bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Cascade Model to Detect and Segment Lung Nodule Using YOLOv8 and Resnet50U‐Net
Authors: Mammeri Selma , Haouam Mohamed‐Yassine , Amroune Mohamed , Bendib Issam , Benkhelifa Elhadj
Published: January 2025

In our research, we introduce a sophisticated “two‐stage” or cascade model designed to enhance the precision of lung nodule analysis. This innovative approach integrates two crucial processes: detection and segmentation. In the initial stage, a specialized object detection algorithm efficiently scans medical images to identify potential areas of interest, specifically focusing on lung nodules. This plays a crucial role in minimizing the segmentation area, particularly in the context of lung imaging, where the structures exhibit heterogeneity. This algorithm helps focus the segmentation process only on the relevant areas, reducing unnecessary computation and potential errors. Subsequently, the second stage employs advanced segmentation algorithms to precisely delineate the boundaries of the identified nodules, providing detailed and accurate contours. The combination of object detection and segmentation not only enhances the overall accuracy of lung cancer detection but also minimizes false positives, streamlines the workflow for radiologists, and provides a more comprehensive understanding of potential abnormalities. Additionally, it improves the efficiency and accuracy of segmentation, especially in cases where the complexity and heterogeneity of the lung structure make the segmentation task more challenging. This proposed method has been tested on the LIDC‐IDRI dataset, demonstrating favorable results in both nodule detection and segmentation steps, with 81.3% mAP and 83.54% DSC, respectively. These results serve as evidence that the proposed method effectively improves the accuracy of lung nodule detection and segmentation.
Analysing Land Use and Land Cover Dynamics (1972–2020) and Evaluating Drainage System Efficacy: A Case Study of Bangladesh Polders
Authors: Jubaed Md Arifin , Mishra Ashish , Arya D. S. , Rahman Md Mizanur
Published: January 2025

In recent years, aquaculture has significantly expanded in tropical and subtropical developing countries. This expansion has led to substantial economic, food security, and environmental impacts. The southwestern region of the Ganges–Brahmaputra Basin faces severe waterlogging problems, largely because the expansion of shrimp farming affects local livelihoods. This study examines the consequences of land‐use changes in the polders of Bangladesh by analysing 48 years of Landsat imagery from 1972 to 2020. This highlights a significant shift from rice cultivation to shrimp farming, leading to more waterlogged areas and fewer settlements because of poor drainage, freshwater scarcity, and increased salinity. We developed a drainage model for the polders via MIKE11 software to assess the area's drainage capacity and found that the current systems are insufficient, especially for monsoon drainage. This inadequacy encouraged a shift toward shrimp farming. Our research aims to shed light on the environmental and economic challenges of the area, promoting sustainable management of water resources. The detailed insights from this study provide a framework to develop practical and united strategies to address waterlogging issues and minimize their varied impacts on the people and economy of the region.
Deep Learning Model‐Driven Channel Estimation and Equalization for Underwater Acoustic OFDM Receivers
Authors: Cui Xuerong , Zhang Chuang , Li Juan , Jiang Bin , Li Shibao , Liu Jianhang
Published: January 2025

The performance of traditional channel estimation algorithms is seriously degraded by the complex and variable underwater acoustic (UWA) environment. In this article, we proposed a model‐driven UWA communication receiver that is based on orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), and the model mainly consists of two parts: channel estimation and equalization. The channel estimation module uses a convolutional neural network (CNN) to extract UWA channel state features from the pre‐estimated channel frequency domain response (CFR), and then implements the equalization of the receiver based on a long short‐term memory (LSTM). The equalization module uses discrete Fourier transform (DFT) to denoise the LS channel estimation and use it to construct the pre‐equalized symbols, meanwhile, the obtained pre‐equalized symbols, the received signals, and the CFR are used as inputs, which effectively improves the generalization capability of the receiver. Experiments show that the proposed model has more accurate recovery accuracy compared with the traditional algorithm and deep learning (DL) based receiver, especially when the channel environment is mismatched, the model shows better robustness.
Recognizing complexity and taking action: Supporting adolescents' foundational literacy skills in culturally and linguistically sustaining ways
Authors: Lupo Sarah , Townsend Dianna , Knecht Rachel , Massey Dixie
Published: January 2025

The editors of the special issue share themes from the research about how to develop foundational literacy skills for adolescents with a culturally and linguistically sustaining lens. The authors define foundational literacy skills and share a framework for supporting learners' development of these skills with culturally and linguistically sustaining pedagogy at the center of planning and instruction.
Lymph Node Yield/Ratio, Neutrophil‐Lymphocyte Ratio: Prognostic Factors in cN0 Laryngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Salem Eman Hamdy , Habaza Fedaey Ramadan , Ebada Hisham Atef , Abu Shady Eslam Farid , Elkotamy Somaya Noaman , Thabet Ahmed Hossam , Abdelmeguid Ahmed Salama , Kamal Elsharawy , Hamza Ashraf , Abdelaziz Mahmoud , Tawfik Ali , Abd El‐Fattah Ahmed Musaad
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of lymph node yield (LNY), lymph node ratio (LNR), and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as prognostic factors, their impact on survival in patients with advanced laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC).

Methods

This multicentric retrospective study included 195 patients with clinical N0 advanced laryngeal carcinoma who underwent total laryngectomy and/or total pharyngolaryngectomy over 5 years. The number of lymph nodes extracted (LNY) and the number of positive nodes were counted. The lymph node ratio “LNR” was calculated as follows: (positive nodes /LNY). Moreover, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was calculated and documented for analysis.

Results

The mean 5‐years DFS and overall survival (OS) was 33 and 35 months. The following were statistically significant factors negatively associated with overall survival; LNR (p = 0.047), NLR > 7 (p = 0.05), preoperative tracheostomy (p = 0.016), infiltrated safety margin (p = 0.01), postoperative radiotherapy (p < 0.001), N stage (p = 0.019), and unilateral neck dissection (p = 0.03). On the other hand, DFS was negatively associated with LNR (p = 0.001), N stage (p = 0.001), and infiltration of the surgical margins (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

LNY and LNR are both linked to survival outcomes following neck dissection in patients with clinical N0, locally advanced laryngeal carcinoma, where higher LNY and lower LNR correlated with improved survival and could be easily incorporated into cancer staging systems to aid in the prognostic stratification of patients. Additionally, NLR could act as a cost‐effective inflammatory biomarker predicting poor prognosis in LSCC.

Level of evidence

III Laryngoscope, 2025
Prolyl 4‐hydroxylase α‐subunit family regulation of type I collagen deposition and IL17RB/c‐Jun activation synergistically mediate choline dehydrogenase promotion of colorectal cancer metastasis
Authors: Yang Xiaowen , Li Yifei , Shen Xinzhuang , Wang Shuying , Zhang Zhuqing , Du Wenfei , Yang Chenglong , Jiang Xinyu , Zhang Xiaoyuan , Huang Yongming , Shen Wenzhi
Published: January 2025

Metastasis continues to pose a significant challenge in tumor treatment. Evidence indicates that choline dehydrogenase (CHDH) is crucial in tumorigenesis. However, the functional role of CHDH in colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis remains unreported. The study explored the functional role and mechanism of CHDH in CRC metastasis using human CRC tissues and a xenograft mouse model. CHDH expression was significantly higher in CRC compared to normal tissues and showed a positively correlation with CRC tumor‐nodes‐metastasis stage. CRC cell lines showed increased CHDH expression compared to normal controls. CHDH knockdown suppressed cell migration in vitro and tumor metastasis in vivo. Similarly, ectopic CHDH expression enhanced cell migration in vitro and tumor metastasis in vivo. Results suggested that CHDH affected the histone H3 trimethylation levels, which upregulated prolyl 4‐hydroxylase α‐subunit (P4HA) family gene (P4HA1/2/3) expression, further stabilizing collagen I expression and increasing IL17RB expression, which promoted downstream c‐Jun activation. Together, P4HA and IL17RB promote CRC cell metastasis. P4HA and c‐Jun inhibitors abolished CHDH‐mediated CRC cell metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, the above findings provide novel evidence that that CHDH mediates CRC cell metastasis and may be a promising target for metastatic CRC therapy.
The fight to fulfill the promise of parity will continue in 2025
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: January 2025

More than 16 years after the enactment of landmark insurance parity legislation for mental health and substance use benefits, the promise of truly equitable treatment has remained largely out of reach. Whether the quest for parity is being waged through the regulatory process, via court arguments or in everyday practice, mental health treatment providers and advocates continue to brace for a bruising fight at every turn.
Real‐Time Subcutaneous Arterial Navigation for Thinning of an Anterolateral Thigh Flap Using Photoacoustic Imaging and Projection Mapping: A Case Report
Authors: Tsuge Itaru , Saito Susumu , Munisso Maria Chiara , Kosaka Tomoko , Takaya Ayako , Liu Chang , Yamamoto Goshiro , Morimoto Naoki
Published: January 2025

Thinning of anterolateral thigh flap is challenging. Anatomical studies have shown variations in arterial branching patterns in the subcutaneous layer, which were suspected to be the reason for the high frequency of thinning failures. We attempted to visualize subcutaneous arterial courses preoperatively and perform thinning of perforator flaps using this information appropriately. We accumulated evidence on the accuracy of noninvasive vascular visualization using photoacoustic tomography (PAT). In the present case, we applied a medical imaging projection system (MIPS), which enabled real‐time surgical navigation using indocyanine green (ICG) emission signals, to use photoacoustic information intraoperatively during the flap thinning procedure. A 69‐year‐old woman underwent half‐tongue resection using the pull‐through method for right‐sided tongue cancer. Preoperative PAT was performed 5 days before surgery. The 12 × 6‐cm area took ~8 min to scan. We used an ICG test card containing ICG‐positive control material cut into strips to show tentative artery lines by projection mapping. The transparent vascular map was laminated and sterilized. MIPS captured ICG fluorescence signals that penetrated the anterolateral thigh flap and continuously projected the purple area on the reverse side of the flap, guiding the position of the tentative arteries. A 20 × 6.5‐cm anterolateral thigh flap was elevated with the distal part of the reconstructed tongue and proximal de‐epithelialized part to fill the pull‐thorough tunnel in the submandibular region. Active bleeding was observed when cutting marginal fat tissue near the purple line of the distal ALT flap projected by MIPS. The study protocol did not include a highly invasive trial for MIPS‐guided thinning; therefore, we removed minimal marginal fat tissue. The ALT flap showed no postoperative complications while maintaining conversation and swallowing functions. We present the concept of subcutaneous arterial real‐time navigation surgery using PAT and MIPS for safe, easy, and fast flap thinning procedures in the future.
Examination of Elder Abuse and Death Anxiety in Older Adults With a Chronic Disease
Authors: Karaman Seda , Bahçecioğlu Turan Gülcan , Çayır Yılmaz Merve , Yilmaz Karabulutlu Elanur
Published: January 2025

Aim

This study was conducted to examine elder abuse and death anxiety in older adults who had chronic diseases.

Design

The present study is a cross‐sectional and correlational study.

Methods

This study was conducted with 200 patients who met the research criteria and agreed to participate in the study and who were admitted to the internal medicine outpatient clinics of a university hospital in Elazig, eastern Turkey. Data were collected by using ‘Descriptive Information Form’ Hwalek‐Sengstock Elderly Abuse Screening Test (H‐S/EAST) ‘Death Anxiety Scale (DAS)’.

Results

The mean DAS score of 8.66 ± 2.87 was evaluated as high and the mean H‐S/EAST score of 6.41 ± 3.78 was evaluated as moderate risk of abuse. It was found that the independent variable H‐S/EAST total score affected DAS total score positively (β = 0.633) and explained 38% (p < 0.001). Among the variables included in the model, gender, age and employment status were found to be positive (β = 0.243, β = 0.222, β = 0.222) statistically significant predictors of H‐S/EAST total score. In addition, it was found that gender was a positive (β = 0.318) and statistically significant predictor of DAS total score (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Older individuals with chronic illness have a moderate risk of abuse and a high level of death anxiety. As the risk of elder abuse increases, death anxiety also increases. In addition, gender is an important predictor of elder abuse and death anxiety. In line with these results, it is recommended to identify groups with high potential for abuse, to organise awareness‐raising training programs to prevent abuse and to conduct evaluations for abuse and death anxiety at regular intervals. Also, the results of this research will contribute to nursing literature and will be useful for future interventional research.

Public Contribution

There is no public contribution.
Mental Health Services for Serious Mental Illness: Scoping Review of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Roson Rodriguez Pablo , Chen Xiao , Arancibia Marcelo , Madrid Eva , Shokraneh Farhad , Adams Clive E. , Franco Juan Víctor Ariel
Published: January 2025

Aims

This review aims to classify the evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on mental health services (MHS) for people with serious mental illness (SMI) available in the Cochrane Schizophrenia Group's (CSzG) specialised register.

Design

Scoping review.

Methods

We retrieved and screened RCTs of service‐level interventions considering non‐pharmacological approaches for mental healthcare of the CSzG register. We classified and collected the main characteristics of the RCTs using a customised data extraction and charting form based on DESDE‐LTS classification.

Results

We included 233 out of 262 total trial registries. Most of the studies were conducted in China, 136 (58%), 57 (24%) North America and 26 (11%) Europe. We classified the studies as ambulatory assistance 80 (34%), day services/out‐patient care 38 (16%), residential services 44 (19%), accessibility to care 19 (8%), information/assessment 39 (17%), self‐help and voluntary help 10 (4%), e‐health 52 (22%), and discharge services 17 (7%).

Conclusions

We found a large number of trials that investigated the effects of mental health services for people with SMI. Trials classification was difficult due to the poor report of the characteristics of these complex interventions. This database can be used to plan and prioritise systematic reviews according to the needs of stakeholders.

Relevance Statement

The study is of interest to mental health nursing because it studies the different services in which nurses play a fundamental role with implications in the nursing practice, education, research or leadership and management.
Neurobiology of COVID‐19‐Associated Psychosis/Schizophrenia: Implication of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Signaling
Authors: Nawa Hiroyuki , Murakami Masaaki
Published: January 2025

COVID‐19 exhibits not only respiratory symptoms but also neurological/psychiatric symptoms rarely including delirium/psychosis. Pathological studies on COVID‐19 provide evidence that the cytokine storm, in particular (epidermal growth factor) EGF receptor (EGFR, ErbB1, Her1) activation, plays a central role in the progression of viral replication and lung fibrosis. Of note, SARS‐CoV‐2 virus (specifically, S1 spike domain) mimics EGF and directly transactivates EGFR, preceding the inflammatory process. In agreement, the anticancer drugs targeting EGFR such as Nimotuzumab and tyrosine kinase inhibitors are markedly effective on COVID‐19. However, these data might raise a provisional caution regarding implication of psychiatric disorder such as schizophrenia. The author's group has been investigating the etiologic and neuropathologic associations of EGFR signaling with schizophrenia. There are significant molecular associations between schizophrenia and EGFR ligand levels in blood as well as in the brain. In addition, perinatal challenges of EGFR ligands and intraventricular administration of EGF to rodents and monkeys both resulted in severe behavioral and/or electroencephalographic endophenotypes relevant to this disorder. These animal models also display postpubertal abnormality in soliloquy‐like self‐vocalization as well as in intercortical functional connectivity. Here, we discuss neuropsychiatric implication of coronavirus infection and its interaction with the EGFR system, by searching related literatures in PubMed database as of the end of 2023.
The Role of Integrated Governance Principles in the Fight Against Corruption: A Configurational Analysis
Authors: Zarghami Seyed Ashkan
Published: January 2025

Good governance offers a transformative approach to controlling corruption; however, existing literature on the governance‐corruption nexus is limited by two significant flaws: (1) it overlooks the combined effects of governance principles on corruption levels, and (2) it relies on traditional statistical methods rooted in correlational arguments that fail to address asymmetric problems, where factors that drive success in some cases may have little or no impact in others. To overcome these shortcomings, this research applies fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to data from 32 European countries, uncovering multiple configurations that lead to successful corruption control. Drawing on institutional theory, the findings highlight three essential strategies: governments must legitimate their actions by building public consensus, securing the support of political parties and legislatures, and leveraging media to establish cognitive legitimacy. Additionally, open systems theory reveals that governments must move beyond internal governance, fostering dynamic interactions with their external environments through policy feedback and societal consultation. The study provides practical insights for policymakers, outlining specific combinations of governance principles that are necessary and complementary for effectively mitigating corruption.
Genomic and Clinicopathological Characterization of CRLF2‐Rearranged Mixed Phenotype Acute Leukemia
Authors: Han Lina , Zheng Ruifang , Fuda Franklin , Cantu Miguel D. , Koduru Prasad , Jaso Jesse M. , Weinberg Olga , Germans Sharon , Chen Mingyi , Xu Jing , Chen Weina
Published: January 2025

Rearrangements of cytokine receptor‐like factor 2 gene (CRLF2) are present in ∼50% of B‐lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (B‐ALL) with BCR::ABL1‐like features. Herein, we report three patients with CRLF2‐rearranged mixed phenotype acute leukemia (MPAL). All three cases were B/myeloid MPAL in young patients harboring P2RY8::CRLF2 or IGH::CRLF2 with additional genomic alterations in signaling (JAK and RAS) and cell cycle (CDKN2A/B) pathways, a genomic profile similar to that in BCR::ABL1‐like B‐ALL. Our study is the first case series to demonstrate clinicopathological and genomic features of this underrecognized entity. We recommend upfront genetic/molecular testing to timely diagnose and further characterize MPAL with BCR::ABL1‐like features.
Zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 nanocrystals synthesized and decorated carbon fibers by electrophoretic deposition for enhancing interfacial properties of epoxy‐based composites
Authors: Lei Xue , Li Xiaoyu , Sun Bin , Zhou Xinyu , Chen Peng , Liu Ningning , Zhao Min , Zhang Yushen , Huang Yudong , Wang Caifeng
Published: January 2025

Zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) was used to enhance the interfacial strength of composites due to its large specific surface area, uniform pore size, and high stability. Morphology‐controllable ZIF‐8 nanocrystals were synthesized by solvent method and a layer of small‐sized and height crystalline ZIF‐8 was deposited on carbon fibers via an efficient electrophoretic deposition (EPD) way. The results showed that interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and tensile strength (TS) of carbon fibers/epoxy composites and the TS of carbon fiber were enhanced by 43.56% and 25.48%, respectively. The strong interfacial adhesion strength between carbon fibers and epoxy was attributed to improving the wettability, ionic interaction and the mechanical interlocking effect induced by porous ZIF‐8, which led to effective energy absorption and load transfer. This highly efficient and controllable method is believed to improve the mechanical properties of carbon fiber composites for a wide range of industrial uses.

Highlights

ZIF‐8s in different sizes and morphology were synthesized by solvent method.

MOF was deposited firstly onto carbon fibers though electrophoretic deposition.

Materials Studio was used to evaluate the strong anchoring strength.

ILSS of composites was enhanced by 43.56%.
Impact damage prediction method of glass/carbon fiber hybrid composites based on particle swarm optimization–backpropagation neural network
Authors: Chen Long , Lu Licheng , Gu Demeng , Liu Zhanqiang
Published: January 2025

Damage to glass/carbon fiber reinforced hybrid composites from ballast impacts was a critical risk during high‐speed rail operation. In this study, strain sensors were employed to predict the maximum strain values induced by impact. Additionally, a finite element model (FEM) was established to obtain impact signal datasets. Train speed, maximum ballast diameter, and impact angle were selected as signal features. A particle swarm optimization–backpropagation neural network (PSO‐BPNN) damage prediction model was developed and optimized using the response surface methodology. The optimization improved prediction accuracy by 43% compared to the unoptimized model, reducing the mean squared error to below 0.0015%. Different sensor monitoring layout schemes were proposed and the results showed that the diagonal sensor layout achieved the highest monitoring accuracy, with a mean squared error of 0.0043%. The PSO‐BPNN model achieved a prediction success rate of 96%.

Highlights

Integrating FEM with machine learning enables real‐time composite damage prediction.

Hyperparameter optimization enhanced the PSO‐BPNN model's accuracy.

Model prediction accuracy exceeds 96%.

The effect of different sensor layouts on prediction accuracy was tested.
Enhancing interfacial adhesion in carbon fiber‐reinforced composites through polydopamine‐assisted nanomaterial coatings
Authors: Sharma Prabhjot , Sharma Sahendra P.
Published: January 2025

This study explores the surface modification of carbon fiber (CF) with multi‐walled carbon nanotubes, graphene, and zinc oxide nanoparticles to improve interfacial adhesion in carbon fiber‐reinforced composites. A polydopamine (PDA) layer was used as a coupling agent to enhance the deposition and uniformity of the nanomaterial coatings on CF. The novelty lies in using PDA, which mimics mussel adhesive proteins, offering robust adhesion due to its amine and catechol functional groups. Elemental mapping through energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy, along with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and x‐ray diffraction analyses, confirmed the successful nanomaterial deposition while preserving the CF's graphitic structure. Nanoparticle structures at the nano‐level were examined under a transmission electron microscope. Contact angle measurements showed improved wettability, decreasing from 85.9° to 52.8°, and increasing surface energy from 5.10 to 44.1 J/m2, indicating better adhesion potential. The modified CF surface demonstrated improved interfacial bonding between the matrix and CF making them promising candidates for applications in hydrogen storage systems and energy storage devices, such as structural supercapacitors and batteries.

Highlights

Surface modification of carbon fibers to enhance interfacial properties.

Nanomaterials were grown in a two‐step process on catalyst‐pretreated carbon fibers using dip coating.

Uniform nanomaterial coating on carbon fibers confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscope analysis.

Increased functionality of carbon fibers demonstrated by FTIR spectra.

Improved wettability and adhesion confirmed by contact angle and surface energy measurements.
Breakdown field strength and corona resistance of SiTiB/EP nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Boxuan , Chen Hao , Zhao Wei , Weng Ling , Sun Minghao , Zhang Jing , Yin Shuang , Jiang Mingyue , Wang Chunping , Shi Xiangyu
Published: January 2025

This paper describes the process of designing and creating SiTiB nanocomposite oxides by utilizing phenyltriethoxysilane (PTES), tributyl borate, and butyl titanate as monomers. The SiTiB/EP nanocomposite was then created using ultrasonic dispersion and thermal curing. Investigation of the effects of different doping levels of SiTiB nanocomposite oxides on the dielectric properties, breakdown strength, corona resistance lifetime, volume resistivity, and electrical aging threshold of nanocomposites. The findings indicate that the introduction of SiTiB nanocomposite oxides in epoxy resins (EPs) does not result in the growth of the dielectric loss of the nanocomposites. With the rise in SiTiB nanocomposite oxide doping, the breakdown strength of SiTiB/EP nanocomposites exhibited a trend of initially augment and then decline, reaching a peak value of 289.2 kV/mm when the doping amount was 6 wt%. The corona‐resistant lifetime of SiTiB/EP nanocomposites exhibited a trend of initially augment and then decline with the rise of SiTiB nanocomposite oxide doping, and the maximum value of corona‐resistant lifetime was 311 min when the doping amount was 6 wt%, which was 5.03 times of the pure EP. The experimental results demonstrate that the incorporation of SiTiB nanocomposite oxides can enhance both the breakdown strength and corona‐resistant lifetime of the nanocomposites, without causing an increase in their dielectric loss.

Highlights

SiTiB composite oxides were designed and synthesized.

Analyzing the properties of SiTiB/EP composites with different doping levels.

SiTiB/EP composites have low dielectric loss.

SiTiB/EP composites have a longer corona‐resistance lifetime.

SiTiB/EP composites have high breakdown field strengths.
Characterizing the In Utero Phenome of the Chiari II Malformation—A Network Medicine Approach, Using Fetal MRI
Authors: Shi Hui , Prayer Daniela , Leinkauf Joel , Tischer Johannes , Li Xu , Kienast Patric , Khalaveh Farjad , Binder Julia , Kasprian Gregor
Published: January 2025

Objective

To apply a network medicine‐based approach to analyze the phenome of the prenatal fetal MRI and biometric findings in the Chiari II malformation (CM II) to detect specific patterns and co‐occurrences.

Method

A single‐center retrospective review of fetal MRI scans obtained in fetuses with CM II was performed. Co‐occurrence analysis was utilized to generate a phenotypic comorbidity matrix and visualized by Gephi software. Traditional univariate regression and geometric thin‐plate spline methodology were used to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the relationships between morphometric measurements and geometric landmarks of the spine, skull, and brain deformations.

Results

The CM II phenome consists of 35 nodes interconnected by 979 edges with a density of 0.828. Key “hubs” identified within this network include spinal bony defects, reduced posterior fossa dimensions, and vermis ectopia. The brain edema phenotype appearing only in the fetal stage but disappearing after postnatal surgery, links to increased postnatal morbidity and demonstrates distinct shape patterns by geometric analysis. Traditional univariate regression reveals correlations among spinal defects, posterior fossa dimensions, and caudal extent of vermis ectopia. The degree of brain rearrangement versus spinal bony rearrangement shows a correlation (r = 0.721, p = 0.0023) by partial least‐squares analysis.

Conclusion

The CM II prenatal phenome is a multifaceted network centered around three key elements—spinal bony defects, small posterior fossa, and vermis ectopia—with strong interconnections. Fetal brain edema emerged as an exclusively prenatally detectable and transient phenotype of prognostic relevance.
How Useful is Nuchal Translucency in Detecting Chromosomal Abnormalities Missed by Genome‐Wide NIPT and What Measurement Threshold Should Be Used?
Authors: Han May Phoo , Ferreira Ana Elizabeth Gomes de Melo Tavares , Elhindi James , McLennan Andrew C. , Scott Fergus
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Genome‐wide non‐invasive prenatal testing (gwNIPT) has screening limitations for detectable genetic conditions and cannot detect microdeletions/microduplications (MD) or triploidy. Nuchal translucency (NT) increases with gestation and with genetic or structural abnormalities. This study aims to determine the utility of NT measurement in detecting genetic abnormalities not identified by gwNIPT and the optimal NT threshold value.

Methods

A 4‐year retrospective study of singleton pregnancies undergoing first‐line gwNIPT aneuploidy screening where invasive prenatal testing by CVS/or amniocentesis was subsequently undertaken. Population proportions for static and multiple of the median (MoM) NT cut‐offs were derived from all 11–14 weeks ultrasound examinations.

Results

Among 919 pregnancies with gwNIPT and invasive testing, 338 had a single genetic abnormality. There were 9 false negative GwNIPT results and a further 26 undetectable abnormalities (18 MD, 8 triploidy) in this cohort. Twelve had a dual chromosomal abnormality, four of which returned a low‐risk gwNIPT. Thirty‐three “missed cases” also had a 13‐week scan, to which the various NT threshold values (3.0 mm, 1.6 MoM, 3.5 mm, and 1.9 MoM) were applied. In only 3 (9%) cases did the NT exceed 3.0 mm with similar detection rates (DR) for all higher cut‐offs. Static and MoM‐based NT cut‐offs had similar positive predictive values (PPV).

Conclusion

Enlarged NT measurement is a poor predictor of genetic abnormalities not identified by gwNIPT. When applied, the fixed NT cut‐off of 3.5 mm provides a low FPR with a similar DR to lower cut‐off thresholds, resulting in a higher PPV.
A Breakthrough Straightforward Multifunctional Hydrogel Platform Releasing Therapeutic Gas for Advanced Wound Healing
Authors: Tran Dieu Linh , Tran Quyen Thi Thuc , Nguyen Huyen Thanh Anh , Thi Ngoc Anh Phung , Phan Hai Nam , Nguyen Luan Minh , Dinh Tien‐Dung Nguyen , Le Ngoc Thuy Trang , Nguyen Ngoc Hoi , Nguyen Dai Hai
Published: January 2025

The advancement of therapeutic gas treatment has significantly impacted on the biomaterial field, with nitric oxide (NO) gaining attention for its safety, multifunctionality, and role in regulating biological processes. Thus, this study introduces a novel biocatalytic NO‐generating in situ forming hydrogel (GTA/Cu) to address wound‐related issues, fabricated through a simple, one‐step process by incorporating copper ions (Cu2+) into tannic acid‐conjugated gelatin (GTA). Herein, Cu2+ functions simultaneously as a crosslinking agent, NO‐generating catalyst, and antibacterial agent, while the galloyl groups in GTA enable effective tissue adhesion and diverse crosslinking interactions. The hydrogels' mechanical properties are controlled by varying Cu2+ concentrations (25, 50, and 100 mg/mL), with higher concentration accelerating gelation and enhancing mechanical strength. At 100 mg/mL Cu2+, the hydrogel releases NO for up to 12 days, reaching a cumulative concentration of around 200 μM. It also demonstrated robust antioxidant activity, high tissue adhesion (~20 kPa), and comparable antibacterial effects to Cu‐only samples. Interestingly, the released NO facilitates endothelial cell proliferation, accelerates scratch closure within 36 h, and stimulates new tube formation on Matrigel, showing comparable effects to VEGF. Additionally, it clearly promotes new blood vessel formation in vivo following subcutaneous injection, further highlighting its potential for practical wound healing applications.
Deciphering the Power of Resveratrol in Mitophagy: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Liu Hongmei , Song Yixuan , Wang Huan , Zhou Ying , Xu Min , Xian Jiaxun
Published: January 2025

Resveratrol (RES), a natural polyphenolic compound, has garnered significant attention for its therapeutic potential in various pathological conditions. This review explores how RES modulates mitophagy—the selective autophagic degradation of mitochondria essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis. RES promotes the initiation and execution of mitophagy by enhancing PINK1/Parkin‐mediated mitochondrial clearance, reducing reactive oxygen species production, and mitigating apoptosis, thereby preserving mitochondrial integrity. Additionally, RES regulates mitophagy through the activation of key molecular targets such as AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), deacetylases (SIRT1 and SIRT3), and mitochondrial quality control (MQC) pathways, demonstrating substantial therapeutic effects in multiple disease models. We provide a detailed account of the biosynthetic pathways, pharmacokinetics, and metabolic characteristics of RES, focusing on its role in mitophagy modulation and implications for medical applications. Potential adverse effects associated with its clinical use are also discussed. Despite its promising therapeutic properties, the clinical application of RES is limited by issues of bioavailability and pharmacokinetic profiles. Future research should concentrate on enhancing RES bioavailability and developing derivatives that precisely modulate mitophagy, thereby unlocking new avenues for disease therapy.
Directed Covalent Bond in Group 16 Dihydrides
Authors: Atsumi Michiko
Published: January 2025

The chemical bond lengths and angles of group 16 dihydrides were investigated. The relativistic effects are essential for heavy elements molecules calculations. Here we implement two relativistic effects, that is, scalar relativistic effects and spin‐orbit coupled zero‐order regular approximation. Concerning molecular symmetry, scalar relativistic effects and spin‐orbit relativistic effects show different descriptions. They are single group and double group, respectively. In addition, non‐relativistic effects were used for very weak relativistic effects on molecules and for comparing with and without relativistic effects for heavy element molecules. From H2O to PoH2, the bonding lengths and angles are due to sp hybridization orbitals, while LvH is mainly due to p‐orbital bonding, resulting in a different configuration of bond lengths and angles than other group 16 dihydrides. The chemical bonding of group 16 dihydrides was analyzed from a single group point of view by operating the double group results to a single group.
Robust Approximate Constraint‐Following Control Design Based on Udwadia–Kalaba Theory and Experimental Verification for Collaborative Robots With Inequality Constraints and Uncertainties
Authors: Ma Xinbao , Zhen Shengchao , Meng Chaoqun , Liu Xiaoli , Meng Guanjun , Chen Ye‐Hwa
Published: January 2025

A robust approximate constraint‐following control (RACC) approach is proposed in this article for collaborative robots with inequality constraints. The trajectory‐following control and boundary control of the robot are investigated. First, an explicit constraint equation for the collaborative robot system is established based on the Udwadia–Kalaba (U‐K) theory. Second, due to the monotone unbounded property of the tangent function, a special function is constructed to transform the joint output angles of the constrained robot into unconstrained state variables, and a new form of the robot constraint equation is obtained. Through this transformation, the joint motion of the robot will always be confined to specified angles and follow the desired trajectory. The constraint equation ensures the safety of the robot at the algorithmic level and innovatively solves the control problem of the equality and inequality of the robot's motion. According to theoretical analysis, the control approach can deal with uncertainty and satisfy both uniform boundedness (UB) and uniform ultimate boundedness (UUB) requirements. Finally, based on the rapid controller prototype CSPACE and a two‐degree‐of‐freedom collaborative robot platform, experimental verification is carried out. Numerical simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the proposed RACC approach with state transformation exhibits significant advantages in trajectory tracking performance and safety for collaborative robots.
Tokenizing Innovation: A Blockchain‐Based Innovation System as a Step Toward Achieving Sustainable Development
Authors: Xie Xin , Alnafrah Ibrahim , Dagestani Abd Alwahed
Published: January 2025

This study examines patenting patterns to identify inefficiencies in innovation systems and proposes a blockchain‐based solution to advance sustainable development goals (SDGs) 4, 8, 9, and 17. Using a dataset of 13,910 patent documents, the research employs a multi‐step methodology: a patent landscape analysis, network analysis, and structural equation modeling (SEM). Our findings indicate that patents linked to non‐competitive technologies and low originality scores are more likely to become inactive. Furthermore, the study identifies several factors contributing to the low efficiency of the innovation system, including closed technology transfer processes and weak collaborative synergies among stakeholders. To address these challenges, a blockchain‐based rewards system is proposed to foster beneficial relationships among innovation stakeholders, supporting sustainable innovation practices. This study enhances our understanding of innovation theory and provides insights for policymakers, linking the proposed solution to achieving SDGs 4, 8, 9, and 17 through sustainable innovation.
The Effect of Environmental, Social, and Governance Pillars on CEO Compensation: Evidence From US‐Listed Companies
Authors: Huang Chi‐Jui , Chen Tser‐Yieth , Lu Chia‐Wu , Huang Chien , Chih Hsiang‐Lin
Published: January 2025

This study's examination of how a company's ESG performance affects CEO compensation is driven by the increasing global emphasis on sustainable development and corporate social responsibility. This is reflected in the importance of stakeholder desire to incorporate environmental protection and social responsibility into top‐level corporate decision‐making. The present study explores the role of the overall impacts of CSR/ESG and individual ESG pillars in executive compensation, including total compensation, equity‐based compensation, and cash‐based compensation. The study sample consists of 8312 observations of US‐listed companies from 2003 to 2021. The results indicate that overall sustainability performance significantly impacts executive total and equity‐based compensation, aligning with stakeholder theory. We disintegrate CSR/ESG and find that environmental and corporate governance performance positively correlates with executive compensation. However, social performance has a significant negative impact, which aligns with equity theory. Companies with higher social performance tend to narrow the compensation gap between executives and employees, avoiding significant pay gaps that could disrupt internal harmony and collaboration within the organization. We are the first literature to interconnect individual ESG aspects and corporate CEO compensation levels and then make a specific contribution to the literature on corporate ESG performance affecting the pattern of CEO compensation. Our findings can help policymakers improve CEO compensation structures to increase sustainability.
Insight Into the Film‐Forming Properties of Pea Protein Isolate Improved by Cellulose Nanocrystals From the Perspective of Water Phase Stabilization
Authors: Gao Junwei , Song Xinyuan , Liu Yingnan , Yu Zhenyu , Xiao Yaqing
Published: January 2025

This study is dedicated to explore the effect of cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) on the film formability of pea protein isolate (PPI) and propose the regulation mechanism from the perspective of water phase stabilization. Compared with PPI film, the CNC‐PPI composite films showed the improvement in mechanical properties and barrier properties of water/air. CNC reduced the proportion of free water in the PPI film and induced its conversion to immobilized water. From the microscopic observation of the films, it could be found that 0.25%–0.75% CNC made the dispersion of PPI more uniform, and formed more compact film structure. Meanwhile, the exposure of tyrosine and tryptophan in PPI molecules and the increase in the content of β‐sheet resulted in the improvement of film‐forming properties of PPI. The enhanced stability of water phase induced by CNC restrained the formation of water channels, thus improving the structural integrity of gel network and the film‐forming properties of PPI. This work provided a theoretical reference for regulation of the film‐forming properties of PPI with CNC, which was expected to improve the product performance of PPI films and enrich the application scenarios of PPI.
Effects of meloxicam and flunixin meglumine on oxidative stress and pregnancy factors in Awassi sheep
Authors: Akkuş Tuğra , Yaprakcı Ömer , Günal İsmail , Ekici Mehmet , Emre Birten , Korkmaz Ömer , Zonturlu Abuzer K.
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of administering flunixin meglumine (FM) and meloxicam (M) on specific days post‐mating on progesterone (P4), total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI), pregnancy‐specific protein B (PSPB), pregnancy‐associated glycoprotein (PAG) concentrations and fertility parameters in Awassi sheep.

Methods

Seventy‐five Awassi sheep were divided into three groups of 25: control, M and FM. On days 9 and 10 post‐mating, the control group received saline, the M group received 0.5 mg/kg M and the FM group received 2.2 mg/kg FM. Blood samples were collected on days 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 17 post‐mating.

Results

Statistically significant time‐dependent differences in P4, TAS, TOS, OSI, PSPB and PAG concentrations were found between the groups (p < 0.001). TAS was highest in the M group and lowest in the control group (p < 0.001). TOS was higher in the control group and lower in the M group (p < 0.001). PSPB and PAG were highest in the control group and lowest in the M group (p < 0.05).

Limitation

Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm the findings.

Conclusion

FM and M significantly affected oxidative stress parameters and early pregnancy factors but not fertility parameters.
Early ambulation and chest tube removal are associated with postoperative day one discharge in majority of robotic pulmonary lobectomy patients at an ERAS center
Authors: Stiles Erik , Harika Ricky , Kuppusamy Madhan , Sternbach Joel , Low Donald E. , Hubka Michal
Published: January 2025

Background

Application of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways in robotic lobectomy have been associated with decreased length of stay (LOS). We evaluated differences in patient characteristics and achievements of ERAS benchmarks by discharge groups at a tertiary referral center.

Materials and Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained ERAS database of patients undergoing robotic lobectomy for pulmonary malignancy. Patients were trifurcated into LOS groups, postoperative day 1, 2–3, and 4+. Preoperative and perioperative variables, ERAS achievement, complications, and readmissions were analyzed.

Results

Between October 2018 and August 2022, 145 consecutive patients were reviewed. Eighty‐two (56.6%) were discharged on POD 1, 50 (34.5%) on POD 2–3, and 13 (9.0%) on POD 4+. Patients achieving POD 1 discharge were associated with better preoperative pulmonary function (FEV1 p = 0.023 and DLCO p = 0.007) and shorter operative times (p < 0.001). Most air leaks (n = 30, 54.5%) were resolved by discharge; however, 25 (17.2%) were discharged with a chest tube. The POD 1 discharge group ambulated earlier (p = 0.005) and experienced no inpatient complications. Multivariate analysis reveals that operative time, time to first ambulation, and postoperative day 1 air leak were negatively associated with POD 1 discharge. Those who experienced a minor inpatient complication ambulated 5.8 h later than those who did not.

Conclusion

Utilization of ERAS principles can facilitate POD 1 discharge in the majority of patients undergoing robotic assisted lobectomy without an increase in complications or readmissions. Early ambulation and chest tube removal are modifiable elements of ERAS associated with POD 1 discharge.
Background-induced forces from dark relics
Authors: Barbosa Sergio , Fichet Sylvain
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Light particles quadratically coupled to nucleons induce macroscopic forces in matter. While a quantum effect always exists, an additional force occurs in the presence of a finite density of the light particles. We compute and classify such background-induced forces for particles of spin 0,

$$ \frac{1}{2} $$

1
2

, 1 in the framework of effective field theory. We show that, at short distance, the background-induced forces exhibit a universal behavior that depends solely on the moments of the phase space distribution function of the light particles.

We compute the forces in the case of dark particles densities that may realistically occur in cosmology, assuming either (i) cosmically homogeneous or (ii) virialized phase space distributions. For homogeneous distributions — analogous to cosmic neutrinos, all the background-induced forces remain, unlike the quantum ones, exponentially unsuppressed at large distance, implying that large scale fifth force experiments are highly sensitive to dark relics. Moreover at zero mass the forces from dark bosons are generically enhanced with respect to their quantum counterpart due to Bose-Einstein distribution. Overall, we find that the resulting fifth force bounds can compete with those from quantum forces. For virialized distributions — identifiable as cold dark matter, the reach is also enhanced beyond the dark matter Compton wavelength. We obtain significant bounds on sub-keV scalar cold dark matter, that can appear in certain cosmological scenarios. A thorough adaptation of the results from the Eöt-Wash experiment may produce powerful additional bounds.