bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classical vs quantum corrections to jet broadening in a weakly-coupled Quark-Gluon Plasma
Authors: Ghiglieri Jacopo , Weitz Eamonn
Published: November 2022

Abstract

The transverse momentum broadening coefficient $$ \hat{q} $$

q
̂

receives both soft, classical and radiative, quantum corrections. The former are responsible for a large $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(g) correction, whereas the latter enter at relative order αs, but are enhanced by a double logarithm of the length of the medium over the thermal wavelength. We analyze radiative corrections for a weakly-coupled quark-gluon plasma. We find that a thermal population of dynamical gluons changes the boundaries and reduces the size of the double-logarithmic phase space. It also provides new subdominant logarithmic corrections. We also show how the quantum, double-logarithmic and classical, soft phase spaces are smoothly connected once the radiated gluon becomes soft enough. Finally, we discuss a pathway to a determination of radiative corrections beyond the harmonic-oscillator approximation.
S-confinements from deconfinements
Authors: Bajeot Stephane , Benvenuti Sergio
Published: November 2022

Abstract

We consider four dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 gauge theories that are S-confining, that is they are dual to a Wess-Zumino model. S-confining theories with a simple gauge group have been classified. We prove all the S-confining dualities in the list, when the matter fields transform in rank-1 and/or rank-2 representations. Our only assumptions are the S-confining dualities for SU(N) with N + 1 flavors and for Usp(2N) with 2N + 4 fundamentals. The strategy consists in a sequence of deconfinements and re-confinements. We pay special attention to the explicit superpotential at each step.
Set of Uniqueness for Cantorvals
Authors: Gła̧b Szymon , Marchwicki Jacek
Published: November 2022

The main result is that the celebrated Guthrie–Nymann’s Cantorval has comeager set of uniqueness. On the other hand many other Cantorvals have meager set of uniqueness.
Dynamics of the Painlevé-Ince Equation
Authors: Llibre Jaume
Published: November 2022

The Painlevé-Ince differential equation $$y'' + 3 y y' + y^3=0$$

y

′
′

+
3
y

y
′

+

y
3

=
0

has been studied from many points of view. Here we complete its study providing its phase portrait in the Poincaré disc.
Large deviations for the interchange process on the interval and incompressible flows
Authors: Kotowski Michał , Virág Bálint
Published: November 2022

We use the framework of permuton processes to show that large deviations of the interchange process are controlled by the Dirichlet energy. This establishes a rigorous connection between processes of permutations and one-dimensional incompressible Euler equations. While our large deviation upper bound is valid in general, the lower bound applies to processes corresponding to incompressible flows, studied in this context by Brenier. These results imply the Archimedean limit for relaxed sorting networks and allow us to asymptotically count such networks.
Tool life prognostics in CNC turning of AISI 4140 steel using neural network based on computer vision
Authors: Bagga Prashant J. , Makhesana Mayur A. , Darji Pranav P. , Patel Kaushik M. , Pimenov Danil Yu , Giasin Khaled , Khanna Navneet
Published: November 2022

One of the essential requirements for intelligent manufacturing is the low cost and reliable predictions of the tool life during machining. It is crucial to monitor the condition of the cutting tool to achieve cost-effective and high-quality machining. Tool conditioning monitoring (TCM) is essential to determining the remaining useful tool life to assure uninterrupted machining to achieve intelligent manufacturing. The same can be done by direct and indirect tool wear measurement and prediction techniques. In indirect methods, the data is acquired from the sensors resulting in some ambiguity, such as noise, reliability, and complexity. However, in direct methods, the data is available in images resulting in significantly less chances of ambiguity with the proper data acquisition system. The direct methods, which provide higher accuracy than indirect methods, involve collecting images of worn tools at different stages of the machining process to predict the tool life. In this context, a novel tool wear prediction system is proposed to examine the progressive tool wear utilizing the artificial neural network (ANN). Experiments were performed on AISI 4140 steel material under dry cutting conditions with carbide inserts. The cutting speed, feed, depth of cut, and white pixel counts are considered as input parameters for the proposed model, and the flank wear along with remaining tool life is predicted as the output. The worn tool images were captured using an industrial camera during the turning operation at regular intervals. The ANN training set predicts the remaining useful tool life, especially the sigmoid function and rectified linear unit (ReLU) activation function of ANN. The sigmoid function showed an accuracy of 86.5%, and the ReLU function resulted in 93.3% accuracy in predicting tool life. The proposed model’s maximum and minimum root mean square error (RMSE) is 1.437 and 0.871 min. The outcomes showcased the ability of image processing and ANN modeling as the potential approach for developing a low-cost industrial tool condition monitoring system that can measure tool wear and predict tool life in turning operations.
The asymptotics of the area-preserving mean curvature and the Mullins–Sekerka flow in two dimensions
Authors: Julin Vesa , Morini Massimiliano , Ponsiglione Marcello , Spadaro Emanuele
Published: November 2022

We provide the first general result for the asymptotics of the area preserving mean curvature flow in two dimensions showing that flat flow solutions, starting from any bounded set of finite perimeter, converge with exponential rate to a finite union of equally sized disjoint disks. A similar result is established also for the periodic two-phase Mullins–Sekerka flow.
Resolving singularities of curves with one toric morphism
Authors: de Felipe Ana Belén , González Pérez Pedro D. , Mourtada Hussein
Published: November 2022

We give an explicit positive answer, in the case of reduced curve singularities, to a question of B. Teissier about the existence of a toric embedded resolution after reembedding. In the case of a curve singularity (C, O) contained in a non singular surface S such a reembedding may be defined in terms of a sequence of maximal contact curves of the minimal embedded resolution of C. We prove that there exists a toric modification, after reembedding, which provides an embedded resolution of C. We use properties of the semivaluation space of S at O to describe how the dual graph of the minimal embedded resolution of C may be seen on the local tropicalization of S associated to this reembedding.
New terbium complex as a luminescent probe for determination of chlorogenic acid in green coffee and roasted coffee infusions
Authors: Yegorova Alla , Skrypynets Yuliia , Leonenko Inna , Duerkop Axel
Published: November 2022

Green coffee is coming into vogue as a food that contains remarkable contents of antioxidants like chlorogenic acid (ChA) and induces mild stimulation to the consumer. While most methods for determination of ChA require chromatographic separation prior its quantitation, we present the first probe and a simple, sensitive and validated luminescence method for the determination of chlorogenic acid in green and roasted coffee infusion samples that does not require a chromatographic separation. ChA can remarkably quench the luminescence intensity of the Tb3+ complex with 1-(furan-2-ylmethyl)-4-hydroxy-N-(4-methylpyridin-2-yl)-2-oxo-1,2,5,6,7,8-hexahydroquinoline-3-carboxamide (R3) in aqueous solution containing urotropine buffer at a near neutral pH 7.5 at λexc = 315 nm and λem = 545 nm. Under optimal conditions, the quenching of the luminescence intensity is directly proportional to the concentration of ChA in the range of 0.5–30 μg/mL, and the detection limit is 180 ng/mL. From measurements of luminescence decay time, it was determined that both static and dynamic quenching is induced upon coordination of ChA to Tb-R3. The related quenching constants are KS = 5.97∙104 M−1 and KD = 1.05⋅104 M−1. Finally, the method was applied successfully to the determination of ChA in real green and roasted coffee infusion samples and validated by HPLC to yield very closely matching concentrations of both methods. Therefore, this method can serve for a simple quality control of total ChA contents in coffee prior and after roasting.

Graphical Abstract
Enzymatic hydrolysis of lentil protein concentrate for modification of physicochemical and techno-functional properties
Authors: Vogelsang-O’Dwyer Martin , Sahin Aylin W. , Bot Francesca , O’Mahony James A. , Bez Juergen , Arendt Elke K. , Zannini Emanuele
Published: November 2022

The effects of hydrolysis by commercial food-grade proteases on the physicochemical and techno-functional properties of lentil protein concentrate were investigated. Lentil protein concentrate was hydrolysed with Alcalase, Novozym 11028 or Flavourzyme, and a control was prepared without enzyme addition under the same conditions. Differences in specificity between the three proteases were evident in the electrophoretic protein profile, reversed-phase HPLC peptide profile, and free amino acid composition. Alcalase and Novozym were capable of extensively degrading all the major protein fractions. Alcalase or Novozym treatment resulted in considerably higher solubility under acidic conditions compared to the control. Flavourzyme treatment resulted in moderately improved solubility in the acidic range, but slightly lower solubility at pH 7. Alcalase treatment resulted in slightly larger particle size and slightly higher viscosity. The foaming properties of the protein concentrate were not significantly affected by hydrolysis. Increased solubility in acidic conditions with hydrolysis could broaden the range of food and beverage applications for lentil protein concentrate.
Discontinuities Cause Essential Spectrum
Authors: Butterley Oliver , Canestrari Giovanni , Jain Sakshi
Published: November 2022

We study transfer operators associated to piecewise monotone interval transformations and show that the essential spectrum is large whenever the Banach space bounds$$L^\infty $$L∞and the transformation fails to be Markov. Constructing a family of Banach spaces we show that the lower bound on the essential spectral radius is optimal. Indeed, these Banach spaces realise an essential spectral radius as close as desired to the theoretical best possible case.
An Elementary Proof of Phase Transition in the Planar XY Model
Authors: van Engelenburg Diederik , Lis Marcin
Published: November 2022

Using elementary methods we obtain a power-law lower bound on the two-point function of the planar XY spin model at low temperatures. This was famously first rigorously obtained by Fröhlich and Spencer (Commun Math Phys 81(4):527–602, 1981) and establishes a Berezinskii–Kosterlitz–Thouless phase transition in the model. Our argument relies on a new loop representation of spin correlations, a recent result of Lammers (Probab Relat Fields, 2021) on delocalisation of general integer-valued height functions, and classical correlation inequalities.
Influence of larval prey availability on year class strength in Faroe Plateau cod (Gadus morhua)
Authors: Jacobsen Sólvá , Nielsen Kristoffer Klitgaard , Kristiansen Rune , Grønkjær Peter , Gaard Eilif , Steingrund Petur
Published: November 2022

Recruitment to the Faroe Plateau cod (Gadus morhua) stock (62°N, 6.8°W) is highly variable between years, and availability of suitable prey during the early life stages may determine the year class strength. Here we first investigate interannual variability in recruitment (1983–2017) of cod based on survey data and data from stock assessments. Positive relationships between the spawning stock biomass and larval abundance and between juvenile abundance and recruitment at year 1 were detected. However, the relationship between larval abundance and juvenile abundance was not statistically significant, indicating variable survival during the larval/early juvenile stages. We then investigated if food availability at the larval and early juvenile stages could explain the variability in recruitment using an 8-year long time series of larval and juvenile gut content. Feeding at the early larval stage, present during the pre-bloom, was relatively stable between years. However, large interannual variability in feeding at the early juvenile stage was detected. When juvenile survival and mean length were high, juveniles clearly had less food in their guts. This contradiction is suggested to be due to intense grazing pressure on the zooplankton at high juvenile abundances. However, years with high larval survival coincided with years when the phytoplankton spring bloom was early and intense, suggesting that production of suitable prey during the larval stages determines larval growth and survival and that this production is dependent on the phytoplankton spring bloom characteristics.
Time-dependent association between omeprazole and esomeprazole and hospitalization due to hyponatremia
Authors: Issa Issa , Skov Jakob , Falhammar Henrik , Calissendorff Jan , Lindh Jonatan D. , Mannheimer Buster
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study was to explore the time-course of hospitalization due to hyponatremia associated with omeprazole and esomeprazole.

Methods

In this register-based case–control study, we compared patients hospitalized with a main diagnosis of hyponatremia (n = 11,213) to matched controls (n = 44,801). We used multiple regression to investigate time-related associations between omeprazole and esomeprazole and hospitalization because of hyponatremia.

Results

The overall adjusted OR (aOR) between proton pump inhibitor (PPI) exposure, regardless of treatment duration and hospitalization with a main diagnosis of hyponatremia, was 1.23 (95% confidence interval CI 1.15–1.32). Exposure to PPIs was associated with a prompt increase in risk of hospitalization for hyponatremia from the first week (aOR 6.87; 95% CI 4.83–9.86). The risk then gradually declined, reaching an aOR of 1.64 (0.96–2.75) the fifth week. The aOR of ongoing PPI treatment was 1.10 (1.03–1.18).

Conclusion

The present study shows a marked association between omeprazole and esomeprazole and hyponatremia related to recently initiated treatment. Consequently, newly initiated PPIs should be considered a potential culprit in any patient suffering from hyponatremia. However, if the patient has had this treatment for a longer time, the PPI should be considered a less likely cause.
Inpatient Versus Outpatient Surgery: A Comparison of Postoperative Mortality and Morbidity in Elective Operations
Authors: Madsen Helen J. , Henderson William G. , Dyas Adam R. , Bronsert Michael R. , Colborn Kathryn L. , Lambert‐Kerzner Anne , Meguid Robert A.
Published: November 2022

Background

Operations performed outpatient offer several benefits. The prevalence of outpatient operations is growing. Consequently, the proportion of patients with multiple comorbidities undergoing outpatient surgery is increasing. We compared 30‐day mortality and overall morbidity between outpatient and inpatient elective operations.

Methods

Using the 2005–2018 ACS‐NSQIP database, we evaluated trends in percent of hospital outpatient operations performed over time, and the percent of operations done outpatient versus inpatient by CPT code. Patient characteristics were compared for outpatient versus inpatient operations. We compared unadjusted and risk‐adjusted 30‐day mortality and morbidity for inpatient and outpatient operations.

Results

A total of 6,494,298 patients were included. The proportion of outpatient operations increased over time, from 37.8% in 2005 to 48.2% in 2018. We analyzed the 50 most frequent operations performed outpatient versus inpatient 25–75% of the time (n = 1,743,097). Patients having outpatient operations were younger (51.6 vs 54.6 years), female (70.3% vs 67.3%), had fewer comorbidities, and lower ASA class (I–II, 69.3% vs. 59.9%). On both unadjusted and risk‐adjusted analysis, 30‐day mortality and overall morbidity were less likely in outpatient versus inpatient operations.

Conclusion

In this large multi‐specialty analysis, we found that patients undergoing outpatient surgery had lower risk of 30‐day morbidity and mortality than those undergoing the same inpatient operation. Patients having outpatient surgery were generally healthier, suggesting careful patient selection occurred even with increasing outpatient operation frequency. Patients and providers can feel reassured that outpatient operations are a safe, reasonable option for selected patients.
High-pressure behavior of gasparite-(Ce) (nominally CeAsO4), a monazite-type arsenate
Authors: Pagliaro Francesco , Lotti Paolo , Comboni Davide , Battiston Tommaso , Guastoni Alessandro , Fumagalli Patrizia , Rotiroti Nicola , Gatta G. Diego
Published: November 2022

The high-pressure behavior of the natural arsenate gasparite-(Ce) [Ce0.43La0.24Nd0.15Ca0.11Pr0.04Sm0.02Gd0.01(As0.99Si0.03O4)] from the Mt. Cervandone mineral deposit (Piedmont Lepontine Alps, Italy), has been studied by in situ single-crystal synchrotron X-ray diffraction up to 22.01 GPa. Two distinct high-pressure ramps have been performed, using a 16:3:1 methanol:ethanol:water solution and helium as P-transmitting fluids, respectively. No phase transition occurs within the pressure range investigated, whereas a change in the compressional behavior has been observed at ~ 15 GPa. A second-order Birch-Murnaghan EoS was fitted to the P-V data, leading to a refined bulk modulus of 109.4(3) GPa. The structural analysis has been carried out on the basis of the refined structure models, allowing the description of the deformation mechanisms accommodating the bulk compression in gasparite-(Ce) at the atomic scale, which is mainly controlled by the compression of the Rare Earth Elements coordination polyhedra, while the AsO4 tetrahedra behave as a quasi-rigid units. A micro-Raman spectroscopy analysis, performed at ambient conditions, suggests the presence of hydroxyl groups into the structure of the investigated gasparite-(Ce).
A Multi-centre, Single Arm, Non-randomized, Prospective European Trial to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of the HistoSonics System in the Treatment of Primary and Metastatic Liver Cancers (#HOPE4LIVER)
Authors: Wah Tze Min , Pech Maciej , Thormann Maximilian , Serres Xavier , Littler Peter , Stenberg Benjamin , Lenton James , Smith Jonathan , Wiggermann Philipp , Planert Mathis , Vidal-Jove Joan , Torzilli Guido , Solbiati Luigi
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Image-guided thermal ablation are established treatment options for non-surgical patients with primary and metastatic liver cancers. However, there are limitations with nonuniformity of cancer tissue destruction, heat sink effect and the risk of thermal ablative injury. The current non-thermal ablative techniques have high risk of local recurrence and are not widely adopted. Histotripsy is a treatment technology that destroys targeted tissue under ultrasound visualization via mechanical destruction through the precise application of acoustic cavitation and can offer the potential of non-invasive, non-thermal and non-ionizing radiation cancer treatment. The aim of this multi-centre non-randomized phase I/II trial is to assess the initial safety and efficacy of the prototype investigational ‘System’ in the treatment of primary and metastatic liver cancers.

Methods/Design

All non-surgical patients with primary/metastatic liver cancers having had previous liver directed therapy, radiation therapy or image-guided ablation may be offered image-guided Histotripsy as per trial protocol. The co-primary endpoints are technical success and procedural safety. Technical success is determined, at ≤ 36 h post procedure, by evaluating the histotripsy treatment size and coverage. The procedural safety is defined by procedure related major complications, defined as Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE version 5) grade 3 or higher toxicities, up to 30 days post procedure. This phase I/II trial has intended to recruit up to 45 patients to show safety and efficacy of image-guided histotripsy in liver cancers.

Trail Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier-NCT04573881; NIHR CRN CPMS-ID 47572.
Musculoskeletal radiologist-level performance by using deep learning for detection of scaphoid fractures on conventional multi-view radiographs of hand and wrist
Authors: Hendrix Nils , Hendrix Ward , van Dijke Kees , Maresch Bas , Maas Mario , Bollen Stijn , Scholtens Alexander , de Jonge Milko , Ong Lee-Ling Sharon , van Ginneken Bram , Rutten Matthieu
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To assess how an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm performs against five experienced musculoskeletal radiologists in diagnosing scaphoid fractures and whether it aids their diagnosis on conventional multi-view radiographs.

Methods

Four datasets of conventional hand, wrist, and scaphoid radiographs were retrospectively acquired at two hospitals (hospitals A and B). Dataset 1 (12,990 radiographs from 3353 patients, hospital A) and dataset 2 (1117 radiographs from 394 patients, hospital B) were used for training and testing a scaphoid localization and laterality classification component. Dataset 3 (4316 radiographs from 840 patients, hospital A) and dataset 4 (688 radiographs from 209 patients, hospital B) were used for training and testing the fracture detector. The algorithm was compared with the radiologists in an observer study. Evaluation metrics included sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), area under the characteristic operating curve (AUC), Cohen’s kappa coefficient (κ), fracture localization precision, and reading time.

Results

The algorithm detected scaphoid fractures with a sensitivity of 72%, specificity of 93%, PPV of 81%, and AUC of 0.88. The AUC of the algorithm did not differ from each radiologist (0.87 [radiologists’ mean], p ≥ .05). AI assistance improved five out of ten pairs of inter-observer Cohen’s κ agreements (p < .05) and reduced reading time in four radiologists (p < .001), but did not improve other metrics in the majority of radiologists (p ≥ .05).

Conclusions

The AI algorithm detects scaphoid fractures on conventional multi-view radiographs at the level of five experienced musculoskeletal radiologists and could significantly shorten their reading time.

Key Points

• An artificial intelligence algorithm automatically detects scaphoid fractures on conventional multi-view radiographs at the same level of five experienced musculoskeletal radiologists.

• There is preliminary evidence that automated scaphoid fracture detection can significantly shorten the reading time of musculoskeletal radiologists.
Assessment of cognitive function, structural brain changes and fatigue 6 months after treatment of neuroborreliosis
Authors: Andreassen Silje , Lindland Elisabeth Margrete Stokke , Beyer Mona Kristiansen , Solheim Anne Marit , Ljøstad Unn , Mygland Åse , Lorentzen Åslaug Rudjord , Reiso Harald , Bjuland Knut Jørgen , Pripp Are Hugo , Harbo Hanne Flinstad , Løhaugen Gro Christine Christensen , Eikeland Randi
Published: November 2022

Background

Complete recovery after adequately treated neuroborreliosis is common, but studies report that some patients experience persistent symptoms like self-reported cognitive problems and fatigue. Persisting symptoms are often termed post-Lyme disease syndrome, of which etiology is not clearly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate cognitive function, possible structural changes in brain regions and level of fatigue. We have not found previous studies on neuroborreliosis that use standardized neuropsychological tests and MRI with advanced image processing to investigate if there are subtle regional changes in cortical thickness and brain volumes after treatment.

Methods

We examined 68 patients treated for neuroborreliosis 6 months earlier and 66 healthy controls, with a comprehensive neuropsychological test protocol, quantitative structural MRI analysis of the brain and Fatigue Severity Scale.

Results

We found no differences between the groups in either cognitive function, cortical thickness or brain volumes. The patients had higher score on Fatigue Severity Scale 3.8 vs. 2.9 (p = 0.001), and more patients (25.4%) than controls (5%) had severe fatigue (p = 0.002), but neither mean score nor proportion of patients with severe fatigue differed from findings in the general Norwegian population.

Conclusion

The prognosis regarding cognitive function, brain MRI findings and fatigue after adequately treated neuroborreliosis is favorable.
Dimorphic cells: a common feature throughout the low nuclear grade breast neoplasia spectrum
Authors: de Boer Mirthe , van Diest Paul J.
Published: November 2022

Columnar cell lesions (CCLs) are recognized precursor lesions of the low nuclear grade breast neoplasia family. CCLs are cystic enlarged terminal duct lobular units with monotonous (monoclonal) columnar-type luminal cells. CCLs without atypia are regarded as benign and CCLs with atypia as true precursor lesions with clonal molecular changes, a certain progression risk, and an association with more advanced lesions. However, reproducibility of designating atypia in CCL is not optimal, and no objective markers of atypia have been identified, although 16q loss seems to be associated with atypical CCLs. Dimorphic (“pale”) cell populations have been described in low nuclear grade ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) but not in CCLs and atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH). Therefore, we searched for pale cells in CCL (N = 60), ADH (N = 41), and DCIS grade 1 (N = 84). Diagnostic criteria were derived from the WHO, and atypia was designated according to the Schnitt criteria. Pale cells occurred in 0% (0/30), 73% (22/30), 56% (23/41), and 76% (64/84) of CCLs without atypia, CCLs with atypia, ADH, and DCIS grade 1, respectively. Pale cells expressed ERα, E-cadherin and p120 and variably cyclin D1, and lacked expression of CK5 and p63. In conclusion, dimorphic “pale” cells occur throughout the low nuclear grade progression spectrum, increasing in frequency with progression. Interestingly, CCL lesions without atypia do not seem to bear showed pale cells, indicating that the presence of pale cells may serve as a diagnostic morphological feature of atypia in CCLs.
Surgical management of lateral neck abscesses in children: a retrospective analysis of 100 cases
Authors: Tecle Nyat-Eyob , Hackenberg Stephan , Scheich Matthias , Scherzad Agmal , Hagen Rudolf , Gehrke Thomas
Published: November 2022

Cervical abscesses are relatively common infections in pediatric patients. There is an ongoing debate about the necessity and time point of surgical drainage. The identification of a focus of infection might play an important role in facilitating a therapeutic decision. In a retrospective study, 100 pediatric patients aged 1–18 years who underwent incision and drainage of a lateral cervical abscess at our institution were analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups based on whether a focus of infection could be identified or not. Data collection included patient characteristics, microbiological results, antibiotic regimen, and clinical course. A focus of infection was found in 29% (29/100) of the patients, most frequently in the tonsils. A causative microorganism was found in 75% (75/100) of all patients, with Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes being the most common pathogens. All patients received an empiric antibiotic therapy in addition to surgery. Antibiotic medication was changed in 31% in both groups (9/29 with a focus of infection and 22/71 without a focus of infection) during therapy. Children without an identified focus of infection generally were younger and had more comorbidities reducing immune response while also showing differences in the pathogens involved. There were no complications associated to surgery or antibiotic therapy in any of the patients involved.

Conclusion: Children with an identified focus of infection show several differences compared to those with isolated lateral abscesses, especially regarding the microorganisms involved. But the focus of infection seems not to have an impact on patient’s outcome.

What is Known:• Neck abscesses are a relatively common disease in the pediatric population and may cause serious complications.• Therapy in general consists of intravenous antibiotics with or without surgery.

What is New:• The focus identification has no impact on patient’s outcome.• Children with an identified focus of infection show several differences compared to those with isolated lateral abscesses, especially regarding their medical history, age, and the microorganisms involved.
Longitudinal associations between cardiovascular biomarkers and metabolic syndrome during puberty: the PUBMEP study
Authors: González-Gil Esther M. , Anguita-Ruiz Augusto , Kalén Anton , De las Lamas Perez Carmela , Rupérez Azahara I. , Vázquez-Cobela Rocio , Flores Katherine , Gil Angel , Gil-Campos Mercedes , Bueno Gloria , Leis Rosaura , Aguilera Concepción M.
Published: November 2022

Puberty has been described as a life stage of considerable metabolic risk specially for those with obesity. The low-grade systemic inflammatory status associated with obesity could be one of the connections with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Thus, we aimed to assess the relationship between inflammatory and cardiovascular biomarkers and the development of MetS during puberty. Seventy-five children from the PUBMEP study (33 females), aged 4–18 years, were included. Cardiovascular and inflammatory biomarkers were measured in the prepubertal and pubertal stage, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), leptin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), interleukin 8 (IL8), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), total plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (tPAI), resistin, adiponectin, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1). MetS was diagnosed at each measurement point. Mixed-effects and logistic regressions were performed. Those children with MetS in puberty presented higher prepubertal values of several cardiometabolic biomarkers in comparison to those without MetS (z-score body mass index (zBMI), waist circumference, insulin, HOMA-IR, leptin, and tPAI (p < 0.05)). For prepubertal children with obesity, the odds of developing MetS in puberty were significantly higher in those having high zBMI (OR = 4.27; CI: 1.39–22.59) or high concentrations of tPAI (OR = 1.19; CI: 1.06–1.43).

Conclusion: Those with obesity with higher prepubertal tPAI plasma levels had 19% higher odds of having MetS at puberty highlighting the existence of association between MetS, obesity, and inflammation already in puberty. Thus, assessing cardiometabolic and inflammatory status in children with obesity already at prepuberty is key to avoiding future comorbidities.

What is Known:• Inflammation, metabolic syndrome, and obesity may have their onset in childhood.• Puberty is a life stage characterized for an increased cardiovascular risk.

What is New:• Prepuberty state could be an early indicator of future cardiometabolic risk.• Children with obesity and high total plasminogen have higher odds of future metabolic syndrome.
Bilateral ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block versus wound infiltration for postoperative analgesia in lumbar spinal fusion surgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Zhu Ran-Lyu , Yue Lei , Li Xue , Ma Jia-Hui , Kong Hao , Li Chun-de , Zhang Hong , Wang Dong-Xin
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Both erector spinae plane block and wound infiltration are used to improve analgesia following spinal fusion surgery. Herein, we compared the analgesic effect of bilateral erector spinae plane block with wound infiltration in this patient population.

Methods

In this randomized trial, 60 patients scheduled for elective open posterior lumbar interbody fusion surgery were randomized to receive either ultrasound-guided bilateral erector spinae plane block before incision (n = 30) or wound infiltration at the end of surgery (n = 30). Both groups received standardized general anesthesia and postoperative analgesia, including patient-controlled analgesia with sufentanil and no background infusion. Opioid consumption and pain intensity were assessed at 2, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h after surgery. The primary outcome was cumulative opioid consumption within 24 h after surgery.

Results

All 60 patients were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. The equivalent dose of sufentanil consumption within 24 h was significantly lower in patients given erector spinae plane block (median 11 μg, interquartile range 5–16) than in those given wound infiltration (20 μg, 10 to 43; median difference − 10 μg, 95% CI − 18 to − 3, P = 0.007). The cumulative number of demanded PCA boluses was significantly lower with erector spinae plane block at 6 h (median difference − 2, 95% CI − 3 to 0, P = 0.006), 12 h (− 3, 95% CI − 6 to − 1, P = 0.002), and 24 h (− 5, 95% CI − 8 to − 2, P = 0.005) postoperatively. The proportion given rescue analgesia was also significantly lower in patients given erector spinae plane block group within 48 h (relative risk 0.27, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.96, P = 0.037). There were no statistical differences in pain intensity at any timepoints between groups. No procedure-related adverse events occurred.

Conclusions

Compared with wound infiltration, bilateral ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block decreases short-term opioid consumption while providing similar analgesia in patients following lumbar spinal fusion surgery.

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2100053008.
Risks and benefits of continuation and discontinuation of aspirin in elective craniotomies: a systematic review and pooled-analysis
Authors: Rychen Jonathan , Saemann Attill , Fingerlin Tamara , Guzman Raphael , Mariani Luigi , Greuter Ladina , Soleman Jehuda
Published: November 2022

Background/aim

Discontinuation of aspirin (ASA) prior to elective craniotomies is common practice. However, patients treated with ASA for secondary prevention bear a higher risk for thromboembolic complications. Aim of this systematic review is to investigate the risks and benefits of perioperative continuation and discontinuation of ASA in elective craniotomies.

Methods

PubMed and Embase databases were searched. Inclusion criteria were retro- and prospective studies, reporting hemorrhagic and thromboembolic complications in patients in whom ASA was either continued or discontinued perioperatively in elective craniotomies. We excluded shunt operations and emergency cases. The MINORS (Methodological index for non-randomized studies) score was used to quantify the methodological quality of the eligible studies.

Results

Out of 523 publications, 7 met the eligibility criteria (cumulative cohort of 646 patients). The mean MINORS score for the comparative studies was 18.7/24 (± SD 2.07, range: 17–22) and 9/16 for the unique non-comparative study, indicating an overall weak methodological quality of the included studies. 57.1% of the patients underwent craniotomy for intra- and extra-axial tumor removal, 39.0% for bypass surgery and 3.9% for neurovascular lesions (other than bypass). In 31.0% of the cases, ASA was prescribed for primary and in 69.0% for secondary prevention. ASA was continued perioperatively in 61.8% and discontinued in 38.2% of the cases. The hemorrhagic complication rate was 3% (95% CI [0.01–0.05]) in the ASA continuation group (Con-Group) and 3% (95% CI [0.01–0.09]) in the discontinuation group (Disc-Group) (p = 0.9). The rate of thromboembolic events in the Con-Group was 3% (95% CI [0.01–0.06]) in comparison to 6% (95% CI [0.02–0.14]) in the Disc-Group (p = 0.1).

Conclusion

Perioperative continuation of ASA in elective craniotomies does not seem to be associated with an increased hemorrhagic risk. The potential beneficial effect of ASA continuation on thromboembolic events needs to be further investigated in patients under ASA for secondary prevention.
Progressive in vivo development of resistance to cefiderocol in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Sadek Mustafa , Le Guern Rémi , Kipnis Eric , Gosset Philippe , Poirel Laurent , Dessein Rodrigue , Nordmann Patrice
Published: November 2022

We report in vivo development of cefiderocol (FDC) resistance among four sequential Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinical isolates ST244 recovered from a single patient, without exposure to FDC, which raises concern about the effectiveness of this novel drug. The first recovered P. aeruginosa isolate (P-01) was susceptible to FDC (2 μg/mL), albeit this MIC value was higher than that of a wild-type P. aeruginosa (0.12–0.25 μg/ml). The subsequent isolated strains (P-02, P-03, P-04) displayed increasing levels of FDC MICs (8, 16, and 64 μg/ml, respectively). Those isolates also showed variable and gradual increasing levels of resistance to most β-lactams tested in this study. Surprisingly, no acquired β-lactamase was identified in any of those isolates. Whole-genome sequence analysis suggested that this resistance was driven by multifactorial mechanisms including mutational changes in iron transporter proteins associated with FDC uptake, ampC gene overproduction, and mexAB-oprM overexpression. These findings highlight that a susceptibility testing to FDC must be performed prior to any prescription.
Forest expansion in abandoned agricultural lands has limited effect to offset carbon emissions from Central-North Spain
Authors: Velázquez Eduardo , Martínez-Jaraíz Carolina , Wheeler Charlotte , Mitchard Edward T. A. , Bravo Felipe
Published: November 2022

We assessed the process of carbon (C) accumulation as a consequence of forest expansion in abandoned agricultural lands over the period 1977–2017 in a vast (9.4 million ha) area of Mediterranean continental environment in Central-North Spain. We achieved this objective, through obtaining AGC and BGC estimations based on direct field measurements taken in 30 plots (25 m × 25 m), and extrapolating to the landscape using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite data from 2018. Using aerial photographs and forest maps, we found that 145,193 ha of agricultural land in 1957 (1.54% of the study regions’ total area) has since then regenerated naturally to forests and woodlands. Although mean AGC and BGC densities were modest (i.e. 18.04 and 6.78 Mg C ha−1), they reached relatively large maximum values (i.e. 60 and 21 Mg C ha−1). The BGC stock was also very large, representing 37.3% of the total C stock (10 Tg) accumulated. However, we detected a mean annual C sink of 0.25 Tg C·year−1 which barely offset 1.22% of the total regional CO2 emissions. Our findings point to a smaller sequestration potential under Mediterranean continental than under temperate-cold conditions. Nonetheless, the area affected by this process could be larger than detected and many of the recovering lands might have not still reached their C uptake peak. If such lands are to be used to store C, we strongly advocate for the application of active forest management measures to increase their CO2 sequestration potential.
Logical design of multi-model data warehouses
Authors: Bimonte Sandro , Gallinucci Enrico , Marcel Patrick , Rizzi Stefano
Published: November 2022

Multi-model DBMSs, which support different data models with a fully integrated backend, have been shown to be beneficial to data warehouses and OLAP systems. Indeed, they can store data according to the multidimensional model and, at the same time, let each of its elements be represented through the most appropriate model. An open challenge in this context is the lack of methods for logical design. Indeed, in a multi-model context, several alternatives emerge for the logical representation of dimensions and facts. The goal of this paper is to devise a set of guidelines for the logical design of multi-model data warehouses so that the designer can achieve the best trade-off between features such as querying, storage, and ETL. To this end, for each model considered (relational, document-based, and graph-based) and for each type of multidimensional element (e.g., non-strict hierarchy) we propose some solutions and carry out a set of intra-model and inter-model comparisons. The resulting guidelines are then tested on a case study that shows all types of multidimensional elements.
Personalisation of Plantarflexor Musculotendon Model Parameters in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Veerkamp Kirsten , van der Krogt Marjolein M. , Harlaar Jaap , O’Brien Thomas D. , Kalkman Barbara , Seth Ajay , Bar-On Lynn
Published: November 2022

Neuromusculoskeletal models can be used to evaluate aberrant muscle function in cerebral palsy (CP), for example by estimating muscle and joint contact forces during gait. However, to be accurate, models should include representative musculotendon parameters. We aimed to estimate personalised parameters that capture the mechanical behaviour of the plantarflexors in children with CP and typically developing (TD) children. Ankle angle (using motion capture), torque (using a load-cell), and medial gastrocnemius fascicle lengths (using ultrasound) were measured during slow passive ankle dorsiflexion rotation for thirteen children with spastic CP and thirteen TD children. Per subject, the measured rotation was input to a scaled OpenSim model to simulate the torque and fascicle length output. Musculotendon model parameters were personalised by the best match between simulated and experimental torque–angle and fascicle length-angle curves according to a least-squares fit. Personalised tendon slack lengths were significantly longer and optimal fibre lengths significantly shorter in CP than model defaults and than in TD. Personalised tendon compliance was substantially higher in both groups compared to the model default. The presented method to personalise musculotendon parameters will likely yield more accurate simulations of subject-specific muscle mechanics, to help us understand the effects of altered musculotendon properties in CP.
Infectious Disease Spreading Fought by Multiple Vaccines Having a Prescribed Time Effect
Authors: Colombo Rinaldo M. , Garavello Mauro
Published: November 2022

We propose a framework for the description of the effects of vaccinations on the spreading of an epidemic disease. Different vaccines can be dosed, each providing different immunization times and immunization levels. Differences due to individuals’ ages are accounted for through the introduction of either a continuous age structure or a discrete set of age classes. Extensions to gender differences or to distinguish fragile individuals can also be considered. Within this setting, vaccination strategies can be simulated, tested and compared, as is explicitly described through numerical integrations.
Error analysis for physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) approximating Kolmogorov PDEs
Authors: De Ryck Tim , Mishra Siddhartha
Published: November 2022

Physics-informed neural networks approximate solutions of PDEs by minimizing pointwise residuals. We derive rigorous bounds on the error, incurred by PINNs in approximating the solutions of a large class of linear parabolic PDEs, namely Kolmogorov equations that include the heat equation and Black-Scholes equation of option pricing, as examples. We construct neural networks, whose PINN residual (generalization error) can be made as small as desired. We also prove that the total L2-error can be bounded by the generalization error, which in turn is bounded in terms of the training error, provided that a sufficient number of randomly chosen training (collocation) points is used. Moreover, we prove that the size of the PINNs and the number of training samples only grow polynomially with the underlying dimension, enabling PINNs to overcome the curse of dimensionality in this context. These results enable us to provide a comprehensive error analysis for PINNs in approximating Kolmogorov PDEs.
Country rankings according to well-being evolution: composite indicators from a functional data analysis perspective
Authors: Fortuna Francesca , Naccarato Alessia , Terzi Silvia
Published: November 2022

The paper suggests the use of the functional data analysis approach to study the evolution of well being indicators, visualizing their behaviour over time. Thus, an evolutionary well-being indicator is proposed by complement the original data with information concerning the first derivative. The second task is to provide an overall ranking of the countries over time using two functional tools: the area under the curve and functional depth, which return two distinct rankings. A simulation study is conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the area in distinguishing groups of countries with different levels of well-being. The proposed method is employed on a real dataset concerning the human development index of European countries.
Children’s Rights and Their Life Situation in Domestic Violence Shelters—An Integrative Review
Authors: Thunberg Sara , Vikander Martina , Arnell Linda
Published: November 2022

The aim of this systematic integrative review was to review existing research on children in domestic violence shelters, and specifically to examine previous research on how shelters contribute to children’s life situation after leaving a violent home. The review includes 28 scientific articles published between 1984 and 2021. These were thematically analyzed and discussed using a children’s rights perspective to identify strengths and limitations in existing research and social work practice. The analysis resulted in five themes: (1) safety and security, (2) health, behavior, and support, (3) schooling, (4) spare time and shelter environment, and (5) social relationships. Safety and security is a theme of great importance, and if this aspects is lacking, it can adversely affect other areas of the children’s lives. Overall, the children feel safe at the shelters, and they appreciate the playgrounds and activities offered by the shelter. They often make friends at the shelter. The children’s right to be protected from violence appears to be prioritized, but the studies show the importance of also acknowledging children’s rights to support, education, recreational time, and social relationships, to improve their life situation at the shelter.
The Quaternary lions of Ukraine and a trend of decreasing size in Panthera spelaea
Authors: Marciszak Adrian , Ivanoff Dmitry V. , Semenov Yuriy A. , Talamo Sahra , Ridush Bogdan , Stupak Alina , Yanish Yevheniia , Kovalchuk Oleksandr
Published: November 2022

The fossil record of the cave lion,Panthera spelaea, suggests a gradual decrease in body size, the process peaking just before the extinction of the species at the end of the Late Pleistocene. Such an evolutionary trend appears rather unusual for a large felid species and requires further investigation. This study reviews the cave lions of Ukraine, whose fossils are known from 46 localities dated from 800 kyr to 18–17 kyr ago, with a special emphasis on size changes through time. We describe several important finds including those ofPanthera spelaea fossilisfrom Sambir,Panthera spelaeassp. from Bilykh Stin Cave andPanthera spelaea spelaeafrom Kryshtaleva Cave. We make subspecific identifications of specimens from the region and focus on their size characteristics. Our analysis of Ukrainian cave lions agrees with the temporal trend of decreasing size, particularly accelerating during MIS 2, as exemplified by the extremely small female skull from Kryshtaleva Cave. We provide a direct AMS date for this specimen (22.0–21.5 cal kyr BP), which suggests that the Kryshtaleva lioness must have belonged to aPanthera spelaea spelaeapopulation forced south by the spreading ice sheet. We discuss some palaeoecological aspects of the evolutionary history and eventual extinction of the cave lion. Finally, we review the subfossil records of the extant lionPanthera leoknown from several Ukrainian sites archaeologically dated to 6.4–2.0 kyr BP. These finds most probably represent the Persian lionPanthera leo persica.