bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virtual versus In-Person Ophthalmology Interviews: Perceptions of U.S. Ophthalmology Fellowship Applicants in 2022–2023
Authors: Cherkas Elliot G. , Shields Charlotte N. , Mandava Nikhil , Zhang Lily , Sivalingam Arunan , Kaiser Richard S. , Myers Jonathan S. , Hammersmith Kristin M. , Razeghinejad Reza , Finklea Brenton D. , Shields Carol L. , Sridhar Jayanth , Klufas Michael A. ,   Wills Fellowship Study Group
Published: September 2023

Purpose Despite easing restrictions on social distancing and travel since the beginning of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, virtual interviews remain a widely used format for ophthalmology fellowship interviews. This study aims to evaluate the relative benefits and drawbacks of in-person versus virtual interviews during a cycle where both formats were prevalent.

Methods A prospective cross-sectional study surveyed all fellowship applicants (N = 311) who applied to Wills Eye Hospital and Bascom Palmer Eye Institute during the 2022 to 2023 application cycle.

Results A total of 59 (19%) applicants responded to the survey, with the majority being male (53.0%) and between the ages of 20 and 35 (91.3%). There was no statistically significant difference between the number of virtual and in-person interviews attended or the total number of interviews attended. The highest ranked limitations of the virtual interview process were limited exposure to details of the program structure, limited opportunity to exhibit applicants' strengths to the program, and limited exposure to the fellows. The highest ranked strengths were less pressure during interviews, greater scheduling flexibility, and ability to interview at more fellowship programs. The highest ranked limitations of the in-person interview process were more pressure during interviews, inability to interview at all desired fellowship programs, and decreased scheduling flexibility. The highest ranked strengths based on median rankings were greater exposure to details of the program structure, greater ability to exhibit an applicant's strengths to the program, and greater exposure to the geographic location/city.

Conclusion While both in-person and virtual interviews have their own benefits and limitations, virtual interviews appear to be more cost-effective and time-efficient while in-person interviews provide better opportunities to assess program fit and culture. A hybrid format that combines the ideal aspects of both formats may be an optimal solution.
Probing the bulk valence of Sm in SmB6 by studying the magnetic susceptibility under pressure
Authors: Panfilov A. S. , Desnenko V. A. , Lyogenkaya A. A. , Grechnev G. E. , Shitsevalova N. Yu.
Published: September 2023

For one of the most famous and widely investigated intermediate-valence compound SmB6, we report the results of a precise experimental study of the pressure effect on magnetic susceptibility χ. The measurements of χ(P) were carried out under helium gas pressure P up to 2 kbar at fixed temperatures 78 and 300 K using a pendulum-type magnetometer. The observed pressure effect value, d lnχ/dP ∼ –6 Mbar–1, demonstrates a noticeable decrease in susceptibility under pressure, which is weakly dependent on temperature used. From model analysis of the experimental data, combined with the supplemented LSDA + U calculations of the electronic structure and van Vleck paramagnetism of the band states of SmB6, we have estimated the value of the initial pressure derivative for the intermediate valence of Sm. It is consistent with the literature data obtained by other methods and indicates an increase in valence with increasing pressure. It was shown that the valence of Sm and its pressure dependence are closely related to the detailed characteristics of the conduction band and 4f states.
Photoluminescence and electronic structure of α'-Ag8GeS6 crystals
Authors: Semkiv I. V. , Kashuba N. Y. , Ilchuk H. A. , Kashuba A. I.
Published: September 2023

The Ag8GeS6 crystal was synthesized by the direct melting of the elementary Ag, Ge, and S high-purity grade stoichiometric mixture in a sealed quartz ampoule. This argyrodite crystallizes in orthorhombic structure [Pna21 space group (No. 33)] below ≈483 K. The theoretical first-principle calculations of the electronic band structure and density of states of an α'-Ag8GeS6 crystal are estimated by the generalized gradient approximation. The Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof functional was utilized. All of the calculated parameters correlate well with the known experimental data. Based on the electronic band structure, the effective mass of the electrons and holes was calculated. The anisotropic behavior of electronic band structure is discussed. Temperature and carrier concentration dependence of the Seebeck coefficient is calculated. The temperature behavior of α'-Ag8GeS6 photoluminescence spectra is presented. The emission spectra are studied in the temperature range between 17 and 130 K and laser power excitation between 4 and 512 mW and in the spectral range of 750–1650 nm. Two main emission bands at ≈1.35 and ≈1.57 eV are observed and discussed.
Adsorption of flexible linker for siRNA on carbon nanotube using pyrene anchor: Molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Karachevtsev M. V. , Apartsin E. K. , Stepanian S. G.
Published: September 2023

Carbon nanotubes are considered an effective nanoplatform for drug delivery, including therapeutic nucleic acids such as small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), which are used in cancer therapy. In this work, a noncovalent immobilization of a single-stranded oligonucleotide (with 17 nucleotides in length) on the single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) surface using a pyrene molecule as an anchor is simulated by molecular dynamics method. This oligonucleotide design supposes the following binding with siRNA ends to provide its keeping near the nanotube surface. In the model, the pyrene molecule is covalently conjugated to the oligonucleotide through an hexaethylene glycol oligomer (EG)6 and attached to the SWNT’s surface by means of π-π stacking interaction. Structures of the complex and the binding energy of pyrene in the complex with SWNT are determined. Two possible orientations of the oligonucleotide arrangement relative to SWNT were considered: mutually perpendicular orientation and arrangement of an oligonucleotide along the nanotube. In both cases, the pyrene-terminated flexible polyethylene glycol linker plays an important role in keeping the oligonucleotide near the nanotube surface and provides sufficiently rapid adsorption of the biopolymer on SWNT, which is important for the creation of new drug delivery systems into the cell and for biosensor design.
Plasmon-enhanced photoacoustic oscillation for micro laser motor actuation
Authors: Li Fanghao , Zhang Mengru , Pei Cuixiang , Yu Xinyao , Jiang Li , Zhou Yadong , Zhang Fanli , Song Yunfeng , Chen Jian
Published: September 2023

Flexible micro/nano motors responsive to light sources are highly desirable. Conventional photothermal (PT) techniques have provided significant light-actuation methods; however, the dynamic responses of these devices in high frequency domain are severely restricted by the frequency response limitation. To overcome this limitation, the thermal-, electric-, and acoustic-near field interactions in the PT process and its accompanied photoacoustic (PA) process are investigated, and a plasmon enhanced PA actuation method is proposed. The significant improvement in PA oscillation by strong localized surface plasmon resonance provides a powerful means to realize a broadband response laser motor without the frequency response limitation. This PA laser motor could generate PA oscillation of over 5 µm by pulse laser with repetition frequencies of 1 Hz to 20 kHz and has a maximum value of 18.8 µm at the mechanical resonant frequency. It demonstrates the effectiveness of this PA laser motor in offsetting the shortcomings of the PT actuation method. The device requires no electrical or chemical energy, and it has potential benefits, such as bionic research into insect flapping, vocal-cord vibration, and muscular movement in fields including micro/nano physics, biochemistry, and clinical medicine.
Phenotypic variation in residual feed intake and relationship with body composition traits and methane emissions in growing wether lambs
Authors: Bond J. J. , Hudson N. J. , Khan U. H. , Dougherty H. C. , Pickford Z. , Mackenzie S. , Barzegar S. , Santos G. A. , Woodgate S. , Vercoe P. , Oddy V. H.
Published: September 2023

Context Ruminant livestock industries are seeking to improve efficiency of feed use and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Aims The research aimed to measure variation in feed intake and residual feed intake (RFI) in growing lambs and examine the inter-relationships of related traits and diet effects. Methods In Phase 1, 6-month-old Merino wethers (n = 113) were fed a base diet ad libitum for 60 days to measure dry matter intake (DMI), liveweight (LWT) and average daily gain (ADG). Whilst being fed the same base diet, measures of body composition (using computer tomography scanning) and methane emissions were collected. For Phase 2, lambs selected for low or high RFI in Phase 1 were randomly assigned to either a low or high diet and fed ad libitum for 30 days. They were assessed for intake, growth, body composition and CH4 emissions. Key results In Phase 1 there was significant variation in DMI, which was explained by these traits in order of significance (R2 additive): LWT (R2 = 63.9%), ADG (R2 = 70.4%) and fat gain (R2 = 75.7%). In Phase 2, high RFI lambs had higher metabolisable energy intake (MEI; P < 0.05) compared to low RFI lambs. In lambs fed the high diet, intake (DMI and MEI P < 0.001), LWT (P < 0.05), ADG (P < 0.001), fat and lean gain (P < 0.001) were higher than in lambs fed the low diet. Daily methane emissions were highest (P < 0.05) in high RFI lambs fed the high diet. There were no significant effects of RFI or diet on methane yield (MY; g methane/kg DM). Differences in RFI or RFI adjusted for fat gain did not persist to the end of the 30 day feeding period in Phase 2. Conclusions Lambs with low RFI had lower MEI for the same liveweight as well as lower fat and lean gain in the empty bodyweight. They also had lower daily methane emissions compared to those that had high RFI and ate more. Implications The opportunity to select sheep at a young age with lower RFI and lower MEI is of significant production and environmental importance.
Evaluating predator control using two non-invasive population metrics: a camera trap activity index and density estimation from scat genotyping
Authors: Keem Jessica L. , Hradsky Bronwyn A. , Benshemesh Joe , Le Pla Mark , Watkins Abigail , Weeks Andrew R. , van Rooyen Anthony , Black John , Southwell Darren
Published: September 2023

Context Invasive mammalian predators are a threat to biodiversity and agriculture globally, yet management outcomes for lethal predator control remain difficult to monitor and evaluate. Understanding whether changes in activity indices correspond to true changes in population density will help inform effective monitoring and management programs. Aims The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of poison baiting on invasive red fox (Vulpes vulpes) populations using two alternative population metrics: fox activity from camera trap surveys and density estimation from scat genetic analysis. Methods We conducted before–after control–impact studies in two regions of semi-arid Australia (Wimmera and Mallee) by monitoring paired non-treatment and treatment sites during unbaited and baited periods. We estimated the effects of poison baiting on: (1) a monthly fox activity index, derived from an array of 10 off-road camera traps per site; and (2) fox density. To estimate density, we collected fox scats along 14-km transects, identified individuals using polymorphic microsatellite DNA markers and fitted spatially explicit capture–recapture models. Key results Fox activity remained consistently low at all sites except the Mallee non-treatment. The top-ranked models of fox activity and density contained an interaction between treatment and period, with an interactive and additive effect of region, respectively. However, there was little evidence that baiting reduced fox activity or density. In the unbaited period, fox densities ranged from 0.69 (95% CI: 0.47–1.0) to 1.06 (95% CI: 0.74–1.51) foxes km−2 and were similar across regions. Conclusions Camera traps have the potential to provide continuous index-based measures of fox populations but may not record sufficient observations to detect change. Indices can also be confounded by variations in animal behaviour. Scat genetic analysis is a viable option for providing direct estimates of population change at specific snapshots in time; however, this approach is considerably more expensive, and large sample sizes may be required if genotyping success is low. Implications Our study presents a rare example of multiple concurrent – and non-invasive – monitoring techniques to evaluate the effectiveness of predator control. We highlight the value of rigorous study designs and high-quality density information for designing predator management and monitoring programs.
Measuring capacitor charge and discharge using an LED and a smartphone
Authors: Hurtado-Gutiérrez R , Tejero Á
Published: September 2023

In this article, we present a simple, inexpensive, and effective method for measuring the capacitor charge and discharge processes using a light-emitting diode (LED) and the light meter of a smartphone. We propose a simple circuit in which the LED’s brightness is linear on the capacitor’s voltage, allowing us to use the smartphone to monitor the capacitor state accurately. The method is tested experimentally, giving highly satisfactory results. Its exceptional combination of accuracy, minimal requirements, and ease of setup makes it an excellent way to introduce undergraduate students to the concepts of electricity and electronics in any educational setting.
Natural radioactivity of residues from groundwater treatment facilities in Finland
Authors: Kallio Antti , Leikoski Niina , Otaki Miho
Published: September 2023

The accumulation of naturally occurring radionuclides in solid residues was investigated from groundwater treatment facilities (GTFs) in Finland. Natural radionuclides U-238, Ra-226, Pb-210 and Ra-228 were found in various precipitates, sludges and filters at concentrations exceeding the general clearance level of 1 kBq kg−1 used for solid materials in the European directive 2013/59/Euratom. The accumulation of natural radionuclides in different solid residues was observed even when the activity concentrations in the untreated groundwater were relatively low, and when there was no measurable change in the concentrations between raw and treated groundwater within analytical uncertainties. Based on mass and activity balance considerations this is thought to be due to the large volumes of treated water per year. The exposure of workers to natural radiation from solid residues in the regular use of a groundwater facility was found not to be likely to exceed 0.3 mSv a−1 if the activity concentrations are <10 kBq kg−1 for U-238, Ra-226, Pb-210 and Ra-228. The worker exposure from solid residues is therefore likely to remain below the reference level of 1 mSv a−1, and indoor radon is more of a concern for the radiation protection of workers at GTFs. However, the natural radionuclide content in the different solid residues from groundwater treatment needs to be characterised properly to be able to ensure safety in the final use of the residues with respect to the potential exposure of the public.
Enhanced quadratic discriminant analysis with sensor signal fusion for speed-independent fault detection in rotating machines
Authors: N Kannan , M Saimurugan , S Sowmya , Edinbarough Immanuel
Published: September 2023

The predictive maintenance approach in the fault diagnosis of rotating machines is becoming important in industries in order to minimize operational cost and to improve the reliability of machines. Recent studies have focused on developing an effective prediction model to detect machinery faults at various speeds using machine learning techniques. In this research study, machine-learning-based models are developed to detect multi-component faults such as gear faults, bearing faults, and unbalanced shafts, by training the four speed data sets using decision trees, support vector machines and artificial neural networks. The machine learning models are improvised by fusing the vibration signals (X, Y and Z) and sound signals with the feature selection algorithm, minimal redundancy-maximum relevance (mRMR). The research work is extended by training a model with any three speeds and testing the trained model with the remaining speed. The state-of-the-art algorithms used to train all four speeds yield poor performance in the prediction of faults at testing speeds. A linear and quadratic discriminant analysis (QDA) is chosen based on its multivariate discrimination capability for better fault prediction at testing speed. The proposed combination of QDA with mRMR selection of fused vibration and sound feature set perform well in the detection of multiple faults at variable speeds.
Lifetime based pressure and temperature sensitive paint measurement on a civil aircraft wing under conditions near the onset of shock-induced separation
Authors: Sugioka Yosuke , Nakajima Tsutomu , Nakakita Kazuyuki
Published: September 2023

Lifetime-based pressure- and temperature-sensitive paint (PSP and TSP) measurements were conducted in a large-scale industrial transonic wind tunnel to obtain high-quality pressure data for validation of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. A wind tunnel test was performed using the NASA common research model in the JAXA 2 m × 2 m transonic wind tunnel. The freestream Mach number was varied in the range of 0.70–0.89, and aerodynamic forces and moments were acquired in order to obtain the pitch break condition related to the onset of shock-induced separation. Polymer-based PSP was coated on a main wing of the model, and TSP was used in tandem with PSP to correct the temperature dependence of PSP. The two-gate lifetime-based method was applied to obtain the PSP and TSP emissions. An a-priori/in-situ hybrid calibration was conducted to convert ratio-of-ratios to pressure, and measured pressure distributions were mapped onto a three-dimensional (3D) model grid. The root-mean-square error for the pressure measurements was evaluated by pressure tap data and was approximated to be 0.8 kPa for all Mach numbers tested. The obtained pressure distributions exhibited a significantly high signal-to-noise ratio and were used for comparison with CFD results on a 3D grid. The high-spatial-resolution PSP measurements helped to accurately localize the differences from the CFD simulation results and showed that the prediction of the shock location along the main wing is still a relevant challenge.
Magnetic confinement less microwave discharge gridded ion thruster
Authors: Zeng Ming , Liu Hui , Huang Hongyan , Yu Daren
Published: September 2023

A watt-level microwave discharge is induced without magnetic confinement for a high-precision gridded ion thruster, making use of a coaxial transmission line resonator. The thruster is characterized by performance measurements and plasma diagnosis, and a description of the operating mechanism of this thruster is given in this paper. A Faraday probe and a retarding potential analyzer are employed for the diagnosis. The results show that the plume divergence increases due to the electric field formed between the plume and the ion-induced electron emission cathode. A discharge mode transition is found during the increase of the microwave power, in which the bulk heating mode is converted to the surface heating mode. The magnetic-less microwave discharge gridded ion thruster performs a continuously adjustable thrust range of 5–115 μN and a highest total efficiency of 17.2%. Compared to the common ECR ion thruster, this thruster is free from magneto-static interference on the instruments and the additional magnetic momentum on the spacecraft.
Probing quantum correlations in many-body systems: a review of scalable methods
Authors: Frérot Irénée , Fadel Matteo , Lewenstein Maciej
Published: September 2023

We review methods that allow one to detect and characterize quantum correlations in many-body systems, with a special focus on approaches which are scalable. Namely, those applicable to systems with many degrees of freedom, without requiring a number of measurements or computational resources to analyze the data that scale exponentially with the system size. We begin with introducing the concepts of quantum entanglement, Einstein–Podolsky–Rosen steering, and Bell nonlocality in the bipartite scenario, to then present their multipartite generalization. We review recent progress on characterizing these quantum correlations from partial information on the system state, such as through data-driven methods or witnesses based on low-order moments of collective observables. We then review state-of-the-art experiments that demonstrate the preparation, manipulation and detection of highly-entangled many-body systems. For each platform (e.g. atoms, ions, photons, superconducting circuits) we illustrate the available toolbox for state preparation and measurement, emphasizing the challenges that each system poses. To conclude, we present a list of timely open problems in the field.
High temperature superconductors for commercial magnets
Authors: Godeke Arno
Published: September 2023

The steadily increasing magnetic fields that can be generated with superconducting magnets are reaching the limits of what is achievable with low-temperature superconductors (LTS). At the same time, a reduction of fossil-fuel extraction will amplify the already limited availability of helium as a coolant for superconducting magnets in the near future. Hence, manufacturers of commercial applications that rely on superconducting magnets have become increasingly interested in exploring technologies that enable a move beyond the magnetic-field limitations posed by LTS conductors, and/or enable higher operating temperatures to allow for cryogen-free operation. High-temperature superconductors (HTS), such as

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Honeybee flight dynamics and pair separation in windy conditions near the hive entrance
Authors: Hejazi Bardia , Antigny Hugo , Huellstrunk Sophia , Bodenschatz Eberhard
Published: September 2023

Animals and living organisms are continuously adapting to changes in their environment. How do animals, especially those that are critical to their ecosystem, respond to rapidly changing conditions in their environment? Here, we report on the three-dimensional trajectories of flying honeybees under calm and windy conditions in front of the hive entrance. We also investigate the pitch and yaw in our experiments. We find that the mean velocities, accelerations and angular velocities of honeybees increase with increasing wind speeds. We observed that pair separation between honeybees is highly controlled and independent of wind speeds. Our results on the coordination used by honeybees may have potential applications for coordinated flight of unmanned aerial vehicles.
Measures of non-Gaussianity in axion-string-induced CMB birefringence
Authors: Hagimoto Ray , Long Andrew J.
Published: September 2023

The presence of axion strings in the Universe after recombination can leave an imprint on the polarization pattern of the cosmic microwave background radiation through the phenomenon of axion-string-induced birefringence via the hyperlight axion-like particle's coupling to electromagnetism. Across the sky, the polarization rotation angle is expected to display a patchwork of uniform regions with sharp boundaries that arise as the `shadow' of axion string loops. The statistics of such a birefringence sky map are therefore necessarily non-Gaussian. In this article we quantify the non-Gaussianity in axion-string-induced birefringence using two techniques, kurtosis and bispectrum, which correspond to 4- and 3-point correlation functions. If anisotropic birefringence were detected in the future, a measurement of its non-Gaussian properties would facilitate a discrimination across different new physics sources generally, and in the context of axion strings specifically, it would help to break degeneracies between the axion-photon coupling and properties of the string network.
High resistivity free-standing crosslinked graphene oxide substrates: hopping conduction mechanism and application to recyclable electronics
Authors: Ubah Anthony , Zakeri Nima , Cerruti Marta , Szkopek Thomas
Published: September 2023

Graphene oxide (GO) is an oxidized derivative of graphene that can be formed into free-standing wafers by aqueous processing methods. We propose GO as a potential alternative printed electronic substrate material to mitigate the waste electronic and electrical equipment problem. By dissolving these substrates in water, GO permits the mechanical separation and recovery of discrete components from defunct circuits, thus closing the life cycle of printed circuits. In this work we measure the anisotropic, frequency dependent resistivity of free-standing GO wafers under DC and AC (f = 0.1 Hz–500 kHz) excitation and in varying relative humidity (RH) conditions. Unmodified GO and GO crosslinked with calcium ions, borate ions, and glutaraldehyde were characterized. AC resistivity measurements reveal charge transport in free-standing GO occurs by several distinct hopping conduction mechanisms that are sensitive to the crosslinking formulation. GO crosslinked with calcium ions exhibits the highest DC resistivity, 4.6 × 105 Ωm and 2.6 × 104 Ωm, for out-of-plane and in-plane directions, respectively, at 17% RH. Both AC and DC resistivities decrease with increasing RH. We demonstrate that GO wafers can be used as dielectric substrates in the construction of simple electronic circuits with discrete electronic components. Finally, we present a proof-of-concept for electrical trace and component recovery via disassembly of GO wafers in water.
Statistical bias correction for CESM-simulated PM2.5
Authors: Ran Qi , Moore John , Dong Tianyun , Lee Shao-Yi , Dong Wenjie
Published: September 2023

Global climate models are good tools for simulating transnational and interregional transport of pollutants such as PM2.5, which is of growing interest and importance, for example in human health and socio-economic development studies. However, reliable estimates of PM2.5 are very challenging for such relatively coarse and simplified models, and even state of the art models fare poorly in matching satellite observations in many highly polluted, and some almost pristine environments. This work describes a novel bias correction method based on multiple linear regression (MLR) modelling. The target data we aim for is global satellite-based data and the PM2.5 precursors simulated by the Community Earth System Model Version 1.2.2. The statistical method greatly reduced the simulation biases of PM2.5 worldwide compared with satellite-derived PM2.5, especially in highly-polluted regions, such as northern China, the Indo-Gangetic plains, the Democratic Republic of Congo and northwestern Brazil. Root-mean-square differences (RMSD) between continental-averaged observations and simulations are reduced from 75% to 9%. The ensemble RMSD for 13 countries exemplified here is reduced from 116% to 3%. One virtue of the MLR method is that details of the classification of internal mixed modes of each aerosol and their spatial differences are not required. The MLR coefficients are designed to be highly aerosol- and country-dependent, so they provide new perspectives of relative importance of each aerosol to local PM2.5 and offer clues on observational and simulation biases. The bias-correction method is easily applied for air pollutants simulated by global climate models due to its low computational cost.
Study on the influence of temperature and strain rate on the tensile behavior of Ti–5Mo–5Cu alloy biomaterial alloy: a molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Gowthaman S
Published: September 2023

The development of efficient biomedical bone tissue implants has invoked significant impact in the biomedical research fields and aids the aged populated peoples. In this examination, the mechanical features of implant material (Ti–5Mo–5Cu alloy) has been investigated using the molecular dynamics method under varying temperature and strain rate to understand its physical phenomenon and through this study, it is found that the strain rate has offered a complex beneficial impact over the material characteristics such as yield stress and yield strain, owing to its higher impact over the restraining behavior between various atoms and strain toughening effect related to the temperature effect. Furthermore, the shear strain and point defect analysis has confirmed that the structural alteration and the establishment of multiple dislocations lead to induce the deformation behavior of Ti–5Mo–5Cu biomaterial alloy. Additionally, the radial distribution analysis has stated that the introduction of higher ambient temperature leads to invoking multiple dislocations which are responsible for the deformation behavior and cause the major reduction in tensile properties.
Bringing cell therapy to tumors: considerations for optimal CAR binder design
Authors: Smith Richard
Published: September 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells have revolutionized the immunotherapy of B-cell malignancies and are poised to expand the range of their impact across a broad range of oncology and non-oncology indications. Critical to the success of a given CAR is the choice of binding domain, as this is the key driver for specificity and plays an important role (along with the rest of the CAR structure) in determining efficacy, potency and durability of the cell therapy. While antibodies have proven to be effective sources of CAR binding domains, it has become apparent that the desired attributes for a CAR binding domain do differ from those of a recombinant antibody. This review will address key factors that need to be considered in choosing the optimal binding domain for a given CAR and how binder properties influence and are influenced by the rest of the CAR.
Semi-supervised mixture multi-source exchangeability model for leveraging real-world data in clinical trials
Authors: Haine Lillian M F , Murry Thomas A , Nahra Raquel , Touloumi Giota , Fernández-Cruz Eduardo , Petoumenos Kathy , Koopmeiners Joseph S
Published: September 2023

The traditional trial paradigm is often criticized as being slow, inefficient, and costly. Statistical approaches that leverage external trial data have emerged to make trials more efficient by augmenting the sample size. However, these approaches assume that external data are from previously conducted trials, leaving a rich source of untapped real-world data (RWD) that cannot yet be effectively leveraged. We propose a semi-supervised mixture (SS-MIX) multisource exchangeability model (MEM); a flexible, two-step Bayesian approach for incorporating RWD into randomized controlled trial analyses. The first step is a SS-MIX model on a modified propensity score and the second step is a MEM. The first step targets a representative subgroup of individuals from the trial population and the second step avoids borrowing when there are substantial differences in outcomes among the trial sample and the representative observational sample. When comparing the proposed approach to competing borrowing approaches in a simulation study, we find that our approach borrows efficiently when the trial and RWD are consistent, while mitigating bias when the trial and external data differ on either measured or unmeasured covariates. We illustrate the proposed approach with an application to a randomized controlled trial investigating intravenous hyperimmune immunoglobulin in hospitalized patients with influenza, while leveraging data from an external observational study to supplement a subgroup analysis by influenza subtype.
Repetitive paired-pulse TMS increases motor cortex excitability and visuomotor skill acquisition in young and older adults
Authors: Hand Brodie J , Merkin Ashley , Opie George M , Ziemann Ulf , Semmler John G
Published: September 2023

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) over primary motor cortex (M1) recruits indirect (I) waves that can be modulated by repetitive paired-pulse TMS (rppTMS). The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of rppTMS on M1 excitability and visuomotor skill acquisition in young and older adults. A total of 37 healthy adults (22 young, 18–32 yr; 15 older, 60–79 yr) participated in a study that involved rppTMS at early (1.4 ms) and late (4.5 ms) interstimulus intervals (ISIs), followed by the performance of a visuomotor training task. M1 excitability was examined with motor-evoked potential (MEP) amplitudes and short-interval intracortical facilitation (SICF) using posterior–anterior (PA) and anterior–posterior (AP) TMS current directions. We found that rppTMS increased M1 excitability in young and old adults, with the greatest effects for PA TMS at the late ISI (4.5 ms). Motor skill acquisition was improved by rppTMS at an early (1.4 ms) but not late (4.5 ms) ISI in young and older adults. An additional study using a non-I-wave interval (3.5 ms) also showed increased M1 excitability and visuomotor skill acquisition. These findings show that rppTMS at both I-wave and non-I-wave intervals can alter M1 excitability and improve visuomotor skill acquisition in young and older adults.
Active vs. computer-based passive decision-making leads to discrepancies in outcome evaluation: evidence from self-reported emotional experience and brain activity
Authors: Tao Ruiwen , Zhang Can , Zhao Hanxuan , Xu Sihua
Published: September 2023

People prefer active decision-making and induce greater emotional feelings than computer-based passive mode, yet the modulation of decision-making mode on outcome evaluation remains unknown. The present study adopted event-related potentials to investigate the discrepancies in active and computer-based passive mode on outcome evaluation using a card gambling task. The subjective rating results showed that active mode elicited more cognitive effort and stronger emotional feelings than passive mode. For received outcomes, we observed no significant Feedback-Related Negativity (FRN) effect on difference waveshapes (d-FRN) between the 2 modes, but active decision-making elicited larger P300 amplitudes than the passive mode. For unchosen card outcomes, the results revealed larger d-FRN amplitudes of relative valences (Superior − Inferior) in responses to negative feedback in active mode than in passive mode. The averaged P300 results revealed an interplay among outcome feedback, decision-making mode, and relative valence, and the average P300 amplitude elicited by the received loss outcome in the active mode partially mediated the relationship between subjective cognitive effort and negative emotion ratings on loss. Our findings indicate discrepancies between active and computer-based passive modes, and cognitive effort and emotional experience involved in outcome evaluation.
Cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with a coronary sinus reducer: a case series
Authors: Grebmer Christian , Bossard Matthias , Attinger-Toller Adrian , Kobza Richard , Hilfiker Gabriela , Berte Benjamin , Cuculi Florim
Published: September 2023

Background

Reducing venous drainage of the coronary sinus is a promising intervention for refractory angina. Coronary Sinus Reducer (CSR) System™ effectively treats patients with refractory angina, possibly by increasing coronary collateral circulation, and leads to an improvement in their symptoms and quality of life. In patients with impaired left ventricular function and electrocardiographic dyssynchrony, cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an established treatment. However, there is only one published case report of CRT in a patient implanted with a CSR system. We present the first case series of CRT in patients implanted with the CSR system.

Case summary

This case series describes three patients. The first case demonstrated that CRT is feasible in patients implanted with a CSR system. The second case is the first report of a left ventricular lead extraction after CSR, and the third case was complicated due to the patient’s medical history; however, CSR system implantation was feasible without major complications.

Discussion

Our results suggest that CRT is feasible in patients implanted with a CSR system, and lead extraction after CSR system implantation is possible. However, lead extraction in cases of severe adhesions around the CSR system and the coronary sinus may be associated with a high risk of complications; alternative options should be discussed at an early stage.
Right ventricular pneumatosis and extensive multi-territory air emboli in an intravenous drug user: a case report
Authors: Paratz Elizabeth D , Chamunorwa Kudzai , Lanteri Marc , Chong-Halliday Amanda , Dixon Barry , MacIsaac Andrew I
Published: September 2023

Background

Air emboli are a life-threatening diagnosis, which may form through a range of mechanisms. In this case, we describe the case of extensive multi-territory air emboli in a patient with a history of intravenous drug abuse.

Case summary

This case describes a 41-year-old male who presented with confusion following fall with long lie. He was diagnosed with hyperkalaemia, renal failure, rhabdomyolysis, and compartment syndrome, and he developed extensive multi-territory air emboli. Air embolism was identified in arterial, venous, subcutaneous, and mediastinal territories. Echocardiography demonstrated right ventricular dilation and dysfunction, consistent with air visualized in the right coronary artery on computed tomography. The patient was transferred to the intensive care unit for close cardiac and neurological monitoring and supportive organ care, and ultimately made an uneventful recovery by 6 weeks without apparent complications from the air emboli.

Discussion

The presence of multi-territory air emboli has previously been described in the setting of surgery, manipulation of intravascular catheters, pulmonary barotrauma, and in sepsis with gas-forming organisms. It has not previously been reported in intravenous drug use or sterile rhabdomyolysis. Computed tomography imaging and echocardiography are useful to diagnose air emboli and their haemodynamic impact. Our patient’s case provides a novel example of multi-territory air emboli in a unique scenario.
A scoping review on integrated health campaigns for immunization in low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Ahmed Syeda Tahmina , Haider Shams Shabab , Hanif Suhi , Anwar Humayra Binte , Mehjabeen Saima , Closser Svea , Bazant Eva , Sarker Malabika
Published: September 2023

Health campaign integration is a key implementation strategy outlined by the World Health Organization to achieve universal health coverage. This scoping review synthesizes the evidence on Integrated Health Campaigns (IHC) in the field of immunization in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) regarding the most common strategies, facilitators and barriers. Four reviewers followed a systematic approach to identify, screen and analyse relevant articles. The team used three search engines (PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar) to identify peer-reviewed journal articles as well as select institutional websites for grey literature publications. Full-text articles using any study design and across any time frame were included. Data were extracted following a predefined matrix, analysed deductively and presented in a narrative synthesis. Thirty articles (20 academic and 10 grey) were included in the final review. All studies included identified IHCs as effective when planning or implementation is integrated. The common strategies were: using resources efficiently in remote locations; using national immunization days to maximize impact; targeting specific age groups by selecting intervention sites that are frequented by that age group; building community ownership over the integrated program; and integrating programs that already share common elements. The key facilitators were: closing the gap between services and communities; planning, coordination and resource management both before and during integration; cost-effectiveness; and utilization of pre-existing infrastructure. The common barriers included seemingly optimized initial cost to appear feasible only in the short term and additional responsibilities on the field staff. This review finds IHCs a common practice in immunization and identifies gaps in evidence on evaluation; indicating the need for additional research. Strong evidence accounts IHCs to increase coverage, improve community acceptance of health services and strengthen the community models of health service delivery.
Complete Positivity of Comultiplication and Primary Criteria for Unitary Categorification
Authors: Huang Linzhe , Liu Zhengwei , Palcoux Sebastien , Wu Jinsong
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we investigate quantum Fourier analysis on subfactors and unitary fusion categories. We prove the complete positivity of the comultiplication for subfactors and derive a primary $n$-criterion of unitary categorification of multifusion rings. It is stronger than the Schur product criterion when $n\geq 3$. The primary criterion could be transformed into various criteria, which are easier to check in practice even for noncommutative, high-rank, high-multiplicity, multifusion rings. More importantly, the primary criterion could be localized on a sparse set, so that it works for multifusion rings with sparse known data. We give numerous examples to illustrate the efficiency and the power of these criteria.
A comparative study on feeding timing and additive types of broilers in a high-temperature environment
Authors: Son Jiseon , Lee Woo-Do , Kim Hyunsoo , Hong Eui-Chul , Kim Hee-Jin , Yun Yeon-Seo , Kang Hwan-Ku
Published: September 2023

Antioxidants such as vitamin C (VC) and green tea extract (GTE) have been reported to have various antioxidant functions and are used as one of the nutritional approaches to alleviate heat stress (HS) in chickens. However, studies on the feeding timing that can produce optimal effects have not been reported. In this study, the stress-relieving effect of VC and GTE addition timing was investigated in high-temperature broiler chickens. A total of 880 1-d-old male chickens were used, and the treatments were as follows: no feed additives provided, CON; VC 250 mg/kg added from 1 d, VC1; GTE 600 mg/kg added from 1 d, GTE1; VC 250 mg/kg added from 22 d, VC22; GTE 600 mg/kg added from 22 d, GTE22. The HS environment was provided for 2 wk from the 22 d and was set at 33 ± 1 °C, 55 ± 10% for 24 h. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Broiler production was similar in all treatments. In chicken meat quality, the addition of VC and GTE had an effect on meat color and pH (P < 0.05). In particular, GTE had a positive effect on the antioxidant capacity and quality preservation of breast meat (P < 0.05). In blood characteristics, GTE1 significantly lowered the level of total cholesterol, and VC1 affected AST and IgM (P < 0.05). Interestingly, the VC1 group had a positive effect on the maintenance and development of intestinal morphology, a lower rectal temperature, and showed to relieve stress. In conclusion, the addition of VC and GTE has been shown to alleviate the high-temperature stress of broilers, and in the case of VC in particular, feeding from 1 d appeared to alleviate stress more effectively. This study suggests that it is important to determine the appropriate timing of addition of functional substances in order to effectively reduce various stresses that occur in livestock rearing.
Self-supervised feature matched virtual try-on
Authors: Jiang Shiyi , Xu Yang , Li Danyang , Fan Runze
Published: September 2023

Virtual try-on is a technology that enables users to preview the effect of wearing a target garment without wearing the actual garment. However, existing image-based virtual try-on methods often require additional human parsing or segmentation operations to generate intermediate representations required for garment deformation and texture fusion. These operations not only increase the computational complexity and memory consumption, but also limit the real-time and portability of virtual try-on. Additionally, inaccurate parsing results can lead to misleading final generated images. To overcome these challenges, we propose a self-supervised feature matched virtual try-on network, which can directly generate high-quality try-on results from human body images and target clothing images without any additional input. Specifically, we design an optical flow warp module, which focuses on the optical flow changes between the person image and the clothing image to achieve accurate clothing alignment and deformation. Furthermore, a feature refine warp module is designed to enhance the features of the extracted optical flow information and the original character segmentation and analysis operations, reducing the influence of background clutter features on the content, and ensuring that the wrinkles and deformation of the replacement clothes are close to the original clothes. The feature match module is developed to calculate the feature matching loss of the converted clothing and the generated results of the teacher network and the student network, and the corresponding knowledge is distilled and passed to the student network to assist in self-supervised training. We conduct experiments on the VITON dataset and show that our model can generate high quality and high resolution, and our proposed method outperforms the state-of-the-art virtual try-on methods both qualitatively and quantitatively.
Reconstruction of extensive thoracolumbar defect with perforator-based double Keystone Island flap
Authors: Mužar Rhea M , Eljuga Domagoj , Jaman Josip , Vlajčić Zlatko , Žic Rado
Published: September 2023

Sarcomas represent 1% of malignancies in adult population; thereby dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is found in 1%–2% of all cases. A surgical approach in oncologic treatment is the standard of care; therefore, important is an extensive resection to achieve clear margins and prevent recurrence. Herein we report a case of recurrent dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans in the thoracolumbar region. As the adequate resection was to cause a huge defect, we have made a reconstruction plan for coverage, using a perforator-based double Keystone Island flap (Type III). The method was chosen as a reliant solution with low complication rates and without need for complex flap designs thereby giving good functional and esthetic results. Main aim of the case report was to show that Keystone Island flaps present a simple and technically straightforward method with low complication rates and good results.