bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of artificial intelligence applied to ultrasound in gynecology oncology: A systematic review
Authors: Moro Francesca , Ciancia Marianna , Zace Drieda , Vagni Marica , Tran Huong Elena , Giudice Maria Teresa , Zoccoli Sofia Gambigliani , Mascilini Floriana , Ciccarone Francesca , Boldrini Luca , D'Antonio Francesco , Scambia Giovanni , Testa Antonia Carla
Published: July 2024

The aim of this paper was to explore the role of artificial intelligence (AI) applied to ultrasound imaging in gynecology oncology. Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus databases were searched. All studies were imported to RAYYAN QCRI software. The overall quality of the included studies was assessed using QUADAS‐AI tool. Fifty studies were included, of these 37/50 (74.0%) on ovarian masses or ovarian cancer, 5/50 (10.0%) on endometrial cancer, 5/50 (10.0%) on cervical cancer, and 3/50 (6.0%) on other malignancies. Most studies were at high risk of bias for subject selection (i.e., sample size, source, or scanner model were not specified; data were not derived from open‐source datasets; imaging preprocessing was not performed) and index test (AI models was not externally validated) and at low risk of bias for reference standard (i.e., the reference standard correctly classified the target condition) and workflow (i.e., the time between index test and reference standard was reasonable). Most studies presented machine learning models (33/50, 66.0%) for the diagnosis and histopathological correlation of ovarian masses, while others focused on automatic segmentation, reproducibility of radiomics features, improvement of image quality, prediction of therapy resistance, progression‐free survival, and genetic mutation. The current evidence supports the role of AI as a complementary clinical and research tool in diagnosis, patient stratification, and prediction of histopathological correlation in gynecological malignancies. For example, the high performance of AI models to discriminate between benign and malignant ovarian masses or to predict their specific histology can improve the diagnostic accuracy of imaging methods.
m6A methylation of RNF43 inhibits the progression of endometriosis through regulating oxidative phosphorylation via NDUFS1
Authors: Tang Yuxia , Lu Xingfei , Lin Kexin , Li Jiayi , Yuan Ming , Lin Kaiqing
Published: July 2024

Oxidative phosphorylation is becoming increasingly important in the induction and development of endometriosis. Recently, it has been reported that ring finger protein 43 (RNF43) is involved in the process of oxidative phosphorylation, but the mechanism remains unclear. Our investigation is to delve into the roles of RNF43 in endometriosis and elucidate the related mechanisms. We found RNF43 was downregulated in ectopic endometrial tissue and primary ectopic endometrial stromal cells (ECESCs). Knockdown of RNF43 enhanced cell viability and migration by activating oxidative phosphorylation in eutopic endometrial stromal cells (EUESCs), while overexpression of RNF43 led to the opposite results. Moreover, RNF43 reinforced the ubiquitination and degradation of NADH dehydrogenase Fe‐S protein 1 (NDUFS1) by interacting with it. Likewise to RNF43 overexpression, NDUFS1 silencing inhibited cell viability, migration, and oxidative phosphorylation in ECESCs. NDUFS1 was a downstream target of RNF43, mediating its biological role in endometriosis. Interestingly, the expression and stability of RNF43 mRNA were regulated by the Methyltransferase‐like 3 (METTL3)/IGF2BP2 m6A modification axis. The results of rat experiments showed decreased RNF43 expression and increased NDUFS1 expression in endometriosis rats, which was enhanced by METTL3 inhibition. Those observations indicated that m6A methylation‐mediated RNF43 negatively affects viability and migration of endometrial stromal cells through regulating oxidative phosphorylation via NDUFS1. The discovery of METTL3/RNF43/NDUFS1 axis suggested promising therapeutic targets for endometriosis.
Mitochondrial dynamics in pulmonary disease: Implications for the potential therapeutics
Authors: Li Hui , Dai Xinyan , Zhou Junfu , Wang Yujuan , Zhang Shiying , Guo Jiacheng , Shen Lidu , Yan Hengxiu , Jiang Huiling
Published: July 2024

Mitochondria are dynamic organelles that continuously undergo fusion/fission to maintain normal cell physiological activities and energy metabolism. When mitochondrial dynamics is unbalanced, mitochondrial homeostasis is broken, thus damaging mitochondrial function. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that impairment in mitochondrial dynamics leads to lung tissue injury and pulmonary disease progression in a variety of disease models, including inflammatory responses, apoptosis, and barrier breakdown, and that the role of mitochondrial dynamics varies among pulmonary diseases. These findings suggest that modulation of mitochondrial dynamics may be considered as a valid therapeutic strategy in pulmonary diseases. In this review, we discuss the current evidence on the role of mitochondrial dynamics in pulmonary diseases, with a particular focus on its underlying mechanisms in the development of acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pulmonary fibrosis (PF), pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), lung cancer and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), and outline effective drugs targeting mitochondrial dynamics‐related proteins, highlighting the great potential of targeting mitochondrial dynamics in the treatment of pulmonary disease.
Ceramide‐mediated orchestration of oxidative stress response through filopodia‐derived small extracellular vesicles
Authors: Quadri Zainuddin , Elsherbini Ahmed , Crivelli Simone M. , El‐Amouri Salim S. , Tripathi Priyanka , Zhu Zhihui , Ren Xiaojia , Zhang Liping , Spassieva Stefka D. , Nikolova‐Karakashian Mariana , Bieberich Erhard
Published: July 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are shed from the plasma membrane, but the regulation and function of these EVs remain unclear. We found that oxidative stress induced by H2O2 in Hela cells stimulated filopodia formation and the secretion of EVs. EVs were small (150 nm) and labeled for CD44, indicating that they were derived from filopodia. Filopodia‐derived small EVs (sEVs) were enriched with the sphingolipid ceramide, consistent with increased ceramide in the plasma membrane of filopodia. Ceramide was colocalized with neutral sphingomyelinase 2 (nSMase2) and acid sphingomyelinase (ASM), two sphingomyelinases generating ceramide at the plasma membrane. Inhibition of nSMase2 and ASM prevented oxidative stress‐induced sEV shedding but only nSMase2 inhibition prevented filopodia formation. nSMase2 was S‐palmitoylated and interacted with ASM in filopodia to generate ceramide for sEV shedding. sEVs contained nSMase2 and ASM and decreased the level of these two enzymes in oxidatively stressed Hela cells. A novel metabolic labeling technique for EVs showed that oxidative stress induced secretion of fluorescent sEVs labeled with NBD‐ceramide. NBD‐ceramide‐labeled sEVs transported ceramide to mitochondria, ultimately inducing cell death in a proportion of neuronal (N2a) cells. In conclusion, using Hela cells we provide evidence that oxidative stress induces interaction of nSMase2 and ASM at filopodia, which leads to shedding of ceramide‐rich sEVs that target mitochondria and propagate cell death.
Using a Programme Science approach to substantially reduce the risk of HIV transmission and acquisition in sex transactions among female sex workers in Zimbabwe
Authors: Cowan Frances M. , Musemburi Sithembile , Matambanadzo Primrose , Chida Phillip , Steen Richard , Makandwa Rumbidzo , Chabata Sungai T. , Takura Albert , Sheets Amber , Yekeye Raymond , Mugurungi Owen , Hensen Bernadette , Busza Joanna , Hargreaves James R.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

We used a Programme Science platform, to generate evidence to support the implementation of programmes for sex workers in Africa. Female sex workers are estimated to make up 1.6% (1.3%–1.8%) of the population of women aged 15−49 years in Zimbabwe. We highlight how programme science can be used to help distinguish between when, where and with whom programmes need to be implemented and discuss two case studies that exemplify implementing better (Case study 1 (1 June 2019−30 June 2021) Optimizing implementation of a risk differentiated microplanning intervention) and implementing differently (Case study 2 (1 October 2016−30 September 2022) Reorientating implementation of DREAMS for young women selling sex).

Methods

Zimbabwe's nationally scaled programme for sex workers was established in 2009 in partnership with sex workers to provide comprehensive services for sex workers and generate evidence for programme design, implementation and scale up. Since inception, comprehensive data have been collected from all sex workers seeking services. As the scope of service provision has expanded so has the scope of data collection and analysis. At enrolment, sex workers are assigned an alphanumeric unique identifier which links consultations within and across programme sites. We conduct descriptive analyses of the Key Population (KP) programme data to guide programme implementation and redesign, embedding programmatic qualitative enquiry as required.

Results

Two case studies describing different approaches to programme optimization are presented. In the first, an optimization exercise was used to strengthen programme implementation ensuring that the KP programme got back on track after SARS‐COV‐2. In the second, an in‐depth review of research and programme data led to a re‐orientation of the DREAMS programme to ensure that young women at the highest risk of HIV acquisition were enrolled and had access to DREAMS social support interventions in turn strengthening their uptake of HIV prevention.

Conclusions

Optimizing and sustaining HIV care and treatment programmes requires effective delivery with sufficient scale and intensity for population impact. Our programme science approach guided the scale up of the KP programme in Zimbabwe, providing evidence to support strategy, implementation and ongoing management, and importantly helping us distinguish between when we needed to just implement, implement better or implement differently.
Variable clinical phenotypes of alpha‐methylacyl‐CoA racemase deficiency: Report of four cases and review of the literature
Authors: Selamioğlu Arzu , Balcı Mehmet Cihan , Karaca Meryem , Khalil Youssef , Hirachan Rohit , Durmuş Tekçe Hacer , Parman Yeşim Gülşen , Gedikbaşı Asuman , Demirkol Mübeccel , Clayton Peter , Gökçay Gülden
Published: July 2024

Alpha‐methylacyl‐CoA‐racemase (AMACR) deficiency (MIM#604489) is a peroxisomal disorder resulting in the accumulation of pristanic acid, dihydroxycholestanoic acid (DHCA), and trihydroxycholestanoic acid (THCA), with variable clinical features and age of onset from infancy to late adulthood. The purpose of this report is to define clinical variations and follow‐up data in AMACR deficiency emphasizing treatment with a review of cases reported in the literature. Here, four patients, from two families, diagnosed with AMACR deficiency and showing phenotypic heterogeneity are presented. A 10‐month‐old‐female presented with coagulopathy, hepatic dysfunction, and elevated pristanic acid, DHCA, and THCA levels. Genetic testing confirmed a homozygous variant c.596G>A in the AMACR gene. Her brother who had macrovesicular hepatosteatosis and elevated pristanic acid levels was diagnosed with family screening. The third patient presented with rhabdomyolysis following a strenuous exercise without any other complaint. Homozygous novel c.1006G>A variant was found on the AMACR gene. His asymptomatic sister carrying the same variant also had elevated pristanic acid levels. They had normal neuropsychologic evaluation. Dietary treatment with low phytanic and pristanic acid content was recommended to the patients but all showed poor compliance. The sibling pairs were followed for periods of 11 and 7 years, respectively. AMACR deficiency is usually described as an adult‐onset disorder with neuropsychological problems. The characterization of natural history and new clinical phenotypes may support earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Dependency of fentanyl analogue protomer ratios on solvent conditions as measured by ion mobility‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Johnson Copeland R. , Sabatini Heidi M. , Aderorho Ralph , Chouinard Christopher D.
Published: July 2024

Recently, our group has shown that fentanyl and many of its analogues form prototropic isomers (“protomers”) during electrospray ionization. These different protomers can be resolved using ion mobility spectrometry and annotated using mobility‐aligned tandem mass spectrometry fragmentation. However, their formation and the extent to which experimental variables contribute to their relative ratio remain poorly understood. In the present study, we systematically investigated the effects of mixtures of common chromatographic solvents (water, methanol, and acetonitrile) and pH on the ratio of previously observed protomers for 23 fentanyl analogues. Interestingly, these ratios (N‐piperidine protonation vs. secondary amine/O = protonation) decreased significantly for many analogues (e.g., despropionyl ortho‐, meta‐, and para‐methyl fentanyl), increased significantly for others (e.g., cis‐isofentanyl), and remained relatively constant for the others as solvent conditions changed from 100% organic solvent (methanol or acetonitrile) to 100% water. Interestingly, pH also had significant effects on this ratio, causing the change in ratio to switch in many cases. Lastly, increasing conditions to pH ≥ 4.0 also prompted the appearance of new mobility peaks for ortho‐ and para‐methyl acetyl fentanyl, where all previous studies had only showed one single distribution. Because these ratios have promise to be used qualitatively for identification of these (and emerging) fentanyl analogues, understanding how various conditions (i.e., mobile phase selection and/or chromatographic gradient) affect their ratios is critically important to the development of advanced ion mobility and mass spectrometry methodologies to identify fentanyl analogues.
Ultrasonic high‐yield extraction of non‐toxic fucose‐containing Abroma augusta polysaccharide bearing emulsifying properties
Authors: Sarkhel Shubhajit , Mondal Mrinmoy , Datta Deepanwita , Sahoo Bijendra , Kumari Ankanksha , Saha Sreyajit , Bera Sandipan , Jana Malabendu , Tiwari Amit , Roy Anupam
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

The stem of Abroma augusta contains mucilaginous polysaccharides having numerous ethnomedicinal properties. The present work aimed to develop a scalable ultrasonic‐assisted aqueous Abroma augusta mucilage (AAM) extraction (UAE) method and further explores its emulsifying property and toxicity concern.

RESULTS

The combination of ultrasonic power (750 W), solid‐to‐liquid ratio (1:15) and temperature (348 K) gave the highest extraction yield of 2.28% with a diffusivity value of 3.85 × 10−9 m2 s−1, which was higher than aqueous extraction method using a kinetic model based on Fick's second law of diffusion. The extracted polysaccharide showed no toxicity as measured through 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay on RAW cell line. Additionally, the polysaccharide over its critical micelle concentration (400, 500, 600 and 700 μg mL−1) offered emulsifying properties with 0.5%, 1% and 5% oil (v/v). The emulsion with a polysaccharide concentration of 600 μg mL−1 with 5% oil (v/v) provides stability against coalescence for 3 days.

CONCLUSION

The overall findings indicated that UAE of AAM polysaccharide can be used for an efficient extraction method, and the obtained polysaccharide is nontoxic in nature and bears emulsifying properties. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Exploring Maillard reaction markers and melanoidins to investigate toxicological and antioxidant profiles of optimized expanded snacks from corn/common bean mixtures
Authors: Félix‐Medina Jennifer V. , Montes‐Ávila Julio , Gutiérrez‐Dorado Roberto , Morales Francisco J. , Mesías Marta , Quintero‐Soto María F. , Delgado‐Andrade Cristina
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Extrusion cooking of cereal‐legume flour mixture is an innovative strategy to introduce nutrient‐enriched ready‐to‐eat snacks to the market. However, this thermal process triggers the formation of compounds that could impact safety aspects of these products. Maillard reaction markers and the end products known as melanoidins were evaluated to assess the toxicological and bioactive profiles of extruded snacks from corn‐plus‐common‐bean‐flour combinations. Different molecular weight fractions were isolated and purified to analyze their antioxidant activity and to investigate the role of melanoidins.

RESULTS

The snack formulated with an 84:16 ratio of corn:common bean flours exhibited an enhanced toxicological profile. It displayed the lowest levels of acrylamide and furanic compounds, along with reduced blockage of lysine residues in the protein. Extrusion increased the antioxidant activity of uncooked flours (30 to 64%) and total phenolic compounds (26 to 50%), and decreased the available lysine (−72.7 to −79.5%). During the fractionation process, it was established that compounds within the range of 3–10 kDa made the greatest contribution to antioxidant activity. The fraction greater than 10 kDa, which included melanoidins, displayed 7 to 33% lower antioxidant activity. The purification of the fraction greater than 10 kDa revealed that pure melanoidins represented approximately one‐third of the antioxidant activity in that fraction. Non‐covalent adducts linked to the melanoidin core therefore had a relevant role in the antioxidant action of formulated snacks.

CONCLUSION

This investigation illustrates the importance of considering both potential risks and associated benefits of compounds formed during the Maillard reaction while developing new extruded snacks. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Land suitability analysis for food logistic providers: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Pour Mahdad , Dogot Thomas , Lebailly Philippe , Lopez‐Carr David , Azadi Hossein
Published: July 2024

Land suitability analysis is a process to specify the suitability of a particular area according to its inherent characteristics. Inefficient land suitability leads to inefficient exploitation of natural resources, destruction of land resources, poverty, and even social harm. In this regard, land suitability assessment is important to support transportation planning and demand for construction. This study aimed to systematically review the mutual impacts of land logistics and land suitability. This study applied a meta‐analysis to integrate the results of 36 original papers published between 1990 and 2024. The findings showed there were mutual impacts of land logistics and land suitability. In this regard, demand for highway construction significantly affects warehousing (B = 6.30; p < 0.99) and distribution and transportation (B = 4.23; p < 0.99) according to Table 3. In addition, warehousing (B = 7.35; p < 0.95) and distribution and transportation (B = 2.11; p < 0.90) have significant effects on demand for highway construction based on Table 4. The temporal effect of logistics land development has the most positive influence on natural resources and environmental tolerance (4.49). The spatial effects of land suitability and food logistic providers have respectively the most positive impacts on inventory control and demand for highway construction in European countries. Policymakers should consider the global issue of land suitability according to its advantages. First, the greatest advantage of land suitability is that it gives more accountability to the officials and decision makers. Second, land suitability provides the basis for distribution and transportation and inventory control effectively controls storage costs. Thirdly, warehousing, due to land suitability, ensures a regular supply of goods in the market.
Approximation theorem for the Kawahara operator and its application in the control theory
Authors: Capistrano‐Filho Roberto de A. , de Sousa Luan S. , Gallego Fernando A.
Published: July 2024

Control properties of the Kawahara equation are considered when the equation is posed on an unbounded domain. Precisely, the paper's main results are related to an approximation theorem that ensures the exact (internal) controllability in . Following [23], the problem is reduced to prove an approximate theorem which is achieved thanks to a global Carleman estimate for the Kawahara operator.
Rapid submillimeter QSM and R2* mapping using interleaved multishot 3D‐EPI at 7 and 3 Tesla
Authors: Stirnberg Rüdiger , Deistung Andreas , Reichenbach Jürgen R. , Breteler Monique M. B. , Stöcker Tony
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To explore the high signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) efficiency of interleaved multishot 3D‐EPI with standard image reconstruction for fast and robust high‐resolution whole‐brain quantitative susceptibility (QSM) and mapping at 7 and 3T.

Methods

Single‐ and multi‐TE segmented 3D‐EPI is combined with conventional CAIPIRINHA undersampling for up to 72‐fold effective gradient echo (GRE) imaging acceleration. Across multiple averages, scan parameters are varied (e.g., dual‐polarity frequency‐encoding) to additionally correct for ‐induced artifacts, geometric distortions and motion retrospectively. A comparison to established GRE protocols is made. Resolutions range from 1.4 mm isotropic (1 multi‐TE average in 36 s) up to 0.4 mm isotropic (2 single‐TE averages in approximately 6 min) with whole‐head coverage.

Results

Only 1‐4 averages are needed for sufficient SNR with 3D‐EPI, depending on resolution and field strength. Fast scanning and small voxels together with retrospective corrections result in substantially reduced image artifacts, which improves susceptibility and mapping. Additionally, much finer details are obtained in susceptibility‐weighted image projections through significantly reduced partial voluming.

Conclusion

Using interleaved multishot 3D‐EPI, single‐TE and multi‐TE data can readily be acquired 10 times faster than with conventional, accelerated GRE imaging. Even 0.4 mm isotropic whole‐head QSM within 6 min becomes feasible at 7T. At 3T, motion‐robust 0.8 mm isotropic whole‐brain QSM and mapping with no apparent distortion in less than 7 min becomes clinically feasible. Stronger gradient systems may allow for even higher effective acceleration rates through larger EPI factors while maintaining optimal contrast.
Complications Associated with AMBU™ Scope Use: An FDA MAUDE Analysis
Authors: Grimm David R. , Halagur Akash S. , Ayoub Noel
Published: July 2024

Ambu® aScope™ is a disposable flexible videoscope used for a wide range of medical procedures. However, adverse events associated with this device can occur. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database was explored for patient‐related adverse events associated with Ambu® aScope™ use between January 1, 2000 and December 15, 2023. Search terms included “Ambu” and “Ascope.” Thirty unique adverse events were identified. Twenty‐one of the events were associated with patient injury, and 9 with device malfunction. Eight patient‐reported problems were documented as foreign bodies, 3 events as airway obstruction, desaturation, or hypoxic events, and 1 event as anxiety/cardiac arrest. The remaining 18 reported insufficient information other than associated with patient injury. We found that Ambu® aScope™ flexible nasolaryngoscopes and bronchoscopes are a common and effective tool for airway evaluations that may infrequently serve as a rare form of foreign body with potentially life‐threatening consequences.
Use of Azithromycin Attributable to Acute SARS‐CoV‐2 Infection
Authors: Gagliotti Carlo , Banchelli Federico , Buttazzi Rossella , Ricchizzi Enrico , Canziani Lorenzo Maria , Rolli Maurizia , Tacconelli Evelina , Moro Maria Luisa , Berti Elena
Published: July 2024

Purpose

In the early stages of the COVID‐19 pandemic, preliminary results that later proved to be incorrect suggested the possible efficacy of anti‐infective drugs such as azithromycin for the treatment of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. These preliminary data may have influenced the prescription of azithromycin. However, no individual‐level data linking the use of this antibiotic to acute SARS‐CoV‐2 infection are available. The present analysis aims to fill this gap.

Methods

A retrospective population‐based cohort design was used including patients diagnosed with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in the period ranging from February 2020 to February 2022. The data source for antibiotic consumption was the drug database of outpatient prescriptions of Emilia‐Romagna Region (Italy). Antibiotics were classified according to the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification system. Consumption rates and percentages of azithromycin DDDs (defined daily doses) during the acute phase of the infection were compared with a previous control period and with the post‐acute phase. Analyses were stratified by four groups according to the prevalent virus variant at time of diagnosis.

Results

Comparing the previous control period with the acute phase of infections, the rates of azithromycin consumption (DDD per 1000 individuals per day) increased from 1.17 to 23.11, from 0.80 to 33.03, from 0.81 to 21.01, and from 1.02 to 9.76, in the pre‐Alpha, Alpha, Delta, and Omicron periods, respectively. Similarly, the percentages of individuals receiving azithromycin, and the azithromycin DDDs percentages over total systemic antibiotics DDDs increased in acute phases of infection compared with control periods. The consumption rates and percentages returned to preinfection levels in the post‐acute phase. In the study period, 12.9% of the use of azithromycin in the entire adult population of Emilia‐Romagna was attributable to acute SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Conclusions

Considering the low likelihood of bacterial coinfections, the increased azithromycin consumption in the acute phase of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection suggests inappropriate prescribing of this antibiotic.
Trends in racial and ethnic disparities in pediatric lung transplantation in the United States
Authors: Alachraf Kamel , Tumin Dmitry , Hayes Don , Benden Christian
Published: July 2024

Background

Racial and ethnic disparities in pediatric lung transplantation (LTx) related to the shifting cystic fibrosis (CF) population receiving highly effective modulator therapy (HEMT) has not been well investigated.

Methods

The UNOS Registry was queried for patients age 1–25 years undergoing bilateral LTx between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2021. Race and ethnicity were classified as non‐Hispanic White, non‐Hispanic Black, Hispanic, or none of the above. The primary outcome was posttransplant mortality. Trends in the association between race/ethnicity and mortality were examined using transplant year as a continuous variable and stratifying year based on introduction of HEMT (triple combination therapy) in November 2019.

Results

In the study sample (N = 941), 7% of patients were non‐Hispanic Black, 15% were Hispanic, and 2% were some other racial or ethnic group. One hundred (11%) received LTx after approval of triple combination therapy, and 407 (43%) died during follow‐up. We identified a statistically significant disparity in mortality hazard (hazard ratio: 1.91; 95% confidence interval: 1.31, 2.80) in non‐Hispanic Black compared to non‐Hispanic White patients in the pre‐triple combination therapy era.

Conclusions

We found higher mortality hazard among non‐Hispanic Black compared to non‐Hispanic White children undergoing LTx in the United States. Further monitoring of LTx outcomes to identify and address disparities is needed in the current era of triple combination therapy for CF.
Survival of patients with lymph node versus bone versus visceral metastases according to CHAARTED/LATITUDE criteria in the era of intensified combination therapies for metastatic hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer
Authors: Wenzel Mike , Wagner Nele , Hoeh Benedikt , Siech Carolin , Koll Florestan , Cano Garcia Cristina , Ahrens Marit , Tilki Derya , Steuber Thomas , Graefen Markus , Banek Séverine , Chun Felix K. H. , Mandel Philipp
Published: July 2024

Background

The first approvals of novel systemic therapies within recent years for metastatic hormone‐sensitive (mHSPC) were mainly based on improved overall survival (OS) and time to castration resistance (ttCRPC) in mHSPC patients stratified according to CHAARTED low (LV) versus high volume (HV) and LATITUDE low (LR) versus high‐risk (HR) disease.

Methods

Relying on our institutional tertiary‐care database we identified all mHSPC stratified according to CHAARTED LV versus HV, LATITUDE LR versus HR and the location of the metastatic spread (lymph nodes (M1a) versus bone (M1b) versus visceral/others (M1c) metastases. OS and ttCRPC analyses, as well as Cox regression models were performed according to different metastatic categories.

Results

Of 451 mHSPC, 14% versus 27% versus 48% versus 12% were classified as M1a LV versus M1b LV versus M1b HV versus M1c HV with significant differences in median OS: 95 versus 64 versus 50 versus 46 months (p < 0.001). In multivariable Cox regression models HV M1b (Hazard Ratio: 2.4, p = 0.03) and HV M1c (Hazard Ratio: 3.3, p < 0.01) harbored significant worse than M1a LV mHSPC. After stratification according to LATITUDE criteria, also significant differences between M1a LR versus M1b LR versus M1b HR versus M1c HR mHSPC patients were observed (p < 0.01) with M1b HR (Hazard Ratio: 2.7, p = 0.03) and M1c HR (Hazard Ratio: 3.5, p < 0.01), as predictor for worse OS. In comparison between HV M1b and HV M1c, as well as HR M1b versus HR M1c no differences in ttCRPC or OS were observed.

Conclusions

Significant differences exist between different metastatic patterns of HV and LV and HR and LR criteria. Best prognosis is observed within M1a LV and LR mHSPC patients.
Prediction of the global occurrence of maize diseases and estimation of yield loss under climate change
Authors: Ma Zihui , Wang Wenbao , Chen Xuanjing , Gehman Katrina , Yang Hua , Yang Yuheng
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Climate change significantly impacts global maize production via yield reduction, posing a threat to global food security. Disease‐related crop damage reduces quality and yield and results in economic losses. However, the occurrence of diseases caused by climate change, and thus crop yield loss, has not been given much attention.

RESULTS

This study aims to investigate the potential impact of six major diseases on maize yield loss over the next 20 to 80 years under climate change. To this end, the Maximum Entropy model was implemented, based on Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 6 data. The results indicated that temperature and precipitation are identified as primary limiting factors for disease onset. Southern corn rust was projected to be the most severe disease in the future; with a few of the combined occurrence of all the selected diseases covered in this study were predicted to progressively worsen over time. Yield losses caused by diseases varied per continent, with North America facing the highest loss, followed by Asia, South America, Europe, Africa, and Oceania.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a basis for regional projections and global control of maize diseases under future climate conditions. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Output‐based enhanced closed‐loop model reference adaptive control and its application to direct yaw moment control
Authors: Montanaro Umberto , Chen Chen , Rizzo Alessandro , Sorniotti Aldo
Published: July 2024

The enhanced model reference adaptive control (EMRAC) algorithm is an effective full‐state adaptive solution to control plants affected by nonlinear unmodelled dynamics and persistent disturbances. The EMRAC strategy improves the tracking performance by equipping the MRAC algorithm with adaptive switching and adaptive integral control actions. However, the need for the plant state prevents the applicability of the EMRAC algorithm to engineering control problems where only the plant output is measurable. To cover this gap and extend the range of plants controllable by EMRAC solutions, this article presents an output‐based EMRAC algorithm leveraging the closed‐loop (CL) MRAC formulation. The robustness of the closed‐loop control system is analytically analysed, not only with respect to plant parameter uncertainties and square measurable disturbances, but also to unmodelled terms and disturbances. The ultimate boundedness of the closed‐loop control system is assessed with respect to unknown nonlinear terms and disturbances, by using Lyapunov theory for Filippov systems, as the adaptive switching control action makes the closed‐loop system discontinuous. To assess the effectiveness of the CL‐EMRAC strategy to impose reference trajectories despite the unmodelled plant dynamics and persistent bounded disturbances, the problem of vehicles' direct yaw moment control is used as an engineering case study. The closed‐loop tracking performance is also quantitatively evaluated through a set of key performance indicators and compared to those provided by four benchmark controllers, that is, two LQ‐based strategies and two MRAC‐based control solutions. The CL‐EMRAC and benchmark controllers are implemented and tested in a co‐simulation environment based on a high‐fidelity IPG CarMaker vehicle model.
Evolution of liver function during immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Pomej Katharina , Balcar Lorenz , Sidali Sabrina , Sartoris Riccardo , Meischl Tobias , Trauner Michael , Mandorfer Mattias , Reiberger Thomas , Ronot Maxime , Bouattour Mohamed , Pinter Matthias , Scheiner Bernhard
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Deterioration of liver function is a leading cause of death in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We evaluated the impact of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)‐treatment on liver function and outcomes.

Method

HCC patients receiving ICIs or sorafenib between 04/2003 and 05/2024 were included. Liver function (assessed by Child‐Pugh score [CPS]) was evaluated at the start of ICI‐treatment (baseline, BL) and 3 and 6 months thereafter. A ≥1 point change in CPS was defined as deterioration (−) or improvement (+), while equal CPS points were defined as stable (=).

Results

Overall, 182 ICI‐treated patients (66.8 ± 11.8 years; cirrhosis: n = 134, 74%) were included. At BL, median CPS was 5 (IQR: 5–6; CPS‐A: 147, 81%). After 3 months, liver function improved/stabilized in 102 (56%) and deteriorated in 61 (34%) patients, while 19 (10%) patients deceased/had missing follow‐up (d/noFU). Comparable results were observed at 6 months (+/=: n = 82, 45%; −: n = 55, 30%; d/noFU: n = 45, 25%). In contrast, 54 (34%) and 33 (21%) out of 160 sorafenib patients achieved improvement/stabilization at 3 and 6 months, respectively. Radiological response was linked to CPS improvement/stabilization at 6 months (responders vs. non‐responders, 73% vs. 50%; p = 0.007). CPS improvement/stabilization at 6 months was associated with better overall survival following landmark analysis (6 months: +/=: 28.4 [95% CI: 18.7–38.1] versus −: 14.2 [95% CI: 10.3–18.2] months; p < 0.001). Of 35 ICI‐patients with CPS‐B at BL, improvement/stabilization occurred in 16 (46%) patients, while 19 (54%) patients deteriorated/d/noFU at 3 months. Comparable results were observed at 6 months (CPS +/=: 14, 40%, −: 8, 23%). Importantly, 6/35 (17%) and 9/35 (26%) patients improved from CPS‐B to CPS‐A at 3 and 6 months.

Conclusion

Radiological response to ICI‐treatment was associated with stabilization or improvement in liver function, which correlated with improved survival, even in patients with Child‐Pugh class B at baseline.
Short‐Term Offshore Wind Power Prediction Based on Significant Weather Process Classification and Multitask Learning Considering Neighboring Powers
Authors: Yang Zimin , Peng Xiaosheng , Zhang Xiaobin , Song Jiajiong , Wang Bo , Liu Chun
Published: July 2024

Offshore wind power is an important technology for low‐carbon power grids. To improve the accuracy, a short‐term offshore wind power prediction method based on significant weather process classification and multitask learning considering neighboring powers is presented in this paper. First, a novel weather process classification method, in which the samples are divided into pieces of waves based on extreme points and are quantified with labels of energy level and fluctuation level, is proposed to classify samples into multiple types of significant weather processes for independent modeling. Second, a multitask learning method, in which the power sequences in neighboring offshore wind farms are innovatively introduced as a new input feature, is proposed for modeling wind power prediction for each wind farm inside a neighboring region under each weather process class. Case studies are presented to verify the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method. Based on this new method, the 4‐h ultra‐short‐term root mean squared error (RMSE), 24‐h day‐ahead RMSE, 4‐h ultra‐short‐term mean absolute error (MAE), and 24‐h day‐ahead MAE can be reduced by 1.45%, 2.1%, 1.15%, and 1.85%, respectively, compared with benchmark methods, which verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Opportunities with VLBI Transmitters on Satellites
Authors: Böhm Johannes , Wolf Helene
Published: July 2024

Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) transmitters on satellites are considered for future satellites of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) as well as for the upcoming Genesis mission of the European Space Agency (ESA). In both concepts, VLBI observations to VLBI transmitters on the satellites can contribute to orbit determination, with the geometry of observations to Genesis advantageous compared to GNSS. With Galileo as one of the GNSS, we emphasise the importance of VLBI observations for the estimation of the right ascension of the ascending node $$\Omega $$
Ω
, which cannot be determined from GNSS alone. We find that $$\Omega $$
Ω
can be estimated with accuracies better than 50 $$\upmu $$
μ
as from 24 hour sessions with alternate observations to quasars and the Galileo satellite of interest. Station coordinates, on the other hand, can be determined from observations to three Galileo satellites with an accuracy at the centimetre-level or better from 24 hour sessions, again with alternate observations to the satellites and quasars for a better estimation of tropospheric parameters. Station coordinate results with VLBI observations to VLBI transmitters on satellites form the basis for frame tie and local tie determination. The transfer of space ties to local ties on the ground is of particular relevance for Genesis.
Practical Considerations of VLBI Observations to the GENESIS Mission
Authors: Schunck David , McCallum Lucia , Molera Calvés Guifré
Published: July 2024

With the GENESIS proposal accepted, this study reevaluates the implementability of incorporating VLBI observations of satellites into geodetic VLBI experiments. Observations of NavIC system satellites were carried out using the 12-m AuScope radio telescopes in Hobart and Katherine. The primary focus is on scrutinizing the necessary efforts within the VLBI community aimed at effectively supporting the GENESIS satellite mission. Our investigation identifies limitations in the existing processing pipelines, particularly in the generation of station-specific procedure and local control files, as well as in satellite tracking support within the antenna control units, resulting in step-wise tracking rather than continuous tracking. Additionally, we have conducted an analysis to ascertain the effective visibility of the GENESIS satellite within both current and future VLBI networks. Our findings align with the envisioned visibility criteria of GENESIS when more VGOS-type stations are integrated into the current network. In this case, the satellite becomes visible from at least two stations with long baselines for approximately 75.6% of the time during experiments and 21.5% of the time in a year.
The Nordic Municipal CEO
Authors: Hansen Morten Balle , Torjesen Dag Olaf , Torsteinsen Harald
Published: July 2024

This book analyses the municipal chief executive officer (MCEO) of Nordic municipalities. The Nordic countries operate a distinct model of local government in the context of the welfare state. As there are some variations among the countries, it is important to analyse this model in comparative perspective. In the Nordic countries, the post-war expansion of the welfare state took place primarily in local government, which became the main provider of welfare services and one of the largest employers in these countries. In this chapter, we present the rationale for the book, the Nordic municipal context in which the MCEO works, our research questions, and basic theoretical approaches. Finally, we briefly present the research design, methodologies, and outline of the book.
Valves and Clutches Commonly Used in Energy-Saving Systems
Authors: Yao Fulai , Yao Yaming
Published: July 2024

In energy-saving systems, clutches and valves are used for equipment switching and load distribution.
Entanglement Renormalization for Quantum Field Theories with Discrete Wavelet Transforms
Authors: Alves Daniele S. M.
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We propose an adaptation of Entanglement Renormalization for quantum field theories that, through the use of discrete wavelet transforms, strongly parallels the tensor network architecture of the Multiscale Entanglement Renormalization Ansatz (a.k.a. MERA). Our approach, called wMERA, has several advantages of over previous attempts to adapt MERA to continuum systems. In particular, (i) wMERA is formulated directly in position space, hence preserving the quasi-locality and sparsity of entanglers; and (ii) it enables a built-in RG flow in the implementation of real-time evolution and in computations of correlation functions, which is key for efficient numerical implementations. As examples, we describe in detail two concrete implementations of our wMERA algorithm for free scalar and fermionic theories in (1+1) spacetime dimensions. Possible avenues for constructing wMERAs for interacting field theories are also discussed.
Flux quantization on 11-dimensional superspace
Authors: Giotopoulos Grigorios , Sati Hisham , Schreiber Urs
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Flux quantization of the C-field in 11d supergravity is arguably necessary for the (UV-)completion of the theory, in that it determines the torsion charges carried by small numbers N ≪ ∞ of M-branes. However, hypotheses about C-field flux-quantization (“models of the C-field”) have previously been discussed only in the bosonic sector of 11d supergravity and ignoring the supergravity equations of motion. Here we highlight a duality-symmetric formulation of on-shell 11d supergravity on superspace, observe that this naturally lends itself to completion of the theory by flux quantization, and indeed that 11d super-spacetimes are put on-shell by carrying quantizable duality-symmetric super-C-field flux; the proof of which we present in detail.
Gravitational duals from equations of state
Authors: Bea Yago , Jimenez Raul , Mateos David , Liu Shuheng , Protopapas Pavlos , Tarancón-Álvarez Pedro , Tejerina-Pérez Pablo
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Holography relates gravitational theories in five dimensions to four-dimensional quantum field theories in flat space. Under this map, the equation of state of the field theory is encoded in the black hole solutions of the gravitational theory. Solving the five-dimensional Einstein’s equations to determine the equation of state is an algorithmic, direct problem. Determining the gravitational theory that gives rise to a prescribed equation of state is a much more challenging, inverse problem. We present a novel approach to solve this problem based on physics-informed neural networks. The resulting algorithm is not only data-driven but also informed by the physics of the Einstein’s equations. We successfully apply it to theories with crossovers, first- and second-order phase transitions.
Holographic thermal entropy from geodesic bit threads
Authors: Caggioli Stefania , Gentile Francesco , Seminara Domenico , Tonni Erik
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The holographic bit threads are an insightful tool to investigate the holographic entanglement entropy and other quantities related to the bipartite entanglement in AdS/CFT. We mainly explore the geodesic bit threads in various static backgrounds, for the bipartitions characterized by either a sphere or an infinite strip. In pure AdS and for the sphere, the geodesic bit threads provide a gravitational dual of the map implementing the geometric action of the modular conjugation in the dual CFT. In Schwarzschild AdS black brane and for the sphere, our numerical analysis shows that the flux of the geodesic bit threads through the horizon gives the holographic thermal entropy of the sphere. This feature is not observed when the subsystem is an infinite strip, whenever we can construct the corresponding bit threads. The bit threads are also determined by the global structure of the gravitational background; indeed, for instance, we show that the geodesic bit threads of an arc in the BTZ black hole cannot be constructed.
Complete NLO corrections to top-quark pair production with isolated photons
Authors: Stremmer Daniel , Worek Malgorzata
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We compute for the first time the so-called complete NLO corrections to top-quark pair production with one and two isolated photons in the di-lepton top-quark decay channel. The Narrow Width Approximation is used for the modeling of unstable top quarks and W bosons. Higher-order QCD and EW effects as well as photon bremsstrahlung are consistently included at all stages: in production and top-quark decays. We present results at the integrated and differential fiducial cross-section level for both processes for the LHC Run II center-of-mass energy of $$ \sqrt{s} $$

s

= 13 TeV. In addition, we investigate the scale choice in photonic observables. Finally, the individual size of each subleading contribution is discussed in detail and the origin of the main subleading corrections is scrutinised. For the latter case, alternative calculations are performed in which the subleading NLO corrections are included only in the production of $$ t\overline{t}\gamma $$
t

t
¯

γ
and $$ t\overline{t}\gamma \gamma $$
t

t
¯

γγ
.
Probing earth-bound dark matter with nuclear reactors
Authors: Ema Yohei , Pospelov Maxim , Ray Anupam
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Strongly-interacting dark matter can be accumulated in large quantities inside the Earth, and for dark matter particles in a few GeV mass range, it can exist in large quantities near the Earth’s surface. We investigate the constraints imposed on such dark matter properties by its upscattering by fast neutrons in nuclear reactors with subsequent scattering in nearby well-shielded dark matter detectors, schemes which are already used for searches of the coherent reactor neutrino scattering. We find that the existing experiments cover new parameter space on the spin-dependent interaction between dark matter and the nucleon. Similar experiments performed with research reactors, and lesser amount of shielding, may provide additional sensitivity to strongly-interacting dark matter.
Dense QCD2 with matrix product states
Authors: Hayata Tomoya , Hidaka Yoshimasa , Nishimura Kentaro
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We study one-flavor SU(2) and SU(3) lattice QCD in (1 + 1) dimensions at zero temperature and finite density using matrix product states and the density matrix renormalization group. We compute physical observables such as the equation of state, chiral condensate, and quark distribution function as functions of the baryon number density. As a physical implication, we discuss the inhomogeneous phase at nonzero baryon density, where the chiral condensate is inhomogeneous, and baryons form a crystal. We also discuss how the dynamical degrees of freedom change from hadrons to quarks through the formation of quark Fermi seas.