bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Management Strategy Combining Double Deep Q‐Networks and Demand Torque Prediction for Connected Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Pang Zitong , Zhang Jiaqi , Jiao Xiaohong , Ren Lina
Published: November 2023

This paper proposes an energy management strategy (EMS) based on double‐deep Q‐Networks (DDQN) with demand torque prediction (DTP) to optimize the fuel consumption of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) by online utilizing vehicle‐to‐vehicle (V2V) information. The main framework of the EMS is designed as DDQN, combining Q‐learning with the deep neural network to realize real‐time training and online optimization of the torque distribution between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor, and given that the model training easily falls into local minima and overestimation, two different Q‐networks are designed to decouple action selection and target evaluation. Meanwhile, BP‐network predicts future demand torque using the ego vehicle speed, front vehicle speed, and distance between the two vehicles to reduce the burden of model training due to the introduction of traffic information. The predicted demand torque is introduced into the DDQN‐based EMS as states, together with the distance traveled in the driving cycle and the current information on HEV. The effectiveness and adaptability to actual driving cycles of the proposed strategy are verified by comparison with DDQN‐based EMS without DTP and rule‐based EMS. The results show that the fuel consumption using DDQN‐based EMS without DTP is reduced by 4.1% compared with rule‐based EMS. The introduction of demand torque prediction resulted in a further 3.9% reduction in fuel consumption. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
An education‐based telehealth group improves the management and clinical outcomes of patients with inflammatory bowel disease in China (THEIM study)
Authors: Kang Jian , Su Juan , Wang Jing , Ren Haixia , Yin Anning , Li Jiao , Zhou Qian , Wang Yang , Zhu Peng , Zou Liping , Wang Wei , Tang Zhishun , Dong Weiguo , Ding Yijuan , An Ping
Published: November 2023

Background

Although poor medication adherence has a negative impact on disease prognosis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), finding proven solutions remains a challenge. In this study, we developed a telehealth management model based on education and patient‐centered medical care (PCEB) using the social media platform WeChat.

Objective

To investigate the effect of PCEB on adherence and clinical outcomes.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort, 543 IBD patients (274 in the PCEB group and 269 in the routine group) at the IBD center of Renmin Hospital (Wuhan University, Wuhan, China) were enrolled between January 2020 and September 2022. The routine group received routine follow‐up and management, while for PCEB patients, a comprehensive IBD education program and PCEB were conducted. Medication adherence and clinical outcomes were also evaluated.

Results

There were no differences between the PCEB and routine groups in terms of patient demographics and clinical characteristics, including disease classification, duration, biological treatment, and educational background at baseline. Compared with routine treatment, PCEB greatly improved patient medication adherence, as assessed by compliance with oral medication, enteral nutrition, biological infusion, and scheduled endoscopic assessment. Clinical and endoscopic remission in patients with PCEB increased during short‐term (month 4) and long‐term (month 12) follow‐ups, along with a decrease in relapse rates for CD (13.3% vs. 31.8%) and UC (19.8% vs. 37.2%).

Conclusion

The telehealth model applied to the PCEB group improved medication adherence and clinical outcomes in patients with IBD. This is a new and powerful solution for the long‐term management of this chronic and progressive disease.
Scattering amplitudes from dispersive iterations of unitarity
Authors: Tourkine Piotr , Zhiboedov Alexander
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We present and numerically implement a computational method to construct relativistic scattering amplitudes that obey analyticity, crossing, elastic and inelastic unitarity in three and four spacetime dimensions. The algorithm is based on the Mandelstam representation of the amplitude and iterations of unitarity. The input for the iterative procedure is given by the multi-particle double spectral density, the S-wave inelasticity, and the value of the amplitude at the crossing-symmetric point. The output, obtained at the fixed point of the iteration of unitarity, is a nonperturbative scattering amplitude. The amplitudes we obtain exhibit interesting features, such as non-zero particle production, intricate high-energy and near the two-particle threshold behavior. Scattering amplitudes obtained by initializing the iteration process with zero (or small) multi-particle input end up close to saturating the S-matrix bounds derived by other methods. There is a version of the iterative algorithm that is directly related to Feynman diagrams: it effectively re-sums infinitely many two-particle reducible planar Feynman graphs in the ϕ4 theory, which remarkably produces a unitary nonperturbative scattering amplitude function. Finally, we discuss how the algorithm can be further refined by including multi-particle unitarity.
Particle realization of Bondi-Metzner-Sachs symmetry in 2 + 1 space-time
Authors: Batlle Carles , Campello Víctor , Gomis Joaquim
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We construct a Lorentz invariant massive particle model in (2+1) space-time with an enlarged set of symmetries which includes Bondi-Metzner-Sachs (BMS) translations (supertranslations), using the non-linear realization framework. The Hamiltonian formalism for the resulting Lagrangian is constructed, and the infinite phase-space constraints and the set of gauge transformations are analysed. We also compute the massless limit of the theory in phase-space. After eliminating the gauge degrees of freedom, the physical reduced space is left only with the degrees of freedom of a standard Poincaré particle but with a residual set of symmetries that we prove to be BMS. A similar result for the massless limit, including in this case superrotations, is pointed out.
Integrable coupled massive Thirring model with field values in a Grassmann algebra
Authors: Basu-Mallick B. , Finkel F. , González-López A. , Sinha D.
Published: November 2023

Abstract

A coupled massive Thirring model of two interacting Dirac spinors in 1 + 1 dimensions with fields taking values in a Grassmann algebra is introduced, which is closely related to a SU(1) version of the Grassmannian Thirring model also introduced in this work. The Lax pair for the system is constructed, and its equations of motion are obtained from a zero curvature condition. It is shown that the system possesses several infinite hierarchies of conserved quantities, which strongly confirms its integrability. The model admits a canonical formulation and is invariant under space-time translations, Lorentz boosts and global U(1) gauge transformations, as well as discrete symmetries like parity and time reversal. The conserved quantities associated to the continuous symmetries are derived using Noether’s theorem, and their relation to the lower-order integrals of motion is spelled out. New nonlocal integrable models are constructed through consistent nonlocal reductions between the field components of the general model. The Lagrangian, the Hamiltonian, the Lax pair and several infinite hierarchies of conserved quantities for each of these nonlocal models are obtained substituting its reduction in the expressions of the analogous quantities for the general model. It is shown that, although the Lorentz symmetry of the general model breaks down for its nonlocal reductions, these reductions remain invariant under parity, time reversal, global U(1) gauge transformations and space-time translations.
Critical Edges in Rips Complexes and Persistence
Authors: Goričan Peter , Virk Žiga
Published: November 2023

We consider persistent homology obtained by applying homology to the open Rips filtration of a compact metric space (X, d). We show that each decrease in zero-dimensional persistence and each increase in one-dimensional persistence is induced by local minima of the distance function d. When d attains local minimum at only finitely many pairs of points, we prove that each above mentioned change in persistence is induced by a specific critical edge in Rips complexes, which represents a local minimum of d. We use this fact to develop a theory (including interpretation) of critical edges of persistence. The obtained results include upper bounds for the rank of one-dimensional persistence and a corresponding reconstruction result. Of potential computational interest is a simple geometric criterion recognizing local minima of d that induce a change in persistence. We conclude with a proof that each locally isolated minimum of d can be detected through persistent homology with selective Rips complexes. The results of this paper offer the first interpretation of critical scales of persistent homology (obtained via Rips complexes) for general compact metric spaces.
Der erste Modellstudiengang Zahnmedizin in Deutschland – iMED DENT
Authors: Guse Andreas H. , Beikler Thomas , Heydecke Guido , Gosau Martin , Kahl-Nieke Bärbel
Published: November 2023

Im Oktober 2019 startete mit iMED DENT der erste Modellstudiengang Zahnmedizin in Deutschland. Dem Start ging ein mehrjähriger Entwicklungsprozess voraus, in dem anfangs u. a. europäische Standorte mit innovativen Zahnmedizinstudiengängen besucht wurden. Danach wurde das zentrale Reformziel des Modellstudiengangs festgelegt: die Entwicklung, Implementierung und fortlaufende Optimierung eines interdisziplinären Curriculums mit Wissenschaftsbezug, das theoretische und praktische zahnmedizinische Inhalte integriert. Weitere Schritte waren die Entwicklung der Studiengangziele sowie der modularen Studienstruktur. Letztere besteht aus den 3 Teilen „Normalfunktion“, „Vom Symptom zur Erkrankung“ und „Therapie“. Im Curriculum wird der zentrale Bereich der Zahnmedizin von den medizinischen Grundlagenfächern und den klinisch-medizinischen Fächern flankiert. Der vorliegende Beitrag berichtet über die wichtigen Entwicklungsschritte des Modellstudiengangs, seine Struktur und qualitätssichernde Maßnahmen. Erste Auswertungen zur Erreichung von Studiengangzielen bzw. zum Optimierungsbedarf im laufenden Curriculum werden vorgestellt.
Oral magnesium supplementation does not affect insulin sensitivity in people with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes and a low serum magnesium: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Drenthen Linda C. A. , de Baaij Jeroen H. F. , Rodwell Laura , van Herwaarden Antonius E. , Tack Cees J. , de Galan Bastiaan E.
Published: November 2023

Aims/hypothesis

Hypomagnesaemia has been associated with insulin resistance and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Whether magnesium supplementation improves insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes and a low serum magnesium level is unknown.

Methods

Using a randomised, double-blind (both participants and investigators were blinded to the participants’ treatment sequences), placebo-controlled, crossover study design, we compared the effect of oral magnesium supplementation (15 mmol/day) for 6 weeks with that of matched placebo in individuals with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes (age ≥18 years, BMI 18–40 kg/m2, HbA1c <100 mmol/mol [11.3%], serum magnesium ≤0.79 mmol/l). Participants were recruited from the outpatient clinic and through advertisements. Randomisation to a treatment sequence order was done using a randomisation list. We used block randomisation and the two possible treatment sequences were evenly distributed among the trial population. The primary outcome was the mean glucose infusion rate during the final 30 min of a hyperinsulinaemic–euglycaemic clamp (i.e. M value). Secondary outcomes included variables of glucose control, insulin need, BP, lipid profile and hypomagnesaemia-related symptoms during follow-up.

Results

We recruited 14 participants (50% women, 100% White, mean ± SD age 67±6 years, BMI 31±5 kg/m2, HbA1c 58±9 mmol/mol [7.4±0.9%]) with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes. Magnesium supplementation increased both mean ± SEM serum magnesium level (0.75±0.02 vs 0.70±0.02 mmol/l, p=0.016) and urinary magnesium excretion (magnesium/creatinine ratio, 0.23±0.02 vs 0.15±0.02, p=0.005), as compared with placebo. The M value of the glucose clamp did not differ between the magnesium and placebo study arms (4.6±0.5 vs 4.4±0.6 mg kg−1 min−1, p=0.108). During the 6 weeks of treatment, continuous glucose monitoring outcomes, HbA1c, insulin dose, lipid profile and BP also did not differ, except for a lower HDL-cholesterol concentration after magnesium compared with placebo (1.14±0.08 vs 1.20±0.09 mmol/l, p=0.026). Symptoms potentially related to hypomagnesaemia were similar for both treatment arms.

Conclusions/interpretation

Despite an albeit modest increase in serum magnesium concentration, oral magnesium supplementation does not improve insulin sensitivity in people with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes and low magnesium levels.

Trial registration

EudraCT number 2021-001243-27.

Funding

This study was supported by a grant from the Dutch Diabetes Research Foundation (2017–81–014).

Graphical Abstract
Metallogenic model of the Eocene Santa María and Antares Zn-Pb(-Ag) skarn deposits, Velardeña Mining District, Durango, Mexico
Authors: Cano Néstor , Camprubí Antoni , González-Partida Eduardo , González-Ambrocio Ana K. , Alfonso Pura , Miggins Daniel P. , Fuentes-Guzmán Edith , Cienfuegos-Alvarado Edith , Iriondo Alexander
Published: November 2023

The Santa María and Antares Zn-Pb(-Ag) skarn deposits in the Velardeña Mining District are located in central–NW Mexico. They lie 470 m apart along the contact between Oligocene felsic intrusions and Cretaceous limestones, and were developed during prograde, retrograde, post-ore (Santa María), and late stages. Firstly, the prograde stage was formed by fluids at ~ 600 °C and 15 wt% NaCl equiv., and consists of garnet + wollastonite ± clinopyroxene and biotite ± K-feldspar assemblages. Secondly, the retrograde/ore stage was formed by fluids at 300–500 °C with salinities of 20–30 wt% CaCl2 (Santa María) and > 40 wt% NaCl equiv. (Antares). It comprises assemblages of chlorite, amphibole, epidote, calcite, scapolite, quartz, sericite, adularia, fluorite, and muscovite associated with sphalerite, pyrite, galena, pyrrhotite, arsenopyrite, chalcopyrite, and Pb-Bi-Sb sulfosalts. Thirdly, the post-ore stage was formed by fluids at ~ 400 °C and 20–30 wt.% CaCl2 and comprises poorly mineralized calcite veins. Fourthly, the late stage was formed by fluids at < 300 °C and 20–30 wt.% CaCl2 (Santa María) and ~ 15 wt% NaCl equiv. (Antares), and crystallized tetrahedrite-group minerals and pyrite + marcasite. δ18Ofluid between ~ 14‰ and 23‰ at Santa María and between ~ 12‰ and 17‰ at Antares show a less-modified magmatic affinity for mineralizing fluids at Antares; δ13Cfluid between 0‰ and –6‰ register recycling of sedimentary C. Moreover, sulfides with δ34SVCDT between –3‰ and 2‰ reveal a magmatic source for S. Altogether, these data suggest that, at Santa María, magmatic-derived fluids actively interacted with the wall rocks, whereas at Antares the fluid-rock interaction was milder. In both deposits, metal deposition was triggered by the cooling and neutralization of ore-bearing fluids with carbonate rocks. Our 40Ar/39Ar dates for adularia of ca. 37.5 Ma place the deposits within the Eocene–early Miocene metallogenetic epoch of central–NW Mexico, during which other world-class skarn-epithermal systems were emplaced (e.g., Concepción del Oro and Mazapil-Peñasquito).
Diversification and information in contests
Authors: Lemus Jorge , Temnyalov Emil
Published: November 2023

We study contests with technological uncertainty, where contestants can invest in different technologies of uncertain value. The principal, who is also uncertain about the value of the technologies, can disclose an informative yet noisy public signal about the merit of each technology. The signal can focus contestants’ investments into more promising technologies or increase diversification. We characterize the principal’s optimal disclosure of information about the technologies, which depends on the value of diversification, the informativeness of available signals, and the ex-ante beliefs of the likelihood of success for each technology. We also find that under some conditions offering larger prizes or having more contestants decreases the extent of information disclosure.
On the distribution of the Hodge locus
Authors: Baldi Gregorio , Klingler Bruno , Ullmo Emmanuel
Published: November 2023

Given a polarizable ℤ-variation of Hodge structures $\mathbb{V}$
V
over a complex smooth quasi-projective base $S$
S
, a classical result of Cattani, Deligne and Kaplan says that its Hodge locus (i.e. the locus where exceptional Hodge tensors appear) is a countable union of irreducible algebraic subvarieties of $S$
S
, called the special subvarieties for $\mathbb{V}$
V
. Our main result in this paper is that, if the level of ${\mathbb{V}}$
V
is at least 3, this Hodge locus is in fact a finite union of such special subvarieties (hence is algebraic), at least if we restrict ourselves to the Hodge locus factorwise of positive period dimension (Theorem 1.5). For instance the Hodge locus of positive period dimension of the universal family of degree $d$
d
smooth hypersurfaces in $\mathbf{P}^{n+1}_{\mathbb{C}}$

P
C

n
+
1

, $n\geq 3$
n
≥
3
, $d\geq 5$
d
≥
5
and $(n,d)\neq (4,5)$
(
n
,
d
)
≠
(
4
,
5
)
, is algebraic. On the other hand we prove that in level 1 or 2, the Hodge locus is analytically dense in $S^{\mbox{an}}$

S
an

as soon as it contains one typical special subvariety. These results follow from a complete elucidation of the distribution in $S$
S
of the special subvarieties in terms of typical/atypical intersections, with the exception of the atypical special subvarieties of zero period dimension.
Associations between visceral adipose index and stress urinary incontinence among US adult women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Pang Haigang , Yin Yuxin , Xue Juan , Chen Xi , Pang Jian , Zhang Jinping , Sun Yi
Published: November 2023

Objective

Visceral adipose index (VAI) is a novel parameter for the evaluation of visceral obesity. The present study aimed to investigate the association between VAI levels and stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in a nationally representative population.

Materials and methods

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) women population aged > 20 years were analyzed from 2001 to 2018. SUI was determined by self-reported questions. VAI was calculated using physical examination data and laboratory tests. Survey-weighted logistic regression models were used to analyze the correlation between SUI and VAI.

Results

The final analysis included 9709 women. Among them, 4032 (41.53%) were any SUI, 1130 (11.64%) were at least weekly SUI, and 506 (5.21%) were at least daily SUI. In multivariate analysis, the odds ratio (OR) for overall SUI increased slightly after full adjustment (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.03–1.10, P = 0.001). Similar results were observed in weekly (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.00–1.08, P = 0.0327) and daily (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.00–1.09, P = 0.0702) SUI. The analysis of VAI categorized showed an increased OR of any, weekly, and daily SUI in the highest compared to the lowest tertile (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.26–1.65, P < 0.0001 for trend, OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.07–1.78, P = 0.0153 for trend, OR 1.33, 95% CI 0.94–1.87, P = 0.094 for trend).

Conclusion

This study revealed a significant association between SUI and VAI among US adult women. VAI is an easily applicable index for the evaluation of visceral fat dysfunction, which might be useful for the calculation of SUI risk.
Comparative study between antegrade flexible ureteroscopy and reterograde intrarenal surgery in the management of impacted upper ureteric stones 1.5 cm or larger
Authors: Mohey Ahmed , Abdelfattah Ahmed A. , Mohammed Ahmed E. , Marzouk Abdelmoniem , El-Dakhakhny Amr S.
Published: November 2023

Objective

To prospectively investigate the safety and efficacy of antegrade flexible ureteroscopy (FURS) with the following criteria (supine, ultrasonic guided puncture through lower calyx with 14 fr tract, tubeless) versus retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) in the management of large impacted upper ureteric stones ≥ 1.5 cm.

Patients and methods

This study recruited 61 patients with single large impacted upper ureteric stone of ≥ 1.5 cm. The patients were randomly allocated to two groups. Group A, included 31 patients who treated by antegrade FURS, all patients were put in supine modified galadako Valdivia position and the renal access is reached by ultrasonic guided puncture through the lower calyx with dilatation upto 14 fr to insert ureteric access sheath and all cases were tubless with JJ stent insertion. Group B, included 30 patients who were treated by RIRS with JJ stent insertion. Stone fragmentation was done by holmium laser in both group.

Results

Group A was significantly associated with higher proportion of SFR (90.3%) compared to Group B (70%) (p = 0.046). Group B was significantly associated with shorter operative time and fluoroscopy time in comparison with Group A (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between studied groups regarding bleeding (p = 0.238). Urosepsis showed significantly higher proportion associated with retrograde approach when compared to antegrade approach (p = 0.024).

Conclusion

This study showed that antegrade FURS is safe and more effective than RIRS for the management of large impacted upper ureteric stones ≥ 1.5 cm.
Changes in occurrence and management of laryngeal fractures at the Helsinki University Hospital during 25 years
Authors: Mäkitie Riikka E. , Nyman Kristofer , Ilmarinen Taru , Tapiovaara Laura
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Laryngeal fracture is a rare but potentially life-threatening trauma. Fractures vary from mild to dislocated and extensive with risk of severe complications. This study investigated the occurrence, clinical characteristics and management of laryngeal fractures in the last 15 years.

Material and methods

A retrospective population-based cohort study reviewing all laryngeal fractures at the Helsinki University Hospital in 2005–2019. Patient records and imaging studies were systematically reviewed for mode of injury, fracture type, secondary complications, treatment modality, possible airway management, length of stay, and mortality. Results were compared with corresponding data from 1995 to 2004.

Results

Overall 80 fracture patients were recorded (5.3/year); 79% were men and mean age was 42 years (range 18–78). Altogether 91% were closed and 9% open. While unintentional traumas were most common (54%), an increasing proportion were from intentional injury (10%) or Schaefer Gr IV in severity (35%). Altogether 46% had compromised airway and 21% needed airway intervention; airway narrowing was more common with cricoid (p = 0.042) and multiple fractures (p = 0.07) and correlated positively with amount of dislocation (p = 0.001) and number of fracture lines (p = 0.006). Surgery was performed for 33%, of which 46% were Schaefer Gr IV and 62% from intentional trauma. Mortality was 1.4%.

Conclusions

Deliberate and violence-related laryngeal fractures have increased. These often result in more extensive injuries predisposing to compromised airway and requiring surgical intervention and longer treatment. Most fractures are still treated conservatively with good long-term outcomes. An observation period of 24 h is recommended to detect any delayed complications. Mortality remains low.
Efficacy of topical administration of prallethrin-permethrin-piperonyl butoxide (Bronco® Equine Fly Spray) for the treatment and control of flies and other nuisance insects of horses
Authors: Genchi Marco , Kramer Laura , Valentini Gaia , Allievi Giulia , Ciuca Lavinia , Vismarra Alice
Published: November 2023

Numerous biting and nuisance insects are a noted cause of discomfort and stress to horses. Pyrethrins and pyrethroids have been used for many years in numerous formulations for the control of insect pests in animals, humans and environment. There are, however, few studies reporting their field efficacy in horses. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the repellent activity of a spray formulation based on prallethrin and permethrin synergized with piperonyl butoxide (BRONCO® Equine Fly Spray, Farnam Companies, Inc., USA) against annoying and harmful insects for horses in field conditions. Nine horses of mixed breed were divided into 2 groups (treatment and control). Pre-treatment insect counts were compared to daily counts for 4 days post-treatment (pt). One minute after the administration of the product (day 0), all the horses were negative for the presence of insects. All counts up to the 6-h pt check remained negative for Hippobosca equina, tabanid flies and Simulium spp., showing 100% efficacy. This remained above 90% throughout the study. For the H. equina, the repellent efficacy remained > 99.7% for all 4 days pt, for tabanid flies > 93.3% and for Simulium spp. > 97.4%. The efficacy against Musca spp. decreased from 82.2% at day 0 to 62.2% at day 3. Treatment was well-tolerated. In conclusion, despite the low number of tested horses, Bronco® has demonstrated high insecticide and repellent efficacy and a good persistence, maintained for up to 4 days post-treatment, against the most common species of insects harmful for horses.
Quantitative Analysis in Continuous-Flow $$^1$$H Benchtop NMR Spectroscopy by Paramagnetic Relaxation Enhancement
Authors: Kircher Raphael , Mross Sarah , Hasse Hans , Münnemann Kerstin
Published: November 2023

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is an excellent tool for reaction and process monitoring. Process monitoring is often carried out online, where the analytic device is operated in flow mode. Benchtop NMR spectrometers are especially well-suited for these applications because they can be installed close to the studied process. However, quantitative analysis of a fast-flowing liquid with NMR spectroscopy is challenging because short residence times in the magnetic field of the spectrometer result in inefficient polarization buildup and thus poor signal intensity. This is particularly problematic for benchtop NMR spectrometers, where it severely limits the flow velocity in quantitative measurements. One method for increasing polarization in continuous-flow NMR spectroscopy is paramagnetic relaxation enhancement (PRE). Here, the interaction of the studied liquid with a PRE agent significantly accelerates the buildup of nuclear polarization prior to NMR detection, which enables quantitative measurements at high flow velocities. For process monitoring applications, the synthesis of robust and chemically inert immobilized PRE agents is mandatory. This was accomplished in the present work, where a new PRE agent is tested on 12 common solvents including water, acetonitrile, 1,4-dioxane, and binary mixtures with quantitative benchtop $$^1$$

1

H NMR spectroscopy at 1 Tesla. The results show that the flow regime for quantitative measurements can be greatly extended by the use of the synthesized PRE agent.
Perturbation Theory for Second Order Elliptic Operators with BMO Antisymmetric Part
Authors: Dindoš Martin , Sätterqvist Erik , Ulmer Martin
Published: November 2023

In the present paper we study perturbation theory for the $$L^p$$

L
p

Dirichlet problem on bounded chord arc domains for elliptic operators in divergence form with potentially unbounded antisymmetric part in BMO. Specifically, given elliptic operators $$L_0 = \text {div}(A_0\nabla )$$

L
0

=
div

(

A
0

∇
)

and $$L_1 = \text {div}(A_1\nabla )$$

L
1

=
div

(

A
1

∇
)

such that the $$L^p$$

L
p

Dirichlet problem for $$L_0$$

L
0

is solvable for some $$p>1$$

p
>
1

; we show that if $$A_0 - A_1$$

A
0

-

A
1

satisfies certain Carleson condition, then the $$L^q$$

L
q

Dirichlet problem for $$L_1$$

L
1

is solvable for some $$q \ge p$$

q
≥
p

. Moreover if the Carleson norm is small then we may take $$q=p$$

q
=
p

. We use the approach first introduced in Fefferman–Kenig–Pipher ’91 on the unit ball, and build on Milakis–Pipher–Toro ’11 where the large norm case was shown for symmetric matrices on bounded chord arc domains. We then apply this to solve the $$L^p$$

L
p

Dirichlet problem on a bounded Lipschitz domain for an operator $$L = \text {div}(A\nabla )$$

L
=
div
(
A
∇
)

, where A satisfies a Carleson condition similar to the one assumed in Kenig–Pipher ’01 and Dindoš–Petermichl–Pipher ’07 but with unbounded antisymmetric part.
Perspectives on Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders, the Narrative Medicine contribution to care
Authors: Filippi Massimo , Borriello Giovanna , Patti Francesco , Inglese Matilde , Trojano Maria , Marinelli Fabiana , Chisari Clara , Iaffaldano Pietro , Zanetta Chiara , Chesi Paola , Termini Roberta , Marini Maria Giulia
Published: November 2023

Background

This research aimed to investigate the experience of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (NMOSD) by integrating the perspectives of patients, caregivers and clinicians through narrative-based medicine to provide new insights to improve care relationships.

Methods

The research was conducted in the second half of 2022 and involved six Italian centres treating NMOSD and targeted adult patients, their caregivers and healthcare providers to collect the three points of view of living with or caring for this rare disease, still difficult to treat despite the pharmacological options. Narratives followed a structured outline according to the time: yesterday-today-tomorrow, to capture all disease phases.

Results

Twenty-five patients diagnosed with NMOSD, ten caregivers and 13 healthcare providers participated in the research. Patients reported symptoms limiting their daily activities and strongly impacting their social dimension. We noticed improvements across disease duration, whilst the persistence of limitations was recurrent in patients with longer diagnoses.

Caregivers’ narratives mainly share experiences of their daily life changes, the burden of the caregiving role and the solutions identified, if any. Healthcare providers defined their role as a guide.

Conclusion

Limitations in activities are prominent in the lives of people with NMOSD, along with fatigue. Family members are the weakest link in the chain and need information and support. Healthcare professionals are attentive to the helping dimension.
Bacteraemia caused by non-faecalis and non-faecium Enterococcus species—a retrospective study of incidence, focus of infection, and prognosis
Authors: Lohikoski Roni , Oldberg Karl , Rasmussen Magnus
Published: November 2023

Background/aim

Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium cause human infections including bacteraemia and infective endocarditis (IE). Only few studies describing non-faecalis and non-faecium Enterococcus (NFE) infections have been conducted. We aimed to describe the incidence, prognosis, and focus of infection of bacteraemia with NFE.

Methods

This retrospective population-based study included all episodes of patients having a blood culture with growth of NFE between 2012 and 2019 in Region Skåne, Sweden. Information was collected from medical records. Episodes of bacteraemia caused by NFE were compared to episodes of bacteraemia caused by E. faecalis and E. faecium.

Results

During the study period, 136 episodes with NFE bacteraemia were identified corresponding to an incidence of NFE bacteraemia of 16 cases per 1,000,000 person-years among adults. Enterococcus casseliflavus (n=45), Enterococcus gallinarum (n=34), and Enterococcus avium (n=29) were the most common species. The most common foci of infection were biliary tract infections (n=17) followed by gastrointestinal infections (n=7). Urinary tract infections were not commonly caused by NFE (n=1), and no episodes of IE were caused by NFE. Polymicrobial bacteraemia was more common with NFE (73%) than with E. faecalis (35%) and E. faecium (42%). Community acquired infections were more common in bacteraemia with NFE compared to E. faecium. 30- and 90-day survival rates were 76% and 68%, respectively, and recurrent NFE bacteraemia was seen after 3% of the episodes.

Conclusion

Bacteraemia caused by NFE is rare and is often polymicrobial. Biliary tract focus is common in NFE bacteraemia whereas IE and urinary tract focus are uncommon.
SpaTiaL: monitoring and planning of robotic tasks using spatio-temporal logic specifications
Authors: Pek Christian , Schuppe Georg Friedrich , Esposito Francesco , Tumova Jana , Kragic Danica
Published: November 2023

Many tasks require robots to manipulate objects while satisfying a complex interplay of spatial and temporal constraints. For instance, a table setting robot first needs to place a mug and then fill it with coffee, while satisfying spatial relations such as forks need to placed left of plates. We propose the spatio-temporal framework SpaTiaL that unifies the specification, monitoring, and planning of object-oriented robotic tasks in a robot-agnostic fashion. SpaTiaL is able to specify diverse spatial relations between objects and temporal task patterns. Our experiments with recorded data, simulations, and real robots demonstrate how SpaTiaL provides real-time monitoring and facilitates online planning. SpaTiaL is open source and easily expandable to new object relations and robotic applications.
USP10 suppresses ABCG2-induced malignant characteristics of doxorubicin-resistant thyroid cancer by inhibiting PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Sun Jianwei , Xiang Qian , Ding Ding , Yan Nan
Published: November 2023

Doxorubicin (DOX) is the most extensively used drug in the chemotherapy of thyroid cancer (TC). However, the existence of DOX resistance is not conducive to TC treatment. Here, we investigated the role of USP10 in DOX-resistant TC and explored the underlying molecular mechanism. CCK-8 assay was used to measure cell viability in thyroid cancer FTC133 and DOX-resistant FTC133-DOX cells. RT-qPCR and western blot were used to evaluate USP10 expression. Cell migration, invasion, and apoptotic assays were conducted. Western blot was used to detect cellular signaling proteins, EMT-related proteins, and apoptosis-related proteins. We found a lower expression of USP10 in the human TC cell line FTC133 as compared to the normal human thyroid Htori-3 cells. Notably, USP10 expression was further reduced in DOX-resistant (FTC133-DOX) cells compared to the FTC133 cells. FTC133-DOX cells had increased invasion, migration, and EMT properties while less apoptosis by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway. Interestingly, overexpressing USP10 increased the chemosensitivity of FTC133 cells to DOX therapy. Overexpressing USP10 inhibited invasion, migration, and EMT properties of FTC133-DOX cells and promoted apoptosis. Mechanistically, overexpressing USP10 inhibited PI3K/AKT pathway by activating PTEN. Furthermore, overexpressed USP10 controlled all these processes by downregulating ABCG2. This study demonstrates that USP10 could reduce DOX-induced resistance of TC cells to DOX therapy and could suppress TC malignant behavior by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway. Furthermore, USP10 targeted ABCG2 to inhibit all these malignant processes, therefore, either increasing USP10 expression or inhibiting ABCG2 could be used as novel targets for treating DOX-resistant thyroid cancer.
Kink Waves in Twisted and Expanding Magnetic Tubes
Authors: Ruderman M. S. , Petrukhin N. S.
Published: November 2023

We study kink and fluting waves in expanding and twisted magnetic flux tubes. We use the thin-tube and zero-beta plasma approximations. The equilibrium magnetic field is force free with a constant proportionality coefficient between the electrical current and the magnetic field. We derive the equation governing the kink and fluting waves in a tube. Using this equation we study the propagation of kink waves in a particular case of a magnetic tube homogeneous in the axial direction. We show that while there is only one propagating kink wave with the phase speed equal to the kink speed in an untwisted tube, in a twisted tube there are two wave modes, accelerated and decelerated. The phase speed of the accelerated wave exceeds the kink speed, while the phase speed of the decelerated wave is less than the kink speed. We also show that the standing modes are defined by the same eigenvalue problem as that in the case of an untwisted tube. Hence, the frequencies of the standing-wave modes are not affected by the twist. This implies that the seismological results based on the observation of the standing-wave mode frequencies remain valid when the twist is taken into account. The only effect of twist is the variation of the direction of polarisation of the coronal magnetic-loop displacement along the loop. As a result, an apparent node can be detected near the loop apex if only one component of the loop displacement is observed. This can lead to an incorrect conclusion that the observed coronal loop kink oscillation was the first overtone, while in fact it was the fundamental mode.
ZnO nanostructured matrix as nexus catalysts for the removal of emerging pollutants
Authors: Matei Ecaterina , Șăulean Anca Andreea , Râpă Maria , Constandache Alexandra , Predescu Andra Mihaela , Coman George , Berbecaru Andrei Constantin , Predescu Cristian
Published: November 2023

Water pollution stands as a pressing global environmental concern, elevating the significance of innovative, dependable, and sustainable solutions. This study represents an extensive review of the use of photocatalytic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) for the removal of emerging pollutants from water and wastewater. The study examines ZnO NPs’ different preparation methods, including physical, chemical, and green synthesis, and emphasizes on advantages, disadvantages, preparation factors, and investigation methods for the structural and morphological properties. ZnO NPs demonstrate remarkable properties as photocatalysts; however, their small dimensions pose an issue, leading to potential post-use environmental losses. A strategy to overcome this challenge is scaling up ZnO NP matrices for enhanced stability and efficiency. The paper introduces novel ZnO NP composites, by incorporating supports like carbon and clay that serve as photocatalysts in the removal of emerging pollutants from water and wastewater. In essence, this research underscores the urgency of finding innovative, efficient, and eco-friendly solutions for the removal of emerging pollutants from wastewater and highlights the high removal efficiencies obtained when using ZnO NPs obtained from green synthesis as a photocatalyst. Future research should be developed on the cost–benefit analysis regarding the preparation methods, treatment processes, and value-added product regeneration efficiency.

Graphical Abstract
Learning curve for robotic rectal cancer resection at a community-based teaching institution
Authors: Coleman Kristen , Fellner Angela N. , Guend Hamza
Published: November 2023

The surgical management of rectal cancer is shifting toward more widespread use of robotics across a spectrum of medical centers. There is evidence that the oncologic outcomes are equivalent to laparoscopic resections, and the post-operative outcomes may be improved. This study aims to evaluate the learning curve of robotic rectal cancer resections at a community-based teaching institution and evaluate clinical and oncologic outcomes. A retrospective review of consecutive robotic rectal cancer resections by a single surgeon was performed for a five-year period. The cumulative sum (CUSUM) for total operative time was calculated and plotted to establish a learning curve. The oncologic and post-operative outcomes for each phase were analyzed and compared. The CUSUM learning curve yielded two phases, the learning phase (cases 1–79) and the proficiency phase (cases 80–130). The median operative time was significantly lower in the proficiency phase. The type of neoadjuvant therapy used between the two groups was statistically different, with chemoradiation being the primary regimen in the learning phase and total neoadjuvant therapy being more common in the proficiency phase. Otherwise, oncologic and overall post-operative outcomes were not significantly different between the groups. Robotic rectal resections can be done in a community-based hospital system by trained surgeons with outcomes that are favorable and similar to larger institutions.
Quantitative research assessment: using metrics against gamed metrics
Authors: Ioannidis John P. A. , Maniadis Zacharias
Published: November 2023

Quantitative bibliometric indicators are widely used and widely misused for research assessments. Some metrics have acquired major importance in shaping and rewarding the careers of millions of scientists. Given their perceived prestige, they may be widely gamed in the current “publish or perish” or “get cited or perish” environment. This review examines several gaming practices, including authorship-based, citation-based, editorial-based, and journal-based gaming as well as gaming with outright fabrication. Different patterns are discussed, including massive authorship of papers without meriting credit (gift authorship), team work with over-attribution of authorship to too many people (salami slicing of credit), massive self-citations, citation farms, H-index gaming, journalistic (editorial) nepotism, journal impact factor gaming, paper mills and spurious content papers, and spurious massive publications for studies with demanding designs. For all of those gaming practices, quantitative metrics and analyses may be able to help in their detection and in placing them into perspective. A portfolio of quantitative metrics may also include indicators of best research practices (e.g., data sharing, code sharing, protocol registration, and replications) and poor research practices (e.g., signs of image manipulation). Rigorous, reproducible, transparent quantitative metrics that also inform about gaming may strengthen the legacy and practices of quantitative appraisals of scientific work.
Immunoradiotherapy for NSCLC: mechanisms, clinical outcomes, and future directions
Authors: Weishan He , Donglin Zheng , Guangmei Deng , Wenya Liu , Fasheng Wu , Jibing Chen
Published: November 2023

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has an extremely low 5-year survival rate, with the only effective treatment being immunoradiotherapy (iRT). Here, we review the progress of clinical research on iRT for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) over 2018–2023, as well as the future directions. We first discuss the synergistic mechanisms of iRT, reflected in three aspects: immune regulation of RT, RT-activated immune-related pathways, and RT-related immune sensitization. iRT may include either external-beam or stereotactic-body RT combined with either immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., immunoglobulins against immune programmed cell death (PD) 1/PD ligand 1 or CD8+T lymphocyte antigen 4) or traditional Chinese medicine drugs. Regarding clinical effectiveness and safety, iRT increases overall and progression-free survival and tumor control rate among patients with NSCLC but without a considerable increase in toxicity risk. We finally discuss iRT challenges and future directions reported over 2018–2023.
Review on Metal–Acid Tandem Catalysis for Hydrogenative Rearrangement of Furfurals to C5 Cyclic Compounds
Authors: Li Xiang , Deng Qiang
Published: November 2023

Hydrogenative rearrangement of biomass-derived furfurals (furfural and 5-hydroxymethyl furfural) to C5 cyclic compounds (such as cyclopentanones and cyclopentanols) offers an expedient reaction route for acquiring O-containing value-added chemicals thereby replacing the traditional petroleum-based approaches. The scope for developing efficient bifunctional catalysts and establishing mild reaction conditions for upgrading furfurals to cyclic compounds has stimulated immense deliberation in recent years. Extensive efforts have been made toward developing catalysts for multiple tandem conversions, including those with various metals and supports. In this scientific review, we aim to summarize the research progress on the synergistic effect of the metal–acid sites, including simple metal–supported acidic supports, adjacent metal acid sites–supported catalysts, and in situ H2-modified bifunctional catalysts. Distinctively, the catalytic performance, catalytic mechanism, and future challenges for the hydrogenative rearrangement are elaborated in detail. The methods highlighted in this review promote the development of C5 cyclic compound synthesis and provide insights to regulate bifunctional catalysis for other applications.
An Exceptional Set Estimate for Restricted Projections to Lines in $$\mathbb R^3$$
Authors: Gan Shengwen , Guth Larry , Maldague Dominique
Published: November 2023

Let $$\gamma :[0,1]\rightarrow \mathbb S^{2}$$

γ
:

[
0
,
1
]

→

S
2

be a non-degenerate curve in $$\mathbb R^3$$

R
3

, that is to say, $$\det \big (\gamma (\theta ),\gamma '(\theta ),\gamma ''(\theta )\big )\ne 0$$

det

(

γ

(
θ
)

,

γ
′

(
θ
)

,

γ

′
′

(
θ
)

)

≠
0

. For each $$\theta \in [0,1]$$

θ
∈
[
0
,
1
]

, let $$l_\theta =\text {span}(\gamma (\theta ))$$

l
θ

=
span

(
γ

(
θ
)

)

and $$\rho _\theta :\mathbb R^3\rightarrow l_\theta $$

ρ
θ

:

R
3

→

l
θ

be the orthogonal projections. We prove an exceptional set estimate. For any Borel set $$A\subset \mathbb R^3$$

A
⊂

R
3

and $$0\le s\le 1$$

0
≤
s
≤
1

, define $$E_s(A):=\{\theta \in [0,1]: \dim (\rho _\theta (A))<s\}$$

E
s

(
A
)

:
=

{
θ
∈

[
0
,
1
]

:
dim

(

ρ
θ

(
A
)

)

<
s
}

. We have $$\dim (E_s(A))\le \max \{0,1+\frac{s-\dim (A)}{2}\}$$

dim

(

E
s

(
A
)

)

≤
max

{
0
,
1
+

s
-
dim
(
A
)

2

}

.
Insights into the kinetics–morphology relationship of 1-, 2-, and 3D TiNb2O7 anodes for Li-ion storage
Authors: Xu Wenlei , Xu Yaolin , Grzimek Veronika , Martin Andrea , Schultz Thorsten , Russo Patrícia A. , Lu Yan , Koch Norbert , Pinna Nicola
Published: November 2023

Understanding the influence of electrode material’s morphology on electrochemical behavior is of great significance for the development of rechargeable batteries, however, such studies are often limited by the inability to precisely control the morphology of electrode materials. Herein, nanostructured titanium niobium oxides (TiNb2O7) with three different morphologies (one-dimensional (1D), two-dimensional (2D), and three-dimensional (3D)) were synthesized via a facile microwave-assisted solvothermal method. The influence of the morphological dimension of TiNb2O7 as electrode material on the electrochemical performance in Li-ion batteries (LIBs) and the underlying correlation with the electrochemical kinetics were studied in detail. 2D TiNb2O7 (TNO-2D) shows a superior rate capability and cycling stability, associated with improved kinetics for charge transfer and Li-ion diffusion, compared to the 1D and 3D materials. Operando X-ray diffraction measurements reveal the structural stability and crystallographic evolution of TNO-2D upon lithiation and delithiation and correlate the Li-ion diffusion kinetics with the lattice evolution during battery charge and discharge. Moreover, carbon-coated TNO-2D achieves enhanced rate capability (205 mAh·g−1 at 50 C) and long-term cycling stability (87% after 1000 cycles at 5 C). This work provides insights into the rational morphology design of electrode materials for accelerated charge transfer and enhanced fast-charging capability, pushing forward the development of electrode materials for high-power rechargeable batteries in future energy storage.