bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi‐scale consistent self‐training network for semi‐supervised orbital tumor segmentation
Authors: Wang Keyi , Jin Kai , Cheng Zhiming , Liu Xindi , Wang Changjun , Guan Xiaojun , Xu Xiaojun , Ye Juan , Wang Wenyu , Wang Shuai
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Segmentation of orbital tumors in CT images is of great significance for orbital tumor diagnosis, which is one of the most prevalent diseases of the eye. However, the large variety of tumor sizes and shapes makes the segmentation task very challenging, especially when the available annotation data is limited.

Methods

To this end, in this paper, we propose a multi‐scale consistent self‐training network (MSCINet) for semi‐supervised orbital tumor segmentation. Specifically, we exploit the semantic‐invariance features by enforcing the consistency between the predictions of different scales of the same image to make the model more robust to size variation. Moreover, we incorporate a new self‐training strategy, which adopts iterative training with an uncertainty filtering mechanism to filter the pseudo‐labels generated by the model, to eliminate the accumulation of pseudo‐label error predictions and increase the generalization of the model.

Results

For evaluation, we have built two datasets, the orbital tumor binary segmentation dataset (Orbtum‐B) and the orbital multi‐organ segmentation dataset (Orbtum‐M). Experimental results on these two datasets show that our proposed method can both achieve state‐of‐the‐art performance. In our datasets, there are a total of 55 patients containing 602 2D images.

Conclusion

In this paper, we develop a new semi‐supervised segmentation method for orbital tumors, which is designed for the characteristics of orbital tumors and exhibits excellent performance compared to previous semi‐supervised algorithms.
Reducing the propagation delay of compact block in Bitcoin network
Authors: Kim Aeri , Essaid Meryam , Park Sejin , Ju Hongtaek
Published: January 2024

Bitcoin is a Blockchain‐based network in which thousands of nodes are directly connected and communicate via a gossip‐based flooding protocol. Mined blocks are propagated to all participating nodes in the network through a CBR (compact block relay) protocol developed to reduce the block propagation delay. However, propagation delay persists. The relay time between nodes must be measured and analyzed to determine the cause of the delay and provide solutions for reducing block propagation time. Previously, we measured the relay time and investigated the cause of the delay. According to the findings of the previous study, the delay of the relay time occurs when assembling compact blocks, depending on whether transactions are requested. In this paper, we find the reasons for requesting transactions. The reasons are due to the transaction propagation method and the characteristics of the transaction itself. We propose a solution based on this. It is a method of reducing probability of requesting transactions by using the compact block's “PREFILLEDTXN” to send the transactions expected to be requested with the block. The probability of requesting is reduced by up to 67% when transactions that have just entered the memory pool are propagated by PREFILLEDTXN. The block relay time is reduced by up to 44% as a result. Finally, this research reduces block relay time between nodes.
Mandibular odontogenic cyst atypically extended into the submandibular region with thickened bone formation: A case report
Authors: Kodama Shingo , Uchihashi Toshihiro , Shimamoto Hiroaki , Inubushi Toshihiro , Usami Yu , Tanaka Susumu
Published: January 2024

Background

Odontogenic cysts can cause thinning and expansion of the surrounding cortical bone; however, bone formation extending into the submandibular region, resembling periosteal reactions, is rarely observed in odontogenic cysts.

Case Presentation

A 52‐year‐old man presented with painful submandibular swelling and dyspnea. Computed tomography revealed an extensive mandibular cystic lesion extending to the submandibular region accompanied by thickened bone formation, mimicking lobulated shell‐type periosteal reaction. Percutaneous cystectomy with extensive mandibular bone resection was performed.

Conclusion

Prolonged existence of extensive cystic lesion and inflammatory stimulation may result in bone elongation into the submandibular region, mimicking periosteal reaction.
Probabilistic precision calculations for the planning of studies assessing negative binomial rates
Authors: Hedberg Jonatan , Franzén Stefan
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Outcome variables that are assumed to follow a negative binomial distribution are frequently used in both clinical and epidemiological studies. Epidemiological studies, particularly those performed by pharmaceutical companies often aim to describe a population rather than compare treatments. Such descriptive studies are often analysed using confidence intervals. While precision calculations and sample size calculations are not always performed in these settings, they have the important role of setting expectations of what results the study may generate. Current methods for precision calculations for the negative binomial rate are based on plugging in parameter values into the confidence interval formulae. This method has the downside of ignoring the randomness of the confidence interval limits. To enable better practice for precision calculations, methods are needed that address the randomness.

Methods

Using the well‐known delta‐method we develop a method for calculating the precision probability, that is, the probability of achieving a certain width. We assess the performance of the method in smaller samples through simulations.

Results

The method for the precision probability performs well in small to medium sample sizes, and the usefulness of the method is demonstrated through an example.

Conclusions

We have developed a simple method for calculating the precision probability for negative binomial rates. This method can be used when planning epidemiological studies in for example, asthma, while correctly taking the randomness of confidence intervals into account.
Consumer experiences and perception with reclosable pharmaceutical child resistant closures in Ghana, West Africa
Authors: Ofosu Samuel , Afrifah Kojo Agyapong , Bix Laura
Published: January 2024

Child resistant closures (CRCs) are an effective deterrent in preventing inadvertent poisoning in young children. Nevertheless, investigations since their debut have shown that users in different parts of the world do not embrace this safety package due to their opening mechanism. In this study, consumers who have interacted with pharmaceutical CRCs in Ghana within the West African sub‐region were interrogated to assess their experiences and perception. The assessments centred on consumer attitudes towards using CRCs generally, as well as their understanding of and importance for CRCs, the types that are available, observed cases of unintended medicinal child poisoning, ease of opening and injuries/accidents caused by them. The two observed CRCs used in the region were push and turn and squeeze and turn closures, with the former being the most popular. Regardless of educational level, consumers within the region had little understanding of how CRCs worked and how important they were. Due to their imprecise instructions and unpleasant opening mechanisms, CRCs were generally assessed by consumers as being challenging to open. Consumers unable to open CRCs employed their teeth, knives and sharp objects, resulting in injuries and casualties such as cuts and scratches. To maintain safe containment and limit children's exposure to medications, consumers identified CRCs as their top choice for pharmaceutical packaging. In conclusion, consumers oppose changing the design of CRCs but advocate for better opening instructions and pharmacist education for correct use.
Comparison of methods that combine multiple randomized trials to estimate heterogeneous treatment effects
Authors: Brantner Carly Lupton , Nguyen Trang Quynh , Tang Tengjie , Zhao Congwen , Hong Hwanhee , Stuart Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2024

Individualized treatment decisions can improve health outcomes, but using data to make these decisions in a reliable, precise, and generalizable way is challenging with a single dataset. Leveraging multiple randomized controlled trials allows for the combination of datasets with unconfounded treatment assignment to better estimate heterogeneous treatment effects. This article discusses several nonparametric approaches for estimating heterogeneous treatment effects using data from multiple trials. We extend single‐study methods to a scenario with multiple trials and explore their performance through a simulation study, with data generation scenarios that have differing levels of cross‐trial heterogeneity. The simulations demonstrate that methods that directly allow for heterogeneity of the treatment effect across trials perform better than methods that do not, and that the choice of single‐study method matters based on the functional form of the treatment effect. Finally, we discuss which methods perform well in each setting and then apply them to four randomized controlled trials to examine effect heterogeneity of treatments for major depressive disorder.
Improved Hole Extraction and Band Alignment via Interface Modification in Hole Transport Material‐Free Ag/Bi Double Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Schmitz Fabian , Bhatia Ribhu , Burkhart Julian , Schweitzer Pascal , Allione Marco , Gallego Jaime , Piotrowski Piotr , Cajzl Jakub , Paszke Piotr , Mohan Das Gour , Pawlak Dorota A. , Bella Federico , Schlettwein Derck , Lamberti Francesco , Meloni Simone , Gatti Teresa
Published: January 2024

Within one decade, lead halide perovskite solar cells have reached power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) compatible with that of silicon solar cells. While in the beginning, they suffered from short device lifetimes, those have also been strongly improved over time. However, their content of toxic lead still poses a risk of environmental pollution and human health on exposure. The double perovskite (DP) Cs2AgBiBr6 offers the potential to be a lead‐free alternative light‐harvesting material. Herein, the fabrication of hole transport material (HTM)‐free Cs2AgBiBr6‐based solar cells is presented, in which the DP surface is modified via a n‐butylammonium posttreatment to create a 2D/3D mixed interface. Additionally, the commonly utilized metal electrode and HTM are substituted with a carbon black back electrode (CBE) consisting of up‐cycled biowaste. Through the 2D/3D interface modification, charge recombination is suppressed, and band alignment is improved at the perovskite/CBE interface. Additionally, density functional theory calculations reveal that an increasing 2D modification thickness enhances the probability for holes in Cs2AgBiBr6 to be located close to the perovskite/CBE interface, further supporting their extraction. Overall, the PCE of the HTM‐free solar cells is improved through the implementation of a low‐cost and end‐of‐waste fabrication strategy.
Application of Carbon Materials in Conductive Electrodes for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Meng Fanning , Wang Dongsheng , Chang Jiarun , Li Jihui , Wang Guiqiang
Published: January 2024

Over the past decade, perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have achieved significant achievements. But the golden triangle problem of commercial development, which encompasses high efficiency, high stability, and low cost, remains unresolved. Carbon materials exhibit a diverse range of morphological structures and possess numerous advantages. They are extensively used in PSCs to overcome the challenges encountered during PSCs commercialization. The PSCs utilizing graphene as the top electrodes not only deliver an impressive efficiency of 22.8%, but also show exceptional long‐term stability. The PSCs using carbon nanotubes as transparent conductive electrodes obtain an efficiency of 19%, exhibiting significant potential for scalable applications. Herein, the advantages of carbon materials as conductive electrodes are overviewed. The compatibility of carbon materials as conductive electrodes in PSCs, along with the associated challenges, regulatory strategies, and device performance are systematically discussed in terms of their intrinsic characteristics. The application of carbon materials derived from petroleum by‐products and biomass in the top electrodes of PSCs are summarized in detail. Finally, the underlying reasons why PSCs using carbon electrode show a comparatively lower efficiency when compared to conventional devices is analyzed in‐depth. The potential research directions are proposed to promote the development of carbon conductive electrodes in PSCs.
Integrating spatial stream network models and environmental DNA to estimate current and future distributions of nonnative Smallmouth Bass
Authors: Winkowski John J. , Olden Julian D. , Brown Sarah
Published: January 2024

Objective

Climate change is fueling the rapid range expansion of invasive species in freshwater ecosystems. This has led to mounting calls from natural resource managers for more robust predictions of invasive species distributions to anticipate threats to species of concern and implement proactive conservation and restoration actions. Here, we applied recent advances in fish sampling and statistical modeling in river networks to estimate the current and future watershed-scale spatial distribution of nonnative Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu.

Methods

We integrated a spatial stream network (SSN) model of stream temperature, landscape environmental covariates, and Smallmouth Bass occurrence data based on environmental DNA (eDNA) detections to develop an SSN species distribution model (SDM) representing current Smallmouth Bass distributions in the Chehalis River, Washington State, a large coastal river basin of ongoing watershed-scale restoration. The SDM was informed by spatially intensive eDNA sampling from 135 locations in the main stem and major tributaries. We then applied downscaled climate change projections to the SSN SDM to predict Smallmouth Bass range expansion in the basin by late century.

Result

We identified high levels of spatial autocorrelation at hydrological distances of ≤10 km in our eDNA data set, underscoring the importance of applying an SSN modeling framework. Stream temperature was identified as the most important environmental covariate explaining variability in Smallmouth Bass occurrence. Model predictions estimated that current suitable summer habitat for Smallmouth Bass habitat spans 681 km and is projected to nearly double by late century (1333 km) under a moderate climate change scenario. Current and future suitable habitat for Smallmouth Bass is prevalent in important tributaries for spring Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, a species of major conservation concern in the Chehalis River and more broadly along the Pacific coast. In both the main stem and tributaries, the SSN SDM predictions of the upstream leading edges of Smallmouth Bass closely align with (within 4.8 km) edges identified by spatially intensive eDNA sampling.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the value of integrating SSN models with rapidly growing eDNA data sets for accurate and precise riverine fish distribution estimation. Our application provides crucial insights for anticipating the impacts of shifting invasive species on Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp. in a warming world.
A matrix-model approach to integrated correlators in a $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 SYM theory
Authors: Billò M. , Frau M. , Lerda A. , Pini A.
Published: January 2024

Abstract

In a $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 superconformal gauge theory with matter hypermultiplets transforming in the symmetric and anti-symmetric representations of SU(N), we study the integrated correlators of two Coulomb-branch operators and two moment-map operators using localization. In the corresponding matrix model we identify the operator associated with the integrated insertions of moment-map operators and provide for it an exact expression valid for all values of the coupling constant in the planar limit. This allows us to study the integrated correlators at strong-coupling where we show that they behave as the 2-point functions of the Coulomb-branch operators, up to an overall constant dependent only on the conformal dimensions of the latter. The strong-coupling relation between integrated correlators and 2-point functions turns out to be the same as in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM at large N, despite the reduced amount of supersymmetry in our theory.
On the local-global principle for isogenies of abelian surfaces
Authors: Lombardo Davide , Verzobio Matteo
Published: January 2024

Let $$\ell $$
ℓ
be a prime number. We classify the subgroups G of $${\text {Sp}}_4({\mathbb {F}}_\ell )$$

Sp
4

(

F
ℓ

)

and $${\text {GSp}}_4({\mathbb {F}}_\ell )$$

GSp
4

(

F
ℓ

)

that act irreducibly on $${\mathbb {F}}_\ell ^4$$

F
ℓ
4

, but such that every element of G fixes an $${\mathbb {F}}_\ell $$

F
ℓ

-vector subspace of dimension 1. We use this classification to prove that a local-global principle for isogenies of degree $$\ell $$
ℓ
between abelian surfaces over number fields holds in many cases—in particular, whenever the abelian surface has non-trivial endomorphisms and $$\ell $$
ℓ
is large enough with respect to the field of definition. Finally, we prove that there exist arbitrarily large primes $$\ell $$
ℓ
for which some abelian surface $$A/{\mathbb {Q}}$$

A
/
Q

fails the local-global principle for isogenies of degree $$\ell $$
ℓ
.
Effect of printing orientation on mechanical properties of 3D-printed orthodontic aligners
Authors: Camenisch Lukas , Polychronis Georgios , Panayi Nearchos , Makou Olga , Papageorgiou Spyridon N. , Zinelis Spiros , Eliades Theodore
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess differences in the fundamental mechanical properties of resin-made three-dimensional (3D) printed orthodontic aligners according to the printing orientation.

Methods

Twenty resin 3D-printed dumbbell-shaped specimens and 20 orthodontic aligners were fabricated and postcured in nitrogen. Half of the specimens and aligners were built in horizontal (H), the other half in vertical (V) directions. The dumbbell-shaped specimens were loaded in a tensile testing machine, while parts of the aligners were embedded in acrylic resin, ground, polished, and then underwent instrumented indentation testing (IIT). Mechanical properties that were assessed included the yield strength (YS), breaking strength (BS), plastic strain (ε), Martens hardness (HM), indentation modulus (EIT), elastic index (ηIT), and indentation relaxation (RIT). Data were analyzed statistically with independent t‑tests or Mann–Whitney tests at α = 5%.

Results

No significant differences were found between specimens or aligners printed either in a horizontal or a vertical direction (P > 0.05 in all instances). Overall, the 3D-printed aligners showed acceptable mechanical propertied in terms of YS (mean 19.2 MPa; standard deviation [SD] 1.7 MPa), BS (mean 19.6 MPa; SD 1.2 MPa), ε (mean 77%; SD 11%), HM (median 89.0 N/mm2; interquartile range [IQR] 84.5–90.0 NN/m2), EIT (median 2670.5 MPa; IQR 2645.0–2726.0 MPa), ηIT (median 27.5%; IQR 25.9–28.1%), and RIT (mean 65.1%; SD 3.5%).

Conclusion

Printing direction seemed to have no effect on the mechanical properties of 3D-printed resin aligners, which are promising for orthodontic use.
Adhesive bonding of glass-fibre thermoplastic composite: process optimisation and sustainability analysis using LCA methodology
Authors: Mandolfino Chiara , Cassettari Lucia , Lertora Enrico , Pizzorni Marco
Published: January 2024

In recent years, great attention has been paid to the challenge of integrating more sustainable circular approaches to manufacturing, which involve optimising the entire product cycle, from design to fabrication, assembly and eventual reuse/recycling. In this context, the use of thermoplastic composite materials in combination with adhesive bonding is attracting increasing attention to achieve this dual objective. Therefore, the proposed research focuses on the experimental and statistical optimisation of an adhesive bonding process for glass-fibre–reinforced composite substrates with polypropylene matrix, with the aim of comparing its performance with that of joints made using more conventional configurations, i.e. utilising thermosetting substrates. A low-pressure plasma pre-bonding surface treatment is adopted, and its effectiveness in enhancing joint performance compared to more conventional preparations for plastics is discussed. By varying plasma parameters according to the design of experiments statistical approach, the joint response is studied in terms of tensile shear strength and modelled in accordance with the response surface methodology to identify the optimum condition of process parameters within the established system boundaries. The study found that with optimised pre-treatment, adhesive joints of glass-fibre–reinforced composites with thermoplastic matrices (first scenario) can achieve tensile shear strength (TSS) comparable to that of thermoset composites (second scenario), making them viable options in various applications. Two alternative scenarios—namely, joints with thermoplastic composite or thermoset composite substrates—are then analysed by the life cycle assessment methodology and compared according to their relative environmental impact, demonstrating that glass-fibre thermoplastic composite joints are competitive alternatives to thermoset joints in terms of mechanical static performance achieved, but significantly preferable with regard to environmental sustainability.
Sarkopenie, körperliche Aktivität und sedentäres Verhalten von Pflegeheimbewohnenden in Deutschland
Authors: Haigis Daniel , Wagner Silas , Pomiersky Rebekka , Matting Leon , Hahn Lea-Sofie , Eschweiler Gerhard W. , Thiel Ansgar , Frahsa Annika , Sudeck Gorden , Nieß Andreas M.
Published: January 2024

Hintergrund

Bewohnende in Pflegeheimen (PH) weisen eine hohe Prävalenz des muskuloskeletalen Syndroms Sarkopenie auf und erreichen häufig nicht die aktuellen Empfehlungen für körperliche Aktivität (kA).

Fragestellung

Ziel dieser Studie ist die Identifizierung der Unterschiede in Bezug auf kA und sedentäres Verhalten (sV) von sarkopenen Bewohnenden im Vergleich zu nichtsarkopenen und präsarkopenen Bewohnenden.

Methoden

Die Sarkopeniequantifizierung wurde bei 63 Bewohnenden aus PH in Baden-Württemberg (DE) anhand der Vorgaben der European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 durchgeführt. Untersucht wurden strukturierte Aktivitätseinheiten (sAE/Woche), akzelerometrisch erfasste kA (Schritte/Tag) und prozentuales sV (sV%/Tag). Die Gruppenvergleiche wurden mithilfe des Kruskal-Wallis-Tests und des Dunn-Bonferroni-Post-hoc-Tests ermittelt.

Ergebnisse

Signifikante Unterschiede zeigten sich für Schritte (p = 0,005) und sV% (p = 0,019). Darüber hinaus zeigten die Schritte signifikante Ergebnisse im Vergleich der Gruppen „keine Sarkopenie“ (2824,4 [423–14275]) und „mögliche Sarkopenie“ (1703,9 [118–5663]) bzw. „bestätigte/schwere Sarkopenie“ (1571,2 [240–2392]) (beide p = 0,022; |r| = 0,34). Das sV% zeigte signifikante Unterschiede zwischen den Gruppen „keine Sarkopenie“ (87,9 % [69,1–94,3]) und „mögliche Sarkopenie“ (91,7 % [80,4–98,5]) (p = 0,018; |r| = 0,35).

Diskussion

Nichtsarkopene Bewohnende weisen im Vergleich zu präsarkopenen und sarkopenen Bewohnenden eine höhere Schrittzahl und niedrigeres sV% auf. Die Erhöhung der Schrittzahl, die Verringerung des sV% und Förderung von Alltagsaktivitäten können für die Prävention und Behandlung der Sarkopenie im Setting PH beitragen.
Surgical site infections after glioblastoma surgery: boon or bane?
Authors: Hounchonou Harold F. , Bajgora Genis , Esmaeilzadeh Majid , Hartmann Christian , Krauss Joachim K.
Published: January 2024

Background

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are among the most common postoperative complications. Glioblastoma multiforme is the most frequent malignant brain tumor with a dismal prognosis despite combined treatment. The effect of SSIs on the course of glioblastoma patients has not been fully clarified since available data are limited and partially contradictory. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of SSIs on the course of patients with glioblastoma.

Methods

The medical records of all patients undergoing surgery for glioblastoma between 2010 and 2020 in our institution were scanned and those with surgical site infections after glioblastoma resection were identified and compared to an age-matched control group. Overall survival and progression-free survival were the primary endpoints followed by the number of hospitalizations and the length of stay in hospital.

Results

Out of 305 patients undergoing surgery for glioblastoma, 38 patients with postoperative surgical site infection after resection were identified and 15 (5 men and 10 women aged between 9 and 72) were included in this study. 23 patients were excluded. The control group consisted of 30 age-matched patients without SSI (18 men and 12 women). There were no significant differences in median overall survival. Progression-free survival was higher in the SSI group. The number of hospitalizations and the length of stay were significantly higher in the SSI group.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that SSIs might reduce early recurrences without affecting overall survival. Furthermore, they might decrease health-related quality of life by doubling the total length of hospital stay.
Short-term serial circulating tumor DNA assessment predicts therapeutic efficacy for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer
Authors: Motobayashi Hideki , Kitahata Yuji , Okada Ken-ichi , Miyazawa Motoki , Ueno Masaki , Hayami Shinya , Miyamoto Atsushi , Shimizu Atsushi , Sato Masatoshi , Yoshimura Tomohiro , Nakamura Yuki , Takemoto Norio , Nakai Tomoki , Hyo Takahiko , Matsumoto Kyohei , Yamaue Hiroki , Kawai Manabu
Published: January 2024

Purpose

We investigated the potential clinical utility of short-term serial KRAS-mutated circulating cell-free tumor DNA (ctDNA) assessment for predicting therapeutic response in patients undergoing first-line chemotherapy for advanced pancreatic cancer.

Methods

We collected 144 blood samples from 18 patients with locally advanced or metastatic cancer that were undergoing initial first-line chemotherapy of gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel (GEM plus nab-PTX). Analysis of KRAS-mutated ctDNA was quantified by digital droplet polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) as mutant allele frequency (MAF). This study investigated pretreatment KRAS-mutated ctDNA status and ctDNA kinetics every few days (days 1, 3, 5 and 7) after initiation of chemotherapy and their potential as predictive indicators.

Results

Of the 18 enrolled patients, an increase in KRAS-mutated ctDNA MAF values from day 0–7 after initiation of chemotherapy was significantly associated with disease progression (P < 0.001). Meanwhile, positive pretreatment ctDNA status (MAF ≥ 0.02%) (P = 0.585) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) values above the median (P = 0.266) were not associated with disease progression. In univariate analysis, this short-term increase in ctDNA MAF values (day 0–7) was found to be associated with significantly shorter progression free survival (PFS) (hazard ration [HR], 24.234; range, (2.761–212.686); P = 0.0002).

Conclusion

This short-term ctDNA kinetics assessment may provide predictive information to reflect real-time therapeutic response and lead to effective refinement of regimen in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer undergoing systemic chemotherapy.
Cost and effectiveness of autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and high-efficacy disease-modifying therapies in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Mariottini Alice , Nozzoli Chiara , Carli Ilaria , Landi Filippo , Gigli Valentina , Repice Anna Maria , Ipponi Alessandra , Cecchi Michele , Boncompagni Riccardo , Saccardi Riccardo , Massacesi Luca
Published: January 2024

Background

Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) is a highly effective one-off treatment for relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RR-MS), potentially representing an optimal front-loading strategy for costs.

Objective

Exploring cost/effectiveness of AHSCT and high-efficacy disease-modifying treatments (HE-DMTs) in RR-MS, estimating costs at our centre in Italy, where National Health Service (NHS) provides universal health coverage.

Methods

Costs (including drugs, inpatient/outpatient management) for treatment with AHSCT and HE-DMTs were calculated as NHS expenditures over 2- and 5-year periods. Cost-effectiveness for each treatment was estimated as “cost needed to treat” (CNT), i.e. expense to prevent relapses, progression, or disease activity (NEDA) in one patient over n-years, retrieving outcomes from published studies.

Results

Costs of AHSCT and HE-DMTs were similar over 2 years, whereas AHSCT was cheaper than most HE-DMTs over 5 years (€46 600 vs €93 800, respectively). When estimating cost-effectiveness of treatments, over 2 years, mean CNT of HE-DMTs for NEDA was twofold that of AHSCT, whereas it was similar for relapses and disability. Differences in CNT were remarkable over 5 years, especially for NEDA, being mean CNT of HE-DMTs €382 800 vs €74 900 for AHSCT.

Conclusions

AHSCT may be highly cost-effective in selected aggressive RR-MS. Besides priceless benefits for treated individuals, cost-savings generated by AHSCT may contribute to improving healthcare assistance at a population level.
Insights Into Electrophysiological Metrics of Cochlear Health in Cochlear Implant Users Using a Computational Model
Authors: Takanen Marko , Strahl Stefan , Schwarz Konrad
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The hearing outcomes of cochlear implant users depend on the functional status of the electrode-neuron interface inside the cochlea. This can be assessed by measuring electrically evoked compound action potentials (eCAPs). Variations in cochlear neural health and survival are reflected in eCAP-based metrics. The difficulty in translating promising results from animal studies into clinical use has raised questions about to what degree eCAP-based metrics are influenced by non-neural factors. Here, we addressed these questions using a computational model.

Methods

A 2-D computational model was designed to simulate how electrical signals from the stimulating electrode reach the auditory nerve fibers distributed along the cochlea, evoking action potentials that can be recorded as compound responses at the recording electrodes. Effects of physiologically relevant variations in neural survival and in electrode-neuron and stimulating-recording electrode distances on eCAP amplitude growth functions (AGFs) were investigated.

Results

In line with existing literature, the predicted eCAP AGF slopes and the inter-phase gap (IPG) effects depended on the neural survival, but only when the IPG effect was calculated as the difference between the slopes of the two AGFs expressed in linear input–output scale. As expected, shallower eCAP AGF slopes were obtained for increased stimulating-recording electrode distance and larger eCAP thresholds for greater electrode-neuron distance. These non-neural factors had also minor interference on the predicted IPG effect.

Conclusions

The model predictions demonstrate previously found dependencies of eCAP metrics on neural survival and non-neural aspects. The present findings confirm data from animal studies and provide insights into applying described metrics in clinical practice.
On entropy martingale optimal transport theory
Authors: Doldi Alessandro , Frittelli Marco , Rosazza Gianin Emanuela
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we give an overview of (nonlinear) pricing-hedging duality and of its connection with the theory of entropy martingale optimal transport (EMOT), recently developed, and that of convex risk measures. Similarly to Doldi and Frittelli (Finance Stoch 27(2):255–304, 2023), we here establish a duality result between a convex optimal transport and a utility maximization problem. Differently from Doldi and Frittelli (Finance Stoch 27(2):255–304, 2023), we provide here an alternative proof that is based on a compactness assumption. Subhedging and superhedging can be obtained as applications of the duality discussed above. Furthermore, we provide a dual representation of the generalized optimized certainty equivalent associated with indirect utility.
Persisting through friction: growing a community driven knowledge infrastructure
Authors: Rayburn Alexandria J. , Punzalan Ricardo L. , Thomer Andrea K.
Published: January 2024

Many memory institutions hold heritage items belonging to Indigenous peoples. There are current efforts to share knowledge about these heritage items with their communities; one way this is done is through digital access. This paper examines The Great Lakes Research Alliance for the Study of Aboriginal Arts and Cultures (GRASAC), a network of researchers, museum professionals, and community members who maintain a digital platform that aggregates museum and archival research on Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and Huron-Wendat cultures into a centralized database. The database, known as the GRASAC Knowledge Sharing System (GKS), is at a point of infrastructural growth, moving from a password protected system to one that is open to the public. Rooted in qualitative research from semi-structured interviews with the creators, maintainers, and users of the database, we examine the frictions in this expanding knowledge infrastructure (KI), and how they are eased over time. We find the friction within GRASAC resides in three main categories: collaborative friction, data friction, and our novel contribution: systemic friction.
Terahertz Detection of Acid Blue 113 Dye Using Hybrid Hydrogels
Authors: Garnica-Palafox Itzel M. , Velázquez-Benítez Amado M. , Sánchez-Arévalo Francisco , Qureshi Naser
Published: January 2024

The detection of pollutant dyes in the environment, particularly in waterways, can be extended and potentially simplified using terahertz spectroscopy. The use of hydrogels to absorb these contaminants from water and create solid samples with moderate transparency at terahertz frequencies evidently facilitates spectroscopic analysis. In this study, we demonstrate that chitosan and poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogels, as well as their cross-linked and nanocomposite hybrid blends, efficiently capture the acid blue 113 azo dye (AB113). We show that terahertz transmittance and refractive index measurements conducted on these hydrogel materials offer an effective alternative method for detecting water contaminants, especially azo dyes. The terahertz transmittance spectra provide evidence of azo dye molecules within the hydrogel membranes. Additionally, considering the alterations in the hydrogels’ refractive index due to the sorption of AB113 dye molecules, we derived an analytical model to accurately estimate the amount of dye sorbed by the polymeric networks. The findings of this study establish a practical and promising approach for both qualitative and quantitative terahertz detection of AB113 dye using hybrid hydrogels. A detailed comparison with optical and infrared spectroscopy is also provided for reference.
Valorization of Monoraphidium sp. microalgal biomass for human nutrition applications
Authors: Georgiou Despoina , Exarhopoulos Stylianos , Charisis Aggelos , Simitsis Savvas , Papapanagiotou Georgia , Samara Christina , Katsiapi Matina , Kountrias Georgios , Bouras Sofoklis , Katsoulas Nikolaos , Karapanagiotidis Ioannis T. , Chatzidoukas Christos , Kalogianni Eleni P.
Published: January 2024

The green microalga Monoraphidium sp. has potential for biodiesel production since it grows fast and can accumulate high levels of lipids. However, there is a lack of information on the potential use in human nutrition. In this work Monoraphidium sp. was characterized in terms of macronutrients with a special focus on the fatty acid profile of the lipid fraction and on the amino acid profile of the proteins. Furthermore, aiming at nutrient valorization, various methods for lipid extraction that could be used in the production of high quality and safe foods were investigated. To this end, the focus was on cell disruption methods in order to optimize oil recovery. The Monoraphidium sp. biomass had a high protein concentration (44.5 %) and a relatively low lipid concentration (12.5 %) but was rich in ω-3 fatty acids demonstrating its high nutritive value. Regarding cell disruption, ultrasonication and high-speed homogenization were insufficient to disrupt cells under the conditions examined. On the other hand, the effectiveness of the ball milling was regulated via processing time and water-to-biomass ratio and complete cell disruption could be achieved by this method. For lipid extraction, solvent extraction using a mixture of food-grade hexane and ethanol resulted in an oil recovery of 70.4 %, whereas using ethanol alone as an environmentally friendly solvent resulted in an oil recovery equal to 54 %. Supercritical CO2 extraction resulted in a lower oil recovery (25 %), whereas ethanol addition, as a cosolvent to CO2, significantly increased the oil recovery (60 %).
Effect of microcrystalline cellulose on the mechanical properties of flax reinforced methylmethacrylate and urethane acrylate composites
Authors: Bandaru Aswani Kumar , Pichandi Subramani , Ma Hong , Panchal Manoj , Gujjala Raghavendra
Published: January 2024

Many structural applications are attracted to natural fibre-reinforced polymeric composites due to their eco-friendliness, recyclability, and cost-effectiveness. While significant progress has been made, their interface compatibility with the polymeric matrix is still challenging. Therefore, the present study proposed a method for improving the mechanical and dynamic mechanical performance of flax-reinforced novel methylmethacrylate (Elium®) and urethane acrylate (Crestapol®) composites. The technique involved the dispersion of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) in the matrix at different weight percentages (0.5–0.75%) to improve the fibre/matrix interface. Flax/Elium® (FE) and flax/Crestapol® (FC) composites with varying weight percentages of MCC were manufactured using the vacuum infusion method. The resulting improvements in mechanical and dynamic properties were evaluated through in-plane shear (± 45° tensile), flexural, short beam shear, and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The effects of MCC on these properties of flax/Elium® were compared to those of flax/Crestapol® composites. The addition of MCC improved the in-plane shear strength (FE: 13–20%, FC: 10–17%), flexural strength (FE: 6–13%, FC: 13%) and interlaminar shear strength (FE: 9–17%, FC: 10–20%). Also, FE composite showed 7–11%, 10–14% and 10–17% higher in-plane shear, flexural and interlaminar shear strengths, respectively, compared to FC composites. The DMA results confirmed the positive effect of Elium® resin and MCC on the dynamic storage and loss modulus.
A comprehensive review of Trinitor components: A sustainable waste heat recovery polygenerative system for diesel vehicles
Authors: Duraivel Balamurali , Shaik Saboor , Bansal Ritik , Khanda Shubhankar Debabrata , Patel Dhruv , Natarajan M. , Saleel C. Ahamed , Jilte R. D. , Ağbulut Ümit
Published: January 2024

Internal combustion engine inefficiencies and waste heat emissions raise environmental concerns, as they waste fuel energy in the form of heat, increasing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, waste heat contributes to the urban heat island effect. Waste heat recovery is a vital solution, capturing and repurposing heat to reduce fuel use, emissions, and costs while promoting sustainability, innovation, and economic growth. Polygenerative waste heat recovery maximizes energy efficiency by generating multiple forms of energy from a single source, enhancing overall sustainability. The proposed Trinitor model is a polygenerative system encompassing power generation, product drying, space cooling/heating, and oxygen production. Power generation utilizes exhaust heat stored in a phase change material (PCM) to generate electricity through a Hot Air Turbine. The PCM also stores heat from the PVT thermal collector and supports produce drying. In the space cooling/heating process, the temperature contrast resulting from the hot air generated by the turbine and the cooled air from the Cooling chamber is harnessed by the Seebeck principle within the TEG, converting heat energy into electricity, and it is possible to create temperature variations using the Peltier Effect by supplying electricity. Oxygen production involves dehumidifying air, separating oxygen from hydrogen using an electrolyzer and storing oxygen for civilian use. A component review identifies SiC wall flow-diesel particulate filters (DPF), a paraffin-based Latent Heat Storage System, and electric-assisted turbo compounding as cost-effective for energy production. Produce drying relies on hot air or infrared drying, a revolving wicks humidifier, and a cooling coil dehumidifier. Space cooling/heating needs a water-type PV/T collector, MPPT charge controller, lithium-ion batteries, and ceramic TEGs. A PEM electrolyzer with appropriate components (bipolar plates, electrodes, catalyst, membrane, and gasket) enhances oxygen production efficiency. Based on existing literature, the trinitor has the potential to attain an overall efficiency ranging from 40.12–54.81%. Thus, a combination of low-efficiency processes results in a highly efficient waste heat recovery Trinitor system, with further improvements possible through identified components’ integration.
Removal efficiencies of seven frequently detected antibiotics and related physiological responses in three microalgae species
Authors: Frascaroli Gabriele , Roberts Joanne , Hunter Colin , Escudero Ania
Published: January 2024

The main objective of this study is to investigate the effect of mixtures of seven widely used human antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, clarithromycin, erythromycin, metronidazole, ofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole, and trimethoprim) on the growth, pH, pigment production, and antibiotics removal of three microalgal species (Auxenochlorella protothecoides, Tetradesmus obliquus, and Chlamydomonas acidophila). Batch assays were conducted with media with antibiotic mixtures at 10, 50, and 100 μg L−1 for each antibiotic. The three microalgae species effectively removed the antibiotics without any growth inhibition, even when exposed to the highest antibiotic concentrations. Biosorption was reported as the primary mechanism for ciprofloxacin, clarithromycin, metronidazole, and ofloxacin, with up to 70% removal, especially in A. protothecoides and C. acidophila. A. protothecoides, a species never investigated for antibiotic removal, was the only microalgae exhibiting bioaccumulation and biodegradation of specific antibiotics, including sulfamethoxazole. Furthermore, in media with the highest antibiotic concentration, all three species exhibited increased chlorophyll (up to 37%) and carotenoid (up to 32%) production, accompanied by a pH decrease of 3 units. Generally, in the present study, it has been observed that physiological responses and the removal of antibiotics by microalgae are interlinked and contingent on the antibiotic levels and types.
Driving carbon emission reduction in China through green finance and green innovation: an endogenous growth perspective
Authors: Li Kunming , Lin Weiyuan , Jiang Tingjun , Mao Yifan , Shi Wenming
Published: January 2024

Discovering drivers of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is vital for the Chinese government to achieve carbon peak and carbon neutral. With this aim, a theoretical endogenous growth model capturing the mitigating effect of green finance and green innovation on carbon emissions is constructed in this study, which is further empirically examined using China’s municipal-level panel data during 2010–2019. The main findings are as follows: First, there is theoretical and empirical evidence supporting that green finance and green innovation can inhibit carbon emissions. Second, the above inhibitory effects demonstrate clear regional disparities with significant effects only in eastern and central Chinese cities, which are moderated by environmental regulations and marketization levels, respectively. Third, in cities with high green finance, green finance plays a more significant role in reducing carbon emissions than green innovation, and the opposite is true in cities with low green finance. In addition, the robustness and endogeneity checks indicate that the results of this study are robust and reliable. These theoretical and empirical findings create profound implications for CO2 emission reduction by vigorously guiding funds to green finance and formulating scientific and effective environmental regulations to promote green innovation in China.
Reevaluating the conglomerate discount in Germany: the role of design choices
Authors: Eulerich Marc , Fligge Benjamin
Published: January 2024

Despite the current trend toward refocusing on the core business, the empirical results on the conglomerate discount are conflicting and provide opposing implications to managers as to whether they should pursue diversification or not. Prior literature has employed various research designs, all of which have the potential to impact results. In this study, we analyze which design choices affect the conglomerate discount. We analyze a sample of approximately 6000 German firm-years between 2000 and 2019 and find a conglomerate discount of 7.9–11.5%. Our findings reveal that design choices related to self-selection have the highest impact on the results. Using a 2SLS approach, we find no causal relationship between diversification and market value despite testing various sets of instruments and excess values. Our results inform practitioners and researchers regarding the impact of design choices on the magnitude and existence of the conglomerate discount.
Role of PET/CT in diagnosing and monitoring disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis: a review
Authors: Singh Shashi B. , Bhandari Sambhawana , Bhandari Sadikshya , Bhandari Samikshya , Singh Rajshree , Raynor William Y. , Hess Soren , Werner Thomas J. , Alavi Abass , Revheim Mona-Elisabeth
Published: January 2024

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory disorder that commonly presents with polyarthritis but can have multisystemic involvement and complications, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. The diagnosis of RA continues to be challenging due to its varied clinical presentations. In this review article, we aim to determine the potential of PET/CT to assist in the diagnosis of RA and its complications, evaluate the therapeutic response to treatment, and predict RA remission. PET/CT has increasingly been used in the last decade to diagnose, monitor treatment response, predict remissions, and diagnose subclinical complications in RA. PET imaging with [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]-FDG) is the most commonly applied radiotracer in RA, but other tracers are also being studied. PET/CT with [18F]-FDG, [18F]-NaF, and other tracers might lead to early identification of RA and timely evidence-based clinical management, decreasing morbidity and mortality. Although PET/CT has been evolving as a promising tool for evaluating and managing RA, more evidence is required before incorporating PET/CT in the standard clinical management of RA.