bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of student readiness for clinical dental education at the end of preclinical education
Authors: Oh Se‐Lim , Mishler Oksana , Jones Deborah 
Published: January 2024

AbstractObjectivesThis study examined results of a summative objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) at the end of preclinical periodontal education to identify deficient areas for dental students in patient care and to explore factors affecting the probability of passing the OSCE.MethodsThe summative OSCE was administered to two consecutive cohorts, Classes A (class of 2024; n1 = 134) and B (class of 2025; n2 = 129). The questions for each station in the OSCEs were available to both classes 1 week before the OSCEs. Descriptive statistics were used to identify deficient areas. The multiple logistic regression model was built to predict the probability of passing the OSCE based on the cohort, gender, and the practical and written examination scores.ResultsFifty‐one (38%) students in Class A and 66 (51%) students in Class B completed the OSCE by passing all stations. Students undergoing remediation showed deficiencies in demonstrating how to detect tooth mobility, performing periodontal probing, drawing the healthy positive bony architecture and the mucogingival junction, and using a universal and a Gracey 13/14 curette. The probability of passing the OSCE was significantly correlated with Class B (p = 0.035) and the practical examination score (p = 0.03) while not associated with gender (p = 0.53) and the written examination score (p = 0.11).ConclusionStudents showed deficiencies in assessment skills at the end of preclinical education. The study findings suggest that the implementation of the OSCE at the conclusion of preclinical education would be beneficial since the written examination score might not accurately reflect student readiness for clinical patient care.
Light and electron microscopic observations on retinal neurons of red‐tail shark (Epalzeorhynchos bicolor H. M. Smith, 1931)
Authors: Mokhtar Doaa M. , Alesci Alessio , Pergolizzi Simona , Zaccone Giacomo 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe structure of photoreceptors (PR) and the arrangement of neurons in the retina of red‐tail shark were investigated using light and electron microscopy. The PR showed a mosaic arrangement and included double cones, single cones (SC), and single rods. Most cones occur as SC. The ratio between the number of cones and rods was 3:1.39 (±0.29). The rods were tall that reached the pigmented epithelium. The outer plexiform layer (OPL) showed a complex synaptic connection between the horizontal and photoreceptor terminals that were surrounded by Müller cell processes. Electron microscopy showed that the OPL possessed both cone pedicles and rod spherules. Each rod spherule consisted of a single synaptic ribbon within the invaginating terminal endings of the horizontal cell (hc) processes. In contrast, the cone pedicles possessed many synaptic ribbons within their junctional complexes. The inner nuclear layer consisted of bipolar, amacrine, Müller cells, and hc. Müller cells possessed intermediate filaments and cell processes that can reach the outer limiting membrane and form connections with each other by desmosomes. The ganglion cells were large multipolar cells with a spherical nucleus and Nissl’ bodies in their cytoplasm. The presence of different types of cones arranged in a mosaic pattern in the retina of this species favors the spatial resolution of visual objects.Research Highlights
This is the first study demonstrating the structure and arrangement of retinal neurons of red‐tail shark using light and electron microscopy.
The current study showed the presence of different types of cones arranged in a mosaic pattern that may favor the spatial resolution of visual objects in this species.
The bipolar, amacrine, Müller, and horizontal cells could be demonstrated.
Exploring gut–lung axis crosstalk in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: Insights from a hACE2 mouse model
Authors: Zhang Yu , Ma Yifang , Sun Weiyang , Zhou Xiaoyang , Wang Ruixuan , Xie Peng , Dai Lu , Gao Yuwei , Li Jintao 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBased on the forefront of clinical research, there is a growing recognition that the gut microbiota, which plays a pivotal role in shaping both the innate and adaptive immune systems, may significantly contribute to the pathogenesis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). Although an association between altered gut microbiota and COVID‐19 pathogenesis has been established, the causative mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Additionally, the validation of the precise functional alterations within the gut microbiota relevant to COVID‐19 pathogenesis has been limited by a scarcity of suitable animal experimental models. In the present investigation, we employed a newly developed humanized ACE2 knock‐in (hACE2‐KI) mouse model, capable of recapitulating critical aspects of pulmonary and intestinal infection, to explore the modifications in the gut microbiota following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. Examination of fecal samples using 16S rRNA gene profiling unveiled a notable reduction in species richness and conspicuous alterations in microbiota composition at 6 days postinfection (dpi). These alterations were primarily characterized by a decline in beneficial bacterial species and an escalation in certain opportunistic pathogens. Moreover, our analysis entailed a correlation study between the gut microbiota and plasma cytokine concentrations, revealing the potential involvement of the Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group and unclassified_f_Lachnospiraceae genera in attenuating hyperinflammatory responses triggered by the infection. Furthermore, integration of gut microbiota data with RNA‐seq analysis results suggested that the increased presence of Staphylococcus in fecal samples may signify the potential for bacterial coinfection in lung tissues via gut translocation. In summary, our hACE2‐KI mouse model effectively recapitulated the observed alterations in the gut microbiota during SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. This model presents a valuable tool for elucidating gut microbiota‐targeted strategies aimed at mitigating COVID‐19.
Impacts of climate and land coverage changes on potential evapotranspiration and its sensitivity on drought phenomena over South Asia
Authors: Ali Shahzad , Basit Abdul , Umair Muhammad , Ni Jian 
Published: January 2024

AbstractUnderstanding the spatiotemporal historical drought pattern and their sensitivity effect on potential evapotranspiration (PET) and vegetation coverage changes is essential for efficient drought mitigation policies under climate change. In this study, we used the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) at multiple timescales, such as SPEI‐01, SPEI‐03, SPEI‐06, SPEI‐09 and SPEI‐12; we explored their regional‐scale dry and wet annual changes across seven sub‐regions of South Asia from 1902 to 2018. Results suggest that from 1981 to 2018, the extreme drought of SPEI has increased in South Asia, which mostly affects the summer and winter growing seasons, that is, SPEI‐06 to SPEI‐12 across seven sub‐regions of South Asia. The frequency of drought events during dry and wet annual changes of SPEI had an extremely dry year starting from 1998 to 2018, which mostly affected the South Asia region. Data from the past 18 years showed that the land changing detection has increased in the forests, cultivated land, arid land, savanna and farmland; by contrast, there has been significantly reduced permanent ice and snow, mixed forests, open shrub, grasslands, permanent wetlands, water bodies and evergreen broadleaf forests. Seasonal SPEI presented diverse characteristics such as showing a dry trend in Afghanistan, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka during autumn and winter. Afghanistan and Bhutan are wet during the summer compared with other sub‐regions of South Asia, with drought frequency occurring at 45.3% and 44.4%. Sri Lanka, Pakistan and India are the driest regions in South Asia due to their high drought frequency, duration and intensity. The correlation between PET and crop water stress index (CWSI), PET and regional ETp reduction (Er) indicated a considerably negative correlation, while a significantly positive correlation was found between CWSI and Er, NDVI and Er. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of climate and vegetation coverage changes on PET, ET and SPEI, and can help in formulating long‐term adaptive strategies to reduce the cumulative impacts of droughts.
Allergic Diseases and Chronic Adenotonsillar Diseases: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Chen Huihong , Zhu Gangcai , Liu Yong , Huang Donghai , Zhang Xin , She Li 
Published: January 2024

ObjectiveThe existing epidemiological evidence regarding the intricate relationship between allergic diseases and chronic adenotonsillar diseases (CATD) remains inconclusive. Herein, the objective of our study is to explore the causal association using Mendelian randomization (MR).MethodsEmploying data from large genome‐wide association studies, a comprehensive two‐sample bidirectional MR study was conducted. The studied traits encompassed allergic rhinitis (cases n = 9707, controls n = 331173), allergic asthma (cases n = 8525, controls n = 193857), allergic conjunctivitis (cases n = 18321, controls n = 324178), atopic dermatitis (cases n = 11964, controls n = 306909), and CATD (cases n = 38983, controls n = 258553). All the patients were of European descent and participants in cohort studies. The primary analysis was executed using inverse‐variance‐weighted MR. Furthermore, six additional MR methods (MR‐Egger, weighted median, simple mode, weighted mode, MR pleiotropy residual sum and outlier, MR robust adjusted profile score) were employed to ensure the reliability and detect potential horizontal pleiotropy within the results. The estimates obtained from the MR analysis were factored into the overall effect calculation.ResultsGenetically anticipated outcomes demonstrated a significant association between CATD risk and allergic rhinitis (OR = 1.141, p = 6.30E−06), allergic asthma (OR = 1.115, p = 8.31E−05), allergic conjunctivitis (OR = 1.197, p = 8.69E−07), and a suggestive association with atopic dermatitis (OR = 1.053, p = 0.040). However, no substantial correlation was observed in the reverse direction.ConclusionsFindings of our study provide evidence supporting a causal role of allergic diseases in the development of CATD, whereas the converse relationship does not appear to hold true.Level of Evidence3 Laryngoscope, 134:2653–2658, 2024
Ultrahigh Endurance and Extinction Ratio in Programmable Silicon Photonics Based on a Phase Change Material with ITO Heater
Authors: Xia Jian , Wang Zixuan , Yang Rui , Wang Tianci , Gong Junjie , Dong Yunxiao , Li Zhiyuan , Yao Jiaping , He Qiang , Cheng Xiaomin , Cheng Zengguang , Zhou Peng , Miao Xiangshui 
Published: January 2024

AbstractPhase‐change‐materials (PCMs) integrated photonics have attracted extensive attention in the field of optical neural networks. However, present PCMs‐integrated photonics are still far from meeting the requirements in real‐world applications due to its unsatisfactory endurance (<3000 cycles) and extinction ratio (ER<20 dB). Here, ultrahigh endurance (>30 000 cycles) and large ER (≥50 dB) are achieved in the photonic device by introducing a trench structure to the indium tin oxide (ITO) heater and utilizing tin‐doped Ge2Sb2Te5 (Sn‐GST) as PCMs. This performance represents a landmark in the PCMs‐integrated photonics, since it solves the problem of poor endurance of ITO heaters and can be comparable to the state‐of the‐art devices in terms of endurance and ER. This excellent endurance and ER stem from the trench structure and high optical contrast PCM of Sn‐GST. Trench structure improves the heating efficiency of the ITO heater and effectively alleviates the thermal stress imposed on the ITO heater, resulting in ultrahigh endurance of the device. Sn‐doping is also beneficial to the endurance and ER improvement, because it can effectively reduce the crystallization temperature and increase the absorption coefficient of the PCM layer. This work provides a new technology for the development of programmable photonics with ultrahigh endurance.
Bayesian optimization of gradient trajectory for parallel‐transmit pulse design
Authors: Zhang Minghao , Rodgers Christopher T. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractPurposeSpoke pulses improve excitation homogeneity in parallel‐transmit MRI. We propose an efficient global optimization algorithm, Bayesian optimization of gradient trajectory (BOGAT), for single‐slice and simultaneous multislice imaging.Theory and MethodsBOGAT adds an outer loop to optimize kT‐space positions. For each position, the RF coefficients are optimized (e.g., with magnitude least squares) and the cost function evaluated. Bayesian optimization progressively estimates the cost function. It automatically chooses the kT‐space positions to sample, to achieve fast convergence, often coming close to the globally optimal spoke positions.We investigated the typical features of spokes cost functions by a grid search with field maps comprising 85 slabs from 14 volunteers.We tested BOGAT in this database, and prospectively in a phantom and in vivo. We compared the vendor‐provided Fourier transform approach with the same magnitude least squares RF optimizer.ResultsThe cost function is nonconvex and seen empirically to be piecewise smooth with discontinuities where the underlying RF optimum changes sharply. BOGAT converged to within 10% of the global minimum cost within 30 iterations in 93% of slices in our database.BOGAT achieved up to 56% lower flip angle RMS error (RMSE) or 55% lower pulse energy in phantoms versus the Fourier transform approach, and up to 30% lower RMSE and 29% lower energy in vivo with 7.8 s extra computation.ConclusionBOGAT efficiently estimated near‐global optimum spoke positions for the two‐spoke tests, reducing flip‐angle RMSE and/or pulse energy in a computation time (˜10 s), which is suitable for online optimization.
Limitations of BMI z scores for assessing weight change: A clinical tool versus individual risk
Authors: Adise Shana , Rhee Kyung E. , Laurent Jennifer , Holzhausen Elizabeth A. , Hayati Rezvan Panteha , Alderete Tanya L. , Vidmar Alaina P. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractAlthough pediatric growth curves provide clinical utility, using these metrics for within‐person change over time can be misleading. As research is focused on understanding cardiometabolic consequences of weight gain, it is important to use precise metrics to analyze these longitudinal research questions. Despite several foundational recommendations to limit the use of reference pediatric growth curves (e.g., BMI z scores) for within‐person longitudinal research, it has evolved into the “gold standard” for using growth curves for pediatric weight gain analyses. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to discuss (A) the methodology used to create reference growth curves; (B) the appropriate use of reference pediatric BMI growth curves within the context of cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses in research; and (C) how to select metrics based on desired evaluations. Careful consideration using standardized references scores is essential when assessing obesity‐related questions and comorbid risk over time in pediatric populations.
Exploring Mental Health in a Pediatric Paradoxical Vocal Fold Motion Sample Using Patient‐Reported Outcomes
Authors: Andrew Lilia Mucka , Sandler Claire B. , Long Courtney A. , Bauman Nancy M. , Mudd Pamela A. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractObjectiveParadoxical vocal fold motion (PVFM) is characterized by inappropriate adduction of vocal folds during inspiration causing dyspnea. While anxiety is suspected to be a predisposing factor, incidence has been understudied.Study DesignsRetrospective review.SettingMultidisciplinary PVFM hospital clinic.MethodsWe used patient‐reported outcome measures to examine anxiety and depression in consecutive patients aged 10 to 17 years using Pediatric SFv1.1 Anxiety 8b and Level 2‐Depression inventories (parents completed proxy forms). T‐scores were classified as normal (none to slight <55) or elevated (mild 55‐59.9, moderate 60‐69.9, severe >70).ResultsTwenty‐three pediatric patients and 20 parents completed surveys. Mean age was 13.74 years. For anxiety, 69.6% of patients and 40% of parents identified elevated levels. For depression, 30.4% of patients and 15% of parents identified elevated levels. Therapy need for the sample was 65.2% (34.8% active in services and 30.4% referred). Child anxiety scores were significantly higher in the therapy need group, U = 17, P = .004.ConclusionThis study of adolescents with PVFM confirmed elevated anxiety and depression scores in 2/3 of the participants. Anxiety likely precedes diagnosis and is a predisposing factor. Referral for individualized intervention targeting anxiety and depression is indicated.
Wafer‐bonded two‐terminal III‐V//Si triple‐junction solar cell with power conversion efficiency of 36.1% at AM1.5g
Authors: Schygulla Patrick , Müller Ralph , Höhn Oliver , Schachtner Michael , Chojniak David , Cordaro Andrea , Tabernig Stefan , Bläsi Benedikt , Polman Albert , Siefer Gerald , Lackner David , Dimroth Frank 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn this work, we present the fabrication and analysis of a wafer‐bonded GaInP/GaInAsP//Si triple‐junction solar cell with 36.1% conversion efficiency under AM1.5g spectral illumination. The new cell design presents an improvement over previous III‐V//Si triple‐junction cells by the implementation of a rear‐heterojunction for the middle cell. Furthermore, an advanced metallodielectric rear‐side grating was used for light trapping enhancement in the silicon bottom cell that increased the silicon subcell current by 1.4 mA/cm2. The external radiative efficiency was quantified to be 1.5 times higher compared to a reference device with a GaInAsP homojunction middle cell. A luminescent coupling factor of 0.46 between the middle and bottom subcell was determined. The share of recombination in the space‐charge region was experimentally shown to be insignificant as intended by the rear‐heterojunction design. Overall, the open‐circuit voltage of the middle cell increased by 61 mV compared to the previous generation. Given the established long‐term stability of III‐V and silicon‐based solar cells, these results are promising steps towards the future employment of III‐V/Si tandem solar cells.
Comparison of screening methods for computer adaptive tests to predict reading and math performance
Authors: Forcht Emily R. , Van Norman Ethan R. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe present study compared the diagnostic accuracy of a single computer adaptive test (CAT), Star Reading or Star Math, and a combination of the two in a gated screening framework to predict end‐of‐year proficiency in reading and math. Participants included 13,009 students in Grades 3–8 who had at least one fall screening score and end‐of‐year state test score in reading and math. First, diagnostic accuracy statistics were evaluated for a single screening measure to predict proficiency on end‐of‐year tests. Second, a gated screening framework was simulated to examine the diagnostic accuracy of a combination of screening measures (i.e., scores from the CATs and the end‐of‐year test). The diagnostic accuracy of each screening method was compared. Results suggest that diagnostic accuracy did not improve for the gated screening method when compared to the single screening method. The gated screening method tended to yield low sensitivity values (M = 0.42, range = 0.35–0.48) and high specificity values (M = 0.97, range = 0.95–0.99). The only condition to reach acceptable sensitivity and specificity (>0.70) was a single reading screener predicting reading outcomes. Sample specific cut‐scores from receiver operating curve (ROC) analyses led to improved diagnostic accuracy outcomes relative to all other methods.
Polymer electrolyte membrane based on PVA/LiClO4 nanocomposite reinforced cellulose nanocrystalline from corncob for lithium‐ion battery
Authors: Purwanti Endah , Wahyuningrum Deana , Rochliadi Achmad , Arcana I Made 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn the field of high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion battery applications, Polymer electrolyte membranes (PEMs) have garnered significant attention due to their favorable mechanical properties and compatibility with lithium metal anodes. However, their relatively lower ionic conductivity compared to liquid electrolytes, making this problem a challenge for further research. In this study, we present a new approach to overcome these limitations, resulting in PEMs that exhibit exceptional ionic conductivity, flexibility, and interface stability. This achievement was realized by blending polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/LiClO4 composite reinforced cellulose nanocrystalline (CNC), which is sourced from well and carefully isolated corncob cellulose. PEMs show remarkable improvements regarding ionic conductivity and mechanical strength. Membrane transparency decreased with increasing CNC addition. The maximum improvement mechanical strength was observed with the addition of 5% CNC, namely elongation at break (strain) increased by 15%. At the same composition shows an increase in ionic conductivity to 1.31 × 10−4 S/cm. This study provides the potential of precise material design and composition optimization in overcoming drawbacks associated with conventional PEMs. The findings not only advance the current understanding but also provide a promising avenue for the development of high‐performance PEMs, which are critical for the evolution of future energy storage technologies.
Associations between age and patient‐reported outcomes, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations among lung cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Fleszar‐Pavlovic Sara E. , Natori Akina , Moreno Patricia I. , Medina Heidy N. , Sookdeo Vandana , MacIntyre Jessica , Penedo Frank J. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractObjectiveImmune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for lung cancer (LC) treatment have a more favorable safety profile and improved patient reported outcomes (PROs) compared to chemotherapy, suggesting that ICIs are advantageous for older populations. The impact of ICIs on PROs, clinical outcomes, and age in LC patients remains to be established. We examined associations between age and PROs, emergency department (ED) visits, and hospitalizations in LC patients receiving ICIs.MethodsWe performed retrospective analyses via My Wellness Check (MWC), an assessment and triage electronic medical record (EMR) integrated platform in LC patients receiving ICIs. Demographics, clinical characteristics, ED visits, and hospitalizations were extracted via EMR. Patient reported outcomes (PROMIS® anxiety, depression, fatigue, pain, physical function), and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL; FACT‐G7), were collected via MWC. We classified age into three categories (<65, 65–74, ≥75). Multiple regressions examined associations between PROs and age. Cox proportional hazards regressions assessed cumulative ED visits and hospitalizations.ResultsAmong LC patients (N = 190) receiving ICIs, patients ≥75 had lower depression (β = −5.80, p = 0.01) and higher HRQOL (β = 2.47, p = 0.05) compared with patients <65. Relative to patients <65, patients 65–74 had lower anxiety (β = −3.31, p = 0.05) and pain (β = −4.18, p = 0.03). Patients 65–74 and ≥ 75 had lower risk of an ED visit (adjusted hazards ratio [aHR] = 0.45, p = 0.05 and aHR = 0.21, p = 0.05, respectively) and patients 65–74 had lower risk of hospitalization (aHR = 0.36, p = 0.02) relative to patients <65.ConclusionsOlder LC patients (65–74; ≥75) have more favorable PROs and lower risk for negative clinical outcomes than younger (<65) patients.