Šimko Kristián , Gális Branislav
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Aim of this study was to analyse causal microbiological agents and their bacterial resistance in orofacial infections requiring hospital admission.

Materials and methods

Presented is a 10-year retrospective study of patients hospitalised at a single department in 2014–2023. 744 patients were involved. In the statistical analysis, following data was evaluated: causal microbes and their resistance to Penicillin, Amoxicillin-Clavulanate, Clindamycin and Metronidazole.

Results

Most frequent aetiology was odontogenic with causal tooth in socket (n = 468; 62,9%), followed by odontogenic – post extraction (n = 152; 20.4%), jaw fracture (n = 41; 5.5%), sialadenitis n = 31 (4.2%), osteonecrosis n = 22 (3.0%), oncological diagnosis in head and neck (n = 17; 2.3%), unknown (n = 10; 1.3%) and multiple factors (n = 3; 0.4%). 408 patients (54.8%) underwent extraoral abscess revision, 336 patients (45.2%) patients were treated locally without extraoral revision. In odontogenic group with tooth still present, superior CRP (m = 145.8 mg/l; SD = 117.7) and leukocyte values (m = 13.6*109l; SD = 6.6) were observed in comparison to other groups. There were 698 cultivated bacteria in 362 patients. Most frequent bacteria were Streptococci (n = 162; 23.2%), Prevotella (n = 83; 11.2%) and Parvimonas (n = 65; 9.3%). Clindamycin resistance was highest (n = 180 resistant bacteria; 25.8%), followed by Metronidazole (n = 178; 25.5%), Penicillin (n = 107; 15.3%) and Amoxicillin-Clavulanate (n = 34; 4.9%).

Conclusions

Orofacial infections in head and neck region are mostly of odontogenic origin with causal tooth still in socket. Causal bacteria show a high antibiotic resistance rate, especially to Clindamycin and Metronidazole.

Clinical Relevance

Acquired data will be used to determine guidelines for empirical antibiotic prescription in cases of orofacial infections.
Hyperhardness and hypersoftness of atoms and their ions
Authors: Zaklika Jarosław , Ordon Piotr , Komorowski Ludwik
Published: September 2024

Context

The theory of reactivity based on cDFT has been supplemented with the new method of calculating the atomic and local indices. With the use of previously derived relationship of the electron density gradient to the softness kernel and to the linear response function, we deliver theoretical analysis to obtain significant reactivity indices—the electron density derivatives: local softness and local hypersoftness together with the global hyperhardness index and the derivative of the global softness with respect to the number of electrons. The local derivatives have been applied in the calculation of responses of atoms to perturbation by an external potential by the alchemical approach. The vital role of the local softness has been confirmed; the potential role of the hypersoftness has been indicated.

Method

Our original theoretical scheme has been numerically illustrated with the results obtained with electron density calculations with B3LYP method implemented in Gaussian 16 package. The aug-cc-pvqz basis set has been routinely applied, except for the Ca atom (cc-pvqz). Using the pVTZ basis set recommended by Sadlej was necessary for the potassium atom.

Graphical Abstract
Surgical practices in emergency umbilical hernia repair and implications for trial design
Authors: Walshaw Josephine , Smart Neil J. , Blencowe Natalie S. , Lee Matthew J.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

There is variation in the investigation, management, and surgical technique of acutely symptomatic umbilical hernias and optimal strategies remain to be established. This survey aimed to identify key variables influencing decision-making and preferred surgical techniques in emergency umbilical hernia care to help inform trial design and understand potential challenges to trial delivery.

Methods

A survey was distributed to surgeons through social media, personal contacts, and ASGBI lists. It comprised five sections: (i) performer of repair, (ii) repair preferences, (iii) important outcomes, (iv) perioperative antibiotic use, and (v) potential future trial design.

Results

There were 105 respondents, of which 49 (46.6%) were consultants. The median largest defect surgeons would attempt to repair with sutures alone was 2 cm (IQR 2–4 cm). In the acute setting, the most common mesh preferences are preperitoneal plane placement (n = 61, 58.1%), with synthetic non-absorbable mesh (n = 72, 68.6%), in clean (n = 41, 39.0%) or clean-contaminated (n = 52, 49.5%) wounds. Respondents believed suture repair to be associated with better short-term outcomes, and mesh repair with better long-term outcomes. Pre-/intra-operative antibiotics were very frequently given (n = 48, 45.7%) whilst post-operative antibiotics were rarely (n = 41, 39%) or very rarely (n = 28, 26.7%) given. The trial design felt to most likely influence practice is comparing mesh and suture repair, and post-operative antibiotics versus no post-operative antibiotics. Respondents indicated that to change their practice, the median difference in surgical site infection rate and recurrence rate would both need to be 5%.

Conclusion

This survey provides insight into surgical preferences in emergency umbilical hernia management, offering guidance for the design of future trials.
A $$\mu $$-mode approach for exponential integrators: actions of $$\varphi $$-functions of Kronecker sums
Authors: Caliari Marco , Cassini Fabio , Zivcovich Franco
Published: September 2024

We present a method for computing actions of the exponential-like $$\varphi $$
φ
-functions for a Kronecker sum K of d arbitrary matrices $$A_\mu $$

A
μ

. It is based on the approximation of the integral representation of the $$\varphi $$
φ
-functions by Gaussian quadrature formulas combined with a scaling and squaring technique. The resulting algorithm, which we call phiks, evaluates the required actions by means of $$\mu $$
μ
-mode products involving exponentials of the small sized matrices $$A_\mu $$

A
μ

, without forming the large sized matrix K itself. phiks, which profits from the highly efficient level 3 BLAS, is designed to compute different $$\varphi $$
φ
-functions applied on the same vector or a linear combination of actions of $$\varphi $$
φ
-functions applied on different vectors. In addition, thanks to the underlying scaling and squaring techniques, the desired quantities are available simultaneously at suitable time scales. All these features allow the effective usage of phiks in the exponential integration context. In fact, our newly designed method has been tested in popular exponential Runge–Kutta integrators of stiff order from one to four, in comparison with state-of-the-art algorithms for computing actions of $$\varphi $$
φ
-functions. The numerical experiments with discretized semilinear evolutionary 2D or 3D advection–diffusion–reaction, Allen–Cahn, and Brusselator equations show the superiority of the proposed $$\mu $$
μ
-mode approach.
Treatment outcomes and their predictors in children hospitalized with varicella complicated by bacterial superinfections after pandemic of COVID-19 – a retrospective multicenter analysis of real-life data in Poland
Authors: Pokorska-Śpiewak Maria , Szenborn Leszek , Pietrzak Maja , Marczyńska Magdalena , Mania Anna , Stopyra Lidia , Moppert Justyna , Toczyłowski Kacper , Sulik Artur , Szenborn Filip , Jasonek Jolanta , Barańska-Nowicka Inga , Buciak Adrianna , Majda-Stanisławska Ewa , Ciechanowski Przemysław , Karny Katarzyna , Kuchar Ernest , Figlerowicz Magdalena , Pawłowska Małgorzata
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to analyze treatment outcomes and their predictors in children hospitalized due to varicella complicated by bacterial superinfections after pandemic of COVID-19.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed data collected in a multicenter, nationwide, observational database dedicated for children aged 0–17 years hospitalized due to bacterial complications of varicella in 9 Polish tertiary healthcare inpatient centers. The primary endpoint of this study was the treatment outcome established after the end of hospital management assessed at a 4-point scale. The secondary endpoint was defined as the necessity of surgical intervention.

Results

There were 458 patients with a median age of 4 (IQR 2–6) years. After the completed treatment, 319 (69%) participants were found fully recovered; 132 (29%) had transient complications; 2 (0.5%) had persistent complications; and 1 child (0.5%) died. Multivariate analysis revealed that implementation of ibuprofen in pre-treatment management of a child with varicella was associated with a 4.07-fold (2.50–6.60) increase in risk of complications after the treatment and it was associated with 2.87 times (1.39–5.89) higher risk of surgical intervention necessity. For other pre-hospital interventions (implementation of acyclovir, antibiotics or antihistaminics) no significant impact was observed. GAS infection increased the necessity of surgical intervention by 7.51 (3.64–15.49) times.

Conclusions

One-third of patients treated for bacterial complications of varicella have post-treatment complications, most of them transient. GAS infection increases the need for surgical intervention. The use of ibuprofen in the treatment of varicella significantly increases the risk of complications and the need for surgical intervention.
Critical stages in pea photosynthesis impaired by tetracycline as an environmental contaminant
Authors: Krupka Magdalena , Michalczyk Dariusz J. , Piotrowicz-Cieślak Agnieszka I.
Published: September 2024

The widespread use of antibiotics in intensive animal husbandry, and the agricultural utilization of manure from such farms, imposes a significant burden on the environment. Consequently, the effects of antibiotics should be studied not only in animals and humans but also in all components of biocenoses and agrocenoses. In our study, we analyze the impact of four different concentrations of tetracycline present in soil (0, 5, 50, and 500 mg/kg of soil) on the growth and key photosynthesis parameters of pea seedlings: chlorophyll concentration, aminolevulinic acid concentration, aminolevulinic acid dehydrogenase activity, and ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase-oxygenase (RuBisCO) activity. At the lowest tetracycline concentration, chlorophyll content decreased by 13% compared to the control (0 tetracycline), while at the highest antibiotic concentration, it decreased by as much as 27%. Similarly, the decrease in aminolevulinic acid (a chlorophyll precursor) concentration was significant, amounting to 34%. However, the activity of the dehydrogenase enzyme, which consumes this precursor, decreased even more drastically by 51%, indicating significant disturbances in the light phase of photosynthesis. However, the activity of RuBisCO in pea plants subjected to tetracycline was even more severely affected, dropping by 58%, 69%, and 70% in soils with increasing concentrations of tetracycline. The reduction in enzyme activity could only partially be explained by a less pronounced decrease in the quantity of RuBisCO (large subunit) protein, which amounted to 6.5%, 11%, and 35% for tetracycline concentrations of 5, 50, and 500 mg/kg of soil, respectively.
Modelling drought in South Africa: meteorological insights and predictive parameters
Authors: Onyeuwaoma Nnaemeka , Sivakumar Venkataraman , Bade Mahesh
Published: September 2024

South Africa has grappled with recurring drought scenarios for over two decades, leading to substantial economic losses. Droughts in the Western Cape between 2015 and 2018, especially in Cape Town was declared a national disaster, resulting in the strict water rationing and the “day zero” effect. This study presents a set of simulations for predicting drought over South Africa using Artificial Neural Network (ANN), using Standard Precipitation Index (SPI) as the drought indicator in line with the recommendations of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Furthermore, different meteorological variables and an aerosol parameter were used to develop the drought set in four distinct locations in South Africa for a 21-year period. That data used include relative humidity (rh), temperature (tp), soil wetness (sw), evapotranspiration (et), evaporation (ev) sea surface temperature (st), and aerosol optical depth (aa). The obtained R2 values for SPI3 ranged from 0.49 to 0.84 and from 0.22 to 0.84 for SPI6 at Spring Bok, Umtata 0.83 to 0.95 for SPI3, and 0.61 to 0.87 for SPI6; Cape Town displayed R2 values from 0.78 to 0.94 for SPI3 and 0.57 to 0.95 for SPI6, while Upington had 0.77–0.95 for SPI3, and 0.78–0.92 for SPI6. These findings underscore the significance of evapotranspiration (et) as a pivotal parameter in drought simulation. Additionally, the predictive accuracy of these parameter combinations varied distinctly across different locations, even for the same set of parameters. This implies that there is no single universal scheme for drought prediction. Hence, the results are important for simulating future drought scenarios at different parts of South Africa. Finally, this study shows that ANN is an effective tool that can be utilized for drought studies and simulations.
A Proposal for a Metaphysics of Self-Subsisting Structures. II. Quantum Physics
Authors: Vassallo Antonio , Naranjo Pedro , Koslowski Tim
Published: September 2024

The paper presents an extension of the metaphysics of self-subsisting structures set out in a companion paper to the realm of non-relativistic quantum physics. The discussion is centered around a Pure Shape Dynamics model representing a relational implementation of a de Broglie-Bohm N-body system. An interpretation of this model in terms of self-subsisting structures is proposed and assessed against the background of the debate on the metaphysics of quantum physics, with a particular emphasis on the nature of the wave function. The analysis shows that elaborating an appropriate Leibnizian/Machian metaphysics of the quantum world requires a substantial revision of the notion of world-building relation.
A Review of Sand Aging: Mechanisms and Impacts
Authors: Castilla-Barbosa Miguel , Ocampo-Terreros Manuel , Rincón-Arango Orlando
Published: September 2024

Sand aging, defined by time-dependent increases in stiffness and strength over periods ranging from days to months, poses significant challenges in geotechnical engineering and soil science. Despite its relevant implications, the mechanisms driving sand aging remain understood. This review systematically examines sand aging, emphasizing the classification of chemical and mechanical processes involved. Key advancements in chemical aging understanding, particularly the influence of surface chemistry and electrokinetic forces, are discussed. Additionally, the review underscores the critical role of micromechanical modeling, especially discrete element methods, in elucidating particle interactions and aging phenomena. The review also identifies essential directions for future research, notably incorporating particle shape and surface texture into aging models. Hence, this comprehensive resource aims to enhance the understanding of sand aging.
Automated model selection for multivariate anomaly detection in manufacturing systems
Authors: Engbers Hendrik , Freitag Michael
Published: September 2024

As machine learning is widely applied to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of manufacturing systems, the automated selection of appropriate algorithms and hyperparameters becomes increasingly important. This paper presents a model selection approach to multivariate anomaly detection for applications in manufacturing systems using a multi-output regression-based meta-learning method. The proposed method exploits the capabilities of meta-learning to explore and learn the intricate relationships within multivariate data sets in order to select the best anomaly detection model. It also facilitates the construction of an ensemble of algorithms with dynamically assigned weights based on their respective performance levels. In addition to the framework, new meta-features for the application domain are presented and evaluated. Experiments show the proposed method can be successfully applied to achieve significantly better results than benchmark approaches. This enables an automated selection of algorithms that can be used for enhanced anomaly detection under changing operating conditions.
Identifying the psychological effects of nocebo education: results from two pre-registered experiments
Authors: Görner Kim J. , Spotts Emily K. , Geers Andrew L.
Published: September 2024

Providing treatment side effect information to patients increases the risk of harm due to the nocebo effect. Nocebo education, in which patients learn about nocebo effects, is a novel strategy that can be used across a variety of situations and individuals to decrease unpleasant treatment side effects. It is currently unclear which psychological changes are induced by nocebo education, which is information required to maximize this intervention. Two pre-registered studies investigated the effects of nocebo education on side effect expectations, side effect control beliefs, feelings toward treatments, intentions to avoid or seek side effect information, and perceptions of treatment efficacy. In Study 1 (N = 220), adult participants either watched or did not watch a nocebo education intervention video prior to reading vignettes about receiving a surgical treatment for pain and a medication for pain. Study 2 (N = 252) was similar to Study 1, with the inclusion of a health behavior video control group and participants only reading about a medication treatment for pain. In both experiments, nocebo education reduced global side effect expectations and increased side effect self-efficacy beliefs. Nocebo education also increased intentions to avoid side effect information and decreased intentions to seek more side effect information. Evidence was inconclusive on whether nocebo education changes affective associations with the treatments. The findings demonstrate that nocebo education has a multi-faceted influence with the potential to change patient behavior. The results can be used to improve the management of adverse treatment side effects.
Efficient branch-and-bound algorithms for finding triangle-constrained 2-clubs
Authors: Grüttemeier Niels , Keßler Philipp Heinrich , Komusiewicz Christian , Sommer Frank
Published: September 2024

In the Vertex Triangle 2-Club problem, we are given an undirected graph G and aim to find a maximum-vertex subgraph of G that has diameter at most 2 and in which every vertex is contained in at least $$\ell $$
ℓ
 triangles in the subgraph. So far, the only algorithm for solving Vertex Triangle 2-Club relies on an ILP formulation (Almeida and Brás in Comput Oper Res 111:258–270, 2019). In this work, we develop a combinatorial branch-and-bound algorithm that, coupled with a set of data reduction rules, outperforms the existing implementation and is able to find optimal solutions on sparse real-world graphs with more than 100,000 vertices in a few minutes. We also extend our algorithm to the Edge Triangle 2-Club problem where the triangle constraint is imposed on all edges of the subgraph.
Validation of a Virtual Ray Tracing Instrument for Dimensional X-Ray CT Measurements
Authors: Sloth Steffen , Quagliotti Danilo , Chiffre Leonardo De , Christensen Morten , Poulsen Henning Friis
Published: September 2024

A new Forward Ray Tracing Instrument (FRTI) for simulating X-ray CT scanners is presented. The FRTI enables the modelling of various detector geometries to optimise instrument designs. The FRTI is demonstrated by comparing experimentally measured sphere centre-to-centre distances from two material measures with digital clones. The measured length deviations were smaller than the reconstructed grid spacing for both the experimental and simulated acquisitions. As expected the experimentally measured length deviations were larger than the simulated measurements. The results demonstrate the FRII’s capability of simulating an X-ray CT scanner and performing length measurements.
Valorization of Spent Lignocellulosic Substrate of Edible Mushrooms into Cellulose Nanofibers for Bionanocomposites Production
Authors: Panaitescu Denis Mihaela , Oprea Mădălina , Frone Adriana Nicoleta , Trică Bogdan , Popa-Tudor Ioana , Ghiurea Marius , Nicolae Cristian-Andi , Gabor Augusta Raluca , Oprică Gabriela Mădălina , Uşurelu Cătălina Diana , Damian Celina Maria , Constantinescu-Aruxandei Diana , Oancea Florin
Published: September 2024

At the present, the spent Pleurotus substrate (SPS), which is a lignocellulosic waste from the industrial production of mushrooms, is poorly valorized and mostly landfilled. Considering the large amount of SPS that is required to produce one kilo of mushrooms and its hazard to the environment if not properly disposed of, finding means to valorize this waste is of utmost importance. This work proposes the valorization of SPS through the extraction of cellulose nanofibers (NC-SPS), by applying several bleaching and alkaline hydrolysis treatments followed by microfluidization. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of NC-SPS showed that most of the lignin, hemicelluloses, and other impurities were removed after the treatments of SPS. The transmission electron microscopy analysis of NC-SPS showed the presence of nanofibers with an average width of 24.5 ± 14.9 nm, XRD indicated an increase in crystallinity from 60% for SPS to 71% for NC-SPS, while TGA showed that the onset degradation temperature increased with about 43 °C after the treatments. The new NC-SPS are similar to the nanocellulose extracted from wood and can replace it in various applications. In this work, NC-SPS were tested as modifiers for poly(lactic acid) (PLA) leading to an increase in its crystallinity, Young’s modulus (of up to 57%), and storage modulus, while preserving its thermal stability and transparency. These results showed that NC-SPS acted as good reinforcing agents for PLA, and more applications are foreseen.
Modeling Adolescent Disposition Development: Age-Related Changes in Psychosocial Processes Correlated with Substance Use
Authors: Hansen William B. , Hansen Jared L.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

A model is proposed in which longitudinal changes in adolescents’ dispositions increase age-related risk for the onset of substance use.

Method

Pooled surveys from 25 longitudinal studies were examined. Disposition was calculated from eight variables: use intentions; refusal intentions; attitudes; positive consequence beliefs; beliefs about negative consequences; descriptive peer normative beliefs; injunctive peer normative beliefs; and lifestyle incongruence. Substance use onset (past 30-day alcohol, cigarette, and marijuana use) was analyzed using participants’ just prior dispositional status and recent changes in their dispositions.

Results

Disposition was highly correlated with each of the measured variables. The pattern of disposition changes as adolescents grow older, revealing that younger adolescents have more positive dispositions; whereas when they grew older, negative dispositions gradually emerged among a subset of adolescents. Analyses also revealed that dispositional status and recent changes in their dispositions were strong predictors of substance use onset.

Implications. Better understanding the development of dispositions will aid in designing effective interventions. Subordinate variables are amenable to intervention and are recommended as the primary focus of prevention programming. Because of the developmental trajectory of dispositions, multi-year interventions are highly recommended. Whenever possible, tailored approaches that take adolescents’ pre-intervention dispositions into account should be considered.
Evaluation of an automated synthesis method for [18F]Fluoromisonidazole using a Scintomics GRP® module
Authors: Oliver Jayed , Le Roux Jannie , Rubow Sietske
Published: September 2024

There is limited information on utilizing commercially supplied [18F]Fluoride from an off-site cyclotron for the synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals. This study explored the production of the PET hypoxia marker [18F]FMISO, using the Scintomics® GRP module and distantly produced [18F]Fluoride, which lacks published data. A radiochemical yield of 27.4 ± 3.6% (n = 5) and high radiochemical purity were achieved in synthesis time of 48 min. The [18F]FMISO met all Ph. Eur. standards, demonstrating the consistency and reliability of the module in generating a clinical-grade radiopharmaceutical using off-site produced [18F]Fluoride, but available patient doses were severely limited.
Investigating structural, dielectric, and electrical characteristics of sol–gel synthesized perovskite ceramic Bi0.7Ba0.3(FeTi)0.5O3
Authors: Tayari Faouzia , Teixeira Silvia Soreto , Graça M. P. F. , Essid Manel , Nassar Kais Iben
Published: September 2024

The goal of this research is to create a perovskite ceramic with electrical and dielectric properties appropriate for energy storage, medical uses, and electronic devices. A bismuth ferric titanate, Bi0.7Ba0.3(FeTi)0.5O3, doped with barium and crystalline, was effectively synthesized at the A-site via sol–gel synthesis. A rhombohedral structure emerged in the R3́C space group, which was confirmed by room-temperature X-ray studies. An average grain size of 263 nm and a homogeneous grain distribution and chemical composition were confirmed by the results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). The study established a clear relationship between temperature, frequency, and the electrical properties of the material. Impedance spectroscopy and electrical modulus measurements, performed in the frequency range of 1 kHz to 1 MHz and at temperatures ranging from 200 K to 360 K, demonstrated a non-Debye type of relaxation. Furthermore, once the material was produced at various temperatures, its frequency-dependent electrical conductivity was examined using Jonscher’s law. The results demonstrate that barium doping significantly improves the electrical conductivity and dielectric properties compared to pure BiFeTiO₃. Over the complete temperature range, consistent conduction and relaxation mechanisms were discovered. These findings suggest that the chemical may find widespread applicability across a broad temperature range, including electrical fields and capacitors.

Graphical Abstract
DermCompressNet: integrated CD-ConvNet and discrete cosine transform for dermoscopic images compression
Authors: Elsawy Radwa A. , Abo-Zahhad Mohammed M. , Wahba Maram A. , Mansour Diaa-Eldin A. , Ashour Amira S.
Published: September 2024

Telemedicine has a critical role in healthcare by supporting the information exchange between the patients and the physicians as well as between the physicians for consultation. Such technology has urgent requirements for storage reduction and efficient use of the transmission channel bandwidth. Such requirements can be achieved efficiently via developing accurate medical image compression techniques. For accurate diagnosis, lossless compression methods are recommended. However, the tradeoff between the compression ratio (CR) and the preservation of the image quality is still challenging. On the other hand, the advantages of the convolutional neural networks inspired this work to design a novel proposed system for dermoscopic image compression based on the integration of the compression direction-ConvNet (CD-ConvNet) and decompression direction-ConvNet (DD-ConvNet) with discrete cosine transform (DCT) and Huffman coding, called DermCompressNet. To reconstruct a high-quality image at the receiver, the inverse processes using the DD-ConvNet network were followed. The proposed system was evaluated by measuring several image quality metrics, namely the mean square error (MSE), peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), and structural similarity index measure (SSIM), along with compression quality metrics, namely CR, and computational time (CT). The experimental results achieved 34.6 dB, 2.5, 0.85, and 56% of PSNR, MSE, SSIM, and CR, respectively. A comparison studies with the JPEG and state-of-the-art methods proved the superiority of the proposed system, showing23%, 16%, 4.3%, and 1.8% improvements in the PSNR, MSE, SSIM, and CR, respectively, compared to the JPEG.
The nature and value of firsthand insight
Authors: Chudnoff Elijah
Published: September 2024

You can be convinced that something is true but still desire to see it for yourself. A trusted critic makes some observations about a movie, now you want to watch it with them in mind. A proof demonstrates the validity of a formula, but you are not satisfied until you see how the formula works. In these cases, we place special value on knowing by what Sosa (Epistemic explanations: A theory of telic normativity, and what it explains, Oxford University Press, 2021) calls “firsthand insight” a truth that we might already know in some other way such as by testimony, the balance of evidence, or proof. This phenomenon raises two questions. First, what is the nature of firsthand insight? Second, what value motivates us to pursue firsthand insight when other kinds of knowledge are readily available? In the two central parts of this paper, I develop answers to these questions. I argue that firsthand insight that a proposition is true is knowledge based on experience of what makes that proposition true, and I argue that desires for firsthand insight are motivated by concerns with alienation. In a concluding section, I briefly illustrate how the resulting view of the nature and value of firsthand insight might bear on broader topics in the theory of value.
Institutionalising degrowth regime: a review and analysis of degrowth transition proposals
Authors: Käyrä Minna , Kuhmonen Irene
Published: September 2024

The degrowth project proposes a fundamental reorganisation of contemporary society. The existing literature focuses on explaining why degrowth is needed to tackle the multiple socioecological crises of our time and what needs to change in contemporary society. Recently, there have been explicit calls to moving on to thinking about the question of how a degrowth transition could be achieved. In this task, we identify the ‘end’ of the vision, that is, the cornerstones of a degrowth society, and focus on the suggested changes leading there. Therefore, we conceptualise a degrowth society as a regime that can be studied with the help of institutional theory and the change leading to a degrowth regime as a degrowth transition. To understand the constituents of such a regime, we conducted a systematic mapping of the degrowth literature by focusing on specific change proposals from 2000 to 2020. We analysed these change proposals in the framework of institutional theory and identified three overarching themes forming the backbone of a degrowth society: reduction, reorganisation and localisation. These themes represent the cultural–cognitive dimension of institutionalisation processes and entail varying degrees of normative and regulative dimensions. According to the degrowth change proposals in the literature, reduction is to be achieved mainly through top-down regulation, while reorganisation and localisation require a bottom-up approach to mobilising collective agency and changes in the normative orientation of society. Our analysis regarding the founding pillars of the institutional order of a degrowth society unveils essential signposts that could be considered when formulating policies and narratives compatible with a degrowth transition.
“A sweating moment”: impact of disclosure in cancer care on LGBTQI patient satisfaction
Authors: Power Rosalie , Ussher Jane M. , Allison Kimberley , Hawkey Alexandra , Perz Janette ,   on behalf of The Out with Cancer Study Team
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI) people face unique challenges in cancer care. This mixed methods study examined LGBTQI patients’ satisfaction with cancer care and factors associated with satisfaction, including experiences of LGBTQI disclosure. The study also explored what helps to facilitate safe disclosure and improve satisfaction with care for this population.

Methods

We used a mixed methods approach, involving 430 surveys and 104 semi-structured interviews with LGBTQI people with cancer (16–92 years) with various cancer types, sexuality and gender identities, ages, and people with intersex variations.

Results

Most participants reported being satisfied with their cancer care (n = 300, 76.3%) and had disclosed their LGBTQI sexuality or gender identity or intersex variations to at least some of their cancer healthcare professionals (HCPs) (n = 357, 87.1%). Satisfaction with care was higher with more disclosure to HCPs, HCP acknowledgment of partner/s and support people, and the ability to find LGBTQI specific information about cancer; it was lower with reports of discrimination in cancer care. Qualitative analysis identified that some participants were always out to HCPs, but others felt burdened with the responsibility and emotion work of disclosure and feared negative responses. Same-gender intimate partners facilitated disclosure and need to be respected within cancer care.

Conclusions

HCPs need to take the lead in facilitating LGBTQI disclosure in cancer care. Targeted interventions and training for HCPs, including reception and administration staff, are crucial to ensure equitable, affirming cancer care for all LGBTQI patients, ultimately leading to improved satisfaction with cancer care.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Creating safe and inclusive environments for LGBTQI cancer patients is essential to encourage disclosure and improve satisfaction with cancer care.
Stroke Prevention and Treatment for Youth with Sickle Cell Anemia: Current Practice and Challenges and Promises for the Future
Authors: Creary Susan , Chung Melissa G. , Villella Anthony D. , Lo Warren D.
Published: September 2024

Purpose of Review

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is an autosomal recessive inherited hemoglobinopathy that results in a high risk of stroke. SCA primarily affects an underserved minority population of children who are frequently not receiving effective, multi-disciplinary, preventative care. This article reviews primary and secondary stroke prevention and treatment for children with SCA for the general adult and pediatric neurologist, who may play an important role in providing critical neurologic evaluation and care to these children.

Recent Findings

Primary stroke prevention is efficacious at reducing ischemic stroke risk, but it is not consistently implemented into clinical practice in the United States, resulting in these children remaining at high risk. Acute symptomatic stroke management requires neurology involvement and emergent transfusion to limit ischemia. Furthermore, while chronic transfusion therapy is a proven secondary preventative modality for those with prior symptomatic or silent cerebral infarcts, it carries significant burden. Newer therapies (e.g., stem cell therapies and voxelotor) deserve further study as they may hold promise in reducing stroke risk and treatment burden.

Effective primary and secondary stroke prevention and treatment remain a challenge. Informing and engaging neurology providers to recognize and provide critical neurologic evaluation and treatment has potential to close care gaps.
The Promise of Artificial Intelligence in Peyronie’s Disease
Authors: Furtado Thiago P. , Osadchiy Vadim , Eleswarapu Sriram V.
Published: September 2024

Purpose of Review

The application of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance clinical decision-making in Peyronie’s disease (PD) has generated significant interest. This review explores the current landscape of AI in PD evaluation.

Recent Findings

Recent advances in 3D modeling offer a more sophisticated approach to assessing PD deformities; however, the implementation of 3D modeling in clinical practice faces challenges, including the need for specialized equipment and time-consuming data processing, sometimes taking several hours of labor. AI holds promise for overcoming these hurdles through its ability to efficiently process large volumes of data and to perform accurate predictions based on such data.

Future integration of AI with 3D modeling techniques could revolutionize PD evaluation by improving patient counseling, surgical planning, and clinical decision-making. Significant gaps in the literature have yet to be addressed, including the absence of robust evidence that incorporating such technology is superior to standard diagnostics.