bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CuCr2O4 particle growth and evolution across sol–gel routes and calcination profiles
Authors: Billman J. , Reimanis I. E. , Ambrosini A. , Jackson G.
Published: July 2023

CuCr2O4 spinel is a candidate coating material for central receivers in concentrating solar power to protect structural alloys against high temperature oxidation and related degradation. Coating performance and microstructure of dip-coated and sintered coatings is dictated by the initial particle size of the CuCr2O4 and sintering temperature, but can be compromised by particle agglomeration. In this study, sub-micron particles were synthesised through the Pechini and modified Pechini sol–gel methods. Phase composition was confirmed via X-ray diffraction. Particle growth during calcination of the nanoparticles at different temperatures (650°C, 750°C, 850°C) and times (between 1 and 24 h) was measured via laser diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The modified Pechini method displayed evidence of smaller particle sizes and greater agglomeration. The kinetics of particle growth observed are consistent with a diffusion limited inhibited grain growth model.
A wide-incidence-angle insensitive multi-polarization converter based on reflective metasurface
Authors: Wu Jinghong , Wang Xin , Xiao Hui , Wang Yuxin , Fan Zhenteng , Zhang Huaiqing
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we propose a wide-incidence-angle insensitive reflective metasurface multi-polarization converter, using split-ring-resonators and cross oscillators structure. The simulated results indicate that the polarization conversion ratio for linear to linear (LTL) polarization conversion is greater than 90% in three frequency bands of 5.03–5.19 GHz (3.13%), 6.38–6.82 GHz (6.67%) and 7.38–7.44 GHz (0.81%). Meanwhile, the axial ratio for linear to circular (LTC) polarization conversion is less than 3 dB in four frequency bands of 4.79–5 GHz (4.29%), 5.24–6.27 GHz (17.90%), 6.94–7.35 GHz (5.74%) and 7.45–7.48 GHz (0.40%). LTL or LTC polarization conversion will not be affected when the incidence angle is tilted by 45° under both transverse electric and transverse magnetic modes. To verify the polarization conversion performance, a sample consisting of 18 × 18 unit cells is fabricated and measured. The measured results are found to be in reasonable agreement with the simulated results, demonstrating the potential application of this design for future microwave polarization state manipulation.
RCS reduction based on double parabolic phased metasurface
Authors: Zhao Song , Wu Chao , Zhang Zhihui , Jie Wang , Yu Xie , Li Song , Li Hongqiang
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a novel metasurface design strategy to realize broadband radar cross section (RCS) reduction. The phase distribution across the metasurface aperture can be regarded as applying an additional parabolic phase upon periodically arranged parabolic subarrays. Such a design fully utilizes the diffusive scattering nature of the parabolic phase distribution. Since the proposed metasurface is governed by only two focal lengths, the optimization procedure is quite easy compared to metasurface with random coding sequence. Experimental results show that the proposed metasurface can achieve more than 10 dB RCS reduction from 7.52 GHz to 19.66 GHz with a fractional bandwidth of 89.3% under both linearly and circularly polarized normal incidences, and keeping a performance of more than 7 dB RCS reduction until the incident angle increases to 40° for both x-polarized and y-polarized incidences in the frequency range of 8–19.35 GHz. When the incident angle increases to 60°, 7 dB RCS reduction can still be obtained for x-polarized incidence from 7.9 GHz to 19.35 GHz with a fractional bandwidth of 84%.
The exploration of hot and dense nuclear matter: introduction to relativistic heavy-ion physics
Authors: Elfner Hannah , Müller Berndt
Published: July 2023

This article summarizes our present knowledge about nuclear matter at the highest energy densities and its formation in relativistic heavy ion collisions. We review what is known about the structure and properties of the quark-gluon plasma and survey the observables that are used to glean information about it from experimental data.
Experimental evaluation of damping models for a nonlinear pendulum system
Authors: Dao Duc Long
Published: July 2023

Popular damping models for a single pendulum system were experimentally evaluated in this study. The comparison between the numerical and experimental responses showed that neither linear viscous damping model nor squared velocity proportional viscous damping model was able to well capture the free vibration amplitudes of the pendulum in both large and small amplitude ranges. Specifically, the amplitudes of the numerical model with linear viscous damping decreased slower at the large amplitude vibration but faster at the small amplitude vibration than the experimental amplitudes did. The trend was reverse in the numerical model with the squared velocity proportional viscous damping model. Based on the experimental data and a numerical method combined with a fitting approach, a complete quadratic viscous damping model for the pendulum was derived. The model was able to confidently predict the free vibration amplitudes of the pendulum in both large and small amplitude ranges. This study provides analysts with the sense of the accuracy of some popular damping models for a nonlinear pendulum system. It also demonstrates the use of a fitting approach to retrieve physical properties of a system from experimental data. The contents of this paper are suitable for gifted high school students and undergraduate students.
Mean dose rate in ultra-high dose rate electron irradiation is a significant predictor for O2 consumption and H2O2 yield
Authors: Sunnerberg Jacob P , Zhang Rongxiao , Gladstone David J , Swartz Harold M , Gui Jiang , Pogue Brian W
Published: July 2023

Objective. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of mean and instantaneous dose rates on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during ultra-high dose rate (UHDR) radiotherapy. The study aimed to determine whether either dose rate type plays a role in driving the FLASH effect, a phenomenon where UHDR radiotherapy reduces damage to normal tissues while maintaining tumor control. Approach. Assays of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production and oxygen consumption (ΔpO2) were conducted using UHDR electron irradiation. Aqueous solutions of 4% albumin were utilized as the experimental medium. The study compared the effects of varying mean dose rates and instantaneous dose rates on ROS yields. Instantaneous dose rate was varied by changing the source-to-surface distance (SSD), resulting in instantaneous dose rates ranging from 102 to 106 Gy s−1. Mean dose rate was manipulated by altering the pulse frequency of the linear accelerator (linac) and by changing the SSD, ranging from 0.14 to 1500 Gy s−1. Main results. The study found that both ΔH2O2 and ΔpO2 decreased as the mean dose rate increased. Multivariate analysis indicated that instantaneous dose rates also contributed to this effect. The variation in ΔpO2 was dependent on the initial oxygen concentration in the solution. Based on the analysis of dose rate variation, the study estimated that 7.51 moles of H2O2 were produced for every mole of O2 consumed. Significance. The results highlight the significance of mean dose rate as a predictor of ROS production during UHDR radiotherapy. As the mean dose rate increased, there was a decrease in oxygen consumption and in H2O2 production. These findings have implications for understanding the FLASH effect and its potential optimization. The study sheds light on the role of dose rate parameters and their impact on radiochemical outcomes, contributing to the advancement of UHDR radiotherapy techniques.
A group of ductile metallic glasses prepared by modifying local structure of icosahedral quasicrystals
Authors: Qiao 乔 Qi 琪 , Wang 王 Ji 吉 , Cai 蔡 Zhengqing 正清 , Feng 冯 Shidong 士东 , Song 宋 Zhenqiang 贞强 , Huo 霍 Benke 本科 , Li 李 Zijing 子敬 , Wang 王 Li-Min 利民
Published: July 2023

Inspired by research into the association between icosahedral local orders and the plasticity of metallic glasses (MGs), beryllium (Be) is added to the icosahedral quasi-crystal forming alloy Zr40Ti40Ni20. In this way, bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) with favorable compressive plasticity are fabricated. Therein, the icosahedral quasi-crystalline phase is the main competing phase of amorphous phases and icosahedral local orders are the main local atomic motifs in amorphous phases. The alloys of (Zr40Ti40Ni20)76Be24 and (Zr40Ti40Ni20)72Be28 with their greater plastic strain capacity show similar characteristics to highly plastic amorphous systems: The serrated flow of compression curves always follows a near-exponential distribution. The primary and secondary shear bands intersect each other, bifurcate, and bend. Typical vein patterns are densely distributed on the fracture surfaces. The relaxation enthalpy of four MGs is linearly correlated with the plastic strain, that is, the greater the relaxation enthalpy, the larger the plastic strain.
LFP-based binder-free electrodes produced via fused filament fabrication
Authors: Ramos-Fajardo José Miguel , Peláez-Tirado Isabel María , Marín-Rueda Juan Ramón , Castro-García Miguel , Canales-Vázquez Jesús , Pérez-Flores Juan Carlos
Published: July 2023

Carbon coated-LiFePO4 (LFP) is a strong candidate as lithium-ion battery (LiB) cathode due to the combination of safe operation, stable electrochemical performance and positive environmental impact as does not depend on Co, which is toxic and a critical raw material. In this work, we report the development of binder-free LFP cathodes fabricated by fused filament fabrication (FFF) technology. Several novel carbon-LFP filaments have been developed to 3D-print LiB cathodes, analysing both the carbon to LFP ratio in the formulation and also the impact of the carbon source used as current collector, i.e. glassy carbon (GC) microspheres or carbon black (CB), in the electrochemical performance. LFP remained stable upon debinding and sintering at temperatures as low as 500 °C as determined by x-ray diffraction. The conductivity of 3D printed LFP monoliths was 2.06 × 10−4 S∙cm−1 at 50 °C, which is fairly close to that of LFP produced via conventional processing. This is mainly attributed to the preservation of the carbon coating around the LFP particles after debinding and sintering under controlled Ar atmospheres. The LFP-based electrodes containing CB or GC microspheres as conductive additives exhibited specific capacities of 150 mAh g−1, and over 95% coulombic efficiency after 100 cycles, showing no significant performance losses. These results largely exceed the performances reported for previous LFP-based electrodes produced via FFF as the non-active binder is removed upon fabrication.
Accelerating variational quantum eigensolver convergence using parameter transfer
Authors: Skogh Mårten , Leinonen Oskar , Lolur Phalgun , Rahm Martin
Published: July 2023

One impediment to the useful application of variational quantum algorithms in quantum chemistry is slow convergence with large numbers of classical optimization parameters. In this work, we evaluate a quantum computational warm-start approach for potential energy surface calculations. Our approach, which is inspired by conventional computational methods, is evaluated using simulations of the variational quantum eigensolver. Significant speedup is demonstrated relative to calculations that rely on a Hartree–Fock initial state, both for ideal and sampled simulations. The general approach of transferring parameters between similar problems is promising for accelerating current and near-term quantum chemistry calculations on quantum hardware, and is likely applicable beyond the tested algorithm and use case.
Biofabrication strategies with single-cell resolution: a review
Authors: Zhou Dezhi , Dou Bohan , Kroh Florian , Wang Chuqian , Ouyang Liliang
Published: July 2023

The introduction of living cells to manufacturing process has enabled the engineering of complex biological tissues in vitro. The recent advances in biofabrication with extremely high resolution (e.g. at single cell level) have greatly enhanced this capacity and opened new avenues for tissue engineering. In this review, we comprehensively overview the current biofabrication strategies with single-cell resolution and categorize them based on the dimension of the single-cell building blocks, i.e. zero-dimensional single-cell droplets, one-dimensional single-cell filaments and two-dimensional single-cell sheets. We provide an informative introduction to the most recent advances in these approaches (e.g. cell trapping, bioprinting, electrospinning, microfluidics and cell sheets) and further illustrated how they can be used in in vitro tissue modelling and regenerative medicine. We highlight the significance of single-cell-level biofabrication and discuss the challenges and opportunities in the field.
triumphal arches, reception of
Authors: Cassibry Kimberly
Published: July 2023

Triumphal arches originated in the Roman Empire and have been constructed for over two thousand years. These free-standing portals are more accurately known as arch monuments, commemorative arches, or honorific arches due to their diverse functions. Arcuated shapes allow these monuments to span significant roads; multiple façades create space for dedicatory inscriptions, relief sculptures, and statues. Varied reception of this fundamental design concept—a free-standing portal with words and images—is evident in each commemorative arch. Reception of individual arch monuments can be traced through descriptions, representations, and interventions.

The Roman arches dedicated to the emperors Titus (c. 81 ce), Septimius Severus and his sons (c. 203 ce), and Constantine I (315 ce) have strongly influenced the monument’s modern reception, even though they do not represent the monument’s full range of ancient designs and functions. In major European revivals since antiquity, ephemeral arches have adorned political processions, and permanent monuments have commemorated imperial military victories. In the 20th century, arch monuments arose in cities around the globe, often amid debates about national identity.
Efficacy of the Modified 5-Item Frailty Index in Predicting Surgical-Site Infections in Patients Undergoing Breast Implant Augmentation: A National Surgical Quality Improvement Project-Based 5-Year Study
Authors: Liu Helen , Akhavan Arya , Yin Raymond , Ibelli Taylor , Mandelbaum Max , Katz Abigail , Etigunta Suhas , Alerte Eric , Kuruvilla Annet , Liu Chuanju , Taub Peter J
Published: July 2023

Background

The ability to predict breast implant augmentation complications can significantly inform patient management. A frailty measure, such as the modified 5-item frailty index (mFI-5), is becoming an increasingly established risk factor for adverse postoperative outcomes. The authors hypothesized that the mFI-5 is predictive of 30-day postoperative complications in breast augmentation.

Objectives

To investigate if mFI-5 can predict the likelihood and magnitude of 30-day complications resulting from breast augmentations.

Methods

A retrospective review study of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database for patients who underwent breast implant augmentation without other concurrent procedures, from 2015 to 2019. Age, BMI, number of major comorbidities, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classifications, smoking status, mFI-5 score, and modified Charlson comorbidity index score were compared as predictors of all-cause 30-day complications and 30-day surgical-site complications using regression analyses.

Results

Overall, 2478 patients were analyzed, and among them, 53 patients developed complications (2.14%). mFI-5 score significantly predicted surgical-site infection (SSI) complications (odds ratio [OR] = 4.24, P = .026). Frail patients had a higher occurrence of SSIs than nonfrail patients (P = .049). Multivariable analyses showed ASA class predicted 30-day SSI complications (OR = 5.77, P = .027) and mFI-5 approached, but did not reach full significance in predicting overall 30-day complications (OR = 3.14, P = .085).

Conclusions

To date, the impact of frailty on breast implant procedure outcomes has not been studied. Our analysis demonstrates that the mFI-5 is a significant predictor for SSIs in breast implant augmentation surgery and is associated with overall complications. By preoperatively identifying frail patients, the surgical team can better account for postoperative support to minimize the risk of complications.

Level of Evidence: 4
Increased risk of depression in patients with discoid lupus erythematosus: a nested, case–control study in the All of Us Research Program
Authors: Chen Gloria F , Shaw Katharina S , Sanchez-Melendez Stephanie , Vleugels Ruth Ann , Cohen Jeffrey M
Published: July 2023

In this nested case–control study, we found a twofold increased risk of major depressive disorder in patients with discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) vs. controls without DLE, using the All of Us database, a National Institutes of Health (USA) research programme that prioritizes recruitment from demographic groups under-represented in biomedical research. This is the first large-scale study of this association in a heterogeneous population and highlights the importance vigilance regarding the increased risk of depression in patients with DLE.
Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct: review of updated clinicopathological and imaging characteristics
Authors: Kim Jae Ri , Jang Kee-Taek , Jang Jin-Young
Published: July 2023

Background

Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct (IPNB) is a relatively rare disease and is known as one of the premalignant lesions in the biliary tract. The concept of IPNB has changed through numerous studies and is still evolving. As a lesser studied clinical entity compared with its pancreatic counterpart, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, IPNB has been described in many similar terms, including biliary papillomatosis, biliary intraductal papillary–mucinous neoplasm, and papillary cholangiocarcinoma. This is based on the diversity of histopathological spectrum of IPNB.

Methods

This review investigated previous studies including original articles, case studies, and expert opinions. Recently, two types of IPNB (types 1 and 2) have been proposed and validated based on the content first established in the WHO 2010 criteria.

Results

This review provides a comprehensive analysis of existing literature, summarizing the clinical, radiological, morphological, and pathological characteristics of IPNB.

Conclusion

Given the ongoing ambiguity and controversies surrounding IPNB, future research, including large population-based studies and molecular investigations, is essential to enhance understanding of this disease.
Measurement properties of performance-based measures to assess physical function in chronic kidney disease: recommendations from a COSMIN systematic review
Authors: MacRae Jennifer M , Harasemiw Oksana , Lightfoot Courtney J , Thompson Stephanie , Wytsma-Fisher Kathryn , Koufaki Pelagia , Bohm Clara , Wilkinson Thomas J
Published: July 2023

Background

There is wide heterogeneity in physical function tests available for clinical and research use, hindering our ability to synthesize evidence. The aim of this review was to identify and evaluate physical function measures that could be recommended for standardized use in chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CINAHL, Scopus and Web of Science were searched from inception to March 2022, identifying studies that evaluated a clinimetric property (validity, reliability, measurement error and/or responsiveness) of an objectively measured performance-based physical function outcomes using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) methodology and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) based recommendations. Studies with individuals of all ages and of any stage of CKD were included.

Results

In total, 50 studies with 21 315 participants were included. Clinimetric properties were reported for 22 different physical function tests. The short physical performance battery (SPPB), Timed-up-and-go (TUG) test and Sit-to-stand tests (STS-5 and STS-60) had favorable properties to support their use in CKD and should be integrated into routine use. However, the majority of studies were conducted in the hemodialysis population, and very few provided information regarding validity or reliability.

Conclusion

The SPPB demonstrated the highest quality of evidence for reliability, measurement error and construct validity amongst transplant, CKD and dialysis patients. This review is an important step towards standardizing a core outcome set of tools to measure physical function in research and clinical settings for the CKD population.
Statins for primary prevention in multimorbid patients: to prescribe or not to prescribe? A qualitative analysis of general practitioners’ decision-making processes
Authors: Onaisi Racha , Bezzazi Anaïs , Berthouin Thomas , Boulet Justine , Hasselgard-Rowe Jennifer , Maisonneuve Hubert
Published: July 2023

Introduction

A better understanding of the determinants involved in general practitioners’ (GPs) decision-making processes when it comes to prescribing statins as primary prevention in patients with multimorbidity could provide insights for improving implementation of primary prevention guidelines.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study using a deductive framework-based and inductive analysis of GPs’ semi-structured interviews verbatim, from which expertise profiles of prescribers were also drawn. The analytical framework was built from a pragmatic synthesis of the evidence-based medicine, Modelling using Typified Objects (MOT) model of clinical reasoning processes, Theoretical Domains Framework, and shared decision-making frameworks.

Results

Fifteen GPs were interviewed between June 2019 and January 2020. Diabetes seemed to represent a specific motivation for deciding about statin prescription for primary prevention purposes; and in situations of multimorbidity, GPs differentiated between cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular multimorbidity. Expert prescribers seemed to have integrated the utilisation of cardiovascular risk calculation scores throughout their practice, whereas non-expert prescribers considered them difficult to interpret and preferred using more of a “rule of thumb” process. One interviewee used the risk calculation score as a support for discussing statin prescription with the patient.

Conclusion

Our results shed light on the reasons why statins remain under-prescribed for primary prevention and why non-diabetic multimorbid patients have even lower odds of being prescribed a statin. They call for a change in the use of risk assessment scores, by placing them as decision aids, to support and improve personalised shared decision-making discussions as an efficient approach to improve the implementation of recommendations about statins for primary prevention.
Wood Supply from Family Forests of the United States: Biophysical, Social, and Economic Factors
Authors: Butler Brett J , Sass Emma M
Published: July 2023

Wood products are an essential provisioning ecosystem service with US forests providing nearly one-fifth of global wood supply. As of 2018, an estimated 46% of the annual wood harvested came from corporate forests, 42% came from family forests, and the remainder came from other private, public, and Tribal forests. The supply of wood from corporate forests is well described by traditional economic models, but the supply from family forests is much less well understood. This article combines data from three components of the USDA Forest Service’s Forest Inventory and Analysis program—plots, landowner surveys, and mill surveys—with other data to model the wood supply from family forests in the United States. Results are summarized in terms of bivariate relationships and a logistic regression model. The model results show that basal area, stand origin, forest type, having timber as an ownership objective, the amount of annual income derived from their forestland, proximity to a mill, management advice, and region are significantly associated with family forest timber harvesting. The results should be useful for forest industry analysts and others interested in understanding the current and potential future supply of wood from family forests.

Study Implications: Family forests provide an estimated 42% of the annual timber harvested in the United States. It is important to understand the factors affecting their harvesting behaviors to design effective policies and programs to ensure a continual supply and sustainable management of this critical resource. This article shows that timber harvesting by family forest owners is influenced by a combination of biophysical, social, and economic factors, including basal area, stand origin, forest type, having timber as an ownership objective, the amount of annual income derived from their forestland, proximity to a mill, management advice, and region. These results suggest that programs aimed at increasing the area covered by planted stands, the area covered by softwood stands, and the number of owners receiving forest management advice may be particularly influential in maintaining and increasing the amount of wood harvested from family forests.
The Well-being Effects of an Old-Age Pension: Experimental Evidence for Ekiti State in Nigeria
Authors: Alzua Maria Laura , Cantet Natalia , Dammert Ana C , Olajide Damilola
Published: July 2023

Many countries in the developing world have implemented old-age pensions. Evidence of the impact of such policies on the elderly in sub-Saharan Africa, however, is scarce. We provide evidence from a randomised evaluation of an unconditional old-age pension targeted at the elderly in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Our findings show that treated beneficiaries self-report better quality of life and a more stable mental health. We also provide evidence of spillover effects on the labor outcomes of other household members and of household savings patterns as well as support for interventions aimed at improving the welfare of elderly poor citizens and other household members.
Characteristics and therapeutic strategies of brain and cranial radiation-induced sarcoma: analysis of 165 cases from our case experience and comprehensive review
Authors: Onishi Shumpei , Yamasaki Fumiyuki , Kinoshita Yasuyuki , Amatya Vishwa J , Takayasu Takeshi , Yonezawa Ushio , Taguchi Akira , Go Yukari , Takeshima Yukio , Horie Nobutaka
Published: July 2023

Background

Radiation-induced sarcoma (RIS) is among the neoplasms potentially caused by radiation therapy (RT) for brain tumors. However, the clinical characteristics of and ideal treatment for RIS are unclear. We analysed our case experience and conducted a comprehensive literature review to reveal the characteristics of brain and cranial RIS.

Methods

We analysed 165 cases of RIS from the literature together with the RIS case treated at our institution. In each case, the latency period from irradiation to the development of each RIS and the median overall survival (OS) of the patients was analysed by Kaplan–Meier analysis. Spearman’s correlation test was used to determine the relationship between the latency period and radiation dose or age at irradiation.

Results

The mean age at the development of RIS was 39.63 ± 17.84 years. The mean latency period was 11.79 ± 8.09 years. No factors associated with early development of RIS were detected. The median OS was 11 months, with fibrosarcoma showing significantly shorter OS compared with osteosarcoma and other sarcomas (p = 0.0021), and intracranial RIS showing a worse prognosis than extracranial RIS (p < 0.0001). Patients treated with surgery (p < 0.0001) and postoperative chemotherapy (p = 0.0157) for RIS presented significantly longer OS, whereas RT for RIS was not associated with a survival benefit.

Conclusions

Although prognosis for RIS is universally poor, pathological characteristics and locations are associated with worse prognosis. Surgery and chemotherapy may be the ideal treatment strategies for RIS.
Impact of postoperative complications on long-term survival in bladder cancer patients
Authors: Abe Takashige , Yamada Shuhei , Kikuchi Hiroshi , Sazawa Ataru , Katano Hidenori , Suzuki Hidetaka , Takeuchi Ichiro , Minami Keita , Morita Ken , Tsuchiya Kunihiko , Takada Norikata , Maru Shintaro , Sato Soshu , Yamashita Takanori , Mochizuki Tango , Akino Tomoshige , Sasaki Yoshihiro , Shinno Yuichiro , Murahashi Norihiro , Kawazu Takafumi , Furumido Jun , Miyata Haruka , Matsumoto Ryuji , Osawa Takahiro , Murai Sachiyo , Shinohara Nobuo
Published: July 2023

Objective

To determine the impact of postoperative complications on long-term survival outcomes in patients with bladder cancer undergoing radical cystectomy.

Methods

This retrospective multi-institutional study included 766 bladder cancer patients who underwent radical cystectomy between 2011 and 2017. Patient characteristics, perioperative outcomes, all complications within 90 days after surgery and survival outcomes were collected. Each complication was graded based on the Clavien-Dindo system, and grouped using a standardized grouping method. The Comprehensive Complication Index, which incorporates all complications into a single formula weighted by their severity, was utilized. Overall survival and recurrence-free survival (local, distant or urothelial recurrences) were stratified by Comprehensive Complication Index (high: ≥26.2; low: <26.2). A multivariate model was utilized to identify independent prognostic factors.

Results

The incidence of any and major complications (≥Clavien-Dindo grade III) was 70 and 24%, respectively. In terms of Comprehensive Complication Index, 34% (261/766) of the patients had ≥26.2. Patients with Comprehensive Complication Index ≥ 26.2 had shorter overall survival (4-year, 59.5 vs. 69.8%, respectively, log-rank test, P = 0.0037) and recurrence free survival (51.9 vs. 60.1%, respectively, P = 0.0234), than those with Comprehensive Complication Index < 26.2. The Cox multivariate model identified the age, performance status, pT-stage, pN-stage and higher CCI (overall survival: HR = 1.35, P = 0.0174, recurrence-free survival: HR = 1.26, P = 0.0443) as independent predictors of both overall survivial and recurrence-free survival.

Conclusions

Postoperative complications assessed by Comprehensive Complication Index had adverse effects on long-term survival outcomes. Physicians should be aware that major postoperative complications can adversely affect long-term disease control.
Xylem embolism and bubble formation during freezing suggest complex dynamics of pressure in Betula pendula stems
Authors: Charra-Vaskou Katline , Lintunen Anna , Améglio Thierry , Badel Eric , Cochard Hervé , Mayr Stefan , Salmon Yann , Suhonen Heikki , van Rooij Mahaut , Charrier Guillaume
Published: July 2023

Freeze–thaw-induced embolism, a key limiting factor for perennial plants results from the formation of gas bubbles during freezing and their expansion during thawing. However, the ice volumetric increase generates local pressures, which can affect the formation of bubbles. To characterize local dynamics of pressure tension and the physical state of the sap during freeze–thaw cycles, we simultaneously used ultrasonic acoustic emission analysis and synchrotron-based high-resolution computed tomography on the diffuse-porous species Betula pendula. Visualization of individual air-filled vessels and the distribution of gas bubbles in frozen xylem were performed.. Ultrasonic emissions occurred after ice formation, together with bubble formation, whereas the development of embolism took place after thawing. The pictures of frozen tissues indicated that the positive pressure induced by the volumetric increase of ice can provoke inward flow from the cell wall toward the lumen of the vessels. We found no evidence that wider vessels within a tissue were more prone to embolism, although the occurrence of gas bubbles in larger conduits would make them prone to earlier embolism. These results highlight the need to monitor local pressure as well as ice and air distribution during xylem freezing to understand the mechanism leading to frost-induced embolism.
Stellar halo substructure generated by bar resonances
Authors: Dillamore Adam M , Belokurov Vasily , Evans N Wyn , Davies Elliot Y
Published: July 2023

Using data from the Gaia satellite’s Radial Velocity Spectrometer Data Release 3 (RVS, DR3), we find a new and robust feature in the phase-space distribution of halo stars. It is a prominent ridge at constant energy and with angular momentum Lz > 0. We run test particle simulations of a stellar halo-like distribution of particles in a realistic Milky Way potential with a rotating bar. We observe similar structures generated in the simulations from the trapping of particles in resonances with the bar, particularly at the corotation resonance. Many of the orbits trapped at the resonances are halo like, with large vertical excursions from the disc. The location of the observed structure in energy space is consistent with a bar pattern speed in the range Ωb ≈ 35−40 km s−1 kpc−1. Overall, the effect of the resonances is to give the inner stellar halo a mild, net spin in the direction of the bar’s rotation. As the distribution of the angular momentum becomes asymmetric, a population of stars with positive mean Lz and low vertical action is created. The variation of the average rotational velocity of the simulated stellar halo with radius is similar to the behaviour of metal-poor stars in data from the APOGEE survey. Though the effects of bar resonances have long been known in the Galactic disc, this is strong evidence that the bar can drive changes even in the diffuse and extended stellar halo through its resonances.
Stochastic gravitational wave background constraints from Gaia DR3 astrometry
Authors: Jaraba Santiago , García-Bellido Juan , Kuroyanagi Sachiko , Ferraiuolo Sarah , Braglia Matteo
Published: July 2023

Astrometric surveys can be used to constrain the stochastic gravitational wave background (SGWB) at very low frequencies. We use proper motion data provided by Gaia DR3 to fit a generic dipole+quadrupole field. We analyse several quasar-based data sets and discuss their purity and idoneity to set constraints on gravitational waves. For the cleanest data set, we derive an upper bound on the (frequency-integrated) energy density of the SGWB $h_{70}^2\Omega _{\rm GW}\lesssim 0.087$ for 4.2 × 10−18 Hz ≲ f ≲ 1.1 × 10−8 Hz. We also reanalyse previous VLBI-based data to set the constraint $h_{70}^2\Omega _{\rm GW}\lesssim 0.024$ for 5.8 × 10−18 Hz ≲ f ≲ 1.4 × 10−9 Hz under the same formalism, standing as the best astrometric constraint on GWs. Based on our results, we discuss the potential of future Gaia data releases to impose tighter constraints.
Mechanism of the extremely high duplex-forming ability of oligonucleotides modified with N-tert-butylguanidine- or N-tert-butyl-N′- methylguanidine-bridged nucleic acids
Authors: Yamaguchi Takao , Horie Naohiro , Aoyama Hiroshi , Kumagai Shinji , Obika Satoshi
Published: July 2023

Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are becoming a promising class of drugs for treating various diseases. Over the past few decades, many modified nucleic acids have been developed for application to ASOs, aiming to enhance their duplex-forming ability toward cognate mRNA and improve their stability against enzymatic degradations. Modulating the sugar conformation of nucleic acids by substituting an electron-withdrawing group at the 2′-position or incorporating a 2′,4′-bridging structure is a common approach for enhancing duplex-forming ability. Here, we report on incorporating an N-tert-butylguanidinium group at the 2′,4′-bridging structure, which greatly enhances duplex-forming ability because of its interactions with the minor groove. Our results indicated that hydrophobic substituents fitting the grooves of duplexes also have great potential to increase duplex-forming ability.
Tobacco Constituents, Flavorants, and Paper Permeability of Factory-Made and Roll-Your-Own Cigarettes on the Australian Market
Authors: Haynes Ashleigh , Winnall Wendy R , Brennan Emily , Dunstone Kimberley , Benowitz Neal L , Ashley David L , Samet Jonathan M , Hatsukami Dorothy K , Wakefield Melanie A
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Roll-your-own (RYO) tobacco is a popular choice in Australia, with some people who smoke finding these products more attractive than factory-made cigarettes (FMC). Differences in visual and tactile properties and in the feel and taste of the smoke may contribute to this attractiveness. These differences may be driven by variation in tobacco constituents and wrapping paper permeability. However, to date, there has been no comparison of RYO and FMC products on the Australian market.

Aims and Methods

Chemical constituents, pH, flavorants, and paper permeability were compared in unburned RYO tobacco and tobacco from FMC. RYO and FMC products from matched brands were compared, as were products from the most popular FMC and RYO brands on the Australian market in 2018.

Results

RYO tobacco had higher moisture and humectant content (glycerol and propylene glycol) than FMC tobacco. RYO tobacco also had higher amounts of total and reducing sugars and lower nicotine when comparing the most popular brands. RYO papers were less permeable than FMC papers. Both RYO and FMC tobacco contained many chemicals identified as flavorants, including fourteen with known potential health risks. For most measured constituents and flavorants, RYO tobaccos had more in common with other RYO than FMC, with the commonalities remaining even when matched brands were compared.

Conclusions

Higher levels of moisture, humectants, and sugars in Australian RYO tobacco compared to FMC may be increasing attractiveness of RYO by reducing the harsh taste of the smoke and increasing the moist feel of the tobacco.

Implications

While price is the main factor driving the use of RYO tobacco, some people who smoke find these products more attractive. This study has shown that Australian RYO tobacco contains higher amounts of glycerol, propylene glycol, and sugars than FMC. These chemicals may be improving the taste of the tobacco, as well as creating a moist feel that is falsely perceived as indicating that the tobacco is “fresh” and “less chemically.” Ironically, it may be that higher amounts of some added chemicals in RYO contribute to false perceptions of a more natural and less harmful product.
Beyond the Fire of Attrition
Authors: Craig-McFeely Julia
Published: July 2023

Digital images of manuscripts are primarily used today in much the same way as hardcopy research surrogates have been used since photography was introduced, allowing researchers to examine a manuscript page repeatedly and in detail without handling the book. This chapter explores the use of forensic musicology in the digital medium as a way of reconstructing lost manuscript content, focusing primarily on the Sadler Partbooks (Oxford, Bodleian Library MSS Mus. e. 1–5) as a case study. It examines the use of various surrogates as an aid to reconstructing a corpus. The chapter is both a case study and an introductory guide for those interested in the intersection of digital retrieval with archival and manuscript research.
Remaking Marathi
Authors: Deshpande Prachi
Published: July 2023

This chapter critically examines Mahārāṣhṭra Sāraswat (1898), by Vinayak Lakshman (V. L.) Bhave, the first comprehensive history of Marathi literature. Several regional languages across the subcontinent—glossed as deshī languages or deshbhāṣhā—were located in history via literary histories or historical linguistics over the later 19th century. Such pioneering narratives were crucial for assembling the literary field within particular languages and establishing terms of debate over genre, register, and categories of analysis. They were culminations of efforts by colonial and first-generation Western-educated Indian writers to engage with language as a historical category and to narrativize centuries of textuality in orality and manuscript as it unevenly entered print and the colonial public sphere. This chapter revisits the making of Bhave’s pioneering history and narrativization of the Marathi literary corpus for literary debates and analysis over the 20th century and the making of Marathi literary modernism. It argues that Bhave’s engagement with the idea of literariness through the category Saraswat enabled an expansive, chronological archiving of Marathi literature. In addition, his framing of Marathi’s evolutionary history and the overarching themes of authenticity and rootedness, in particular, are key to understanding the endurance of these concerns in the contemporary Marathi literary and political sphere.
Legal Evidence
Authors: Todd S. C.
Published: July 2023

Legal evidence from the classical Greek world is significantly more disparate than for Roman law. This is partly a function of the political independence of Greek city states, each in principle forming its own jurisdiction. Perhaps more important, however, is the absence of a tightly defined corpus of legal writings of the type found in Roman law, which therefore raises additional questions about what counts as Greek legal evidence. Geographically, the sources discussed in this chapter come mainly from Athens and from the Cretan city of Gortyn, with some mention also of Sparta. The juridical scope includes not just ‘laws’ in the sense of legal statutes or statements about their content, but also records and reports of activities such as litigation, and of transactions or behaviours designed to have legal force. The material context comprises a range both of literary texts (particularly but not only oratory) and of inscriptions, though not papyri.
Larger hypothalamic volume in narcolepsy type 1
Authors: Juvodden Hilde T , Alnæs Dag , Lund Martina J , Agartz Ingrid , Andreassen OIe A , Server Andres , Thorsby Per M , Westlye Lars T , Knudsen Heier Stine
Published: July 2023

Study Objectives

Narcolepsy type 1 (NT1) is a neurological sleep disorder. Postmortem studies have shown 75%–90% loss of the 50 000–70 000 hypocretin-producing neurons and 64%–94% increase in the 64 000–120 000 histaminergic neurons and conflicting indications of gliosis in the hypothalamus of NT1 patients. The aim of this study was to compare MRI-based volumes of the hypothalamus in patients with NT1 and controls in vivo.

Methods

We used a segmentation tool based on deep learning included in Freesurfer and computed the volume of the whole hypothalamus, left/right part of the hypothalamus, and 10 hypothalamic subregions. We included 54 patients with post-H1N1 NT1 (39 females, mean age 21.8 ± 11.0 years) and 114 controls (77 females, mean age 23.2 ± 9.0 years). Group differences were tested with general linear models using permutation testing in Permutation Analysis of Linear Models and evaluated after 10 000 permutations, yielding two-tailed P-values. Furthermore, a stepwise Bonferroni correction was performed after dividing hypothalamus into smaller regions.

Results

The analysis revealed larger volume for patients compared to controls for the whole hypothalamus (Cohen’s d = 0.71, p = 0.0028) and for the left (d = 0.70, p = 0.0037) and right part of the hypothalamus (d = 0.65, p = 0.0075) and left (d = 0.72, p = 0.0036) and right tubular-inferior (d = 0.71, p = 0.0037) hypothalamic subregions.

Conclusions

In conclusion, patients with post-H1N1 NT1 showed significantly larger hypothalamic volume than controls, in particular in the tubular-inferior subregions which could reflect several processes as previous studies have indicated neuroinflammation, gliosis, and changes in the numbers of different cell types.
Fire management effects on ruminal digestibility and in vitro methane emissions of subtropical rangeland plant species
Authors: Cardoso Abmael S , Silveira Maria L , Vendramini Joao M B , Moriel Philipe , Kohmann Marta M , Silva Hiran M S , Izquierdo Vinicius , Lima Lais O , Lage Filho Nauara M , Silva Joao V L , Sanchez Joao M D
Published: July 2023

Prescribed fire is a common management practice used to manipulate rangeland plant productivity and composition. Although the nutritive value of most herbaceous plant species is considered poor for grazing animals, native rangelands in Florida are an important source of forage for livestock, especially during the winter months, when the productivity of cultivated perennial warm-season pastures is limited. This study evaluated the effects of prescribed fire on methanogenic potential and nutritive value of selected native rangeland plant species. Treatments were a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement of plant species (creeping bluestem [Schizachyrium scoparium var. stoloniferum {Nash} Wipff], wiregrass [Aristida stricta {Michx.}], or saw palmetto [Serenoa repens {W. Bartram} Small]) and prescribed fire management [2 yr after burning (control) vs. 1 yr after burning (burned)] distributed in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. Samples were analyzed for crude protein (CP), neutral detergent undigestible fiber (NDF), in vitro methane production, and in situ ruminal disappearance. Prescribed fire generally increased forage CP and DM effective degradability relative to control; however, no effect was observed on saw palmetto. Wiregrass had the least CP concentration in both burned (8.5%) and control (2.3%). In burned treatments, creeping bluestem and palmetto had greater DM effective degradability (62% and 58%) than wiregrass (53%). Fire increased in vitro gas production by 60 (creeping bluestem) to 90% (wiregrass) relative to control treatments. No effect of fire on methane production was observed for any of the plant species evaluated in this study. Creeping bluestem had the greatest methane production (12.5 mg/g DM), followed by wiregrass (5.3 mg/g DM) and saw palmetto (1.4 mg/g DM). Methane:DM effective degradability decreased in the following order: creeping bluestem ≥ wiregrass > saw palmetto. Data indicated prescribed fire was an effective tool to increase creeping bluestem and wiregrass nutritive value but no effect was observed on saw palmetto. Cattle grazing grass-dominated rangelands will likely emit more gas and methane than shrub or tree-dominated ecosystems; however, the greater forage nutritive value and subsequent positive impacts on animal production are expected to offset a substantial fraction of enteric methane emissions.