bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancements in Tool Wear Monitoring in Turning Operations: Digital Image Processing and AI Techniques
Authors: Agrawal Kushagra , Panda Amlana , Kumar Sahoo Ashok
Published: September 2024

Tool wear monitoring in machining operations is vital for maintaining product quality and minimizing downtime. Traditional methods, like optical microscopy, are often time consuming and offline. However, advancements in digital image processing, particularly machine vision, have made online tool wear monitoring more feasible. This systematic literature review investigates the application of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques in tool wear monitoring over the past two decades. The review reveals a growing interest in AI-based approaches, particularly Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), for stable turning operations and online prediction. Key trends in input selection, preprocessing techniques, and output considerations across various AI models are identified, providing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of tool wear monitoring methodologies. Looking ahead, the future of tool wear monitoring appears promising, with continued advancements in AI technologies. Challenges remain, including the variable evolution of tool degradation and underutilization of CNC data. Addressing these challenges will require interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative solutions. In conclusion, AI-driven tool wear monitoring represents a promising approach to enhance productivity and quality in the metal cutting industry.
Different trajectory patterns of ocean surface drifters modulated by near-inertial oscillations
Authors: Zheng Yuhang , Wu Wei , Wang Minyang , Zhang Yuhong , Du Yan
Published: September 2024

Near-inertial oscillations (NIOs) are widely observed dynamic motions in the global ocean, with a frequency related to earth’s rotation. Using a particle trajectory model, we found the combined influence of mesoscale eddies and NIOs could produce distinctive flower-like trajectories, which are a special case of near-inertial trajectories and were observed by surface drifters released within an anticyclone eddy in the South China Sea in 2021. The energy budget indicates that wind and geostrophic eddy currents are crucial in generating near-inertial energy during the flower-like trajectories. Furthermore, the particle trajectory model revealed variations in periods and widths of the near-inertial trajectory with latitudes. The width of near-inertial trajectories can exceed 8 km in the near-equatorial region and reach 3–6 km in the mid-latitude region (20°–50°). The ratios of near-inertial velocity to background velocity, defined as near-inertial trajectory shape index (NITSIs), lead to arc-shaped (0.5 < NITSI < 1.0), overlapping semi-circular (NITSI > 1.0), and near-circular trajectories (NITSI ≫ 1.0). Globally, approximately 1/3 of the drifters’ lifespan featured clear near-inertial trajectories, with a significant presence in most middle latitudes and the largest NITSI in the north Pacific westerly. These findings highlight the importance of NIOs and suggest their substantial impact on local surface matter distribution, trajectory prediction, and marine rescue operations.
Forest structure explains spatial heterogeneity of decadal carbon dynamics in a cool-temperate forest
Authors: Takagi Kentaro , Hirayama Kojiiro , Hayashi Masato , Makoto Kobayashi , Okada Keiji , Oguma Hiroyuki , Saigusa Nobuko
Published: September 2024

Accurate evaluation of forest biomass distribution and its long-term change over wide areas is required for effective forest carbon management and prediction of landscape-scale forest dynamics. We evaluated a landscape-scale (225 km2) decadal forest carbon budget at a 1 ha spatial resolution in a cool-temperate forest, by repeating airborne laser observations 10 years apart and partitioning net forest biomass change (FBC) into growth and mortality. Using >10 000 samples, we revealed that naturally regenerated forests have large spatial heterogeneity in net biomass change, and 3/4 of the photosynthetically acquired carbon stock moved to necromass even without anthropogenic disturbances. Actual carbon residence time as living tree biomass was estimated by dividing biomass by growth or mortality rates. The residence time was 107 and 106 years, respectively with large spatial variation among stands (48 and 42 years, respectively, as the difference between 25 and 75 percentile), although studied forest stands have small variation in the forest functional type in a landscape-scale. The best predictors of subsequent decadal biomass changes were two forest structural factors, mean canopy height and canopy height variation in addition to one environmental factor, elevation. Considering the long lifetime of trees, these structural factors may be an indicator of forest soundness rather than a cause of forest growth or mortality. However, in any cases, these structural factors can be powerful predictors of subsequent FBC.
Urgency to action: Enabling circular futures for the building sector
Authors: Lundgren Rebecka , Tähtinen Lassi , Kyrö Riikka , Toivonen Saija
Published: September 2024

The world is suffering from increasing weather extremes caused by climate change of which the building sector is a major contributor. There is however a large reduction potential in the sector and circular economy has received increased attention both within research and practice. This study explores circular futures within the building sector through the futures studies method of backcasting. Two circular futures for the year 2035 are imagined in separate expert workshops. In one workshop the future described is one where buildings are only extended vertically and no new construction takes place, and the other workshop describes one where vacant office buildings are adapted to housing. The aim is to establish themes which may guide the building sector to become more circular through building adaptation. Many themes are common for both futures, such as the urgency of change and the importance of political willingness and action. Further, social acceptance, funding, and economic feasibility assessments emerged as important. Working with existing buildings undoubtedly entails higher uncertainty than new construction. Tools to adequately account for this uncertainty, without the need to exaggerate the risk in lifecycle costing, could improve the uptake of both adaptive reuse and vertical extension projects. The findings contribute to new knowledge of themes to enable a more circular built environment, and are useful for researchers, practitioners and policymakers wanting to contribute to a more circular real estate and construction sector.
Circular economy competencies in Swedish architecture and civil engineering education
Authors: Vergani F. , Lisco M. , Sundling R.
Published: September 2024

The transition from a linear to a circular AEC sector requires redefining processes and roles, accompanied by the acquisition of new competencies and skills. Despite existing literature delineating various competencies pertinent to this transition, the lack of knowledge among the actors remains a significant barrier to enabling it. This study involves a comparative analysis of the competences needed in the AEC sector with the bachelor’s educational programs in architecture, civil engineering, and real estate and construction management offered by five higher education institutions (HEIs) participating in the Swedish Universities of the Built Environment (SBU). Aiming to emphasize the need to improve the integration of circular economy concepts and strategies within academic curricula, the overarching objective is to identify both circular-focused syllabi and the potential implementation of circular competencies in existing courses within the SBU programs. First, the results show the technical competencies deemed necessary for the transition to a circular building process. Second, by analysing course syllabi from the five Swedish HEIs, this study identifies gaps in circular-focused education and the level of integration of these competencies within the curricula. Ultimately, this study contributes to bridging the gap between Swedish education on circular economy in the AEC sector and its practical application.
Conceptualization of collaboration, cooperation, and coordination in construction projects
Authors: Moradi Sina , Jonny Klakegg Ole
Published: September 2024

The growing complexity of construction projects and involved parties’ dependence on each other’s capabilities have substantially increased the significance of working together. Meanwhile, the emergence of new paradigms in construction project delivery has been a strong enabler for deep collaboration between project participants. Equality, fair share of risk-reward, trust-based working relationships, and open communication are underlying constructs in these new paradigms. Despite of the recognized importance of collaboration, it is still a confusing concept for many people in the academia and practice. This confusion partly comes from the fact that there is no concrete conceptualization of collaboration and its accompanying terms (cooperation and coordination). This issue subsequently causes wrong or loose definitions and applications of the term collaboration. Hence, this study aims to contribute toward theory and practice by developing a concrete conceptualization of the collaboration, cooperation, and coordination in the context of construction based on a literature review. The findings reveal characteristics of collaboration, cooperation, and coordination and explain the forms in which these concepts materialize. The findings, with an ontological perspective, provide novel insights for the research community and industry practitioners regarding the definition and realization of collaboration, cooperation, and coordination.
A theoretical study of quantum coherence and plasmon-enhanced diffraction in practical hybrid systems including semiconductor quantum dots and metallic nanoparticles
Authors: Maleki Zeynab , Naseri Tayebeh
Published: September 2024

In this work, we theoretically study a novel strategy for electromagnetically induced gratings in a complex hybrid system consisting of semiconductor quantum dots (SQDs) and metallic nanoparticles (MNPs). The plasmonic resonances of MNPs and the quantum coherence of SQDs enable the generation of unique optical phenomena such as electromagnetically induced transparency via interactions with light. Through surface plasmon interactions and quantum dot interdot tunneling, the modification of light diffraction efficiency into higher orders is achievable. Doppler broadening and nonlocality are included in the model to offer a more realistic picture of the system’s behavior in real-world scenarios. Our proposed model shows significant promise for applications in sensing technologies and nanophotonics, where it has the potential to enhance sensitivity and improve the performance of optical devices.
2D materials-based crossbar array for neuromorphic computing hardware
Authors: Lee Hyeon Ji , Park Sungwoo , Kim Juhui , Park Min Hyuk , Kim Jihyun , Lim Jung Ah , Jang Ho Won
Published: September 2024

The growing demand for artificial intelligence has faced challenges for traditional computing architectures. As a result, neuromorphic computing systems have emerged as possible candidates for next-generation computing systems. Two-dimensional (2D) materials-based neuromorphic devices that emulate biological synapses and neurons play a key role in neuromorphic computing hardware due to their unique properties such as high strength, thermal conductivity, and flexibility. Although several studies have shown the simulations of individual devices, experimental implementation of large-scale crossbar arrays is still unclear. In this review, we explore the working principles and mechanisms of memristive devices. Then, we overview the development of neuromorphic devices based on 2D materials including transition metal dichalcogenides, graphene, hexagonal boron nitride, and layered halide perovskites. We also highlight the requirement and recent progress for building crossbar arrays by utilizing the advantageous properties of 2D materials. Lastly, we address the challenges that hardware implementation of neuromorphic computing systems currently face and propose a path towards system-level applications of neuromorphic computing.
Spheres in the curve graph and linear connectivity of the Gromov boundary
Authors: Wright Alex
Published: September 2024

We consider the curve graph in the cases where it is not a Farey graph, and show that its Gromov boundary is linearly connected. For a fixed center point

c
c

and radius

r
r

, we define the sphere of radius

r
r

to be the induced subgraph on the set of vertices of distance

r
r

from

c
c

. We show that these spheres are always connected in high enough complexity, and prove a slightly weaker result for low complexity surfaces.
An approximation theory framework for measure-transport sampling algorithms
Authors: Baptista Ricardo , Hosseini Bamdad , Kovachki Nikola , Marzouk Youssef , Sagiv Amir
Published: September 2024

This article presents a general approximation-theoretic framework to analyze measure transport algorithms for probabilistic modeling. A primary motivating application for such algorithms is sampling—a central task in statistical inference and generative modeling. We provide a priori error estimates in the continuum limit, i.e., when the measures (or their densities) are given, but when the transport map is discretized or approximated using a finite-dimensional function space. Our analysis relies on the regularity theory of transport maps and on classical approximation theory for high-dimensional functions. A third element of our analysis, which is of independent interest, is the development of new stability estimates that relate the distance between two maps to the distance (or divergence) between the pushforward measures they define. We present a series of applications of our framework, where quantitative convergence rates are obtained for practical problems using Wasserstein metrics, maximum mean discrepancy, and Kullback–Leibler divergence. Specialized rates for approximations of the popular triangular Knöthe–Rosenblatt maps are obtained, followed by numerical experiments that demonstrate and extend our theory.
A Preliminary Qualitative Analysis of women's Experiences With Vaginal Fractional CO2 Laser Treatments
Authors: Fernando Anne Nileshni , Hamori Christine , Oates Jayson , Sharp Gemma
Published: September 2024

Background

Menopause involves a range of bodily changes, with impacts on physical and psychological well-being. Around half of the postmenopausal women experience genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Fractional CO2 laser treatment can promote tissue regeneration in the vaginal wall to potentially assist with managing GSM. However, the results from clinical trials of this treatment have been mixed, and the personal perceptions and experiences of women receiving this treatment have been largely unexplored.

Objectives

To qualitatively explore the motivations and outcomes of women who have undergone vaginal fractional CO2 laser treatment.

Methods

Fourteen postmenopausal women were involved in the study. These women had undergone vaginal fractional CO2 laser treatment between 2 and 48 months earlier (M = 32.1, standard deviation = 14.9 months). Telephone interviews were conducted to explore women's motivations and their experiences after treatment. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Deductive and inductive thematic analysis was conducted to analyze interviews.

Results

Analyses produced 4 major themes. First, motivations mostly revolved around participants seeking relief from menopausal symptoms. Second, some participants noted positive sexual outcomes, including improved sexual pleasure after treatment. Third, participants noted positive physical and psychological effects, including improvements in incontinence and overall confidence. Lastly, a subset of participants reported no discernible changes.

Conclusions

This novel qualitative exploration of women's motivations and outcomes of fractional CO2 laser therapy demonstrates the multifaceted impact of treatment. These findings highlight the importance of considering the holistic effects of fractional CO2 laser therapy on women's health during midlife, particularly amid menopausal changes.

Level of Evidence: 4
Prioritization of candidate genes for major QTLs governing yield traits employing integrated multi-omics approach in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Keerthi Issa , Shukla Vishnu , Kalluru Sudhamani , Mohammad Lal Ahamed , Kumari P Lavanya , Ramireddy Eswarayya , Vemireddy Lakshminarayana R
Published: September 2024

Rapidly identifying candidate genes underlying major QTLs is crucial for improving rice (Oryza sativa L.). In this study, we developed a workflow to rapidly prioritize candidate genes underpinning 99 major QTLs governing yield component traits. This workflow integrates multiomics databases, including sequence variation, gene expression, gene ontology, co-expression analysis, and protein–protein interaction. We predicted 206 candidate genes for 99 reported QTLs governing ten economically important yield-contributing traits using this approach. Among these, transcription factors belonging to families of MADS-box, WRKY, helix–loop–helix, TCP, MYB, GRAS, auxin response factor, and nuclear transcription factor Y subunit were promising. Validation of key prioritized candidate genes in contrasting rice genotypes for sequence variation and differential expression identified Leucine-Rich Repeat family protein (LOC_Os03g28270) and cytochrome P450 (LOC_Os02g57290) as candidate genes for the major QTLs GL1 and pl2.1, which govern grain length and panicle length, respectively. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that our workflow can significantly narrow down a large number of annotated genes in a QTL to a very small number of the most probable candidates, achieving approximately a 21-fold reduction. These candidate genes have potential implications for enhancing rice yield.
Artificial intelligence in dermatopathology: a systematic review
Authors: Lalmalani Roshni Mahesh , Lim Clarissa Xin Yu , Oh Choon Chiat
Published: September 2024

Medical research, driven by advancing technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), is transforming healthcare. Dermatology, known for its visual nature, benefits from AI, especially in dermatopathology with digitized slides. This review explores AI’s role, challenges, opportunities and future potential in enhancing dermatopathological diagnosis and care. Adhering to PRISMA and Cochrane Handbook standards, this systematic review explored AI’s function in dermatopathology. It employed an interdisciplinary method, encompassing diverse study types and comprehensive database searches. Inclusion criteria encompassed peer-reviewed articles from 2000 to 2023, with a focus on practical AI use in dermatopathology. Numerous studies have investigated AI’s potential in dermatopathology. We reviewed 112 papers. Notable applications include AI classifying histopathological images of naevi and melanomas, although challenges exist regarding subtype differentiation and generalizability. AI achieved high accuracy in melanoma recognition from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples but faced limitations due to small datasets. Deep learning algorithms showed diagnostic accuracy for specific skin conditions, but challenges persisted, such as small sample sizes and the need for prospective validation. This systematic review underscores AI’s potential in enhancing dermatopathology for better diagnosis and patient care. Addressing challenges like limited datasets and potential biases is essential. Future directions involve expanding datasets, conducting validation studies, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and creating patient-centred AI tools in dermatopathology to enhance accuracy, accessibility and patient-focused care.
Mitochondrial Variation in Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles coluzzii: Phylogeographic Legacy and Mitonuclear Associations With Metabolic Resistance to Pathogens and Insecticides
Authors: Amaya Romero Jorge E , Chenal Clothilde , Ben Chehida Yacine , Miles Alistair , Clarkson Chris S , Pedergnana Vincent , Wertheim Bregje , Fontaine Michael C
Published: September 2024

Mitochondrial DNA has been a popular marker in phylogeography, phylogeny, and molecular ecology, but its complex evolution is increasingly recognized. Here, we investigated mitochondrial DNA variation in Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles coluzzii, in relation to other species in the Anopheles gambiae complex, by assembling the mitogenomes of 1,219 mosquitoes across Africa. The mitochondrial DNA phylogeny of the Anopheles gambiae complex was consistent with previously reported highly reticulated evolutionary history, revealing important discordances with the species tree. The three most widespread species (An. gambiae, An. coluzzii, and Anopheles arabiensis), known for extensive historical introgression, could not be discriminated based on mitogenomes. Furthermore, a monophyletic clustering of the three saltwater-tolerant species (Anopheles merus, Anopheles melas, and Anopheles bwambae) in the Anopheles gambiae complex also suggested that introgression and possibly selection shaped mitochondrial DNA evolution. Mitochondrial DNA variation in An. gambiae and An. coluzzii across Africa revealed significant partitioning among populations and species. A peculiar mitochondrial DNA lineage found predominantly in An. coluzzii and in the hybrid taxon of the African “far-west” exhibited divergence comparable to the interspecies divergence in the Anopheles gambiae complex, with a geographic distribution matching closely An. coluzzii's geographic range. This phylogeographic relict of the An. coluzzii and An. gambiae split was associated with population and species structure, but not with the rare Wolbachia occurrence. The lineage was significantly associated with single nucleotide polymorphisms in the nuclear genome, particularly in genes associated with pathogen and insecticide resistance. These findings underline potential mitonuclear coevolution history and the role played by mitochondria in shaping metabolic responses to pathogens and insecticides in Anopheles.
Evolution of Key Oxygen-Sensing Genes Is Associated with Hypoxia Tolerance in Fishes
Authors: Babin Courtney H , Leiva Félix P , Verberk Wilco C E P , Rees Bernard B
Published: September 2024

Low dissolved oxygen (hypoxia) is recognized as a major threat to aquatic ecosystems worldwide. Because oxygen is paramount for the energy metabolism of animals, understanding the functional and genetic drivers of whole-animal hypoxia tolerance is critical to predicting the impacts of aquatic hypoxia. In this study, we investigate the molecular evolution of key genes involved in the detection of and response to hypoxia in ray-finned fishes: the prolyl hydroxylase domain (PHD)–hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) oxygen-sensing system, also known as the EGLN (egg-laying nine)–HIF oxygen-sensing system. We searched fish genomes for HIFA and EGLN genes, discovered new paralogs from both gene families, and analyzed protein-coding sites under positive selection. The physicochemical properties of these positively selected amino acid sites were summarized using linear discriminants for each gene. We employed phylogenetic generalized least squares to assess the relationship between these linear discriminants for each HIFA and EGLN and hypoxia tolerance as reflected by the critical oxygen tension (Pcrit) of the corresponding species. Our results demonstrate that Pcrit in ray-finned fishes correlates with the physicochemical variation of positively selected sites in specific HIFA and EGLN genes. For HIF2A, two linear discriminants captured more than 90% of the physicochemical variation of these sites and explained between 20% and 39% of the variation in Pcrit. Thus, variation in HIF2A among fishes may contribute to their capacity to cope with aquatic hypoxia, similar to its proposed role in conferring tolerance to high-altitude hypoxia in certain lineages of terrestrial vertebrates.
Natural Transposable Element Insertions Contribute to Host Fitness in Model Yeasts
Authors: Wang Yan , Xu Hao , He Qinliu , Wu Zhiwei , Han Guan-Zhu
Published: September 2024

Transposable elements (TEs) are ubiquitous in the eukaryote genomes, but their evolutionary and functional significance remains largely obscure and contentious. Here, we explore the evolution and functional impact of TEs in two model unicellular eukaryotes, the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe and the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which diverged around 330 to 420 million years ago. We analyze the distribution of LTR retrotransposons (LTR-RTs, the only TE order identified in both species) and their solo-LTR derivatives in 35 strains of S. pombe and 128 strains of S. cerevisiae. We find that natural LTR-RT and solo-LTR insertions exhibit high presence-absence polymorphism among individuals in both species. Population genetics analyses show that solo-LTR insertions experienced functional constraints similar to synonymous sites of host genes in both species, indicating a majority of solo-LTR insertions might have evolved in a neutral manner. When knocking out nine representative solo-LTR insertions separately in the S. pombe strain 972h- and 12 representative solo-LTR insertions separately in the S. cerevisiae strain S288C, we find that one solo-LTR insertion in S. pombe has a significant effect on the fitness and transcriptome of its host. Together, our findings indicate that a fraction of natural TE insertions likely shape their host transcriptomes and thereby contribute to their host fitness, with implications for understanding the functional significance of TEs in eukaryotes.
Imaging Features and World Health Organization Classification of Rare Breast Tumors
Authors: Andrijauskis Denas , Andrejeva-Wright Liva
Published: September 2024

Breast radiologists encounter unusual lesions, which may not be well described in the literature. Previously based on histologic and molecular classifications, the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of tumors has become increasingly multidisciplinary. Familiarity with imaging features and basic pathology of infrequent breast lesions, as well as their current classification according to the WHO, may help the radiologist evaluate biopsy results for concordance and help direct the management of uncommon breast lesions. This review article provides a case-based review of imaging features and WHO histologic classification of rare breast tumors.
Anatomizing God?
Authors: Moberly R W L
Published: September 2024

This essay analyses Francesca Stavrakopoulou’s God: An Anatomy with reference to some general questions about the nature of biblical interpretation. Stavrakopoulou’s core contention is that Persian-period theological editing has obscured the original nature of Yahweh, who was not different from any other ancient male deity of southwest Asia. That is, Yahweh was bodily with the desires and practices of a violent and sexually active male, no more than a human projection. Four questions are put to her thesis. First, how well does she understand the kind of classic theological reading which she rejects? Secondly, is her outworking of her core thesis self-consistent, or does it function to warrant a distinctive reading strategy for what has not been editorially obscured but is rather the plain sense of the biblical text? Thirdly, does she do justice to the metaphorical dimensions of language in Hebrew and religious language generally? Fourthly, does she appropriately distinguish the nature of Israel’s scriptures from the religious history that may underlie them? Finally, an analogy is drawn with the work of Robin Lane Fox, in exploring the differences that an interested approach may, or may not, make to ancient historical and biblical interpretation.
Detection of fireballs in the Lightning Imager data
Authors: Kokou Pierre
Published: September 2024

The Meteosat Third Generation - Imager 1 satellite, launched on 13 December 2022, features the first Lightning Imager instrument, a high-speed optical camera providing near real-time lightning detection over Europe and Africa. This study demonstrates that signatures of fireballs (i.e. bright meteors) can be detected in Lightning Imager data. We describe a method to analyse this data to determine the timing, light signal, and trajectory of fireballs, highlighting the instrument’s usefulness for bright meteor observation and proposing avenues for further research. By using known fireball locations and timings from external sources, the Lightning Imager data can be filtered to isolate ‘lightning events’ induced by the meteor. From this data set, the fireball light curve is computed by aggregating signal increases measured by instrument pixels. A trajectory is then deduced using a weighted average of pixel locations based on observed intensity. Three examples of fireballs detected by the Lightning Imager are presented, including a man-made meteor from space debris re-entry, with estimated timing, light curves, and trajectories.
Searching for tidal orbital decay in hot Jupiters
Authors: Alvarado Efrain , Bostow Kate B , Patra Kishore C , Jacobus Cooper H , Baer-Way Raphael A , Jennings Connor F , Pichay Neil R , deGraw Asia A , Vidal Edgar P , Chander Vidhi , Altunin Ivan A , Brendel Victoria M , Ehrich Kingsley E , Sunseri James D , May Michael B , Punjabi Druv H , Gendreau-Distler Eli A , Risin Sophia , Brink Thomas G , Zheng WeiKang , Filippenko Alexei V
Published: September 2024

We study transits of several ‘hot Jupiter’ systems, including WASP-12 b, WASP-43 b, WASP-103 b, HAT-P-23 b, KELT-16 b, WD 1856+534 b, and WTS-2 b, with the goal of detecting tidal orbital decay and extending the baselines of transit times. We find no evidence of orbital decay in any of the observed systems except for that of the extensively studied WASP-12 b. Although the orbit of WASP-12 b is unequivocally decaying, we find no evidence for acceleration of said orbital decay, with measured $\ddot{P} = (-7 \pm 8) \times 10^{-14} \, \rm s^{-1}$, against the expected acceleration decay of $\ddot{P} \approx -10^{-23} \, \rm s^{-1}$. In the case of WD 1856+534 b, there is a tentative detection of orbital growth with $\dot{P} = (5.0 \pm 1.5) \times 10^{-10}$. While statistically significant, we err on the side of caution and wait for longer follow-up observations to consider the measured $\dot{P}$ real. For most systems, we provide a 95 per cent confidence lower limit on the tidal quality factor, $Q_\star ^{\prime }$. The possibility of detecting orbital decay in hot Jupiters via long-term radial velocity (RV) measurements is also explored. We find that ${\sim} 1 \rm \, m \, s^{-1}$ precision in RVs will be required to detect orbital decay of WASP-12 b with only 3 yr of observations. Currently available RV measurements and precision are unable to detect orbital decay in any of the systems studied here.
Holographic Analysis of Boundary Correlation Functions for the Hyperbolic-Lattice Ising Model
Authors: Okunishi Kouichi , Nishino Tomotoshi
Published: September 2024

We analyze boundary spin correlation functions of the hyperbolic-lattice Ising model from the holographic point of view. Using the corner-transfer-matrix renormalization-group (CTMRG) method, we demonstrate that the boundary correlation function exhibits power-law decay with quasiperiodic oscillation, while the bulk correlation function always decays exponentially. On the basis of the geometric relation between the bulk correlation path and distance along the outer edge boundary, we find that scaling dimensions for the boundary correlation function can be well explained by a combination of the bulk correlation length and background curvatures inherent to the hyperbolic lattice. We also investigate the cutoff effect of the bond dimension in CTMRG, revealing that the long-distance behavior of the boundary spin correlation is accurately described even with a small bond dimension. In contrast, the short-distance behavior rapidly loses its accuracy.
Rogers’ Principle of Integrality
Authors: Smith Mary Jane
Published: September 2024

Rogers’ principle of integrality was examined using quantitative methodology by the author in 1986. Since then, Rogers made revisions changing from probability and multidimensionality to unpredictability and pandimensionality. Another look at integrality through a lens congruent with the revisions was designed. A descriptive approach, storying the lived experience of making a significant life change was completed. A pandimensional view of the continuous integral human environment mutual energy field process included believing, dreaming, realizing, choosing, and envisioning while making a life change with the wave manifestation of storying changing from pragmatic knowing, to imaginative knowing, to visionary knowing.
Trends and Rates of Reporting of Race, Ethnicity, and Social Determinants of Health in Spine Surgery Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Solomon Eric , Gupta Mihir , Su Rachel , Reinhart Nolan , Battistoni Valentina , Mittal Aditya , Bronheim Rachel S. , Silva-Aponte Juan , Cartagena Reyes Miguel , Hawkins Devan , Joshi Aditya , Kebaish Khaled M. , Hassanzadeh Hamid
Published: September 2024

Study Design:

A systematic review.

Objective:

We characterized the rates of sociodemographic data and social determinants of health (SDOH) reported in spinal surgery randomized control trials (RCTs) and the association between these RCTs' characteristics and their rates of reporting on race, ethnicity, and SDOH variables.

Summary of Background Data:

Although numerous institutions maintain guidelines and recommendations regarding the inclusion and reporting of sociodemographic and SDOH variables in RCTs, the proportion of studies that ultimately report such information is unclear, particularly in spine surgery.

Materials and Methods:

We searched the MEDLINE, PubMed, and Embase databases for published results from spinal surgery RCTs from January 2002 through December 2022, and screened studies according to prespecified inclusion criteria regarding analysis and reporting of sociodemographic and SDOH variables.

Results:

We analyzed 421 studies. Ninety-six studies (22.8%) reported race, ethnicity, or SDOH covariates. On multivariate analysis, study size [rate ratio (RR)=1.18; 95% CI, 1.06–1.32], public/institutional funding (RR=2.28; 95% CI, 1.29–4.04), and private funding (RR=3.27; 95% CI, 1.87–5.74) were significantly associated with reporting race, ethnicity, or SDOH variables. Study size (RR=1.26; 95% CI, 1.07–1.48) and North American region (RR=21.84; CI, 5.04–94.64) were associated with a higher probability of reporting race and/or ethnicity. Finally, study size (RR=1.27; 95% CI, 1.10–1.46), public/institutional funding (RR=2.68; 95% CI, 1.33–5.39), focus on rehabilitation/therapy intervention (RR=2.70; 95% CI, 1.40–5.21), and nonblinded study groups (RR=2.70; 95% CI, 1.40–5.21) were associated with significantly higher probability of reporting employment status.

Conclusion:

Rates of reporting race, ethnicity, and SDOH variables were lower in the spinal surgery RCTs in our study than in RCTs in other medical disciplines. These reporting rates did not increase over a 20-year period. Trial characteristics significantly associated with higher rates of reporting were larger study size, North American region, private or public funding, and a focus on behavioral/rehabilitation interventions.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
The Impact of the Lowest Instrumented Vertebra on the Correction of the Minor Curve During Selective Fusion in Patients With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Prost Max , Denz Philip , Windolf Joachim , Konieczny Markus Rafael
Published: September 2024

Study Design:

Retrospective single-center data analysis.

Objective:

The aim of this investigation was to give advises for choosing the LIV in selective fusion to reach the best correction of the minor curve and sagittal profile.

Summary of Background Data:

Scoliotic curves can be classified as structural or nonstructural. If selective fusion is performed, the nonstructural curves are not instrumented. The choice of the lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) and the impact of different levels of the LIV on the correction of the minor curve in the frontal profile and on the sagittal balance is under debate.

Methods:

Forty-seven consecutive patients treated by posterior instrumented fusion were included in this retrospective investigation. Impact of the level of the LIV with regard to distance to end vertebra (EV), to the stable vertebra (StV), to the sagittal infliction point (IP), and to the apex of the lumbar lordosis on the correction of the minor curve was analyzed.

Results:

Distance of LIV to EV was significant with regard to correction of the minor curve if it was more than 5 levels (P<0.001). Distance of LIV to StV was significant with regard to correction of the minor curve if it was more than 4 levels (P<0.01). Distance of LIV to IP was significant with regard to correction of the minor curve if it was more than 2 levels (P<0.01).

Conclusions:

Choosing a LIV that was more than 2 levels higher or lower than the sagittal infliction point showed a significantly higher correction of the minor curve. We therefore recommend to keep that distance when LIV is chosen.
Association between folate level and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Run , Ding Chengcheng , Wang Dongyu
Published: September 2024

There were several studies about the association between folate level and the risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). This meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate whether folate deficiency is related to a high risk of CIN and cervical cancer. Odds ratios (ORs)/relative risks and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were summarized regarding the association between folate level and risk of CIN or cervical cancer. The meta-analysis indicated that higher serum folate levels (the second, third, and fourth quartiles of serum folate) were associated with a lower risk of CIN, as demonstrated by a random-effects model (OR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.28–0.62). Conversely, no significant association was found between erythrocyte folate levels and the risk of CIN, as indicated by a random-effects model (OR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.43–1.12). In addition, random-effects models demonstrated that higher serum folate levels (the second, third, and fourth quartiles of serum folate) were associated with lower risks of CIN grade 1 and CIN grades 2 or 3, compared with the lowest quartile of serum folate (CIN grade 1: OR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.29–0.93; CIN grades 2 or 3: OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.19–0.58). Higher serum folate levels (the second, third, and fourth quartiles of serum folate) were associated with a lower risk of cervical cancer, compared with the lowest quartile of serum folate (OR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.36–0.79). Serum low folate levels could increase the risk of CIN and cervical cancer, while erythrocyte folate concentration was not associated with the risk of CIN.
MPPD: A User-Friendly Posture Deformation Program for Mesh-Type Computational Phantoms
Authors: Han Haegin , Kim Jaehyo , Moon Sungho , Son Gahee , Shin Bangho , Kim Hyeonil , Kim Suhyeon , Choi Chansoo , Kim Chan Hyeong
Published: September 2024

Recently, the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) released adult Mesh-type Reference Computational Phantoms (MRCPs), which have great advantage in high deformability. Previous studies have exploited their high deformability to investigate the dosimetric influence of varying statures and postures, demonstrating significant variations in radiation doses. However, the previous studies are constrained by their inability to consider both stature and posture concurrently and by the limited range of postures analyzed. In the present study, a computer program named MPPD (Mesh-type Phantom Posture Deformer) was developed, a user-friendly graphical user interface that enables users to adjust the posture of adult MRCPs and corresponding library phantoms. The MPPD program was applied to deform five adult male phantoms of different statures into sitting and kneeling postures, showcasing its rapid computational speed and minimal RAM usage. The effectiveness of the MPPD program for dose calculation was also investigated by computing the detriment-weighted doses for MPPD-deformed adult male MRCPs, which showed good agreement with dose values for existing posture-deformed phantoms of the previous study. Furthermore, as an application of the MPPD program, the combined dosimetric impact of stature and posture was investigated, which is the inaugural effort to estimate doses by considering these factors concurrently. The result showed that the impact of stature and posture on radiation doses could largely vary depending on the radiation source, highlighting the importance of simultaneous consideration of stature and posture for accurate dose estimation.
Pharmacokinetics, Safety and Tolerability of Single-dose or Multiple-dose Cefiderocol in Hospitalized Pediatric Patients Three Months to Less Than Eighteen Years Old With Infections Treated With Standard-of-care Antibiotics in the PEDI-CEFI Phase 2 Study
Authors: Bradley John S. , Orchiston Elaine , Portsmouth Simon , Ariyasu Mari , Baba Takamichi , Katsube Takayuki , Makinde Oluwaseun
Published: September 2024

Background:

Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections are increasing globally in neonates, infants and children; antibiotic options are limited.

Methods:

This international, multicenter, open-label phase 2 study, investigated the pharmacokinetics, safety and tolerability of single-dose and multiple-dose cefiderocol [as a 3-hour infusion (every 8 hours) dosed at 2000 mg for body weight ≥34 kg and at 60 mg/kg for body weight <34 kg], over a range of renal function, in hospitalized pediatric patients with aerobic Gram-negative bacterial infection; multiple-dose patients required standard-of-care systemic antibiotics for 5–14 days. Four cohorts of pediatric patients were enrolled (cohort 1: 12 to <18 years, cohort 2: 6 to <12 years, cohort 3: 2 to <6 years and cohort 4: 3 months to <2 years).

Results:

A total of 53 patients (median age: 73.5 months) were enrolled. Plasma concentration profiles were similar with single-dose (n = 24) and multiple-dose (n = 29) cefiderocol, irrespective of age and body weight in those with normal renal function or mild renal impairment. Geometric mean concentrations at the end of infusion ranged between 72.7 and 97.1 μg/mL for single-dose cefiderocol and between 88.8 and 106.0 μg/mL after multiple doses. At 8 hours, corresponding trough concentrations ranged from 7.86 to 10.8 μg/mL with single-dose cefiderocol and from 9.64 to 18.1 μg/mL with multiple doses. There were no deaths, no cefiderocol-related serious adverse events, significant related laboratory abnormalities or discontinuations.

Conclusions:

Multiple-dose cefiderocol, administered for 5–14 days and according to body weight, achieved steady-state plasma concentrations that remained above the susceptibility breakpoints of Gram-negative bacteria throughout the dosing period. Cefiderocol was well tolerated.
Characterization of Clinical and Biologic Manifestations of Chikungunya Among Children in an Urban Area, Thailand: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chantasrisawad Napaporn , Boonyasuppayakorn Siwaporn , Anugulruengkitt Suvaporn , Puthanakit Thanyawee
Published: September 2024

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, has reemerged in Southeast Asia since 2019. A retrospective review of CHIKV cases was conducted. Children commonly presented with high-grade fever, rash, arthralgia, and lymphopenia. Neurological manifestations or shock occurred in 20% of hospitalized children. These findings indicate the need for increased vigilance for CHIKV alongside dengue in travelers from Southeast Asia with suspected mosquito-borne viral infections.
The physical activity paradox; exploring the relationship with pain outcomes. The Tromsø Study 2015-2016
Authors: Fjeld Mats Kirkeby , Årnes Anders Pedersen , Engdahl Bo , Morseth Bente , Hopstock Laila Arnesdatter , Horsch Alexander , Stubhaug Audun , Strand Bjørn Heine , Ranhoff Anette Hylen , Matre Dagfinn , Nielsen Christopher Sivert , Steingrímsdóttir Ólöf Anna
Published: September 2024

Paradoxical associations have been observed for leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and occupational physical activity (OPA) and several health-related outcomes. Typically, higher LTPA is associated with health benefits and high OPA with health hazards. Using data from the Tromsø Study (2015-2016), we assessed how questionnaire-based LTPA and OPA (n = 21,083) and accelerometer-measured physical activity (PA) (n = 6778) relate to pain outcomes. Leisure-time physical activity and OPA were categorized as inactive PA, low PA, and moderate-to-vigorous PA and then aggregated into 9 levels, eg, inactive LTPA/inactive OPA. Accelerometer-measured PA included counts/minute, steps/day, and WHO PA recommendations from 2010 to 2020. Three binary pain outcomes (any pain, any chronic pain, and moderate-to-severe chronic pain) were constructed based on pain location, intensity, duration, and impact on daily activities. By using Poisson regression to estimate absolute and relative associations, we found that high LTPA was associated with lower pain prevalence and vice versa for OPA. Compared to inactive LTPA, prevalence ratio (PR) with 95% confidence intervals was lowest for moderate-to-vigorous LTPA, 0.93 (0.89-0.96) for any pain, 0.88 (0.84-0.93) for any chronic pain, and 0.66 (0.59-0.75) for moderate-to-severe chronic pain. Compared to sedentary OPA, the ratio was highest for moderate-to-vigorous OPA, 1.04 (1.01-1.07) for any pain, 1.06 (1.02-1.10) for any chronic pain, and 1.33 (1.21-1.46) for moderate-to-severe chronic pain. Aggregated LTPA and OPA showed lower outcomes for moderate-to-vigorous LTPA combined with lower levels of OPA. Higher levels of accelerometer-measured PA were associated with less pain. To summarize, we found inverse associations for LTPA and OPA. Benefits from LTPA seem to depend on low levels of OPA.
A nurse practitioner–led deprescribing bundled intervention to reduce rates of polypharmacy in the post-acute care setting
Authors: Boynton Polly B. , Head Tracy
Published: September 2024

Background:

In post-acute care (PAC) settings, residents face elevated risks of adverse drug reactions and emergency department visits because of polypharmacy. With over 90% of PAC residents nationally taking five or more medications, targeted deprescribing of inappropriate or unnecessary medications emerges as a critical strategy.

Local problem:

The project site faces high rates of polypharmacy with a root cause analysis revealing a deficiency in evidence-based practices (EBP) for deprescribing potentially inappropriate or unnecessary medications. To address this issue, a bundled deprescribing intervention was implemented as part of a quality improvement project aimed at reducing polypharmacy rates.

Methods:

This project, conducted at a PAC setting in the midwestern United States, used the RE-AIM Model. Data collection involved tracking prescribing rates before and after the intervention for residents admitted to the practice setting over a 5-month period.

Intervention:

A bundled EBP intervention comprising a deprescribing framework, pharmacist collaboration, and the utilization of an EBP guideline, established a systematic process guiding deprescribing efforts for each resident on admission to the PAC setting.

Results:

Fourty-nine patients received a deprescribing bundle, resulting in a 26.67% reduction in prescribed medications. On average, patients had 5.55 medications deprescribed, with reductions noted across 85 distinct therapeutic drug categories.

Conclusion:

Nurse practitioners play a pivotal role initiating successful deprescribing interventions within the PAC setting. Using a comprehensive approach, integrating pharmacist collaboration and EBP leads to reductions in prescribing rates among PAC residents. This model demonstrates potential for sustainable improvements in patient outcomes within the PAC environment.