bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
High‐resolution anatomical imaging of the fetal brain with a reduced field of view using outer volume suppression
Authors: Jang MinJung , Gupta Ajay , Kovanlikaya Arzu , Scholl Jessica E. , Zun Zungho 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPurposeTo achieve high‐resolution fetal brain anatomical imaging without introducing image artifacts by reducing the FOV, and to demonstrate improved image quality compared to conventional full‐FOV fetal brain imaging.MethodsReduced FOV was achieved by applying outer volume suppression (OVS) pulses immediately prior to standard single‐shot fast spin echo (SSFSE) imaging. In the OVS preparation, a saturation RF pulse followed by a gradient spoiler was repeated three times with optimized flip‐angle weightings and a variable spoiler scheme to enhance signal suppression. Simulations and phantom and in‐vivo experiments were performed to evaluate OVS performance. In‐vivo high‐resolution SSFSE images acquired using the proposed approach were compared with conventional and high‐resolution SSFSE images with a full FOV, using image quality scores assessed by neuroradiologists and calculated image metrics.ResultsExcellent signal suppression in the saturation bands was confirmed in phantom and in‐vivo experiments. High‐resolution SSFSE images with a reduced FOV acquired using OVS demonstrated the improved depiction of brain structures without significant motion and blurring artifacts. The proposed method showed the highest image quality scores in the criteria of sharpness, contrast, and artifact and was selected as the best method based on overall image quality. The calculated image sharpness and tissue contrast ratio were also the highest with the proposed method.ConclusionHigh‐resolution fetal brain anatomical images acquired using a reduced FOV with OVS demonstrated improved image quality both qualitatively and quantitatively, suggesting the potential for enhanced diagnostic accuracy in detecting fetal brain abnormalities in utero.
Healthcare professionals' perceptions and management of obesity & knowledge of glucagon, GLP‐1, GIP receptor agonists, and dual agonists
Authors: Garvey W. Timothy , Mahle Cathy D. , Bell Trevor , Kushner Robert F. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundAnti‐obesity medications (AOMs) have historically had limited weight‐loss efficacy. However, newer glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1 RA)–based therapies seem to be more effective, including dual agonists of GLP‐1R and the glucagon receptor (GCGR) or glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor.ObjectiveTo explore healthcare professionals' (HCPs) experience in obesity treatment and their understanding of agonists of GCGR, glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) RA, and GLP‐1 RA.MethodsThis cross‐sectional online survey of HCPs prescribing AOMs was conducted in the United States in 2023 with a questionnaire designed to evaluate prescribing behavior and understanding of GCGR, GIP RA, and GLP‐1 RA.ResultsThe 785 respondents (251 primary‐care physicians [PCPs], 263 endocrinologists, and 271 advanced practice providers [APPs]) reported 55% of their patients had obesity (body mass index ≥30 kg/m2 or ≥27 with weight‐related complications) and recommended AOMs to 49% overall, significantly more endocrinologists (57% of patients, p < 0.0005) than PCPs (43%) or APPs (46%). The greatest barriers to treatment were medication cost/lack of insurance (mean 4.2 on 1–5 scale [no barrier–extreme barrier]), low patient engagement/adherence (3.3), and inadequate time/staff (3.1). Metformin was the type 2 diabetes (T2D) medication most commonly prescribed to treat obesity in T2D patients (92.5% of respondents). Most HCPs (65%) were very/extremely familiar with GLP‐1 RA, but only 30% with GIP RA and 16% with GCGR. Most HCPs expected dual GCGR/GLP‐1 RA to benefit many obesity‐related conditions; however, only a minority of HCPs perceived that they would benefit non‐cardiometabolic complications of obesity.ConclusionsAmong HCPs prescribing AOMs, gaps exist in the management of people living with obesity as <50% are prescribed AOMs. Barriers to treatment indicate a need to improve access to AOMs. HCPs were less familiar with GCGR or GIP RA than GLP‐1 RA but expect dual GCGR/GLP‐1 RA may offer additional benefits, potentially addressing treatment barriers and access. Thus, there is a need for greater education among HCPs regarding the mechanism of action and therapeutic effects of GCGR agonists, and dual GCGR/GLP‐1 RA, so that the full range of obesity‐related complications can be effectively treated.
Immunization adherence among children with sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait: Results of a population‐based study
Authors: Shi Jiajing Scarlette , Sutaria Ankit , Lakshmanan Sangeetha , Attell Brandon , Zhou Mei , Tang Amy , Eckman James , Snyder Angela 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIntroductionDespite the importance of timely vaccine completion for protection from infectious disease, there is limited knowledge of the immunization adherence rates of children with sickle cell disease (SCD).MethodsThis is a retrospective cohort study comparing the immunization rates of children with SCD to those with sickle cell trait between 2008 and 2019 in Georgia. Completion rates for each vaccine and the proportion of children with up‐to‐date status at 24 and 35 months were calculated and compared between the cohorts. Chi‐square tests with odds ratios (OR) for differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported on the overall up‐to‐date rates and rates for individual vaccines at 24 and 35 months for the two cohorts.ResultsChildren with SCD had higher up‐to‐date rates than children with sickle cell trait at 24 and 35 months. At 35 months, the overall up‐to‐date rates (OR = 1.17; 95% CI, 1.04‐1.31; p = .004) and the four‐dose pneumococcal conjugate vaccine series (OR = 1.36; 95% CI, 1.18‐1.57; p < .001) were significantly different between the groups. Both cohorts had the highest completion rates for the hepatitis B series and the lowest rates for the varicella vaccine. Doses of diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis vaccine; varicella; and pneumococcal conjugate vaccines were most commonly missed by children in both cohorts.ConclusionsChildren with SCD have better immunization coverage than children with sickle cell trait, but there is an opportunity for improvement. Policymakers and healthcare professionals should focus on increasing access to care coordination services among children with SCD to ensure on‐time and preventive healthcare services.
Two Bayesian approaches of monitoring mean of Gaussian process using Bayes factor
Authors: Tan Yaxin , Mukherjee Amitava , Zhang Jiujun 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis paper develops two novel process monitoring schemes for the mean of a Gaussian process: the Bayes factor (BF) and the improved Bayes factor (IBF) schemes. Conjugate priors are used to construct the plotting statistics. The performance of the proposed schemes is evaluated in terms of average run length (ARL), standard deviation of run length (SDRL), and several percentiles, and these performance metrics across different hyper‐parameters and various sample sizes are evaluated via Monte Carlo simulations. Both zero‐state and steady‐state out‐of‐control (OOC) performances are investigated comprehensively. The simulation results show that the IBF scheme outperforms the existing Bayesian exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) schemes under different loss functions in zero‐state. In steady‐state conditions, the IBF scheme outperforms for small shifts. Finally, we present two examples to illustrate the practical application of the proposed schemes.
QSPR analysis of anti‐asthmatic drugs using some new distance‐based topological indices: A comparative study
Authors: Balasubramaniyan Deepa , Chidambaram Natarajan , Ravi Vignesh , Siddiqui Muhammad Kamran 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAsthma is a widespread disease that has affected more than 300 million people worldwide. There is no efficient or preventive treatment for this disease yet. Drug scientists are striving hard to discover a variety of medicines that can treat asthma effectively. Quantitative structure‐property relationship (QSPR) analysis of drugs used in the treatment of a specific disease through topological descriptors is one of the best techniques adopted by drug scientists to cut down unnecessary laboratory expenses. In this article, we have done a QSPR analysis to identify the best predictor for the six properties namely, boiling point, enthalpy, flash point, log P, molar volume, and molar refractivity of 19 different anti‐asthmatic drugs using a set of 16 distance‐based topological indices. Also, we compare our results with QSPR analysis done by using certain degree‐based indices for the chosen drugs and obtain new directions.
Preparation and photocatalytic properties of Bi2WO6/Ag/ZnO composite nanomaterials
Authors: Tan Chong , Yin Yuhong , Zuo Jinlong , Li Junsheng 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPhotocatalysis leverages light energy for chemical transformations, presenting an environmentally friendly approach to mitigating pollution. We have developed Bi2WO6/Ag/ZnO composite nanomaterials that demonstrate enhanced photocatalytic efficiency. These nanomaterials have been characterized through advanced techniques such as x‐ray diffraction and x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. A key challenge in photocatalysis is the effective separation of electron–hole pairs, and our Bi2WO6/Ag/ZnO composites achieve an impressive degradation rate of 96.93% for methyl orange. This result notably exceeds previous performance standards and highlights the crucial role of Ag in broadening the light response spectrum of zinc oxide (ZnO), and the addition of Bi2WO6 in amplifying the electron–hole pair separation efficiency within these composite nanomaterials. These findings underscore the significant potential of Bi2WO6/Ag/ZnO composites in environmental detoxification and establish a new benchmark in photocatalytic material performance. The advancement of such nanomaterials could be transformative for environmental remediation strategies, offering efficient, sustainable, and cost‐effective solutions to ecological challenges. This study underscores the pivotal role of materials science in advancing environmental sustainability.
Insights into the DFT‐computed electronic and optical properties of binary and doped: Selenide for optoelectronic applications
Authors: Aamer Muhammad , Rafiq Qaiser , Hayat Sardar Sikandar , Khan Muhammad Tahir , Azam Sikander , Albaqami Munirah D. , Mohammad Saikh 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the alterations in structural, electronic, and optical characteristics of ZnSe1−x Inx (x = 0%, 12.5%, 25%) employing the framework of density functional theory (DFT), utilizing generalized gradient approximation (GGA) in conjunction with the full‐potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP‐LAPW) approach. The findings reveal that pure ZnSe exhibits a direct bandgap of 1.79 eV at the Γ point, which reduces to 0 eV upon doping with Indium, indicating a transition to metallic characteristics. This change is attributed to the predominant involvement of the d‐orbital of Zn, s‐orbital of Se, and p‐orbitals of Indium in the valence band of ZnSe1−x Inx materials. Conversely, the s‐orbital of Zn predominantly contributes to the conduction band of undoped ZnSe, whereas the d‐orbitals of Indium play a significant role in the conduction band of ZnSe1−x Inx (x = 0%, 12.5%, 25%). Moreover, the study computes other optical parameters, including reflectivity, electron energy loss spectrum, extinction coefficient, refractive index, and absorption coefficient, as functions of photon energy. A notable observation is the considerable rise in the zero‐frequency dielectric constant, ε1(0), which increases from 5.0 in pure ZnSe to 40.0 and 50.0 in Indium‐doped ZnSe, highlighting a significant alteration in electronic properties. Furthermore, optical analyses demonstrate an expansion in the absorption coefficient spectrum, which extends from photon energies of 2.0 eV in pristine ZnSe to begin at 0 eV in Indium‐doped variants, indicating a broadening of the material's capacity to absorb light across a wider spectrum of photon energies. This expansion infers improved light absorption potential, which could be particularly beneficial for the fabrication of light‐emitting modules and solar energy converters. These insights underline the considerable influence that Indium incorporation exerts on the band architecture and optical responses of ZnSe, offering critical directions for the advancement of optoelectronic devices.
Investigation of the X‐ray fluorescence technique in the characterization of Ni coatings applied to historical heritage studies
Authors: Silveira Paula , Veit Hugo Marcelo , Dias Johnny , Falcade Tiago 
Published: May 2024

AbstractHistorical heritage pieces allow a better comprehension of the characteristics of different civilizations over time. The characterization of such pieces is of paramount importance for their preservation. Energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (EDXRF) is recommended for this application, mostly because it is non‐destructive and the equipment is portable. However, one of its limitations is the difficulty in separating the signal from the substrate and the coating of multilayered samples, as it does not provide depth resolution. This project investigates the application of EDXRF in the characterization of metallic coatings, in the context of historical heritage. The elemental concentration of electrodeposited Ni coatings onto carbon steel substrates was obtained from EDXRF analyses. The relationship between the layer thickness and the variation of the Kα/Kβ intensity ratio of nickel peaks was exploited and the thicknesses of the coatings were estimated through EDXRF measurements. For comparison, particle‐induced x‐ray emission spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy of the cross‐section were employed, providing a depth profile of the coatings. The estimated thicknesses from EDXRF analysis were comparable to those observed in the microscopy images for thinner films (up to 8 μm). On the other hand, for thicker films, the thicknesses were underestimated, due to the technique's depth limit and matrix effects, as secondary absorption. Despite these limitations, EDXRF remains valuable for evaluating cultural heritage pieces, often providing sufficient information to address authenticity concerns or to guide restoration processes. A case study was also performed to apply the methodology discussed on historical metallic pieces.
Digital Empathic Healthcare: Designing Virtual Interactions for Human-Centered Experiences
Authors: Grech Amy , Wodehouse Andrew , Brisco Ross 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe evolution of the relationship between healthcare professionals and patients towards patient-centered care has emphasized the importance of understanding patients’ perspectives, values, and needs. This shift has transformed decision-making from a technical standpoint to a more holistic approach integrating moral influences, driven by empathy. This research explores the transformative role of empathy, facilitated by Virtual Reality (VR) technology, in healthcare practitioners’ interactions with patients. Inspired by VR's immersive capabilities, the novel specification entitled the Digital Empathic Design Voyage is presented as a foundation for operational virtual environments that empower humans to experience empathy. Through outcomes from literature and a qualitative study, this paper determines appropriate digital environment interactions relevant to a healthcare scenario. The research envisions a deeper understanding of patients, fostering human-oriented healthcare practices and solutions.
Developing a Digital Gaming Intervention with Yetitablet® to Improve Older People’s Functioning and Activity in Long-Term-Care – a Feasibility Study
Authors: Kukkohovi Saara , Siira Heidi , Elo Satu 
Published: May 2024

AbstractLong-term care (LTC) residents often have many health problems and functional limitations, and their sedentary behavior is common. Playing digital games is one way to improve the well-being, functioning, and activity of older people. The purpose of this study was to test a digital gaming intervention with a new device in an LTC environment before the larger effectiveness study. The aim was to produce information on the benefits of the digital gaming intervention for residents, the success of the implementation of the intervention and the factors affecting it. One LTC facility for older people participated in the study. The data was collected with a semi-structured thematic interview after an eight-week intervention. The interview data was analyzed using inductive content analysis. Staff experiences of the benefits of the intervention were classified into three main categories: The intervention enabled a new kind of physical activity, the intervention increased the social activity and brought residents together and the intervention brought joy and variety to the residents. Success of the intervention implementation was classified into three main categories: active participation of the residents in the gaming sessions, low involvement of staff in the implementation of the intervention and variable success of implementing the intervention protocol in the everyday life of LTC facility. Factors affecting the implementation formed nine main categories. This feasibility study highlighted important factors related to the implementation of the intervention, which must be considered in the future for the success of the effectiveness study.
Orchestrating Customer-Oriented Public-Private Ecosystem
Authors: Nätti Satu , Komulainen Hanna , Saraniemi Saila , Ulkuniemi Pauliina 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe way public procurers interact with the supply market is developing from purely transactional towards more resource focused and collaborative exchanges. Still, what seems to be missing in the public procurement culture is knowledge of how to connect to a wider network of resource providers. We do not have adequate understanding about customer orientation in public sector, nor about customer-centric ecosystem. This is especially true in public health services; systems that are under huge transformation. In this paper, we have followed that development to understand: How can public health care transformation towards customer-oriented ecosystems be orchestrated? We had a unique opportunity to follow the renewal of the healthcare system in Finland, having access to interview those involved in planning the system. In total 17 in-depth interviews enabled us to create understanding of this challenge.
An LSTM Framework for the Effective Screening of Dementia for Deployment on Edge Devices
Authors: Wilkie Bernard , Muñoz Esquivel Karla , Roche Jamie 
Published: May 2024

AbstractDementia is a series of neurodegenerative disorders that affect 1 in 4 people over the age of 80 and can greatly reduce the quality of life of those afflicted. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common variation, accounting for roughly 60% of cases. The current financial cost of these diseases is an estimated $1.3 trillion per year. While treatments are available to help patients maintain their mental function and slow disease progression, many of those with AD are asymptomatic in the early stages, resulting in late diagnosis. The addition of the routine testing needed for an effective level of early diagnosis would put a costly burden on both patients and healthcare systems. This research proposes a novel framework for the modelling of dementia, designed for deployment in edge hardware. This work extracts a wide variety of thoroughly researched Electroencephalogram (EEG) features, and through extensive feature selection, model testing, tuning, and edge optimization, we propose two novel Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural networks. The first, uses 4 EEG sensors and can classify AD and Frontotemporal Dementia from cognitively normal (CN) subjects. The second, requires 3 EEG sensors and can classify AD from CN subjects. This is achieved with optimisation that reduces the model size by 83×, latency by 3.7×, and performs with an accuracy of 98%. Comparative analysis with existing research shows this performance exceeds current less portable techniques. The deployment of this model in edge hardware could aid in routine testing, providing earlier diagnosis of dementia, reducing the strain on healthcare systems, and increasing the quality of life for those afflicted with the disease.
Intelligent Mental Workload Mobile Application in Personalized Digital Care Pathway for Lifestyle Chronic Disease
Authors: Keikhosrokiani Pantea , Isomursu Minna , Korhonen Olli , Sean Tan Teik 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn the new healthcare paradigm, personalized digital care pathway enables the provision of tailored information and empowers patients. In healthcare, it is crucial to attend to patients’ physical and emotional requirements. Stress and heavy mental workload can be detrimental to managing chronic lifestyle disorders. However, a reliable, standardized, and widely used paradigm for incorporating mental workload into the digital care pathway for providing long-term personalized care is missing from the current care pathway. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the use of mental workload tools and mobile applications in personalized digital care pathways for managing lifestyle chronic diseases. The study was focused on determining and characterizing the variables that determine mental workload; and then, investigating the ways in which these variables might function as supplementary data sources to enhance the personalization of care pathway. Based on the proposed mental workload tool, data was collected from 304 employees in the manufacturing industry, software development department. An intelligent mobile application was developed to manage and classify mental workload. Ensemble learning algorithms were used for mental workload classification, among which Hard Voting Ensemble Model outperforms the other techniques with 0.97 accuracy. Based on the findings, the most variable factor of mental workload is psychological factors with a median of 3.25, suggesting that individual differences or specific psychological conditions can significantly affect mental workload. Regarding personalization for managing chronic diseases, the mental workload variables may be utilized to individually adjust digital treatments to the specific requirements of every patient in a person-centered care.