Search

The results on the inversion of convolution operators as well as Toeplitz (and block Toeplitz) matrices in the 1-D (one-dimensional) case are classical and have numerous applications. Last year, we considered the 2-D case of Toeplitz-block Toeplitz (TBT) matrices, described a minimal information, which is necessary to recover the inverse matrices, and gave a complete characterisation of the inverse matrices. Now, we develop our approach for the more complicated cases of the block TBT-matrices and of the 3-D Toeplitz matrices. Some important special cases are treated as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past 5 years, 55 new anticancer drugs have been launched worldwide. Considering the increasing costs of innovative treatments, both the number and the relevance of cost-effectiveness analyses have increased, meaningfully supporting decision making by stakeholders and policy makers. Notably, cost-effective treatments remain unavailable to patients because they are still unaffordable for a multitude of payers. To discuss the differences between cost-effectiveness and affordability. We reviewed the most relevant data on the divergences between cost-effectiveness and affordability. In addition, we included our recommendations to improve patients' access to innovative cancer therapies. The increasing costs of recently launched antineoplastic drugs, as high as $150 000 per year, represent a major barrier to patients' access to treatments globally. In Brazil, for example, patients' access to innovative treatments depends greatly on whether the individual has private health insurance. In the public health sector, patients' access to cost-effective innovative treatments varies according to the financial capacity of the facility, leading to inequalities within the same healthcare system. We conclude that because of the socioeconomic inequality mostly seen in lower and middle-income countries, it is difficult to define a cost-effectiveness threshold by region or a willingness-to-pay threshold affordable to the entire population. We consider that benchmark interventions might help to find an affordable willingness-to-pay threshold, and league table interventions might help policy makers, physicians, and the society to share the decision making. • The cost of antineoplastic therapies is increasing for every new drug launched. The relevance of cost-effectiveness analysis studies is rising nowadays. • Nevertheless, a cost-effective treatment can be unaffordable for a multitude of payers, especially in lower and middle-income countries. The willingness to pay for a treatment can be heterogeneous within a country because of the socioeconomic inequality. • Novel strategies such as benchmark interventions and league table interventions might help to find an affordable willingness-to-pay threshold and establish a list of innovative drugs that the population needs most. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Questionnaires and computerized observations were used to measure purposes for visiting the academic library and uses made on its workstations. The research was done among 1004 users in Israel. The findings show that non-library uses are the major activity on academic library workstations and that libraries with large number of workstations are more exposed to this trend. It appears that non-library uses support learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shape of elongated bubbles in upward inclined air-water slug flow was studied experimentally by quantitative measurements of the cross sectional distribution of the phases within the pipe, using a wire mesh sensor. Ensemble-averaged shapes of elongated bubbles were determined for a wide range of gas and liquid flow rates, as well as for different pipe inclination angles. The elongated bubble nose can be characterized by an annular domain where liquid is present above the gas. The effect of gas and liquid flow rates, as well as of the pipe inclination angle on the bubble shape (front and tail) is studied. A simplified theoretical model is proposed to determine the bubble front shape. The model predictions compare favorably with the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantitative evidence for the fundamental spectral shape similarity existing between different soils is presented utilizing Pearson's correlation and SAM (Spectral Angle Mapper) analysis in-between signatures representing thousands of soil samples collected from different environments around the world. A universal quadratic soil line (UQSL) was found to highly fit these representative signatures as well as spectra from the ISRIC (International Soil Reference and Information Center) global database including soil samples collected from 58 countries. K-means clustering of ISRIC spectral reflectance deviations from the UQSL facilitated identification of 5 characteristic deviation patterns. Significant correlation was found for a set of 1000 soil samples between changes in multiple chemical properties and corresponding reflectance changes between these clusters. Future availability of large global soil data bases may allow improved determination of the UQSL and generalization of its deviation patterns relationships with PBC (Physical, Biological and Chemical) properties for wide areas monitoring of soil conditions. • Quantitative evidence for high soil spectral reflectance similarity is presented. • New Universal Quadratic Soil Line (UQSL) highly fitted spectra of Global database. • Patterns of deviations from UQSL were analyzed and clustered into 5 classes. • Between classes chemical properties change correlated reflectance change. • Satellite images' based deviations from UQSL may assist regional soil's monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extended areas of the Mediterranean and semi-arid ecosystems are predicted to face decreased water availability, alongside increased human disturbances owing to an increase in population during this century. The use of geosimulations is instrumental for studying the expected ecosystem's response to predicted changes in habitat conditions due to the lack of field data at appropriate spatial and temporal resolutions over wide regional extents throughout sufficient time spans. Computational simulations, based on reaction‐diffusion equations (RDE), were performed in order to quantitatively assess the form of shrubland pattern changes in response to decreasing and increasing rainfall regimes and during recovery following catastrophic removal of plants, which would result from fires or droughts. Patch pattern properties were analyzed using the Shannon–Wiener fragmentation (SW) metric (= Ʃ Si Ln Si, where Si is the area fraction of patch i of n patches) and the edge ratio (ER) metric (= sum of edge area/sum of patches' area). The SW fragmentation change during pattern formation is characterized by 3 phases, where in the first phase there is decreased fragmentation, and the third phase represents the evolution of equilibrium. The second phase is the most interesting one, where we have observed pattern regularization obtained by rearranging the shrubs' patches while increasing the fragmentation of the shrub patches. Such regularization phases seem to be a primary characteristic of self-organized behavior in these ecosystems. The general form of pattern properties change with decreasing or increasing rainfall according to SW fragmentation levels reached at equilibrium, which revealed a non-linear configuration with three divergence points. At these divergence points, the pattern evolution trajectories diverge according to the rainfall change rates. The most important divergence point occurs when rainfall drops below the critical desertification level. Whereas a slow reduction in rainfall would allow the shrub patches to be maintained below this critical rainfall level, rapid changes would cause immediate desertification. Edge ratios are closely linked to rainfall levels, and thus, they may provide early warnings and allow changes in the habitat conditions to be monitored due to climate changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Pharmacophore models are created for T. cruzi trans-sialidase. [•] New pharmacophores are used to screen for new lead drug scaffolds. [•] 82 hit compounds found from screening Zinc's Lead database. [•] MD and free energy calculations were performed on all hit compounds. [•] Binding free energy calculations reveal two very promising inhibitors of TcTS. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A wire mesh sensor was used to detect the local instantaneous cross-sectional distribution of the phases in gas-liquid slug flow. Data were obtained for a wide range of flow rates and for pipe inclinations ranging from shallow to vertical. Processing of the wire mesh sensor data yielded detailed information of the 3D void fraction distribution in the liquid slug. These results shed additional light on the hydrodynamics of slug flow, in particular, regarding the formation and distribution of dispersed bubbles in the liquid slug. Comparison with available data was carried out. The present results compared favorably with model predictions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The link between individual habitat selection decisions (i.e., mechanism) and the resulting population distributions of dispersing organisms (i.e., outcome) has been little-studied in behavioural ecology. Here we consider density-dependent habitat (i.e., host) selection for an energy- and time-limited forager: the mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins). We present a dynamic state variable model of individual beetle host selection behaviour, based on an individual’s energy state. Field data are incorporated into model parameterization which allows us to determine the effects of host availability (with respect to host size, quality, and vigour) on individuals’ decisions. Beetles choose larger trees with thicker phloem across a larger proportion of the state-space than smaller trees with thinner phloem, but accept lower quality trees more readily at low energy- and time-states. In addition, beetles make habitat selection decisions based on host availability, conspecific attack densities, and beetle distributions within a forest stand. This model provides a framework for the development of a spatial game model to examine the implications of these results for attack dynamics of beetle populations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Gas–liquid slug flow in a downward inclined pipe was studied experimentally by employing a wire-mesh sensor that enables quantitative measurements of the cross-sectional void fraction distribution. Processing of the wire-mesh sensor data was applied to carry out a statistical analysis of characteristic parameters of downward slug flow, such as bubble and liquid slug length distributions, as well as to determine the ensemble-averaged shapes of the bubble nose, liquid film and bubble tail. It was found that the pipe inclination affects mainly the bubble length, while variation in the gas flow rate affects both bubble and slug length. The bubble nose shape is more sensitive to the flow conditions than the bubble tail. The 3D structure of an elongated bubble in downward slug flow was reconstructed from the wire-mesh sensor data. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two novel complementing methods that enable experimental study of gas and liquid phases distribution in two-phase pipe flow are considered. The first measuring technique uses a wire-mesh sensor that, in addition to providing data on instantaneous phase distribution in the pipe cross-section, also allows measuring instantaneous propagation velocities of the phase interface. A novel algorithm for processing the wire-mesh sensor data is suggested to determine the instantaneous boundaries of gas–liquid interface. The second method applied here takes advantage of the existence of sharp visible boundaries between the two phases. This optical instrument is based on a borescope that is connected to a digital video camera. Laser light sheet illumination makes it possible to obtain images in the illuminated pipe cross-section only. It is demonstrated that the wire-mesh-derived results based on application of the new algorithm improve the effective spatial resolution of the instrument and are in agreement with those obtained using the borescope. Advantages and limitations of both measuring techniques for the investigations of cross-sectional instantaneous phase distribution in two-phase pipe flows are discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The aim of the present study is to investigate stratified downward gas–liquid pipe flow with a non-intrusive measurement technique that is based on a borescope connected to a digital video camera. The borescope-based technique enables to determine the instantaneous cross-sectional distribution of both phases within the pipe. Water and air were used as working fluids. Quantitative data was extracted from sequences of recorded video images by applying a developed data processing technique for instantaneous gas–liquid interface boundaries determination. Experiments were performed for a wide range of downward pipe inclinations and gas and liquid flow rates. The instantaneous and time-average cross-sectional holdup for each set of flow parameters was calculated. Particular attention was given to the study of the interface shape that in many occasions was not flat and was characterized by the penetration of the liquid along the pipe periphery. Temporal variation of the surface elevation was also studied and various regimes characterizing interfacial waves were defined using both the recorded time series of the instantaneous depth of the water layer and the Fourier analysis of those records. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

: BackgroundIf nerve tissue is capable of inducing regeneration, as suggested by the neurotropism theory, then even small pieces of nerve tissue should have the potential to induce nerve regeneration. Therefore, long gaps might presumably be bridged via the neurotrophic potential of small pieces of nerve tissue grafted into the middle of the nerve gap. It is necessary to confirm the validity of the neurotropism theory and to also explore the potential usefulness of small nerve grafting through long gaps.: MethodsA small piece of nerve tissue was grafted into a silicone tube bridging a relatively long nerve gap in an attempt to promote nerve regeneration. A 15-mm gap was created in the left sciatic nerve of 31 Wistar rats (8 weeks of age). The experimental groups included one with nonvascularized nerve tissue grafted into a silicone tube with no distal nerve suturing (NV-A), another with vascularized nerve tissue grafted into a silicone tube with no distal nerve suturing (V-A), a third group with nonvascularized nerve tissue grafted into a silicone tube with distal nerve suturing (NV-P), a fourth group with vascularized nerve tissue grafted into a silicone tube with distal nerve suturing (V-P), and a group with no nerve segment grafted into the silicone tube (control). Electrophysiologic and histologic examinations were performed 10 weeks after the operation.: ResultsNo regeneration was obtained in the control group. Nerve regeneration was evident at the proximal end of the tube in the NV-A, V-A, NV-P, and V-P groups, and at the distal end in the NV-P and V-P groups. The degree of distal regeneration was extremely slight in the NV-A and V-A groups. An electrophysiologic examination performed in the NV-P and V-P groups revealed better results in the latter group.: ConclusionSmall nerve grafts are capable of inducing nerve regeneration even over a long nerve gap, by grafting nerve tissue into the middle of the lesion using a silicone tube. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Before 2005, cancer and other non-communicable diseases were not yet health and development agenda priorities. Since the 2005 World Health Assembly Resolution, which encouraged WHO, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to jointly work on cancer control, progress was achieved in low-income and middle-income countries on a small scale. Recently, rapid acceleration in UN collaboration and global cancer activities has focused attention in global cancer control. This Policy Review presents the evolution of the IAEA, IARC, and WHO joint advisory service to help countries assess needs and capacities throughout the comprehensive cancer control continuum. We also highlight examples per country, showcasing a snapshot of global good practices to foster an exchange of experiences for continuous improvement in the integrated mission of Programme of Action for Cancer Therapy (imPACT) reviews and follow-up support. The future success of progress in cancer control lies in the high-level political and financial commitments. Linking the improvement of cancer services to the strengthening of health systems after the COVID-19 pandemic will also ensure ongoing advances in the delivery of care across the cancer control continuum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ocular melanoma is a rare type of malignant melanoma. Melanoma metastatic to the spine typically arises within the vertebral column, presents with back pain, and has a poor prognosis. We present a patient with a unique disease course: ocular melanoma metastasis occurred after an extended latency period of 14years, attained a large size within the spinal intradural space, presented with severe neurological deficits without additional central nervous system disease, and the tumor was amenable to surgical intervention. We also review the literature on melanoma spine metastasis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aim T o quantify and characterize HLA-specific B cells subsets identified by single antigen HLA-coated multiplexed beads (SAB) in kidney transplant recipients. Methods PBMC from kidney transplant recipients ( n = 8) and healthy volunteers ( n = 10) were incubated with SAB (One lambda) for HLA class I and II. HLA Bead-B-cell Rosette (BBR) frequency & specificity were analyzed by flow cytometry. HLA-specific B cells specificities and polyreactivity was defined by the percentage of total SAB forming BBR. Transplant recipients serum was tested for circulating HLA antibodies using SAB & MFI were estimated. Results Significantly higher frequency of HLA-specific B cells were identified in transplant recipients with circulating anti-HLA antibodies compared to healthy volunteers. Circulating HLA-specific B cells (donor specific and non-specific) were in higher frequency (1.15% of B cells vs 0.17% of B cells; p < 0.05), wide breadth of polyreactivity (HLA class I 76.97 ± 28.3; HLA class II 91.9 ± 10.5) vs (HLA class I 13.1 ± 3.15; HLA class II 13.69 ± 10.3); p < 0.05 among recipients with poor graft outcome compared with those with good graft outcome. Not all HLA-specific B cells were associated with IgG HLA antibodies detected above the cutoff values. Conclusions The frequency & breadth of HLA-specific B cells reactivity may be a determinant of an aggressive clinical course after transplantation. This novel approach has the advantage of the wide array of available HLA antigens in a single test which will help in defining HLA B cell receptor poly & cross-reactivity. In addition to enable phenotyping, functional and gene expression analysis of HLA specific B cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Procedures to recover explicitly discrete and continuous skew-selfadjoint Dirac systems on semi-axis from rational Weyl matrix functions are considered. Their stability is shown. Some new facts on asymptotics of pseudo-exponential potentials (i.e., of explicit solutions of inverse problems) are proved as well. The GBDT version of Bäcklund–Darboux transformation, methods from system theory and results on algebraic Riccati equations are used for this purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Society for Medical Oncology-Magnitude of Clinical Benefit Scale (ESMO-MCBS) has been developed to grade clinical benefit of cancer therapies. Improvement in quality of life (QoL) is considered relevant, especially in the non-curative setting. This is reflected by an upgrade of the preliminary ESMO-MCBS score if QoL is improved compared to the control arm or a downgrade if an improvement in progression-free survival is not paralleled by an improvement in QoL or overall survival. Given the importance of QoL for the final score, a need to ensure the robustness of QoL data was recognised. A checklist was created based on existing guidelines for QoL research. Field testing was carried out using clinical trials that either received an adjustment of the preliminary ESMO-MCBS score based on QoL or had QoL as the primary endpoint. Several rounds of revision and re-testing of the checklist were undertaken until a final consensus was reached. The final checklist consists of four items and can be applied if three prerequisites are met: (i) QoL is at least a secondary endpoint, (ii) evidence of reliability and validity of the instrument is provided, and (iii) a statistically and clinically significant improvement in QoL is observed. The four items on the checklist pertain to the (i) hypothesis, (ii) compliance and missing data, (iii) presentation of the results, and (iv) statistical and clinical relevance. Field testing revealed that a clear QoL hypothesis and correction for multiple testing were mostly lacking, while the main statistical method was always described. Implementation of the ESMO-MCBS QoL checklist will facilitate objective and transparent decision making on QoL data within the ESMO-MCBS scoring process. Trials published until 1 January 2025 will have to meet the prerequisites and at least two items for crediting QoL benefit in the final ESMO-MCBS score. Trials published thereafter will have to meet all four items. • ESMO developed a checklist to assess the robustness of QoL research to use for ESMO-MCBS grading. • Prerequisites are that QoL is at least a secondary endpoint, assessed with a validated tool, and that QoL is improved. • Field testing showed that most studies lack a QoL hypothesis and do not correct for multiple testing. • The ESMO-MCBS QoL checklist facilitates objective and transparent decision making on crediting for QoL benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]