bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of MRI and Arthroscopy in Modified MOCART Scoring System After Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation for Osteochondral Lesion of the Talus
Authors: Lee Kyung Tai , Choi Yun Sun , Lee Young Koo , Cha Seung Do , Koo Hyung Mo
Published: August 2011

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and arthroscopy have frequently been used to evaluate articular cartilage. Many studies have compared the accuracy of MRI to that of arthroscopy. However, there have been no previous comparison studies between MRI and arthroscopy in the evaluation of repaired cartilage after autologous chondrocyte implantation using the Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) scoring system. The purpose of this study was to compare the results between MRI and arthroscopy after autologous chondrocyte implantation of an osteochondral lesion of the talus using a modified MOCART scoring system.

Our study investigated 27 consecutive cases in 26 patients who underwent follow-up MRI and second-look arthroscopy 1 year following autologous chondrocyte implantation based on their osteochondral lesion of the talus diagnosis. According to the comparison results of those 5 categories, the agreement between MRI and arthroscopy evaluation results was statistically significant with good reliability in the categories of the degree of defect repair and defect filling, the quality of repaired tissue surface, and synovitis. However, the integration with the border zone and the adhesion category showed poor to moderate reliability. There has been no well-established correlation method between arthroscopy and MRI after autologous chondrocyte implantation of an osteochondral lesion of the talus.
Systematic Review of Cohort Studies Comparing Surgical Treatment for Multilevel Ossification of Posterior Longitudinal Ligament: Anterior vs Posterior Approach
Authors: Xu Junjie , Zhang Kai , XiangYang MA , Yin QingShui , Wu ZengHui , Xia Hong , Wang ZhiYun
Published: August 2011

There have been no standards or guidelines for the treatment of ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament, especially multilevel ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament. The purpose of this study was to compare results of major surgical treatment for multilevel ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament. Databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane library, and bibliographies of identified and review articles were searched to find randomized, controlled trials or retrospective cohort studies comparing anterior and posterior approach from 1980 to December 2010. Approximately 1375 articles were found initially, 92 abstracts were screened, 23 articles were retrieved in full; 3 studies were included in the review. No randomized, controlled studies were identified. Because all the studies included in this study are cohort studies with disparity of surgical interventions, heterogeneity of outcome measures and different qualities, we were unable to perform a meta-analysis. All comparison studies are retrospective cohort studies, comparing surgical outcomes of anterior approach (corpectomy and fusion) with that of posterior approach (laminoplasty or laminectomy) for the treatment of multilevel ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament in the cervical spine. A systematic review of retrospective cohort studies was performed to determine which surgical treatment is the most effective in patients with multilevel ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament. Definitive conclusions regarding the surgical treatment of multilevel ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament could not be made in this article. Multilevel corpectomy and fusion are more technical and have a significantly higher rate of cerebrospinal fluid leakage and graft, instrumentation related complications. A well-designed, prospective, randomized controlled, multicenter trial is needed.
Three Cases of Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis in One Family
Authors: Skelley Nathan W. , Papp Derek F. , Leu Dirk , Sargent M. Catherine
Published: August 2011

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis is a relatively common disorder of the hip that affects children in late childhood and early adolescence, with an incidence in the United States of approximately 10 per 100,000. Although the diagnosis and treatment of slipped capital femoral epiphysis have been well described, the search for its cause and a method of early identification continues. Recent publications have suggested that there is a familial association among individuals with slipped capital femoral epiphysis, but there is no current genetic marker established for the disorder. This article reports a series of 3 biologically related Caucasian sisters who were athletic; had body mass indices <26 kg/m
2
; had no record of any hormonal imbalances or endocrine abnormalities; had good nutrition; and presented with atypical characteristics of slipped capital femoral epiphysis. This is the first report of a series of 3 sisters with slipped capital femoral epiphysis in the United States. Our goals were to document our experience in the identification and treatment of these patients to highlight the complexities of slipped capital femoral epiphysis presentation patterning, to increase the awareness and reporting of familial cases of slipped capital femoral epiphysis by other physicians, and to encourage additional research in this area. As clinicians progress in the ability to diagnose and treat patients with slipped capital femoral epiphysis, they also must be mindful of the varying presentation characteristics.
Salem Numbers and Pisot Numbers via Interlacing
Authors: McKee James , Smyth Chris
Published: August 2011

We present a general construction of Salem numbers via rational functions whose zeros and poles mostly lie on the unit circle and satisfy an interlacing condition. This extends and unifies earlier work. We then consider the “obvious” limit points of the set of Salem numbers produced by our theorems and show that these are all Pisot numbers, in support of a conjecture of Boyd. We then show that all Pisot numbers arise in this way. Combining this with a theorem of Boyd, we produce all Salem numbers via an interlacing construction.
Association Between Onchocerciasis and Epilepsy in the Itwara Hyperendemic Focus, West Uganda: Controlling for Time and Intensity of Exposure
Authors: Kaiser Christoph , Rubaale Tom , Tukesiga Ephraim , Kipp Walter , Kabagambe Geoffrey , Ojony Joa Okech , Asaba George
Published: August 2011

In 38 pairs of epilepsy patients and controls matched for time and intensity of exposure to transmission of onchocerciasis, the presence of microfilariae in the skin of epilepsy patients was found insignificantly elevated compared with controls (odds ratio = 1.68; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.60–4.57; P = 0.31). This difference was more pronounced when detection of subcutaneous nodules was used as indication of infection with Onchocerca volvulus (odds ratio = 2.77; 95% CI = 0.92–8.33; P = 0.065). These findings from a patient group of limited size suggest that intensity of infection may play a substantial role in the development of onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy. Our results are in contrast to the results of two other independent studies from the identical endemic area; one case concluded a significant positive correlation between onchocerciasis and epilepsy, and the other case concluded a clearly negative correlation. Studies with a greater sample size are needed to confirm this possible relationship.
A Novel Low-Cost Approach to Estimate the Incidence of Japanese Encephalitis in the Catchment Area of Three Hospitals in Bangladesh
Authors: Paul Repon C. , Rahman Mahmudur , Gurley Emily S. , Hossain M. Jahangir , Diorditsa Serguei , Hasan ASM Mainul , Banu Sultana S. , Alamgir ASM , Rahman Muhammad Aziz , Sandhu Hardeep , Fischer Marc , Luby Stephen P.
Published: August 2011

Acute meningoencephalitis syndrome surveillance was initiated in three medical college hospitals in Bangladesh in October 2007 to identify Japanese encephalitis (JE) cases. We estimated the population-based incidence of JE in the three hospitals' catchment areas by adjusting the hospital-based crude incidence of JE by the proportion of catchment area meningoencephalitis cases who were admitted to surveillance hospitals. Instead of a traditional house-to-house survey, which is expensive for a disease with low frequency, we attempted a novel approach to identify meningoencephalitis cases in the hospital catchment area through social networks among the community residents. The estimated JE incidence was 2.7/100,000 population in Rajshahi (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.8–4.9), 1.4 in Khulna (95% CI = 0.9–4.1), and 0.6 in Chittagong (95% CI = 0.4–0.9). Bangladesh should consider a pilot project to introduce JE vaccine in high-incidence areas.
Benign Thyroid Disease causing RLN Palsy
Authors: Jain Manoj , Singh Deependra Narayan , Agarwal Amit
Published: August 2011

Patients with goiter who have associated RLN palsy and/or hoarseness of voice are usually thought to have a malignant goiter, which has directly or indirectly involved the RLN. However, cases of vocal cord palsy in the setting of benign thyroid disease, though rare has been reported in literature. We present five cases of vocal cord palsy associated with benign thyroid disease and discuss the mechanisms of the vocal cord paralysis and also highlight the impact of early surgery on voice recovery.
Amyloid Goiter with Diffuse Lipomatosis
Authors: Citgez Bulent , Uludag Mehmet , Yetkin Gurkan , Akgun Ismail , Yener Senay , Polat Nedim , Isgör Adnan
Published: August 2011

We report a case of a 37-year-old man who presented with a neck swelling associated with recent onset respiratory distress. The patient was receiving hemodialysis due to chronic renal failure three times a week for 8 years. Local examination showed a diffuse thyroid enlargement. The thyroid function test results of the patient were within normal limits. At the ultrasonography examination, there was a 17 × 11 mm nodule at the isthmus with a hypoechoic halo containing calcified foci. The fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of the nodule at the isthmus that contained calcification revealed adenomatous nodule rich in cells, which showed degeneration and follicular neoplasia. Total thyroidectomy was planned due to the patient's ongoing symptoms and dyspnea. The pathological examination revealed diffuse lipomatosis and amyloidosis.
Inventory-based estimation of aboveground net primary production in Japan's forests from 1980 to 2005
Authors: Wang Y. , Fang J. Y. , Kato T. , Guo Z. D. , Zhu B. , Mo W. H. , Tang Y. H.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. Recent studies based on remote sensing and carbon process models have revealed that terrestrial net primary production (NPP) in the middle and high latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere has increased significantly; this is crucial for explaining the increased terrestrial carbon sink in the past several decades. Regional NPP estimation based on significant field data, however, has been rare. In this study, we estimated the long-term changes in aboveground NPP (ANPP) for Japan's forests from 1980 to 2005 using forest inventory data, direct field measurements, and an allometric method. The overall ANPP for all forest types averaged 10.5 Mg ha−1 yr−1, with a range of 9.6 to 11.5 Mg ha−1 yr−1, and ANPP for the whole country totaled 249.1 Tg yr−1 (range: 230.0 to 271.4 Tg yr−1) during the study period. Over the 25 years, the net effect of increased ANPP in needle-leaf forests and decreased ANPP in broadleaf forests has led to an increase of 1.9 Mg ha−1 yr−1 (i.e., 0.79 % yr−1). This increase may be mainly due to the establishment of plantations and the rapid early growth of these planted forests.
Internal and external variability in regional simulations of the Iberian Peninsula climate over the last millennium
Authors: Gómez-Navarro J. J. , Montávez J. P. , Jiménez-Guerrero P. , Jerez S. , Lorente-Plazas R. , González-Rouco J. F. , Zorita E.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. In this study we analyse the role of internal variability in regional climate simulations through a comparison of two regional paleoclimate simulations for the last millennium. They share the same external forcings and model configuration, differing only in the initial condition used to run the driving global model simulation. A comparison of these simulations allows us to study the role of internal variability in climate models at regional scales, and how it affects the long-term evolution of climate variables such as temperature and precipitation. The results indicate that, although temperature is homogeneously sensitive to the effect of external forcings, the evolution of precipitation is more strongly governed by random and unpredictable internal dynamics. There are, however, some areas where the role of internal variability is lower than expected, allowing precipitation to respond to the external forcings, and we explore the underlying physical mechanisms responsible. We find that special attention should be paid when comparing the evolution of simulated precipitation with proxy reconstructions at regional scales. In particular, this study identifies areas, depending on the season, in which this comparison would be meaningful, but also other areas where good agreement between model simulations and reconstructions should not be expected even if both are perfect.
Long-Term Outcomes in Patients Using Protocol-Directed Active Surveillance for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Newcomb Lisa F. , Schenk Jeannette M. , Zheng Yingye , Liu Menghan , Zhu Kehao , Brooks James D. , Carroll Peter R. , Dash Atreya , de la Calle Claire M. , Ellis William J. , Filson Christopher P. , Gleave Martin E. , Liss Michael A. , Martin Frances , McKenney Jesse K. , Morgan Todd M. , Tretiakova Maria S. , Wagner Andrew A. , Nelson Peter S. , Lin Daniel W.
Published: May 2024

Importance

Outcomes from protocol-directed active surveillance for favorable-risk prostate cancers are needed to support decision-making.

Objective

To characterize the long-term oncological outcomes of patients receiving active surveillance in a multicenter, protocol-directed cohort.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Canary Prostate Active Surveillance Study (PASS) is a prospective cohort study initiated in 2008. A cohort of 2155 men with favorable-risk prostate cancer and no prior treatment were enrolled at 10 North American centers through August 2022.

Exposure

Active surveillance for prostate cancer.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Cumulative incidence of biopsy grade reclassification, treatment, metastasis, prostate cancer mortality, overall mortality, and recurrence after treatment in patients treated after the first or subsequent surveillance biopsies.

Results

Among 2155 patients with localized prostate cancer, the median follow-up was 7.2 years, median age was 63 years, 83% were White, 7% were Black, 90% were diagnosed with grade group 1 cancer, and median prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was 5.2 ng/mL. Ten years after diagnosis, the incidence of biopsy grade reclassification and treatment were 43% (95% CI, 40%-45%) and 49% (95% CI, 47%-52%), respectively. There were 425 and 396 patients treated after confirmatory or subsequent surveillance biopsies (median of 1.5 and 4.6 years after diagnosis, respectively) and the 5-year rates of recurrence were 11% (95% CI, 7%-15%) and 8% (95% CI, 5%-11%), respectively. Progression to metastatic cancer occurred in 21 participants and there were 3 prostate cancer–related deaths. The estimated rates of metastasis or prostate cancer–specific mortality at 10 years after diagnosis were 1.4% (95% CI, 0.7%-2%) and 0.1% (95% CI, 0%-0.4%), respectively; overall mortality in the same time period was 5.1% (95% CI, 3.8%-6.4%).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, 10 years after diagnosis, 49% of men remained free of progression or treatment, less than 2% developed metastatic disease, and less than 1% died of their disease. Later progression and treatment during surveillance were not associated with worse outcomes. These results demonstrate active surveillance as an effective management strategy for patients diagnosed with favorable-risk prostate cancer.
Industry Payments to Physicians Endorsing Drugs and Devices on a Social Media Platform
Authors: Persaud Sonia , Al Hadidi Samer , Anderson Timothy S. , Gallagher Grace , Chimonas Susan , Korenstein Deborah , Mitchell Aaron P.
Published: May 2024

This study evaluates adherence to industry and professional standards among physicians endorsing drugs and devices on a social media platform.
International Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Durvalumab in Stage III Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Kareff Samuel A. , Han Sunwoo , Haaland Benjamin , Jani Chinmay J. , Kohli Rhea , Aguiar Pedro Nazareth , Huang Yiqing , Soo Ross A. , Rodríguez-Perez Ángel , García-Foncillas Jesús , Dómine Manuel , de Lima Lopes Gilberto
Published: May 2024

Importance

Standard of care for unresectable locally advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) involves definitive chemoradiotherapy followed by maintenance therapy with durvalumab. However, the cost of durvalumab has been cited as a barrier to its use in various health systems.

Objective

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of durvalumab vs placebo as maintenance therapy in patients with unresectable stage III NSCLC from 4 international payer perspectives (US, Brazil, Singapore, and Spain).

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this economic evaluation, a Markov model was designed to compare the lifetime cost-effectiveness of maintenance durvalumab for unresectable stage III NSCLC with that of placebo, using 5-year outcomes data from the PACIFIC randomized placebo-controlled trial. Individual patient data were extracted from the PACIFIC, KEYNOTE-189, ADAURA, ALEX, and REVEL randomized clinical trials to develop a decision-analytic model to determine the cost-effectiveness of durvalumab compared with placebo maintenance therapy over a 10-year time horizon. Direct costs, adverse events, and patient characteristics were based on country-specific payer perspectives and demographic characteristics. The study was conducted from June 1, 2022, through December 27, 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Life-years, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), lifetime costs, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were estimated at country-specific willingness-to-pay thresholds ([data reported in US$] US: $150 000 per QALY; Brazil: $22 251 per QALY; Singapore: $55 288 per QALY, and Spain: $107 069 per QALY). One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to account for parameters of uncertainty. A cost-threshold analysis was also performed.

Results

The US base-case model found that treatment with durvalumab was associated with an increased cost of $114 394 and improved effectiveness of 0.50 QALYs compared with placebo, leading to an ICER of $228 788 per QALY. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios, according to base-case models, were $141 146 for Brazil, $153 461 for Singapore, and $125 193 for Spain. Durvalumab price adjustments to the PACIFIC data improved cost-effectiveness in Singapore, with an ICER of $45 164. The model was most sensitive to the utility of durvalumab.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cost-effectiveness analysis of durvalumab as maintenance therapy for unresectable stage III NSCLC, the therapy was found to be cost-prohibitive from the perspective of various international payers according to country-specific willingness-to-pay thresholds per QALY. The findings of the study suggest that discounted durvalumab acquisition costs, as possible in Singapore, might improve cost-effectiveness globally.
Time to independence and predator–prey relationships of wild‐born, captive‐raised cheetahs released into private reserves in Namibia
Authors: Marker L. , Schmidt‐Küntzel A. , Walker E. H. , Nghikembua M. , Cristescu B.
Published: May 2024

Reintroduction programmes are an important tool for the conservation of threatened and endangered carnivores, but their effectiveness has rarely been assessed when wild‐born, captive‐raised orphans are released.

We monitored and evaluated the success of captive‐raised orphaned cheetahs (n = 25) that were rehabilitated and released into the wild as adults across three private reserves in Namibia. We estimated time to independence, hunting success and prey composition, and for one reserve we derived prey preference and hunting habitat use.

Seventeen cheetahs achieved independence (68%) whereas eight were returned to captivity. With one exception, solitary or coalition cheetahs made their first kill 6 ± 2 days post‐release. Hunting success was on average 56%, with solitary females having the highest success. We documented 13 species of wild prey killed by rehabilitated cheetahs, primarily ungulates (n = 170). Steenbok (Raphicerus campestris) were the preferred prey, although avoided by artificially formed female cheetah coalitions, which primarily killed juvenile eland (Tragelaphus oryx). Cheetahs used a wide range of vegetation for hunting, although coalition males appeared to use somewhat denser areas.

Rehabilitated wild‐born captive‐reared cheetahs can be successfully released if prey availability and human‐wildlife conflict potential are considered, and food supplementation and intensive monitoring are undertaken.
Preparation and Characterization of Ti‐6‐4 and Ti‐8‐1‐1 Metal Matrix Composites with High Specific Stiffness Using Powder Hot Extrusion and Arc Remelting
Authors: Moser Nico , Staufer Ella , Klein Thomas , Horky Jelena , Schmitz‐Niederau Martin , Neubauer Erich , Trunova Lena , Edtmaier Christian
Published: May 2024

Titanium alloys with high stiffness are crucial for aerospace engineering and are often fabricated using additive manufacturing (AM) methods like arc or laser techniques. These high energy processes alter the microstructure and mechanical properties. To enhance stiffness, TiC and B4C are added to Ti–6Al–4V and Ti–8Al–1Mo–1V alloys via powder hot extrusion. The resulting metal matrix composites (MMCs) are analyzed in both their as‐extruded and heat‐treated states for microstructure and mechanical properties. To simulate an AM process, samples are remelted using a gas tungsten arc‐welding (GTAW) torch and examined. In the results, it is shown that TiC and B4C increased mechanical properties up to 2 GPa cm3 g−1, with the highest increase observed in heat‐treated B4C samples, achieving specific stiffnesses of 34.6 GPa cm3 g−1 (Ti–6Al–4V) and 32.3 GPa cm3 g−1 (Ti–8Al–1Mo–1V). Powder hot extrusion proves effective in producing Ti–MMCs with high stiffness even with reactive ceramic additions. However, GTAW remelting leads to the decomposition of TiC‐reinforced Ti–MMCs, significantly altering morphology and reducing stiffness below that of the base alloy.
NIR‐Responsive Multifunctional Artificial Skin for Regenerative Wound Healing
Authors: Hong Yiyue , Wang Mengyang , Hu Daorun , Wang Yujia , Ji Shuaifei , Xiang Jiangbing , Zhang Hongliang , Chen Huating , Li Yan , Xiong Mingchen , Pi Wei , Wang Qianyi , Yang Xinling , Li Yingying , Shui Chaochen , Wang Xiaolei , Fu Xiaobing , Sun Xiaoyan
Published: May 2024

Efficient wound repair with skin appendage regeneration following severe trauma poses a challenge due to the scarcity of skin grafts and decreased drug effectiveness in protease‐rich wound microenvironments. Here, a multifunctional artificial skin (NIR‐mFAS) with photothermal‐triggered drug delivery capabilities is designed to actively and comprehensively improve the regenerative potential of full‐thickness wounds. The antibacterial chitosan/silk fibroin hydrogel matrix of artificial skin, cross‐linked by electrostatic interactions, effectively encapsulates and sustains the release of epidermal growth factor (EGF) to accelerate re‐epithelialization and neovascularization by promoting the migration and proliferation of repair cells. Subsequently, the photothermal responsive polydopamine nanoparticles (PDA‐NPs) dispersed in the matrix enable precise control over the release of BMP4 under the irradiation of 1064 nm NIR, thereby inhibiting scarring by reducing myofibroblasts during the proliferative stage. Importantly, the concurrent controlled release of CHIR99021 can modulate cell fate by inducing the conversion of myofibroblasts into dermal papilla‐like cells, leading to hair follicle and sebaceous gland regeneration. The NIR‐mFAS functions as an advanced delivery system for achieving high‐quality wound healing with appendage regeneration and offers a smart therapeutic approach that can be applied to other treatments requiring coordinated delivery of multiple pharmacological agents.
Imaging‐Based Efficacy Evaluation of Cancer Immunotherapy in Engineered Tumor Platforms and Tumor Organoids
Authors: Kim Seong‐Eun , Yun Suji , Doh Junsang , Kim Hong Nam
Published: May 2024

Cancer immunotherapy is used to treat tumors by modulating the immune system. Although the anticancer efficacy of cancer immunotherapy has been evaluated prior to clinical trials, conventional in vivo animal and endpoint models inadequately replicate the intricate process of tumor elimination and reflect human‐specific immune systems. Therefore, more sophisticated models that mimic the complex tumor‐immune microenvironment must be employed to assess the effectiveness of immunotherapy. Additionally, using real‐time imaging technology, a step‐by‐step evaluation can be applied, allowing for a more precise assessment of treatment efficacy. Here, an overview of the various imaging‐based evaluation platforms recently developed for cancer immunotherapeutic applications is presented. Specifically, a fundamental technique is discussed for stably observing immune cell‐based tumor cell killing using direct imaging, a microwell that reproduces a confined space for spatial observation, a droplet assay that facilitates cell–cell interactions, and a 3D microphysiological system that reconstructs the vascular environment. Furthermore, it is suggested that future evaluation platforms pursue more human‐like immune systems.
The Application of Supervised Learning Algorithms in Predicting the Formation Energy of NLO Crystals
Authors: Wang Ai , Yin Yaohui , Sun Zhixin , Jin Guangyong , Xin Chao
Published: May 2024

Nonlinear optical crystals (NLO) are a key class of functional materials in the field of laser technology due to their excellent frequency conversion effects and physical–chemical stability. The research aims to find NLO crystals with superior stability by predicting their formation energy. In this study, only compositional information is utilized as input features and models are constructed using regression algorithms such as Random Forest Regression (RFR), Support Vector Regression (SVR), and Gradient Boosting Regression (GBR). Notably, the GBR model exhibited outstanding predictive performance, with an R2 value of 0.935 and root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.248 eV per atom. Additionally, SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis is employed to elucidate the fundamental principles behind the predictions by assessing the contribution of each feature to the formation energy. To validate the reliability of the models, first‐principles calculations are conducted to predict the formation energy of materials of GaP, ZnGeP2, and CdSiP2. The error range between the model predictions and the Generalized Gradient Approximation (GGA) calculated values is ≈0.1 eV per atom, confirming the accuracy of the models.
Understanding the Full Zoo of Perovskite Solar Cell Impedance Spectra with the Standard Drift‐Diffusion Model
Authors: Clarke Will , Richardson Giles , Cameron Petra
Published: May 2024

The impedance spectra of perovskite solar cells frequently exhibit multiple features that are typically modelled by complex equivalent circuits. This approach can lead to the inclusion of circuit elements without a sensible physical interpretation and create confusion where different circuits are adopted to describe similar cells. Spectra showing two distinct features have already been well explained by a drift‐diffusion model incorporating a single mobile ionic species but spectra with three features have yet to receive the same treatment and have even been dismissed as anomalous. This omission is rectified here by showing that a third (mid‐frequency) impedance feature is a natural consequence of the drift‐diffusion model in certain scenarios. Our comprehensive framework explains the shapes of all previously published spectra, which are classified into six generic types, each named for an animal resembling the Nyquist plot, and approximate solutions to the drift‐diffusion equations are obtained in order to illustrate the specific conditions required for each of these types of spectra to be observed. Importantly, it is shown that the shape of each Nyquist plot can be linked to specific processes occurring within a cell, allowing useful information to be extracted by a visual examination of the impedance spectra.
A Novel Benchmarking Approach to Assess Fire Safety of Liquid Electrolytes in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Mingyang , Xiao Junchen , Tang Wei , He Yi , Tan Peng , Haranczyk Maciej , Wang De‐Yi
Published: May 2024

Establishing authoritative electrolyte safety assessment methods at laboratory levels is crucial for addressing conflicts from thermal runaway of lithium‐ion batteries. However, self‐extinguishing time (SET), as the most widely used evaluation method now, lacks benchmarks and heavily relies on the specific implementation of test procedures. This work systematically summarizes and investigates key test parameters. Based on repeatability and reliability, burning a glassfiber separator (Φ16 mm) with absorption of 0.1 g liquid electrolyte (LE) can be proposed as a unified method. The concept of self‐extinguishing efficiency (SEE) is further proposed with a new evaluation criterion of i) SEE≤70, Flammable; ii) 70<SEE<90, Flame Retarded; iii) 90≤SEE≤100, Nonflammable. The feasibility of the new protocol is verified by employment in evaluating the effects of 15 representative flame retardants (FRs) on combustion behaviors of LEs. Meanwhile, the underlying flame retardancy mechanism is revealed, indicating that preceding or simultaneous vaporization and pyrolysis of FRs in conjunction with the decomposition of LE promote mitigating electrolyte fire risk. In addition, machine learning is employed to aid in analyzing the significance of various features on SEE, providing further validation of the proposed mechanism. This work provides a benchmark for the safety evaluation of LEs, facilitating the advancement of fire‐safe batteries.
Long‐term (29‐year) spatiotemporal patterns of sea turtle deaths in the southern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Guzmán‐Hernández Vicente , Rivas‐Hernández Gerardo A. , García‐Alvarado Pedro A. , Huerta‐Rodríguez Patricia , Peralta‐Jiménez Xochitlquetzal , Cuevas Eduardo
Published: May 2024

Sea turtles are key imperilled species that interact with numerous threats in their critical in‐water and inland habitats, which they occupy along their complex life cycle. Therefore, analysing these interactions is essential for adapting ongoing conservation and management actions.

The long‐term recording of stranded sea turtle individuals and the potential causes of death in their breeding habitats is crucial for defining and adapting conservation actions.

Twenty‐nine years of sea turtle stranding and mortality data (1992–2019) at nesting beaches in Campeche, Mexico, were analysed to describe their spatiotemporal patterns per species and possible causes of death.

The most impacted species was the hawksbill turtle, followed by green and Kemp's ridley individuals. The most frequent probable causes of death in this region were bycatch, seismic surveys, vehicle strikes and slaughter at nesting beaches. Both immature and breeding individuals were stranded, mostly the former, and the most frequent months were in the summer (June–August).

This study establishes a historic reference baseline for the spatiotemporal mortality patterns of imperilled sea turtle species in the southeastern Gulf of Mexico. It shows their interactions with anthropogenic activities and the circumstances jeopardizing their population recovery. It also points out management and conservation actions to implement to improve their long‐term viability in the context of the operationalization of their key attributes and interactions with their seascapes.
How the Sima de los Huesos was won
Authors: Arsuaga Juan‐Luis , Martínez Ignacio , Gracia‐Téllez Ana , Carretero José‐Miguel , Esquivel Alfonso , García Nuria , Lorenzo Carlos , Quam Rolf , Aramburu Arantza , Sala Nohemi , Trueba Javier
Published: May 2024

Although the first discovery of a human fossil in the Sima de los Huesos took place in 1976, systematic excavations did not begin there until 1984. Since then, this site has been continuously excavated in month‐long camps. The site is dated by different radiometric techniques to between 430,000 and 300,000 years ago. Until the 2023 campaign, just over 7000 human fossils have been recovered, constituting the largest collection of fossils prior to Homo sapiens ever discovered. The fossils correspond to a minimum of 29 individuals of both sexes and different ages at death, from preadolescents to a specimen of advanced age. Comparative anatomy and ancient DNA studies both suggest that this is a population closely related to Homo neanderthalensis. The great variety and extraordinary quality of the fossils recovered have allowed us to carry out a series of investigations that have greatly increased our knowledge about the evolution of Homo in the Middle Pleistocene. Among the most important discoveries, it has been possible to establish body size and proportions, the confirmation that the origin of the accumulation of human fossils was of an anthropic nature, that those past humans took care of disabled individuals and who were capable of having an oral language almost as complex and efficient as that of our own species.
Bringing Global Ecological Research to Undergraduate Students Through Citizen Science
Authors: Vance‐Chalcraft Heather D. , Gates Terry A. , Hurlbert Allen H.
Published: May 2024

Research integrated into higher education curricula has been shown by numerous studies to be beneficial to undergraduate students. Citizen science provides an alternative to research performed in a lab and is gaining traction as a good choice for integration into classes. The Undergraduate Student Experiences in Citizen Science (USE Cit Sci) research collaboration network is working to help more instructors in higher education adopt citizen science as part of their curriculum by providing training and educational materials. To date, the Network has identified areas of critical need for citizen science to be more readily used in higher education courses and created a clearinghouse of lessons for faculty to use freely. Forthcoming products of the USE Cit Sci network include direct partnerships between educators and citizen science projects in addition to a peer mentoring program. Given the preponderance of ecology citizen science projects available, bringing this educational opportunity to students opens new avenues of pedagogical experiences.
Developing a single‐session outcome measure using natural language processing on digital mental health transcripts
Authors: Milligan Gregor , Bernard Aynsley , Dowthwaite Liz , Vallejos Elvira Perez , Davis Jamie , Salhi Louisa , Goulding James
Published: May 2024

Background

Current outcome measures in digital mental health lack granularity, especially for single‐session interventions. This study aimed to address this by utilising natural language processing (NLP) methods to create a clear and relevant outcome measure. This paper describes the development of the Adult Session Wants and Needs Outcome Measure (Adult SWAN‐OM), a novel outcome measure for the Qwell digital mental healthcare platform to understand service user (SU) needs engaging in single‐session therapy (SST).

Methods

The research employs a multi‐phased approach combining NLP methods with the typical stages of outcome measures development as follows: (1) assumption definition and validation with SUs and clinicians; (2) transcript theme extraction using the RoBERTa large language model (LLM) in conjunction with topic modelling to extract themes from 254 single‐session transcripts from 192 SUs; (3) clinical item refinement focus group; (4) content validity with clinicians and SUs to improve the relevance and clarity of the items; and (5) outcome measure finalisation in a workshop held with clinicians to consolidate the final wording.

Results

Ninety‐six potential wants and needs were generated and distilled into 12 measure items. The outcome measure was shown to be relevant and clear to both SUs and clinicians when used in the context of SST.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential of combining NLP approaches with co‐creation methods in single‐session outcome measure development. We argue that the incorporation of clinical expertise and SU experience ensures the clarity and applicability of such measures and that this approach to capturing single‐session wants and needs promises novel insights for supporting digital mental health interventions.
Face attribute translation with multiple feature perceptual reconstruction assisted by style translator
Authors: Zhu Shuqi , Liang Jiuzhen , Liu Hao
Published: May 2024

Improving the accuracy and disentanglement of attribute translation, and maintaining the consistency of face identity have been hot topics in face attribute translation. Recent approaches employ attention mechanisms to enable attribute translation in facial images. However, due to the lack of accuracy in the extraction of style code, the attention mechanism alone is not precise enough for the translation of attributes. To tackle this, we introduce a style translator module, which partitions the style code into attribute‐related and unrelated components, enhancing latent space disentanglement for more accurate attribute manipulation. Additionally, many current methods use per‐pixel loss functions to preserve face identity. However, this can sacrifice crucial high‐level features and textures in the target image. To address this limitation, we propose a multiple‐perceptual reconstruction loss to better maintain image fidelity. Extensive qualitative and quantitative experiments in this article demonstrate significant improvements over state‐of‐the‐art methods, validating the effectiveness of our approach.
Biological role of mitochondrial TLR4‐mediated NF‐κB signaling pathway in central nervous system injury
Authors: Wu Zhuochao , Song Ying , Wang Ying , Zhou Hua , Chen Lingling , Zhan Yunyun , Li Ting , Xie Guomin , Wu Hao
Published: May 2024

Previous studies suggested that central nervous system injury is often accompanied by the activation of Toll‐like receptor 4/NF‐κB pathway, which leads to the upregulation of proapoptotic gene expression, causes mitochondrial oxidative stress, and further aggravates the inflammatory response to induce cell apoptosis. Subsequent studies have shown that NF‐κB and IκBα can directly act on mitochondria. Therefore, elucidation of the specific mechanisms of NF‐κB and IκBα in mitochondria may help to discover new therapeutic targets for central nervous system injury. Recent studies have suggested that NF‐κB (especially RelA) in mitochondria can inhibit mitochondrial respiration or DNA expression, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction. IκBα silencing will cause reactive oxygen species storm and initiate the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Other research results suggest that RelA can regulate mitochondrial respiration and energy metabolism balance by interacting with p53 and STAT3, thus initiating the mitochondrial protection mechanism. IκBα can also inhibit apoptosis in mitochondria by interacting with VDAC1 and other molecules. Regulating the biological role of NF‐κB signaling pathway in mitochondria by targeting key proteins such as p53, STAT3, and VDAC1 may help maintain the balance of mitochondrial respiration and energy metabolism, thereby protecting nerve cells and reducing inflammatory storms and death caused by ischemia and hypoxia.
Généralisation de l'usage du Big Data en finance de marché, entre mythes et réalités: Une approche par le travail institutionnel
Authors: Liottier Miguel , Delecolle Thierry , Moriez David , Guesmi Khaled
Published: May 2024

Cette recherche examine l'utilisation du Big Data, en particulier des algorithmes de trading basés sur l'intelligence artificielle, dans le domaine de la finance de marché. À travers une analyse lexicométrique d'un corpus de données provenant de la presse financière sur une période de 10 ans, nous avons identifié quatre acteurs qui contribuent à l'institutionnalisation de l'utilisation du Big Data dans la finance de marché: les experts issus du secteur bancaire et financier, les intellectuels (académiques, journalistes, écrivains), les gestionnaires à la recherche de ressources et les institutions publiques. Alors que les dilemmes éthiques et les problèmes de qualification sont une réalité, seules les institutions publiques les mettent en avant dans leur discours, contribuant ainsi au processus d'institutionnalisation.
The role of the ThyGeNEXT oncogene panel used in combination with the expanded miRNA panel ThyraMIRv2 in Indeterminate thyroid nodules: A large, blinded, real‐world, observational study
Authors: Verma Tanvi , Marshall Cody , Dantey Kossivi E. , Thompson Diane V. , Banizs Anna , Finkelstein Sydney D. , DelTondo Joseph
Published: May 2024

Background

Molecular analysis of fine‐needle aspiration biopsies (FNAB) improves the diagnostic accuracy of cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules (ITNs). Recently, the use of MPTXv2 has been shown to further improve the accuracy of risk stratification of ITNs.

Methods

A total of 338 patient samples with atypia of undetermined significance (n = 258) or follicular neoplasm (n = 80) cytology diagnosis and corresponding surgical outcomes or clinical follow‐up, collected between 2016 and 2020 were included [Correction added on 19 June 2024, after first online publication: In the preceding sentence, the n values 260 and 78 have been changed to 258 and 80, respectively.]. All samples underwent multiplatform testing (MPTXv1), which includes an oncogene panel (ThyGeNEXT®) plus a microRNA risk classifier (ThyraMIR®). A blinded, secondary analysis was performed to assess the added utility of MPTXv2 (ThyraMIR®v2). The average length of follow‐up for the surveillance group (n = 248) was 30 months.

Results

Sensitivity at moderate threshold was 96% and specificity at positive threshold was 99% for MPTXv2. At 14% disease prevalence, the negative predictive value at the moderate threshold was 99% and the positive predictive value at the positive threshold was 89% for MPTXv2. MPTXv2 had fewer patients classified into the moderate‐risk group than MPTXv1, which was statistically significant (p < .001). Using surgical resection, the gold standard for outcomes, MPTXv2 showed a statistically greater area under the curve (p = .028) than MPTXv1, demonstrating greater accuracy for MPTXv2.

Conclusion

Both test versions demonstrated robust performance with low false‐positive molecular results. Data suggest that incorporation of MPTXv1, and more recently MPTXv2, into clinical practice within our healthcare network resulted in improved accuracy of ITN risk stratification.
Incarceration of a part of the gastric wall into the abdominal cavity in a patient with hiatal hernia and complete dislocation of the stomach (upside‐down stomach)
Authors: Chiyonaga Suguru , Ohya Yuki , Inoue Mitsuhiro , Matsuda Dan , Yoneda Akira , Tomiguchi Jun , Hinokuma Yukari , Hayashida Shintaro , Iizaka Masayoshi , Inomata Yukihiro
Published: May 2024

An upside‐down stomach is a rare type of hiatal hernia. An 83‐year‐old woman presented to the emergency room with abdominal pain and vomiting. Computed tomography revealed an upside‐down stomach and the incarceration of a part of the gastric body into the abdominal cavity. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a circular ulcer caused by gastric ischemia. Although she was discharged after 1 week of conservative therapy, she was readmitted to the hospital 1 day after discharge because of a recurrence of hiatal hernia incarceration. She underwent laparoscopic surgery 4 days after readmission and recovered successfully.
Design of Honeycomb‐Filled End Plate for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells Based on Topology Optimization
Authors: Mao Zibin , Zhao Qinghai , Zhou Chongwei , Li Honghui , Tang Qingheng , Zhu Zhifu
Published: May 2024

Designing a functional end plate for the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is a challenging task since the structure that simultaneously satisfies uniform contact pressure and lightweight features must be achieved. To design an end plate for both requirements, a multi‐objective topology optimization model of the PEMFC based on the concept of equivalent stiffness is established with the aim of maximum stiffness and minimum root mean square (RMS) of contact displacement. Based on the final topology, the filled honeycomb‐based end plates with excellent mechanical properties and energy absorption effects are optimized through the particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO). The results demonstrate that the end plate mass is reduced by 39.5% and the stress distribution is more uniform. The standard deviation of pressure decreases by 30.8% compared to the original model data. The proposed optimization method is helpful in the design of future end plates.
Investigating Fairness Claims for a General‐Purposes Assessment of English Proficiency for the International Workplace: Do Full‐Time Employees Have an Unfair Advantage Over Full‐Time Students?
Authors: Schmidgall Jonathan , Huo Yan , Cid Jaime , Wei Youhua
Published: May 2024

The principle of fairness in testing traditionally involves an assertion about the absence of bias, or that measurement should be impartial (i.e., not provide an unfair advantage or disadvantage), across groups of test takers. In more general‐purposes language testing, a test taker's background knowledge is not typically considered relevant to the measurement of language proficiency; consequently, if there are systematic differences in background knowledge between groups of test takers this background knowledge should not provide an unfair advantage or disadvantage. As a general‐purposes assessment of English for everyday life and the international workplace, the TOEIC® Listening and Reading test is designed to assess the listening and reading comprehension skills of second language (L2) users of English. In this study, we investigated whether a group of test takers with more workplace experience (full‐time employees) have an unfair advantage over test takers with less workplace experience (full‐time students). We conducted DIF analysis using nine forms of the test (1,800 items) and flagged 18 items (1.0%) for statistical differential functioning. An expert panel reviewed the items and concluded that none of the items could be clearly identified as biased in favor of employed (or student) test takers. Follow‐up analyses using score equity assessment found that test scores do not unfairly advantage fulltime employed (versus student) test takers. Finally, we performed a content review using two expert panels that led to examples of how workplace‐oriented content is incorporated into test items without disadvantaging full‐time students (versus full‐time employees). The results of these analyses provide support for claims about the impartiality (or fairness) of TOEIC Listening and Reading test scores for postsecondary test takers and add to current research on the role of background knowledge and fairness for more general‐purposes language assessments.