bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The symmetry property of (n,k)‐arrangement graph
Authors: Yin Fu‐Gang , Feng Yan‐Quan , Zhou Jin‐Xin , Guo Yu‐Hong
Published: June 2021

The ‐arrangement graph  with , is the graph with vertex set the ordered ‐tuples of distinct elements in and with two ‐tuples adjacent if they differ in exactly one of their coordinates. The ‐arrangement graph was proposed by Day and Tripathi in 1992, and is a widely studied interconnection network topology. The Johnson graph  with , is the graph with vertex set the ‐element subsets of , and with two ‐element subsets adjacent if their intersection has elements. In 1989, Brouwer, Cohen and Neumaier determined the automorphism group of , and in 2015, Dobson and Malnič proved that a is Cayley graph if and only if , or with being a prime‐power. In this article we prove that , and as a byproduct, is a normal cover of . Furthermore, is a Cayley graph if and only if , , , , , , , , , , , or , where is a prime‐power. Note that the graph is called the ‐star graph, and its automorphism group can be deduced from a general result given by Feng in 2006. In 1998, Chiang and Chen proved that is a Cayley graph on the alternating group , and in 2011, Zhou determined the automorphism group of .
Projected temperature and precipitation changes using the LARS‐WG statistical downscaling model in the Shire River Basin, Malawi
Authors: Kavwenje Sheila , Zhao Lin , Chen Liang , Chaima Evance
Published: June 2021

This study analyzes local‐scale temperature and precipitation projections in the Shire River Basin (SRB) in Malawi using 10 global circulation models (GCMs) available in the coupled model intercomparison project phase 5 (CMIP5), under two representative concentration pathways (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5). For nine stations in the study area, large‐scale maximum temperature (Tmax), minimum temperature (Tmin) and precipitation data from the selected GCMs were downscaled by the sixth version of the Long Ashton Research Station Weather Generator (LARS‐WG6). The mean seasonal and annual change projections for Tmax, Tmin and precipitation during two future periods, that is, the middle future (2041–2070) and late future (2071–2100) periods were analyzed. Modelling results demonstrated that the LARS‐WG model is capable of simulating temperature more accurately than precipitation in the SRB. All 10 GCMs revealed that continually rising temperatures are anticipated in the study area; however, the projected magnitude of change varied across GCMs and between RCPs. Generally, the increase in average Tmax and Tmin was observed to be higher under RCP 8.5 compared with RCP 4.5 due to unmitigated greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). Future precipitation change results showed more complexity and uncertainty than for temperature; not all GCMs agree on whether there will be positive or negative changes in precipitation and no systematic variations under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 were observed during the two future time period, illustrating that both GCMs and RCPs are important sources of the relatively large uncertainties in future precipitation projections in the SRB. Thus, this study indicated that uncertainties constrained by both GCMs and RCPs are crucial and need to always be considered when executing climate impact studies and adaptation, particularly at river basin level.
New gridded rainfall dataset over the Korean peninsula: Gap infilling, reconstruction, and validation
Authors: Noh Gyu‐Ho , Ahn Kuk‐Hyun
Published: June 2021

This study describes a new high‐resolution latitude/longitude) gridded daily rainfall dataset (K‐Hidra version 2020) developed from rainfall records of 389 gauge stations irregularly distributed across the Korean peninsula. The observational datasets are often composed of incomplete time series covering different temporal periods with numerous missing values, informing that infilling process is essential. Three supportive but separated evaluation frameworks, which have been paid less attention to, are explicitly addressed to identify the proper infilling model in the study area. After a gridded rainfall dataset is created with infilled dataset, it is validated by comparing the gridded products obtained by observations. Furthermore, K‐Hidra is compared with other gridded rainfall estimates including Climate Prediction Center (CPC), Global Precipitation Climatology Project (GPCP), Asian Precipitation Highly‐Resolved Observational Data Integration Towards Evaluation (APHRODITE), and Tropical Rainfall Measuring Missing (TRMM) Multi‐satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA). Our results suggest that the elastic net model algorithm is the most effective in dealing with missing values in the study area. Results also demonstrate that the infilling process is vital to properly produce the reconstructed series although its effects substantially vary based on the size of the available data as well as the spatial and temporal distribution of the observed precipitation. Furthermore, K‐Hidra reveals that the Korean peninsula have experienced significant changes in precipitation‐related characteristics such as annual daily maximum precipitation and total annual dry days, likely leading to frequent hydrologic extremes. Lastly, K‐Hidra is compared with other estimates, CPC has a small bias and high correlations with the new dataset while precipitation variabilities are acceptably represented by all other gridded estimates. From the results demonstrated in this study, when officially released, K‐Hidra is expected to be useful for climate impact and rainfall variability analyses over the Korean peninsula.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy guideline concordance in melanoma: Analysis of the National Cancer Database
Authors: Narang Jatin , Hue Jonathan J. , Bingmer Katherine , Hardacre Jeffrey M. , Winter Jordan M. , Ocuin Lee M. , Ammori John B. , Mangla Ankit , Bordeaux Jeremy , Rothermel Luke D.
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

This study investigated the impact of treating facility type on guideline‐concordant sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) management in T1a* (defined as a Breslow depth <0.76 mm without ulceration or mitoses) and T2/T3 melanoma.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study utilizing the National Cancer Database from 2012 to 2016.

Results

Our cohort included 109,432 patients. For T1a* melanomas, 85% of patients received guideline‐concordant SLNB management at community and academic facilities versus 75% of patients at integrated network facilities (p < .001). Over 83% of patients with T2/T3 melanoma treated at an academic facility received guideline‐concordant SLNB management versus 77% treated at a community facility (p < .001). Adjusting for demographic and clinical factors, integrated (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 0.54), and comprehensive community (aOR = 0.74) facilities were less likely to provide guideline‐concordant SLNB management in patients with T1a* melanoma compared to academic facilities. Community facilities (aOR = 0.72) were less likely to provide guideline‐concordant SLNB management in patients with T2/T3 melanoma compared to academic facilities.

Conclusion

Academic facilities provide the highest rate of guideline‐concordant sentinel lymph node management. Comparatively, community programs may underutilize SLNB in T2/T3 disease, while integrated and comprehensive community facilities may over‐utilize SLNB in T1a* disease.
Flood‐prone area mapping using GIS‐based analytical hierarchy frameworks for Ibadan city, Nigeria
Authors: Ajibade Fidelis Odedishemi , Ajibade Temitope Fausat , Idowu Temitope Ezekiel , Nwogwu Nathaniel Azubuike , Adelodun Bashir , Lasisi Kayode Hassan , Opafola Omobolaji Taofeek , Ajala Oluwaseyi Aderemi , Fadugba Olaolu George , Adewumi James Rotimi
Published: June 2021

Flood is one of the highly pronounced ruinous naturally occurring environmental hazards in which human lives and properties are gravely endangered. This study assessed areas prone to flood in Ibadan City, Nigeria. The study applied two multi‐criteria analysis approach—Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP) with the aid of GIS. Ten geomorphological physical characteristics agreed upon by experts as the major factors influencing the susceptibility of an area to floods formed the criteria maps used in this study. The natural breaks and geometrical interval clustering techniques were utilised to group the final flood‐prone area maps into five categories—very low, low, moderate, high, and very high. The result indicated that over 50% of the study area either have low or moderate susceptibility to flooding. The clustering techniques showed some slight differences in the flood classifications where natural breaks consistently grouped more areas into the “very high” category and relatively fewer areas to “very low” category in comparison to the geometrical interval technique. Overall, at least 451 km2 (about 15% of Ibadan) is highly or very highly prone to floods, and these areas are mainly concentrated in the urban and semi‐urban regions of the study area. The findings and maps developed in this study would adequately serve as a planning guide for the policymakers on urban development and flood risk management to achieve sustainable development and management.
Molecular mechanisms of chemo‐ and radiotherapy resistance and the potential implications for cancer treatment
Authors: Liu Ya‐Ping , Zheng Can‐Can , Huang Yun‐Na , He Ming‐Liang , Xu Wen Wen , Li Bin
Published: June 2021

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Surgery is the primary treatment approach for cancer, but the survival rate is very low due to the rapid progression of the disease and presence of local and distant metastasis at diagnosis. Adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy are important components of the multidisciplinary approaches for cancer treatment. However, resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy may result in treatment failure or even cancer recurrence. Radioresistance in cancer is often caused by the repair response to radiation‐induced DNA damage, cell cycle dysregulation, cancer stem cells (CSCs) resilience, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Understanding the molecular alterations that lead to radioresistance may provide new diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets to improve radiotherapy efficacy. Patients who develop resistance to chemotherapy drugs cannot benefit from the cytotoxicity induced by the prescribed drug and will likely have a poor outcome with these treatments. Chemotherapy often shows a low response rate due to various drug resistance mechanisms. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms of radioresistance and chemoresistance in cancer and discusses recent developments in therapeutic strategies targeting chemoradiotherapy resistance to improve treatment outcomes.
Cite unseen: Theory and evidence on the effect of open access on cites to academic articles across the quality spectrum
Authors: McCabe Mark J. , Snyder Christopher M.
Published: June 2021

We model open access as facilitating full‐text acquisition, which, while often increasing cites, can reduce cites from readers who refrain from citing superficially after realizing the article is not worth citing. We test the theory with data on over 200,000 science articles binned by cites in the pre‐study period. Consistent with theory, we find that opening access to an article on the journal's website has a “Matthew effect” on citations: negative for the least‐cited articles, positive for the most cited, and monotonic for quality levels in between. Estimates for broader open‐access platforms and for cites coming from insiders versus outsiders also follow patterns consistent with theory.
Novel compound heterozygous STN1 variants are associated with Coats Plus syndrome
Authors: Acharya Tanvi , Firth Helen V. , Dugar Shilpa , Grammatikopoulos Tassos , Seabra Luis , Walters Angharad , Crow Yanick J. , Parker Alasdair P. J.
Published: June 2021

Aim

Coats plus syndrome (CP) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder, characterised by retinal telangiectasia exudates (Coats disease), leukodystrophy, distinctive intracranial calcification and cysts, as well as extra‐neurological features including abnormal vasculature of the gastrointestinal tract, portal hypertension and osteopenia with a tendency to fractures. CP most frequently occurs due to loss‐of‐function mutations in CTC1. The encoded protein CTC1 constitutes part of the CST (CTC1‐STN1‐TEN1) complex, and three patients have been described with CP due to biallelic mutations in STN1. Together with the identification of homozygosity for a specific loss‐of‐function mutation in POT1 in a sibling pair, these observations highlight a defect in the maintenance of telomere integrity as the cause of CP, although the precise mechanism leading to the micro‐vasculopathy seen at a pathological level remains unclear. Here, we present the investigation of a fourth child who presented to us with retinal exudates, intracranial calcifications and developmental delay, in keeping with a diagnosis of CP, and later went on to develop pancytopenia and gastrointestinal bleeding. Genome sequencing revealed compound heterozygous variants in STN1 as the likely genetic cause of CP in this present case.

Methods

We assessed the phenotype to be CP and undertook targeted sequencing.

Results

Whilst sequencing of CTC1 and POT1 was normal, we identified novel compound heterozygous variants in STN1 (previous gene symbol OBFC1): one loss‐of‐function––c.894dup (p.(Asp299Argfs*58)); and one missense––c.707T>C (p.(Leu236Pro)).

Conclusion

Given the clinical phenotype and identified variants we suggest that this is only the fourth patient reported to date with CP due to mutations in STN1.
Continuum of one‐sign solutions of one‐dimensional Minkowski‐curvature problem with nonlinear boundary conditions
Authors: Lu Yanqiong , Jing Zhengqi
Published: June 2021

In this work, we investigate the continuum of one‐sign solutions of the nonlinear one‐dimensional Minkowski‐curvature equation with nonlinear boundary conditions by using unilateral global bifurcation techniques. We obtain the existence and multiplicity of one‐sign solutions for this problem and give the global structure of one‐sign solutions set according to different asymptotic behaviors of nonlinearity near zero.
Pepsin Digest of Gliadin Forms Spontaneously Amyloid‐Like Nanostructures Influencing the Expression of Selected Pro‐Inflammatory, Chemoattractant, and Apoptotic Genes in Caco‐2 Cells: Implications for Gluten‐Related Disorders
Authors: Herrera Maria Georgina , Nicoletti Francesco , Gras Marion , Dörfler Philipp W. , Tonali Nicolo , Hannappel Yvonne , Ennen Inga , Hütten Andreas , Hellweg Thomas , Lammers Karen M. , Dodero Veronica I.
Published: June 2021

Scope

Proteolysis‐resistant gliadin peptides are intensely investigated in biomedical research relates to celiac disease and gluten‐related disorders. Herein, the first integrated supramolecular investigation of pepsin‐digested gliadin peptides (p‐gliadin) is presented in combination with its functional behavior in the Caco‐2 cell line.

Methods and Results

First, gliadins are degraded by pepsin at pH 3, and the physicochemical properties of p‐gliadin are compared with gliadin. An integrated approach using interfacial, spectroscopic, and microscopic techniques reveals that the p‐gliadin forms spontaneously soluble large supramolecular structures, mainly oligomers and fibrils, capable of binding amyloid‐sensitive dyes. The self‐assembly of p‐gliadin starts at a concentration of 0.40 µg mL−1. Second, the stimulation of Caco‐2 cells with the p‐gliadin supramolecular system is performed, and the mRNA expression levels of a panel of genes are tested. The experiments show that p‐gliadin composed of supramolecular structures triggers significant mRNA up‐regulation (p < 0.05) of pro‐apoptotic biomarkers (ratio Bcl2/Bak‐1), chemokines (CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, CCL5, CXCL8), and the chemokine receptor CXCR3.

Conclusions

This work demonstrates that p‐gliadin is interfacial active, forming spontaneously amyloid‐type structures that trigger genes in the Caco‐2 cell line involved in recruiting specialized immune cells.
Microwave curing kinetics of carbon‐fiber‐reinforced epoxy composites by wet filament winding process
Authors: Li Mengying , Xiao Jun , Wang Xingbang , Yang Xiao , Chen Xiaodong
Published: June 2021

A high‐performance compound epoxy resin system suitable for wet filament winding was designed. The glass transition temperature reached 181.3°C, and the tensile strength, tensile modulus, and elongation of the resin casting body were 90.82 MPa, 3312.72 MPa, and 4.17%, respectively. In order to explore the mechanism of microwave curing, the microwave curing kinetics of the composites was studied. Based on differential scanning calorimetry, the curing degree and curing reaction rate of thermal and microwave curing composites were compared. The results showed that the curing degree and curing reaction rate of microwave curing composites were higher than that of thermal curing in the early and middle stages of curing reaction. The heat transfer mechanism model was proposed. The heat transfer of carbon fiber after absorbing wave is the reason for the above‐mentioned phenomenon. In the later stage of curing reaction, the steric hindrance effect is greater than that of heat transfer mechanism on curing degree and curing rate, so there is little difference between the two curing methods. The kinetic parameters of thermal and microwave curing were calculated by the Malek method, and the activation energies were 70.40 kJ/mol and 61.18 kJ/mol, respectively. The correlation coefficient R2between the curing degree calculated by kinetic equation of microwave curing and measured by experiment was 0.951, indicating that the kinetic equation was in good agreement with the experimental results.
Temperature effect on the single and repeated impact responses of intraply flax/basalt hybrid polypropylene composites
Authors: Ferrante Luca , Sergi Claudia , Tirillò Jacopo , Russo Pietro , Calzolari Andrea , Sarasini Fabrizio
Published: June 2021

Low‐velocity impacts can severely jeopardize the structural reliability of polymer composites. In view of this, the present work provides a thorough overview of the impact response of polypropylene (PP) composites reinforced with an ecofriendly intraply flax/basalt hybrid fabric, assessing the effect of different parameters: energy level, temperature, and number of impacts. Indeed, high‐energy single impacts are as dangerous as low‐energy repeated impacts for the structural integrity of laminates. Moreover, considering the poor interfacial adhesion between hydrophobic polyolefin matrices and hydrophilic vegetable fibers, the effect of a maleic anhydride coupling agent was evaluated. A detrimental effect of coupling agent on composites impact response was observed, determining a reduction of the impact life (impacts to failure from 83 to 63 at 10 J and from 30 to 9 at 15 J) because several energy dissipation mechanisms were prevented. Decreasing temperatures (−40°C) caused an embrittlement effect on neat PP composites with an increase between 7.3% and 20.3% of maximum force and a decrease between 7.5% and 10.9% of maximum displacement, whereas increasing temperatures (80°C) led to a softening of compatibilized composites with a decrease between 13.8% and 27.5% of maximum force and an increase between 28.1% and 34.4% of maximum displacement.
Twenty‐year trends in prostate cancer stage and grade migration in a large contemporary german radical prostatectomy cohort
Authors: Würnschimmel Christoph , Kachanov Mykyta , Wenzel Mike , Mandel Philipp , Karakiewicz Pierre I. , Maurer Tobias , Steuber Thomas , Tilki Derya , Graefen Markus , Budäus Lars
Published: June 2021

Background

A trend towards inverse stage migration in prostate cancer (PCa) was reported. However, previous analyses did not take into account potential differences in sampling strategies (number of biopsy cores), which might have confounded these reports.

Material and Methods

Within our single‐institutional database we identified PCa patients treated with radical prostatectomy (RP) between 2000 and 2020 (n = 21,646). We calculated the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) for D'Amico risk groups, biopsy Gleason Grade Group (GGG), PSA and cT stage as well as postoperative RP GGG and pT stage relying on log linear regression methodology. Subsequently, we repeated the analyses after adjustment for number of cores obtained at biopsy.

Results

Absolute rates of D'Amico low risk decreased (−30.1%), while intermediate and high risk increased (+21.2% and +9.0%, respectively). Rates of GGG I decreased (−50.0%), while GGG II–V increased, with the largest increase in GGG II (+22.5%). This trend, albeit less pronounced, was also recorded after adjusted EAPC analyses (p < .05). Specifically, EAPC values for D'Amico low vs intermediate vs high risk were −1.07%, +0.37%, +0.45%, respectively, and EAPC values for GGG ranged between −0.71% (GGG I) and +0.80% (GGG IV). Finally, an increase in ≥cT2 (EAPC: +3.16%) was displayed (all p < .001). These trends were confirmed in EAPC calculations in RP GGG and pT stages (p < .001).

Conclusion

Our findings confirm the trend towards less frequent treatment of low risk PCa and more frequent treatment of high risk PCa, also after adjustment for number of biopsy cores.
Deep learning approach for guiding three‐dimensional computed tomography reconstruction of lower limbs for robotically‐assisted total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Li Zheng , Zhang Xiaofeng , Ding Lele , Du Kebin , Yan Jun , Chan Matthew T. V. , Wu William K. K. , Li Shugang
Published: June 2021

Background

Robotic‐assisted total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was performed to promote the accuracy of bone resection and mechanical alignment. Among these TKA system procedures, 3D reconstruction of CT data of lower limbs consumes significant manpower. Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms applying deep learning has been proved efficient in automated identification and visual processing.

Methods

CT data of a total of 200 lower limbs scanning were used for AI‐based 3D model construction and CT data of 20 lower limbs scanning were utilised for verification.

Results

We showed that the performance of an AI‐guided 3D reconstruction of CT data of lower limbs for robotic‐assisted TKA was similar to that of the operator‐based approach. The time of 3D lower limb model construction using AI was 4.7 min. AI‐based 3D models can be used for surgical planning.

Conclusion

AI was used for the first time to guide the 3D reconstruction of CT data of lower limbs for facilitating robotic‐assisted TKA. Incorporation of AI in 3D model reconstruction before TKA might reduce the workload of radiologists.
Cluster space key management scheme based on threshold secret sharing and bilinear pairing
Authors: Tong Xiaojun , Liu Jie , Wang Zhu , Zhang Miao , Chen Hong , Ma Jing
Published: June 2021

Space key management schemes play a critical role in space information network security services. However, the existing space key management schemes are inefficient. To overcome these problems, this paper proposed a cluster group key management scheme, in which the space nodes are divided into different clusters. The ground control center (GCC) is used as a private key generation center. The threshold technique based on low‐density parity‐check code (LDPC) is used in the group key management of the cluster‐heads. The key escrow is transferred to GCC, which is a compromise of efficiency and security. The logical key hierarchy is used to manage the group key of the cluster. Furthermore, the bilinear paring‐based cryptosystem is employed to provide the identification. The formalized security proof of the protocol using the Extended Canetti–Krawczyk (ECK) model is introduced to prove the authentication and security. The consistency, forward secrecy, backward secrecy, ability to against the collusion attack and performance are analyzed and simulated. The result shows that the proposed scheme takes lower storage cost and computational cost.
Bioengineering tools for probing intracellular events in T lymphocytes
Authors: Zhang Xinyuan , Mariano Chelsea F. , Ando Yuta , Shen Keyue
Published: June 2021

T lymphocytes are the central coordinator and executor of many immune functions. The activation and function of T lymphocytes are mediated through the engagement of cell surface receptors and regulated by a myriad of intracellular signaling network. Bioengineering tools, including imaging modalities and fluorescent probes, have been developed and employed to elucidate the cellular events throughout the functional lifespan of T cells. A better understanding of these events can broaden our knowledge in the immune systems biology, as well as accelerate the development of effective diagnostics and immunotherapies. Here we review the commonly used and recently developed techniques and probes for monitoring T lymphocyte intracellular events, following the order of intracellular events in T cells from activation, signaling, metabolism to apoptosis. The techniques introduced here can be broadly applied to other immune cells and cell systems.

This article is categorized under:

Immune System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology

Immune System Diseases > Biomedical Engineering

Infectious Diseases > Biomedical Engineering
Circadian rhythms and the HPA axis: A systems view
Authors: Androulakis Ioannis P.
Published: June 2021

The circadian timing system comprises a network of time‐keeping clocks distributed across a living host whose responsibility is to allocate resources and distribute functions temporally to optimize fitness. The molecular structures generating these rhythms have evolved to accommodate the rotation of the earth in an attempt to primarily match the light/dark periods during the 24‐hr day. To maintain synchrony of timing across and within tissues, information from the central clock, located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, is conveyed using systemic signals. Leading among those signals are endocrine hormones, and while the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis through the release of glucocorticoids is a major pacesetter. Interestingly, the fundamental units at the molecular and physiological scales that generate local and systemic signals share critical structural properties. These properties enable time‐keeping systems to generate rhythmic signals and allow them to adopt specific properties as they interact with each other and the external environment. The purpose of this review is to provide a broad overview of these structures, discuss their functional characteristics, and describe some of their fundamental properties as these related to health and disease.

This article is categorized under:

Immune System Diseases > Computational Models

Immune System Diseases > Biomedical Engineering
Adaptation of a microCT facility for automatic recognition of bioceramic‐based sealers in molar root canals aimed at endodontic treatment quality control
Authors: Valente Mauro , Mattea Facundo , Martín Gabriela , Moyano Teresa , Pérez Pedro
Published: June 2021

Computed tomography (CT) technology has seen tremendous growth since its first medical applications in the early 1970s. Nowadays, high‐spatial‐resolution digital detectors enable the micro‐computed tomography (μCT) technique, which has been introduced to a wide variety of applications, including biomedical sciences like odontological applications. Endodontic treatments stand as one of the most common dental procedures, and the quality of the treatment is essential to prevent and control any potential infection of root canals. This treatment is typically achieved by careful cleaning, shaping, and sealing steps. Often, endodontic treatments fail due to a poor seal, even if a meticulous root canal preparation is carried out. The present work reports on the spectrometric adaptation of a μCT facility for accurate quantification of root canal sealing with bioceramics, aimed at assessing the sealing performance of the new Bio‐C Sealer product. A dedicated irradiation setup along with digital image processing techniques have been developed for the accurate and automatic recognition of dental samples root canal anatomy and bioceramic‐based sealers. The performance of the proposed approaches has proved to be qualitatively and quantitatively robust for automatic characterization of the endodontic treatment sealing quality, satisfactorily identifying and segmenting canal root, gutta‐percha cone, and bioceramics.
SU(N) q-Toda equations from mass deformed ABJM theory
Authors: Nosaka Tomoki
Published: June 2021

Abstract

It is known that the partition functions of the U(N)k × U(N + M)−k ABJM theory satisfy a set of bilinear relations, which, written in the grand partition function, was recently found to be the q-Painlevé III3 equation. In this paper we have suggested that a similar bilinear relation holds for the ABJM theory with $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 6 preserving mass deformation for an arbitrary complex value of mass parameter, to which we have provided several non-trivial checks by using the exact values of the partition function for various N, k, M and the mass parameter. For particular choices of the mass parameters labeled by integers ν, a as m1 = m2 = −πi(ν − 2a)/ν, the bilinear relation corresponds to the q-deformation of the affine SU(ν) Toda equation in τ-form.
Universal statistics of vortices in a newborn holographic superconductor: beyond the Kibble-Zurek mechanism
Authors: del Campo Adolfo , Gómez-Ruiz Fernando Javier , Li Zhi-Hong , Xia Chuan-Yin , Zeng Hua-Bi , Zhang Hai-Qing
Published: June 2021

Abstract

Traversing a continuous phase transition at a finite rate leads to the breakdown of adiabatic dynamics and the formation of topological defects, as predicted by the celebrated Kibble-Zurek mechanism (KZM). We investigate universal signatures beyond the KZM, by characterizing the distribution of vortices generated in a thermal quench leading to the formation of a holographic superconductor. The full counting statistics of vortices is described by a binomial distribution, in which the mean value is dictated by the KZM and higher-order cumulants share the universal power-law scaling with the quench time. Extreme events associated with large fluctuations no longer exhibit a power-law behavior with the quench time and are characterized by a universal form of the Weibull distribution for different quench rates.
b → sτ+τ− physics at future Z factories
Authors: Li Lingfeng , Liu Tao
Published: June 2021

Abstract

b → sτ+τ− measurements are highly motivated for addressing lepton-flavor-universality (LFU)-violating puzzles such as $$ {R}_{K^{\left(\ast \right)}} $$

R

K

∗

anomalies. The anomalies of $$ {R}_{D^{\left(\ast \right)}} $$

R

D

∗

and RJ/ψ further strengthen their necessity and importance, given that the LFU-violating hints from both involve the third-generation leptons directly. Z factories at the future e−e+ colliders stand at a great position to conduct such measurements because of their relatively high production rates and reconstruction efficiencies for B mesons at the Z pole. To fully explore this potential, we pursue a dedicated sensitivity study in four b → sτ+τ− benchmark channels, namely B0 → K*0τ+τ−, Bs → ϕτ+τ−, B+ → K+τ+τ− and Bs → τ+τ−, at the future Z factories. We develop a fully tracker-based scheme for reconstructing the signal B mesons and introduce a semi-quantitative method for estimating their major backgrounds. The simulations indicate that branching ratios of the first three channels can be measured with a precision ∼ $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(10−7− 10−6) and that of Bs → τ+τ− with a precision ∼ $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(10−5) at Tera-Z. The impacts of luminosity and tracker resolution on the expected sensitivities are explored. The interpretations of these results in effective field theory are also presented.
New ideas for handling of loop and angular integrals in D-dimensions in QCD
Authors: Lyubovitskij Valery E. , Wunder Fabian , Zhevlakov Alexey S.
Published: June 2021

Abstract

We discuss new ideas for consideration of loop diagrams and angular integrals in D-dimensions in QCD. In case of loop diagrams, we propose the covariant formalism of expansion of tensorial loop integrals into the orthogonal basis of linear combinations of external momenta. It gives a very simple representation for the final results and is more convenient for calculations on computer algebra systems. In case of angular integrals we demonstrate how to simplify the integration of differential cross sections over polar angles. Also we derive the recursion relations, which allow to reduce all occurring angular integrals to a short set of basic scalar integrals. All order ε-expansion is given for all angular integrals with up to two denominators based on the expansion of the basic integrals and using recursion relations. A geometric picture for partial fractioning is developed which provides a new rotational invariant algorithm to reduce the number of denominators.
A Hopf Bifurcation in the Planar Navier–Stokes Equations
Authors: Arioli Gianni , Koch Hans
Published: June 2021

We consider the Navier–Stokes equation for an incompressible viscous fluid on a square, satisfying Navier boundary conditions and being subjected to a time-independent force. As the kinematic viscosity is varied, a branch of stationary solutions is shown to undergo a Hopf bifurcation, where a periodic cycle branches from the stationary solution. Our proof is constructive and uses computer-assisted estimates.
Standardized porcine unilateral femoral nailing is associated with changes in PMN activation status, rather than aberrant systemic PMN prevalence
Authors: Teuben Michel Paul Johan , Pfeifer Roman , Horst Klemens , Simon Tim-Philipp , Heeres Marjolein , Kalbas Yannik , Blokhuis Taco , Hildebrand Frank , Koenderman Leo , Pape Hans-Christoph , Leenen Luke ,   TREAT-Research Collaboration, Auner B. , Störmann P. , Relja B. , Marzi I. , Simon T. P. , Marx G. , Haug A. , Egerer L. , Griensven M. V. , Kalbitz M. , Huber-Lang M. , Tolba R. , Reiss K. , Uhlig S. , Horst K. , Teuben M. , Pfeifer R. , Almahmoud K. , Kalbas Y. , Lüken H. , Almahmoud K. , Hildebrand F. , Pape H. C.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Intramedullary nailing (IMN) of fractures is associated with increased rates of inflammatory complications. The pathological mechanism underlying this phenomenon is unclear. However, polymorphonuclear granulocytes (PMNs) seem to play an important role. We hypothesized that a femur fracture and standardized IMN in pigs is associated with altered appearance of PMNs in circulation and enhanced activation status of these cells.

Methods

A porcine model including a femur fracture and IMN was utilized. Animals were randomized for control [anesthesia + mechanical ventilation only (A/MV)] and intervention [A/MV and unilateral femur fracture (FF) + IMN] conditions. PMN numbers and responsiveness, integrin (CD11b), L-selectin (CD62L) and Fcγ-receptor (CD16 and CD32)-expression levels were measured by flowcytometry of blood samples. Animals were observed for 72 h.

Results

Circulatory PMN numbers did not differ between groups. Early PMN-responsiveness was retained after insult. PMN-CD11b expression increased significantly upon insult and peaked after 24 h, whereas CD11b in control animals remained unaltered (P = 0.016). PMN-CD16 expression levels in the FF + IMN-group rose gradually over time and were significantly higher compared with control animals, after 48 h (P = 0.016) and 72 h (P = 0.032). PMN-CD62L and CD32 expression did not differ significantly between conditions.

Conclusion

This study reveals that a femur fracture and subsequent IMN in a controlled setting in pigs is associated with enhanced activation status of circulatory PMNs, preserved PMN-responsiveness and unaltered circulatory PMN-presence. Indicating that monotrauma plus IMN is a specific and substantial stimulus for the cellular immune system. Early alterations of circulatory PMN receptor expression dynamics may be predictive for the intensity of the post traumatic response.
Exogenous Glutathione Alleviates Cadmium Toxicity in Wheat by Influencing the Absorption and Translocation of Cadmium
Authors: Li Ge-Zi , Chen Shi-Juan , Li Na-Ying , Wang Ying-Ying , Kang Guo-Zhang
Published: June 2021

Cadmium (Cd), a toxic heavy metal, is harmful to plants and human health. Glutathione (GSH) could alleviate Cd toxicity of plant species, whereas its mechanism responsible for wheat remains poorly understood. Here, we found that exogenous GSH application significantly increased the fresh and dry weight, root elongation, chlorophyll contents, while decreased the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and GSH, and translocation factor of Cd compared with Cd treatment. Moreover, GSH application significantly increased activities of antioxidant enzymes and expression of related genes, which involved in GSH synthesis, especially in roots. In addition, we found that GSH application suppressed Cd-induced expression of metal transporter genes TaNramp1, TaNramp5, TaHMA2, TaHMA3, TaLCT1 and TaIRT2 in roots. Taken together, our results suggested that GSH could alleviate Cd toxicity in wheat by increasing GSH synthesis gene expression or suppressing Cd transporter genes expression, and further affecting Cd uptake and translocation in wheat plants.
Enhancing Robustness Verification for Deep Neural Networks via Symbolic Propagation
Authors: Yang Pengfei , Li Jianlin , Liu Jiangchao , Huang Cheng-Chao , Li Renjue , Chen Liqian , Huang Xiaowei , Zhang Lijun
Published: June 2021

Deep neural networks (DNNs) have been shown lack of robustness, as they are vulnerable to small perturbations on the inputs. This has led to safety concerns on applying DNNs to safety-critical domains. Several verification approaches based on constraint solving have been developed to automatically prove or disprove safety properties for DNNs. However, these approaches suffer from the scalability problem, i.e., only small DNNs can be handled. To deal with this, abstraction based approaches have been proposed, but are unfortunately facing the precision problem, i.e., the obtained bounds are often loose. In this paper, we focus on a variety of local robustness properties and a(δ,ε)-global robustness property of DNNs, and investigate novel strategies to combine the constraint solving and abstraction-based approaches to work with these properties:

We propose a method to verify local robustness, which improves a recent proposal of analyzing DNNs through the classic abstract interpretation technique, by a novel symbolic propagation technique. Specifically, the values of neurons are representedsymbolicallyand propagated from the input layer to the output layer, on top of the underlying abstract domains. It achieves significantly higher precision and thus can prove more properties.

We propose a Lipschitz constant based verification framework. By utilising Lipschitz constants solved by semidefinite programming, we can prove global robustness of DNNs. We show how the Lipschitz constant can be tightened if it is restricted to small regions. A tightened Lipschitz constantcan be helpful in proving local robustness properties. Furthermore, a global Lipschitz constant can be used to accelerate batch local robustness verification, and thus support the verification of global robustness.

We show how the proposed abstract interpretation and Lipschitz constant based approaches can benefit from each other to obtain more precise results. Moreover, they can be also exploited and combined to improve constraints based approach.

We implement our methods in the tool PRODeep, and conduct detailed experimental results on several benchmarks
On Composite Quantum Hypothesis Testing
Authors: Berta Mario , Brandão Fernando G. S. L. , Hirche Christoph
Published: June 2021

We extend quantum Stein’s lemma in asymmetric quantum hypothesis testing to composite null and alternative hypotheses. As our main result, we show that the asymptotic error exponent for testing convex combinations of quantum states $$\rho ^{\otimes n}$$

ρ

⊗
n

against convex combinations of quantum states $$\sigma ^{\otimes n}$$

σ

⊗
n

can be written as a regularized quantum relative entropy formula. We prove that in general such a regularization is needed but also discuss various settings where our formula as well as extensions thereof become single-letter. This includes an operational interpretation of the relative entropy of coherence in terms of hypothesis testing. For our proof, we start from the composite Stein’s lemma for classical probability distributions and lift the result to the non-commutative setting by using elementary properties of quantum entropy. Finally, our findings also imply an improved recoverability lower bound on the conditional quantum mutual information in terms of the regularized quantum relative entropy—featuring an explicit and universal recovery map.
Pharmacokinetic studies of [68 Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 in patients with biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer: detection, differences in temporal distribution and kinetic modelling by tissue type
Authors: Strauss Dimitrios S. , Sachpekidis C. , Kopka K. , Pan L. , Haberkorn U. , Dimitrakopoulou-Strauss A.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

[68 Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 is a promising radiopharmaceutical for detecting tumour lesions in prostate cancer, but knowledge of the pharmacokinetics is limited. Dynamic PET-CT was performed to investigate the tumour detection and differences in temporal distribution, as well as in kinetic modelling of [68 Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 by tissue type.

Methods

Dynamic PET-CT over the lower abdomen and static whole-body PET-CT 80–90 min p.i. from 142 patients with biochemical recurrence were retrospectively analysed. Detection rates were compared to PSA levels. Average time-activity curves were calculated from tumour lesions and normal tissue. A three-compartment model and non-compartment model were used to calculate tumour kinetics.

Results

Overall detection rate was 70.42%, and in patients with PSA > 0.4 ng/mL 76.67%. All tumour lesions presented the steepest standardised uptake value (SUV) incline in the first 7–8 min before decreasing to different degrees. Normal tissue presented with a low uptake, except for the bladder, which accumulated activity the steepest 15–16 min. p.i.. While all tumour lesions continuously increased, bone metastases showed the steepest decline, resulting in a significantly lower SUV than lymph node metastases (60 and 80–90 min). Transport rate from the blood and tracer binding and internalisation rate were lower in bone metastases. Heterogeneity (fractal dimension) and vascular density were significantly lower in bone metastases.

Conclusion

Even at low PSA between 0.51 and 0.99 ng/mL, detection rate was 57%. Dynamic imaging showed a time window in the first 10 min where tumour uptake is high, but no bladder activity is measured, aiding accuracy in distinction of local recurrence. Kinetic modelling provided additional information for tumour characterisation by tissue type.
Post-COVID-19 exacerbation of fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva with multiple flare-ups and extensive heterotopic ossification in a 45-year-old female patient
Authors: Grgurevic Lovorka , Novak Rudjer , Hrkac Stela , Salai Grgur , Grazio Simeon
Published: June 2021

Fibrodyplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare hereditary disease, which has a variable course characterized by occasional flare-ups of heterotopic ossification (HO) in soft tissues that are followed by swelling, stiffness, pain and warmth. Here, we report for the first time a case of a 45-year-old female patient with known FOP recovering from COVID-19 with disease progression potentially linked with the viral illness. In December 2020 the patient contracted a mild form of COVID-19 infection without need for hospital admission. Since January 2021, the patient felt unwell, with occasional abdominal pain which progressively intensified. In March 2021 she presented with new onset of HO, complaining of pain, swelling and thickening sensation in the lower abdomen and left part of the neck. Computerized tomography (CT) and cytokine analysis were performed. CT scan revealed new heterotopic bone formation in multiple soft tissue areas of the neck indicating clear radiological progression. Radiotherapy, which has proven to be an efficient tool to control HO in this patient, was not able to halt HO formation after COVID-19 infection. Cytokine analysis of a plasma sample obtained during a flare-up after COVID-19 infection showed a significantly elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines compared to a flare-up panel prior to infection. Of the 23 analyzed levels of cytokines, a staggering number of 21 were above normal levels. This case is the first confirmation of uncontrolled post-COVID-19 effects in a FOP patient, which manifested with flare-ups followed by progressive HO, possibly caused by a thus far, never described form of post-COVID syndrome.
Augmented reality simulator for CT-guided interventions
Authors: Amiras D. , Hurkxkens T. J. , Figueroa D. , Pratt P. J , Pitrola B. , Watura C. , Rostampour S. , Shimshon G. J. , Hamady M.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

CT-guided interventions are taught using a mentored approach on real patients. It is well established that simulation is a valuable training tool in medicine. This project assessed the feasibility and acceptance of replicating a CT-guided intervention using a bespoke software application with an augmented reality head-mounted display (ARHMD).

Methods

A virtual patient was generated using a CT dataset obtained from The Cancer Imaging Archive. A surface mesh of a virtual patient was projected into the field-of-view of the operator. ChArUco markers, placed on both the needle and agar jelly phantom, were tracked using RGB cameras built into the ARHMD. A virtual CT slice simulating the needle position was generated on voice command. The application was trialled by senior interventional radiologists and trainee radiologists with a structured questionnaire evaluating face validity and technical aspects.

Results

Sixteen users trialled the application and feedback was received from all. Eleven felt the accuracy and realism was adequate for training and twelve felt more confident about their CT biopsy skills after this training session.

Discussion

The study showed the feasibility of simulating a CT-guided procedure with augmented reality and that this could be used as a training tool.

Key Points

• Simulating a CT-guided procedure using augmented reality is possible.

• The simulator developed could be an effective training tool for clinical practical skills.

• Complexity of cases can be tailored to address the training level demands.