bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consumer behavior in the metaverse
Authors: Kaur Jaspreet , Mogaji Emmanuel , Paliwal Manisha , Jha Suchita , Agarwal Shailja , Mogaji Stephen Alaba
Published: December 2023

The rising interest in the marketing potential of the metaverse and its influence on consumer behavior is undeniable. Experts in the field have identified gaps in understanding consumer behavior in the metaverse and have highlighted the need of further research in the domain. This study addresses this void by focusing on Gen Z and their interactions within the metaverse. Gathering qualitative data through semi‐structured interviews with 63 participants, the study employs a deductive thematic analysis, using the Engel‐Kollat‐Blackwell (EKB) model as its theoretical framework. The findings align with the stages of the EKB model– awareness, information search, engagement, and post‐engagement evaluation. We find that despite facing initial challenges, participants display eagerness to access the metaverse and actively seek engagement opportunities, even encouraging others to join. This research provides empirical insights into challenges and opportunities that exist for consumers and brands within the metaverse. Further, it also enhances our understanding of immersive time in the metaverse and elucidates consumer engagement with digital technologies. Finally, the study also offers practical implications for managers, tech developers, and policymakers looking to enhance consumer interest and involvement in the metaverse.
Rational Design of Hydroxylated Thiazole Orange Photocages for Green Light‐Triggered DNA Recombination
Authors: Hashimoto Ryu , Minoshima Masafumi , Kikuchi Kazuya
Published: December 2023

The precise control of DNA recombination enables the cell‐ or time‐dependent regulation of gene expression in studies of gene function. Caged estrogen receptor ligands combined with a Cre‐ERT2/loxP system are useful tools for light‐triggered DNA recombination. However, the photolysis of most caged compounds requires ultraviolet or blue light, which is toxic and displays low tissue penetration. Although a cyanine‐based photo‐responsive protecting group (PPG) can release estrogen receptor ligands with longer‐wavelength light, its low photolytic efficiency requires long illumination times. We developed a caged estrogen receptor ligand with improved green light‐responsive PPGs. The rational modification of Hydroxylated Thiazole Orange (HTO) photocages using electron‐donating groups (EDGs), such as dimethoxy (DiMeO)‐substituted HTO, resulted in high photolytic efficiency (up to ϵΦ ≈320 M−1 cm−1). Theoretical calculations demonstrated that the enhanced photolytic efficiencies were derived from the increased intramolecular charge transfer by EDGs upon excitation. The efficient uncaging of estrogen receptor ligands enabled the control of gene recombination in a ligand‐dependent Cre‐ERT2/loxP system in live cells.
Dementia and epilepsy following COVID‐19 infection in a 25‐year‐old female: A case report
Authors: Ahmed Farea , Taimuri Muskan Asim , Ikram Areeba , Sumbal Anusha , Ali Sajjad , Anan Mahfuza
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Significant atypical neurologic signs have also been recorded in COVID‐19 individuals, along with a variety of other extra‐pulmonary indications. The COVID‐19 virus is neuro‐invasive and holds significant potential to produce some unconventional neurologic manifestations
Primary abdominal cocoon syndrome manifesting with Chilaiditi syndrome and intestinal obstruction: A case report
Authors: Tajaddini Ali , Fallahi Mohammadmehdi , Haghshenas Hoda , Nourmohammadi Soheila‐sadat , Ghahramani Leila , Shahriarirad Reza
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Abdominal cocoon syndrome and Chilaiditi syndrome are rare etiologies of bowel obstruction which have to be considered in patients with obstructive symptoms. Patients can profit from surgical management rather than non‐surgical approach.

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis or abdominal cocoon syndrome (ACS) is an uncommon cause of intestinal obstructions associated with encapsulation of the small bowel by a fibro collagenous sac. Clinical presentations of ACS are unspecific and most patients are diagnosed intraoperatively. Moreover, Chilaiditi syndrome is another rare cause of bowel obstruction defined by interposition of colon and liver. There is no reported relation between these two conditions and surgical intervention is the suggested approach for severe bowel obstruction following them individually. We present a case with both conditions and describe our approach. A 47‐year‐old male presented with complaints of colic abdominal pain and distention, nausea and several attacks of bilious and nonbilious vomiting, anorexia, and constipation in the last 10 days before his admission. Laboratory data were normal and abdominal X‐ray showed large dilation at the distal part of the bowel without air fluid level. The patient underwent explorative laparotomy and a mass‐like lesion containing necrotic bowel and a whitish spleen accompanied by a complete anterior‐rotated liver was found. The encapsulated bowel and the spleen were resected followed by the complete resolution of symptoms in the patient. The intestinal obstruction caused by ACS is mostly approached by surgery to prevent the fatal sequela of this condition.
Unusual presentation and histopathology of bilateral nasal polypi; cavernous hemangioma (right) and inverted papilloma (left)
Authors: Hasan Abdulkarim , Mairaj Muhammad Yousaf , Elbadawy Ahmed , Zayed Sameh , Alghamdi Abdulkhaliq Saeed , Alrashdi Saeed Awad , Nafie Khalid
Published: December 2023

Hemangiomas are common lesions in medical practice, but those arising in the nasal cavity and/or paranasal sinuses are rare. Inverted papilloma is a rare benign tumor with a high incidence rate in both the nasal cavity and sinuses. The presence of both lesions in the same patient is even rarer. Here we present a case of a male patient with an unusual presentation and dual pathologies of cavernous hemangioma and inverted papilloma of the sinonasal tract that underwent endoscopic surgery and showed no recurrence of disease after a 2‐year follow‐up. The association of nasal cavernous hemangioma at one side and inverted papilloma at the other side is a very rare occasion that requires further studies and histopathology is the only diagnostic tool.
Malignant involvement of the iliopsoas muscle associated with non‐small cell lung cancer: Two case reports
Authors: Kodama Ken , Momozane Toru , Shigetsu Kaichi , Takehara Hiroshi , Toyofuku Takamasa , Nishiyama Kinji , Koh Genju , Uryu Kiyoaki
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Under the current progression of molecular targeting or immune therapy, early detection and radiation therapy of iliopsoas metastasis will not only improve performance status but also enable the continuation of effective systemic cancer treatment.
Crohn's disease: An enigmatic variant with gastritis and ileal obstruction
Authors: Amo‐Tachie Samuel , Ocansey Fredrick Kojo , Yeboah Abena Durowaa
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

There are multiple atypical manifestations of Crohn's disease, which sometimes delay diagnosis or even more often result in complete misdiagnosis, especially in poorly equipped facilities. This is the case of an elderly woman with Crohn's disease who presented with gastritis and bowel obstruction. She had hitherto been wrongly managed for peptic ulcer disease and functional constipation based mainly on her symptoms. Her diagnosis was made only after years of failed symptomatic management. This case aims to highlight the uncommon and easily misdiagnosed gastroduodenal presentation of Crohn's disease, as well as clinical clues to correctly diagnosing the condition.
Stabilizing the unstable: Tuberculosis of the odontoid process with atlanto‐occipital instability—Case report and review of literature
Authors: Duvuru Shyam , Sanker Vivek , Dave Tirth , Agarwal Pratik , Syed Naureen
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Tuberculosis (TB) of the odontoid process is a rare but potentially, a debilitating condition. Surgical intervention, in the form of stabilizing the spine and decompressing the spinal cord, offers a tailored approach to managing this condition effectively and improving prognosis.

Odontoid process tuberculosis (TB) is a rare condition that can cause spinal instability and neurological complications. Diagnosis of odontoid process TB is difficult and requires a combination of clinical, radiographic, and histopathological examinations. This report describes the treatment of a 46‐year‐old female with quadriparesis and intermittent fever. Radiological findings showed TB of the odontoid process with atlanto‐axial dislocation causing compressive myelopathy. She underwent C1–C3 decompressive laminectomy and stabilization from C1 to C5. GeneXpert for TB was positive and she was started on anti‐tuberculous medications. She regained power gradually and at 1 year follow‐up she was ambulant without any support. The C1–C5 lateral mass screw and C1–C3 decompressive laminectomy approach, as highlighted in this case, offers an effective solution, enhancing patient quality of life, and preventing disease progression.
Unilateral orbital schwannoma arising from the supraorbital nerve: Report of a rare case
Authors: Uppal Shikhil , Saggar Vineet , Scalia Gianluca , Umana Giuseppe Emmanuele , Sharma Manisha , Chaurasia Bipin
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Schwannomas are rare tumors in the orbit, typically originating from various nerves and presenting diagnostic challenges. We present a unique case of a unilateral orbital schwannoma arising from the supraorbital nerve. A 55‐year‐old female presented with a painless, slowly growing mass in the right superior orbit, causing proptosis. Visual acuity remained unimpaired, and clinical examination revealed a well‐defined mass in the superior orbit. A provisional diagnosis of an orbital dermoid or cyst was made, leading to excision biopsy. The histopathological examination confirmed a diagnosis of benign schwannoma. Schwannomas in the orbit, particularly those arising from the supraorbital nerve, are uncommon and often challenging to diagnose. Early surgical intervention is crucial to prevent complications associated with tumor growth. This case underscores the need to consider schwannomas as a differential diagnosis for slow‐growing orbital masses in adults and emphasizes the importance of timely management to prevent vision‐threatening complications.
Monitoring the outcomes of non‐pharmacological treatments for cognitive impairment using magnetoencephalography: A case series
Authors: Hirata Yoko , Hoshi Hideyuki , Kobayashi Momoko , Shibamiya Keita , Fukasawa Keisuke , Ichikawa Sayuri , Shigihara Yoshihito
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Cognitive impairment associated dementia is treatable non‐pharmacologically. Monitoring tools are important to provide proper treatment. The present study showed that the resting‐state brain activity measured using magnetoencephalography reflects their outcomes and captures clinical impressions better than neuropsychological assessments, which have inherent limitations such as the practice effect.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a prodromal phase of dementia caused by brain diseases. Non‐pharmacological treatments are sometimes effective in improving patient's cognition and quality of life. To provide better treatments, monitoring the treatment outcomes, which is done using neuropsychological assessments, is important. However, these assessments have inherent limitations, such as practice effects. Therefore, complementary assessments are anticipated. Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is a neuroimaging technique that is sensitive to changes in brain activity associated with cognitive impairment. It represents the state of brain activity in terms of MEG spectral parameters associated with neuropsychological assessment scores. MEG spectral parameters could reasonably be used to monitor treatment outcomes without the aforementioned limitations. However, few published longitudinal reports have assessed MEG spectral parameters during the non‐pharmacological treatment period for cognitive impairment associated with dementia. In this study, we retrospectively examined the clinical records of two patients with MCI. Changes in neuropsychological assessment scores and MEG spectral parameters were qualitatively evaluated along with the patients' conditions, as described in the medical records during non‐pharmacological treatments provided for more than 2 years. The changes in neuropsychological assessment scores and MEG spectral parameters showed comparable trends, with some discrepancies. Changes in MEG spectral parameters were more consistent with the subjective reports from caregivers and medical staff in the medical records. Our results suggest that MEG is a promising tool for monitoring patient conditions during treatment.
Research progress of Co and Mn‐based catalysts for the oxidation of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Tang Yongqi , Lv Wei , Wang Yao , Chen Hong , Li Yongdan , Wang Can , Xu Guifeng
Published: December 2023

Biomass is a renewable energy source abundantly available in nature. Their degradation by chemical or biological means produces various transition compounds. These transition compounds can be further transformed into valuable chemicals and biofuels that exhibit a wide range of applications and benefits. Recently, there has been a significant focus on this research area. Among the transition compounds, 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), derived from the degradation of hexose, is an important biomass‐based platform compound that has hydroxymethyl and aldehyde functional groups in its molecular structure. This study reviews the recent progress in the transition metal‐catalysed conversion of HMF using Co and Mn to generate high‐value‐added downstream products. Furthermore, the active components, the carbon supporter, the reaction mechanism, the oxidants and the reaction conditions of the catalysts are discussed in detail. The oxidation of HMF deserves further research as an important and complete value‐added process for generating biomass‐based valuable chemicals.
Transition Metal Catalysts for the Glycerol Reduction: Recent Advances
Authors: Coccia Francesca , d'Alessandro Nicola , Mascitti Andrea , Colacino Evelina , Tonucci Lucia
Published: December 2023

Glycerol (GL) represents a widespread agro‐industrial waste. Its valorization is pivotal for a sustainable society because GL is a renewable compound deriving from biomass, but it has a high oxygen to carbon ratio, compared with feedstock used in the energy and chemistry sectors. Oxygen‐poor derivatives are easily and immediately transferable to the industry, avoiding a deep and pressing modification of the plants. From this perspective, keeping the carbon content but with an oxygen content reduction, we could effectively obtain the enhancement of the recovery and the use of GL converting it into attractive industrial building‐blocks. In this Review, we present and discuss the up‐to‐date results about the chemical reduction of GL into products with 3 carbon and 0, 1, or 2 oxygen atoms. The focus is on the transition metal (TM) catalysts that have made the hydrogenation reactions of GL possible, partitioning the metals into early and late, based on their position in the periodic table. This discussion will contribute to select and develop new catalysts aimed at the improvement of the yield and of the selectivity in the hydrogenation reactions of GL.
Evaluating the applicability of ivabradine in acute heart failure
Authors: Tsai Tzu‐Hsien , Tsai Ming‐Lung , Chen Dong‐Yi , Lin Yuan , Peng Jian‐Rong , Yang Ning‐I , Hung Ming‐Jui , Chen Tien‐Hsing
Published: December 2023

Background

While ivabradine has demonstrated benefits in heart rate control and prognosis for chronic heart failure patients, its application in acute decompensated heart failure remains underexplored.

Hypothesis

For patients with acute decompensated heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) who are intolerant to β‐blockers or unable to further titrate their dosage, the use of ivabradine is hypothesized to be effective and safe is improving outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective, multicenter database analysis included patients with hospitalized decompensated heart failure with a left ventricular ejection fraction of ≤40% from June 1, 2015 to December 31, 2020. The exclusion criteria were a baseline heart rate of <70 bpm, previous use of ivabradine, mortality during admission, existing atrial fibrillation, or atrial flutter. The primary outcome was the composite of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure.

Results

Of the 4163 HFrEF patients analyzed, 684 (16.4%) were administered ivabradine during their index admission. After matching, there were 617 patients in either group. The results indicated that ivabradine use was not significantly associated with the risk of the primary composite outcome (hazard ratio: 1.10; 95% confidence interval: 0.94−1.29). Similarly, the risk of secondary outcomes and adverse renal events did not significantly differ between the ivabradine and non‐ivabradine cohorts (all p > .05).

Conclusion

For hospitalized acute decompensated heart failure patients who are intolerant to β‐blockers or cannot further titrate them, ivabradine offers a consistent therapeutic effect. No significant disparities were noted between the ivabradine and non‐ivabradine groups in heart failure hospitalization and cardiovascular death.
Design of novel deformable mirror with large displacement
Authors: Li Jinchao , Tian Yuxuan , Wang Jindong , Yang Jinling , Zhu Yinfang , Cheng Xuemin , Hao Qun
Published: December 2023

A stabilized zoom system with deformable mirrors (DMs) was designed for continuous optical zoom. In order to adjust the focal length and expand the field angle, the characteristic surface shapes of the DMs composed of the low‐order and high‐order Zernike polynomials were provided. The maximum peak‐to‐valley (PV) value at the center of the surface shape is 80 μm. This work presents a piezoelectrically‐actuated deformable mirror (PADM) with large displacement for a stabilized zoom system. The COMSOL simulation was conducted to obtain the desired design by matching and optimizing structural parameters. The maximum displacement of PADM was more than 80 μm. The fitting results by the steepest descent algorithm (SD) showed that the RMS values of the residual surface shapes were 1 of 7 to 1 of 4 of their PV values, and the PV values of the residual surface shapes were less than 1 of 10 of the PV values of the target surface shapes.
A feed forward deep neural network model using feature selection for cloud intrusion detection system
Authors: Sharma Hidangmayum Satyajeet , Singh Khundrakpam Johnson
Published: December 2023

The rapid advancement and growth of technology have rendered cloud computing services indispensable to our activities. Threats and intrusions have since multiplied exponentially across a range of industries. In such a scenario, the intrusion detection system, or simply the IDS, is deployed on the network to monitor and detect any attacks. The paper proposes a feed‐forward deep neural network (FFDNN) method based on deep learning methodology using a filter‐based feature selection model. The feature selection strategy aims to determine and select the most highly relevant subset of attributes from the feature importance score for training the deep learning model. Three benchmark data sets were used to assess the experiment: CIC‐IDS 2017, UNSW‐NB15, and NSL‐KDD. In order to justify the proposed technique, a comparison was done using other learning algorithms ranging from classical machine learning to ensemble learning methods that can detect various attacks. The experiments showed that the FFDNN model with reduced feature subsets gave the highest accuracy of 99.53% and 94.45% in the NSL‐KDD and UNSW‐NB15 data sets, while the ensemble‐based XGBoost model performed better in the CIC‐IDS 2017 data set. In addition, the results show that the overall accuracy, recall, and F1 score of the deep learning algorithm are generally better for all the data sets.
Influence of green human resource management on employee green behavior: The sequential mediating effect of perceived behavioral control and attitude toward corporate environmental policy
Authors: Fawehinmi Olawole , Yusliza Mohd Yusoff , Tanveer Muhammad Imran , Abdullahi Mohammed Sani
Published: December 2023

The current existential global threat brought about by excessive carbon emissions caused by employee activity in the workplace calls for actions of corporate environmental policy. Thus, this study investigated the sequential mediating effects of perceived behavioral control (PBC) and attitude between green human resource management (GHRM) and employee green behavior (EGB) on the basis of ability–motivation–opportunity (AMO) theory and the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Data were purposely collected using a quantitative approach from a cross‐sectional study of 425 lecturers in Malaysian public universities. Smart PLS‐SEM was utilized to investigate the relationship between variables. Findings confirmed the relationship between GHRM and PBC. Furthermore, results demonstrated a strong positive relationship between PBC and both attitude and EGB. In addition, the link between attitude and EGB was found to be significantly related. However, no significant relationship was found between GHRM and both employee attitude and EGB. For the mediating effect, findings showed that PBC significantly mediates the link between GHRM and EGB and the relationship between GHRM and attitude. Further, the sequential mediating effect of PBC and attitude between GHRM and EGB was supported. Results also shed some light on the importance of the underlying mechanism of employees' PBC and attitude between GHRM and EGB, thereby providing implications regarding the role of AMO theory on TPB. Future directions are also discussed.
The role of fathers in child development from preconception to postnatal influences: Opportunities for the National Institutes of Health Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) program
Authors: Jansen Elena , Marceau Kristine , Sellers Ruth , Chen Tong , Garfield Craig F. , Leve Leslie D. , Neiderhiser Jenae M. , Spotts Erica L. , Roary Mary ,   program collaborators for Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes
Published: December 2023

A growing body of literature highlights the important role of paternal health and socioemotional characteristics in child development, from preconception through adolescence. Much of this research addresses the indirect effects of fathers, for instance, their influence on maternal behaviors during the prenatal period or via the relationship with their partner. However, emerging evidence also recognizes the direct role of paternal health and behavior for child health and adjustment across development. This critical review presents evidence of biological and sociocultural influences of fathers on preconception, prenatal, and postnatal contributions to child development. The National Institutes of Health Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) program incorporates in its central conceptualization the impact of fathers on family and child outcomes. This critical synthesis of the literature focuses on three specific child outcomes in the ECHO program: health outcomes (e.g., obesity), neurodevelopmental outcomes (e.g., emotional, behavioral, psychopathological development), and positive health. We highlight the unique insights gained from the literature to date and provide next steps for future studies on paternal influences.
Some Improvements on Wettability and Internal Resistance of Modified Micro‐porous Layer for Direct Methanol Fuel Cell
Authors: Zhao Zhengang , Jin Dian , Zhang Dacheng
Published: December 2023

Micro‐porous layer (MPL) is an essential component of the membrane electrode assembly in a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC). It enables proton transport and maintains the stability of gas diffusion layers. The wettability and internal resistance of MPL directly affect the cell output power density. Herein, a hydrophilic MPL is developed on the anode side of DMFC by depositing Ag‐modified carbon nano‐fiber powder (CNFP). The modification improves the diffusion of methanol–water solution into the anode catalytic layer, leading to an increased catalytic reaction rate and output power density. Moreover, thanks to the lower electrical resistance of CNFP/Ag, the cell's charge transfer and mass transfer resistances can be reduced, which leverage the power densities at different concentrations. The experimental results show that the peak power density of the modified MPL is increased by 42.2% from  to . The charge transfer resistance is reduced by 34.8% from  to and a reduction of 43.1% from  to for the mass transfer resistance.
Study of electric and hybrid vehicles in the form of alternative transport in Kazakhstan
Authors: Arystanov Zhanat , Togizbayeva Baglan , Kenesbek Anuar , Mambetov Dulat , Kinzhebayeva Aizhan
Published: December 2023

The global energy crisis and the conditions it has created are becoming important factors for the development of energy efficiency. The aim of the research is to study electric vehicles, as well as hybrid cars as alternative fuels in Kazakhstan and in the world. A wide range of methodological tools was used to conduct the research, in particular, the method of analysis and generalization of information, comparative, as well as induction and deduction. In addition, the method of analysis of scientific literature was applied, which partially reveals the problematic issues of this topic. A review of the literature concluded that alternative and transitional fuels were the most popular among transport users in the city. The information analyzed from the literature also allows concluding that in recent years some studies have presented new scientific, technical and political strategies to improve the use of alternative and transitional fuel resources. The practical value of the research is the possibility to use its results to study and analyze information on electric and hybrid vehicles. The information provided in the study could form the basis for the study of alternative fuels for cars.
Coal pillar destabilization prediction and mining method in residual mining areas under remining disturbances
Authors: Wen Guang , Gong Peilin , Zhu Yanhui , Yi Kang , Li Peng , Kang Hui , Tian Ye
Published: December 2023

To address the problem of pillar instability in residual mining areas under repeated mining disturbances, the prediction of pillar instability time and mining technology is studied by using numerical simulations, theoretical examinations, and practical experimentation techniques utilizing the remaining facade of the Shenghua Coal Industry 3103. On the basis of the findings, employing a fully mechanized mining technique exerts greater pressure on the coal pillar, increasing the likelihood of plastic failure. However, adopting the segmental filling mining approach can effectively disperse this pressure, consequently mitigating potential damage to the coal pillar. Initially, the coal pillar undergoes a progressive yielding or collapsing process at its periphery, leading to instability once the area of the projectile core of the coal pillar decreases beyond a specific threshold. The dimensions of both the affected roadway and the coal pillar play a pivotal role in determining the coal pillar's load‐bearing capacity. A prediction model for pillar instability is established. If the area of the projectile core is less than 34% during remining, the mining method should be changed or pillar reinforcement should be implemented. The accurate prediction and adaptation of the model's mining approach ensure the secure extraction of coal pillars within the remaining mining region, with successful validation of the model's performance.
Research on how acidification affects the coal's microscopic pore structure in the Guizhou mining region
Authors: He Yuhuan , Li Xijian , Xue Feng , Sui Hao , Xie Honggao , Xu Chao , Li Xianxian
Published: December 2023

By eliminating their minerals, acidification technology makes coal seams more permeable. Acidification technology were conducted in the Farr and Qinglong mining areas using a mixed acid solution to study the impact of acidification technology on increasing the permeability of primary structural coals in the Guizhou region, China. The microphysical and chemical structure of the coal samples before and after acidification transformation was compared using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, mercury intrusion porosimetry, and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry experiments. The results show that after acidification, the volatile matter content is reduced by 4.2% and 16.25%, the carbon content is increased, the degree of coalification is deepened, the gas content of the coal seam is elevated, and the gas source is more abundant. The minerals on the surface are dissolved to different degrees, and the pores and cracks are dredged, so that the surface of the coal samples shows better connectivity, which is conducive to the diffusion and transport of coalbed methane. The volume and pore diameter of the macropore and mesopore in the Farr coal samples were improved after acidification, and the fractal structure was more prominent, the pore connectivity was good, and the pore diameter of the Qinglong coal samples was greatly increased. The content of oxygen‐containing functional groups increased by 11.2% and 2.1%, respectively, which is conducive to the desorption of coalbed methane after acidification, and with the increasing degree of metamorphism of the coal samples, the higher the content of oxygen‐containing functional groups was and the less pronounced the effect of acidification. Acidification technology can effectively remove the minerals in the coal body and has a good effect on penetration enhancement, and the results of the study can provide certain theoretical references for the penetration enhancement of coal seams in Guizhou mining areas.
Automated detecting, segmenting and measuring of grains in images of fluvial sediments: The potential for large and precise data from specialist deep learning models and transfer learning
Authors: Mair David , Witz Guillaume , Do Prado Ariel Henrique , Garefalakis Philippos , Schlunegger Fritz
Published: December 2023

The size of sedimentary particles in rivers bears information on the sediment entrainment or deposition mechanisms and the hydraulic conditions controlling them. However, collecting such data from coarse‐grained sediments is work intensive, both in the field and remotely. Therefore, attention has turned to machine learning models to improve the data acquisition. Despite their success, current methods need large quantities of data and yield results limited to a few percentile values of grain size datasets, often additionally affected by a systematic bias. In most cases, the root of these limitations is the challenge of accurately segmenting grains. Here, we present a new approach to improve the segmentation of individual grains based on the capacity of transfer learning in convolutional neural networks. Specifically, we re‐train a state‐of‐the‐art model for cell segmentation in biomedical images to find and segment coarse‐grained particles in images of fluvial sediments. Our results show that the performance in the segmentation tasks can be directly transferred to images of fluvial sediments and that our re‐trained models outperform existing methods. We document that our results are achievable with only 10%–20% of the data needed for training other deep learning models designed to measure the size of fluvial sediments. Moreover, we find that traits in our data control the segmentation performance. This enables data‐driven approaches to create specialist segmentation models. Additionally, comparing our automatically obtained datasets with the results retrieved from image and field‐based surveys confirms that improvements in segmentation are directly leading to more precise and more accurate grain size data even if data collection occurs in images taken at different conditions. Finally, we release a software package, the trained models and our data. The goal is to offer a tool to efficiently segment and measure grains in sediment images in an automated way, which can be adapted to different settings.
Effect of fenugreek and flaxseed polysaccharide‐based edible coatings on the quality attributes and shelf life of apple fruit during storage
Authors: Rashid Farhat , Ahmed Zaheer , Ferheen Ifra , Mehmood Tahir , Liaqat Saba , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , Rahman Afzal
Published: December 2023

The present study was designed to explore the potential of fenugreek and flaxseed polysaccharide‐based edible coatings to enhance the postharvest storage life of apple fruit. The experimental plan involved the preparation of five different coating formulations, which were subsequently applied to the fruit. The coated fruit was then stored at a temperature of 25 ± 2°C for a duration of 35 days. The effects of these coatings on physicochemical and biochemical attributes (weight loss, firmness, acidity, pH, sugar content, antioxidant activity, microbial growth, and sensory properties) of coated and uncoated samples were evaluated at regular intervals: 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days of storage. The experimental results revealed a significant difference (p ≤ .05) in the physicochemical parameters of uncoated and coated apple at different storage times. The coated apple fruits showed significantly (p ≤ .05) lower weight loss, pH, total sugars, total soluble solids, and maximum retention of ascorbic acid, firmness, acidity, and antioxidant contents, leading to enhanced organoleptic properties. The application of edible coatings extended the shelf‐life of the apples by inhibiting microbiological spoilage without substantial impact on sensory and nutritional properties. Based on these results, it is concluded that the edible coating formulation labeled T1 (containing 2.5 g fenugreek polysaccharide and 1.5 g flax polysaccharide) effectively preserved the valuable physicochemical and organoleptic characteristics of the apple fruit throughout the storage period.
Financial incentives and prescribing behavior in primary care
Authors: Bodnar Olivia , Gravelle Hugh , Gutacker Nils , Herr Annika
Published: December 2023

Many healthcare systems prohibit primary care physicians from dispensing the drugs they prescribe due to concerns that this encourages excessive, ineffective or unnecessarily costly prescribing. Using data from the English National Health Service for 2011–2018, we estimate the impact of physician dispensing rights on prescribing behavior at the extensive margin (comparing practices that dispense and those that do not) and the intensive margin (comparing practices with different proportions of patients to whom they dispense). We control for practices selecting into dispensing based on observable (OLS, entropy balancing) and unobservable practice characteristics (2SLS). We find that physician dispensing increases drug costs per patient by 3.1%, due to more, and more expensive, drugs being prescribed. Reimbursement is partly based on a fixed fee per package dispensed and we find that dispensing practices prescribe smaller packages. As the proportion of the practice population for whom they can dispense increases, dispensing practices behave more like non‐dispensing practices.
Short‐term dynamics of drainage density based on a combination of channel flow state surveys and water level measurements
Authors: Bujak‐Ozga Izabela , van Meerveld H.J. (Ilja) , Rinaldo Andrea , von Freyberg Jana
Published: December 2023

Headwater streams often experience intermittent flow. Consequently, the flowing drainage network expands and contracts and the flowing drainage density (DD) varies over time. Monitoring the DD dynamics is essential to understand the processes controlling it. However, our knowledge of the event‐scale DD dynamics is limited because high spatial and temporal resolution data on the DD remain sparse. Therefore, our team monitored the DD dynamics and hydrologic variables in two 5‐ha headwater catchments in the Swiss pre‐Alps in the summer of 2021, through mapping surveys of the flow state and a wireless streamwater level sensor network. We combined the two data sources to calculate the DD at the event‐time scale. Our so‐called CEASE method assumes that flow in a channel reach occurs above a set of water level thresholds, and it determined the DDs with accuracies >94%. DD responses to events differed for the two catchments, despite their proximity and similar size. DD ranged from 2.7 to 32.2 km km−2 in the flatter catchment (average slope: 15°). For this catchment, the discharge‐DD relationship became steeper when DD exceeded 20 km km−2 and DD increased substantially with relatively small increases in discharge. For rainfall events during dry conditions, the discharge‐DD relationship showed counterclockwise hysteresis, likely due to initially high groundwater discharge from the area near the catchment outlet; once rainfall stopped, DD remained high during the streamflow recession due to rising groundwater levels throughout the catchment. For events during wet conditions, the discharge and DD responded synchronously. In the steeper catchment (average slope: 24°), the DD varied only from 7.8 to 14.6 km km−2 and there was no hysteresis or threshold behaviour in the discharge‐DD relationship, likely because multiple groundwater springs maintained streamflow throughout the network during the monitoring period. These results highlight the high variability in DD and its dynamics across small headwater catchments.
Impact of increasing vegetation coverage on gaining and losing streams in an arid endorheic river watershed
Authors: Jin Xin , Jin Yanxiang , Mao Xufeng , Fu Di , Zhai Jingya , Zheng Li
Published: December 2023

To improve the ecology in northern China, the Chinese government has launched a series of revegetation projects. However, the impact of increasing vegetation coverage on gaining and losing streams remains largely unexplored, particularly in arid endorheic watersheds with frequent exchanges of water and other materials between surface water and groundwater. To address this, we modified the vegetation growth module of the soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) to simulate the vegetation coverage change proposed for the middle and lower reaches of the Bayin River. We then coupled the modified SWAT to a modular finite‐difference groundwater flow model to simulate the surface and subsurface water exchange. Hydrological, meteorological, and hydrogeological observation data were then used to build and calibrate the coupled model for the period 2001–2019. We set two vegetation coverage scenarios (non‐revegetation and vegetation) and two irrigation variants (non‐irrigation and irrigation) to investigate the impact of changes in vegetation coverage and the related irrigation variant on gaining and losing streams. The results showed that the vegetated land area and annual leaf area index both increased significantly between 2019 and 2001. The groundwater discharge to the gaining streams was more strongly affected by revegetation and related irrigation than the groundwater recharge from the losing streams. Irrigation related to revegetation emphasizes the effect of revegetation on streamflow. We suggest that in arid endorheic river basins, because of the related irrigation, revegetation has a substantial impact on groundwater level and streamflow, which is mainly composed of baseflow. Therefore, the irrigation efficiency of newly planted vegetation must be improved to stabilize the groundwater level and related ecological conditions.
Mitochondrial DNA copy number and cancer risks: A comprehensive Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Cai Xianlei , Liang Chao , Zhang Miaozun , Dong Zhebin , Weng Yihui , Yu Weiming
Published: December 2023

Mitochondrial DNA plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of cancer. However, the associations between mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNA‐CN) and cancer risk are controversial. Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were performed using three independent instrumental variables (IVs) to explore potential associations between mtDNA‐CN and 20 types of cancer. The three sets of IVs were primarily obtained from participants in the UK Biobank and the Cohorts for Heart and Aging Research in Genomic Epidemiology consortium using different methods. The outcome data of cancers were investigated using summary statistics from the FinnGen cohort. The potential causal associations were evaluated using the MR‐Egger regression, weighted median, inverse‐variance weighted (IVW), and weighted mode methods. The robustness of IVW estimates was validated using leave‐one‐out sensitivity analysis. Additionally, a meta‐analysis was conducted to pool results from three sets of IVs. The results revealed that genetically predicted mtDNA‐CN was not associated with cancer risk (odds ratio = 1.02; 95% confidence interval: 0.95–1.10). Subgroup analyses indicated no causal association between mtDNA‐CN and breast, lung, prostate, skin, colorectal, gastric, liver, cervical uteri, esophageal, thyroid, bladder, pancreas, kidney, corpus uteri, ovary, brain, larynx, and anus cancers. It was observed that mtDNA‐CN was associated with lip, oral cavity, and testis cancers. However, these results should be interpreted with caution because a small number of patients with lip and oral cavity or testis cancers were included. The comprehensive MR analysis demonstrated that mtDNA‐CN is not a suitable biomarker for tumor risk assessment.
Multiple schedules of conjugate reinforcement and extinction: A translational model for assessing automatically reinforced behavior
Authors: Peterson Matthew C. , Ghezzi Patrick M. , Rapp John T.
Published: December 2023

This study evaluated the extent to which a conjugate reinforcement schedule (CONJ) involving a contingency between pedaling a stationary bike and viewing a preferred movie could serve as a translational preparation for the analysis of automatically reinforced behavior. In part, researchers examined whether providing participants with either an accurate or an inaccurate rule about the extinction (EXT) component of a multiple schedule (MULT) contributed to the development of control by the MULT (CONJ EXT) schedule. Results show schedule control emerged for four of five participants who received the accurate rule and none of the five participants who received the inaccurate rule. In addition, participants who received accurate rules typically increased pedaling during CONJ components that followed two consecutive EXT components, suggesting that they experienced deprivation for audio and visual stimulation generated by pedaling. These preliminary findings suggest that researchers could use this translational preparation to identify matched interventions for some automatically reinforced behavior.
Does paid parental leave affect children's schooling outcomes? Replicating Danzer and Lavy (2018)
Authors: Troccoli Claudia
Published: December 2023

Danzer and Lavy (2018) study how the duration of paid parental leave affects children's educational performance using data from PISA. An extension of the maximum duration from 12 to 24 months in Austria had no statistically significant effect on average, but the authors highlight the existence of large and statistically significant heterogenous effects that vary in sign depending on the education of mothers and children's gender. The policy increased the scores obtained by sons of highly educated mothers by 33% of a standard deviation (SD) in Reading and 40% SD in Science. On the contrary, sons of low educated mothers experienced a decrease of 27% SD in Reading and 23% SD in Science. In this article, I replicate their study following the recommended estimation procedure taking into account both the survey's stratified two‐stage sample design and the fact that PISA relies on imputation to derive student scores. I show that the estimates of the effects of the parental leave extension become substantially smaller in magnitude and non‐significant.
Clinical significance of gastrointestinal bleeding history in patients who undergo left atrial appendage closure
Authors: Kikuchi Tatsuya , Kono Yoshiyasu , Nakagawa Koji , Okada Hiroyuki , Miyamoto Masakazu , Takaya Yoichi , Hirata Shoichiro , Inoo Shoko , Kuraoka Sakiko , Okanoue Shotaro , Matsueda Katsunori , Satomi Takuya , Hamada Kenta , Iwamuro Masaya , Kawano Seiji , Kawahara Yoshiro
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim

Anticoagulant users with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) sometimes suffer from gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) and have difficulty continuing the medication. Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) has been developed for such situations. We aimed to clarify the clinical significance of a history of GIB in comparison to other factors in patients who had undergone LAAC.

Methods

From October 2019 to September 2023, patients with NVAF who underwent LAAC at our hospital were enrolled. We investigated the percentage of patients with a history of GIB who underwent LAAC and compared the incidence of post‐LAAC bleeding in these patients compared to those with other factors.

Results

A total of 45 patients were included. There were 19 patients (42%) with a history of GIB who underwent LAAC. In a Kaplan–Meier analysis, the cumulative incidence of bleeding complications after LAAC was significantly higher in patients with a history of GIB in comparison to patients with other factors. There were eight cases of post‐LAAC bleeding in total, and seven cases had GIB.

Conclusions

We need to recognize that GIB is a significant complication in patients who undergo LAAC. The management of GIB by gastroenterologists is essential to the success of LAAC.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection for superficial esophageal cancer in a diverticulum: A case report with literature review
Authors: Hamada Yasuhiko , Ikenoyama Yohei , Umeda Yuhei , Yukimoto Hiroki , Shigefuku Akina , Fujiwara Yasuko , Beppu Tsuyoshi , Nakamura Misaki , Horiki Noriyuki , Nakagawa Hayato
Published: December 2023

Superficial esophageal cancer (SEC) in a diverticulum is rare and has a high risk of perforation during endoscopic resection. Although endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a standard treatment option, it is challenging to perform. Here, we describe the case of a 79‐year‐old male patient with a history of ESD for SEC. Surveillance esophagogastroduodenoscopy identified a 20‐mm‐sized reddish depressed lesion in a diverticulum in the middle esophagus. The lesion was confirmed to be squamous cell carcinoma by biopsy. Magnification endoscopy with narrow‐band imaging showed intraepithelial papillary capillary loops of type B1 according to the magnified endoscopic classification of the Japan Esophageal Society. Endoscopic ultrasonography revealed the presence of the muscular layer of the esophagus wall in the diverticulum. Therefore, the lesion was diagnosed as SEC, confined to the epithelium or lamina propria mucosae, in a Rokitansky diverticulum. Based on these findings, ESD was considered technically feasible. Traction‐assisted ESD using clip with line was performed, and en bloc resection was achieved without adverse events. The resected specimen pathologically revealed a squamous cell carcinoma confined to the lamina propria mucosae without lymphovascular invasion, suggesting a curative resection. The patient recovered well, and no recurrence has been observed for 5 years after the ESD. Whether ESD is appropriate for the treatment of SEC in a diverticulum remains unclear. However, our case shows that it can be a treatment option in such cases due to its minimal invasiveness and good effectiveness.