bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Functionalization of PES/SAPO-34 Mixed Matrix Membrane with [emim][Tf2N] Ionic Liquid to Improve CO2/N2 Separation Properties
Authors: Cardoso Jonathan S. , Lin Zhi , Brito Paulo , Gando-Ferreira Licínio M.
Published: November 2023

The use of ionic liquid [emim][Tf2N] as an additive in polyethersulphone (PES) and nano-sized silico-aluminophosphate-34 (SAPO-34) mixed matrix membrane was studied through the incorporation of different amounts of [emim][Tf2N] in the membrane composition, as presented in this work, varying from 10 to 40 wt%. Through gas permeation tests using CO2 and N2, the membrane composition containing 20 wt% [emim][Tf2N] led to the highest increase in CO2 permeability and CO2/N2 selectivity. The use of low concentrations of additive (10–20 wt%) promoted a state called antiplasticization; in this state, the permeability was even more regulated by the kinetic diameter of the species which, in this work, permitted achieving a higher CO2/N2 selectivity while increasing the CO2 permeability until an optimal condition. [emim][Tf2N] also promoted a better dispersion of SAPO-34 particles and an increase in the flexibility of the polymeric matrix when compared to a film with the same composition without [emim][Tf2N]. Moreover, the characterizations corroborated that the inclusion of [emim][Tf2N] increased the zeolite dispersion and improved the polymer/zeolite compatibility and membrane flexibility, characterized by a decrease in glass transition temperature, which helped in the fabrication process while presenting a similar thermal resistance and hydrophilicity as neat PES membrane, without affecting the membrane structure, as indicated by FTIR and a contact angle analysis.
Classifying Invention Objectives of Electric Vehicle Chargers through Natural Language Processing and Machine Learning
Authors: Bridgelall Raj
Published: November 2023

The gradual adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) globally serves as a crucial move toward addressing global decarbonization goals for sustainable development. However, the lack of cost-effective, power-efficient, and safe chargers for EV batteries hampers adoption. Understanding the research needs and identifying the gaps in EV charger innovation informs investments and research to address development challenges. This study developed a unique text mining workflow to classify themes in EV charger technology and product development by analyzing U.S. patent award summaries. The text mining workflow combined the techniques of data extraction, data cleaning, natural language processing (NLP), statistical analysis, and unsupervised machine learning (ML) to extract unique themes and to visualize their relationships. There was a 47.7% increase in the number of EV charger patents issued in 2022 relative to that in 2018. The top four themes were charging station management, power transfer efficiency, on-board charger design, and temperature management. More than half (53.8%) of the EV charger patents issued over the five-year period from 2018 to 2022 addressed problems within those four themes. Patents that addressed wireless charging, fast charging, and fleet charging accounted for less than 10% each of the EV charger patents issued. This suggests that the industry is still at the frontier of addressing those problems. This study further presents examples of the specific EV charger problems addressed within each theme. The findings can inform investment decisions and policymaking to focus on R&D resources that will advance the state of the art and spur EV adoption.
The Atrioventricular Conduction Axis Revisited for the 21st Century
Authors: Sanchez-Quintana Damian , Cook Andrew C. , Macias Yolanda , Spicer Diane E. , Anderson Robert H.
Published: November 2023

Although first described in the final decade of the 19th century, the axis responsible for atrioventricular conduction has long been the source of multiple controversies. Some of these continue to reverberate. When first described by His, for example, many doubted the existence of the bundle we now name in his honour, while Kent suggested that multiple pathways crossed the atrioventricular junctions in the normal heart. It was Tawara who clarified the situation, although many of his key definitions have not universally been accepted. In key studies in the third decade of the 20th century, Mahaim then suggested the presence of ubiquitous connections that provided “paraspecific” pathways for atrioventricular conduction. In this review, we show the validity of these original investigations, based on our own experience with a large number of datasets from human hearts prepared by serial histological sectioning. Using our own reconstructions, we show how the atrioventricular conduction axis can be placed back within the heart. We emphasise that newly emerging techniques will be key in providing the resolution to map cellular detail to the gross evidence provided by the serial sections.
Endo Belly: What Is It and Why Does It Happen?—A Narrative Review
Authors: Velho Renata Voltolini , Werner Franziska , Mechsner Sylvia
Published: November 2023

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease where endometrial-like lesions settle outside the uterus, resulting in extensive inflammatory reactions. It is a complex disease that presents with a range of symptoms, with pain and infertility being the most common. Along with severe dysmenorrhea, cyclic and acyclic lower abdominal pain, cyclic dysuria and dyschezia, dyspareunia, and infertility, there are also nonspecific complaints that can cause confusion and make endometriosis the chameleon among gynecological diseases. These symptoms include unspecific intestinal complaints, cyclic diarrhea, but also constipation, nausea, vomiting, and stomach complaints. It appears that in addition to general bowel symptoms, there are also specific symptoms related to endometriosis such as cyclic bloating of the abdomen, known as endo belly. During the second half of the menstrual cycle leading up to menstruation, the abdomen becomes increasingly bloated causing discomfort and pain due to elevated sensitivity of the intestinal wall. Patients with endometriosis exhibit a reduced stretch pain threshold of the intestinal wall. Here, we review the endo belly, for the first time, pathophysiology and the influence of other diseases (such as irritable bowel syndrome—IBS), microbiome, hormonal levels, inflammation, and diet on the presentation of this condition.
Comment on Kilian et al. Comparing Characteristics and Treatment of Brain Vascular Malformations in Children and Adults with HHT. J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12, 2704
Authors: Eker Omer F. , Dupuis-Girod Sophie , Shovlin Claire L. , Boccardi Edoardo
Published: November 2023

We read with interest the recent article by Killian et al. regarding the characteristics and treatment of brain vascular malformations (VMs) in children and adults with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) [...]
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Identifies Responders to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy with an Assessment of Septal Scar and Left Ventricular Dyssynchrony
Authors: Larsen Camilla Kjellstad , Smiseth Otto A. , Duchenne Jürgen , Galli Elena , Aalen John Moene , Lederlin Mathieu , Bogaert Jan , Kongsgaard Erik , Linde Cecilia , Penicka Martin , Donal Erwan , Voigt Jens-Uwe , Hopp Einar
Published: November 2023

Background: The response to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) depends on septal viability and correction of abnormal septal motion. This study investigates if cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) as a single modality can identify CRT responders with combined imaging of pathological septal motion (septal flash) and septal scar. Methods: In a prospective, multicenter, observational study of 136 CRT recipients, septal scar was assessed using late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) (n = 127) and septal flash visually from cine CMR sequences. The primary endpoint was CRT response, defined as ≥15% reduction in LV end-systolic volume with echocardiography after 6 months. The secondary endpoint was heart transplantation or death of any cause assessed after 39 ± 13 months. Results: Septal scar and septal flash were independent predictors of CRT response in multivariable analysis (both p < 0.001), while QRS duration and morphology were not. The combined approach of septal scar and septal flash predicted CRT response with an area under the curve of 0.86 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.78–0.94) and was a strong predictor of long-term survival without heart transplantation (hazard ratio 0.27, 95% CI: 0.10–0.79). The accuracy of the approach was similar in the subgroup with intermediate (130–150 ms) QRS duration. The combined approach was superior to septal scar and septal flash alone (p < 0.01). Conclusions: The combined assessment of septal scar and septal flash using CMR as a single-image modality identifies CRT responders with high accuracy and predicts long-term survival.
Detection of Periodontal Bone Loss on Periapical Radiographs—A Diagnostic Study Using Different Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Hoss Patrick , Meyer Ole , Wölfle Uta Christine , Wülk Annika , Meusburger Theresa , Meier Leon , Hickel Reinhard , Gruhn Volker , Hesenius Marc , Kühnisch Jan , Dujic Helena
Published: November 2023

Interest in machine learning models and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for diagnostic purposes is steadily increasing in dentistry. Here, CNNs can potentially help in the classification of periodontal bone loss (PBL). In this study, the diagnostic performance of five CNNs in detecting PBL on periapical radiographs was analyzed. A set of anonymized periapical radiographs (N = 21,819) was evaluated by a group of trained and calibrated dentists and classified into radiographs without PBL or with mild, moderate, or severe PBL. Five CNNs were trained over five epochs. Statistically, diagnostic performance was analyzed using accuracy (ACC), sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), and area under the receiver operating curve (AUC). Here, overall ACC ranged from 82.0% to 84.8%, SE 88.8–90.7%, SP 66.2–71.2%, and AUC 0.884–0.913, indicating similar diagnostic performance of the five CNNs. Furthermore, performance differences were evident in the individual sextant groups. Here, the highest values were found for the mandibular anterior teeth (ACC 94.9–96.0%) and the lowest values for the maxillary posterior teeth (78.0–80.7%). It can be concluded that automatic assessment of PBL seems to be possible, but that diagnostic accuracy varies depending on the location in the dentition. Future research is needed to improve performance for all tooth groups.
Low Energy Intake Diagnosed Using the Harris–Benedict Equation Is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Elderly Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Taruya Akira , Nishiguchi Tsuyoshi , Ota Shingo , Taniguchi Motoki , Kashiwagi Manabu , Shiono Yasutsugu , Wan Ke , Ino Yasushi , Tanaka Atsushi
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Insufficient nutrient intake is a strong independent predictor of mortality in elderly patients with heart failure. However, it is unclear to what extent energy intake affects their prognosis. This study investigated the association between patient outcomes and actual measured energy intake in elderly patients (≥65 years) with heart failure. Methods: This study enrolled 139 elderly patients who were hospitalized with worsening heart failure at Shingu Municipal Medical Center, Shingu, Japan, between May 2017 and April 2018. Energy intake was evaluated for three days (from three days prior to the day of discharge until the day of discharge). Based on basal energy expenditure calculated using the Harris–Benedict equation, the patients were classified into a low-energy group (n = 38) and a high-energy group (n = 101). We assessed the prognosis in terms of both all-cause mortality and readmission due to worsening heart failure as a primary outcome. Results: Compared to the patients in the high-energy group, the patients in the low-energy group were predominantly female, less frequently had smoking habits and ischemic heart diseases, and had a higher left ventricular ejection fraction. The low-energy group had higher mortality than the high-energy group (p = 0.028), although the two groups showed equivalent event rates of the primary outcome (p = 0.569). Conclusion: Calculations based on the Harris–Benedict equation revealed no significant difference in the primary outcome between the two groups, with a secondary outcome that showed worse mortality in the low-energy group. Given this result, energy requirement-based assessments using the Harris–Benedict equation might help in the management of elderly heart failure patients in terms of improved life outcomes.
Do Barrier Films Impact Long-Term Skin Toxicity following Whole-Breast Irradiation? Objective Follow-Up of Two Randomised Trials
Authors: Dejonckheere Cas Stefaan , Lindner Kira , Bachmann Anne , Abramian Alina , Layer Katharina , Anzböck Teresa , Layer Julian Philipp , Sarria Gustavo Renato , Scafa Davide , Koch David , Leitzen Christina , Kaiser Christina , Faridi Andree , Schmeel Leonard Christopher
Published: November 2023

Purpose: Hydrofilm, a polyurethane-based barrier film, can be used to prevent acute radiation dermatitis (RD) in adjuvant whole-breast irradiation (WBI) for breast cancer. This cost-effective prophylactic measure is currently being recommended to a growing number of patients, yet long-term safety data and its impact on late radiation-induced skin toxicity such as pigmentation changes and fibrosis have not been investigated. Methods: We objectively evaluated patients who were previously enrolled in either of two intrapatient-randomised (lateral versus medial breast halve) controlled trials on the use of Hydrofilm for RD prevention (DRKS00029665; registered on 19 July 2022). Results: Sixty-two patients (47.7% of the initial combined sample size) provided consent for this post-hoc examination, with a median follow-up time (range) of 58 (37–73) months. Following WBI, there was a significant increase in yellow skin tones of the entire breast when compared to baseline measurements before WBI (p < 0.001) and a significant increase of cutis, subcutis, and oedema thickness (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.004, respectively). At follow-up, there were no significant differences in either pigmentation changes or skin fibrosis between the Hydrofilm and standard of care breast halves. Conclusion: These data suggest that Hydrofilm can be safely used in the context of acute RD prevention, without affecting late side effects, supporting its widespread use.
Trend of Outcome Metrics in Recent Out-of-Hospital-Cardiac-Arrest Research: A Narrative Review of Clinical Trials
Authors: Htet Natalie N. , Jafari Daniel , Walker Jennifer A. , Pourmand Ali , Shaw Anna , Dinh Khai , Tran Quincy K.
Published: November 2023

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) research traditionally focuses on survival. In 2018, the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) proposed more patient-centered outcomes. Our narrative review assessed clinical trials after 2018 to identify the trends of outcome metrics in the field OHCA research. We performed a search of the PubMed database from 1 January 2019 to 22 September 2023. Prospective clinical trials involving adult humans were eligible. Studies that did not report any patient-related outcomes or were not available in full-text or English language were excluded. The articles were assessed for demographic information and primary and secondary outcomes. We included 89 studies for analysis. For the primary outcome, 31 (35%) studies assessed neurocognitive functions, and 27 (30%) used survival. For secondary outcomes, neurocognitive function was present in 20 (22%) studies, and survival was present in 10 (11%) studies. Twenty-six (29%) studies used both survival and neurocognitive function. Since the publication of the COSCA guidelines in 2018, there has been an increased focus on neurologic outcomes. Although survival outcomes are used frequently, we observed a trend toward fewer studies with ROSC as a primary outcome. There were no quality-of-life assessments, suggesting a need for more studies with patient-centered outcomes that can inform the guidelines for cardiac-arrest management.
Radiomics Texture Analysis of Bone Marrow Alterations in MRI Knee Examinations
Authors: Kostopoulos Spiros , Boci Nada , Cavouras Dionisis , Tsagkalis Antonios , Papaioannou Maria , Tsikrika Alexandra , Glotsos Dimitris , Asvestas Pantelis , Lavdas Eleftherios
Published: November 2023

Accurate diagnosis and timely intervention are key to addressing common knee conditions effectively. In this work, we aim to identify textural changes in knee lesions based on bone marrow edema (BME), injury (INJ), and osteoarthritis (OST). One hundred and twenty-one MRI knee examinations were selected. Cases were divided into three groups based on radiological findings: forty-one in the BME, thirty-seven in the INJ, and forty-three in the OST groups. From each ROI, eighty-one radiomic descriptors were calculated, encoding texture information. The results suggested differences in the texture characteristics of regions of interest (ROIs) extracted from PD-FSE and STIR sequences. We observed that the ROIs associated with BME exhibited greater local contrast and a wider range of structural diversity compared to the ROIs corresponding to OST. When it comes to STIR sequences, the ROIs related to BME showed higher uniformity in terms of both signal intensity and the variability of local structures compared to the INJ ROIs. A combined radiomic descriptor managed to achieve a high separation ability, with AUC of 0.93 ± 0.02 in the test set. Radiomics analysis may provide a non-invasive and quantitative means to assess the spatial distribution and heterogeneity of bone marrow edema, aiding in its early detection and characterization.
Arteriovenous Length Ratio: A Novel Method for Evaluating Retinal Vasculature Morphology and Its Diagnostic Potential in Eye-Related Diseases
Authors: Badawi Sufian A. , Takruri Maen , Al-Hattab Mohammad , Aldoboni Ghaleb , Guessoum Djamel , ElBadawi Isam , Aichouni Mohamed , Chaudhry Imran Ali , Mahar Nasrullah , Nileshwar Ajay Kamath
Published: November 2023

Retinal imaging is a non-invasive technique used to scan the back of the eye, enabling the extraction of potential biomarkers like the artery and vein ratio (AVR). This ratio is known for its association with various diseases, such as hypertensive retinopathy (HR) or diabetic retinopathy, and is crucial in assessing retinal health. HR refers to the morphological changes in retinal vessels caused by persistent high blood pressure. Timely identification of these alterations is crucial for preventing blindness and reducing the risk of stroke-related fatalities. The main objective of this paper is to propose a new method for assessing one of the morphological changes in the fundus through morphometric analysis of retinal images. The proposed method in this paper introduces a novel approach called the arteriovenous length ratio (AVLR), which has not been utilized in previous studies. Unlike commonly used measures such as the arteriovenous width ratio or tortuosity, AVLR focuses on assessing the relative length of arteries and veins in the retinal vasculature. The initial step involves segmenting the retinal blood vessels and distinguishing between arteries and veins; AVLR is calculated based on artery and vein caliber measurements for both eyes. Nine equations are used, and the length of both arteries and veins is measured in the region of interest (ROI) covering the optic disc for each eye. Using the AV-Classification dataset, the efficiency of the iterative AVLR assessment is evalutaed. The results show that the proposed approach performs better than the existing methods. By introducing AVLR as a diagnostic feature, this paper contributes to advancing retinal imaging analysis. It provides a valuable tool for the timely diagnosis of HR and other eye-related conditions and represents a novel diagnostic-feature-based method that can be integrated to serve as a clinical decision support system.
Computational Analysis of Cavitating Flows around a Marine Propeller Using Incompressible, Isothermal Compressible, and Fully Compressible Flow Solvers
Authors: Ng’aru Joseph Mwangi , Park Sunho
Published: November 2023

This research investigates cavitation around a marine propeller, employing computational fluid dynamic (CFD) solvers, including an incompressible, isothermal compressible, and fully compressible flow. The investigation commenced with simulations utilizing an incompressible flow solver, subsequently extending to the two compressible flow solvers. In the compressible flow, there is a close interrelation between density, pressure, and temperature, which significantly influences cavitation dynamics. To verify computational methods, verification tests were conducted for leading-edge cavitating flows over a two-dimensional (2D)-modified NACA66 hydrofoil section at various cavitation numbers. The computational results were validated against the experimental data, with the solvers’ capability to predict cavitation forming the basis for comparison. The results demonstrate consistent predictions among the solvers; however, the fully compressible flow solver demonstrated a superior performance in capturing re-entrant jets and accurately modeling cavity closure regions. Furthermore, the fully compressible flow solver precisely estimated propeller hydrodynamic performance, yielding results closely aligned with experimental observations.
Three New Species of Free-Living Marine Nematodes of the Order Enoplida Filipjev, 1929 (Nematoda) from the Yellow Sea, China
Authors: Ban Shuyan , Sun Jing , Huang Yong
Published: November 2023

Three new nematode species belonging to the order Enoplida were discovered in the muddy and sandy sediment along the Shandong peninsula coast of the Yellow Sea during a biodiversity investigation of marine nematodes in the Yellow Sea. They are named Belbolla octobulba sp. nov., Ironella gracilis sp. nov. and Oxystomina longiseta sp. nov. Belbolla octobulba sp. nov. is characterized by having eight pharyngeal bulbs; spicules arcuate, broad and even; gubernaculum with a pair of dorso-caudal apophyses, about a third of the length of spicule; and two winged precloacal supplements. Ironella gracilis sp. nov. differs from known species by body slender, buccal cavity divided into conical vestibulum and cylindrical posterior portion, three sclerotized teeth located in the vestibulum; both circles of outer labial setae and cephalic setae 10 µm apart; elongated spicules weakly arcuate with central strip and cephalate proximal end; gubernaculum conical without apophysis; and a tubular precloacal supplement with a long seta at its anterior end. Oxystomina longiseta sp. nov. can be distinguished from other known species by the relatively long outer labial setae and cephalic setae; arcuate spicules expanded proximally with a median rib; gubernaculum small and oblong; and two unequal precloacal supplementary setae, anterior one short, posterior one very long. Updated keys to eighteen species of Belbolla and keys to four species of Ironella are given.
Enhancing Monascus Pellet Formation for Improved Secondary Metabolite Production
Authors: Zhang Xizi , Liu Huiqian , Zhang Mengyao , Chen Wei , Wang Chengtao
Published: November 2023

Filamentous fungi are well-known for their ability to form mycelial pellets during submerged cultures, a characteristic that has been extensively studied and applied. However, Monascus, a filamentous saprophytic fungus with a rich history of medicinal and culinary applications, has not been widely documented for pellet formation. This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing pellet formation in Monascus and their impact on citrinin production, a key secondary metabolite. Through systematic exploration, we identified pH and inoculum size as critical factors governing pellet formation. Monascus exhibited optimal pellet growth within the acidic pH range from 5 to 6, resulting in smaller, more homogeneous pellets with lower citrinin content. Additionally, we found that inoculum size played a vital role, with lower spore concentrations favoring the formation of small, uniformly distributed pellets. The choice of carbon and nitrogen sources also influenced pellet stability, with glucose, peptone, and fishmeal supporting stable pellet formation. Notably, citrinin content was closely linked to pellet diameter, with larger pellets exhibiting higher citrinin levels. Our findings shed light on optimizing Monascus pellet formation for enhanced citrinin production and provide valuable insights into the cultivation of this fungus for various industrial applications. Further research is warranted to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying these observations.
Comparative Analysis of Capsular and Secreted Polysaccharides Produced by Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Dornelles Gustavo , Araújo Glauber R. de S. , Rodrigues Marcus , Alves Vinicius , Almeida-Paes Rodrigo , Frases Susana
Published: November 2023

Fungal infections are a global public health challenge, especially among immunocompromised patients. Basidiomycetous yeasts, such as Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, have emerged as opportunistic pathogens, but have received less attention than Cryptococcus neoformans. This study aimed to characterize the polysaccharides of R. mucilaginosa and compare them with those of C. neoformans, analyzing their clinical implications. Comprehensive physicochemical, mechanical, and ultrastructural analyses of polysaccharides from both species were performed, revealing correlations with virulence and pathogenicity. R. mucilaginosa cells are surrounded by a capsule smaller than that produced by C. neoformans, but with similar polysaccharides. Those polysaccharides are also secreted by R. mucilaginosa. Cross-reactivity with R. mucilaginosa was observed in a diagnostic C. neoformans antigen test, using both in vitro and in vivo samples, highlighting the need for more reliable tests. Some R. mucilaginosa strains exhibited virulence comparable to that of C. neoformans in an invertebrate experimental model (Tenebrio molitor). This study contributes to a deeper understanding of yeast pathogenicity and virulence, highlighting the need for more accurate diagnostic tests to improve the differential diagnosis of infections caused by basidiomycetous yeasts.
Diabetes Mellitus in Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Stampouloglou Panagiota K. , Anastasiou Artemis , Bletsa Evanthia , Lygkoni Stavroula , Chouzouri Flora , Xenou Maria , Katsarou Ourania , Theofilis Panagiotis , Zisimos Konstantinos , Tousoulis Dimitris , Vavuranakis Manolis , Siasos Gerasimos , Oikonomou Evangelos
Published: November 2023

The global prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) has led to a pandemic, with significant microvascular and macrovascular complications including coronary artery disease (CAD), which worsen clinical outcomes and cardiovascular prognosis. Patients with both acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and DM have worse prognosis and several pathophysiologic mechanisms have been implicated including, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, endothelial dysfunction, platelet activation and aggregations as well as plaque characteristics and extent of coronary lesions. Therefore, regarding reperfusion strategies in the more complex anatomies coronary artery bypass surgery may be the preferred therapeutic strategy over percutaneous coronary intervention while both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia should be avoided with closed monitoring of glycemic status during the acute phase of myocardial infraction. However, the best treatment strategy remains undefined. Non-insulin therapies, due to the low risk of hypoglycemia concurrently with the multifactorial CV protective effects, may be proved to be the best treatment option in the future. Nevertheless, evidence for the beneficial effects of glucagon like peptide-1 receptor agonists, dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 inhibitors and sodium glycose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, despite accumulating, is not robust and future randomized control trials may provide more definitive data.
IMiD-Free Interval and IMiDs Sequence: Which Strategy Is Better Suited for Lenalidomide-Refractory Myeloma?
Authors: Suzuki Kazuhito , Yano Shingo
Published: November 2023

This review discusses immunomodulatory drug (IMiDs) sequencing and IMiD-free interval strategies for lenalidomide-refractory myeloma. IMiDs and proteasome inhibitors (PIs) improve clinical outcomes in patients with myeloma; however, refractoriness to lenalidomide, a category of IMiD, predicts poor outcomes. Next-generation IMiDs, such as pomalidomide, are effective even for lenalidomide-refractory myeloma. Therefore, an IMiD-sequencing strategy from lenalidomide to pomalidomide would be desirable. PIs are an antimyeloma therapeutic agent with another mode of action that might restore cereblon, a target of IMiDs; therefore, an IMiD-free interval via class switching from lenalidomide to PIs may be a promising alternative for lenalidomide-refractory myeloma. Additionally, the anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody is a key drug for salvage therapy in anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody-naïve patients. In clinical practice, safety profiles and social convenience can play important roles in the choice of combination therapy. In the future, the selection of optimal treatments should be based on the status of the immunological environment and genetic alterations. This review aims to discuss IMiDs sequencing and IMiD-free interval strategies for lenalidomide- refractory myeloma.
Cryosurgery for Basal Cell Skin Cancer of the Head: 15 Years of Experience
Authors: Pustinsky Ilya , Dvornikov Anton , Kiva Ekaterina , Chulkova Svetlana , Egorova Angelina , Gladilina Irina , Peterson Sergey , Lepkova Nataly , Grishchenko Natalya , Galaeva Zamira , Baisova Aigul , Kalinin Sergey
Published: November 2023

The clinical relevance of head and neck (H&N) tumors is related to the potential disfiguration of anatomical structures (by the tumor or surgical intervention), defining patients’ individual features and emotional expression, loss or restraint of vital structures functions, and untoward socio-economic sequelae. This study is aimed to improve clinical outcomes of cryosurgery in patients with H&N basal cell skin cancer by refining the indications for cryosurgical treatment. In this study, cryosurgery was used in 234 patients with different stages of cutaneous basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the head, including 101 patients with T1 tumors, 86—with T2, 5—T3, and 42 patients with tumors relapsing after failure of preceding various treatment modalities. Post-cryosurgery recurrence rate in patients with stage I BCC was 2.7%, with stage II tumors—5.6% and 34.9%—in patients with recurred tumors. Re-recurrence after cryoablation of recurrent tumors correlated with the tumor baseline size. The best aesthetic and long-term clinical results were documented in patients with lesions <1 cm in size with clear boundaries. Thus, cryosurgery is the method of choice for the majority of stage I basal cell carcinomas of the head. For patients with advanced and recurrent skin cancer, cryosurgery is relevant in rare cases selected according to refined indications.
Comparative Analysis of High-Intensity versus Low-to-Moderate Intensity Statin Therapy in Patients Undergoing Rotational Atherectomy for Calcified Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Choi Sang-Suk , Jung Jin , Her Sung-Ho , Kim Kyunyeon , Kim Youngmin , Lee Kyusup , Yoo Ki-Dong , Moon Keon-Woong , Moon Donggyu , Lee Su-Nam , Jang Won-Young , Choi Ik-Jun , Lee Jae-Hwan , Lee Jang-Hoon , Lee Sang-Rok , Lee Seung-Whan , Yun Kyeong-Ho , Lee Hyun-Jong
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: Moderate-intensity statin therapy, when compared to high-intensity statin therapy in Asian populations, has shown no significant difference in cardiovascular prognosis in small studies. The aim of this study was to compare the prognosis of patients based on statin intensity following rotational atherectomy (RA) during high-complexity percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). (2) Methods: The ROCK registry, a multicenter retrospective study, included patients who had undergone rotational atherectomy (RA) during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) at nine tertiary medical centers in South Korea between January 2010 and October 2019. The patients were divided into high-intensity statin (H-statin) and moderate/low-intensity statin (M/L-statin) therapy groups. The primary endpoint includes outcomes (cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction (MI), and target vessel revascularization (TVR)) within an 18-month follow-up period. (3) Results: In this registry, a total of 540 patients with 583 lesions were included. We excluded 39 lesions from the analysis due to the absence of statin usage. The H-statin group had 394 lesions and the M/L-statin group had 150 lesions. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics, procedural adverse events without heart failure history, triglycerides, or medications between the two groups. The procedural success rate showed a significant difference between the two groups. Multivariate analysis did not show a significant association between M/L-statin therapy and an increased risk of the primary endpoint. In propensity score matching analysis, no significant difference was observed in the primary endpoint either. (4) Conclusions: In high-complex RA PCI, moderate/low-intensity statin therapy is not inferior to high-intensity statin therapy in Korea.
Monitoring of Tool and Component Wear for Self-Adaptive Digital Twins: A Multi-Stage Approach through Anomaly Detection and Wear Cycle Analysis
Authors: Ströbel Robin , Bott Alexander , Wortmann Andreas , Fleischer Jürgen
Published: November 2023

In today’s manufacturing landscape, Digital Twins play a pivotal role in optimising processes and deriving actionable insights that extend beyond on-site calculations. These dynamic representations of systems demand real-time data on the actual state of machinery, rather than static images depicting idealized configurations. This paper presents a novel approach for monitoring tool and component wear in CNC milling machines by segmenting and classifying individual machining cycles. The method assumes recurring sequences, even with a batch size of 1, and considers a progressive increase in tool wear between cycles. The algorithms effectively segment and classify cycles based on path length, spindle speed and cycle duration. The tool condition index for each cycle is determined by considering all axis signals, with upper and lower thresholds established for quantifying tool conditions. The same approach is adapted to predict component wear progression in machine tools, ensuring robust condition determination. A percentage-based component state description is achieved by comparing it to the corresponding Tool Condition Codes (TCC) range. This method provides a four-class estimation of the component state. The approach has demonstrated robustness in various validation cases.
Dzyaloshinsky–Moriya Interaction Induced Anomalous g Behavior of Sr2IrO4 Probed by Electron Spin Resonance
Authors: Wang Kai , Yan Liqin , Shi Youguo , Shen Baogen , He Lunhua , Wang Fangwei , Lu Jun , Zhao Tongyun , Lu Zunming
Published: November 2023

Among the 5d transition metal iridates, Sr2IrO4, which has a layered chalcogenide structure, has received much attention due to its strong spin–orbit coupling (SOC), which produces Mott insulating states and anomalous physical behaviors. In this paper, the microscopic magnetism of Sr2IrO4 is studied with electron spin resonance (ESR) measurements. The Lande factor g of the ferromagnetic resonance signal of Sr2IrO4 shows anomalous behavior compared to typical ferromagnets. It gradually decreases, and the corresponding resonance field Hr increases, with decreasing temperature. The various physical parameters. including the saturated magnetic field Hs derived from M-H, Hr, ΔHpp, the g factor and the intensity I extracted from ESR spectra, are analyzed in detail. Eventually, it is revealed that the anomalous behavior of the g-factor is induced by in-plane Dzyaloshinsky–Moriya interaction (DMI) rather than the SOC effect.
Gaussian Process-Based Transfer Kernel Learning for Unsupervised Domain Adaptation
Authors: Ge Pengfei , Sun Yesen
Published: November 2023

The discriminability and transferability of models are two important factors for the success of domain adaptation methods. Recently, some domain adaptation methods have improved models by adding a discriminant information extraction module. However, these methods need to carefully balance the discriminability and transferability of a model. To address this problem, we propose a new deep domain adaptation method, Gaussian Process-based Transfer Kernel Learning (GPTKL), which can perform domain knowledge transfer and improve the discrimination ability of the model simultaneously. GPTKL uses the kernel similarity between all samples in the source and target domains as a priori information to establish a cross-domain Gaussian process. By maximizing its likelihood function, GPTKL reduces the domain discrepancy between the source and target domains, thereby enhancing generalization across domains. At the same time, GPTKL introduces the deep kernel learning strategy into the cross-domain Gaussian process to learn a transfer kernel function based on deep features. Through transfer kernel learning, GPTKL learns a deep feature space with both discriminability and transferability. In addition, GPTKL uses cross-entropy and mutual information to learn a classification model shared by the source and target domains. Experiments on four benchmarks show that GPTKL achieves superior classification performance over state-of-the-art methods.
On the State-Feedback Controller Design for Polynomial Linear Parameter-Varying Systems with Pole Placement within Linear Matrix Inequality Regions
Authors: Brizuela-Mendoza Jorge A. , Mixteco-Sánchez Juan Carlos , López-Osorio Maria A. , Ortiz-Torres Gerardo , Sorcia-Vázquez Felipe D. J. , Lozoya-Ponce Ricardo Eliú , Ramos-Martínez Moises B. , Pérez-Vidal Alan F. , Morales Jesse Y. Rumbo , Guzmán-Valdivia Cesar H. , Mena-Enriquez Mayra G. , Torres-Cantero Carlos Alberto
Published: November 2023

The present paper addresses linear parameter-varying systems with high-order time-varying parameter dependency known as polynomial LPV systems and their controller design. Throughout this work, a procedure ensuring a state-feedback controller from a parameterized linear matrix inequality (PLMI) solution is presented. As the main contribution of this paper, the controller is designed by considering the time-varying parameter rate as a tuning parameter with a continuous control gain in such a way that the closed-loop eigenvalues lie in a complex plane subset, with high-order time-varying parameters defining the system dynamics. Simulation results are presented, aiming to show the effectiveness of the proposed controller design.
Hyperconnectedness and Resolvability of Soft Ideal Topological Spaces
Authors: Al-Omari Ahmad , Alqurashi Wafa
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces and explores the concept of soft ideal dense sets, utilizing soft open sets and soft local functions, to examine their fundamental characteristics under some conditions for the following notions: soft ideal hyperconnectedness, soft ideal resolvability, soft ideal irresolvability, and soft ideal semi-irresolvability in soft ideal topological spaces. Moreover, it explores the relationship between these notions if τ⊓I¯=ϕE is obtained in the soft set environment.
Developing System-Based Artificial Intelligence Models for Detecting the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Alkahtani Hasan , Aldhyani Theyazn , Ahmed Zeyad , Alqarni Ahmed
Published: November 2023

This study presents a novel methodology for automating the classification of pediatric ADHD using electroencephalogram (EEG) biomarkers through machine learning and deep learning techniques. The primary objective is to develop accurate EEG-based screening tools to aid clinical diagnosis and enable early intervention for ADHD. The proposed system utilizes a publicly available dataset consisting of raw EEG recordings from 61 individuals with ADHD and 60 control subjects during a visual attention task. The methodology involves meticulous preprocessing of raw EEG recordings to isolate brain signals and extract informative features, including time, frequency, and entropy signal characteristics. The feature selection techniques, including least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regularization and recursive elimination, were applied to identify relevant variables and enhance generalization. The obtained features are processed by employing various machine learning and deep learning algorithms, namely CatBoost, Random Forest Decision Trees, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), and Long Short-Term Memory Networks (LSTMs). The empirical results of the proposed algorithms highlight the effectiveness of feature selection approaches in matching informative biomarkers with optimal model classes. The convolutional neural network model achieves superior testing accuracy of 97.75% using LASSO-regularized biomarkers, underscoring the strengths of deep learning and customized feature optimization. The proposed framework advances EEG analysis to uncover discriminative patterns, significantly contributing to the field of ADHD screening and diagnosis. The suggested methodology achieved high performance compared with different existing systems based on AI approaches for diagnosing ADHD.
A Reduced-Dimension Extrapolating Method of Finite Element Solution Coefficient Vectors for Fractional Tricomi-Type Equation
Authors: Li Yuejie , Luo Zhendong
Published: November 2023

We here employ a proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) to reduce the dimensionality of unknown coefficient vectors of finite element (FE) solutions for the fractional Tricomi-type equation and develop a reduced-dimension extrapolating FE (RDEFE) method for the fractional Tricomi-type equation. For this purpose, we first develop an FE method for the fractional Tricomi-type equation and provide the existence, unconditional stability, and error analysis for the FE solutions. We then develop the RDEFE method for the fractional Tricomi-type equation by means of the POD technique and analyze the existence, unconditional stability, and errors for the RDEFE solutions by using the matrix analysis. Lastly, we provide two numerical examples to verify our theoretical results and to explain the advantages of the RDEFE method.
A New Class of Leonardo Hybrid Numbers and Some Remarks on Leonardo Quaternions over Finite Fields
Authors: Tan Elif , Savin Diana , Yılmaz Semih
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we present a new class of Leonardo hybrid numbers that incorporate quantum integers into their components. This advancement presents a broader generalization of the q-Leonardo hybrid numbers. We explore some fundamental properties associated with these numbers. Moreover, we study special Leonardo quaternions over finite fields. In particular, we determine the Leonardo quaternions that are zero divisors or invertible elements in the quaternion algebra over the finite field Zp for special values of prime integer p.
Exploring the Contributions to Mathematical Economics: A Bibliometric Analysis Using Bibliometrix and VOSviewer
Authors: Tsilika Kyriaki
Published: November 2023

From Cournot, Walras, and Pareto’s research to what followed in the form of marginalist economics, chaos theory, agent-based modeling, game theory, and econophysics, the interpretation and analysis of economic systems have been carried out using a broad range of higher mathematics methods. The evolution of mathematical economics is associated with the most productive and influential authors, sources, and countries, as well as the identification of interactions between the authors and research topics. Bibliometric analysis provides journal-, author-, document-, and country-level metrics. In the present study, a bibliometric overview of mathematical economics came from a screening performed in September 2023, covering the timespan 1898–2023. About 6477 documents on mathematical economics were retrieved and extracted from the Scopus academic database for analysis. The Bibliometrix package in the statistical programming language R was employed to perform a bibliometric analysis of scientific literature and citation data indexed in the Scopus database. VOSviewer (version 1.6.19) was used for the visualization of similarities using several bibliometric techniques, including bibliographic coupling, co-citation, and co-occurrence of keywords. The analysis traced the most influential papers, keywords, countries, and journals among high-quality studies in mathematical economics.
Noisy Tree Data Structures and Quantum Applications
Authors: Khadiev Kamil , Savelyev Nikita , Ziatdinov Mansur , Melnikov Denis
Published: November 2023

We suggest a new technique for developing noisy tree data structures. We call it a “walking tree”. As applications of the technique we present a noisy Self-Balanced Binary Search Tree (we use a Red–Black tree as an implementation) and a noisy segment tree. The asymptotic complexity of the main operations for the tree data structures does not change compared to the case without noise. We apply the data structures in quantum algorithms for several problems on strings like the string-sorting problem and auto-complete problem. For both problems, we obtain quantum speed-up. Moreover, for the string-sorting problem, we show a quantum lower bound.
Right Axillary Artery Cannulation for Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Postcardiotomy Patients: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Radwan Medhat , Baghdadi Karim , Popov Aron Frederik , Sandoval Boburg Rodrigo , Risteski Petar , Schlensak Christian , Walter Thomas , Berger Rafal , Emrich Fabian
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: To analyze the patient outcome and complication rate of axillary artery cannulation for veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) in patients who could not be weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass after cardiothoracic surgery. Materials and Methods: We analyzed the data of 179 patients who were supported with VA-ECMO with femoral–axillary access (FA VA-ECMO) after cardiothoracic surgery between January 2014 and January 2019 in our department. Patients requiring central aortic cannulation and patients with respiratory failure requiring veno-venous ECMO were excluded. Primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and 1-year survival rate of patients who were weaned from VA-ECMO support. Secondary outcomes were cannulation-related complications at the axillary site, VA-ECMO-related complications, and systemic complications. Results: In our cohort, 60 (33.5%) patients were female. Mean age was 67.0 ± 10.9 years. Overall, 78 (43.5%) patients were operated upon electively, 37 (20.7%) patients underwent urgent surgery, and 64 (35.8%) patients underwent emergency surgical treatment. Sixty-seven patients (37.4%) were resuscitated preoperatively. The mean duration of VA-ECMO support was 8.4 ± 5.1 days. Weaning from VA-ECMO was successful in 87 (48.6%) patients; 62 (34.6%) patients survived the hospital stay. The 1-year survival rate was 74%. Subclavian bleeding occurred in 24 (13.4%) patients, femoral bleeding in 4 (2.2%) patients, ischemia of the upper limb in 11 (6.1%) patients, intracerebral bleeding in 9 (5%) patients, and stroke in 19 (10.6%) patients. Conclusions: In patients with acute LV dysfunction after cardiothoracic surgery who cannot be weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass, right axillary artery cannulation is a safe and reliable method for VA-ECMO support with an acceptable complication rate.