bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SynthRAD2023 Grand Challenge dataset: Generating synthetic CT for radiotherapy
Authors: Thummerer Adrian , van der Bijl Erik , Galapon Arthur , Verhoeff Joost J. C. , Langendijk Johannes A. , Both Stefan , van den Berg Cornelis (Nico) A. T. , Maspero Matteo
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Medical imaging has become increasingly important in diagnosing and treating oncological patients, particularly in radiotherapy. Recent advances in synthetic computed tomography (sCT) generation have increased interest in public challenges to provide data and evaluation metrics for comparing different approaches openly. This paper describes a dataset of brain and pelvis computed tomography (CT) images with rigidly registered cone‐beam CT (CBCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images to facilitate the development and evaluation of sCT generation for radiotherapy planning.

Acquisition and Validation Methods

The dataset consists of CT, CBCT, and MRI of 540 brains and 540 pelvic radiotherapy patients from three Dutch university medical centers. Subjects' ages ranged from 3 to 93 years, with a mean age of 60. Various scanner models and acquisition settings were used across patients from the three data‐providing centers. Details are available in a comma separated value files provided with the datasets.

Data Format and Usage Notes

The data is available on Zenodo (https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7260704, https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7868168) under the SynthRAD2023 collection. The images for each subject are available in nifti format.

Potential Applications

This dataset will enable the evaluation and development of image synthesis algorithms for radiotherapy purposes on a realistic multi‐center dataset with varying acquisition protocols. Synthetic CT generation has numerous applications in radiation therapy, including diagnosis, treatment planning, treatment monitoring, and surgical planning.
Constrained sensitivity filtering technique for topology optimization with lower computational expense
Authors: Kim Sun‐Yong
Published: June 2023

Constrained Sensitivity Filtering Method (CSFM) has been proposed to save computational expenses in topology optimization. The sensitivity filtering technique is widely adopted to avoid numerical instabilities. Because the filtered sensitivity values are recalculated from the normalized density values and the sensitivity values from within a fixed range of neighborhoods, the values are sometimes completely different from the original ones. Thus, the idea of the CSFM is to control the change of filtered sensitivity values based on the previous iterations. By controlling the changes of filtered sensitivity values within certain limitation, optimal layouts can be obtained with lower compliance and the computational expenses can also be reduced in comparison to that by conventional topology optimization. The computational expense with CSFM topology optimization could be reduced by up to 85%. The numerical examples established that CSFM topology optimization has improved the numerical efficiency and effectiveness.
Optimal consensus control for double‐integrator multiagent systems with unknown dynamics using adaptive dynamic programming
Authors: Zhang Qi , Yang Yang , Song Xue , Xie Xiaoran , Zhu Naibo , Liu Zhi
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this article is to utilize adaptive dynamic programming to solve an optimal consensus problem for double‐integrator multiagent systems with completely unknown dynamics. In double‐integrator multiagent systems, flocking algorithms that neglect agents' inertial effect can cause unstable group behavior. Despite the fact that an inertias‐independent protocol exists, the design of its control law is decided by dynamics and inertia. However, inertia in reality is difficult to measure accurately, therefore, the control gain in the consensus protocol was solved by developing adaptive dynamic programming to enable the double‐integrator systems to ensure the consensus of the agents in the presence of entirely unknown dynamics. Firstly, we demonstrate in a typical example how flocking algorithms that ignore the inertial effect of agents can lead to unstable group behavior. And even though the protocol is independent of inertia, the control gain depends quite strongly on the inertia and dynamic of the agent. Then, to address these shortcomings, an online policy iteration‐based adaptive dynamic programming is designed to tackle the challenge of double‐integrator multiagent systems without dynamics. Finally, simulation results are shown to prove how effective the proposed approach is.
Is Your Utility Ready for the Industrial Internet of Things?
Authors: Laird Rob , Maynard Tim
Published: June 2023

A fast‐growing segment of automation, the Industrial Internet of Things can transform water utility operations, but it requires wise deployment, planning, and security infrastructure.
Effect of carbon fiber reinforcement on the mechanical and electromagnetic shielding properties of the Fe3O4‐carbonaceous/epoxy composites
Authors: Anu K. S. , Vishnumurthy K. A. , Mahesh A. , Natarajan K.
Published: June 2023

The present work aimed at the simultaneous improvement in the mechanical and electromagnetic shielding properties of Fe3O4‐carbonaceous/epoxy composites by the reinforcement of two plies of carbon fiber into the epoxy‐filler matrix. In this study, Fe3O4‐activated carbon and Fe3O4‐activated charcoal composites were synthesized by co‐precipitation method and were introduced into the epoxy matrix with different weight percentage (5, 10, and 15 wt%). The BET surface area analysis revealed the high porosity in the Fe3O4‐activated charcoal composite than that of activated carbon composite. The Fe3O4‐activated carbon/epoxy composite showed better mechanical properties than the later. Both the composites showed nearly same EMI SE value. 10 wt% of the filler‐1/epoxy composite showed the highest shielding effectiveness (SE) value of −22.5 dB at 10 GHz whereas 15 wt% Fe3O4@charcoal/epoxy composite showed better SE value of −27.15 dB at 8.8 GHz. The obtained results were supported by the dielectric and magnetic loss tangent studies. The incorporation of carbon fiber enhanced the mechanical property by three times and the EMI SE value by ~15 dB. Thus, the carbon fiber reinforced Fe3O4/carbonaceous epoxy composites may be the potential electromagnetic shielding material for electronics and aircraft industries.
The E2F1–HOXB9/PBX2–CDK6 axis drives gastric tumorigenesis and serves as a therapeutic target in gastric cancer
Authors: Zhang Jinglin , Chen Bonan , Wang Yifei , Liu Xiaoli , Yan Huan , Wong Kit Yee , Chan Aden KY , Cheung Alvin HK , Chow Chit , Xu Dazhi , Wang Shouyu , Huang Bing , Liang Li , Ke Huixing , Wong Chi Chun , Wu William KK , Cheng Alfred SL , Yu Jun , Lo Kwok Wai , To Ka Fai , Kang Wei
Published: June 2023

Homeobox genes include HOX and non‐HOX genes. HOX proteins play fundamental roles during ontogenesis by interacting with other non‐HOX gene‐encoded partners and performing transcriptional functions, whereas aberrant activation of HOX family members drives tumorigenesis. In this study, gastric cancer (GC) expression microarray data indicated that HOXB9 is a prominent upregulated HOX member in GC samples significantly associated with clinical outcomes and advanced TNM stages. However, the functional role of HOXB9 in GC remains contradictory in previous reports, and the regulatory mechanisms are elusive. By in silico and experimental analyses, we found that HOXB9 was upregulated by a vital cell cycle‐related transcription factor, E2F1. Depleting HOXB9 causes G1‐phase cell cycle arrest by downregulating CDK6 and a subset of cell cycle‐related genes. Meanwhile, HOXB9 contributes to cell division and maintains the cytoskeleton in GC cells. We verified that HOXB9 interacts with PBX2 to form a heterodimer, which transcriptionally upregulates CDK6. Knocking down CDK6 can phenocopy the tumor‐suppressive effects caused by HOXB9 depletion. Blocking HOXB9 can enhance the anti‐tumor effect of CDK6 inhibitors. In conclusion, we elucidate the oncogenic role of HOXB9 in GC and reveal CDK6 as its potent downstream effector. The E2F1–HOXB9/PBX2–CDK6 axis represents a novel mechanism driving gastric carcinogenesis and conveys prognostic and therapeutic implications. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas: First registry effort in Mexico
Authors: Robles‐Castro Julieta , Niembro‐Zúñiga Ana , Ortiz‐Azpilcueta Mariana , Betanzos‐Cabrera Yadira , Arreguín‐González Farina , Barrera‐Villegas Gabriela , Ortiz‐Morales Daniel , Arroyo‐Acosta José Benjamín , Zapata‐Tarrés Marta
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Brainstem tumors comprise 10.9% of all brain tumors, and pediatric diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPG) have a fatal prognosis. Some countries have developed national and international register databases to characterize their populations to aid clinical and public policy decisions. This study provides information regarding the clinical characteristics of a retrospective cohort of children with DIPG in México from 2001 to 2021, and assesses the proposed prognostic factors previously described for survival outcome.

Methods

Health institutions from Mexico were invited to contribute to a retrospective electronic registry of patients with DIPG based on the International DIPG Registry. Fisher's exact test was used to compare long‐ and short‐term survivors. Overall survival was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Differences between survival curves were evaluated using the log‐rank test and Cox proportional hazard regression analysis.

Results

Total 110 patients were included. The median age of the patients at diagnosis was 7 years. Sixty patients (54.5%) presented with symptoms in less than 6 months; the most frequent symptom was ataxia (56.4%). Ninety patients received treatment (81.8%), the overall survival at 4 years was 11.4%, and 16 patients (14.5%) were admitted for palliative end‐of‐life care. We found no significant survival differences for any of the prognostic factors.

Conclusion

This study highlights the need to develop strategies to standardize healthcare processes and enhance the quality of care to improve clinical diagnosis in Mexico. We also observed a barrier to the acceptance of palliative end‐of‐life care in the family and medical teams.
Accelerated aging behavior and degradation mechanism of nitrile rubber in thermal air and hydraulic oil environments
Authors: Wang Shengqiang , Wang Cunguo , He Aihua
Published: June 2023

The aging behavior and degradation mechanism of nitrile rubber (NBR) under free and compression states were investigated in simulated air and hydraulic oil environments at various elevated temperatures. The variations in the crosslinking density, volatile components and the chemical structure of NBR during aging were studied using equilibrium swelling testing and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), pyrolysis‐gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and attenuated total reflection‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The migration of additives in different media and the crosslinking density of NBR aged in different conditions were compared. The tensile strength, DMA, and thermogravimetric analysis results were consistent with the changes in the crosslinking density of NBR and the migration of additives. Four effects of the simulated hydraulic system on the thermal aging of NBR were examined. Both the compression stress and the oil medium slowed the aging of NBR. The results can provide new insights into the use of NBR products in lubricating oil environments and NBR lifespan prediction in hydraulic working conditions.
Electric Field‐Induced Phase Transition on HPX6 (X = C, Si, Ge, Sn) Monolayers
Authors: Basak Krishnanshu , Nath Subhadip , Mondal Rajkumar , Jana Debnarayan
Published: June 2023

Herein, the electronic, thermoelectric, and optical properties of semimetallic HPX6 (X = C, Si, Ge, Sn) monolayers are systematically studied under the influence of external electric field in the framework of density functional theory. A band tuning has been achieved in these structures by the application of an external electric field of appropriate strength. It is predicted that Dirac cone splitting is nearly proportional to the external electric field strength. The modulation of electric properties induced by external field can alter the position of chemical potential in the band diagram and brings significant improvement in thermoelectric responses. The application of an external electric field significantly modulates the optical properties. The electric field‐induced HPX6 system provides better thermoelectric and optical response for nanodevice applications.
Atmospheric tides over Brazil
Authors: Siqueira Israel P. , Rodrigues Lucas A. , Possa Gabriela C. , Roncaratti Luiz F.
Published: June 2023

The mean annual components of the solar and lunar atmospheric tides over Brazil were obtained from the analysis of surface pressure data from 369 modern weather stations. The spatial coverage area and density of the data presented provide a high level of detail that has not been presented before. For the solar atmospheric tide, it was found that the amplitudes of the diurnal and semidiurnal components are comparable, each ranging from 0.2–1.7 mbar. The diurnal amplitude is irregularly distributed and influenced by the contour of the continent, its terrain, and climate. In contrast, the semidiurnal amplitude is more regularly distributed, measuring about 1.4 mbar at the Equator and decreasing towards higher latitudes. The amplitude of the lunar tide is normally distributed over the country, with a mean value of 0.08 mbar. The parameters obtained are spatially coherent, present little noise, and are both comprehensive and accurate. In addition, some statistical guidance on how to detect atmospheric tides properly at different latitudes is provided.
A novel method incorporating large rock fragments for improved soil bulk density and carbon stock estimation
Authors: Clancy Michael A. , Ruffing Blair E. , Jarmain Caren , Byrne Kenneth A.
Published: June 2023

Soil bulk density (BD) is a principal component in estimating the density of soil nutrients and elements including carbon (C). Current literature states that in soils with rock fragment (RF) content ≥3% of the total sample volume, substantial differences in estimated soil organic carbon density (SOCD) are found, depending on the soil BD calculation method chosen, potentially affecting the accuracy of soil nutrient and C inventories. In many soil surveys, soil BD is not measured directly, or the core method is used as the sole determinant of soil BD, potentially neglecting the soil volume dilution effect of RFs larger than the diameter of the cores used. This study uses the core and quantitative pit methods at 10 forest sites in Ireland to determine the BD and RF mass and volume to a depth of 40 cm. The authors examine how large RFs impact BD and subsequently affect the estimated SOCD values by comparing against reference values from established soil sampling and BD calculation methods. The analysis reveals significant variations in the estimated SOCD values when the RF volume in the soil sample exceeds 8% of the total sample volume. A novel method, hereafter named “core‐scaling,” combines core and pit sampling methods to account for large RF mass and volume in BD calculations. This study suggests that using the core‐scaling method provides results that are strongly correlated with the pit method, thus offering an alternative that can also provide accurate SOCD estimates in soils with a high RF content.
Direct Fast‐Neutron Detection by 2D Perovskite Semiconductor
Authors: Gao Yuting , Wan Pengying , Jin Tong , Hu Hao , Liu Linyue , Niu Guangda
Published: June 2023

Fast‐neutrons play a critical role in a range of applications, including medical imaging, therapy, and nondestructive inspection. However, direct detecting fast‐neutrons by semiconductors has proven to be challenging due to their weak interaction with most matter and the requirement of high carrier mobility‐lifetime (µτ) product for efficient charge collection. Herein, a novel approach is presented to direct fast‐neutron detection using 2D Dion–Jacobson perovskite semiconductor BDAPbBr4. This material features a high fast‐neutron caption cross‐section, good electrical stability, high resistivity, and, most importantly, a record‐highµτproduct of 3.3 × 10−4cm2V−1, outperforming most reported fast‐neutron detection semiconductors. As a result, BDAPbBr4detector exhibited good response to fast‐neutrons, not only achieving fast‐neutron energy spectra in counting mode, but also obtaining linear and fast response in integration mode. This work provides a paradigm‐shifting strategy for designing materials that efficiently detect fast‐neutrons and paves the way toward exciting applications in fast‐neutron imaging and therapy.
Research on the bond‐slip behavior and constitutive relationship between I‐shaped steel and shotcrete in tunnel
Authors: Lu Junfu , Li Minhao , Ran Xun , Liu Likun
Published: June 2023

The failure of the initial support of the tunnel caused by the synergistic deformation of steel and shotcrete under high‐ground stress is expected to be solved by arranging studs and steel webs to enhance the structure's bearing capacity. Hence, the bond‐slip mechanism of steel shotcrete with or without studs is unclear. This study aims to determine the bond behavior of the interface between the steel and shotcrete composite structure for tunnel support. The findings of push‐out experiments demonstrate that shotcrete on steel flange longitudinal splitting failure is the failure mode of natural bonding specimens. Tensile failure and expansion failure under the effect of studs is the failure mechanisms of stud steel‐sprayed concrete specimens. Furthermore, experimental data and a mathematical model establish the bond‐slip constitutive law of natural bonding and stud specimens. Finally, in addition to providing a theoretical foundation for the research of bond‐slip, the constitutive model put forward in this paper also supports the prevention of initial support failure in tunnel engineering.
Exploring Children's L2 Disciplinary Literacy Through a Multimodal Science Project in a CLIL Context
Authors: Coyle Yvette , Roca de Larios Julio
Published: June 2023

This study explores the ways in which young second language learners in an intact fourth‐grade content and language integrated (CLIL) science class drew on the affordances of multiple semiotic resources including language, images, sound, movement, etc., to construct disciplinary knowledge in the context of a multimodal project on machines. After an instructional period in which attention to literacy was embedded in their science classes, the learners designed and illustrated their own complex machine, filmed a digital video and produced a written explanation. By integrating a systemic functional linguistics‐informed analysis of the linguistic features of the children's written texts with a semiotic analysis of the intermodal relationships in their projects, we offer insights into the interrelation of different modes (linguistic, visual and aural) in facilitating children's meaning‐making in the L2. The results revealed considerable within‐group variability in the learners' written texts and intermodal relations of concurrence and complementarity in their multimodal projects. The role of multimodal tasks in providing all children with effective tools for communicating knowledge is discussed.
Questionnaire PLD‐complaint‐specific assessment identifies need for therapy in polycystic liver disease: A multi‐centric prospective study
Authors: Billiet Antoon , Temmerman Frederik , Coudyzer Walter , Van den Ende Natalie , Colle Isabelle , Francque Sven , De Maeght Stephane , Janssens Filip , Orlent Hans , Sprengers Dirk , Delwaide Jean , Decock Sofie , De Vloo Charlotte , Moreno Christophe , van Malenstein Hannah , van der Merwe Schalk , Verbeek Jef , Nevens Frederik
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims

Polycystic liver disease (PLD) can lead to extensive hepatomegaly. Symptom relief is the primary goal of the treatment. The role of the recently developed disease‐specific questionnaires for identification of the thresholds and the assessment of therapy needs further investigation.

Methods

A five‐year prospective multi‐centric observational study in 21 hospitals in Belgium gathered a study population of 198 symptomatic PLD‐patients of whom the disease‐specific symptom questionnaire PLD‐complaint‐specific assessment (POLCA) scores were calculated. The thresholds of the POLCA score for the need for volume reduction therapy were analyzed.

Results

The study group consisted of mostly (82.8%) women with baseline mean age of 54.4 years ±11.2, median liver volume expressed as height‐adjusted total liver volume(htLV) of 1994 mL (interquartile range [IQR] 1275; 3150) and median growth of the liver of +74 mL/year (IQR +3; +230). Volume reduction therapy was needed in 71 patients (35.9%). A POLCA severity score (SPI) ≥ 14 predicted the need for therapy both in the derivation (n = 63) and the validation cohort (n = 126). The thresholds to start somatostatin analogues (n = 55) or to consider liver transplantation (n = 18) were SPI scores of ≥14 and ≥ 18 and the corresponding mean htLVs were 2902 mL (IQR 1908; 3964) and 3607 mL (IQR 2901; 4337), respectively. Somatostatin analogues treatment resulted in a decrease in the SPI score −6.0 versus + 4.5 in patients without somatostatin analogues (p < 0.01). Changes in the SPI score were significantly different between the liver transplantation group and no liver transplantation group, +4.3 ± 7.1 versus −1.6 ± 4.9, respectively, (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

A polycystic liver disease‐specific questionnaire can be used as a guide on when to start a volume reduction therapy and to assess the effect of treatment.
The Zone Overlap Index: A new measure of shared resource use in the zoo
Authors: Brereton James E. , Rose Paul E.
Published: June 2023

It is important that the environment provided in the zoo is relevant to the species being housed and its suitability be easily assessed by personnel. As shared space and resources can overlap in a zoo's enclosure a tool is required to measure the effects of such overlap between individual animals in a shared enclosure. This paper outlines the Pianka Index (PI), a tool used in ecology to quantify niche overlap, that has value in quantifying the amount of time that animals spend in shared enclosure zones. One limitation to this method, however, is that the established method of determining the PI requires division of the enclosure into equally sized zones, something that is not always relevant to a zoo enclosure. To combat this, we created a modified index, entitled the Zone Overlap Index (ZOI). This modified index is the exact mathematical equivalent of the original index when zone sizes are equal. When zone sizes are unequal, the ZOI generates higher values when animals share smaller, as opposed to larger, zones. This is because animals are more likely to share larger enclosure zones simply by chance, and shared use of smaller zones brings individuals into closer proximity with the potential for competition. To illustrate the application of the ZOI, a series of hypothetical situations were generated to reflect real‐world scenarios, demonstrating how this index could be used to better understand zone occupancy overlap in the zoo.
Spin-2 operators in AdS2/CFT1
Authors: Rigatos Konstantinos C.
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We study spin-2 fluctuations around an infinite family of warped backgrounds of the form AdS2 × S2 × T4 × S1 × $$ {\mathcal{I}}_{\rho } $$

I
ρ

in the type IIB theory, which possesses $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 supersymmetry. We find that there exists a special set of solutions which is independent of the background data; the minimal universal class. This particular class of solutions corresponds to operators with scaling dimension ∆ = ℓ + 1, with ℓ being the quantum number of the angular-momentum on the S2. Using the mode solutions of these spin-2 states, we compute the central charge of the dual field theories. We comment on the relation of our results to the seed AdS3× S2× T4×$$ {\mathcal{I}}_{\rho } $$

I
ρ

backgrounds.
Entanglement entropy from non-equilibrium Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Bulgarelli Andrea , Panero Marco
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We study the entanglement entropy in lattice field theory using a simulation algorithm based on Jarzynski’s theorem. We focus on the entropic c-function for the Ising model in two and in three dimensions: after validating our algorithm against known analytical results from conformal field theory in two dimensions, we present novel results for the three-dimensional case. We show that our algorithm, which is highly parallelized on graphics processing units, allows one to precisely determine the subleading corrections to the area law, which have been investigated in many recent works. Possible generalizations of this study to other strongly coupled theories are discussed.
PSMA-617 inhibits proliferation and potentiates the 177Lu-PSMA-617-induced death of human prostate cancer cells
Authors: Zhao Yi , Culman Juraj , Cascorbi Ingolf , Nithack Niklas , Marx Marlies , Zuhayra Maaz , Lützen Ulf
Published: June 2023

The human prostate–specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is substantially up-regulated in metastatic prostate cancer (PCa) cells. PSMA can be targeted by 177Lu conjugated to PSMA-617, a high-affinity ligand for the PSMA. The binding of the radioligand, 177Lu-PSMA-617, results in its internalisation and delivery of β-radiation into the cancer cells. However, PSMA-617, a component of the final product in the synthesis of the radioligand, may also play a role in the pathophysiology of PCa cells. The present study aimed to clarify the effects of PSMA-617 (10, 50 and 100 nM) on the expression of PSMA in PSMA-positive LNCaP cells, their proliferation, 177Lu-PSMA-617-induced cell death by WST-1 and lactate dehydrogenase assays, immunohistochemistry, western blotting, immunofluorescence staining and uptake of 177Lu-PSMA-617. PSMA-617 at 100 nM concentration induced cell-growth arrest, down-regulated cyclin D1 and cyclin E1 (by 43 and 36%, respectively) and up-regulated the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21Waf1/Cip1 (by 48%). Immunofluorescence staining demonstrated reduced content of DNA, pointing to a lower rate of cell division. PSMA-617 (up to 100 nM) did not alter the uptake of 177Lu-PSMA-617 into the LNCaP cells. Interestingly, simultaneous treatment with 177Lu-PSMA-617 and PSMA-617 for 24 and 48 h substantially potentiated the cell-death promoting effects of the radioligand. In conclusion, the combination of impeding tumour cell proliferation by PSMA-617 and its potentiation of the radiation-induced cell death brought about by 177Lu-PSMA-617 in PCa cells may considerably improve the outcome of the radiation therapy with 177Lu-PSMA-617, especially in patients with decreased radiosensitivity of PCa cells to the radioligand.
Fertilitopes
Authors: Defant Colin
Published: June 2023

We introduce tools from discrete convexity theory and polyhedral geometry into the theory of West’s stack-sorting map s. Associated to each permutation $$\pi $$
π
is a particular set $$\mathcal V(\pi )$$

V
(
π
)

of integer compositions that appears in a formula for the fertility of $$\pi $$
π
, which is defined to be $$|s^{-1}(\pi )|$$

|

s

-
1

(
π
)

|

. These compositions also feature prominently in more general formulas involving families of colored binary plane trees called troupes and in a formula that converts from free to classical cumulants in noncommutative probability theory. We show that $$\mathcal V(\pi )$$

V
(
π
)

is a transversal discrete polymatroid when it is nonempty. We define the fertilitope of $$\pi $$
π
to be the convex hull of $$\mathcal V(\pi )$$

V
(
π
)

, and we prove a surprisingly simple characterization of fertilitopes as nestohedra arising from full binary plane trees. Using known facts about nestohedra, we provide a procedure for describing the structure of the fertilitope of $$\pi $$
π
directly from $$\pi $$
π
using Bousquet-Mélou’s notion of the canonical tree of $$\pi $$
π
. As a byproduct, we obtain a new combinatorial cumulant conversion formula in terms of generalizations of canonical trees that we call quasicanonical trees. We also apply our results on fertilitopes to study combinatorial properties of the stack-sorting map. In particular, we show that the set of fertility numbers has density 1, and we determine all infertility numbers of size at most 126. Finally, we reformulate the conjecture that $$\sum _{\sigma \in s^{-1}(\pi )}x^{\textrm{des}(\sigma )+1}$$

∑

σ
∈

s

-
1

(
π
)

x

des
(
σ
)
+
1

is always real-rooted in terms of nestohedra, and we propose natural ways in which this new version of the conjecture could be extended.
Fluktuierende Symptomatik als Gemeinsamkeit
Authors: Steinbrecher Iris
Published: June 2023

Die Abgrenzung zwischen Demenz vom Lewy-Body-Typ (LBD) und einem Delir ist schwierig. Sie kann im Rahmen einer ausführlichen Fremdanamnese aufgrund der Zeitkriterien leicht gelingen. Soziale Isolation der Patienten im Vorfeld und damit fehlende fremdanamnestische Daten sowie Spezifitäten wie prolongiertes Delir und Delir im Rahmen einer LBD erschweren die Diagnose zusätzlich. Die Therapie der LBD verläuft symptomorientiert. Nichtmedikamentöser Therapie ist immer der Vorzug zu geben, da Medikamente die Symptome verschlechtern oder neue Symptome hervorrufen können.
Association of serum CD14 level and functional polymorphism C-159T in the promoter region of CD14 gene with allergic rhinitis
Authors: Kamel Mai A. , Selim Elham S. , Tantawy Enas A. , Elgendy Aya , Abdulmageed Alsayed , Anis Reham H.
Published: June 2023

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an inflammatory disease of the upper respiratory tract affecting a significant number of the world’s population. It occurs as an IgE-mediated immune response of the nasal mucosa to inhaled allergens. The human Cluster of Differentiation 14 (CD14) is a glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol-anchored molecule expressed on the surface of monocytes and macrophages and functions as a receptor to lipopolysaccharides and inhaled endotoxins that may stimulate interleukins production by antigen-presenting cells. Consequently, CD14 plays a substantial role in allergic diseases and may become one of their etiological causes. This study aimed to determine the association between C-159T polymorphism in the CD14 gene promoter region and serum CD14 levels and the risk of Allergic rhinitis Egyptian patients and to test the validity of serum CD14 level measurement in predicting AR. This case–control study included 45 patients with AR referred to Allergy and Immunology Unit, Zagazig University Hospital, Zagazig, Egypt, and 45 healthy subjects as controls. Serum CD14 levels were measured by ELISA. The polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism technique was used to detect C-159T gene polymorphism in the CD14 promoter region. There was a significant association between CD14 serum levels and AR incidence (P < 0.001), with patients having higher serum CD14 levels than controls. In addition, a significant association (P < 0.001) was detected between serum CD14 levels and the severity of AR, as well as elevated serum CD14 levels in severe and the most severe cases. On the molecular level, there was a statistically significant relationship between patients and the control group regarding the CD14 genotype (P < 0.001), where CT and TT genotypes and T allele were primarily associated with the cases group, indicating that the risk of AR was significantly associated with the inheritance of the TT genotype. Additionally, a statistically significant association was found between the severity of AR and CD14 genotype (P < 0.001), where TT genotypes were mainly associated with severe and the most severe cases. In the studied groups, there was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) between the CD14 genotype and serum CD14 levels, with TT genotypes being associated with higher CD14 levels. The results obtained in this study revealed that serum CD14 level is a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of AR and, at the genetic level, a potential predictor of disease.
Changes in physical performance according to job demands across three cohorts of older workers in the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam
Authors: von Bonsdorff Mikaela B. , Munukka Matti , van Schoor Natasja M. , von Bonsdorff Monika E. , Kortelainen Lauri , Deeg Dorly J. H. , de Breij Sascha
Published: June 2023

This study set out to evaluate the association between job demands at baseline and physical performance over a six-year period across three cohorts of older Dutch workers examined 10 years apart. Data were drawn from three cohorts (1992–1999, 2002–2009 and 2012–2019) of the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam. Individuals aged 55–65 years from each cohort who worked for pay were included (n = 274, n = 416, n = 618, respectively). Physical performance was measured using gait speed and chair stand performance. A population-based job exposure matrix was used to indicate levels of exposure probability of physical (use of force and repetitive movements) and psychosocial (cognitive demands and time pressure) job demands. We found that psychosocial job demands increased and physical demands decreased across the three cohorts. No between cohort differences were found for how job demands affected changes in physical performance over follow-up. For men, faster decline in gait speed was observed when comparing higher and lower use of force at baseline (β −0.012, 95% CI −0.021, −0.004). Greater use of force and repetitive movements were associated with faster decline in chair stand performance (β −0.012, 95% CI −0.020, −0.004 and β −0.009, 95% CI −0.017, −0.001, respectively). In women, no association of job demands on change in physical performance was observed. The study concluded that higher physical job demands were associated with stronger decline in physical performance across six years for men in all cohorts, while no associations were found among women.
Partners in Health: Investigating Social Genetic Effects Among Married and Cohabiting Couples
Authors: Otten Kasper , Mandemakers Jornt J
Published: June 2023

Partners resemble each other in health behaviors and outcomes such as alcohol use, smoking, physical activity, and obesity. While this is consistent with social contagion theory suggesting partner influence, it is notoriously difficult to establish causality because of assortative mating and contextual confounding. We offer a novel approach to studying social contagion in health in long-term partnerships by combining genetic data of both partners in married/cohabiting couples with longitudinal data on their health behaviors and outcomes. We examine the influence of the partner’s genetic predisposition for three health outcomes and behaviors (BMI, smoking, and drinking) among married/cohabiting couples. We use longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study and the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing with data on health outcomes and genotypes for both partners. Results show that changes over time in BMI, smoking, and drinking depend on the partner’s genetic predispositions to these traits. These findings underline the importance of people’s social surroundings for their health and highlight the potential of targeting health interventions at couples.
Functional architecture of M1 cells encoding movement direction
Authors: Mazzetti Caterina , Sarti Alessandro , Citti Giovanna
Published: June 2023

In this paper we propose a neurogeometrical model of the behaviour of cells of the arm area of the primary motor cortex (M1). We will mathematically express as a fiber bundle the hypercolumnar organization of this cortical area, first modelled by Georgopoulos (Georgopoulos et al., 1982; Georgopoulos, 2015). On this structure, we will consider the selective tuning of M1 neurons of kinematic variables of positions and directions of movement. We will then extend this model to encode the notion of fragments introduced by Hatsopoulos et al. (2007) which describes the selectivity of neurons to movement direction varying in time. This leads to consider a higher dimensional geometrical structure where fragments are represented as integral curves. A comparison with the curves obtained through numerical simulations and experimental data will be presented. Moreover, neural activity shows coherent behaviours represented in terms of movement trajectories pointing to a specific pattern of movement decomposition Kadmon Harpaz et al. (2019). Here, we will recover this pattern through a spectral clustering algorithm in the subriemannian structure we introduced, and compare our results with the neurophysiological one of Kadmon Harpaz et al. (2019).
A Mixed-Norm Estimate of the Two-Particle Reduced Density Matrix of Many-Body Schrödinger Dynamics for Deriving the Vlasov Equation
Authors: Chen Li , Lee Jinyeop , Li Yue , Liew Matthew
Published: June 2023

We re-examine the combined semi-classical and mean-field limit in the N-body fermionic Schrödinger equation with pure state initial data using the Husimi measure framework. The Husimi measure equation involves three residue types: kinetic, semiclassical, and mean-field. The main result of this paper is to provide better estimates for the kinetic and mean-field residue than those in Chen et al. (J Stat Phys 182(2):1–41, http://arxiv.org/abs/1910.09892v4, 2021). Especially, the estimate for the mean-field residue is shown to be smaller than the semiclassical residue by a mixed-norm estimate of the two-particle reduced density matrix factorization. Our analysis also updates the oscillation estimate parts in the residual term estimates appeared in Chen et al. (J Stat Phys 182(2):1–41, http://arxiv.org/abs/1910.09892v4, 2021).
Extracting a function encoded in amplitudes of a quantum state by tensor network and orthogonal function expansion
Authors: Miyamoto Koichi , Ueda Hiroshi
Published: June 2023

There are quantum algorithms for finding a function f satisfying a set of conditions, such as solving partial differential equations, and these achieve exponential quantum speedup compared to existing classical methods, especially when the number d of the variables of f is large. In general, however, these algorithms output the quantum state which encodes f in the amplitudes, and reading out the values of f as classical data from such a state can be so time-consuming that the quantum speedup is ruined. In this study, we propose a general method for this function readout task. Based on the function approximation by a combination of tensor network and orthogonal function expansion, we present a quantum circuit and its optimization procedure to obtain an approximating function of f that has a polynomial number of degrees of freedom with respect to d and is efficiently evaluable on a classical computer. We also conducted a numerical experiment to approximate a finance-motivated function to demonstrate that our method works.
Evaluation of Nature of Science Representations in Biology School Textbooks Based on a Differentiated Family Resemblance Approach
Authors: Fricke Kristina , Reinisch Bianca
Published: June 2023

Studies on the quality of nature of science (NOS) representations in school science textbooks report them being mostly of implicit manner and not fully adequate. However, the often underlying NOS framework of the consensus list in these studies is criticized as undifferentiated and inadequate. The family resemblance approach (FRA) to NOS shows potential to give differentiated insights into the appropriateness of NOS representations with avoidance of specifying certain philosophical directions. Based on a fine-grained differentiated FRA category system (11 main categories, e.g., “knowledge”; 52 subcategories, e.g., “hypotheses”), the quality of cognitive-epistemic NOS representations identified in seven biology school textbooks from Germany was analyzed. For this, a category system was developed. Cognitive-epistemic NOS representations in four chapters of each of the seven textbooks were evaluated regarding manner (implicit, explicit) and adequacy (adequate, (partly) not adequate). Results indicate, among others, that explicit representations of the cognitive-epistemic system of science were mainly placed in the introduction chapters, whereas subject-related chapters include mostly implicit representations. In this article, we present the evaluation of the quality of cognitive-epistemic NOS representations and discuss implications for science education.
Lymphoma-Sink Effect in Marginal Zone Lymphoma Based on CXCR4-Targeted Molecular Imaging
Authors: Kosmala Aleksander , Seifert Simone , Schneid Simone , Dreher Niklas , Higuchi Takahiro , Weich Alexander , Serfling Sebastian E. , Hartrampf Philipp E. , Einsele Hermann , Buck Andreas K. , Topp Max S. , Duell Johannes , Werner Rudolf A.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Recent studies investigating a tumor-sink effect in solid tumors reported on decreasing uptake in normal organs in patients with higher tumor burden. This phenomenon, however, has not been evaluated yet for theranostic radiotracers applied to hematological neoplasms. As such, we aimed to determine a potential “lymphoma-sink effect” in patients with marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) imaged with C-X-C motif chemokine receptor (CXCR) 4-directed PET/CTs.

Procedures

We retrospectively analyzed 73 patients with MZL who underwent CXCR4-directed [68Ga]Ga-PentixaFor PET/CT. Normal unaffected organ uptake (heart, liver, spleen, bone marrow, kidneys) was quantified using volumes of interests (VOIs) and mean standardized uptake values (SUVmean) were derived. MZL manifestations were also segmented to determine the maximum and peak standardized uptake values SUV (SUVmax/peak) and volumetric parameters, including lymphoma volume (LV), and fractional lymphoma activity (FLA, defined as LV*SUVmean of lymphoma burden). This approach resulted in 666 VOIs to capture the entire MZL manifestation load. We used Spearman’s rank correlations to determine associations between organ uptake and CXCR4-expressing lymphoma lesions.

Results

We recorded the following median SUVmean in normal organs: heart, 1.82 (range, 0.78–4.11); liver, 1.35 (range, 0.72–2.99); bone marrow, 2.36 (range, 1.12–4.83); kidneys, 3.04 (range, 2.01–6.37); spleen, 5.79 (range, 2.07–10.5). No relevant associations between organ radiotracer uptake and MZL manifestation were observed, neither for SUVmax (ρ ≤ 0.21, P ≥ 0.07), SUVpeak (ρ ≤ 0.20, P ≥ 0.09), LV (ρ ≤ 0.13, P ≥ 0.27), nor FLA (ρ ≤ 0.15, P ≥ 0.33).

Conclusions

Investigating a lymphoma-sink effect in patients with hematological neoplasms, we observed no relevant associations between lymphoma burden and uptake in normal organs. Those observations may have therapeutic implications, e.g., for “cold” SDF1-pathway disrupting or “hot,” CXCR4-directed radiolabeled drugs, as with higher lymphoma load, normal organ uptake seems to remain stable.
Using three statistical methods to analyze the association between aldehyde exposure and markers of inflammation and oxidative stress
Authors: Zang Xiaodong , Qin Wengang , Xiong Yingying , Xu Anlan , Huang Hesuyuan , Fang Tao , Zang Xiaowei , Chen Mingwu
Published: June 2023

Background

Exposure to aldehydes has been linked to adverse health outcomes such as inflammation and oxidative stress, but research on the effects of these compounds is limited. This study is aimed at assessing the association between aldehyde exposure and markers of inflammation and oxidative stress.

Methods

The study used data from the NHANES 2013–2014 survey (n = 766) and employed multivariate linear models to investigate the relationship between aldehyde compounds and various markers of inflammation (alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level, absolute neutrophil count (ANC), and lymphocyte count) and oxidative stress (bilirubin, albumin, and iron levels) while controlling for other relevant factors. In addition to generalized linear regression, weighted quantile sum (WQS) and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) analyses were applied to examine the single or overall effect of aldehyde compounds on the outcomes.

Results

In the multivariate linear regression model, each 1 standard deviation (SD) change in propanaldehyde and butyraldehyde was significantly associated with increases in serum iron levels (beta and 95% confidence interval, 3.25 (0.24, 6.27) and 8.40 (0.97, 15.83), respectively) and the lymphocyte count (0.10 (0.04, 0.16) and 0.18 (0.03, 0.34), respectively). In the WQS regression model, a significant association was discovered between the WQS index and both the albumin and iron levels. Furthermore, the results of the BKMR analysis showed that the overall impact of aldehyde compounds was significantly and positively correlated with the lymphocyte count, as well as the levels of albumin and iron, suggesting that these compounds may contribute to increased oxidative stress.

Conclusions

This study reveals the close association between single or overall aldehyde compounds and markers of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, which has essential guiding value for exploring the impact of environmental pollutants on population health.
The Muslim Brotherhood and women’s issues under Sadat: dogmas and discussions
Authors: Santing Kiki
Published: June 2023

This paper examines why the MB was cautious in its revision of views on women under Anwar Sadat when it was, at the same time, changing the way it dealt with politics and the issue of revolutionary violence, by looking at the movement’s view on women as expressed in its own writings. I argue that the MB’s view on women was in line with the Islamic revival Egypt experienced. Given the nature of Egyptian society under Sadat, in which women still mainly played central roles in the domestic setting, reconsidering their traditional position was not viewed by the movement and many of the Egyptians it reached out to as something that needed change, contrary to the country’s administrative situation. Additionally, women’s issues were used by the MB as a tool to showcase its piety. This was instrumental in its search for political and religious authority, which the movement needed in order to expand its membership, lead the fragmented Islamic movement, deal with its own divided rank-and-file, and challenge the Sadat administration.
How authenticity impacts validity: Developing a model of teacher education assessment and exploring the effects of the digitisation of assessment methods
Authors: Kulgemeyer Christoph , Riese Josef , Vogelsang Christoph , Buschhüter David , Borowski Andreas , Weißbach Anna , Jordans Melanie , Reinhold Peter , Schecker Horst
Published: June 2023

Based on a literature review of studies on teachers’ professional competence and related assessment tools, this paper introduces a model of teacher education assessment. It is influenced by Miller’s (1990) framework of assessment in medical education and includes, among other aspects, performance assessments. This model is used to understand the potential effects of transferring assessment tools into a digital format with assessment feedback. Five examples for such a transfer will be discussed: three methods for various aspects of communication, a test for pedagogical content knowledge, and a test for content knowledge. All five are established instruments well-described in terms of validity. All five have recently been transferred into a digital format. The analysis of this transfer also reveals a potentially harmful effect of digital assessment. The closer an assessment instrument is to assessing action-related parts of professional competence, the more authenticity is required; however, digitisation tends to decrease this authenticity. This suggests that an increasing number of digital assessment tools in teacher education might result in an even more dominant focus on knowledge tests, ignoring other parts of professional competence. This article highlights the role of authenticity in validity and discusses the most suitable assessment format to address various parts of professional competence. It ends by highlighting the lessons learned from the transfer of assessment instruments into a digital format that other academic disciplines might find interesting.