bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant activity and total phenolic compounds of Commiphora gileadensis extracts obtained by ultrasonic‐assisted extraction, with monitoring antiaging and cytotoxicity activities
Authors: Ahmed Hani , Rashed Marwan M. A. , Almoiliqy Marwan , Abdalla Mohammed , Bashari Mohanad , Zaky Mohamed Y. , Hailin Zhu , Naji Taha A. A. , Eibaid Ahmed , Wang Jinpeng , Jiang Li‐Ping
Published: April 2023

Commiphora gileadensis (C. gileadensis) has been identified and linked with various health benefits and pharmaceutical potential for its phytochemical activities and chemical constituents. This study aimed to evaluate ultrasonic‐assisted extraction (USE) technique for total phenols content from C. gileadensis leaf compared to the hydrodistillation extraction (HDE). Our results showed that the USE operating conditions were identified as: MeOH·H2O solvent‐to‐fresh sample ratio of 80:20 (v/v); ultrasonic power/frequency at 150 W/20 kHz; and a temperature of 40 ± 1°C; subjected to acoustic waves intermittently for a calculated time (5 min) during the total programmed time of 12 min. The USE exhibited (118.71 ± 0.009 mg GAE/g DM) more amounts of all phenols than HDE (101.47 ± 0.005 mg GAE/g DM), and antioxidant (77.78 ± 0.73%, 75.27 ± 0.59% scavenging inhibition of DPPH), respectively. Anti‐aging and Cytotoxicity activities were investigated. The results of biological evaluations showed that the crude extracts of C. gileadensis significantly extended the replicative lifespan of K6001 yeast. In addition, in vitro cytotoxicity against the HepG2 cell line showed significant anticancer activity, and approximately 100 μg/mL is required to decrease viability compared with that of the control. This study is proven for a larger scale to extract and isolate compounds of C. gileadensis for potential utilization in the pharmaceutical industry. In conclusion, advanced methods afford an extract with high activity in the biological properties of the extract.
Evaluating robust determinants of the WTI/Brent oil price differential: A dynamic model averaging analysis
Authors: Filippidis Michail , Filis George , Magkonis Georgios , Tzouvanas Panagiotis
Published: April 2023

We investigate the robust determinants of the West Texas Intermediate/Brent oil price differential by employing a time‐varying framework. To achieve this, a dynamic model averaging framework is used, considering monthly data over the period 1994:1–2021:3. Our results suggest that the convenience yield, the global economic activity index, and the government bond yields act as the main factors that exercise a persistent and significant impact, for the largest part of the study period, although at different magnitude. More importantly, though, we show that at different time periods there are additional factors that exercise a significant impact on the oil price differential, such as refining constraints, stock market volatility, trading volume, and geopolitical risk. Thus, unless a dynamic modeling framework is employed, the full spectrum of the related effects cannot be revealed. A series of tests confirm the robustness of our findings. Several policy implications of these results are also discussed.
Differential activity of transcription factor Sox9 in early and adult oligodendroglial progenitor cells
Authors: Hassel Lisa A. , Fröb Franziska , Küspert Melanie , Hillgärtner Simone , Arnold Philipp , Huang Wenhui , Kirchhoff Frank , Wegner Michael
Published: April 2023

The high‐mobility‐group domain‐containing transcription factor Sox9 confers glial competence to neuroepithelial precursors in the developing central nervous system and is an important determinant of astroglial and oligodendroglial specification. In oligodendroglial cells, it remains expressed in oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) of the developing nervous system, but is shut off in differentiating oligodendrocytes as well as in OPCs that persist in the adult nervous system. To better understand the role of Sox9 in OPCs, we generated mouse models that allowed oligodendroglial expression of a Sox9 transgene during development or in the adult. With transgene expression beginning in the last trimester of pregnancy, the number of OPCs increased dramatically, followed by comparable gains in the number of pre‐myelinating and myelinating oligodendrocytes as assessed by marker gene expression. This argues that Sox9 boosts oligodendrogenesis during ontogenetic development at all stages, including terminal oligodendrocyte differentiation. When Sox9 transgene expression started in the adult, many transgene‐expressing OPCs failed to maintain their progenitor cell identity and instead converted into myelinating oligodendrocytes. As infrequent and inefficient differentiation of adult OPCs is one of the main obstacles to effective remyelination in demyelinating diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis, increased Sox9 levels in adult OPCs may substantially increase their remyelination capacity.
Prevalence of congenital heart disease according to the echocardiography findings in 8145 neonates, multicenter study in southern Iran
Authors: Parvar Seyedeh Yasamin , Ghaderpanah Rezvan , Naghshzan Amir
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Congenital heart disease (CHD), the lethal congenital anomaly in newborns, is multifactorial, with environmental and genetic factors contributing to its occurrence. Although some studies on the prevalence of CHD have been conducted throughout the country, this large‐scale study aims to provide information on the prevalence of various types of CHDs in newborns according to the echocardiography findings.

Patients and Methods

Over 3 years, 8145 neonates with suspected CHD who underwent echocardiography by a trained pediatric cardiologist were included in this multicenter, cross‐sectional observational study. CHD was categorized into two major groups; cyanotic and acyanotic heart disease. The SPSS version 22 software was used to analyze the data with a significance level set at 0.05.

Results

Of 8145 neonates who were referred to our centers with CHD symptoms, 6307 were indicated for echocardiography. The mean age of the studied population was 8.5 ± 9.3 days and the male‐to‐female ratio was 2.6, especially in the arterial septal defect (ASD), ventricular septal defect (VSD), and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) groups. 77.2% of patients had acyanotic heart disease (100 in 1000 neonates) with ASD as the most common one and 9% were diagnosed with cyanotic heart disease (11 in 1000 neonates) with transposition of the great arteries as the most common form and the aortopulmonary window was the rarest form.

Conclusion

This large prospective, multicenter screening study reported arterial septal defect (85%) and patents with ductus arteriosus (32%) as the most frequent type of CHD. Moreover, the prevalence of male patients was significantly higher. This information would be helpful for health policy makers, stakeholders, and general practitioners in regions where there are no trained pediatric cardiologist fellowships and limited access to echocardiography devices for better management of CHD.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Anlotinib, a Multiple Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, in Chinese Patients With Malignant Tumors
Authors: Xu Gaoqi , Yang Dihong , Shu Qi , Zhu Junfeng , Ding Haiying , Xin Wenxiu , Zhong Like , Zhu Liqin , Fang Luo
Published: April 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetic behavior of anlotinib in Chinese patients with malignant tumors using the population approach. A total of 407 anlotinib plasma concentrations from 16 patients were analyzed in this study. Anlotinib was administered orally 12 or 16 mg in the single‐dose phase and 12 mg once daily in the multiple‐dose phase. A population pharmacokinetic model was established using nonlinear mixed‐effects model method. The potential influence of demographic and pathophysiological factors on oral anlotinib pharmacokinetics was investigated in a covariate analysis. The final model was evaluated using goodness‐of‐fit plots, visual predictive check, and bootstrap methods. The pharmacokinetic profile of anlotinib was best described by a 1‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and first‐order elimination. The population estimates of the apparent total clearance, apparent volume of distribution, and absorption rate constant were 8.91 L/h, 1950 L, and 0.745/h, respectively. Body weight was identified as a significant covariate on apparent volume of distribution. Patients with low body weight tended to show higher exposure to anlotinib than those with high body weight. However, these differences were not clinically significant based on the simulations of the individual body weight effects. Taken together, this population pharmacokinetic model adequately described the pharmacokinetics of anlotinib in patients with malignant tumors and supports the same starting dose among them.
Australian graduate radiographers' perspectives and experiences of work readiness
Authors: Zhang Julie , Makanjee Chandra , Hayre Christopher M. , Lewis Shantel
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Graduate radiographers entering their qualified positions need to orientate and familiarise themselves with a rapidly changing work environment to deliver a high standard of diagnostic imaging services. During this transitional phase, these newcomers also strive to meet self‐expectations and workplace expectations. This study was performed to understand the work readiness perspectives and initial experiences of graduate radiographers on beginning their newly qualified roles.

Methods

The study used a qualitative phenomenological approach to collect data through individual semi‐structured in‐depth telephone interviews with 14 purposively sampled undergraduate and postgraduate radiographers. The rich data were transcribed verbatim and then thematically analysed.

Results

Four major themes emerged: (1) preparing to be ‘work‐ready’, (2) initial encounters as qualified radiographers, (3) personal and professional challenges and (4) support strategies and advice for new graduates.

Conclusions

New graduate radiographers face many personal and professional challenges but agree that they thrive in supportive collegial environments. Most participants had a high perspective of their work readiness strongly related to their clinical placements as students, workplace familiarity, support networks and coping strategies. Further review into individual workplace orientations by organisation leaders may benefit the immersion and enhancement of graduate radiographers' initial experiences in their new role.
Coordinated framework for active distribution system planning integrating active system management schemes
Authors: Sannigrahi Surajit , Ghatak Sriparna Roy , Acharjee Parimal
Published: April 2023

To counter different technical challenges with large‐scale renewable energy sources (RESs) integration, distribution systems (DS) are recently undergoing the transition process from passive to active DS (ADS), which has introduced further complications for system planning. In such context, this study proposes an ADS expansion planning (ADSEP) framework in coordination with active system management (ASM) schemes. A multi‐stage ADSEP model, unlike the traditional single‐stage model, is designed where the planning horizon is divided into several stages to make the planning investments gradually. For proper coordination of different planning alternatives, an effective bi‐level model is formulated based on upper‐level and lower‐level planning. In accordance with recent energy market scenario, RESs are assumed to be invested by RES Investor (RESI) and to ensure the desired financial benefits of RESI, the Distribution Company (DISCOM) offers bus‐wise contract price (BCP) for purchasing RESs generated energy. Moreover, a computationally efficient 2 m point estimate method (PEM) is applied to model the uncertainties of load and RESs. The proposed planning framework with multiple objectives is solved using the multi‐objective PSO technique considering 69‐bus test system.
Nanoattapulgite reduces the stimulation effect of nitrogen fertilizer on ammonia‐oxidizing microorganisms in salinized fluvo‐aquic soil
Authors: Li Hongqiang , Yao Rongjiang , Gao Qiancheng , Liu Yuxing , Yang Jingsong , Wang Xiangping , Xie Wenping , Zhang Xing
Published: April 2023

The nitrification, which utilized ammonium nitrogen (NH4+‐N) as substrate, is susceptible to the bioavailability of NH4+‐N. However, it is unclear how the nitrification process responds to the decrease of NH4+‐N availability due to nanoattipulgite (NA) addition, especially in salt‐affected soils. A pot experiment was performed to study the effect of different NA rates (NA0, NA1, and NA2: 0, 25, 50 g kg−1) and nitrogen fertilizer (F) gradients (F1, F2, and F3: 54, 81, 108 mg N kg−1) on the net nitrification rate (NNR), abundance of ammonia monooxygenase (amoA) gene copies, and communities of ammonia‐oxidizing archaea (AOA) and bacteria (AOB) in a moderately salinized fluvo‐aquic soil. The concentrations of NH4+‐N and nitrate nitrogen in soils showed insignificant differences among various NA treatments. The addition of NA reduced NNR after topdressing but had no significant effect on NNR after base fertilizer. Nitrogen fertilizer could decrease the amoA gene abundance of AOA and increase the amoA gene abundance of AOB in soil. NA could maintain the relative stability of AOB amoA gene abundance. NA treatment only changed the community composition of AOB before topdressing at the F2 level but did not change the community composition of ammonia‐oxidizing microorganisms under other conditions. Overall, NA adsorbs more NH4+‐N and indirectly affects nitrification by reducing the stimulating effect of F on the activity of ammonia‐oxidizing microorganisms, which can play an important role in reducing nitrate pollution and denitrification loss from saline soil.
General Simulation Method for Quantum‐Sensing Systems
Authors: Riexinger Felix , Kutas Mirco , Haase Björn , Bortz Michael , von Freymann Georg
Published: April 2023

Quantum sensing encompasses highly promising techniques with diverse applications including noise‐reduced imaging, super‐resolution microscopy, as well as imaging and spectroscopy in challenging spectral ranges. These detection schemes use biphoton correlations to surpass classical limits or transfer information to different spectral ranges. Theoretical analysis is mostly confined to idealized conditions. Therefore, theoretical predictions and experimental results for the performance of quantum‐sensing systems often diverge. This general simulation method that includes experimental imperfections bridges the gap between theory and experiment. A theoretical approach is developed and the capabilities are demonstrated with the simulation of aligned and misaligned quantum‐imaging experiments. The results recreate the characteristics of the experimental data. The simulation results were further used to improve the obtained images in post‐processing. As a simulation method for general quantum‐sensing systems, this work provides a step toward powerful simulation tools for interactively exploring the design space and optimizing the experiment's characteristics.
A new hybrid approach for nonlinear stochastic differential equations driven by multifractional Gaussian noise
Authors: Eftekhari Tahereh , Rashidinia Jalil
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this paper is to present a new and efficient computational method based on the hybrid of block‐pulse functions and shifted Legendre polynomials together with their exact operational vector of integration and stochastic operational matrix of integration with respect to the multifractional Brownian motion to approximate solutions of a class of nonlinear stochastic differential equations driven by multifractional Gaussian noise. The presented method transforms problems under consideration into systems of nonlinear equations which can be simply solved by the Newton method. Moreover, the convergence analysis of the presented method is investigated. Finally, the efficiency of the new method is illustrated by solving the stochastic logistic equation and three test problems.
Sub‐THz 3D printed lens based on diffractive neural network for low‐cost detection of orbital angular momentum states
Authors: Cheng Fangxiao , Li Yan , Deng Li , Yang Yang , Yin Liang
Published: April 2023

Accurate detection of orbital angular momentum (OAM) is one of the critical techniques for OAM‐related communications. However, conventional OAM identification approaches are often complicated and costly. In this letter, a convenient method based on diffraction neural network (DNN) is presented for OAM states detection in the sub‐terahertz (sub‐THz) regime. The optimal phase distribution of the lens for OAM state detection is obtained from DNN training. Then, a prototype based on three‐dimensional printing is fabricated according to the training results. Numerical simulation and experiment are performed at 140 GHz to verify the proposed approach. The results show that the proposed method can accurately detect the OAM state with lower complexity. This convenient detection approach can provide a novel pathway for realizing low‐cost THz OAM receiving systems, promoting the development of future communication technology.
A hydro‐mechanically‐coupled XFEM model for the injection‐induced evolution of multiple fractures
Authors: Wang Yuxiao , Javadi Akbar A. , Fidelibus Corrado
Published: April 2023

In this paper, a two‐dimensional eXtended Finite Element Method (XFEM) solution is presented for the hydro‐mechanically coupled hydro‐frac‐induced propagation of multiple fractures in rocks. Fractures are considered one‐dimensional objects, and the rock matrix is regarded as a two‐dimensional medium. Rules for improving the accuracy of the solution are included to deal with the transfer of variables between fractures and matrix in the coupling process. The main variables include fluid pressure and fracture aperture. The following assumptions are made: (1) the fluid pressure inside a fracture is applied as a net pressure; (2) fluid leak‐off is ignored; (3) the fluid front is regarded as a fracture front provided that the area of fluid lag has a small effect on fracture propagation compared to the area at which the fluid pressure is applied. The fluid flow is governed by the lubrication equation, while the XFEM is used to describe the behaviour of the elastic medium. The simulation results are compared with analytical solutions for a single hydraulic fracture model to verify and validate the proposed algorithm. A simulation with multiple hydraulic fractures is also performed to investigate the interference effect of multiple fractures and fracture propagation. The shadow effect caused by multiple fractures is analysed to manifest the stress variation along the propagation path.
The Preclassic military macaw (Ara militaris) from the Cueva de Avendaños (Chihuahua, Mexico) was not locally procured
Authors: Cruz J. Alberto , Corona‐M Eduardo , Gallaga‐Murrieta Emiliano
Published: April 2023

The oldest macaw specimen in Pre‐Hispanic Mexico and the southwestern United States was recovered in Cueva de Avendaños, Chihuahua, Mexico, at the base of the Sierra Madre Occidental. It dates to the Late Archaic/Early Agricultural period (1929–2057 cal BP). The head is the only preserved element of the macaw and it was mummified through natural causes. Research on this specimen examines its sex identification and its geographical range, questioning whether this specimen belongs to a local population living in the vicinity of the cave. A species distribution model over the last 2000 years was elaborated to ascertain the presence of military macaw in the study area. Our results show that the macaw was non‐local, sustaining the idea that the practice of early animal husbandry existed in the early stages of the Pre‐Hispanic world, and also suggest that a significant and rapid climate changes characterized the Holocene, affecting the military macaw's distributional range.
Metabolic shift underlies tumor progression and immune evasion in S‐nitrosoglutathione reductase‐deficient cancer
Authors: Mena‐Osuna Rafael , Mantrana Ana , Guil‐Luna Silvia , Sánchez‐Montero María Teresa , Navarrete‐Sirvent Carmen , Morales‐Ruiz Teresa , Rivas‐Crespo Aurora , Toledano‐Fonseca Marta , García‐Ortíz María Victoria , García‐Jurado Gema , Gómez‐España María Auxiliadora , González‐Fernández Rafael , Villar Carlos , Medina‐Fernández Francisco Javier , Villalba José Manuel , Aranda Enrique , Rodríguez‐Ariza Antonio
Published: April 2023

S‐nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) is a denitrosylase enzyme that has been suggested to play a tumor suppressor role, although the mechanisms responsible are still largely unclear. In this study, we show that GSNOR deficiency in tumors is associated with poor prognostic histopathological features and poor survival in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). GSNOR‐low tumors were characterized by an immunosuppressive microenvironment with exclusion of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells. Notably, GSNOR‐low tumors exhibited an immune evasive proteomic signature along with an altered energy metabolism characterized by impaired oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and energetic dependence on glycolytic activity. CRISPR‐Cas9‐mediated generation of GSNOR gene knockout (KO) CRC cells confirmed in vitro and in vivo that GSNOR‐deficiency conferred higher tumorigenic and tumor‐initiating capacities. Moreover, GSNOR‐KO cells possessed enhanced immune evasive properties and resistance to immunotherapy, as revealed following xenografting them into humanized mouse models. Importantly, GSNOR‐KO cells were characterized by a metabolic shift from OXPHOS to glycolysis to produce energy, as indicated by increased lactate secretion, higher sensitivity to 2‐deoxyglucose (2DG), and a fragmented mitochondrial network. Real‐time metabolic analysis revealed that GSNOR‐KO cells operated close to their maximal glycolytic rate, as a compensation for lower OXPHOS levels, explaining their higher sensitivity to 2DG. Remarkably, this higher susceptibility to glycolysis inhibition with 2DG was validated in patient‐derived xenografts and organoids from clinical GSNOR‐low tumors. In conclusion, our data support the idea that metabolic reprogramming induced by GSNOR deficiency is an important mechanism for tumor progression and immune evasion in CRC and that the metabolic vulnerabilities associated with the deficiency of this denitrosylase can be exploited therapeutically. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Cellular localisation and quantification of Camptothecin in different plant parts of Nothapodytes nimmoniana (J. Graham) Mabberley of Sri Lankan origin
Authors: Degambada Kamalapani Darshani , Peramune Arachchilage Amila Saman Prasad Kumara , Salim Nazeera , Chandrika Udumalagala Gamage , Abeysekera Ajita Mahendra
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Nothapodytes nimmoniana (Icacinaceae) is a rich source of Camptothecin (CPT), an anti‐cancer prodrug. Efficient extraction of CPT from various plant parts is crucial for better recovery of this pre‐drug.

Objectives

To investigate the distribution of CPT in plant parts and to compare the methods of extraction on CPT yield to evaluate how cellular localisation affects the efficiency of extraction methods.

Methods

Transverse sections of plant parts were observed under a ultraviolet (UV)‐fluorescence microscope for the fluorescence that the CPT molecule emits when exposed to UV radiation. Dried plant parts were extracted using 90% methanol with ultrasonic assistance, hot ethanol (61% ethanol at 60°C), and chloroform–methanol (4:1, v/v). The CPT in plant parts were detected by thin‐layer chromatography (TLC) and confirmed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Quantification was carried out by HPLC.

Results

Blue fluorescence indicated a prominent accumulation of CPT in roots compared to leaf with petiole, twigs, and stembark. This accumulation was observed in upper and lower epidermis of the leaf, isolated strands of fibres in the phloem in the petiole, and groups of idioblast cells in the cortex. The ultrasonic‐assisted extraction with 90% methanol showed the highest CPT yield in the root (1.91 ± 0.02 mg/g of dry weight), followed by stembark and the least in leaves [0.02 ± 0.01 mg/g (dry weight)] irrespective of the method of extraction. However, hot ethanol extraction gave the highest CPT yield for twig and leaf, indicating the necessity of tissue‐specific extraction methods for better recovery of CPT.
Real‐Time Imaging of the Mechanobactericidal Action of Colloidal Nanomaterials and Nanostructured Topographies
Authors: Viela Felipe , Ortega Ingrid V. , Hernández Jaime J. , Rodríguez Isabel , Moreno-Da Silva Sara , López-Moreno Alejandro , Pérez Emilio M. , Flors Cristina
Published: April 2023

Mechanobactericidal nanomaterials, such as low‐dimensional nanoparticles in suspension or high‐aspect‐ratio nanofabricated topographies, rely on their mechanical or physical interactions with bacteria and are promising antimicrobial strategies that overcome bacterial resistance to classical antibiotics. However, the underlying killing mechanisms are poorly understood, given the challenges associated with the real‐time characterization of the mechanical interaction in a biologically relevant environment. Indeed, different death mechanisms have been proposed depending on the magnitude of the interaction forces. Herein, the real‐time and single‐cell response of bacteria to weak mechanical interactions with nanostructured topographies and “nanodarts,” exemplified by flowing single‐walled carbon nanotubes, is investigated. To that end, an advanced reporting strategy is used to follow sublethal physiological effects on bacteria upon contact with these materials. With this method, it is estimated that the contact time at which the initial stages of bacterial death occur is in the order of a few tens of minutes. This information contributes to a full understanding of the complex mechanisms of mechanically induced bacterial death.
Inversion model for mechanical status of longitudinal joints in shield tunnel
Authors: Zhang Xiaohui , Qi Lizhi , Zhou Shunhua , Tian Zhiyao
Published: April 2023

The mechanical status of longitudinal joints in shield tunnel during operation is an important index for structural evaluation. For most of the tunnels that are not pre‐embedded with monitoring elements, only a few indicators can be measured directly during daily inspections. To comprehensively evaluate the deformation and mechanical status of the tunnel, an inversion model of the longitudinal joints, which is based on the measured convergence deformation of the shield tunnel, is proposed. First, the joint rotation deformation is determined using the successive rotation method. Then, the internal force of the joint is obtained based on the joint deformation. The two steps of the model are coupled with the iterative process for obtaining the accurate position of the joint neutral axis. The proposed model is verified by full‐scale ring test. It provides a new approach for obtaining the tunnel mechanical status and thus lays a theoretical foundation for decision‐making with regard to tunnel maintenance.
Point of Interest Recommendation Method Based on Bidirectional Matrix and Deep Belief Network
Authors: Xu Wenqian , Yi Huawei , Song Jie , Li Xiaohui
Published: April 2023

Point‐of‐interest (POI) recommendation has always faced serious data sparsity problem. Most of the existing POI recommendation methods do not consider the bidirectional relationship between the user‐preference for locations and the location‐ attractiveness to users in the original dataset when solving the sparsity. For this problem, a point‐of‐interest recommendation method based on bidirectional matrix and deep belief network (POI_DBNBM) is proposed in this paper. Specially, from the perspectives of users and locations, we first construct two different matrices with bidirectional relationship by mapping the original dataset, and we use deep belief network (DBN) with strong learning ability to predict the two matrices. Then, a local–global weight optimization method is developed to weight and fuse the two result matrices obtained by DBN, so as to achieve the more precise user's rating prediction matrix for locations. The abundant experimental studies and evaluations are conducted on FourSquare dataset. Results are encouraging and better than those previously reported on the dataset. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Boosted dark matter from primordial black holes produced in a first-order phase transition
Authors: Marfatia Danny , Tseng Po-Yan
Published: April 2023

Abstract

During a cosmological first-order phase transition in a dark sector, fermion dark matter particles χ can form macroscopic Fermi balls that collapse to primordial black holes (PBHs) under certain conditions. The evaporation of the PBHs produces a boosted χ flux, which may be detectable if χ couples to visible matter. We consider the interaction of χ with electrons, and calculate signals of the dark matter flux in the XENON1T, XENONnT, Super-Kamiokande and Hyper-Kamiokande experiments. A correlated gravitational wave signal from the phase transition can be observed at THEIA and μAres. An amount of dark radiation measurable by CMB-S4 is an epiphenomenon of the phase transition.
SU(6) gauge-Higgs grand unification: minimal viable models and flavor
Authors: Angelescu Andrei , Bally Andreas , Goertz Florian , Weber Sascha
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Gauge-Higgs grand unification theories are models of gauge-Higgs unification that extend the electroweak group into a simple group that includes the color symmetry. The minimal option is a gauge-Higgs grand unification based on the SU(6) gauge group, mirroring SU(5) grand unification in 4D while providing a solution to the hierarchy problem. We explore different minimal and realistic novel incarnations of SU(6) gauge-Higgs grand unification. We submit the setup to the various flavor hierarchies observed in nature and, utilizing the power of the fifth dimension, identify an embedding that provides a compelling model of quarks and leptons that naturally explains the mass hierarchies and the CKM/PMNS structure. We perform a detailed study of quark- and lepton-flavor constraints (which are intimately related due to the GUT nature) together with an analysis of the Higgs potential which arises at the loop level. Electroweak precision constraints on the model are discussed and the rich scalar sector is analyzed. Future flavor constraints from upcoming experiments will provide a stringent test for this class of models, while a scalar singlet and leptoquark provide unique targets for current and future collider experiments to probe this solution to various open questions in nature.
The Plateau-Douglas Problem for Singular Configurations and in General Metric Spaces
Authors: Creutz Paul , Fitzi Martin
Published: April 2023

Assume you are given a finite configuration $$\Gamma $$
Γ
of disjoint rectifiable Jordan curves in $${\mathbb {R}}^n$$

R

n

. The Plateau-Douglas problem asks whether there exists a minimizer of area among all compact surfaces of genus of at most p which span $$\Gamma $$
Γ
. While the solution to this problem is well-known, the classical approaches break down if one allows for singular configurations $$\Gamma $$
Γ
, where the curves are potentially non-disjoint or self-intersecting. Our main result solves the Plateau-Douglas problem for such potentially singular configurations. Moreover, our proof works not only in $${\mathbb {R}}^n$$

R

n

but in general proper metric spaces. In particular, the existence of an area minimizer is new for disjoint configurations of Jordan curves in general complete Riemannian manifolds. A minimal surface of fixed genus p bounding a given configuration $$\Gamma $$
Γ
need not always exist, even in the most regular settings. Concerning this problem, we also generalize the approach for singular configurations via minimal sequences satisfying conditions of cohesion and adhesion to the setting of metric spaces.
Multidisciplinary recommendations for essential baseline functional and laboratory tests to facilitate early diagnosis and management of immune-related adverse events among cancer patients
Authors: Özdemir Berna C. , Espinosa da Silva Cristina , Arangalage Dimitri , Monney Pierre , Guler Sabina A. , Huynh-Do Uyen , Stirnimann Guido , Possamai Lucia , Trepp Roman , Hoepner Robert , Salmen Anke , Gerard Camille L. , Hruz Petr , Christ Lisa , Rothschild Sacha I.
Published: April 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have fundamentally changed the treatment landscape of various cancers. While ICI treatments result in improved survival, quality of life and are cost-effective, the majority of patients experience at least one immune-related adverse event (irAE). Many of these side effects cause little discomfort or are asymptomatic; however, irAEs can affect any organ and are potentially life-threatening. Consequently, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of irAEs are critical for optimizing long-term outcomes and quality of life in affected patients. Some irAEs are diagnosed according to typical symptoms, others by abnormal findings from diagnostic tests. While there are various guidelines addressing the management of irAEs, recommendations for the early recognition of irAEs as well as the optimal extent and frequency of laboratory tests are mostly lacking. In clinical practice, blood sampling is usually performed before each ICI administration (i.e., every 2–3 weeks), often for several months, representing a burden for patients as well as health care systems. In this report, we propose essential laboratory and functional tests to improve the early detection and management of irAEs and in cancer patients treated with ICIs. These multidisciplinary expert recommendations regarding essential laboratory and functional tests can be used to identify possible irAEs at an early time point, initiate appropriate interventions to improve patient outcomes, and reduce the burden of blood sampling during ICI treatment.
Correlation of R2* with fat fraction and bone mineral density and its role in quantitative assessment of osteoporosis
Authors: Liu Zhenghua , Huang Dageng , Jiang Yonghong , Ma Xiaowen , Zhang Yuting , Chang Rong
Published: April 2023

Objectives

To investigate the correlation of R2* with vertebral fat fraction (FF) and bone mineral density (BMD), and to explore its role in the quantitative assessment of osteoporosis (OP).

Methods

A total of 83 patients with low back pain (59.77 ± 7.46 years, 30 males) were enrolled, which underwent lumbar MRI in IDEAL-IQ sequences and quantitative computed tomography (QCT) scanning within 48h. The FF, R2*, and BMD of all 415 lumbar vertebrae were respectively measured. According to BMD, all vertebrae were divided into BMD normal, osteopenia, and OP groups, and the difference of FF and R2* among groups was analyzed by one-way ANOVA. The correlation between R2*, FF, and BMD was analyzed by Pearson’s test. Taking BMD as the gold standard, the efficacies for FF and R2* in diagnosis of OP and osteopenia were assessed by receiver operating characteristic curve, and their area under the curve (AUC) was compared with DeLong’s test.

Results

The FF and R2* were statistically different among groups (F values of 102.521 and 11.323, both p < 0.05), and R2* were significantly correlated with FF and BMD, respectively (r values of −0.219 and 0.290, both p < 0.05). In diagnosis of OP and osteopenia, the AUCs were 0.776 and 0.778 for FF and 0.638 and 0.560 for R2*, and the AUCs of R2* were lower than those of FF, with Z values of 4.030 and 4.087, both p < 0.001.

Conclusion

R2* is significantly correlated with FF and BMD and can be used as a complement to FF and BMD for quantitative assessment of OP.

Key Points

• R2* based on IDEAL-IQ sequences has a definite but weak linear relationship with FF and BMD.

• FF is significantly correlated with BMD and can effectively evaluate BMAT.

• R2* can be used as a complement to FF and BMD for fine quantification of bone mineral loss and bone marrow fat conversion.
Proportional representation in matching markets: selecting multiple matchings under dichotomous preferences
Authors: Boehmer Niclas , Brill Markus , Schmidt-Kraepelin Ulrike
Published: April 2023

Given a set of agents with approval preferences over each other, we study the task of finding k matchings fairly representing everyone’s preferences. To formalize fairness, we apply the concept of proportional representation as studied in approval-based multiwinner elections. To this end, we model the problem as a multiwinner election where the set of candidates consists of matchings of the agents, and agents’ preferences over each other are lifted to preferences over matchings. Due to the exponential number of candidates in such elections, standard algorithms for classical sequential voting rules (such as those proposed by Thiele and Phragmén) are rendered inefficient. We show that the computational tractability of these rules can be regained by exploiting the structure of the approval preferences. Moreover, we establish algorithmic results and axiomatic guarantees that go beyond those obtainable in the classical approval-based multiwinner setting: Assuming that approvals are symmetric, we show that Proportional Approval Voting (PAV), a well-established but computationally intractable voting rule, becomes polynomial-time computable, and that its sequential variant, which does not provide any proportionality guarantees in general, fulfills a rather strong guarantee known as extended justified representation. Some of our algorithmic results extend to other types of compactly representable elections with an exponential candidate space.
Role of Stratospheric Processes in Climate Change: Advances and Challenges
Authors: Tian Wenshou , Huang Jinlong , Zhang Jiankai , Xie Fei , Wang Wuke , Peng Yifeng
Published: April 2023

In this review, instead of summarizing all the advances and progress achieved in stratospheric research, the main advances and new developments in stratosphere-troposphere coupling and stratospheric chemistry-climate interactions are summarized, and some outstanding issues and grand challenges are discussed. A consensus has been reached that the stratospheric state is an important source of improving the predictability of the troposphere on sub-seasonal to seasonal (S2S) time scales and beyond. However, applying stratospheric signals in operational S2S forecast models remains a challenge because of model deficiencies and the complexities of the underlying mechanisms of stratosphere-troposphere coupling. Stratospheric chemistry, which controls the magnitude and distribution of many important climate-forcing agents, plays a critical role in global climate change. Convincing evidence has been found that stratospheric ozone depletion and recovery have caused significant tropospheric climate changes, and more recent studies have revealed that stratospheric ozone variations can even exert an impact on SSTs and sea ice. The climatic impacts of stratospheric aerosols and water vapor are also important. Although their quantitative contributions to radiative forcing have been reasonably well quantified, there still exist large uncertainties in their long-term impacts on climate. The advances and new levels of understanding presented in this review suggest that whole-atmosphere interactions need to be considered in future for a better and more thorough understanding of stratosphere-troposphere coupling and its role in climate change.
Modulare Axialflussmaschine für hohes Drehmoment
Authors: Kleimaier Alexander
Published: April 2023

Axialflussmaschinen eignen sich mit ihrer scheibenförmigen Bauweise gut dazu, eine hohe Drehmomentausbeute in Bezug auf das eingesetzte Aktivmaterial zu realisieren. Gleichzeitig erlaubt es der planare Aufbau, den Eisenkreis modular und möglichst einfach herstellbar zu gestalten. In diesem Beitrag wird eine Maschinenvariante vorgestellt, deren Eisenkreis aus U‑Jochen mit UI-30-Kernblechen und Steckspulen aufgebaut ist. Solche genormten Bleche mit 30 × 40 mm Außenmaß und 30 $$\times$$
×
 10 mm Nutausschnitt werden normalerweise zum Bau von Transformatoren eingesetzt. Vorteile dieses Maschinendesigns sind einfache Herstellbarkeit und Skalierbarkeit über die Anzahl der U‑Joche. Nachteile sind Wirbelstromverluste in den Magneten der Rotorscheibe, was den nutzbaren Drehzahlbereich aufgrund erhöhter Magnettemperaturen einschränkt. Da sich mit den UI-30-Kernblechen ebenso eine PMSM-Radialflussmaschine mit Außenläufer herstellen lässt, erfolgt ein direkter Vergleich der für beide Maschinenvarianten aufgebauten Prototypen anhand von Messdaten. In Bezug auf das Drehmoment ist die Radialflussmaschine im Vorteil, während die Axialflussmaschine in Bezug auf Rotorverluste, Materialbedarf und Herstellbarkeit besser abschneidet.
A comparison of five Illumina, Ion Torrent, and nanopore sequencing technology-based approaches for whole genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Carbo Ellen C. , Mourik Kees , Boers Stefan A. , Munnink Bas Oude , Nieuwenhuijse David , Jonges Marcel , Welkers Matthijs R. A. , Matamoros Sebastien , van Harinxma thoe Slooten Joost , Kraakman Margriet E. M. , Karelioti Evita , van der Meer David , Veldkamp Karin Ellen , Kroes Aloys C. M. , Sidorov Igor , de Vries Jutte J. C.
Published: April 2023

Rapid identification of the rise and spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants of concern remains critical for monitoring of the efficacy of diagnostics, therapeutics, vaccines, and control strategies. A wide range of SARS-CoV-2 next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods have been developed over the last years, but cross-sequence technology benchmarking studies have been scarce. In the current study, 26 clinical samples were sequenced using five protocols: AmpliSeq SARS-CoV-2 (Illumina), EasySeq RC-PCR SARS-CoV-2 (Illumina/NimaGen), Ion AmpliSeq SARS-CoV-2 (Thermo Fisher), custom primer sets (Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT)), and capture probe-based viral metagenomics (Roche/Illumina). Studied parameters included genome coverage, depth of coverage, amplicon distribution, and variant calling. The median SARS-CoV-2 genome coverage of samples with cycle threshold (Ct) values of 30 and lower ranged from 81.6 to 99.8% for, respectively, the ONT protocol and Illumina AmpliSeq protocol. Correlation of coverage with PCR Ct values varied per protocol. Amplicon distribution signatures differed across the methods, with peak differences of up to 4 log10 at disbalanced positions in samples with high viral loads (Ct values ≤ 23). Phylogenetic analyses of consensus sequences showed clustering independent of the workflow used. The proportion of SARS-CoV-2 reads in relation to background sequences, as a (cost-)efficiency metric, was the highest for the EasySeq protocol. The hands-on time was the lowest when using EasySeq and ONT protocols, with the latter additionally having the shortest sequence runtime. In conclusion, the studied protocols differed on a variety of the studied metrics. This study provides data that assist laboratories when selecting protocols for their specific setting.
Anatomical variations of the thoracic sympathetic ganglions and their effects on sympathicotomy for primary palmar hyperhidrosis
Authors: Pei Guotian , Meng Shushi , Yang Yingshun , Wang Xiao , Liu Qiang , Wang Shuai , Huang Yuqing
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The results and side effects of sympathicotomy for primary palmar hyperhidrosis (PPH) can vary due to anatomical variations of the sympathetic ganglions. The aim of our study was to clarify anatomical variations of the sympathetic ganglions by near-infrared (NIR) thoracoscopy and determine their effects on sympathicotomy for PPH.

Methods

The cases of 695 consecutive patients with PPH treated with either R3 or R4 sympathicotomy either by normal thoracoscopy or by NIR fluorescent thoracoscopy between March 2015 and June 2021 were retrospectively reviewed and followed up.

Results

The variation rate of third and fourth ganglions was 14.7% and 13.3% on the right side and 8.3% and 11.1% on the left side. Real T3 sympathicotomy (RTS3) was more effective than real T4 sympathicotomy (RTS4) in the short-term and long-term follow-up (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). RTS3 was more satisfactory than RTS4 in the long-term follow-up (p = 0.03), but no significant difference was found in the short-term follow-up (p = 0.24). The incidence and severity of compensatory hyperhidrosis (CH) in the areas of the chest and back in the RTS4 group were significantly lower than those in the RTS3 group according to both the short-term results (12.92% vs. 26.19%, p < 0.001; 17.97% vs. 33.33%, p = 0.002, respectively) and the long-term results (19.66% vs. 28.57%, p = 0.017; 21.35% vs. 34.52%, p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

RTS3 may be more effective than RTS4 for PPH. However, RTS4 appears to be associated with a lower incidence and severity of CH in the areas of the chest and back than RTS3. NIR intraoperative imaging of thoracic sympathetic ganglions may improve the quality of sympathicotomy surgeries.
The Lax equation and weak regularity of asymptotic estimate Lie groups
Authors: Hanusch Maximilian
Published: April 2023

We investigate the Lax equation in the context of infinite-dimensional Lie algebras. Explicit solutions are discussed in the sequentially complete asymptotic estimate context, and an integral expansion (sums of iterated Riemann integrals over nested commutators with correction term) is derived for the situation that the Lie algebra is inherited by an infinite-dimensional Lie group in Milnor’s sense. In the context of Banach Lie groups (and Lie groups with suitable regularity properties), we generalize the Baker–Campbell–Dynkin–Hausdorff formula to the product integral (with additional nilpotency assumption in the non-Banach case). We combine this formula with the results obtained for the Lax equation to derive an explicit representation of the product integral in terms of the exponential map. An important ingredient in the non-Banach case is an integral transformation that we introduce. This transformation maps continuous Lie algebra-valued curves to smooth ones and leaves the product integral invariant. This transformation is also used to prove a regularity statement in the asymptotic estimate context.