Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Numerical Hydrodynamics in Strong-Field General Relativity

In this thesis we develop and test methods for numerically evolving hydrodynamics coupled to the Einstein field equations, and then apply them to several problems in gravitational physics and astrophysics. The hydrodynamics scheme utilizes high-resolution shock-capturing techniques with flux corrections while the Einstein equations are evolved in the generalized harmonic formulation using finite difference methods. We construct initial data by solving the constraint equations using a multigrid algorithm with free data chosen based on superposing isolated compact objects. One application we consider is the merger of black hole-neutron star and neutron star-neutron star binaries that form through dynamical capture, as may occur in globular clusters or galactic nuclei. These systems can merge with non-negligible orbital eccentricity and display significant variability in dynamics and outcome as a function of initial impact parameter. We study the electromagnetic and gravitationalwave transients that these mergers may produce and their prospects for being detected with upcoming observations. We also introduce a numerical technique that allows solutions to the full Einstein equations to be obtained for extreme-mass-ratio systems where the spacetime is dominated by a known background solution. This technique is based on using the knowledge of a background solution to subtract off its contribution to the truncation error. We use this to study the tidal effects and gravitational radiation from a solar-type star falling into a supermassive black hole. Finally, we utilize general-relativistic hydrodynamics to study ultrarelativistic black hole formation. We study the head-on collision of fluid particles well within the kinetic energy dominated regime (Lorentz factors γ = 8 − 12). We find that black hole formation does occur at energies a factor of a few below simple hoop conjecture estimates. We also find that near the threshold for black hole formation, the collision
The $b \to sl^+ l^{-1}$ Anomalies And Their Implications For New Physics

Recently, the LHC has found several anomalies in exclusive semileptonic b --> s l^+ l^- decays. In this proceeding, we summarize the most important results of our global analysis of the relevant decay modes. After a discussion of the hadronic uncertainties entering the theoretical predictions, we present an interpretation of the data in terms of generic new physics scenarios. To this end, we have performed model-independent fits of the corresponding Wilson coefficients to the data and have found that in certain scenarios the best fit point is prefererred over the Standard Model by a global significance of more than 4{\sigma}. Based on the results, the discrimination between high-scale new physics and low-energy QCD effects as well as the possibility of lepton-flavour universality violation are discussed.
AFM‐TEM correlation microscopy and its application to lipid nanoparticles

So far, only a few articles have demonstrated the possibility of correlated AFM‐TEM imaging – sequential imaging of the same individual objects using atomic‐force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The current work contributes to the development of this approach by giving a step‐by‐step procedure, which yields pairs of correlated AFM‐TEM images. We describe the application of correlation AFM‐TEM microscopy to lipid nanoparticles (small extracellular vesicles and liposomes). The sizes of individual particles measured by the two methods were in good agreement, taking the tip broadening into account. The correlated AFM‐TEM imaging can be valuable for single‐particle analysis and nanometrology.
Senecavirus A-induced glycolysis facilitates virus replication by promoting lactate production that attenuates the interaction between MAVS and RIG-I

Senecavirus A (SVA)-induced porcine idiopathic vesicular disease has caused huge economic losses worldwide. Glucose metabolism in the host cell is essential for SVA proliferation; however, the impact of the virus on glucose metabolism in host cells and the subsequent effects are still unknown. Here, glycolysis induced by SVA is shown to facilitate virus replication by promoting lactate production, which then attenuates the interaction between the mitochondrial antiviral-signaling protein (MAVS) and retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I). SVA induces glycolysis in PK-15 cells, as indicated by significantly increased expression of hexokinase 2 (HK2), 6-phosphofructokinase (PFKM), pyruvate kinase M (PKM), phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1), hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α), and superoxide dismutase-2 (SOD2) in a dose-and replication-dependent manner, and enhanced lactate production, while reducing ATP generation. Overexpression of PKM, PGK1, HIF-1α, and PDK3 in PK-15 cells and high glucose concentrations promote SVA replication, while glycolytic inhibitors decrease it. Inhibition of RLR signaling allowed better replication of SVA by promoting lactate production to attenuate the interaction between MAVS and RIG-I, and regulatory effect of glycolysis on replication of SVA was mainly via RIG-I signaling. SVA infection in mice increased expression of PKM and PGK1 in tissues and serum yields of lactate. Mice treated with high glucose and administered sodium lactate showed elevated lactate levels and better SVA replication, as well as suppressed induction of RIG-I, interferon beta (IFNβ), IFNα, interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15), and interleukin 6 (IL-6). The inhibitory effect on interferons was lower in mice administered sodium oxamate and low glucose compared to the high glucose, indicating that RLR signaling was inhibited by SVA infection through lactate in vitro and in vivo. These results provide a new perspective on the relationship between metabolism and innate immunity of the host in SVA infection, suggesting that glycolysis or lactate may be new targets against the virus.
Adrenal response to ACTH challenge alters thyroid and immune function and varies with body reserves in molting adult female northern elephant seals.

Intrinsic stressors associated with life-history stages may alter the responsiveness of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and responses to extrinsic stressors. We administered adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) to 24 free-ranging adult female northern elephant seals (NES) at two life-history stages: early and late in their molting period and measured a suite of endocrine, immune and metabolite responses. Our objective was to evaluate the impact of extended, high-energy fasting on adrenal responsiveness. Animals were blood sampled every 30 min for 120 min post-ACTH injection, then blood sampled 24 hrs later. In response to ACTH injection, cortisol levels increased 8-10-fold and remained highly elevated compared to baseline at 24 hr. Aldosterone levels increased 6-9-fold before returning to baseline at 24 hr. The magnitude of cortisol and aldosterone release were strongly associated, and both were greater after extended fasting. We observed an inverse relationship between fat mass and the magnitude of cortisol and aldosterone responses, suggesting that body reserves influenced adrenal responsiveness. Sustained elevation in cortisol was associated with alterations in thyroid hormones; both tT3 and tT4 concentrations were suppressed at 24 hr, while rT3 increased. Immune cytokine IL-1β was also suppressed after 24 hrs. of cortisol elevation, and numerous acute and sustained impacts on substrate metabolism were evident. Our data suggest that female NES are more sensitive to stress after the molt fast and that acute stress events can have important impacts on metabolism and immune function. These findings highlight the importance of considering life-history context when assessing the impacts of anthropogenic stressors on wildlife.
Sensitivity to syllable stress regularities in externally but not self‐triggered speech in Dutch

Several theories of predictive processing propose reduced sensory and neural responses to anticipated events. Support comes from magnetoencephalography/electroencephalography (M/EEG) studies, showing reduced auditory N1 and P2 responses to self‐generated compared to externally generated events, or when the timing and form of stimuli are more predictable. The current study examined the sensitivity of N1 and P2 responses to statistical speech regularities. We employed a motor‐to‐auditory paradigm comparing event‐related potential (ERP) responses to externally and self‐triggered pseudowords. Participants were presented with a cue indicating which button to press (motor–auditory condition) or which pseudoword would be presented (auditory‐only condition). Stimuli consisted of the participant's own voice uttering pseudowords that varied in phonotactic probability and syllable stress. We expected to see N1 and P2 suppression for self‐triggered stimuli, with greater suppression effects for more predictable features such as high phonotactic probability and first‐syllable stress in pseudowords. In a temporal principal component analysis (PCA), we observed an interaction between syllable stress and condition for the N1, where second‐syllable stress items elicited a larger N1 than first‐syllable stress items, but only for externally generated stimuli. We further observed an effect of syllable stress on the P2, where first‐syllable stress items elicited a larger P2. Strikingly, we did not observe motor‐induced suppression for self‐triggered stimuli for either the N1 or P2 component, likely due to the temporal predictability of the stimulus onset in both conditions. Taking into account previous findings, the current results suggest that sensitivity to syllable stress regularities depends on task demands.
On the existence of solitary waves for Boussinesq type equations and a new conservative model.

In this paper, we present a long time existence theory for a new enhanced Boussinesq-type system with constant bathymetry written in a conservative form. We also prove the existence of solitary wave for a large class of asymptotic models, including Beji-Nadaoka, Madsen-Sorensen and Nwogu equations. Furthermore, we give a procedure to calculate numerically these particular solutions and we present some effective computations.
The Role of Allograft Nephrectomy in the Failing Kidney Transplant

Patients with failed renal allografts have associated increased morbidity and mortality. The individualization of immunosuppression taper is the key element in managing these patients to avoid graft intolerance and sensitization while balancing the risk of continued immunosuppression. Most patients with uncomplicated chronic allograft failure do not require allograft nephrectomy (AN), and there is no clear evidence that it improves outcomes. The AN procedure is associated with variable morbidity and mortality. It is reserved mainly for early technical graft failure or in symptomatic cases associated with allograft infection, malignancy, or graft intolerance syndrome. It may also be considered in those who cannot tolerate immunosuppression and are at high risk for graft intolerance. AN has been associated with an increased risk of sensitization due to inflammatory response from surgery, immunosuppression withdrawal with allograft failure, and retained endovascular tissue. Although it is presumed that for-cause AN after transplant failure is associated with sensitization, it remains unclear whether elective AN in patients who remain on immunotherapy may prevent sensitization. The current practice of immunosuppression taper has not been shown to prevent sensitization or increase infection risk, but current literature is limited by selection bias and the absence of medication adherence data. We discuss the management of failed allografts based on retransplant candidacy, wait times, risk of graft intolerance syndrome, and immunosuppression side effects. Many unanswered questions remain, and future prospective randomized trials are needed to help guide evidence-based management.
Parent Satisfaction With a Telehealth Parent Coaching Intervention to Support Family Participation

COVID-19 catalyzed telehealth practice creating opportunities for clients and providers to discern best applications. Parent satisfaction with services supports partnership within therapy processes, potentially augmenting outcomes. We examined parent satisfaction levels and experiences with the telehealth approach of a parent coaching intervention for families of children with special health care needs (CSHCNs). We used a mixed-methods descriptive design. Fifteen parents completed the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ) and a semistructured interview. We analyzed TUQ ratings using descriptive statistics, and we thematically analyzed participants’ telehealth experiences. Parents found telehealth useful, easy to use, effective, reliable, and satisfactory. Parents described that telehealth addressed needs conveniently, enhanced parent–provider communication, and fostered shared parent involvement. Telehealth appears to be a satisfactory occupational therapy service delivery approach for parents of CSHCN. Findings build preliminary evidence for understanding for whom telehealth is well suited, supporting determination of relevant, fundable telehealth services.
Relationship between visual impairment and school entrance age in rural China

ABSTRACT Clinical relevance Children with uncorrected visual impairment have lower scores on various motor and cognitive tests. Exploring the association between visual impairment and school entrance age among school children in rural China may assist in enhancing the visual health of early-entry school students. Background Educational pressures may play a role in the visual health of students. School entrance age is associated with educational pressures. This study explored whether school entrance age can contribute to visual impairment among younger generations. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 17,510 students from 252 primary schools in two prefectures in western China. Information on the sampled students was collected through questionnaires and vision examinations. The relationship between visual impairment and school entrance age was further analysed by multiple regression. The school entrance age was classified as early-entry and late-entry, early-entry was defined as students entering school at the age 6 years. Results The results showed that the myopia rate of early-entry students (26.92%) was higher than late-entry students (23.86%). Multiple regression showed that visual impairment increased with the earlier age of school entry (P = 0.044). The prevalence of myopia was also significantly higher in higher grades for children of the same age. The prevalence of myopia in 10-year-old and 11-year-old fourth- and fifth-grade students was 20.6% to 30.5%, 21.7% to 27.4% (P < 0.001). The near work with eyes was significantly different among children of the same age in different grades during this study (P < 0.001). Conclusion Myopia is related to the school entrance age of children. Children who start school earlier are more likely to suffer from myopia. Educational pressures and digital screens may play a role in the association. Changes in the current education mode by reducing the study burden in the early years of learning may be significant.
Feasibility of multicomponent exercise training with beat-accentuated music among community-dwelling older adults with mild-to-moderate cognitive decline

Objectives: This study explored the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a music-based, multicomponent exercise intervention among community-dwelling older adults with mild-to-moderate cognitive impairment. Methods: 13 older adults aged 85 years in average with mild-to-moderate cognitive impairment completed multicomponent exercise training for 20 weeks at an independent living facility. Participants received aerobic, resistance, and balance training paired with beat-accentuated music stimulation (BMS). Adherence to the training was tracked down and their cognitive and physical functioning and quality of life were assessed at pre- and post-test. Results: 13 participants attended an average of 4.6 days/week over 20 weeks and reported high satisfaction with the intervention (90.6%). Participants showed significant improvement in global cognition, cognitive processing speed, and walking endurance/aerobic fitness at post-test. Conclusions: These findings support the feasibility of music-based, multicomponent exercise training for older adults in an independent living facility and set the stage for future studies to test the efficacy of music on physical activity and ensuing health outcomes. Clinical Implications: Music-based, multicomponent exercise training can be beneficial for community-dwelling older adults with mild-to-moderate cognitive decline. BMS can be combined with exercise training to manipulate exercise tempo and may provide a source of motivation to help older adults adhere to exercise.
Identification of a Common Variant for Coronary Heart Disease at PDE1A Contributes to Individualized Treatment Goals and Risk Stratification of Cardiovascular Complications in Chinese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

OBJECTIVE In this study we aim to unravel genetic determinants of coronary heart disease (CHD) in type 2 diabetes (T2D) and explore their applications. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We performed a two-stage genome-wide association study for CHD in Chinese patients with T2D (3,596 case and 8,898 control subjects), followed by replications in European patients with T2D (764 case and 4,276 control subjects) and general populations (n = 51,442–547,261). Each identified variant was examined for its association with a wide range of phenotypes and its interactions with glycemic, blood pressure (BP), and lipid controls in incident cardiovascular diseases. RESULTS We identified a novel variant (rs10171703) for CHD (odds ratio 1.21 [95% CI 1.13–1.30]; P = 2.4 × 10−8) and BP (β ± SE 0.130 ± 0.017; P = 4.1 × 10−14) at PDE1A in Chinese T2D patients but found only a modest association with CHD in general populations. This variant modulated the effects of BP goal attainment (130/80 mmHg) on CHD (Pinteraction = 0.0155) and myocardial infarction (MI) (Pinteraction = 5.1 × 10−4). Patients with CC genotype of rs10171703 had >40% reduction in either cardiovascular events in response to BP control (2.9 × 10−8 < P < 3.6 × 10−5), those with CT genotype had no difference (0.0726 < P < 0.2614), and those with TT genotype had a threefold increase in MI risk (P = 6.7 × 10−3). CONCLUSIONS We discovered a novel CHD- and BP-related variant at PDE1A that interacted with BP goal attainment with divergent effects on CHD risk in Chinese patients with T2D. Incorporating this information may facilitate individualized treatment strategies for precision care in diabetes, only when our findings are validated.
Partitioning gene expression data by data-driven Markov chain Monte Carlo

In this paper we introduce a Bayesian mixture model with an unknown number of components for partitioning gene expression data. Inferences about all the unknown parameters involved are made by using the proposed data-driven Markov chain Monte Carlo. This algorithm is essentially a Metropolis–Hastings within Gibbs sampling. The Metropolis–Hastings is performed to change the number of partitions k in the neighborhood and using a pair of split-merge moves. Our strategy for splitting is based on data in which allocation probabilities are calculated based on marginal likelihood function from the previously allocated observations. Conditional on k, the partitions labels are updated via Gibbs sampling. The two main advantages of the proposed algorithm is that it is easy to be implemented and the acceptance probability for split-merge movements depends only on the observed data. We examine the performance of the proposed algorithm on simulated data and then analyze two publicly available gene expression data sets.
Maveropepimut-S, a DPX-Based Immune-Educating Therapy, Shows Promising and Durable Clinical Benefit in Patients with Recurrent Ovarian Cancer, a Phase II Trial

Abstract Purpose: Patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer respond poorly to existing therapies. Hence there is a need for more effective treatments. Patients and Methods: The DeCidE1 trial is a multicenter, randomized, open-label, single-arm phase II study to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of maveropepimut-S with cyclophosphamide in patients with recurrent ovarian cancer. Median follow-up for evaluable subjects was 4.4 months. Data were collected from March 2019 to June 2021. Subjects received two injections of 0.25 mL maveropepimut-S 3 weeks apart, followed by one 0.1-mL doses, every 8 weeks up to progression. Oral cyclophosphamide, 50 mg twice daily, was administered in repeating weekly on and off cycles. Results: Twenty-two patients were enrolled. Median age was 58 years (38–78 years). Among the evaluable population, the objective response rate (ORR) was 21% [90% confidence interval (CI), 7.5%–41.9%], with a disease control rate (DCR) of 63% (90% CI, 41.8%–81.3%), including 4 (21%) patients with partial responses, 8 (42%) stable disease, and 7 (37%) progressive disease. The ORRs were consistent across subgroups based on platinum sensitivity, and DCR was higher in the platinum-resistant subpopulation. Four SD patients maintained clinical benefit up to 25 months. Most treatment-related adverse events (TRAE) were grade 1 and 2 (87% of unique events). Most common AEs were injection site reactions. Eight subjects reported grade 3 and no grade 4 AEs. Survivin-specific T-cell responses were observed in treated patients with clinical benefit. Conclusions: Maveropepimut-S with intermittent low-dose cyclophosphamide is well-tolerated, with clinical benefit for patients with recurrent ovarian cancer. Observed responses are irrespective of the platinum status.
Moments and Classification for Conjugation-Invariant Rotations and Fake Uniformity in the Stochastic Radon Transform

We consider a generalisation of the stochastic Radon transform, introduced for an inverse problem in tomography by Panaretos. Specifically, we allow the distribution of the three-dimensional rotation in the statistical model of that work to be different from Haar measure, and to possess only the weaker symmetry property of conjugation-invariance. As a preparation we study, based on simple geometric ideas, the relationship between moments of two univariate densities describing conjugation-invariant rotations. For the class of rotations introduced by Le{\'o}n, Mass{\'e} and Rivest,the generalised stochastic Radon transform turns out to have a 'fake uniformity' property. We also derive the binary Bayes classifier for rotations whose distributions are deterministic shifts of a common conjugation-invariant distribution.