bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbodiimide and Isocyanate Hydroboration by a Cyclic Carbodiphosphorane Catalyst**
Authors: Janda Ben A. , Tran Julie A. , Chang Daniel K. , Nerhood Gabriela C. , Maduka Ogba O. , Liberman‐Martin Allegra L.
Published: October 2023

We report hydroboration of carbodiimide and isocyanate substrates catalyzed by a cyclic carbodiphosphorane catalyst. The cyclic carbodiphosphorane outperformed the other Lewis basic carbon species tested, including other zerovalent carbon compounds, phosphorus ylides, an N‐heterocyclic carbene, and an N‐heterocyclic olefin. Hydroborations of seven carbodiimides and nine isocyanates were performed at room temperature to form N‐boryl formamidine and N‐boryl formamide products. Intermolecular competition experiments demonstrated the selective hydroboration of alkyl isocyanates over carbodiimide and ketone substrates. DFT calculations support a proposed mechanism involving activation of pinacolborane by the carbodiphosphorane catalyst, followed by hydride transfer and B−N bond formation.
Study on Structures Stability, Mechanical Properties, and Electronic Properties of Alloy Ag–Au–Al: First‐Principles Calculations and Experiments
Authors: Han Xujin , Liu Manmen , Zhou Xiaolong
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the silver–gold–aluminum alloy is prepared, and its effect on the microstructure and properties is observed by changing the content of aluminum. SEM observes the surface morphology, EDS (Energy Dispersive Spectrometer) detects the related tissue composition, and XRD (X‐ray Diffraction) verifies the composition. Ternary alloys are tested for hardness and resistivity. The results show that Ag‐15wt.%Au‐14wt.%Al alloy has the highest hardness. The resistivity test shows that Ag‐15wt.%Au‐18wt.%Al alloy has the lowest resistivity. The change in Al content improves the alloy's mechanical properties and electrical conductivity. This paper uses the first‐principles calculation based on density functional theory to prove the structural stability from the atomic point of view. The mechanical properties, electrical properties, and thermodynamic properties of Ag‐Au‐Al ternary alloys are systematically studied, including elastic constants, elastic modulus (including bulk modulusB, shear modulusG, Young's modulusE, Poisson's ratioν), Vickers hardness. The mechanical properties of the single crystal are evaluated by Cauchy pressure, Pugh criterion, shear anisotropy factor, and directional Young's modulus, and the Debye temperature is calculated. The calculation results are in good agreement with the experiment. The research in this paper provides a new idea for studying the properties of new bonding wires.
Have corporate social responsibility strategies mattered during the pandemic: Symbolic CSR versus substantive CSR
Authors: Khanchel Imen , Lassoued Naima , Gargouri Rym
Published: October 2023

This paper contributes to the existing CSR decoupling literature by examining whether the COVID‐19 pandemic increased the likelihood of firms adopting a corporate social responsibility (CSR) decoupling strategy and by assessing the impact of a symbolic CSR strategy on abnormal returns. The study analyzes a sample of 75 socially responsible French‐listed firms. The findings indicate that symbolic CSR reporting strategies were more likely to be implemented in response to the COVID‐19 crisis. Furthermore, while the market initially rewarded greenwashing practices during the COVID‐19 crisis in the short term, it subsequently penalized such practices over the long term. Additionally, abnormal returns of firms operating in the most severely affected industries surpassed those of firms in the least affected industries. Finally, the results highlight that firms adopting a defensive CSR strategy during the health crisis experienced more significant abnormal returns compared to other firms.
Electrochemical Sodium Storage in Hard Carbon Powder Electrodes Implemented in an Improved Cell Assembly: Insights from In‐Situ and Ex‐Situ Solid‐State NMR
Authors: Šić Edina , Schutjajew Konstantin , Haagen Ulrich , Breitzke Hergen , Oschatz Martin , Buntkowsky Gerd , Gutmann Torsten
Published: October 2023

In this work, we report on an improved cell assembly of cylindrical electrochemical cells for 23Na in‐situ solid‐state NMR (ssNMR) investigations. The cell set‐up is suitable for using powder electrode materials. Reproducibility of our cell assembly is analyzed by preparing two cells containing hard carbon (HC) powder as working electrode and sodium metal as reference electrode. Electrochemical storage properties of HC powder electrode derived from carbonization of sustainable cellulose are studied by ssNMR. 23Na in‐situ ssNMR monitors the sodiation/desodiation of a Na|NaPF6|HC cell (cell 1) over a period of 22 days, showing high cell stability. After the galvanostatic process, the HC powder material is investigated by high resolution 23Na ex‐situ MAS NMR. The formation of ionic sodium species in different chemical environments is obtained. Subsequently, a second Na|NaPF6|HC cell (cell 2) is sodiated for 11 days achieving a capacity of 220 mAh/g. 23Na ex‐situ MAS NMR measurements of the HC powder material extracted from this cell clearly indicate the presence of quasi‐metallic sodium species next to ionic sodium species. This observation of quasi‐metallic sodium species is discussed in terms of the achieved capacity of the cell as well as of side reactions of sodium in this electrode material.
A novel compact and tunable positive and negative impedance simulator and multiplier
Authors: Al‐Absi Muneer A.
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a novel CMOS tunable positive and negative active inductor simulator (AIS), positive capacitance and resistance multiplier, and negative capacitance and resistance simulator. The proposed designs use only one analog building block (ABB), one grounded capacitor, and two resistors. Applications to the proposed designs in different types of tunable filters and parasitic compensation schemes are also presented. The functionality of the designs is confirmed using Tanner Tspice in 0.18 μm TSMC CMOS technology. Simulation results indicate that the proposed designs are superior to previous arts in number of ABB, number of functions, and power consumptions.
Clinical and biological significance of circulating miRNAs in chronic pancreatitis patients undergoing total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation
Authors: Vasu Srividya , Saracino Giovanna , Darden Carly M. , Kumano Kenjiro , Liu Yang , Lawrence Michael C. , Naziruddin Bashoo
Published: October 2023

Background

Specific microRNAs (miRNAs) were elevated in chronic pancreatitis (CP) patients during islet infusion after total pancreatectomy (TPIAT). We aimed to identify circulating miRNA signatures of pancreatic damage, predict miRNA‐mRNA networks to identify potential links to CP pathogenesis and identify islet isolation and transplantation functional outcomes.

Methods

Small RNA sequencing was performed to identify distinct circulating miRNA signatures in CP. Plasma miRNAs were measured using miRCURY LNA SYBR green quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction assays. Correlation analyses were performed using R software. The miRNA target and disease interactions were determined using miRNet and the miRNA enrichment and annotation tool.

Results

Alterations were found in circulating miRNAs in CP patients compared to healthy controls. Further studies were conducted on 12 circulating miRNAs enriched in the pancreas, other tissues and other diseases including cancer and fibrosis. Approximately 2888 mRNAs in the pancreas were their targets, demonstrating interactions with 76 small molecules. Three miRNAs exhibited interactions with morphine and five exhibited interactions with glucose. The miRNA panel targeted 22 genes associated with pancreatitis. The islet‐specific, acinar cell‐specific and liver‐specific miRNAs were elevated at 6 h after islet infusion and returned to baseline levels 3 months after TPIAT. Circulating levels of miRNAs returned to pre‐transplant levels 1‐year post‐transplant. Circulating miRNAs measured before and 6 h after islet infusion were directly or inversely associated with metabolic outcomes at 3 and 6 months post‐transplant.

Conclusions

miRNAs may contribute to CP pathogenesis, and elevated circulating levels may be specific to pancreatic inflammation and fibrosis, warranting further investigation.
Single‐cell RNA sequencing analysis reveals transcriptional heterogeneity of multiple primary lung cancer
Authors: Guo Wei , Zhou Bolun , Bie Fenglong , Huai Qilin , Xue Xuemin , Guo Lei , Tan Fengwei , Xue Qi , Zhao Liang , Gao Shugeng
Published: October 2023

Introduction

With the advancements in early diagnosis, more and more patients with multiple primary lung cancer (MPLC) have been identified. However, the progression of MPLC involves complex changes in cell composition and metabolic function, which remains largely controversial.

Objective

Our study aims to comprehensively reveal the cellular characteristics and inter‐cellular connections of MPLC.

Methods

We performed scRNA‐seq from 23 samples of six MPLC patients, combined with bulk whole‐exome sequencing. We performed trajectory analysis to investigate the transition of different cell types during the development of MPLC.

Results

A total of 1 67 397 cells were sequenced derived from tumour and adjacent tissues of MPLC patients, and tumour, normal, immune and stromal cells were identified. Two states of epithelial cells were identified, which were associated with immune response and cell death, respectively. Furthermore, both CD8+ naïve and memory T cells participated in the differentiation of CD8+ T cells. The terminal states of CD8+ T cells were exhausted T cells and cytotoxic T cells, which positively regulated cell death and were implicated in the regulation of cytokine production, respectively. Two main subpopulations of B cells with distinct functions were identified, which participate in the regulation of the immune response and antigen presentation, respectively. In addition, we found a specific type of endothelial cells that were abundant in tumour samples, with an increasing trend from normal to tumour samples.

Conclusions

Our study showed the comprehensive landscape of different cells of MPLC, which might reveal the key cellular mechanisms and, therefore, may provide new insights into the early diagnosis and treatment of MPLC.
WntA and Wnt4 during the regeneration of internal organs in the holothurian Eupentacta fraudatrix
Authors: Girich A. S.
Published: October 2023

Background

Over the past few years, it has been established that wnt genes are involved in the regenerative processes of holothurians. The wnt4 gene was identified as one of the most active genes in Eupentacta fraudatrix regeneration using differential gene expression analysis and qPCR of individual genes. Also, the wntA gene was found in holothurians, which is present only in invertebrates and can perform unique functions.

Results

In this regard, both these genes and proteins were studied in this work. During regeneration, the Wnt4 protein is found in the cells of the coelomic and ambulacral epithelium, retractor muscles, and radial nerves. Single cells with this protein are also found in the connective tissue of the developing aquapharyngeal bulb and in the hypoderm of the body wall. Cells with WntA are found exclusively in the hypoderm of the body wall.

Conclusion

We assume that both genes are involved in regeneration, but Wnt4 coordinates the formation of the epithelial tissue structure, while WntA maintains the state of the intercellular substance of the body wall.
Integration of environmental DNA metabarcoding technique to reinforce fish biodiversity assessments in seagrass ecosystems: A case study of Gazi bay seagrass meadows
Authors: Mwamburi Samuel Mwakisha , Uku Jacqueline , Wambiji Nina , Kairo James , Oketch Fredrick , Oduor Kennedy Omondi , Amondi Laureen , Ishmael Nimrod
Published: October 2023

Assessing biodiversity in marine nearshore ecosystems is crucial for effective management, especially in the context of climate change and overexploitation of marine resources. Conventional methods often fall short in providing comprehensive information for managing seagrass ecosystems. However, the emergence of environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques has transformed the field by enabling noninvasive surveys that are cost effective and provide detailed information with high resolution. In this study, we utilized eDNA to assess fish diversity and compared its effectiveness to conventional techniques such as catch assessment surveys and underwater surveys. We sampled three habitats (A: mangrove‐seagrass, B: seagrass only, and C: coral‐seagrass) with 4 replicates. Site A recorded 8 fish species, site B had 16 species, and site C, characterized by coral and seagrass habitats, exhibited the highest fish diversity with 45 species (mean H′ index = 2.455), underscoring its ecological importance. To ensure accurate taxonomic identification, we utilized an updated MiFish reference database containing a larger number of fish species compared to the initial library. This expanded reference database with 9569 fish species, facilitated more precise identification and enhanced the reliability of our findings. Notably, the eDNA technique outperformed conventional methods by detecting 23 additional fish species that went undetected using traditional surveys. Moreover, our study documented five fish species previously unknown to occur within the study region, further emphasizing the value of eDNA analysis in uncovering hidden biodiversity. These findings strongly advocate for integrating eDNA techniques into the monitoring and assessment of biodiversity in shallow tropical habitats of the Western Indian Ocean. By leveraging eDNA surveys, we can gain valuable insights into fish diversity, discover hidden species, and make informed decisions for the conservation and management of these ecologically significant areas.
Prospective cohort study assessing patient satisfaction and diagnostic accuracy in channeled endoscope local anesthetic biopsy in the investigation of head and neck cancer
Authors: Lim Alison E. , Rogers Alexander D. G. , Montgomery Jenny
Published: October 2023

Background

There are delays in the head and neck Urgent Suspicion of Cancer (USOC) pathway. Local anesthetic (LA) biopsy with channeled endoscopes in outpatients can reduce time to diagnosis.

Methods

Questionnaire‐based prospective study of LA or general anesthetic (GA) biopsy for investigation of cancer from September 2021 to July 2022.

Results

100% (n = 48) were very satisfied or satisfied with their overall experience. 71% (n = 20) of LA patients reported they would prefer to have a biopsy under LA. LA biopsy was 68% sensitive and 100% specific for cancer diagnosis. 28.6% (8) and 10% (2) of LA and GA patients had palliative MDT outcomes. Median time to diagnosis was 44.5 and 49.0 days for LA and GA biopsy, respectively.

Conclusion

LA biopsy had a high satisfaction rate and is sensitive for diagnosing cancer. LA biopsy can expedite treatment pathways. LA biopsy should be considered as an option for first line investigation.
Comparative evaluation of fetal renal artery hemodynamics in normohydramnios, idiopathic oligohydramnios and polyhydramnios in third trimester pregnancy
Authors: Jain Deepak , Kumar Singh Rajesh , Jaiswal Jyoti , Mittal Pranjali , Singh Netam Satyabhuwan
Published: October 2023

Objective

To compare the renal artery (RA) flow indices (RI and PI) among normohydramnios, idiopathic oligohydramnios, and polyhydramnios and determine applicability of fetal RA Doppler indices in predicting the pregnancy outcome.

Methods

Total 106 3rd trimester pregnant patients were divided into cases and controls based on amniotic fluid index. Routine antenatal and color Doppler (including kidneys) ultrasound was performed for all patients in this study. The postnatal follow‐up was done, and the pregnancies having poor outcomes in terms of NICU admissions were assessed.

Results

Statistically significant differences were noted when comparing RI and PI values of normohydramnios (0.91 ± 0.04 and 2.38 ± 0.21, respectively) with oligohydramnios (1.02 ± 0.07 and 2.99 ± 0.38, respectively) and polyhydramnios (0.90 ± 0.12 and 2.7 ± 0.84, respectively) independently (p value < 0.05). Our study demonstrated an increase in NICU admissions in the fetus having raised values of RI and PI.

Conclusion

Fetal RA RI and PI can be used as an antenatal predictor for the pregnancy outcome associated with idiopathic oligohydramnios; however, fetal RA PI was found to be a better predictor for the pregnancy outcome than fetal RA RI value in our study.
Small molecules (CO2, iPrNCO, and iPrNCNiPr) activation by the metallomimetics (μ‐Hydrido) diborane anion: A DFT investigation on mechanism and chemoselectivity controlling
Authors: Sun ChenFei , Liu Qing , Meng Lingpeng , Li Xiaoyan
Published: October 2023

Main‐group metallomimetics provide a new way to replace transition metal complexes to activate inert small molecules under mild conditions. In this work, the activation mechanisms of CO2, iPrNCO, and iPrNCNiPr by (μ‐Hydrido) diborane anion ([1H]−) have been investigated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Two different activation sites, BB versus BH bond of [1H]−, are investigated and compared. The results show that these inert molecules can be activated by [1H]− through cycloadditions under mild conditions. The reactions with iPrNCO and iPrNCNiPr are dynamic and thermodynamic controlling, the obtained products are related not only to the energy barrier but also to the stability of the products. Moreover, the competition for BB/BH bond site activation is directly related to the steric effect of small molecules. CO2, which is without steric hindrance, can only be activated by the BB bond, whereas iPrNCNiPr can only be activated by the BH bond due to the large steric effect. The medium iPrNCO can be activated not only by the BB bond but also by the BH bond. Our study provides theoretical explanations for the reaction activity and chemoselectivity controlling of the title reaction, and displays the potential applications for compounds containing boron‐boron bonds and inert small molecule activation.
Zinc oxide‐doped carbon aerogel derived from bagasse cellulose/sodium alginate/zinc nitrate composite for dye adsorption, storage energy and electrochemical sensing
Authors: Lam Cao Vu , Vy Dang Ngoc Chau , Duyen Nguyen Hoang Kim , Xuan Nguyen Thien Thanh , Trinh Trinh Tu , Linh Nguyen Hoang Gia , Ngan Nguyen Xuan , Tu Phan Minh , Son Nguyen Truong , Hieu Nguyen Huu
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Following the trend of green and sustainable development, multi‐application materials utilizing biomass waste have been developed, leading that trend is carbon aerogel (CA). In this study, zinc oxide‐doped CA was synthesized from bagasse cellulose (Zn‐BCA) through simple processes: Cross‐linking to form a sol–gel system, freeze‐drying, and pyrolysis. To synthesize suitable materials, precursor and crosslinking ratios, the content of Zn2+, and pyrolysis temperature in N2 were investigated. The characteristics of ZnO were investigated through modern methods: Scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The dye adsorption capacity of Zn‐BCA was evaluated through the UV–Vis method. Furthermore, the electrochemical properties are shown through cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge‐discharge, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results, and glucose sensing results were obtained through linear sweep voltammetry.

RESULTS

Zn‐BCA shows potential for multiple applications with crystal violet pigment adsorption capacity up to 39 mg/g, specific capacitance reaching 164 F/g, and glucose sensing capabilities.

CONCLUSION

Thus, Zn‐BCA shows wide applicability in adsorbents and electrode materials, in addition to using bagasse biomass as green precursor to synthesize materials. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Bio‐reductive synthesis of silver nanoparticles, its antibacterial efficiency, and possible toxicity in common carp fish (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Kakakhel Mian Adnan , Narwal Nishita , Khan Alam , Ayub Huma , Jiang Zewen , Xiaotao Shi
Published: October 2023

The biological synthesis of nanoparticles is an emerging field of study that seeks to synthesize nanoparticles using non‐chemical mechanisms such as microorganisms, plants, and animal blood serum. Among these, plants have gained particular attention due to their ease of handling, availability, and ability to synthesize a wide range of nanoparticles. Therefore, the current study aimed to fabricate the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Chinese medicinal plants (CMP) for their possible toxicity in common carp fish (Cyprinus carpio). For this purpose, CMP was dried, ground, and used as a bio‐reductive agent. The fabricated AgNPs were characterized and a well dispersed AgNPs were obtained. Moreover, the C. carpio was exposed to the AgNPs for bioaccumulation and histological alterations. The obtained findings revealed that the AgNPs were mostly accumulated in the intestines followed by the gills, muscles, liver, and brain. The accumulated AgNPs caused histological alterations in gills and intestines at the highest concentration (0.08 mg/L). However, very less alterations were caused by the lowest concentration, especially in the intestine. In conclusion, further in‐depth research is needed to determine the risks associated with the usage of nanoparticles to reveal their harmful impacts on fish and the aquatic environment.

Highlights

The biological fabrication of AgNPs is considered eco‐friendly.

Chinese medicinal plants play a significant role in AgNPs synthesis.

AgNPs have excellent antibacterial activity.

AgNPs are bioaccumulated in various organs of fish.
The inflammatory response‐related robust machine learning signature in endometrial cancer: Based on multi‐cohort studies
Authors: Zhou Chufan , Xiang Pan , Xu Xindi , Yue Chaomin , Gao Kefei
Published: October 2023

Uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC) is a prevalent form of cancer in women, affecting the inner lining of the uterus. Inflammation plays a crucial role in the progression and prognosis of cancer, making it important to identify inflammatory response‐related subtypes in UCEC for targeted therapy and personalized medicine. This study discovered significant variation in immune response within UCEC tumors based on molecular subtypes of inflammatory response‐related genes. Subtype A showed a more favorable prognosis and better response to immunotherapies like anti‐CTLA4 and anti‐PDCD1 therapy. Functional analysis revealed subtype‐specific differences in immune response, with subtype A exhibiting higher expression of genes related to cytokine signaling pathways, NK cell‐mediated cytotoxicity pathways and inflammatory processes. Subtype A also showed increased sensitivity to three chemotherapeutic agents. A 12‐gene inflammatory response‐related signature was found to have prognostic value for 1, 2 and 3 year survival in UCEC patients. Additionally, a validated machine learning‐based signature demonstrated significant differences in clinical traits between low‐risk and high‐risk cohorts. Elevated risk scores were associated with higher pathological grading, older age, advanced stage and immune subtype C2. Low‐risk groups had higher infiltration of immune cell types such as CD8 + T cells and activated CD4 + cells. However, the abundance of cytotoxic immune cells decreased with increasing risk scores. Finally, PCR was applied to test the different expression in P2PX4. P2RX4 knockdown inhibited the proliferation and proliferation of the endometrial carcinoma Ishikawa cell line. In conclusion, this developed signature can serve as a clinical prediction index and reveal distinct immune expression patterns. Ultimately, this study has the potential to enhance targeted therapy and personalized medicine for UCEC patients.
Three molecular subtypes and a five‐gene signature for hepatocellular carcinoma based on m7G‐related classification
Authors: Yue Yuan , Tao Jie , An Dan , Shi Lei
Published: October 2023

Background

The current research investigated the heterogeneity of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) based on the expression of N7‐methylguanosine (m7G)‐related genes as a classification model and developed a risk model predictive of HCC prognosis, key pathological behaviors and molecular events of HCC.

Methods

The RNA sequencing data of HCC were extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)‐live cancer (LIHC) database, hepatocellular carcinoman database (HCCDB) and Gene Expression Omnibus database, respectively. According to the expression level of 29 m7G‐related genes, a consensus clustering analysis was conducted. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis and COX regression algorithm were applied to create a risk prediction model based on normalized expression of five characteristic genes weighted by coefficients. Tumor microenvironment (TME) analysis was performed using the MCP‐Counter, TIMER, CIBERSORT and ESTIMATE algorithms. The Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion algorithm was applied to assess the responses to immunotherapy in different clusters and risk groups. In addition, patient sensitivity to common chemotherapeutic drugs was determined by the biochemical half‐maximal inhibitory concentration using the R package pRRophetic.

Results

Three molecular subtypes of HCC were defined based on the expression level of m7G‐associated genes, each of which had its specific survival rate, genomic variation status, TME status and immunotherapy response. In addition, drug sensitivity analysis showed that the C1 subtype was more sensitive to a number of conventional oncolytic drugs (including paclitaxel, imatinib, CGP‐082996, pyrimethamine, salubrinal and vinorelbine). The current five‐gene risk prediction model accurately predicted HCC prognosis and revealed the degree of somatic mutations, immune microenvironment status and specific biological events.

Conclusion

In this study, three heterogeneous molecular subtypes of HCC were defined based on m7G‐related genes as a classification model, and a five‐gene risk prediction model was created for predicting HCC prognosis, providing a potential assessment tool for understanding the genomic variation, immune microenvironment status and key pathological mechanisms during HCC development.
Automated Breast Density Assessment in MRI Using Deep Learning and Radiomics: Strategies for Reducing Inter‐Observer Variability
Authors: Jing Xueping , Wielema Mirjam , Monroy‐Gonzalez Andrea G. , Stams Thom R.G. , Mahesh Shekar V.K. , Oudkerk Matthijs , Sijens Paul E. , Dorrius Monique D. , van Ooijen Peter M.A.
Published: October 2023

Background

Accurate breast density evaluation allows for more precise risk estimation but suffers from high inter‐observer variability.

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of reducing inter‐observer variability of breast density assessment through artificial intelligence (AI) assisted interpretation.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Six hundred and twenty‐one patients without breast prosthesis or reconstructions were randomly divided into training (N = 377), validation (N = 98), and independent test (N = 146) datasets.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5 T and 3.0 T; T1‐weighted spectral attenuated inversion recovery.

Assessment

Five radiologists independently assessed each scan in the independent test set to establish the inter‐observer variability baseline and to reach a reference standard. Deep learning and three radiomics models were developed for three classification tasks: (i) four Breast Imaging‐Reporting and Data System (BI‐RADS) breast composition categories (A–D), (ii) dense (categories C, D) vs. non‐dense (categories A, B), and (iii) extremely dense (category D) vs. moderately dense (categories A–C). The models were tested against the reference standard on the independent test set. AI‐assisted interpretation was performed by majority voting between the models and each radiologist's assessment.

Statistical Tests

Inter‐observer variability was assessed using linear‐weighted kappa (κ) statistics. Kappa statistics, accuracy, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were used to assess models against reference standard.

Results

In the independent test set, five readers showed an overall substantial agreement on tasks (i) and (ii), but moderate agreement for task (iii). The best‐performing model showed substantial agreement with reference standard for tasks (i) and (ii), but moderate agreement for task (iii). With the assistance of the AI models, almost perfect inter‐observer variability was obtained for tasks (i) (mean κ = 0.86), (ii) (mean κ = 0.94), and (iii) (mean κ = 0.94).

Data Conclusion

Deep learning and radiomics models have the potential to help reduce inter‐observer variability of breast density assessment.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Exponential stability and numerical analysis of Timoshenko system with dual‐phase‐lag thermoelasticity
Authors: Bouraoui Hamed Abderrahmane , Djebabla Abdelhak , Sahari Mohamed Lamine , Boulaaras Salah
Published: October 2023

This study aims to investigate the well‐posedness and stability of a thermoelastic Timoshenko system with non‐Fourier heat conduction. Specifically, we analyze the system using the dual‐phase‐lag (DPL) model, which incorporates two thermal relaxation times, and , to model non‐instantaneous heat propagation. Applying the semigroup approach, we demonstrate the existence and uniqueness of the solutions. Subsequently, we introduce a novel stability parameter using the multiplier method. Exponential decay is proven for the case of with . Using Gearhart–Prüss theorem, we show the lack of exponential stability when and . Numerically, we present a fully discrete approximation using the finite element method and the backward Euler scheme, and we provide some numerical simulations to show the discrete energy decay and the behavior of solutions.
Study of mercury resistance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy‐based metabolic profiling of a potent Bacillus tropicus strain from forest soil
Authors: Saha Barnan K. , Roy Vivek , Saha Jayanti , Chatterjee Abhik , Pal Ayon
Published: October 2023

Mercury (Hg) is a highly toxic heavy metal and Hg‐resistant indigenous bacterial isolates may offer a green and cost‐effective bioremediation strategy to counter Hg contamination. In this study, a potent Hg‐resistant bacterium was isolated from the forest soil of a bird sanctuary. Identification using matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization‐time of flight mass spectrometry depicted the isolate as a strain of Bacillus tropicus, validated by morphological, biochemical, and molecular studies. The isolate demonstrated biological Hg removal efficiency and capacity of 50.67% and 19.76 mg g−1, respectively. The plasmid borne resistance determinant, merA, encoding mercuric reductase, was detected in the bacterium endowing it with effective Hg volatilization and resistance capability. A Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopic comparative metabolic profiling revealed the involvement of various functional groups like –COOH, ‐CH2, ‐OH, PO4− and so on, resulting in differential spectral patterns of the bacterium both in control and Hg‐exposed situations. A temporal variance in metabolic signature was also observed during the early and mid‐log phase of growth in the presence of Hg. The bacterium described in this study is the first indigenous Hg‐resistant strain isolated from the Uttar Dinajpur region, which could be further explored and exploited as a potent bioresource for Hg remediation.
Potentially traumatic pandemic stressors and anxiety‐related sleep disturbance among Latinx persons
Authors: Buitron Victor , Mayorga Nubia Angelina , Vujanovic Anka A. , Schmidt Norman B. , Zvolensky Michael J.
Published: October 2023

Latinx persons have endured elevated rates of traumatic stress related to the COVID‐19 pandemic. The effect of potentially traumatic pandemic stressors on anxiety‐related sleep disturbances, a factor implicated in trauma‐related psychopathology, is largely unexamined in this population. The present study evaluated the additive effect of potentially traumatic pandemic stressors (e.g., hospitalization) on anxiety‐related sleep disturbances. Further, given within‐group disparities across Latinx communities with intersectional identities and COVID‐19–related risk factors, comparisons of the likelihood of pandemic stressors, by subgroup (i.e., older persons, individuals with chronic illness, and Black Latinx persons), were evaluated. Participants were 292 (29.8% female, Mage = 35.03 years, SD = 8.72) Latinx adults who completed a questionnaire battery during a period of high contagion (June 2020–July 2021). There were statistically significant differences across groups such that participants who experienced any potentially traumatic pandemic stressors reported elevated scores on indices of anxiety, depressive symptoms, and anxiety‐related sleep disturbances compared to those who had not experienced these stressors, ds = 0.54–93. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that hospitalization was associated with anxiety‐related sleep disturbances after controlling for age, sex, chronic illness history, other stressors, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and somatic symptom burden, ΔR2 = .01. Black Latinx identity and chronic illness were significantly associated with potentially traumatic pandemic‐related stressors. This is the first empirical work to evaluate the role of potentially traumatic pandemic stressors on sleep disturbances among Latinx persons and indicates that hospitalization in a pandemic context has an incremental effect on sleep disturbances in this minoritized group.
A detailed reaction mechanism for hexamethyldisiloxane combustion via experiments and ReaxFF molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Huang Yaosong , Chen Hao
Published: October 2023

Hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) is one of the main impurities in the syngas produced from sewage and landfill plants. In order to utilize this syngas or control the characteristics of the generated silica particles, it is crucial to understand the chemical kinetics of HMDSO combustion. This study investigated the process of HMDSO combustion using synchrotron radiation mass spectrometry (SRMS), gas chromatography (GC), and ReaxFF molecular dynamics simulations. First, the force field used for ReaxFF simulation was validated by comparing the energies of different bond lengths, bond angles, and dihedral angles with the ones from DFT calculations. Good agreements were found. Then, ReaxFF simulations of HMDSO combustion with this force field were conducted under various conditions, which include different equivalence ratios (0.67, 1.0, and 1.5) and temperatures ranging from 2000 to 3500 K. The oxidation characteristics of HMDSO were analyzed, including the evolution of gas products and particle formation. Finally, based on the results from experiments and ReaxFF simulations, the reaction pathways, reaction lists, and reaction kinetics data during HMDSO combustion were obtained. A detailed reaction mechanism was proposed and validated by applying it in modeling the H2/HMDSO/O2 combustion systems. The temperature and part of the gas products such as CO and CO2 as well as SiO could be well predicted.
Ultra‐Low‐Crosstalk Silicon Arrayed‐Waveguide Grating (De)multiplexer with 1.6‐nm Channel Spacing
Authors: Shen Xiaowan , Li Chenlei , Zhao Weike , Li Huan , Shi Yaocheng , Dai Daoxin
Published: October 2023

A silicon arrayed‐waveguide grating (AWG) with 1.6‐nm channel spacing is proposed and realized with high performances for dense wavelength‐division (de)multiplexing systems. For the present AWG, the arrayed waveguides are broadened uniformly to be far beyond the singlemode regime, so that random phase errors and propagation loss are minimized even without any additional requirement for the fabrication process. Particularly, Euler‐bends are introduced for the arrayed waveguides to shrink the device footprint and suppress any excitation of higher‐order modes. As an example, a 16 × 16 AWG (de)multiplexer is realized with a compact footprint of 600 × 800 µm2 by using single‐etched 220‐nm‐thick silicon photonic waveguides. When using the fabricated AWG to demultiplex the channels launched from the central input port, the excess loss and the adjacent‐channel crosstalk of the central output port are ≈2.2 and ≈−31.7 dB, respectively. Such an AWG is one of the best among silicon implementations.
Energy conservation for weak solutions to the pressureless Euler–Navier–Stokes system in three‐dimensional space
Authors: Chen Senming
Published: October 2023

We study the energy conservation for the weak solution of the 3D Euler–Navier–Stokes system. we provide two sufficient conditions on the regularity of weak solutions to guarantee the conservation of total energy, which also including the initial energy. Due to the couple structure between inhomogeneous Euler equation and incompressible Navier–Stokes system, we adopt a variant of the method from R. Chen and C. Yu (J. Math. Pures Appl. 131 (2019), 1–16.) and J. Lions (Rend. Semin. Mat. Univ. Padova 30 (1960), 16–23.) to deal with the density of Euler flows and velocity of Navier–Stokes fluid.
A branch‐and‐price algorithm for identical parallel machine scheduling with multiple milestones
Authors: Zhong Weiya , Cui Jia , Jiang Yiwei
Published: October 2023

This article considers an identical parallel‐machine task scheduling problem motivated by operations management of online services. A task with an integer processing time can be split into sub‐tasks with integer processing times. Each task has multiple integer milestones and at each milestone a nonnegative penalty will occur. The penalty value of a task at a milestone is a convex nonincreasing function of the completed amount by this milestone. Our objective is to determine a feasible schedule for all the tasks on given identical parallel machines, such that the sum of all tasks' total penalty at all milestones is minimized. We prove the NP‐hardness of this problem in the ordinary sense and develop a branch‐and‐price algorithm. Computational experiments utilizing data from an online service operations survey show that this algorithm is singularly efficient and promising.
Robust optimization for the integrated berth allocation and quay crane assignment problem
Authors: Wang Chong , Miao Lixin , Zhang Canrong , Wu Tao , Liang Zhe
Published: October 2023

This paper studies the berth allocation and quay crane assignment problem (denoted by BACAP) under uncertainty. We assume that the ships' arrival and operation time is uncertain in this problem. We merge the proactive and reactive strategies to address the two‐stage robust optimization (denoted by RO) model for the BACAP to obtain a complete schedule with robustness. We obtain the berth allocation and quay crane assignment with a proactive strategy in the first stage. In the second stage, we formulate a rescheduling model with a reactive strategy considering the sensitivity towards the change in the complete schedule. The second stage model is based on the prospect theory, a quantitative way to describe the stakeholders' perception, including the port managers and shipowners, of the deviation from the baseline plan. The two stages are iterated until a favorable schedule with high robustness is found. To illustrate the superiority of the two‐stage robust optimization model with the prospect theory for the complete schedule, we give an intuitive example to compare the performance among the related models. The two‐stage RO model with the prospect theory for the complete schedule can generate a lower cost and higher robustness schedule. As for the solution methods, the column and constraint generation (denoted by C&CG) algorithm is applied to obtain the exact solution for the two‐stage RO model. Moreover, we propose the scenario‐constrained C&CG (denoted by SC) algorithm, which can reduce constraints and variables for the master problem to accelerate the solving process of the two‐stage RO model. In addition, the optimality of the SC algorithm is verified by analyzing the pattern of the occurrence of the worst‐case scenarios. Besides, to tackle the large‐scale instances, we propose the schedule‐fixed (denoted by SF) algorithm, in which the results of the previous iterations are treated as fixed. The SF algorithm can increase computing efficiency with a small gap compared to the optimal solution value. Furthermore, extensive numerical experiments are conducted on both real‐life instances and randomly generated instances to verify the superiority and generality of our model and algorithms.
Crack phase‐field enhanced finite cover method for dynamic fracture at finite strain
Authors: Han Jike , Hirayama Daigo , Shintaku Yuichi , Moriguchi Shuji , Terada Kenjiro
Published: October 2023

This study presents an enhancement of the diffusive‐discrete crack transition scheme (10.1002/nme.7169) to describe dynamic fracture at finite strain. In the enhanced scheme, the crack initiation, propagation, and bifurcation processes are determined from an energy minimization problem based on crack phase‐field theory, and the predicted diffusive crack is replaced by the discrete representation using the finite cover method. In the meantime, numerical damping is introduced to maintain computational stability and avoid distortion of the physical mesh in the finite cover context. By taking advantage of the features of the diffusive‐discrete crack transition scheme, the proposed approach enables us to stably simulate a series of dynamic fracture events involving crack initiation at an arbitrary location, propagation, and bifurcation in arbitrary directions, arbitrary divisions of an original object into multiple portions, and independent motions of divided portions. After spatial and temporal discretizations by the finite cover method and the Newmark method are described, as well as the simulation algorithm of the enhanced finite cover‐based staggered iterative procedure for dynamic fracture, several representative numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the performance and capabilities of the developed approach.
Assessment of menstrual health in adolescent and young adults with sickle cell disease
Authors: Notice Brittany , Soffer Elizabeth , Tickle Kelly , Xiang Yijin , Gee Beatrice E. , Sidonio, Jr Robert F. , Sokkary Nancy , Batsuli Glaivy
Published: October 2023

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is associated with hypercoagulability, but adults with SCD also have an increased incidence of bleeding including heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). HMB is common among adolescent females, but the impact of HMB in pediatric SCD is unclear. The objectives of this study were to examine menstrual health status, knowledge, and quality of life (QOL).

Methods

We performed a single‐institutional multi‐clinic cross‐sectional study comprised of a five‐part survey in pediatric participants with SCD. The survey included the validated Menstrual Bleeding Questionnaire (MBQ) and Self‐administered Bleeding Assessment Tool (Self‐BAT).

Results

Forty‐eight participants with a median age of 16 years (range: 12–21 years) completed the study. The mean age at onset of menarche was 13 ± 1.3 years. On the MBQ, 29% reported heavy/very heavy menstrual flow, 61% reported moderate or severe dysmenorrhea, and 96% had menses lasting less than 1 week. The Self‐BAT revealed that 42% of participants reported a history of HMB. Participants with severe dysmenorrhea or HMB had higher MBQ scores, corresponding to worse QOL. Despite this, less than 20% of participants had attempted any hormonal therapy for menstrual regulation. The odds of hormonal therapy utilization were comparable among participants on hydroxyurea versus not on hydroxyurea (odds ratio 1.58, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.33–7.56).

Conclusions

The prevalence of HMB and dysmenorrhea is high among adolescents and young women with SCD. Strategies that incorporate menstrual health assessment into routine medical care in this population would help address this important area of pediatric health.
Experimental investigation on failure mechanisms of hybrid steel/GFRP hat‐shaped beams under bending loading
Authors: Duan Libin , Lu Debiao , Liu Xing , Zhang Yu , Xu Wei , Du Zhanpeng , Jiang Haobing
Published: October 2023

The bending failure mechanism and energy absorption characteristics of hybrid metal/composite structures are the keys to the side collision safety of automobiles. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the bending behavior and failure mechanism of hybrid Steel/GFRP hat‐shaped beams under three‐point bending. Firstly, both quasi‐static and dynamic three‐point bending tests were conducted on Steel, GFRP and hybrid Steel/GFRP hat‐shaped beams. Then, the effect of layups and loading speeds on the bending failure behaviors of GFRP hat‐shaped beams were investigated, and the five stages of the bending process of GFRP hat‐shaped beams were exposed. Finally, the failure mechanism of hybrid Steel/GFRP hat‐shaped beams under both quasi‐static and dynamic three‐point bending were investigated. It is found that the failure mechanism is related to the interaction effect between the Steel and GFRP parts in the hybrid Steel/GFRP hat‐shaped beam. In the bending failure process, the crack propagation in GFRP parts is delayed by the plastic deformation of the connected Steel parts, which improves the energy absorption and load carrying capacities of the hybrid Steel/GFRP hat‐shaped beam, and this improvement in the whole bending process is quantitatively exposed in this work. Besides, it is found that with the same impact energy, the load carrying capacity of the hybrid Steel/GFRP hat‐shaped beam can be increased by the loading roll diameter increasing.

Highlights

A bending process with five stages of GFRP hat‐shaped beams is exposed.

The loading speed increases impact loads due to the strain rate strengthening.

The interaction between Steel and GFRP improves the load carrying capacity.

The load carrying improvement is due to crack propagation delay in GFRP parts.

The greater loading roll diameter increases the load carrying capacity.