bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Quantum Annealing Architectures: A Spin Glass Perspective
Authors: Jaumà Gabriel , García‐Ripoll Juan José , Pino Manuel
Published: March 2024

This work analyzes the spin‐glass transition across various Ising models relevant to quantum annealers. By employing the parallel tempering method, the location of the spin‐glass phase transition is extrapolated from the pseudo‐critical temperature of finite‐sized systems. The results confirm a spin‐glass phase at finite temperature in random‐regular and small‐world graphs, in agreement with previous studies. However, strong evidence is obtained that this phase only occurs at zero temperature in the quasi‐2D graphs of D‐Wave, as their pseudo‐critical temperature drifts toward zero. This implies that the asymptotic runtime to find the low‐energy configuration of those graphs is likely to be polynomial in the size of the problem. Nevertheless, this scaling may only be reached for system sizes much larger than existing annealers, as the drift in the pseudo‐critical temperature is slow. This slowness, together with an abrupt increase in thermalization times around the pseudo‐critical temperature, may render the search for low‐energy configurations with classical methods impractical.
Prescribed‐time global stabilization for MIMO nonlinear systems with a linear time‐varying control mechanism
Authors: Zhang Wenli , Liu Xiaoping , Jing Yuanwei
Published: March 2024

In this article, the prescribed‐time global stabilization problem is taken into consideration when it comes to multi‐input‐multi‐output (MIMO) systems with unknown mismatched coupling nonlinear items. It is assumed that the unknown nonlinearities satisfy the linear growth conditions. First, a class of MIMO coupling nonlinear systems with controllable canonical form are considered. Then, by wielding a time‐varying Lyapunov‐like function and properties of parametric Lyapunov equations, a high‐gain linear time‐varying state feedback control law is developed to attenuate the impact of unknown nonlinear terms. Meanwhile, all state signals and control inputs are globally bounded and the target system becomes stable within the prescribed‐time. Finally, the simulation results on an example system with 3 inputs and 11 state variables verify that the developed control mechanism accomplishes the goal of global stabilization in the pre‐defined time.
Convenient One‐Pot Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of New 3,5‐Dimethyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐1‐carbothiohydrazide Derivatives as Anti‐Tumor Agents
Authors: Fouad Marwa M. , Elaasser Mahmoud M.
Published: March 2024

Pyrazole compounds have garnered attention due to their potential biological and medicinal qualities. Therefore, the purpose of the research being described is to utilize 3,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐1‐carbothiohydrazide (1) as a starting material in a one‐pot synthesis to create novel pyrazole derivatives with potential biological applications. When either ethanol or acetic acid was added, components 1 and 1,3‐diphenylpropane‐1,3‐dione (2) reacted to produce derivative 3. Compound 1, when combined with ethanol, chemical 2, or acetyl acetone 5 and triethylamine, yielded chemicals 4 and 6 respectively. When ingredient 1 was mixed with ethyl cyanoacetate (7), stearic acid (10), or carboxylic acids 12 a–c, 9, 11, and 13 a–c were formed as a result. The equivalent 1,3,4‐thiadiazine derivatives, 15 and 17, were produced when 1 was mixed with either 14 or 16. The developed compounds′ cytotoxic properties were evaluated against lung and liver cancer. Our research identified a number of interesting bioactive chemicals, among which chemical 17 exhibited the greatest effectiveness against lung and liver cancer as well as the highest selectivity index measurements. It indicated a strong IC50 value of 5.35 and 8.74 μM, accordingly, when compared with 3.78 and 6.39 μM for the reference medication cisplatin. Additionally, its safety for use has been confirmed.
Photothermal Conversion Porous Organic Polymers: Design, Synthesis, and Applications
Authors: Shi Yu , Wang Yuzhu , Meng Nan , Liao Yaozu
Published: March 2024

Solar energy is a primary form of renewable energy, and photothermal conversion is a direct conversion process with tunable conversion efficiency. Among various kinds of photothermal conversion materials, porous organic polymers (POP) are widely investigated owing to their controllable molecular design, tailored porous structures, good absorption of solar light, and low thermal conductivity. A variety of POP, such as conjugated microporous polymers (CMP), covalent organic frameworks (COF), hyper‐crosslinked porous polymers (HCP), polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIM), porous ionic polymers (PIP), are developed and applied in photothermal conversion applications of seawater desalination, latent energy storage, and biomedical fields. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in POP for photothermal conversion is provided. The micro molecular structure characteristics and macro morphology of POP are designed for applications such as seawater desalination, latent heat energy storage, phototherapy and photodynamic therapy, and drug delivery. Besides, a probe into the underlying mechanism of structural design for constructing POP with excellent photothermal conversion performance is methodicalized. Finally, the remaining challenges and prospective opportunities for the future development of POP for solar energy‐driven photothermal conversion applications are elucidated.
First occurrence of family Clavatoraceae (fossil Charophyta) in the Middle Jurassic (Bathonian) of France
Authors: Trabelsi Khaled , Sames Benjamin , Martín‐Closas Carles
Published: March 2024

A rich and diverse charophyte flora is described from the Bathonian marginal marine beds of southern France. It includes nine species that belong to the families Porocharaceae, Characeae and Clavatoraceae: Porochara gr. fusca, P. gr. kimmeridgensis subgr. kimmeridgensis, P. gr. kimmeridgensis subgr. westerbeckensis, P. gr. kimmeridgensis subgr. douzensis, P. gr. kimmeridgensis subgr. obovata, Auerbachichara saidakovskyi, A. tataouinensis, Aclistochara mädleri and Echinochara cf. peckii. This is the most diverse Middle Jurassic flora reported from France and Laurasia to date, elucidating a turnover in the evolution of charophytes during this time interval. The occurrence of the clavatoracean Echinochara cf. peckii in these Bathonian deposits represents the oldest record of the genus and of the whole family, c. 10 myr older than previous records. This species is considered to be the most basal species in the phylogeny of Clavatoraceae and during its evolutionary history reached a wide biogeographical range in Laurasia. The new Bathonian charophyte assemblage from southern France provides supplementary evidence that the Middle Jurassic was a reactivation pulse in the Mesozoic evolution of charophytes, rather than a stasis as previously thought. Moreover, it provides further support to the hypothesis that during the Late Jurassic and Early Cretaceous the islands of the Cretaceous Tethyan Archipelago represented one of the most active spots of charophyte diversity.
Optimization of Microwave Assisted Aqueous Two‐Phase Extraction of Polysaccharides from Malus hupehensis and Evaluation Its Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Xue Hongkun , Gao Yuchao , Qiu Haoyu , Sang Yumei , Liao Jianqing , Tan Jiaqi
Published: March 2024

The two models of microwave assisted aqueous two‐phase extraction (MATPE) of polysaccharides from Malus hupehensis are established by response surface methodology (RSM) and back propagation neural network (BP‐NN), compared their prediction ability, and comparatively optimized extraction process by using RSM and BP‐NN coupled genetic algorithm (GA), and the antioxidant activity of M. hupehensis polysaccharides (MHPs) is evaluated by the scavenging ability of free radicals. The results show that the predictive ability of BP‐NN is significantly better than that of RSM. The optimal extraction parameters to achieve the highest MHPs yield (4.71 ± 0.04)% by MATPE are obtained through BP‐NN coupled GA method under the microwave power of 337 W, mass fraction of ammonium sulfate of 23%, ethanol concentration of 29%, and liquid‐to‐solid ratio of 22 mL g−1. The IC50 values of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydroxyl radicals (OH) scavenging capacities for MHPs achieve 5.13 and 3.29 mg mL−1, respectively. The findings provide important references for the development and utilization of M. hupehensis.
Prediction on wind‐induced responses for tall buildings considering frequency dependency of viscoelastic damped structures
Authors: Sato Daiki , Chang Ting‐Wei
Published: March 2024

Time history analysis is sometimes used in an estimation of the wind‐induced response of a tall building. However, time history analysis for the wind‐induced behavior by the ensemble‐averaging wind force costs much computation time. This paper provides a reliable prediction method for the wind‐induced response of the viscoelastic (VE)‐damped system considering its frequency dependency coupling with frame damping effect with frequency spectral method. VE damper used in high‐rise buildings can dissipate energy from excessive vibration induced by seismic or wind excitation. Fractional derivative (FD) model of VE dampers can express VE frequency dependency clearly, but it is computationally complicated. The herein proposed prediction method is based on frequency spectral method and evaluated wind‐induced responses of the single degree of freedom (SDOF) VE‐damped system with a FD VE damper subjected to the respective 1st modal along‐ and across‐wind force. The maximum error of wind‐induced responses of the VE‐damped system, such as the root mean square value of responses, the total input energy, and the total energy dissipation, is within
. In summary, the proposed method had high accuracy in the prediction of wind‐induced responses of the VE‐damped system considering its frequency dependency with the coupling effect of frame damping.
Conference report: Fourth annual young researcher forum of the Japan Society of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences for Traditional Medicine
Authors: Yoshino Tetsuhiro , Sakoda Ryota , Nishihara Masakazu , Okayama Masaya , Muraoka Takuya , Yang Ximeng , Ando Hirokazu , Nakashima Souichi
Published: March 2024

Four young researchers presented their studies in the field of traditional Japanese herbal medicine (Wakan‐yaku) at the Fourth Annual Young Researcher Forum held the day before the 2023 annual meeting of the Japan Society of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences for Traditional Medicine. Mr Sakoda outlined his research plan, emphasizing the potential of yokukansan to enhance palliative care for cancer patients. Meanwhile, Ms Tanide and Mr Nishihara explored the correlation among component contents in Coptis japonica on Sado Island. Additionally, Mr Okayama presented his study, focusing on the use of Sinomenium acutum‐derived compounds to inhibit the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway and eradicate cancer stem cells. Finally, Mr Muraoka shared insights from his research on the inhibitory properties of Cassia obtusifolia sprout components. The event, conducted both in person and online, attracted a total of 58 participants. Looking ahead, we aim to further develop and continue hosting this forum in 2024 and beyond, fostering the advancement of research in this field.
TDiff in the dark: gravity with a scalar field invariant under transverse diffeomorphisms
Authors: Jaramillo-Garrido Darío , Maroto Antonio L. , Martín-Moruno Prado
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We reflect on the possibility of having a matter action that is invariant only under transverse diffeomorphisms. This possibility is particularly interesting for the dark sector, where no restrictions arise based on the weak equivalence principle. In order to implement this idea we consider a scalar field which couples to gravity minimally but via arbitrary functions of the metric determinant. We show that the energy-momentum tensor of the scalar field takes the perfect fluid form when its velocity vector is time-like. We analyze the conservation of this tensor in detail, obtaining a seminal novel result for the energy density of this field in the kinetic dominated regime. Indeed, in this regime the fluid is always adiabatic and we obtain an explicit expression for the speed of sound. Furthermore, to get insight in the gravitational properties of these theories, we consider the fulfillment of the energy conditions, concluding that nontrivial physically reasonable matter violates the strong energy condition in the potential domination regime. On the other hand, we present some shift-symmetric models of particular interest. These are: constant equation of state models (which may provide us with a successful description of dark matter or dark radiation) and models presenting different gravitational domains (characterized by the focusing or possible defocusing of time-like geodesics), as it happens in unified dark matter-energy models.
On the Local Existence of Solutions to the compressible Navier–Stokes-Wave System with a Free Interface
Authors: Kukavica Igor , Li Linfeng , Tuffaha Amjad
Published: March 2024

We address a system of equations modeling a compressible fluid interacting with an elastic body in dimension three. We prove the local existence and uniqueness of a strong solution when the initial velocity belongs to the space $$H^{2+\epsilon }$$

H

2
+
ϵ

and the initial structure velocity is in $$H^{1.5+\epsilon }$$

H

1.5
+
ϵ

, where $$\epsilon \in (0,1/2)$$

ϵ
∈
(
0
,
1
/
2
)

.
A nonlocal Lagrangian traffic flow model and the zero-filter limit
Authors: Coclite G. M. , Karlsen K. H. , Risebro N. H.
Published: March 2024

In this study, we start from a Follow-the-Leaders model for traffic flow that is based on a weighted harmonic mean (in Lagrangian coordinates) of the downstream car density. This results in a nonlocal Lagrangian partial differential equation (PDE) model for traffic flow. We demonstrate the well-posedness of the Lagrangian model in the $$L^1$$

L
1

sense. Additionally, we rigorously show that our model coincides with the Lagrangian formulation of the local LWR model in the “zero-filter” (nonlocal-to-local) limit. We present numerical simulations of the new model. One significant advantage of the proposed model is that it allows for simple proofs of (i) estimates that do not depend on the “filter size” and (ii) the dissipation of an arbitrary convex entropy.
Numerical solution of fractional PDEs through wavelet approach
Authors: Yan Li , Kumbinarasaiah S. , Manohara G. , Baskonus Haci Mehmet , Cattani Carlo
Published: March 2024

To solve fractional partial differential equations (FPDEs) under various physical conditions, this study developed a novel method known as the Hermite wavelet method employing the functional integration matrix. The method that has been suggested is based on the Hermite wavelet collocation process. To determine the solution of the fractional differential equations, the Caputo fractional derivative operator of order $$\alpha \in (0,1]$$

α
∈
(
0
,
1
]

is used. With the use of appropriate grid points, this method converts FPDEs into a system of nonlinear algebraic equations. We achieve a solution by solving these nonlinear algebraic equations by the Newton–Raphson method. Tables and graphs show that the suggested method produces superior results. We provide various illustrative examples to establish the effectiveness of the suggested concept, and the outcomes support the applicability of the suggested strategy. Obtained results are numerically expressed in terms of absolute errors. Finally, convergence analyses are discussed as some theorem with proof.
Temporal teacher with masked transformers for semi-supervised action proposal generation
Authors: Pehlivan Selen , Laaksonen Jorma
Published: March 2024

By conditioning on unit-level predictions, anchor-free models for action proposal generation have displayed impressive capabilities, such as having a lightweight architecture. However, task performance depends significantly on the quality of data used in training, and most effective models have relied on human-annotated data. Semi-supervised learning, i.e., jointly training deep neural networks with a labeled dataset as well as an unlabeled dataset, has made significant progress recently. Existing works have either primarily focused on classification tasks, which may require less annotation effort, or considered anchor-based detection models. Inspired by recent advances in semi-supervised methods on anchor-free object detectors, we propose a teacher-student framework for a two-stage action detection pipeline, named Temporal Teacher with Masked Transformers (TTMT), to generate high-quality action proposals based on an anchor-free transformer model. Leveraging consistency learning as one self-training technique, the model jointly trains an anchor-free student model and a gradually progressing teacher counterpart in a mutually beneficial manner. As the core model, we design a Transformer-based anchor-free model to improve effectiveness for temporal evaluation. We integrate bi-directional masks and devise encoder-only Masked Transformers for sequences. Jointly training on boundary locations and various local snippet-based features, our model predicts via the proposed scoring function for generating proposal candidates. Experiments on the THUMOS14 and ActivityNet-1.3 benchmarks demonstrate the effectiveness of our model for temporal proposal generation task.
Global liquidity spillovers in the Asia–Pacific region: policy-driven versus market-driven effects
Authors: Le Chau , Nguyen Huyen , Vo Duc
Published: March 2024

This research investigates the spillovers of global liquidity to Asia–Pacific countries, focusing on the contradictory effects of policy-driven liquidity created by monetary stances in advanced economies and market-driven liquidity generated by the private banking sector. Our findings stand in sharp contrast to previous studies, showing that shifts in macro-financial indicators in Asia–Pacific economies are predominantly influenced by market-driven shocks rather than those of policy-driven liquidity. Specifically, liquidity shocks associated with surges in cross-border credit flows, especially those denominated in US dollars, drive up asset prices and have boosting effects on inflation and economic output. A positive shock to market liquidity also results in an appreciation pressure on domestic currencies and a short-term rise in interest rates. However, excess liquidity shocks caused by the Bank of Japan’s adjustments in shadow short rates and balance sheets have a negative effect on inflation and bring about temporary depreciation pressure on Asian currencies. Surprisingly, we find that Asian responses to financial easing associated with the Fed’s monetary policy change are not well-pronounced.
Efficient equilibria in common interest voting games
Authors: Kawamura Kohei , Vlaseros Vasileios
Published: March 2024

We develop a unified derivation of asymmetric pure strategy equilibria and their optimality in the canonical common interest voting model of Austen-Smith and Banks (Am Polit Sci Rev 90(1):34–45, 1996). We also study the relationship between the most efficient equilibria, which have a remarkably simple and intuitive structure, and the symmetric mixed strategy equilibrium that has been commonly studied in the literature. In particular, while the efficiency in the symmetric mixed strategy equilibrium under unanimity rule is known to be decreasing in the number of voters, the efficiency does not depend on the number of voters above a threshold in the most efficient equilibria.
Acellular dermal matrix in direct-to-implant breast reconstruction: univariate and multivariate analysis on potential risk factors
Authors: Hansen Laura , Paulsen Jakob Felbo , Hemmingsen Mathilde Nejrup , Herly Mikkel , Bredgaard Rikke , Gramkow Christina S. , Vester-Glowinski Peter Viktor
Published: March 2024

Background

Acellular dermal matrices (ADM) are widely used in direct-to-implant breast reconstruction and were introduced as part of the implant-based breast reconstruction within the previous decade. This study presents clinical outcomes of ADM-assisted direct-to-implant breast reconstruction and evaluates the most frequent and severe postoperative complications.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent ADM-assisted submuscular direct-to-implant breast reconstruction from March 2013 to February 2017 at the University Hospital Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet. All postoperative complications were classified using the Clavien Dindo classification of surgical complications. We used univariate and multivariate analyses with Fisher’s exact test and multiple logistic regression to determine potential risk factors.

Results

A total of 102 breast reconstructions were carried out in the inclusion period. The incidence rate of severe skin flap necrosis and surgical site infection was 6% and 4%, respectively. The total rate of skin flap necrosis was 14.7%, surgical site infection 11.8%, rotation of anatomical implants 4.90%, seroma 3.92%, dynamic breast deformity 1.96% and hematoma 1.96%. No patients suffered from red breast syndrome or capsular contracture. Total explantation rate was 4.90%. The median follow-up period was 32 months.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates an acceptable rate of explantation in ADM-assisted direct-to-implant breast reconstruction. We found that skin flap necrosis and surgical site infection were the most frequently occurring complications with low rates of severe cases. However, there is a need for larger, controlled studies to further explore the impact of patient and surgery related risk factors.

Level of evidence

Level III, Risk/Prognostic.
Adaptive responses of erythritol-producing Yarrowia lipolytica to thermal stress after evolution
Authors: Xia Kai , Chen Yuqing , Liu Fangmei , Zhao Xuequn , Sha Ruyi , Huang Jun
Published: March 2024

Elucidation of the thermotolerance mechanism of erythritol-producing Yarrowia lipolytica is of great significance to breed robust industrial strains and reduce cost. This study aimed to breed thermotolerant Y. lipolytica and investigate the mechanism underlying the thermotolerant phenotype. Yarrowia lipolytica HT34, Yarrowia lipolytica HT36, and Yarrowia lipolytica HT385 that were capable of growing at 34 °C, 36 °C, and 38.5 °C, respectively, were obtained within 150 days (352 generations) by adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) integrated with 60Co-γ radiation and ultraviolet ray radiation. Comparative genomics analysis showed that genes involved in signal transduction, transcription, and translation regulation were mutated during adaptive evolution. Further, we demonstrated that thermal stress increased the expression of genes related to DNA replication and repair, ceramide and steroid synthesis, and the degradation of branched amino acid (BCAA) and free fatty acid (FFA), while inhibiting the expression of genes involved in glycolysis and the citrate cycle. Erythritol production in thermotolerant strains was remarkably inhibited, which might result from the differential expression of genes involved in erythritol metabolism. Exogenous addition of BCAA and soybean oil promoted the growth of HT385, highlighting the importance of BCAA and FFA in thermal stress response. Additionally, overexpression of 11 out of the 18 upregulated genes individually enabled Yarrowia lipolytica CA20 to grow at 34 °C, of which genes A000121, A003183, and A005690 had a better effect. Collectively, this study provides novel insights into the adaptation mechanism of Y. lipolytica to thermal stress, which will be conducive to the construction of thermotolerant erythritol-producing strains.

Key points

• ALE combined with mutagenesis is efficient for breeding thermotolerant Y. lipolytica

• Genes encoding global regulators are mutated during thermal adaptive evolution

• Ceramide and BCAA are critical molecules for cells to tolerate thermal stress
Feasibility and Safety of Superomedial Pedicle for Breast Reduction in Geriatric Patients
Authors: Ercan Alp
Published: March 2024

Introduction

 Historically, inferior breast reduction is more commonly performed overall and this applies to the elder population. No study to this date has compared whether there is any difference in complications and overall safety between when using superomedial pedicle and inferior pedicle in geriatric patients and furthermore whether the safety profile of superomedial pedicle differs when compared to general population.

Methods

Patient files of women who had undergone breast reduction by a single surgeon over a 9 year period (2015–2023) was reviewed retrospectively. Patients over 65 years old at the time of surgery were selected as the main study group. Results were compared to a control group aged 65 years and younger consisting of 136 patients, who also had a breast reduction by the same surgeon.

Results

Fifty-four women met the inclusion criteria for the study group and they were further broken down into two subgroups; inferior and superomedial pedicle groups with 25 and 29 patients into each group, respectively. The mean age at the time of the operation was 67.8 years. Geriatric group had more significant comorbidities (37% vs. 9%, p<0.05). Looking solely on patients undergone superomedial pedicle breast reduction, OR times were similar between two age groups and hospital stay was slightly longer in the geriatric population albeit statistically insignificant. The average weight of specimens resected from each breast was 592.4 gr in geriatric population and slightly higher in the younger population with an average weight of 624 grams (p=0.27). Two women in the geriatric group and  six women in the  non-geriatric group developed major complications where superomedial pedicle was utilized, no meaningful difference was seen when major complications were compared (p=0.24). On the other hand, minor complications were significantly higher in the geriatric population compared to the younger cohort regarding superomedial pedicle reductions (p=0.02). ‘Satisfaction with breasts’ scores of BreastQ from the superomedial breast reduction subgroup was slightly higher than inferior pedicle breast reduction subgroup in geriatric population and it was statistically significant (0.032).

Conclusion

Safety margins and satisfaction scores of superomedial pedicled breast reduction in geriatric patients seem similar to their younger counterparts. Furthermore, with similar complication rates and with its slightly higher ‘Satisfaction with breasts’  scores  when compared to inferior pedicle, superomedial pedicled breast reduction technique can be utilized without reservation in geriatric candidates for breast reduction.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Enhancing dielectric properties of ZnO nanopowders with 2D hBN doping: production, structural, morphological and dielectric characterization
Authors: Ozel Cihan , Macit Cevher Kursat , Gurgenc Turan , Biryan Fatih , Gurgenc Ezgi , Bellucci Stefano
Published: March 2024

In this study, it was aimed to improve the dielectric properties of ZnO nanoparticles with the addition of hBN, which was not previously available in the literature, and thus to expand their usage areas. Sol–gel synthesis method was used in this study to create pure and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles. Zinc acetate dihydrate Zn(CH3COO)22H2O), sodium hydroxide NaOH, and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), all from Sigma Aldrich, were used as starting reagents. The reagents were dissolved during the sol–gel synthesis by being heated to 90 °C for 4 h in a magnetic stirrer. FT-IR, XRD, FE-SEM, EDX characterization techniques, and impedance analyzer were used to find functional groups, structural, morphological, and chemical composition, and dielectric properties of the nanoparticles, respectively. The produced un-doped and hBN-doped ZnO particles consist of nano-sized structures. Changes occurred in the intensities and locations of the XRD diffraction peaks and FT-IR peaks with the addition of hBN. Characteristic peaks of both ZnO and hBN were observed in the diffraction peaks of the doped nanoparticles. All nanoparticles were of high purity and were successfully produced by the sol–gel method. It was shown that as the hBN doping level increased, there were more hBN nanoplates in the ZnO matrix, and the EDX results also showed an increase in hBN addition. The frequency stability of the dielectric properties improved after hBN doping. While the dielectric constant at 1 kHz frequency at room temperature is 12.07 in pure ZnO nanoparticles, the increase up to 55.21 is observed in 10% hBN doped nanocomposites. This situation is considered as a great potential for technological applications of this novel nanocomposite material.
The impact of the relationship between lesion diameter and total core length on the detection rate of clinically significant prostate cancer for PI-RADS 3 lesions
Authors: Yakut Emrah
Published: March 2024

Background

The aim of our study was to determine the effect of total core length (TCL) for prostate imaging reporting and data system (PI-RADS) 3 lesions to facilitate clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) detection based on the lesion diameter.

Materials and methods

A total of 149 patients with at least 1 lesion with a PI-RADS 3 were evaluated retrospectively. The lesions with diameters of < 1 cm were categorized as small lesions and lesions of ≥ 1 cm were categorized as large lesions. The lengths of biopsy cores from PI-RADS 3 lesions were summed for each lesion separately, and TCL was calculated. The relationship between TCL and csPCa was analyzed separately for the small and large groups with multiple logistic regression analyses.

Results

A total of 208 lesions were detected by multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MpMRI) in 149 males included in the study. The mean TCL was 44.68 mm (26–92) and the mean lesion diameter was 10.73 mm (4–27) in PIRADS 3 lesions. For small diameter lesions (< 1 cm), the odds of finding clinically insignificant prostate cancer (ciPCa) increase by 1.67 times if TCL increases by one unit. Hence, increasing TCL for small lesions only increases the odds of ciPCa detection. For large diameter lesions (≥ 1 cm), if TCL increases by one unit, the odds of finding ciPCa increase 1.13 times and the odds of finding csPCa increases1.16 times. Accordingly, large lesions are more likely to have both csPCa and ciPCa as TCL increases.

Conclusions

Our study showed that for PI-RADS 3 lesions, both more csPCa and more ciPCa were detected as TCL increased. However, in lesions with a size of < 1 cm, only ciPCa was detected more frequently as TCL increased. In conclusion, taking more and longer biopsy cores in PI-RADS 3 lesions below 1 cm does not contribute to the detection of csPCa.
Retrospective analysis of the perioperative outcome in living donor kidney transplantation with multiple renal arteries: does accessory vessel ligation affect the outcome?
Authors: Schmidt Jacob , Peters Robert , Mang Josef , Ralla Bernhard , Moldovan Diana Elena , Dagnæs-Hansen Julia , Liefeldt Lutz , Budde Klemens , Lerchbaumer Markus , Friedersdorff Frank
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Accurate surgical reconstruction of arterial vascular supply is a crucial part of living kidney transplantation (LDKT). The presence of multiple renal arteries (MRA) in grafts can be challenging. In the present study, we investigated the impact of ligation versus anastomosis of small accessory graft arteries on the perioperative outcome.

Methods

Clinical and radiological outcomes of 51 patients with MRA out of a total of 308 patients who underwent LDKT with MRA between 2011 and 2020 were stratified in two groups and analyzed. In group 1 (20 patients), ligation of accessory arteries (ARAs) and group 2 (31 patients) anastomosis of ARAs was performed.

Results

Significant differences were observed in the anastomosis-, surgery-, and warm ischemia time (WIT) in favor of group 1. Students t-test showed comparable serum creatinine levels of 2.33 (± 1.75) to 1.68 (± 0.83) mg/dL in group 1 and 2.63 (± 2.47) to 1.50 (± 0.41) mg/dL in group 2, were seen from 1 week to 1 year after transplant. No increased rates of Delayed graft function (DGF), primary transplant dysfunction and transplant rejection were seen, but graft loss and revision rates were slightly higher when the ARAs were ligated. Analysis of Doppler sonography revealed that segmental perfusion deficits tend to regenerate during the clinical course.

Conclusion

Ligation of smaller accessory renal arteries may not affect the outcome of living kidney transplantation, except for a minor increase in the reoperation rate. Segmental perfusion deficits of the graft seem to regenerate in most cases as seen in Doppler sonography.
The impact of perioperative risk factors on long-term survival after radical cystectomy: a prospective, high-volume cohort study
Authors: Pyrgidis Nikolaos , Schulz Gerald B. , Volz Yannic , Ebner Benedikt , Rodler Severin , Westhofen Thilo , Eismann Lennert , Marcon Julian , Stief Christian G. , Jokisch Friedrich
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Radical cystectomy (RC) is the gold standard for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Nevertheless, RC is associated with substantial perioperative morbidity and mortality. We aimed to evaluate the role of important perioperative risk factors in predicting long-term survival after RC.

Methods

An analysis of the prospective cohort of patients undergoing open RC from 2004 to 2023 at our center was performed. Patients who died within one month after RC were excluded from the study. A univariate and multivariable Cox regression analysis was performed to assess the role of sex, age, urinary diversion, preoperative values of creatinine and hemoglobin, first-day postoperative values of CRP, leucocytes, and thrombocytes, perioperative Clavien-Dindo complications, perioperative chemotherapy, admission to the intensive or intermediate care unit, as well as type of histology, pathologic T-stage, positive lymph nodes, and positive surgical margins on predicting the long-term overall survival after RC. For all analyses hazard ratios (HRs) with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated.

Results

A total of 1,750 patients with a median age of 70 years (IQR: 62–76) were included. Of them, 1,069 (61%) received ileal conduit and 650 (37%) neobladder. Overall, 1,016 (58%) perioperative complications occurred. At a median follow-up of 31 months (IQR: 12–71), 884 (51%) deaths were recorded. In the multivariable Cox regression analysis, increasing age (HR: 1.03, 95%CI: 1.02–1.04, p < 0.001), higher preoperative creatinine values (HR: 1.27, 95%CI: 1.12–1.44, p < 0.001), lower preoperative hemoglobin values (HR: 0.93, 95%CI: 0.89–0.97, p = 0.002), higher postoperative thrombocyte values (HR: 1.01, 95%CI: 1.01–1.02, p = 0.02), Clavien-Dindo 1–2 complications (HR: 1.26, 95%CI: 1.03–1.53, p = 0.02), Clavien-Dindo 3–4 complications (HR: 1.55, 95%CI: 1.22–1.96, p < 0.001), locally advanced bladder cancer (HR: 1.29, 95%CI: 1.06–1.55, p = 0.009), positive lymph nodes (HR: 1.74, 95%CI: 1.45–2.11, p < 0.001), and positive surgical margins (HR: 1.61, 95%CI: 1.29–2.01, p < 0.001) negatively affected long-term survival.

Conclusion

Beside increased age and worse oncological status, impaired renal function, lower preoperative hemoglobin values, higher postoperative thrombocyte values, and perioperative complications are independent risk factors for mortality in the long term in patients undergoing open RC.
Machine learning mesh-adaptation for laminar and turbulent flows: applications to high-order discontinuous Galerkin solvers
Authors: Tlales Kenza , Otmani Kheir-Eddine , Ntoukas Gerasimos , Rubio Gonzalo , Ferrer Esteban
Published: March 2024

We present a machine learning-based mesh refinement technique for steady and unsteady incompressible flows. The clustering technique proposed by Otmani et al. (Phys Fluids 35(2):027112, 2023) is used to mark the viscous and turbulent regions for the flow past a cylinder at $$Re=40$$

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(steady laminar flow), at $$Re=100$$

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100

(unsteady laminar flow), and at $$Re=3900$$

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3900

(unsteady turbulent flow). Within this clustered region, we use high mesh resolution, while downgrading the resolution outside, to show that it is possible to obtain levels of accuracy similar to those obtained when using a uniformly refined mesh. The mesh adaptation is effective, as the clustering successfully identifies the two flow regions, a viscous/turbulent dominated region (including the boundary layer and wake) that requires high resolution and an inviscid/irrotational region, which only requires low resolution. The new clustering sensor is compared with traditional feature-based sensors (Q-criterion and vorticity based) commonly used for mesh adaptation. Unlike traditional sensors that rely on problem-dependent thresholds, our novel approach eliminates the need for such thresholds and locates the regions that require adaptation. After the initial validation using flows past cylinders, the clustering technique is applied in an engineering context to study the flow around a horizontal axis wind turbine configuration which has been tested experimentally at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. The data used within this framework are generated using a high-order discontinuous Galerkin solver, allowing to locally refine the polynomial order (p-refinement) in each element of the clustered region. For the laminar test cases, we can reduce the computational cost by 32% (steady $$Re=40$$

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40

case) and 20% (unsteady $$Re=100$$

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case), while we get a reduction of 33% for the $$Re=3900$$

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turbulent case. In the context of the wind turbine, a reduction of 43% in computational cost is observed, while maintaining the accuracy.
High soil moisture rather than drying-rewetting cycles reduces the effectiveness of nitrification inhibitors in mitigating N2O emissions
Authors: Ribeiro Pablo Lacerda , Singh Abhijeet , Sagervanshi Amit , Naeem Asif , Mühling Karl Hermann
Published: March 2024

Climate change has been intensifying soil drying and rewetting cycles, which can alter the soil microbiome structure and activity. Here we hypothesized that a soil drying-rewetting cycle enhances biodegradation and, hence, decreases the effectiveness of nitrification inhibitors (NIs). The effectiveness of DMPP (3,4-Dimethylpyrazole phosphate) and MP + TZ (3-Methylpyrazol and Triazol) was evaluated in 60-day incubation studies under a drying and rewetting cycle relative to constant low and high soil moisture conditions (40% and 80% water-holding capacity, WHC, respectively) in two different textured soils. The measurements included (i) daily and cumulative N2O-N emissions, (ii) soil NH4+-N and NO3−-N concentrations, and (iii) the composition of bacterial soil communities. Application of DMPP and MP + TZ reduced the overall N2O-N emissions under drying-rewetting (-45%), as well as under 40% WHC (-39%) and 80% WHC (-25%). DMPP retarded nitrification and decreased N2O-N release from the sandy and silt loam soils, while MP + TZ mitigated N2O-N production only from the silt loam soil. Unexpectedly, between days 30 and 60, N2O-N emissions from NI-treated soils increased by up to fivefold relative to the No-NI treatment in the silt loam soil at 80% WHC. Likewise, the relative abundance of the studied nitrifying bacteria indicated that the NIs had only short-term effectiveness in the silt loam soil. These results suggested that DMPP and MP + TZ might trigger high N2O-N release from fine-textured soil with constant high moisture after this short-term inhibitory effect. In conclusion, DMPP and MP + TZ effectively reduce N2O-N emissions under soil drying and rewetting.
Characterizing the immune response to myocardial infarction in pigs
Authors: Schnitter Florian , Stangl Franziska , Noeske Elisabeth , Bille Maya , Stadtmüller Anja , Vogt Niklas , Sicklinger Florian , Leuschner Florian , Frey Anna , Schreiber Laura , Frantz Stefan , Beyersdorf Niklas , Ramos Gustavo , Gladow Nadine , Hofmann Ulrich
Published: March 2024

Though myocardial infarction (MI) in pigs is a well-established translational large animal model, it has not yet been widely used for immunotherapy studies, and a comprehensive description of the immune response to MI in this species is lacking. We induced MI in Landrace pigs by balloon occlusion of the left anterior descending artery over 90 min. Within 14 days, the necrotic myocardium was progressively replaced by scar tissue with involvement of myofibroblasts. We characterized the immune response in the heart ex vivo by (immuno)histology, flow cytometry, and RNA sequencing of myocardial tissue on days 3, 7, and 14 after MI. Besides a clear predominance of myeloid cells among heart-infiltrating leukocytes, we detected activated T cells and an increasing proportion of CD4+ Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg), especially in the infarct core—findings that closely mirror what has been observed in mice and humans after MI. Transcriptome data indicated inflammatory activity that was persistent but markedly changing in character over time and linked to extracellular matrix biology. Analysis of lymphocytes in heart-draining lymph nodes revealed significantly higher proliferation rates of T helper cell subsets, including Treg on day 7 after MI, compared to sham controls. Elevated frequencies of myeloid progenitors in the spleen suggest that it might be a site of emergency myelopoiesis after MI in pigs, as previously shown in mice. We thus provide a first description of the immune response to MI in pigs, and our results can aid future research using the species for preclinical immunotherapy studies.
Global analysis of T-cell groups reveals immunological features and common antigen targets of digestive tract tumors
Authors: Li Xiaoxue , Zhang Yuchao , Guo Shiwei , Wu Zhenchuan , Wang Hailong , Huang Yi , Wang Yue , Qiu Mengni , Lang Jingyu , Xiao Yichuan , Zhu Yufei , Jin Gang , Hu Landian , Kong Xiangyin
Published: March 2024

Background

T cells are key players in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), as they can recognize and eliminate cancer cells that express neoantigens derived from somatic mutations. However, the diversity and specificity of T-cell receptors (TCRs) that recognize neoantigens are largely unknown, due to the high variability of TCR sequences among individuals.

Methods

To address this challenge, we applied GLIPH2, a novel algorithm that groups TCRs based on their predicted antigen specificity and HLA restriction, to cluster the TCR repertoire of 1,702 patients with digestive tract cancer. The patients were divided into five groups based on whether they carried tumor-infiltrating or clonal-expanded TCRs and calculated their TCR diversity. The prognosis, tumor subtype, gene mutation, gene expression, and immune microenvironment of these groups were compared. Viral specificity inference and immunotherapy relevance analysis performed for the TCR groups.

Results

This approach reduced the complexity of TCR sequences to 249 clonally expanded and 150 tumor-infiltrating TCR groups, which revealed distinct patterns of TRBV usage, HLA association, and TCR diversity. In gastric adenocarcinoma (STAD), patients with tumor-infiltrating TCRs (Patients-TI) had significantly worse prognosis than other patients (Patients-nonTI). Patients-TI had richer CD8+ T cells in the immune microenvironment, and their gene expression features were positively correlated with immunotherapy response. We also found that tumor-infiltrating TCR groups were associated with four distinct tumor subtypes, 26 common gene mutations, and 39 gene expression signatures. We discovered that tumor-infiltrating TCRs had cross-reactivity with viral antigens, indicating a possible link between viral infections and tumor immunity.

Conclusion

By applying GLIPH2 to TCR sequences from digestive tract tumors, we uncovered novel insights into the tumor immune landscape and identified potential candidates for shared TCRs and neoantigens.
A methodological framework for optimizing the energy consumption of deep neural networks: a case study of a cyber threat detector
Authors: Karamchandani Amit , Mozo Alberto , Gómez-Canaval Sandra , Pastor Antonio
Published: March 2024

The growing prevalence of deep neural networks (DNNs) across various fields raises concerns about their increasing energy consumption, especially in large data center applications. Identifying the best combination of optimization techniques to achieve maximum energy efficiency while maintaining system performance is challenging due to the vast number of techniques available, their complex interplay, and the rigorous evaluation required to assess their impact on the model. To address this gap, we propose an open-source methodological framework for the systematic study of the influence of various optimization techniques on diverse tasks and datasets. The goal is to automate experimentation, addressing common pitfalls and inefficiencies of trial and error, saving time, and allowing fair and reliable comparisons. The methodology includes model training, automatic application of optimizations, export of the model to a production-ready format, and pre- and post-optimization energy consumption and performance evaluation at inference time using various batch sizes. As a novelty, the framework provides pre-configured "optimization strategies" for combining state-of-the-art optimization techniques that can be systematically evaluated to determine the most effective strategy based on real-time energy consumption and performance feedback throughout the model life cycle. As an additional novelty, "optimization profiles" allow the selection of the optimal strategy for a specific application, considering user preferences regarding the trade-off between energy efficiency and performance. Validated through an empirical study on a DNN-based cyber threat detector, the framework demonstrates up to 82% reduction in energy consumption during inference with minimal accuracy loss.
Mineralogy and geochemistry of multi-coloured sapphires at the Portezuelo de Pajas Blancas' deposits, northern Chile: revealing crystal growth processes
Authors: Miranda-Díaz Gustavo , Menzies Andrew , Riveros-Jensen Karl , Heide Gerhard , Bußmann Lena , Härtel Birk , Tagle Roald , Medina Eduardo , Griem Wolfgang
Published: March 2024

Portezuelo de Pajas Blancas' primary metasomatic deposits host sapphires that differ in size, colour, and colour distribution through different lithological units. The discovery of sapphire-bearing secondary aeolian placer deposits enabled a detailed analysis of sapphire types to determine the causes of this heterogeneity. Representative single sapphires from the primary and secondary deposits were analysed using various techniques, including SEM-CL, OM-CL, Micro-XRF, Raman spectroscopy, and polarised transmitted light multi-focus optical microscopy. Based on the results, seven sapphire types were identified according to their colours and colour distribution. Fe and Ti concentrations mainly contribute to the colour and micro-textures occurrence. The primary growth textures include cores, progressive, oscillatory, and diffusion zoning, whereas the secondary alteration features correspond to micro-brecciation, re-arrangement, and overgrowth. Inclusions such as euhedral andalusite, anhedral anhydrite, and anhedral rutile were identified in the sapphires. The formation of Portezuelo de Pajas Blancas sapphires can be divided into five genetic stages: (i) core growth development; (ii) chemical imbalance due to open system behaviour that produces progressive and oscillatory zoning; (iii) low-temperature deformations that produce micro-brecciation; (iv) re-arrangement of pre-formed sapphire fragments and subsequent sapphire overgrowth; (v) diffusion zoning that produce Fe- and Ti-enriched outer rims. In conclusion, the Portezuelo de Pajas Blancas' sapphires were formed through at least five stages of oxidised contact metasomatism at varying temperatures and low pressures, where a heterogeneous forming condition predominates during sapphire formation.

Graphical Abstract