bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Equivalence of the Weighted Fractional Sobolev Space on a Disk with Characterization by the Decay Rate of Fourier–Jacobi Coefficients and K-Interpolation
Authors: Ervin V. J. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractIn this paper, motivated by the analysis of the fractional Laplace equation on the unit disk in $$\mathbb {R}^{2}$$

R

2

, we establish a characterisation of the weighted Sobolev space $$H_{\gamma }^{s}(\Omega )$$

H

γ

s

(
Ω
)

in terms of the decay rate of Fourier–Jacobi coefficients. This framework is then used to give a precise analysis of the solution to the fractional Laplace equation on the unit disk.
Excess particulate organic matter negatively affects the ecophysiology of the widespread soft coral Xenia umbellata
Authors: Hill C. E. L. , Rücker J. , Eichhorn N. , Mezger S. D. , Caporale G. , El-Khaled Y. C. , Blanco C. S. V. , Wild C. , Tilstra A. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractCoastal coral reefs are experiencing rising concentrations of organic matter. While dissolved organic matter (DOM), rather than particulate organic matter (POM), may negatively impact hard corals, the impact on soft corals remains unclear. We examined the physiological effect of 20 mg L−1 of organic carbon (C) addition on the widespread Indo-Pacific soft coral Xenia umbellata in a series of tank experiments over 28 days. We supplied DOM as glucose, and two POM sources as phytoplankton (2–5 μm length) and zooplankton (150–200 μm length). We comparatively assessed coral morphology, pulsation, colouration, algal symbiont densities, chlorophyll a, oxygen fluxes, and mortality. Corals in the control and DOM enrichment treatments exhibited no morphological or physiological changes, whereas, excess phyto- and zooplankton caused disfigurement of the polyp tentacles and shortening of its pinnules. This coincided with a mortality of 11 and 14%, respectively, a 35% reduction in pulsation rates, and darkening of the polyps (with excess zooplankton), while other assessed response variables remained stable. This suggests that in contrast to many hard corals, the soft coral X. umbellata is vulnerable to excess POM rather than DOM, with amplified effects upon exposure to larger particles. Our results suggest that excess POM may damage the delicate feeding apparatus of X. umbellata, thereby reducing pulsation and lowering gas exchange. In turn, this can cause nutritional, and ultimately, energy deficiencies by directly affecting heterotrophic and autotrophic feeding. Our findings indicate that the global-change-resilient soft coral X. umbellata is vulnerable to local eutrophication, particularly high concentrations of POM.
Role of mucosal IgA antibodies as novel therapies to enhance mucosal barriers
Authors: Gao Peng , Morita Naoki , Shinkura Reiko 
Published: November 2024

AbstractTo prevent infection, the experience of the recent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) pandemic has led to recognition of the importance of not only vaccines but also the strengthening of mucosal barriers by secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA). Strong mucosal barrier provided by IgA is also possible to prevent allergies and chronic inflammatory conditions in the intestinal tract, since it can protect foreign enemies or antigens at the first line of defense before their invasion. Therefore, it is important to understand the role of IgA antibodies secreted by the mucosa of the body. In this section, we discuss the role of mucosal IgA antibodies in relation to three disease states: control of intestinal microbiota, protection against infection, and allergy. In addition, we provide the evidence in which the quality as well as the quantity of IgA is critical for disease prevention. Therefore, we discuss about novel strategies to enhance mucosal barriers by induction of high-quality IgA.
PCSK-9-inhibitor therapy improves endothelial function in high-risk patients with cardiovascular disease
Authors: Kannenkeril Dennis , Bosch Agnes , Kolwelter Julie , Striepe Kristina , Berner Laura , Pietschner Robert , Ott Christian , Schiffer Mario , Achenbach Stephan , Schmieder Roland E. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Impaired endothelial function predicts cardiovascular events. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of evolocumab on endothelial function in patients with cardiovascular disease.

Methods
This was a prospective, double-blinded, randomized, controlled, single center study including patients with cardiovascular disease and treated with statins. Patients were consecutively randomized (1:1) to either evolocumab treatment or placebo. All patients underwent examination of endothelial function at baseline, and after 1, 4 and 8 weeks of treatment by a semi-automatic high-resolution ultrasound system (UNEX EF 18G). Parameters of endothelial function were flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), low flow-mediated vasoconstriction (L-FMC) and vasoactive range (VAR).

Results
Hundred three patients with a mean age of 66.2 ± 7.7 years and a mean LDL-cholesterol of 98 ± 19.1 mg/dl completed the study. The change in VAR from baseline to week 8 was significantly different with evolocumab compared to placebo (p = 0.045). Moreover, VAR increased after 8 weeks of treatment with evolocumab compared to baseline (p = 0.034). No change has been noticed in FMD and L-FMC after 8 weeks of treatment with evolocumab.
In subgroup analyses, VAR improved in patients with age ≤ 67 years, lower systolic blood pressure (≤ 125 mmHg) and higher baseline LDL-cholesterol (> 95 mg/dl), (p = 0.006, p = 0.049 and p = 0.042, respectively) after 8 weeks of evolocumab treatment. No serious adverse event related to study medication occurred during the study.

Conclusion
Our data indicate that endothelial function improved with evolocumab treatment in high-risk patients on statin therapy with preexisting cardiovascular disease. Our results contribute to the mechanistic explanation why lower incidence of the cardiovascular composite endpoint has been demonstrated in the FOURIER study.

Graphical abstract
Association of adenoid hypertrophy and clinical parameters with preoperative polygraphy in pediatric patients undergoing adenoidectomy
Authors: Lein Alexander , Altumbabic Hasan , Đešević Miralem , Baumgartner Wolf-Dieter , Salkic Almir , Umihanic Sekib , Ramaš Almedina , Harčinović Alen , Kosec Andro , Brkic Faris F. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Adenotonsillar hypertrophy is the most frequent cause for obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS) in children. In patients with small tonsils and where adenoid size cannot be assessed, the indication for adenoidectomy often relies on clinical symptoms. However, data on the association of clinical parameters and adenoid hypertrophy with OSAS severity in children undergoing an adenoidectomy is sparse.

Aim
To investigate the correlation of patient characteristics, adenoid hypertrophy, and clinical symptoms with OSAS severity in pediatric patients indicated for an adenoidectomy.

Methods
We performed a retrospective chart review of all pediatric patients at our tertiary referral center between 2018 and 2023 who underwent polygraphy (PG) for OSAS diagnostics. Adenoid hypertrophy was assessed as adenoid-choanal ratio (AC-ratio) via nasal endoscopy and clinical symptom score (CS) via physical examination and parental survey. We included all symptomatic children with mild to severe OSAS (apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 1). Exclusion criteria were obesity according to BMI and/or the presence of systemic diseases. The patients were divided according to age in a preschool and school cohort. Patient characteristics and PG data were compared between both groups. Linear regression analysis was used to investigate the association of AC-ratio, CS and BMI with the AHI.

Results
A total of 121 patients were identified of which 81 were included in our study, resulting in 42 and 39 patients from 3–5 and 6–14 years of age, respectively. We observed a significant correlation between CS and BMI (p = 0.026) and the CS and AC-ratio (p < 0.001). Univariable regression analysis showed significant association of the AC-ratio and CS with AHI-score for the total (p < 0.001), the preschool (p < 0.001), and the school cohort (p < 0.001). In multivariable regression analysis, the significant association of AC-ratio and CS remained in the total (p = 0.014; p < 0.001), and the preschool cohort (p = 0.029; p = 0.002). However, only the CS remained as positive predictor in the school cohort.

Conclusion
AC-ratio and clinical symptoms seem to be reliable predictors for OSAS severity in patients between 3–14 years of age. Moreover, only clinical symptoms were associated with OSAS severity in schoolchildren. Future investigation should contribute to the validation of our results
Archaenybelina gen. nov. (Trypanorhyncha Diesing, 1863) from Mobula thurstoni (Lloyd, 1908), including the description of two new species from Bali, Indonesia
Authors: Wulandari Suryaningtyas Endang , Neitemeier-Duventester Xaver , Damriyasa I. Made , Frank Marcus , Haseli Mohammad , Palm Harry W. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractTwo specimens of Mobula thurstoni (Lloyd, 1908) were obtained from fishermen of Karangasem, Indonesia, and studied for trypanorhynch cestodes. Archaenybelina gen. nov., including two new species A. pseudotetrabothrialis sp. nov. and A. mimicricestus sp. nov., were recorded from the stomach and spiral valve and analysed for details of scolex and segment morphology, and surface ultrastructure. The new genus is characterized by 4 asymmetrical bothria separated by deep posterior notches, the presence of tegumental grooves, a homeoacanthous heteromorphous armature and a unique segment morphology. Both species can be separated by different hook sizes, basal hook rows and distribution of bothrial microtriches. Scolex surface ultrastructure shows hamulate spinitriches on bothria, lineate spinitriches along bothrial margins, and papilliform filitriches on the scolex peduncle. Similar microtriches have been reported from the bothrial margins of the Tentaculariidae. Tegumental grooves with a probably secretory function based on histology are present on the posterior bothrial margin. A collar of uncinate microtriches appear at the outer surface, separated from an internal bulbous structure, clearly distinguish this organ from the ciliated pits of the Otobothriidae. Based on four bothria, appearing not entirely separated at the anterior part of the scolex that indicates an originally bifossate state, a homeoacanthous heteromorphous armature, tegumental grooves, the absence of prebulbar organs and the presence of muscular rings, we assign the new genus into the Paranybeliniidae Schmidt, 1970. Describing first details of the segment morphology add to the family diagnosis in the most recent classification. The unique morphology of the new genus including its potential life cycle that involves oceanic devil rays as final and euphausiid crustaceans as second intermediate hosts are discussed.
Relationship among cancer treatment, quality of life, and oral function in head and neck cancer survivors: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Yokoi Aya , Maruyama Takayuki , Yamanaka Reiko , Takeuchi Noriko , Morita Manabu , Ekuni Daisuke 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC), such as surgery and chemoradiotherapy, can reduce oral function and affect quality of life (QoL). However, whether HNC treatment affects QoL via the decline of oral function remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship among cancer treatment, QoL, and actual oral function in HNC survivors.

Methods
A total of 100 HNC survivors who had completed definitive treatment for HNC at least 6 months prior to enrollment were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. QoL was evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 summary score. Oral diadochokinesis (ODK), tongue pressure, moisture level on the mucosal surface, and mouth opening were measured. Information on age, sex, tumor site, tumor stage, history of HNC treatment, height, body weight, and lifestyle were collected from medical records. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was conducted to analyze the indirect/direct associations among HNC treatment, QoL, and oral function.

Results
In total, 100 HNC survivors (58 males and 42 females; age range, 30–81 years, median, 67 years) were analyzed. Overall, 63 patients (63.0%) were diagnosed as oral cancer, 66 (66.0%) developed advanced cancer (stage 3/4), and 58 (58.0%) underwent reconstruction surgery in 100 HNC survivors. The SEM results supported the hypothesized structural model (root mean square error of approximation = 0.044, comparative fit index = 0.990, Tucker-Lewis index = 0.986). Surgery with neck dissection and reconstruction for advanced cancer had indirect effects on lower QoL via ODK and mouth opening.

Conclusion
HNC treatment is indirectly associated with QoL via oral function in HNC survivors.
Sparse attention is all you need for pre-training on tabular data
Authors: Isomura Tokimasa , Shimizu Ryotaro , Goto Masayuki 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
In the world of data-driven decision-making, tabular data reigns supreme as the most prevalent and crucial format, especially in business contexts. However, data scarcity remains a recurring challenge. In this context, transfer learning has emerged as a potent solution. This study explores the untapped potential of transfer learning in the realm of tabular data analysis, with a focus on leveraging deep learning models—especially the Transformer model—that have garnered significant recognition. Our research investigates the intricacies of tabular data and illuminates the shortcomings of conventional attention mechanisms in the Transformer model when applied to such structured datasets. This highlights the pressing requirement need for specialized solutions tailored to tabular data. We introduce an innovative transfer learning method based on series of thoroughly designed experiments across diverse business domains. This approach harnesses Transformer-based models enhanced with optimized sparse attention mechanisms, offering a groundbreaking solution for tabular data analysis. Our findings reveal the remarkable effectiveness of enhancing the attention mechanism within the Transformer in transfer learning. Specifically, pre-training with sparse attention proves increasingly powerful as data volumes increase, resulting in superior performance on large datasets. Conversely, fine-tuning with full attention becomes more impactful when data availability decreases in downstream tasks, ensuring adaptability in situations with limited data. The empirical results presented in this study provide compelling evidence of the revolutionary potential of our approach. Our optimized sparse attention model emerges as a powerful tool for researchers and practitioners seeking highly effective solutions for tabular data tasks. As tabular data remain the backbone of business operations, our study promises to revolutionize data analysis in critical domains. This work bridges the gap between limited data availability and the requirement for effective analysis in business settings, marking a significant step forward in the field of tabular data analysis.
Cancer-specific utility: clinical validation of the EORTC QLU-C10D in patients with glioblastoma
Authors: Seyringer Simone , Pilz Micha J. , Bottomley Andrew , King Madeleine T. , Norman Richard , Gamper Eva M. ,   EORTC Quality of Life Group
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Many health economic evaluations rely on the validity of the utility measurement for health-related quality of life (HRQoL). While generic utility measures perform well in HRQoL assessments of many diseases and patient populations, appropriateness for cancer-specific disease burdens needs attention and condition-specific measures could be a viable option. This study assessed the clinical validity of the cancer-specific EORTC QLU-C10D, a utility scoring algorithm for the EORTC QLQ-C30, in patients with glioblastoma. We expect the EORTC QLU-C10D to be sensitive and responsive in glioblastoma patients. Furthermore, we compared its statistical efficiency with the generic utility measure EQ-5D-3L.

Methods
We used data from a multi-center randomized controlled trial (NCT00689221) with patients from 146 study sites in 25 countries. Both, the QLQ-C30 and the EQ-5D-3L, had been administered at seven assessment points together. Utilities of both measures were calculated for four country value set (Australia, Canada, UK, USA). Ceiling effects, agreement (Bland–Altman plots (BA), intra-class correlation (ICC)), were calculated to analyze construct validity. Sensitivity to known-groups (performance status; global health) and responsiveness to changes (progressive vs. non-progressive; stable vs. improved or deteriorated HRQoL) were investigated for clinical validity. Relative Efficiency (RE) was calculated to compare statistical efficiency of both utility measures.

Results
435 patients were included at baseline and six subsequent time points (median timeframe 497 days). QLU-C10D country value set showed negligible ceiling effects (< 6.7%) and high agreement with EQ-5D-3L (ICC > 0.750). BA indicated that differences between both utility measures increased with deteriorating health states. While the QLU-C10D was more sensitive to global health groups (RE > 1.2), the EQ-5D-3L was more sensitive to performance status groups (RE < 0.7) than the other utility measure. Statistical efficiency to detect differences between change groups and within HRQoL deterioration group (RE > 1.4) favored QLU-C10D in 18 of 24 (75%) and 20 of 24 (83%) comparisons with the EQ-5D-3L respectively. Responsiveness to overall HRQoL change (RE > 3.4) also favored the QLU-C10D.

Conclusion
Our results indicate that the QLU-C10D is a valid utility measure to assess HRQoL in patients with glioblastoma. This facilitates the investigation of HRQoL profiles and utilities in this patient population by administering a single questionnaire, the EORTC QLQ-C30. Efficiency analyses point to higher statistical power of the QLU-C10D compared to the EQ-5D-3L.
The higher abundance of host plant and suitable management recommended as the important elements in the conservation of Phengaris (Maculinea) teleius (Bergsträser, 1779) (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) in the Hradné lúky SAC meadows (Slovakia)
Authors: Masarovič Rudolf , Kršáková Petra , Lehotská Blanka , Ružičková Jana , Balcerčík Jozef , Purkart Adrián 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This article presents a study of the isolated population of the scarce large blue butterfly, which is facing a significant threat in the meadows of the central part of Slovakia. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of management, the presence of great burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis (L.)), and the host ants on the abundance of Phengaris teleius in the Hradné lúky Special Area of Conservation (SAC) in Slovakia. The study area was divided into six study plots. The abundance of S. officinalis host plant and ant communities, with emphasis on host ants (Myrmica scabrinodis (Nylander, 1846) and M. rubra (Linnaeus, 1758)), were analysed at each study plot. A generalized linear model (GLM) identified the significant relationships among three variables. Specifically, a relationship was confirmed between the number of P. teleius individuals and the abundance of the host plant S. officinalis, as well as between the number of P. teleius individuals and the current type of management at the specific biotope. The most important conservation recommendations regarding this study have been presented. Implications for insect conservation: Our results indicate that in the protection of P. teleius, it is important to support the abundance of S. officinalis as highly as possible. In addition, we confirm that targeted management with the absence of mowing in the critical phase of the year, especially in the Molinia meadows, is important for maintaining a healthy butterfly population.
Delegated Autonomy in Multi-Agency Viable Systems: Social and Systemic Factors During Crisis
Authors: Fattoum Ayham 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAutonomy is essential for the emancipation and viability of systems and empowers individuals and teams to make decisions and act with flexibility and agility. This becomes particularly significant in volatile environments, where rapid decision-making is particularly important for system responsiveness. The viable system model (VSM) advocates maximum operational autonomy as a fundamental condition of viability. Having autonomy structured in a system is core to a viable design. While ensuring operational autonomy is core for effective response in complex and volatile environments, the paper explores through a case study some reasons why autonomy may not be exercised properly in the middle of a crisis. It does so by analysing the factors that influence how delegated autonomy is perceived and exercised in a multi-agency emergency response system during its operations. It does so by analysing qualitative data collected in a UK county that responded to a major disaster. The findings suggest that discrepancies resulting from systemic and social factors such as identity, values, ethos, and risk aversion created difficulties for operational teams in responding autonomously. The paper offers three contributions to VSM First, it provides insight into the importance of including social awareness and systemic analysis in viability diagnosis to ensure its practical value. Second, it suggests ways to deepen this type of analysis and further clarify the VSM theory about challenges to developing operational autonomy. Third, it contributes to the discourse on system emancipation in soft OR by showing the significance of multi-methodological diagnosis that it includes, in addition to structural diagnosis, identifying conflicts among systems elements as well as human interactions and interpretations.