bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IAS/CEA Evolution of Dust in Nearby Galaxies (ICED): The spatially-resolved dust properties of NGC4254
Authors: Pantoni L. , Adam R. , Ade P. , Ajeddig H. , André P. , Artis E. , Aussel H. , Baes M. , Beelen A. , Benoît A. , Berta S. , Bing L. , Bourrion O. , Calvo M. , Catalano A. , De Petris M. , Désert F.-X. , Doyle S. , Driessen E.F.C. , Ejlali G. , Galliano F. , Gomez A. , Goupy J. , Jones A.P. , Hanser C. , Hughes A. , Katsioli S. , Kéruzoré F. , Kramer C. , Ladjelate B. , Lagache G. , Leclercq S. , Lestrade J.-F. , Macías-Pérez J.F. , Madden S. C. , Maury A. , Mauskopf P. , Mayet F. , Monfardini A. , Moyer-Anin A. , Muñoz-Echeverría M. , Nersesian A. , Paradis D. , Perotto L. , Pisano G. , Ponthieu N. , Revéret V. , Rigby A.J. , Ritacco A. , Romero C. , Roussel H. , Ruppin F. , Schuster K. , Sievers A. , Smith M.W.S.L. , Tabatabaei F.S. , Tedros J. , Tucker C. , Xilouris E.M. , Zylka R.
Published: March 2024

We present the first preliminary results of the project ICED, focusing on the face-on galaxy NGC4254. We use the millimetre maps observed with NIKA2 at lRAM-30m. as part of the IMEGIN Guaranteed Time Large Program. and of a wide collection of ancillary data (multi-wavelength photometry and gas phase spectral lines) that are publicly available. We derive the global and local properties of interstellar dust grains through infrared-to-radio spectral energy distribution fitting, using the hierarchical Bayesian code HerBIE. which includes the grain properties of the state-of-the-art dust model. THEMIS. Our method allows us to get the following dust parameters: dust mass, average interstellar radiation field, and fraction of small grains. Also, it is effective in retrieving the intrinsic correlations between dust parameters and interstellar medium properties. We find an evident anti-correlation between the interstellar radiation field and the fraction of small grains in the centre of NGC4254. meaning that, at strong radiation field intensities, very small amorphous carbon grains are efficiently destroyed by the ultra-violet photons coming from newly formed stars, through photo-desorption and sublimation. We observe a flattening of the anti-correlation at larger radial distances, which may be driven by the steep metallicity gradient measured in NGC4254.
The NIKA2 Sunyaev-Zeldovich Large Program
Authors: Perotto L. , Adam R. , Ade P. , Ajeddig H. , André P. , Artis E. , Aussel H. , Barrena R. , Bartalucci I. , Beelen A. , Benoît A. , Berta S. , Bing L. , Bourrion O. , Calvo M. , Catalano A. , De Petris M. , Désert F.-X. , Doyle S. , Driessen E. F. C. , Ejlali G. , Ferragamo A. , Gomez A. , Goupy J. , Hanser C. , Katsioli S. , Kéruzoré F. , Kramer C. , Ladjelate B. , Lagache G. , Leclercq S. , Lestrade J.-F. , Macías-Pérez J.F. , Madden S. C. , Maury A. , Mauskopf P. , Mayet F. , Monfardini A. , Moyer-Anin A. , Muñoz-Echeverría M. , Paliwal A. , Pisano G. , Pointecouteau E. , Ponthieu N. , Pratt G.W. , Revéret V. , Rigby A. J. , Ritacco A. , Romero C. , Roussel H. , Ruppin F. , Schuster K. , Sievers A. , Tucker C. , Yepes G.
Published: March 2024

The NIKA2 camera operating at the IRAM 30-m telescope excels in high-angular resolution mapping of the thermal Sunyaev-Zel’dovich effect towards galaxy clusters at intermediate and high-redshift. As part of the NIKA2 guaranteed-time, the SZ Large Program (LPSZ) aims at tSZ-mapping a representative sample of SZ-selected galaxy clusters in the catalogues of the Planck satellite and of the Atacama Cosmology Telescope, and also observed in X-ray with XMM-Newton or Chandra. Having completed observations in January 2023, we present tSZ maps of 38 clusters spanning the targeted mass (3 < M500/1014M⊙ < 10) and redshift (0.5 < z < 0.9) range. The first in-depth studies of individual clusters highlight the potential of combining tSZ and X-ray observations at similar angular resolution for precised mass measurements under the hydrostatic assumption MHSE. These were milestones for the development of a standard data analysis pipeline to go from NIKA2 raw data to the thermodynamic properties of galaxy clusters for the upcoming LPSZ data release. Final products will include measurements of the mean pressure profile of unprecedented quality and MHSE-observable scaling relation using a distinctive SZ-selected sample, which will be key for ultimately improving the accuracy of cluster-based cosmology.
Synthesis and Biological Activity of Penaresidins A and B, Penazetidine A, and Related Analogues
Authors: Burns Sean M. , McClure Timothy J. , Parikh Seren G. , Schindler Corinna S.
Published: March 2024

Since the first reports of their isolation, penaresidins A and B together with penazetidine A and related analogues have attracted interest from the synthetic community for their unique structural features, specifically the highly functionalized azetidine core. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the biological activity of the penaresidins, penazetidine, and their analogues together with reported synthetic strategies developed since their isolation.

1 Introduction

2 Biological Activity of Penaresidin A, Penaresidin B, and Penazetidine A and Related Analogues

3 Retrosynthetic Analysis

4 Penaresidin A Analogue (Kamikawa, 1995)

5 15-epi-Penaresidin A (Mori, 1995)

6 16-epi-Penazetidine A (Mori, 1996)

7 Penaresidin B (Yoda, 1997)

8 15-epi-Penaresidin B and Penaresidin B (Mori, 1997)

9 Penaresidin A and 16-nor-Penazetidine A (Knapp, 1997)

10 Substituted Penaresidin Core (Beauhaire and Ducrot, 1998)

11 Substituted Penaresidin Core (Ducrot, 1999)

12 Penaresidin A (Lin, 1999)

13 Penaresidin B (Yoda, 2003)

14 Penaresidin Structure-Reactivity Relationship (Kobayashi, 2007)

15 Penaresidin A (Raghavan, 2010)

16 Penaresidin A (Reddy, 2014)

17 Penaresidin B (Liu, 2015)

18 Penaresidin B (Yakura, 2018)

19 Penaresidin B (DuBois, 2020)

20 Penaresidin Analogues (Bodnár, 2021)
Standardizing the Treatment for Pediatric Status Epilepticus: A Quality Improvement Study
Authors: Bhargava Rishi , Cobo Nicole , Smith Gabrielle , Hestekin Heather , Morphew Tricia , Babbitt Christopher
Published: March 2024

Approximately 30 to 40% of children with generalized convulsive status epilepticus remain refractory to benzodiazepines. Due to inconsistences in our approach for these patients in the emergency department, we initiated a quality improvement project to standardize the treatment process.

A plan, do, study, act (PDSA) format was used for the project that involved creating a treatment algorithm based on the American Epilepsy Society (AES) guidelines, educating the staff on the treatment recommendations, and then collecting clinical data. We selected time to second-line anticonvulsant therapy as our primary outcome measure. Following the implementation of the treatment algorithm and order set, we performed comparative analyses of the pre- and post-implementation cohorts.

A total of 21 pre- and 36 post-implementation patients were identified. Baseline data demonstrated no difference in age or gender. Post-implementation patients received second-line therapy sooner (24 vs. 39 minutes, p = 0.001) and more post patients received second-line therapy within the AES guideline's time frame (83 vs. 52%, p = 0.012) compared with the pre-implementation patients. In a multivariable analysis, post-implementation patients had a higher likelihood of receiving second-line therapy within the AES-recommended time frame (odds ratio [OR] = 5.78; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.49–22.48; p = 0.011). Age, gender, intubation status, anticonvulsants given prior to emergency department (ED), and treatment by a pediatric ED specialist were not associated with increased odds of provider adherence to AES guidelines.

In conclusion, a standardized approach utilizing a treatment algorithm for patients with pediatric benzodiazepine refractory status epilepticus was associated with reduced time to administration of second-line anticonvulsant therapy and better compliance with AES guidelines in a mixed pediatric and adult ED setting.
Dual circular complementary split ring resonator based metamaterial sensor with high sensitivity and quality factor for textile material detection
Authors: Alsaif Haitham , Islam Md. Rashedul , Hoque Ahasanul , Soliman Mohamed S. , Islam Md. Shabiul , Islam Mohammad Tariqul
Published: March 2024

In this paper, a novel metamaterial sensor with excellent sensitivity and quality factor for microwave sensing applications is presented. The designed metamaterial sensor is assembled on a 1.575 mm thickness of low-cost dielectric substrate material (Rogers RT5880), and the copper is used as a resonator. Computer Simulation Technology version 2019 (CST-2019) software is employed to design and analyze the proposed metamaterial sensor. In addition, the Advanced Design System version 2016 (ADS 2016) software is used to validate the CST simulated model. Subsequently, the simulated results were validated using laboratory measurements. The optimized cell is small; its dimension is 10 × 10 mm2, and the obtained resonances are 3.85 and 6.85 GHz with notches of −26.29 and −40.03 dB, respectively. The textile material is detected by the resonance frequency change, and this frequency is dependent on the material’s permittivity values. To test the developed sensor’s sensing capabilities, three types of textiles—wool, fleece, and denim—are used. The effective medium ratio, sensitivity, and Q-factor of the structure are evaluated, and the obtained values are 8.96, 14.57%, and 345, respectively. The sensor for detecting textile materials works in the S and C bands. The resonances are shifted 530 MHz between the air and wool, 420 MHz between the air and fleece, and 640 MHz between the air and denim. The simulated outcomes and laboratory results almost matched. The projected sensor can be employed in the apparel sector to identify textile materials because it is small, inexpensive, has a high quality factor, and has high sensitivity.
Redesigning the soil Tea Bag Index methodology for school and citizen science in Australia
Authors: Ng Wartini , McBratney Alex B. , Pino Vanessa , O’Brien Eugenia , Baumeister Bendrik
Published: March 2024

Context The Tea Bag Index (TBI) evaluates the rate of organic matter decomposition using Lipton tea bags. However, this tea bag cannot be easily found in Australia, having to be imported from Europe. The 90-day incubation period also poses problems for school and citizen science projects, such as missing tea bags and organism-induced damage. Aims The study aims to: (1) investigate the suitable alternative Australian tea bag brands for the decomposition studies; (2) assess the potential for reducing the incubation period; and (3) evaluate the priming effects of different substrates on decomposition rate. Methods The feasibility of two local Australian tea bag brands (Madame Flavour or T2) was compared to Lipton by collecting time-series data over the incubation period in pot experiments with the addition of sugar, citric acid and microplastic. Key results We found an alternative tea brand that can be used for TBI in Australia. Conclusions (1) Madame Flavour tea bags can be used as an alternative litter material for the TBI in Australia. (2) The incubation period potentially could be reduced to 21 days, with another sampling taken on day 4 and 14. (3) Although there is a significant difference in decomposition rate between the control and substrates addition, no significant difference in decomposition rate is found among different substrates. Implications The utilisation of the Madame Flavour tea bag enables the adoption of decomposition studies by a broader spectrum of citizen scientists in Australia.
A novel plating bath device for reducing surface copper thickness and improving wafer-scale uniformity
Authors: Zeng Guoxian , Zhang Chi , Niu Kai , Wang Fuliang , He Hu
Published: March 2024

Through silicon via (TSV) technology plays a pivotal role in three-dimensional integrated circuits. However, excessive surface thickness and uneven wafer plating during TSV copper electroplating pose significant challenges to TSV reliability. This paper proposes a novel rotating cathode electroplating technique that utilizes flow field induction by a rotating cathode to significantly reduce the surface copper thickness by approximately 8 μm, leading to improved uniformity of wafer-scale electroplating and facilitating rapid TSV filling. This study focuses on the impact of cathode rotation speed and chip position on TSV filling quality. The experimental findings demonstrate that increasing the cathode rotation speed reduces the diffusion layer thickness, thereby enhancing filling quality. Additionally, variations in chip position influence surface copper thickness. The introduction of bis(3-sulfopropyl) disulfide accelerant expedites the filling process, boosts the filling ratio, and enables defect-free TSV filling. This study offers valuable insights into the wafer-scale TSV electroplating process and facilitates the optimization of parameter settings during electroplating.
Shortcuts to adiabaticity: theoretical framework, relations between different methods, and versatile approximations
Authors: Hatomura Takuya
Published: March 2024

Shortcuts to adiabaticity guide given systems to final destinations of adiabatic control via fast tracks. Various methods have been proposed as shortcuts to adiabaticity. The basic theory of shortcuts to adiabaticity was established in the 2010s, but it has still been developing and many fundamental findings have been reported. In this topical review, we give a pedagogical introduction to the theory of shortcuts to adiabaticity and revisit relations between different methods. Some versatile approximations in counterdiabatic driving, which is one of the methods of shortcuts to adiabaticity, will be explained in detail. We also summarize the recent progress in studies of shortcuts to adiabaticity.
Crystal structure and magnetism of actinide oxides: a review
Authors: Rai Binod K , Bretaña Alex , Morrison Gregory , Greer Rosalie , Gofryk Krzysztof , zur Loye Hans-Conrad
Published: March 2024

In actinide systems, the 5f electrons experience a uniquely delicate balance of effects and interactions having similar energy scales, which are often difficult to properly disentangle. This interplay of factors such as the dual nature of 5f-states, strong electronic correlations, and strong spin–orbit coupling results in electronically unusual and intriguing behavior such as multi-k antiferromagnetic ordering, multipolar ordering, Mott-physics, mixed valence configurations, and more. Despite the inherent allure of their exotic properties, the exploratory science of even the more basic, binary systems like the actinide oxides has been limited due to their toxicity, radioactivity, and reactivity. In this article, we provide an overview of the available synthesis techniques for selected binary actinide oxides, including the actinide dioxides, sesquioxides, and a selection of higher oxides. For these oxides, we also review and evaluate the current state of knowledge of their crystal structures and magnetic properties. In many aspects, substantial knowledge gaps exist in the current body of research on actinide oxides related to understanding their electronic ground states. Bridging these gaps is vital for improving not only a fundamental understanding of these systems but also of future nuclear technologies. To this end, we note the experimental techniques and necessary future investigations which may aid in better elucidating the nature of these fascinating systems.
Atomic behavior of nickel-based single crystal superalloy during heat treatment process based on molecular dynamics
Authors: Zheng Min , Bian Zhiao , Chen Weihua , Sun Qichun , Chen Jie , Zhu Zongxiao
Published: March 2024

The heat treatment process plays a pivotal role in enhancing the characteristics of nickel-based single crystal (NBSC) superalloys. Nevertheless, there exists a paucity of comprehensive investigations concerning the microstructural evolution of NBSC superalloys during heat treatment. This study employs a molecular dynamics simulation method to control the temperature of the NBSC superalloy precisely, aiming to unveil intricate details regarding microstructural evolution, temperature distribution patterns, mechanical properties, and other pertinent aspects during the cooling phase. Additionally, a comparative analysis of internal defect evolution under varying cooling rates is undertaken. The findings highlight the consistently heightened activity of atoms in the γ phase compared to those in the γ′ phase. Notably, the stability disparity between these phases gradually diminishes as the temperature decreases during the cooling process. At elevated temperatures, the prevalence of amorphous phases and dislocations in the γ phase channel diminishes concomitantly with the temperature reduction. Strain distribution in the alloy primarily concentrates in the γ phase channel and the central cross position of the γ′ phase. The temperature reduction correlates with a decline in the alloy model’s strain. In the initial phase of strain reduction, stress fluctuation trends in the X, Y, and Z directions exhibit an initial increase followed by a gradual decrease. Furthermore, the atomic number of HCP defects and dislocation density exhibit distinct patterns of change contingent upon the cooling rates employed.
Honing cross-correlation tools for inference on ultra-high-energy cosmic-ray composition
Authors: Tanidis Konstantinos , Urban Federico R. , Camera Stefano
Published: March 2024

The chemical composition of the highest-energy cosmic rays, namely the atomic number Z of rays with energies E ≳ 40 EeV, remains to date largely unknown. Some information on the composition can be inferred from the deflections that charged ultra-high-energy cosmic rays experience while they traverse intervening magnetic fields. Indeed, such deflections distort and suppress the original anisotropy in the cosmic ray arrival directions; thus, given a source model, a measure of the anisotropy is also a measurement of the deflections, which in turn informs us on the chemical composition. In this work, we show that, by quantifying ultra-high-energy cosmic ray anisotropies through the angular cross-correlation between cosmic rays and galaxies, we would be able to exclude iron fractions f
Fe ≥ 𝒪(10%) assuming a fiducial hydrogen map at 2σ level, and even smaller fractions in the reverse case of hydrogen on an iron map, going well below f
H ≈ 10% when we mask the Galactic Centre up to latitudes of 40°. This is an improvement of a factor of a few compared to our previous method, and is mostly ascribable to a new test statistics which is sensitive to each harmonic multipole individually. Our method can be applied to real data as an independent test of the recent claim that current cosmic-ray data can not be reproduced by any existing model of the Galactic magnetic field, as well as an additional handle to compare any realistic, competing, data-driven composition models.
Extending preferred axion models via heavy-quark induced early matter domination
Authors: Cheek Andrew , Osiński Jacek K. , Roszkowski Leszek
Published: March 2024

We examine the cosmological consequences of the heavy quarks in KSVZ-type axion models. We find that their presence often causes an early matter domination phase, altering the evolution of the Universe. This extends the axion mass into the region where standard cosmology leads to overproduction, and allows for a greater number of axion models with non-renormalizable terms to be viable. Quantitatively, we find that decays proceeding through effective terms of up to dimension 9 (d = 9) remain consistent with cosmological constraints, in contrast with the result d ≤ 5 previously found in the literature. As a consequence, the heavy quarks can be much heavier and the axion mass window with the correct relic density for dark matter is extended by orders of magnitude, down to ma
≈ 6 × 10-9 eV. This is achieved without resorting to fine-tuning of the initial misalignment angle, bolstering the motivation for many future axion haloscope experiments. Additionally, we explore how these models can be probed through measurements of the number of relativistic degrees of freedom at recombination.
Influence of powder feedstock characteristics on extrusion-based 3D printing of magnetocaloric structures
Authors: Sharma Vaibhav , Goldsworthy Eddie , Hadimani Ravi L , Zhao Hong , Barua Radhika
Published: March 2024

A significant barrier to the commercialization of magnetic heat pumping is the lack of scalable, low-cost manufacturing techniques that enable shaping brittle magnetocaloric materials into heat exchange structures with porous geometries, controlled chemical gradients, and advantageous anisotropic microstructures. Though direct ink writing additive manufacturing has the potential to expand into a viable net-shaping technology for functional magnetic alloys, it is typically challenging to fabricate dense parts—an observation ascribed to the constraint on powder particle size that inevitably impacts both green density of 3D printed parts and shrinkage during sintering. To this end, we report a comprehensive study on the influence of precursor powder characteristics on the magnetic and structural properties of 3D printed test coupons produced using La0.67Ca0.33MnO3 magnetocaloric particles. Ink formulations comprising powders with nano-scaled, micron-scaled, and bimodal size distributions were printed and sintered. The impact of particle size on part quality and magnetofunctional response was examined, and it was found that test coupon fabricated using nano-scaled powders (∼100–200 nm) demonstrated the lowest part porosity (∼17%) and the highest magnetocaloric response (8 J kg−1·K−1 at μ
0H = 5T). The results presented in this work address critical technical questions about the process feasibility of making magnetic heat pumps with additive manufacturing schemes.
Isolation and loneliness as pathways to heavy drinking early in the pandemic
Authors: Fendrich Michael , Becker Jessica , Russell Beth S , Park Crystal L
Published: March 2024

Introduction

social isolation and forced quarantines during the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic coincided with a steep and persistent rise in alcohol consumption among US adults. While the association between loneliness and drinking is well established, less is known about the impact of social isolation (a known correlate of loneliness) and the interplay between these two variables in relation to drinking.

Methods

we recruited US adults using the MTurk platform for an online survey in early April 2020. The initial survey was followed up with a second wave, 30 days later in mid to late May. Data from the current analyses focus on this second wave of data collection.

Results

we found significant direct effects on heavy drinking for both social isolation (c’ = 0.495; P < .01) and loneliness (b = 0.071; P < .05). We also found a significant indirect path from social isolation to heavy drinking through social isolation’s impact on elevating loneliness (a = 0.919; P < .001). The indirect effect of social isolation on the composite measure of heavy drinking was 0.0652 (0.919 × 0.071) and was significant at the 0.05 level after bootstrapping estimates of the variance were constructed.

Conclusions

those most isolated early in the pandemic were at increased risk for heavy drinking, in part because their social isolation led to increased loneliness. Post-pandemic research is needed to explore whether the relationships that stemmed from social isolation during the pandemic led to a persistent pattern of behavioral risk that maintained high rates of heavy drinking.
Comparison of POLYTECH MESMO and Motiva Ergonomix Breast Implants With Focus on Displacement Issues: A Single Surgeon's Experience with 329 Patients
Authors: Montemurro Paolo
Published: March 2024

Background

Nanotextured breast implants (classified as smooth implants by the latest ISO 14607:2018) have been described as possibly reducing major textured implant-related complications such as capsular contracture and breast implant–associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma. On the other hand, microtextured breast implants benefit from an optimal safety profile based on a much larger body of literature.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to directly compare the incidence of complications between Motiva Ergonomix (Establishment Labs Holdings, Inc., Alajuela, Costa Rica) and POLYTECH MESMO (POLYTECH Health & Aesthetics GmbH, Dieburg, Germany) breast implants, especially regarding the displacement issues that might arise after breast augmentation.

Methods

Consecutive patients who previously underwent surgery by the same physician for placement of Motiva Ergonomix and POLYTECH MESMO implants were included in this study. They were divided into 2 groups according to the type of implant. The onset of complications was assessed through survival analysis.

Results

Data were collected from 329 patients, 185 (56.2%) with POLYTECH MESMO and 144 (43.8%) with Motiva Ergonomix implants. The median follow-up was 8 months for both groups. Of the 42 women (12.8%) who experienced at least one complication, 26 belonged to the Motiva Ergonomix subgroup (P = .013). The most represented complications during this period resulted from displacement issues, with a clear prevalence of bottoming out in the Motiva Ergonomix cohort: 15 cases vs 0 cases in the POLYTECH MESMO cohort (P < .001). For 7 patients, a reoperation was required, more frequently for patients with Motiva Ergonomix implants (4.2% vs 0.5%; P = .046).

Conclusions

POLYTECH MESMO devices provided a more favorable outcome. Motiva Ergonomix devices revealed a concerning incidence of displacement issues during the first postsurgery years, with no advantage over other major complications.

Level of Evidence: 3
Structure-activity relationship of anti-inflammatory meroterpenoids isolated from Dictyopteris polypodioides in RAW264 cells
Authors: Kumagai Momochika , Matsuda Akana , Shiiba Nozomi , Tsuruta Tomoki , Endo Hikaru , Nishikawa Keisuke , Morimoto Yoshiki
Published: March 2024

In this study, we explored anti-inflammatory compounds from the brown alga Dictyopteris polypodioides and isolated 7 meroterpenoids. Their anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated using the lipopolysaccharide-stimulated mouse macrophage cell line, RAW264. Yahazunol (1) exhibited similar nitric oxide (NO) production inhibitory activity as zonarol (2), which has previously been shown to be an anti-inflammatory compound. Yahazunol (1), zonarol (2), and isozonarol (3) inhibited not only NO production but also inducible nitric oxide synthase, interleukin-6, and C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 mRNA expression in RAW264 cells. The structure-activity relationships of the 11 compounds, including their synthetic analogs, revealed the significance of the hydroquinone moiety in the anti-inflammatory activity of these sesquiterpenoids in RAW264 cells. Diacetylated zonarol (9) exhibited an activity comparable to that of zonarol as a result of intracellular deacetylation. These results provide new insights into the anti-inflammatory activity of hydroquinone-containing natural products.
[1,2]-Retro-Brook rearrangement induced by electrochemical reduction of silyl enolates
Authors: Kinoshita Ban , Maejima Saki , Niki Yuta , Mitsudo Koichi , Suga Seiji , Yorimitsu Hideki
Published: March 2024

Electrochemical reduction of the trimethylsilyl enolates of alkyl aryl ketones induces retro-Brook rearrangement to provide 1-aryl-1-trimethylsilylalkan-1-ols. The transformation proceeds through a sequence of 1) single-electron reduction of the silyl enolate, 2) protonation with a phenol, 3) another single-electron reduction to form a siloxy-substituted benzylic anion, and 4) the pivotal retro-Brook rearrangement.
The anterior lobe of the parotid gland: a CT sialographic study
Authors: Zhao Junru , Han Chang , Huang Minghu , Sun Lisha , Li Gang , Sun Zhipeng
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To investigate the imaging and anatomic features of the anterior lobe (AL) of the superficial parotid gland (SPG).

Methods

Computed tomographic sialography examinations were undertaken for 142 parotid glands in 77 patients. Whole computer tomography (CT) data were analyzed using multi-planar reformation and maximum intensity projection to generate sialographic CT images. The tributary ducts of the SPG were analyzed to classify the parotid morphology. Three-dimensional analyses were used to investigate the AL and its relationship with adjacent anatomic landmarks.

Results

Four major types (I-IV) and 2 minor types (V-VI) of the AL and the superficial parotid gland were observed. Type I AL (83/142) was contiguous and not separated from the retromandibular parotid gland. Type II AL (16/142) was detached from the retromandibular parotid gland with 1-4 tributary ducts. Type III AL (12/142) showed a small isolated lobe above the Stensen duct around the anterior edge of the masseter. Type IV (28/142) showed the absence of the AL. Type V (3/142) shows the absence of the retromandibular parotid gland. Type VI (3/142) showed the presence of ectopic salivary gland beneath the Stensen duct anterior to the retromandibular parotid gland.

Conclusions

The AL gives rise to the morphological variations of the superficial parotid gland. AL also gives rise to the accessory parotid gland when it is detached from the retromandibular parotid gland.
The CsmiR397a-CsLAC17 module regulates lignin biosynthesis to balance the tenderness and gray blight resistance in young tea shoots
Authors: Yang Hongbin , Jia Xinyue , Gao Tong , Gong Siyu , Xia Linxuan , Zhang Peiling , Qi Yuying , Liu Shuyuan , Yu Youben , Wang Weidong
Published: March 2024

Lignin accumulation can enhance the disease resistance of young tea shoots (Camellia sinensis). It also greatly reduces their tenderness, which indirectly affects the quality and yield of tea. Therefore, the regulation of lignin biosynthesis appears to be an effective way to balance tenderness and disease resistance in young tea shoots. In this study, we identified a laccase gene, CsLAC17, that is induced during tenderness reduction and gray blight infection in young tea shoots. Overexpression of CsLAC17 significantly increased the lignin content in transgenic Arabidopsis, enhancing their resistance to gray blight and decreasing stem tenderness. In addition, we found that CsLAC17 was negatively regulated by the upstream CsmiR397a by 5′-RLM-RACE, dual-luciferase assay, and transient expression in young tea shoots. Interestingly, the expression of CsmiR397a was inhibited during tenderness reduction and gray blight infection of young tea shoots. Overexpression of CsmiR397a reduced lignin accumulation, resulting in decreased resistance to gray blight and increased stem tenderness in transgenic Arabidopsis. Furthermore, the transient overexpression of CsmiR397a and CsLAC17 in tea leaves directly confirms the function of the CsmiR397a-CsLAC17 module in lignin biosynthesis and its effect on disease resistance. These results suggest that the CsmiR397a-CsLAC17 module is involved in balancing tenderness and gray blight resistance in young tea shoots by regulating lignin biosynthesis.
Carrots as Sticks: How Effective Are Foreign Aid Suspensions and Economic Sanctions?
Authors: Mertens Claas
Published: March 2024

Existing research shows that economic coercion successfully influences targeted states’ behavior 38 percent of the time. This article integrates research on economic sanctions and foreign aid by assessing the relative effectiveness of two types of economic coercion: economic sanctions and foreign aid suspensions. It argues that suspending aid is more effective than adopting economic sanctions because (1) aid suspensions are economically beneficial for the adopting state, while sanctions are costly, (2) aid suspensions directly affect the targeted government’s budget, (3) market forces undermine sanctions but not aid suspensions, and (4) aid suspensions are less likely to spark adverse behavioral reactions. A quantitative analysis estimates the success rate of imposed aid suspensions to be 44 percent and that of economic sanctions to be 26 percent. The results are robust across two alternative datasets on economic coercion, and qualitative evidence corroborates the outlined mechanisms. The findings suggest that economic sanctions are less effective than previously thought and that large donor states have a higher chance of achieving political goals through economic coercion.
Prevalence of pretreatment HIV resistance to integrase inhibitors in West African and Southeast Asian countries
Authors: Aghokeng Avelin F , Ngo-Giang-Huong Nicole , Huynh Thu H K , Dagnra Anoumou Y , D’Aquin Toni Thomas , Maiga Almoustapha I , Dramane Kania , Eymard-Duvernay Sabrina , Chaix Marie-Laure , Calvez Vincent , Descamps Diane ,   ANRS12425 Study Group, Aghokeng Avelin F , Chaix Marie-Laure , Calvez Vincent , Dagnra Anoumou , Descamps Diane , Dramane Kania , Maiga Almoustapha , Nouhin Janin , Kane Coumba Touré , Lien Truong Xuan , Ngo-Giang-Huong Nicole , Peeters Martine , Plantier Jean-Christophe , Njouom Richard , Tuaillon Edouard , d’Aquin Toni Thomas , Poda Armel , Zougrana Jacques , Ouedraogo Saidou , Ouedraogo Macaire , Messou Eugene , Dechi Jean Jacques , Nguessan Jean François , Dolo Oumar , Diarra Zoumana , Cisse Mamadou , Patassi Akouda , Salou Mounérou , Ali-Edjé Komla , Bowonwatanuwong Chureeratana , Thongpaen Suchart , Klinbuayaem Virat , Laomanit Laddawan , Luong Que Anh , Tran Ton
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) have been recently recommended as the preferred first-line option for antiretroviral treatment initiators in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in response to the growing circulation of resistant HIV to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs). In this study, we estimated the frequency of pretreatment drug resistance (PDR) to INSTIs in West Africa and Southeast Asia.

Materials and methods

Using samples collected from 2015 to 2016, and previously used to assessed PI, NRTI and NNRTI resistance, we generated HIV integrase sequences and identified relevant INSTI PDR mutations using the Stanford and ANRS algorithms.

Results

We generated 353 integrase sequences. INSTI PDR frequency was low, 1.1% (4/353) overall, ranging from 0% to 6.3% according to country. However, frequency of PDR to any drug class was very high, 17.9% (95% CI: 13.9%–22.3%), and mostly associated with a high level of NNRTI PDR, 9.7%, and a moderate level of NRTI PDR, 5.3%.

Conclusions

Our results support the recent introduction of INSTIs in LMICs to improve treatment outcome in these settings, but also stress the need for effective actions to prevent uncontrolled emergence of drug resistance to this drug class.
Eosinophil expression of triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM-1) restricts type 2 lung inflammation
Authors: Bowen Jayden L , Keck Kathy , Baruah Sankar , Nguyen Kathy H , Thurman Andrew L , Pezzulo Alejandro A , Klesney-Tait Julia
Published: March 2024

Asthma affects 25 million Americans, and recent advances in treatment are effective for only a portion of severe asthma patients. TREM-1, an innate receptor that canonically amplifies inflammatory signaling in neutrophils and monocytes, plays a central role in regulating lung inflammation. It is unknown how TREM-1 contributes to allergic asthma pathology. Utilizing a murine model of asthma, flow cytometry revealed TREM-1+ eosinophils in the lung tissue and airway during allergic airway inflammation. TREM-1 expression was restricted to recruited, inflammatory eosinophils. Expression was induced on bone marrow–derived eosinophils by incubation with interleukin 33, lipopolysaccharide, or granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor. Compared to TREM-1− airway eosinophils, TREM-1+ eosinophils were enriched for proinflammatory gene sets, including migration, respiratory burst, and cytokine production. Unexpectedly, eosinophil-specific ablation of TREM-1 exacerbated airway interleukin (IL) 5 production, airway MUC5AC production, and lung tissue eosinophil accumulation. Further investigation of transcriptional data revealed apoptosis and superoxide generation–related gene sets were enriched in TREM-1+ eosinophils. Consistent with these findings, annexin V and caspase-3/7 staining demonstrated higher rates of apoptosis among TREM-1+ eosinophils compared to TREM-1− eosinophils in the inflammatory airway. In vitro, Trem1/3−/− bone marrow–derived eosinophils consumed less oxygen than wild-type in response to phorbol myristate acetate, suggesting that TREM-1 promotes superoxide generation in eosinophils. These data reveal protein-level expression of TREM-1 by eosinophils, define a population of TREM-1+ inflammatory eosinophils, and demonstrate that eosinophil TREM-1 restricts key features of type 2 lung inflammation.
Hands-on-training tailored in response to pre-questionnaire-based survey on image-guided brachytherapy effectively reduces anxiety about its implementation
Authors: Okonogi Noriyuki , Murakami Naoya , Takatsu Jun , Iijima Kotaro , Kawamoto Terufumi , Oshima Masaki , Okuma Kae , Masui Koji , Murata Kazutoshi , Okamoto Hiroyuki , Yoshida Ken , Noda Shin-ei , Numajiri Haruko , Watanabe Miho , Tsuchida Keisuke , Muramoto Yoichi , Karino Tatsuki , Ohno Tatsuya , Shikama Naoto
Published: March 2024

This study assessed the significance of hands-on-training (HoT) and questionnaire-based surveys on 3D image-guided brachytherapy (3D-IGBT) and a combination of intracavitary and interstitial brachytherapy, the so-called ‘hybrid’ BT (HBT), in uterine cervical cancer. In October 2023, 29 radiation oncologists, nurses, radiologic technologists and medical physicists from 10 Japanese facilities participated in an HoT on 3D-IGBT and HBT. Questionnaires were distributed to each participant before and after the HoT, and feedback was obtained through online channels. The questionnaire response rate was 83% (24/29), with at least one participant responding from each facility. ‘Insertion of applicators and needles’, ‘human resource shortage’ and ‘pain relief and sedation’ were the primary concerns of radiation oncologists. ‘Applicator reconstruction’, ‘ optimization of dwell positions’, ‘ treatment planning’ and ‘ human resource shortages ’ were the primary concerns of radiological technologists and medical physicists. The HoT content was adjusted according to the results of preliminary surveys. The concerns expressed by the participants were addressed during the lectures and practical training. Significant reductions in anxiety were observed toward all items of the 10-point self-assessment after the HoT, regardless of the profession. The average score on satisfaction with the HoT (on a 10-point scale) was 9.52 (minimum of 8 and maximum of 10). In conclusion, HoT tailored in response to a pre-questionnaire-based survey effectively reduced participants’ anxiety regarding the implementation of 3D-IGBT and HBT.
Statistical inference for multivariate extremes via a geometric approach
Authors: Wadsworth Jennifer L , Campbell Ryan
Published: March 2024

A geometric representation for multivariate extremes, based on the shapes of scaled sample clouds in light-tailed margins and their so-called limit sets, has recently been shown to connect several existing extremal dependence concepts. However, these results are purely probabilistic, and the geometric approach itself has not been fully exploited for statistical inference. We outline a method for parametric estimation of the limit set shape, which includes a useful non-/semi-parametric estimate as a pre-processing step. More fundamentally, our approach provides a new class of asymptotically motivated statistical models for the tails of multivariate distributions, and such models can accommodate any combination of simultaneous or non-simultaneous extremes through appropriate parametric forms for the limit set shape. Extrapolation further into the tail of the distribution is possible via simulation from the fitted model. A simulation study confirms that our methodology is very competitive with existing approaches and can successfully allow estimation of small probabilities in regions where other methods struggle. We apply the methodology to two environmental datasets, with diagnostics demonstrating a good fit.
Examining identical twins undergoing bariatric surgery: the single anastomosis duodeno–ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S) approach
Authors: Menon Rahul , Lockie Philip
Published: March 2024

Studies in monozygotic (MZ) twins may help researchers elucidate the complex relationships between genetic and environmental factors on weight loss. We present a world first of MZ twins who have undergone the single anastomosis duodenal-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S) procedure who have identical weights 3 years post-operatively. Two MZ twin 49-year-old females were assessed preoperatively and were indicated for the SADI-S procedure. They underwent surgery in 2020 by the same surgical team. Three years later post-operatively they had identical weights of 62 kg (and a BMI of 23) and %EWL of 126 and 124% respectively. SADI-S is a novel bariatric procedure for morbid obesity. Studies have found concordant epigenetic patterns in patients who have undergone bariatric surgery as well as MZ twins who have hypocaloric diets. Genetics exert a strong influence in weight management. Surgical management as well as a collaborative multidisciplinary approach is beneficial in supporting long lasting weight loss in bariatric surgery.
Towards a ‘synergy’ of text mining and critical discourse analysis: a corpus-assisted discourse study of imagining China in Hong Kong political discourse
Authors: Liu Ming
Published: March 2024

This study proposes to incorporate text mining into critical discourse analysis (CDA) to give a corpus-assisted discourse study of the particular ways of imagining Hong Kong’s relations to China in the public speeches of three former Chief Executives in the two decades after its handover. With the computer-assisted text-mining tool KH Coder, this study combines the methods of quantitative text mining and qualitative discourse analysis to examine their preferential ways of imagining China at different levels of discourse: (1) topics/themes, (2) discursive strategies, and (3) linguistic means and realizations. It generates illuminating findings concerning their preferential ways of imagining Hong Kong’s relations to China as well as the analytic potential of incorporating text mining into CDA. It is expected that it can lead to more studies towards this endeavour.
Microbial Translocation and Gut Damage Are Associated With an Elevated Fast Score in Women Living With and Without HIV
Authors: Duarte Maria J , Tien Phyllis C , Kardashian Ani , Ma Yifei , Hunt Peter , Kuniholm Mark H , Adimora Adaora A , Fischl Margaret A , French Audrey L , Topper Elizabeth , Konkle-Parker Deborah , Minkoff Howard , Ofotokun Ighovwerha , Plankey Michael , Sharma Anjali , Price Jennifer C
Published: March 2024

Background

Steatohepatitis is common in persons living with HIV and may be associated with gut microbial translocation (MT). However, few studies have evaluated the gut-liver axis in persons living with HIV. In the Women's Interagency HIV Study, we examined the associations of HIV and circulating biomarkers linked to MT and gut damage using the FibroScan–aspartate aminotransferase (FAST) score, a noninvasive surrogate for steatohepatitis with advanced fibrosis.

Methods

Among 883 women with HIV and 354 without HIV, we used multivariable regression to examine the associations of HIV and serum biomarkers linked to MT and gut damage (kynurenine and tryptophan ratio, intestinal fatty acid–binding protein, soluble CD14, and soluble CD163) with a log-transformed FAST score after adjusting for key covariates. We used a path analysis and mediation models to determine the mediating effect of each biomarker on the association of HIV with FAST.

Results

HIV infection was associated with a 49% higher FAST score. MT biomarker levels were higher in women with HIV than women without HIV (P < .001 for each). MT biomarkers mediated 13% to 32% of the association of HIV and FAST score.

Conclusions

Biomarkers linked to MT and gut damage are associated with a higher FAST score and mediate the association of HIV with a higher FAST score. Our findings suggest that MT may be an important mechanism by which HIV increases the risk of steatohepatitis with advanced fibrosis.
Biomaterials for immunomodulation in wound healing
Authors: Wang Ying , Vizely Katrina , Li Chen Yu , Shen Karen , Shakeri Amid , Khosravi Ramak , Smith James Ryan , Alteza Eugene Alfonzo I I , Zhao Yimu , Radisic Milica
Published: March 2024

The substantial economic impact of non-healing wounds, scarring, and burns stemming from skin injuries is evident, resulting in a financial burden on both patients and the healthcare system. This review paper provides an overview of the skin’s vital role in guarding against various environmental challenges as the body’s largest protective organ and associated developments in biomaterials for wound healing. We first introduce the composition of skin tissue and the intricate processes of wound healing, with special attention to the crucial role of immunomodulation in both acute and chronic wounds. This highlights how the imbalance in the immune response, particularly in chronic wounds associated with underlying health conditions such as diabetes and immunosuppression, hinders normal healing stages. Then, this review distinguishes between traditional wound-healing strategies that create an optimal microenvironment and recent peptide-based biomaterials that modulate cellular processes and immune responses to facilitate wound closure. Additionally, we highlight the importance of considering the stages of wounds in the healing process. By integrating advanced materials engineering with an in-depth understanding of wound biology, this approach holds promise for reshaping the field of wound management and ultimately offering improved outcomes for patients with acute and chronic wounds.