bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bootstrapping boundary QED. Part I
Authors: Bartlett-Tisdall Samuel , Herzog Christopher P. , Schaub Vladimir
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We use the numerical conformal bootstrap to study boundary quantum electrodynamics, the theory of a four dimensional photon in a half space coupled to charged conformal matter on the boundary. This system is believed to be a boundary conformal field theory with an exactly marginal coupling corresponding to the strength of the interaction between the photon and the matter degrees of freedom. In part one of this project, we present three results. We show how the Maxwell equations put severe constraints on boundary three-point functions involving two currents and a symmetric traceless tensor. We use semi-definite programming to show that any three dimensional conformal field theory with a global U(1) symmetry must have a spin two gap less than about 1.05. Finally, combining a numerical bound on an OPE coefficient and some Ward identities involving the current and the displacement operator, we bound the displacement operator two-point function above. This upper bound also constrains a boundary contribution to the anomaly in the trace of the stress tensor for these types of theories.
Synthesis and in vitro biological activity of chalcone derivatives as potential antiparasitic agents
Authors: Setshedi Koketso J. , Beteck Richard M. , Ilbeigi Kayhan , Mabille Dorien , Caljon Guy , Legoabe Lesetja J.
Published: May 2024

Kinetoplastids are a group of flagellated protozoans including medically important parasites of the genus Trypanosoma and Leishmania. The corresponding diseases have afflicted humans for centuries. In an effort to combat kinetoplastid infections, a set of 21 chalcones was synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro anti-protozoal efficacy against Trypanosoma brucei, Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, Trypanosoma cruzi, and Leishmania infantum. To ensure safety, these compounds underwent a selectivity evaluation by assessing toxicity against a human lung fibroblast cell line. Compound K4 exhibited remarkable and selective trypanocidal activity against T. b. brucei with IC50 value of 0.31 ± 0.27 µM and T. b. rhodesiense with IC50 value of 0.96 ± 0.86 µM. Compound K9 also showed significant trypanocidal activity against T. b. brucei (IC50: 0.45 ± 0.14 µM) and T. b. rhodesiense (IC50: 0.93 ± 0.51 µM). In both compounds, electron withdrawing groups are appended to the styrenyl moiety.
Finger millet: a hero in the making to combat food insecurity
Authors: Wright Hallie , Devos Katrien M.
Published: May 2024

Climate change and population growth pose challenges to food security. Major crops such as maize, wheat, and rice are expected to face yield reductions due to warming in the coming years, highlighting the need for incorporating climate-resilient crops in agricultural production systems. Finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) is a nutritious cereal crop adapted to arid regions that could serve as an alternative crop for sustaining the food supply in low rainfall environments where other crops routinely fail. Despite finger millet’s nutritional qualities and climate resilience, it is deemed an “orphan crop,” neglected by researchers compared to major crops, which has hampered breeding efforts. However, in recent years, finger millet has entered the genomics era. Next-generation sequencing resources, including a chromosome-scale genome assembly, have been developed to support trait characterization. This review discusses the current genetic and genomic resources available for finger millet while addressing the gaps in knowledge and tools that are still needed to aid breeders in bringing finger millet to its full production potential.
Reciprocity models revisited: intention factors and reference values
Authors: Hinz Janna , Nicklisch Andreas , Sommer Mey-Ling
Published: May 2024

We present a test of the two most established reciprocity models, an intention factor model and a reference value model. We test characteristic elements of each model in a series of twelve mini-ultimatum games. Results from online experiments show major differences between actual behavior and predictions of both models: the distance of actual offers to the proposed reference value provides a poor measure for the kindness of offers, while a comparison of offers with extreme offers as suggested by the intention factor model makes offers indiscriminable in richer settings. We discuss possible combinations of both models better describing our observations.
Super-localization of spatial network models
Authors: Hauck Moritz , Målqvist Axel
Published: May 2024

Spatial network models are used as a simplified discrete representation in a wide range of applications, e.g., flow in blood vessels, elasticity of fiber based materials, and pore network models of porous materials. Nevertheless, the resulting linear systems are typically large and poorly conditioned and their numerical solution is challenging. This paper proposes a numerical homogenization technique for spatial network models which is based on the super-localized orthogonal decomposition (SLOD), recently introduced for elliptic multiscale partial differential equations. It provides accurate coarse solution spaces with approximation properties independent of the smoothness of the material data. A unique selling point of the SLOD is that it constructs an almost local basis of these coarse spaces, requiring less computations on the fine scale and achieving improved sparsity on the coarse scale compared to other state-of-the-art methods. We provide an a posteriori analysis of the proposed method and numerically confirm the method’s unique localization properties. In addition, we show its applicability also for high-contrast channeled material data.
Interlaboratory study on real-time PCR detection and quantification of the European anglerfish, pike, and seabream parvalbumin gene
Authors: Zdeňková Kamila , Mukherjee Subham , Marin Marco A. Lopez , Horká Petra , Kýrová Veronika , Potůčková Miroslava , Čermáková Eliška
Published: May 2024

This study presents a large-scale interlaboratory comparison (ILC) aimed at detecting and quantifying DNA from two European anglerfish (Lophius budegassa, Lophius piscatorius), pike (Esox lucius) and sea bream (Spondyliosoma cantharus) using real-time qPCR. To detect amplification of the parvalbumin genetic marker, single and multiplex qPCR assays using EvaGreen® dye or TaqMan™ probes were used. Genomic DNA isolated from target fish species and an advanced DNA calibrator, gBlocks® gene fragments, were used as standards. The DNA of anglerfish, pike and sea bream as well as their mixtures were analysed together with 14 other non-target fish species. All target fish samples were correctly identified by the participating laboratories. Qualitative assessment of anglerfish and seabream DNA showed an accuracy rate of 100%, while pike DNA achieved a match rate of 99%. Validation of quantitative protocols in four different laboratories consistently achieved z-scores below 2, indicating satisfactory performance and confirming the high degree of similarity of laboratory results. Furthermore, high accuracy and efficiency were demonstrated for the quantification of anglerfish and seabream DNA by triplex qPCR using TaqMan™ probes. Regarding the selected gene marker, the major fish allergenic protein parvalbumin enables indirect detection and quantification of the allergen in the sample. Therefore, the use of proposed protocols can significantly contribute to protecting the health of consumers and to controlling the food market.

Graphical abstract
Risk of Malignant Neoplasm in Patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Charoenngam Nipith , Rittiphairoj Thanitsara , Wannaphut Chalothorn , Pangkanon Watsachon , Saowapa Sakditat
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and risk of malignant neoplasm in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) patients. Potentially eligible studies were retrieved from PubMed and Embase databases from inception to November 2023 using search strategy consisting of terms for “Primary hyperparathyroidism” and “Malignant neoplasm”. Eligible study must report prevalence of malignant neoplasm among patients with PHPT or compare the risk of malignant neoplasm between patients with PHPT and comparators. Point estimates with standard errors were extracted from each study and combined using the generic inverse variance method.A total of 11,926 articles were identified. After two rounds of systematic review, 50 studies were included. The meta-analysis revealed that pooled prevalence rates of overall cancer was 0.19 (95%CI: 0.13–0.25; I2 94%). The two most prevalent types of malignancy among patients with PHPT ware papillary thyroid cancer (pooled prevalence: 0.07; 95%CI: 0.06–0.08; I2 85%) and breast cancer (pooled prevalence: 0.05; 95%CI: 0.03–0.07; I2 87%). Subgroup analysis of studies focusing on patients undergoing parathyroidectomy reported a fourfold higher prevalence of papillary thyroid cancer than the remaining studies (0.08 versus 0.02). The meta-analysis of cohort studies found a significant association between PHPT and overall cancer with the pooled risk ratio of 1.28 (95%CI: 1.23–1.33; I2 66.9%).We found that the pooled prevalence of malignant neoplasm in PHPT was 19%, with papillary thyroid cancer and breast cancer being the most prevalent types. The meta-analysis of cohort studies showed that patient with PHPT carried an approximately 28% increased risk of malignancy.
Deciphering Microbial Adaptation in the Rhizosphere: Insights into Niche Preference, Functional Profiles, and Cross-Kingdom Co-occurrences
Authors: Wang Yansu , Zou Quan
Published: May 2024

Rhizosphere microbial communities are to be as critical factors for plant growth and vitality, and their adaptive differentiation strategies have received increasing amounts of attention but are poorly understood. In this study, we obtained bacterial and fungal amplicon sequences from the rhizosphere and bulk soils of various ecosystems to investigate the potential mechanisms of microbial adaptation to the rhizosphere environment. Our focus encompasses three aspects: niche preference, functional profiles, and cross-kingdom co-occurrence patterns. Our findings revealed a correlation between niche similarity and nucleotide distance, suggesting that niche adaptation explains nucleotide variation among some closely related amplicon sequence variants (ASVs). Furthermore, biological macromolecule metabolism and communication among abundant bacteria increase in the rhizosphere conditions, suggesting that bacterial function is trait-mediated in terms of fitness in new habitats. Additionally, our analysis of cross-kingdom networks revealed that fungi act as intermediaries that facilitate connections between bacteria, indicating that microbes can modify their cooperative relationships to adapt. Overall, the evidence for rhizosphere microbial community adaptation, via differences in gene and functional and co-occurrence patterns, elucidates the adaptive benefits of genetic and functional flexibility of the rhizosphere microbiota through niche shifts.
Synthesis of fucosyllactose using α-L-fucosidases GH29 from infant gut microbial metagenome
Authors: Moya-Gonzálvez Eva M. , Zeuner Birgitte , Thorhallsson Albert Th. , Holck Jesper , Palomino-Schätzlein Martina , Rodríguez-Díaz Jesús , Meyer Anne S. , Yebra María J.
Published: May 2024

Fucosyl-oligosaccharides (FUS) provide many health benefits to breastfed infants, but they are almost completely absent from bovine milk, which is the basis of infant formula. Therefore, there is a growing interest in the development of enzymatic transfucosylation strategies for the production of FUS. In this work, the α-L-fucosidases Fuc2358 and Fuc5372, previously isolated from the intestinal bacterial metagenome of breastfed infants, were used to synthesize fucosyllactose (FL) by transfucosylation reactions using p-nitrophenyl-α-L-fucopyranoside (pNP-Fuc) as donor and lactose as acceptor. Fuc2358 efficiently synthesized the major fucosylated human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) 2′-fucosyllactose (2′FL) with a 35% yield. Fuc2358 also produced the non-HMO FL isomer 3′-fucosyllactose (3′FL) and traces of non-reducing 1-fucosyllactose (1FL). Fuc5372 showed a lower transfucosylation activity compared to Fuc2358, producing several FL isomers, including 2′FL, 3′FL, and 1FL, with a higher proportion of 3′FL. Site-directed mutagenesis using rational design was performed to increase FUS yields in both α-L-fucosidases, based on structural models and sequence identity analysis. Mutants Fuc2358-F184H, Fuc2358-K286R, and Fuc5372-R230K showed a significantly higher ratio between 2′FL yields and hydrolyzed pNP-Fuc than their respective wild-type enzymes after 4 h of transfucosylation. The results with the Fuc2358-F184W and Fuc5372-W151F mutants showed that the residues F184 of Fuc2358 and W151 of Fuc5372 could have an effect on transfucosylation regioselectivity. Interestingly, phenylalanine increases the selectivity for α-1,2 linkages and tryptophan for α-1,3 linkages. These results give insight into the functionality of the active site amino acids in the transfucosylation activity of the GH29 α-L-fucosidases Fuc2358 and Fuc5372.

Key points

Two α-L-fucosidases from infant gut bacterial microbiomes can fucosylate glycans

Transfucosylation efficacy improved by tailored point-mutations in the active site

F184 of Fuc2358 and W151 of Fuc5372 seem to steer transglycosylation regioselectivity
Adrenal washout CT in patients with no history of cancer: a waste of time?
Authors: van Aswegen Timo , Trinh Ben , Jacques Angela , Lo Glen
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To validate the diagnostic performance of adrenal washout CT in patients without known malignancy in a Western Australian population.

Methods

A radiology information system (RIS) search for CT reports containing “adrenal” and “washout” across six networked metropolitan public hospitals between January 2005 and November 2021. Homogenous nodules ≥ 1 cm, ≥ 10 HU without a suspected functional component in patients without a history of malignancy were included. Reported absolute and relative washout percentages were recorded and re-measured from unenhanced, 60-s portal venous and 15-min delayed phase imaging and compared to either histopathological or CT follow up for growth (≥ 12 months) reference standards.

Results

2653 studies were screened with 191 meeting inclusion criteria. 105 nodules underwent washout CT and then had either histopathological (12 patients) or CT follow up (93 patients) reference standards available.

Reported absolute washout (aWO) estimated sensitivity and specificity for malignant/indeterminate nodules was low at 33% (95% CI 25–43%) and 77% (95% CI 68–84%) respectively. Reported relative washout (rWO) sensitivity and specificity were 56% (95% CI 46–65%) and 69% (95% CI 60–77%) respectively. Negative predictive values for both aWO and rWO were reassuring at 92% (95% CI 86–96%) and 94% (95%CI 88–97%).

Conclusion

Our study validates a recent report suggesting that adrenal washout has poor sensitivity for and consequent limited utility to exclude malignancy in patients with no cancer history. However, patients with incidental adrenal nodules < 4 cm in size with benign washout can be reassured by the high negative predictive value and worked up to exclude functional adenoma and re-imaged in a year to confirm no growth.

Graphical Abstract
Screening Antibacterial Photodynamic Effect of Monascus Red Yeast Rice (Hong-Qu) and Mycelium Extracts
Authors: Husakova Marketa , Orlandi Viviana Teresa , Bolognese Fabrizio , Branska Barbora , Patakova Petra
Published: May 2024

The fungus Monascus is a well-known source of secondary metabolites with interesting pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. In particular, Monascus pigments possess a wide range of biological activities (e.g. antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory or antitumoral). To broaden the scope of their possible application, this study focused on testing Monascus pigment extracts as potential photosensitizing agents efficient in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) against bacteria. For this purpose, eight different extracts of secondary metabolites from the liquid- and solid-state fermentation of Monascus purpureus DBM 4360 and Monascus sp. DBM 4361 were tested against Gram-positive and Gram-negative model bacteria, Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli and further screened for ESKAPE pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. To the bacterial culture, increasing concentration of extracts was added and it was found that all extracts showed varying antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria in dark, which was further increased after irradiation. Gram-negative bacteria were tolerant to the extracts’ exposure in the dark but sensitivity to almost all extracts that occurred after irradiation. The Monascus sp. DBM 4361 extracts seemed to be the best potential candidate for aPDT against Gram-positive bacteria, being efficient at low doses, i.e. the lowest total concentration of Monascus pigments exhibiting aPDT effect was 3.92 ± 1.36 mg/L for E. coli. Our results indicate that Monascus spp., forming monascuspiloin as the major yellow pigment and not-forming mycotoxin citrinin, is a promising source of antimicrobials and photoantimicrobials.
The role of PSMA PET/CT in predicting downgrading in patients with Gleason score 4+4 prostate cancer in prostate biopsy
Authors: Aykanat Ibrahim Can , Kordan Yakup , Seymen Hulya , Koseoglu Ersin , Ozkan Arif , Esen Baris , Tarim Kayhan , Kulac Ibrahim , Falay Okan , Gurses Bengi , Baydar Dilek Ertoy , Canda Abdullah Erdem , Balbay Mevlana Derya , Demirkol Mehmet Onur , Esen Tarik
Published: May 2024

Background

To investigate the predictable parameters associated with downgrading in patients with a Gleason score (GS) 8 (4+4) in prostate biopsy after radical prostatectomy.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 62 patients with a GS of 4+4 on prostate biopsy who underwent robotic radical prostatectomy between 2017 and 2022.

Results

38 of 62 (61.2%) were downgraded. In multivariable logistic regression model, Ga-68 prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron-emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) SUV max was independent predictor of downgrading (OR 0.904; p = 0.011) and a Logistic Regression model was constructed using the following formula: Y = 1.465–0.95 (PSMA PET/CT SUV max). The model using this variable correctly predicted the downgrading in 72.6% of patients. The AUC for PSMA PET/CT SUV max was 0.709 the cut off being 8.8.

A subgroup analysis was performed in 37 patients who had no other European Association of Urology (EAU) high risk features. 25 out of 37 (67.5%) were downgraded, and 21 of these 25 had organ confined disease. Low PSMA SUV max (<8.1) and percentage of GS 4+4 biopsy cores to cancer bearing cores (45.0%) were independently associated with downgrading to GS 7.

Conclusion

PSMA PET/CT can be used to predict downgrading in patients with GS 4+4 PCa. Patients with GS 4+4 disease, but no other EAU high risk features, low percentage of GS 4+4 biopsy cores to cancer bearing cores, and a low PSMA PET/CT SUV max are associated with a high likelihood of the cancer reclassification to intermediate risk group.
Shaping ultrasound in midwifery: towards an evidence-based training framework for enhanced prenatal care
Authors: Groos Julia , Walter Adeline , Wittek Agnes , Strizek Brigitte , Gembruch Ulrich , Recker Florian
Published: May 2024

Background

Academic advancement of the midwifery profession highlights the need to establish standardized qualifications in obstetric ultrasound diagnosis, being a central part of prenatal care. Thus, introduction of an evidence-based training program is warranted. We aimed to reviewed curriculum designs used in midwifery ultrasound education.

Methods

A systematic literature research was conducted. Embase, PubMed and Google Scholar database was reviewed for publications using the terms “[midwife], [midwives], [midwifery students], [obstetric ultrasound], [midwife sonographer] and [education], [teaching], [program], [course], [curriculum] and [learning]”. Papers with full description of curriculum designs or educational programs on obstetrical ultrasound for midwives were included and scrutinized against pre-defined criteria according to the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcomes) scheme.

Results

29 publications were included. Studies demonstrated a significant disparity according to course concepts being used. Differing parameters included: Duration, structure, learning approaches, course content, examination concepts and target groups (practising midwives vs. midwives in education).

Conclusion

An evidence-based ultrasound educational program for midwives remains to be developed, including further educational guidelines. Clinical applications by midwives, as well as the distinctions from medical practise, particularly in terms of legal considerations, needs to be defined.
Oral ketamine effects on dynamics of functional network connectivity in patients treated for chronic suicidality
Authors: Shan Zack Y. , Can Adem T. , Mohamed Abdalla Z. , Dutton Megan , Hermens Daniel F. , Calhoun Vince D. , Williams Leanne M. , Bennett Maxwell , Lagopoulos Jim
Published: May 2024

The underlying brain mechanisms of ketamine in treating chronic suicidality and the characteristics of patients who will benefit from ketamine treatment remain unclear. To address these gaps, we investigated temporal variations of brain functional synchronisation in patients with suicidality treated with ketamine in a 6-week open-label oral ketamine trial. The trial’s primary endpoint was the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSS). Patients who experienced greater than 50% improvement in BSS scores or had a BSS score less than 6 at the post-treatment and follow-up (10 weeks) visits were considered responders and persistent responders, respectively. The reoccurring and transient connectivity pattern (termed brain state) from 29 patients (45.6 years ± 14.5, 15 females) were investigated by dynamic functional connectivity analysis of resting-state functional MRI at the baseline, post-treatment, and follow-up. Post-treatment patients showed significantly more (FDR-Q = 0.03) transitions among whole brain states than at baseline. We also observed increased dwelling time (FDR-Q = 0.04) and frequency (FDR-Q = 0.04) of highly synchronised brain state at follow-up, which were significantly correlated with BSS scores (both FDR-Q = 0.008). At baseline, persistent responders had higher fractions (FDR-Q = 0.03, Cohen’s d = 1.39) of a cognitive control network state with high connectivities than non-responders. These findings suggested that ketamine enhanced brain changes among different synchronisation patterns and enabled high synchronisation patterns in the long term, providing a possible biological pathway for its suicide-prevention effects. Moreover, differences in cognitive control states at baseline may be used for precise ketamine treatment planning.
Primary Ewing’s sarcoma of the uterine cervix: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Xiao Yuhang , Zhi Yong , Cao Guangxu , Ma Heling , Gao Jinli , Li Fang
Published: May 2024

Background

Ewing’s sarcoma (ES) is an aggressive cancer of bone and soft tissue, most of which tend to occur in the bone. Extraosseous Ewing’s sarcoma (EES) of the cervix is extremely rare.

Case presentation

In the present work, we reported a 39-year-old cervical EES patient with a 2.5*2.1*1.8 cm tumor mass. According to previous literatures, our case is the smallest tumor found in primary cervical ES ever. The patient initially came to our hospital due to vaginal bleeding, and then the gynecological examination found a neoplasm between the cervical canal and partially in the external cervical orifice. The diagnosis of EES was confirmed below: Hematoxylin & Eosin staining (H&E) revealed small round blue malignant cells in biopsy specimens. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) showed the positive staining for CD99, NKX2.2, and FLI1. Disruption of EWSR1 gene was found by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and the EWSR1–FLI1 gene fusion was determined by next-generation sequencing (NGS). The patient received laparoscopic wide hysterectomy, bilateral adnexectomy, pelvic lymphadenectomy, and postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy and remained disease free with regular follow-up for 1 year.

Conclusions

Through a systematic review of previously reported cervical ES and this case, we highlighted the importance of FISH and NGS for the accuracy of ESS diagnosis, which could assist on the optimal treatment strategy. However, due to the rarity of the disease, there is no standard treatment schemes. Investigation on molecular pathological diagnosis and standardization of treatment regimens for cervical ES are critical to patients’ prognosis.
Monazite and zircon U–(Th–)Pb dating reveals multiple episodes of HT metamorphism in the Cima Lunga unit (Central Alps): implications for the exhumation of high‐pressure rocks
Authors: Corvò Stefania , Maino Matteo , Langone Antonio , Schenker Filippo Luca , Tagliaferri Alessia , Perozzo Michele , Casini Leonardo , Seno Silvio
Published: May 2024

High- to ultrahigh-pressure (HP–UHP) rocks recording high-temperature (HT) > 700 °C are well exposed in the Central Alps, making it an ideal region to study the timing of metamorphic stages and the mechanisms of deep-seated rocks exhumation. Here, we report an integrated dataset of petrological and U–(Th–)Pb dating of metapelites surrounding ultramafic lenses from the Cima Lunga unit. At the interface with ultramafics preserving (U)HP–HT assemblages (1.5–3.1 GPa, 650–850 °C), metapelites record higher P‒T values (1.3–2.7 GPa, 700–850 °C) and traces of partial melting, whereas the rest of the unit is dominated by amphibolite-facies conditions. U–Th–Pb dating on zircon and monazite from migmatites indicates that partial melting was episodic involving at least two stages at ~38 to 35 Ma and 33–30 Ma, respectively. While the 38–35 Ma stage matches the HP conditions (> 1.5 GPa) and it is recorded around only one lens with scarce volumes of melt, partial melting at 33–30 Ma is witnessed at lower pressure (~1 GPa) and more widely distributed around the lenses, as within the major shear zones. Far from the ultramafics, zircon from the amphibolite-facies metasedimentary rocks record inherited pre-Variscan ages, while monazite ages at ~22 Ma document mineral growth during the Barrovian cooling. Field and petro-chronological evidence highlight that multiple episodes of partial melting locally developed at the rheological interface promoted by the interplay of fluids extracted from the ultramafic lenses associated with shear heating. New evidence suggests that local variation of P‒T equilibria play a significant role during the exhumation history.

Graphical Abstract
Exact Unified Tetraquark Equations
Authors: Blankleider B. , Kvinikhidze A. N.
Published: May 2024

Recently we formulated covariant equations describing the tetraquark in terms of an admixture of two-body states $$D{\bar{D}}$$

D

D

¯

(diquark-antidiquark), MM (meson-meson), and three-body-like states where two of the quarks are spectators while the other two are interacting (Phys Rev D 107:094014, 2023). A feature of these equations is that they unify descriptions of seemingly unrelated models of the tetraquark, like, for example, the $$D{\bar{D}}$$

D

D

¯

model of the Moscow group (Faustov et al. in Universe 7:94, 2021) and the coupled channel $$D {\bar{D}}-MM$$

D

D

¯

-
M
M

model of the Giessen group (Heupel et al. in Phys Lett B718:545, 2012). Here we extend these equations to the exact case where $$q\bar{q}$$

q

q

¯

annihilation is incorporated explicitly, and all previously neglected terms (three-body forces, non-pole contributions to two-quark t matrices, etc.) are taken into account through the inclusion of a single $$q\bar{q}$$

q

q

¯

potential $$\Delta $$
Δ
.
“The ChatGPT bot is causing panic now – but it’ll soon be as mundane a tool as Excel”: analysing topics, sentiment and emotions relating to ChatGPT on Twitter
Authors: Heaton Dan , Clos Jeremie , Nichele Elena , Fischer Joel E.
Published: May 2024

ChatGPT, a sophisticated chatbot system by OpenAI, gained significant attention and adoption in 2022 and 2023. By generating human-like conversations, it attracted over 100 million monthly users; however, there are concerns about the social impact of ChatGPT, including panic, misinformation and ethics. Twitter has become a platform for expressing views on ChatGPT and popular NLP approaches like topic modelling, sentiment analysis and emotion detection are commonly used to study public discourses on Twitter. While these approaches have limitations, an analytical process of existing best practices captures the evolving nature of these views. Previous studies have examined early reactions and topics associated with ChatGPT on Twitter but have not fully explored the combination of topics, sentiment and emotions, nor have they explicitly followed existing best practices. This study provides an overview of the views expressed on Twitter about ChatGPT by analysing 88,058 tweets from November 2022 to March 2023 to see if panic and concern were replicated in Twitter discourses. The topics covered human-like text generation, chatbot development, writing assistance, data training, efficiency, impact on business and cryptocurrency. Overall, the sentiment was predominantly positive, indicating that concerns surrounding ChatGPT were not widely replicated. However, sentiment fluctuated, with a decline observed around the launch of ChatGPT Plus. The discourse saw consistent patterns of trust and fear, with trust maintaining a steady presence until a decline potentially influenced by concerns about biases and misinformation. We discuss how our findings build upon existing research regarding ChatGPT by providing trajectories of topics, sentiment and emotions.
Adjunctive use of hyaluronic acid in the treatment of gingival recessions: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kalimeri Eleni , Roccuzzo Andrea , Stähli Alexandra , Oikonomou Ilias , Berchtold Aaron , Sculean Anton , Kloukos Dimitrios
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To explore the efficacy of Hyaluronic acid as an adjunctive in treatment of gingival recessions (GR).

Materials and methods

A systematic literature search was performed in several electronic databases, including Medline/ PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL and LILACS. Recession improvement was evaluated through multiple outcome variables. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and the ROBINS-I tool were used to assess the quality of the included trials. Weighted Mean Differences (WMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) between test and control sites were estimated through meta-analysis using a random-effect model for the amount of Relative Root Coverage (RRC).

Results

A total of 3 randomised studies were deemed as eligible for inclusion. Their data were also used for pooling the effect estimates. Overall analysis of RRC (3 studies) presented a WMD of 7.49% (p = 0.42; 95% CIs -10.88, 25.86) in favour of adjunctive use of hyaluronic acid during Coronally Advanced Flap (CAF) technique, although statistical significance was not reached. Statistical heterogeneity was found to be high (I2 = 80%).

Conclusions

Within their limitations, the present data indicate that the local application of Hyaluronic acid does not lead to additional clinical benefits when used as an adjunctive to the treatment of GR with CAF. However, due to the high heterogeneity among the studies, additional well-designed RCTs are needed to provide further evidence on this clinical indication for the use of Hyaluronic acid.

Clinical relevance

In the frame of the current review, the adjunctive use of Hyaluronic acid does not additionally improve the clinical outcomes obtained during treatment of GR with CAF.
Risk of infective endocarditis and complicated infection in Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia – a retrospective cohort study on the role of bacteriuria
Authors: Bergenman Oskar , Nilson Bo , Rasmussen Magnus
Published: May 2024

Purpose

S. aureus bacteremia (SAB) is a common and severe infection with high mortality and morbidity. The clinical relevance of the finding of concurrent S. aureus bacteriuria (SABU) is debated. The goal of this study was to analyze whether a concurrent SABU is associated with complicated SAB, infective endocarditis (IE) and mortality.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study, reviewing medical charts of all episodes of SAB in patients > 18 years in the region of Skåne, Sweden, between 1st of January and 31st of June 2020. Episodes where a concurrent urine culture was performed were included for analysis. An episode was considered as complicated SAB if there was either attributable mortality, recurrent infection, embolic stroke, or occurrence of a complicated focus of infection.

Results

During the study period, there were 279 episodes of SAB. 154 episodes met the eligibility criteria, of whom 37 (24%) had concurrent SABU. In 78 episodes (51%), the patients had a complicated SAB. There was a significantly lower proportion of complicated SAB for episodes with concurrent SABU (32%), compared to episodes without concurrent SABU (56%), p-value 0.014. Moreover, in the cohort there were 11 episodes (7.1%) of IE and a 30 days mortality rate of 16%, with no difference between the groups with or without SABU.

Conclusions

There is an association between concurrent SABU and a decreased risk for complicated SAB among patients with SAB. This study found no significant association between SABU and neither IE nor mortality for patients with SAB.
Phosphorus mass flows and economic benefits of food waste management: the case study of selected retail and wholesale fresh markets in Thailand
Authors: Mokjatturas Sunatthiya , Chinwetkitvanich Sopa , Patthanaissaranukool Withida , Polprasert Chongchin , Polprasert Supawadee
Published: May 2024

This study aims to investigate the mass flow and the phosphorus flow of food waste in order to propose a viable technique for its recovery from food waste in retail and wholesale fresh markets. These markets are significant food waste sources, including valuable elements such as organic carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. This research provides critical data that can inform and guide the development of sustainable and cost-effective waste management strategies. The results indicate that retail markets generate 13.47 tons/d of food waste, while wholesale markets produce a staggering 192.62 tons/d. For phosphorus flow analysis, the data show that retail markets produce 12.80 kg P/d, while wholesale markets produce 40.79 kg P/d. Uncooked food waste is a major cause of phosphorus loss in retail and wholesale markets. An estimated 3.65 kg P/d is lost from retail and 20.72 kg P/d from wholesale. Separating food waste from general waste and recovering the phosphorus content is essential to reduce P loss. According to this study, separating food waste and selling it as animal feed (Scenario 1) or using it to create organic fertilizer (Scenario 2) are more profitable than the current waste management practice. These options can generate around 180,000 and 960,000 USD/year, respectively. Currently, it is not cost-effective to produce concentrated P fertilizer (scenario 3) due to the high energy and technology required. The study’s results can guide policymakers toward comprehensive food waste management in fresh markets and sustainable phosphorus recovery for food and agricultural production.

Graphical abstract
Regeneration of periodontal intrabony defects using platelet-rich fibrin (PRF): a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Silva Fábio França Vieira e , Chauca-Bajaña Luis , Caponio Vito Carlo Alberto , Cueva Kareelend Andreina Segura , Velasquez-Ron Byron , Padín-Iruegas Maria Elena , Almeida Lays Lamolha , Lorenzo-Pouso Alejandro Ismael , Suárez-Peñaranda José Manuel , Pérez-Sayáns Mario
Published: May 2024

One of the most promising approaches to correct periodontal bone defects and achieve periodontal regeneration is platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the regeneration of periodontal bone defects using PRF compared to other regenerative treatments. The data search and retrieval process followed the PRISMA guidelines. An electronic search of MEDLINE, Cochrane, and PubMed databases was performed, selecting exclusively randomized clinical trials where the following were measured: probing depth reduction (PD), clinical attachment level gain (CAL), and radiographic bone fill (RBF). Out of 284 selected articles, 32 were chosen based on inclusion criteria. The use of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) + open flap debridement (OFD), PRF + metformin, PRF + platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and PRF + OFD/bone graft (BG) significantly reduced PD and improved CAL and RBF. However, the combination of PRF + BG, PRF + metformin, and PRF + STATINS reduced CAL. The intervention of PRF combined with different treatments such as metformin, OFD, PRP, BG, and STATINS has a significant impact on improving PD and CAL. The use of PRF significantly improved the regeneration of periodontal bone defects compared to other treatments.
Ungewöhnlich und unerwartet positive Spontanverläufe langjährig therapieresistenter Epilepsien Erwachsener
Authors: Steinhoff Bernhard J.
Published: May 2024

Die Prognose langjährig therapieresistent verlaufender Epilepsien Erwachsener ist üblicherweise schlecht, sieht man von kurativen Verfahren wie Epilepsiechirurgie einmal ab. Gerne neigen wir bei doch positiven Verläufen dazu, diese mit unseren therapeutischen Maßnahmen zu erklären und als Erfolge zu verbuchen. Das kann, muss aber nicht richtig sein. In dieser Arbeit werden stellvertretend für das Gebot, die Bedeutung des eigenen Handelns nicht überzubewerten, 3 eigene und seit vielen Jahren persönlich betreute Patientinnen und Patienten vorgestellt, die nach vielen Jahren frustraner Epilepsieverläufe anfallsfrei wurden und über viele Jahre auch geblieben sind, ohne dass im Mindesten erkennbar wäre, dass eine der eigenen therapeutischen Maßnahmen hierzu beigetragen hätte.
Rapid conversion of carbon dioxide into titanium carbide by atmospheric microwave plasma
Authors: Khotmungkhun Kittikhun , Kleebbua Peeratchai , Chotiyasilp Arkorn , Waritanant Tanant , Atithep Thassanant , Junpha Jedsada , Subannajui Kittitat
Published: May 2024

The accelerating climate warming requires fast methods to reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. Here, we converted carbon dioxide into titanium carbide using four magnetrons which were sequentially operated to emit microwave on titanium swarf. Carbon dioxide molecules dissociated in the plasma to react with ionized titanium atoms to form a stable titanium carbide product, using a microwave frequency is 2.3 gigahertz and 800 watts electrical power for each magnetron. Results show a reduction of carbon dioxide concentration from 2000 to 385 ppm within 30 s. Titanium carbide could be further functionalized as a three-dimensional printed gas sensor.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning for the optimization of pharmaceutical wastewater treatment systems: a review
Authors: Ganthavee Voravich , Trzcinski Antoine Prandota
Published: May 2024

The access to clean and drinkable water is becoming one of the major health issues because most natural waters are now polluted in the context of rapid industrialization and urbanization. Moreover, most pollutants such as antibiotics escape conventional wastewater treatments and are thus discharged in ecosystems, requiring advanced techniques for wastewater treatment. Here we review the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimize pharmaceutical wastewater treatment systems, with focus on water quality, disinfection, renewable energy, biological treatment, blockchain technology, machine learning algorithms, big data, cyber-physical systems, and automated smart grid power distribution networks. Artificial intelligence allows for monitoring contaminants, facilitating data analysis, diagnosing water quality, easing autonomous decision-making, and predicting process parameters. We discuss advances in technical reliability, energy resources and wastewater management, cyber-resilience, security functionalities, and robust multidimensional performance of automated platform and distributed consortium, and stabilization of abnormal fluctuations in water quality parameters.
Optimal dynamic climate adaptation pathways: a case study of New York City
Authors: Truong Chi , Malavasi Matteo , Li Han , Trück Stefan , Shevchenko Pavel V.
Published: May 2024

Assessing climate risk and its potential impacts on our cities and economies is of fundamental importance. Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, and storm surges can lead to catastrophic damages. We propose a flexible approach based on real options analysis and extreme value theory, which enables the selection of optimal adaptation pathways for a portfolio of climate adaptation projects. We model the severity of extreme sea level events using the block maxima approach from extreme value theory, and then develop a real options framework, factoring in climate change, sea level rise uncertainty, and the growth in asset exposure. We then apply the proposed framework to a real-world problem, considering sea level data as well as different adaptation investment options for New York City. Our research can assist governments and policy makers in taking informed decisions about optimal adaptation pathways and more specifically about reducing flood and storm surge risk in a dynamic settings.
Enhanced migrating birds optimization algorithm for optimization problems in different domains
Authors: Algin Ramazan , Alkaya Ali Fuat , Agaoglu Mustafa
Published: May 2024

Migrating birds optimization algorithm is a promising metaheuristic algorithm recently introduced to the optimization community. In this study, we propose a superior version of the migrating birds optimization algorithm by hybridizing it with the simulated annealing algorithm which is one of the most popular metaheuristics. The new algorithm, called MBOx, is compared with the original migrating birds optimization and four well-known metaheuristics, including the simulated annealing, differential evolution, genetic algorithm and recently proposed harris hawks optimization algorithm. The extensive experiments are conducted on problem instances from both discrete and continuous domains; feature selection problem, obstacle neutralization problem, quadratic assignment problem and continuous functions. On problems from discrete domain, MBOx outperforms the original MBO and others by up to 20.99%. On the continuous functions, it is observed that MBOx does not lead the competition but takes the second position. As a result, MBOx provides a significant performance improvement and therefore, it is a promising solver for computational optimization problems.
Massive decline of invasive apple snail populations after blue crab invasion in the Ebro River, Spain
Authors: Céspedes Vanessa , Bernardo-Madrid Rubén , Picazo Félix , Vilà Montserrat , Rubio Cristóbal , García María , Sanz Ismael , Gallardo Belinda
Published: May 2024

The negative interaction between multiple invasive species, when an invasive predator benefits from a previously introduced and abundant prey, poses unanticipated challenges for the joint management of invaders. To illustrate this question, we describe the surge and collapse of the invasive apple snail Pomacea maculata population before and after the arrival of the invasive blue crab, Callinectes sapidus, in the Ebro River (NE Spain). These two invaders have coincided for the first time beyond their respective native and prior invasive ranges, and thus lack any previous shared eco-evolutionary history facilitating coexistence. We leverage data from a 9-year apple snail removal programme (2014–2022) conducted by authorities to evaluate the effectiveness of the management programme and describe the apple snail temporal dynamics in the Ebro River. Since its arrival in 2013, the apple snail population increased exponentially along the river and adjacent rice-fields despite labour-intensive eradication efforts. Unexpectedly, riverine populations of the apple snail declined by 90% in 2018 relative to the prior year without apparent association with previous management efforts. Simultaneously, the blue crab was first recorded in the Ebro River in 2018, and its distribution rapidly overlapped the whole area invaded by apple snails. We suggest that over-predation by the blue crab is the main cause of the decline observed in the apple snail, and discuss the implications of this new invader-invader interaction for management. This study underscores the unforeseen consequences of subsequent waves of invasion, and the importance of supporting management with a deeper understanding of ecological interactions among invasive predator and prey species.
Assessment of efficacy and safety of dose-dense doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (ddAC) in combination with immunotherapy in early-stage triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: White Olivia , Dent Susan , Westbrook Kelly , Lee Hui-Jie , Yang Chengxin , Moore Heather N.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to assess safety and efficacy of a modified KEYNOTE 522 protocol, which incorporated pembrolizumab every 6 weeks, allowing for concomitant dose-dense (14 day) doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (ddAC). By optimizing this dosing, the intention of this modified protocol was to improve pathologic complete response (pCR) rates in a population associated with a poorer prognosis.

Methods

This was a retrospective, single-center, cohort study. Patients were included if they had early stage, triple-negative breast cancer, and received at least one dose of AC. The entire cohort received neoadjuvant chemotherapy including weekly carboplatin and paclitaxel with pembrolizumab every 3 weeks for 12 weeks (4 cycles). The group then received either ddAC with pembrolizumab 400 mg every 6 weeks, or AC with pembrolizumab 200 mg every 3 weeks. The primary objective was pCR rate at time of surgery.

Results

This study assessed outcomes in 25 patients over 34 months. The pCR rate in the pembrolizumab, AC 3-week cohort was 64.3% versus 81.8% in the ddAC and 6-week pembrolizumab group. No pembrolizumab-associated grade 3–4 adverse events occurred in the either cohort. Despite seeing an increased incidence of grade 3–4 toxicities in the ddAC arm, this did not result in additional chemotherapy delays or dose reductions.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated tolerability and a potential for favorable outcomes with this patient population, making this modified KEYNOTE 522 protocol a reasonable treatment approach. Larger, prospective studies are warranted to assess the feasibility of this dosing and true optimization of patient outcomes given the small sample size of this study.