bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure and Luminescent Properties of Double‐Doped LiNbO3:Zn:Mg Crystals
Authors: Tokko Olga Vladimirovna , Kadetova Alexandra Vladimirovna , Prusskii Andrey Ivanovich , Smirnov Maxim Vladimirovich , Palatnikov Mikhail Nikolaevich , Sidorov Nikolay Vasilievich
Published: January 2024

The correlation between photoluminescence in the near‐IR region and point defect centers in the LiNbO3 crystals co‐doped with Zn and Mg both by homogeneous and direct methods has been studied. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis shows that the LiNbO3:Zn:Mg (4.68:0.9 mol%) crystal obtained by homogeneous doping has the least number of intrinsic defects compared to the others. It has been established that ZnLi defects stimulate photoluminescence (PL) in the near‐IR region of the luminescence spectrum in the LiNbO3:Zn:Mg crystals obtained by homogeneous doping. The LiNbO3:Zn:Mg (4.68:0.90 mol%) crystal has the maximum PL intensity and the LiNbO3:Zn:Mg (3.83:0.97 mol%) crystal has the minimum. Both crystals are doped homogeneously. Such defects as niobium vacancies (VNb) and niobium in the empty octahedron (Nboct) are suggested as luminescence quenchers in the co‐doped crystals.
Atomic Structure and Dynamics of Unusual and Wide‐Gap Phase‐Change Chalcogenides: A GeTe2 Case
Authors: Usuki Takeshi , Benmore Chris J. , Tverjanovich Andrey , Bereznev Sergei , Khomenko Maxim , Sokolov Anton , Fontanari Daniele , Ohara Koji , Bokova Maria , Kassem Mohammad , Bychkov Eugene
Published: January 2024

Brain‐inspired computing, reconfigurable optical metamaterials, photonic tensor cores, and many other advanced applications require next‐generation phase‐change materials (PCMs) with better energy efficiency and a wider thermal and spectral range for reliable operations. Germanium ditelluride (GeTe2), with higher thermal stability and a larger bandgap compared to current benchmark PCMs, appears promising for THz metasurfaces and the controlled crystallization of atomically thin 2D materials. Using high‐energy X‐Ray diffraction supported by first‐principles simulation, the atomic structure in semiconducting pulsed laser deposition films and metallic high‐temperature liquids is investigated. The results suggest that the structural and chemical metastability of GeTe2, leading to disproportionation into GeTe and Te, is related to high internal pressure during a semiconductor–metal transition, presumably occurring in the supercooled melt. Similar phenomena are expected for canonical GeS2 and GeSe2 under high temperatures and pressures.
Matrine, a potential drug for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Peng Yaping , Lian Xinqiao , Wang Yan , Li Xin
Published: January 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease with a multifaceted pathogenesis involving genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. It mainly targets the synovium, leading to synovitis and subsequently bone erosion. Novel effective treatments for RA are imperative. Matrine, the main active constituent of Sophora flavescens Ait (known as Kushen in Chinese medicine), has been used to treat fever, dysentery, hematochezia, jaundice, oliguria, vulvar swelling, asthma, eczema, and inflammatory disorders. Matrine exhibits diverse pharmacological effects, including antitumor, anti‐inflammatory, antifibrotic, and antiviral properties. Animal studies have suggested that matrine mitigates inflammation and reduces RA severity by modulating inflammation‐related expression. Its therapeutic mechanism in RA may involve several signaling pathways, including the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of the rapamycin, nuclear factor‐κB, Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription, and mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathways, all of which are associated with various biological processes, such as cell proliferation and differentiation, apoptosis, and immune regulation. Moreover, mitochondrial homeostasis disruption and epigenetic modifications, mediated by long noncoding RNAs, play crucial roles in RA pathogenesis. Experimental evidence suggests that matrine exerts therapeutic effects by modulating mitochondrial homeostasis and long noncoding RNAs. We summarize the molecular mechanisms of matrine in RA treatment to provide theoretical support for expanding its clinical applications to the treatment of RA.
Mechanical termination of a perennial grain crop minimally impacts soil structure, carbon and carbon dioxide emissions
Authors: Kundert Jacob , Rakkar Manbir , Gutknecht Jessica , Jungers Jacob
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Mechanical termination of crops can negatively affect soil biological, chemical, and structural characteristics. Perennial crops do not require annual termination and can improve these same soil characteristics, which has catalysed interest in the development of new perennial crops. Advanced lines of the perennial grass intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium [Host] Barkworth and Dewey; IWG) have been bred for increased seed size and marketed as Kernza® perennial grain, but little is known about how this new crop can be terminated for subsequent annual crop production in rotations that enhance agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability.

Materials and Methods

Five methods of terminating IWG were tested in Minnesota, USA. Treatments included mechanical tillage using a chisel plow (CHI), undercutter (UND), and disc (DSC), along with no‐till treatments of glyphosate (GLY) and a repeated‐mowing control (CTRL). Treatment effects on IWG mortality, soil carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, bulk density, aggregate stability, soil carbon stocks and soybean yield were measured.

Results

Daily CO2 fluxes differed by treatment (p < 0.05) on only one of 19 sample dates, and cumulative soil CO2 emissions over the course of the growing season did not differ across treatments. Bulk density decreased relative to baseline in all treatments except CTRL. Aggregate stability remained unchanged in all treatments except CTRL, which increased from the baseline. Soil carbon stocks did not change in any treatment. Soybean yield was highest in GLY but was not significantly different from CHI or UND.

Conclusions

Soil structure, soil carbon stocks and soil CO2 emissions were unaffected by tillage and no‐till IWG termination treatments. However, tillage followed by preplanting harrowing proved ineffective at terminating IWG and required subsequent summer herbicide applications. Therefore, additional tillage events may be required to fully terminate IWG when herbicide use is prohibited.
Granulosis Rubra Nasi: A Rare Dermatosis not Limited to Nose
Authors: Mathur Mahesh , Thakur Neha , Jaiswal Sunil , Maharjan Srijana , Shrestha Anjali , Paudel Supriya
Published: January 2024

Granulosis rubra nasi (GRN) is a rare genodermatosis involving the eccrine glands with an unknown aetiology. It is clinically characterized by localized hyperhidrosis, erythema, papules, pustules, and vesicles over central region of face and usually manifests during early childhood. GRN is asymptomatic, spontaneously resolves during puberty, and treatment options have inconsistent results. We hereby present a case of GRN in 38 years female with sites and dermoscopy findings not defined so far.
Safety and Tolerability of Topical Trametinib in Rosacea: Results from a Phase I Clinical Trial
Authors: Wladis Edward J. , Busingye Jacqueline , Saavedra Leahruth K. , Murdico Amy , Adam Alejandro P.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Overactivation of the mitogen activated kinase pathway has been associated with rosacea. We hypothesised that inhibitors of this pathway can be repurposed to alleviate rosacea symptoms.

Methods

In order to test this hypothesis, we designed a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled phase I clinical trial to assess the safety and tolerability of a first-in-kind topical formulation of a MEK kinase inhibitor, trametinib. Subjects applied daily trametinib-containing cream (0.05 mg in 0.5 mL) to one cheek and cream without inhibitor to the other for consecutive 21 days. Skin irritation scores and blood samples were obtained during visits on days 8, 15 and 22.

Results

On analysis of high-performance liquid chromatography, no systemic trametinib absorption was detected during this treatment period. Subjects demonstrated a slight but significant improvement in both cheeks, regardless of drug contents. No adverse effects were reported during this time.

Conclusions

Topical trametinib was well tolerated at a dose of 0.05 mg per day without meaningful systemic absorption or local adverse events. A dose escalation trial is warranted to determine optimal dosing to treat rosacea while avoiding the adverse effects of systemic treatment.
ZIFs‐Derived Hollow Nanostructures via a Strong/Weak Coetching Strategy for Long‐Life Rechargeable Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Li Shunli , Zhou Yingtang , Xu Chenxi , Wang Lei , Wang Tianzheng , Zhu Baikang , Xu Weijian , Wu Yimin A. , Tao Hengcong
Published: January 2024

Recently, zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) composites have emerged as promising precursors for synthesizing hollow‐structured N‐doped carbon‐based noble‐metal materials with diverse structures and compositions. Here, a strong/weak competitive coordination strategy is presented for synthesizing high‐performance electrocatalysts with hollow features. During the competitive coordination process, the cubic zeolitic‐imidazole framework‐8 (Cube‐8)@ZIF‐67 with core–shell structures are transformed into Cube‐8@ZIF‐67@PF/POM with yolk–shell nanostructures employing phosphomolybdic acid (POM) and potassium ferricyanide (PF) as the strong chelator and the weak chelator, respectively. After calcination, the hollow Mo/Fe/Co@NC catalyst exhibits superior performance in both oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Interestingly, the Mo/Fe/Co@NC catalyst exhibits efficient electrocatalytic performance for Zn–air batteries (ZABs), with a high power density (≈150 mW cm−2) and superior cycling life (≈500 h) compared to commercial platinum/carbon (Pt/C) and ruthenium dioxide (RuO2) mixture benchmarks catalysts. In addition, the density functional theory further proves that after the introduction of Mo and Fe atoms, the adsorption energy with the adsorption intermediates is weakened by adjusting the d‐band center, thus weakening the reaction barrier and promoting the reaction kinetics of OER. Undoubtedly, this study presents novel insights into the fabrication of ZIFs‐derived hollow structure bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts for clean‐energy diverse applications.
Reprogrammable Magnetic Soft Actuators with Microfluidic Functional Modules via Pixel‐Assembly
Authors: Zhao Xiaoyu , Yao Hongyi , Lv Yaoyi , Chen Zhixian , Dong Lina , Huang Jiajun , Mi Shengli
Published: January 2024

Magnetic soft actuators and robots have attracted considerable attention in biomedical applications due to their speedy response, programmability, and biocompatibility. Despite recent advancements, the fabrication process of magnetic actuators and the reprogramming approach of their magnetization profiles continue to pose challenges. Here, a facile fabrication strategy is reported based on arrangements and distributions of reusable magnetic pixels on silicone substrates, allowing for various magnetic actuators with customizable architectures, arbitrary magnetization profiles, and integration of microfluidic technology. This approach enables intricate configurations with decent deformability and programmability, as well as biomimetic movements involving grasping, swimming, and wriggling in response to magnetic actuation. Moreover, microfluidic functional modules are integrated for various purposes, such as on/off valve control, curvature adjustment, fluid mixing, dynamic microfluidic architecture, and liquid delivery robot. The proposed method fulfills the requirements of low‐cost, rapid, and simplified preparation of magnetic actuators, since it eliminates the need to sustain pre‐defined deformations during the magnetization process or to employ laser heating or other stimulation for reprogramming the magnetization profile. Consequently, it is envisioned that magnetic actuators fabricated via pixel‐assembly will have broad prospects in microfluidics and biomedical applications.
F Doping‐Induced Multicomponent Synergistic Active Site Construction toward High‐Efficiency Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalysis for Rechargeable Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Wang Xue , Li Kai , Yang Di , Yang Xiaolong , Xiao Meiling , Zheng Lirong , Xing Wei , Liu Changpeng , Zhu Jianbing
Published: January 2024

The commercialization of rechargeable Zn–air batteries (ZABs) relies on the material innovation to accelerate the sluggish oxygen electrocatalysis kinetics. Due to the differentiated mechanisms of reverse processes, i.e., oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), rationally integrating dual sites for bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysis is prerequisite yet remains challenging. Herein, multicomponent synergistic active sites within highly graphitic carbon substrate are exquisitely constructed, which is accomplished by fluorine (F) modulation strategy. The incorporation of F dopants facilitates pyridinic N formation for anchoring single metal sites, thus guaranteeing the coexistence of sufficient M–Nx sites and metal nanoparticles toward bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysis. As a result, the optimal catalyst, denoted as F NH2‐FeNi‐800, outperforms commercial Pt/C+RuO2 with smaller gap between Ej = 10 and E1/2 (ΔE) of 0.63 V (vs 0.7 V for Pt/C+RuO2), demonstrating its superior bifunctionality. Beyond that, its superiority is validated in homemade rechargeable ZABs. ZABs assembled using F NH2‐FeNi‐800 as the air cathode delivers higher peak power density (123.8 mW cm−2) and long‐cycle lifetime (over 660 cycles) in comparison with Pt/C@RuO2 (68.8 mW cm−2; 300 cycles). The finding not only affords a highly promising oxygen electrocatalyst, but also opens an avenue to constructing multifunctional active sites for heterogeneous catalysts.
Coordination Environment Engineering to Regulate the Adsorption Strength of Intermediates in Single Atom Catalysts for High‐performance CO2 Reaction Reduction
Authors: Wang Maohuai , Kong Lingyan , Lu Xiaoqing , Wu Chi‐Man Lawrence
Published: January 2024

The modulation of the coordination environment of single atom catalysts (SACs) plays a vital role in promoting CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). Herein, N or B doped Fe‐embedded graphyne (Fe‐GY), Fe‐nXGYm (n = 1, 2, 3; X = N, B; m = 1, 2, 3), are employed as probes to reveal the effect of the coordination environment engineering on CO2RR performance via heteroatom doping in SACs. The results show that the doping position and number of N or B in Fe‐GY significantly affects catalyst activity and CO2RR product selectivity. In comparison, Fe‐1NGY exhibits high‐performance CO2RR to CH4 with a low limiting potential of −0.17 V, and Fe‐2NGY3 is demonstrated as an excellent CO2RR electrocatalyst for producing HCOOH with a low limiting potential of −0.16 V. With applied potential, Fe‐GY, Fe‐1NGY, and Fe‐2NGY3 exhibit significant advantages in CO2RR to CH4 while hydrogen evolution reaction is inhibited. The intrinsic essence analysis illustrates that heteroatom doping modulates the electronic structure of active sites and regulates the adsorption strength of the intermediates, thereby rendering a favorable coordination environment for CO2RR. This work highlights Fe‐nXGYm as outstanding SACs for CO2RR, and provides an in‐depth insight into the intrinsic essence of the promotion effect from heteroatom doping.
Synergistically Coupling Atomic‐Level Defect‐Manipulation and Nanoscopic‐Level Interfacial Engineering Enables Fast and Durable Sodium Storage
Authors: Zhao Wenxi , Ma Xiaoqing , Wang Xiaodeng , Zhou Hao , He Xun , Yao Yongchao , Ren Yuchun , Luo Yongsong , Zheng Dongdong , Sun Shengjun , Liu Qian , Li Luming , Chu Wei , Wang Yan , Sun Xuping
Published: January 2024

Through inducing interlayer anionic ligands and functionally modifying conductive carbon‐skeleton on the transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) parent to achieve atomic‐level defect‐manipulation and nanoscopic‐level architecture design is of great significance, which can broaden interlayer distance, optimize electronic structure, and mitigate structural deformation to endow high‐efficiency battery performance of TMCs. Herein, an intriguing 3D biconcave hollow‐tyre‐like anode constituted by carbon‐packaged defective‐rich SnSSe nanosheet grafting onto Aspergillus niger spores‐derived hollow‐carbon (ANDC@SnSSe@C) is reported. Systematically experimental investigations and theoretical analyses forcefully demonstrate the existence of anion Se ligand and outer‐carbon all‐around encapsulation on the ANDC@SnSSe@C can effectively yield abundant structural defects and Na+‐reactivity sites, accelerate rapid ion migration, widen interlayer spacing, as well as relieve volume expansion, thus further resolving the critical issues throughout the charge–discharge processes. As anticipated, as‐fabricated ANDC@SnSSe@C anode contributes extraordinary reversible capacity, wonderful cyclic lifespan with 83.4% capacity retention over 2000 cycles at 20.0 A g−1, and exceptional rate capability. A series of correlated kinetic investigations and ex situ characterizations deeply reveal the underlying springheads for the ion‐transport kinetics, as well as synthetically elucidate phase‐transformation mechanism of the ANDC@SnSSe@C. Furthermore, the ANDC@SnSSe@C‐based sodium ion full cell and hybrid capacitor offer high‐capacity contribution and remarkable energy‐density output, indicative of its great practicability.
Eco‐friendly materials for next‐generation vaccination: From concept to clinical reality
Authors: Kaushik Neha , Patel Paritosh , Gupta Ravi , Jaiswal Apurva , Negi Manorma , Borkar Shweta Bharat , Mishra Yogendra Kumar , Kim June Hyun , Choi Eun Ha , Kaushik Nagendra Kumar
Published: January 2024

The vaccine is a premier healthcare intervention strategy in the battle against infectious infections. However, the development and production of vaccines present challenges in terms of complexity, cost, and time consumption. Alternative methodologies, such as nonthermal plasma and plant‐based technologies, have emerged as potential alternatives for conventional vaccine manufacturing processes. While plasma‐based approaches offer a rapid and efficient pathogen inactivation method devoid of harsh reagents, plant‐based techniques present a more economically viable and scalable avenue for vaccine production. The imperative urges these approaches to address pressing global health challenges posed by emerging and recurring infectious diseases, surpassing the limitations of traditional vaccine fabrication methods. The primary goal of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current research landscape, covering conceptualization, production, and potential advantages of plasma‐based and plant‐based vaccines. Furthermore, exploring the obstacles and opportunities intrinsic to these strategies is undertaken, elucidating their potential impact on vaccination strategies. This systematic presentation specifies a detailed outline of recent vaccine research and developments, emphasizing the possibility of advanced green approaches to produce effective and secure vaccination programs.
Accelerated Degradation of FAPbI3 Perovskite by Excess Charge Carriers and Humidity
Authors: Lee Seo‐Ryeong , Lee Donghyeon , Choi Seung‐Gu , Jung Sung‐Kwang , Lee Joo‐Hong , Kim Min‐cheol , Park Ji‐Sang , Lee Jin‐Wook
Published: January 2024

Excess charge carriers in metal halide perovskite layer have been known to accelerate degradation of the film and devices to cause poor operational stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). While mechanisms for such degradation have been predominantly studied for methylammonium‐based perovskites, effects of excess charge carriers and their interplays with other degradation causes are barely studied for widely used formamidinium‐based perovskites. Herein, a possible decomposition mechanism of the formamidinium lead tri‐iodide (FAPbI3) perovskite in the presence of excess charge under different humidity levels is investigated. The operating condition with excessive charges is simulated by placing half devices with either electron‐transporting layer (ETL) or hole‐transporting layer (HTL) under 1 sun illumination. FAPbI3 in contact with ETL degrades more rapidly than the one with HTL, which is attributed to excess hole charge carriers in the film. Under higher humidity, the synergetic effect of excess charge carriers and humidity is found and thus degradation pathway and kinetics are strongly dependent on the humidity level. The fundamental understanding of degradation pathways for formamidinium perovskites should provide a useful insight toward the development of efficient and operationally stable PSCs toward practical usage.
Numerical Investigation on Coalescence Behavior of Liquid Inclusion Particles in Argon Bubble Wake Flow
Authors: Zhang Zhi‐Xiao , Zhu Wu‐Jie , Qu Tian‐Peng , Li Xiang‐Long , Tian Jun , Wang De‐Yong
Published: January 2024

Microinclusions in steel will significantly affect mechanical performance of final products and therefore require serious concern during metallurgical process. Herein, the collision, coalescence as well as floatation of bubble–inclusion coexisting system is fully studied through a new mathematical model. It comes to the following conclusions: as bubbles rise, they induce a flow of liquid steel from their upper surface to their lower surface, and inclusion droplets rise and collide in the wake of the bubble. The velocity of the bubbles is affected by their deformation, with deformation rates being linked to the Weber number. The coalescence time of these inclusions is primarily influenced by viscosity and surface tension. Coalescence accelerates with higher surface tension or reduced viscosity, and this phenomenon can be described by a formula, which is developed by simulation results. According to this formula, coalescence time of 3CaO·Al2O3 is 20% longer than that of 12CaO7·Al2O3. Consequently, 12CaO7·Al2O3 is more prone to coalescence. The movement of inclusions can be controlled by adjusting gas volume and flow rate. Moreover, promoting coalescence can be achieved by altering the viscosity of inclusions and the surface tension coefficient, making it easier to remove these unwanted inclusions.
Encapsulation and application of cell‐free extracts produced by Penicillium chrysogenum R1 in tomato plants for the control of Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Pacios‐Michelena Sandra , Valdés Roberto Arredondo , Saldaña‐Mendoza Salvador A. , Tucuch‐Pérez Marco Antonio , González Cristóbal N. Aguilar , Alvarez‐Perez Olga B. , Ilina Anna
Published: January 2024

The application of biopesticides in many industries can be hampered due to their high volatility, susceptibility to degradation when exposed to light or microbial activity, and reduced activity when exposed to stressful environmental conditions. Microencapsulation of biopesticides is a promising technique to solve and address such problems. This study aimed to encapsulate and characterize the extracts produced by Penicillium chrysogenum R1 and evaluate their antifungal activity in the plant assay. The capsules were prepared with a chitosan (0.5 mg/mL) and sodium alginate solution (2% w/v), and 20% (v/v) cell‐free extract recovered from the P. chrysogenum R1 fermentation. The capsules were synthesized in a 2.5% CaCl2 solution at room temperature. The capsules were characterized by DLS and SEM. To determine the efficiency of the free and encapsulated extract, they were applied to tomato plants infected with Fusarium oxysporum. Once the symptoms were observed, the severity and incidence of the disease, as well as the morphological parameters were evaluated. such as dry weight of aerial and root biomass, plant height, root length, stem diameter, chlorophyll content, and number of leaflets. The extract produced by P. chrysogenum R1 was encapsulated in chitosan/alginate capsules with a size range of around 300 nm. The free and encapsulated extracts allowed to efficiently control the disease caused by F. oxysporum and the development of the plants. Therefore, the extract produced by P. chrysogenum R1 encapsulated in chitosan/alginate can effectively control tomato vascular wilt caused by F. oxysporum under greenhouse conditions, promoting plant growth.
Time-Dependency of Guided Local Search to Solve the Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows
Authors: Silva Adriano S. , Lima José , Silva Adrián M. T. , Gomes Helder T. , Pereira Ana I.
Published: January 2024

Research have been driven by the increased demand for delivery and pick-up services to develop new formulations and algorithms for solving Vehicle Routing Problems (VRP). The main objective is to create algorithms that can identify paths considering execution time in real-world scenarios. This study focused on using the Guided Local Search (GLS) metaheuristic available in OR-Tools to solve the Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows using the Solomons instances. The execution time was used as a stop criterion, with short runs ranging from 1 to 10 s and a long run of 360 s for comparison. The results showed that the GLS metaheuristic from OR-Tools is applicable for achieving high performance in finding the shortest path and optimizing routes within constrained execution times. It outperformed the best-known solutions from the literature in longer execution times and even provided a close-to-optimal solution within 10 s. These findings suggest the potential application of this tool for dynamic VRP scenarios that require faster algorithms.
The automation of SMEFT-assisted constraints on UV-complete models
Authors: ter Hoeve Jaco , Magni Giacomo , Rojo Juan , Rossia Alejo N. , Vryonidou Eleni
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The ongoing Effective Field Theory (EFT) program at the LHC and elsewhere is motivated by streamlining the connection between experimental data and UV-complete scenarios of heavy new physics beyond the Standard Model (BSM). This connection is provided by matching relations mapping the Wilson coefficients of the EFT to the couplings and masses of UV-complete models. Building upon recent work on the automation of tree-level and one-loop matching in the SMEFT, we present a novel strategy automating the constraint-setting procedure on the parameter space of general heavy UV-models matched to dimension-six SMEFT operators. A new Mathematica package,match2fit, interfaces MatchMakerEFT, which derives the matching relations for a given UV model, and SMEFiT, which provides bounds on the Wilson coefficients by comparing with data. By means of this pipeline and using both tree-level and one-loop matching, we derive bounds on a wide range of single- and multi-particle extensions of the SM from a global dataset composed by LHC and LEP measurements. Whenever possible, we benchmark our results with existing studies. Our framework realises one of the main objectives of the EFT program in particle physics: deploying the SMEFT to bypass the need of directly comparing the predictions of heavy UV models with experimental data.
Kaluza-Klein monopole with scalar hair
Authors: Brihaye Y. , Herdeiro C. , Novo J. , Radu E.
Published: January 2024

Abstract

We construct a new family of rotating black holes with scalar hair and a regular horizon of spherical topology, within five dimensional (d = 5) Einstein’s gravity minimally coupled to a complex, massive scalar field doublet. These solutions represent generalizations of the Kaluza-Klein monopole found by Gross, Perry and Sorkin, with a twisted S1 bundle over a four dimensional Minkowski spacetime being approached in the far field. The black holes are described by their mass, angular momentum, tension and a conserved Noether charge measuring the hairiness of the configurations. They are supported by rotation and have no static limit, while for vanishing horizon size, they reduce to boson stars. When performing a Kaluza-Klein reduction, the d = 5 solutions yield a family of d = 4 spherically symmetric dyonic black holes with gauged scalar hair. This provides a link between two seemingly unrelated mechanisms to endow a black hole with scalar hair: the d = 5 synchronization condition between the scalar field frequency and the event horizon angular velocity results in the d = 4 resonance condition between the scalar field frequency and the electrostatic chemical potential.
Precision Higgs width and couplings with a high energy muon collider
Authors: Forslund Matthew , Meade Patrick
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The interpretation of Higgs data is typically based on different assumptions about whether there can be additional decay modes of the Higgs or if any couplings can be bounded by theoretical arguments. Going beyond these assumptions requires either a precision measurement of the Higgs width or an absolute measurement of a coupling to eliminate a flat direction in precision fits that occurs when $$ \left|{g}_{hVV}/{g}_{hVV}^{SM}\right| $$

g
hVV

/

g
hVV
SM

> 1, where V = W±, Z. In this paper we explore how well a high energy muon collider can test Higgs physics without having to make assumptions on the total width of the Higgs. In particular, we investigate off-shell methods for Higgs production used at the LHC and searches for invisible decays of the Higgs to see how powerful they are at a muon collider. We then investigate the theoretical requirements on a model which can exist in such a flat direction. Combining expected Higgs precision with other constraints, the most dangerous flat direction is described by generalized Georgi-Machacek models. We find that by combining direct searches with Higgs precision, a high energy muon collider can robustly test single Higgs precision down to the $$ \mathcal{O}\left(.1\%\right) $$
O

.1
%

level without having to assume SM Higgs decays. Furthermore, it allows one to bound new contributions to the width at the sub-percent level as well. Finally, we comment on how even in this difficult flat direction for Higgs precision, a muon collider can robustly test or discover new physics in multiple ways. Expanding beyond simple coupling modifiers/EFTs, there is a large region of parameter space that muon colliders can explore for EWSB that is not probed with only standard Higgs precision observables.
Effects of finite material size on axion-magnon conversion
Authors: Chigusa So , Ito Asuka , Nakayama Kazunori , Takhistov Volodymyr
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Magnetic materials are particularly favorable targets for detecting axions interacting with electrons because the collective excitation of electron spins, the magnon, can be excited through the axion-magnon conversion process. It is often assumed that only the zero-momentum uniformly precessing magnetostatic (Kittel) mode of the magnon is excited. This is justified if the de Broglie wavelength of the axion is much longer than the size of the target magnetic material. However, if the de Broglie wavelength is shorter, finite-momentum magnon modes can also be excited. We systematically analyze the target material size dependence of the axion-magnon conversion rate. We discuss the importance of these effects in the detection of relativistic axions as well as in the detection of axion dark matter of relatively heavy mass with large material size.
Exploring local explanations of nonlinear models using animated linear projections
Authors: Spyrison Nicholas , Cook Dianne , Biecek Przemyslaw
Published: January 2024

The increased predictive power of machine learning models comes at the cost of increased complexity and loss of interpretability, particularly in comparison to parametric statistical models. This trade-off has led to the emergence of eXplainable AI (XAI) which provides methods, such as local explanations (LEs) and local variable attributions (LVAs), to shed light on how a model use predictors to arrive at a prediction. These provide a point estimate of the linear variable importance in the vicinity of a single observation. However, LVAs tend not to effectively handle association between predictors. To understand how the interaction between predictors affects the variable importance estimate, we can convert LVAs into linear projections and use the radial tour. This is also useful for learning how a model has made a mistake, or the effect of outliers, or the clustering of observations. The approach is illustrated with examples from categorical (penguin species, chocolate types) and quantitative (soccer/football salaries, house prices) response models. The methods are implemented in the R package cheem, available on CRAN.
Photoresponse, thermal and electrical behaviors of MXene-based polysulfone nanocomposite
Authors: Demirelli Kadir , Barim Esra , Çelik Aytekin , Yegin Mustafa , Aksoy Yunus , Hanay Özge , Hasar Halil
Published: January 2024

The Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheet was prepared by 40% (v/v) hydrofluoric acid etching at 20 °C for 48 h and delamination of bulk MAX Ti3AlC2 precursor material. A 2D nanomaterial MXene Ti3C2Tx as a nanofiller was introduced to polysulfone (PSulfone) matrix. MXene and PSulfone/MXene nanocomposite systems were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscope, Fourier-transform infrared and thermogravimetric analysis instruments. Dielectric and electrical characterization of PSulfone/MXene nanocomposite was carried out. The electrical resistance of Ti3C2Tx MXene from measurement current (I)–voltage (V) was measured as 116 Ω. Pure PSulfone matrix exhibits typical insulator behavior, and MXene exhibits a good conductor behavior. But, when MXene was added to the pure PSulfone matrix, the resistance of the MXene/PSulfone nanocomposite increased moderately compared to that of pure MXene. In spite of the excess of surface functional groups, MXene showed surprisingly good electron transport across the surface, while in the case of PSulfone/MXene nanocomposite, the insulating behavior of PSulfone significantly reduced the electron transport of MXene. The semiconductor behavior of PSulfone/Ti3C2Tx MXene nanocomposite indicates that MXene provides efficient charge carrier transfer in the nanocomposite system. By comparing the TGA results between the PSulfone and different weight ratios of PSulfone/Ti3C2Tx MXene nanocomposites, it was determined that MXene nanosheets had a significant effect in slightly accelerating the thermal degradation of PSulfone. Optical conductivity was investigated by preparing a film of PSulfone/MXene nanocomposite on an interdigital contact. It was observed that the optical current values changed depending on the increasing illumination intensity. Considering current–voltage measurements, the photocurrent generation potential of PSulfone/MXene nanocomposite shows that it can be used in photodevice production.
Expression patterns of heat-shock genes during stopover and the trade-off between refueling and stress response in a passerine migrant
Authors: Bounas Anastasios , Komini Chrysoula , Toli Elisavet-Aspasia , Talioura Artemis , Sotiropoulos Konstantinos , Barboutis Christos
Published: January 2024

Migrating birds are often exposed to variable environments and face a multitude of stress exposures along their long-distance flights. During stopover refueling, migratory birds must balance the need to accumulate energy reserves to continue their migration with the need to respond to environmental and physiological stressors. We examined the gene expression patterns of different Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) in migrating birds during stopover at different body condition states (lean vs. fat), to provide some first insights on the role of HSPs in bird migration and explore the concept of a trade-off between refueling and stress response. Our results showed upregulation of HSP expression at release that could be associated with muscle growth and increased cholesterol and lipid synthesis needed for birds to fuel their upcoming migration. On the other hand, during capture, upregulation of HSP5 could be attributed to physiological recovery from the non-stop endurance flight when crossing the Sahara Desert-Mediterranean Sea ecological barrier. All birds significantly increased their fuel loads up to 48% of lean body mass and we provide evidence for muscle rebuilding during stopover as flight muscle mass increased by 10%, highlighting the fact that stopover sites can play a major role in the physiological recovery of migrants.
Prognosis of pacing-dependent patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices
Authors: Grimm Wolfram , Erdmann Barbara , Grimm Kathrin , Kreutz Julian , Parahuleva Mariana
Published: January 2024

Background

Data on the prognostic significance of pacing dependency in patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) are sparse.

Methods

The prognostic significance of pacing dependency defined as absence of an intrinsic rhythm ≥ 30 bpm was determined in 786 patients with CIEDs at the authors’ institution using univariate and multivariate regression analysis to identify predictors of all-cause mortality.

Results

During 49 months median follow-up, death occurred in 63 of 130 patients with pacing dependency compared to 241 of 656 patients without pacing dependency (48% versus 37%, hazard ratio [HR] 1.34; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–1.78, P = 0.04). Using multivariate regression analysis, predictors of all-cause mortality included age (HR 1.07; 95% CI: 1.05–1.08, P < 0.01), history of atrial fibrillation (HR 1.32, 95% CI: 1.03–1.69, P < 0.01), chronic kidney disease (HR 1.28; 95% CI: 1.00–1.63, P = 0.048) and New York Heart Association (NYHA) class ≥ III (HR 2.00; 95% CI: 1.52–2.62, P < 0.01), but not pacing dependency (HR 1.15; 95% CI: 0.86–1.54, P = 0.35).

Conclusions

In contrast to age, atrial fibrillation, chronic kidney disease and heart failure severity as indexed by NYHA functional class III or IV, pacing dependency does not appear to be an independent predictor of all-cause mortality in patients with CIEDs.
Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and combined photodynamic therapy for pachychoroid neovasculopathy: long-term treatment outcomes
Authors: Tanaka Nobuya , Azuma Keiko , Aoki Shuichiro , Kitamoto Kohdai , Ueda Kohei , Fujino Ryosuke , Inoue Tatsuya , Obata Ryo
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To examine the long-term visual outcomes after initial treatment with combined photodynamic therapy (PDT) or aflibercept treat-and-extend (TAE) monotherapy in patients with pachychoroid neovasculopathy (PNV).

Methods

Patients diagnosed with PNV, initially treated with PDT combined with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) monotherapy in the TAE protocol and followed up for at least 6 months, were included in the study. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed. Survival analysis was performed, in which deterioration in logMAR visual acuity by 0.1 or 0.3 is defined as “death.” The annual number of treatments was also analyzed. Sub-analysis was performed on 33 patients diagnosed with PNV without polypoidal lesions.

Results

This study included 46 patients (23 in the initial combined PDT group and 23 in the IVA TAE group). Mean age, sex, mean baseline logMAR visual acuity, or duration of observation (3.6 ± 3.2 years vs. 3.1 ± 1.9 years) in both groups were comparable. As for visual outcome, no significant differences were found in survival analysis based on worsening of 0.1 or 0.3 logMAR (3-year survival; 26% vs. 26%, 91% vs. 90%, respectively). Meanwhile, the additional number of anti-VEGF injections per year was significantly lower in the initial combined PDT group than in the IVA TAE group (1.0 ± 1.3 vs. 4.1 ± 1.5, p < 0.0001). No significant differences were found in the number of additional PDTs per year (0.07 ± 0.20 vs. 0.02 ± 0.09, p = 0.27). Similar results were found in a sub-analysis of 33 patients without polyps.

Conclusion

In the treatment of PNV, regardless of the presence of polyps, the long-term visual outcomes were similar between the initial combined PDT and IVA TAE monotherapy. However, the annual number of anti-VEGF injections was lower in the initial combined PDT group than in the aflibercept TAE group, whereas that of PDT was comparable.
Cargo-specific effects of hypoxia on clathrin-mediated trafficking
Authors: van Belle Gijsbert J. , Zieseniss Anke , Heidenreich Doris , Olmos Maxime , Zhuikova Asia , Möbius Wiebke , Paul Maarten W. , Katschinski Dörthe M.
Published: January 2024

Clathrin-associated trafficking is a major mechanism for intracellular communication, as well as for cells to communicate with the extracellular environment. A decreased oxygen availability termed hypoxia has been described to influence this mechanism in the past. Mostly biochemical studies were applied in these analyses, which miss spatiotemporal information. We have applied live cell microscopy and a newly developed analysis script in combination with a GFP-tagged clathrin-expressing cell line to obtain insight into the dynamics of the effect of hypoxia. Number, mobility and directionality of clathrin-coated vesicles were analysed in non-stimulated cells as well as after stimulation with epidermal growth factor (EGF) or transferrin in normoxic and hypoxic conditions. These data reveal cargo-specific effects, which would not be observable with biochemical methods or with fixed cells and add to the understanding of cell physiology in hypoxia. The stimulus-dependent consequences were also reflected in the final cellular output, i.e. decreased EGF signaling and in contrast increased iron uptake in hypoxia.
AI-driven estimation of O6 methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation in glioblastoma patients: a systematic review with bias analysis
Authors: Samartha Mullapudi Venkata Sai , Dubey Navneet Kumar , Jena Biswajit , Maheswar Gorantla , Lo Wen-Cheng , Saxena Sanjay
Published: January 2024

Background

Accurate and non-invasive estimation of MGMT promoter methylation status in glioblastoma (GBM) patients is of paramount clinical importance, as it is a predictive biomarker associated with improved overall survival (OS). In response to the clinical need, recent studies have focused on the development of non-invasive artificial intelligence (AI)-based methods for MGMT estimation. In this systematic review, we not only delve into the technical aspects of these AI-driven MGMT estimation methods but also emphasize their profound clinical implications. Specifically, we explore the potential impact of accurate non-invasive MGMT estimation on GBM patient care and treatment decisions.

Methods

Employing a PRISMA search strategy, we identified 33 relevant studies from reputable databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and IEEE Explore. These studies were comprehensively assessed using 21 diverse attributes, encompassing factors such as types of imaging modalities, machine learning (ML) methods, and cohort sizes, with clear rationales for attribute scoring. Subsequently, we ranked these studies and established a cutoff value to categorize them into low-bias and high-bias groups.

Results

By analyzing the 'cumulative plot of mean score' and the 'frequency plot curve' of the studies, we determined a cutoff value of 6.00. A higher mean score indicated a lower risk of bias, with studies scoring above the cutoff mark categorized as low-bias (73%), while 27% fell into the high-bias category.

Conclusion

Our findings underscore the immense potential of AI-based machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) methods in non-invasively determining MGMT promoter methylation status. Importantly, the clinical significance of these AI-driven advancements lies in their capacity to transform GBM patient care by providing accurate and timely information for treatment decisions. However, the translation of these technical advancements into clinical practice presents challenges, including the need for large multi-institutional cohorts and the integration of diverse data types. Addressing these challenges will be critical in realizing the full potential of AI in improving the reliability and accessibility of MGMT estimation while lowering the risk of bias in clinical decision-making.
The impact of divergent forms of social support on health-related quality of life in patients with multiple myeloma and its precursor states
Authors: Greinacher Anja , Kuehl Rea , Mai Elias K. , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Wiskemann Joachim , Fleischer Anna , Rasche Leo , Dapunt Ulrike , Maatouk Imad
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Multiple myeloma is a largely incurable disease. Patients suffer from the cancer, therapeutic side effects, and often psychological symptoms. Not only multiple myeloma patients but also patients with precursor diseases show high psychological distress. Today, treatment option evaluations are increasingly performed in combination with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) assessments. One factor that is positively associated with HRQoL is social support.

Methods

Our recent study used questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-MY20, Illness-specific Social Support Scale) to investigate the influence of positive and negative aspects of social support on HRQoL in patients with multiple myeloma and its precursors.

Results

Multiple linear regression analyses with sex, age, treatment line, hemoglobin level, and number of comorbidities as control variables show that positive social support had a significant beneficial association with emotional function (β = 0.323) and social function (β = 0.251). Detrimental interactions had a significant negative association with social function (β =  − 0.209) and a significant positive association with side effects of treatment (β = 0.266).

Conclusion

Therefore, screening for social support and, if needed, psycho-oncological care can be an important resource and should be implemented in routine care.

Clinical trial registration

This study was registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04328038).
Efficacies of anlotinib monotherapy versus gemcitabine-based chemotherapy for patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma after the failure of anthracycline-based chemotherapy
Authors: Zheng Aiping , Liu Jie , Liu Zijing , Mo Zeming , Fu Yang , Deng Yaotiao , Jiang Yu
Published: January 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare the antitumor efficacy of anlotinib with gemcitabine-based chemotherapy as subsequent treatment regimens in patients with advanced non-specific soft tissue sarcoma (STS) after the failure of anthracycline-based chemotherapy.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with advanced STS who were treated with either anlotinib or gemcitabine-based chemotherapy between May 2009 and May 2023 in our center were eligible. All patients experienced disease progression or recurrence after the anthracycline-based chemotherapy. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints were disease control rate (DCR), overall survival (OS) and safety.

Results

We included 49 patients receiving anlotinib and 45 patients receiving gemcitabine-based chemotherapy. The median follow-up time was 76.9 weeks (range 2.9–678.9 weeks). The DCR (65.3% vs. 57.8%; p = 0.610), PFS (24.0 weeks vs. 18.6 weeks; p = 0.669) and OS (79.4 weeks vs. 87.0 weeks; p = 0.471) of anlotinib and gemcitabine-based chemotherapy indicated similar clinical efficacy. Moreover, exploratory subgroup analyses showed that patients with STS originating from limbs and trunk were inclined to benefit from anlotinib treatment (median PFS: 31.3 weeks vs. 12.4 weeks; p = 0.045). ECOG PS was an independent predictor of the PFS [Hazard Ratio (HR) 0.31; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.11–0.85; p = 0.023] and OS (HR 0.26, 95%CI 0.10–0.70; p = 0.008) in the anlotinib group. While neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was an independent prognostic factor of the PFS (HR 0.33, 95%CI 0.11–0.98; p = 0.045) in the gemcitabine-based chemotherapy group. The incidence of grade 3 or higher related AEs in anlotinib and gemcitabine-based chemotherapy was 20.4% (n = 10) and 20.0% (n = 9), respectively.

Conclusion

Our research suggested that anlotinib and gemcitabine-based chemotherapy showed similar clinical efficacy and safety in the subsequent treatment of advanced STS after the failure of anthracycline-based chemotherapy.