bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Study on the Consistency of Angiogenesis in Carotid Plaque Evaluated by Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound and Superb Microvascular Imaging and Its Correlation With Stroke Occurrence
Authors: Li Mingqiu , Guo Ruijun 
Published: January 2024

ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate the value of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and superb microvascular imaging (SMI) in evaluating angiogenesis in carotid artery plaques and prognosis in stroke patients.MethodsSixty‐one patients with carotid atherosclerotic plaques were selected. All patients received conventional ultrasound, CEUS, and SMI examination, including 32 patients with cerebral infarction and 29 patients without cerebral infarction. The results of CEUS and SMI neovascularization of patients were graded 0, 1, and 2 points according to the image characteristics. The consistency between SMI results and CEUS results was evaluated, and the differences in neovascularization in carotid plaques between patients with cerebral infarction and those without cerebral infarction were compared.ResultsSMI showed that the neovascularization score in plaque was 0 point in 13 cases, 1 point in 24 cases, and 2 points in 24 cases. There were no significant differences in age, sex, plaque size, or echo between the two groups. There was no significant difference between the SMI and CEUS results, P > .05. The CEUS neovascularization grade of patients with cerebral infarction had a higher score, which was significantly different from that of patients without cerebral infarction, P < .05. The SMI neovascularization grade of patients with cerebral infarction had a higher score, which was significantly different from that of patients without cerebral infarction, P < .05.ConclusionSMI can show neovascularization in plaques, with a significantly higher grade of neovascularization in those of patients with cerebral infarction than in those without cerebral infarction.
Visualizing Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) scores in the clinical setting using patient images from a clinical trial
Authors: Atanaskova Mesinkovska Natasha , King Brett A. , Vañó‐Galván Sergio , Shimomura Yutaka , Jedynak Jakub , McCollam Jill , Pierce Evangeline , Ellinwood Amy K. , Sinclair Rodney 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) is a standardized method for quantifying scalp hair loss in alopecia areata (AA). SALT scores can be used to guide treatment decisions and are widely used as eligibility criteria and endpoints for clinical trials in AA. However, clinicians may be unfamiliar with assessing and envisioning SALT scores in practice.ObjectivesTo aid clinicians in the determination and application of SALT scores in a clinical setting, this manuscript seeks to contextualize SALT scores using patient images from a clinical trial of adults with severe AA.MethodsImages from 722 patients enrolled in BRAVE‐AA1, a phase 2/3 study of baricitinib in adults with severe AA (SALT score ≥50; ≥50% scalp hair loss), were obtained at baseline and Weeks 12, 36, and 52 and compiled into a repository. Photographs were selected to represent SALT scores across the full range of disease (SALT scores 0–100) and to demonstrate the progression of SALT scores during the course of treatment.ResultsImages of six patients depict the range of SALT scores (0–100). Photographs are of male and female patients of different ages (21–69) and races (Asian, Black, White) with varying extent, density, and patterns of hair loss. Images of two additional patients demonstrate the use of SALT to monitor treatment progress, showing distinct patterns and timing of clinical response over 52 weeks of therapy.ConclusionsThe SALT is widely used in clinical trials for AA, but clinicians may lack familiarity. Presented patient images show SALT scores commonly used as eligibility criteria and endpoints in clinical trials, which may be useful in identifying patients eligible for systemic treatment and in visualizing therapeutic response.
Long‐term shifts in phenology, thermal niche, population size, and their interactions in marine pelagic copepods
Authors: Corona Stefano , Hirst Andrew G. , Atkinson David , Renz Jasmin , Boersma Maarten , Atkinson Angus 
Published: January 2024

AbstractUnder climatic warming many species shift their seasonal timing of life cycle events (phenology) and seasonal abundance distribution, but whether they maintain the same thermal niche is still poorly understood. Here, we studied multidecadal trends in abundance and phenology of seven major copepod species across three stations (Stonehaven (SH), Helgoland Roads (HR), and Plymouth L4) on the North–West European shelf, spanning ~ 6.5° of latitude. All seven species consistently occupied colder temperatures at the northern station compared to the southerly station, but they maintained the same realized thermal niche over years. Expected phenological shifts (i.e., earlier when warmer) in some stations were obscured possibly by the long‐term drop of copepod density in spring–summer, which may be due to a variation in the food/predators abundance. The ongoing spring–summer declines in abundance (~ 50%) of many North Atlantic pelagic species over the last five decades, as found in recent studies, may have also influenced the metrics of seasonal timing. To separate the seasonal timing of life events from that of seasonal abundance distribution, we used a time series of egg production rate (EPR) of Calanus helgolandicus at L4, and found that this shifted later into the summer–autumn over the last 30 yr of warming, coincident with declining spring–summer food and increasing predator abundance. Overall, direct temperature effects do appear to influence the seasonal timing of the copepods, but to explain impacts at individual stations or long‐term trends in population size or phenology, understanding the changing balance of food and predators appears to be critical.
Wafer‐Scale Manufacturing of Near‐Infrared Metalenses
Authors: Moon Seong‐Won , Kim Joohoon , Park Chanwoong , Kim Wonjoong , Yang Younghwan , Kim Jaekyung , Lee Seokho , Choi Minseok , Sung Hansang , Park Jaein , Song Hyoin , Lee Heon , Rho Junsuk 
Published: January 2024

AbstractMetalenses have revolutionized optical technologies with their superior ability to manipulate light and the potential to replace conventional, bulky optical components. However, their commercialization is hindered by limitations in conventional manufacturing techniques, such as small patterning areas, low throughput, and high cost. In this study, two methods are introduced for scalable and wafer‐scale manufacturing of metalenses operating in the near‐infrared region, aimed at overcoming the abovementioned challenges. The first type of metalens is polarization‐independent and constructed using hydrogenated amorphous silicon cylindrical structures fabricated through direct photolithography. This metalens has a diameter of 1 cm and numerical aperture (NA) of 0.53. The focusing efficiency is confirmed at a 940 nm wavelength, and the focal spot profile approaches the diffraction limit. The second metalens is polarization‐dependent and fabricated using silicon nanoparticle‐embedded‐resin rectangular structures through a cost‐effective nanoimprinting method. This process can produce metalenses with a diameter of 5 mm and an NA of 0.53. Both types of metalenses demonstrate high‐resolution capabilities when imaging a 1951 USAF resolution test target and bioimaging. This research offers innovative pathways for the mass production and large‐scale fabrication of metalenses. It is believed that the work will accelerate the industrialization of metalenses, fostering further advances in optical technology.
Demonstration of Spatial Asymmetric Light Propagation Performance Using Violet Phosphorus Quantum Dots with Tunable Bandgap
Authors: Gao Yang , Ling Cheng , Weng Danyi , Rui Guanghao , He Jun , Gu Bing 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe spatial self‐phase modulation (SSPM) of phosphorus‐based nanomaterials is widely studied and developed as passive nonlinear photonic devices for applications in all‐optical switches, logic gates, information converters, etc. In this work, violet phosphorus quantum dots (VP QDs) are prepared and characterized in three different solvents, their SSPM is investigated, and their spatial asymmetric light propagation performances are demonstrated. It is shown that VP QDs prepared in three different solvents exhibit different bandgaps, mainly due to the interaction between the dangling bonds of VP QDs and functional groups in different solvents. The SSPM experiment characterizes the nonlinear optical response of solvent‐dependent VP QDs. It is found that VP QDs exhibit strong nonlinear optical effect and their nonlinear refractive indexes are comparable to other phosphorus‐based 2D materials. Unlike the previously reported principle of spatial asymmetric light propagation (i.e., a cascaded sample based on SSPM composed of nanomaterials with excellent nonlinear refraction and SnS2 with reverse saturation absorption), the spatial asymmetric light propagation performance based on SSPM is demonstrated using a cascaded sample of VP QDs with significantly different nonlinear optical response prepared in two different solvents.
Dual‐Crossbar Configurated Bi2O2Se Device for Multiple Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Xie Hanrong , Yang Tiefeng , Xie Manyan , Liang Xijie , Fang Ziliang , Ye Yong , Chen Yue , Wei Yuming , Wang Zhen , Guan Heyuan , Lu Huihui 
Published: January 2024

AbstractTwo‐dimensional (2D) materials are widely used in numerous optoelectronic devices due to their ultra‐thin dimensions and versatile surfaces. However, less attention is paid to distinguishing the light‐matter interactions along the vertical and horizontal paths within the same 2D lattice, as well as comparatively investigating the optoelectronic behaviors between the sensitive top and bottom surfaces. Here, a dual‐crossbar configured architecture is designed and constructed based on Bi2O2Se semiconductor, featuring highly compact three‐in‐one assembly, namely bottom surface horizontal (BSH), middle sandwich vertical (MSV) and top surface horizontal (TSH) devices. The MSV with nanoscale channel possesses efficient separation and transportation of the photogenerated electrons and holes, responding faster to the light stimulation and compared favorably to the BSH and TSH devices. The optoelectric behaviors of the BSH device can be regulated by the characteristics of the substrate due to closer contact. Nevertheless, the performance of the TSH device is more sensitive to the environment, such as dopant absorption and heat dispersion, thus enabling the non‐volatile photoresponse and can be employed as an artificial optoelectronic synapse. This work highlights the importance of designing the device architecture based on the intrinsic structural advantages of 2D materials, paving the way toward integrated optoelectronics.
Exploring the use of ChatGPT as a virtual health coach for chronic disease management
Authors: Al‐Anezi Fahad M. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIntroductionChatGPT has been widely researched for its potential in gealthcare applications. However, its efficcy as a virtual health coach is one of the important areas, which can significantly contribute to the sustainablility in healthcare operations, especially in managing critical illnesses. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the use of ChatGPT as a virtual health coach for chronic disease managemet.MethodsThis study used a quasi‐experimental design because ChatGPT is a relatively new technology and few people have experience with it. Patients who were receiving care outside of the hospital were included. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted after a 2‐week period in which participants used ChatGPT to search for health information about chronic disease management. Thirty‐nine outpatients were interviewed and thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data.ResultsThe findings suggested both opportunities and challenges of using ChatGPT as a virtual health coach for chronic disease management. The major opportunities identified included life‐long learning, improved health literacy, cost‐effectiveness, behavioral change support, scalability, and accessibility. The major challenges identified included limited physical examination, lack of human connection, legal and ethical complications, and lack of accuracy and reliability.ConclusionChatGPT‐based technologies may serve as a supplementary or intermediate support system. However, such applications for managing chronic diseases must protect privacy and promote both short‐ and long‐term positive outcomes.
A silent echo‐planar spectroscopic imaging readout with high spectral bandwidth MRSI using an ultrasonic gradient axis
Authors: Versteeg Edwin , Nam Kyung Min , Klomp Dennis W. J. , Bhogal Alex A. , Siero Jeroen C. W. , Wijnen Jannie P. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractPurposeWe present a novel silent echo‐planar spectroscopic imaging (EPSI) readout, which uses an ultrasonic gradient insert to accelerate MRSI while producing a high spectral bandwidth (20 kHz) and a low sound level.MethodsThe ultrasonic gradient insert consisted of a single‐axis (z‐direction) plug‐and‐play gradient coil, powered by an audio amplifier, and produced 40 mT/m at 20 kHz. The silent EPSI readout was implemented in a phase‐encoded MRSI acquisition. Here, the additional spatial encoding provided by this silent EPSI readout was used to reduce the number of phase‐encoding steps. Spectroscopic acquisitions using phase‐encoded MRSI, a conventional EPSI‐readout, and the silent EPSI readout were performed on a phantom containing metabolites with resonance frequencies in the ppm range of brain metabolites (0–4 ppm). These acquisitions were used to determine sound levels, showcase the high spectral bandwidth of the silent EPSI readout, and determine the SNR efficiency and the scan efficiency.ResultsThe silent EPSI readout featured a 19‐dB lower sound level than a conventional EPSI readout while featuring a high spectral bandwidth of 20 kHz without spectral ghosting artifacts. Compared with phase‐encoded MRSI, the silent EPSI readout provided a 4.5‐fold reduction in scan time. In addition, the scan efficiency of the silent EPSI readout was higher (82.5% vs. 51.5%) than the conventional EPSI readout.ConclusionsWe have for the first time demonstrated a silent spectroscopic imaging readout with a high spectral bandwidth and low sound level. This sound reduction provided by the silent readout is expected to have applications in sound‐sensitive patient groups, whereas the high spectral bandwidth could benefit ultrahigh‐field MR systems.
Entrepreneurial orientation and performance in nonprofit organizations: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Stock Dorothea Maria , Gmür Markus , Erpf Philipp 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThis meta‐analysis examines the state of research on the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation (EO) and performance in nonprofit organizations (NPOs). The evidence on this relationship in the business context is already well consolidated. Nonprofit research also elaborated review publications on EO. However, existing knowledge lacks an examination of the EO–performance relationship in NPOs. This study includes 25 publications in the correlation‐based meta‐analysis and finds that various performance goals are positively affected. Nonetheless, the results reveal several inconsistencies regarding conceptual and methodological approaches. A critical reflection on the complexity and differentiation of both constructs, problems of bias, and the causal character of the relationship addresses these issues.
“We always felt psychologically unstable”: A qualitative study of midwives' experiences in providing maternity care during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Tanzania
Authors: Joho Angelina A. , Abdallah Subira 
Published: January 2024

AbstractAimWe explored midwives' experiences and challenges in providing maternity care during the period of the first surge of the COVID‐19 pandemic in Dodoma.DesignPhenomenological study design was used to explore midwives' experiences and challenges in providing maternity care during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Tanzania.MethodsWe conducted interviews with a total of 23 midwives, using semi‐structured interviews and an audio recorder. Five focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted. To analyse the data, we used interpretive phenomenological thematic data analysis with NVivo software. To analyse templates, we followed a step‐by‐step process, starting with familiarizing ourselves with the data, followed by preliminary coding, organizing themes, developing an initial coding template, using the initial template, refining the template and finally applying it to the entire dataset.ResultsIt was found that three themes and eight subthemes merged in the current study. The main themes were ① mental health distress, ② work environment challenges and ③ isolation of midwives by different groups.Public ContributionReducing risk and protecting midwives from infectious diseases will improve the workforce, reduce the number of hospital stays, reduce the cost of hospital services, improve birth outcomes and indirectly improve family, community and national economies.ConclusionDue to the system's failure to provide psychological support, protective environment and isolation rooms for confirmed or suspected cases put midwives at a higher risk of contracting the virus and had to work in a stressful environment. In addition to having the right tools, midwives must also receive emotional and psychological support in order to be at their best. The system must ensure that midwives are ready for uncertain times, such as pandemic infectious disease outbreaks, by providing protective work place environment such as personal protective equipment, psychological support and isolation room for confirmed COVID‐19 cases.
Information campaigns and public perceptions of structural reforms: Evidence from a survey experiment on gasoline subsidy reform in Nigeria
Authors: Yang Joonseok , Moerenhout Tom 
Published: January 2024

AbstractGovernments often reform financial policies, such as industrial subsidies taxes and currency exchange rates, during times of fiscal distress. Existing studies suggest that information campaigns can improve popular support for policy reforms that promise longer term macroeconomic growth but come with short‐term financial costs to people's livelihoods. This article assesses the effects of information campaigns on the acceptance of fossil fuel subsidy reforms in Nigeria, a type of fiscal reform that many developing countries may adopt in the coming years. A randomized survey experiment imbedded in a nationally representative survey of Nigerian households investigates whether information interventions lead Nigerians to change their opinion on fossil fuel subsidy reforms. We find that merely providing factual information does not affect whether or not people support fossil fuel subsidy reforms. Moreover, we find that factual information helps supporters articulate their preferences and weakens the propensity of opponents to use wrongful information to justify their position.
Unbalanced X;Y translocations carrying SRY in prenatal settings: Clinical, molecular, and cytogenetic analysis of three cases
Authors: Liu Xijing , Zhang Zhu , Zhang Xuan , Wang Jiamin , Jiang Jieni , Li Lingping , Wang He , Liu Shanling , Hu Ting 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundGenerally, the translocation of SRY onto one of the X chromosomes leads to 46, XX testicular disorders of sex development, a relatively rare condition characterized by the presence of testicular tissue with a 46, XX karyotype. Three prenatal cases of unbalanced X; Y translocation carrying SRY were identified in this study.MethodsStructural variants were confirmed using single nucleotide polymorphism array and chromosomal karyotyping. X chromosome inactivation (XCI) was also analyzed. Detailed clinical features of the three cases were collected.ResultsWe identified two fetuses with maternal inherited unbalanced X; Y translocations carrying SRY and skewed XCI presenting with normal female external genitalia, and one fetus with de novo 46, XX (SRY+) and random XCI manifested male phenotypic external genitalia.ConclusionThis study reports that cases with unbalanced X; Y translocations carrying SRY manifested a normal female external genitalia in a prenatal setting. We speculate that the skewed XCI mediates the silence of SRY. In addition, our study emphasizes that combining clinical findings with pedigree analysis is critical for estimating the prognosis of fetuses with sex chromosome abnormalities.
Ethical reflections on organizing the first human trial of artificial womb technologies
Authors: Cavolo Alice , Pizzolato Daniel 
Published: January 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo investigate how to protect participants in the artificial womb technology (AWT) human trials.MethodWe compared randomized controlled trials and single arm trials to understand which trial design best balances the interests of science and participants. We also compared AWT trials with comparable settings to understand how to protect participants.ResultsRandomized trials might fail in reaching a sizeable sample, which could pointlessly expose participants to risks. Furthermore, parents who choose to participate in the trial might expect to receive AWT. Failed expectations might distress parents and hinder the therapeutic relationship. The trial is divided into two steps. First, delivery into AWT involves two participants: the mother and the fetus. As AWT requires a C‐section, the procedure cannot be carried out without the mother's consent regardless of fetal benefit. Treatment in AWT, involves one participant: the infant. As for any other invasive intervention, the AWT trial should be suspended if harmful.ConclusionsA single arm trial could prevent some of the methodological and ethical challenges of the randomized trials. Moreover, better decisional tools should be developed to help parents decide whether to participate in the AWT trial. For example, using visual aids or showing the AWT.
A Room‐Temperature Operational Alignment Magnetometer Utilizing Free‐Spin Precession
Authors: Jin Ge , shi Tao , Zhao Yan , Zhang Hong , Zou Sheng 
Published: January 2024

AbstractAn alignment magnetometer based on free‐spin precession (FSP) has been deployed in the geomagnetic range. A linearly polarized probe beam is utilized to create alignment in a buffer‐gas‐free paraffin‐coated natural abundance rubidium vapor cell at room temperature exposed to a pulsed radio frequency field. Furthermore, the utilization of hyperfine‐selective optical repumping employing linearly polarized beams amplifies the proportion of responsive atoms. As a consequence, this leads to a remarkable enhancement in the optical rotation signal. This paper reports measurements with a minor static magnetic field of about 1 inside a four‐layer ‐metal shield, achieving a system noise level of 0.16 ). With a static magnetic field amplitude of 48.5 (in proximity to Earth's magnetic field), the noise level is ).