bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prenatal Diagnostics Using Deep Learning: A Dual Approach to Plane Localization and Cerebellum Segmentation in Ultrasound Images
Authors: Vetriselvi D. , Thenmozhi R. 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTObjectiveThe fetal ultrasound examination is the significant task of mid‐term pregnancy inspection and the accurate localization as well as the segmentation of the cerebellum is crucial for clinical diagnosis. This research focuses on developing deep learning techniques for prenatal prediction of neurodevelopmental disorders using 5th‐month ultrasound brain images.MethodsThe study introduces two specialized convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures: the differential CNN for plane localization and the dual CNN for cerebellum segmentation which are critical for accurate diagnostics during prenatal care. The differential CNN incorporates six different convolutional operators to capture diverse features for precise localization of specific planes within images. The dual CNN architecture integrates both the original image and complementary information such as feature maps, to enhance segmentation accuracy for the cerebellum. The models are trained on annotated datasets of ultrasound images, validated, and tested on separate datasets.ResultsThe effectiveness of the proposed CNN architectures is determined by performing the specific tasks of plane localization and cerebellum segmentation, respectively. The proposed models achieved high performances of 98.6% and 0.956% from accuracy and dice coefficient (DSC) compared to existing approaches in medical image analysis.ConclusionThe findings of this study have significant implications for the prenatal prediction of neurodevelopmental disorders, offering a promising advancement in prenatal care and early diagnostics. The custom CNN architectures tailored to the specific tasks of plane localization and cerebellum segmentation highlight the importance of task‐specific model design in medical imaging. While the study acknowledges certain limitations and challenges, the power of deep learning is analyzed for marking the benefit of healthcare and neurodevelopmental disorder prediction during pregnancy.
Mid‐term comparison of new‐onset AHRE between His bundle and left bundle branch area pacing in patients with AV block
Authors: Pestrea Catalin , Cicala Ecaterina , Enache Roxana , Rusu Marcela , Gavrilescu Radu , Vaduva Adrian , Risca Sever , Clapon Dana , Ortan Florin 
Published: February 2025

AbstractBackgroundAtrial high‐rate episodes (AHRE) detected by cardiac implanted electronic devices are known markers for adverse cardiac events. Previous studies have shown that the incidence of new‐onset AHREs in patients with right ventricular pacing reaches 50%. At the same time, His bundle pacing (HBP) and left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) were associated with significantly fewer AHRE. This study aimed to compare the incidence of new‐onset AHRE between HBP and LBBAP in patients with atrioventricular block and no history of atrial fibrillation.MethodsOne hundred and forty‐two patients, fifty‐nine with HBP and eighty‐three with LBBAP for advanced atrioventricular block, were prospectively followed for new‐onset AHRE.ResultsThe mean follow‐up period was 624 ± 148.6 days for the HBP patients and 663.4 ± 157.4 days for the LBBAP patients. New‐onset AHRE was encountered in 8 of 59 patients (13.5%) with HBP and 14 of 83 (16.8%) with LBBAP (hazard ratio—0.91, log rank p = .84). In the multivariate Cox regression model, HBP and LBBAP had similar predictive values, while only age and diabetes mellitus were significantly associated with new‐onset AHRE occurrence.ConclusionHBP and LBBAP were associated with a similar incidence of device‐detected new‐onset AHRE during a medium‐term follow‐up period in patients with atrioventricular block and no history of atrial fibrillation.
Protein and energy digestibility in preterm infants fed fortified human milk
Authors: Kappel Susanne Soendergaard , Sangild Per Torp , Zachariassen Gitte , Andersen Julie Hvid , Rasmussen Kirsten Kørup , Jeppesen Palle Bekker , Aunsholt Lise 
Published: February 2025

AbstractObjectivesThe objective of the present study is to determine whether the apparent nutrient digestibility differs between very preterm infants fortified with bovine colostrum (BC) compared to those fortified with a conventional fortifier (CF), building on previous findings that BC was associated with looser stools and reduced need for laxatives in very preterm infants (VPI).MethodsWe conducted a 24‐h digestibility balance study in 10 VPIs to assess the retention of protein, energy, and wet‐weight following the intake of fortified human milk and collection of faecal excretions. Infants (n = 5) were matched by gestational age and birthweight.ResultsIn the 10 infants, the mean gestational age and birthweight were 28 ± 1 weeks and 899 ± 182 g, respectively. Infants fortified with BC had a higher faecal energy loss compared with infants fortified with CF (BC: 178 [range 111–205] vs. CF: 153 [96–235] kJ/kg, p < 0.05). No differences (p > 0.05) were found for wet‐weight intake (421 [360–427] vs. 494 [328–500] kJ/kg), relative absorption of protein (60 [33–75] vs. 50 [33–75]%) or absolute protein absorption (249 [159–310) vs. 281 [210–347]).ConclusionNutrient absorption was similar between groups although higher energy loss indicates reduced overall digestibility of BC versus CF, however, with a large variation within each group. Studies on more infants are required to confirm these results. A 24‐h digestibility balance study can successfully be used to assess nutrient and energy retention in preterm infants.
Internationalization, Dynamic Capabilities, and Innovation: Unveiling the Impact on Hotel Chain Performance
Authors: Rienda Laura , Andreu Rosario , Ruiz‐Fernández Lorena 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTThe indirect effect of dynamic capabilities on performance has recently emerged as a topic of significant interest and debate in management research. In turbulent environments such as the international hotel industry, where companies constantly innovate to improve their performance, it is important to consider the effect of these dynamic capabilities. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to fill the gap by analyzing the role of dynamic capabilities (influenced by the degree of hotel chain internationalization) in innovation, and their subsequent impact on hotel chain performance. The study employs a combination of primary and secondary sources, comprising 107 surveys from Spanish hotel chains, to analyze the data using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS‐SEM). The findings indicate that only hotel chains that are committed to internationalization and possess the capacity to develop dynamic capabilities can leverage innovation to achieve enhanced performance. Thus, hotel chains must prioritize dynamic capabilities to navigate market changes such as technological advancements or sustainability trends, which are vital for maintaining competitiveness in the global market.
Multiple Mutations—A Genetic Marker for Extracapsular Spread in Human Papillomavirus/p16‐Positive Oropharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Graessle Raphaela , Piwonski Iris , Husemann Cora , Kleo Karsten , Sabtan Deema , Franzen Achim , Olze Heidi , Erben Ulrike , Hummel Michael , Coordes Annekatrin 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundIn the 8th edition of the TNM classification, extracapsular spread (ECS) became a factor in classifying the UICC stage of oropharyngeal carcinomas (OPSCC). We aimed to find genetic markers for ECS and to identify differences between HPV/p16‐positive and HPV/p16‐negative cases.MethodsWe performed targeted next‐generation sequencing on 99 samples of operable OPSCC and a retrospective analysis of clinical data.ResultsWe included 55 HPV/p16‐positive and 44 HPV/p16‐negative patients. We found a significant difference between both groups, particularly in TP53 mutation (p < 0.001). Among other things, a small primary tumor (p < 0.001), no ECS (p = 0.026) were identified as predictors for survival. Multiple mutations were associated with an increased incidence of ECS, especially in HPV+/p16+ cases (p = 0.017). A mutation in PIK3CA occurred more frequently in nonsmokers, especially in HPV−/p16− patients (p = 0.027). A PTEN mutation—which only occurred in HPV+/p16+ tissues—reduced disease‐free survival (DFS, p = 0.026).ConclusionThe presence of multiple mutations in HPV+/p16+ OPSCC was associated with a higher risk of ECS.Level of Evidence3
Bragging About Valuable Resources? The Dual Effect of Companies’ AI and Human Self‐Promotion
Authors: Vorobeva Darina , Pinto Diego Costa , González‐Jiménez Héctor , António Nuno 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTAs companies actively invest in self‐promotion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) empowered services to sustain their competitive advantage, there is a growing potential for such promotional activities to backfire. Bridging signaling theory with the resource‐based view, this research reveals that companies’ self‐promotion of AI resources can reduce customers’ willingness to engage with AI‐based (vs. human‐based) services. Four studies, including text mining and experiments, demonstrate that companies’ self‐promotion of AI‐based resources has a detrimental effect on willingness to engage, and concurrently perceived as exaggeration. In contrast, companies’ self‐promotion about human‐related resources yields beneficial outcomes, since such promotional signals contribute to the enhancement of human capital. The findings suggest that self‐discrepancy and trust are the key underlying factors driving the effects as customers may experience a discrepancy between their expectations of human‐like service interactions and actual AI capabilities. Additionally, findings reveal the moderating effect of honest (vs. self‐promotional) framing on the relationship between service type (AI vs. human) and willingness to engage. Customer perceptions of AI appear less influenced by presentation style compared to perceptions of human resources. This research provides valuable insights into how customers respond to companies’ self‐promotion of AI resources and emphasizes the need for promotional alignment with customers’ expectations about AI.
Modeling Hybrid Crossover Dynamics of Immuno‐Chemotherapy and Gene Therapy: A Numerical Approach
Authors: Abou Hasan Muner. M. , AL‐Mekhlafi Seham. M. , Rihan Fathala. A. , Al‐Ali Hannah. A. 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTA piecewise fractional differential equation (deterministic–stochastic differential equation or vice versa) has appeared in recent literature. Piecewise operators are used to study crossover real data effectively. By using stochastic–deterministic piecewise hybrid fractional derivatives, with hybrid fractional‐order and variable‐order fractional operators, this paper extends the deterministic model of immuno‐chemotherapy with gene therapy and time delay. The immuno‐chemotherapy with gene therapy combines traditional chemotherapy and immunotherapy with genetic engineering techniques to enhance the immune system's ability to target and destroy cancer cells. This offers a multifaceted approach to cancer treatment, potentially enhancing effectiveness while minimizing side effects. Two approximation techniques are used to solve the proposed model numerically. In the hybrid fractional deterministic models, we use the nonstandard Caputo proportional constant finite difference method, and in the stochastic models, we use the nonstandard Milstein technique. We examine the stability analysis of these methods to ensure their efficiency. Both the theoretical results and the efficiency of the methods are confirmed by numerical tests. New piecewise operators are illustrated by the curves presented. Studying the introduced piecewise fractional differential immuno‐chemotherapy model with gene therapy and time delay along with a stochastic case greatly explained the dynamics of immuno‐chemotherapy interaction.
Besov‐Type Spaces Associated With Dunkl Wavelet Transform on ℝ$$ \mathbb{R} $$
Authors: Verma Randhir Kumar , Prasad Akhilesh 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTWe define the Besov‐type spaces related to Dunkl transform. We extend the concept of continuous wavelet transform on space and derive continuity of Dunkl wavelet transform on Besov‐type spaces. We characterize the Besov–Dunkl space by using Dunkl wavelet coefficients. Lastly, boundedness results in a generalized Besov space and Lizorkin–Triebel space are discussed.
4D Dynamic contrast‐enhanced breast CT: Phantom‐based reconstruction parameter optimization for iodine quantification
Authors: Mikerov Mikhail , Pautasso Juan J. , Goris Liselot , Michielsen Koen , Sechopoulos Ioannis 
Published: February 2025

AbstractBackgroundFour‐dimensional dynamic contrast‐enhanced breast CT (4D DCE‐bCT) offers promising high‐resolution spatial and temporal imaging capabilities for the characterization and monitoring of breast tumors. However, the optimal combination of parameters for iodine quantification in image space remains to be determined.PurposeThis study aims to optimize a dedicated bCT system to perform long dynamic contrast‐enhanced scans with high spatio‐temporal resolution while maintaining a reasonable radiation dose.MethodsOur protocol includes the acquisition of a high‐quality prior image that is reconstructed with a polychromatic iterative algorithm (IMPACT). The acquisition of the post‐contrast sequence is continuous but sparse and these images are reconstructed using prior image constrained compressed sensing (PICCS). A four‐step optimization process is performed using images of a physical phantom. First, the optimal tube current is selected by taking the noise level into account. Second, the optimal number of angles is selected based on the absence of streak artifacts. Third, the number of iterations in IMPACT is specified at the lowest value that achieves the highest spatial resolution. Finally, the number of iterations in PICCS is determined based on the quantitative accuracy of a range of iodine concentrations.ResultsWhen a high‐quality prior image is available, the imaging of post‐contrast images can be performed using just 40 projection angles with a tube current of 32 mA. The noise level in the post‐contrast images is inherited from the prior image and no streak artifacts are visible. Mean difference between the linear attenuation coefficients of samples containing iodine reconstructed with IMPACT using all 360 projections and PICCS using 40 projections is 0.0004 at most. The spatial resolution of images reconstructed with PICCS is lower than the one of IMPACT images and is concentration dependent. The cut‐off frequency at 10% modulation transfer function drops from 1.55 in the prior image to 0.9 when the target with the largest concentration is evaluated. The total mean glandular dose of the protocol does not exceed 22.5 mGy.ConclusionsThis study found the optimal acquisition and reconstruction parameters for a low‐dose dynamic contrast‐enhanced bCT protocol. The numerical accuracy of the proposed protocol was ensured by performing a physical phantom study.
Tissue‐to‐fluid water‐exchange imaging using T2‐selective saturation labeling
Authors: Taso Manuel , Alsop David C. 
Published: February 2025

AbstractPurposeTo propose and implement a new method to study water exchange between brain tissue and fluids.MethodsAn MLEV T2‐preparation combined with a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) nulling inversion recovery was implemented in combination with an ultralong–echo time (TE) three‐dimensional fast spin‐echo readout. To handle systematic imperfections and isolate the exchange signal, T2‐prepared images were subtracted from one of two control images. The first control turned off the T2 preparation and adjusted inversion timing to correct for relaxation. The second control used the same T2 preparation but shifted in time. Preparations were implemented on a 3T scanner and tested in 14 healthy volunteers. We evaluated the exchange signal magnitude and distribution, as well as robustness against B1 imperfection and intrasession reproducibility. We also compared the signal to that measured with ultralong‐TE arterial spin labeling, another suggested marker of water exchange.ResultsInitial experiments using the T2‐preparation off control demonstrated a detectable exchange signal especially in the choroid plexus, but with substantial residual signal in CSF spaces, suggesting imperfect subtraction of non‐exchanging spins. When using the time shifted control, we greatly reduced subtraction errors. Signal was consistently measured in the choroid plexus and at the boundaries between cortex and CSF with much higher signal‐to‐noise ratio and spatial resolution than ultralong‐TE arterial spin labeling.ConclusionsThe measured water exchange distribution appears consistent with the localization of aquaporin channels at the CSF boundary. Because aquaporin activity may reflect CSF production and glymphatic clearance, our method may provide a noninvasive marker of these functions.
Improving the neonatal mask ventilation skills of non‐airway experts using the “Five Breath Method”: A simulation study
Authors: Clebone Anna 
Published: February 2025

AbstractTrainees in several medical disciplines are expected to achieve competence in neonatal resuscitation. Managing the neonatal airway requires faculties in mask ventilation. Many trainees, however, have limited clinical experience with this skill. An algorithmic method incorporating the steps an airway expert would use for neonatal mask ventilation was designed. The goal of teaching this system, the “Five Breath Method,” is to assist trainees with learning and incorporating the steps of neonatal mask ventilation into clinical practice. We hypothesized that for pediatric residents, participating in a teaching session on the Five Breath Method would significantly decrease the time to achieve ventilation (“air entry”) in a resuscitation scenario. A pilot study was completed on the Five Breath Method with 23 pediatric residents as subjects. Training in the Five Breath Method reduced the time required to achieve air entry using a neonatal simulator. Subjects required 57 [29–149 and 13–180] seconds (median [interquartile range and minimum–maximum]) before the teaching session and 16 [10–35 and 8–60] seconds after learning the Five Breath Method; Z = −4.11, and P < 0.001. For the 14 of the original subjects who were able to participate in the follow‐up study 2–5 months later, 24 [22–38 and 12–69] seconds (median [interquartile range and minimum–maximum]) were required to achieve air entry in the identical experimental scenario. This showed an improvement in time to air entry when compared to that before training; Z = −2.42, and P = 0.01552. This study showed that as little as 10 min of training could drastically improve skills. Learning the Five Breath Method also led to retention of skills over time.
Effect of functional monomers on the binding properties of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) for selective recognition of dexamethasone
Authors: Adauto Anais , Khan Sabir , Vega‐Chacón Jaime , Sotomayor Maria D. P. T. , Picasso Gino 
Published: February 2025

AbstractThis study examined the feasibility of removing dexamethasone (DEX) from aqueous solutions using molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs). The binding energy, used to evaluate the affinity between imprinted molecule and functional monomer, was calculated for DEX using molecular simulation via the density functional theory method. From this approach, three different functional monomers were tested: methacrylic acid, N‐(Hydroxymethyl) acrylamide, and 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate designated as MIP‐DEX1, MIP‐DEX2, MIP‐DEX3, respectively. All of them were prepared by the precipitation polymerization method, with trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate used as the crosslinker. Moreover, the kinetics of adsorption and adsorption isotherms were evaluated using different models to assess the adsorption mechanisms of DEX on polymers. The results showed that equilibrium between the polymer and DEX is reached at 180 min, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 117.27 mg g−1 for sample MIP‐DEX3. The kinetic studies indicated that the adsorption of DEX on the polymers fits very well with the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model. Equilibrium data were best described by the Freundlich model, suggesting that the sorption process occurs on a heterogeneous surface of the polymer cavities. The thermodynamic study confirms the role of selectivity cavities, exhibited in the sample MIP‐DEX3. Reusability tests and application on real samples suggest that the synthesized polymers are promising adsorbents.Highlights
The functional monomer was chosen using a semiempirical computational simulation.
Three monomers were tested to study their influence on dexamethasone recognition.
The molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) prepared from 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate achieved the maximum analyte adsorption.
Our MIP exhibited a selectivity constant of 41.11 in the presence of cortisone.
The prepared MIP was successfully reused and tested for dexamethasone in real water samples.
The Influence of Soldering Flux on Stability of Heterojunction and TOPCon Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Haoran , Sen Chandany , Fu Jiexi , Khan Muhammad Umair , Song Hao , Lv Ruirui , Conibeer Gavin , Hoex Bram 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTSilicon heterojunction technology (HJT) and tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) solar cell technologies are expected to dominate the photovoltaic market in the coming years. However, there are still some concerns about the long‐term stability of these technologies. This work examines the effects of two widely used commercial soldering fluxes (Flux A and Flux B) on the stability of commercial silicon HJT and TOPCon solar cells. The soldering flux was applied to the solar cells, and the solar cells were annealed at 85°C under a relative humidity (RH) of 0%. The investigated TOPCon solar cells were found to be stable; however, significant degradation was observed in the HJT solar cells after only 50 h. The efficiency of the HJT cells decreased by ~61%rel with Flux A and ~55%rel with Flux B, respectively. We attribute part of the observed degradation to pores present in the HJT cell metallisation after printing, which allow the soldering flux to easily penetrate the contact and subsequently react with the paste constituents. In addition, we find that the indium tin oxide (ITO) layer is very sensitive to soldering flux, showing major cracks and significant peeling after 50 h of annealing. Consequently, this work shows that some soldering flux can react with the ITO layer, without requiring the presence of water. This suggests that certain types of soldering flux can harm HJT solar cells even after encapsulation without the need for moisture ingress. Therefore, paying more attention to the choice of soldering flux is essential, especially when working with HJT cells. It is strongly recommended that users perform comprehensive component analysis testing on soldering fluxes before their official use rather than solely relying on datasheets provided by suppliers.