bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Conserving integration of multibody systems with singular and non-constant mass matrix including quaternion-based rigid body dynamics
Authors: Kinon Philipp L. , Betsch Peter 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Mechanical systems with singular and/or configuration-dependent mass matrix can pose difficulties to Hamiltonian formulations, which are the standard choice for the design of energy-momentum conserving time integrators. In this work, we derive a structure-preserving time integrator for constrained mechanical systems, based on a mixed variational approach. Livens’ principle (or sometimes called Hamilton-Pontryagin principle) features independent velocity and momentum quantities and circumvents the need to invert the mass matrix. In particular, we take up the description of rigid body rotations using unit quaternions. Using Livens’ principle, a new and comparatively easy approach to the simulation of these problems is presented. The equations of motion are approximated by using (partitioned) midpoint discrete gradients, thus generating a new energy-momentum conserving integration scheme for mechanical systems with singular and/or configuration-dependent mass matrix. The derived method is second-order accurate and algorithmically preserves a generalized energy function as well as the holonomic constraints and momentum maps corresponding to symmetries of the system. We study the numerical performance of the newly devised scheme in representative examples for multibody dynamics and rigid body rotations.
Impact of cemiplimab treatment duration on clinical outcomes in advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Mallardo Domenico , Sparano Francesca , Vitale Maria Grazia , Trojaniello Claudia , Cioli Eleonora , Esposito Assunta , Festino Lucia , Mallardo Mario , Vanella Vito , Facchini Bianca Arianna , Filippi Rosaria , Meinardi Paolo , Ottaviano Margaret , Caracò Corrado , Simeone Ester , Ascierto Paolo Antonio 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Treatment duration with checkpoint inhibitors must be optimized to prevent unjustified toxicity, but evidence for the management of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is lacking.
A retrospective study was performed to evaluate the survival of patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) who discontinued cemiplimab due to different causes and without progression.
Among 95 patients with CSCC who received cemiplimab, 22 (23%) patients discontinued immunotherapy due to causes other than progression, such as comorbidities, toxicity, complete response or lack of compliance (group that discontinued before censoring [DBC]), then 73 patients had standard treatment scheduled (STS). The overall survival was 25.2 months (95% CI: 8.9–29.4) in STS group and 28.3 months (95% CI: 12.7–28.3) in the DBC group; deaths for all causes were 11/22 (50%) in the DBC group and 34/73 (46.6%) in the STS group (p=0.32). 10/22 (45.4%) subjects died due to CSCC in the DBC after discontinuation and 34/73 (46.6%) in the STS group, and the difference between groups was not significant (p=0.230). Duration of treatment was significantly lower in subjects with stable disease vs those with complete or partial response (16.9, 30.6 and 34.9 months, respectively; p=0.004). Among the 22 STS patients, 12 received cemiplimab for less than 12 months (10 [83%] died) and 10 for at least 12 months (1 [10%] died).
This observational study suggests that immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment in patients with advanced CSCC should be discontinued at least after complete response or after 12 months despite lack of response or progression.
Recognition of High-Grade Invasiveness and Achievement of Gross Total Resection via an Endoscopic Endonasal Transsphenoidal Approach Promise Favorable Outcomes in Growth Hormone Pituitary Adenomas: 16 Years of Experience in a Single Institute
Authors: Chang Ting-Wei , Tseng Chun-Chia , Wang Yu-Chi , Huang Yin-Cheng , Hsu Peng-Wei , Chuang Chi-Cheng , Lee Cheng-Chi 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background: Growth hormone (GH)-secreting pituitary tumors produce systemic comorbidities, thus achieving gross total resection (GTR) and biochemical remission are imperative. The aim of this study was to identify predictors affecting resection status and biochemical remission.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 54 GH adenoma patients receiving endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach (EETSA). Medical records and magnetic resonance imaging were reviewed for tumor size, volume, resection status, invasion status, and Knosp and Hardy-Wilson grades. We also classified invasion status into high- and low-grade groups. Biochemical remission was defined as an insulin-like growth factor 1 value within sex- and age-adjusted reference or a random GH level < 1.0 ng/mL.
Results: The degrees of horizontal and vertical invasion based on preoperative Knosp and Hardy-Wilson grade were highly associated with intraoperative resection status (p=0.015, 0.014 and 0.017 respectively), but micro- or macroadenoma, tumor size and volume were not. We also found more significant differences between resection status and higher-grade invasion (p=0.006, 0.006 and 0.001, respectively). Knosp, Hardy-Wilson grades and resection status were significantly associated with biochemical remission (p=0.0007, 0.0428, 0.0006 and 0.0012, respectively). Although there was no difference between micro- or macroadenoma, tumor size and volume were statistically significant associated with outcomes (p=0.024, 0.0032, respectively). Similarly, more significant differences between biochemical remission and higher-grade invasion were found (p=0.00005, 0.009 and 0.00001, respectively).
Conclusions: EETSA remains the best treatment option for GH adenomas. Biochemical remission was highly associated with invasion status and the possibility of achieving GTR. Earlier diagnosis and more aggressive resection are key to favorable outcomes.
Longterm outcome of rare functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms
Authors: Sevcik Martina , Albers Max B. , Wiese Dominik , Manoharan Jerena , Rinke Anja , Jesinghaus Moritz , Bartsch Detlef K. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Introduction: Rare functional pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (rf-pNENs), such as VIPomas, calcitoninomas and glucagonomas are extremely rare tumors. Thus, their characteristics and long-term prognosis have not yet been well defined.
Methods:Clinicopathological characteristics, including preoperative diagnostics, surgical procedures, other treatments and long-term outcome of patients with rf-pNEN operated in the ENETS Center of Excellence Marburg were retrospectively analyzed.
Results: Between 2002 and 2022, 12 of 216 (5,5%) patients with pNEN had rf-pNEN, including three VIPomas, four glucagonomas and five calcitoninomas. Among these 5 were women and 7 were men with a median age of 60 (range 28-73) years at the time of the first surgery. The tumor was visualized by preoperative imaging in all 12 patients, and six patients had distant metastases at the time of diagnosis. The tumor was located in the pancreatic tail in 9 patients and the median tumor size was 82 (range 12-220) mm. Eleven patients underwent tumor resections (2 robotic, 9 conventional), and 9 of these 11 patients received R0 resections. After a median follow-up of 75 (range 1-247) months, six patients were alive, five of whom had no evidence of disease. All patients who remained disease-free had an initial R0 resection of the primary tumor and no initial liver involvement.
Conclusion: rf-pNENs are a heterogeneous group of tumors with a good long-term prognosis, if detected early and initially radically resected. Long-term survival, however, can be also achieved in patients with metastasized tumors using multimodal treatment.
Crowdfunding to Compensate for Financial Burdens of Patients with Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Okoli Theodore , Kassamali Bina , Lim Subin , Mir Raza H. , Young Katherine , Haseeb Sarah B. , Yang Kevin , Maher Jacqueline , Mazori Daniel R. , LaChance Avery H. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality, as well as high financial burdens. This study examined the use of the crowdfunding platform GoFundMe as a means to support SSc-related medical care. We found that a subset of patients with systemic sclerosis turn to the crowdfunding platform GoFundMe in an attempt to cover out of pocket expenses related to their disease. However, these campaigns are met with limited success. Altogether, our study demonstrates the significant medical and financial burden faced by individuals with SSc.
Prevalence of Asthma among Children and Adolescents in WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region: A Meta-Analysis of Over 0.5 Million Participants
Authors: Taherian Mohammad Reza , Fatemian Farbod , Halimi Aram , Soleimani Yaser , Jorjani Goljamal , Nozari Parisa , Mosavi-Jarrahi Alireza , Nazari Seyed Saeed Hashemi , Al-Yateem Nabeel , Al-Marzouqi Amina , Humid Aysha , Rahman Syed Azizur 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the epidemiology of asthma among children and adolescents in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMRO).
Methods: Exhaustive searches were conducted across databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Knowledge Core Collection, Embase, and Google Scholar. The selection criteria included studies in English and Persian languages reporting asthma prevalence in individuals aged 0 to 19 years, using validated questionnaires. Data were extracted and synthesized using the DerSimonian and Laird random effects model.
Results: The overall prevalence of asthma in Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO) countries, among the 514,468 children and adolescents included in this meta-analysis, was 10.61%, synthesized from 95 studies. Among the countries studied, Qatar exhibited the highest prevalence at 16.69%, followed by Saudi Arabia at 16.57%, Iraq at 16.22%, Oman at 15.20%, and Afghanistan at 14.90%. Adolescents showed a slightly higher prevalence of asthma at 10.10% compared to children at 9.70%. Boys exhibited a higher prevalence at 11.48% compared to girls at 9.75%. Urban areas demonstrated a higher prevalence at 11.27% compared to rural areas at 8.29%.
Conclusion: Efforts to reduce asthma prevalence in Arab countries and address underdiagnosis in African nations within the EMRO are crucial. Targeted interventions should focus on addressing environmental triggers and improving access to healthcare. Enhanced diagnostic capabilities and healthcare infrastructure are necessary in African countries. Collaborative action is essential to alleviate the asthma burden and promote respiratory health across the EMRO region.
Simulation of Sympathetic Cooling of Helium-like 9 Be 2+
Authors: Zhu Kai , Song Hongfang 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

The helium and helium-like atomic systems are of significant interest in the study of few-body systems due to their simple structures. Nevertheless, current spectroscopic assessments of He-like ions, such as Li+ and Be2+, encounter constraints in precision owing to the formidable Doppler effect inherent in ion beam experiments. Addressing this challenge, we propose a methodology of employing ion trap confinement and sympathetic cooling techniques to mitigate the impact of the Doppler effect on 9Be2+ ions. Through molecular dynamics simulations, we investigated the influence of different ion systems on the temperature and efficiency of sympathetic cooling for 9Be2+ ions. Our findings offer valuable insights for future endeavors aimed at conducting high-precision spectroscopic measurements involving trapped and cooled 9Be2+ ions or other He-like ions.
Spatiotemporal Patterns of Nitrogen Dioxide and Aerosol Optical Depth: A Case Study of Lahore Division
Authors: Zeeshan Muhammad , Shah Muhammad Abdullah 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
To understand the relationships among atmospheric trace gases, aerosol variability, and climate change, as well as to inform next-generation climate change and air quality models, a precise understanding of the intricate relationships between these variables and their sources is needed. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the spatiotemporal variability of tropospheric nitrogen dioxide (NO2), aerosol optical depth (AOD), and particulate matter (PM2.5) retrieved from both satellite and ground-based data for the period of 2006 − 2023. Tropospheric NO2, obtained from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI)/Aura, has shown that the Lahore Division frequently has high annual mean NO2 concentrations (3.87 − 6.34 x1015 molecules.cm− 2). Seasonally, winters (4.86 − 8.09x1015 molecules.cm− 2) and autumns (4.18 − 6.85 x1015 molecules.cm− 2) are mainly affected by high NO2 levels during 2021 − 2023 due to intense biomass and crop residue burning activities. Satellite AOD from data Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)/Tera indicated that summers and autumns have greater AOD levels, with a mean value of 0.59 − 0.69. More variability in AOD was recorded just after the COVID − 19 lockdown. The NO2 − AOD correlation plots (maps) indicated a positive correlation coefficient R = 0.13 (0.02 to 0.19) in 2023, attributed to more NOx emissions. High concentrations of PM2.5 were recorded specifically in December and January, with the highest average AQI 374.96 µgm− 3, occurring on December 2022, which are the consequences of smog formation and other respiratory disorders during the winter season.
How is human well-being related to ecosystem service at town and village scales? A case study from the Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Gao Yanmin , Zhang Naijie , Ma Qun , Li Jingwei 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Context: The relationships between ecosystem services (ES) and human well-being (HWB) have been found to be influenced by geographic locations and socioeconomic development, and vary from local to global scales. However, there is a lack of comparative analyses at fine administrative scales such as town and village scales.
Objective: This study took the core region of the Yangtze River Delta of China as the study area to examine the spatial characteristics of the value of ES and the subjective perception of HWB and compare their relationships at the town and village scales.
Methods: 9 ES and 11 HWB indicators were quantified using the ecosystem service equivalence factor method and the questionnaire survey, respectively. The ES-HWB relationships were then investigated using Spearman's correlation analysis.
Results: The value of ES per unit area in the study area in 2020 was about 15,202.90 USD/ha, nearly three times the average level in China, but the per capita value was relatively low, at 322.11 USD/person. The score of subjective perception of HWB was relatively high, especially for the dimensions of social relations, health, and safety. As spatial scales decreased from town to village and thematic scales increased from secondary to primary indicators, the strength of the ES-HWB correlations diminished and their direction changed as well. According to secondary indicators, most of the ES-HWB relationships were positive at the town scale but became negative or nonexistent at the village scale.
Conclusions: The ES-HWB relationships may vary unpredictably at local scales (e.g., counties). But “local scale” is not always local, because at the town and village scales the relationships can still vary. Thus, better understanding the relationships requires studies at multiple and broader scales and calls for the caution when using the aggregating indicators because they can also lead to different ES-HWB relationships.
Multifunctional lightweight autonomous vehicles: an agent-based study
Authors: Sanchez Naroa Coretti , Larson Kent 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

In mobility-on-demand services, the number of vehicles needed is often determined by peak demand during rush hours, leading to prolonged vehicle idle times during off-peak periods. This surplus capacity presents an opportunity for vehicles to perform additional tasks, potentially enhancing system efficiency and reducing the overall number of vehicles needed in cities. Leveraging agent-based modeling, we evaluate the effectiveness of vehicles catering to on-demand rides and food deliveries in two real-life scenarios: Cambridge, MA, USA, and San Sebastian, Gipuzkoa, Spain. The results show that multifunctional behavior can lead to reduced fleet sizes, with context-specific exceptions. Additionally, a strategic dispatching algorithm is introduced that demonstrates reductions in waiting times and overall distances traveled. This research contributes to the understanding of the performance of multifunctional fleets in diverse urban contexts, informing the development of sustainable and resource-efficient mobility systems.
Safety of pembrolizumab with concurrent radiotherapy in early stage breast cancer: preliminary prospective real-world evidence
Authors: Colciago Riccardo Ray , Presti Daniele , Giandini Carlotta , Rocca Eliana La , Carnevale Maria Grazia , Cavallo Anna , Pignoli Emanuele , Lobefaro Riccardo , Cosimo Serena Di , Listorti Chiara , Lozza Laura , Filippi Andrea Riccardo , De Santis Maria Carmen 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
INTRODUCTION Data on the feasibility and potential synergy of concomitant immunotherapy with radiation therapy (RT) is still scarce for early breast cancer (BC). We aimed to assess the safety profile of adjuvant pembrolizumab with concomitant radiotherapy (RT) in breast cancer patients.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: We prospectively collected data from ten patients with triple-negative breast cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy with pembrolizumab (as per Keynote-522 criteria) followed by surgery and at least 1 cycle of adjuvant pembrolizumab with concomitant RT. A total dose of 40.05 Gy delivered in 15 fractions was prescribed to the breast or chest wall, with regional nodes and tumor bed boost administered as clinically indicated. The study endpoint was to assess acute toxicity according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scale, and to report the rate of discontinuation of RT and/or pembrolizumab.
RESULTS A median of 8 (range 4 – 9) cycles of neoadjuvant Pembrolizumab were prescribed. Before RT, patients received a median of 3 (range 2 – 4) cycles of adjuvant Pembrolizumab. Severe acute toxicity occurred in 2 patients. Specifically, G4 myositis led to permanent discontinuation of adjuvant pembrolizumab in one case, whereas G3 electrolyte imbalance caused definitive RT interruption and temporary discontinuation of adjuvant pembrolizumab in the second case. Among the remaining 8 patients, only 2 patients experienced G2 skin erythema with no treatment discontinuation.
CONCLUSIONS The combination of adjuvant pembrolizumab with concurrent radiotherapy proved feasible in the real world, as toxicity was minimal and consistent with existing literature.
Comparison of whole body bone mineral density measurement between dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and novel foot-to-foot bioelectrical impedance analyzer
Authors: Chuang Chih-Lin , Lai Chung-Liang , Huang Ai-Chun , Su Bai-Hua , Chu Lee-Ping , Hsieh Kuen-Chang , Lu Hsueh-Kuan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Bone mineral density (BMD) is a crucial indicator of osteoporosis. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) introduces a new capability for assessing body composition, specifically BMD measurement. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of the novel BIA in conducting whole-body BMD tests in the general population of Taiwan. Altogether, 318 healthy adults in Taiwan (age, 37.67 ± 19.44 years; 145 male and 173 female patients) were included. Whole-body BMD was measured using foot-to-foot BIA-StarBIA201 (StarBIA Meditek Co. LTD, Taichung, Taiwan) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) Lunar Prodigy (GE Medical Systems, Madison, WI, USA). Linear regression analysis, Pearson's correlation coefficient, Bland–Altman Plot, and paired t-test were used. Whole body BMD measured by BIA and DXA was 1.139 ± 0.124 g/cm2 and 1.202 ± 0.168 g/cm2, respectively. The regression equation was y = 1.057x + 0.063. The Pearson correlation coefficient, mean difference, and limits of agreement were r = 0.737, − 0.053 g/cm2, and − 0.290–0.165 g/cm2, respectively. Standing BIA was correlated with the DXA gold standard for estimating whole-body BMD in adults; however, their interchangeability remains limited. The convenient BIA method for measuring whole body BMD may be useful in the application of primary screening and future development of BMD assessment methods.
Ferroptosis and HMGB2 induced calreticulin translocation required for immunogenic cell death are controlled by the nuclear exporter XPO1
Authors: Blair Ian , Fan jingqi , Gillespie Kevin , Mesaros Clementina 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Cisplatin and oxaliplatin cause the secretion of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) from cancer cells, which is necessary for initiation of immunogenic cell death (ICD). Calreticulin (CRT) translocation from the endoplasmic reticulum to the plasma membrane is also required; oxaliplatin induces this translocation but cisplatin does not. We have discovered that oxaliplatin causes the secretion of both HMGB1 and HMGB2 from the nucleus into the extracellular milieu. We previously showed that cisplatin mediated secretion of HMGB1 is controlled by the nuclear exporter XPO1 (chromosomal maintenance 1; CRM1). We now find that XPO1 regulates oxaliplatin mediated secretion of both HMGB1 and HMGB2. XPO1 inhibition causes nuclear accumulation of both proteins, inhibition of oxaliplatin-mediated ferroptosis of colon cancer cells, and inhibition of CRT translocation to the plasma membrane of lung and colon cancer cells. Incubation of cancer cells with cell targeted (CT)-HMGB2 confirmed that HMGB2 is responsible for translocation of CRT to the plasma membrane. CT-HMGB2 is three orders of magnitude more potent than oxaliplatin at inducing CRT translocation. Inhibition of HMGB1 and HMGB2 secretion and/or their activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) has potential utility for treating cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative diseases; whereas CT-HMGB2 could augment therapeutic approaches to cancer treatment.