bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Magnetic resonance imaging for acute appendicitis in pregnancy: can clinical scores predict when imaging is needed?
Authors: Kahana Noam , Boaz Elad , Neymark Mariya , Gilshtein Hayim , Dror Yossi Freier , Benjaminov Ofer , Reissman Petachia , Tankel James 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Advanced imaging may augment the diagnostic milieux for presumed acute appendicitis (AA) during pregnancy, however it is not clear when such imaging modalities are indicated. The aim of this study was to assess the sensitivity and specificity of clinical scoring systems with the findings on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of AA in pregnant patients.

Methods
A retrospective cohort study between 2019 and 2021 was performed in two tertiary level centers. Pregnant patients presenting with suspected AA and non-diagnostic trans-abdominal ultrasound who underwent MRI as part of their evaluation were identified. Patient demographics, parity, gestation, presenting signs, and symptoms were documented. The Alvarado and Appendicitis Inflammatory Response (AIR) score for each patient were calculated and correlated with clinical and MRI findings. Univariate analysis was used to identify factors associated with AA on MRI.

Results
Of the 255 pregnant patients who underwent MRI, 33 (13%) had findings of AA. On univariate analysis, presentation during the second/third trimester, migration of pain, vomiting and RLQ tenderness correlated with MRI findings of AA. Whilst 5/77 (6.5%) of patients with an Alvarado score ≤4 had signs of AA on MRI, a score of ≥5 had a sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive value of 84.8%, 36.6%, 94.0% and 17.2%. For an AIR score ≥ 5, this was 78.8%, 41.5%, 93.0%, and 16.7%, respectively.

Conclusions
Whilst clinical scoring systems may be useful in identifying which pregnant patients require MRI to be performed when AA is suspected, the low sensitivity implies further research is needed to refine the use of this valuable resource.
Hierarchical modelling of variance components makes analysis of resolvable incomplete block designs more efficient
Authors: Studnicki Marcin , Piepho Hans Peter 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe standard approach to variance component estimation in linear mixed models for alpha designs is the residual maximum likelihood (REML) method. One drawback of the REML method in the context of incomplete block designs is that the block variance may be estimated as zero, which can compromise the recovery of inter-block information and hence reduce the accuracy of treatment effects estimation. Due to the development of statistical and computational methods, there is an increasing interest in adopting hierarchical approaches to analysis. In order to increase the precision of the analysis of individual trials laid out as alpha designs, we here make a proposal to create an objectively informed prior distribution for variance components for replicates, blocks and plots, based on the results of previous (historical) trials. We propose different modelling approaches for the prior distributions and evaluate the effectiveness of the hierarchical approach compared to the REML method, which is classically used for analysing individual trials in two-stage approaches for multi-environment trials.
Artificial intelligence and human autonomy: the case of driving automation
Authors: Fossa Fabio 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe present paper aims at contributing to the ethical debate on the impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) systems on human autonomy. More specifically, it intends to offer a clearer understanding of the design challenges to the effort of aligning driving automation technologies to this ethical value. After introducing the discussion on the ambiguous impacts that AI systems exert on human autonomy, the analysis zooms in on how the problem has been discussed in the literature on connected and automated vehicles (CAVs). On this basis, it is claimed that the issue has been mainly tackled on a fairly general level, and mostly with reference to the controversial issue of crash-optimization algorithms, so that only limited design insights have been drawn. However, integrating ethical analysis and design practices is critical to pursue the implementation of such an important ethical value into CAV technologies. To this aim, it is argued, a more applied approach targeted at examining the impacts on human autonomy of current CAV functions should also be explored. As an example of the intricacy of this task, the case of automated route planning is discussed in some detail.
AI, automation and the lightening of work
Authors: Spencer David A. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractArtificial intelligence (AI) technology poses possible threats to existing jobs. These threats extend not just to the number of jobs available but also to their quality. In the future, so some predict, workers could face fewer and potentially worse jobs, at least if society does not embrace reforms that manage the coming AI revolution. This paper uses the example of Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson’s recent book—Power and Progress(2023)—to illustrate some of the dilemmas and options for managing the future of work under AI. Acemoglu and Johnson, while warning of the potential negative effects of an AI-driven automation, argue that AI can be used for positive ends. In particular, they argue for its uses in creating more ‘good jobs’. This outcome will depend on democratising AI technology. This paper is critical of the approach taken by Acemoglu and Johnson—specifically, it misses the possibility for using AI to lighten work (i.e., to reduce its duration and improve its quality). This paper stresses the potential benefits of automation as a mechanism for lightening work. Its key arguments aim to advance critical debates focused on creating a future in which AI works for people not just for profits.
Effects of process parameters and geometry on dimensional accuracy and surface quality of thin strut heart valve frames manufactured by laser powder bed fusion
Authors: Zhao Xiao , Liang Anqi , Bellin Matteo , Bressloff Neil W. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractLaser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is one of the most popular metal additive manufacturing technologies, which has found its applications in high-value sectors such as aerospace and biomedical devices. Some recent studies on the LPBF of stents have demonstrated its feasibility in the fabrication in thin strut structures including heart valve frames, as used in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for the treatment of severe aortic stenosis. The state of the art method of laser cutting TAVI frame limits the scope for novel concepts which are made possible by additive manufacturing. However, the surface quality and dimensional accuracy of LPBF parts are lower than that produced by laser cutting. To start the development of new TAVI concepts, the feasibility of manufacturing thin frames by LPBF has been investigated based on the SAPIEN 3 frame by Edwards Lifesciences. In this study, simplified frames with strut size from 0.3 to 0.5 mm have been successfully manufactured. The effects of strut size, strut angle, laser power and scan speed on the dimensional accuracy and surface quality were systemically studied. In addition, a representative SAPIEN 3 frame was manufactured and assessed with high-resolution X-ray CT scans. Good overall dimensional accuracy and low porosity were obtained for the SAPIEN 3 frame. However, inclined struts were found to have relatively low dimensional accuracy and poor surface quality.
Wear and oxidation behavior of Ti-7Al-1Mo/TiN composites fabricated via spark plasma sintering
Authors: Jeje Samson Olaitan , Shongwe Mxolisi Brendon 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe research on the alloys of titanium (Ti) has been extensive due to the need for materials with remarkable resistance to oxidation and wear in demanding applications including the automotive, aerospace, and marine sectors. Even though they have excellent qualities, they frequently require improvements due to the harsh tribological environments they encounter. This study focuses on the ternary alloy of titanium-aluminum-molybdenum (Ti-7Al-1Mo) and its composite (Ti-7Al-1Mo/titanium nitride (TiN)). Utilizing spark plasma sintering (SPS) method, we fabricated these materials with varying TiN weight percentages (1, 3, 5, and 7 wt.%). The microstructural analysis revealed a transition from lath-like morphology to a bimodal structure as TiN content increased. The presence of intermediate Ti2N phases and hard TiN within the α-Ti matrix was confirmed. Wear tests indicated improved wear resistance in composites, especially at higher TiN fractions, while oxidation resistance increased with TiN content. This research demonstrates the potential of Ti–Al-Mo/TiN composites in high-performance applications, highlighting the nuanced relationship between TiN reinforcement, microstructural evolution, mechanical, and oxidation properties.
MRI of pelvic endometriosis: evaluation of the mr#Enzian classification and the importance of adenomyosis subtypes
Authors: Pausch Antonia M. , Filleböck Vivien , Benli Merve , Witzel Isabell , Hötker Andreas M. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
This study aimed to investigate the utility of the #Enzian classification in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for endometriosis assessment, focusing on inter-reader agreement, diagnostic accuracy, and the correlation of adenomyosis with deep endometriosis (DE).

Methods
This IRB- approved retrospective single-center study included 412 women who underwent MRI evaluation for endometriosis between February 2017 and June 2022. Two experienced radiologists independently analyzed MRI images using the #Enzian classification and assessed the type of adenomyosis, if any. The surgical #Enzian classification served as the gold standard for evaluating preoperative MRI results of 45 patients. Statistical analysis was performed to assess inter-reader agreement and diagnostic accuracy.

Results
Inter-reader agreement was substantial to excellent (Cohen’s kappa 0.75–0.96) for most compartments except peritoneal involvement (0.39). The preoperative MRI showed mostly substantial to excellent accuracy (0.84–0.98), sensitivity (0.62–1.00), specificity (0.87–1.00), positive (0.58–1.00) and negative predictive values (0.86–1.00) for most compartments, except for peritoneal lesions (0.36, 0.17, 1.00, 1.00, 0.26 respectively). A trend with a higher prevalence of concordant DE in women with MR features of external adenomyosis compared to those with internal adenomyosis was visible (p = 0.067).

Conclusions
The mr#Enzian showed mostly high inter-reader agreement and good diagnostic accuracy for various endometriosis compartments. MRI’s role is particularly significant in the context of the current paradigm shift towards medical endometriosis treatment. The inclusion of information about the type of adenomyosis in the mr#Enzian classification could enhance diagnostic accuracy and inform treatment planning.

Graphical Abstract
Plant-based diet adherence is associated with metabolic health status in adults living with and without obesity
Authors: Carey Mags T. , Millar Seán R. , Elliott Patrick S. , Navarro Pilar , Harrington Janas M. , Perry Ivan J. , Phillips Catherine M. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Metabolic health phenotypes exist across the body mass index spectrum. Diet may be an important modifiable risk factor, yet limited research exists on dietary patterns in this context. We investigated associations between dietary patterns, reflecting dietary quality, healthfulness and inflammatory potential, and metabolic health phenotypes in adults living with and without obesity.

Methods
This cross-sectional study included 2,040 middle- to older-aged men and women randomly selected from a large primary care centre. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension score, Healthy Eating Index, Dietary Inflammatory Index, overall, healthful and unhealthful plant-based dietary indices and Nutri-Score were derived from validated food frequency questionnaires. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were used to examine diet score relationships with metabolic health phenotypes (Metabolically Healthy/Unhealthy Obese (MHO/MUO) and Non-Obese (MHNO/MUNO)), defined using three separate metabolic health definitions, each capturing different aspects of metabolic health.

Results
In fully adjusted models, higher unhealthful plant-based dietary scores were associated with a lower likelihood of MHO (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.93–1.00, p = 0.038) and MHNO (OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95–0.99, p = 0.006). Higher Nutri-Score values were associated with an increased likelihood of MHNO (OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01–1.13, p = 0.033).

Conclusion
These findings provide evidence that more unhealthful plant-based diets may be linked with unfavourable metabolic health status, irrespective of BMI.
Associations of plant-based foods, red and processed meat, and dairy with gut microbiome in Finnish adults
Authors: Maukonen Mirkka , Koponen Kari K , Havulinna Aki S , Kaartinen Niina E , Niiranen Teemu , Méric Guillaume , Pajari Anne-Maria , Knight Rob , Salomaa Veikko , Männistö Satu 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Population-based studies on the associations of plant-based foods, red meat or dairy with gut microbiome are scarce. We examined whether the consumption of plant-based foods (vegetables, potatoes, fruits, cereals), red and processed meat (RPM) or dairy (fermented milk, cheese, other dairy products) are related to gut microbiome in Finnish adults.

Methods
We utilized data from the National FINRISK/FINDIET 2002 Study (n = 1273, aged 25–64 years, 55% women). Diet was assessed with 48-hour dietary recalls. Gut microbiome was analyzed using shallow shotgun sequencing. We applied multivariate analyses with linear models and permutational ANOVAs adjusted for relevant confounders.

Results
Fruit consumption was positively (beta = 0.03, SE = 0.01, P = 0.04), while a dairy subgroup including milk, cream and ice-creams was inversely associated (beta=-0.03, SE 0.01, P = 0.02) with intra-individual gut microbiome diversity (alpha-diversity). Plant-based foods (R2 = 0.001, P = 0.03) and dairy (R2 = 0.002, P = 0.01) but not RPM (R2 = 0.001, P = 0.38) contributed to the compositional differences in gut microbiome (beta-diversity). Plant-based foods were associated with several butyrate producers/cellulolytic species including Roseburia hominis. RPM associations included an inverse association with R. hominis. Dairy was positively associated with several lactic producing/probiotic species including Lactobacillus delbrueckii and potentially opportunistic pathogens including Citrobacter freundii. Dairy, fermented milk, vegetables, and cereals were associated with specific microbial functions.

Conclusion
Our results suggest a potential association between plant-based foods and dairy or their subgroups with microbial diversity measures. Furthermore, our findings indicated that all the food groups were associated with distinct overall microbial community compositions. Plant-based food consumption particularly was associated with a larger number of putative beneficial species.
A strong direct link from the layer 3/4 border to layer 6 of cat primary visual cortex
Authors: Martin Kevan A. C. , Sägesser Franziska D. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe cat primary visual cortex (V1) is a cortical area for which we have one of the most detailed estimates of the connection ‘weights’ (expressed as number of synapses) between different neural populations in different layers (Binzegger et al in J Neurosci 24:8441–8453, 2004). Nevertheless, the majority of excitatory input sources to layer 6, the deepest layer in a local translaminar excitatory feedforward loop, was not accounted for by the known neuron types used to generate the quantitative Binzegger diagram. We aimed to fill this gap by using a retrograde tracer that would label neural cell bodies in and outside V1 that directly connect to layer 6 of V1. We found that more than 80% of labeled neurons projecting to layer 6 were within V1 itself. Our data indicate that a substantial fraction of the missing input is provided by a previously unidentified population of layer 3/4 border neurons, laterally distributed and connecting more strongly to layer 6 than the typical superficial layer pyramidal neurons considered by Binzegger et al. (Binzegger et al in J Neurosci 24:8441–8453, 2004). This layer 3/4 to layer 6 connection may be a parallel route to the layer 3 – layer 5 – layer 6 feedforward pathway, be associated with the fast-conducting, movement-related Y pathway and provide convergent input from distant (5–10 degrees) regions of the visual field.
Enhanced hydrogen storage efficiency with sorbents and machine learning: a review
Authors: Osman Ahmed I. , Abd-Elaziem Walaa , Nasr Mahmoud , Farghali Mohamed , Rashwan Ahmed K. , Hamada Atef , Wang Y. Morris , Darwish Moustafa A. , Sebaey Tamer A. , Khatab A. , Elsheikh Ammar H. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractHydrogen is viewed as the future carbon–neutral fuel, yet hydrogen storage is a key issue for developing the hydrogen economy because current storage techniques are expensive and potentially unsafe due to pressures reaching up to 700 bar. As a consequence, research has recently designed advanced hydrogen sorbents, such as metal–organic frameworks, covalent organic frameworks, porous carbon-based adsorbents, zeolite, and advanced composites, for safer hydrogen storage. Here, we review hydrogen storage with a focus on hydrogen sources and production, advanced sorbents, and machine learning. Carbon-based sorbents include graphene, fullerene, carbon nanotubes and activated carbon. We observed that storage capacities reach up to 10 wt.% for metal–organic frameworks, 6 wt.% for covalent organic frameworks, and 3–5 wt.% for porous carbon-based adsorbents. High-entropy alloys and advanced composites exhibit improved stability and hydrogen uptake. Machine learning has allowed predicting efficient storage materials.
Using public-sourced photos to track changes in moose antler size during a 20-year hunting ban
Authors: Kowalczyk Rafał , Kowalczyk Natalia , Dombrowski Piotr , Górecki Krzysztof , Kolasa Szymon , Miazek Radosław , Sacharewicz Patryk , Tałałaj Piotr , Borowik Tomasz 
Published: May 2024

AbstractHunting directly impacts the population dynamics of ungulates and can have a significant effect on the quality of phenotypic traits such as horns or antlers. In Poland, following a demographic collapse in the 1990s and the introduction of a hunting ban in 2001, the population of moose (Alces alces) has increased from 1,800 to over 20,000 individuals, recolonising its former range. As the moose is a charismatic species and a popular subject for nature photography, we analysed changes in antler size and shape in this cervid between 2005 and 2021 based on photos of male moose and antler casts provided by photographers or available in social media. Our findings indicate that during the hunting ban, the probability of observing the cervina antler type significantly decreased over time, from 47% in 2012 to 28% in 2021. Meanwhile, the probability of observing the intermediate and palmate antler types significantly increased from 44 to 53% and from 9 to 19%, respectively. The mean number of tines significantly increased from 3.2 in 2005 to 4.7 in 2021, and the antler size index significantly increased from 3.4 to 3.9. The most likely mechanism behind the observed changes could be the ageing of a population released from hunting pressure. We also observed regional variation in antler size, which is likely related to differences in environmental conditions. Our study serves as an example of how passive citizen science can contribute to our understanding of ecological trends and the quantification of population patterns. It also has important implications for management of species affected by trophy hunting.
Benefits associated with the implementation of biological control programmes in Latin America
Authors: Colmenarez Yelitza C. , Vasquez Carlos 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAgriculture in Latin America plays a significant role in the region’s economy, food security, and rural development. Although pest control has traditionally relied on chemicals, there is increasing adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. Thus, in recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainable agriculture practices, including biological control, to minimise environmental impact, conserve natural resources, and ensure long-term agricultural productivity. In Latin America, high biodiversity enhances biological control, both classical and augmentative biological control. The use of biological control agents allows farmers to produce their crops whilst reducing the use of chemicals in agriculture. In addition, biological control opens new market opportunities for farmers and job options for youth in rural areas. Maximal benefits will however be attained only after adoption of biological control practices and when an effective interaction among key stakeholders is achieved. Thus, farmers and consumers can reap the benefits of biological control, which can incentivise and accelerate adoption at the field level. To evaluate the socio-economic benefits of biological control, establishing multidisciplinary teams to conduct the studies is crucial. The current article explores the benefits resulting from the implementation of biological control programmes, highlighting social benefits. In addition, as part of the Plantwise programme, created to assist agricultural production with a sustainable perspective, data on the use of biopesticides in some countries are discussed in the context of sustainable production looking forward to reinforcing food security and safety in Latin America.
Alteration of PD-L1 (SP142) status after neoadjuvant chemotherapy and its clinical significance in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Woo Ji Won , Han Eun Kyung , Suh Koung Jin , Kim Se Hyun , Kim Jee Hyun , Park So Yeon 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
The tumor immune microenvironment can change after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). We aimed to investigate the effects of NAC on PD-L1 (SP142) status and its clinical significance in TNBC.

Methods
Paired samples of biopsy and resection specimens were collected from 182 patients with TNBC before and after NAC. PD-L1 (SP142) expression in immune cells in pre- and post-NAC breast cancer samples and the changes between them were analyzed, along with their relationships with the clinicopathological features and clinical outcomes of the patients.

Results
Of the 182 patients, 61 (33.5%) achieved pathologic complete response (pCR) after NAC. PD-L1 (SP142) positivity, defined as immune cell staining in ≥ 1% of tumor area, was a predictor for pCR. PD-L1-positive immune cells significantly increased after NAC (2.8% to 5.2% on average) in 109 patients with measurable residual disease. Alteration of PD-L1 status was observed in 24 (22.0%) of the 109 patients with measurable residual tumors after NAC, and all PD-L1 status-converted patients, except one, revealed negative-to-positive conversion. Regarding chemotherapeutic agents, the use of platinum agents was associated with a significant increase in PD-L1-positive immune cells after NAC. In survival analyses, a positive PD-L1 status after NAC and increase of PD-L1-positive immune cells after NAC were associated with better recurrence-free survival of the patients.

Conclusion
PD-L1 (SP142) status changes after NAC, mostly as a positive conversion. As PD-L1 (SP142) status can convey prognostic and predictive information, it needs to be tested before and after NAC.