bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constraining Lorentz invariance violation with next-generation long-baseline experiments
Authors: Agarwalla Sanjib Kumar , Das Sudipta , Sahoo Sadashiv , Swain Pragyanprasu
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Unified theories such as string theory and loop quantum gravity allow the Lorentz Invariance Violation (LIV) at the Planck Scale (MP~ 1019GeV). Using an effective field theory, this effect can be observed at low energies in terms of new interactions with a strength of ~ 1/MP. These new interactions contain operators with LIV coefficients which can be CPT-violating or CPT-conserving. In this work, we study in detail how these LIV parameters modify the transition probabilities in the next-generation long-baseline experiments, DUNE and Hyper-K. We evaluate the sensitivities of these experiments in isolation and combination to constrain the off-diagonal CPT-violating (aeμ,aeτ,aμτ) and CPT-conserving (ceμ,ceτ,cμτ) LIV parameters. We derive approximate compact analytical expressions of appearance (νμ→νe) and disappearance (νμ→νμ) probabilities in the presence of these LIV parameters to explain our numerical results. We explore the possible correlations and degeneracies between these LIV parameters and the most uncertain 3νoscillation parameters, namely,θ23andδCP. We find that for non-maximal values ofθ23(θ23≠ 45°), there exist degenerate solutions in its opposite octant for standalone DUNE and Hyper-K. These degeneracies disappear when we combine the data from DUNE and Hyper-K. In case of no-show, we place the expected upper bounds on these CPT-violating and CPT-conserving LIV parameters at 95% C.L. using the standalone DUNE, Hyper-K, and their combination. We observe that due to its access to a longer baseline and multi-GeV neutrinos, DUNE has a better reach in probing all these LIV parameters as compared to Hyper-K. Since the terms containing the CPT-conserving LIV parameters are proportional to neutrino energy in oscillation probabilities, Hyper-K is almost insensitive to the CPT-conserving LIV parameters because it mostly deals with sub-GeV neutrinos.
Localization on AdS3 × S2. Part I. The 4d/5d connection in off-shell Euclidean supergravity
Authors: Ciceri Axel , Jeon Imtak , Murthy Sameer
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We begin to develop the formalism of localization for the functional integral of supergravity on AdS3× S2. We show how the condition of supersymmetry in the Euclidean ℍ3/ℤ × S2 geometry naturally leads to a twist of the S2 around the time direction of AdS3. The twist gives us a five-dimensional Euclidean supergravity background dual to the elliptic genus of (0, 4) SCFT2 at the semiclassical level. On this background we set up the off-shell BPS equations for one of the Killing spinors, such that the functional integral of five-dimensional Euclidean supergravity on ℍ3/ℤ × S2 localizes to its space of solutions. We obtain a class of solutions to these equations by lifting known off-shell BPS solutions of 4-dimensional supergravity on AdS2× S2. In order to do this consistently, we construct and use a Euclidean version of the off-shell 4d/5d lift of arXiv:1112.5371, which could be of independent interest.
Holographic 3d $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 1 conformal manifolds
Authors: Bobev Nikolay , Gautason Friðrik Freyr , van Muiden Jesse
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We construct and study several examples of continuous families of AdS4$$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 solutions of four-dimensional maximal gauged supergravity. These backgrounds provide the holographic descriptions of conformal manifolds of the dual 3d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 SCFTs. The solutions we study can be uplifted to type IIB supergravity where they arise from D3-branes wrapping an S1 with an S-duality twist. We find the spectrum of low lying operators in the 3d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 SCFTs as a function of the exactly marginal coupling and discuss the structure of the corresponding superconformal multiplets. Using string theory techniques we also study additional examples of continuous families of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 AdS4 vacua in type IIB and massive type IIA supergravity.
Phenomenology of the simplest linear seesaw mechanism
Authors: Batra Aditya , Bharadwaj Praveen , Mandal Sanjoy , Srivastava Rahul , Valle José W. F.
Published: July 2023

Abstract

The linear seesaw mechanism provides a simple way to generate neutrino masses. In addition to Standard Model particles, it includes quasi-Dirac leptons as neutrino mass mediators, and a leptophilic scalar doublet seeding small neutrino masses. Here we review its associated physics, including restrictions from theory and phenomenology. The model yields potentially detectable μ → eγ rates as well as distinctive signatures in the production and decay of heavy neutrinos (Ni) and the charged Higgs boson (H±) arising from the second scalar doublet. We have found that production processes such as e+e−→ NN, e−γ → NH− and e+e−→ H+H− followed by the decay chain $$ {H}^{\pm}\to {\ell}_i^{\pm }N $$

H
±

→

ℓ
i
±

N
, $$ N\to {\ell}_j^{\pm }{W}^{\mp } $$
N
→

ℓ
j
±

W
∓

leads to striking lepton number violation signatures at high energies which may probe the Majorana nature of neutrinos.
Scalar Love numbers and Love symmetries of 5-dimensional Myers-Perry black holes
Authors: Charalambous Panagiotis , Ivanov Mikhail M.
Published: July 2023

Abstract

The near-zone “Love” symmetry resolves the naturalness issue of black hole Love number vanishing with SL (2, ℝ) representation theory. Here, we generalize this proposal to 5-dimensional asymptotically flat and doubly spinning (Myers-Perry) black holes. We consider the scalar response of Myers-Perry black holes and extract its static scalar Love numbers. In agreement with the naturalness arguments, these Love numbers are, in general, non-zero and exhibit logarithmic running unless certain resonant conditions are met; these conditions include new cases with no previously known analogs. We show that there exist two near-zone truncations of the equations of motion that exhibit enhanced SL (2, ℝ) Love symmetries that explain the vanishing of the static scalar Love numbers in the resonant cases. These Love symmetries can be interpreted as local SL (2, ℝ) SL (2, ℝ) near-zone symmetries spontaneously broken down to global SL (2, ℝ) × U (1) symmetries by the periodic identification of the azimuthal angles. We also discover an infinite-dimensional extension of the Love symmetry into SL (2, ℝ) $$ \ltimes \hat{U}{(1)}_{\mathcal{V}}^2 $$
⋉

U
̂

1

V
2

that contains both Love symmetries as particular subalgebras, along with a family of SL (2, ℝ) subalgebras that reduce to the exact near-horizon Myers-Perry black hole isometries in the extremal limit. Finally, we show that the Love symmetries acquire a geometric interpretation as isometries of subtracted (effective) black hole geometries that preserve the internal structure of the black hole and interpret these non-extremal SL (2, ℝ) structures as remnants of the enhanced isometry of the near-horizon extremal geometries.
Complexity=anything: singularity probes
Authors: Jørstad Eivind , Myers Robert C. , Ruan Shan-Ming
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We investigate how the complexity=anything observables proposed by [1, 2] can be used to investigate the interior geometry of AdS black holes. In particular, we illustrate how the flexibility of the complexity=anything approach allows us to systematically probe the geometric properties of black hole singularities. We contrast our results for the AdS Schwarzschild and AdS Reissner-Nordström geometries, i.e., for uncharged and charged black holes, respectively. In the latter case, the holographic complexity observables can only probe the interior up to the inner horizon.
The Variational Problem and Background Field in the Renormalization Group Method for Nonlinear Sigma Models
Authors: Goswami Abhishek
Published: July 2023

We study the variational problem as described by Balaban in his renormalization group method for Yang–Mills theories in $$d = 3, 4$$

d
=
3
,
4

and adapt it to a class of nonlinear sigma models in $$d=2$$

d
=
2

. The result of the variational problem is a minimal configuration, which can serve as a classical background field in the renormalization group analysis.
First revision ACL reconstruction combined with tibial deflexion osteotomy improves clinical scores at 2 to 7 years follow‐up
Authors: Dejour David , Rozinthe Anouk , Demey Guillaume ,   ReSurg, van Rooij Floris , Saffarini Mo
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To report outcomes of first revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with tibial deflexion osteotomy (TDO) in patients with posterior tibial slope (PTS) >10° at >2 years.

Methods

The authors studied outcomes of a consecutive series of 16 patients that underwent first revision ACLR with TDO, including Lysholm score, IKDC subjective and objective scores, Lachman test, PTS, and signs of osteoarthritis. One woman was excluded because of early signs of knee arthritis, as the first revision ACLR took place 27 years following the primary ACLR. This left a final cohort of 15 patients assessed at minimum follow‐up of 2 years.

Results

The final cohort comprised 14 men and 1 woman aged 25.3 ± 6.6 years (range 16–39) at first revision ACLR. At final follow‐up of 4.4 ± 1.5 years (range, 2–7), PTS was corrected from 12.5 ± 1.8° (range 8–15°) to 1.9 ± 3.6° (range – 4 to 8°), and none of the knees had radiographic signs of osteoarthritis. Lysholm score was 83.8±12.5, IKDC subjective score was 80.3±16.2, and IKDC objective score was A in 5 (33%), and B in 10 (67%). The net improvement exceeded the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in 93% of patients for the IKDC subjective score and in 80% of patients for the Lysholm score. None of the knees had any retears, and only one required a reoperation to re‐suture a medial meniscal tear due to trauma.

Conclusion

At 2‐7 years following revision ACLR combined with TDO, net improvement exceeded the MCID in 93% of patients for IKDC subjective score and in 80% of patients for Lysholm score, with no retears or major complications. These results suggest that TDO is a safe technique to protect the ACL graft and might be considered as of first revision ACLR to correct excessive PTS.

Level of evidence

Level IV
Variability of [18F]FDG-PET/LDCT reporting in vascular graft and endograft infection
Authors: Liesker David J. , Legtenberg Stijn , Erba Paola A. , Glaudemans Andor W. J. M. , Zeebregts Clark J. , De Vries Jean-Paul P. M. , Chakfé Nabil , Saleem Ben R. , Slart Riemer H. J. A.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

18F-fluoro-D-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography with low dose and/or contrast enhanced computed tomography ([18F]FDG-PET/CT) scan reveals high sensitivity for the diagnosis of vascular graft and endograft infection (VGEI), but lower specificity. Reporting [18F]FDG-PET/CT scans of suspected VGEI is challenging, reader dependent, and reporting standards are lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate variability of [18F]FDG-PET/low dose CT (LDCT) reporting of suspected VGEI using a proposed standard reporting format.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted including all patients with a suspected VGEI (according to the MAGIC criteria) without need for urgent surgical treatment who underwent an additional [18F]FDG-PET/LDCT scan between 2006 and 2022 at a tertiary referral centre. All [18F]FDG-PET/LDCT reports were scored following pre-selected criteria that were formulated based on literature and experts in the field. The aim was to investigate the completeness of [18F]FDG-PET/LDCT reports for diagnosing VGEI (proven according to the MAGIC criteria) and to evaluate if incompleteness of reports influenced the diagnostic accuracy.

Results

Hundred-fifty-two patients were included. Median diagnostic interval from the index vascular surgical procedure until [18F]FDG-PET/LDCT scan was 35.5 (7.3–73.3) months. Grafts were in 65.1% located centrally and 34.9% peripherally. Based on the pre-selected reporting criteria, 45.7% of the reports included all items. The least frequently assessed criterion was FDG-uptake pattern (40.6%). Overall, [18F]FDG-PET/LDCT showed a sensitivity of 91%, a specificity of 72%, and an accuracy of 88% when compared to the gold standard (diagnosed VGEI). Lower sensitivity and specificity in reports including ≤ 8 criteria compared to completely evaluated reports were found (83% and 50% vs. 92% and 77%, respectively).

Conclusion

Less than half of the [18F]FDG-PET/LDCT reports of suspected VGEI met all pre-selected criteria. Incompleteness of reports led to lower sensitivity and specificity. Implementing a recommendation with specific criteria for VGEI reporting is needed in the VGEI-guideline update. This study provides a first recommendation for a concise and complete [18F]FDG-PET/LDCT report in patients with suspected VGEI.
Changing to Impress: Testing a Mediation Model from Instagram Self-presentation to Cosmetic Surgery
Authors: Galeotti Tommaso , Marino Claudia , Canale Natale , Scacchi Luca , Vieno Alessio
Published: July 2023

Background

This study examined the relationship between false self-presentation on Instagram and consideration of cosmetic surgery through the mediating role of body image control in photos (BICP), photo manipulation, and body shame. We predicted that false self-presentation on Instagram was indirectly associated with cosmetic surgery intentions through the aforementioned constructs.

Methods

A total of 504 young Italian adults (28.2% males, 18–30 years) completed an online survey. They completed a questionnaire containing the Self-presentation on Instagram Questionnaire, the Body Image Control in Photos Questionnaire—revised, the Photo Manipulation Scale, the Objectified Body Consciousness Scale, and the Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale. The pattern of associations between the constructs was analyzed via path analysis.

Results

The results show that false self-presentation on Instagram was associated with photo manipulation, both directly and indirectly, through BICP. Furthermore, photo manipulation was linked to body shame, but neither of them was associated with cosmetic surgery intentions. Finally, false self-presentation on Instagram was associated with the consideration of cosmetic surgery only through the mediation of BICP.

Conclusion

Findings indicate that self-presentation styles might affect Instagram photo behaviors and individuals’ cosmetic surgery intentions, suggesting that surgeons should fully examine patients’ motivations before providing them with services. Furthermore, intervention programs encouraging users to present a more authentic version of themselves online might reduce the risk of self-objectification and reduce the consideration of procedures aimed at modifying one's body for purely aesthetic reasons.

Level of Evidence V

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
New Insights on the Importance of the Extent of Vascular Invasion in Widely Invasive Follicular Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Yamazaki Haruhiko , Sugino Kiminori , Katoh Ryohei , Matsuzu Kenichi , Kitagawa Wataru , Nagahama Mitsuji , Rino Yasushi , Ito Koichi
Published: July 2023

Background

This study aimed to investigate the association between the extent of vascular invasion (VI) and the outcome of widely invasive follicular thyroid carcinoma (WI‐FTC).

Methods

The records of 107 patients with WI‐FTC confirmed by surgical specimens from January 2005 to December 2016 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Among the 107 patients with WI‐FTC, those with a VI of < 4 (n = 62) and ≥ 4 (n = 45) had a 10 year cause‐specific survival (CSS) rate of 97.7% and 89.4% (p = 0.008), respectively. Univariate analysis identified M1 (p = 0.001), and the number of VI of ≥ 4 as significant negative prognostic factors for CSS. Multivariate analysis identified M1 (hazard ratio [HR] = 9.366) as independent negative prognostic factor for CSS. Among the 72 patients with M0 WI‐FTC, those with a VI of < 2 (n = 33) and ≥ 2 (n = 39) had a 10‐year distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS) rate of 96.8% and 56.8% (p = 0.001), respectively. Univariate analysis identified age ≥ 55 years (p = 0.011), presence of VI, the number of VI of ≥ 2, and resection margin status (p < 0.001) as significant negative prognostic factors for DMFS. Multivariate analysis identified the number of VI ≥ 2 (HR = 9.137), and resection margin status (HR = 5.853) as independent negative prognostic factors for DMFS.

Conclusions

It may be unnecessary that WI‐FTC with curative resection margin status and a VI of < 2, especially in capsular invasion only, routinely undergo completion thyroidectomy and postoperative ablation.
Evaluation of Colonoscopic Results of Patients with Incidental Colonic FDG Uptake in PET/CT Imaging
Authors: Esmer Ahmet Cem , Öksüzoğlu Kevser , Şen Feyza , Yazıcı Hilmi , Tazeoğlu Deniz , Ergelen Rabia , Öneş Tunç , Yeğen Şevket Cumhur
Published: July 2023

Background

Colorectal cancer is a significant global health concern, ranking as the second most deadly and third most common cancer worldwide. Early detection and removal of precancerous lesions play a crucial role in preventing cancer development and reducing mortality. Since FDG uptake is not specific for malignancy, incidental increased FDG uptake in the gastrointestinal tract may be challenging to interpret and may require further colonoscopic examination. This study aimed to investigate the features associated with malignant and premalignant pathology in patients with incidental colonic FDG uptake and determine the necessity of colonoscopy for each FDG uptake.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was performed on data from patients who underwent colonoscopies between January 2016 and December 2021. Patients with FDG uptake in known colorectal malignancy regions were excluded. The study included 56 patients with incidental colonic FDG uptake. PET/CT images were visually and quantitatively analyzed, and the corresponding colonoscopy and histopathological results were recorded. Statistical analyses were conducted to evaluate the relationship between FDG uptake patterns, SUVmax values, and histopathological diagnoses. Colonoscopic findings were categorized as malignancy, polyps, and non‐neoplastic lesions.

Results

Among the 56 patients with incidental colonic FDG uptake, 36 lesions were identified, and histopathology revealed malignancy in 10 (17.9%) patients and premalignant polyps in the 26 (46.4%) cases. Focal FDG uptake with corresponding wall thickening or soft tissue density on CT was associated with a higher likelihood of premalignant or malignant lesions. The SUVmax values demonstrated a significant difference between negative findings and polyps/malignancies. However, no significant difference was observed between malignant and premalignant lesions. A ROC curve analysis was made and assesed a cut‐off value of 11.1 SUVmax (sensitivity: 83.3% and specificity: 90%) to distinguish premalignant or malignant lesions from non‐malignant lesions.

Conclusion

Incidental colonic FDG uptake with a focal pattern and corresponding CT findings were more likely to indicate premalignant or malignant lesions. SUVmax values were helpful in predicting the presence of pathological findings, but histopathological verification remains necessary for a definitive diagnosis. These findings contribute to our understanding of the clinical implications of incidental colonic FDG uptake and highlight the importance of follow‐up colonoscopy for further evaluation.
Advances in essential oils encapsulation: development, characterization and release mechanisms
Authors: Yammine Jina , Chihib Nour-Eddine , Gharsallaoui Adem , Ismail Ali , Karam Layal
Published: July 2023

Recent developments in micro and nanoencapsulation are promising tools to encounter the different limitations of essential oil formulations, enhance their functionalities, and protect them from the external environmental conditions. This review addresses the current studies and progresses related to the development of encapsulated essential oils using different systems and carrier material types. It also focuses on the formation methods used with the subsequent physicochemical characterization of the developed particles. Moreover, this review considers the factors affecting the release of essential oils with the different physicochemical release models. The choice of the appropriate formation method as well as the carrier material types and system forms were shown to highly depend on the intended purpose of the encapsulated essential oil formulation. Micro and nanoencapsulation are used to control essential oils’ release properties, enhance the various characteristics of essential oils, and allow to expand applications in different fields. This review provides the optimal conditions for micro and nanoencapsulation of essential oil formulations based on the intended end uses.
Clinical use of artificial intelligence products for radiology in the Netherlands between 2020 and 2022
Authors: van Leeuwen Kicky G. , de Rooij Maarten , Schalekamp Steven , van Ginneken Bram , Rutten Matthieu J. C. M.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To map the clinical use of CE-marked artificial intelligence (AI)–based software in radiology departments in the Netherlands (n = 69) between 2020 and 2022.

Materials and methods

Our AI network (one radiologist or AI representative per Dutch hospital organization) received a questionnaire each spring from 2020 to 2022 about AI product usage, financing, and obstacles to adoption. Products that were not listed on www.AIforRadiology.com by July 2022 were excluded from the analysis.

Results

The number of respondents was 43 in 2020, 36 in 2021, and 33 in 2022. The number of departments using AI has been growing steadily (2020: 14, 2021: 19, 2022: 23). The diversity (2020: 7, 2021: 18, 2022: 34) and the number of total implementations (2020: 19, 2021: 38, 2022: 68) has rapidly increased. Seven implementations were discontinued in 2022. Four hospital organizations said to use an AI platform or marketplace for the deployment of AI solutions. AI is mostly used to support chest CT (17), neuro CT (17), and musculoskeletal radiograph (12) analysis. The budget for AI was reserved in 13 of the responding centers in both 2021 and 2022. The most important obstacles to the adoption of AI remained costs and IT integration. Of the respondents, 28% stated that the implemented AI products realized health improvement and 32% assumed both health improvement and cost savings.

Conclusion

The adoption of AI products in radiology departments in the Netherlands is showing common signs of a developing market. The major obstacles to reaching widespread adoption are a lack of financial resources and IT integration difficulties.

Clinical relevance statement

The clinical impact of AI starts with its adoption in daily clinical practice. Increased transparency around AI products being adopted, implementation obstacles, and impact may inspire increased collaboration and improved decision-making around the implementation and financing of AI products.

Key Points

• The adoption of artificial intelligence products for radiology has steadily increased since 2020 to at least a third of the centers using AI in clinical practice in the Netherlands in 2022.

• The main areas in which artificial intelligence products are used are lung nodule detection on CT, aided stroke diagnosis, and bone age prediction.

• The majority of respondents experienced added value (decreased costs and/or improved outcomes) from using artificial intelligence–based software; however, major obstacles to adoption remain the costs and IT-related difficulties.
Safety and efficiency of repeat salvage lymph node dissection for recurrence of prostate cancer using PSMA-radioguided surgery (RGS) after prior salvage lymph node dissection with or without initial RGS support
Authors: Falkenbach Fabian , Knipper Sophie , Koehler Daniel , Ambrosini Francesca , Steuber Thomas , Graefen Markus , Budäus Lars , Eiber Matthias , Lunger Lukas , Lischewski Flemming , Heck Matthias M. , Maurer Tobias
Published: July 2023

Background and objective

Metastasis-directed therapy is a feasible option for low PSA, recurrent locoregional metastatic prostate cancer. After initial salvage surgery, patients with good response might consider a repeat salvage surgery in case of recurrent, isolated, and PSMA-positive metastases. This analysis aimed to evaluate the oncological outcome and safety of repeat PSMA-targeted radioguided surgery (RGS) after either prior RGS or “standard” salvage lymph node dissection (SLND).

Materials and methods

We identified 37 patients undergoing repeat RGS after prior SLND (n = 21) (SLND-RGS) or prior RGS (n = 16) (RGS-RGS) between 2014 and 2021 after initial radical prostatectomy with or without pelvic radiation therapy at two German tertiary referral centers. Kaplan–Meier analyses and uni-/multivariable Cox regression models were used to investigate factors associated with biochemical recurrence-free survival (BRFS) and treatment-free survival (TFS) after repeat salvage surgery.

Results and limitations

Complete Biochemical Response (cBR, PSA < 0.2 ng/ml) was observed in 20/32 patients (5 NA). Median overall BRFS [95% confidence interval (CI)] after repeat salvage surgery was 10.8 months (mo) (5.3–22). On multivariable regression, only age (HR 1.09, 95% CI 1.01–1.17) and preoperative PSA (HR 1.23, 95% CI 1.01–1.50) were associated with shorter BRFS, although PSA (HR 1.16, 95% CI 0.99–1.36) did not achieve significant predictor status in univariable analysis before (p value = 0.07). Overall, one year after second salvage surgery, 89% of the patients (number at risk: 19) did not receive additional treatment and median TFS was not reached. Clavien–Dindo grade > 3a complications were observed in 8% (3/37 patients). Limitations are the retrospective evaluation, heterogeneous SLND procedures, lack of long-term follow-up data, and small cohort size.

Conclusion

In this study, repeat RGS was safe and provided clinically meaningful biochemical recurrence- and treatment-free intervals for selected cases. Patients having low preoperative PSA seemed to benefit most of repeat RGS, irrespective of prior SLND or RGS or the time from initial RP/first salvage surgery.
The impact of a uniform ocean warming on the West African monsoon
Authors: Mutton Harry , Chadwick Robin , Collins Matthew , Lambert F. Hugo , Taylor Christopher M. , Geen Ruth , Todd Alexander
Published: July 2023

Projections of West African Monsoon (WAM) precipitation are uncertain. To address this, an improved understanding of the mechanisms driving WAM precipitation change is needed to shed light on inter-model differences and aid model development. The full forcing of increased CO2 can be decomposed into different components such as the impact of ocean warming, or the direct radiative effect of increased CO2. This paper investigates such a decomposition, analysing the effect of a uniform 4K ocean warming whilst keeping atmospheric CO2 concentrations constant. The analysis highlights several mechanisms acting to decrease WAM precipitation over a range of timescales, from days after the abrupt ocean warming, to the long-term equilibrium response. The initial decrease in WAM precipitation is caused by warming and enhanced convection over the ocean, stabilising the atmosphere inland and disrupting the monsoon inflow at low levels. Later in the response (after about 5 days), the WAM precipitation is reduced through a strengthening of the shallow circulation over West Africa, associated with changes in the large-scale temperature gradients and a local warming of the atmosphere related to a soil moisture feedback mechanism over the Sahel. Finally, from around 20 days after the SST increase, the WAM precipitation is also reduced through changes in specific humidity gradients that lead to increased potency of dry air advection into the monsoon rainband. The analysis concludes by demonstrating that the processes affecting precipitation in the early stages of the response are also relevant to the long-term equilibrium response.
New-onset atrial fibrillation after percutaneous patent foramen ovale closure: a meta-analysis
Authors: Jurczyk Dominik , Macherey-Meyer Sascha , Rawish Elias , Stiermaier Thomas , Eitel Ingo , Frerker Christian , Schmidt Tobias
Published: July 2023

Background

The exact incidence and predictors of new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) after percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) are unknown.

Objective

We sought to find post-procedural AF incidence rates and differences due to different screening strategies and devices.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in Cochrane, MEDLINE and EMBASE. Controlled trials fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included into this meta-analysis. The incidence of new-onset AF was the primary outcome. Further parameters were surveillance strategy, device type, AF treatment and neurological events. New AF was determined as early onset within one month after implantation and late thereafter.

Results

8 controlled trials and 16 cohort studies were eligible for quantitative analysis. 7643 patients received percutaneous PFO closure after cryptogenic stroke or transient ischaemic attack, 117 with other indications, whereas 1792 patients formed the control group. Meta-analysis of controlled trials showed an AF incidence of 5.1% in the interventional and 1.6% in the conservative arm, respectively (OR 3.17, 95% CI 1.46–6.86, P = 0.03, I2 = 55%). 4.7% received high-quality surveillance strategy with Holter-ECG or Loop recorder whereby AF incidence was overall higher compared to the low-quality group with 12-lead ECG only (3.3–15% vs. 0.2–4.3%). Heterogeneous results on time of AF onset were found, limited by different follow-up strategies. CardioSEAL and Starflex seemed to have higher AF incidences in early and late onset with 4.5% and 4.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

Percutaneous PFO closure led to higher AF post-procedural incidence compared to the conservative strategy. Heterogeneity in surveillance and follow-up strategy limited the generalizability.

Trial Registration

Registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022359945).

Graphical abstract
Pediatric de novo movement disorders and ataxia in the context of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Wilpert Nina-Maria , de Almeida Marcelino Ana Luísa , Knierim Ellen , Incoronato Pasquale , Sanchez-Sendin Elisa , Staudacher Olga , Drenckhahn Anne , Bittigau Petra , Kreye Jakob , Prüss Harald , Schuelke Markus , Kühn Andrea A. , Kaindl Angela M. , Nikolaus Marc
Published: July 2023

Objective

In the fourth year of the COVID-19 pandemic, mortality rates decreased, but the risk of neuropsychiatric disorders remained the same, with a prevalence of 3.8% of pediatric cases, including movement disorders (MD) and ataxia.

Methods

In this study, we report on a 10-year-old girl with hemichorea after SARS-CoV-2 infection and immunostained murine brain with patient CSF to identify intrathecal antibodies. Additionally, we conducted a scoping review of children with MD and ataxia after SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Results

We detected antibodies in the patient's CSF binding unknown antigens in murine basal ganglia. The child received immunosuppression and recovered completely. In a scoping review, we identified further 32 children with de novo MD or ataxia after COVID-19. While in a minority of cases, MD or ataxia were a symptom of known clinical entities (e.g. ADEM, Sydenham's chorea), in most children, the etiology was suspected to be of autoimmune origin without further assigned diagnosis. (i) Children either presented with ataxia (79%), but different from the well-known postinfectious acute cerebellar ataxia (older age, less favorable outcome, or (ii) had hypo-/hyperkinetic MD (21%), which were choreatic in most cases. Besides 14% of spontaneous recovery, immunosuppression was necessary in 79%. Approximately one third of children only partially recovered.

Conclusions

Infection with SARS-CoV-2 can trigger de novo MD in children. Most patients showed COVID-19-associated-ataxia and fewer-chorea. Our data suggest that patients benefit from immunosuppression, especially steroids. Despite treatment, one third of patients recovered only partially, which makes up an increasing cohort with neurological sequelae.
Longitudinal profiles of occupational physical activity during late midlife and their association with functional limitations at old age: a multi-cohort study
Authors: Saila Kyrönlahti , Clas-Håkan Nygård , Prakash K. C. , Subas Neupane
Published: July 2023

Objective

The aim was to examine longitudinal profiles of occupational physical activity (OPA) from midlife to retirement and to investigate how the different OPA-profiles are associated with mobility limitations (ML) and activities of daily living (ADL-disability) at old age.

Methods

Harmonized data from two cohort studies from Finland and the United States, that have followed people from midlife until old age were used. Repeated measurements of self-reported OPA were collected during approximately 11- to 12-year period. Persons who had data on OPA from ≥ 2 time points during the period from mid-working life to retirement were included. Latent class growth analysis was used to identify OPA-profiles. Risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals for the associations of the OPA-profiles and later life MLs and ADL-disability were estimated.

Results

Three OPA-profiles were identified in both cohorts: high-persistent, moderate-fluctuating, and low-persistent. For majority OPA remained stable: for workers reporting high or low levels of OPA at midlife, the physical demands of work likely persisted, whereas people reporting moderate level OPA had high fluctuation in their exposure level. Members of high-persistent and moderate-fluctuating OPA-profiles had increased risk of subsequent MLs at old age. The RRs for ADL-disability did not differ between the profiles.

Conclusions

Perceived OPA remains rather stable for workers reporting high or low physical work demands during midlife, yet fluctuating profiles also exist. Workers exposed to high or moderate OPA have higher risk for MLs when they reach old age. Establishing safe and health-promoting levels of OPA during late working life might have positive long-term consequences on healthy ageing.
Construction and validation of prognostic nomogram and clinical characteristics for ovarian endometrioid carcinoma: an SEER-based cohort study
Authors: Ye Wanlu , Wang Qing , Lu Yanming
Published: July 2023

Background

Ovarian endometrioid carcinoma (OEC) is the second most commonly occurring ovarian epithelial malignancy, but the associated prognostic factors remain obscure. This study aimed to analyze independent prognostic factors for patients with OEC and to develop and validate a nomogram to predict the overall survival (OS) of these patients.

Methods

Clinical information of patients with OEC (2000–2019) was obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Univariate and multivariate Cox analyses were used to identify independent prognostic factors, and nomogram models were constructed using independent prognostic factors. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to verify the accuracy and validity of the nomogram. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to compare the differences in OS and cancer-specific survival (CSS) among subgroups.

Results

A total of 4628 patients with OEC were included, being divided into training (n = 3238) and validation (n = 1390) sets (7:3 ratio). On multivariate Cox analysis, AJCC stage, age, tumor size, differentiation, chemotherapy, and lymph node resection were significant predictors of survival outcomes (P < 0.05). Resection of 1–3 lymph nodes in early-stage OEC patients did not significantly prolong OS (P > 0.05), but resection of ≥ 4 lymph nodes in early-stage improved OS and CSS (P < 0.05). The OS of early-stage patients was not related to whether or not they received chemotherapy (P > 0.05). Lymph node resection and chemotherapy significantly improved the prognosis of patients with advanced OEC (P < 0.05). The c-index of nomogram prediction model was 0.782. ROC with good discrimination, calibration plots with high consistency, and DCA with large net benefit rate result in large clinical value.

Conclusion

AJCC stage, differentiation, tumor size, age, chemotherapy, and lymph node dissection were prognostic factors of OEC. The constructed nomogram prediction model can effectively predict the prognosis of OEC patients and improve the accuracy of clinical decision-making.
SAGES consensus recommendations on surgical video data use, structure, and exploration (for research in artificial intelligence, clinical quality improvement, and surgical education)
Authors: Eckhoff Jennifer A. , Rosman Guy , Altieri Maria S. , Speidel Stefanie , Stoyanov Danail , Anvari Mehran , Meier-Hein Lena , März Keno , Jannin Pierre , Pugh Carla , Wagner Martin , Witkowski Elan , Shaw Paresh , Madani Amin , Ban Yutong , Ward Thomas , Filicori Filippo , Padoy Nicolas , Talamini Mark , Meireles Ozanan R.
Published: July 2023

Background

Surgery generates a vast amount of data from each procedure. Particularly video data provides significant value for surgical research, clinical outcome assessment, quality control, and education. The data lifecycle is influenced by various factors, including data structure, acquisition, storage, and sharing; data use and exploration, and finally data governance, which encompasses all ethical and legal regulations associated with the data. There is a universal need among stakeholders in surgical data science to establish standardized frameworks that address all aspects of this lifecycle to ensure data quality and purpose.

Methods

Working groups were formed, among 48 representatives from academia and industry, including clinicians, computer scientists and industry representatives. These working groups focused on: Data Use, Data Structure, Data Exploration, and Data Governance. After working group and panel discussions, a modified Delphi process was conducted.

Results

The resulting Delphi consensus provides conceptualized and structured recommendations for each domain related to surgical video data. We identified the key stakeholders within the data lifecycle and formulated comprehensive, easily understandable, and widely applicable guidelines for data utilization. Standardization of data structure should encompass format and quality, data sources, documentation, metadata, and account for biases within the data. To foster scientific data exploration, datasets should reflect diversity and remain adaptable to future applications. Data governance must be transparent to all stakeholders, addressing legal and ethical considerations surrounding the data.

Conclusion

This consensus presents essential recommendations around the generation of standardized and diverse surgical video databanks, accounting for multiple stakeholders involved in data generation and use throughout its lifecycle. Following the SAGES annotation framework, we lay the foundation for standardization of data use, structure, and exploration. A detailed exploration of requirements for adequate data governance will follow.
Ten best practices for effective phenological research
Authors: Primack Richard B. , Gallinat Amanda S. , Ellwood Elizabeth R. , Crimmins Theresa M. , Schwartz Mark D. , Staudinger Michelle D. , Miller-Rushing Abraham J.
Published: July 2023

The number and diversity of phenological studies has increased rapidly in recent years. Innovative experiments, field studies, citizen science projects, and analyses of newly available historical data are contributing insights that advance our understanding of ecological and evolutionary responses to the environment, particularly climate change. However, many phenological data sets have peculiarities that are not immediately obvious and can lead to mistakes in analyses and interpretation of results. This paper aims to help researchers, especially those new to the field of phenology, understand challenges and practices that are crucial for effective studies. For example, researchers may fail to account for sampling biases in phenological data, struggle to choose or design a volunteer data collection strategy that adequately fits their project’s needs, or combine data sets in inappropriate ways. We describe ten best practices for designing studies of plant and animal phenology, evaluating data quality, and analyzing data. Practices include accounting for common biases in data, using effective citizen or community science methods, and employing appropriate data when investigating phenological mismatches. We present these best practices to help researchers entering the field take full advantage of the wealth of available data and approaches to advance our understanding of phenology and its implications for ecology.
The occurrence and persistence of PFAS at riverbank filtration sites in the Upper Danube basin
Authors: Obeid Ali A. A. , Oudega Thomas J. , Zoboli Ottavia , Gundacker Claudia , Blaschke Alfred P. , Zessner Matthias , Saracevic Ernis , Devau Nicolas , Stevenson Margaret E. , Krlovic Nikola , Liu Meiqi , Nagy-Kovács Zsuzsanna , László Balázs , Sommer Regina , Lindner Gerhard , Derx Julia
Published: July 2023

PFAS are a class of synthetic chemicals used for many industrial and domestic purposes. However, once released in the environment, they are persistent, mobile and toxic. One of the most important transport routes to drinking water is through riverbank filtration. Although this is usually an effective strategy for removing many organic compounds, its effectiveness in removing PFAS is still unknown. The aim of this study is to investigate the occurrence, as well as the spatial distribution of PFAS at riverbank filtration sites and compare these to two pharmaceuticals and various chemical parameters. A one-year sampling campaign was carried out at four transects with different characteristics along the Danube river. Samples were analysed using Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry.

Results show that most of the detected PFAS compounds had concentrations lower than 10 ng/l. NaADONA had the highest concentration at all the sites, indicating the presence of an emission source upstream of the monitored sites. For most compounds, there was no concentration reduction between the river and groundwater, implying that no removal processes take place. This was further confirmed with statistical tests, which showed no significant differences between river- and groundwater concentrations. Two sites in Budapest showed higher concentrations of PFOA, PFOS, and GenX in the background water compared to the river, indicating an inland source of these compounds. The current situation imposes no problems for drinking water as the measured concentrations are lower than the legal limit set by the EU Drinking Water Directive. However, any future legal or industrial changes could create problems since results suggest that these compounds are not removed during riverbank filtration.
Microscopic derivation of Ginzburg–Landau theory and the BCS critical temperature shift in general external fields
Authors: Deuchert Andreas , Hainzl Christian , Maier Marcel Oliver
Published: July 2023

We consider the Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer (BCS) free energy functional with weak and macroscopic external electric and magnetic fields and derive the Ginzburg–Landau functional. We also provide an asymptotic formula for the BCS critical temperature as a function of the external fields. This extends our previous results in Deuchert et al. (Microscopic derivation of Ginzburg-Landau theory and the BCS critical temperature shift in a weak homogeneous magnetic field, PMP 4(1), 1–89 (2023)) for the constant magnetic field to general magnetic fields with a nonzero magnetic flux through the unit cell.
Virtual reality environment for exposure therapy in obsessive–compulsive disorder: a validation study
Authors: Fajnerová Iveta , Francová Anna , Taranzová Kateřina , Darmová Barbora , Kosová Eliška , Stopková Pavla
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterised by recurrent, repetitive, and unwanted thoughts or impulses triggering significant anxiety. Exposure and response prevention is currently the first-line therapy for OCD. The goal of this validation study was to confirm the potential of the VR house environment that incorporates OCD-specific items that cluster around major symptom dimensions: ‘contamination’, ‘symmetry’, ‘checking’ and ‘hoarding’ to induce anxiety and compulsive behaviour in patients with OCD.

Method

We assessed a sample of OCD patients (n = 44) that was compared to a group of healthy controls (n = 31). The severity of OCD symptoms was assessed in all subjects. During a single session, participants were asked to approach a set of 10 stimuli (covering four OCD dimensions) and rate their current intensity of distress/anxiety and compulsive tendencies (scales 0–5) provoked by observing each stimulus. Before and after the VR exposure, participants completed questionnaires assessing subjective levels of anxiety (before/after VR exposure), their sense of presence in VR and experienced simulator sickness.

Results

The results show that the OCD group reports elevated levels of distress and compulsive behaviour when confronted with VR exposure stimuli compared to the control group, but no increase in anxiety levels has been observed after the VR exposure. The subjective ratings of provoked distress and compulsive behaviour are not associated with severity of OCD symptoms, perceived sense of presence, association with cybersickness symptoms is weak.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that the VR house environment is a suitable tool for VR exposure therapy in OCD patients as it demonstrates OCD symptom provocation relevant for individual patients.
A conceptual model for a circular city: a case study of Maribor, Slovenia
Authors: Brglez Kristijan , Perc Matjaž , Lukman Rebeka Kovačič
Published: July 2023

Cities play a crucial role in achieving sustainable development. Decision-makers require assistance in developing city transformation plans amidst the emergence of various city models. A content analysis using concept mapping was conducted to examine smart, circular, and green city models. The analysis, supported by Leximancer, revealed that city models are evolving by adopting beneficial solutions from competitors, reflecting a strong focus on sustainable development. Additionally, twenty-four research areas essential for implementing a circular city were identified and validated. Furthermore, a conceptual model for a circular city was developed, incorporating the Define-Measure-Analyse-Improve-Control tool and a problem-solving system. Testing the model on Maribor highlighted challenges in monitoring the transition towards circularity. The study validates the established model but emphasises the need for further research and case studies to verify its practicality. This scientific research enhances the understanding of city models and their evolution towards sustainability, providing valuable insights for decision-makers and urban planners.

Graphical abstract