bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Escaping the patent trolls: The impact of non‐practicing entity litigation on firm innovation strategies
Authors: Huang Kenneth G. , Li Mei‐Xuan , Shen Carl Hsin‐Han , Wang Yanzhi
Published: April 2024

Research Summary

Non‐practicing entities (NPEs) are firms that accumulate and acquire patents but do not further develop or implement the patented inventions (known as patent trolling). NPEs seek to receive royalties or profits through out‐of‐court settlements in patent infringement cases. We examine how firms targeted by NPEs in NPE‐initiated litigations (i.e., target firms) shift their innovation strategies and trajectories in response to heightened litigation risks. We theorize and show that after the initial lawsuit, target firms draw more upon their in‐house technologies to reduce the legal ground for further lawsuits. Furthermore, nontarget firms in related technology areas shift their innovation activities away from those of target firms under high NPE litigation risks. These effects are more pronounced with higher innovation costs and under more competitive product markets.

Managerial Summary

Non‐practicing entities (NPEs) are known as patent trolls that accumulate and acquire patents but do not further develop or implement these patented inventions. These patent trolls aim to obtain royalties or profits through out‐of‐court settlements in patent infringement cases. We investigate how firms targeted by patent trolls in litigations (i.e., target firms) change their innovation strategies and trajectories to deal with increased NPE litigation risks. After the initial lawsuit, we find that these target firms use their in‐house technologies more to reduce the legal ground for future lawsuits. Moreover, nontarget firms in related technology areas move their innovation activities away from those of target firms under high litigation risks. These effects are stronger when innovation costs are higher and under more competitive product markets.
Highly Transparent Oxygen‐Doped Poly‐Si with In‐situ N2O Oxidant for Poly‐Si Passivating Contacts in Perovskite/Silicon Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Ding Zetao , Liu Zunke , Xing Mengchao , Xue Xiangying , Yang Weichuang , Liu Wei , Liao Mingdun , Yang Zhenhai , Zeng Yuheng , Ye Jichun
Published: April 2024

Tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) silicon solar cells have been developed and transferred into industrial mass production, which is beneficial to the future production of perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells (TSCs) in a large scale. However, the doped polycrystalline silicon (poly‐Si) layer in the poly‐Si‐based passivating contact structure yields a profound optical loss from reflection and parasitic absorption, which obstacles the efficiency promotion of TSCs. In this work, the optical property of poly‐Si is improved by in‐situ oxygen incorporation using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) with nitrous oxide (N2O) as the oxygen source. The p‐type oxygen‐incorporated poly‐Si (poly‐SiOx) shows a reduced refractive index and extinction coefficient over 700–1200 nm wavelength, leading to a reduced reflection, a lower parasitic absorption and a higher transmission. After applying an optimized p‐type oxygen‐incorporated poly‐Si in the front‐side poly‐Si passivating contact structure of c‐Si bottom cell, the short‐circuit current density and efficiency of a perovskite/c‐Si tandem cell increases by ≈0.32 mA cm−2 and ≈0.8%, respectively, leading to 25.12% tandem cell efficiency.
Variables influencing stream-type juvenile Chinook Salmon density within floodplain habitat in the Skagit River basin, Washington
Authors: O'Neal Jennifer S. , Riordan Colin , Jay Julia , Lowery Erin Douglas , LeMoine Mike , Dickerson-Lange Susan
Published: April 2024

Objective

Despite decades of restoration work, Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha in the Pacific Northwest remain under the protection of the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA). Chinook Salmon in the Skagit River basin play a vital role in the abundance and recovery of the Puget Sound Chinook Salmon Evolutionarily Significant Unit, which is currently listed as threatened under the ESA. The stream-type juvenile (STJ) life history pattern of Chinook Salmon in the Skagit River has higher ocean survival to the adult stage (i.e., productivity) than that of parr or fry out-migrants, and improvement in STJ Chinook Salmon habitat could increase abundance and diversity in the Skagit River basin. Our objective was to provide recommended ranges of variables shown to influence habitat selection in floodplains by STJ Chinook Salmon.

Methods

Using field observations from 70 sites within the Skagit River basin, we developed generalized linear mixed-effects models across three seasons in floodplain habitats to correlate variable ranges with densities of STJ Chinook Salmon.

Result

Model accuracy varied by season (summer: R2 = 0.24; winter: R2 = 0.56; spring: R2 = 0.54), and significant parameters included velocity, substrate, depth range, and distance to the closest connection with the main stem. Additional significant factors included wood cover, maximum water temperature, velocity range, and interaction of the ranges of velocity and depth. Recommended ranges for habitat variables associated with the highest densities of STJ Chinook Salmon include depths of 40–68 cm, velocities of 0.06–0.33 m/s, substrate sizes of 3–36 mm, and distances of 33–119 m to the main-stem connection. Water temperatures associated with high juvenile densities varied by season (winter: 4–6°C; summer: 9–14°C).

Conclusion

Our recommended ranges for habitat variables can be used to refine designs for river restoration projects intended to improve habitat for juvenile Chinook Salmon and other salmonids in the Pacific Northwest.
Isolated non‐immune‐mediated second‐degree atrioventricular block in the fetus: natural history and predictive factors for spontaneous recovery
Authors: Shao S. , Liao H. , Zhou S. , Li Y. , Yu H. , Dai X. , Zhu Q. , Hua Y. , Wang C. , Zhou K.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To determine the clinical course of fetal isolated non‐immune‐mediated second‐degree atrioventricular block (AVB) and the factors associated with spontaneous recovery in these cases.

Methods

Fetuses with isolated non‐immune‐mediated second‐degree AVB were recruited prospectively between 2014 and 2022. These fetuses were divided into two groups: those which recovered spontaneously and those which did not. Maternal and fetal characteristics and intrauterine and postnatal outcomes were compared between the two groups.

Results

The study cohort included 20 fetuses with isolated non‐immune‐mediated second‐degree AVB, diagnosed at a median gestational age of 22.0 (range, 17.0–35.0) weeks. In 12 fetuses, 1:1 atrioventricular conduction was restored spontaneously in utero and there was no recurrence during the postnatal follow‐up period. In the remaining eight fetuses, second‐degree AVB was maintained and, in six of these, the pregnancy was terminated on parental request. Of the two liveborn children who had persistent second‐degree AVB prenatally, one had progressed to complete AVB at the latest follow‐up, at the age of 34 months, but was asymptomatic, without heart enlargement or dysfunction. The other child progressed to complete AVB after delivery and was diagnosed with type‐2 long QT syndrome. This infant died aged 2 months. Fetuses in the group that recovered spontaneously had earlier gestational age at diagnosis (median, 20.0 (range, 17.0–26.0) vs 24.5 (range, 18.0–35.0) weeks; P = 0.004) and higher atrial rate at diagnosis (median, 147 (range, 130–160) vs 138 (range, 125–149) bpm; P = 0.006) in comparison with the group that did not recover spontaneously. The best cut‐off values for prediction of failure to recover spontaneously were 22.5 weeks' gestational age at diagnosis and 144 bpm atrial rate at diagnosis, with sensitivities of 87.5% and 75.0%, respectively, and specificities of 92.0% and 87.5%, respectively.

Conclusions

The outcome of 60% of fetuses with isolated non‐immune‐mediated second‐degree AVB was favorable. Earlier gestational age and higher atrial rate at diagnosis were associated with spontaneous reversion to normal sinus rhythm. Prenatal genetic testing should be performed in cases with persistent AVB, to exclude heritable disorders including long QT syndrome. These findings provide important information for clinical management and prenatal counseling in these cases. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Management and outcome of fetal abdominal cyst in first trimester: systematic review of the literature
Authors: Passananti E. , Bevilacqua E. , di Marco G. , Felici F. , Trapani M. , Ciavarro V. , di Ilio C. , Lanzone A. , Familiari A.
Published: April 2024

Objective

The detection of a fetal abdominal cyst at the first‐trimester ultrasound scan is a rare event, for which the natural history and prognosis are often unknown and unpredictable, owing to various underlying etiologies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of fetal abdominal cysts detected in the first trimester to better understand their possible clinical significance and improve their clinical management.

Methods

We present a case report of a fetal abdominal cyst detected in the first trimester, with subsequent diagnosis of congenital multiple arthrogryposis. We also performed a systematic review of the literature to determine the incidence and outcome of similar cases, which was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement and registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023491729). PubMed, Web of Science and EMBASE were searched from inception to December 2023 to identify case reports and case series documenting an ultrasound diagnosis of a single fetal abdominal cyst in the first trimester.

Results

Our case presented at 12 + 6 weeks' gestation with an isolated fetal abdominal cyst, which underwent spontaneous resolution in the second trimester, when multiple congenital arthrogryposis was observed. Data on a total of 60 cases of fetal abdominal cyst detected in the first trimester were extracted from the literature. Of these, 35% were associated with concurrent or late‐onset structural anomalies, as in our case, and 65% were isolated. In pregnancies with an isolated fetal abdominal cyst, 54% had a live birth with a normal outcome.

Conclusions

A fetal abdominal cyst in the first trimester is usually an isolated finding with a moderate‐to‐good prognosis, but it could also be an early sign of other associated abnormalities, including arthrogryposis. Increased ultrasound surveillance and additional genetic testing to rule out possible associated anomalies are necessary to assess the risk of adverse pregnancy outcome and provide appropriate parental counseling. © 2024 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Role of maternal hyperoxygenation in predicting need for postnatal balloon atrial septostomy in fetal d‐transposition of the great arteries
Authors: Szwast A. , Penney C. , Sharma P. , Rychik J.
Published: April 2024

Objective

Predicting whether postnatal balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) will be necessary for fetuses with dextro‐transposition of the great arteries (d‐TGA) remains challenging. We sought to determine whether fetal echocardiographic measurements obtained during maternal hyperoxygenation (MH) can improve our ability to predict the need for postnatal BAS.

Methods

This was a retrospective, single‐institution review of d‐TGA fetuses whose mothers had undergone MH at 33–38 weeks' gestation at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, between 1 January 2017 and 30 March 2020. All fetal d‐TGA cases had either an intact ventricular septum or small ventricular septal defect measuring < 3 mm. Patent foramen ovale (PFO) size, measured by two‐dimensional imaging (2D) and by color Doppler, and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) shunting (antegrade vs bidirectional) were assessed in room air (RA) and during MH. BAS status and timing were recorded.

Results

Of 41 fetal d‐TGA cases in the cohort, 23 underwent postnatal BAS, while 18 did not, and 14 subjects underwent emergent BAS within 3 h of delivery. On univariate analysis, PFO size measured both in RA and during MH and antegrade shunting in the PDA during MH predicted BAS. During MH, median PFO size by 2D was significantly smaller in fetuses which underwent emergent BAS compared to fetuses which did not undergo BAS (2.5 (interquartile range (IQR), 2.0–3.0) mm vs 4.1 (IQR, 3.4–5.0) mm; P < 0.001). On cut‐point analysis, PFO size by 2D during MH of ≤ 3.2 mm predicted the need for emergent BAS with a sensitivity of 93% (95% CI, 66–100%) and a specificity of 78% (95% CI, 58–91%).

Conclusions

In fetuses with d‐TGA, measurement of PFO size and direction of PDA shunting during MH improves our ability to predict the need for postnatal BAS, although additional study is needed. We propose incorporating third‐trimester MH when planning delivery of a d‐TGA fetus. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Wastewater treatment using moving bed biofilm reactor technology: a case study of ceramic industry
Authors: Pethe Atharv , Debnath Mousumi
Published: April 2024

Biological approaches and coagulation are frequently used to reduce the chemical oxygen demand (COD) for treatment of ceramic effluent water. The technology known as the moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) can accomplish this goal. Further, the process of emulsification‐aided innovative MBBR using biosurfactants can be proposed for ceramic effluent treatment. In a step‐by‐step upgrading scheme, biosurfactants and a consortia of halophilic and halotolerant microbial culture was utilized for the treatment of the effluent water. Over the course of 21 days, a progressive decrease in COD of up to 95.79% was achieved. Over the next 48 h period, the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) was reduced by 98.3%, while total suspended solids (TSS) decreased by 79.41%. With the use of this innovative MBBR technology, biofilm formation accelerated, lowering the COD, BOD, and TSS levels. This allows treated water to be used for further research on recycling it back into the ceramics sector and repurposing it for agricultural purposes.

Practitioner Points

Implementation of modified MBBR technology for the treatment of effluent water.

Biosurfactants could reduce in the organic and inorganic loads.

Increase in MLSS values with COD removal observed.

The plant operations without the use of chemical coagulants was effective with biosurfactants.

Biofilm formation on carriers was scraped and the presence of surfactin and rhamnolipid was confirmed.
Entanglement islands read perfect-tensor entanglement
Authors: Lin Yi-Yu , Zhang Jun , Jin Jie-Chen
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we make use of holographic Boundary Conformal Field Theory (BCFT) to simulate the black hole information problem in the semi-classical picture. We investigate the correlation between a portion of Hawking radiation and entanglement islands by the area of an entanglement wedge cross-section. Building on the understanding of the relationship between entanglement wedge cross-sections and perfect tensor entanglement as discussed in reference [18], we make an intriguing observation: in the semi-classical picture, the positioning of an entanglement island automatically yields a pattern of perfect tensor entanglement. Furthermore, the contribution of this perfect tensor entanglement, combined with the bipartite entanglement contribution, precisely determines the area of the entanglement wedge cross-section.
One-loop corrections to the double-real emission contribution to the zero-jettiness soft function at N3LO in QCD
Authors: Baranowski Daniel , Delto Maximilian , Melnikov Kirill , Pikelner Andrey , Wang Chen-Yu
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We present an analytic calculation of the one-loop correction to the double-real emission contribution to the zero-jettiness soft function at N3LO in QCD, accounting for both gluon-gluon and quark-antiquark soft final-state partons. We explain all the relevant steps of the computation including the reduction of phase-space integrals to master integrals in the presence of Heaviside functions, and the methods we employed to compute them.
Symmetry fractionalized (irrationalized) fusion rules and two domain-wall Verlinde formulae
Authors: Zhao Yu , Wang Hongyu , Hu Yuting , Wan Yidun
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We investigate the composite systems consisting of topological orders separated by gapped domain walls. We derive a pair of domain-wall Verlinde formulae, that elucidate the connection between the braiding of interdomain excitations labeled by pairs of anyons in different domains and quasiparticles in the gapped domain wall with their respective fusion rules. Through explicit non-Abelian examples, we showcase the calculation of such braiding and fusion, revealing that the fusion rules for interdomain excitations are generally fractional or irrational. By investigating the correspondence between composite systems and anyon condensation, we unveil the reason for designating these fusion rules as symmetry fractionalized (irrationalized) fusion rules. Our findings hold promise for applications across various fields, such as topological quantum computation, topological field theory, conformal field theory, and parton physics.
A new method for calculating the soft anomalous dimension matrix for massive particle scattering
Authors: Henn Johannes , Milloy Calum , Yan Kai
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The general structure of infrared divergences in the scattering of massive particles is captured by the soft anomalous dimension matrix. The latter can be computed from a correlation function of multiple Wilson lines. The state-of-the-art two-loop result has a tantalizingly simple structure that is not manifest in the calculations. We argue that the complexity in intermediate steps of the known calculations comes from spurious, regulator-dependent terms. Based on this insight we propose a different infrared regulator that is associated to only one of the Wilson lines. We demonstrate that this streamlines obtaining the two-loop result: computing the required Feynman integrals via the differential equations method, only multiple polylogarithmic functions appear (to all orders in the dimensional regulator), as opposed to elliptic polylogarithms. We show that the new method is promising for higher-loop applications by computing a three-loop diagram of genuine complexity, and provide the answer in terms of multiple polylogarithms. The relatively simple symbol alphabet we obtain may be of interest for bootstrap approaches.
Krylov complexity as an order parameter for deconfinement phase transitions at large N
Authors: Anegawa Takanori , Iizuka Norihiro , Nishida Mitsuhiro
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Krylov complexity has been proposed as a diagnostic of chaos in non-integrable lattice and quantum mechanical systems, and if the system is chaotic, Krylov complexity grows exponentially with time. However, when Krylov complexity is applied to quantum field theories, even in free theory, it grows exponentially with time. This exponential growth in free theory is simply due to continuous momentum in non-compact space and has nothing to do with the mass spectrum of theories. Thus by compactifying space sufficiently, exponential growth of Krylov complexity due to continuous momentum can be avoided. In this paper, we propose that the Krylov complexity of operators such as $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
= Tr[FμνFμν] can be an order parameter of confinement/deconfinement transitions in large N quantum field theories on such a compactified space. We explicitly give a prescription of the compactification at finite temperature to distinguish the continuity of spectrum due to momentum and mass spectrum. We then calculate the Krylov complexity of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4, 0 SU(N) Yang-Mills theories in the large N limit by using holographic analysis of the spectrum and show that the behavior of Krylov complexity reflects the confinement/deconfinement phase transitions through the continuity of mass spectrum.
Holographic Weyl anomalies for 4d defects in 6d SCFTs
Authors: Capuozzo Pietro , Estes John , Robinson Brandon , Suzzoni Benjamin
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In this note, we study 1/4- and 1/2-BPS co-dimension two superconformal defects in the 6d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (2, 0) AN−1 SCFT at large N using their holographic descriptions as solutions of 11d supergravity. In this regime, we are able to compute the defect contribution to the sphere entanglement entropy and the change in the stress-energy tensor one-point function due to the presence of the defect using holography. From these quantities, we are then able to unambiguously compute the values for two of the twenty-nine total Weyl anomaly coefficients that characterize 4d conformal defects in six and higher dimensions. We are able to demonstrate the consistency of the supergravity description of the defect theories with the average null energy condition on the field theory side. For each class of defects that we consider, we also show that the A-type Weyl anomaly coefficient is non-negative. Lastly, we uncover and resolve a discrepancy between the on-shell action of the 7d 1/4-BPS domain wall solutions and that of their 11d uplift.
On the string landscape without hypermultiplets
Authors: Baykara Zihni Kaan , Hamada Yuta , Tarazi Houri-Christina , Vafa Cumrun
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In this work we study interesting corners of the quantum gravity landscape with 8 supercharges pushing the boundaries of our current understanding. Calabi-Yau threefolds compactifications of F/M/type II theories to 6, 5 and 4 dimensions are the most prominent examples of this class, and these always lead to a universal hypermultiplet coming from the volume/string coupling constant. We find new examples of asymmetric orbifold constructions which have no hypermultiplets in 4 or 5 dimensions and no neutral hypers in 6d. We argue that these theories can also be obtained by going to strong coupling/small volume regions of geometric constructions where a new Coulomb branch opens up and moving in this direction freezes the volume/string coupling constant. Interestingly we find that the Kodaira condition encountered in geometric limits of F-theory compactifications to 6 dimensions is violated in these corners of the landscape due to strong quantum corrections. We also construct a theory in 3 dimensions which if it were to arise by toroidal compactifications from 5d, it would have to come from pure $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 supergravity with no massless scalar fields.
Generalizing the concept of bounded variation
Authors: Goswami Angshuman R.
Published: April 2024

Let $$[a,b]\subseteq \mathbb {R}$$

[
a
,
b
]
⊆
R

be a non-empty and non singleton closed interval and $$P=\{a=x_0<\cdots <x_n=b\}$$

P
=
{
a
=

x
0

<
⋯
<

x
n

=
b
}

is a partition of it. Then $$f:I\rightarrow \mathbb {R}$$

f
:
I
→
R

is said to be a function of r-bounded variation, if the expression $$\sum \nolimits ^{n}_{i=1}|f(x_i)-f(x_{i-1})|^{r}$$

∑

i
=
1

n

|
f

(

x
i

)

-
f

(

x

i
-
1

)

|

r

is bounded for all possible partitions like P. One of the main results of the paper deals with the generalization of the classical Jordan decomposition theorem. We establish that for $$r\in ]0,1]$$

r
∈
]
0
,
1
]

, a function of r-bounded variation can be written as the difference of two monotone functions. While for $$r>1$$

r
>
1

, under minimal assumptions such a function can be treated as an approximately monotone function which can be closely approximated by a nondecreasing majorant. We also prove that for $$0<r_1<r_2$$

0
<

r
1

<

r
2

, the function class of $$r_1$$

r
1

-bounded variation is contained in the class of functions satisfying $$r_2$$

r
2

-bounded variations. We go through approximately monotone functions and present a possible decomposition for $$f:I(\subseteq \mathbb {R}_+)\rightarrow \mathbb {R}$$

f
:
I
(
⊆

R
+

)
→
R

satisfying the functional inequality $$f(x)\le f(x)+(y-x)^{p}\quad (x,y\in I \text{ with } x<y \text{ and } p\in ]0,1[ ).$$

f

(
x
)

≤
f

(
x
)

+

(
y
-
x
)

p

(
x
,
y
∈
I

with

x
<
y

and

p
∈
]

0
,
1

[
)

.

A generalized structural study has also been done in that specific section. On the other hand, for $$\ell [a,b]\ge d$$

ℓ
[
a
,
b
]
≥
d

, a function satisfying the following monotonic condition under the given assumption will be termed as d-periodically increasing $$f(x)\le f(y)\quad \text{ for } \text{ all }\quad x,y\in I\quad \text{ with }\quad y-x\ge d.$$

f
(
x
)
≤
f
(
y
)

for

all

x
,
y
∈
I

with

y
-
x
≥
d
.

We establish that in a compact interval any function satisfying d-bounded variation can be decomposed as the difference of a monotone and a d-periodically increasing function. The core details related to past results, motivation, structure of each and every section are thoroughly discussed below.
Box-Behnken modeling to optimize the engineering response and the energy expenditure in material extrusion additive manufacturing of short carbon fiber reinforced polyamide 6
Authors: Petousis Markos , Spiridaki Mariza , Mountakis Nikolaos , Moutsopoulou Amalia , Maravelakis Emmanuel , Vidakis Nectarios
Published: April 2024

The field of production engineering is constantly attempting to be distinguished for promoting sustainability, energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and prudent material consumption. In this study, three control parameters (3D printing settings), namely nozzle temperature, travel speed, and layer height (LH) are being investigated on polyamide 6/carbon fiber (15 wt%) tensile specimens. The aim is the optimum combination of energy efficiency and mechanical performance of the specimens. For the analysis of the results, the Box-Behnken design-of-experiment was applied along with the analysis of variance. The statistical analysis conducted based on the experimental results, indicated the importance of the LH control setting, as to affecting the mechanical strength. In particular, the best tensile strength value (σB = 83.52 MPa) came from the 0.1 mm LH. The same LH, whereas caused the highest energy consumption in 3D printing (EPC = 0.252 MJ) and printing time (PT = 2272 s). The lowest energy consumption (EPC = 0.036 MJ) and printing time (PT = 330 s) were found at 0.3 mm LH. Scanning electron microscopy was employed as a part of the manufactured specimens’ 3D printing quality evaluation, while Thermogravimetric analysis was also conducted. The modeling approach led to the formation of equations for the prediction of critical metrics related to energy consumption and the mechanical performance of composite parts built with the MEX 3D printing method. These equations proved their reliability through a confirmation run, which showed that they can safely be applied, within specific boundaries, in real-life applications.

Graphical abstract
Forward Backward SDEs Systems for Utility Maximization in Jump Diffusion Models
Authors: Santacroce Marina , Siri Paola , Trivellato Barbara
Published: April 2024

We consider the classical problem of maximizing the expected utility of terminal net wealth with a final random liability in a simple jump-diffusion model. In the spirit of Horst et al. (Stoch Process Appl 124(5):1813–1848, 2014) and Santacroce and Trivellato (SIAM J Control Optim 52(6):3517–3537, 2014), under suitable conditions the optimal strategy is expressed in implicit form in terms of a forward backward system of equations. Some explicit results are presented for the pure jump model and for exponential utilities.
Surgical management and outcomes following atypical subtrochanteric femoral fractures − results from a matched-pair analysis of the registry for geriatric trauma of the German Trauma Society
Authors: Bliemel Christopher , Birkelbach Robert , Knauf Tom , Pass Bastian , Craiovan Benjamin , Schoeneberg Carsten , Ruchholtz Steffen , Bäumlein Martin ,   on behalf of the AltersTraumaRegister DGU
Published: April 2024

Background and objectives

The outcomes of patients with atypical subtrochanteric fractures (ASFs) remain unclear. Data from a large international geriatric trauma registry were analysed to examine the outcome of patients with ASFs compared to patients with typical osteoporotic subtrochanteric fractures (TSFs).

Materials and methods

Data from the Registry for Geriatric Trauma of the German Trauma Society (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Unfallchirurgie [DGU]) (ATR-DGU) were analysed. All patients treated surgically for ASFs or TSFs were included in this analysis. Across both fracture types, a paired matching approach was conducted, where statistical twins were formed based on background characteristics sex, age, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score and walking ability. In-house mortality and mortality rates at the 120-day follow-up, as well as mobility at 7 and 120 days, the reoperation rate, hospital discharge management, the hospital readmission rate at the 120-day follow-up, health-related quality of life, type of surgical treatment and anti-osteoporotic therapy at 7 and 120 days, were assessed as outcome measures using a multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

Amongst the 1,800 included patients, 1,781 had TSFs and 19 had ASFs. Logistic regression analysis revealed that patients with ASFs were more often treated with closed intramedullary nailing (RR = 3.59, p < 0.001) and had a higher probability of vitamin D supplementation as osteoporosis therapy at 120 days (RR = 0.88, p < 0.002). Patients with ASFs were also more likely to live at home after surgery (RR = 1.43, p < 0.001), and they also tended to continue living at home more often than patients with TSFs (RR = 1.33, p < 0.001). Accordingly, patients with TSFs had a higher relative risk of losing their self-sufficient living status, as indicated by increased rates of patients living at home preoperatively and being discharged to nursing homes (RR = 0.19, p < 0.001) or other hospitals (RR = 0.00, p < 0.001) postoperatively.

Conclusions

Surgical treatment of ASFs was marked by more frequent use of closed intramedullary fracture reduction. Furthermore, patients with ASFs were more likely to be discharged home and died significantly less often in the given timeframe. The rate of perioperative complications, as indicated by nonsignificant reoperation rates, as well as patient walking abilities during the follow-up period, remained unaffected.
Long-term effects on swallowing and laryngeal function after treatment for severe COVID-19 disease in intensive care
Authors: Dotevall Hans , Tuomi Lisa , Lindell Ellen , Finizia Caterina
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to assess swallowing and laryngeal function at long-term follow-up in patients treated for severe COVID-19 in the ICU.

Methods

Thirty-six patients with severe COVID-19 were prospectively examined with fiberendoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) about 6 and 12 months after ICU discharge. Comparison with initial FEES examinations during the time in hospital was performed in 17 patients. Analysis of swallowing function and laryngeal features was performed from video recordings. Twenty-five participants responded to Eating Assessment Tool, Voice Handicap Index, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale at follow-up.

Results

Penetration to the laryngeal vestibule (PAS ≥ 3) was seen in 22% and silent aspiration (PAS = 8) in 11% of patients on at least one swallow at follow-up. Fourteen percent had obvious residue in the vallecula and/or pyriform sinuses after swallowing thick liquid or biscuits. Self-reported eating and swallowing difficulties were found in 40% of patients. Abnormal findings in the larynx were present in 53% at follow-up. Thirty-three percent had reduced or impaired vocal fold movement, of whom 22% had bilateral impaired abduction of the vocal folds. Possible anxiety and depression were found in 36% and 24% of responders, respectively.

Conclusion

Although a majority of patients appear to regain normal swallowing function by 1 year after treatment for severe COVID-19, our results indicate that dysphagia, abnormal laryngeal function, and anxiety/depression may remain in a substantial proportion of patients. This suggests that swallowing and laryngeal function, and emotional symptoms, should be followed up systematically over time in this patient group.
Effect of N-acetylcysteine on hair follicle changes in mouse model of cyclophosphamide-induced alopecia: histological and biochemical study
Authors: Hassan Yomna F. , Shabaan Dalia A.
Published: April 2024

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) represents one of the most severe side effects of chemotherapy, which forces some patients to reject cancer treatment. The exact pathophysiological mechanisms of CIA are not clearly understood, which makes it difficult to discover efficient preventive or therapeutic procedures for this adverse effect. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has a strong antioxidant activity as it stimulates glutathione synthesis and acts as an oxygen radical scavenger. The current study tried to investigate the efficacy of NAC in preserving biochemical parameters and hair follicle structure against cyclophosphamide (CYP) administration. In total, 40 adult female C57BL/6 mice were induced to enter anagen by depilation (day 0) and divided into four groups: group I (control), group II (CYP) received a single dose of CYP [150 mg/kg body weight (B.W.)/intraperitoneal injection (IP)] at day 9, group III (CYP & NAC) received a single dose of CYP at day 9 as well as NAC (500 mg/kg B.W./day/IP) from day 6–16, and group IV (NAC) received NAC from day 6–16. CYP administration in group II induced an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA), decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD), histological hair follicle dystrophy, disruption of follicular melanogenesis, overexpression of p53, and loss of ki67 immunoreactivity. NAC coadministration in group III reversed CYP-induced alterations in the biochemical parameters and preserved hair follicle structure, typical follicular melanin distribution as well as normal pattern of p53 and ki67 expression. These findings indicated that NAC could be used as an efficient and safe therapeutic option for hair loss induced by chemotherapy.
Targeted effect of ischemic preconditioning on the gas exchange threshold in healthy males and females
Authors: Goldsmith M. , Siegler J. , Green S.
Published: April 2024

Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) appears to improve exercise performance although there is uncertainty about the intensity dependence of this effect. The present study sought to clarify effects of IPC on physiological responses at and below peak oxygen uptake, including the gas exchange threshold (GET). Ten male and female participants completed five cycling ramp tests (10 W/min) to failure, with the final two tests preceded by either IPC (4 × 5 min 220 mmHg bilateral leg occlusions) or SHAM (20 mmHg), in a randomised crossover design. The rates of O2 uptake ($$\dot{V}$$

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O2), carbon dioxide output ($$\dot{V}$$

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CO2), and expired ventilation ($$\dot{V}$$

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E) were measured at rest and throughout exercise. Exercise data were fitted using several functions to identify GET, two ventilatory thresholds and peak $$\dot{V}$$

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O2. IPC increased $$\dot{V}$$

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O2 at GET by ~ 9% (IPC: 1.89 ± 0.51 L/min, SHAM: 1.73 ± 0.56 L/min; p = 0.055) and power output at GET by ~ 11% (IPC: 133 ± 36 W, SHAM: 120 ± 39 W; p = 0.022). In addition, peak power output increased by 2.4% following IPC (IPC: 217 ± 50 W, SHAM: 212 ± 51 W; p = 0.052), but there was no significant effect of IPC on peak $$\dot{V}$$

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O2 (IPC: 2.87 ± 0.68 L/min, SHAM: 2.84 ± 0.73 L/min; p = 0.60) or the ventilatory thresholds. The present results suggest that IPC improves GET and peak power output but not peak $$\dot{V}$$

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O2 during a maximal graded test.
Benign metastasizing fumarate hydratase (FH)-deficient uterine leiomyomas: clinicopathological and molecular study with first documentation of multi-organ metastases
Authors: Yin Xiaoxue , Wei Xiaoxia , Al Shamsi Ruqaiya , Ali Fatima S. , Al Kindi Faiza , Zhang Xingming , Liang Jiayu , Pan Xiuyi , Al Masqari Mohammed , Zheng Linmao , Zhou Qiao , Agaimy Abbas , Chen Ni
Published: April 2024

Leiomyoma is the most prevalent benign tumor of the female reproductive system. Benign metastasizing leiomyoma (BML) is a rare phenomenon that presents at distant sites, typically the lungs, exhibiting histopathological features similar to the primary uterine tumor in the absence of malignancy features in both. Fumarate hydratase-deficient uterine leiomyoma (FH-d UL) is an uncommon subtype among uterine smooth muscle tumors (0.5–2%), showing distinctive histomorphology and FH inactivation. The majority of FH-d ULs are sporadic, caused by somatic FH inactivation, while a minority of cases occur in the context of the hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma (HLRCC) syndrome caused by germline FH inactivation. Metastasizing FH-d UL has not been well documented and might be under-reported. Here, we present two cases (21- and 34-year-old females) who presented with metastasizing FH-d UL after myomectomy/hysterectomy with histologically proven multiple lung metastases in both, in addition to multi-organ involvement in one case (cervical-thoracic lymph nodes, left kidney, perihepatic region, left zygomatic bone, and soft tissues). Pathological examination confirmed FH-d leiomyomas in the primary/recurrent uterine tumors, multiple lung lesions, and a renal mass. The minimal criteria for diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma were not fulfilled. Genetic testing revealed germline pathogenic FH variants in both cases (c.1256C > T; p.Ser419Leu in Case 1 and c.425A > G; p.Gln142Arg in Case 2). These novel cases highlight a rare but possibly under-recognized presentation of FH-d BML. Our study suggests that FH-d BML cases might be enriched for the HLRCC syndrome.
Functional mapping of the somatosensory cortex using noninvasive fMRI and touch in awake dogs
Authors: Guran C.-N. Alexandrina , Boch Magdalena , Sladky Ronald , Lonardo Lucrezia , Karl Sabrina , Huber Ludwig , Lamm Claus
Published: April 2024

Dogs are increasingly used as a model for neuroscience due to their ability to undergo functional MRI fully awake and unrestrained, after extensive behavioral training. Still, we know rather little about dogs’ basic functional neuroanatomy, including how basic perceptual and motor functions are localized in their brains. This is a major shortcoming in interpreting activations obtained in dog fMRI. The aim of this preregistered study was to localize areas associated with somatosensory processing. To this end, we touchedN = 22 dogs undergoing fMRI scanning on their left and right flanks using a wooden rod. We identified activation in anatomically defined primary and secondary somatosensory areas (SI and SII), lateralized to the contralateral hemisphere depending on the side of touch, and importantly also activation beyond SI and SII, in the cingulate cortex, right cerebellum and vermis, and the sylvian gyri. These activations may partly relate to motor control (cerebellum, cingulate), but also potentially to higher-order cognitive processing of somatosensory stimuli (rostral sylvian gyri), and the affective aspects of the stimulation (cingulate). We also found evidence for individual side biases in a vast majority of dogs in our sample, pointing at functional lateralization of somatosensory processing. These findings not only provide further evidence that fMRI is suited to localize neuro-cognitive processing in dogs, but also expand our understanding of in vivo touch processing in mammals, beyond classically defined primary and secondary somatosensory cortices.
A novel network-based method identifies a cuproplasia-related pan-cancer gene signature to predict patient outcome
Authors: Pham Vu Viet Hoang , Jue Toni Rose , Bell Jessica Lilian , Luciani Fabio , Michniewicz Filip , Cirillo Giuseppe , Vahdat Linda , Mayoh Chelsea , Vittorio Orazio
Published: April 2024

Copper is a vital micronutrient involved in many biological processes and is an essential component of tumour cell growth and migration. Copper influences tumour growth through a process called cuproplasia, defined as abnormal copper-dependent cell-growth and proliferation. Copper-chelation therapy targeting this process has demonstrated efficacy in several clinical trials against cancer. While the molecular pathways associated with cuproplasia are partially known, genetic heterogeneity across different cancer types has limited the understanding of how cuproplasia impacts patient survival. Utilising RNA-sequencing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) datasets, we generated gene regulatory networks to identify the critical cuproplasia-related genes across 23 different cancer types. From this, we identified a novel 8-gene cuproplasia-related gene signature associated with pan-cancer survival, and a 6-gene prognostic risk score model in low grade glioma. These findings highlight the use of gene regulatory networks to identify cuproplasia-related gene signatures that could be used to generate risk score models. This can potentially identify patients who could benefit from copper-chelation therapy and identifies novel targeted therapeutic strategies.
MCHIAO: a modified coronavirus herd immunity-Aquila optimization algorithm based on chaotic behavior for solving engineering problems
Authors: Selim Heba , Haikal Amira Y. , Labib Labib M. , Saafan Mahmoud M.
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes a hybrid Modified Coronavirus Herd Immunity Aquila Optimization Algorithm (MCHIAO) that compiles the Enhanced Coronavirus Herd Immunity Optimizer (ECHIO) algorithm and Aquila Optimizer (AO). As one of the competitive human-based optimization algorithms, the Coronavirus Herd Immunity Optimizer (CHIO) exceeds some other biological-inspired algorithms. Compared to other optimization algorithms, CHIO showed good results. However, CHIO gets confined to local optima, and the accuracy of large-scale global optimization problems is decreased. On the other hand, although AO has significant local exploitation capabilities, its global exploration capabilities are insufficient. Subsequently, a novel metaheuristic optimizer, Modified Coronavirus Herd Immunity Aquila Optimizer (MCHIAO), is presented to overcome these restrictions and adapt it to solve feature selection challenges. In this paper, MCHIAO is proposed with three main enhancements to overcome these issues and reach higher optimal results which are cases categorizing, enhancing the new genes’ value equation using the chaotic system as inspired by the chaotic behavior of the coronavirus and generating a new formula to switch between expanded and narrowed exploitation. MCHIAO demonstrates it’s worth contra ten well-known state-of-the-art optimization algorithms (GOA, MFO, MPA, GWO, HHO, SSA, WOA, IAO, NOA, NGO) in addition to AO and CHIO. Friedman average rank and Wilcoxon statistical analysis (p-value) are conducted on all state-of-the-art algorithms testing 23 benchmark functions. Wilcoxon test and Friedman are conducted as well on the 29 CEC2017 functions. Moreover, some statistical tests are conducted on the 10 CEC2019 benchmark functions. Six real-world problems are used to validate the proposed MCHIAO against the same twelve state-of-the-art algorithms. On classical functions, including 24 unimodal and 44 multimodal functions, respectively, the exploitative and explorative behavior of the hybrid algorithm MCHIAO is evaluated. The statistical significance of the proposed technique for all functions is demonstrated by the p-values calculated using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test, as these p-values are found to be less than 0.05.
Using calcaneal plates in fixation of comminuted posterior wall acetabular fractures with cranial or posterior extension: a prospective case series and novel technique
Authors: Fahmy Mahmoud , Yasin Ebeed , Abdelmoneim Mohamed
Published: April 2024

Background

This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of using calcaneal plate in fixation of comminuted posterior wall (PW) acetabular fractures especially that have cranial (dome) or posterior extension (posterior column edge), and to evaluate its safety. To our knowledge, this is the first study that utilizes this off label implant technique in fixation of such fracture.

Methods

Twenty-two patients enrolled in the study with a minimum follow up of one year. After reducing the PW fragments sequentially, calcaneal plate was applied, fixing its distal part at ischial tuberosity upper ends using 3 screws in a triangular fashion, while its proximal part and radial wings were firmly fixed along the acetabular rim together with the classic longitudinal anchorage. Any fixation failure or head subluxation was recorded.

Results

Radiological outcome showed 18 cases scored as excellent, 2 were good, and 2 were poor. The functional outcome revealed 2 patients were excellent, 6 were very good and 14 were good. There was no loss of reduction or fixation failures throughout the follow up period.

Conclusion

Calcaneal plate may offer an alternative method of fixation of comminuted PW fractures with acceptable radiological and functional results. Our study result may encourage the comprehensibility and replicability of this practice, however randomized multicentered studies should be conducted to validate this assumption. This method provides valuable trick strategy, stable and soft-tissue-friendly fracture fixation where modern implantations may be unavailable or of high cost. Calcaneal plates show some fascinating features that allow using them outside their field being flexible with large footprint area for fracture buttressing beside numerous hole choices with diverse paths providing suitable fixation, articular stability and wide zone of coverage in PW comminuted fracture patterns with cranial or posterior extensions. The plate proximal triangular configuration together with distal triangular screw fixation gives a stiff rigid anchorage and buttressing similar to a metal mesh covering and fixing any fragment numbers up to dome level.
A New Simplified Discrete Fracture Model for Shearing of Intersecting Fractures and Faults
Authors: Hu Mengsu , Sasaki Tsubasa , Rutqvist Jonny , Birkholzer Jens
Published: April 2024

Shearing of fractures and faults is important because it can result in permeability change or even induce seismicity—both are keys for efficient and safe energy recovery and storage in Earth systems. Quantitative analysis of shearing of intersecting fractures and faults is challenging because it can involve dynamic frictional contacts that are complicated by deformation of the rock matrix. To predict the shearing of intersecting fractures/faults, we attempt to answer the question of how intersections impact the shearing of a fracture network and whether we can simplify the description as compared to classical discrete fracture network (DFN) models. To answer these questions, we conducted a series of numerical simulations on scenarios for variable numbers of intersecting fractures. All these examples yield consistent results: the results of using DFNs are consistent with those of using hypothetical major paths. This leads to a new model, which we name simplified discrete fracture network model, to analyze shearing of intersecting fractures/faults using major path(s). We found that the intersections of fractures do not fundamentally change the shearing of two intersecting fractures if the intersecting angles are small. Furthermore, increasing the number of fractures/faults may relax the stress as more fractures/faults become available for shearing and distributing the stress. The simplified DFN model, which can capture efficiently the shearing behavior of each major paths from a large number of intersecting fractures/faults, will be a promising conceptual model that is complementary to existing equivalent continuum and discrete fracture models to analyze shearing of intersecting fractures/faults.