bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multi‐layer clustering‐based residual sparsifying transform for low‐dose CT image reconstruction
Authors: Chen Ling , Yang Xikai , Huang Zhishen , Long Yong , Ravishankar Saiprasad 
Published: August 2023

AbstractPurposeThe recently proposed sparsifying transform (ST) models incur low computational cost and have been applied to medical imaging. Meanwhile, deep models with nested network structure reveal great potential for learning features in different layers. In this study, we propose a network‐structured ST learning approach for X‐ray computed tomography (CT), which we refer to as multi‐layer clustering‐based residual sparsifying transform (MCST) learning. The proposed MCST scheme learns multiple different unitary transforms in each layer by dividing each layer's input into several classes. We apply the MCST model to low‐dose CT (LDCT) reconstruction by deploying the learned MCST model into the regularizer in penalized weighted least squares (PWLS) reconstruction.MethodsThe proposed MCST model combines a multi‐layer sparse representation structure with multiple clusters for the features in each layer that are modeled by a rich collection of transforms. We train the MCST model in an unsupervised manner via a block coordinate descent (BCD) algorithm. Since our method is patch‐based, the training can be performed with a limited set of images. For CT image reconstruction, we devise a novel algorithm called PWLS‐MCST by integrating the pre‐learned MCST signal model with PWLS optimization.ResultsWe conducted LDCT reconstruction experiments on XCAT phantom data, Numerical Mayo Clinical CT dataset and “LDCT image and projection dataset” (Clinical LDCT dataset). We trained the MCST model with two (or three) layers and with five clusters in each layer. The learned transforms in the same layer showed rich features while additional information is extracted from representation residuals. Our simulation results and clinical results demonstrate that PWLS‐MCST achieves better image reconstruction quality than the conventional filtered back‐projection (FBP) method and PWLS with edge‐preserving (EP) regularizer. It also outperformed recent advanced methods like PWLS with a learned multi‐layer residual sparsifying transform (MARS) prior and PWLS with a union of learned transforms (ULTRA), especially for displaying clear edges and preserving subtle details.ConclusionsIn this work, a multi‐layer sparse signal model with a nested network structure is proposed. We refer this novel model as theMCSTmodel that exploits multi‐layer residual maps to sparsify the underlying image and clusters the inputs in each layer for accurate sparsification. We presented a new PWLS framework with a learned MCST regularizer for LDCT reconstruction. Experimental results show that the proposed PWLS‐MCST provides clearer reconstructions than several baseline methods. The code for PWLS‐MCST is released athttps://github.com/Xikai97/PWLS‐MCST.
Isola in a linear one‐degree‐of‐freedom feedback system with actuator rate saturation
Authors: Nguyen Duc H. , Hill Thomas L. , Lowenberg Mark H. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThis short communication uses numerical continuation to highlight the existence of an isola in a simple one‐degree‐of‐freedom harmonically forced feedback system with actuator rate limiting as its only nonlinear element. It was found that the isola (1) contains only rate‐limited responses, (2) merges with the main branch when the forcing amplitude is sufficiently large, and (3) includes stable solutions that create a second attractor in regions where rate limiting is not expected. Furthermore, the isola is composed of two solutions for a given forcing frequency. These solutions have the same amplitudes in the state (pitch rate) projection; however, they have distinct phases, and their amplitudes are also distinct when projected onto the integrator state in the controller. The rich dynamics observed in such a simple example underlines the impact of rate limiting on feedback systems. Specifically, the combination of feedback and rate limiting can create detrimental dynamics that is hard to predict and requires careful analysis.
Reliability of confocal corneal microscopy for measurement of dendritic cell density in suspected small fiber neuropathy
Authors: Idiaquez Juan Francisco , Martinez Rodrigo , Barnett‐Tapia Carolina , Perkins Bruce A. , Bril Vera 
Published: August 2023

AbstractIntroduction/AimsDendritic cells (DCs) and their contacts with corneal nerves are described in animal models of nerve damage. Dendritic cell density (DCD) is a potential marker of immune activity in suspected small‐fiber neuropathy (SFN). Here, we aim to evaluate the intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability of DCD measurements in suspected SFN.MethodsThis retrospective study collected DCD from confocal microscopy images from the corneal sub‐basal epithelium of the eye from 48 patients (mean age 49.6 ± 12.1 y, 61% female). Two examiners, each blinded to the other's examinations and measurements, assessed DCD to evaluate inter‐rater reliability. For intra‐rater reliability, the first examiner performed a second measurement after 14 days. DCs were classified into two cell morphological subtypes: mature and immature.ResultsTest–retest reliability for total DCD showed excellent agreement, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.96 and inter‐rater reliability intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.77. The immature cell subtype showed excellent intra‐rater reliability but lower inter‐rater reliability.DiscussionWe found that DCD measurements in the corneal sub‐basal epithelium are sufficiently reliable for consideration in clinical studies of patients with suspected SFN.
Communication, academic and social outcomes of childhood cancer survivors with hearing loss: A systematic review
Authors: Carter Ciara , Boisvert Isabelle , Docking Kimberley 
Published: August 2023

AbstractMany children treated for cancer are at risk of hearing loss. However, little is known about how hearing loss impacts their communication, academic and social outcomes. To examine the impact, this systematic review aimed to synthesise and appraise quantitative and qualitative studies reporting on (i) participants with hearing loss treated with platinum‐based chemotherapy or cranial radiotherapy during childhood; and (ii) speech, language, academic performance, or social participation findings. Systematic database searches yielded 23 relevant articles that were analysed using narrative synthesis. Difficulties were reported for some but not all communication, academic and social aspects; however, a quality assessment using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) revealed low to very low certainty in the findings. Future research should aim to increase the quality of the research evidence and explore how multidisciplinary services can provide evidence‐based support for childhood cancer survivors with competing hearing, communication, and social difficulties.
Image‐defined risk factors in localized thoracic neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroma
Authors: Butzer Sarina K. , Krug Barbara , Reisberg Maike , Fuchs Jörg , Warmann Steven W. , Hubertus Jochen , Körber Friederike , Berthold Frank , Simon Thorsten , Hero Barbara 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundThe pretreatment International Neuroblastoma Risk Group Staging System (INRGSS) discriminates localized tumors L1/L2 depending on the absence/presence of image‐defined risk factors (IDRFs) at diagnosis. Referring to this new staging system, we assessed initial imaging of localized thoracic neuroblastoma (NB) and ganglioneuroma (GN) and the extent of initial tumor resection.MethodsPatients with localized thoracic NB/GN from the German clinical trials NB97 and NB2004 were included. Imaging at diagnosis and operative reports were reviewed retrospectively. IDRFs were assessed centrally and correlated to International Neuroblastoma Staging System (INSS) stage and extent of tumor resection. Additionally, we analyzed data on surgery‐related complications.ResultsImaging series of 88 patients were available for central review. In 18 children, no IDRF was present, 28 exhibited one IDRF, 42 two or more IDRFs, resulting in 70 patients with L2 disease. The most frequently observed IDRF was encasement of any vessel (n = 38). Initial surgical resection was aimed for in 45 patients (L1: n = 11; L2: n = 34). Complete and gross total resection rates were higher children with L2 NB (n = 8/25 L1, n = 17/25 L2 vs. n = 2/15 L1, n = 13/15 L2, respectively). The proportion of surgical complications was very similar between INRGSS L1 and L2 (n = 4/11 vs. n = 17/34). All complications were manageable, and no surgery‐related deaths were observed.ConclusionIn this retrospective cohort, the extent of resection and the rate of surgical complications did not differ substantially between patients classified as L1/L2, indicating that INRGSS L2 does not equate unresectability. It appeared that individual IDRFs differ in value. Larger studies are needed to assess the significance and therapeutic/prognostic impact of such findings.
Silane coupling agent 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane modified silica/epoxidized solution‐polymerized styrene butadiene rubber nanocomposites
Authors: Hui Jiong , Liu Ling , Yu Zhexu , Wu Qifei , Zhang Liqun 
Published: August 2023

AbstractIn this paper, epoxidized solution‐polymerized styrene butadiene rubber (ESSBR) as the matrix and silica as filler, a small quantity of 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) is used to adjust the cross‐linking network of ESSBR/silica. The effect of two APTES addition methods (ESSBR/APTES/silica and ESSBR/silica/APTES) on the nanocomposite properties is investigated. The epoxy groups of ESSBR and the ethoxy groups of APTES can react with the hydroxyl groups on silica to improve dispersion. At the same time, the amino groups at another end of APTES can react with the epoxy groups of ESSBR to increase the cross‐linking density. Compared with bis(3‐triethoxysilylpropyl) disulfide (TESPD) modified SSBR/silica (SSBR/TESPD/silica), ESSBR/APTES/silica shows 133% improvement in wet‐skid resistance, 14% reduction in rolling resistance with less silane coupling agent and volatile organic compounds emissions. ESSBR/APTES/silica has excellent overall performance and offers a good prospect for the preparation of green tire tread.Highlights
APTES modified silica/ESSBR nanocomposites are prepared.
Epoxy groups and APTES react with silica to improve dispersion.
APTES can increase the cross‐linking density.
The nanocomposite has excellent comprehensive performance as green tire tread.
The nanocomposite has less silane coupling agent and VOCs emission.
Comparison of fumigation efficacy of methyl bromide alone and phosphine applied either alone or simultaneously or sequentially against Bactrocera correcta in Selenicereus undatus (red pitaya) fruit
Authors: Shan Changyao , Li Baishu , Li Li , Du Xin , Ren Yonglin , McKirdy Simon J. , Liu Tao 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBACKGROUNDBactrocera correcta (Bezzi) is a significant pest of the red pitaya fruit (Selenicereus undatus). This study investigated the insecticidal effects of methyl bromide (MB) alone, phosphine (PH3) alone, both applied simultaneously (PH3 + MB), and PH3 application followed sequentially by MB (PH3 → MB) against B. correcta in red pitaya fruits.RESULTSThe 3rd instar larvae of B. correcta were the most tolerant to MB alone and the combined treatments, whereas eggs were the most susceptible stage. Both the PH3 + MB and PH3 → MB treatments resulted in higher mortality at all stages than MB alone, demonstrating a synergistic effect between MB and PH3. The toxicity of the combined treatments increased with increasing PH3 concentrations, with the optimal concentration recorded being 1.42 to 2.84 g m−3. Further probit analysis revealed that compared to the MB treatment alone, the median lethal dose values of MB in PH3 + MB and PH3 → MB treatment, were reduced to 63.73% and 66.82%, respectively. Fruit quality was not adversely affected by either of the combined treatments.CONCLUSIONThis work provides robust evidence that combining MB and PH3 to control B. correcta is highly effective, especially the PH3 → MB treatment. This combination decreased the amount of MB required for effective control at all life stages, while protecting fruit quality against MB phytotoxicity to a greater extent than conventional MB fumigation alone. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
A case of humidifier lung; the key diagnosis is detailed medical history taking
Authors: Hara Munechika , Yashiro Yasuaki 
Published: August 2023

AbstractA 74‐year‐old woman was admitted with a dry cough and dyspnea that had persisted for 2 weeks at the beginning of winter. Chest computed tomography revealed bilateral diffuse non‐segmental ground‐glass opacities without centrilobular nodules. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid revealed a marked increase in the lymphocyte ratio. Her condition and chest radiographic findings improved spontaneously after admission. An additional interview conducted after admission revealed that the patient had started using a contaminated humidifier approximately 2 weeks before the onset of symptoms. Thus, the diagnosis of humidifier lung was established. Humidifier lung is a rare phenotype of hypersensitive pneumonitis that often occurs during dry winter when the use of humidifiers increases. Humidifier lung is an important differential diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia during dry winter, and detailed history‐taking regarding the use of humidifiers, assuming a humidifier lung, is crucial for its diagnosis.
The impact of multi‐word units in early foreign language learning and teaching contexts: A systematic review
Authors: Schulz Johannes , Hamilton Catherine , Wonnacott Elizabeth , Murphy Victoria 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThis systematic review reports on research investigating the impact of multi‐word unit (MWU) input on young learners' second language (L2) attainment in instructed settings. Recent findings suggest that L2 learners can generalise from MWU input, abstract patterns and employ such schemata productively via slot‐filling, indicating that MWUs are key catalysts of learners' L2 development. Simultaneously, primary school L2 instruction is on the rise worldwide and the importance of MWUs is acknowledged in curricula, teacher education and teaching materials. Therefore, the incentive of this review is to systematically report the state of the art of research regarding the impact of MWU instruction in early L2 teaching contexts. The review covers English, German and French research into typically developing monolingual children aged 5–12 learning an L2 in instructed teaching settings. Only two of the total results (n = 2233) met the inclusion criteria. Following quality assessment using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool and based on a narrative synthesis of available results, we cannot report trustworthy evidence of the effectiveness of teaching MWUs to young L2 learners. We highlight the lack of research evidence and conclude that existing research lacks robust evidence that MWU input already established in teaching contexts has a measurable effect on specific aspects of students' L2 attainment, such as productive skills. Although we promote MWU's potentially facilitating role in L2 development, we call for more classroom‐based intervention research on MWUs in primary school contexts to enable much‐needed evidence‐based recommendations for L2 teaching to support L2 learning outcomes in primary schools.
Context and implicationsRationale for this studyResearch has shown that multi‐word units (MWUs) are key catalysts for L1 and L2 learning. MWUs are crucial to current primary school L2 teaching and their importance is acknowledged in curricula. This review systematically examines the scientific evidence for the effectiveness of MWU instruction on L2 attainment.Why the findings matterOur review cannot report trustworthy evidence of the effectiveness of teaching MWUs to young L2 learners. This lack of evidence is striking since early L2 instruction is on the rise worldwide and MWUs are already integral parts of L2 curricula, teacher education and teaching materials.Implications for the research community and policy makersGiven our findings, we call for more research in instructed settings to better understand the impact of MWU input on specific aspects of students' L2 attainment, such as productive skills. Based on such work, researchers could provide policy makers and practitioners with evidence‐based recommendations that help integrate MWU input into L2 curricula and teaching in such a way that is most beneficial for young students' L2 attainment.
Towards data‐driven stochastic predictive control
Authors: Pan Guanru , Ou Ruchuan , Faulwasser Timm 
Published: August 2023

SummaryData‐driven predictive control based on the fundamental lemma by Willems et al. is frequently considered for deterministic LTI systems subject to measurement noise. However, little has been done on data‐driven stochastic control. In this paper, we propose a data‐driven stochastic predictive control scheme for LTI systems subject to possibly unbounded additive process disturbances. Based on a stochastic extension of the fundamental lemma and leveraging polynomial chaos expansions, we construct a data‐driven surrogate optimal control problem (OCP). Moreover, combined with an online selection strategy of the initial condition of the OCP, we provide sufficient conditions for recursive feasibility and for stability of the proposed data‐driven predictive control scheme. Finally, two numerical examples illustrate the efficacy and closed‐loop properties of the proposed scheme for process disturbances governed by different distributions.
One‐pot synthesis of V doped mesoporous SiO2 catalysts for selective oxidation of ethane and propane
Authors: Song Jiaxin , Fan Xiaoqiang , Yu Xuehua , Kong Lian , Xiao Xia , Xie Zean , Zhao Zhen 
Published: August 2023

AbstractA series of vanadium‐doped mesoporous SiO2 catalysts were prepared using a one‐pot emulsion method. The effects of VOx species with different structures on C−H bond activation and product selectivity in ethane and propane selective oxidation were investigated using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), N2 adsorption‐desorption, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Raman, ultraviolet‐visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV‐Vis DRS), hydrogen temperature programmed reduction (H2‐TPR), and ammonia temperature programmed desorption (NH3‐TPD) characterizations. The results revealed that the highly dispersed isolated tetrahedral VOx species on the catalyst gradually polymerized into highly dispersed oligomeric VOx species with the increased V loading. The former is beneficial for the formation of olefins and total aldehydes during the selective oxidation of propane. Oligomeric VOx species are conducive to improving the selectivity of ethylene and acetaldehyde in the selective oxidation of ethane. The highest catalytic performances for selective oxidation of ethane and propane were obtained at a temperature of 650 °C. The conversion of ethane was 41.6 %, with a corresponding yield of ethylene and acetaldehyde of 23.6 % over a 0.5 V−SiO2 catalyst. In contrast, the propane conversion was 61.5 %, with a corresponding total yield of olefins and aldehydes of 41.3 % over a 1.0 V−SiO2 catalyst.
A New Biodegradable Linear mPEG‐b‐poly(Schiff Base‐Acetal) Copolymer Carrier Co‐Delivery Cinnamaldehyde and Gemcitabine for Combined Anticancer Therapy
Authors: Zheng Fen , Shi Jianghuan , Zhang Shanming , Liu Kaige , Xu Long 
Published: August 2023

AbstractDue to significant pH difference among the healthy tissue, tumor tissue as well as intracellular endo/lysosome, constructing pH‐responsive biodegradable nanodrug delivery systems has received more and more attention. Herein, double‐end alkenylated acetal monomer (based on cinnamaldehyde (CA)) and double‐end sulfhydrylation Schiff base monomer were designed and synthesized, and three pH‐responsive biodegradable block copolymer mPEG‐b‐poly(Schiff base‐acetal) (P1), mPEG‐b‐poly(acetal) (P2), and mPEG‐b‐poly(Schiff base) (P3) were obtained by Michael addition reaction. All these polymers could be self‐assembled with gemcitabine (GEM) to form GEM‐loaded micelles. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) experiments proved that these polymer micelles have good pH responsiveness. The size and morphology of both blank and GEM‐loaded micelles were characterized by DLS and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The GEM/P1, GEM/P2, and GEM/P3 micelles exhibited pH‐sensitive drug release properties and the GEM/P1 micelles has the relatively fastest drug release rate. Containing multiple acetal and Schiff base moieties GEM/P1 micelles showed fastest cellular internalized rate and best in vitro antitumor activity among all GEM‐loaded micelles.
5‐Arylidene‐2,4‐thiazolidinediones as Cysteine Protease Inhibitors against Leishmania Donovani
Authors: Sharma Sweta , Anjaneyulu Yakkala Prasanna , Beg Mirza A. , Tanwar Supriya , Latief Insha , Khan Arif , Sharma Kalicharan , ur Rehman Sayeed , Selvapandiyan Angamuthu , Shafi Syed 
Published: August 2023

AbstractA series of 5‐arylidene‐2,4‐thiazolidinediones were synthesized using Knoevenagel condensation and evaluated for their anti‐leishmanial activity against L. donovani promastigotes and axenic amastigotes. Among the compounds tested, three were the most active, with IC50 values of 0.82–1.42 μM against L. donovani promastigotes and 0.69–1.19 μM against L. donovani amastigote. (Z)‐5‐(4‐(trifluoromethyl)benzylidene)thiazolidine‐2,4‐dione was the most prominent among all the tested compounds and demonstrated better anti‐leishmanial properties when compared to the standard drug miltefosine (1.26 μM against L. donovani promastigotes and 1.17 μM against L. donovani amastigotes). It was insignificantly toxic compared to the standard miltefosine in THP‐1 human monocytic cells. It was further evaluated for its in vitro cysteine protease (papain) inhibitory activity using Z‐RR‐AMC fluorogenic peptide substrate. It demonstrated promising inhibitory activity with the IC50 value of 3.42 μM. In silico docking studies also supported that the (Z)‐5‐(4‐(trifluoromethyl)benzylidene)thiazolidine‐2,4‐dione is bound to cysteine protease proteins′ catalytic active binding site. Anti‐leishmanial properties of this class of compounds have been evaluated for the first time, and (Z)‐5‐(4‐(trifluoromethyl)benzylidene)thiazolidine‐2,4‐dione emerged as a lead molecule from the library of compounds tested. This may serve as a template for further drug discovery in Leishmania.