bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry Method for Determination of N‐Methyl‐N‐Nitrosopyridin‐4‐Amine in a Vonoprazan Fumarate Drug
Authors: Chilukuri Ramya , Sayyad Kousrali , Kowtharapu Leela Prasad , Gundekari Sreedhar , Varkolu Mohan
Published: July 2024

N‐methyl‐N‐nitrosopyridin‐4‐amine (4‐MNPA) was one of the nitrosamine impurities observed in the vonoprazan fumarate (VF) during the production of the VF‐active pharmaceutical ingredient. Therefore, a sensitive and efficient multiple reaction monitoring method has been developed for the quantitative estimation of 4‐MNPA impurity in VF. Good separation of 4‐MNPA and VF was achieved using a Zorbax SB‐phenyl (250 × 4.6 mm2, 5 µm) column under gradient eluent conditions. The mobile phases included 0.005 M ammonium formate and methanol as mobile phases A and B, respectively. The column flow rate was 0.8 mL min−1, and a mixture of methanol and water (50:50, v/v) was used in the present study. The 4‐MNPA method was validated with the limit of detection and limit of quantification concentrations of 0.5 and 1.5 µg mL−1, respectively. The linearity range was covered from 1.5 to 6.0 µg mL−1. The % coefficient of variation for repeatability and intermediate precision results was found to be 2.0% and 2.4%, respectively. The % recovery results were within the range of 70%–130%. In conclusion, the developed method using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry represents a suitable, linear, precise, and an accurate method for determining the 4‐MNPA impurity in VF.
A Functional Model for Quantifying Deformation in Reference Frame Transformations
Authors: Stanaway Richard , Crook Chris , Kelly Kevin M. , Lott Roger
Published: July 2024

IAG Commission 1 Working Group 1.3.1 in association with the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) have developed a functional model for crustal deformation (FMCD) and an associated Geodetic Grid Exchange Format (GGXF) for quantifying and disseminating deformation information for use in time-dependent reference frame transformations.

The FMCD provides a framework within which producers and users of deformation models can describe crustal displacement and velocity data using robust grid formats such as GGXF. Using the FMCD and GGXF combined, positional displacements can be readily applied in point motion coordinate operations and non-conformal time-dependent transformations. This approach is essential in deforming zones where conformal time-dependent transformation approaches do not adequately handle crustal deformation.

This paper describes application of the FMCD in typical cases including: (1) transformation of GNSS PPP positions (e.g. in an IGS20 frame) to a national geodetic datum in a deforming zone and (2) transformation between reference frames across earthquake events that resulted in significant coseismic and postseismic crustal displacement. The FMCD and associated GGXF provide a framework for developers of geodetic software such as those used in GIS, GNSS processing and positioning to better handle complex deformation.
Transmon Qubit constraints on dark matter-nucleon scattering
Authors: Das Anirban , Kurinsky Noah , Leane Rebecca K.
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We recently pointed out that power measurements of single quasiparticle devices can be used to detect dark matter. These devices have the lowest known energy thresholds, far surpassing standard direct detection experiments, requiring energy deposition above only about an meV. We calculate dark matter induced quasiparticle densities in transmon qubits, and use the latest transmon qubit measurements that provide one of the strongest existing lab-based bounds on dark matter-nucleon scattering below about 100 MeV. We strongly constrain sub-component dark matter, using both a dark matter population thermalized in the Earth as well as the dark matter wind from the Galactic halo. We demonstrate future potential sensitivities using devices with low quasiparticle densities.
Building the blocks of Schwarzschild
Authors: Dulac Raphaël , Heidmann Pierre
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We demonstrate that the Schwarzschild black hole can be “resolved” into bound states of Reissner-Nordström black holes in four dimensions. These bound states closely resemble the Schwarzschild geometry from the asymptotic region up to an infinitesimal distance away from the Schwarzschild horizon. Below this scale, the horizon is replaced by novel spacetime structures supported by intense and entrapped electromagnetic flux. The flux originates from collinear black holes that can be brought arbitrarily close to extremality. We find that the charge distribution follows a universal pattern, with magnitudes scaling proportionally to the total mass and alternating in sign. Moreover, the bound states always have an entropy that constitutes a fraction of the Schwarzschild entropy. Constructed in four dimensions, the black holes are kept apart by struts, for which we analyze tensions and energies. These solutions pave the way for analogous constructions in supergravity and for a brane/anti-brane description of the Schwarzschild black hole in string theory.
The lion, the witch, and the wormhole: ensemble averaging the symmetric product orbifold
Authors: Kames-King Joshua , Kanargias Alexandros , Knighton Bob , Usatyuk Mykhaylo
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We consider the ensemble average of two dimensional symmetric product orbifold CFTs SymN(𝕋D) over the Narain moduli space. We argue for a bulk dual given by N copies of an abelian Chern-Simons theory coupled to topological gravity, endowed with a discrete gauge symmetry exchanging the N copies. As a check of this proposal, we calculate the ensemble average of various partition and correlation functions of the symmetric product orbifold theory and compare the resulting expressions to gauge theory quantities in the bulk. We comment on the ensemble average of the tensionless string partition function on AdS3 × S3 × 𝕋4 by considering the specific case of D = 4 with the addition of supersymmetry.
String junctions revisited
Authors: Altmann J. , Skands P.
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Recent measurements at the LHC have revealed heavy-flavour baryon fractions much larger than those observed at LEP, with e.g., $$ {\Lambda}_c^{+}/{\textrm{D}}^0 $$

Λ
c
+

/

D
0

and $$ {\Lambda}_b^0/{\textrm{B}}^0 $$

Λ
b
0

/

B
0

reaching ∼ 0.5 at low p⊥. One scenario that has been at least partly successful in predicting observed trends is QCD colour reconnections with string junctions. In previous work, however, the limit of a low-p⊥ heavy quark was not well defined. We reconsider the string equations of motion for junction systems in this limit, and find that the junction effectively becomes bound to the heavy quark, a scenario we refer to as a “pearl on a string”. We extend string-junction fragmentation in Pythia with a dedicated modelling of this limit for both light- and heavy-quark “pearls”.
Two-loop anomalous dimensions for small-R jet versus hadronic fragmentation functions
Authors: van Beekveld Melissa , Dasgupta Mrinal , El-Menoufi Basem Kamal , Helliwell Jack , Karlberg Alexander , Monni Pier Francesco
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We study the collinear fragmentation of highly energetic jets defined with a small jet radius. In particular, we investigate how the corresponding fragmentation functions differ from their hadronic counterpart defined in the common $$ \overline{\textrm{MS}} $$

MS
¯

scheme. We find that the anomalous dimensions governing the perturbative evolution of the two fragmentation functions differ starting at the two loop order. We compute for the first time the new anomalous dimensions at two loops and confirm our predictions by comparing the inclusive small-R jet spectrum against a fixed order perturbative calculation at $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
($$ {\alpha}_s^2 $$

α
s
2

). To investigate the dependence of the anomalous dimension on the kinematic cutoff variable, we study the fragmentation functions of Cambridge jets defined with a transverse momentum cutoff as opposed to an angular cutoff R. We further study the evolution of the small-R fragmentation function with an alternative cutoff scale, proportional to zR, representing the maximum possible transverse momentum of emissions within a jet. In these cases we find that the two-loop anomalous dimensions coincide with the $$ \overline{\textrm{MS}} $$

MS
¯

DGLAP ones, highlighting a correspondence between the $$ \overline{\textrm{MS}} $$

MS
¯

scheme and a transverse-momentum cutoff.
Wormholes in the axiverse, and the species scale
Authors: Martucci Luca , Risso Nicolò , Valenti Alessandro , Vecchi Luca
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We analyze a large class of four-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 low-energy realizations of the axiverse satisfying various quantum gravity constraints. We propose a novel upper bound on the ultimate UV cutoff of the effective theory, namely the species scale, which only depends on data available at the two-derivative level. Its dependence on the moduli fields and the number N of axions matches expectations from other independent considerations. After an assessment of the regime of validity of the effective field theory, we investigate the non-perturbative gravitational effects therein. We identify a set of axionic charges supported by extremal and non-extremal wormhole configurations. We present a universal class of analytic wormhole solutions, explore their deformations, and analyze the relation between wormhole energy scales and the species scale. The connection between these wormholes and a special subclass of BPS fundamental instantons is discussed, and an argument in favor of the genericity of certain axion-dependent effective superpotentials is provided. We find a lower bound increasing with N ≫ 1 on the Gauss-Bonnet coefficient, resulting in an exponential suppression of non-extremal wormhole effects. Our claims are illustrated and tested in concrete string theory models.
Bending performance of cross-laminated timber constructed from fibre-managed Eucalyptus nitens under short-term and long-term serviceability loads
Authors: Liang Yingwei , Taoum Assaad , Kotlarewski Nathan , Chan Andrew
Published: July 2024

Cross-laminated timber (CLT) has become a notable building material due to its structural efficiency, reliability and sustainability. In this study, the bending performance of three-layered CLT constructed from fibre-managed Eucalyptus nitens (E. nitens) was investigated under short-term and long-term loadings. Linear-elastic four-point bending testing was used to determine the maximum serviceability loading capacity before they reached the suggested deflection limits. A pilot study was conducted to investigate the creep behaviour of E. nitens CLT through long-term bending tests in a controlled environmental room. The study suggested that E. nitens CLT has higher serviceability loading capacity and lower creep ratio compared to CLT made from strength-class C24 spruce. The investigations of various configurations of E. nitens CLT panels based on structural grades implemented in top, cross, and bottom layers have revealed different short-term and long-term bending performances. The grade of transverse layers has been found to be the most important factor in improving the bending creep performance of E. nitens CLT. Two modelling equations were employed to perform curve fitting on the experimental creep ratio with time. The conventional power-law modelling tends to underestimate the longer-term creep ratio when compared to a recently developed nonlinear regression modelling equation that takes environmental conditions into account. The mean estimated creep ratio after 50 years was 1.77 for E. nitens CLT, and 1.89 for the C24 spruce CLT. The present study is a pilot investigation to increase the understanding of performance of the newly developed CLT made from fibre-managed plantations E. nitens, with particular emphasis on its creep behaviour. The results of this study provide valuable contributions for future research in this field, and ongoing commercial production of E. nitens CLT.
AI and the iterable epistopics of risk
Authors: Crabtree Andy , McGarry Glenn , Urquhart Lachlan
Published: July 2024

The risks AI presents to society are broadly understood to be manageable through ‘general calculus’, i.e., general frameworks designed to enable those involved in the development of AI to apprehend and manage risk, such as AI impact assessments, ethical frameworks, emerging international standards, and regulations. This paper elaborates how risk is apprehended and managed by a regulator, developer and cyber-security expert. It reveals that risk and risk management is dependent on mundane situated practices not encapsulated in general calculus. Situated practice surfaces ‘iterable epistopics’, revealing how those involved in the development of AI know and subsequently respond to risk and uncover major challenges in their work. The ongoing discovery and elaboration of epistopics of risk in AI (a) furnishes a potential program of interdisciplinary inquiry, (b) provides AI developers with a means of apprehending risk, and (c) informs the ongoing evolution of general calculus.
Central elements in the $$\textrm{SL}_d$$-skein algebra of a surface
Authors: Bonahon Francis , Higgins Vijay
Published: July 2024

The $$\textrm{SL}_d$$

SL
d

-skein algebra $$\mathcal {S}^q_{\textrm{SL}_d}(S)$$

S

SL
d

q

(
S
)

of a surface S is a certain deformation of the coordinate ring of the character variety consisting of flat $$\textrm{SL}_d$$

SL
d

-local systems over the surface. As a quantum topological object, $$\mathcal {S}^q_{\textrm{SL}_d}(S)$$

S

SL
d

q

(
S
)

is also closely related to the HOMFLYPT polynomial invariant of knots and links in $${\mathbb {R}}^3$$

R

3

. We exhibit a rich family of central elements in $$\mathcal {S}^q_{\textrm{SL}_d}(S)$$

S

SL
d

q

(
S
)

that appear when the quantum parameter q is a root of unity. These central elements are obtained by threading along framed links certain polynomials arising in the elementary theory of symmetric functions, and related to taking powers in the Lie group $$\textrm{SL}_d$$

SL
d

.
On the char front temperature of beech (Fagus sylvatica)
Authors: Pečenko Robert , Knez Nataša , Hozjan Tomaž , Šejna Jakub , Cabová Kamila , Turk Goran
Published: July 2024

The article investigates the charring and the char front temperature of beech, the most widespread hardwood species in Central Europe. The current Eurocode standard EN 1995-1-2 specifies the char front temperature to be 300 $$^{\circ }$$

∘

C, albeit this determination primarily applies to softwood species. Consequently, this article aims to examine whether this assumption applies to beech. Through advanced experimental analysis and numerical modelling, it was determined that the char front temperature for beech exceeds 300 $$^{\circ }$$

∘

C. This finding represents crucial information for the correct validation of fire-resistant design for structural elements made of beech. Moreover, it lays the groundwork for improving simplified methods of fire design, particularly for a more accurate determination of the charring depth.
First-in-human evaluation of 6-bromo-7-[11C]methylpurine, a PET tracer for assessing the function of multidrug resistance-associated proteins in different tissues
Authors: Mairinger Severin , Jackwerth Matthias , Chalampalakis Zacharias , Rausch Ivo , Weber Maria , Wölfl-Duchek Michael , Pracher Lena , Nics Lukas , Pahnke Jens , Langsteger Werner , Hacker Marcus , Zeitlinger Markus , Langer Oliver
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Multidrug resistance-associated protein 1 (MRP1) is a transport protein with a widespread tissue distribution, which has been implicated in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s and chronic respiratory disease. PET with 6-bromo-7-[11C]methylpurine ([11C]BMP) has been used to measure MRP1 function in rodents. In this study, [11C]BMP was for the first time characterised in humans to assess the function of MRP1 and other MRP subtypes in different tissues.

Methods

Thirteen healthy volunteers (7 men, 6 women) underwent dynamic whole-body PET scans on a long axial field-of-view (LAFOV) PET/CT system after intravenous injection of [11C]BMP. Three subjects of each sex were scanned a second time to assess reproducibility. Volumes of interest were outlined for MRP-expressing tissues (cerebral cortex, cerebellum, choroid plexus, retina, lungs, myocardium, kidneys, and liver). From the time-activity curves, the elimination rate constant (kE, h− 1) was derived as a parameter for tissue MRP function and its test-retest variability (TRTV, %) was calculated. Radiation dosimetry was calculated using the Medical Internal Radiation Dose (MIRD) methodology.

Results

Mean kE and corresponding TRTV values were: cerebral cortex: 0.055 ± 0.010 h− 1 (− 4 ± 24%), cerebellum: 0.033 ± 0.009 h− 1 (1 ± 39%), choroid plexus: 0.292 ± 0.059 h− 1 (0.1 ± 16%), retina: 0.234 ± 0.045 h− 1 (30 ± 38%), lungs: 0.875 ± 0.095 h− 1 (− 3 ± 11%), myocardium: 0.641 ± 0.105 h− 1 (11 ± 25%), kidneys: 1.378 ± 0.266 h− 1 (14 ± 16%), and liver: 0.685 ± 0.072 h− 1 (7 ± 9%). Significant sex differences were found for kE in the cerebellum, lungs and kidneys. Effective dose was 4.67 ± 0.18 µSv/MBq for men and 4.55 ± 0.18 µSv/MBq for women.

Conclusion

LAFOV PET/CT with [11C]BMP potentially allows for simultaneous assessment of MRP function in multiple human tissues. Mean TRTV of kE in different tissues was in an acceptable range, except for the retina. The radiation dosimetry of [11C]BMP was in the typical range of 11C-tracers. LAFOV PET/CT holds great potential to assess at a whole-body, multi-tissue level molecular targets relevant for drug disposition in humans.

Trial registration

EudraCT 2021-006348-29. Registered 15 December 2021.
Targeting of immune checkpoint regulator V-domain Ig suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) with 89Zr-labelled CI-8993
Authors: Burvenich Ingrid Julienne Georgette , Wichmann Christian Werner , McDonald Alexander Franklin , Guo Nancy , Rigopoulos Angela , Huynh Nhi , Vail Mary , Allen Stacey , O’Keefe Graeme Joseph , Scott Fiona Elizabeth , Soikes Raul , Angelides Steven , Roemeling Reinhard von , Scott Andrew Mark
Published: July 2024

Background

CI-8993 is a fully human IgG1κ monoclonal antibody (mAb) that binds specifically to immune checkpoint molecule VISTA (V-domain Ig suppressor of T-cell activation). Phase I safety has been established in patients with advanced cancer (NCT02671955). To determine the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of CI-8993 in patients, we aimed to develop 89Zr-labelled CI-8993 and validate PET imaging and quantitation in preclinical models prior to a planned human bioimaging trial.

Methods

CI-8993 and human isotype IgG1 control were conjugated to the metal ion chelator p-isothiocyanatobenzyl-desferrioxamine (Df). Quality of conjugates were assessed by SE-HPLC, SDS-PAGE, and FACS. After radiolabelling with zirconium-89 (89Zr), radioconjugates were assessed for radiochemical purity, immunoreactivity, antigen binding affinity, and serum stability in vitro. [89Zr]Zr-Df-CI-8993 alone (1 mg/kg, 4.6 MBq) or in combination with 30 mg/kg unlabelled CI-8993, as well as isotype control [89Zr]Zr-Df-IgG1 (1 mg/kg, 4.6 MBq) were assessed in human VISTA knock-in female (C57BL/6 N-Vsirtm1.1(VSIR)Geno, huVISTA KI) or control C57BL/6 mice bearing syngeneic MB49 bladder cancer tumours; and in BALB/c nu/nu mice bearing pancreatic Capan-2 tumours.

Results

Stable constructs with an average chelator-to-antibody ratio of 1.81 were achieved. SDS-PAGE and SE-HPLC showed integrity of CI-8993 was maintained after conjugation; and ELISA indicated no impact of conjugation and radiolabelling on binding to human VISTA. PET imaging and biodistribution in MB49 tumour-bearing huVISTA KI female mice showed specific localisation of [89Zr]Zr-Df-CI-8993 to VISTA in spleen and tumour tissues expressing human VISTA. Specific tumour uptake was also demonstrated in Capan-2 xenografted BALB/c nu/nu mice.

Conclusions

We radiolabelled and validated [89Zr]Zr-Df-CI-8993 for specific binding to huVISTA in vivo. Our results demonstrate that 89Zr-labelled CI-8993 is now suitable for targeting and imaging VISTA expression in human trials.

Graphical Abstract
Magnetic resonance arthrography with positional manoeuvre for the diagnosis of synovial fold of posterior shoulder joint capsule
Authors: Keles Papatya , Ogul Hayri , Tuncer Kutsi , Sakci Zakir , Ay Mutlu , Kantarci Mecit
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study is to prospectively assess the effectiveness of shoulder magnetic resonance (MR) arthrograms with positional manoeuvres in detecting posterior synovial folds.

Methods

Two radiologists independently assessed all axial MR arthrograms in internal rotation, neutral position, and external rotation for the presence of a posterior synovial fold. The diagnostic performances of the MR arthrograms were then compared, with results validated through arthroscopy.

Results

Arthroscopy was performed on 81 of the 150 patients included in the study. A posterior synovial fold was identified arthroscopically in eleven of these patients. Measurements of the posterior synovial fold obtained in external rotation and the neutral position of the arm showed a significant correlation with arthroscopic results (p < 0.05). For detecting the posterior synovial fold with arthroscopic correlation, the sensitivity and specificity values for observer 1 and observer 2 were 100–81.4% and 100–88.6%, respectively, for MR arthrograms in the neutral position; 100–52.9% and 100–62.9% for MR arthrograms in external rotation; and 100–95.7% and 81.8–98.6% for MR arthrograms in internal rotation. There was a fair agreement for MR arthrography in external rotation for detecting posterior synovial folds, while MR arthrograms in internal rotation and neutral position showed near-perfect and significant interobserver agreement.

Conclusion

The rotational positions of the humeral neck during MR arthrographic examination can influence the diagnostic specificity and sensitivity of axial MR arthrograms in detecting the posterior synovial fold.

Clinical relevance statement

The posterior synovial fold can mimic a posterior labral detachment. Therefore, its correct identification is crucial in order to avoid unnecessary surgical procedures.

Key Points

Movement of the shoulder may introduce variability in MR arthrography appearance.

Rotation of the humeral neck during MR arthrography can affect diagnoses in posterior synovial fold detection.

Given that posterior synovial folds can imitate posterior labral detachment, their correct identification is crucial to avoid unnecessary surgical procedures.
Root canal widths of mandibular molars in predicting the legal age threshold 18 years in a sample of juveniles and sub-adults of south-indian origin: an orthopantomographic study
Authors: Vedula Priyanka , Gannepalli Ashalata , Balla Sudheer Babu , Ch Gayathri , Bushra Anjum , Ayinampudi Bhargavi Krishna
Published: July 2024

Pursuing a proficient age estimation methodology introducing novel radiographic methods remains an ongoing and demanding aspect of forensic and medicolegal research. In 2017, Roberts GJ et al. (J Forensic Sci 62(2):351-4, 2017) described a new radiographic method, i.e., root canal width (RCW) patterns to assign a subject to above 18-year-age threshold. Since then, few researchers have investigated the validity of this radiographic method in other populations. The present study aimed to test the usefulness of these RCW patterns in predicting 18 years in a sample of South Indian juveniles and sub-adults aged between 16 and 23. Descriptive analysis revealed that pattern-A was initially observed at a minimum age of 16.08 and 16.22 years in males and females. Pattern-B at 16.31 years in males and 16.22 years in females, while pattern-C was initially recorded at 18.73 years in males and 19.01 years in females, respectively. In summary, if an individual, regardless of sex, exhibits a fully-formed (apex closed) mandibular first, second, and third molars and concurrently displays RCW-C, there is a strong likelihood that the person has exceeded the legally relevant age of 18 years. However, due to higher rate of technically unacceptable errors (adults wrongly identified as individuals below 18 years), reliance on this method alone should be restricted, and it is advisable to combine it with other methods.
A comparative study on the identification methods for calibration of the orthotropic yield surface and its effect on the sheet metal forming simulations
Authors: Sener Bora
Published: July 2024

The predictive capability of an anisotropic yield function highly relies upon the number of the model parameters and its calibration type. Conventional calibration of a plane stress anisotropic yield function considers material behavior in uniaxial and equi-biaxial stress states, whereas it violates shear and plane strain loading conditions. In this study, the direction of the plastic flow in both loading regions was corrected by including shear and plane strain constraint terms to the conventional calibration of the Yld2000 function, and its effect on the sheet metal forming simulations, namely cup drawing and hole expansion tests, was investigated. Two highly anisotropic sheet materials (AA2090-T3 and low-carbon steel) were selected for the investigation, and the anisotropy coefficients were determined. Stress anisotropy was accurately predicted by the conventional method, whereas any decrease in the prediction of the deformation anisotropy could not occur by the applying of the constrained methods. Significant increases in the predicted cup height and differences in the number of the ears were observed by shear constraint identification in the cup drawing. The maximum thinning location in the hole expansion test could be accurately predicted by plane strain constraint identification.
Validation of the European Portuguese Version of the Yale Pharyngeal Severity Rating Scale
Authors: Silva-Carvalho Isabel , Martins Adriana , Freitas Susana Vaz , Teixeira Laetitia , Meireles Luís , Pedroto Isabel
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to validate the Yale Pharyngeal Residue Severity Rating Scale’s European Portuguese version and investigate the impact of rater experience. The scale measures the severity of residue in the vallecula and pyriform sinus. Ninety Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing images were selected after consensus and proposed to 13 raters who were asked to assess the severity of pharyngeal residue (PR) in each image in two moments with an interval of two weeks. The raters were divided by years of experience conducting the Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing and in experience using severity scales for residues. Construct validity, inter-rater, and intra-rater reliability were assessed by kappa statistics. The original English scale was translated into European Portuguese using a forward–backward method for validation. The scale reliability was strong, with an elevated intra-rater internal consistency for vallecula (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.982) and pyriform sinus (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.922). Inter-rater reliability for raters was equally significant and high for vallecula (0.613 for first assessment and 0.604 for second assessment) and pyriform sinus (0.558 for first assessment and 0.509 for second assessment) or for raters with experience using Yale Pharyngeal Severity Rating Scale (vallecula with 0.832 for first assessment and 0.717 for second assessment and pyriform sinus with 0.856 for first assessment and 0.714 for second assessment).The European Portuguese version of the Yale Pharyngeal Severity Rating Scale is a valid, reliable instrument for scoring the location and severity of pharyngeal residue in the context of fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing.
Multiple arbitrarily inflated negative binomial regression model and its application
Authors: Abusaif Ihab , Kuş Coşkun
Published: July 2024

This paper introduces a novel modification of the negative binomial distribution, which serves as a generalization encompassing both negative binomial and zero-inflated negative binomial distributions. This innovative distribution offers flexibility by accommodating an arbitrary number of inflation points at various locations. The paper explores key distributional properties associated with this modified distribution. Additionally, this study proposes several estimators designed to obtain estimates for the unknown parameters. Furthermore, the paper introduces a new count regression model that utilizes the modified distribution. To assess the performance of the proposed distribution and the count regression model, a comprehensive Monte Carlo simulation study is conducted. In the final stage of the paper, a real-world dataset is scrutinized to ascertain the superiority of the proposed model. This empirical analysis contributes to validating the practical applicability and effectiveness of the newly introduced distribution in comparison to existing models.
A co-evolutionary algorithm with adaptive penalty function for constrained optimization
Authors: de Melo Vinícius Veloso , Nascimento Alexandre Moreira , Iacca Giovanni
Published: July 2024

Several constrained optimization problems have been adequately solved over the years thanks to the advances in the area of metaheuristics. Nevertheless, the question as to which search logic performs better on constrained optimization often arises. In this paper, we present Dual Search Optimization (DSO), a co-evolutionary algorithm that includes an adaptive penalty function to handle constrained problems. Compared to other self-adaptive metaheuristics, one of the main advantages of DSO is that it is able auto-construct its own perturbation logics, i.e., the ways solutions are modified to create new ones during the optimization process. This is accomplished by co-evolving the solutions (encoded as vectors of integer/real values) and perturbation strategies (encoded as Genetic Programming trees), in order to adapt the search to the problem. In addition to that, the adaptive penalty function allows the algorithm to handle constraints very effectively, yet with a minor additional algorithmic overhead. We compare DSO with several algorithms from the state-of-the-art on two sets of problems, namely: (1) seven well-known constrained engineering design problems and (2) the CEC 2017 benchmark for constrained optimization. Our results show that DSO can achieve state-of-the-art performances, being capable to automatically adjust its behavior to the problem at hand.
Effects of luseogliflozin on suspected MASLD in patients with diabetes: a pooled meta-analysis of phase III clinical trials
Authors: Kawaguchi Takumi , Murotani Kenta , Kajiyama Hiromitsu , Obara Hitoshi , Yamaguchi Hironori , Toyofuku Yuko , Kaneko Fumi , Seino Yutaka , Uchida Saeko
Published: July 2024

Background

Luseogliflozin, a sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, potentially exerts pleiotropic effects on the liver. However, the sufficient evidence is still lacking. We aimed to investigate the effects of luseogliflozin on hepatic steatosis, fibrosis, and cardiometabolic risk factors in diabetic patients by a pooled meta-analysis.

Methods

In this pooled meta-analysis, we enrolled diabetic patients who participated in phase III clinical trials of luseogliflozin (luseogliflozin group n = 302, placebo group n = 191). The primary outcomes were changes in fatty liver index (FLI) and Hepamet fibrosis score (HFS) after 24 weeks. The secondary outcomes were changes in cardiometabolic risk factors after 24 weeks. Statistical analysis was performed using propensity scoring analysis by the inverse probability of treatment weighting method.

Results

Primary outcomes: Luseogliflozin significantly decreased FLI compared to placebo after 24 weeks (adjusted coefficient − 5.423, 95%CI − 8.760 to − 2.086, P = 0.0016). There was no significant difference in changes in HFS between the two groups. However, luseogliflozin significantly decreased HFS compared to placebo in diabetic patients with ALT > 30 U/L (adjusted coefficient − 0.039, 95%CI − 0.077 to − 0.001, P = 0.0438) and with FIB-4 index > 1.3 (adjusted coefficient − 0.0453, 95%CI − 0.075 to − 0.016, P = 0.0026). Secondary outcom8es: Luseogliflozin significantly decreased HbA1c level, HOMA-IR value, BMI, and uric acids level, and increased HDL cholesterol level compared to placebo.

Conclusions

This pooled meta-analysis demonstrated that 24-week treatment with luseogliflozin improved hepatic steatosis and fibrosis indexes in diabetic patients, especially those with liver injury. Furthermore, luseogliflozin improved various cardiometabolic risk factors. Thus, luseogliflozin may be useful for improving MASLD in diabetic patients.

Graphical abstract
Profile of plasma microRNAs as a potential biomarker of Wilson’s disease
Authors: Sánchez-Monteagudo Ana , Ripollés Edna , Murillo Oihana , Domènech Sofia , Álvarez-Sauco María , Girona Eva , Sastre-Bataller Isabel , Bono Ariadna , García-Villarreal Luis , Tugores Antonio , García-García Francisco , González-Aseguinolaza Gloria , Berenguer Marina , Espinós Carmen
Published: July 2024

Background

Wilson’s disease (WD) is a rare condition resulting from autosomal recessive mutations in ATP7B, a copper transporter, manifesting with hepatic, neurological, and psychiatric symptoms. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment yield a positive prognosis, while delayed identification and/or insufficient therapy lead to a poor outcome. Our aim was to establish a prognostic method for WD by characterising biomarkers based on circulating microRNAs.

Methods

We conducted investigations across three cohorts: discovery, validation (comprising unrelated patients), and follow-up (revisiting the discovery cohort 3 years later). All groups were compared to age- and gender-matched controls. Plasma microRNAs were analysed via RNA sequencing in the discovery cohort and subsequently validated using quantitative PCR in all three cohorts. To assess disease progression, we examined the microRNA profile in Atp7b−/− mice, analysing serum samples from 6 to 44 weeks of age and liver samples at three time points: 20, 30, and 40 weeks of age.

Results

In patients, elevated levels of the signature microRNAs (miR-122-5p, miR-192-5p, and miR-885-5p) correlated with serum activities of aspartate transaminase, alanine aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyl transferase. In Atp7b−/− mice, levels of miR-122-5p and miR-192-5p (miR-885-5p lacking a murine orthologue) increased from 12 weeks of age in serum, while exhibiting fluctuations in the liver, possibly attributable to hepatocyte regenerative capacity post-injury and the release of hepatic microRNAs into the bloodstream.

Conclusions

The upregulation of the signature miR-122-5p, miR-192-5p, and miR-885-5p in patients and their correlation with liver disease progression in WD mice support their potential as biomarkers of WD.
Towards fully automated processing and analysis of construction diagrams: AI-powered symbol detection
Authors: Jamieson Laura , Moreno-Garcia Carlos Francisco , Elyan Eyad
Published: July 2024

Construction drawings are frequently stored in undigitised formats and consequently, their analysis requires substantial manual effort. This is true for many crucial tasks, including material takeoff where the purpose is to obtain a list of the equipment and respective amounts required for a project. Engineering drawing digitisation has recently attracted increased attention, however construction drawings have received considerably less interest compared to other types. To address these issues, this paper presents a novel framework for the automatic processing of construction drawings. Extensive experiments were performed using two state-of-the-art deep learning models for object detection in challenging high-resolution drawings sourced from industry. The results show a significant reduction in the time required for drawing analysis. Promising performance was achieved for symbol detection across various classes, with a mean average precision of 79% for the YOLO-based method and 83% for the Faster R-CNN-based method. This framework enables the digital transformation of construction drawings, improving tasks such as material takeoff and many others.
Association between physical activity and the prevalence of gout among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hyperuricemia: a two-center population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Cai Ningyu , Chen Mengdie , Wu Lijing , Feng Ping , Ye Xun , Liu Qiao , Zhu Xianping , Lu Chaoyin , Zheng Qidong , Wang Yiyun
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and gout cohabitation severely reduces patient life quality while raising financial burden on individual and society. The aim of this study was to elucidate the association between physical activity (PA) and the prevalence of gout among type 2 DM (T2DM) and hyperuricemia (HUA) patients.

Methods

In all, we recruited 2291 T2DM patients with HUA. Among them, 448 had gout and 1843 did not. We collected patient data, such as anthropometry, laboratory reports, and medical history, for our analyses. The PA assessment was based on the Chinese version of International PA Questionnaire-short (IPAQ). Moreover, the relationship between PA and gout risk was examined using multivariate logistic regression models.

Results

Total PA was markedly low among gout patients, relative to controls (p < 0.05). Based on the IPAQ categorical score, 38.2% exhibited “low,” 26.8% “moderate,” and 35.0% “high” PA among gout patients. In comparison, 12.4% performed “low,” 53.8% “moderate,” and 33.8% “high” PA among controls. Multivariate analysis revealed that, after adjustment of confounding factors, both low (OR 6.382) and high PA (OR 2.048) had a higher prevalence of gout, as compared to moderate PA. Moreover, we revealed that the male sex, age, HUA duration, serum uric acid, glycated hemoglobin, dyslipidemia history, and drinking status were also independent indicators of the prevalence of gout. Furthermore, stratification analyses revealed results consistent with our prior results.

Conclusions

PA intensity was associated with the prevalence of gout among T2DM and HUA patients, and the lowest prevalence was achieved from moderate intensity PA.

Key Points

• PA intensity was associated with the prevalence of gout among T2DM and HUA patients.

• The lowest prevalence of gout was achieved from moderate intensity PA.
Do sheep (Ovis aries) discriminate human emotional odors?
Authors: Larrigaldie Izïa , Damon Fabrice , Mousqué Solène , Patris Bruno , Lansade Léa , Schaal Benoist , Destrez Alexandra
Published: July 2024

While sheep can detect and discriminate human emotions through visual and vocal cues, their reaction to human body odors remains unknown. The present study aimed to determine whether sheep (Ovis aries) can detect human odors, olfactorily discriminate stressed from non-stressed individuals, and behave accordingly based on the emotional valence of the odors. Axillary secretions from 34 students were collected following an oral examination (stress odor) or a regular class (non-stress odor). Fourteen female and 15 male lambs were then exposed to these odors through a habituation-dishabituation procedure. The habituation stimulus was presented four times for one minute, followed by the dishabituation stimulus presented once for one minute. Behavioral variables included spatiality relative to target odors, approach/withdrawal, ear positioning, sniffing, ingestion, and vocalization. Both female and male lambs more often positioned their ears backwards/forwards, and asymmetrically when exposed to the dishabituation stimulus, but regardless of their stress or non-stress value. They also changed their approach behavior when exposed to the dishabituation stimuli. Lambs displayed some behavioral signs of discrimination between the habituation and dishabituation odors, but regardless of their relation to stress or non-stress of human donors. In sum, this exploratory study suggests that young sheep respond negatively to the odor of unfamiliar humans, without showing any specific emotional contagion related to the stress odor. This exploratory study suggests young ovines can detect human body odor, a further step toward understanding the human-sheep relationship.
On-Field Evaluation of Mouthpiece-and-Helmet-Mounted Sensor Data from Head Kinematics in Football
Authors: Holcomb Ty D. , Marks Madison E. , Pritchard N. Stewart , Miller Logan E. , Rowson Steve , Bullock Garrett S. , Urban Jillian E. , Stitzel Joel D.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Wearable sensors are used to measure head impact exposure in sports. The Head Impact Telemetry (HIT) System is a helmet-mounted system that has been commonly utilized to measure head impacts in American football. Advancements in sensor technology have fueled the development of alternative sensor methods such as instrumented mouthguards. The objective of this study was to compare peak magnitude measured from high school football athletes dually instrumented with the HIT System and a mouthpiece-based sensor system.

Methods

Data was collected at all contact practices and competitions over a single season of spring football. Recorded events were observed and identified on video and paired using event timestamps. Paired events were further stratified by removing mouthpiece events with peak resultant linear acceleration below 10 g and events with contact to the facemask or body of athletes.

Results

A total of 133 paired events were analyzed in the results. There was a median difference (mouthpiece subtracted from HIT System) in peak resultant linear and rotational acceleration for concurrently measured events of 7.3 g and 189 rad/s2. Greater magnitude events resulted in larger kinematic differences between sensors and a Bland Altman analysis found a mean bias of 8.8 g and 104 rad/s2, respectively.

Conclusion

If the mouthpiece-based sensor is considered close to truth, the results of this study are consistent with previous HIT System validation studies indicating low error on average but high scatter across individual events. Future researchers should be mindful of sensor limitations when comparing results collected using varying sensor technologies.
Locally Coherent Exact Categories
Authors: Positselski Leonid
Published: July 2024

A locally coherent exact category is a finitely accessible additive category endowed with an exact structure in which the admissible short exact sequences are the directed colimits of admissible short exact sequences of finitely presentable objects. We show that any exact structure on a small idempotent-complete additive category extends uniquely to a locally coherent exact structure on the category of ind-objects; in particular, any finitely accessible category has the unique maximal and the unique minimal locally coherent exact category structures. All locally coherent exact categories are of Grothendieck type in the sense of Št’ovíček. We also discuss the canonical embedding of a small exact category into the abelian category of additive sheaves in connection with the locally coherent exact structure on the ind-objects, and deduce two periodicity theorems as applications.
Outcomes of community-led urban rat control on avifauna
Authors: Gerolemou Rosie V. , Russell James C. , Stanley Margaret C.
Published: July 2024

Cities are increasingly recognised as important sites for biodiversity and essential for improving human-nature connections. However, urban areas are also hotspots for rats, which negatively impact biodiversity due to competition and depredation. Urban residents may undertake rat control on their properties, but the effectiveness of such volunteer initiatives for broader biodiversity outcomes has not been tested in urban environments. We conducted a comprehensive study inclusive of rat abundance, adult bird diversity, and bird breeding success. We monitored rat (Norway rat Rattus norvegicus; ship rat Rattus rattus) presence and modelled detection probabilities and occupancy in suburban residential backyards in Auckland, New Zealand. We also compared bird abundance and richness among backyards and recorded 140 nesting attempts from 15 bird species between September 2021 and February 2022. Despite rat control, rats were detected at some point in all backyards, though relative abundance was low, and fewer rats were detected in backyards with more frequent rat control. Higher bird abundance, and to a lesser extent richness, were associated with proximity to native vegetation patches and more frequent rat control. Overall fledging success was relatively high and predation by rats was relatively low compared to previous research. Nest survival was slightly higher for introduced bird species. Daily nest survival rate increased with nest height, proximity to native vegetation patches, and when rat detection rates decreased. Although the effect was small, frequent rat control within a backyard was associated with increased fledging success and increased bird species richness and abundance. Further research is required to explore the factors that interact with backyard rat control to improve local outcomes for birds. High levels of community participation in backyard rat control are required to improve neighbourhood-wide outcomes for birds.
Parallelly Sliced Optimal Transport on Spheres and on the Rotation Group
Authors: Quellmalz Michael , Buecher Léo , Steidl Gabriele
Published: July 2024

Sliced optimal transport, which is basically a Radon transform followed by one-dimensional optimal transport, became popular in various applications due to its efficient computation. In this paper, we deal with sliced optimal transport on the sphere $$\mathbb {S}^{d-1}$$

S

d
-
1

and on the rotation group $$\textrm{SO}(3)$$

SO
(
3
)

. We propose a parallel slicing procedure of the sphere which requires again only optimal transforms on the line. We analyze the properties of the corresponding parallelly sliced optimal transport, which provides in particular a rotationally invariant metric on the spherical probability measures. For $$\textrm{SO}(3)$$

SO
(
3
)

, we introduce a new two-dimensional Radon transform and develop its singular value decomposition. Based on this, we propose a sliced optimal transport on $$\textrm{SO}(3)$$

SO
(
3
)

. As Wasserstein distances were extensively used in barycenter computations, we derive algorithms to compute the barycenters with respect to our new sliced Wasserstein distances and provide synthetic numerical examples on the 2-sphere that demonstrate their behavior for both the free- and fixed-support setting of discrete spherical measures. In terms of computational speed, they outperform the existing methods for semicircular slicing as well as the regularized Wasserstein barycenters.
Raw clay material-based modified carbon paste electrodes for sensitive heavy metal detection in drinking water
Authors: Sanou Ali , Coulibaly Mariame , N’dri Seiny Roger , Tămaș Tudor Liviu , Bizo Liliana , Frentiu Tiberiu , Covaci Eniko , Abro Koutouan Désiré Martial , Dablé Pierre Jean-Marie Richard , Yao Kouassi Benjamin , Fort Carmen Ioana , Turdean Graziella Liana
Published: July 2024

A new electrode based on carbon paste (CP) modified with natural clay was used for heavy metals detection. The investigation of the raw clay material (X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, thermal analysis and particle size distribution) revealed different morpho-structural properties of the natural material. The electrochemical behaviour of the modified carbon paste electrode and its ability to detect heavy metals (Zn2+, Cd2+, and Cu2+) was studied by different electrochemical techniques like cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV). Both electrochemical and analytical parameters of the investigated modified electrode recommend them as stable, sensitive and reproducible sensors for individual heavy metals detection.