bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Practical Tutorial on Explainable AI Techniques
Authors: Bennetot Adrien , Donadello Ivan , El Qadi El Haouari Ayoub , Dragoni Mauro , Frossard Thomas , Wagner Benedikt , Sarranti Anna , Tulli Silvia , Trocan Maria , Chatila Raja , Holzinger Andreas , Davila Garcez Artur , Díaz-Rodríguez Natalia
Published: June 2024

The past years have been characterized by an upsurge in opaque automatic decision support systems, such as Deep Neural Networks (DNNs). Although DNNs have great generalization and prediction abilities, it is difficult to obtain detailed explanations for their behavior. As opaque Machine Learning models are increasingly being employed to make important predictions in critical domains, there is a danger of creating and using decisions that are not justifiable or legitimate. Therefore, there is a general agreement on the importance of endowing DNNs with explainability. EXplainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques can serve to verify and certify model outputs and enhance them with desirable notions such as trustworthiness, accountability, transparency, and fairness. This guide is intended to be the go-to handbook for anyone with a computer science background aiming to obtain an intuitive insight from Machine Learning models accompanied by explanations out-of-the-box. The article aims to rectify the lack of a practical XAI guide by applying XAI techniques, in particular, day-to-day models, datasets and use-cases. In each chapter, the reader will find a description of the proposed method as well as one or several examples of use with Python notebooks. These can be easily modified to be applied to specific applications. We also explain what the prerequisites are for using each technique, what the user will learn about them, and which tasks they are aimed at.
A Survey of Hardware Improvements to Secure Program Execution
Authors: Zhao Lianying , Shuang He , Xu Shengjie , Huang Wei , Cui Rongzhen , Bettadpur Pushkar , Lie David
Published: June 2024

Hardware has been constantly augmented for security considerations since the advent of computers. There is also a common perception among computer users that hardware does a relatively better job on security assurance compared with software. Yet, the community has long lacked a comprehensive study to answer questions such as how hardware security support contributes to security, what kind of improvements have been introduced to improve such support and what its advantages/disadvantages are.

By generalizing various security goals, we taxonomize hardware security features and their security properties that can aid in securing program execution, considered as three aspects, i.e., state correctness, runtime protection and input/output protection. Based on this taxonomy, the survey systematically examines (1) the roles: how hardware is applied to achieve security; and (2) the problems: how reported attacks have exploited certain defects in hardware. We see that hardware’s unique advantages and problems co-exist and it highly depends on the desired security purpose as to which type to use. Among the survey findings are also that code as part of hardware (aka. firmware) should be treated differently to ensure security by design; and how research proposals have driven the advancement of commodity hardware features.
Automatic Correction of Arithmetic Circuits in the Presence of Multiple Bugs by Groebner Basis Modification
Authors: Aghapour Sabbagh Negar , Alizadeh Bijan
Published: June 2024

One promising approach to verify large arithmetic circuits is making use of Symbolic Computer Algebra (SCA), where the circuit and the specification are translated to a set of polynomials, and the verification is performed by the ideal membership testing. Here, the main problem is the monomial explosion for buggy arithmetic circuits, which makes obtaining the word-level remainder become unfeasible. So, automatic correction of such circuits remains a significant challenge. Our proposed correction method partitions the circuit based on primary output bits and modifies the related Groebner basis based on the given suspicious gates, which makes it independent of the word-level remainder. We have applied our method to various signed and unsigned multipliers, with various sizes and numbers of suspicious and buggy gates. The results show that the proposed method corrects the bugs without area overhead. Moreover, it is able to correct the buggy circuit on average 51.9× and 45.72× faster in comparison with the state-of-the-art correction techniques, having single and multiple bugs, respectively.
A Multilayer Doyle-Fuller-Newman Model to Optimise the Rate Performance of Bilayer Cathodes in Li Ion Batteries
Authors: Tredenick E. C. , Wheeler S. , Drummond R. , Sun Y. , Duncan S. R. , Grant P. S.
Published: June 2024

Bilayer cathodes comprising two active materials are explored for their ability to improve lithium-ion battery charging performance. Electrodes are manufactured with various arrangements of lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide Li[Ni0.6Co0.2Mn0.2]O2 (NMC622) and lithium iron phosphate LiFePO4 (LFP) active particles, including in two different discrete sub-layers. We present experimental data on the sensitivity of the electrode C rate performance to the electrode design. To understand the complex bilayer electrode performance, and to identify an optimal design for fast charging, we develop an extension to the Doyle-Fuller-Newman (DFN) model of electrode dynamics that accommodates different active materials in any number of sub-layers, termed the multilayer DFN (M-DFN) model. The M-DFN model is validated against experimental data and then used to explain the performance differences between the electrode arrangements. We show how the different open circuit potential functions of NMC and LFP can be exploited synergistically through electrode design. Manipulating the Li electrolyte concentration increases achievable capacity. Finally the M-DFN model is used to further optimize the best performing bilayer electrode arrangement by adjusting the ratio of the LFP and NMC sub-layer thickness.
Electrochemical and Cycle Analysis of Water-in-Salt K-Acetate Electrolyte Zn-Ion Batteries Under Commercially-Relevant Conditions
Authors: Turney Damon E. , Dutta Debayon , Banerjee Sanjoy , Lambert Timothy N. , Bell Nelson S.
Published: June 2024

Water-in-salt electrolyte (WiSE) promises high-voltage battery technology with low fire risk. Here we assess potassium acetate (KAc) WiSE for Zn ion batteries under commercially relevant conditions. Rotating disc electrode analysis of WiSE degradation and Zn plating/deplating suggest a solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer dominates. Butler-Volmer kinetics and Koutecky-Levich mass-transfer are of secondary importance. Measurements of chemical potential reveal that bulk solvation of H2O (in KAc WiSE or lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) WiSE) is an insignificant process compared to SEI blocking. Zinc cycling in KAc WiSE with practical rates (∼0.3 to 8.0 mA cm−2) and areal capacities (>20 mAh cm−2) shows dendrites are less prominent than in KOH, but the SEI layer suppresses the electrochemical reaction too much for commercial feasibility. Dilution or convection of the WiSE alleviates the SEI blocking effects. Cu substrate shows good Zn adhesion, but Ti, Sn, and Ni show poor adhesion. Cathodes made with Chevrel (Mo6S8) reversibly intercalate Zn2+ to form a novel battery technology when paired with Zn foil, but yield <1.0 V cell voltage. Cathodes made with zinc-containing Prussian blue analogues (ZnHCF or ZnMnHCF) yield a voltage near 2.0 V but don't cycle in the present KAc WiSE formulation. Future research directions for KAc WiSE are proposed, focussing on SEI dynamics and Prussian blue compatibility.
Beyond Ridge Regression: Enhancing Distribution of Relaxation Times Deconvolution
Authors: Py Baptiste , Ciucci Francesco
Published: June 2024

The distribution of relaxation times (DRT) has emerged as a promising method for analyzing electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) data. The standard approach for reconstructing the DRT from measured impedances consists of regularized regression, which usually leverages the Euclidean norm. In this work, we show for the first time that the 1-norm is often more accurate than ridge regression and the infinity-norm. We also demonstrate that the 1-norm is more robust against discontinuities in the DRT and outliers in the impedance data. Overall, this work is expected to enhance regularized regression of non-parametric methods when analyzing EIS spectra.
Effect of High Local Diffusive Mass Transfer on Acidic Oxygen Reduction of Pt Catalysis
Authors: Wu W. Z. , Lin P. Z. , Liu B. , Xu J. B. , Sun J. , Zhao T. S.
Published: June 2024

In this study, we utilize a platinum ultramicroelectrode as a model platform for platinum electrocatalysts in acidic electrolytes to study the effects of local mass transfer on the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), which plays a significant role in fuel cells with reduced platinum loading. Finite element simulations show that the UME exhibits size-dependent ultrathin diffusion layers during the electrochemical process. Submicron-scale UMEs can achieve ultrahigh localized mass transfer, which is unattainable through other experimental techniques. By conducting catalytic experiments under various mass transfer conditions, we find that the mass transfer limiting current is significantly lower than the value predicted by the four-electron process equation. Additionally, the apparent electron transfer number (napp) decreases as the mass transfer coefficient (m0) increases. Furthermore, as m0 increases, the half-wave potential shifts toward more negative values, allowing for the evaluation of the intrinsic activity of the catalysts over a broader potential range. Due to the UME technique’s capability to conveniently control local mass transfer, we anticipate its potential application in understanding the effects of chemical microenvironments on complex electrochemical reactions, including ORR and other processes.
Prefrontal cortical network dysfunction from acute neurotoxicant exposure
Authors: Sceniak Michael P. , Sabo Shasta L.
Published: June 2024

Prefrontal cortical neurons are highly susceptible to glutamatergic excitotoxicity associated with neuronal degeneration in frontal dementia and to environmental toxicant exposure, one potential contributor to FTD. However, this has not been systematically studied. Our results demonstrate that methylmercury exposure leads to hyperexcitability of prefrontal cortical neurons by shifting excitatory to inhibitory (E-I) balance and raising sensitivity for spiking. Our results provide a mechanism by which environmental neurotoxicants may contribute to pathogenesis of diseases such as FTD.
The Multisensory and Multidimensional Nature of Object Representation.
Authors: Kyler Hellen
Published: June 2024

Recent fMRI experiments revealed similar neural representations across different types of 2D visual stimuli; however, real 3D objects affording action differentially affect neural activation and behavioral results relative to 2D objects. Recruitment of multiple sensory regions during unisensory (visual, haptic, and auditory) object shape tasks suggests that shape representation may be modality invariant. This mini review explores the overlapping neural regions involved in object shape representation, across 2D, 3D, visual, and haptic experiments.
Constructing Attention‐LSTM‐VAE Power Load Model Based on Multiple Features
Authors: Ma Chaoyue , Wang Ying , Li Feng , Zhang Huiyan , Zhang Yong , Zhang Haiyan
Published: June 2024

With the complexity of modern power system and the susceptibility to external weather influences, it brings challenges to build an accurate load model. This paper proposes a variational autoencoder (VAE) long short‐term memory (LSTM) load model based on the attention mechanism (Attention). First, the Prophet data decomposition method is used to decompose long sequences of load data at multiple time scales. Second, the correlation‐based feature selection with maximum information coefficient (CFS‐MIC) method is employed to select weather features based on their relevance, a subset of features with high correlation and low redundancy is chosen as model inputs. Finally, the Attention‐LSTM‐VAE model is constructed to capture the temporal variations laws of load. The dataset includes 2 years of load values and weather data collected in Caojiaping, Hunan Province, China. The experimental results show that the Attention‐LSTM‐VAE model has the lowest mean absolute error of 0.0374 and the highest R‐squared value of 0.9714, verifying the accuracy of the model. Therefore, the performance of the Attention‐LSTM‐VAE model is better than the general deep learning load models, which has important reference for the research of power load models. Comparisons with other deep learning methods, the experimental results show that the Attention‐LSTM‐VAE model has the lowest mean absolute error of 0.0374 and the highest R‐squared value of 0.9714. The Attention‐LSTM‐VAE has better robustness, stability, and accuracy in load modeling, which has an important reference for the research of power load models.
Exploring the Antidiarrheal Properties of Papaya Leaf: Insights In Vivo Study in Mice‐Model and In Silico Analysis at M3 Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptor Interaction
Authors: Saptarini Nyi Mekar , Kelutur Faruk Jayanto , Corpuz Mary Jho-Anne Tolentino
Published: June 2024

Diarrhea caused by gut motility involves 5‐HT3 serotonin receptor (5‐HT3R) antagonist, M3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M3‐AchR), and H1 histamine receptor (H1R) via their respective agonist. Papaya (Carica papaya L.) leaf is an herbal medicine to treat diarrhea in Indonesia, though this has not yet been proven scientifically. This study aimed to determine the antidiarrheal properties of papaya leaf through in vivo and in silico studies. In the mice model, papaya leaves were infused with distilled water and subjected to in vivo antidiarrheal study using castor oil‐induced diarrhea. In silico molecular docking study of nineteen secondary metabolites was carried out on the M3‐AchR (PDB ID: 5ZHP) using AutoDock Tools 1.5.6, while ADMET was predicted by pre‐ADMET. The results showed that papaya leaf infusion caused a decrease in the total number of feces, an increase in the onset time of diarrhea, a reduction in the frequency of diarrhea, and an increase in the percentage of inhibition of diarrhea. Quercetin 3‐rutinoside, a flavonoid glycoside, is potentially an antidiarrheal remedy at M3‐AchR. ADMET prediction showed good distribution on the target and was not toxic, but absorption needed to be considered. We concluded that the antidiarrheal activity of papaya leaf infusion was dose‐dependent. Based on a molecular docking study, the flavonoid glycoside was very effective as an antidiarrheal remedy. ADMET prediction showed a specific distribution to the target and was not toxic.
Implementation of Pharmaceutical Technical Assistants on Hospital Wards and Their Impact on Patient Safety and Quality of Care: A Qualitative Study on Nurses’ Experiences and Perceptions
Authors: De Graef Marjan , Serraes Brecht , Van Rompay Veronique , Dijkstra Nienke E. , Heerdink Eibert R. , Dilles Tinne
Published: June 2024

Object. To explore nurses’ experiences and perceptions of implementing pharmaceutical technical assistants on hospital wards for medication dispensation. The study focuses on implementation, role development, and impact on safety and quality of care, identifying critical success factors and improvement opportunities. Methods. In a qualitative descriptive study, between December 2022 and March 2023, 16 semistructured interviews were carried out with a stratified purposive sample of nurses across internal, surgical, and geriatric wards. The inclusion criteria required a minimum of six months of work experience and experience working both day and night shifts. Inductive thematic analysis was performed in NVivo 1.6.1. Results. Semistructured interviews revealed three main themes: (1) patient safety and quality of care, (2) organization of care, and (3) role development and collaboration. The implementation of pharmaceutical technical assistants on nursing wards was perceived to reduce the risk of medication errors without compromising care quality, allowing nurses to spend more time on direct patient care. Clear communication procedures were vital for successful implementation, highlighting the need for collaboration and information exchange between pharmaceutical technical assistants and nurses. Continuity in assigning pharmaceutical technical assistants was highlighted as crucial to improve medication safety and quality of care. This is considered an important aspect to ensure a smooth and optimal cooperation between nurses and pharmaceutical technical assistants. Nurses expressed that working with pharmaceutical technical assistants challenged their supervisory role and teamwork dynamics. Conclusions. Nurses confirmed the added value of pharmaceutical technical assistants in medication management. Critical factors included dedicated assignments to hospital wards, clear roles, and mutual expectations in collaboration with ward nurses.
Demographics, Presenting Features, and Outcomes of Adult Patients with Ocular Trauma
Authors: Clevenger Leanne M. , Cao Jessica L. , Steinkerchner Megan S. , Nowacki Amy S. , Yuan Alex
Published: June 2024

Introduction. Ocular trauma is a common cause of permanent vision loss in adults. The combination of an accurate clinical examination and imaging offers the best prognostic indicators for patients and helps to navigate treatment modalities. This is a retrospective chart review of examination and imaging findings for ocular trauma and how they correlate with treatment course and visual acuity (VA) outcomes. Methods. Adult patients with ocular trauma presenting to a single institution between January 2013 and December 2020 were evaluated. Initial examination and imaging findings were compared for associations with each other and with VA outcomes. Results. 136 ocular traumas on 134 patients were included. The median presenting logMAR VA was 2.7 (interquartile range (IQR) 1.2–3.7) with 62% open globe injuries. The most commonly reported finding on initial CT scan was globe deformity (30%), on B‐scan was choroidal detachment (20%), and on ultrasound biomicroscopy was intraocular foreign body, ciliochoroidal effusions, or angle recession (21% each). Worse vision was observed for patients positive for retinal detachment on initial B‐scan compared to those negative for this finding at 6‐month (median logMAR 2.7 vs. 0.5; P < 0.0001) and at final post‐injury evaluation (median logMAR 3.7 vs. 0.4; P < 0.0001). Similarly, worse VA was observed for patients with choroidal detachment on initial B‐scan compared to those without this finding at 6‐month (median logMAR 1.4 vs. 0.5; P = 0.002) and at final post‐injury evaluation (median logMAR 2.0 vs. 0.4; P < 0.0001). If positive conjunctiva/sclera examination findings were identified, 66% had positive findings on B‐scan, whereas if the conjunctiva/sclera examination findings were absent, 41% had positive findings on B‐scan (P = 0.005). If anterior chamber (AC) examination findings were positive, 59% had positive findings on B‐scan, whereas if the AC examination findings were absent, 37% had positive findings on B‐scan (P = 0.03). Discussion. The predictive value of examination findings in this study may offer insight as to long‐term visual prognosis. Positive B‐scan or CT findings should increase suspicion for open globe injuries.
Table S7 from Deep-Learning Model for Tumor-Type Prediction Using Targeted Clinical Genomic Sequencing Data
Authors: Darmofal Madison , Suman Shalabh , Atwal Gurnit , Toomey Michael , Chen Jie-Fu , Chang Jason C. , Vakiani Efsevia , Varghese Anna M. , Balakrishnan Rema Anoop , Syed Aijazuddin , Schultz Nikolaus , Berger Michael F. , Morris Quaid
Published: June 2024

All GDD-ENS test set results
Table S2 from Deep-Learning Model for Tumor-Type Prediction Using Targeted Clinical Genomic Sequencing Data
Authors: Darmofal Madison , Suman Shalabh , Atwal Gurnit , Toomey Michael , Chen Jie-Fu , Chang Jason C. , Vakiani Efsevia , Varghese Anna M. , Balakrishnan Rema Anoop , Syed Aijazuddin , Schultz Nikolaus , Berger Michael F. , Morris Quaid
Published: June 2024

Cancer Type and Detailed Cancer Type Labelling for Discovery Cohort Samples
Table S12 from Deep-Learning Model for Tumor-Type Prediction Using Targeted Clinical Genomic Sequencing Data
Authors: Darmofal Madison , Suman Shalabh , Atwal Gurnit , Toomey Michael , Chen Jie-Fu , Chang Jason C. , Vakiani Efsevia , Varghese Anna M. , Balakrishnan Rema Anoop , Syed Aijazuddin , Schultz Nikolaus , Berger Michael F. , Morris Quaid
Published: June 2024

Top Shapley values per cancer type. Shapnorm = shapley effect score normalized across all predictions of the cancer type
A Cognitive Pathway to Persistent, Maladaptive Choice
Authors: McNally Gavan P. , Jean-Richard-dit-Bressel Philip
Published: June 2024

Background: Correctly recognising that alcohol or other substances are causing problems is a necessary condition for those problems to spur beneficial behaviour change. Yet such recognition is neither immediate nor straightforward. Recognition that one’s alcohol or drug use is causing negative consequences often occurs gradually. Contemporary addiction neuroscience has yet to make progress in understanding and addressing these recognition barriers, despite evidence that a lack of problem recognition is a primary impediment to seeking treatment. Summary: Based on our recent empirical work, this article shows how recognition barriers can emerge from dual constraints on how we learn about the negative consequences of our actions. One constraint is imposed by the characteristics of negative consequences themselves. A second constraint is imposed by the characteristics of human cognition and information processing. In some people, the joint action of these constraints causes a lack of correct awareness of the consequences of their behaviour and reduced willingness to update that knowledge and behaviour when confronted with counterevidence. Key Messages: This “cognitive pathway” can drive persistent, maladaptive choice.
Machine Learning-Aided Decision-Making Model for the Discontinuation of Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Zhu Siyi , Yan Jing , Gong Shijin , Feng Xue , Ning Gangmin , Xu Liang
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is a primary form of renal support for patients with acute kidney injury in an intensive care unit. Making an accurate decision of discontinuation is crucial for the prognosis of patients. Previous research has mostly focused on the univariate and multivariate analysis of factors in CRRT, without the capacity to capture the complexity of the decision-making process. The present study thus developed a dynamic, interpretable decision model for CRRT discontinuation. Method: The study adopted a cohort of 1,234 adult patients admitted to an intensive care unit in the MIMIC-IV database. We used the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) machine learning algorithm to construct dynamic discontinuation decision models across 4 time points. SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP) analysis was conducted to exhibit the contributions of individual features to the model output. Result: Of the 1,234 included patients with CRRT, 596 (48.3%) successfully discontinued CRRT. The dynamic prediction by the XGBoost model produced an area under the curve of 0.848, with accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 0.782, 0.786, and 0.776, respectively. The performance of the XGBoost model was far superior to other test models. SHAP demonstrated that the features that contributed most to the model results were the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, serum lactate level, and 24-h urine output. Conclusion: Dynamic decision models supported by machine learning are capable of dealing with complex factors in CRRT and effectively predicting the outcome of discontinuation.
Automated high throughput IgG N-glycosylation sample preparation method development on the Tecan Freedom EVO platform
Authors: Lauc Gordan , Novokmet Mislav , Trbojević-Akmačić Irena , Vučković Frano , Štambuk Jerko , Šimunović Jelena , Plavša Branimir , Hanić Maja , Rapčan Borna , Razdorov Genadij
Published: June 2024

Graphical abstract
Highlights
• An automated immunoglobulin G (IgG) N-glycan method was developed leveraging positive pressure technology
• In general, automated method showed satisfactory precision and agreement with manual method that is in current use
• The automated method holds the possibility to significantly streamline sample preparation, enhancing throughput and improving laboratory safety
IntroductionGlycomics, focusing on the role of glycans in biological processes, particularly their influence on the folding, stability and receptor interactions of glycoconjugates like antibodies, is vital for our understanding of biology. Changes in immunoglobulin G (IgG) N-glycosylation have been associated with various physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Nevertheless, time-consuming manual sample preparation is one of the limitations in the glycomics diagnostic implementation. The study aimed to develop an automated method for sample preparation on the Tecan Freedom Evo 200 platform and compare its efficiency and precision with the manual counterpart.
Materials and methodsThe initial method development included 32 pooled blood plasma technical replicates. An additional 24 pooled samples were used in the method comparison along with 78 random duplicates of plasma samples collected from 10,001 Dalmatians biobank to compare the manual and automated methods.
ResultsThe development resulted in a new automated method. For the automated method, glycan peaks comprising 91% of the total sample glycan showed a variation of less than 5% while 92% of the total sample showed a variation of less than 5% for the manual method. The results of the Passing-Bablok regression indicated no differences between the automated and manual methods for 12 glycan peaks (GPs). However, for 8 GPs systematic difference was present, while both systematic and proportional differences were present for four GPs.
ConclusionsThe developed automated sample preparation method for IgG glycan analysis reduced exposure to hazardous chemicals and offered a simplified workflow. Despite slight differences between the methods, the new automated method showed high precision and proved to be highly comparable to its manual counterpart.
Two new species of the genus Lacustriella (Bacillariophyta) from Lake Baikal
Authors: RODIONOVA YELENA V. , POMAZKINA GALINA V. , SHERBAKOVA TATYANA A.
Published: June 2024

Two new species of the genus Lacustriella from Lake Baikal have been studied by light and scanning electron microscopy. These are Lacustriella concinna and L. provecta, both of which have a unique combination of characters. We document morphological differences between new species and similar Lacustriella taxa; the lacking details on the ultrastructure of the closely related Lacustriella acutocuneata, were supplemented with our own SEM data and used for comparison. Most of the world’s Lacustriella species are currently found in the lake.
A combined phylogenetic and numerical taxonomic study of Matthiola montana and M. anchoniifolia (Brassicaceae)
Authors: AYGÖREN ULUER DENİZ , ÖZÜDOGRU BARIŞ
Published: June 2024

Matthiola montana and M. anchoniifolia are endemic to Türkiye and can be distinguished from each other by morphological features including siliques, leaves, petals, and hairs. Although these two taxa have traditionally been treated as separate species in all taxeonomic accounts, field and herbarium studies together with findings in the literature suggest that they should be considered at the subspecies level at the very least due to transitions in the aforementioned characters. To test this hypothesis, we evaluated all available herbarium specimens and specimens from field collections, conducting numerical and phylogenetic analyses based on the ITS region of the nuclear DNA. Our analyses, including the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) and principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) as well as phylogenetic methods, consistently indicated that the two species did not form separate clusters. Therefore, our careful examination of the material, along with morphological and phylogenetic analyses, strongly supports the conclusion that M. anchoniifolia is not distinct from M. montana and should be a synonym of the latter.
Erratum: Gorjón, S.P. & Greslebin, A.G. (2024) Stereodiscus pseudotrivialis (Russulales, Basidiomycota), a new species from the Patagonian Andes of Argentina. Phytotaxa 636 (2): 152–162.
Authors: GORJÓN S.P. , GRESLEBIN A.G.
Published: June 2024

N/A
Clinical and Research Perspectives on the Therapeutic Conversation: The Case of MS. M.
Authors: Jaffe Charles M. , Bucci Wilma , Maskit Bernard , Murphy Sean
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a collaboration between a clinician (C.M.J.) and a research team (W.B., B.M., and S.M.) to address the question: At an operational level, what happens in the special form of conversation that is psychotherapy? How can we study, beyond a priori lenses of psychoanalytic models, what we are actually doing when we engage in this process? How can we capture from the linear flow of conversation, the simultaneous, complex, active, interwoven, dimensional emotion schemas that words can only point toward? To address the question, we first present the need for new approaches in the current climate within the clinical and research communities. Next, we address the challenges for clinicians and researchers by using multiple code theory and derived linguistic measures that offer an objective view of the processes of subjectivity. We then apply the research methods to the clinical data to illustrate the yield of the collaborative effort—a yield that captures the connection between the linear flow of words and the arousal, verbal expression, and reflection/integration of emotion schemas without the usual filters of psychoanalytic models of process and change. The project illustrates the critical value of clinicians’ perspectives to guide researchers and encourages clinicians to participate in research to advance our field. For researchers, this project represents a “fourth generation” of process research that includes the criteria of video-recorded, transcribed data; the clinician’s report of their experience; a theory of how emotion-laden meaning and motivations (emotion schemas) are expressed in the therapeutic conversation; and reliable, valid measures to capture and represent those processes; and that encourages researchers to access the rich contributions of clinicians’ understanding. The implication for clinical practice is a new way to look beyond the lens of psychoanalytic models into what is actually unfolding in real time.
Distribution of the Joint Survival Function of an Archimedean Copula
Authors: Djimdou Magloire Loudegui , Chaubey Yogendra P. , Sen Arusharka
Published: June 2024

Suppose a random vector [Formula: see text] with values in the unit cube has a joint survival function: [Formula: see text]

given by an Archimedean copula [Formula: see text]

with generator [Formula: see text], a smooth decreasing convex function such that [Formula: see text]. In this article, we provide a formula for the distribution of [Formula: see text]

where [Formula: see text] is an independent copy of [Formula: see text] and a method to simulate values from the distribution of Z in the bivariate case, that is, when d = 2. The case d > 2 does not seem to be tractable. As an application, we show how our result can be used to compute the limiting covariance of the empirical Kendall process corresponding to [Formula: see text].

AMS Subject Classification: 62H05
Tobacco harm reduction: Implementation of the concept in social work practice
Authors: Steimle Larissa , Kowalczyk Katarzyna , Stöver Heino
Published: June 2024

Smoking remains one of the biggest health issues worldwide. Although social work is supposed to enhance well-being and therefore address smoking, it has been criticized as passive in its stance. In this article, we present tobacco harm reduction as a strategy that can help social work deal with smoking.
New Trends of Warthin Tumor Management: A Systematic Review of Nonsurgical Modalities
Authors: Alqahtani Abdulwahid Saeed M. , Alaidaroos Omar Zaki A. , Alsibani Ahmed , Alotaibi Omar , Aldhahri Saleh Fahad , Alessa Mohammed , Alqahtani Khalid Hussain
Published: June 2024

Objective: To provide a comprehensive review of nonsurgical approaches for the management of Warthin’s tumors (WTs) and evaluate their safety and efficacy as alternatives to surgical intervention. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases using specific keywords related to WT and nonsurgical treatments. Studies published before 2012, non-English publications, and mixed methodology articles were excluded. The selection process involved title and abstract screening, followed by a thorough assessment of the remaining articles based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data regarding study characteristics, participants, interventions, and outcomes were collected. Results: A total of 1582 records were analyzed, and 6 studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies evaluated different nonsurgical interventions for WT management, including microwave ablation, radiofrequency ablation, and ultrasound-guided ethanol sclerotherapy. The findings demonstrated that microwave ablation and radiofrequency ablation led to a significant reduction in tumor size and improved cosmetic appearance. Ultrasound-guided ethanol sclerotherapy also resulted in a notable decrease in tumor size without complications. The included studies supported the safety and efficacy of these nonsurgical options for the treatment of WTs. Conclusion: Nonsurgical approaches, such as microwave ablation, radiofrequency ablation, and ultrasound-guided ethanol sclerotherapy, have emerged as viable alternatives to surgical intervention for the management of WTs. These interventions offer promising outcomes in terms of tumor size reduction and cosmetic improvement. Further research with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up is warranted to validate these findings and establish standardized protocols for nonsurgical management of WTs.
Study on the use and perception of Sci-Hub among Korean researchers
Authors: Suh Jee Young
Published: June 2024

This study analysed the use and perception of Sci-Hub, a representative Black Open Access website, to understand the behaviours of Korean researchers facing limited access to the information required for research activities. Debates on the role and future of Sci-Hub vary widely, raising questions of illegality and morality. While many studies have examined Sci-Hub, few focused on users and their motivations. This study employed a mixed-methods approach, conducting quantitative and qualitative research on Korean researchers to address this gap. The findings reveal that Sci-Hub’s copyright infringement has not discouraged its use. Researchers who prioritise quick access to information over copyright concerns deemed the unsegmented subscription environment and cumbersome, time-consuming library services inadequate, thus justifying Sci-Hub’s use. Researchers are expected to continue utilising Sci-Hub, notwithstanding concerns about illegality, morality and ethics. This study underscores the challenges researchers encounter in obtaining academic information, and advocates for more efficient access options.
Preparation and Physical Properties of Polyurethane Elastomers Containing Mesogenic Moieties*
Authors: Onouchi Yukio , Inagaki Shinji , Okamoto Hiroshi , Furukawa Junji
Published: June 2024

The mesogenic diols containing azobenzene, benzophenone and biphenyl moieties with an alkoxy flexible spacer were synthesized, and the linear polyurethanes were prepared by the polyaddition of these diols with diisocyanates such as 2,4-toluene diisocyanate and 4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate. From the measurement of DSC and polarizing optical microscopy with the hot stage, it was found that most resulting polyurethanes revealed a thermotropic liquid crystalline behaviour and the temperature of mesomorphic phase was effected significantly by the molecular structure of diisocyanates and the chain length of flexible spacers. On the other hand, the segmented polyurethanes were prepared by the chain extension of isocyanate-terminated prepolymers with these mesogenic diols. As the results, it was found that the incorporation of mesogenic moieties to the hard segment of the polyurethanes contributed to the enhancement of thermal stability and mechanical properties.
Synthesis and Characterisation of Liquid-Crystalline Polyurethane Elastomers*
Authors: Furukawa Mutsuhisa , and Yoshinori Oda , Higashi Hiromi
Published: June 2024

Polyurethane elastomers (PUEs) containing conventional and mesogenic hard segments were prepared from poly (oxytetramethylene)glycol (PTMG), 2.4-toluene diisocyanate, and mesogenic diols and/or 1,4-butanediol. The mesogenic diols used are 4,4'-bis(2-hydroxyethoxy)benzophenone, and dihydroxy-p-quarterphenyl. Effects of addition of mesogenic diol to 1.4-butanediol on mechanical, thermal properties, and morphologies of PUEs were investigated.
Determination of Effective Diffusion Coefficients in Rigid Polyurethane Foam
Authors: Svanstr Magdalenaöm , Ramnäs Olle , Olsson Maria , Jarfelt Ulf
Published: June 2024

The change in cell gas pressures over time in foam slabs and cylindrical foam samples was determined, and the effective diffusion coefficients of the gases were calculated. Seven different rigid polyurethane foams, blown with pentane or cyclopentane, were used. No systematic difference between the effective diffusion coefficients obtained from slabs and cylinders could be seen. The results were of the same order of magnitude as the values found in the literature. A discussion on time and sampling restrictions when measuring effective diffusion coefficients is presented along with recommendations on sample geometries and dimensions when evaluating diffusion of different gases. The thermal conductivity of the foams, calculated from the obtained effective diffusion coefficients, agreed well with the measured values of the thermal conductivity.
Conceptual Volume Expansion During the Reaction of Polyurethanes
Authors: Proksa F.
Published: June 2024

The free foaming of polyurethane is presented as the expansion of gas bubbles in a fluid. The expansion process is described by mechanical stress on the bubble walls, which have undergone a strainflow. A modification of Newton's flow law for viscous fluids, whereby the strain rate is proportional to the stress, is used.

In an extension of Newton's flow law the proportionality factor is assumed to be not a constant but, rather, a time-dependent quantity. This takes into account the changing viscosity during the foaming process.

Power law approaches for the time dependencies of the fluidity (reciprocal value of the viscosity) and the excess pressure of the bubble leads to results which reflect the measured rising curves quite well.
Outcomes associated with absent blood product utilization in Jehovah’s witness patients compared to the standard of care in cardiac surgery: A ten-year experience
Authors: Fields Nathan , Ather Ayesha , Davenport Dan , Ahmed Sadiq , Sekela Michael
Published: June 2024

Introduction

For Jehovah’s Witness (JW) patients requiring cardiac surgery, various strategies such as preoperative use of erythropoietin stimulating agents (ESAs), intravenous iron (IVI), and non-pharmacologic interventions have emerged to prevent complications from blood loss given transfusion is not acceptable in this population.

Methods

Retrospective case-control of cardiac surgeries performed by the same surgeon between 1/1/2011 and 8/30/2021. JW patients were matched to non-JW who received blood products and non-JW who did not receive blood products on a 1:2:2 basis. Patients were matched on procedure, age, gender, and Society of Thoracic Surgeons morbidity score. Eligible patients were aged >18 years and had a sternotomy procedure. The primary efficacy and safety outcomes included mean hematocrit values perioperatively and thrombotic events.

Results

A total of 27 JW, 52 non-JW transfused, and 53 non-JW not transfused patients were included in the analysis. JW patients had significantly higher mean hematocrits at every time point when compared to non-JW transfused patients and at all time points except clinic and the last recorded operating room value when compared to non-JW not transfused patients. No significant differences in thrombotic rates were found between groups, however there was a numerically higher incidence in the JW population (JW: 7.4%; non-JW transfused: 0%; non-JW not transfused: 1.9%; p = .106).

Conclusion

A blood conservation protocol in a JW population was associated with higher perioperative hematocrit values when compared to matched controls. Further prospective study is warranted before applying similar protocols to other populations given the possibility for an increased rate of venous thromboembolism.
Long-term outcomes of total arch replacement with bilateral antegrade cerebral perfusion using the “arch first” approach
Authors: Brown James A , Yousef Sarah , Serna-Gallegos Derek , Sá Michel Pompeu , Agrawal Nishant , Thoma Floyd , Wang Yisi , Phillippi Julie , Sultan Ibrahim
Published: June 2024

Objective

To report outcomes of total arch replacement (TAR) with hypothermic circulatory arrest and bilateral antegrade cerebral perfusion (bACP) using an “arch first” approach for acute Type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). The “arch first” approach involved revascularization of the aortic arch branch vessels with uninterrupted ACP, before lower body circulatory arrest, while the patient was cooling.

Methods

This was an observational study of aortic surgeries from 2010 to 2021. All patients who underwent TAR with bACP for ATAAD were included. Short-term and long-term outcomes were reported utilizing descriptive statistics and Kaplan-Meier survival estimation.

Results

A total of 215 patients were identified who underwent TAR + bACP for ATAAD. Age was 59.0 [49.0–67.0] years and 35.3% were female. 73 patients (34.0%) underwent a concomitant aortic root replacement, 188 (87.4%) had aortic cannulation, circulatory arrest time was 37.0 [26.0–52.0] minutes, and nadir temperature was 20.8 [19.4–22.5] degrees Celsius. 35 patients (16.3%) had operative mortality (STS definition), 17 (7.9%) had a new stroke, 79 (36.7%) had prolonged mechanical ventilation (>24 h), 35 (16.3%) had acute renal failure (by RIFLE criteria), and 128 (59.5%) had blood product transfusions. One-year survival was 77.1%, while 5-years survival was 67.1%. During follow-up, there were 23 (10.7%) reinterventions involving the descending thoracic aorta – either thoracic endovascular aortic repair or open thoracoabdominal aortic replacement.

Conclusions

Among patients with ATAAD, short-term postoperative outcomes after TAR + bACP using the “arch first” approach are acceptable. Moreover, this operative strategy may furnish long-term durability, with a reasonably low reintervention rate and satisfactory overall survival.
The pseudoscience of lithium and suicide: Reanalysis of a misleading meta-analysis
Authors: Ghaemi Seyyed Nassir
Published: June 2024

By manipulating inclusion criteria, one can prove whatever point one wishes in meta-analysis. This critique examines a recent meta-analysis claiming lithium ineffectiveness for suicidality, based on three biased features: inclusion of many large studies specifically designed to exclude suicidality, producing zero suicide outcomes in all groups ( n = 1856), thereby artificially decreasing statistical significance; arbitrary exclusion of all trials prior to the year 2000, thereby excluding two randomized clinical trials which demonstrated benefit for lithium; and underreporting of placebo suicide events in a recent randomized trial. It thereby created a smaller effect size (two suicides with lithium versus five with placebo = RR = 0.42), though still beneficial for lithium, and a larger denominator of no events (total n for included studies = 2578), leading to the claim of statistical non-significance (95% confidence intervals (CIs) 0.1–4.5). The same literature can be analyzed including the two excluded older studies, and including the two placebo deaths in the recent trial, producing a larger effect size (two suicides with lithium versus nine with placebo, RR = 0.25). Furthermore, uninformative studies with no events could be excluded (total n for included studies = 1203), as is standard practice in meta-analysis, producing statistically significant results (95% CIs 0.05, 0.83). This more complete, more accurate, and less biased meta-analysis is provided in this article.

In short, including all studies with non-zero suicide outcomes, there is clear benefit for lithium. The recent meta-analysis is a classic example of pseudoscience, using scientific technique superficially to confirm, rather than refute, one’s own opinions.
The study of the structure and performance of polyoxymethylene modified by nucleating agent L
Authors: Diao Pengjie , Li Xiang , Guan Lizheng , Liu Ruofan , Wang Yatao , Wu Yibo , Jin Yushun , Li Hongjuan , Sun Kefan , Cao Qi , Ma Xiaofeng
Published: June 2024

With the expanding application areas of polyoxymethylene (POM), the challenges in its crystal modification are becoming greater. Conventional nucleating agents have issues with compatibility with POM. So we used a nucleating agent L with a similar molecular chain structure to POM through melt blending to modify POM. Using instruments to characterize and test the samples, and studying the effect of nucleating agent L on the structure and properties of POM. The results showed that after adding a small amount of nucleating agent. The crystal size was reduced. The number and size of micro-pores at the cross-section were significantly reduced. The crystallization performance of POM were improved. This provides a new direction for the future development of POM-specific nucleating agents and the direction of efficient nucleating.
Biomarkers of occupational benzene exposure: A Systematic Review to estimate the exposure levels and individual susceptibility at low doses
Authors: Zhang Zhijuan , Shi Wenmin , Ru Lihua , Lv Wei
Published: June 2024

Benzene is associated with diverse occupational and public health hazards. It exhibits an ability to rapidly permeate the skin and contaminate water and food sources, leading to dermal and ingestion exposures. Despite numerous studies examining the associations between benzene and various indicators of harm, the findings have yielded inconsistent results. Furthermore, relying solely on air concentration as a measure of benzene exposure is limited, as it fails to account for internal exposure dose and individual susceptibility. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive review in order to present current knowledge on benzene biomarkers and their significance in evaluating exposure levels and associated health hazards. The search methodology adhered to the PRISMA guidelines and involved the application of specific inclusion and exclusion criteria across multiple databases including PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Two researchers independently extracted and evaluated the relevant data based on predetermined criteria. Following the screening process, a total of 80 articles were considered eligible out of the initially retrieved 1053 articles after undergoing screening and assessment for inclusion. As the level of exposure decreased, specific biomarkers demonstrated a gradual increase in limitations, including heightened background concentrations and vulnerability to confounding factors. The advancement of sampling and analysis techniques will yield new biomarkers. Additionally, when conducting practical work, it is crucial to employ a comprehensive utilization of diverse biomarkers while excluding individual metabolic variations and combined exposure factors.