bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
This is the first in‐human trial and prospective case series of a novel single‐port robotic system for gynaecological surgery: An IDEAL stage 2a study
Authors: Hu Xueli , Ruan Mengjia , Zhu Luoyi , Huang Menghan , Qi Lifang , Huang Min , Zou Shuangwei , Lin Lili , Zheng Wenwen , Wang Lizhi , Duan Ping
Published: September 2024

Background

The Shurui® system (SR‐ENS‐600) is a novel fully integrated single‐port robotic system with bioinspired serpentine surgical manipulators and a camera.

Methods

This was a single‐centre prospective case‐series study according to the IDEAL stage 2a guidelines to evaluate the feasibility, safety and potential efficacy of the Shurui® system for gynaecological surgeries and to improve the operating process.

Results

Ten patients with a gradient of surgical difficulty who had indications for laparoscopic surgery and who volunteered to participate in a clinical trial were enrolled in the study. All 10 subjects successfully completed the procedure without converting to other procedures. No serious complications were reported at the 3‐month follow‐up. Subjects recover faster after surgery and are highly satisfied with the incision.

Conclusions

Gynaecological single‐site laparoscopic surgery with the Shurui® system was technically feasible for well‐selected patients with minimal alterations in technique. Further prospective multicenter large‐sample studies are necessary.

Registration number

ChiCTR2300075431. URL: https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=189995.
Soy protein processing impacts the ice recrystallization inhibition activity of protein hydrolysates
Authors: Fomich Madison , Dia Vermont , Wang Tong
Published: September 2024

Soy protein hydrolysates have demonstrated moderate ice recrystallization inhibition (IRI) activity, but the properties of the unhydrolyzed protein contributing to this activity are not well known. The objective of this research was to identify the main protein processing factors important to the varying IRI activities observed. Three possible modification reactions were applied to soy protein isolate (SPI): the Maillard reaction that can occur in soy flour before protein isolation, heat denaturation of the fully defatted protein, and heat denaturation of the protein with the presence of residual lipid, mainly polar phospholipids. These modified proteins were hydrolyzed by Alcalase protease (for 2 min) to produce hydrolysates, which were characterized by HPLC and FTIR to investigate how molecular weight (MW) and changes in secondary structure relate to IRI activity. A multilinear regression with the parameters of modification type, surface hydrophobicity, secondary structure profile, and average MW of the hydrolysates was used to investigate their roles in reducing ice crystal size. It was discovered that polar lipids present in the soy hydrolysate samples and MW were the only significant factors (p < 0.05) for IRI activity of SPI hydrolysates which had an ice crystal size reduction from 22.0% to 36.7%. This study demonstrates for the first time a protein hydrolysate‐phospholipid interaction can produce IRI active molecules.
Photoinduced Magnetization Switching in Organic Molecules Achieved Through Stabilization of the Triplet Excited States
Authors: Sääsk Verner , Wu Shu‐Qi , Sato Osamu
Published: September 2024

Organic photoresponsive materials, which change their physical properties upon irradiation with light, are attracting tremendous scientific attention, as they offer a flexible and sustainable platform for developing various optoelectronic devices. In this work, photoinduced magnetization switching in two carbazole‐functionalized organic molecules, (9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)(4‐chlorophenyl)methanone (ClPhCz) and (9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)(2,4‐dichlorophenyl)methanone (DClPhCz) is reported for the first time. It was found that stabilization of the triplet excited state in those molecules is long enough for a net change in magnetic moment to be detected with a SQUID magnetometer. The change in magnetic moment upon excitation with a blue light laser was larger in ClPhCz, remaining high upon repeating the photoirradiation. In contrast, DClPhCz exhibited a smaller magnetic response, which gradually decreased upon repeating the experiment.
Extraordinary Corrosion Inhibition of Potassium Stannate and Riboflavin Hybrid Additive on the Al Alloy Anode of Alkaline Al‐Air Batteries
Authors: Huang Yongbiao , Guo Lei , Ritacco Ida , Zhang Renhui , Sun Rui , Leng Senlin , Chang Jun
Published: September 2024

Al‐air batteries (AABs) are regarded as a promising future alternative energy source due to their supposedly high energy density. The corrosion of AABs resulting from the hydrogen evolution corrosion and self‐corrosion occurring during their use in alkaline solutions represented a significant obstacle to their development, considerably limiting their commercialization. In this study, we examined the corrosion inhibition efficiency of the hybrid anticorrosive agent composed of potassium stannate (K2SO3) and riboflavin (Rib) when used as an addition in the electrolyte of an alkaline AAB. The experimental results demonstrated that the incorporation of the hybrid corrosion inhibitor leads to an anticorrosion inhibition efficiency of 70.2%, an increase in the discharge specific capacity, and specific energy of the entire battery from 913 mAh g−1 and 1023 Wh kg−1 to 2128 mAh g−1 and 2511 Wh kg−1, respectively. The adsorption behavior of the additives on the surface of the Al alloy was studied using surface characterization techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It revealed that the incorporation of the hybrid additive leads to the formation of a dense and uniform protective layer on the surface of the Al anode during the discharge process. This film effectively prevents direct contact between the alkaline electrolyte and the Al surface, drastically reducing the formation of possible hydrogen interactions between the electrolyte and the anode. Consequently, the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is efficiently inhibited, and the overall performance of the AAB is improved. Thus, this electrolyte regulation strategy presents a novel approach to studying high‐efficiency alkaline AABs.
Infrared Stealth Coating with Tunable Structural Color Based on ZnO Spheres
Authors: Ren Jie , Xie Chuwei , Zong Hao , Zhang Shufen , Wu Suli
Published: September 2024

It is important to develop low infrared (IR) emissive coating with tunable structure color to improve the infrared–visible stealth performance of military equipment. In this work, uniform ZnO spheres are used as building units to construct photonic structures with both bright adjustable structure color and low IR emissivity due to the relatively high refractive index and low IR emissivity of ZnO. The vivid tunable structural colors are provided by the photonic bandgap of ZnO photonic crystals (PCs) or the quasi‐bandgap of amorphous photonic crystals (APCs), respectively. Both ZnO PCs and APCs exhibited low IR emissivity in 3–5 µm. The IR emissivity of 255 nm ZnO PC is 0.483 and the IR emissivity of 255 nm ZnO APC is 0.492 at 25 °C. With the increase of temperature, the IR emissivity of further decreased to 0.295 and 0.312 at 300 °C. These structures can be applied to a variety of surfaces, and all these structures have good thermal and light stability as well. This work may open a simple and effective way to fabricate materials with good infrared–visible stealth performance, expanding the application of ZnO PCs and APCs coatings in the camouflage area.
NIR‐II Orthogonal Fluorescent Ratiometric Nanoprobe for In Situ Bioimaging of Carbon Monoxide
Authors: Guo Lichao , Wang Qingyuan , Gao Feng , Liang Ying , Ma Haoyue , Chen Desheng , Zhang Yue , Ju Huangxian , Zhang Xiaobo
Published: September 2024

Carbon monoxide (CO) functions as a significant endogenous cell signaling molecule and is strongly associated with many physiological and pathological processes. However, conventional fluorescence imaging in the visible and near‐infrared (NIR) I regions suffers autofluorescence background and photon scattering, hindering the accurate detection of CO in vivo. In addition, the complexity of physiological environments leads to fluctuating fluorescence emission. To solve these problems, herein, the NIR‐II fluorescent nanoprobe NP‐Pd for in vivo ratiometric bioimaging of CO is developed. In the presence of CO, NP‐Pd exhibits responsive enhancement in absorption at 808 nm, which amplifies the fluorescence signal of down‐conversion nanoparticles (DCNP) at 1060 nm under 808 nm excitation, while the fluorescence signal of DCNP at 1525 nm under 980 nm excitation remains unchanged and serves as an internal standard. Through this orthogonally ratiometric fluorescence strategy, accurate CO bioimaging and precise diagnosis of acute liver injury diseases are achieved in the mouse model experiments, providing a novel tool for the in vivo detection of CO‐related diseases.
Interfacial Engineering of Nickel Oxide‐Perovskite Interface with Amino Acid Complexed NiO to Improve Perovskite Solar Cell Performance
Authors: Mann Dilpreet Singh , Thakur Sakshi , Sangale Sushil S. , Jeong Kwang‐Un , Kwon Sung‐Nam , Na Seok‐In
Published: September 2024

The interface between NiO and perovskite in inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is a major factor that can limit device performance due to defects and inappropriate redox reactions, which cause nonradiative recombination and decrease in open‐circuit voltage (VOC). In the present study, a novel approach is used for the first time, where an amino acid (glycine (Gly), alanine (Ala), and aminobutyric acid (ABA))‐complexed NiO are used as interface modifiers to eliminate defect sites and hydroxyl groups from the surface of NiO. The Ala‐complexed NiO suppresses interfacial non‐radiative recombination, improves the perovskite layer quality and better energy band alignment with the perovskite, resulting in improved charge transfer and reduced recombination. The incorporation of the Ala‐complexed NiO leads to a PCE of 20.27% with enhanced stability under the conditions of ambient air, light soaking, and heating to 85 °C, as it retains over 82%, 85%, and 61% of its initial PCE after 1000, 500, and 350 h, respectively. The low‐temperature technique also leads to the fabrication of a NiO thin film that is suitable for flexible PSCs. The Ala‐complexed NiO is fabricated on the flexible substrate and achieved 17.12% efficiency while retaining 71% of initial PCE after 5,000 bending.
Tandem Oxidation Activation of Carbon for Enhanced Electrochemical Synthesis of H2O2: Unveiling the Role of Quinone Groups and Their Operando Derivatives
Authors: Zhao Dantong , Jiao Dongxu , Yi Lingya , Yu Yang , Zou Jiajia , Cui Xiaoqiang , Hu Weihua
Published: September 2024

Oxygen‐doped carbon materials show great promise to catalyze two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction (2e‐ORR) for electrochemical synthesis of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), but the identification of the active sites is the subject of ongoing debate. In this study, a tandem oxidation strategy is developed to activate carbon black for achieving highly efficient electrochemical synthesis of H2O2. Acetylene black (AB) is processed with O2 plasma and subsequent electrochemical oxidation, resulting in a remarkable selectivity of >96% over a wide potential range, and a record‐setting high yield of >10 mol gcat−1 h−1 with good durability in gas diffusion electrode. Comprehensive characterizations and calculations revealed that the presence of abundant C═O groups at the edge sites positively correlated to and accounted for the excellent 2e‐ORR performance. Notably, the edge hydroquinone group formed from quinone under operando conditions, which is overlooked in previous research, is identified as the most active catalytic site.
Electrochemically Induced Nanoscale Stirring Boosts Functional Immobilization of Flavocytochrome P450 BM3 on Nanoporous Gold Electrodes
Authors: Hengge Elisabeth , Steyskal Eva‐Maria , Dennig Alexander , Nachtnebel Manfred , Fitzek Harald , Würschum Roland , Nidetzky Bernd
Published: September 2024

Enzyme‐modified electrodes are core components of electrochemical biosensors for diagnostic and environmental analytics and have promising applications in bioelectrocatalysis. Despite huge research efforts spanning decades, design of enzyme electrodes for superior performance remains challenging. Nanoporous gold (npAu) represents advanced electrode material due to high surface‐to‐volume ratio, tunable porosity, and intrinsic redox activity, yet its coupling with enzyme catalysis is complex. Here, the study reports a flexible‐modular approach to modify npAu with functional enzymes by combined material and protein engineering and use a tailored assortment of surface and in‐solution methodologies for characterization. Self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) of mercaptoethanesulfonic acid primes the npAu surface for electrostatic adsorption of the target enzyme (flavocytochrome P450 BM3; CYT102A1) that is specially equipped with a cationic protein module for directed binding to anionic surfaces. Modulation of the SAM surface charge is achieved by electrochemistry. The electrode‐adsorbed enzyme retains well the activity (33%) and selectivity (complete) from in‐solution. Electrochemically triggered nanoscale stirring in the internal porous network of npAu‐SAM enhances speed (2.5‐fold) and yield (3.0‐fold) of the enzyme immobilization. Biocatalytic reaction is fueled from the electrode via regeneration of its reduced coenzyme (NADPH). Collectively, the study presents a modular design of npAu‐based enzyme electrode that can support flexible bioelectrochemistry applications.
Synergistic Catalysis of Rh Single‐Atom and Clusters Supported on TiO2 Nanosheet Array for Highly Efficient Removal of CO and NOx
Authors: Yang Liu , Wang Junchao , Liu Tingting , He Hanze , Li Xinyu , Zhang Xinglai , Li Jing , Li Song , Liu Baodan
Published: September 2024

Developing an efficient catalyst is the key to selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NOx by CO (CO‐SCR) to simultaneously address the pollution of toxic NOx and CO. Herein, a novel Rh/TiO2/Ti monolithic catalyst is designed and synthesized, featuring Rh species in the form of single atoms (Rh1) and clusters (Rhn). This catalyst overcomes the inhibitory effects of oxygen, achieving low‐temperature NO conversion. The investigation substantively contributes insights into the strategic manipulation of active metal components, emphasizing the potential of single‐atom/cluster catalysts to enhance efficiency. The Rh/TiO2/Ti catalyst has demonstrated exceptional catalytic efficacy, achieving 100% NO conversion at a low temperature of 190 °C in the presence of oxygen. Additionally, it exhibits remarkable stability and water resistance for practical applications. Moreover, comprehensive characterization confirms that Rh clusters and single‐atom sites play an important role in the selective adsorption of NO and CO molecules, promoting the formation of –N2O species and ultimately resulting in the complete conversion of NO and CO to N2 and CO2. This study not only provides valuable guidance for designing high‐performance CO‐SCR catalysts but also underscores the potential of single atoms/clusters catalytic systems in both fundamental research and industrial catalysis.
Unveiling the Anticarcinogenic Potential of Inula racemosa Hook. f. Root Extract Against DMBA‐Induced Mammary Tumour in Sprague Dawley Rats
Authors: Jaikaria Ankita , Kumar Rakesh , Asrani R. K. , Jamwal Smriti , Verma Abhishek , Santoshrao Joshi Gaurav , Bisen Harsh Krishnakumar , Patial Vikram , Sharma Dixit , Kumar Rohit , Kumar Adarsh , Patil R. D.
Published: September 2024

The Himalayan plant Inula racemosa has medicinal properties and can be used to prevent or treat cancer. This is because it contains certain chemicals that are known to fight cancer cells with few or no side effects. I. racemosa has been used for this purpose for many years in traditional medicine and has shown promising results. The present study was crafted to explore the suppressive impacts on cellular proliferation of the root extract derived from I. racemosa via in vivo experimentation. I. racemosa (IR) root extract was tested at three different doses (100, 250, and 500 mg/Kg BW) for 18 weeks to assess its anti‐neoplastic activity against mammary tumors in female rats. The assessment included various parameters such as hematological and biochemical indices, tumor parameters, oxidative stress analysis, gross and histopathological lesion determination, Masson's trichrome staining, immunohistochemical expression of Ki‐67, MMP‐9, and VEGF in mammary gland tissues, and molecular docking. The chemopreventive action of IR root extract was demonstrated by the inhibition of tumor parameters (tumor size and tumor volume), minimum changes in the liver (ALT, AST, and ALP) and kidney enzymes (BUN and creatinine), declined lipid peroxidation activity, decline gross, and histological changes in mammary gland tumors, reduced expression of KI‐67, MMP‐9, and VEGF and maximum binding affinity of isoalantolactone with VEGF through molecular docking. The study suggests that the active constituents (isoalantolactone and alantolactone) of I. racemosa roots have anti‐neoplastic activity against mammary tumors, making them a valuable therapeutic regimen for the future.
Assessment of Shallow Wells of Public Importance in Selected Areas of Ekiti State Capital City, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
Authors: Adeleke Adeyeye Joseph , Olabode Badmus Ganiyu , Toyin Omotoso
Published: September 2024

Groundwater is one of the main sources of public water supply all over the world. This study assessed hand‐dug wells of economic importance in selected areas of Ado Ekiti in relation to terrain characteristics. A total of 15 wells were randomly sampled with replicates from 5 densely populated parts of the study area. Water samples collected were processed and analyzed in the laboratory using established scientific methods. Results showed that physicochemical characteristics of the sampled groundwater compared favorably with the standard for drinking water, except for phosphate (PO43−) concentration, which was above the permissible limit of 0.1 mg/L. Moreover, while lead (Pb2+) was within the acceptable limits of 0.001 mg/L, cadmium (Cd2+) and iron (Fe2+) mean values of 0.01 and 16.723 mg/L were above the permissible limits of 0.003 and 0.03 mg/L, respectively. All the samples analyzed were found to contain total coliforms. Piper diagram indicates prevalence of chloride anion facies and a small portion of sulfate with no carbonate ions. There was no dominant water type among the cations. The chemical makeup mainly showed the prevalence of strong acids (Cl−) and slightly alkaline earth elements (Ca2+). The Schoeller plot suggests the dominance of calcium and elevated chloride concentrations in comparison to other ions. The water quality index indicated widespread pollution in most of the sampled water, showing that the shallow wells are not suitable for drinking purposes except in Adebayo and Erifun axis as expected. The study revealed terrain's influence and unprofessional construction of wells. A holistic water safety plan is imperative in the area and thus recommended.
Efficacy, safety and differential outcomes of immune‐chemotherapy with gemcitabine, cisplatin and durvalumab in patients with biliary tract cancers: A multicenter real world cohort
Authors: Mitzlaff Katharina , Kirstein Martha M. , Müller Christian , Venerito Marino , Olkus Alexander , Dill Michael T. , Weinmann Arndt , Kocheise Lorenz , Busch Alina , Schulze Kornelius , Allo Gabriel , Waldschmidt Dirk‐Thomas , Barsch Maryam , Bengsch Bertram , Quante Michael , Gonzalez‐Carmona Maria A. , Himmelsbach Vera , Finkelmeier Fabian , Kloeckner Roman , Schirmacher Peter , Marquardt Jens U. , Zimpel Carolin
Published: September 2024

Background

Combined Immuno‐chemotherapy consisting of gemcitabine, cisplatin and the programmed death‐ligand one inhibitor durvalumab (GCD) is the new standard of care for patients with biliary tract cancers (BTC) based on positive results of the TOPAZ‐1 study.

Objective

We here evaluated the efficacy and safety of GCD for BTC in a German multicenter real‐world patient cohort.

Methods

Patients with BTC treated with GCD from 9 German centers were included. Clinicopathological baseline parameters, overall survival (OS), response rate and adverse events (AEs) were retrospectively analyzed. The prognostic impact was determined by Kaplan–Meier analyses and Cox regression models.

Results

A total of 165 patients treated with GCD between 2021 and 2024 were included in the study. Median OS and median progression‐free survival were 14 months (95% CI 10.3–17.7) and 8 months (95% CI 6.8–9.2), respectively. The best overall response rate was 28.5% and disease control rate was 65.5%. While extrahepatic and intrahepatic BTC showed similar outcomes, mOS was significantly shorter in patients with gall bladder cancer (GB‐CA) with 9 months (95% CI 5.5–12.4; p = 0.02). In univariate analyses age ≥70 years, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS) ≥1, status post cholecystectomy, GB‐CA and high baseline CRP values were significantly associated with OS. ECOG PS ≥ 1 and GB‐CA remained independent prognostic factors for OS in multivariable cox regression analysis. AEs have been reported in 130 patients (78.8%), including 149 grade 3–4 AEs (25.5%). One patient died of severe infectious pneumonia. Immune‐related (ir)AEs occurred in 17 patients (10.3%), including 9 grade 3–4 irAEs (2.2%), which led to treatment interruption in 4 patients.

Conclusions

Immuno‐chemotherapy in patients with BTC was feasible, effective and safe in a real‐life scenario. Our results were comparable to the phase 3 clinical trial results (TOPAZ‐1). Reduced efficacy was noted in patients with GB‐CA and/or a reduced performance status that warrants further investigation.
Electric vehicles as facilitators of grid stability and flexibility: A multidisciplinary overview
Authors: Štogl Ondřej , Miltner Marek , Zanocco Chad , Traverso Marzia , Starý Oldřich
Published: September 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs), as facilitators of grid stability and flexibility, provide a critical solution to the energy infrastructure's evolving demands, underscored by the growing integration of renewable energy sources (RES) and the rapid increase in EV adoption worldwide. This trend is particularly evident in Europe which is experiencing dramatic increases in both the adoption of RES and EVs. Vehicle‐to‐grid (V2G) technology allows EVs to operate as a two‐way power flow to both draw and feed electricity into the grid. This multidisciplinary overview examines the role of V2G systems in enhancing grid performance, identifying corporate vehicle fleets as key flexibility providers, and integration with Smart Grid technologies as a key element for successful V2G implementation. In a scoping analysis of recent literature (2005–2024), we identify challenges such as privacy, security, and regulatory compliance as well as a critical gap in establishing economically sustainable models for aggregators, distribution system operators (DSOs), generation companies (GENCOs), and end‐users. Drawing from these insights, we then discuss the necessity for future research to develop models that ensure equitable benefits across stakeholders and the importance of models that can adapt to country‐specific mechanisms. The findings from our overview argue that the integration of EVs, V2G, and RES are essential components for developing future energy systems that are resilient, adaptable, decarbonized, and sustainable.

This article is categorized under:

Cities and Transportation > Electric Mobility

Energy and Power Systems > Energy Infrastructure

Energy and Power Systems > Energy Management
Biohydrogen generation from distillery effluent using baffled up‐flow microbial electrolysis cell
Authors: Murugaiyan Jayachitra , Narayanan Anantharaman , Naina Mohamed Samsudeen
Published: September 2024

Microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) is gaining importance not only for effectively treating wastewater but also for producing hydrogen. The up‐flow microbial electrolysis cell (UPMEC) is an innovative approach to enhance the efficiency, and substrate degradation. In this study, a baffled UPMEC with an anode divided into three regions by inserting the baffle (sieve) plates at varying distances from the cathode was designed. The effect of process parameters, such as flow rate (10, 15, and 20 mL/min), electrode area (50, 100, and 150 cm2), and catholyte buffer concentration (50, 100, and 150 mM) were investigated using distillery wastewater as substrate. The experimental results showed a maximum of 0.6837 ± 0.02 mmol/L biohydrogen at 150 mM buffer, with 49 ± 1.0% COD reduction using an electrode of area 150 cm2. The maximum current density was 1335.94 mA/m2 for the flow rate of 15 mL/min and surface area of 150 cm2. The results showed that at optimized flow rate and buffer concentration, maximum hydrogen production and effective treatment of wastewater were achieved in the baffled UPMEC.

Practitioner Points

Biohydrogen production from distillery wastewater was investigated in a baffled UPMEC.

Flowrate, concentration and electrode areas significantly influenced the hydrogen production.

Maximum hydrogen (0.6837±0.02mmol/L.day) production and COD reduction (49±1.0%) was achieved at 15 mL/min.

Highest CHR of 95.37±1.9 % and OHR of 4.6±0.09 % was observed at 150 mM buffer concentration.
ED&I and SE: Challenges, Progress, and Lessons
Authors: Grundy John , Kanij Tanjila , Hoda Rashina , Khalajzadeh Hourieh , Madugalla Anuradha , McIntosh Jennifer
Published: September 2024

John Grundy, Tanjila Kanij, Rashina Hoda, Hourieh Khalajzadeh, Anuradha Madugalla, and Jennifer McIntosh
How to Ask About Gender Identity of Software Engineers and “Guess” It from the Archival Data
Authors: Serebrenik Alexander
Published: September 2024

Alexander Serebrenik
Exactly solvable floquet dynamics for conformal field theories in dimensions greater than two
Authors: Das Diptarka , Das Sumit R. , Kundu Arnab , Sengupta Krishnendu
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We find classes of driven conformal field theories (CFT) in d + 1 dimensions with d > 1, whose quench and floquet dynamics can be computed exactly. The setup is suitable for studying periodic drives, consisting of square pulse protocols for which Hamiltonian evolution takes place with different deformations of the original CFT Hamiltonian in successive time intervals. These deformations are realized by specific combinations of conformal generators with a deformation parameter β; the β < 1 (β > 1) Hamiltonians can be unitarily related to the standard (Lüscher-Mack) CFT Hamiltonians. The resulting time evolution can be then calculated by performing appropriate conformal transformations. For d ≤ 3 we show that the transformations can be easily obtained in a quaternion formalism. Evolution with such a single Hamiltonian yields qualitatively different time dependences of observables depending on the value of β, with exponential decays characteristic of heating for β > 1, oscillations for β < 1 and power law decays for β = 1. This manifests itself in the behavior of the fidelity, unequal-time correlator, and the energy density at the end of a single cycle of a square pulse protocol with different hamiltonians in successive time intervals. When the Hamiltonians in a cycle involve generators of a single SU(1, 1) subalgebra we calculate the Floquet Hamiltonian. We show that one can get dynamical phase transitions for any β by varying the time period of a cycle, where the system can go from a non-heating phase which is oscillatory as a function of the time period to a heating phase with an exponentially damped behavior. Our methods can be generalized to other discrete and continuous protocols. We also point out that our results are expected to hold for a broader class of QFTs that possesses an SL(2, C) symmetry with fields that transform as quasi-primaries under this. As an example, we briefly comment on celestial CFTs in this context.
Amplitudes and polarizations of quadratic quasi-normal modes for a Schwarzschild black hole
Authors: Bucciotti Bruno , Juliano Leonardo , Kuntz Adrien , Trincherini Enrico
Published: September 2024

Abstract

General Relativity predicts the existence of quadratic quasi-normal modes at second order in perturbation theory. Building on our recent work, we compute the amplitudes and polarizations of these modes for non-rotating black holes, showing that they are completely determined by the amplitudes and polarizations of linear modes. We obtain the ratio of quadratic to linear amplitudes, which still depends on the initial conditions of the merger through the polarization of linear modes. However, we demonstrate that this dependence is captured by four fundamental numbers, independent of initial conditions, representing four different combinations of linear modes parities. Additionally, we prove two selection rules regarding the vanishing of classes of quadratic modes. Our results are available online as a package which provides the ratio of amplitudes across a broad spectrum of angular momenta.
Worldsheet kinematics, dressing factors and odd crossing in mixed-flux AdS3 backgrounds
Authors: Ohlsson Sax Olof , Riabchenko Dmitrii , Stefański Bogdan
Published: September 2024

Abstract

String theory on AdS3 × S3 × T4 geometries supported by a combination of NS-NS and R-R charges is believed to be integrable. We elucidate the kinematics and analytic structure of worldsheet excitations in mixed charge and pure NS-NS backgrounds, when expressed in momentum, Zhukovsky variables and the rapidity u which appears in the quantum spectral curve. We discuss the relations between fundamental and bound state excitations and the role of fusion in constraining and determining the S matrices of these theories. We propose a scalar dressing factor consistent with a novel u-plane periodicity and comment on its close relation to the XXZ model at roots of unity. We solve the odd part of crossing and show that our solution is consistent with fusion and reduces in the relativistic limit to dressing phases previously found in the literature.
Bounding irrelevant operators in the 3d Gross-Neveu-Yukawa CFTs
Authors: Mitchell Matthew S. , Poland David
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We perform a numerical bootstrap study of scalar operators in the critical 3d Gross-Neveu-Yukawa models, a family of conformal field theories containing N Majorana fermions in the fundamental representation of an O(N) global symmetry. We compute rigorous bounds on the scaling dimensions of the next-to-lowest parity-even and parity-odd singlet scalars at N = 2, 4, and 8. All of these dimensions have lower bounds greater than 3, implying that there are only two relevant singlet scalars and placing constraints on the RG flow structure of these theories.
Ladder top-quark condensation imprints in supercooled electroweak phase transition
Authors: Guan Yuepeng , Matsuzaki Shinya
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The electroweak (EW) phase transition in the early Universe might be supercooled due to the presence of the classical scale invariance involving Beyond the Standard Model (BSM) sectors and the supercooling could persist down till a later epoch around which the QCD chiral phase transition is supposed to take place. Since this supercooling period keeps masslessness for all the six SM quarks, it has simply been argued that the QCD phase transition is the first order, and so is the EW one. However, not only the QCD coupling but also the top Yukawa and the Higgs quartic couplings get strong at around the QCD scale due to the renormalization group running, hence this scenario is potentially subject to a rigorous nonperturbative analysis. In this work, we employ the ladder Schwinger-Dyson (LSD) analysis based on the Cornwall-Jackiw-Tomboulis formalism at the two-loop level in such a gauge-Higgs-Yukawa system. We show that the chiral broken QCD vacuum emerges with the nonperturbative top condensate and the lightness of all six quarks is guaranteed due to the accidental U(1) axial symmetry presented in the top-Higgs sector. We employ a quark-meson model-like description in the mean field approximation to address the impact on the EW phase transition arising due to the top quark condensation at the QCD phase transition epoch. In the model, the LSD results are encoded to constrain the model parameter space. We then observe the cosmological phase transition of the first-order type and discuss the induced gravitational wave (GW) productions. We find that in addition to the conventional GW signals sourced from an expected BSM at around or over the TeV scale, the dynamical topponium-Higgs system can yield another power spectrum sensitive to the BBO, LISA, and DECIGO, etc.
Kimberlite pre-conditioning of the lithospheric mantle and implications for diamond survival: a case study of olivine and mantle xenocrysts from the Koidu mine (Sierra Leone)
Authors: Howarth Geoffrey H. , Giuliani Andrea , Bussweiler Yannick , Tau Merrily , Hashibi Sinelethu , Janney Philip E. , Nowicki Tom E.
Published: September 2024

The diamond potential of kimberlites is generally determined using indicator minerals (i.e., xenocrysts), entrained by the parent magma while ascending through the sub-continental lithospheric mantle (SCLM). It is becoming increasingly apparent that olivine can also be used to understand mantle sampling depth, using the Al-in-olivine thermometer, and to constrain the extent of diamond-destructive metasomatism in the SCLM. To further current understanding of vertical sampling and diamond preservation in the SCLM, we present geochemical results for kimberlitic olivine of the Koidu mine (Sierra Leone). We combine our olivine data with pressure-temperature estimates from available olivine diamond inclusions, clinopyroxene xenocrysts, and eclogite xenoliths to visualise the vertical distribution of lithologies in the SCLM beneath Koidu. In agreement with the absence of peridotitic olivine and low abundance of olivine diamond inclusions in the lower SCLM, megacrysts appear to dominate the material sampled from the lowermost lithosphere. At shallower levels a distinct eclogite-dominated region is observed (160-180 km) whereas the SCLM at depths of 110-150 km is heterogeneous comprising depleted harzburgite/dunite, lherzolite, and eclogite. Diamonds are predominantly eclogitic with pressure-temperature estimates for diamondiferous eclogites of 150-190 km within the eclogite-dominated region. The near absence of diamonds sampled from near the lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary is attributed to diamond destruction by extensive infiltration of proto-kimberlite melts leading to metasomatism of the eclogite and peridotite substrate and megacrysts formation. Widespread metasomatism of the deepest reaches of the SCLM sampled by kimberlites elsewhere suggests that Koidu does not represent an isolated case and the extent of diamond-destructive metasomatism can be constrained using olivine xenocrysts.
Introduction to the Special Issue on Early Evolution and the Last Common Ancestor
Authors: Becerra Arturo , Goldman Aaron D.
Published: September 2024

The early evolution of life spans an extensive period preceding the emergence of the first eukaryotic cell. This epoch, which transpired from 4.5 to 2.5 billion years ago, marked the advent of many fundamental cellular attributes and witnessed the existence of the Last Common Ancestor (LCA) of all life forms. Uncovering and reconstructing this elusive LCA's characteristics and genetic makeup represents a formidable challenge and a pivotal pursuit in early evolution. While most scientific accounts concur that the LCA resembles contemporary prokaryotes, its precise definition, genome composition, metabolic capabilities, and ecological niche remain subjects of contentious debate.
AI-based lumbar central canal stenosis classification on sagittal MR images is comparable to experienced radiologists using axial images
Authors: van der Graaf Jasper W. , Brundel Liron , van Hooff Miranda L. , de Kleuver Marinus , Lessmann Nikolas , Maresch Bas J. , Vestering Myrthe M. , Spermon Jacco , van Ginneken Bram , Rutten Matthieu J. C. M.
Published: September 2024

Objectives

The assessment of lumbar central canal stenosis (LCCS) is crucial for diagnosing and planning treatment for patients with low back pain and neurogenic pain. However, manual assessment methods are time-consuming, variable, and require axial MRIs. The aim of this study is to develop and validate an AI-based model that automatically classifies LCCS using sagittal T2-weighted MRIs.

Methods

A pre-existing 3D AI algorithm was utilized to segment the spinal canal and intervertebral discs (IVDs), enabling quantitative measurements at each IVD level. Four musculoskeletal radiologists graded 683 IVD levels from 186 LCCS patients using the 4-class Lee grading system. A second consensus reading was conducted by readers 1 and 2, which, along with automatic measurements, formed the training dataset for a multiclass (grade 0–3) and binary (grade 0–1 vs. 2–3) random forest classifier with tenfold cross-validation.

Results

The multiclass model achieved a Cohen’s weighted kappa of 0.86 (95% CI: 0.82–0.90), comparable to readers 3 and 4 with 0.85 (95% CI: 0.80–0.89) and 0.73 (95% CI: 0.68–0.79) respectively. The binary model demonstrated an AUC of 0.98 (95% CI: 0.97–0.99), sensitivity of 93% (95% CI: 91–96%), and specificity of 91% (95% CI: 87–95%). In comparison, readers 3 and 4 achieved a specificity of 98 and 99% and sensitivity of 74 and 54%, respectively.

Conclusion

Both the multiclass and binary models, while only using sagittal MR images, perform on par with experienced radiologists who also had access to axial sequences. This underscores the potential of this novel algorithm in enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency in medical imaging.

Key Points

QuestionHow can the classification of lumbar central canal stenosis (LCCS) be made more efficient?

FindingsMulticlass and binary AI models, using only sagittal MR images, performed on par with experienced radiologists who also had access to axial sequences.

Clinical relevanceOur AI algorithm accurately classifies LCCS from sagittal MRI, matching experienced radiologists. This study offers a promising tool for automated LCCS assessment from sagittal T2 MRI, potentially reducing the reliance on additional axial imaging.
Bicenter validation of a risk model for the preoperative prediction of extraprostatic extension of localized prostate cancer combining clinical and multiparametric MRI parameters
Authors: Ostau Nicola Edith von , Handke Analena Elisa , Wiesenfarth Manuel , Albers Peter , Antoch Gerald , Noldus Joachim , Reis Henning , Cotarelo Cristina , Preetz Julia , Umutlu Lale , Ingenwerth Marc , Radtke Jan Philipp , Hadaschik Boris , Schimmöller Lars , Kesch Claudia
Published: September 2024

Background

This study aimed to validate a previously published risk model (RM) which combines clinical and multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) parameters to predict extraprostatic extension (EPE) of prostate cancer (PC) prior to radical prostatectomy (RP).

Materials and methods

A previously published RM combining clinical with mpMRI parameters including European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) classification for EPE was retrospectively evaluated in a cohort of two urological university hospitals in Germany. Consecutive patients (n = 205, January 2015 –June 2021) with available preoperative MRI images, clinical information including PSA, prostate volume, ESUR classification for EPE, histopathological results of MRI-fusion biopsy and RP specimen were included. Validation was performed by receiver operating characteristic analysis and calibration plots. The RM‘s performance was compared to ESUR criteria.

Results

Histopathological T3 stage was detected in 43% of the patients (n = 89); 45% at Essen and 42% at Düsseldorf. Discrimination performance between pT2 and pT3 of the RM in the entire cohort was AUC = 0.86 (AUC = 0.88 at site 1 and AUC = 0.85 at site 2). Calibration was good over the entire probability range. The discrimination performance of ESUR classification alone was comparable (AUC = 0.87).

Conclusions

The RM showed good discriminative performance to predict EPE for decision-making for RP as a patient-tailored risk stratification. However, when experienced MRI reading is available, standardized MRI reading with ESUR scoring is comparable regarding information outcome. A main limitation is the potentially limited transferability to other populations because of the high prevalence of EPE in our subgroups.
Severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome following sole gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist trigger: a case series and literature review
Authors: Berkovitz-Shperling Roza , Samara Nivin , Meir Reut , Dominsky Omri , Azam Foad , Feferkorn Ido
Published: September 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to report three cases of early severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in patients undergoing a GnRH antagonist protocol triggered with GnRH agonist (GnRH-a), leading to hospitalization and the need for peritoneal drainage. Additionally, a review of the existing literature on this topic is provided.

Design

This is a retrospective case series and a literature review.

Setting

This study was conducted at obstetrics and gynecology department of tertiary academic referral hospitals, Israel.

Participants

This study included three patients presented with severe OHSS symptoms, including abdominal distension, ascites, and hemoconcentration.

Main outcome measures

The main focus of the treatment was to address the symptoms and prevent any further complications. The outcome was the complete recovery of the patients.

Results

The presented cases detail instances of severe OHSS following oocyte retrieval, utilizing GnRH-a for triggering. Case 1 involved a 33-year-old patient with a history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Case 2 featured a 22-year-old patient with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), and Case 3 included a 41-year-old patient with a history of depressive disorder. All patients receiving supportive care, including infusions and medications, exhibited gradual improvement during hospitalization, with complete resolution observed during the 20-day post-hospitalization check-up.

Conclusions

These three cases highlight the occurrence of severe early OHSS following a GnRH antagonist protocol triggered with GnRH-a in the absence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration for trigger or luteal-phase support. Clinicians must be aware that a GnRH-a trigger followed by a freeze-all approach does not guarantee the complete elimination of OHSS in all patients.
Twenty years of volcano data at GeoNet—collection, custodianship, and evolution of open data on New Zealand’s volcanoes
Authors: Hanson Jonathan B. , Sherburn Steven , Behr Yannik , Britten Karen M. , Hughes Ery C. , Jarvis Paul A. , Lamb Oliver D. , Mazot Agnes , Fitzgerald Rebecca H. , Scott Bradley J. , Fournier Nico ,   Volcano Monitoring Group,   GeoNet team
Published: September 2024

The GeoNet programme at GNS Science has monitored and managed data for volcanoes, earthquakes, landslides, and tsunami in Aotearoa New Zealand since 2001. Volcano monitoring data are collected from seismometers, acoustic sensors, GNSS receivers, webcams, remote gas monitoring sensors, and a range of environmental sensors, as well as manually during visits to volcanoes. The primary user of volcano data is the internal cross-specialised Volcano Monitoring Group (VMG), which fulfils the role of the national volcano observatory. GeoNet concentrates on automatic data collection and analysis, while supporting members of the VMG with manual data collection and interpretation. The application of open-data principles to both data and metadata has always been a core aspect of GeoNet; responses have been overwhelmingly positive, despite concerns regarding some high value, manually collected datasets. The website www.geonet.org.nz represents the primary data access portal. Data analysis and delivery applications are organised by data type rather than hazard, with no volcano-specific data applications. Most datasets have web-based and API delivery application options; both provide standard data formats from a cloud-based archive. One of the challenges for volcano data collection and management has been shifting from a reliance on manually collected data to automatic collection. Additionally, awareness of important questions related to Indigenous Māori data governance is increasing, although the associated impact is not yet understood. Overall, the current centralised, cooperative volcano monitoring and data collection and management system, which benefits from improved efficiency, interoperability, and data quality, has proved effective in Aotearoa New Zealand. Ongoing work aims to ensure optimal data collection and management for volcano monitoring and downstream activities.
New evidence of syn-eruptive magma-carbonate interaction: the case study of the Pomici di Avellino eruption at Somma-Vesuvius (Italy)
Authors: Mele Daniela , Knuever Marco , Dellino Pierfrancesco , Costa Antonio , Fornelli Annamaria , Massaro Silvia , Sulpizio Roberto
Published: September 2024

Calcareous lithics are commonly found within the products of some explosive eruptions of Somma-Vesuvius. The pumice fragments from the final phase of the Plinian fallout event of the Pomici di Avellino eruption contain abundant calcareous xenoliths. Previous work on that eruption, including numerical simulations, suggested that the release of CO2 from the entrapment of carbonates may have prolonged the magmatic phase of the eruption by maintaining sufficient driving pressure in the feeding dike. The texture and thermo-metamorphic reactions of carbonate xenolith-bearing pumice fragments of the Pomici di Avellino eruption are analyzed through petrography, scanning electron microscope images, energy dispersive spectrometer analyses, and micro-computed X-ray tomography to deduce the behavior of short-term carbonate-magma interaction and its contribution to the eruption dynamics. Results show that calcareous xenoliths experienced short-term magma-carbonate interaction, which took place in three steps: (i) entrainment, i.e., the mechanical process of carbonate xenoliths entrapment into a magma; (ii) decarbonation, related to high-temperature decomposition reaction of the xenoliths; and (iii) digestion or dissolution of the incorporated calcareous xenoliths into the melt with diffusion of Ca and Mg. The CO2 released during the syn-eruptive decarbonation process thus provided extra volatiles to the rising magma, which may have maintained magma buoyancy longer than expected if only magmatic volatiles were involved in the eruption.