bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of stress, anxiety and depression levels of health, education and security sector employees: The effect of psychological resilience
Authors: Şanlı Mehmet Emin , Yıldız Ahmet , Ekingen Erhan , Yıldırım Murat
Published: May 2024

This study compared the stress, anxiety and depression levels in employees working in the health, education and security sectors. The study also investigated the effect of psychological resilience on stress, anxiety, and depression levels and whether the stress, anxiety, depression and psychological resilience levels of employees differ according to occupational and demographic variables. In this cross‐sectional study, 1222 employees participated, comprising 50.8% from the health sector, 37.7% from education, and 11.5% from security. Data were collected using the Stress, Anxiety, and Depression Scale‐21 and the Brief Resilience Scale. The study revealed varying rates of severe stress (49.1%), anxiety (74.0%), and depression (53.2%) among participants. Health employees experienced higher stress (52.1%), anxiety (77.0%), and depression (58%) rates compared to those in education (46.4%, 72.4%, and 48.4%) and security sectors (44.3%, 66.4%, and 48.5%). Health employees exhibited higher stress, anxiety, and depression levels, signifying a significant difference. Furthermore, the research identified psychological resilience as a crucial predictor of stress, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, these mental health issues were more prevalent among younger individuals with less work experience, females, private sector employees, singles, and those without children. The findings of the study showed that the level of stress, anxiety and depression was high in employees working in all three sectors (health, education and security), but mental problems were more common in health employees. The fact that psychological resilience is a significant predictor of stress, anxiety and depression levels indicates that this factor should be taken into account.
Oxynitride from Oxide versus Nitride: Manifesting Competitive and Synergistic Properties in Titanium Oxynitride for Solar‐Driven Water Splitting and Nitrogen Fixation
Authors: Ravikumar Mithun Prakash , Quach Toan‐Anh , Urupalli Bharagav , Kumari Murikinati Mamatha , Muthukonda Venkatakrishnan Shankar , Do Trong‐On , Mohan Sakar
Published: May 2024

The present study investigates the phase formation of the titanium oxynitride (TiOxNy) system using the “oxide‐to‐oxynitride” and “nitride‐to‐oxynitride” synthesis strategies. The XRD patterns of both the materials show peaks corresponding to Ti–N and Ti–O lattices, confirming the formation of Ti–oxynitride system. Accordingly, the presence of Ti3+–N3− and Ti4+–2O2− signals is also confirmed by XPS analysis. The TiOxNy derived from oxide (TO‐TON) exhibits wide visible light absorption with a narrow‐bandgap energy of ≈2.30 eV, while the nitride‐derived–TiOxNy (TN‐TON) exhibits relatively a wide‐bandgap energy (≈2.92 eV) along with the plasmonic band of TiN. In line with this, an enhanced recombination resistance and charge carriers with extended lifetime are observed for TN‐TON (4.47 ns) and TO‐TON (4.33 ns) systems via photoluminescence and time‐resolved photoluminescence analysis. Consequently, the TN‐TON system demonstrates a superior H2/NH3 production at a rate of ≈1432/646 μmol g−1 h−1 under solar irradiation, while it is ≈1136/553 μmol g−1 h−1 for the TO‐TON system. These efficiencies are ≈20× and 3× times higher than the bare TiN and TiO2, respectively, toward H2/NH3 production. The insights from this study demonstrate that the nitride‐ and oxide‐based precursors likely manifest synergistic and competitive properties, respectively, in the resulting oxynitride system.
Insight of Effect of Silver Powders on Silver–Silicon Contacts of Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells through Analysis of Glass Structural Decay
Authors: Zhou Rui , Li Yongsheng , Tan Wenchang , Lin Yuan , Pan Feng
Published: May 2024

Optimally designed silver–silicon (Ag–Si) contacts, based on silver (Ag) paste screen printing and the rapid sintering process, are widely utilized in mainstream crystalline silicon solar cells, enabling to reduce contact resistance and high photo‐conversion efficiency. Ag powder is the largest conductive component in Ag paste, but its impact on the formation of Ag–Si contacts lacks in‐depth research and comprehensive understanding. In this work, it is demonstrated that the oxygen adsorption capacity of silver powders affects the formation of Ag–Si contacts by enhancing the reactivity of Ag powders with glass frits, and has a significant effect on the performance of devices. The generation of Ag2O introduced by surface‐absorbed oxygen promotes the transformation of [TeO4] triangular bipyramidal into [TeO3] triangular pyramid, thus destroying the network structure of the glass frits. This structural decay accelerates the spreading of glass frits in the bulk, causing the glass frits to come into contact with SiNx layers earlier and facilitating the formation of the Ag–Si contacts. In this work, not only a complete picture of the interaction between Ag powder and glass frits but also a new direction is provided to optimize the Ag–Si contacts.
Extraction of Vanadium from CaO–SiO2–MgO–Al2O3 Slags Based on Vaporization of Vanadium Pentoxide
Authors: Neubert Lukas , Shyrokykh Tetiana , Tinkova Nataliia , Seetharaman Sridhar , Volkova Olena
Published: May 2024

Vanadium is an important micro‐alloying element for various steel grades. Consequently, it is also present in the slags used in the production of those grades. During steelmaking, the vanadium vaporization from the slag is not desirable, as it increases vanadium consumption and at the same time releases toxic vapors of its higher oxides. However, the recovery of vanadium from the slag after the processing is worthwhile. In oxidic form as vanadium pentoxide (V2O5), vanadium can be extracted from the slag. In this research, the vaporization behavior of vanadium from CaO–SiO2–MgO–Al2O3 industrial slag is investigated at 1873 K. The effect of different process parameters, e.g., the pressure in the furnace chamber, the duration of the oxygen treatment of the slag, and the oxygen flow rate, is considered. The effect of P2O5 and Fe2O3 addition on the extraction of vanadium is studied. It is possible to induce formation of V2O5 gas bubbles in the slag due to the oxidation of vanadium. Thus, vanadium respectively V2O5 is extracted from the slag.
Genetic progress in cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] stemming from breeding modernization efforts at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
Authors: Ongom Patrick Obia , Fatokun Christian , Togola Abou , Dieng Ibnou , Salvo Stella , Gardunia Brian , Mohammed Saba Baba , Boukar Ousmane
Published: May 2024

Genetic gain has been proposed as a quantifiable key performance indicator that can be used to monitor breeding programs’ effectiveness. The cowpea breeding program at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has developed and released improved varieties in 70 countries globally. To quantify the genetic changes to grain yield and related traits, we exploited IITA cowpea historical multi‐environment trials (METs) advanced yield trial (AYT) data from 2010 to 2022. The genetic gain assessment targeted short duration (SD), medium duration (MD), and late duration (LD) breeding pipelines. A linear mixed model was used to calculate the best linear unbiased estimates (BLUE). Regressed BLUE of grain yield by year of genotype origin depicted realized genetic gain of 22.75 kg/ha/year (2.65%), 7.91 kg/ha/year (0.85%), and 22.82 kg/ha/year (2.51%) for SD, MD, and LD, respectively. No significant gain was realized in 100‐seed weight (Hsdwt). We predicted, based on 2022 MET data, that recycling the best genotypes at AYT stage would result in grain yield gain of 37.28 kg/ha/year (SD), 28.00 kg/ha/year (MD), and 34.85 kg/ha/year (LD), and Hsdwt gain of 0.48 g/year (SD), 0.68 g/year (MD), and 0.55 g/year (LD). These results demonstrated a positive genetic gain trend for cowpea, indicating that a yield plateau has not yet been reached and that accelerated gain is expected with the recent integration of genomics in the breeding program. Advances in genomics include the development of the reference genome, genotyping platforms, quantitative trait loci mapping of key traits, and active implementation of molecular breeding.
Motivating Engagement with Literature: Using the Individual Story Ending (ISE) Method to Reveal Personal Reading Experiences
Authors: Aerila Juli‐Anna , Mascia Tiziana
Published: May 2024

The Individual Story Ending (ISE) is an effective and appealing activity for students of every age. The method requires students—as a group or individually—to devise an ending to an excerpt at a turning point in a fictional narrative. Students can read the excerpt themselves, or the teacher can read it aloud to everyone. The ISE method can be applied to any creative activity and can be developed in various ways. While most teachers already use ISEs, this article suggests ways of building an entire learning process around the method and how ISEs can be used to initiate reading engagement and discussion of different themes.
Economic dynamics of agri‐food supply chains at a macrolevel
Authors: Gildas Ngueuleweu Tiwang
Published: May 2024

This paper employs a comprehensive methodology that integrates demand and supply elasticities, performance metrics, and data envelopment analysis to analyze agri‐food supply chains at a macroeconomic level. It utilizes data from a global sample of 53 countries spanning the years 2000 to 2019. The findings from various levels of analysis reveal several key insights: first, Australia or Cameroon should allocate all their food resources to enhance the capacity utilization of their Food Supply Chains (FSC). Second, Ghana or New Zealand may concentrate 100% of their resources on improving the Responsiveness of their FSC. Third, Switzerland, Turkey, and the United States should allocate 100% of their food resources to adjust resource allocation within their FSC. Fourth, for countries like Costa Rica and Canada, the allocation should be 19% to capacity utilization and 81% to resource allocation. Fifth, countries such as Cyprus, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, and El Salvador should prioritize 12% of inputs for resilience and allocate the remaining 88% to resource allocation. Sixth, for countries like Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Russia, South Korea, Serbia, Senegal, and Singapore, the allocation should be 28% of inputs to responsiveness, with the majority, 72%, directed to resource allocation. Sixth, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Ghana have better performance across critical variables. This study introduces an innovative framework that facilitates the interaction of agri‐food supply chains with various macroeconomic variables, including GDP, inflation, corruption, food security, and nutrition, opening new avenues for a holistic understanding of these systems.
Basis decompositions of genus-one string integrals
Authors: Rodriguez Carlos , Schlotterer Oliver , Zhang Yong
Published: May 2024

Abstract

One-loop scattering amplitudes in string theories involve configuration-space integrals over genus-one surfaces with coefficients of Kronecker-Eisenstein series in the integrand. A conjectural genus-one basis of integrands under Fay identities and integration by parts was recently constructed out of chains of Kronecker-Eisenstein series. In this work, we decompose a variety of more general genus-one integrands into the conjectural chain basis. The explicit form of the expansion coefficients is worked out for infinite families of cases where the Kronecker-Eisenstein series form cycles. Our results can be used to simplify multiparticle amplitudes in supersymmetric, heterotic and bosonic string theories and to investigate loop-level echoes of the field-theory double-copy structures of string tree-level amplitudes. The multitude of basis reductions in this work strongly validate the recently proposed chain basis and stimulate mathematical follow-up studies of more general configuration-space integrals with additional marked points or at higher genus.
Computable conditions for order-2 CP symmetry in NHDM potentials
Authors: Plantey R. , Solberg M. Aa.
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We derive necessary and sufficient conditions for order-2 CP (CP2) symmetry in N-Higgs-doublet potentials for N > 2. The conditions, which are formulated as relations between vectors that transform under the adjoint representation of SU(N) under a change of doublet basis, are representation theoretical in nature. Making use of Lie algebra and representation theory we devise an efficient, computable algorithm which may be applied to decide whether or not a given numerical potential is CP2 invariant.
Complexity growth and the Krylov-Wigner function
Authors: Basu Ritam , Ganguly Anirban , Nath Souparna , Parrikar Onkar
Published: May 2024

Abstract

For any state in a D-dimensional Hilbert space with a choice of basis, one can define a discrete version of the Wigner function — a quasi-probability distribution which represents the state on a discrete phase space. The Wigner function can, in general, take on negative values, and the amount of negativity in the Wigner function has an operational meaning as a resource for quantum computation. In this note, we study the growth of Wigner negativity for a generic initial state under time evolution with chaotic Hamiltonians. We introduce the Krylov-Wigner function, i.e., the Wigner function defined with respect to the Krylov basis (with appropriate phases), and show that this choice of basis minimizes the early time growth of Wigner negativity in the large D limit. We take this as evidence that the Krylov basis (with appropriate phases) is ideally suited for a dual, semi-classical description of chaotic quantum dynamics at large D. We also numerically study the time evolution of the Krylov-Wigner function and its negativity in random matrix theory for an initial pure state. We observe that the negativity broadly shows three phases: it rises gradually for a time of $$ O\left(\sqrt{D}\right) $$
O

D

, then hits a sharp ramp and finally saturates close to its upper bound of $$ \sqrt{D} $$

D

.
Transverse compression of a thin elastic disc
Authors: Alzaidi Ahmed S. M. , Kaplunov Julius , Nikonov Anatolij , Zupančič Barbara
Published: May 2024

The mathematical formulations for transverse compression of a thin elastic disc are considered, including various boundary conditions along the faces of the disc. The mixed boundary conditions corresponding to the loading by normal stresses in absence of sliding are studied in detail. These conditions support an explicit solution in a Fourier series for the boundary layers localised near the edge of the disc and also do not assume making use of the Saint-Venant principle underlying the traditional asymptotic theory for thin elastic structures. As an example, an axisymmetric problem is studied. Along with the leading order solution for a plane boundary layer, a two-term outer expansion is derived. The latter is expressed through the derivatives of the prescribed stresses. Generalisations of the developed approach are addressed.
Differential Calculi on Quantum Principal Bundles Over Projective Bases
Authors: Aschieri P. , Fioresi R. , Latini E. , Weber T.
Published: May 2024

We propose a sheaf-theoretic approach to the theory of differential calculi on quantum principal bundles over non-affine bases. After recalling the affine case we define differential calculi on sheaves of comodule algebras as sheaves of covariant bimodules together with a morphism of sheaves -the differential- such that the Leibniz rule and surjectivity hold locally. The main class of examples is given by covariant calculi over quantum flag manifolds, which we provide via an explicit Ore extension construction. In a second step we introduce principal covariant calculi by requiring a local compatibility of the calculi on the total sheaf, base sheaf and the structure Hopf algebra in terms of exact sequences. In this case Hopf–Galois extensions of algebras lift to Hopf–Galois extensions of exterior algebras with compatible differentials. In particular, the examples of principal (covariant) calculi on the quantum principal bundles $$\mathcal {O}_q(\textrm{SL}_2(\mathbb {C}))$$

O
q

(

SL
2

(
C
)

)

and $$\mathcal {O}_q(\textrm{GL}_2(\mathbb {C}))$$

O
q

(

GL
2

(
C
)

)

over the projective space $$\textrm{P}^1(\mathbb {C})$$

P
1

(
C
)

are discussed in detail.
Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic models versus allometric scaling for prediction of tyrosine-kinase inhibitor exposure from adults to children
Authors: Centanni Maddalena , Zaher Omar , Elhad David , Karlsson Mats O. , Friberg Lena E.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Model-based methods can predict pediatric exposure and support initial dose selection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of allometric scaling of population pharmacokinetic (popPK) versus physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models in predicting the exposure of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) for pediatric patients (≥ 2 years), based on adult data. The drugs imatinib, sunitinib and pazopanib were selected as case studies due to their complex PK profiles including high inter-patient variability, active metabolites, time-varying clearances and non-linear absorption.

Methods

Pediatric concentration measurements and adult popPK models were derived from the literature. Adult PBPK models were generated in PK-Sim® using available physicochemical properties, calibrated to adult data when needed. PBPK and popPK models for the pediatric populations were translated from the models for adults and were used to simulate concentration-time profiles that were compared to the observed values.

Results

Ten pediatric datasets were collected from the literature. While both types of models captured the concentration-time profiles of imatinib, its active metabolite, sunitinib and pazopanib, the PBPK models underestimated sunitinib metabolite concentrations. In contrast, allometrically scaled popPK simulations accurately predicted all concentration-time profiles. Trough concentration (Ctrough) predictions from the popPK model fell within a 2-fold range for all compounds, while 3 out of 5 PBPK predictions exceeded this range for the imatinib and sunitinib metabolite concentrations.

Conclusion

Based on the identified case studies it appears that allometric scaling of popPK models is better suited to predict exposure of TKIs in pediatric patients ≥ 2 years. This advantage may be attributed to the stable enzyme expression patterns from 2 years old onwards, which can be easily related to adult levels through allometric scaling. In some instances, both methods performed comparably. Understanding where discrepancies between the model methods arise, can further inform model development and ultimately support pediatric dose selection.
Performance of an ultra-fast deep-learning accelerated MRI screening protocol for prostate cancer compared to a standard multiparametric protocol
Authors: Oerther B. , Engel H. , Nedelcu A. , Strecker R. , Benkert T. , Nickel D. , Weiland E. , Mayrhofer T. , Bamberg F. , Benndorf M. , Weiß J. , Wilpert C.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To establish and evaluate an ultra-fast MRI screening protocol for prostate cancer (PCa) in comparison to the standard multiparametric (mp) protocol, reducing scan time and maintaining adequate diagnostic performance.

Materials and methods

This prospective single-center study included consecutive biopsy-naïve patients with suspected PCa between December 2022 and March 2023. A PI-RADSv2.1 conform mpMRI protocol was acquired in a 3 T scanner (scan time: 25 min 45 sec). In addition, two deep-learning (DL) accelerated sequences (T2- and diffusion-weighted) were acquired, serving as a screening protocol (scan time: 3 min 28 sec). Two readers evaluated image quality and the probability of PCa regarding PI-RADSv2.1 scores in two sessions. The diagnostic performance of the screening protocol with mpMRI serving as the reference standard was derived. Inter- and intra-reader agreements were evaluated using weighted kappa statistics.

Results

We included 77 patients with 97 lesions (mean age: 66 years; SD: 7.7). Diagnostic performance of the screening protocol was excellent with a sensitivity and specificity of 100%/100% and 89%/98% (cut-off ≥ PI-RADS 4) for reader 1 (R1) and reader 2 (R2), respectively. Mean image quality was 3.96 (R1) and 4.35 (R2) for the standard protocol vs. 4.74 and 4.57 for the screening protocol (p < 0.05). Inter-reader agreement was moderate (κ: 0.55) for the screening protocol and substantial (κ: 0.61) for the multiparametric protocol.

Conclusion

The ultra-fast screening protocol showed similar diagnostic performance and better imaging quality compared to the mpMRI in under 15% of scan time, improving efficacy and enabling the implementation of screening protocols in clinical routine.

Clinical relevance statement

The ultra-fast protocol enables examinations without contrast administration, drastically reducing scan time to 3.5 min with similar diagnostic performance and better imaging quality. This facilitates patient-friendly, efficient examinations and addresses the conflict of increasing demand for examinations at currently exhausted capacities.

Key Points

Time-consuming MRI protocols are in conflict with an expected increase in examinations required for prostate cancer screening.

An ultra-fast MRI protocol shows similar performance and better image quality compared to the standard protocol.

Deep-learning acceleration facilitates efficient and patient-friendly examinations, thus improving prostate cancer screening capacity.

Graphical Abstract
Recognizing $$\mathbf {W_2}$$ Graphs
Authors: Levit Vadim E. , Tankus David
Published: May 2024

Let G be a graph. A set $$S \subseteq V(G)$$

S
⊆
V
(
G
)

is independent if its elements are pairwise nonadjacent. A vertex $$v \in V(G)$$

v
∈
V
(
G
)

is shedding if for every independent set $$S \subseteq V(G) {\setminus } N[v]$$

S
⊆
V
(
G
)
\
N
[
v
]

there exists $$u \in N(v)$$

u
∈
N
(
v
)

such that $$S \cup \{u\}$$

S
∪
{
u
}

is independent. An independent set S is maximal if it is not contained in another independent set. An independent set S is maximum if the size of every independent set of G is not bigger than |S|. The size of a maximum independent set of G is denoted $$\alpha (G)$$

α
(
G
)

. A graph G is well-covered if all its maximal independent sets are maximum, i.e. the size of every maximal independent set is $$\alpha (G)$$

α
(
G
)

. The graph G belongs to class $$\mathbf {W_2}$$

W
2

if every two disjoint independent sets in G are included in two disjoint maximum independent sets. If a graph belongs to the class $$\mathbf {W_2}$$

W
2

, then it is well-covered. Finding a maximum independent set in an input graph is a well-known NP-hard problem. Recognizing well-covered graphs is co-NP-complete. Recently, it was proved that deciding whether an input graph belongs to the class $$\mathbf {W_2}$$

W
2

is co-NP-complete. However, when the input is restricted to well-covered graphs, the complexity status of recognizing graphs in $$\mathbf {W_2}$$

W
2

is still not known. In this article, we investigate the connection between shedding vertices and $$\mathbf {W_2}$$

W
2

graphs. On the one hand, we prove that recognizing shedding vertices is co-NP-complete. On the other hand, we find polynomial solutions for restricted cases of the problem. We also supply polynomial characterizations of several families of $$\mathbf {W_2}$$

W
2

graphs.
Ventriculoperitoneal shunt failures at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital
Authors: Lazarus J. S. , Ohonba E. , Li Y. J. , Rohlwink U. K. , Figaji A. A. , Enslin J. M. N.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VP shunt) insertion is one of the mainstays of treatment of hydrocephalus and although very effective, a high rate of shunt failure persists globally. The purpose of the study was to quantify the ventriculoperitoneal shunt failure rate at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital (RCWMCH) and assess potential factors contributing to shunt failures.

Methods

A retrospective review of VP shunts done at RCWMCH between August 2015 through December 2019 was performed. Operative notes, discharge summaries and patient folders were reviewed to collect information about patient age, aetiology of hydrocephalus, index vs revision shunt, shunt system and other noticeable variables. Overall shunt failure was recorded. Univariate and multivariate models were used to determine causal relationship.

Results

Four hundred and ninety-four VP shunt operations were performed on 340 patients with 48.8% being index shunts and 51.2% revision shunts. The average patient age was 3.4 months. The total VP shunt failure rate over the study period was 31.2%, with a 7.3% infection rate, 13.6% blockage and 3.6% disconnection rate. The most common aetiologies were post-infectious hydrocephalus 29.4%, myelomeningocele 19.7% and premature intraventricular haemorrhage 14.1%. Orbis-sigma II (OSVII), distal slit valves and antibiotic-impregnated catheters were used most frequently. Failure rates were highest in the revision group, 34.7% compared to 27.3% in index shunts. Sixty-five percent (65%) of the head circumferences measured were above the + 3 Z score (> 90th centile).

Conclusion

VP shunt failure occurs most commonly in revision surgery, and care should be taken at the index operation to reduce failure risk. Surgeon level, duration of surgery, aetiology of hydrocephalus and shunt system used did not influence overall failure rates. A closer look at larger head circumferences, their effect on shunt systems and the socio-economic factors behind late presentations should be investigated further in the future.
Efficacy and safety of intravenous tenecteplase compared to alteplase before mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Nihong , Doeppner Thorsten R. , Hermann Dirk M. , Gronewold Janine
Published: May 2024

Background

The benefits and risks of tenecteplase (TNK) versus alteplase (ALT) have recently been assessed in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy (MT) with diverse results. Due to its high fibrin specificity and lack of excitotoxicity, TNK may have a higher efficacy and safety profile. This study aimed to evaluate the benefits and risks of TNK compared to ALT in AIS patients prior to thrombectomy.

Methods

We systematically searched four key databases, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library until January 27, 2024 for clinical studies evaluating the effects of TNK versus ALT in patients with large vessel occlusion undergoing MT. A random-effect meta-analysis was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Results

Ten studies involving 3722 patients receiving TNK (1266 patients) or ALT (2456 patients) were included (age: 69.05 ± 14.95 years; 55.64% male). Compared to ALT-treated patients, TNK-treated patients demonstrated significantly higher rates of early recanalization (odds ratio 2.02, 95%-confidence interval 1.20–3.38, p = 0.008) without increased risk of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (1.06, 0.64–1.76, p = 0.82) or intracerebral hemorrhage (1.21, 0.66–2.25, p = 0.54). TNK-treated patients showed similar rates of functional independence at 90 days (1.13, 0.87–1.46, p = 0.37) as ALT-treated patients, but lower rates of mortality within 90 days (0.65, 0.44–0.96, p = 0.03).

Conclusion

TNK is superior to ALT in achieving early recanalization and is associated with lower mortality within 90 days in AIS patients undergoing MT. Compared with ALT, TNK does not significantly alter functional independence at 90 days, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage or intracerebral hemorrhage.
The efficacy and safety of ketamine in the treatment of super-refractory status epilepticus: a systematic review
Authors: Yan Mingyuan , Sun Tianye , Liu Jinmin , Chang Qing
Published: May 2024

Background

Ketamine, as an anesthetic, has been considered for terminating status epilepticus (SE); however, due to the urgency and severity of the condition, there are currently no randomized controlled trials internationally assessing the efficacy of ketamine for treating super-refractory status epilepticus. Similarly, there appears to be a lack of systematic reviews addressing this topic in the literature. Therefore, this systematic review aims to explore the effectiveness and safety of ketamine for terminating super-refractory status epilepticus.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search on PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases. Manuscripts unrelated to the research on super-refractory status epilepticus were excluded, as were manuscripts published in non-English languages. The quality assessment and risk of bias were evaluated using the MINORS criteria. Data extraction was limited to qualitative synthesis due to the unsuitability of the data for meta-analysis.

Results

Out of 782 studies retrieved from electronic databases, 11 met the inclusion criteria. Among them, 10 studies were retrospective, and 1 study was prospective. Patient data for inclusion were sourced from the case registries of the researchers' respective hospitals. Across all included studies, the administration of ketamine significantly reduced the duration of status epilepticus and demonstrated higher safety compared to patients not receiving ketamine treatment for super-refractory status epilepticus. Additionally, early administration of ketamine correlated with improved treatment outcomes. The risk of bias across all studies was deemed low.

Conclusion

This systematic review suggests that ketamine may be a feasible treatment option for super-refractory status epilepticus. However, given the critical nature of super-refractory status epilepticus, clinicians should prioritize its termination over evaluating the efficacy of specific medications, ensuring patient safety remains paramount. If feasible in real-world medical settings, future research should focus on designing randomized controlled trials to observe the specific efficacy and mechanisms of ketamine. Careful validation is necessary before considering ketamine as a first-line treatment for super-refractory status epilepticus.
Validating multiple variants of an automotive light system with Alloy 6
Authors: Cunha Alcino , Macedo Nuno , Liu Chong
Published: May 2024

This paper reports on the development and validation of a formal model for an automotive adaptive exterior lights system (ELS) with multiple variants in 6, which is the most recent version of the lightweight formal specification language that supports mutable relations and temporal logic. We explore different strategies to address variability, one in pure and another through an annotative language extension. We then show how and its can be used to validate systems of this nature, namely by checking that the reference scenarios are admissible, and to automatically verify whether the established requirements hold. A prototype was developed to translate the provided validation sequences into and back to further automate the validation process. The resulting ELS model was validated against the provided validation sequences and verified for most of requirements for all variants.
Evaluation of CHROMagar™ B. cepacia agar for the detection of Burkholderia cepacia complex species from sputum samples of patients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Maruri-Aransolo Ainhize , de Dios Caballero Juan , Michelena Malkoa , Medina-Pascual María José , Carrasco Gema , Asensio Oscar , Cols Maria , Cantón Rafael ,   the GEIFQ group
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Burkholderia cepacia complex (BCC) are non-fermenting Gram-negative bacteria that can chronically colonize the lungs of people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF), causing a severe and progressive respiratory failure, post-transplant complications and epidemic outbreaks. Therefore, rapid and accurate identification of these bacteria is relevant for pwCF, in order to facilitate early eradication and prevent chronic colonization. However, BCCs are often quite difficult to detect on culture media as they have a slow growth rate and can be hidden by other fast-growing microorganisms, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and filamentous fungi.

Material and methods

We evaluated the sensitivity of CHROMagar™ B. cepacia agar using 11 isolates from a well-characterized BCC collection, using BCA agar (Oxoid, UK) as a gold standard. We also studied 180 clinical sputum samples to calculate positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values. Furthermore, we used three of the well-characterized BCC isolates to determine the limit of detection (LOD).

Results

Eleven isolates grew on CHROMagar™ B. cepacia at 37ºC after 48 h. The NPV and PPV of CHROMagar™ B. cepacia were 100% and 87.5%, respectively. The LOD of CHROMagar™ B. cepacia was around 1 × 103 CFU/ml, requiring a ten-fold dilution lower bacterial load than BCA for BCC detection.

Conclusion

CHROMagar™ B. cepacia agar proved to have a very good sensitivity and specificity for the detection of clinical BCCs. Moreover, the chromogenic nature of the medium allowed us to clearly differentiate BCC from other Gram-negative species, filamentous fungi and yeasts, thereby facilitating the identification of contaminants.
YAP inhibition overcomes adaptive resistance in HER2-positive gastric cancer treated with trastuzumab via the AKT/mTOR and ERK/mTOR axis
Authors: Qiao Jiao , Feng Mei , Zhou Wenyuan , Tan Yuan , Yang Shuo , Liu Qi , Wang Qingchen , Feng Weimin , Pan Yisheng , Cui Liyan
Published: May 2024

Background

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive gastric cancer (GC) is a heterogeneous GC subtype characterized by the overexpression of HER2. To date, few specific targeted therapies have demonstrated durable efficacy in HER2-positive GC patients, with resistance to trastuzumab typically emerging within 1 year. However, the mechanisms of resistance to trastuzumab remain incompletely understood, presenting a significant challenge to clinical practice.

Methods

In this study, we integrated genetic screening and bulk transcriptome and epigenomic profiling to define the mechanisms mediating adaptive resistance to HER2 inhibitors and identify potential effective therapeutic strategies for treating HER2-positive GCs.

Results

We revealed a potential association between adaptive resistance to trastuzumab in HER2-positive GC and the expression of YES-associated protein (YAP). Notably, our investigation revealed that long-term administration of trastuzumab triggers extensive chromatin remodeling and initiates YAP gene transcription in HER2-positive cells characterized by the initial inhibition and subsequent reactivation. Furthermore, treatment of HER2-positive GC cells and cell line-derived xenografts (CDX) models with YAP inhibitors in combination with trastuzumab was found to induce synergistic effects through the AKT/mTOR and ERK/mTOR pathways.

Conclusion

These findings underscore the pivotal role of reactivated YAP and mTOR signaling pathways in the development of adaptive resistance to trastuzumab and may serve as a promising joint target to overcome resistance to trastuzumab.
Variable transformations in combination with wavelets and ANOVA for high-dimensional approximation
Authors: Potts Daniel , Weidensager Laura
Published: May 2024

We use hyperbolic wavelet regression for the fast reconstruction of high-dimensional functions having only low-dimensional variable interactions. Compactly supported periodic Chui-Wang wavelets are used for the tensorized hyperbolic wavelet basis on the torus. With a variable transformation, we are able to transform the approximation rates and fast algorithms from the torus to other domains. We perform and analyze scattered data approximation for smooth but arbitrary density functions by using a least squares method. The corresponding system matrix is sparse due to the compact support of the wavelets, which leads to a significant acceleration of the matrix vector multiplication. For non-periodic functions, we propose a new extension method. A proper choice of the extension parameter together with the piecewise polynomial Chui-Wang wavelets extends the functions appropriately. In every case, we are able to bound the approximation error with high probability. Additionally, if the function has a low effective dimension (i.e., only interactions of a few variables), we qualitatively determine the variable interactions and omit ANOVA terms with low variance in a second step in order to decrease the approximation error. This allows us to suggest an adapted model for the approximation. Numerical results show the efficiency of the proposed method.
Methodology and real-world applications of dynamic uncertain causality graph for clinical diagnosis with explainability and invariance
Authors: Zhang Zhan , Zhang Qin , Jiao Yang , Lu Lin , Ma Lin , Liu Aihua , Liu Xiao , Zhao Juan , Xue Yajun , Wei Bing , Zhang Mingxia , Gao Ru , Zhao Hong , Lu Jie , Li Fan , Zhang Yang , Wang Yiming , Zhang Lei , Tian Fengwei , Hu Jie , Gou Xin
Published: May 2024

AI-aided clinical diagnosis is desired in medical care. Existing deep learning models lack explainability and mainly focus on image analysis. The recently developed Dynamic Uncertain Causality Graph (DUCG) approach is causality-driven, explainable, and invariant across different application scenarios, without problems of data collection, labeling, fitting, privacy, bias, generalization, high cost and high energy consumption. Through close collaboration between clinical experts and DUCG technicians, 46 DUCG models covering 54 chief complaints were constructed. Over 1,000 diseases can be diagnosed without triage. Before being applied in real-world, the 46 DUCG models were retrospectively verified by third-party hospitals. The verified diagnostic precisions were no less than 95%, in which the diagnostic precision for every disease including uncommon ones was no less than 80%. After verifications, the 46 DUCG models were applied in the real-world in China. Over one million real diagnosis cases have been performed, with only 17 incorrect diagnoses identified. Due to DUCG’s transparency, the mistakes causing the incorrect diagnoses were found and corrected. The diagnostic abilities of the clinicians who applied DUCG frequently were improved significantly. Following the introduction to the earlier presented DUCG methodology, the recommendation algorithm for potential medical checks is presented and the key idea of DUCG is extracted.
Analytical methods in celestial mechanics: satellites’ stability and galactic billiards
Authors: De Blasi Irene
Published: May 2024

In this paper, two models of interest for Celestial Mechanics are presented and analysed, using both analytic and numerical techniques, from the point of view of the possible presence of regular and/or chaotic motion, as well as the stability of the considered orbits. The first model, presented in a Hamiltonian formalism, can be used to describe the motion of a satellite around Earth, taking into account both the non-spherical shape of our planet and the third-body gravitational influence of Sun and Moon. Using semi-analytical techniques coming from Normal Form and Nekhoroshev theories it is possible to provide stability estimates for the orbital elements of its geocentric motion. The second dynamical system presented can be used as a simplified model to describe the motion of a particle in an elliptic galaxy having a central massive core; it is constructed as a refraction billiard where an inner dynamics, induced by a Keplerian potential, is coupled with an external one, where a harmonic oscillator-type potential is considered. The investigation of the dynamics is carried on by using results of ODEs’ theory and is focused on studying the trajectories’ properties in terms of periodicity, stability and, possibly, chaoticity.
Integrating optical and electrical sensing with machine learning for advanced particle characterization
Authors: Kokabi Mahtab , Tayyab Muhammad , Rather Gulam M. , Pournadali Khamseh Arastou , Cheng Daniel , DeMauro Edward P. , Javanmard Mehdi
Published: May 2024

Particle classification plays a crucial role in various scientific and technological applications, such as differentiating between bacteria and viruses in healthcare applications or identifying and classifying cancer cells. This technique requires accurate and efficient analysis of particle properties. In this study, we investigated the integration of electrical and optical features through a multimodal approach for particle classification. Machine learning classifier algorithms were applied to evaluate the impact of combining these measurements. Our results demonstrate the superiority of the multimodal approach over analyzing electrical or optical features independently. We achieved an average test accuracy of 94.9% by integrating both modalities, compared to 66.4% for electrical features alone and 90.7% for optical features alone. This highlights the complementary nature of electrical and optical information and its potential for enhancing classification performance. By leveraging electrical sensing and optical imaging techniques, our multimodal approach provides deeper insights into particle properties and offers a more comprehensive understanding of complex biological systems.

Graphical abstract
Measuring serum oestrogen levels in breast cancer survivors using vaginal oestrogens: a systematic review
Authors: Pearson Antonia , Chen Jill , Dhillon Haryana M. , Kiely Belinda E.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Vaginal oestrogens can be used to treat genitourinary symptoms in women with early breast cancer. Studies evaluating vaginal oestrogens have commonly measured serum oestrogen levels as a surrogate marker of safety, but methods vary. We sought to summarise the data on serum oestrogen measurement in women with breast cancer using vaginal oestrogens to better understand the methods, levels and reliability.

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase, CENTRAL, SCOPUS and CINAHL from inception to October 2023 for clinical studies where serum oestrogen was measured in women with a history of early breast cancer using vaginal oestrogens. Studies with a reported testing methodology were included.

Results

Nine studies met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. Methods used to measure oestradiol and oestriol in selected studies included mass spectrometry and immunoassays; several studies used more than one with variable concordance. Mass spectrometry detected oestradiol levels down to a lower limit between 1.0 pg/mL and 3.0 pg/mL. Immunoassays such as ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), ECLIA (enhanced chemiluminiscence immunoassay) and RIA (radioimmunoassay) had lower detection limits ranging between 0.8 pg/mL and 10 pg/mL. Studies were heterogeneous in testing techniques used, timing of testing, and the population including with subsequent varying results in the effect on oestrogens reported.

Conclusions

Adopting consistent and standardised methods of measuring oestrogens in clinical trials involving women with early breast cancer on vaginal oestrogens is critical. Serum oestrogens are used as a surrogate marker of safety in this population, and good-quality data are necessary to enable clinicians and patients to feel confident in prescribing and taking vaginal oestrogens. Mass spectrometry, although more expensive, gives more reliable results when dealing with very low levels of oestrogens often found in women on aromatase inhibitors, compared to immunoassays.
Prognostic relevance of global work index and global constructive work in patients with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Chen Peng , Aurich Matthias , Greiner Sebastian , Maliandi Gabriele , Müller-Hennessen Matthias , Giannitsis Evangelos , Meder Benjamin , Frey Norbert , Pleger Sven , Mereles Derliz
Published: May 2024

Myocardial work (MW) derived from pressure-strain loops is a novel non-invasive tool to assess left ventricular (LV) function, incorporating global longitudinal strain (GLS) by speckle tracking echocardiography and non-invasively assessed blood pressure. Studies on the role of MW in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) are still limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential value of MW for predicting adverse outcomes in patients with DCM. 116 consecutive patients with DCM who underwent heart catheterization were retrospectively recruited from June 2009 to July 2014. 34 patients (30%) met the composite endpoints for major adverse cardiac events (MACE) of cardiac transplantation, need for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) therapy, heart failure hospitalization and all-cause mortality. Patients with DCM were followed up for a mean of 5.1 years (IQR: 2.2–9.1 years). Global work index (GWI) and global constructive work (GCW) were not only independent predictors but also provided incremental predictive values (Integrated discrimination improvement [IDI] > 0) of MACE in multivariate Cox models. Furthermore, Patients with GWI < 788 mm Hg% (HR 5.46, 95%CI 1.66–17.92, p = 0.005) and GCW < 1,238 mm Hg% (HR 4.46, 95%CI 1.53–12.98, p = 0.006) had higher risks of MACE. GWI and GCW assessed by strain imaging echocardiography may have an additional value beyond LV-EF and GLS for predicting adverse outcomes in DCM.
Bounds on data limits for all-to-all comparison from combinatorial designs
Authors: Hall Joanne , Horsley Daniel , Stinson Douglas R.
Published: May 2024

In situations where every item in a data set must be compared with every other item in the set, it may be desirable to store the data across a number of machines in such a way that any two data items are stored together on at least one machine. One way to evaluate the efficiency of such a distribution is by the largest fraction of the data it requires to be allocated to any one machine. The all-to-all comparison (ATAC) data limit formmachines is a measure of the minimum of this value across all possible such distributions. In this paper we further the study of ATAC data limits. We begin by investigating the data limits achievable using various classes of combinatorial designs. In particular, we examine the cases of transversal designs and projective Hjelmslev planes. We then observe relationships between data limits and the previously studied combinatorial parameters of fractional matching numbers and covering numbers. Finally, we prove a lower bound on the ATAC data limit that improves on one of Hall, Kelly and Tian, and examine the special cases where equality in this bound is possible.
Improving Recycling: How Far Should We Go?
Authors: Belleflamme Paul , Ha Huan
Published: May 2024

We analyze, in a game-theoretic model, the strategic interaction between competing firms that source their inputs from either primary or recycled material. Because the manufacturers’ primary production today serves as input for the recyclers’ production tomorrow, manufacturers can limit the recyclers’ scale of operation by reducing their output. Improving the recycling process generates then two opposite effects: it reduces primary production tomorrow by exposing manufacturers to stronger competition from recyclers, but it also lowers the manufacturers’ incentives to reduce their primary production today. If primary production exerts a negative externality on the environment, then making the recycling process too efficient might be counterproductive. This intuition equally applies to remanufacturing.