bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synchronous spring precipitation in Southeastern China and Bengal: a potential indicator for the Indian summer monsoon?
Authors: Fang Keyan , Zhou Feifei , Wu Hao , Tang Hui , Mei Zepeng , Li Jinbao , Ou Tinghai , Zhao Zheng , Chen Deliang
Published: August 2024

Spring precipitation in southeastern China and Bengal, occurring during the transitional phase from winter to summer monsoons, serves as a critical window into the dynamics of large-scale circulations and the subsequent summer monsoon. While many studies have analyzed spring precipitation in southeastern China and Bengal, their interconnections and implications for the summer monsoon have remained relatively under explored. We utilized the Empirical Orthogonal Function of spring precipitation to reveal Synchronous Spring Precipitation (SSP) in southeastern China and Bengal. This synchronicity is bridged by the East Asian Subtropical Jet (EASJ) that extends from Bengal to southeastern China. The EASJ was predominantly correlated with precipitation in southeastern China prior to the 1990s, while it developed a more profound connection with precipitation in Bengal after the 1990s. Notably, SSP anomalies occurred during the developing phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). The predictive capacity of SSP for the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) amplifies during periods of the intensified SSP-ENSO correlations and positive phase of the North Pacific Meridional Mode. Tree-ring based reconstructions spanning the past two centuries further corroborate the persistent linkages among the SSP, ISM, and ENSO. Our research sheds light on the intricate interplay of these factors and their significance in understanding and predicting the monsoon dynamics in the region.
Balancing livestock production and environmental outcomes in northern Australia’s tropical savanna under global change
Authors: Runting Rebecca K , King Darran , Nolan Martin , Navarro Javier , Marcos-Martinez Raymundo , Rhodes Jonathan R , Gao Lei , Watson Ian , Ash Andrew , Reside April E , Álvarez-Romero Jorge G , Wells Jessie A , Ritchie Euan G , Hadjikakou Michalis , Driscoll Don A , Connor Jeffery D , Garber Jonathan , Bryan Brett A
Published: August 2024

Livestock production is an integral part of the global food system and the livelihoods of local people, but it also raises questions of environmental sustainability due to issues such as greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, biodiversity decline, land degradation, and water use. Further challenges to extensive livestock systems may arise from changes in climate and the global economy (particularly variation in prices for livestock and carbon). However, significant potential exists for both mitigating these impacts and adapting to change via altering stocking rates, managing fire, and supplementing cattle diets to reduce methane emissions. We developed an integrated, spatio-temporal modelling approach to assess the effectiveness of these options for land management in northern Australia’s tropical savanna under different global change scenarios. Performance was measured against a range of sustainability indicators, including environmental (GHG emissions, biodiversity, water intake, and land condition) and agricultural (profit, beef production) outcomes. Our model shows that maintaining historical stocking rates is not environmentally sustainable due to the accelerated land degradation exacerbated by a changing climate. However, planned early dry season burning substantially reduced emissions, and in our simulations was profitable under all global change scenarios that included a carbon price. Overall, the balance between production and environmental outcomes could be improved by stocking below modelled carrying capacity and implementing fire management. This management scenario was the most profitable (more than double the profit from maintaining historical stocking rates), prevented land degradation, and reduced GHG emissions by 23%. By integrating the cumulative impacts of climate change, external economic drivers, and management actions across a range of sustainability indicators, we show that the future of rangelands in Australia’s savannas has the potential to balance livestock production and environmental outcomes.
N-bein formalism for the parameter space of quantum geometry
Authors: Romero Jorge , Velasquez Carlos A , Vergara J David
Published: August 2024

This work introduces a geometrical object that generalizes the quantum geometric tensor; we call it N-bein. Analogous to the vielbein (orthonormal frame) used in the Cartan formalism, the N-bein behaves like a ‘square root’ of the quantum geometric tensor. Using it, we present a quantum geometric tensor of two states that measures the possibility of moving from one state to another after two consecutive parameter variations. This new tensor determines the commutativity of such variations through its anti-symmetric part. In addition, we define a connection different from the Berry connection, and combining it with the N-bein allows us to introduce a notion of torsion and curvature à la Cartan that satisfies the Bianchi identities. Moreover, the torsion coincides with the anti-symmetric part of the two-state quantum geometric tensor previously mentioned, and thus, it is related to the commutativity of the parameter variations. We also describe our formalism using differential forms and discuss the possible physical interpretations of the new geometrical objects. Furthermore, we define different gauge invariants constructed from the geometrical quantities introduced in this work, resulting in new physical observables. Finally, we present two examples to illustrate these concepts: a harmonic oscillator and a generalized oscillator, both immersed in an electric field. We found that the new tensors quantify correlations between quantum states that were unavailable by other methods.
Sensing electrical environments: mechanical object reconstruction via electrosensors
Authors: A Palmer Ryan , V Chenchiah Isaac , Robert Daniel
Published: August 2024

Increasing empirical evidence suggests that many terrestrial arthropods, such as bees, spiders, and caterpillars, sense electric fields in their environments. This relatively newly discovered sense may play a unique role within their broader sensory ecology, alongside other fundamental senses such as vision, hearing, olfaction, and aero-acoustic sensing. Deflectable hairs are the primary candidate for the reception of electrical stimuli. From the deflections of individually innervated hairs, the arthropod can transduce environmental and ecological information. However, it is unclear what information an animal can elicit from hair receptors and how it relates to their environment. This paper explores how an arthropod may ascertain geometric and electrical information about its environment. Using two-dimensional models, we explore the possibility of electroreceptive object recognition and reconstruction via multiple observations and several deflecting hairs. We analyse how the number of hairs, the observed shape, and the observation path alter the accuracy of the reconstructed representations. The results herein indicate the formidable possibility that geometric information about the environment can be electro-mechanically measured and acquired at a distance.
An approach to generate cross-polarization modulation-enabled optical frequency comb with enhanced spectral flatness in traveling-wave semiconductor optical amplifiers
Authors: Verma Priyanka , Singh Sukhbir
Published: August 2024

This paper proposes a method for generating an optical frequency comb (OFC) using the cross-polarization modulation (XPolM) effect in a traveling-wave semiconductor optical amplifier (TW-SOA). The TW-SOA acted as a lumped amplifier, enabling pulse generation within the comb. The proposed method of OFC generation achieved a comb spectrum with 51 lines and a maximum power deviation of 1.8 dB, indicating excellent spectral flatness. The proposed approach effectively utilized XPolM in a TW-SOA to create broad flat OFCs. The effectiveness of XPolM depends on various SOA parameters, such as pump and signal powers, and the confinement factor. To understand the XPolM-enabled OFC behavior, various parameters, such as input polarization, bias current, SOA confinement factor, and carrier density, have been optimized. These parameters significantly influenced the generated comb spectrum. This study also provides valuable insights into optimizing comb characteristics through theoretical analysis. The proposed OFC generation was simulated using an OptiSystem simulator. This has paved the way for the potential use of the comb as a multichannel source in various optical devices.
Temperature induced A1 to B2 structural and magnetic transition in FeRh thin film
Authors: Merkel D G , Gracheva M A , Radnóczi G Z , Hegedűs G , Nagy D L , Horváth Z E , Lengyel A
Published: August 2024

The Fe-Rh system offers a diverse range of magnetic phases, making it promising for energy-efficient magnetic devices. A periodic, chemically homogeneous, isotope-periodic nFeRh/57FeRh multilayer system was deposited on a MgO(100) substrate via molecular beam epitaxy, and annealed at various temperatures and durations. To gain deeper insights into the A1 to B2 structural and magnetic transitions, non-destructive techniques such as x-ray diffraction, conversion electron Mössbauer spectroscopy, and neutron reflectometry were employed. The qualitative and quantitative analysis revealed insights into the underlying mechanisms of the transformation from the A1 phase to the B2 phase were described, including the variation of the lattice parameters, grain sizes and hyperfine parameters. Neutron reflectometry revealed no significant long-range diffusion during the phase transition, suggesting a local interchange of neighbouring atoms.
Optimization and ranking of the input parameter settings of sustainable grinding using cashew nut shell liquid as cutting fluid
Authors: Usgaonkar Gajesh G S , Prabhu Gaonkar Rajesh S
Published: August 2024

The current work advocates the use of Cashew Nut Shell Liquid/Oil (CNSL), an oil extract of the leftover cashew nut shells, as a novel environment-friendly cutting fluid in sustainable machining operations. The tribological characteristics of CNSL obtained on a pin-on-disc tribometer are found to be better compared to the traditionally used cutting fluid. Experiments are conducted on the surface grinder with EN8 material, considering input parameters, such as cutting fluid type, grinder speed and grade, work speed, and depth of cut, with Surface Roughness (Ra) and Grinding Temperature (Temp) being the responses. Input parameter optimization is performed using Taguchi’s statistical models. A total of 36 investigative and six validation experiments are conducted, and a prediction model is proposed. When Ra and Temp are optimized simultaneously, the prediction value of Ra is 0.071 μm, and the corresponding value of Temp is 31.6 °C for which the experimental values are 0.072 μm and 32 °C respectively. This work also applies the TODIM (TOmada de Decisao Interativa Multicriterio, in the Portuguese language), a multi-attribute decision-making method for ranking the input parameter settings. The study reveals that the performance of CNSL is better than that of a traditional cutting fluid, and the TODIM method can be successfully applied to rank the input parameter settings.
3D printed heterogeneous paediatric head and adult thorax phantoms for linear accelerator radiotherapy quality assurance: from fabrication to treatment delivery
Authors: Bustillo John Paul O , Posadas Julia Rebecca D , Mata Jacob L , Inocencio Elrick T , Rosenfeld Anatoly B , Lerch Michael L F
Published: August 2024

Objective. This study aims to design and fabricate a 3D printed heterogeneous paediatric head phantom and to customize a thorax phantom for radiotherapy dosimetry. Approach. This study designed, fabricated, and tested 3D printed radiotherapy phantoms that can simulate soft tissue, lung, brain, and bone. Various polymers were considered in designing the phantoms. Polylactic acid+, nylon, and plaster were used in simulating different tissue equivalence. Dimensional accuracy, and CT number were investigated. The phantoms were subjected to a complete radiotherapy clinical workflow. Several treatment plans were delivered in both the head and the thorax phantom from a simple single 6 MV beam, parallel opposed beams, and five-field intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) beams. Dose measurements using an ionization chamber and radiochromic films were compared with the calculated doses of the Varian Eclipse treatment planning system (TPS). Main results. The fabricated heterogeneous phantoms represent paediatric human head and adult thorax based on its radiation attenuation and anatomy. The measured CT number ranges are within −786.23 ± 10.55, 0.98 ± 3.86, 129.51 ± 12.83, and 651.14 ± 47.76 HU for lung, water/brain, soft tissue, and bone, respectively. It has a good radiological imaging visual similarity relative to a real human head and thorax depicting soft tissue, lung, bone, and brain. The accumulated dose readings for both conformal radiotherapy and IMRT match with the TPS calculated dose within ±2% and ±4% for head and thorax phantom, respectively. The mean pass rate for all the plans delivered are above 90% for gamma analysis criterion of 3%/3 mm. Significance and conclusion. The fabricated heterogeneous paediatric head and thorax phantoms are useful in Linac end-to-end radiotherapy quality assurance based on its CT image and measured radiation dose. The manufacturing and dosimetry workflow of this study can be utilized by other institutions for dosimetry and trainings.
Microfluidic systems for modeling digestive cancer: a review of recent progress
Authors: Razavi ZahraSadat , Soltani Madjid , Pazoki-Toroudi Hamidreza , Dabagh Mahsa
Published: August 2024

Purpose. This review aims to highlight current improvements in microfluidic devices designed for digestive cancer simulation. The review emphasizes the use of multicellular 3D tissue engineering models to understand the complicated biology of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and cancer progression. The purpose is to develop oncology research and improve digestive cancer patients’ lives. Methods. This review analyzes recent research on microfluidic devices for mimicking digestive cancer. It uses tissue-engineered microfluidic devices, notably organs on a chip (OOC), to simulate human organ function in the lab. Cell cultivation on modern three-dimensional hydrogel platforms allows precise geometry, biological components, and physiological qualities. The review analyzes novel methodologies, key findings, and technical progress to explain this field’s advances. Results. This study discusses current advances in microfluidic devices for mimicking digestive cancer. Micro physiological systems with multicellular 3D tissue engineering models are emphasized. These systems capture complex biochemical gradients, niche variables, and dynamic cell–cell interactions in the tumor microenvironment (TME). These models reveal stomach cancer biology and progression by duplicating the TME. Recent discoveries and technology advances have improved our understanding of gut cancer biology, as shown in the review. Conclusion. Microfluidic systems play a crucial role in modeling digestive cancer and furthering oncology research. These platforms could transform drug development and treatment by revealing the complex biology of the tumor microenvironment and cancer progression. The review provides a complete summary of recent advances and suggests future research for field professionals. The review’s major goal is to further medical research and improve digestive cancer patients’ lives.
A cross-shaped terahertz metamaterial absorber for brain cancer detection
Authors: Bhowmik W , Appasani B , Gorai A , Jha A K V , De B P , Samanta P K
Published: August 2024

The article presents, for the first time, a terahertz metamaterial absorber (TMA) designed in the shape of a cross consisting of four orthogonally positioned horn-shaped patches in succession, to detect brain cancer cells. The design exhibits the property of mu-negative material, indicating magnetic resonance. The proposed TMA has achieved an impressive absorption rate of 99.43% at 2.334 THz and a high Q-factor of 47.15. The sensing capability has been investigated by altering the refractive index of the surrounding medium in the range of 1.3 to 1.48, resulting in a sensitivity of 0.502 THz/RIU. The proposed TMA exhibits complete polarization insensitivity, highlighting this as one of its advantageous features. The adequate sensing capability of the proposed TMA in differentiating normal and cancerous brain cells makes it a viable candidate for an early and efficient brain cancer detector. This research can be the foundation for future research on using THz radiation for brain cancer detection.
The n-shot classical capacity of the quantum erasure channel
Authors: Rosati Matteo
Published: August 2024

We compute the n-shot classical capacity of the quantum erasure channel, providing upper bounds and almost-matching lower bounds for it, the latter achievable via large-minimum-distance classical linear codes for any n. The protocols are in full product form, i.e. no entanglement is needed either at the encoder or decoder to attain the capacity, and they explicitly adapt to the transition between different error regimes as the erasure probability increases. Finally, we show that our upper and lower bounds on the capacity are tighter than those obtainable from the general theory of finite-size capacity via generalized divergences.
Correlation between optical phonon softening and superconducting

T

c

in YBa2Cu3Ox within d-wave Eliashberg theory
Authors: Jiang Cunyuan , Alberto Ummarino Giovanni , Baggioli Matteo , Liarokapis Efthymios , Zaccone Alessio
Published: August 2024

We provide a mathematical description, based on d-wave Eliashberg theory, of the strong correlation between the experimentally observed softening of Raman modes associated with in-plane oxygen motions and the corresponding superconducting critical temperature

T

c

, as a function of oxygen doping x, in YBa2Cu3O
x
. The theoretical model provides a direct link between physical trends of soft optical Ag
(in-plane) oxygen modes, the level of oxygen doping x, and the superconducting

T

c

. Different regimes observed in the trend of

T

c

vs doping can be related to corresponding regimes of optical phonon softening in the Raman spectra. These results provide further evidence related to the physical origin of high-temperature superconductivity in rare-earth cuprate oxides and to the significant role of electron–phonon coupling therein.
Enhanced compressive strength of graphene strengthened copper (G/Cu) composites
Authors: Cakir Deniz , Caylan Omer R , Gurpinar Erhan , Akgul Ogulcan , Tugrul H Onat , Okay Elif , Atli Eren , Kockar Benat , Cambaz Buke Goknur
Published: August 2024

This study explores the compressive mechanical properties of copper composites reinforced with graphene. Graphene was synthesized on copper powders via plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. Multilayer graphene formation has been substantiated by Raman analysis. Graphene-coated copper (G/Cu) powders were then subjected to pressing and sintering to fabricate G/Cu composites. The mechanical properties of G/Cu composites were investigated under compression from room temperature up to 400 °C in air. The results demonstrated a substantial improvement in the mechanical properties of G/Cu composites compared to monolithic copper. Specifically, the yield strength in compression of the G/Cu composite increased by 203% at room temperature and by 190% at 200 °C. At 400 °C, the yield strength enhancement exceeded 370%. Microstructural analysis suggests that the observed enhancements in G/Cu composites can be attributed to reduced porosity, smaller grain size, and inhibited dislocation motion at the increased grain boundary area (due to refined grain size) and graphene-copper interfaces.
Understanding the response of tropical overturning circulations to greenhouse gas and aerosol forcing
Authors: Kalik Vishisth , Krishnan R , Ayantika D C , Swapna P , Manmeet Singh , Sandeep N , Vellore Ramesh , Brahmananda Rao V
Published: August 2024

While observational records provide evidence for strengthening of the Pacific Walker circulation and the boreal winter Hadley cell over the last few decades, the underlying causes are not well understood. This study investigates the radiative effects of CO2 and anthropogenic aerosols on regional variations in the intensity of tropical meridional (Hadley-like) and zonal (Walker-like) overturning circulations, based on a suite of experiments using the IITM Earth System Model (IITM-ESM) along with supplementary analysis of observed and reanalysis datasets. Two key findings emerge from our study (i) strengthening of the Pacific Walker circulation with enhanced zonal sea surface temperature gradients and precipitation increase over the tropical Indo-Pacific, in response to global warming via ocean-atmosphere coupled feedbacks (ii) aerosol-induced intensification of regional meridional overturning circulation over the (

0
−

120

∘

E) longitudinal domain resulting from inter-hemispheric energy imbalance and southward shift of the southern hemispheric (SH) rainfall belt extending eastward from Africa across the Indian Ocean. Our results suggest that the combined radiative influence of increased CO2 and northern hemispheric (NH) anthropogenic aerosols reinforces the regional meridional overturning circulation, by enhancing convection over the SH and promoting widespread descent over the NH subtropics and mid-latitudes covering northern Africa, Mediterranean, parts of middle-East, West and South Asia. The present findings have important implications for the regional water resources, agriculture and environment.
Quantile regression for longitudinal data with values below the limit of detection and time-dependent covariates—application to modeling carbon nanotube and nanofiber exposures
Authors: Chen I-Chen , Bertke Stephen J , Dahm Matthew M
Published: August 2024

Background

In studies of occupational health, longitudinal environmental exposure, and biomonitoring data are often subject to right skewing and left censoring, in which measurements fall below the limit of detection (LOD). To address right-skewed data, it is common practice to log-transform the data and model the geometric mean, assuming a log-normal distribution. However, if the transformed data do not follow a known distribution, modeling the mean of exposure may result in bias and reduce efficiency. In addition, when examining longitudinal data, it is possible that certain covariates may vary over time.

Objective

To develop predictive quantile regression models to resolve the issues of left censoring and time-dependent covariates and to quantitatively evaluate if previous and current covariates can predict current and/or future exposure levels.

Methods

To address these gaps, we suggested incorporating different substitution approaches into quantile regression and utilizing a method for selecting a working type of time dependency for covariates.

Results

In a simulation study, we demonstrated that, under different types of time-dependent covariates, the approach of multiple random value imputation outperformed the other approaches. We also applied our methods to a carbon nanotube and nanofiber exposure study. The dependent variables are the left-censored mass of elemental carbon at both the respirable and inhalable aerosol size fractions. In this study, we identified some potential time-dependent covariates with respect to worker-level determinants and job tasks.

Conclusion

Time dependency for covariates is rarely accounted for when analyzing longitudinal environmental exposure and biomonitoring data with values less than the LOD through predictive modeling. Mistreating the time-dependency as time-independency will lead to an efficiency loss of regression parameter estimation. Therefore, we addressed time-varying covariates in longitudinal exposure and biomonitoring data with left-censored measurements and illustrated an entire conditional distribution through different quantiles.
Quantum computing in bioinformatics: a systematic review mapping
Authors: Nałęcz-Charkiewicz Katarzyna , Charkiewicz Kamil , Nowak Robert M
Published: August 2024

The field of quantum computing (QC) is expanding, with efforts being made to apply it to areas previously covered by classical algorithms and methods. Bioinformatics is one such domain that is developing in terms of QC. This article offers a broad mapping review of methods and algorithms of QC in bioinformatics, marking the first of its kind. It presents an overview of the domain and aids researchers in identifying further research directions in the early stages of this field of knowledge. The work presented here shows the current state-of-the-art solutions, focuses on general future directions, and highlights the limitations of current methods. The gathered data includes a comprehensive list of identified methods along with descriptions, classifications, and elaborations of their advantages and disadvantages. Results are presented not just in a descriptive table but also in an aggregated and visual format.
Comprehensive classification of TP53 somatic missense variants based on their impact on p53 structural stability
Authors: Tam Benjamin , Lagniton Philip Naderev P , Da Luz Mariano , Zhao Bojin , Sinha Siddharth , Lei Chon Lok , Wang San Ming
Published: August 2024

Somatic variation is a major type of genetic variation contributing to human diseases including cancer. Of the vast quantities of somatic variants identified, the functional impact of many somatic variants, in particular the missense variants, remains unclear. Lack of the functional information prevents the translation of rich variation data into clinical applications. We previously developed a method named Ramachandran Plot–Molecular Dynamics Simulations (RP-MDS), aiming to predict the function of germline missense variants based on their effects on protein structure stability, and successfully applied to predict the deleteriousness of unclassified germline missense variants in multiple cancer genes. We hypothesized that regardless of their different genetic origins, somatic missense variants and germline missense variants could have similar effects on the stability of their affected protein structure. As such, the RP-MDS method designed for germline missense variants should also be applicable to predict the function of somatic missense variants. In the current study, we tested our hypothesis by using the somatic missense variants in TP53 as a model. Of the 397 somatic missense variants analyzed, RP-MDS predicted that 195 (49.1%) variants were deleterious as they significantly disturbed p53 structure. The results were largely validated by using a p53–p21 promoter–green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter gene assay. Our study demonstrated that deleterious somatic missense variants can be identified by referring to their effects on protein structural stability.
A retrospective review of isotretinoin treatment-related mental health and sexual function outcomes in a tertiary acne clinic
Authors: Mitsaki Kyriaki Stefania , Chawla Sumir , Merika Eirini E
Published: August 2024

Isotretinoin is the gold standard treatment for severe acne, but it has been controversially linked to psychiatric and sexual disorders. Using the well-validated PHQ-9 and CADI scoring systems, we demonstrated significantly improved mental health outcomes following completion of isotretinoin treatment for acne in our patient cohort over a 3-year period. We report no cases of suicidal ideation, suicide or erectile dysfunction.
Advancing radiology practice and research: harnessing the potential of large language models amidst imperfections
Authors: Klang Eyal , Alper Lee , Sorin Vera , Barash Yiftach , Nadkarni Girish N , Zimlichman Eyal
Published: August 2024

Large language models (LLMs) are transforming the field of natural language processing (NLP). These models offer opportunities for radiologists to make a meaningful impact in their field. NLP is a part of artificial intelligence (AI) that uses computer algorithms to study and understand text data. Recent advances in NLP include the Attention mechanism and the Transformer architecture. Transformer-based LLMs, such as GPT-4 and Gemini, are trained on massive amounts of data and generate human-like text. They are ideal for analysing large text data in academic research and clinical practice in radiology. Despite their promise, LLMs have limitations, including their dependency on the diversity and quality of their training data and the potential for false outputs. Albeit these limitations, the use of LLMs in radiology holds promise and is gaining momentum. By embracing the potential of LLMs, radiologists can gain valuable insights and improve the efficiency of their work. This can ultimately lead to improved patient care.
Dose escalation and associated economic outcomes in patients with psoriasis treated with biologics: a retrospective analysis of German health claims data
Authors: Pinter Andreas , Soliman Ahmed M , Manz Karina C , Weber Valeria , Ludwig Paul , Mocek Anja , Höer Ariane , Richter Sven G , Lebwohl Mark G
Published: August 2024

Background

In Germany, several biologic therapies are available for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, with the option of exceeding recommended dosages if standard dosing does not achieve a satisfactory treatment response.

Objectives

To examine dose escalation in patients with biologic-treated psoriasis and its implications on the costs for German statutory health insurance (SHI).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, noninterventional cohort study using German SHI health claims data from 2016 to 2021. Adult patients initiating biologic treatment were included in drug-specific cohorts. The odds for dose escalation, defined as the exceedance of the individually received daily dose over the maintenance dose recommended by the European product information, were compared between cohorts using multivariate logistic regression. The impact of dose escalation on SHI expenditure was analysed with a generalized linear model.

Results

The relative frequency of dose escalation varied between cohorts [range 1%, < 5/92 (risankizumab) to 43%, < 5/7 (infliximab)]. Compared with patients treated with risankizumab, the odds for dose escalation were statistically significantly (P < 0.05) higher in patients treated with all other biologic drugs except tildrakizumab. Patients with dose escalation during the maintenance phase accrued on average €6473 more in direct healthcare costs to SHI over a 1-year period compared with those without dose escalation, with statistical significance (P < 0.05) after controlling for differences in covariates.

Conclusions

Compared with patients treated with other biologics, dose escalation during the maintenance phase was lowest among patients treated with risankizumab. Dose escalation was associated with higher costs and thus a higher economic burden for German SHI.
An algorithmic approach towards diagnosis of patients with hereditary reticulate pigmentary disorders: a narrative review
Authors: Mohapatra Liza , Sardana Kabir , Panda Maitreyee , Mahajan Rahul
Published: August 2024

Hereditary reticulate pigmentary disorders include a group of genetic disorders, with netlike pigmentation as their predominant presentation. Many of these hereditary reticulate pigmentary disorders have a wide array of cutaneous presentations with overlapping features. Furthermore, some of these disorders also have systemic manifestations. The overlapping features often add confusion and cause delay in diagnosis. Based on a literature search, we propose an easy-to-follow and concise diagnostic algorithm for diagnosis. This algorithm would aid in ordering a definitive genetic test. A thorough data search was done using the PubMed database with the following keywords: (‘inherit*’ OR ‘genetic’) AND (‘reticulate AND pigment*’). Thereafter, a search for individual diseases was done using the keywords ‘Dowling–Degos disease’, ‘dyschromatosis hereditaria symmetrica’, ‘acropigmentation of Kitamura’, ‘dyschromatosis universalis hereditaria’, ‘Naegeli–Franceschetti–Jadassohn syndrome’, ‘X-linked reticulate pigmentary disorder’ and ‘dyskeratosis congenita’. The search included case reports, case series, observational studies, narrative and systematic reviews, and clinical trials. Acquired pigmentary disorders were excluded. In total, 1994 articles were retrieved. Finally, 625 articles were included for the review. The articles were narrative reviews (40), case series (23), observational studies (44) and case reports (518). An easy-to-follow clinical diagnostic algorithm was prepared based on age of onset, distribution and other parameters. This algorithm will aid in reaching a provisional diagnosis. Furthermore, this approach will help in the genetic investigations of a case of hereditary reticulate pigmentary disorder.
Treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa with adalimumab in the PIONEER I and II randomized controlled trials reduced indices of systemic inflammation, recognized risk factors for cardiovascular disease
Authors: Kearney Niamh , Chen Xin , Bi Yingtao , Hew Kinjal , Smith Kathleen M , Kirby Brian
Published: August 2024

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is associated with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Systemic immune inflammation index (SII), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR) are biomarkers of systemic inflammation and CVD. One small study identified a lower NLR and PLR in patients treated with adalimumab (ADA).

Objectives

To assess changes in SII, NLR, PLR and MLR in a larger cohort and to evaluate their association with disease severity and treatment response.

Methods

This was a post hoc analysis of PIONEER I (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT01468207) and PIONEER II (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT01468233), two phase III randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials of ADA for HS. SII, NLR, PLR and MLR were log10-transformed and a linear mixed model was used to estimate the treatment effect.

Results

SII, NLR, PLR and MLR decreased from baseline levels with ADA treatment by week 12, when the primary response endpoint was assessed. Significant changes first appeared at week 4 and were maintained to week 36. In contrast, no significant changes were observed in placebo-treated patients. In patients re-randomized at week 12 from placebo to ADA, SII, NLR, PLR and MLR also reduced within 4 weeks. In patients re-randomized from ADA to placebo, these biomarkers returned to baseline by week 36. In addition, SII, NLR and PLR correlated with draining fistula count (r = 0.26–0.43, P < 0.001). ADA nonresponders in PIONEER I had a higher SII, NLR and PLR at baseline and week 12, but this change did not achieve statistical significance when draining fistulae were adjusted for.

Conclusions

Treatment of patients with HS with ADA resulted in rapid sustained reduction in systemic inflammation, measured by the biomarkers SII, NLR, PLR and MLR, which correlate with CVD risk. SII, NLR and PLR may predict ADA response, although this may be dependent on their interaction with the number of draining fistulae.
Successful treatment of prurigo nodularis with upadacitinib
Authors: Avallone Gianluca , Bombelli Andrea , Termini Davide , Chiei-Gallo Alessandra , Barei Francesca , Marzano Angelo V , Ferrucci Silvia M
Published: August 2024

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a debilitating condition marked by raised, intensely itchy, often painful nodules on the skin. A 50-year-old Asian man presented with a 7-year history of PN lesions on his trunk and extremities. Observation suggests that upadacitinib could be a promising option for treating PN.
Chatting ethically: practical recommendations for ethical use of large language models in dermatology practice, research and education
Authors: Gordon Emily R , Trager Megan H , Breneman Alyssa , Dugdale Lydia , Samie Faramarz H
Published: August 2024

As large language model (LLM) use increases, developing ethical standards for their applications to supplement dermatologists is critically important. Here, we summarize the primary applications of LLMs in dermatology, their ethical implications and recommendations for appropriate use.
Short steps synthesis of unsymmetrical acetylenes from tetrachloroethylene and arylboronic acids using Suzuki coupling reaction and improvement of mild dechlorinations
Authors: Suzuki Hiyono , Togo Akane , Kikuzawa Junya , Miyamoto Kazuki , Marumoto Shinsuke , Kuwabara Akiko , Kobayashi Masafumi , Matsumoto Kouichi
Published: August 2024

Short steps synthesis of unsymmetrical acetylenes from tetrachloroethylene and arylboronic acids, and the use of the metal Mg as the mild reagent for dechlorinations has been developed. Unsymmetrical acetylenes including the donor and acceptor diarylacetylenes were produced in good yields. The reaction optimization, scope and limitations, the scale-up reaction, and the evaluation of the step were studied for this paper.
The health belief model and phishing: determinants of preventative security behaviors
Authors: Du Jie , Kalafut Andrew , Schymik Gregory
Published: August 2024

Email is frequently the attack vector of choice for hackers and is a large concern for campus IT organizations. This paper attempts to gain insight into what drives the email security behaviors of students, faculty, and staff at one midwestern public, master’s granting university. The survey relies on the health belief model as its theoretical basis and measures eight constructs including email security behavior, perceived barriers to practice, self-efficacy, cues to action, prior security experience, perceived vulnerability, perceived benefits, and perceived severity. Barriers to practice, self-efficacy, vulnerability, benefits, and prior experience variables were found to be significant determinants of self-reported email security behaviors. Additional discussion of results based on subgroups of the respondents and interaction models is included in this paper. The findings of this study may help shed light on how universities can better prepare students, faculty, and staff to handle this critical information security concern. Given the makeup of the subject population, some findings may be applicable to businesses beyond academic institutions.
Short-term symptomatic outcomes of GERD in patients with gastroparesis after gastric per oral endoscopic pyloromyotomy
Authors: Raza Syed Musa , Raza Daniyal , Neice Michelle , Kile Brittany , Andrus Victoria , Armstrong Elizabeth , Okuampa David , Deville Ashely , Dies Ross , Kawji Lena , Mubashir Maryam , Rashid Shazia , Ahsan Sidra , Bhuiyan Mohammad Alfrad Nobel , Cai Qiang
Published: August 2024

Gastroparesis (Gp) patients often have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Management of GERD in Gp patients is a challenge. Many studies have shown that gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy (G-POEM or POP) is moderately effective in reducing nausea and vomiting in patients with Gp. This study aims to determine whether G-POEM can improve GERD in Gp Patients. Patients who underwent G-POEM from July 2021 to October 2022 were enrolled in the study. GERD Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD HRQL) and Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) were used to assess patients’ GERD before and after G-POEM. The use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) before and after G-POEM were also documented. The Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) was used to assess the severity of Gp before and after G-POEM. A ‘Welch two-sample t-test’ was used to find differences in GERD HRQL (health-related quality of life) and RSI scores before and after the procedure. Pearson’s chi-square test was used to find differences for use of PPI before and after G-POEM. Twenty-three consecutive refractory Gp patients with 30% male (average age 63.2) and 70% female patients (average age 53.9) were enrolled. Of these, 14 had diabetes, 3 had a history of surgery, and 6 had idiopathic Gp. The mean follow-up was 41 days (range 7–61 days). There was a significant decrease in the mean GERD HRQL score from 16.5 to 6.5 after G POEM with a P-value <0.0001 (95% level of significance) and a significant decrease in mean RSI score from 15.3 to 5.2 after G-POEM with P-value <0.0001 (95% level of significance). The proportion of use of PPI before GPOEM was 0.91, and the proportion of PPI use after GPOEM was 0.43 (P = 0.0008). The mean GCSI pre- and post-GPOEM were 3.53 and 1.59, respectively. Eighteen had clinical success in Gp as defined by decreased mean GCSI score greater than 1. In this short-term outcome study, 87% of patients’ GERD HRQL scores and RSI scores decreased after G-POEM. These findings indicate that GPOEM not only effectively reduces Gp symptoms but also improves GERD symptoms leading to decreased or more effective use of PPI in these patients. To our knowledge, this is the first study to comprehensively show G-POEM significantly improves GERD. Further studies with a larger patient population and long-term outcomes are needed.
Tip detection-antegrade dissection and re-entry (TD-ADR) with integrated fluoroscopic and intravascular ultrasound images in chronic total occlusion: first case report of integrated TD-ADR technique
Authors: Tadano Yutaka , Kuramitsu Shoichi , Sugie Takuro , Kanno Daitaro , Fujita Tsutomu
Published: August 2024

Background

Tip detection-antegrade dissection and re-entry (TD-ADR) technique allows operators to accurately observe both guidewire tip direction and a true lumen in chronic total occlusion (CTO) lesions, while the torque direction of the guidewire on IVUS images does not invariably correspond to that on fluoroscopic images.

Case summary

A 41-year-old man with hypertension who smokes presented with sudden onset of dyspnoea, acute heart failure, and ischaemic findings on electrocardiogram; we performed percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for a sub-totally occluded mid-left anterior descending artery lesion. All antegrade wiring attempts failed to enter the distal true lumen followed by subintimal tracking and re-entry technique. Since the lesion re-occluded the next day, we treated the lesion using a novel TD-ADR technique, termed the ‘integrated TD-ADR’, because of no interventional retrograde channel. This method integrates fluoroscopic and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) images, ensuring congruence in the torque direction of the guidewire across both modalities and enabling vertical puncture of the stiff guidewire from the extraplaque space to the distal true lumen quickly and precisely. Final angiography showed good results. Five months later, coronary angiography showed that the lesion remained open.

Discussion

The integrated TD-ADR technique merges fluoroscopic and IVUS images, allowing operators to torque the guidewire in the same direction on both images. This approach might be more user-friendly than the original technique and has the potential to enhance the success rate of PCI in complex CTO cases. However, further investigations are warranted to address the clinical feasibility and applicability of this technique.
Hybrid coronary revascularization: position paper of the European Society of Cardiology Working Group on Cardiovascular Surgery and European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions
Authors: Thielmann Matthias , Bonaros Nikolaos , Barbato Emanuele , Barili Fabio , Folliguet Thierry , Friedrich Guy , Gottardi Roman , Legutko Jacek , Parolari Alessandro , Punjabi Prakash , Sandner Sigrid , Suwalski Piotr , Shehada Sharaf-Eldin , Wendt Daniel , Czerny Martin , Muneretto Claudio
Published: August 2024

Myocardial revascularization in coronary artery disease via percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery effectively relieves symptoms, significantly improves prognosis and quality of life when combined with guideline-directed medical therapy. Hybrid coronary revascularization is a promising alternative to percutaneous coronary intervention or CABG in selected patients and is defined as a planned and/or intended combination of consecutive CABG surgery using at least 1 internal mammary artery to the left anterior descending (LAD), and catheter-based coronary intervention to the non-LAD vessels for the treatment of multivessel disease. The main indications for hybrid coronary revascularization are (i) to achieve complete revascularization in patients who cannot undergo conventional CABG, (ii) to treat patients with acute coronary syndromes and multivessel disease with a non-LAD vessel as the culprit lesion that needs revascularization and (iii) in highly select patients with multivessel disease with complex LAD lesions and simple percutaneous coronary intervention targets for all other vessels. Hybrid coronary revascularization patients receive a left internal mammary artery graft to the LAD artery through a minimal incision along with percutaneous coronary intervention to the remaining diseased coronary vessels using latest generation drug-eluting stents. A collaborative environment with a dedicated heart team is the optimal platform to perform such interventions, which aim to improve the quality and outcome of myocardial revascularization. This position paper analyses the rationale of hybrid coronary revascularization and the currently available evidence on the various techniques and delves into the sequence of the interventions and pharmacological management during and after the procedure.
Cochrane systematic reviews in orthodontics: trends across updates
Authors: Reeves Samuel , Patel Kishan , Mukeshkumar Krupali , Naini Farhad B
Published: August 2024

Background

Systematic reviews (SR) are regularly updated to reflect new evidence. However, updates are time-consuming and costly, and therefore should ideally be informed by new high-quality research. The purpose of this study is to assess trends in the quantity, quality, and recency of evidence intervening updates of orthodontic SR.

Methods

SR relevant to orthodontics with at least two versions were identified from the Cochrane Database. The number, risk of bias, and year of publication of included trials were recorded for each update. Multivariate regression was conducted to assess factors affecting the risk of bias in trials, and the proportions within SR.

Results

Forty-five SR inclusive of updates were included. The median number of trials was three per review and this increased across subsequent versions. Seven reviews (15.6%) included no evidence, and 40.74% of updates included no new evidence. Most of the primary research was considered high risk of bias (57.3%), although this was reduced marginally across updates. The proportion of studies considered low risk did not improve significantly between updates. There was no impact of publication year of clinical trials on the risk of bias (P = 0.349). However, average age of trials included in a systematic review significantly affected the proportion of low risk-of-bias studies (P = 0.039).

Conclusions

SR are frequently updated without including new evidence. New evidence that is included is commonly deemed to be at high risk of bias. Targeted strategies to improve the efficient use of resources and improve research quality should be considered.