bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine Learning‐Based Prediction of the Martensite Start Temperature
Authors: Wentzien Marcel , Koch Marcel , Friedrich Thomas , Ingber Jerome , Kempka Henning , Schmalzried Dirk , Kunert Maik
Published: August 2024

The prediction of the martensite start temperature () for steels based on their chemical compositions is a complex problem. Previous work has developed empirical, thermodynamic, and machine learning models to estimate . However, the empirical models are limited to specific steel grades, the thermodynamic models rely on different model assumptions, and the machine learning models are based on a small number of data, are limited to specific steel grades, as well or are not available for easy use to the public. Herein, a new machine learning model for the prediction of is developed on the basis of two publicly available datasets consisting of 1800 steels from different steel grades. Extensive hyperparameter tuning is performed to find the best artificial neural network for the dataset. The best model improves prediction accuracy compared to previous state of the art. Despite a very good prediction accuracy of the model, unexpected behavior is observed in specific unseen data. This opens up the discussion for the requirements of new metrics. The dataset and the model are freely available athttps://github.com/EAH‐Materials. An easy‐to‐use web tool to estimate without the need of programming based on the chemical composition can be found athttps://eah‐jena‐ms‐predictor.streamlit.app/.
PEITC Induces DNA Damage and Inhibits DNA Repair‐Associated Proteins in Human Retinoblastoma Cells In Vitro
Authors: Hsu Sheng‐Yao , Huang Yi‐Ping , Hsia Te‐Chun , Chen Jaw‐Chyun , Peng Shu‐Fen , Hsieh Wen‐Tsong , Chueh Fu‐Shin , Kuo Chao‐Lin
Published: August 2024

Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), a natural product, exists in biological activities, including anticancer activity in many human cancer cells. No information shows that PEITC affects DNA damage in human retinoblastoma (RB) cells in vitro. In this study, the aim of experiments was to determine whether PEITC decreased total viable cell number or not by inducing protein expressions involved in DNA damage and repair in Y79 RB cells in vitro. Total cell viability was measured by PI exclusion assay, and PEITC reduced the total Y79 viable cell numbers in a dose‐dependent manner. DNA condensation and DNA impairment were conducted by DAPI staining and comet assays, respectively, in Y79 cells. The findings show that PEITC induced DNA condensation dose‐dependently based on the brighter fluorescence of cell nuclei stained by DAPI staining. PEITC‐induced DNA damage showed a more extended DNA migration smears than that of the control, which was performed by a comet assay. Western blotting was performed to measure the protein expressions involved in DNA damage and repair, which showed that PEITC at 2.5–10 μM increased NRF2, HO‐1, SOD (Mn), and catalase; however, it decreased SOD (Cu/Zn) except 10 μM PEITC treatment, and decreased glutathione, which were associated with oxidative stress. Furthermore, PEITC increased DNA‐PK, MDC1, H2A.XpSer139, ATMpSer1981, p53, p53pSer15, PARP, HSP70, and HSP90, but decreased TOPIIα, TOPIIβ, and MDM2pSer166 that were associated with DNA damage and repair mechanism in Y79 cells. The examination from confocal laser microscopy shows that PEITC increased H2A.XpSer139 and p53pSer15, and decreased glutathione and TOPIIα in Y79 cells. In conclusion, the cytotoxic effects of PEITC on reducing the number of viable cells may be due to the induction of DNA damage and the alteration of DNA repair proteins in Y79 cells in vitro.
Same‐day parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism –an over 20‐year practice
Authors: Annesi Chandler A. , Gillis Andrea , Fazendin Jessica M. , Lindeman Brenessa , Chen Herbert
Published: August 2024

Introduction

There has been a shift in recent years toward same‐day parathyroidectomies due to the decrease in mutual costs with few significant differences in postoperative morbidity or mortality. We sought to determine if demographics, preoperative patient risk factors, or comorbidities were associated with a patient's likelihood of having same‐day or inpatient surgery.

Materials and Methods

A prospective database of parathyroid operations from 2001 to 2022 (n = 2948 patients) was reviewed for surgeries completed for primary hyperparathyroidism. Patients were categorized as same‐day or inpatient surgery; demographics, risk factors, and co‐morbidities were examined and differences across practice patterns during the 21‐year period were studied and also analyzed in a subset of patients from 2013 to 2022.

Results

In a recent subset of patients from 2013 to 2022, patients having inpatient surgery were more likely to be Black and use anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy. Multivariable regression confirmed increased odds of aging and black patients requiring inpatient parathyroidectomy. Compared to 2001–2003, there was a significantly increased proportion of patients undergoing same‐day surgery; compared to 2010–2012, there was a similar proportion of patients undergoing outpatient surgery between 2013 and 2018, and there was an increased proportion from 2019 through 2022.

Conclusion

Same‐day parathyroidectomies have been shown to be safe and has become the typical practice for high‐volume parathyroid surgeons over the last decade. Complications such as postoperative hematoma or hypocalcemia were previously shown to be incompletely mitigated by increased LOS or inpatient surgery, although demographics are considered to increase the odds of inpatient parathyroidectomy.
Frequency data driven damage detection of polymeric composite structural health using machine learning models
Authors: Kumar Vikash , Pattanayak Pritam , Mehar Ashish Kumar , Panda Subrata Kumar
Published: August 2024

Firstly, the effect of damages (crack and delamination) on frequency responses of the polymeric composite structures is predicted numerically in this research. The responses are computed numerically using the finite element technique associated with a higher‐order deformation kinematic model. The model accuracy has been verified by comparing the published frequency responses and in‐house experimental data. The verified model is extended to generate the desired data (frequencies) utilizing various input parameters related to the geometrical forms and damage types (shapes, sizes, and positions). Further, different machine learning models (MLMs) are developed using Python algorithms for the identification of structural health. In this regard, the extracted data sets are initially used to train the MLM, detect the damages, and identify types of damage and damage‐related data of polymeric structures. Out of all kinds of MLMs, it is understood that the Random Forest Classifier provides the best result, which had an accuracy of 94.66% with the optimal parameters. The precision accomplished is 97% for intact and 94% for damaged structures. The proposed algorithm is also capable of identifying the damage‐related parameters (shape, size, type, and position) and predicting the defects early to prevent unintended mishaps.
Introduction
Authors: Loda Mirella , Abenante Paola
Published: August 2024

This volume offers contributions for reflection on cooperation actions in fragile contexts, starting from the discussions that took place during the international conference “Cultural Heritage in Fragile Contexts—Development Cooperation in Afghanistan and Neighboring Countries”, held in Florence from the 10th to the 11th of November 2022. The event offered an opportunity for international discussion between researchers and international operators, as well as a chance to reflect on key relationships between the protection of cultural heritage and the generation of sustainable development. More specifically, focus was placed on the ways in which cultural protection actions can help mitigate social and economic fragilities in intervention areas, contributing to their sustainable development. The geographical focus of the conference, and of this volume, are the Middle and Central Asian areas, as these are areas where situations of fragility are recurrent, both in the socio-cultural sense—just think of the religious tensions between the Shiite and Sunni populations—as well as in political-military terms—the cases of Afghanistan and Syria are exemplary in this regard.
Improving the Accessibility of Educational Facilities in Bamiyan
Authors: Tartaglia Mario , Ahmadzai Masihullah
Published: August 2024

Among the several dimensions involved in the concept of access to education, spatial accessibility plays a leading role in assuring a fair fruition of the school system in a territory. This paper illustrates a specific method developed for evaluating the degree of spatial accessibility of educational sites. Although the proposed method has been developed for the case study of Bamiyan, it can be considered as a general evaluation framework for assessing the accessibility of educational facilities in any populated areas.
The Fate of Bamiyan’s Giant Buddha Statues
Authors: Hinz Manfred
Published: August 2024

This contribution outlines the debate around a possible and (from the Afghan side until 2021) sought after reconstruction of Bamiyan’s giant Buddha statues, which started after their destruction in 2001, and lasted up until the UNESCO conference on the subject in 2017. This debate gains significance against a background of ongoing discussion concerning the legitimacy of heritage reconstruction in general, which has greatly altered the key concepts of authenticity and integrity. This general discussion is, naturally, still open. But consideration of the Bamiyan case has been rendered obsolete by the political events of August 2021. This contribution advances the opinion that a physical reconstruction of the statues would be redundant, since their destruction has established them firmly and universally in the collective imagery.
Framing Planning and Conservation Activities in the Local Socio-Cultural Context: Ethnicity and Gender in Bamiyan
Authors: Loda Mirella , Hinz Manfred
Published: August 2024

This article illustrates the critical importance of research into the socio-cultural reality of Bamiyan (Afghanistan) for the cooperation projects aimed at preserving cultural heritage. The case study shows that exploring and ultimately deconstructing the categories of ethnicity and gender has helped overcome the impasse created by tensions and competition among different social and interest groups. As for the ethnic issue, a way out of this impasse might be found in putting ethnic self-definitions aside and searching for a reasonable compromise apropos the underlying economic interests. In regard to gender—a particularly sensitive issue in Islamic countries—the article questions the standardized way that urban planning addresses public spaces. It illustrates first that in the local context private dwellings de facto function as public spaces, especially for the female segment of the population, and therefore should be arranged more generously. Moreover, the article draws attention to the fact that the Islamic pilgrimage shrines (ziaratgah) play a crucial role for women, as the almost only public space (except the market) that they can attend without male company. It is, therefore of paramount importance to improve their quality as public spaces even if they are not included in the list of World Heritage assets.
Improving Urban Quality Through Land Titling? Considerations from the Bamiyan Case
Authors: Loda Mirella , Amiri Bashir , Narayanan Nipesh Palat
Published: August 2024

The article discusses the Afghan land titling policies based on the case of Bamiyan Valley. It first presents the terms and conditions of the land titling policy in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan since 2017, and then it illustrates its impact on the informal settlement of Zargaran (Bamiyan) based on the results of two surveys conducted in 2017 and 2021. As is the case elsewhere around the world, the assignment of formal property titles is generally welcomed by the majority of the population. Moreover, doing so has proven to encourage investments in the improvement of private establishments, and even in facilities for community purposes, thanks to the remarkable social bond that exists between the settlers. However, the denial of the entitlement in the parcels of Zargaran located inside and next to the UNESCO buffer zone has prevented the titling policy from reaching its full potential in terms of improvement of the social fabric and urban quality. Moreover, the increase in real estate values observed in the area calls for social policy measures to accompany the titling policy, so as to avoid the eviction of poorer segments of the population.
Challenges for Quantum Software Engineering: An Industrial Application Scenario Perspective
Authors: Carbonelli Cecilia , Felderer Michael , Jung Matthias , Lobe Elisabeth , Lochau Malte , Luber Sebastian , Mauerer Wolfgang , Ramler Rudolf , Schaefer Ina , Schroth Christoph
Published: August 2024

Quantum software is becoming a key enabler for applying quantum computing to industrial use cases. This poses challenges to quantum software engineering in providing efficient and effective means to develop such software. Eventually, this must be reliably achieved in time, on budget, and in quality, using sound and well-principled engineering approaches. Given that quantum computers are based on fundamentally different principles than classical machines, this raises the question if, how, and to what extent established techniques for systematically engineering software need to be adapted. In this chapter, we analyze three paradigmatic application scenarios for quantum software engineering from an industrial perspective. The respective use cases center around (1) optimization and quantum cloud services, (2) quantum simulation, and (3) embedded quantum computing. Our aim is to provide a concise overview of the current and future applications of quantum computing in diverse industrial settings. We derive presumed challenges for quantum software engineering and thus provide research directions for this emerging field.
Engineering Hybrid Software Systems
Authors: Jiménez-Navajas Luis , Pérez-Castillo Ricardo , Piattini Mario
Published: August 2024

Quantum computing is getting closer and closer to bringing all its potential applications to our lives. This means that in a few years the current IT will evolve into hybrid software systems where quantum and classical computing paradigms should be designed, developed, and operated together. This is a big challenge that will require software modernization processes for transforming and migrating legacy software systems (which may include adding new existing quantum software) toward such hybrid software systems. This chapter discusses the challenges of hybrid software and how software modernization (based on architecture-driven modernization) can be used as a reengineering solution for an effective evolution of classical and quantum software.
The Arab Gulf States in Transition: Power Centralization, Economic Transformation, and Neo-Nationalism
Authors: Wang Tingyi
Published: August 2024

The Arab Gulf States survived through the Arab Spring, but they still have faced a series of challenges in recent years: the Yemen war, the Qatar diplomatic crisis, the game of thrones, the shale gas revolution, the rivalry of great powers, and the emergence of a young generation. Along with all these factors, there’s a trend of new nationalism springing across this region. The power of Gulf Arab states is transferring from experienced older princes to the hands of a determined young generation, which may shape the future of these states for decades. At the same time, all of these states are launching their national economic projects, such like UAE Vision 2021, Saudi Vision 2030, Oman Vision 2040, etc. The new leadership, ambitious economic projects, and rapidly growing population under stalled globalization bred neo-nationalism in the Gulf region. What are the driving forces behind their transition, how do the Gulf states transform, and what are the potential impacts? These are the questions this paper tries to answer.
Complexity and operator growth for quantum systems in dynamic equilibrium
Authors: Beetar Cameron , Gupta Nitin , Haque S. Shajidul , Murugan Jeff , Van Zyl Hendrik J R
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Krylov complexity is a measure of operator growth in quantum systems, based on the number of orthogonal basis vectors needed to approximate the time evolution of an operator. In this paper, we study the Krylov complexity of a PT-symmetric system of oscillators, which exhibits two phase transitions that separate a dissipative state, a Rabi-oscillation state, and an ultra-strongly coupled regime. We use a generalization of the su(1) algebra associated to the Bateman oscillator to describe the Hamiltonian of the coupled system, and construct a set of coherent states associated with this algebra. We compute the Krylov (spread) complexity using these coherent states, and find that it can distinguish between the PT-symmetric and PT symmetry-broken phases. We also show that the Krylov complexity reveals the ill-defined nature of the vacuum of the Bateman oscillator, which is a special case of our system. Our results demonstrate the utility of Krylov complexity as a tool to probe the properties and transitions of PT-symmetric systems.
Discontinuity in RG flows across dimensions: entanglement, anomaly coefficients and geometry
Authors: de-la-Cruz-Moreno José , Liu James T. , Pando Zayas Leopoldo A.
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We study the entanglement entropy associated with a holographic RG flow from AdS7 to AdS4 × ℍ3, where ℍ3 is a 3-dimensional hyperbolic manifold with curvature κ. The dual six-dimensional RG flow is disconnected from Lorentz-invariant flows. In this context we address various notions of central charges and identify a monotonic candidate c-function that captures IR aspects of the flow. The UV behavior of the holographic entanglement entropy and, in particular its universal term, display an interesting dependence on the curvature, κ. We then contrast our holographic results with existing field theory computations in six dimensions and find a series of new corrections in curvature to the universal term in the entanglement entropy.
On self-dual Carrollian conformal nonlinear electrodynamics
Authors: Chen Bin , Hou Jue , Sun Haowei
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this work, we study the duality symmetry group of Carrollian (nonlinear) electrodynamics and propose a family of Carrollian ModMax theories, which are invariant under Carrollian SO(2) electromagnetic (EM) duality transformations and conformal transformation. We define the Carrollian SO(2) EM transformations, with the help of Hodge duality in Carrollian geometry, then we rederive the Gaillard-Zumino consistency condition for EM duality of Carrollian nonlinear electrodynamics. Together with the traceless condition for the energy-momentum tensor, we are able to determine the Lagrangian of the Carrollian ModMax theories among pure electrodynamics. We furthermore study their behaviors under the $$ \sqrt{T\overline{T}} $$

T

T
¯

deformation flow, and show that these theories deform to each other and may reach two endpoints under the flow, with one of the endpoint being the Carrollian Maxwell theory. As a byproduct, we construct a family of two-dimensional Carrollian ModMax-like multiple scalar theories, which are closed under the $$ \sqrt{T\overline{T}} $$

T

T
¯

flow and may flow to a BMS free multi-scalar model.
Integrability of large-charge sectors in generic 2D EFTs
Authors: Dodelson Matthew , Hellerman Simeon , Watanabe Masataka , Yamazaki Masahito
Published: August 2024

Abstract

It is shown that integrability is an accidental property of generic two-dimensional O(2)-symmetric asymptotically-free theories in the regime where the charge density is much larger than the dynamical scale. We show this by constructing an infinite tower of higher-spin conserved currents in the most generic effective Lagrangian at large chemical potential to all orders in perturbative expansion in the renormalization-group invariant coupling constant.
When strings surprise
Authors: Itzhaki Nissan , Peleg Uri
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We argue that on-shell excitations with large negative energies are created rapidly when the string coupling increases with time. This does not indicate an inconsistency in string theory since the negative energy on-shell excitation is always entangled with an on-shell excitation with a positive energy. The total energy of this energy-EPR state vanishes. We discuss the reason the energy-EPR states appear in string theory and the role they might play in black hole physics.
Millicharged particles from proton bremsstrahlung in the atmosphere
Authors: Du Mingxuan , Fang Rundong , Liu Zuowei
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Light millicharged particles can be copiously produced from meson decays in cosmic ray collisions with the atmosphere, leading to detectable signals in large underground neutrino detectors. In this paper we study a new channel for generating atmospheric millicharged particles, the proton bremsstrahlung process. We find that the proton bremsstrahlung process leads to a significantly higher flux of millicharged particles compared to meson decays and, for certain masses, results in a one-order-of-magnitude improvement in the flux. Consequently, Super-K constraints on ε2 for sub-GeV MCPs are improved by half order of magnitude. We further note that the study on the proton bremsstrahlung process can be extended to a variety of new physics particle searches in atmospheric collisions and in low energy proton accelerators.
Marginally deformed AdS5/CFT4 backgrounds in Type IIB
Authors: Merrikin Paul
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Multi-parameter families of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 0 Type IIA and Type IIB AdS5 solutions are presented, promoting to $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 in some special cases. The G-Structure description of each $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 solution is given, requiring an Abelian T-Duality of the G-Structure conditions and Pure Spinors. Investigations at the boundaries are performed for a two-parameter family of Type IIA and a three-parameter family of Type IIB solutions, finding the presence of orbifold singularities in some backgrounds. All parameters drop out of the Holographic Central Charge calculation, pointing to marginal deformations in the dual CFT description.
Superradiance in the bulk protects quantum state evolution of rapidly rotating matter on the boundary
Authors: McInnes Brett
Published: August 2024

Abstract

It has been argued that the rate at which the interior of an AdS black hole evolves is dual to the rate of evolution of the (quantum state of the) strongly coupled matter on the boundary which, according to holography, is dual to the black hole. However, we have shown elsewhere that it seems to be possible, by adjusting the specific angular momentum of an AdS5-Kerr black hole, to reduce this rate to (effectively) zero. We argue that this is unphysical, and that it is prevented by the intervention of a superradiant instability, which causes the black hole to shed angular momentum when the angular velocity exceeds a certain critical value. The precise way in which this works has recently been explained by the “grey galaxy” model of the end state, in which the angular momentum is transferred to a “galactic disc.” Thus, the black hole itself cannot sustain a specific angular momentum beyond a critical value: there is an effective upper bound. The holographic interpretation is that, beyond a certain limiting specific angular momentum, strongly coupled matter (corresponding to the black hole) will spontaneously shed angular momentum to some other, confined, form of matter (corresponding to the disc). This idea is supported by recent numerical work on ultra-vortical plasmas. Such an upper bound on specific angular momentum would prevent arbitrarily small rates of quantum state evolution on the boundary. We give a tentative discussion of the relevant observational data in the case of the vortical Quark-Gluon Plasma, and suggest a way in which such an upper bound might appear in future observations.
Boundary reparametrizations and six-point functions on the AdS2 string
Authors: Giombi Simone , Komatsu Shota , Offertaler Bendeguz , Shan Jieru
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We compute the tree-level connected six-point function of identical scalar fluctuations of the AdS2 string worldsheet dual to the half-BPS Wilson line in planar $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 Super Yang-Mills. The calculation can be carried out analytically in the conformal gauge approach, where the boundary reparametrization mode of the string plays a crucial role. We also study the analytic continuation of the six-point function to an out-of-time-order configuration, which is related to a 3-to-3 scattering amplitude in flat space. As a check of our results, we also numerically compute the six-point function using the Nambu-Goto action in static gauge, finding agreement with the conformal gauge answer.
Prähospitale Analgesie mit Nalbuphin und Paracetamol im Vergleich zu Piritramid durch Notfallsanitäter*innen – eine multizentrische Observationsstudie
Authors: Deslandes Marvin , Deicke Martin , Grannemann Julia Johanna , Hinkelbein Jochen , Hoyer Annika , Kalmbach Matthias , Kobiella André , Strickmann Bernd , Plappert Thomas , Jansen Gerrit
Published: August 2024

Fragestellung

Angesichts der Änderungen des Betäubungsmittelgesetzes untersucht die vorliegende Arbeit die prähospitale Analgesie durch Notfallsanitäter*innen mittels Piritramid vs. Nalbuphin + Paracetamol.

Material und Methode

Alle prähospitalen Analgesien durch Notfallsanitäter*innen der Rettungsdienste der Kreise Fulda (Piritramid) sowie Gütersloh (Nalbuphin + Paracetamol) wurden im Hinblick auf die Schmerzstärke anhand der Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) zu Einsatzbeginn und -ende sowie die aufgetretenen Komplikationen ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt wurden 2429 Analgesien ausgewertet (Nalbuphin + Paracetamol: 1635 (67,3 %), NRS-initial: 8,0 ± 1,4, NRS-Einsatzende: 3,7 ± 2,0; Piritramid: 794 (32,7 %), NRS-initial: 8,5 ± 1,1, NRS-Einsatzende: 4,5 ± 1,6). Faktoren mit Einfluss auf eine NRS-Veränderung waren: initiale NRS (Regressionskoeffizient (RK): 0,7075, 95 %-Konfidenzintervall (95 %-KI): 0,6503–0,7647, p < 0,001) sowie Therapie mit Nalbuphin + Paracetamol (RK: 0,6048, 95 %-KI: 0,4396–0,7700, p < 0,001). Die Therapie mit Nalbuphin + Paracetamol (n = 796 (48,7 %)) im Vergleich zu Piritramid (n = 190 (23,9 %)) erhöhte die Chancen, eine NRS < 4 am Einsatzende aufzuweisen (Odds Ratio (OR): 2,712, 95 %-KI: 2,227–3,303, p < 0,001). Komplikationen traten bei Therapie mit Piritramid bei n = 44 (5,5 %) und bei Nalbuphin + Paracetamol bei n = 35 (2,1 %) auf. Risikofaktoren für Komplikationen waren Analgesie mit Piritramid (OR: 2,699, 95 %-KI: 1,693–4,301, p < 0,001), weibliches Geschlecht (OR: 2,372, 95 %-KI: 1,396–4,029, p = 0,0014) sowie das Lebensalter (OR: 1,013, 95 %-KI: 1,002–1,025, p = 0,0232).

Diskussion

Im Vergleich mit Piritramid weist die prähospitale Analgesie mit Nalbuphin + Paracetamol günstige Effekte im Hinblick auf analgetische Effektivität und Komplikationsraten auf und sollte in zukünftigen Empfehlungen für Notfallsanitäter*innen berücksichtigt werden.
Comparative renal outcomes of matched cohorts of patients with type 2 diabetes receiving SGLT2 inhibitors or GLP-1 receptor agonists under routine care
Authors: Fadini Gian Paolo , Longato Enrico , Morieri Mario Luca , Bonora Enzo , Consoli Agostino , Fattor Bruno , Rigato Mauro , Turchi Federica , Del Prato Stefano , Avogaro Angelo , Solini Anna ,   on behalf of DARWIN-Renal Study Investigators
Published: August 2024

Aims/hypothesis

We compared the effects of sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) on renal outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes, focusing on the changes in eGFR and albuminuria.

Methods

This was a multicentre retrospective observational study on new users of diabetes medications. Participant characteristics were assessed before and after propensity score matching. The primary endpoint, change in eGFR, was analysed using mixed-effects models. Secondary endpoints included categorical eGFR-based outcomes and changes in albuminuria. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed to assess robustness of the findings.

Results

After matching, 5701 participants/group were included. Participants were predominantly male, aged 61 years, with a 10 year duration of diabetes, a baseline HbA1c of 64 mmol/mol (8.0%) and BMI of 33 kg/m2. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was present in 23% of participants. During a median of 2.1 years, from a baseline of 87 ml/min per 1.73 m2, eGFR remained higher in the SGLT2i group compared with the GLP-1RA group throughout the observation period by 1.2 ml/min per 1.73 m2. No differences were detected in albuminuria change. The SGLT2i group exhibited lower rates of worsening CKD class and favourable changes in BP compared with the GLP-1RA group, despite lesser HbA1c decline. SGLT2i also reduced eGFR decline better than GLP-1RA in participants without baseline CKD.

Conclusions/interpretation

In individuals with type 2 diabetes, treatment with SGLT2i was associated with better preservation of renal function compared with GLP-1RA, as evidenced by slower decline in eGFR. These findings reinforce SGLT2i as preferred agents for renal protection in this patient population.

Graphical Abstract
Identifying emotions in earthquake tweets
Authors: Anthony Patricia , Hoi Ki Wong Jennifer , Joyce Zita
Published: August 2024

Christchurch, New Zealand experienced devastating earthquakes on September 4, 2010, and February 22, 2011, resulting in extensive infrastructural damage and leaving lasting psychological scars of fear, depression, shock, and anger among the local population. Even after thirteen years, the aftermath of these earthquakes continues to deeply affect these individuals, as they grapple with enduring emotional challenges. Social media, particularly X (formerly Twitter), has emerged as a prominent platform for individuals to express their emotions, and during earthquake occurrences, people turn to Twitter to share their feelings in real-time. This study focuses on examining the emotional patterns exhibited in “earthquake tweets” posted by individuals affected by the Christchurch earthquakes between 2010 and 2019. We utilise machine learning techniques to classify these tweets into six classes of emotions of anger, fear, grateful, humour, sympathy and worry. The analysis shows a progressive increase in the percentage of tweets expressing fear and worry over the years. This finding indicates that the community continues to experience a heightened sense of fear and worry whenever earthquakes occur.
An improved peridynamics topology optimization formulation for compliance minimization
Authors: Vieira Francisco S. , Araújo Aurélio L.
Published: August 2024

This work proposes an improved peridynamics density-based topology optimization framework for compliance minimization. One of the main advantages of using a peridynamics discretization relies in the fact that it provides a consistent regularization of classical continuum mechanics into a nonlocal continuum, thus containing an inherent length scale called the horizon. Furthermore, this reformulation allows for discontinuities and is highly suitable for treating fracture and crack propagation. Partial differential equations are rewritten as integrodifferential equations and its numerical implementation can be straightforwardly done using meshfree collocation, inheriting its advantages. In the optimization formulation, Solid Isotropic Material with Penalization (SIMP) is used as interpolation for the design variables. To improve the peridynamic formulation and to evaluate the objective function in a energetically consistent manner, surface correction is implemented. Moreover, a detailed sensitivity analysis reveals an analytical expression for the objective function derivatives, different from an expression commonly used in the literature, providing an important basis for gradient-based topology optimization with peridynamics. The proposed implementation is studied with two examples illustrating different characteristics of this framework. The analytical expression for the sensitivities is validated against a reference solution, providing an improvement over the referred expression in the literature. Also, the effect of using the surface correction is evidenced. An extensive analysis of the horizon size and sensitivity filter radius indicates that the current method is mesh-independent, i.e. a sensitivity filter is redundant since peridynamics intrinsically filters length scales with the horizon. Different optimization methods are also tested for uncracked and cracked structures, demonstrating the capabilities and robustness of the proposed framework.
Quantitative Disorder Effects in Low-Dimensional Spin Systems
Authors: Dario Paul , Harel Matan , Peled Ron
Published: August 2024

The Imry–Ma phenomenon, predicted in 1975 by Imry and Ma and rigorously established in 1989 by Aizenman and Wehr, states that first-order phase transitions of low-dimensional spin systems are ‘rounded’ by the addition of a quenched random field coupled to the quantity undergoing the transition. The phenomenon applies to a wide class of spin systems in dimensions $$d\le 2$$

d
≤
2

and to spin systems possessing a continuous symmetry in dimensions $$d\le 4$$

d
≤
4

. This work provides quantitative estimates for the Imry–Ma phenomenon: in a cubic domain of side length L, we study the effect of the boundary conditions on the spatial and thermal average of the quantity coupled to the random field. We show that the boundary effect diminishes at least as fast as an inverse power of $$\log \log L$$

log
log
L

in general two-dimensional spin systems. For systems possessing a continuous symmetry, we show that the boundary effect diminishes at least as fast as an inverse power of L in two and three dimensions and at least as fast as an inverse power of $$\log \log L$$

log
log
L

in four dimensions. Finally, we establish a partial uniqueness results for translation-covariant Gibbs states, and prove that, for almost every realization of the random field, all such states must agree on the thermally-averaged value of the quantity coupled to the random field. Specific models of interest for the obtained results include the random-field q-state Potts model, the Edwards-Anderson spin glass model, and the random-field spin O(n) models.
Inverse Reduction for Hook-Type W-Algebras
Authors: Fehily Zachary
Published: August 2024

Originating in the work of A.M. Semikhatov and D. Adamović, inverse reductions are embeddings involving W-algebras corresponding to the same Lie algebra but different nilpotent orbits. Here, we show that an inverse reduction embedding between the affine $$\mathfrak {sl}_{n+1}$$

sl

n
+
1

vertex operator algebra and the minimal $$\mathfrak {sl}_{n+1}$$

sl

n
+
1

W-algebra exists. This generalises the realisations for $$n=1,2$$

n
=
1
,
2

in Adamović (Commun Math Phys 366:1025–1067, 2019), Adamović (Math Ann 1–44, 2023). A similar argument is then used to show that inverse reduction embeddings exists between all hook-type $$\mathfrak {sl}_{n+1}$$

sl

n
+
1

W-algebras, which includes the principal/regular, subregular, minimal $$\mathfrak {sl}_{n+1}$$

sl

n
+
1

W-algebras, and the affine $$\mathfrak {sl}_{n+1}$$

sl

n
+
1

vertex operator algebra. This generalises the regular-to-subregular inverse reduction of Fehily (Commun Contemp Math 2250049, 2022), and similarly uses free-field realisations and their associated screening operators.
Back-to-back bleaching events in Peninsular Malaysia (2019–2020) selectively affect hard coral taxa across- and within-reef scales
Authors: Szereday Sebastian , Voolstra Christian R. , Amri Affendi Y.
Published: August 2024

The impacts of (repeat) bleaching events and the differential heat stress susceptibility of hard coral taxa are largely unknown in Malaysia, although it is part of the greater coral triangle. Here we determined bleaching trajectories of 46 hard coral taxa across- and within-reef scales based on data recorded during the first reported back-to-back coral bleaching occurrences in Malaysia between May 2019 and September 2020. Although the severity of coral bleaching in both years did not correspond to the rather small magnitude of heat stress observed, i.e., Degree Heating Weeks (DHW) of 1.05 °C-weeks and 0 °C-weeks in 2019 and 2020 respectively, we observed high levels of bleaching (55.21% and 26.63% of all surveyed colonies in 2019 and 2020, respectively). Notably, the bleaching response for both consecutive years was highly taxon-specific and significantly varied across- and within-reef scales. Mortality rates overall were low following the 2019 event, likely due to a rapid decrease in heat stress. Five of the 46 surveyed hard coral taxa exhibited more severe bleaching in 2020, despite a lower heat stress load. Interestingly, we observed low bleaching of ascribed susceptible taxa such as Acropora and Montipora, while we found taxa considered to be resilient, e.g. Heliopora and Porites, to exhibit severe bleaching, suggesting a reversal of bleaching hierarchies of taxa over time. Our findings provide a foundation for further coral bleaching studies in a region with few published records to enable more accurate regional assessments and to follow the trajectory of future coral bleaching events.
Does two dimensional templating allow for the use of reduced-size ancillaries in total hip arthroplasty?
Authors: Heliere Gregoire , David Guillaume , Cypel Sarah , Steiger Vincent , Ducellier Florian , Rony Louis
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Rising costs in healthcare for total hip arthroplasty (THA) mean that new solutions must be considered, such as the use of single-use ancillaries (SUA). The goal of this study was to assess the accuracy of 2D templating in primary THA for the use of reduced-size SUA. Our hypothesis was that the accuracy of 2D templating in primary THA would be higher than 95%, give or take two sizes.

Method

This single-centre prospective study included all primary THAs performed over two years. Templating was carried out using 2D templating on anteroposterior pelvic X-rays. The template sizes were compared to the implant sizes. The primary endpoint was the rate of coincidence between digitally templated estimates and the actual implant sizes. The secondary endpoint was the difference of accuracy based on patient parameters.

Results

We analysed 512 cases of THA. Accuracy within two sizes was 96.9% for acetabular implants and 98.5% for femoral implants. Accuracy was below the 95% threshold only in patients under 55 and over 85 years old. A BMI above 30.0 kg/m2 significantly reduced accuracy but did not fall below the 95% threshold. The operated hip, the type of implant, and the operative indication did not significantly influence templating accuracy.

Conclusion

Using reduced-size SUA with five rasps and five reamers depending on template sizes means that THA can be performed in more than 95% of cases allowing the use of compact single use ancillaries.
Implications of coronary calcification on the assessment of plaque pathology: a comparison of computed tomography and multimodality intravascular imaging
Authors: Yap Nathan Angelo Lecaros , Ramasamy Anantharaman , Tanboga Ibrahim Halil , He Xingwei , Cap Murat , Bajaj Retesh , Karaduman Medeni , Jain Ajay , Kitslaar Pieter , Broersen Alexander , Zhang Xiaotong , Sokooti Hessam , Reiber Johan H. C. , Dijkstra Jouke , Ozkor Mick , Serruys Patrick W. , Moon James C. , Mathur Anthony , Baumbach Andreas , Torii Ryo , Pugliese Francesca , Bourantas Christos V.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the impact of calcific (Ca) on the efficacy of coronary computed coronary angiography (CTA) in evaluating plaque burden (PB) and composition with near-infrared spectroscopy-intravascular ultrasound (NIRS-IVUS) serving as the reference standard.

Materials and methods

Sixty-four patients (186 vessels) were recruited and underwent CTA and 3-vessel NIRS-IVUS imaging (NCT03556644). Expert analysts matched and annotated NIRS-IVUS and CTA frames, identifying lumen and vessel wall borders. Tissue distribution was estimated using NIRS chemograms and the arc of Ca on IVUS, while in CTA Hounsfield unit cut-offs were utilized to establish plaque composition. Plaque distribution plots were compared at segment-, lesion-, and cross-sectional-levels.

Results

Segment- and lesion-level analysis showed no effect of Ca on the correlation of NIRS-IVUS and CTA estimations. However, at the cross-sectional level, Ca influenced the agreement between NIRS-IVUS and CTA for the lipid and Ca components (p-heterogeneity < 0.001). Proportional odds model analysis revealed that Ca had an impact on the per cent atheroma volume quantification on CTA compared to NIRS-IVUS at the segment level (p-interaction < 0.001). At lesion level, Ca affected differences between the modalities for maximum PB, remodelling index, and Ca burden (p-interaction < 0.001, 0.029, and 0.002, respectively). Cross-sectional-level modelling demonstrated Ca’s effect on differences between modalities for all studied variables (p-interaction ≤ 0.002).

Conclusion

Ca burden influences agreement between NIRS-IVUS and CTA at the cross-sectional level and causes discrepancies between the predictions for per cent atheroma volume at the segment level and maximum PB, remodelling index, and Ca burden at lesion-level analysis.

Clinical relevance statement

Coronary calcification affects the quantification of lumen and plaque dimensions and the characterization of plaque composition coronary CTA. This should be considered in the analysis and interpretation of CTAs performed in patients with extensive Ca burden.

Key Points

Coronary CT Angiography is limited in assessing coronary plaques by resolution and blooming artefacts.

Agreement between dual-source CT angiography and NIRS-IVUS is affected by a Ca burden for the per cent atheroma volume.

Advanced CT imaging systems that eliminate blooming artefacts enable more accurate quantification of coronary artery disease and characterisation of plaque morphology.
Ultrashort-pulse-laser ablation of freestanding dielectric thin films
Authors: Sneftrup Peter S. , Hansen John L. , Balslev Signe G. , Balling Peter
Published: August 2024

Ultrashort-pulse-laser ablation of dielectric thin films is strongly affected by the interference of the exciting laser pulse with itself, which causes the deposited energy to be confined to narrow regions equidistantly spaced along the propagation direction of the laser. We investigate how this affects the ablation mechanism of freestanding $$\hbox {Al}_2\hbox {O}_3$$

Al
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O
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thin films by analyzing the laser-generated structures with several post-mortem imaging and spectroscopic techniques. Close to the ablation threshold, the laser-irradiated region exhibits surface blistering. Higher intensities cause layers of material to be removed corresponding to ejection of material initiated from the regions of high excitation. Significantly above the ablation threshold, the laser-generated structure is remarkably stable and consists of a membrane of thickness corresponding to the distance between neighboring interference maxima, which is uniquely determined by the central wavelength of the laser pulse and the refractive index of the film. The electronic excitation as a function of depth is simulated using a multiple-rate-equation model in combination with finite-difference-time-domain propagation of the laser field. The simulations confirm the strongly localized excitation and thus correlate well with the observed laser-generated structures.
Pediatric-onset Multiple Sclerosis treatment: a multicentre observational study comparing natalizumab with fingolimod
Authors: Carotenuto Antonio , Di Monaco Cristina , Papetti Laura , Borriello Giovanna , Signoriello Elisabetta , Masciulli Camilla , Tomassini Valentina , De Luca Giovanna , Ianniello Antonio , Lus Giacomo , Novarella Federica , Spiezia Antonio Luca , Di Somma Dario , Moccia Marcello , Petracca Maria , Iacovazzo Carmine , Servillo Giuseppe , Portaccio Emilio , Triassi Maria , Amato Maria Pia , Pozzilli Carlo , Valeriani Massimiliano , Brescia Morra Vincenzo , Lanzillo Roberta
Published: August 2024

Background

Pediatric-onset Multiple Sclerosis (POMS) patients show more inflammatory disease compared with adult-onset MS. However, highly effective treatments are limited with only fingolimod being approved in Italy and natalizumab prescribed as off-label treatment.

Objectives

to compare the efficacy of natalizumab versus fingolimod in POMS.

Methods

This is an observational longitudinal multicentre study including natalizumab- and fingolimod-treated POMS patients (N-POMS and F-POMS, respectively). We collected Annual Relapse Rate (ARR), Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Symbol Digit Modality Test (SDMT), and MRI activity at baseline (T0), 12–18 months (T1), and last available observation (T2).

Results

We enrolled 57 N-POMS and 27 F-POMS patients from six Italian MS Centres. At T0, N-POMS patients showed higher ARR (p = 0.03), higher EDSS (p = 0.003) and lower SDMT (p = 0.04) at baseline compared with F-POMS. Between T0 and T1 ARR improved for both N-POMS and F-POMS (p < 0.001), while EDSS (p < 0.001) and SDMT (p = 0.03) improved only for N-POMS. At T2 (66.1 ± 55.4 months) we collected data from 42 out of 57 N-POMS patients showing no further ARR decrease.

Conclusion

Both natalizumab and fingolimod showed high and sustained efficacy in controlling relapses and natalizumab also associated to a disability decrease in POMS. This latter effect might be partly mediated by the high inflammatory activity at baseline in N-POMS.
A multidimensional gender analysis of health technology self-efficacy among people with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Göttgens Irene , Darweesh Sirwan K. L. , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Oertelt-Prigione Sabine
Published: August 2024

Background

Digital health technologies (DHT) enable self-tracking of bio-behavioral states and pharmacotherapy outcomes in various diseases. However, the role of gender, encompassing social roles, expectations, and relations, is often overlooked in their adoption and use. This study addresses this issue for persons with Parkinson’s disease (PD), where DHT hold promise for remote evaluations.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey study in the Netherlands, assessing the impact of gender identity, roles, and relations on health technology self-efficacy (HTSE) and attitude (HTA). An intersectional gender analysis was applied to explore how gender intersects with education, employment, disease duration, and severity in influencing HTSE and HTA.

Results

Among 313 participants (40% women), no significant correlation was found between gender identity or relations and HTSE or HTA. However, individuals with an androgynous (non-binary) gender role orientation demonstrated better HTSE and HTA. The exploratory intersectional analysis suggested that sociodemographic and clinical factors might affect the influence of gender role orientations on HTSE and HTA, indicating complex and nuanced interactions.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of investigating gender as a multidimensional variable in PD research on health technology adoption and use. Considering gender as a behavioral construct, such as through gender roles and norms, shows more significant associations with HTSE and HTA, although effect sized were generally small. The impact of gender dimensions on these outcomes can be compounded by intersecting social and disease-specific factors. Future studies should consider multiple gender dimensions and intersecting factors to fully understand their combined effects on technology uptake and use among people with PD.