bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of the individual participant data integrity tool for assessing the integrity of randomised trials using individual participant data
Authors: Hunter Kylie E. , Aberoumand Mason , Libesman Sol , Sotiropoulos James X. , Williams Jonathan G. , Li Wentao , Aagerup Jannik , Mol Ben W. , Wang Rui , Barba Angie , Shrestha Nipun , Webster Angela C. , Seidler Anna Lene
Published: August 2024

Increasing integrity concerns in medical research have prompted the development of tools to detect untrustworthy studies. Existing tools primarily assess published aggregate data (AD), though scrutiny of individual participant data (IPD) is often required to detect trustworthiness issues. Thus, we developed the IPD Integrity Tool for detecting integrity issues in randomised trials with IPD available. This manuscript describes the development of this tool. We conducted a literature review to collate and map existing integrity items. These were discussed with an expert advisory group; agreed items were included in a standardised tool and automated where possible. We piloted this tool in two IPD meta‐analyses (including 116 trials) and conducted preliminary validation checks on 13 datasets with and without known integrity issues. We identified 120 integrity items: 54 could be conducted using AD, 48 required IPD, and 18 were possible with AD, but more comprehensive with IPD. An initial reduced tool was developed through consensus involving 13 advisors, featuring 11 AD items across four domains, and 12 IPD items across eight domains. The tool was iteratively refined throughout piloting and validation. All studies with known integrity issues were accurately identified during validation. The final tool includes seven AD domains with 13 items and eight IPD domains with 18 items. The quality of evidence informing healthcare relies on trustworthy data. We describe the development of a tool to enable researchers, editors, and others to detect integrity issues using IPD. Detailed instructions for its application are published as a complementary manuscript in this issue.
Extent of macroscopic vascular invasion predicts distant metastasis in primary leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava
Authors: Tseng William W. , Barretta Francesco , Fiore Marco , Colombo Chiara , Radaelli Stefano , Baia Marco , Morosi Carlo , Collini Paola , Sanfilippo Roberta , Fabbroni Chiara , Stacchiotti Silvia , Roberts Randall F. , Callegaro Dario , Gronchi Alessandro
Published: August 2024

Background

In retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma (RP LMS), the predominant issue is distant metastasis (DM). We sought to determine variables associated with this outcome and disease‐specific death (DSD).

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected on patients with primary RP LMS treated at a high‐volume center from 2002 to 2023. For inferior vena cava (IVC)‐origin tumors, the extent of macroscopic vascular invasion was re‐assessed on each resection specimen and correlated with preoperative cross‐sectional imaging. Crude cumulative incidences were estimated for DM and DSD and univariable and multivariable models were performed.

Results

Among 157 study patients, median tumor size was 11.0 cm and 96.2% of cases were intermediate or high grade. All patients underwent complete resection, 56.7% received chemotherapy (43.9% neoadjuvant) and 14.6% received radiation therapy. Only tumor size and grade and not site of tumor origin (e.g., IVC vs. other) were associated with DM and DSD (p < 0.05). Among 64 patients with IVC‐origin tumors, a novel 3‐tier classification was devised based on the level of intimal disruption, which was associated with both DM (p = 0.007) and DSD (0.002).

Conclusion

In primary RP LMS, only tumor size and grade are predictive of DM and DSD. In IVC‐origin tumors, the extent of macroscopic vascular invasion is also strongly predictive of these outcomes.
CTNNB1 exon 3 mutations in metastatic solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas
Authors: Fleming Andrew M. , Gehle Daniel B. , Freitas Julia Pedo , Hendrick Leah E. , Yakoub Danny , Abdelhafeez Hafeez , Nezakatgoo Nosratollah , Deneve Jeremiah L. , Langham Max R. , Glazer Evan S. , Shibata David , Merchant Nipun B. , Dickson Paxton V. , Murphy Andrew J.
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas demonstrates an indolent disease course; however, some patients present with a “malignant” phenotype, including distant metastases resistant to chemotherapy. This analysis identifies molecular drivers of metastatic SPN using the world's largest clinicogenomics database.

Methods

The American Association for Cancer Research Project Genomics Evidence Neoplasia Information Exchange was queried for primary and metastatic SPN samples. Sample‐level genomic alterations were compared. A pan‐pancreatic cancer analysis assessed relevant mutations among all metastatic pancreatic malignancies.

Results

Among 28 SPN samples identified (n = 17 primary, n = 11 metastatic), the most commonly mutated gene was CTNNB1, (24/28 samples; 85.7%). Most mutations were missense (21/24; 87.5%) or in‐frame deletions (3/24; 12.5%). The most common CTNNB1 mutations in primary SPN were exon 3 S37F/C missense mutations (6/16 profiled patients, 37.5%), contrasting exon 3 D32N/Y/H missense mutations in metastatic samples (6/11 profiled patients, 54.5%). Metastatic SPN had higher rates of CTNNB1 mutations than metastases from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (72.7% vs. 1.1%; q < 0.0001), pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (72.7% vs. 2.5%; q < 0.0001), and pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma (72.7% vs. 11.5%; q = 0.0254).

Conclusions

Missense mutations along exon 3 of CTNNB1 predominate metastatic SPN, differentiating these patients from those with metastases from analogous pancreatic malignancies.
Comparative effects of organic and inorganic amendments on heavy metal co‐contaminated soil remediation, reducing heavy metal bioavailability and enhancing nutrient accessibility for maize growth
Authors: Akbar Zulqarnain , Akbar Waqas Ali , Irfan Muhammad , Rahim Hafeez Ur , Khan Usama , Saleem Atif , Ali Shamsher , Khan Kashif
Published: August 2024

Many years ago, widespread and ineffective technologies led to significant ecological contamination, primarily due to heavy metals (HMs), particularly lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd). Plant growth in heavy metals contaminated and calcareous soil is a challenge for all the growers worldwide. Several organic and inorganic amendments are used by researchers in different types of soils. However, their impact on soil contaminated with toxic metals and alkaline in reaction is still unclear. Therefore, the current pot experiment investigates the relative effect of organic (wheat straw biochar and farmyard manure) at 10 and 20 t ha−1 and inorganic (diammonium phosphate and gypsum) at 100 and 150 kg ha−1 amendments on NPK availability, soil organic matter, soil properties, and maize growth under Cd and Pb stress. Highest soil pH (7.61), soil electrical conductivity (0.25 dS m−1), soil organic matter (1.40%), plant height (92 cm), shoot dry weight (41 g), and root dry weight (5.5 g) were observed because of biochar application at 20 t ha−1. While the highest total nitrogen (N) (0.13%), and phosphorus (P) (8.16 mg kg−1) were recorded with diammonium phosphate application at 150 kg ha−1, moreover, application of farmyard manure at 20 t ha−1 increased the soil potassium (K) (108.14 mg kg−1). Biochar application at 20 t ha−1 greatly reduced the toxic metals bioavailability with a high immobilization index, that is, Cd (52%) and Pb (43.79%) lead to lower concentrations of metals in roots and shoots as well. A negative correlation was identified between soil pH, soil organic matter, and soil Cd, Pb, demonstrating the positive impact of biochar in terms of the reduction of toxic metals by enhancing pH and soil organic matter, found to be the most effective amendment for soil improvement and plant growth under Cd and Pb stress condition.
Analysis of Canadian Physician Obituaries Between 2000 and 2023 to Investigate Trends in Death Between Specialties: A Retrospective Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Li Angela , Golrokhian‐Sani Amir‐Ali , Morcos Maya , Morcos Marc
Published: August 2024

Objectives

A physician's work environment varies greatly depending on their medical specialty. As such, it may dictate their stress levels, work‐life balance, satisfaction, and, ultimately, expected age of death. This paper aims to determine trends in Canadian physician deaths and determine the median age of death for different specialties.

Methods

We examined physician obituaries from the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) published between 2000 and 2023, extracting age at death and medical specialty.

Results

The median age of death for doctors had a steady incline between 1999 and 2023 with a median age of 80 years. Careers in psychiatry (p = 0.020, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.00, 4.00]) and emergency medicine (p = 0.025, 95% CI [7.00, 26.00]) were associated with decreased average ages of death, while careers in surgery (p < 0.001, 95% CI [−4.00, −2.00]), internal medicine (p = 0.038, 95% CI [−3.00, −1.00]), and public health (p = 0.016. 95% CI [−9.00, −2.00]) correlated with older ages of death. Of the statistically significant specialties, emergency medicine physicians had the lowest median age at death (59 years) while surgery and public health had the highest (81.5 and 83.5, respectively).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that the median age of death differs across different medical specialties. Moving forward, the CMAJ should report physician obituaries consistently in a standardized format as it holds the most extensive obituary dataset despite missing significant data between 2008 and 2022.
On the Development of Polylactic Acid/Polycaprolactone Blended Films with High Retention Capacity
Authors: Cozzani Martina , Ferrari Pier Francesco , Damonte Giacomo , Pellis Alessandro , Monticelli Orietta
Published: August 2024

The retention capacity of polymers is related to the development of systems that combine high surface‐to‐volume ratio with good handling and specific functionality. Biodegradability and biocompatibility are also key features for extending the field of applications to areas such as biomedicine. With this in mind, the aim of this work is to develop biodegradable, biocompatible, and highly functionalized porous films, that ensure suitable handling and a good surface‐to‐volume ratio. Polylactic acid (PLA) is applied as a polymer matrix to which a polycaprolactone with a star‐shaped architecture (PCL‐COOH) to ensure a high concentration of carboxylic end functionalities is added. The porous films are prepared using the phase inversion technique, which, as shown by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis, promotes good dispersion of the PCL‐COOH domains. Absorption and release measurements performed with a positively charged model molecule show that the retention capacity and release rate can be tuned by changing the PCL‐COOH concentration in the systems. Moreover, the adsorption properties for the formulation with the highest PCL‐COOH content are also demonstrated with a real and widely used drug, namely doxorubicin. Finally, the bio‐ and hemocompatibility of the films, which are enzymatically degradable, are evaluated by using human keratinocytes and red blood cells, respectively.
Improving interface property of epoxy resin composite via in‐situ growth of ZIF‐8 onto carbon fiber with branched polyethyleneimine
Authors: Zhu Weiyao , Xiong Lei , Xiong Kun , Liu Fang , Yan Jin
Published: August 2024

The interface property of carbon fiber/matrix materials is a key factor influencing the service life of composites. In this paper, our group facilely in‐situ grew zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) onto the carbon fiber (CF) surface by using branched polyethyleneimine (BPEI) as coupling agent to simultaneously enhance the interface and mechanical performances of CF/epoxy composite. The successful growth of ZIF‐8 nanocrystals onto carbon fiber was confirmed by FT‐IR, XPS, TGA, XRD, Raman, and SEM. After growth of ZIF‐8, the surface morphology for CF grafted with ZIF‐8 (CF‐ZIF‐8) was greatly changed and the surface energy for modified carbon fiber increased from 28.7 mN/m for the untreated CF to 55.8 mN/m. As a result, the interfacial shear strength (IFSS) of CF‐ZIF‐8/epoxy composite enhanced by 103.4%, indicating a significant improvement of interface property of composite. Moreover, the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and bending strength also have 37.8% and 23.3% improvement because of the synergistic effect of BPEI and ZIF‐8 compared to the untreated CF/epoxy composite. This work furnishes a facile and efficient strategy for developing high‐performing structural composite materials with excellent interface property.

Highlights

ZIF‐8 was in‐situ grown on CF to improve the interface property of composite.

Significant improvements on IFSS, ILSS, and bending strength.

The mechanism for improving the performances of composite was proposed.
High silica fiberglass cloth/PTFE composites: Interfacial bonding and dielectric property enhancement
Authors: Sun Mingzhe , Huang Jianguo , Ning Xiangchun
Published: August 2024

In this study, high silica fiberglass cloth (HSFC) was prepared using the acid leaching method with E‐fiberglass cloth as the raw material. Following heat treatment and silane coupling agent treatment, the cloth was impregnated with a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) emulsion to fabricate a HSFC/PTFE composite via the hot‐pressing method. The microstructure of the composite and its dielectric properties at a 10 GHz frequency was investigated. To address the interfacial bonding issue of the composite, pre‐sintering treatment and silane coupling agent application were employed, resulting in reduced porosity and increased density of the composite. In particular, the composite treated with KH‐570 silane coupling agent exhibited the lowest porosity, with a dielectric constant of 2.419 and a dielectric loss of 0.0049. This study offers a new direction for expanding the application of high silica glass clothes in high‐performance glass fiber composites.

Highlights

A low dielectric composite was made from high silica fiberglass and polytetrafluoroethylene.

Heat treatment reduced hydroxyl groups on the fiberglass surface.

Surface modification enhanced interfacial bonding and dielectric properties.

Pre‐sintering removed impurities and reduced composite porosity.

Lower porosity reduced the dielectric loss of the composite.
Order/Disorder Transitions Upon Protein Binding: A Unifying Perspective
Authors: Lebedenko Olga O. , Sekhar Ashok , Skrynnikov Nikolai R.
Published: August 2024

When two proteins bind to each other, this process is often accompanied by a change in their structural states (from disordered to ordered or vice versa). As it turns out, there are 10 distinct possibilities for such binding‐related order/disorder transitions. Out of this number, seven scenarios have been experimentally observed, while another three remain hitherto unreported. As an example, we discuss the so‐called mutual synergistic folding, whereby two disordered proteins come together to form a fully structured complex. Our bioinformatics analysis of the Protein Databank found potential new examples of this remarkable binding mechanism.
Simulation‐based evaluation of the Pharmpy Automatic Model Development tool for population pharmacokinetic modeling in early clinical drug development
Authors: Duvnjak Zrinka , Schaedeli Stark Franziska , Cosson Valérie , Retout Sylvie , Schindler Emilie , Abrantes João A.
Published: August 2024

The Pharmpy Automatic Model Development (AMD) tool automates the building of population pharmacokinetic (popPK) models by utilizing a systematic stepwise process. In this study, the performance of the AMD tool was assessed using simulated datasets. Ten true models mimicking classical popPK models were created. From each true model, dataset replicates were simulated assuming a typical phase I study design—single and multiple ascending doses with/without dichotomous food effect, with rich PK sampling. For every dataset replicate, the AMD tool automatically built an AMD model utilizing NONMEM for parameter estimation. The AMD models were compared to the true and reference models (true model fitted to simulated datasets) based on their model components, predicted population and individual secondary PK parameters (SP) (AUC0‐24, cmax, ctrough), and model quality metrics (e.g., model convergence, parameter relative standard errors (RSEs), Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC)). The models selected by the AMD tool closely resembled the true models, particularly in terms of distribution and elimination, although differences were observed in absorption and inter‐individual variability components. Bias associated with the derived SP was low. In general, discrepancies between AMD and true SP were also observed for reference models and therefore were attributed to the inherent stochasticity in simulations. In summary, the AMD tool was found to be a valuable asset in automating repetitive modeling tasks, yielding reliable PK models in the scenarios assessed. This tool has the potential to save time during early clinical drug development that can be invested in more complex modeling activities within model‐informed drug development.
The role of collision and coalescence on the microphysics of marine fog
Authors: Rodriguez‐Geno Camilo F. , Richter David H.
Published: August 2024

Cloud microphysics fulfills a fundamental role in the formation and evolution of marine fog, but it is not fully understood. Numerous studies have addressed this by means of direct observations and modeling efforts. However, collision–coalescence of aerosols and fog droplets is a process often neglected. In this study we perform an analysis of the role of particle collections on the formation, development, and microphysical structure of marine fog. It was found that collisions open a path for aerosol activation by means of collisional activation. In addition, collisions contribute to the diffusional activation of fog particles by adding water mass to the growing aerosols, making them reach the required critical radius faster. Furthermore, collisions have a homogenizing effect on hygroscopicity, facilitating the activation of accumulation‐mode aerosols by increasing their diffusional growth.
Understanding the Role of Mn Substitution for Boosting High‐Voltage Na4Fe3‐xMnx(PO4)2P2O7 Cathode in Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wu Honglun , Wen Tianzhuo , Chen Long , Ding Yan , Pu Xiangjun , Cao Yuliang , Chen Zhongxue
Published: August 2024

Na4Fe3(PO4)2P2O7 is regarded as the most promising polyanionic cathode for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to its superior structural stability, cost‐effectiveness, and environmental benignity. However, the low operating voltage inevitably weakens its competitiveness in energy density. Previous works have tried to enhance its operating voltage by Mn doping, which draws on the design idea of LiFexMn1‐xPO4 cathode for lithium‐ion batteries, but with little success. In this context, uncovering the role of Mn substitution in Na4Fe3‐xMnx(PO4)2P2O7 (NFMxPP) cathode is urgently needed. This work discloses the effect of Mn contents on the structure, sodium storage property, and reaction mechanism of NFMxPP cathode for the first time. Introducing a moderate amount of Mn (0.6 ≤ x ≤ 1.2) into NFMxPP can weaken the Fe–O bonding interaction, thus leading to the full utilization of Mn3+/Mn2+ redox couple. As the representative, NFM1.2PP cathode exhibited a high operating voltage of ≈3.3 V with a reversible capacity of 109.2 mAh g−1. Note that a Hard carbon||NFM1.2PP full battery manifests considerably high‐capacity retention of 92.3% over 1600 cycles. It is believed that an understanding of the role of Mn substitution in this work will promote the practical application of high voltage NFMxPP cathodes for SIBs.
The future of transportation: Blockchain‐powered solutions
Authors: Alanazi Fayez
Published: August 2024

The future of transportation could be dramatically reshaped by the advent of blockchain‐powered solutions, with a particular emphasis on Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). Despite potential roadblocks such as security, privacy, and interoperability issues, blockchain technology stands out as a potent tool for overcoming these challenges while simultaneously boosting the efficiency and safety of ITS. This systematic literature review (SLR) analyzes 60 articles to explore potential applications and perceived benefits of integrating blockchain in ITS. Addressing two key research questions, the study identifies diverse applications of blockchain, ranging from enhancing security to building trust in transportation systems. The review sheds light on how blockchain can transform ITS by fostering trust and exploring the prospects of its applications. This exploration highlights blockchain's potential to redefine the transportation landscape within smart cities.
Increased UBD Is a Potential Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarker in Glioma
Authors: Wu Tao , Du Mengyu , Zeng Lin , Wang Haiyang , Li Xinfang
Published: August 2024

Various studies have demonstrated that ubiquitin D (UBD) is overexpressed in different cancer types and may serve as a potential prognostic factor. However, additional research is necessary to establish the prognostic significance and possible role of UBD in glioma. Transcriptomic expression data from The Cancer Genome Atlas database (TCGA) and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) were analyzed to identify UBD expression differences in tumor and normal tissues. The relative levels of UBD in glioma and normal tissues were determined using qRT‐PCR and WB. Logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the association between UBD expression and clinicopathological characteristics of glioma patients. To evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic predictive values of UBD, we used Kaplan–Meier survival curves, Cox regression analysis, diagnostic receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and nomogram model. We also conducted wound healing assays, transwell assays, EdU assays, and colony formation assays to verify the UBD function. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, as well as gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), were employed to determine the functions of UBD. Finally, we performed the western blot assays to assess changes in EMT markers as well as p‐PI3K, p‐AKT, and p‐mTOR expressions. Our study revealed a remarkable increase of UBD expression in glioma samples. Cox regression analysis demonstrated that high expression of UBD mRNA was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) in TCGA. ROC curve analysis showed that UBD expression levels could differentiate glioma from adjacent normal tissues accurately. Additionally, knockdown of UBD reduced the migration, invasion, and proliferation ability of glioma cells while UBD overexpression had the opposite effect. GSEA showed that the expression of UBD involved with various pathways including epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), PI3K‐AKT‐mTOR signaling, P53 pathway, angiogenesis, inflammatory response, KRAS signaling, hypoxia, as well as TGF‐β signaling. Furthermore, our findings suggest that UBD accelerates the activation of EMT and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.
A probabilistic risk assessment of heavy metal in water and sediment: An industrially affected urban river in Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Booshra , Islam Shamaila , Quraishi Shamshad Begum , Alam Md. Nur E , Ahsan Md Sabbir , Kabir Alamgir
Published: August 2024

Human welfare and biodiversity are at risk due to the deterioration of water and sediment quality. Particularly, in last few decades, global water and sediment quality degraded due to the rapid industrialization and urbanization. This study aimed to determine the concentration of nine heavy metals and metalloid (Pb, Cr, Cd, Hg, As, Mn, Ni, Cu, and Zn) and assess the ecological risks using different pollution indices (e.g., heavy metal pollution index [HPI], Nemerow pollution index [NI], geo‐accumulation index [Igeo], contamination factor [CF], degree of contamination [CD] and pollution load index [PLI], ecological risk index [ERI]) in water and sediment of the Shitalakshya River, an industrially affected urban river of Bangladesh. For the first time, 20 water and sediment samples were collected across a wider geographical area of the Shitalakshya River during both monsoon and dry seasons and analyzed using the atomic absorption spectrometer. Average concentrations of heavy metals and metalloid in water were within the Bangladesh standard except for Cr (51.69 ppb) and Mn (228.20 ppb) during monsoon season, portraying potential ecological and human health risks. Besides, average concentration of Mn (549.75 and 370.93 ppb), Ni (549.75 and 370.93 ppb), and Cu (45.34 and 36.09 ppb) in sediment during both seasons were above international standard, implying risk to aquatic sediment biota. The average HPI values indicated moderate to high contamination, whereas the NI values implied polluted water in monsoon season with severe pollution in port area of the river. Similarly, Igeo, CF, CD, and PLI elucidated different levels of contamination in the sediment, particularly during dry season. The ERI values also referred moderate ecological risk in the sediment during dry season. Overall, our findings highlight the alarming level of heavy metal pollution in the Shitalakshya River, necessitating immediate action to protect the aquatic environment, sediment biota, and human health.

Practitioner points

This study determined the concentration of heavy metals and metalloid in water and sediment of the Shitalakshya River, Bangladesh.

The study revealed that the average concentration of Cr and Mn in water exceeded national standard, whereas Mn, Ni, and Cu in sediment exceeded international limit.

Potential ecological risk of heavy metals was also assessed using different pollution indices.

Calculated pollution indices indicated different degree of pollution, implying critical ecological condition due to heavy metal pollution in aquatic environment and sediment biota.
An Overview of Media Accessibility and Inclusivity in the Educational Domain
Authors: Yeratziotis Alexandros , Fotiadis Thomas , Granić Andrina , Papadopoulos George A.
Published: August 2024

Educational technology has advanced considerably over the past two decades, yet media accessibility and inclusion still require significant improvement. These areas remain major barriers for many students with disabilities. This descriptive systematic review aims to provide an overview of current research, offering a concise analysis of key concepts related to media accessibility and inclusivity in education. The review examines the frequency and prominence of these themes in research. Recognized journals from the Web of Science (WoS) database were searched without a specified timeframe, resulting in the critical analysis of 14 review articles published between 1998 and 2023. The findings reveal a limited state of the art in this area, highlighting the need for further research and development. An in-depth analysis indicates that themes of inclusivity and accessibility appear with varying frequency, influenced by several factors. These factors include regulatory standards, the direct impact on disabled learners, the emergence of new technologies, and the historical prominence of inclusivity in research literature and the interdisciplinary nature of accessibility.
An HK$$_r$$-Integrable Function Which is P$$_s$$-Integrable for no s
Authors: Sworowski Piotr
Published: August 2024

Given arbitrary $$r\ge 1$$

r
≥
1

, we construct an HK$$_r$$

r

-integrable function which is not P$$_1$$

1

-integrable. This is an extension of a recently published construction [Musial, P., Skvortsov, V., Tulone, F.: The HK$$_r$$

r

-integral is not contained in the P$$_r$$

r

-integral. Proceedings of the American Mathematical Society 150(5), 2107–2114 (2022)].
Analytical characterization of volatiles present in the whole body odour of zebra finches
Authors: Alves Soares Tatjana , Caspers Barbara A. , Veit Daniel , Loos Helene M.
Published: August 2024

In recent decades, the compositions of preen oil and feathers have been studied to achieve insights into the chemistry of avian odours, which play a significant role in birds’ social behaviour. Fewer studies are available regarding volatiles originating from other sources, such as faeces, eggs or a bird’s whole body. The aims of this study were (i) to identify odour-active and further volatile compounds in zebra finch whole body odour and (ii) to semi-quantify selected volatiles and use the information to evaluate two different adsorbents for their suitability for whole body odour sampling. Volatiles from the headspace above zebra finches were sampled using an open loop system equipped with either activated charcoal or Tenax® TA. Samples were analysed by olfactory-guided approaches as well as gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Using activated charcoal as sorbent, 26 odour-active and 73 further volatile compounds were detected, whereas with Tenax® TA 27 odour-active and 81 further volatile compounds were detected. In total, 104 compounds were (tentatively) identified, of which 22 had not been identified previously in zebra finch odour and 12 had not been described in any birds. Hints towards a chemical sex signature became evident for qualitative but not for quantitative differences. With the exception of some compounds, notably carboxylic acids and alkanes, relative peak areas obtained with the two adsorbent types were comparable. The approach described herein is proposed for future studies aiming to determine volatiles emitted by birds when, for example, parent birds are approaching the nest.

Graphical Abstract
Efficient Card-Based ZKP for Single Loop Condition and Its Application to Moon-or-Sun
Authors: Hand Samuel , Koch Alexander , Lafourcade Pascal , Miyahara Daiki , Robert Léo
Published: August 2024

A zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) allows a prover to prove to a verifier that it knows some secret, such as a solution to a difficult puzzle, without revealing any information about it. In recent years, ZKP protocols using only a deck of playing cards for solutions to various pencil puzzles have been proposed. The previous work of Lafourcade et al. deals with a famous puzzle called Slitherlink. Their proposed protocol can verify that a solution forms a single loop without revealing anything about the solution, except this fact. Their protocol guarantees that the solution satisfies the single-loop condition, by interactively constructing a solution starting from a state that holds a simple single loop, and proceeding via steps that preserve the invariant of encoding a single loop, until the proper solution is reached. A drawback of their protocol is that it requires additional verifications to guarantee a single loop. In this study, we propose a more efficient ZKP protocol for such a puzzle with fewer additional verifications. For this, we employ the previous work of Robert et al., which addressed the connectivity property in a puzzle. That is, we verify that a solution is connected but not split, to be a single loop. Applying our proposal, we construct a card-based ZKP protocol for Moon-or-Sun, which has its specific rule of alternating pattern in addition to the single-loop condition.
Favorable safety profile of NOAC therapy in patients after tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair
Authors: Hoerbrand Isabel A. , Kraus Martin J. , Gruber Martin , Geis Nicolas A. , Schlegel Philipp , Frey Norbert , Konstandin Mathias H.
Published: August 2024

Background

Transcatheter edge-to-edge repair for severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a new treatment option (t-TEER). Data on optimal antithrombotic therapy after t-TEER in patients with an indication for anticoagulation are scarce and evidence-based guideline recommendations are lacking. We sought to investigate efficacy and safety of novel oral anticoagulation (NOAC) and vitamin-K-antagonists (VKA) in patients undergoing t-TEER.

Methods

Among 78 consecutive patients with t-TEER of severe TR, 69 patients were identified with concomitant indication for oral anticoagulation. Outcomes of these patients treated with NOAC or VKA were compared over a median follow-up period of 327 (177–460) days.

Results

Despite elevated thromboembolic and bleeding risk scores (CHA2DS2-VASc 4.2 ± 1.1, HEMORR2HAGES 3.0 ± 1.0 and HAS-BLED 2.1 ± 0.8), only one major bleeding incidence occurred under NOAC therapy. The risk for overall (NOAC 8% vs. VKA group 26%, p = 0.044) and major bleeding events (NOAC 2% vs. VKA 21%, p = 0.010) was significantly lower in the NOAC compared to the VKA group. No significant difference was found between NOAC and VKA treatment in terms of mortality (NOAC 18% vs. VKA 16%, p = 0.865) or the combined endpoint of death, heart failure hospitalization, stroke, embolism, thrombosis, myocardial infarction, and severe bleeding (NOAC 48% vs. VKA 42%, p = 0.801). A comparison between apixaban (n = 27) and rivaroxaban (n = 16) treated patients revealed no significant differences between NOAC substances (all bleeding events apixaban 7% vs. rivaroxaban 13%, p = 0.638).

Conclusion

Results of this study indicate that NOACs may offer a favorable risk–benefit profile for patients with concomitant indication for anticoagulation therapy following t-TEER.

Graphical abstract
Artificial intelligence-aided ultrasound imaging in hepatopancreatobiliary surgery: where are we now?
Authors: Bektaş Mustafa , Chia Catherine M. , Burchell George L. , Daams Freek , Bonjer H. Jaap , van der Peet Donald L.
Published: August 2024

Background

Artificial intelligence (AI) models have been applied in various medical imaging modalities and surgical disciplines, however the current status and progress of ultrasound-based AI models within hepatopancreatobiliary surgery have not been evaluated in literature. Therefore, this review aimed to provide an overview of ultrasound-based AI models used for hepatopancreatobiliary surgery, evaluating current advancements, validation, and predictive accuracies.

Method

Databases PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Web of Science were searched for studies using AI models on ultrasound for patients undergoing hepatopancreatobiliary surgery. To be eligible for inclusion, studies needed to apply AI methods on ultrasound imaging for patients undergoing hepatopancreatobiliary surgery. The Probast risk of bias tool was used to evaluate the methodological quality of AI methods.

Results

AI models have been primarily used within hepatopancreatobiliary surgery, to predict tumor recurrence, differentiate between tumoral tissues, and identify lesions during ultrasound imaging. Most studies have combined radiomics with convolutional neural networks, with AUCs up to 0.98.

Conclusion

Ultrasound-based AI models have demonstrated promising accuracies in predicting early tumoral recurrence and even differentiating between tumoral tissue types during and after hepatopancreatobiliary surgery. However, prospective studies are required to evaluate if these results will remain consistent and externally valid.

Graphical abstract
A multi-nozzle nebuliser does not improve tissue drug delivery during PIPAC
Authors: Sautkin Yaroslaw , Weinreich Juergen , Reymond Marc André
Published: August 2024

Background

Multi-nozzle nebulisers for pressurised intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) are implemented in clinical practice to improve the homogeneity of tissue drug delivery. Nonetheless, the advantages of such devices over one-nozzle nebulisers have not been demonstrated thus far. In this study, we compared the performance of multi- and one-nozzle nebulisers by conducting physical and ex vivo pharmacological experiments.

Methods

The one-nozzle nebuliser Capnopen® and the multi-nozzle nebuliser were the subjects of this study. In physical experiments, the aerosol droplet size was measured by laser diffraction spectroscopy. Spatial spray patterns were depicted on blotting paper. Pharmacological experiments were performed on the enhanced inverted bovine urinary bladder model, demonstrating real-time tissue drug delivery, aerosol sedimentation and homogeneity of doxorubicin and cisplatin tissue distribution.

Results

The multi-nozzle nebuliser had a sixfold greater aerosolisation flow and a threefold greater angle of aerosolisation than Capnopen®. The aerosol particle size and distribution range were higher than that of Capnopen®. Spray patterns on blotting paper were more extensive with the multi-nozzle nebuliser. Real-time tissue drug delivery with the multi-nozzle nebuliser was over 100 ml within 1 min, and the aerosol sedimentation was 48.9% ± 21.2%, which was not significantly different from that of Capnopen®. The doxorubicin and cisplatin tissue concentrations were greater with Capnopen®. Although there was no significant difference in the homogeneity of doxorubicin distribution between the two devices, the homogeneity of cisplatin distribution was significantly higher with Capnopen®.

Conclusion

The multi-nozzle PIPAC nebuliser did not fulfil expectations. Even though the surface spray patterns were broader with the multi-nozzle nebuliser, the tissue drug homogeneity and concentration were greater with Capnopen®.

Graphical Abstract
Current Trends in VCO-Based EPR
Authors: Kern Michal , Chu Anh , Anders Jens
Published: August 2024

In this article we provide an overview of chip-integrated voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO)-based EPR detection as a new paradigm in EPR sensing. After a brief motivation for this alternative detection method, we provide a self-contained overview of the detection principle, both for continuous-wave and pulsed detection. Based on this introduction, we will highlight the advantages and disadvantages of VCO-based detection compared to conventional resonator-based detection. This is followed by an overview of the current state of the art in VCO-based EPR and interesting emerging applications of the technology. The paper concludes with a brief summary and outlook on future research directions.
In-domain versus out-of-domain transfer learning for document layout analysis
Authors: De Nardin Axel , Zottin Silvia , Piciarelli Claudio , Foresti Gian Luca , Colombi Emanuela
Published: August 2024

Data availability is a big concern in the field of document analysis, especially when working on tasks that require a high degree of precision when it comes to the definition of the ground truths on which to train deep learning models. A notable example is represented by the task of document layout analysis in handwritten documents, which requires pixel-precise segmentation maps to highlight the different layout components of each document page. These segmentation maps are typically very time-consuming and require a high degree of domain knowledge to be defined, as they are intrinsically characterized by the content of the text. For this reason in the present work, we explore the effects of different initialization strategies for deep learning models employed for this type of task by relying on both in-domain and cross-domain datasets for their pre-training. To test the employed models we use two publicly available datasets with heterogeneous characteristics both regarding their structure as well as the languages of the contained documents. We show how a combination of cross-domain and in-domain transfer learning approaches leads to the best overall performance of the models, as well as speeding up their convergence process.
Skimming the achieved? Quantifying the fiscal incentives of the German fiscal equalization scheme and its reforms since 1970
Authors: Bury Yannick , Feld Lars P. , Burret Heiko T.
Published: August 2024

Marginal rates of contribution (MRC), i.e., the rates at which additional revenues are skimmed via larger contributions or lower transfer receipts, quantify the incentives of a fiscal equalization scheme. This paper is the first to calculate marginal rates of contribution for the Laender (states) in the German fiscal equalization scheme for each of the 51 years since its establishment in 1970 and over five major reforms, taking into account all relevant revenues. Our results show that MRC have been at a consistently high level. Until 2019 the scheme induced an almost full skimming of additional tax revenues of recipient states. With the system’s latest reform in 2020, MRC increased further. Recipient states now face an over-skimming of additional tax revenues and, thus, massive fiscal disincentives to maintain their own tax base. While these findings have been widely expected, comprehensive evidence has been missing so far.
Arbitrary order spline representation of cohomology generators for isogeometric analysis of eddy current problems
Authors: Kapidani Bernard , Merkel Melina , Schöps Sebastian , Vázquez Rafael
Published: August 2024

Common formulations of the eddy current problem involve either vector or scalar potentials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. An impasse arises when using scalar potential-based formulations in the presence of conductors with non-trivial topology. A remedy is to augment the approximation spaces with generators of the first cohomology group. Most existing algorithms for this require a special, e.g., hierarchical, finite element basis construction. Using insights from de Rham complex approximation with splines, we show that additional conditions are here unnecessary. Spanning tree techniques can be adapted to operate on a hexahedral mesh resulting from isomorphisms between spline spaces of differential forms and de Rham complexes on an auxiliary control mesh.
Phosphorus inactivation mitigates the effect of warm winters in a temperate shallow lake (Mielenko Lake, Poland)
Authors: Augustyniak-Tunowska Renata , Karczmarczyk Rafał , Grochowska Jolanta , Łopata Michał , Napiórkowska-Krzebietke Agnieszka , Lürling Miquel
Published: August 2024

Direct and indirect anthropopressure on water ecosystems is the serious problem throughout the world.. In the Northern Hemisphere, an increase in average air temperatures is observed, which implies the occurrence of a shorter period of snow and ice cover during the winter season. The winter 2019/2020 was unusual, because that was the first time in the record, that a complete lack of permanent ice cover was observed on numerous lakes in Poland. Such unusual conditions could influence lake functioning. Hence we analyzed the chemistry of the water–sediment interface (near-bottom and interstitial water and sediment) in the shallow, eutrophic Mielenko Lake (area 7.9 ha, max depth 1.9 m) in 2013 and 2019–2022 period to assess the influence of prolonged water circulation on the bottom zone. Mielenko Lake was subjected to a phosphorus inactivation procedure using Al and Fe salts (PAX 18, PIX 111) in 2020 and 2021. Our research revealed that unusually prolonged winter circulation caused a significant decrease in organic matter content in bottom sediment in 2020, as well as a decrease in NaOH-nrP fraction and TP amounts. That effect was short-term and it did not significantly influence the NaOH-rP fraction amounts. The released P was probably built in macrophytes biomass during vegetation season, because P inactivation has been limiting phytoplankton proliferation, and it favored shifting to a clearwater state with macrophytes domination. This was confirmed by decreasing in phytoplankton biomass, and a massive expansion of the macrophytes range noted in the second year of restoration. Our study shows, that P inactivation could mitigate the negative effects of warm winters in shallow lakes.
On Micropolitics: Climate adaptation and Indigenous governance in Western Alaska
Authors: Lezak Stephen , Rock Genevieve
Published: August 2024

Climate adaptation for Indigenous communities is not as simple as making good policy; it is equally about how policy is implemented and how collaboration unfolds between settler governments and Indigenous stakeholders. Rural Alaska Native villages are among the most environmentally threatened communities in the United States. Their ability to effectively manage environmental change and preserve sovereignty depends upon successful collaboration with a range of stakeholders, especially federal agencies. For more than two decades, academics and government agencies have documented a consistent pattern of failures, particularly by federal actors, to effectively manage adaptation challenges. These obstacles are sometimes misrepresented as policy failures. While poor policy is certainly involved in these poor outcomes, this paper highlights a set of barriers to successful collaboration that are not policy issues, per se, but rather micropolitical issues; that is, they pertain to the conduct of government in the context of Tribal relationships. Unaddressed, these micropolitical issues have created obstacles to Alaska Native communities’ self-determination as they adapt to a changing landscape. These barriers are explored in a case study drawn from Typhoon Merbok, which struck Western Alaska in 2022, and empirically grounded in a series of interviews and participant observation with experts, elders, elected officials, and Tribal staff. This article concludes with several concrete recommendations to improve the practice of domestic diplomacy between Indigenous communities and colonial governments.
Virulence variation of Israeli populations of Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici during the period 2009 – 2019
Authors: Kosman Evsey , Anikster Yehoshua , Ben-Yehuda Pnina , Manisterski Jacob , Sela Hanan
Published: August 2024

This paper is dedicated to the memory of the APS Fellow Prof. Yehoshua Anikster (1934 -2023). A total of 336 urediniospore isolates of Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt) were derived from samples collected in Israel from 2009 to 2019 and analyzed for virulence with the standard set of 20 differentials. Seventy-four virulence phenotypes were identified during the survey. Two Pgt phenotypes (TKTTF, TTTTF) were found in nine annual populations while 57 appeared in only one year, in most of the cases (51) only once. The yearly pathogen collections of 2009 – 2014 differed from the collections of 2015-2018, and the 2019 collection diverged from all others. No virulence to Sr24 and Sr31 indicators of UG99 was detected. When comparing the 2009 – 2014 and 2015 – 2018 periods, virulence frequencies declined for Sr17, 30, and 38 genes from 0.85—0.98 to 0.31 – 0.59, while the frequency for Sr36 rose (0.42 vs. 0.87). The average relative virulence complexity of Pgt phenotypes decreased from 0.83 (2009—2014) and 0.79 (2015 – 2018) to 0.67 in 2019. Variability within the annual populations gradually increased over time. The Pgt collections of isolates in 2009 – 2014 and 2015 – 2018 were significantly different (p = 0.01). The effective number of different annual populations in 2009 – 2018 was 2.04 (β-variation = 0.12). Since Pgt does not over-summer in Israel, the northern source of inoculum from Turkey and Russia seems the most probable.