bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decolonizing English language testing
Authors: Schissel Jamie L.
Published: May 2024

Testing practices and the construct of English both serve separately and interactionally to promote activities of modernity and coloniality. Tests categorize and rank learning and knowledge in discrete, static ways. The construct of the English language through standardization and other processes upholds linguistic purism ideologies. Such concerns in both areas lead to the guiding question: What and whose purposes are being served with testing in English? In engaging with this question, the author posits that decolonizing approaches to testing and the construct of English are needed. In this article, she presents assessment practices developed within Indigenous learning contexts that can inform general approaches to assessment and language with implications for English language testing. In doing so, the article offers actions toward imaginative and creative reconfigurations of English testing according to epistemologies of communities that have confronted colonialist activities.
Dynamic intramedullary crosspinning technique for the treatment of distal femoral metaphyseal fracture in a free‐ranging jaguarundi (Herpailurus yagouaroundi)
Authors: Cassanego Guilherme Rech , Rahal Sheila Canevese , Alievi Marcelo Meller , Vaccarin Charline Vanessa , De Nardin Peixoto Gabriella
Published: May 2024

An approximately 3‐month‐old female free‐ranging jaguarundi (Herpailurus yagouaroundi) was admitted for evaluation of swelling near the right stifle and inability to use the right hindlimb. Radiographic examination revealed a closed, short oblique fracture of the right distal femoral metaphysis, and the bone cortex appeared thin. Because of the poor body condition, the surgical procedure was performed 6 days after admission. The fracture was stabilised using a dynamic intramedullary crosspinning technique. Two 1.5 mm diameter Kirschner (K) wires were introduced at an approximately 20° angle to the sagittal plane of the femur. Radiographic evaluation 3 months after surgery revealed an open distal physis, fracture healing in the remodelling phase and K‐wires engulfed by the bone, which made removal impossible. At the 6‐month follow‐up, a length discrepancy of 0.8 cm in the right femur compared to the left femur was noted. Despite this complication, the locomotion pattern was considered normal according to visual gait analysis.
Virtual reality aiding fire scene investigation: A thankless endeavor or catalyst for change?
Authors: Rinaldi Vincenzo , Ljungkvist Eva , Thomsen Benny , NicDaeid Niamh
Published: May 2024

The training of a fire investigator should lay the foundations for a systematic, evidence‐based, and unbiased analysis of a fire scene. The ability of the investigators to determine the origin, cause and development of a fire is gained through education, experience based on on‐the‐job training and focused continuous professional development (CPD). Practitioners have met these requirements for several decades through formal examinations and specialized training. Additionally, several countries provide training in full‐scale (simulated) fire scenes for public and private sector fire investigators. These scenes may also be used for ongoing competency and proficiency testing. However, simulated fire scene setups are costly, limited to a single excavation event, and often short‐lived due to deterioration upon use and ease of contamination. The COVID‐19 pandemic highlighted the need, and provided the opportunity, for developing both virtual/hybrid training and competence testing, prompting the exploration of novel technologies in this area. A cross‐border multi‐agency partnership between academics, forensic practitioners, and forensic scientists explored the feasibility of leveraging digitalization techniques to support immersive virtual reality (VR). We outline the critical aspects and requirements beyond the challenges connected to technical feasibility, which the forensic science and judicial community demand so that technological development would be considered admissible within the justice system.

This article is categorized under:

Crime Scene Investigation > Crime Scene Documentation and Visualization

Digital and Multimedia Science > Multimedia Forensics
Perspectives on the Significance of Borders in Europe: Past Challenges, Future Developments
Authors: Bakardjieva Engelbrekt Antonina , Ekman Per , Michalski Anna , Oxelheim Lars
Published: May 2024

In the first chapter, the authors review the evolution of borders throughout European history. The modern concept of borders as dividing lines is a fairly recent phenomenon and constitutes somewhat of a paradox in a historical perspective. It evolved as political orders started to use borders to demarcate the boundaries of their power. In that vein, the modern nation-state was premised on the control over a specific territory whose political system, wealth, and culture had to be defended against enemies, often to the detriment of peaceful inter-state relations in Europe. After World War II, European integration was pursued with the aim of forming a political union challenging the traditional notion of borders as the economic, political, and social boundaries between the EU member states were gradually removed. In the process, however, borders as demarcation lines towards countries not (yet) members of the Union rose in significance. Consequently, the EU has been in almost constant enlargement since its inception, increasing its membership from six to 28 and then 27, because of Brexit. The chapter concludes by presenting the varying perspectives of borders in contemporary Europe as they appear in the ensuing chapters of the book.
The EU’s Internal and External Borders in a World Torn by Conflict
Authors: Bakardjieva Engelbrekt Antonina , Ekman Per , Michalski Anna , Oxelheim Lars
Published: May 2024

In the last chapter, the authors take stock of the challenges which are besetting the European Union’s (EU) internal and external borders from the perspective of contemporary events and crises, and evaluate them in the context of a changing international environment. They consider what can be learned from past experiences concerning the internal borders which in the last decades were lifted only to be reinstated again, and the hardening of the EU’s external borders in order to keep unwanted pressure from irregular immigration at bay while facing off hybrid security threats, terrorism and organized crime. The chapter analyzes the geopolitical shift from the perspective of the EU’s quest to protect internal policy progress, such as the greening of the economy, against political actors which challenge the principles of the rules-based international order. The chapter concludes by discussing the implications of the war in Ukraine on the European security architecture, and the prospect of a future enlargement to Ukraine, Moldova, and the candidate countries on the Balkan Peninsula.
EU Norm Promotion in a Conflictual World. An Existential Necessity with Obstacles?
Authors: Jonasson Ann-Kristin
Published: May 2024

The treaties of the European Union (EU) commit it to promote the norms and values upon which it is founded in relations with countries outside of its borders. At the same time, the EU is often criticised for not being the global ‘force for good’ that it likes to portray itself as, especially in regard to democracy. Instead, the EU is criticised for primarily promoting its own short-term interests, just like any other global actor. This chapter argues that such a failure to stand up for its value-based norms risks challenging not only the EU’s legitimacy, efficiency and influence globally, but ultimately also its survival. In this era of geopolitical conflict, when the democratic order is facing a frontal assault by authoritarian regimes globally, it is crucial that the EU stands by a norm-based world order. The EU needs to stand up for its values, and to protect its long-term interests, even if doing so may counteract interests short-term. Drawing on experiences of norm diffusion related to democracy and climate action, especially in relation to the EU’s Southern Neighbourhood, Jonasson discusses how this can be done, focusing on securing orientation towards, local ownership of, and genuine dialogue on, the norms involved.
The Ability of the EU to Extend Its Model of a Social Market Economy Beyond Its Borders
Authors: Hallström Pär
Published: May 2024

The illusion of firm borders and the ability of the European Union (EU), by actions or by its example, to convey its ideology to external actors is the issue of this chapter. At a time when the EU is confronted with the extreme expression of imperialistic political power in the form of the Russian military aggression towards the EU’s associate partner, Ukraine, the EU ideology of rule of law, democracy and social market economy is simultaneously challenged by the new pluralism of international relations, where the nondemocratic countries increasingly outnumber those sharing the EU qualities. The influence that the EU still exercises is analysed from seven points of view, stretching from theories of international relations and comparative law to the legal constraints of selling in the common market, a source of inspiration for establishing common markets in other parts of the world, being the hub of an extensive array of EU international trade agreements and an active member of the WTO. Finally, an alternative architecture of international relations, where China has an important role, is examined.
Introduction
Authors: Del Favero Dennis , Thurow Susanne , Ostwald Michael J. , Frohne Ursula
Published: May 2024

As global warming accelerates, climate events such as extreme fires and floods are escalating in their unpredictability, intensity and frequency, taking lives, destroying communities and wreaking havoc on habitats. The scope, scale and uncertainty of these extreme events, and their impacts on human populations, are demolishing commonly held beliefs about safety, cultural norms and emergency protocols. Preparing for these threats at the community level, not simply mitigating and managing their impact, is an increasingly existential task. Without the ability to experientially preview and address these unforeseen vulnerabilities in situ, it is extremely challenging for researchers, frontline personnel and local communities to understand their likelihood, let alone engage with practices that minimise the devastation they entail to build the imaginative readiness required.
Intelligent Architectures for Extreme Event Visualisation
Authors: Song Yang , Pagnucco Maurice , Wu Frank , Asadipour Ali , Ostwald Michael J.
Published: May 2024

Realistic immersive visualisation can provide a valuable method for studying extreme events and enhancing our understanding of their complexity, underlying dynamics and human impacts. However, existing approaches are often limited by their lack of scalability and incapacity to adapt to diverse scenarios. In this chapter, we present a review of existing methodologies in intelligent visualisation of extreme events, focusing on physical modelling, learning-based simulation and graphic visualisation. We then suggest that various methodologies based on deep learning and, particularly, generative artificial intelligence (AI) can be incorporated into this domain to produce more effective outcomes. Using generative AI, extreme events can be simulated, combining past data with support for users to manipulate a range of environmental factors. This approach enables realistic simulation of diverse hypothetical scenarios. In parallel, generative AI methods can be developed for graphic visualisation components to enhance the efficiency of the system. The integration of generative AI with extreme event modelling presents an exciting opportunity for the research community to rapidly develop a deeper understanding of extreme events, as well as the corresponding preparedness, response and management strategies.
Finite modular axion and radiative moduli stabilization
Authors: Higaki Tetsutaro , Kawamura Junichiro , Kobayashi Tatsuo
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We propose a simple setup which can stabilize a modulus field of the finite modular symmetry by the Coleman-Weinberg potential. Our scenario leads to a large hierarchy suppressing instanton-like corrections e2πiτ and to a light axion identified as Reτ, where τ is the modulus field. This stabilization mechanism provides the axion solution to the strong CP problem. The potential has a minimum at a large Imτ which suppresses explicit U(1)PQ violation terms proportional to e−2πImτ, and hence the quality of the axion is ensured by the residual symmetry associated with the T-transformation, τ → τ + 1, around the fixed point τ ∼ i∞.
Revisiting α′ corrections to heterotic two-charge black holes
Authors: Massai Stefano , Ruipérez Alejandro , Zatti Matteo
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We find solutions of the heterotic string effective action describing the first-order α′ corrections to two-charge black holes at finite temperature. Making explicit use of these solutions, we compute the corrections to the thermodynamic quantities: temperature, chemical potentials, mass, charges and entropy. We check that the first law of black hole mechanics is satisfied and that the thermodynamics agrees with the one extracted from the Euclidean on-shell action. Finally, we show that our results are in agreement with the corrections for the thermodynamics recently predicted by Chen, Maldacena and Witten.
Deep Neural Networks Based Denoising of Regional Seismic Waveforms and Impact on Analysis of North Korean Nuclear Tests
Authors: Steinberg Andreas , Gaebler Peter , Hartmann Gernot , Lehr Johanna , Pilger Christoph
Published: May 2024

We test a deep learning based denoising autoencoder algorithm on regional and teleseismic seismological and hydroacoustic datasets, which we compile from the International Monitoring System of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation. We focus on stations which can be relevant to investigate North Korean nuclear tests. Denoising of waveform records using autoencoder techniques potentially enables improved signal detection and processing due to lowered signal-to-noise ratios. We train and compare the performance of several different denoising autoencoder models, for short- and long waveform periods, trained on the complete station network as well as on individual stations. We investigate if the denoised waveform signals are useful for seismic source analysis and if they can still be reliably used in downstream analysis for further inferences on the seismic source type, i.e. seismic moment tensor analysis. The declared North Korean nuclear tests are a suitable benchmark test set, as they have extensively been researched and their source type and location might be assumed known. Verification of the source type is of particular interest for potential nuclear tests under international law. We find that care needs to be taken using the denoised waveform data, as a slight bias is introduced in the seismic moment tensor analysis. However we also find promising results hinting at possible future use of the technique for standard analyses, as it improves the investigation of smaller events. Autoencoder based denoising techniques could be employed in future routine frameworks to increase earthquake catalog completeness and possibly aid in detecting smaller potential treaty relevant events.
Temporal dynamics of ocular torsion and vertical vergence during visual, vestibular, and visuovestibular rotations
Authors: Wibble Tobias
Published: May 2024

Ocular torsion and vertical divergence reflect the brain’s sensorimotor integration of motion through the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) and the optokinetic reflex (OKR) to roll rotations. Torsion and vergence however express different response patterns depending on several motion variables, but research on their temporal dynamics remains limited. This study investigated the onset times of ocular torsion (OT) and vertical vergence (VV) during visual, vestibular, and visuovestibular motion, as well as their relative decay rates following prolonged optokinetic stimulations. Temporal characteristics were retrieved from three separate investigations where the level of visual clutter and acceleration were controlled. Video eye-tracking was used to retrieve the eye-movement parameters from a total of 41 healthy participants across all trials. Ocular torsion consistently initiated earlier than vertical vergence, particularly evident under intensified visual information density, and higher clutter levels were associated with more balanced decay rates. Additionally, stimulation modality and accelerations affected the onsets of both eye movements, with visuovestibular motion triggering earlier responses compared to vestibular motion, and increased accelerations leading to earlier onsets for both movements. The present study showed that joint visuovestibular responses produced more rapid onsets, indicating a synergetic sensorimotor process. It also showed that visual content acted as a fusional force during the decay period, and imposed greater influence over the torsional onset compared to vergence. Acceleration, by contrast, did not affect the temporal relationship between the two eye movements. Altogether, these findings provide insights into the sensorimotor integration of the vestibulo-ocular and optokinetic reflex arcs.
Comparison of discovery rates and prognostic utility of [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT and circulating tumor DNA in prostate cancer—a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kluge Kilian , Einspieler Holger , Haberl David , Spielvogel Clemens , Amereller Dominik , Egger Gerda , Kramer Gero , Grubmüller Bernhard , Shariat Shahrokh , Hacker Marcus , Kenner Lukas , Haug Alexander
Published: May 2024

Background

Circulating-tumor DNA (ctDNA) and prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) ligand positron-emission tomography (PET) enable minimal-invasive prostate cancer (PCa) detection and survival prognostication. The present study aims to compare their tumor discovery abilities and prognostic values.

Methods

One hundred thirty men with confirmed PCa (70.5 ± 8.0 years) who underwent [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT (184.8 ± 19.7 MBq) imaging and plasma sample collection (March 2019–August 2021) were included. Plasma-extracted cell-free DNA was subjected to whole-genome-based ctDNA analysis. PSMA-positive tumor lesions were delineated and their quantitative parameters extracted. ctDNA and PSMA PET/CT discovery rates were compared, and the prognostic value for overall survival (OS) was evaluated.

Results

PSMA PET discovery rates according to castration status and PSA ranges did differ significantly (P = 0.013, P < 0.001), while ctDNA discovery rates did not (P = 0.311, P = 0.123). ctDNA discovery rates differed between localized and metastatic disease (P = 0.013). Correlations between ctDNA concentrations and PSMA-positive tumor volume (PSMA-TV) were significant in all (r = 0.42, P < 0.001) and castration-resistant (r = 0.65, P < 0.001), however not in hormone-sensitive patients (r = 0.15, P = 0.249). PSMA-TV and ctDNA levels were associated with survival outcomes in the Logrank (P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001) and multivariate Cox regression analysis (P = 0.0023, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that PSMA PET imaging outperforms ctDNA analysis in detecting prostate cancer across the whole spectrum of disease, while both modalities are independently highly prognostic for survival outcomes.

Graphical Abstract
Multicenter PET image harmonization using generative adversarial networks
Authors: Haberl David , Spielvogel Clemens P. , Jiang Zewen , Orlhac Fanny , Iommi David , Carrió Ignasi , Buvat Irène , Haug Alexander R. , Papp Laszlo
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To improve reproducibility and predictive performance of PET radiomic features in multicentric studies by cycle-consistent generative adversarial network (GAN) harmonization approaches.

Methods

GAN-harmonization was developed to harmonize whole-body PET scans to perform image style and texture translation between different centers and scanners. GAN-harmonization was evaluated by application to two retrospectively collected open datasets and different tasks. First, GAN-harmonization was performed on a dual-center lung cancer cohort (127 female, 138 male) where the reproducibility of radiomic features in healthy liver tissue was evaluated. Second, GAN-harmonization was applied to a head and neck cancer cohort (43 female, 154 male) acquired from three centers. Here, the clinical impact of GAN-harmonization was analyzed by predicting the development of distant metastases using a logistic regression model incorporating first-order statistics and texture features from baseline 18F-FDG PET before and after harmonization.

Results

Image quality remained high (structural similarity: left kidney $$\ge$$
≥
0.800, right kidney $$\ge$$
≥
0.806, liver $$\ge$$
≥
0.780, lung $$\ge$$
≥
0.838, spleen $$\ge$$
≥
0.793, whole-body $$\ge$$
≥
0.832) after image harmonization across all utilized datasets. Using GAN-harmonization, inter-site reproducibility of radiomic features in healthy liver tissue increased at least by $$\ge$$
≥
5 ± 14% (first-order), $$\ge$$
≥
16 ± 7% (GLCM), $$\ge$$
≥
19 ± 5% (GLRLM), $$\ge$$
≥
16 ± 8% (GLSZM), $$\ge$$
≥
17 ± 6% (GLDM), and $$\ge$$
≥
23 ± 14% (NGTDM). In the head and neck cancer cohort, the outcome prediction improved from AUC 0.68 (95% CI 0.66–0.71) to AUC 0.73 (0.71–0.75) by application of GAN-harmonization.

Conclusions

GANs are capable of performing image harmonization and increase reproducibility and predictive performance of radiomic features derived from different centers and scanners.
Neutrophil-activating secretome characterizes palbociclib-induced senescence of breast cancer cells
Authors: Favaretto Gabriele , Rossi Marianna Nicoletta , Cuollo Lorenzo , Laffranchi Mattia , Cervelli Manuela , Soriani Alessandra , Sozzani Silvano , Santoni Angela , Antonangeli Fabrizio
Published: May 2024

Senescent cells have a profound impact on the surrounding microenvironment through the secretion of numerous bioactive molecules and inflammatory factors. The induction of therapy-induced senescence by anticancer drugs is known, but how senescent tumor cells influence the tumor immune landscape, particularly neutrophil activity, is still unclear. In this study, we investigate the induction of cellular senescence in breast cancer cells and the subsequent immunomodulatory effects on neutrophils using the CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib, which is approved for the treatment of breast cancer and is under intense investigation for additional malignancies. Our research demonstrates that palbociclib induces a reversible form of senescence endowed with an inflammatory secretome capable of recruiting and activating neutrophils, in part through the action of interleukin-8 and acute-phase serum amyloid A1. The activation of neutrophils is accompanied by the release of neutrophil extracellular trap and the phagocytic removal of senescent tumor cells. These findings may be relevant for the success of cancer therapy as neutrophils, and neutrophil-driven inflammation can differently affect tumor progression. Our results reveal that neutrophils, as already demonstrated for macrophages and natural killer cells, can be recruited and engaged by senescent tumor cells to participate in their clearance. Understanding the interplay between senescent cells and neutrophils may lead to innovative strategies to cope with chronic or tumor-associated inflammation.
Modelling phytoplankton-virus interactions: phytoplankton blooms and lytic virus transmission
Authors: Zhang Jimin , Yan Yawen , Shi Junping
Published: May 2024

A dynamic reaction–diffusion model of four variables is proposed to describe the spread of lytic viruses among phytoplankton in a poorly mixed aquatic environment. The basic ecological reproductive index for phytoplankton invasion and the basic reproduction number for virus transmission are derived to characterize the phytoplankton growth and virus transmission dynamics. The theoretical and numerical results from the model show that the spread of lytic viruses effectively controls phytoplankton blooms. This validates the observations and experimental results of Emiliana huxleyi-lytic virus interactions. The studies also indicate that the lytic virus transmission cannot occur in a low-light or oligotrophic aquatic environment.
Uncovering the link between inflammatory rheumatic diseases and male reproductive health: a perspective on male infertility and sexual dysfunction
Authors: Yessirkepov Marlen , Kocyigit Burhan Fatih , Zhakipbekov Kairat , Adilbekov Erbolat , Sultanbekov Kassymkhan , Akaltun Mazlum Serdar
Published: May 2024

Inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRDs) refer to a range of persistent disorders that have a major influence on several physiological systems. Although there is much evidence connecting IRDs to sexual dysfunction and fertility problems, research specifically focusing on male infertility in relation to these diseases is sparse. This review addresses the complicated connection between IRDs and male infertility, emphasising the physiological, psychological, and pharmacological aspects that influence reproductive health outcomes in men with rheumatic conditions. We explore the effects of IRDs and their treatments on many facets of male reproductive well-being, encompassing sexual functionality, semen characteristics, and hormonal balance. Additionally, we present a comprehensive analysis of the present knowledge on the impact of several categories of anti-rheumatic drugs on male reproductive function. Although there is an increasing awareness of the need of addressing reproductive concerns in individuals IRDs, there is a noticeable lack of research especially dedicated to male infertility. Moving forward, more comprehensive research is needed to determine the prevalence, risk factors, and mechanisms driving reproductive difficulties in males with IRDs. We can better assist the reproductive health requirements of male IRD patients by expanding our understanding of male infertility in the setting of rheumatic disorders and implementing holistic methods to care.
The effect of pelvic floor muscle training in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia and overactive bladder
Authors: Hagovska Magdalena , Svihra Jan , Macko Ladislav , Breza Jan , Svihra Jan , Luptak Jan , Lachvac Lubomir
Published: May 2024

Background

Men with overactive bladder (OAB) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), will have deterioration in the quality of life.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of combining pelvic floor muscle training with the urgency suppression technique (PFMT-st) and silodosin in comparison with silodosin in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and overactive bladder (OAB) after 12 weeks of treatment.

Patients and methods

A total of 158 patients were randomized into two groups. The control group received oral silodosin at a daily dose of 8 mg. The experimental group was administered PFMT-st and silodosin. The evaluation methods included the number of voids and intensity of urgencies over 24 h using a micturition diary, the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), the Overactive Bladder Questionnaire (OAB-q), and the patient global impression of improvement (PGI-I).

Results

142 of 172 (86.6%) men were assessed (70 in the control group, 72 in the experimental group). The significant changes were in favor of the experimental group (p < 0.001) in the number of voids per 24 h (− 1.95 ± 1.94 vs. − 0.90 ± 1.44), the OAB-q symptom score (− 14.25 ± 10.05 vs. − 9.28 ± 10.60), the intensity of urgencies (− 0.97 ± 0.53 vs. 0.24 ± 0.57), the IPSS (− 4.59 ± 3.00 vs. − 2.30 ± 3.63), and in the PGI-I (2.24 ± 0.79 vs. 3.60 ± 0.92).

Conclusions

The addition of PFMT-st to silodosin treatment significantly improved OAB in men with BPH. This is the first study to confirm that PFMT-st should be the first-choice treatment for OAB in BPH.
Group strategy-proof rules in multidimensional binary domains
Authors: Aradhye Aditya , Peters Hans
Published: May 2024

We consider a setting in which the alternatives are binary vectors and the preferences of the agents are determined by the Hamming distance from their most preferred alternatives. We consider only rules that are unanimous, anonymous, and component-neutral, and focus on strategy-proofness, weak group strategy-proofness, and strong group strategy-proofness. We show that component-wise majority rules are strategy-proof, and for three agents or two components also weakly group strategy-proof, but not otherwise. These rules are even strongly group strategy-proof if there are two or three agents. Our main result is an impossibility result: if there are at least four agents and at least three components, then no rule is strongly group strategy-proof.
Mortality after cardiac resynchronization therapy or right ventricular pacing in transcatheter aortic valve replacement recipients
Authors: Kirchner Johannes , Gerçek Muhammed , Sciacca Vanessa , Reil Jan-Christian , Guckel Denise , Potratz Max , Omran Hazem , Friedrichs Kai , Eitz Thomas , Bleiziffer Sabine , Schramm Rene , Imnadze Guram , Sohns Christian , Gummert Jan , Rudolph Volker , Rudolph Tanja K. , Sommer Philipp , Fink Thomas
Published: May 2024

Background

Permanent pacemaker implantation (PMI) is associated with increased morbidity after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Cardiac resynchronization-therapy (CRT) is recommended for patients if left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is ≤ 40% and ventricular pacing is expected in favor to sole right ventricular (RV) pacing. Meanwhile, LVEF may recover after TAVR in patients with aortic valve disease and the benefit of CRT is unknown.

Objective

To analyze the impact of CRT implantation as compared to RV pacing after TAVR.

Methods and Results

Between 2012 and 2022, 4385 patients (53.1% female, mean age 81 ± 6 years) without prior PMI undergoing TAVR were retrospectively identified in our institutional registry. After stratification of patients in LVEF ≤ 40%, 41–49% and ≥ 50%, Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed significantly different survival rates in each subgroup at 5 years (37.0% vs. 43.5% vs. 55.1%; P ≤ 0.021). At multivariate regression, LVEF and new PMI after TAVR were not relevant for survival. A total of 105 patients with LVEF ≤ 40% received PMI after TAVR (86 patients with RV pacing and 19 with CRT). At 5 years, all-cause mortality was significantly lower in patients with CRT-device as compared to patients without CRT-device (Kaplan Meier estimate of 21.1% vs. 48.8%; HR 0.48, CI 0.204 – 1.128; log rank p = 0.045). In multivariate analysis CRT remained a significant factor for 5-year survival in these patients (HR 0.3, CI 0.095–0.951, p = 0.041).

Conclusion

In patients undergoing TAVR, PMI did not influence 5-year survival. In patients with LVEF ≤ 40%, CRT-device implantation was associated with improved survival compared to non-CRT-device implantation.

Graphical Abstract

Impact of right ventricular pacing and cardiac resynchronization therapy on patient survival in patients with transcatheter aortic valve replacement. CI = confidence interval, CRT = cardiac resynchronization therapy, HR = hazard ratio, LVEF = left ventricular ejection fraction, RV = right ventricular, TAVR = transcatheter aortic valve replacement
The palatopharyngeal muscle in otolaryngology practice: an anatomical-based surgical report
Authors: Askar Sherif M.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The author discusses current otolaryngological procedures employing the palatopharyngeus muscle, based on the surgical anatomy of the muscle and its neural supply. These techniques should be deeply revised for more conservative, anatomically-based maneuvers.

Methods

Revision of anatomical and surgical research and comments with the provision of a primary concept.

Results

The palatopharyngeus muscle is innervated by the pharyngeal plexus (the vagus and the accessory nerves) with additional fibers from the lesser palatine nerves. The innervation enters the muscle mainly through its lateral border.

Conclusions

The palatopharyngeus muscle has a fundamental role in swallowing and speech. The muscle helps other dilators to maintain upper airway patency. Sphincter pharyngoplasty should be revised as regards its role as a sphincter. Palatopharyngeal procedures for OSA employing the palatopharyngeus muscle should follow the conservative, anatomically-based, and non-neural ablation concept.

Level of evidence

4.
An automated approach for real-time informative frames classification in laryngeal endoscopy using deep learning
Authors: Baldini Chiara , Azam Muhammad Adeel , Sampieri Claudio , Ioppi Alessandro , Ruiz-Sevilla Laura , Vilaseca Isabel , Alegre Berta , Tirrito Alessandro , Pennacchi Alessia , Peretti Giorgio , Moccia Sara , Mattos Leonardo S.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Informative image selection in laryngoscopy has the potential for improving automatic data extraction alone, for selective data storage and a faster review process, or in combination with other artificial intelligence (AI) detection or diagnosis models. This paper aims to demonstrate the feasibility of AI in providing automatic informative laryngoscopy frame selection also capable of working in real-time providing visual feedback to guide the otolaryngologist during the examination.

Methods

Several deep learning models were trained and tested on an internal dataset (n = 5147 images) and then tested on an external test set (n = 646 images) composed of both white light and narrow band images. Four videos were used to assess the real-time performance of the best-performing model.

Results

ResNet-50, pre-trained with the pretext strategy, reached a precision = 95% vs. 97%, recall = 97% vs, 89%, and the F1-score = 96% vs. 93% on the internal and external test set respectively (p = 0.062). The four testing videos are provided in the supplemental materials.

Conclusion

The deep learning model demonstrated excellent performance in identifying diagnostically relevant frames within laryngoscopic videos. With its solid accuracy and real-time capabilities, the system is promising for its development in a clinical setting, either autonomously for objective quality control or in conjunction with other algorithms within a comprehensive AI toolset aimed at enhancing tumor detection and diagnosis.
Zygotic-splitting after in vitro fertilization and prenatal parenthood testing after suspected embryo mix-up – a case report
Authors: Schulz Iris , Schulte Janine , Dipl-Med Dorothea Wand
Published: May 2024

After in vitro fertilization with a single embryo, the parents learned about being pregnant with twins in the 10th week with various indications that an embryonic mix-up could have taken place. The affected couple thus expressed the urgent desire for a clarification of parenthood considering an abortion. However, the prenatal test results would not have been available until the 14/15th week of pregnancy. Legally, then, severe physical or mental distress of the pregnant woman must be claimed by physicians to justify an abortion after the twelfth week. However, a lack of genetic relatedness could lead to serious psychological distress for the parents, making a pregnancy termination possible even after the twelfth week, which is discussed in this case study alongside the interdisciplinary team’s ethical, legal, and medical considerations.

For the invasive relationship testing, cultivated chorionic villi samples (CVS) from both unborn and saliva samples from the putative parents were genetically analyzed using classical short tandem repeats (STR) analysis. The perfect match of both CVS profiles suggested the occurrence of an unusual late twin shaft, for which, fortunately, parenthood could be confirmed. To our knowledge, this is the first report on a prenatal investigation of a suspected embryo mix-up after assisted reproductive technology (ART), in which parenthood should be fixed. We want to draw attention to this unthinkable scenario, which may increase in the future with ART-induced rising multiple pregnancies.
Gait and heart rate: do they measure trait or state physical fatigue in people with multiple sclerosis?
Authors: Galperin Irina , Buzaglo David , Gazit Eran , Shimoni Nathaniel , Tamir Raz , Regev Keren , Karni Arnon , Hausdorff Jeffrey M.
Published: May 2024

Background

Trait and state physical fatigue (trait-PF and state-PF) negatively impact many people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) but are challenging symptoms to measure. In this observational study, we explored the role of specific gait and autonomic nervous system (ANS) measures (i.e., heart rate, HR, r–r interval, R–R, HR variability, HRV) in trait-PF and state-PF.

Methods

Forty-eight pwMS [42 ± 1.9 years, 65% female, EDSS 2 (IQR: 0–5.5)] completed the Timed Up and Go test (simple and with dual task, TUG-DT) and the 6-min walk test (6MWT). ANS measures were measured via a POLAR H10 strap. Gait was measured using inertial-measurement units (OPALs, APDM Inc). Trait-PF was evaluated via the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) motor component. State-PF was evaluated via a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scale before and after the completion of the 6MWT. Multiple linear regression models identified trait-PF and state-PF predictors.

Results

Both HR and gait metrics were associated with trait-PF and state-PF. HRV at rest was associated only with state-PF. In models based on the first 3 min of the 6MWT, double support (%) and cadence explained 47% of the trait-PF variance; % change in R–R explained 43% of the state-PF variance. Models based on resting R–R and TUG-DT explained 39% of the state-PF.

Discussion

These findings demonstrate that specific gait measures better capture trait-PF, while ANS metrics better capture state-PF. To capture both physical fatigue aspects, the first 3 min of the 6MWT are sufficient. Alternatively, TUG-DT and ANS rest metrics can be used for state-PF prediction in pwMS when the 6MWT is not feasible.
An inclusive multivariate approach to neural localization of language components
Authors: Graves William W. , Levinson Hillary J. , Staples Ryan , Boukrina Olga , Rothlein David , Purcell Jeremy
Published: May 2024

To determine how language is implemented in the brain, it is important to know which brain areas are primarily engaged in language processing and which are not. Existing protocols for localizing language are typically univariate, treating each small unit of brain volume as independent. One prominent example that focuses on the overall language network in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) uses a contrast between neural responses to sentences and sets of pseudowords (pronounceable nonwords). This contrast reliably activates peri-sylvian language areas but is less sensitive to extra-sylvian areas that are also known to support aspects of language such as word meanings (semantics). In this study, we assess areas where a multivariate, pattern-based approach shows high reproducibility across multiple measurements and participants, identifying these areas as multivariate regions of interest (mROI). We then perform a representational similarity analysis (RSA) of an fMRI dataset where participants made familiarity judgments on written words. We also compare those results to univariate regions of interest (uROI) taken from previous sentences > pseudowords contrasts. RSA with word stimuli defined in terms of their semantic distance showed greater correspondence with neural patterns in mROI than uROI. This was confirmed in two independent datasets, one involving single-word recognition, and the other focused on the meaning of noun-noun phrases by contrasting meaningful phrases > pseudowords. In all cases, areas of spatial overlap between mROI and uROI showed the greatest neural association. This suggests that ROIs defined in terms of multivariate reproducibility can help localize components of language such as semantics. The multivariate approach can also be extended to focus on other aspects of language such as phonology, and can be used along with the univariate approach for inclusively mapping language cortex.
Rainbow Cycles in Properly Edge-Colored Graphs
Authors: Kim Jaehoon , Lee Joonkyung , Liu Hong , Tran Tuan
Published: May 2024

We prove that every properly edge-colored n-vertex graph with average degree at least $$32(\log 5n)^2$$

32

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2

contains a rainbow cycle, improving upon the $$(\log n)^{2+o(1)}$$

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2
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o
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bound due to Tomon. We also prove that every properly edge-colored n-vertex graph with at least $$10^5 k^3 n^{1+1/k}$$

10
5

k
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n

1
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k

edges contains a rainbow 2k-cycle, which improves the previous bound $$2^{ck^2}n^{1+1/k}$$

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k
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n

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k

obtained by Janzer. Our method using homomorphism inequalities and a lopsided regularization lemma also provides a simple way to prove the Erdős–Simonovits supersaturation theorem for even cycles, which may be of independent interest.
Computation of Laplacian eigenvalues of two-dimensional shapes with dihedral symmetry
Authors: Berghaus David , Jones Robert Stephen , Monien Hartmut , Radchenko Danylo
Published: May 2024

We numerically compute the lowest Laplacian eigenvalues of several two-dimensional shapes with dihedral symmetry at arbitrary precision arithmetic. Our approach is based on the method of particular solutions with domain decomposition. We are particularly interested in asymptotic expansions of the eigenvalues$$\lambda (n)$$λ(n)of shapes withnedges that are of the form$$\lambda (n) \sim x\sum _{k=0}^{\infty } \frac{C_k(x)}{n^k}$$λ(n)∼x∑k=0∞Ck(x)nkwherexis the limiting eigenvalue for$$n\rightarrow \infty $$n→∞. Expansions of this form have previously only been known for regular polygons with Dirichlet boundary conditions and (quite surprisingly) involve Riemann zeta values and single-valued multiple zeta values, which makes them interesting to study. We provide numerical evidence for closed-form expressions of higher order$$C_k(x)$$Ck(x)and give more examples of shapes for which such expansions are possible (including regular polygons with Neumann boundary condition, regular star polygons, and star shapes with sinusoidal boundary).
Research trends in deep learning and machine learning for cloud computing security
Authors: Alzoubi Yehia Ibrahim , Mishra Alok , Topcu Ahmet Ercan
Published: May 2024

Deep learning and machine learning show effectiveness in identifying and addressing cloud security threats. Despite the large number of articles published in this field, there remains a dearth of comprehensive reviews that synthesize the techniques, trends, and challenges of using deep learning and machine learning for cloud computing security. Accordingly, this paper aims to provide the most updated statistics on the development and research in cloud computing security utilizing deep learning and machine learning. Up to the middle of December 2023, 4051 publications were identified after we searched the Scopus database. This paper highlights key trend solutions for cloud computing security utilizing machine learning and deep learning, such as anomaly detection, security automation, and emerging technology's role. However, challenges such as data privacy, scalability, and explainability, among others, are also identified as challenges of using machine learning and deep learning for cloud security. The findings of this paper reveal that deep learning and machine learning for cloud computing security are emerging research areas. Future research directions may include addressing these challenges when utilizing machine learning and deep learning for cloud security. Additionally, exploring the development of algorithms and techniques that comply with relevant laws and regulations is essential for effective implementation in this domain.
Empirical models for Fourier amplitude spectrum of ground-motion calibrated on data from the Iranian plateau
Authors: Davatgari-Tafreshi Mehran , Pezeshk Shahram , Bora Sanjay Singh
Published: May 2024

Ground-motion models (GMMs) are frequently used in engineering seismology to estimate ground motion intensities. The majority of GMMs predict the response spectral ordinates (such as spectral acceleration) of a single-degree-of-freedom oscillator because of their common application in engineering design practices. Response spectra show how an idealized structure reacts to applied ground motion; however, they do not necessarily represent the physics of ground motion. The functional forms of the response spectra GMMs are built around ideas taken from the Fourier spectral concept. Assuming the validity of Fourier spectral concepts in the response spectral domain could cause physically inexplainable effects. In this study, using a mixed-effects regression technique, we introduce four models capable of predicting the Fourier amplitude spectrum that investigates the impact of incorporating random-effect event and station terms and variations in using a mixed-effects regression technique in one or two steps using truncated dataset or all data (nontruncated dataset). All data consists of 2581 three-component strong ground motion data resulting from 424 events with magnitude ranging from 4.0 up to 7.4, from 1976 to 2020, and 706 stations. The truncated dataset’s records, events, and stations are reduced to 2071, 408, and 636, respectively. As part of this study, we develop GMMs to predict the Fourier amplitude spectrum for the Iranian plateau within the frequency range of 0.3–30 Hz. We adopted simple, functional forms for four models, and we included a limited number of predictors, namely Mw (moment magnitude), Rjb (Joyner–Boore distance), and VS30 (time-averaged shear-wave velocity in the top 30 m). Due to statistical analyses, the style-of-faulting term was excluded from the final functional forms. The robustness of the derived models is indicated by unbiased residual variation with predictor variables.
A novel intrusion detection system based on a hybrid quantum support vector machine and improved Grey Wolf optimizer
Authors: Elsedimy E. I. , Elhadidy Hala , Abohashish Sara M. M.
Published: May 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) has grown significantly in recent years, allowing devices with sensors to share data via the internet. Despite the growing popularity of IoT devices, they remain vulnerable to cyber-attacks. To address this issue, researchers have proposed the Hybrid Intrusion Detection System (HIDS) as a way to enhance the security of IoT. This paper presents a novel intrusion detection model, namely QSVM-IGWO, for improving the detection capabilities and reducing false positive alarms of HIDS. This model aims to improve the performance of the Quantum Support Vector Machine (QSVM) by incorporating parameters from the Improved Grey Wolf Optimizer (IGWO) algorithm. IGWO is introduced under the hypothesis that the social hierarchy observed in grey wolves enhances the searching procedure and overcomes the limitations of GWO. In addition, the QSVM model is employed for binary classification by selecting the kernel function to obtain an optimal solution. Experimental results show promising performance of QSVM-IGWO in terms of accuracy, Recall, Precision, F1 score, and ROC curve, when compared with recent detection models.
Optimal $$(r,\delta )$$-LRCs from monomial-Cartesian codes and their subfield-subcodes
Authors: Galindo C. , Hernando F. , Martín-Cruz H.
Published: May 2024

We study monomial-Cartesian codes (MCCs) which can be regarded as $$(r,\delta )$$

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r
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-locally recoverable codes (LRCs). These codes come with a natural bound for their minimum distance and we determine those giving rise to $$(r,\delta )$$

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-optimal LRCs for that distance, which are in fact $$(r,\delta )$$

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-optimal. A large subfamily of MCCs admits subfield-subcodes with the same parameters of certain optimal MCCs but over smaller supporting fields. This fact allows us to determine infinitely many sets of new $$(r,\delta )$$

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-optimal LRCs and their parameters.