bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy harvesting‐enabled energy‐efficient routing using spotted hyena optimization in wireless sensor network
Authors: Gupta Amardeep , Kumar Rout Ranjeet
Published: March 2024

With the continuous proliferation of sensing technology, it has become possible to utilize energy harvesting (EH)‐enabled sensor nodes for a variety of applications. However, conventional wireless sensor networks (WSNs), that is, those without EH‐enabled nodes, still have limited applicability due to their limited battery resources. Further, the utilization of EH‐enabled nodes in the network not only imposes a financial burden on the user but also limits its performance due to its dependence on environmental conditions. To address this concern, in this paper, we propose the EH‐enabled energy‐efficient routing (EHEER) technique for green communication in WSN. The predominant concern being addressed in this paper is the selection of cluster head (CH), which helps in gathering, aggregating and forwarding the data from the cluster‐based routing paradigm. We use the spotted hyena optimizer (SHO) algorithm for optimizing the fitness parameters for CH selection, namely, energy ratio, distance considerations, node density, load balancing and the network's average energy. We use EH‐enabled nodes in the network strategically so as to keep control over the costs incurred in the network. The simulation outcomes empirically prove the efficacy of the proposed work, as it effectively increases the network stability and operational period by a huge margin as compared to the existing techniques.
Survival, growth, and functional traits of tropical wet forest tree seedlings across an experimental soil moisture gradient in Puerto Rico
Authors: Matlaga David , Lammerant Roel , Hogan J. Aaron , Uriarte María , Rodriguez‐Valle Celimar , Zimmerman Jess K. , Muscarella Robert
Published: March 2024

Droughts are predicted to become more frequent and intense in many tropical regions, which may cause shifts in plant community composition. Especially in diverse tropical communities, understanding how traits mediate demographic responses to drought can help provide insight into the effects of climate change on these ecosystems. To understand tropical tree responses to reduced soil moisture, we grew seedlings of eight species across an experimental soil moisture gradient at the Luquillo Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico. We quantified survival and growth over an 8‐month period and characterized demographic responses in terms of tolerance to low soil moisture—defined as survival and growth rates under low soil moisture conditions—and sensitivity to variation in soil moisture—defined as more pronounced changes in demographic rates across the observed range of soil moisture. We then compared demographic responses with interspecific variation in a suite of 11 (root, stem, and leaf) functional traits, measured on individuals that survived the experiment. Lower soil moisture was associated with reduced survival and growth but traits mediated species‐specific responses. Species with relatively conservative traits (e.g., high leaf mass per area), had higher survival at low soil moisture whereas species with more extensive root systems were more sensitive to soil moisture, in that they exhibited more pronounced changes in growth across the experimental soil moisture gradient. Our results suggest that increasing drought will favor species with more conservative traits that confer greater survival in low soil moisture conditions.
Unclear relationships between mean survival rate and its environmental variance in vertebrates
Authors: Pärt Tomas , Jeppsson Tobias , Paquet Matthieu , Arlt Debora , Laugen Ane T. , Low Matthew , Knape Jonas , Qvarnström Anna , Forslund Pär
Published: March 2024

Current environmental changes may increase temporal variability of life history traits of species thus affecting their long‐term population growth rate and extinction risk. If there is a general relationship between environmental variances (EVs) and mean annual survival rates of species, that relationship could be used as a guideline for analyses of population growth and extinction risk for populations, where data on EVs are missing. For this purpose, we present a comprehensive compilation of 252 EV estimates from 89 species belonging to five vertebrate taxa (birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish) covering mean annual survival rates from 0.01 to 0.98. Since variances of survival rates are constrained by their means, particularly for low and high mean survival rates, we assessed whether any observed relationship persisted after applying two types of commonly used variance stabilizing transformations: relativized EVs (observed/mathematical maximum) and logit‐scaled EVs. With raw EVs at the arithmetic scale, mean–variance relationships of annual survival rates were hump‐shaped with small EVs at low and high mean survival rates and higher (and widely variable) EVs at intermediate mean survival rates. When mean annual survival rates were related to relativized EVs the hump‐shaped pattern was less distinct than for raw EVs. When transforming EVs to logit scale the relationship between mean annual survival rates and EVs largely disappeared. The within‐species juvenile‐adult slopes were mainly positive at low (<0.5) and negative at high (>0.5) mean survival rates for raw and relativized variances while these patterns disappeared when EVs were logit transformed. Uncertainties in how to interpret the results of relativized and logit‐scaled EVs, and the observed high variation in EV's for similar mean annual survival rates illustrates that extrapolations of observed EVs and tests of life history drivers of survival–EV relationships need to also acknowledge the large variation in these parameters.
3D‐Printed Monolith Metallic Ni–Mo Electrodes for Ultrahigh Current Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Xun Yanran , Jin Hongmei , Li Yuemeng , Zhou Shixiang , Zhang Kaixi , Xu Xi , Jonhson Win , Chang Shuai , Tan Teck Leong , Ding Jun
Published: March 2024

In this work, we reported a series of monolithic 3D‐printed Ni–Mo alloy electrodes for highly efficient water splitting at high current density (1500 mA cm−2) with excellent stability, which provides a solution to scale up Ni–Mo catalysts for HER to industry use. All possible Ni–Mo metal/alloy phases were achieved by tuning the atomic composition and heat treatment procedure, and they were investigated through both experiment and simulation, and the optimal NiMo phase shows the best performance. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations elucidate that the NiMo phase has the lowest H2O dissociation energy, which further explains the exceptional performance of NiMo. In addition, the microporosity was modulated via controlled thermal treatment, indicating that the 1100 °C sintered sample has the best catalytic performance, which is attributed to the high electrochemically active surface area (ECSA). Finally, the four different macrostructures were achieved by 3D printing, and they further improved the catalytic performance. The gyroid structure exhibits the best catalytic performance of driving 500 mA cm−2 at a low overpotential of 228 mV and 1500 mA cm−2 at 325 mV, as it maximizes the efficient bubble removal from the electrode surface, which offers the great potential for high current density water splitting.
Co‐Catalyzed Peroxidation of Cyclic β‐Dicarbonyls
Authors: Bityukov Oleg V. , Serdyuchenko Pavel Yu. , Vil' Vera A. , Nikishin Gennady I. , He Liang‐Nian , Terent'ev Alexander O.
Published: March 2024

A Co‐catalyzed peroxidation of cyclic β‐dicarbonyls (cyclic 1,3‐diketones, 4‐hydroxy‐2(5H)‐furanones and Meldrum's acids) with TBHP has been disclosed. A series of the alkylperoxy derivatives of 4‐hydroxy‐2(5H)‐furanones and Meldrum's acids were synthesized in moderate to good yields (13–86 %). The functionalization of 4‐hydroxy‐2(5H)‐furanones by the tBuOO group was performed with high selectivity in the presence of the cocktail of reactive oxidizing species, including metal and radical intermediates. The key species in the peroxidation process are probably the tert‐butylperoxy radical or its Co(III) complex, which are generated from the Co(II)/TBHP system. Cycle cleavage, which would be expected for cyclic β‐dicarbonyls based on previous reports, was observed to a large extent only for cyclic 1,3‐diketones.
Surface characterization of barium(II)‐selective potentiometric sensor based on a newly synthesized thiosemicarbazone derivative molecule
Authors: Altunoluk Onur Cem , Özbek Oguz , Kalay Erbay , Tokalı Feyzi Sinan , Aslan Osman Nuri
Published: March 2024

In this study, we synthesized a new thiosemicarbazone derivative molecule (5) that exhibits sensor properties. The characterization of the synthesized molecule was performed using spectroscopic methods such as 1H−, 13C–NMR, FT–IR and Q–TOF. PVC‐membrane ion‐selective sensors were prepared in which the synthesized molecule was used as an ionophore. Surface images of the prepared sensors were examined by scanning electron microscope (SEM) technique. The prepared sensors exhibited selectivity towards barium(II) ions. The developed barium(II)‐selective sensor had a low detection limit of 5.54×10−7 M in the concentration range of 1.0×10−1–1.0×10−6 M. The proposed barium(II)‐selective sensor had fast response time, good repeatability and stability, and can be manufactured with low cost. The sensor can detect barium(II) ions in various water samples with very high recoveries.
Ion exchanger‐based electrodes for determination of highly lipophilic physiologically active amines: Peculiarities of functioning and ways for improving analytical characteristics
Authors: Salih Faisal A. , Novakovskii Andrei D. , Zakhvitsevich Veronika A. , Egorov Vladimir V.
Published: March 2024

New experimental data are presented demonstrating a much stronger pH dependence of the potential of electrodes with plasticized ion exchange membranes sensitive to cations of highly lipophilic physiologically active amines than would be expected from protolytic equilibrium in solution. Using an example of a vinpocetine‐sensitive electrode, the effectiveness of the dynamic diffusion model of the boundary potential for describing the effect of pH on the form of the electrode function is demonstrated. A simple equation for estimating the effect of distribution of the molecular form of amine between the solution and the membrane phases on the lower detection limit was obtained in the framework of a stationary diffusion model. It has also been shown that the selectivity of electrodes to cations of tertiary physiologically active amines relative to inorganic ions drastically depends on the basicity of the plasticizer (up to 6 orders of magnitude), and among the commercially available ones, ortho‐nitrophenyl octyl ether is the best. Besides, this plasticizer provides the lowest detection limit (1.7×10−7 M) and the best potential reproducibility (0.06 mV) for vinpocetine‐sensitive electrode.
Forecasting elections from partial information using a Bayesian model for a multinomial sequence of data
Authors: Deb Soudeep , Roy Rishideep , Das Shubhabrata
Published: March 2024

Predicting the winner of an election is of importance to multiple stakeholders. To formulate the problem, we consider an independent sequence of categorical data with a finite number of possible outcomes in each. The data is assumed to be observed in batches, each of which is based on a large number of such trials and can be modeled via multinomial distributions. We postulate that the multinomial probabilities of the categories vary randomly depending on batches. The challenge is to predict accurately on cumulative data based on data up to a few batches as early as possible. On the theoretical front, we first derive sufficient conditions of asymptotic normality of the estimates of the multinomial cell probabilities and present corresponding suitable transformations. Then, in a Bayesian framework, we consider hierarchical priors using multivariate normal and inverse Wishart distributions and establish the posterior convergence. The desired inference is arrived at using these results and ensuing Gibbs sampling. The methodology is demonstrated with election data from two different settings—one from India and the other from the United States. Additional insights of the effectiveness of the proposed methodology are attained through a simulation study.
How well do neural signatures of resting‐state EEG detect consciousness? A large‐scale clinical study
Authors: Ma Xiulin , Qi Yu , Xu Chuan , Weng Yijie , Yu Jie , Sun Xuyun , Yu Yamei , Wu Yuehao , Gao Jian , Li Jingqi , Shu Yousheng , Duan Shumin , Luo Benyan , Pan Gang
Published: March 2024

The assessment of consciousness states, especially distinguishing minimally conscious states (MCS) from unresponsive wakefulness states (UWS), constitutes a pivotal role in clinical therapies. Despite that numerous neural signatures of consciousness have been proposed, the effectiveness and reliability of such signatures for clinical consciousness assessment still remains an intense debate. Through a comprehensive review of the literature, inconsistent findings are observed about the effectiveness of diverse neural signatures. Notably, the majority of existing studies have evaluated neural signatures on a limited number of subjects (usually below 30), which may result in uncertain conclusions due to small data bias. This study presents a systematic evaluation of neural signatures with large‐scale clinical resting‐state electroencephalography (EEG) signals containing 99 UWS, 129 MCS, 36 emergence from the minimally conscious state, and 32 healthy subjects (296 total) collected over 3 years. A total of 380 EEG‐based metrics for consciousness detection, including spectrum features, nonlinear measures, functional connectivity, and graph‐based measures, are summarized and evaluated. To further mitigate the effect of data bias, the evaluation is performed with bootstrap sampling so that reliable measures can be obtained. The results of this study suggest that relative power in alpha and delta serve as dependable indicators of consciousness. With the MCS group, there is a notable increase in the phase lag index‐related connectivity measures and enhanced functional connectivity between brain regions in comparison to the UWS group. A combination of features enables the development of an automatic detector of conscious states.
Optimising brain age estimation through transfer learning: A suite of pre‐trained foundation models for improved performance and generalisability in a clinical setting
Authors: Wood David A. , Townend Matthew , Guilhem Emily , Kafiabadi Sina , Hammam Ahmed , Wei Yiran , Al Busaidi Ayisha , Mazumder Asif , Sasieni Peter , Barker Gareth J. , Ourselin Sebastien , Cole James H. , Booth Thomas C.
Published: March 2024

Estimated age from brain MRI data has emerged as a promising biomarker of neurological health. However, the absence of large, diverse, and clinically representative training datasets, along with the complexity of managing heterogeneous MRI data, presents significant barriers to the development of accurate and generalisable models appropriate for clinical use. Here, we present a deep learning framework trained on routine clinical data (N up to 18,890, age range 18–96 years). We trained five separate models for accurate brain age prediction (all with mean absolute error ≤4.0 years, R2 ≥ .86) across five different MRI sequences (T2‐weighted, T2‐FLAIR, T1‐weighted, diffusion‐weighted, and gradient‐recalled echo T2*‐weighted). Our trained models offer dual functionality. First, they have the potential to be directly employed on clinical data. Second, they can be used as foundation models for further refinement to accommodate a range of other MRI sequences (and therefore a range of clinical scenarios which employ such sequences). This adaptation process, enabled by transfer learning, proved effective in our study across a range of MRI sequences and scan orientations, including those which differed considerably from the original training datasets. Crucially, our findings suggest that this approach remains viable even with limited data availability (as low as N = 25 for fine‐tuning), thus broadening the application of brain age estimation to more diverse clinical contexts and patient populations. By making these models publicly available, we aim to provide the scientific community with a versatile toolkit, promoting further research in brain age prediction and related areas.
Comparison of approaches to control for intracranial volume in research on the association of brain volumes with cognitive outcomes
Authors: Wang Jingxuan , Hill‐Jarrett Tanisha , Buto Peter , Pederson Annie , Sims Kendra D. , Zimmerman Scott C. , DeVost Michelle A. , Ferguson Erin , Lacar Benjamin , Yang Yulin , Choi Minhyuk , Caunca Michelle R. , La Joie Renaud , Chen Ruijia , Glymour M. Maria , Ackley Sarah F.
Published: March 2024

Most neuroimaging studies linking regional brain volumes with cognition correct for total intracranial volume (ICV), but methods used for this correction differ across studies. It is unknown whether different ICV correction methods yield consistent results. Using a brain‐wide association approach in the MRI substudy of UK Biobank (N = 41,964; mean age = 64.5 years), we used regression models to estimate the associations of 58 regional brain volumetric measures with eight cognitive outcomes, comparing no correction and four ICV correction approaches. Approaches evaluated included: no correction; dividing regional volumes by ICV (proportional approach); including ICV as a covariate in the regression (adjustment approach); and regressing the regional volumes against ICV in different normative samples and using calculated residuals to determine associations (residual approach). We used Spearman‐rank correlations and two consistency measures to quantify the extent to which associations were inconsistent across ICV correction approaches for each possible brain region and cognitive outcome pair across 2320 regression models. When the association between brain volume and cognitive performance was close to null, all approaches produced similar estimates close to the null. When associations between a regional volume and cognitive test were not null, the adjustment and residual approaches typically produced similar estimates, but these estimates were inconsistent with results from the crude and proportional approaches. For example, when using the crude approach, an increase of 0.114 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.103–0.125) in fluid intelligence was associated with each unit increase in hippocampal volume. However, when using the adjustment approach, the increase was 0.055 (95% CI: 0.043–0.068), while the proportional approach showed a decrease of −0.025 (95% CI: −0.035 to −0.014). Different commonly used methods to correct for ICV yielded inconsistent results. The proportional method diverges notably from other methods and results were sometimes biologically implausible. A simple regression adjustment for ICV produced biologically plausible associations.
The neuroanatomy of visual extinction following right hemisphere brain damage: Insights from multivariate and Bayesian lesion analyses in acute stroke
Authors: Sperber Christoph , Wiesen Daniel , Karnath Hans‐Otto , de Haan Bianca
Published: March 2024

Multi‐target attention, that is, the ability to attend and respond to multiple visual targets presented simultaneously on the horizontal meridian across both visual fields, is essential for everyday real‐world behaviour. Given the close link between the neuropsychological deficit of extinction and attentional limits in healthy subjects, investigating the anatomy that underlies extinction is uniquely capable of providing important insights concerning the anatomy critical for normal multi‐target attention. Previous studies into the brain areas critical for multi‐target attention and its failure in extinction patients have, however, produced heterogeneous results. In the current study, we used multivariate and Bayesian lesion analysis approaches to investigate the anatomical substrate of visual extinction in a large sample of 108 acute right hemisphere stroke patients. The use of acute stroke patient data and multivariate/Bayesian lesion analysis approaches allowed us to address limitations associated with previous studies and so obtain a more complete picture of the functional network associated with visual extinction. Our results demonstrate that the right temporo‐parietal junction (TPJ) is critically associated with visual extinction. The Bayesian lesion analysis additionally implicated the right intraparietal sulcus (IPS), in line with the results of studies in neurologically healthy participants that highlighted the IPS as the area critical for multi‐target attention. Our findings resolve the seemingly conflicting previous findings, and emphasise the urgent need for further research to clarify the precise cognitive role of the right TPJ in multi‐target attention and its failure in extinction patients.
Prior‐guided individualized thalamic parcellation based on local diffusion characteristics
Authors: Gao Chaohong , Wu Xia , Wang Yaping , Li Gang , Ma Liang , Wang Changshuo , Xie Sangma , Chu Congying , Madsen Kristoffer Hougaard , Hou Zhongyu , Fan Lingzhong
Published: March 2024

Comprising numerous subnuclei, the thalamus intricately interconnects the cortex and subcortex, orchestrating various facets of brain functions. Extracting personalized parcellation patterns for these subnuclei is crucial, as different thalamic nuclei play varying roles in cognition and serve as therapeutic targets for neuromodulation. However, accurately delineating the thalamic nuclei boundary at the individual level is challenging due to intersubject variability. In this study, we proposed a prior‐guided parcellation (PG‐par) method to achieve robust individualized thalamic parcellation based on a central‐boundary prior. We first constructed probabilistic atlas of thalamic nuclei using high‐quality diffusion MRI datasets based on the local diffusion characteristics. Subsequently, high‐probability voxels in the probabilistic atlas were utilized as prior guidance to train unique multiple classification models for each subject based on a multilayer perceptron. Finally, we employed the trained model to predict the parcellation labels for thalamic voxels and construct individualized thalamic parcellation. Through a test–retest assessment, the proposed prior‐guided individualized thalamic parcellation exhibited excellent reproducibility and the capacity to detect individual variability. Compared with group atlas registration and individual clustering parcellation, the proposed PG‐par demonstrated superior parcellation performance under different scanning protocols and clinic settings. Furthermore, the prior‐guided individualized parcellation exhibited better correspondence with the histological staining atlas. The proposed prior‐guided individualized thalamic parcellation method contributes to the personalized modeling of brain parcellation.
Weekly assessment of volumetric and dosimetric changes during volumetric modulated arc therapy of locally advanced head and neck carcinoma: Implications for adaptive radiation therapy—A prospective study
Authors: Sreejeev Aathira T. , Joseph Deepa , Krishnan Ajay S. , Pasricha Rajesh , Gupta Sweety , Ahuja Rachit , Sharma Nidhi , Sikdar Debanjan , Raut Sagar , Sasi Abhijith , Gupta Manoj
Published: March 2024

Background

Chemoradiation in head and neck carcinoma (HNC) shows significant anatomical resulting in erroneous dose deposition in the target or the organ at risk (OAR). Adaptive radiotherapy (ART) can overcome this. Timing of significant target and OAR changes with dosimetric impact; thus, most suitable time and frequency of ART is unclear.

Methods

This dosimetric study used prospective weekly non‐contrast CT scans in 12 HNC patients (78 scans). OARs and TVs were manually contoured after registration with simulation scan. Dose overlay done on each scan without reoptimization. Dosimetric and volumetric variations assessed.

Results

Commonest site was oropharynx. Gross Tumor Volume (GTV) reduced from 47.5 ± 19.2 to 17.8 ± 10.7 cc. Nodal GTV reduced from 15.7 ± 18.8 to 4.7 ± 7.1 cc. Parotid showed mean volume loss of 35%. T stage moderately correlated with GTV regression.

Conclusion

Maximum GTV changes occurred after 3 weeks. Best time to do single fixed interval ART would be by the end of 3 weeks.
Effect of seasonal freeze–thaw process on spatial and temporal distribution of soil water and its infiltration to recharge groundwater
Authors: Cheng Zhongle , Wang Fugang , Sun Jingwei , Ding Lujiao , Wang Yaohui , Wang He
Published: March 2024

Clarifying the distribution and dynamics of soil moisture during the freeze–thaw process is crucial for surface ecology and is an objective requirement to investigate the mechanism of changes during the groundwater recharge process in a freeze–thaw zone. Based on the monitoring data of soil moisture and temperature in the Changbai Mountain area, the freeze–thaw process is classified into four periods. This study investigates the hydrothermal migration processes during different periods. The simultaneous heat and water model is used to simulate and analyse the infiltration of soil moisture into groundwater under five precipitation insurance rates. The results are as follows: (1) The smaller the soil depth, the stronger is the correlation between soil temperature and air temperature during the freeze–thaw process. (2) The redistribution of soil moisture before and after freeze–thaw is significantly affected by the soil texture, and soil permeability affects the recharge of soil moisture from the upper region to the lower region during the thawing period. (3) Groundwater receives vertical infiltration recharge mainly during non‐freezing and is supplied by freezing and snowmelt recharge during the stable thawing period. The percentage of soil water infiltration during the stable thawing period in the total annual infiltration increases gradually with the precipitation insurance rate.
COVID‐19 pandemic impacts on kindergarteners' mental health: A qualitative study of perspectives of U.S. mothers with low income
Authors: Turnbull Khara L. P. , Jaworski Brianna , Cubides Mateus Deiby Mayaris , Coolman Frances L. , LoCasale‐Crouch Jennifer , Moon Rachel Y. , Hauck Fern R. , Kellams Ann , Colson Eve R.
Published: March 2024

Because the COVID‐19 pandemic has been implicated in increased mental health concerns for families of low income, we aimed to describe maternal perspectives about the pandemic's impact on their kindergartener's mental health during the 2020–2021 school year. We conducted 22 in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with U.S. mothers with low income who had kindergarten‐age children (50% male and 50% female). All participants were female, ranging in age from 24 to 44 years, and reported the following ethnic/racial identities: non‐Hispanic Black or African American (41%), Hispanic of any race (36%) and non‐Hispanic, White (23%). With a team comprising multiple researchers from varied disciplines (e.g., medicine, education and public health) our analytic process used an iterative approach for developing and revising codes and themes until we reached thematic saturation. Most mothers described negative impacts on social, behavioural and emotional aspects of mental health. Some described positive social impacts, including strengthened family relationships. Mothers described no positive changes to behavioural or emotional aspects of mental health. Maternal perspectives suggest the importance of prioritising access to screening and treating mental health needs to support children's kindergarten transition, mitigate pandemic impacts and plan for future disruptions.
Deamination‐ or N‐Nitrosation‐Based Methods for m6A Profiling
Authors: Shen Weiguo , Wang Jing
Published: March 2024

The addition of various chemical modifications to RNA introduces an additional layer of complexity to the regulation of gene expression. Among all RNA modifications, N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) has earned its status as the most abundant and well‐studied post‐transcriptional modification in mammalian mRNA. Nevertheless, understanding the role of m6A in shaping the fate of RNA molecules and its influence on gene expression heavily depends on the development and application of detection technologies. Among all m6A detection methods, chemical‐based sequencing methods show unique advantages. Our group recently developed an absolute quantification method named GLORI, which employs nitrite and glyoxal to convert adenosine to inosine efficiently. With its potential to emerge as the gold standard for m6A detection, GLORI showcases the promise of nitrite‐based approaches. This review provides a comprehensive overview of m6A detection techniques based on deamination or nitrosation, evaluating their strengths and limitations. Furthermore, we offer insights into the future directions of innovative approaches in m6A profiling.
Advancing skin cancer diagnosis with a multi‐branch ShuffleNet architecture
Authors: Devaraj G. Prince , Ravi R.
Published: March 2024

In this study, we present an innovative approach for enhancing skin cancer classification through a multi‐branch architecture inspired by ShuffleNet. Our methodology focuses on improving feature extraction and representation, emphasizing cross‐channel information exchange to achieve superior accuracy. The architecture comprises three branches: a primary feature enhancement branch, a parallel feature enhancement branch, and a global feature aggregation branch. We employ transposed convolution layers for upsampling, cross‐channel normalization, and the Swish activation function to enhance feature representations. Channel shuffle operations and group convolutions stimulate cross‐channel information exchange in both branches. The global feature aggregation branch utilizes global average pooling and depth concatenation to combine features from all branches. Subsequent Swish activation, followed by fully connected layers and softmax activation, yields class probabilities for precise skin cancer classification. This multi‐branch framework offers a promising avenue for accurate and informed medical image analysis in skin cancer detection. Integral to this research is the utilization of the ISIC2019 and ISIC 2020 datasets, encompassing diverse dermoscopic images from multiple sources. By leveraging these datasets, the methodology capitalizes on comprehensive data for precise skin cancer detection, thereby advancing medical image analysis.
Ultrasound manifestations and clinical analysis of 50 cases of heterotopic pregnancy
Authors: Xiao Juhua , Zhou Xin , Wang Shuang , Lai Hua , Yang Zhili , Guo Zhen , Luo Ye
Published: March 2024

Objective

To investigate the value of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of heterotopic pregnancy and the follow‐up.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 50 cases of clinically diagnosed heterotopic pregnancy in our hospital was performed, the clinical characteristics and ultrasonographic manifestations of the patients were summarized, the reasons for initial ultrasound missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis were analyzed, and the pregnancy outcomes were followed up.

Results

Among the 50 cases, the initial ultrasound diagnoses of intrauterine pregnancy were all gestational sac type, 32 cases of ectopic pregnancy were located in the fallopian tube, and 10 cases were located in the uterine horn, 1 case at cervix, and 1 case at caesarean section scar. Forty‐one cases were consistent with surgery and/or pathology, representing initial ultrasound diagnosis coincidence rate of about 82%. Six cases were missed in the initial ultrasound examination (12%), and three cases were misdiagnosed (6%). The maximum diameter of the intrauterine gestational sac was 9–48 mm, the average was about 24.90 ± 9.56 mm, the maximum diameter of the ectopic pregnancy gestational sac or mass was 11–63 mm, and the average was about 31.45 ± 13.82 mm (p < 0.05). Intrauterine pregnancy outcomes were followed up, 45 patients with complete data and 5 patients were lost to follow‐up. The follow‐up rate was about 90%.

Conclusion

Combining the patient's medical history and clinical characteristics can reduce missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis of heterotopic pregnancy. Ultrasonography has important value in the assessment of intrauterine pregnancy growth and development, and the integrity of maternal uterus.
Efficacy and safety of sapropterin before and during pregnancy: Final analysis of the Kuvan® Adult Maternal Paediatric European Registry (KAMPER) maternal and Phenylketonuria Developmental Outcomes and Safety (PKUDOS) PKU‐MOMs sub‐registries
Authors: Feillet François , Ficicioglu Can , Lagler Florian B. , Longo Nicola , Muntau Ania C. , Burlina Alberto , Trefz Friedrich K. , van Spronsen Francjan J. , Arnoux Jean‐Baptiste , Lindstrom Kristin , Lilienstein Joshua , Clague Gillian E. , Rowell Richard , Burton Barbara K. ,   the KAMPER and PKUDOS investigators
Published: March 2024

Infants born to mothers with phenylketonuria (PKU) may develop congenital abnormalities because of elevated phenylalanine (Phe) levels in the mother during pregnancy. Maintenance of blood Phe levels between 120 and 360 μmol/L reduces risks of birth defects. Sapropterin dihydrochloride helps maintain blood Phe control, but there is limited evidence on its risk–benefit ratio when used during pregnancy. Data from the maternal sub‐registries—KAMPER (NCT01016392) and PKUDOS (NCT00778206; PKU‐MOMs sub‐registry)—were collected to assess the long‐term safety and efficacy of sapropterin in pregnant women in a real‐life setting. Pregnancy and infant outcomes, and the safety of sapropterin were assessed. Final data from 79 pregnancies in 57 women with PKU are reported. Sapropterin dose was fairly constant before and during pregnancy, with blood Phe levels maintained in the recommended target range during the majority (82%) of pregnancies. Most pregnancies were carried to term, and the majority of liveborn infants were reported as ‘normal’ at birth. Few adverse and serious adverse events were considered related to sapropterin, with these occurring in participants with high blood Phe levels. This report represents the largest population of pregnant women with PKU exposed to sapropterin. Results demonstrate that exposure to sapropterin during pregnancy was well‐tolerated and facilitated maintenance of blood Phe levels within the target range, resulting in normal delivery. This critical real‐world data may facilitate physicians and patients to make informed treatment decisions about using sapropterin in pregnant women with PKU and in women of childbearing age with PKU who are responsive to sapropterin.
Regenerative capacity of human pluripotent stem cell‐derived articular chondrocytes in vitro
Authors: Raftery Rosanne M. , Pregizer Steven K. , Kocher Sophia , Craft April M.
Published: March 2024

The ideal cell source for articular cartilage repair remains elusive. Using developmentally inspired differentiation protocols, we induced human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) toward articular chondrocytes capable of joint cartilage repair in rodent models, which were distinct from growth plate chondrocytes, fated to be replaced by bone in vivo. Working toward clinical translation, we demonstrated controlled differentiation into chondrocytes by comprehensive gene expression analysis at each step of the differentiation. Articular chondrocytes derived from hPSCs could be expanded several passages in vitro without losing chondrogenic potential. Furthermore, chondrocytes isolated from these articular cartilage tissues had the potential to serially regenerate new articular and growth plate cartilage tissues. Finally, the ability to cryopreserve articular chondrocytes with the desired phenotype is critical for clinical translation and here we report no loss in cell viability or regenerative potential following cryopreservation. These results support the immense potential of hPSC‐derived articular chondrocytes as a cell‐based therapy for cartilage repair.
Enhancing hospital resilience and planning capacity in scenarios of crisis using group decision‐making and interpretive structural modeling
Authors: Bai Junsong , Ferreira Fernando A. F. , Ferreira Neuza C. M. Q. F. , Ferreira João J. M. , Correia Ricardo J. C.
Published: March 2024

Hospitals, as critical infrastructures, confront multifaceted challenges during crises, ranging from natural disasters to pandemics. Initially, these facilities must secure essential emergency support functions and, subsequently, expedite their recovery from any adverse impacts. Hospital resilience, influenced by numerous variables and assessed through various evaluation criteria, remains enigmatic in terms of relationships and hierarchy among these factors. By integrating group decision‐making and interpretive structural modeling, this study delves into determinants of practices bolstering hospital resilience from an internal management perspective. While the empirical results offer insights specific to the study context, the primary contribution is in the innovative methodology that shifts the emphasis from mere outputs to the intrinsic value of the process itself. Consequently, a hierarchical model of hospital resilience emerges, enriching insights into hospital resilience and highlighting the intricate balance between methodological rigor and tangible application, additionally serving as a blueprint for similar context‐specific investigations. The research culminated in a consolidation session with an external expert, who assessed the model's applicability as a tool for generating new knowledge about developing hospital resilience management. Advantages and limitations are also discussed.
Distinct presentation of melanoma in Black patients may inform strategies to improve outcomes
Authors: Steadman Jessica A. , Glasgow Amy E. , Neequaye Nikki N. , Habermann Elizabeth B. , Hieken Tina J.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Melanoma guidelines stem largely from data on non‐Hispanic White (NHW) patients. We aimed to identify features of melanoma within non‐Hispanic Black (NHB) patients to inform strategies for earlier detection and treatment.

Methods

From 2004 to 2019 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data, we identified nonmetastatic melanoma patients with known TN category and race. Kaplan–Meier cancer‐specific survival (CSS) estimates and multivariable Cox proportional hazard modeling analyses were performed.

Results

Of 492 597 patients, 1499 (0.3%) were NHB, who were younger (21% vs. 17% age <50) and more commonly female (54% vs. 41%) than NHW, both p < 0.0005. For NHBs, lower extremity was the most common site (52% vs. 15% for NHWs, p < 0.0001), T category was higher (55% Tis–T1 vs. 82%; 27% T3–T4 vs. 8%, p < 0.0001) and stage at presentation was higher (19% Stage III, vs. 6%, p < 0.0001). Within the NHB cohort, males were older, and more often node‐positive than females. Five‐year Stage III CSS was 42% for NHB males versus 71% for females, adjusting for age and clinical nodal status (hazard ratio 2.48).

Conclusions

NHB melanoma patients presented with distinct tumor characteristics. NHB males with Stage III disease had inferior CSS. Focus on this high‐risk patient cohort to promote earlier detection and treatment may improve outcomes.
Wavelength‐dependent threshold fluences for melanosome disruption to evaluate the treatment of pigmented lesions with 532‐, 730‐, 755‐, 785‐, and 1064‐nm picosecond lasers
Authors: Shimojo Yu , Nishimura Takahiro , Tsuruta Daisuke , Ozawa Toshiyuki , Chan Henry Hin Lee , Kono Taro
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives

A threshold fluence for melanosome disruption has the potential to provide a robust numerical indicator for establishing clinical endpoints for pigmented lesion treatment using a picosecond laser. Although the thresholds for a 755‐nm picosecond laser were previously reported, the wavelength dependence has not been investigated. In this study, wavelength‐dependent threshold fluences for melanosome disruption were determined. Using a mathematical model based on the thresholds, irradiation parameters for 532‐, 730‐, 755‐, 785‐, and 1064‐nm picosecond laser treatments were evaluated quantitatively.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A suspension of melanosomes extracted from porcine eyes was irradiated using picosecond lasers with varying fluence. The mean particle size of the irradiated melanosomes was measured by dynamic light scattering, and their disruption was observed by scanning electron microscopy to determine the disruption thresholds. A mathematical model was developed, combined with the threshold obtained and Monte Carlo light transport to calculate irradiation parameters required to disrupt melanosomes within the skin tissue.

Results

The threshold fluences were determined to be 0.95, 2.25, 2.75, and 6.50 J/cm² for 532‐, 730‐, 785‐, and 1064‐nm picosecond lasers, respectively. The numerical results quantitatively revealed the relationship between irradiation wavelength, incident fluence, and spot size required to disrupt melanosomes distributed at different depths in the skin tissue. The calculated irradiation parameters were consistent with clinical parameters that showed high efficacy with a low incidence of complications.

Conclusion

The wavelength‐dependent thresholds for melanosome disruption were determined. The results of the evaluation of irradiation parameters from the threshold‐based analysis provided numerical indicators for setting the clinical endpoints for 532‐, 730‐, 755‐, 785‐, and 1064‐nm picosecond lasers.
Functional Study of SNCA p.V15A Variant: Further Linking α‐Synuclein and Glucocerebrosidase
Authors: Avenali Micol , Cerri Silvia , Palmieri Ilaria , Ongari Gerardo , Stiuso Rita , Buongarzone Gabriele , Tassorelli Cristina , Biagini Tommaso , Valente Marialuisa , Cereda Cristina , Mazza Tommaso , Gana Simone , Pacchetti Claudio , Valente Enza Maria
Published: March 2024

Background

SNCA p.V15A was reported in five families. In vitro models showed increased aggregation and seeding activity, mitochondrial damage, and apoptosis. Mutant flies had reduced flying ability and survival.

Objectives

To clinically and functionally evaluate SNCA p.V15A in a large Italian family with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

Genetic diagnosis was reached through next‐generation sequencing. Pathogenicity was assessed by molecular dynamics simulation and biochemical studies on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).

Results

Five siblings carried SNCA p.V15A; three developed bradykinetic‐rigid PD in their 50s with rapid motor progression and variable cognitive impairment. A fourth sibling had isolated mood disturbance, whereas the fifth was still unaffected at age 47. The mutant protein showed decreased stability and an unstable folded structure. Proband's PBMCs showed elevated total and phosphorylated α‐synuclein (α‐syn) levels and significantly reduced glucocerebrosidase activity.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates accumulation of α‐synV15A in PBMCs and strengthens the link between α‐syn pathophysiology and glucocerebrosidase dysfunction. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Optimizing dual‐energy CT technique for iodine‐based contrast‐to‐noise ratio, a theoretical study
Authors: Terzioglu Fatma , Sidky Emil Y. , Phillips John Paul , Reiser Ingrid S. , Bal Guillaume , Pan Xiaochuan
Published: March 2024

Background

Dual‐energy CT (DECT) systems provide valuable material‐specific information by simultaneously acquiring two spectral measurements, resulting in superior image quality and contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) while reducing radiation exposure and contrast agent usage. The selection of DECT scan parameters, including x‐ray tube settings and fluence, is critical for the stability of the reconstruction process and hence the overall image quality.

Purpose

The goal of this study is to propose a systematic theoretical method for determining the optimal DECT parameters for minimal noise and maximum CNR in virtual monochromatic images (VMIs) for fixed subject size and total radiation dose.

Methods

The noise propagation in the process of projection based material estimation from DECT measurements is analyzed. The main components of the study are the mean pixel variances for the sinogram and monochromatic image and the CNR, which were shown to depend on the Jacobian matrix of the sinograms‐to‐DECT measurements map.

Analytic estimates for the mean sinogram and monochromatic image pixel variances and the CNR as functions of tube potentials, fluence, and VMI energy are derived, and then used in a virtual phantom experiment as an objective function for optimizing the tube settings and VMI energy to minimize the image noise and maximize the CNR.

Results

It was shown that DECT measurements corresponding to kV settings that maximize the square of Jacobian determinant values over a domain of interest lead to improved stability of basis material reconstructions.

Instances of non‐uniqueness in DECT were addressed, focusing on scenarios where the Jacobian determinant becomes zero within the domain of interest despite significant spectral separation. The presence of non‐uniqueness can lead to singular solutions during the inversion of sinograms‐to‐DECT measurements, underscoring the importance of considering uniqueness properties in parameter selection.

Additionally, the optimal VMI energy and tube potentials for maximal CNR was determined. When the x‐ray beam filter material was fixed at 2 mm of aluminum and the photon fluence for low and high kV scans were considered equal, the tube potential pair of 60/120 kV led to the maximal iodine CNR in the VMI at 53 keV.

Conclusions

Optimizing DECT scan parameters to maximize the CNR can be done in a systematic way. Also, choosing the parameters that maximize the Jacobian determinant over the set of expected line integrals leads to more stable reconstructions due to the reduced amplification of the measurement noise. Since the values of the Jacobian determinant depend strongly on the imaging task, careful consideration of all of the relevant factors is needed when implementing the proposed framework.