bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photoelectron velocity map imaging spectroscopy of group 14 elements and iron tetracarbonyl anionic clusters MFe(CO)4− (M = Si, Ge, Sn)
Authors: Ju Bangmin , Zhang Ziheng , Kong Xiangtao , Zou Jinghan , Li Gang , Xie Hua , Jiang Ling
Published: January 2024

The heteronuclear group 14 M-iron tetracarbonyl clusters MFe(CO)4− (M = Si, Ge, Sn) anions have been generated in the gas phase by laser ablation of M–Fe alloys and detected by mass and photoelectron spectroscopy. With the support of quantum chemical calculations, the geometric and electronic structures of MFe(CO)4− (M = Si, Ge, Sn) are elucidated, which shows that all the MFe(CO)4− clusters have the M–Fe bonded, iron-centered, and carbonyl-terminal M–Fe(CO)4 structure with the C2v symmetry and a 2B2 ground state. The M–Fe bond can be considered a double bond, which includes one σ electron sharing bond and one π dative bond. The C–O bonds in those anionic clusters are calculated to be elongated to different extents, and in particular, the C–O bonds in SiFe(CO)4− are elongated more. The Si–Fe alloy thus turns out to be a better collocation to activate the C–O bonds in the gas phase among group 14. The present findings have important implications for the rational development of high-performance catalysts with isolated metal atoms/clusters dispersed on supports.
Evolution of clusters of turbulent reattachment due to shear layer instability in flow past a circular cylinder
Authors: Chopra Gaurav , Mittal Sanjay , Sujith R. I.
Published: January 2024

We perform large eddy simulations of flow past a circular cylinder for the Reynolds number (Re) range, 2×103≤Re≤4×105, spanning subcritical, critical, and supercritical regimes. We investigate the spanwise coherence of the flow in the critical and supercritical regimes using complex networks. In these regimes, the separated flow reattaches to the surface in a turbulent state due to the turbulence generated by the shear layer instability. In the early critical regime, the turbulent reattachment does not occur simultaneously at all span locations. It occurs incoherently along the span in clusters. We treat strong surface pressure fluctuations due to the shear layer instability as extreme events and construct time-varying spatial proximity networks where links are based on synchronization between events. This analysis unravels the underlying complex spatiotemporal dynamics by enabling the estimation of characteristics of clusters of turbulent reattachment via the concept of connected components. In the critical regime, the number and size of the clusters increase with the increase in Re. At higher Re in the supercritical regime, they coalesce to form bigger clusters, resulting in increase in spanwise coherence of turbulent reattachment. We find that the size and number of clusters govern the variation of the time-averaged coefficient of drag (C¯D) in the critical and supercritical regimes. C¯D exhibits power-law distribution with the largest cluster size (C¯D∝S¯CL−25) and the most probable cluster size [C¯D∝E(SC)−25].
An ultra-low-frequency sound absorber and its application in noise reduction in ducts
Authors: Guan Yi-jun , Ge Yong , Wu Cheng-hao , Si Qiao-rui , Lai Yun , Yuan Shou-qi , Sun Hong-xiang
Published: January 2024

We demonstrate, both numerically and experimentally, an ultra-low-frequency sound absorber and its application in silenced ducts. The absorber comprises an array of resonant dual-spiral channel units (with a thickness of λ/47) backed by a wall, achieving near-perfect sound absorption with a fractional bandwidth of 18.3% around 73 Hz—a hallmark of ultra-low-frequency sound absorption. This characteristic arises from its effective near-zero modulus, with the absorbed energy dissipated through viscous losses in the unit channels. Furthermore, we explore the application of this ultra-low-frequency absorber in silenced ducts. By designing a composite absorber of five units with different parameters, we experimentally demonstrate efficient sound absorption in a duct with an enhanced fractional bandwidth of 60.6%. The average absorptance approaches 0.87. This designed absorber offers the advantages of deep-subwavelength thickness, ultra-low-frequency sound absorption, and broad bandwidth, opening up new possibilities for metamaterial-based absorbers in practical applications.
On the evolution of flow structures around a track cyclist
Authors: Zheng Chuntai , Zhou Peng , Mao Xiaochen , Cantos Sinforiano , Liu Guangsheng , Zhang Xin
Published: January 2024

In this study, flow structures and their evolution over a track cyclist were investigated through wind tunnel tests. In supplement to the experiment, high-fidelity numerical simulations were also conducted to demonstrate the origins of global flow structures. In wind tunnel tests, a full-scale track cyclist mannequin was built based on the three-dimensional scanning of an elite track cyclist in a riding position of a sprint event, and a Cobra probe was used to measure the wake structures. The results show that the preeminent flow structures around the track cyclist mannequin are the streamwise vortices originating from different body parts. The evolution of these vortices involves strong vortex interactions and performs differently on each side, resulting in a dominant streamwise vortex merged behind the right thigh, which is associated with aerodynamic drag productions. In particular, leg position affects the lateral displacement between the elbow vortex and upper thigh, which is the reason for the distinct flow behaviors on each side. This study helps to better understand the flow around a track cyclist, facilitating the development of drag-saving strategies in the future.
Topology sorting: Separating linear/star polymer blend components by imbibition in nanopores
Authors: Kardasis Panagiotis , Tzourtzouklis Ioannis , Nega Alkmini D. , Sakellariou Georgios , Steinhart Martin , Floudas George
Published: January 2024

We report the imbibition and adsorption kinetics of a series of symmetric linear/star cis-1,4-polyisoprene blends within the long channels of self-ordered nanoporous anodic aluminum oxide (abbreviated: AAO). Using in situ nanodielectric spectroscopy, we followed the evolution of the longest chain modes in the blends with a judicious selection of molar masses for the constituent components. We demonstrated differences in the imbibition kinetics of linear and star components based on the relative viscosities (e.g., polymers with lower zero-shear viscosity penetrated first the nanopores). Following the complete imbibition of the pores, the adsorption time, τads, of each component was evaluated from the reduction in the dielectric strength of the respective chain modes. In the majority of blends, both components exhibited slower adsorption kinetics with respect to the homopolymers. The only exception was the case of entangled stars mixed with shorter linear chains, the latter acting as a diluent for the star component. This gives rise to what is known as topology sorting, e.g., the separation of linear/star blend components in the absence of solvent. Moreover, a simple relation (τads ∼ 10 × tpeak; tpeak is the time needed for the complete filling of pores) was found for linear polymers and stars. This suggested that the characteristic timescale of imbibition (tpeak) governs the adsorption process of polymers. It further implied the possibility of predicting the adsorption times of high molar mass polymers of various architectures by the shorter imbibition times.
Detecting unitary synaptic events with machine learning
Authors: Wang Nien-Shao , Marino Marc , Malinow Roberto
Published: January 2024

Spontaneously occurring miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) are fundamental electrophysiological events produced by quantal vesicular transmitter release at synapses. Their analysis can provide important information regarding pre- and postsynaptic function. However, the small signal relative to recording noise requires expertise and considerable time for their identification. Furthermore, many mEPSCs smaller than ~8 pA are not well resolved (e.g., those produced at distant synapses or synapses with few receptor channels). Here, we describe an automated approach to detect mEPSCs using a machine learning–based tool. This method, which can be easily generalized to other one-dimensional signals, eliminates inter-observer bias, provides an estimate of its sensitivity and specificity and permits reliable detection of small (e.g., 5 pA) spontaneous unitary synaptic events.
The effect of crystallographic orientation of α-Al2O3 on the wetting behavior and adhesion characteristics of aluminum droplets
Authors: Zhuo Junting , Rui Zhiyuan , Lyu Xin , He Dongyun , Ding Simin , Sun Huaming , Dong Yun
Published: January 2024

To solve the problem of adhesion of aluminum fluid to the inner wall of the vacuum ladle in the aluminum electrolysis industry, molecular dynamics simulation is performed to research the wetting behavior of Al droplets on the surfaces of the α-Al2O3 substrates C (0001), M (

1

1
ˉ

00

), and R (

1

1
ˉ

02

) at 1073 K. Meanwhile, the adhesion characteristics of the Al droplet are evaluated by the potential of the mean force (PMF) for the separation of the Al droplets from different surfaces of the α-Al2O3 substrate. The results show that the wetting behavior of Al droplets on the α-Al2O3 substrate is influenced by the different crystallographic orientations. The diffusion of Al droplets in the x-o-y plane of the substrate exhibits isotropic. The PMF and the interfacial potential energy reveal that the magnitude of the adhesion work in the solid-liquid separation of Al droplets from α-Al2O3 substrates follows the order C (0001) > R (

1

1
ˉ

02

) > M (

1

1
ˉ

00

). These findings characterize the wetting properties and adhesion behavior of Al droplets on an atomic scale and provide a theoretical basis for the selection of materials for the inner wall of the vacuum ladle.
Source of black bounces in Rastall gravity
Authors: Atazadeh K. , Hadi H.
Published: January 2024

In this study, we explore the black bounce solution in Rastall gravity and its potential source field, which can be described as a black hole or wormhole solution depending on certain parameters. We focus on the Bardeen-Type black bounce and Simpson-Visser solution and aim to identify an appropriate source field for these solutions. Our findings suggest that in Rastall gravity, a source for the black bounce solution with non-linear electromagnetic can be found. However, in the presence of a non-linear electromagnetic source, it is impossible to identify an appropriate source for the black bounce solution without a scalar field. We also investigate the energy conditions outside the event horizon for two types of black bounce solutions: Simpson-Visser and Bardeen. We find that these solutions do not satisfy the null energy condition, but we also reveal that Rastall gravity has more flexibility for maintaining some of the energy conditions by selecting an appropriate value for the Rastall parameter γ.
An effective description of Laniakea: impact on cosmology and the local determination of the Hubble constant
Authors: Giani Leonardo , Howlett Cullan , Said Khaled , Davis Tamara , Vagnozzi Sunny
Published: January 2024

We propose an effective model to describe the bias induced on cosmological observables by
Laniakea, the gravitational supercluster hosting the Milky Way, which was defined using peculiar
velocity data from Cosmicflows-4 (CF4). The structure is well described by an ellipsoidal shape
exhibiting triaxial expansion, reasonably approximated by a constant expansion rate along the
principal axes. Our best fits suggest that the ellipsoid, after subtracting the background
expansion, contracts along the two smaller axes and expands along the longest one, predicting an
average expansion of ∼ -1.1 km/s/Mpc. The different expansion rates within
the region, relative to the mean cosmological expansion, induce line-of-sight-dependent
corrections in the computation of luminosity distances. We apply these corrections to two
low-redshift datasets: the Pantheon+ catalog of type Ia Supernovae (SN Ia), and 63 measurements of
Surface Brightness Fluctuations (SBF) of early-type massive galaxies from the MASSIVE survey. We
find corrections on the distances of order ∼ 2-3%, resulting in a shift in the inferred
best-fit values of the Hubble constant H
0 of order ΔH
0
SN Ia ≈ 0.5 km/s/Mpc and ΔH
0
SBF ≈ 1.1 km/s/Mpc,
seemingly worsening the Hubble tension.
Influence of the far non-resonant components of high-n resonant magnetic perturbations on energetic passing ions loss
Authors: Zhang Yao-Ning , He Kai-Yang , Sun You-Wen , Wan Bao-Nian , Wu Xue-Min , Xie Peng-Cheng , Liu Yue-Qiang
Published: January 2024

The influence on the loss of energetic passing ions by the n = 4 resonant magnetic perturbation (RMP) is investigated through numerical simulations (here, n is the toroidal mode number of the RMP field). Dedicated efforts have been made to uncover how the plasma response modifies the loss fractions and underlying mechanisms. The stochastization of the drift surfaces and the particle loss fractions increase significantly under the response field, in which the resonant component is significantly shielded. In order to better understand how the response field contributes a considerable drift island width, the respective effect of each poloidal component

m

b

on the outermost drift island

m

p

/

n
=
9

/

4

are compared (here,

m

b

and

m

p

are poloidal mode numbers of the RMP components and drift island, respectively). Contrary to the intuition that the components with

m

b

=

m

p

±
1

should dominate the sideband resonance, some of the components which fulfill

|

m

p

−

m

b

|

≫
1

have the dominant contributions under the response field. There are mainly two reasons accounting for this phenomenon, i.e. the drift motion of particles and the enhancement of amplitudes of non-resonant high-m components by the plasma response near the edge due to the resonant field amplification (RFA) effect. The former made it possible for particles to resonate with the far non-resonant components, and the latter significantly enhanced the perturbation field experienced by particles. The above results imply that the RFA effect is more critical than the stochastization of magnetic topology in the fast ion losses under RMP.
Site conditions determine heat and drought induced yield losses in wheat and rye in Germany
Authors: Riedesel Ludwig , Möller Markus , Piepho Hans-Peter , Rentel Dirk , Lichthardt Carolin , Golla Burkhard , Kautz Timo , Feike Til
Published: January 2024

Heat and drought are major abiotic stressors threatening cereal yields, but little is known about the spatio-temporal yield effect of these stressors. In this study, we assess genotype (G) × environment (E) × management (M) specific weather-yield relations utilizing spatially explicit weather indices (WIs) and variety trial yield data of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum) and winter rye (Secale cereale) for all German cereal growing regions and the period 1993–2021. The objectives of this study are to determine the explanatory power of different heat and drought WIs in wheat and rye, to quantify their site-specific yield effects, and to examine the development of stress tolerance from old to new varieties. We use mixed linear models with G × E × M specific covariates as fixed and random factors. We find for both crops that combined heat and drought WIs have the strongest explanatory power during the reproductive phase. Furthermore, our results strongly emphasize the importance of site conditions regarding climate resilience, where poor sites reveal two to three times higher yield losses than sites with high soil quality and high annual precipitation in both crops. Finally, our analysis reveals significantly higher stress-induced absolute yield losses in modern vs. older varieties for both crops, while relative losses also significantly increased in wheat but did not change in rye. Our findings highlight the importance of site conditions and the value of high-yielding locations for global food security. They further underscore the need to integrate site-specific considerations more effectively into agricultural strategies and breeding programs.
An integrated method to develop high temporal Landsat NDVI using free and open-source software (FOSS) GIS application
Authors: Rustanto A. , Booij M.J. , Rahatiningtyas N.S.
Published: January 2024

Landsat image series are long-term times series observing the earth’s surface at a relatively fine spatial resolution of 30 m on the visible and infrared channels, which can be used to monitor vegetation dynamics using band ratios such as NDVI. However, due to cloud cover, having Landsat NDVI at a high temporal resolution is impossible. This is especially found in high-humidity regions such as Indonesia, particularly in the rainy season. Whereas some studies, such as long-term phenological observations and detailed land use/land cover change detection, may require Landsat NDVI with a high temporal resolution. One of the higher temporal resolution images with similar spectral characteristics to Landsat is MODIS, which can be used to fill the gap; however, it may have a coarser spatial resolution. Thus, some methods have been developed to blend Landsat and MODIS images to create images with both Landsat spatial detail and MODIS high temporal resolution. Unfortunately, the blending methods are usually not straightforward, where complex steps are required to find and combine several techniques with advanced computational skills. This study, therefore, aims to develop an integrated method to create high temporal Landsat NDVI using free and open-source software (FOSS) GIS application, which is easily accessible and applicable.
Spatial-temporal dynamics of paddy productivity on the north coast of Java Island, Indonesia based on the principal component analysis of MODIS NDVI anomaly data
Authors: Indriasari N , Roswintiarti O , Kustiyo  , Rasyidy F H , Dewanti R , Indradjad A , Purbantoro B , Rarasati A , Gumelar O , Prabowo Y , Subehi M
Published: January 2024

Comprehending the dynamics of paddy productivity is imperative for enhancing the efficacy of agricultural land developments. This study provides the application of principal component analysis (PCA) as a method for visualizing the spatial-temporal changes in paddy productivity. The analysis is conducted using the 8-day NDVI (normalized difference vegetation index) anomaly data of MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) data spanning the period from 2000 to 2020. The regencies of Karawang, Subang, and Indramayu on the north coast of Java island are chosen as the study area because of their top rice production areas in Indonesia. The results show that the first leading PCA of the NDVI anomaly is related to the interannual variability of paddy productivity with 3-4 year cycles. The spatial and temporal dynamics of the first mode of eigenvectors and principal component time series can generally be grouped into nine categories. Two important categories to note are category-1 (1 January – 19 March) and category-8 (12 September – 16 December). In category-1, the NDVI anomalies move from north to middle and middle to north areas in Karawang and Subang regencies, respectively. In Indramayu Regency, the NDVI anomalies relatively remain in almost all areas. In contrast, in category-8 the NDVI anomalies move from the middle to northern areas in Karawang, Subang, and Indramayu regencies.
Assessment of Groundwater Recharge and Groundwater Quality in The Upstream of Tondano Watershed, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Setiawan Rizal , Wilopo Wahyu , Arya Pranantya Pulung
Published: January 2024

Raw water need increases along with the development of a region. In terms of quantity and quality, surface water tends to decrease, which causes an increase in groundwater exploitation. For groundwater in the Tondano watershed to be sustainable and meet the required quality standards, it is necessary to know about groundwater recharge and groundwater quality. This study’s objectives are to calculate groundwater recharge using a simplified groundwater balance and to evaluate groundwater quality using physico-chemical parameters. The method used in this study is to estimate groundwater recharge by calculating groundwater balance using data on annual rainfall, annual evapotranspiration, and annual runoff. Meanwhile, for groundwater quality, Physico-chemical properties were measured, including pH, TDS, EC, and temperature, at 21 measurement points, including springs, dug wells, and drilled wells. The results indicate that groundwater recharge calculation shows a positive value of 318.34 mm/year. The measurement of Physico-chemical parameters in the field suggests that the pH value is in the range of 6.1-7.9, the TDS range is 50-200 mg/L, the EC range is 110-400 μs/cm, and the temperature range is 23.4-35.6 °C. The analysis using World Health Organization standards and Ministry of Health standards show that the groundwater quality is suitable for use.
Understanding the effect of TiCl4 treatment at TiO2/Sb2S3 interface on the enhanced performance of Sb2S3 solar cells
Authors: Miranda-Gamboa Ramsés Alejandro , Baron-Jaimes Agustin , Millán-Franco Mario Alejandro , Pérez Obed , Rincon Marina E , Jaramillo-Quintero Oscar Andrés
Published: January 2024

The continuous search for low-cost and environment-friendly materials in photovoltaic applications has become a priority, as well as the understanding of the various strategies to boost the photovoltaic performance. In this work, we investigate the effect of TiCl4 treatment on a compact TiO2 layer used as an electron transport material (ETM) in Sb2S3 planar solar cells. After TiCl4 treatment, TiO2 exhibits higher crystallinity, lower density of hydroxyl groups acting as traps, and better surface coverage of the FTO substrate. Although no major structural changes are observed in Sb2S3 films grown on pristine or TiCl4 treated TiO2 films, there are differences in preferential growth of Sb2S3 (hk1) planes, sulfur-enrichment of the chalcogenide film, and superior substrate coverage after the TiCl4 treatment, leading to the decrease of interfacial trap states. The driving force for electron injection in the TiO2/Sb2S3 heterojunction is also favored by the shift on the VB and CB positions of TiCl4 treated TiO2. These findings are in agreement with the improved power conversion efficiency of the planar solar cell FTO/TiO2-Treated/Sb2S3/SbCl3/spiro-OMeTAD/Au.
Electron density analysis of two-electron systems confined by prolate spheroids with hard walls
Authors: Yanajara-Parra Heichi , Corella-Madueño Adalberto , Adrián Duarte-Alcaraz F , Vargas Rubicelia , Garza Jorge
Published: January 2024

The electron density of two-electron systems, He and H2, was analyzed when prolate spheroids with hard walls confine these systems. For this purpose, Hartree–Fock equations were solved using Roothaan's approach with a basis set defined in prolate spheroidal coordinates imposing Dirichlet boundary conditions. Total energy, its components, and orbital energies were analyzed for several confinements, and some of these results were compared with those reported by other authors to test the performance of the proposed approach. For both systems, the electron density exhibits a maximum value out of the nuclear region for extreme confinements. The chemical bond for H2 was analyzed through the concepts of the quantum theory of atoms in molecules, concluding that the chemical bond of this molecule disappears under extreme conditions. For this system, estimations of the correlation energy indicate that this is a small contribution to the total energy, and the Hartree–Fock method contains the necessary elements to describe the chemical bond for strong confinements.
Calcium flow at ER-TGN contact sites facilitates secretory cargo export
Authors: Ramazanov Bulat R. , Parchure Anup , Di Martino Rosaria , Kumar Abhishek , Chung Minhwan , Kim Yeongho , Griesbeck Oliver , Schwartz Martin A. , Luini Alberto , von Blume Julia
Published: January 2024

Ca2+ influx into the trans-Golgi Network (TGN) promotes secretory cargo sorting by the Ca2+-ATPase SPCA1 and the luminal Ca2+ binding protein Cab45. Cab45 oligomerizes upon local Ca2+ influx, and Cab45 oligomers sequester and separate soluble secretory cargo from the bulk flow of proteins in the TGN. However, how this Ca2+ flux into the lumen of the TGN is achieved remains mysterious, as the cytosol has a nanomolar steady-state Ca2+ concentration. The TGN forms membrane contact sites (MCS) with the Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER), allowing protein-mediated exchange of molecular species such as lipids. Here, we show that the TGN export of secretory proteins requires the integrity of ER-TGN MCS and inositol 3 phosphate receptor (IP3R)-dependent Ca2+ fluxes in the MCS, suggesting Ca2+ transfer between these organelles. Using an MCS-targeted Ca2+ FRET sensor module, we measure the Ca2+ flow in these sites in real time. These data show that ER-TGN MCS facilitates the Ca2+ transfer required for Ca2+-dependent cargo sorting and export from the TGN, thus solving a fundamental question in cell biology.
BINGO: a blind unmixing algorithm for ultra-multiplexing fluorescence images
Authors: Huang Xinyuan , Gao Xiujuan , Fu Ling
Published: January 2024

Motivation

Spectral imaging is often used to observe different objects with multiple fluorescent labels to reveal the development of the biological event. As the number of observed objects increases, the spectral overlap between fluorophores becomes more serious, and obtaining a “pure” picture of each fluorophore becomes a major challenge. Here, we propose a blind spectral unmixing algorithm called BINGO (Blind unmixing via SVD-based Initialization Nmf with project Gradient descent and spare cOnstrain), which can extract all kinds of fluorophores more accurately from highly overlapping multichannel data, even if the spectra of the fluorophores are extremely similar or their fluorescence intensity varies greatly.

Results

BINGO can isolate up to 10 fluorophores from spectral imaging data for a single excitation. nine-color living HeLa cells were visualized distinctly with BINGO. It provides an important algorithmic tool for multiplex imaging studies, especially in intravital imaging. BINGO shows great potential in multicolor imaging for biomedical sciences.

Availability and implementation

The source code used for this paper is available with the test data at https://github.com/Xinyuan555/BINGO_unmixing
PACE: randomized, controlled, multicentre, multinational, phase III study of PLX-PAD for critical limb ischaemia in patients unsuitable for revascularization: randomized clinical trial
Authors: Norgren Lars , Weiss Norbert , Nikol Sigrid , Lantis John C , Patel Manesh R , Hinchliffe Robert J , Reinecke Holger , Volk Hans Dieter , Reinke Petra , Fadini Gian Paolo , Ofir Racheli , Rothenstein Daniel , Halevy Nitsan , Karagjozov Mitko , Rundback John H
Published: January 2024

Background

Revascularization is the primary treatment modality for chronic limb-threatening ischaemia (CLTI), but is not feasible in all patients. PLX-PAD is an off-the-shelf, placental-derived, mesenchymal stromal cell-like cell therapy. This study aimed to evaluate whether PLX-PAD would increase amputation-free survival in people with CLTI who were not candidates for revascularization.

Methods

People with CLTI and minor tissue loss (Rutherford 5) who were unsuitable for revascularization were entered into a randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, multinational, blinded, trial, in which PLX-PAD was compared with placebo (2 : 1 randomization), with 30 intramuscular injections (0.5 ml each) into the index leg on days 0 and 60. Planned follow-up was 12–36 months, and included vital status, amputations, lesion size, pain and quality-of-life assessments, haemodynamic parameters, and adverse events.

Results

Of 213 patients enrolled, 143 were randomized to PLX-PAD and 70 to placebo. Demographics and baseline characteristics were balanced. Most patients were Caucasian (96.2%), male (76.1%), and ambulatory (85.9%). Most patients (76.6%) reported at least one adverse event, which were mostly expected events in CLTI, such as skin ulcer or gangrene. The probability of major amputation or death was similar for placebo and PLX-PAD (33 and 28.6% respectively; HR 0.93, 95% c.i. 0.53 to 1.63; P = 0.788). Revascularization and complete wound healing rates were similar in the two groups. A post hoc analysis of a subpopulation of 121 patients with a baseline haemoglobin A1c level below 6.5% showed improved 12-month amputation-free survival (HR 0.46, 0.21 to 0.99; P = 0.048).

Conclusion

Although there was no evidence that PLX-PAD reduced amputation-free survival in the entire study population, benefit was observed in patients without diabetes mellitus or whose diabetes was well controlled; this requires confirmation in further studies. Trial registration: NCT03006770 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov); 2015-005532-18 (EudraCT Clinical Trials register - Search for 2015-005532-18).
Treatment Outcome of Severe Respiratory Type B Tularemia Using Fluoroquinolones
Authors: Widerström Micael , Mörtberg Sara , Magnusson Mattias , Fjällström Peter , Johansson Anders F
Published: January 2024

Background

Fluoroquinolones lack approval for treatment of tularemia but have been used extensively for milder illness. Here, we evaluated fluoroquinolones for severe illness.

Methods

In an observational study, we identified case-patients with respiratory tularemia from July to November 2010 in Jämtland County, Sweden. We defined severe tularemia by hospitalization for >24 hours and severe bacteremic tularemia by Francisella tularensis subsp. holarctica growth in blood or pleural fluid. Clinical data and drug dosing were retrieved from electronic medical records. Chest images were reexamined. We used Kaplan–Meier curves to evaluate time to defervescence and hospital discharge.

Results

Among 67 case-patients (median age, 66 years; 81% males) 30-day mortality was 1.5% (1 of 67). Among 33 hospitalized persons (median age, 71 years; 82% males), 23 had nonbacteremic and 10 had bacteremic severe tularemia. Subpleural round consolidations, mediastinal lymphadenopathy, and unilateral pleural fluid were common on chest computed tomography. Among 29 hospitalized persons with complete outcome data, ciprofloxacin/levofloxacin (n = 12), ciprofloxacin/levofloxacin combinations with doxycycline and/or gentamicin (n = 11), or doxycycline as the single drug (n = 6) was used for treatment. One disease relapse occurred with doxycycline treatment. Treatment responses were rapid, with median fever duration 41.0 hours in nonbacteremic and 115.0 hours in bacteremic tularemia. Increased age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index predicted severe bacteremic tularemia (odds ratio, 2.7 per score-point; 95% confidence interval, 1.35–5.41). A 78-year-old male with comorbidities and delayed ciprofloxacin/gentamicin treatment died.

Conclusions

Fluoroquinolone treatment is effective for severe tularemia. Subpleural round consolidations and mediastinal lymphadenopathy were typical findings on computed tomography among case-patients in this study.
Children, young people and the Commercial Determinants of Health
Authors: Pitt Hannah , McCarthy Simone , Arnot Grace
Published: January 2024

The commercial determinants of health (CDoH) have a significant impact on the health and well-being of children and young people (subsequently referred to as young people). While most research has focused on the influence of harmful industry marketing on young people, more recent CDoH frameworks have emphasized that a range of commercial systems and practices may influence health and well-being. Focusing on the impact of traditional and digital media, contemporary marketing strategies and corporate production and consumption processes, the following article outlines the impact of the CDoH on the health and wellbeing of young people. The article also provides evidence about how young people conceptualize the impact of corporate actors on health, and their involvement in advocacy strategies to respond. The article recommends that when collaborating with young people to understand the impacts of and responses to the CDoH, we should seek to diversify investigations towards the impact of a range of corporate tactics, systems and structures, rather than simply focusing on the impacts of advertising. This should include considering areas and priorities that young people identify as areas for action and understanding why some young people are more vulnerable to commercial tactics than others. Youth are powerful allies in responding to the CDoH. Public health and health promotion stakeholders could do more to champion the voices of young people and allow them to be active participants in the decisions that are made about harmful commercial practices and health.
Framework for implementing asylum seekers and refugees’ health into the undergraduate medical curriculum in the United Kingdom
Authors: Kwok Man Jit Jess , Jacob Wright
Published: January 2024

The Ukrainian conflict and the increasing number of asylum seekers and refugees (AS&Rs) in the United Kingdom have highlighted the critical need for a dedicated AS&R health curriculum in medical undergraduate programmes. This study utilized a mixed-method approach to assess the current state of AS&R curricula worldwide, identify shortcomings in the UK’s medical undergraduate curriculum and determine the specific needs of AS&R. A scoping review of literature revealed an absence of comprehensive AS&R health curricula, with many programmes focusing on broader global health issues. Mapping the General Medical Council’s (GMC) Outcomes for Graduates to a UK medical school’s learning outcomes uncovered misalignments with AS&R health requirements and an online survey of AS&R charities exposed barriers related to accessibility and knowledge. The study’s findings emphasize the importance of introducing or reinforcing specific themes in the medical curriculum, such as clarifying terminology and promoting awareness of AS&R organizations. Employing various teaching methods and continuous assessment are vital to evaluate curriculum effectiveness. The development of an AS&R health curriculum is essential to equip future doctors with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide equitable healthcare to this vulnerable population. The study’s findings can serve as a basis for curriculum development and implementation in UK medical schools.
Monotonicity of thep-Green Functions
Authors: Chan Pak-Yeung , Chu Jianchun , Lee Man-Chun , Tsang Tin-Yau
Published: January 2024

On a complete $p$-nonparabolic $3$-dimensional manifold with non-negative scalar curvature and vanishing second homology, we establish a sharp monotonicity formula for the proper $p$-Green function along its level sets for $1<p<3$. This can be viewed as a generalization of the recent result by Munteanu-Wang [ 43] in the case of $p=2$. No smoothness assumption is made on the $p$-Green function when $1<p\leq 2$. Several rigidity results are also proven.
Easy to Be Selfish: When and Why Is One Individual as Influential as Multiple Individuals
Authors: Yang Zheshuai , Zhang Yan
Published: January 2024

Past research on social influence finds that, all else being equal, a group of people engaged in a particular behavior is generally more influential than a single individual in inspiring others to adopt that behavior. The current research challenges this seemingly intuitive idea by showing that its validity depends on whether the focal behavior is selfish. Seven experiments show that while multiple people are indeed more influential than a single individual in encouraging unselfish behavior, a single individual can be just as influential as multiple people in encouraging selfish behavior. We present evidence that this phenomenon occurs because people generally have a preference for the selfish option and seek justification for their actions. Selfish behavior, whether exhibited by a single individual or a group of people, provides a convenient justification consistent with their preference for selfish behavior. When it comes to unselfish behavior, however, a larger group of influencers is required to counteract their self-benefiting tendencies. Supporting this mechanism, the effect is reversed when people have a pre-existing preference for unselfishness or when selfish behavior is difficult to justify.
Interrelationship between tree-ring width and supra-annual reproductive behaviour of Cedrela odorata: an alert for dendrochronological research
Authors: Costa Monique Silva , de Vasconcellos Thaís Jorge , Lisi Claudio Sergio , Brandes Arno Fritz Neves , Tomazello-Filho Mario , Callado Cátia Henriques
Published: January 2024

Allocating resources for reproduction involves ecological and evolutionary factors and can reduce vegetative growth in plants. This interrelationship is not easily observed in nature, as there are many parameters that can limit the production of reproductive structures or the addition of biomass. We related tree-ring width to supra-annual reproductive behaviour of Cedrela odorata L. (Meliaceae) in the Atlantic Forest of Rio de Janeiro State. In general, the development of reproductive structures occurred in wet years, without water deficit at the beginning of the growth season. However, in these years, tree-ring width was smaller. These results may be associated with the lack of correlation between tree-ring width and local climate. In this way, we highlight the importance of incorporating reproductive data in radial growth studies to expand the understanding of growth variability in tropical forests.
Computably enumerable equivalence relations via primitive recursive reductions
Authors: Kalmurzayev Birzhan S , Bazhenov Nikolay A , Iskakov Alibek M
Published: January 2024

The complexity classification of computably enumerable equivalence relations (or ceers, for short) has received much attention in the recent literature. A measure of complexity is typically provided by an appropriate notion of a reduction. Given binary relations $R$ and $S$ on natural numbers, a total function $f$ is a reduction from $R$ to $S$ if for arbitrary $x$ and $y$, the conditions $x~R~y$ and $f(x)~S~f(y)$ are always equivalent. If the function $f$ can be chosen primitive recursive, then we say that $R$ is primitively recursively reducible to $S$, denoted by $R \leq _{pr} S$. We investigate the degree structure $(\textbf {Ceers},\leq _{pr})$ of $\leq _{pr}$-degrees of ceers. We examine when pairs of incomparable degrees have an infimum and a supremum. In particular, we show that $(\textbf {Ceers},\leq _{pr})$ is neither an upper semilattice nor a lower semilattice. We also study first-order definable subclasses of $(\textbf {Ceers},\leq _{pr})$. In particular, we prove that the set of equivalences that have only finitely many classes is definable in $(\textbf {Ceers},\leq _{pr})$. Finally, we show that the structure of $\leq _{pr}$-degrees of computably enumerable preorders has a hereditarily undecidable theory.
Individual subpulses of PSR B1916+14 and their polarization properties
Authors: Wang Tao , Wang C , Han J L , Cai N N , Jing W C , Yan Yi , Wang P F
Published: January 2024

The individual subpulses of pulsars are regarded as their basic emission components, providing invaluable information for our understanding of the radio emission process in the pulsar magnetosphere. Nevertheless, subpulses are overlapped with each other along the rotation phase for most pulsars, making it difficult to study the statistical properties of subpulses. Among the pulsars observed by the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST), PSR B1916+14 has a large number of isolated well-resolved subpulses in the high-time-resolution observations, having a typical width of 0.15 ms and a high linear polarization. We find that the number distribution of subpulses contributes dominantly to the mean profile. According to the emission geometry, these emission units come from a region roughly 155 km above the polar cap in the pulsar magnetosphere, and the length-scale of the basic emission units is approximately 120 m. The deviations of the polarization position angles for these single subpulses from the standard S-shaped curve are closely related to their fractional linear and circular polarization, and the large deviations tend to come from drifting subpulses.
Spectroscopic analysis of hot, massive stars in large spectroscopic surveys with de-idealized models
Authors: Bestenlehner J M , Enßlin T , Bergemann M , Crowther P A , Greiner M , Selig M
Published: January 2024

Upcoming large-scale spectroscopic surveys with e.g. WEAVE (William herschel telescope Enhanced Area Velocity Explorer) and 4MOST (4-metre Multi-Object Spectroscopic Telescope) will provide thousands of spectra of massive stars, which need to be analysed in an efficient and homogeneous way. Usually, studies of massive stars are limited to samples of a few hundred objects, which pushes current spectroscopic analysis tools to their limits because visual inspection is necessary to verify the spectroscopic fit. Often uncertainties are only estimated rather than derived and prior information cannot be incorporated without a Bayesian approach. In addition, uncertainties of stellar atmospheres and radiative transfer codes are not considered as a result of simplified, inaccurate, or incomplete/missing physics or, in short, idealized physical models. Here, we address the question of ‘How to compare an idealized model of complex objects to real data?’ with an empirical Bayesian approach and maximum a posteriori approximations. We focus on application to large-scale optical spectroscopic studies of complex astrophysical objects like stars. More specifically, we test and verify our methodology on samples of OB stars in 30 Doradus region of the Large Magellanic Clouds using a grid of fastwind model atmospheres. Our spectroscopic model de-idealization analysis pipeline takes advantage of the statistics that large samples provide by determining the model error to account for the idealized stellar atmosphere models, which are included into the error budget. The pipeline performs well over a wide parameter space and derives robust stellar parameters with representative uncertainties.
The Milky Way tomography with Subaru Hyper Suprime-Cam. I. Halo substructures
Authors: Suzuki Yoshihisa , Chiba Masashi , Komiyama Yutaka , Hayashi Kohei , Tanaka Masayuki , Fukushima Tetsuya , Carlsten Scott G , Tokiwa Akira , Qiu Tian , Takada Masahiro
Published: January 2024

We analyze the photometric data in the Wide layer of the Hyper Suprime-Cam Subaru Strategic Program (HSC-SSP) over ∼1200 deg2 to uncover new halo substructures beyond the distance, D⊙ ∼ 30 kpc, from the Sun. For this purpose, we develop an isochrone filter for an old, metal-poor stellar system to extract the faint main-sequence stars at a range of distances. With this method, we detect not only the previously discovered substructures such as the Orphan Stream, but also a new overdensity toward Boötes at about D⊙ ∼ 60 kpc and a new stream-like feature toward Pisces at around D⊙ ∼ 60 kpc. It has been suggested that a small-scale overdensity exists in this direction of Pisces (the so-called Pisces Overdensity), but our results show that the overdensity is widely spread with a tidally elongated feature. Combining our results with the ongoing Hyper Suprime-Cam narrow-band survey and the near-future spectroscopic survey with Prime Focus Spectrograph (PFS) will allow us to place strong constraints on the origin of these halo substructures.
Individuals with fibromyalgia report greater pain sensitivity than healthy adults while listening to their favorite music: the contribution of negative affect
Authors: Wilson Jenna M , Franqueiro Angelina R , Edwards Robert R , Chai Peter R , Schreiber Kristin L
Published: January 2024

Objective

We investigated the impact of favorite music on pain processing among individuals with fibromyalgia. We also examined differences in pain processing between individuals with fibromyalgia and healthy controls (HC) while listening to favorite music and explored whether psychosocial factors contributed to these differences.

Methods

Individuals with fibromyalgia and HC completed baseline psychosocial questionnaires and then underwent quantitative sensory testing (QST) during 3 randomized music conditions (meditative music, favorite music, white noise). Among individuals with fibromyalgia, Friedman tests were used to investigate differences in QST across conditions. Analyses of Covariance were used to examine group (HC vs fibromyalgia) differences in QST during favorite music. Correlations were conducted to explore associations of baseline psychosocial factors with QST during favorite music. Mediation analyses were conducted to explore whether psychosocial factors contributed to greater pain sensitivity among individuals with fibromyalgia compared to HC during favorite music.

Results

Individuals with fibromyalgia were less sensitive to pressure pain while listening to their favorite music compared to white noise. Compared to HC, individuals with fibromyalgia reported higher baseline negative affect and lower pain thresholds and tolerances during favorite music. Negative affect partially mediated the relationship between pain status (HC vs fibromyalgia) and pain sensitivity during favorite music.

Conclusions

Individuals with fibromyalgia were less pain sensitive while listening to favorite music than white noise, although they were more sensitive than HC. Greater negative affect endorsed by individuals with fibromyalgia contributed to their greater pain sensitivity. Future studies should explore the impact of favorite music on clinical pain.

Clinical trails registration

This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04087564) and began on 6/13/2019.
A strategy for mechanically integrating robust hydrogel-tissue hybrid to promote the anti-calcification and endothelialization of bioprosthetic heart valve
Authors: Wu Haoshuang , Chen Nuoya , Zheng Tiantian , Li Li , Hu Mengyue , Qin Yumei , Guo Gaoyang , Yang Li , Wang Yunbing
Published: January 2024

Bioprosthetic heart valve (BHV) replacement has been the predominant treatment for severe heart valve diseases over decades. Most clinically available BHVs are crosslinked by glutaraldehyde (GLUT), while the high toxicity of residual GLUT could initiate calcification, severe thrombosis, and delayed endothelialization. Here, we construed a mechanically integrating robust hydrogel-tissue hybrid to improve the performance of BHVs. In particular, recombinant humanized collagen type III (rhCOLIII), which was precisely customized with anti-coagulant and pro-endothelialization bioactivity, was first incorporated into the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based hydrogel via hydrogen bond interactions. Then, tannic acid was introduced to enhance the mechanical performance of PVA-based hydrogel and interfacial bonding between the hydrogel layer and bio-derived tissue due to the strong affinity for a wide range of substrates. In vitro and in vivo experimental results confirmed that the GLUT-crosslinked BHVs modified by the robust PVA-based hydrogel embedded rhCOLIII and TA possessed long-term anti-coagulant, accelerated endothelialization, mild inflammatory response and anti-calcification properties. Therefore, our mechanically integrating robust hydrogel-tissue hybrid strategy showed the potential to enhance the service function and prolong the service life of the BHVs after implantation.