bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dislodgement and mortality challenges when restoring shallow mussel beds (Mytilus edulis) in a Danish estuary
Authors: Banke Timi L. , Steinfurth Rune C. , Lange Troels , Canal‐Vergés Paula , Svane Niels , Flindt Mogens R.
Published: April 2024

In recent decades, mussel beds in the northern Atlantic and Scandinavia have declined rapidly in extent due to anthropogenic impacts, similar to many other marine habitats. In this study, a large‐scale restoration experiment was conducted to identify major challenges that arise during restoration efforts on shallow subtidal mussel beds. Suspension‐grown mussels (Mytilus edulis) were relayed in two different treatments either directly on bare bottom sandy sediments, or on coir nets (Net), used as a proxy for suitable byssal attachment substrate. The treatments were monitored for 1.5 years and coverage (%), biomass (WW), and population dynamics were quantified. Two main challenges of shallow bed restoration were identified: (1) Lack of suitable attachment substrate resulting in dislodgment of individuals during storm events. The Net treatment had significantly higher coverage and biomass of Mytilus at the end of the monitoring period, clearly demonstrating the importance of suitable substrate at physically exposed locations. (2) High mortality of juvenile mussels. Population dynamics revealed a high mortality of juvenile Mytilus, which resulted in almost complete loss of relayed Mytilus individuals less than 30 mm within the first season. This was most likely due to high meso‐predator densities, as a result of declining top‐predator populations. The high mortality of juvenile Mytilus prevented successful annual recruitment, thereby making the population unsustainable long‐term. Both challenges need to be addressed to create stable beds during restoration. Additionally, the experiment demonstrated the viability of using suspension‐grown Mytilus as a seed‐source when restoring mussel beds.
Enhancing assisted diagnostic accuracy in scalp psoriasis: A Multi‐Network Fusion Object Detection Framework for dermoscopic pattern diagnosis
Authors: Ji Honghai , Li Jiaqi , Zhu Xiaoyang , Fan Lingling , Jiang Weiwei , Chen Yang
Published: April 2024

Background

Dermoscopy is a common method of scalp psoriasis diagnosis, and several artificial intelligence techniques have been used to assist dermoscopy in the diagnosis of nail fungus disease, the most commonly used being the convolutional neural network algorithm; however, convolutional neural networks are only the most basic algorithm, and the use of object detection algorithms to assist dermoscopy in the diagnosis of scalp psoriasis has not been reported.

Objectives

Establishment of a dermoscopic modality diagnostic framework for scalp psoriasis based on object detection technology and image enhancement to improve diagnostic efficiency and accuracy.

Methods

We analyzed the dermoscopic patterns of scalp psoriasis diagnosed at 72nd Group army hospital of PLA from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2021, and selected scalp seborrheic dermatitis as a control group. Based on dermoscopic images and major dermoscopic patterns of scalp psoriasis and scalp seborrheic dermatitis, we investigated a multi‐network fusion object detection framework based on the object detection technique Faster R‐CNN and the image enhancement technique contrast limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE), for assisting in the diagnosis of scalp psoriasis and scalp seborrheic dermatitis, as well as to differentiate the major dermoscopic patterns of the two diseases. The diagnostic performance of the multi‐network fusion object detection framework was compared with that between dermatologists.

Results

A total of 1876 dermoscopic images were collected, including 1218 for scalp psoriasis versus 658 for scalp seborrheic dermatitis. Based on these images, training and testing are performed using a multi‐network fusion object detection framework. The results showed that the test accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, and Youden index for the diagnosis of scalp psoriasis was: 91.0%, 89.5%, 91.0%, and 0.805, and for the main dermoscopic patterns of scalp psoriasis and scalp seborrheic dermatitis, the diagnostic results were: 89.9%, 97.7%, 89.9%, and 0.876. Comparing the diagnostic results with those of five dermatologists, the fusion framework performs better than the dermatologists' diagnoses.

Conclusions

Studies have shown some differences in dermoscopic patterns between scalp psoriasis and scalp seborrheic dermatitis. The proposed multi‐network fusion object detection framework has higher diagnostic performance for scalp psoriasis than for dermatologists.
Using single antigen specificity magnetic beads for the isolation of specific antibodies against HLA antigens
Authors: Vu Tri T. M. , Zhang Aiwen , Wang Ronald , Mathew Shalu , Abeywardana Tharindumala , Beltran‐Lemus Marissa , Ma Vincent , Libby Mary , Thomas Dawn , Wakefield Ito , Zhu Quansheng , Lowe David , Pei Rui
Published: April 2024

The presence of multiple donor‐specific antibodies (DSAs) targeting HLA antigens poses a challenge to transplantation. Various techniques, including the use of recombinant cell lines and crossmatch cells have been developed to isolate DSAs. To simplify the extraction of HLA‐specific DSAs from complex sera, we introduced magnetic beads with single HLA specificity (MagSort). Sera were treated with MagSort, allowing HLA‐specific antibodies to bind to the beads, and these specific antibodies were subsequently eluted. MagSort beads, coated with 59 different HLA variants, underwent testing through 1329 adsorption/elution processes, demonstrating their effectiveness and specificity in adsorbing and eluting HLA‐specific antibodies. The MagSort method proves comparable to the cell method, showing similar isolated antibody binding patterns. The isolated antibody binding patterns from MagSort reveal both known eplets and unknown patterns, suggesting its utility for eplet discovery. Additionally, MagSort proved effective in extracting signals for flow cytometry cross‐matching, offering a means to assess the binding capability of isolated antibodies against specific donor cells.
Proliferation of psychrotrophic bacteria in cold‐stored platelet concentrates
Authors: Ramirez‐Arcos Sandra , Kumaran Dilini , Cap Andrew , Cardenas Kristin Michelle , Cloutier Marc , Ferdin Justin , Gravemann Ute , Ketter Patrick , Landry Patricia , Lu Thea , Niekerk Truscha , Parker Joel , Renke Claudia , Seltsam Axel , Stafford Bianca , Süssner Susanne , Vollmer Tanja , Zilkenat Susann , McDonald Carl ,   for the ISBT Transfusion‐Transmitted Infections Diseases Working Party, Subgroup on Bacteria
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives

Platelet concentrates (PC) are stored at 20–24°C to maintain platelet functionality, which may promote growth of contaminant bacteria. Alternatively, cold storage of PC limits bacterial growth; however, data related to proliferation of psychotrophic species in cold‐stored PC (CSP) are scarce, which is addressed in this study.

Materials and Methods

Eight laboratories participated in this study with a pool/split approach. Two split PC units were spiked with ~25 colony forming units (CFU)/PC of Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Serratia liquefaciens, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Listeria monocytogenes. One unit was stored under agitation at 20–24°C/7 days while the second was stored at 1–6°C/no agitation for 21 days. PC were sampled periodically to determine bacterial loads. Five laboratories repeated the study with PC inoculated with lyophilized inocula (~30 CFU/mL) of S. aureus and K. pneumoniae.

Results

All species proliferated in PC stored at 20–24°C, reaching concentrations of ≤109 CFU/mL by day 7. Psychrotrophic P. fluorescens and S. liquefaciens proliferated in CSP to ~106 CFU/mL and ~105 CFU/mL on days 10 and 17 of storage, respectively, followed by L. monocytogenes, which reached ~102 CFU/mL on day 21. S. aureus and K. pneumoniae did not grow in CSP.

Conclusion

Psychrotrophic bacteria, which are relatively rare contaminants in PC, proliferated in CSP, with P. fluorescens reaching clinically significant levels (≥105 CFU/mL) before day 14 of storage. Cold storage reduces bacterial risk of PC to levels comparable with RBC units. Safety of CSP could be further improved by implementing bacterial detection systems or pathogen reduction technologies if storage is beyond 10 days.
Attractors are not algebraic
Authors: Lam Yeuk Hay Joshua , Tripathy Arnav
Published: April 2024

The attractor conjecture for Calabi–Yau moduli spaces predicts the algebraicity of the moduli values of certain isolated points picked out by Hodge-theoretic conditions. Using tools from transcendence theory, we provide a family of counterexamples to the attractor conjecture in almost all odd dimensions conditional on a specific case of the Zilber–Pink conjecture in unlikely intersection theory; these Calabi–Yau manifolds were first studied by Dolgachev. We also give constructions of new families of Calabi–Yau varieties, analogous to the mirror quintic family, with all middle Hodge numbers equal to one, which would also give counterexamples to the attractor conjecture.
Delta like 4 regulates cerebrovascular development and endothelial integrity via DLL4‐NOTCH‐CLDN5 pathway and is vulnerable to neonatal hyperoxia
Authors: Ke Xingrao , Xia Sheng , Yu Wei , Mabry Sherry , Fu Qi , Menden Heather L. , Sampath Venkatesh , Lane Robert H.
Published: April 2024

The mechanisms governing brain vascularization during development remain poorly understood. A key regulator of developmental vascularization is delta like 4 (DLL4), a Notch ligand prominently expressed in endothelial cells (EC). Exposure to hyperoxia in premature infants can disrupt the development and functions of cerebral blood vessels and lead to long‐term cognitive impairment. However, its role in cerebral vascular development and the impact of postnatal hyperoxia on DLL4 expression in mouse brain EC have not been explored. We determined the DLL4 expression pattern and its downstream signalling gene expression in brain EC using Dll4+/+ and Dll4+/LacZ mice. We also performed in vitro studies using human brain microvascular endothelial cells. Finally, we determined Dll4 and Cldn5 expression in mouse brain EC exposed to postnatal hyperoxia. DLL4 is expressed in various cell types, with EC being the predominant one in immature brains. Moreover, DLL4 deficiency leads to persistent abnormalities in brain microvasculature and increased vascular permeability both in vivo and in vitro. We have identified that DLL4 insufficiency compromises endothelial integrity through the NOTCH‐NICD‐RBPJ‐CLDN5 pathway, resulting in the downregulation of the tight junction protein claudin 5 (CLDN5). Finally, exposure to neonatal hyperoxia reduces DLL4 and CLDN5 expression in developing mouse brain EC. We reveal that DLL4 is indispensable for brain vascular development and maintaining the blood–brain barrier's function and is repressed by neonatal hyperoxia. We speculate that reduced DLL4 signalling in brain EC may contribute to the impaired brain development observed in neonates exposed to hyperoxia.

image

Key points

The role of delta like 4 (DLL4), a Notch ligand in vascular endothelial cells, in brain vascular development and functions remains unknown.

We demonstrate that DLL4 is expressed at a high level during postnatal brain development in immature brains and DLL4 insufficiency leads to abnormal cerebral vasculature and increases vascular permeability both in vivo and in vitro.

We identify that DLL4  regulates endothelial integrity through NOTCH‐NICD‐RBPJ‐CLDN5 signalling.

Dll4 and Cldn5 expression are decreased in mouse brain endothelial cells exposed to postnatal hyperoxia.
Capacidades institucionales de los gobiernos subnacionales en periodos de crisis: el caso del departamento de Santander en Colombia, 2020-2022
Authors: Bayona Sarmiento Manuel , Parra Ramírez Esther
Published: April 2024

Los periodos de crisis recurrente develan fortalezas y grandes debilidades en las capacidades que tienen las instituciones para afrontarlas. Este artículo presenta los resultados de la investigación sobre la respuesta de las autoridades gubernamentales del departamento de Santander en Colombia a la crisis sanitaria originada por la pandemia del COVID-19, con el fin de mostrar los grados de articulación multinivel, la efectividad y formas de liderazgo gubernamental ante situaciones de contingencia.

 

El trabajo de campo recurrió a la metodología Sistema de Análisis de Capacidad Institucional (SADCI), para estudiar fenómenos disruptivos y para ello revisa la flexibilidad institucional multinivel, la capacidad de adaptación y de reinvención para responder a este tipo de situaciones que cuestionan los cimientos del estado y sus gobiernos, así como sus capacidades para responder oportuna y adecuadamente a las demandas ciudadanas.

 

Los resultados muestran que, en sistemas predominantemente presidenciales como el colombiano, el papel central de respuesta institucional se concentra en el jefe de Estado y su gabinete y así, el grado de respuesta a las crisis en el ámbito subnacional se relaciona con el nivel de autonomía de sus gobiernos, la innovación en medio de las dificultades y los tipos de liderazgos ejercidos.
Simulation of Uterus Active Contraction and Fetus Delivery in ls-dyna
Authors: Tao Ru , Grimm Michele
Published: April 2024

Vaginal childbirth is the final phase of pregnancy when one or more fetuses pass through the birth canal from the uterus, and it is a biomechanical process. The uterine active contraction, causing the pushing force on the fetus, plays a vital role in regulating the fetus delivery process. In this project, the active contraction behaviors of muscle tissue were first modeled and investigated. After that, a finite element method (FEM) model to simulate the uterine cyclic active contraction and delivery of a fetus was developed in ls-dyna. The active contraction was driven through contractile fibers modeled as one-dimensional truss elements, with the Hill material model governing their response. Fibers were assembled in the longitudinal, circumferential, and normal (transverse) directions to correspond to tissue microstructure, and they were divided into seven regions to represent the strong anisotropy of the fiber distribution and activity within the uterus. The passive portion of the uterine tissue was modeled with a Neo Hookean hyperelastic material model. Three active contraction cycles were modeled. The cyclic uterine active contraction behaviors were analyzed. Finally, the fetus delivery through the uterus was simulated. The model of the uterine active contraction presented in this paper modeled the contractile fibers in three-dimensions, considered the anisotropy of the fiber distribution, provided the uterine cyclic active contraction and propagation of the contraction waves, performed a large deformation, and caused the pushing effect on the fetus. This model will be combined with a model of pelvic structures so that a complete system simulating the second stage of the delivery process of a fetus can be established.
An Ultrathin-Walled Foam Heat Pipe
Authors: Wang Yi Xiang , Yu Cheng Qin , Kang Kiju , Atkins Michael D. , Kim Tongbeum
Published: April 2024

We present an advanced thermal solution for capillary-driven heat pipes that addresses a fundamental problem with existing heat pipes being inefficient space utilization and limited thermal spreading performance. Our solution features the full occupation of open-cell foam core and ultrathin-walled envelope—an ultrathin-walled foam heat pipe (uFHP). A copper layer is formed sequentially via electroless—and electroplating, and envelopes a tailored block of open-cell foam core, followed by a series of chemical surface treatments that create a nanoscale texture on the foam ligament and envelope's inner surfaces for improved capillary pumping. The high porosity foam core (ε = 0.974) for vapor passaging and wicking, and the ultrathin-walled envelope of 50 μm, make the uFHP remarkably lightweight (64% lighter than commercial heat pipes). Further, conductive spreading and convective transfer of heat from vapor and condensate by foam ligaments to the envelope, increase overall heat rejection. Consequently, the thermal resistance and evaporator temperature are reduced. More importantly, the uFHP could be tailored into any cross-sectional (e.g., noncircular) shape. This tailorable uFHP can be an alternative heat pipe thermal solution for extreme compact operations that require improved thermal performance.
Production of a high-density hydrogen plasma in a capacitively coupled RF discharge with a hollow cathode enclosed by magnets
Authors: Ohtsu Yasunori , Uchida Takeshi , Kuno Ryohei , Schulze Julian
Published: April 2024

A high-density hydrogen plasma with a plasma density higher than 1010 cm−3 is produced by a radio-frequency magnetized capacitively coupled discharge using a hollow cathode, i.e., a cylindrical hole inside the powered electrode surrounded by eight cylindrical neodymium magnets. The magnetic field is calculated to discuss the electron magnetization, i.e., the Hall parameter and Larmor radius of electrons. It is found that for 3 Pa of hydrogen gas pressure the maximum of plasma density estimated from the ion saturation current measured by a Langmuir probe at the center of the hollow trench, which is surrounded by the magnets, is approximately 1.7 times higher than that without the magnets. The addition of magnets results in an expansion of the high-density plasma region inside the trench. The uniformity of the radial profile of the plasma density is better in the presence of the magnets than that without the magnets.
Etching of elemental layers in oxide molecular beam epitaxy by O2-assisted formation and evaporation of their volatile (sub)oxide: The examples of Ga and Ge
Authors: Chen Wenshan , Egbo Kingsley , Zhang Huaide , Ardenghi Andrea , Bierwagen Oliver
Published: April 2024

The delivery of an elemental cation flux to the substrate surface in the oxide molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) chamber has been utilized not only for the epitaxial growth of oxide thin films in the presence of oxygen but also in the absence of oxygen for the growth temperature calibration (by determining the adsorption temperature of the elements) and in situ etching of oxide layers (e.g., Ga2O3 etched by Ga). These elemental fluxes may, however, leave unwanted cation adsorbates or droplets on the surface, which traditionally require removal by in situ superheating or ex situ wet-chemical etching with potentially surface-degrading effects. This study demonstrates a universal in situ approach to remove the residual cation elements from the surface via conversion into a volatile suboxide by a molecular O2-flux in an MBE system followed by suboxide evaporation at temperatures significantly below the elemental evaporation temperature. We experimentally investigate the in situ etching of Ga and Ge cation layers and their etching efficiency using in situ line-of-sight quadrupole mass spectrometry and reflection high-energy electron diffraction. The application of this process is demonstrated by the in situ removal of residual Ga droplets from a SiO2 mask after structuring a Ga2O3 layer by in situ Ga-etching. We predict this approach to be generally applicable in MBE and metalorganic chemical vapor deposition to remove residual elements with vapor pressure lower than that of their volatile suboxides or oxides, such as B, In, La, Si, Sn, Sb, Mo, Nb, Ru, Ta, V, and W.
More resilient polyester membranes for high-performance reverse osmosis desalination
Authors: Yao Yujian , Zhang Pingxia , Sun Fei , Zhang Wen , Li Meng , Sha Gang , Teng Long , Wang Xianze , Huo Mingxin , DuChanois Ryan M. , Cao Tianchi , Boo Chanhee , Zhang Xuan , Elimelech Menachem
Published: April 2024

Thin-film composite reverse osmosis membranes have remained the gold standard technology for desalination and water purification for nearly half a century. Polyamide films offer excellent water permeability and salt rejection but also suffer from poor chlorine resistance, high fouling propensity, and low boron rejection. We addressed these issues by molecularly designing a polyester thin-film composite reverse osmosis membrane using co-solvent–assisted interfacial polymerization to react 3,5-dihydroxy-4-methylbenzoic acid with trimesoyl chloride. This polyester membrane exhibits substantial water permeability, high rejection for sodium chloride and boron, and complete resistance toward chlorine. The ultrasmooth, low-energy surface of the membrane also prevents fouling and mineral scaling compared with polyamide membranes. These membranes could increasingly challenge polyamide membranes by further optimizing water-salt selectivity, offering a path to considerably reducing pretreatment steps in desalination.
Drugs of abuse hijack a mesolimbic pathway that processes homeostatic need
Authors: Tan Bowen , Browne Caleb J. , Nöbauer Tobias , Vaziri Alipasha , Friedman Jeffrey M. , Nestler Eric J.
Published: April 2024

Drugs of abuse are thought to promote addiction in part by “hijacking” brain reward systems, but the underlying mechanisms remain undefined. Using whole-brain FOS mapping and in vivo single-neuron calcium imaging, we found that drugs of abuse augment dopaminoceptive ensemble activity in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and disorganize overlapping ensemble responses to natural rewards in a cell type–specific manner. Combining FOS-Seq, CRISPR-perturbation, and single-nucleus RNA sequencing, we identified
Rheb
as a molecular substrate that regulates cell type–specific signal transduction in NAc while enabling drugs to suppress natural reward consumption. Mapping NAc-projecting regions activated by drugs of abuse revealed input-specific effects on natural reward consumption. These findings characterize the dynamic, molecular and circuit basis of a common reward pathway, wherein drugs of abuse interfere with the fulfillment of innate needs.
High energy density in artificial heterostructures through relaxation time modulation
Authors: Han Sangmoon , Kim Justin S. , Park Eugene , Meng Yuan , Xu Zhihao , Foucher Alexandre C. , Jung Gwan Yeong , Roh Ilpyo , Lee Sangho , Kim Sun Ok , Moon Ji-Yun , Kim Seung-Il , Bae Sanggeun , Zhang Xinyuan , Park Bo-In , Seo Seunghwan , Li Yimeng , Shin Heechang , Reidy Kate , Hoang Anh Tuan , Sundaram Suresh , Vuong Phuong , Kim Chansoo , Zhao Junyi , Hwang Jinyeon , Wang Chuan , Choi Hyungil , Kim Dong-Hwan , Kwon Jimin , Park Jin-Hong , Ougazzaden Abdallah , Lee Jae-Hyun , Ahn Jong-Hyun , Kim Jeehwan , Mishra Rohan , Kim Hyung-Seok , Ross Frances M. , Bae Sang-Hoon
Published: April 2024

Electrostatic capacitors are foundational components of advanced electronics and high-power electrical systems owing to their ultrafast charging-discharging capability. Ferroelectric materials offer high maximum polarization, but high remnant polarization has hindered their effective deployment in energy storage applications. Previous methodologies have encountered problems because of the deteriorated crystallinity of the ferroelectric materials. We introduce an approach to control the relaxation time using two-dimensional (2D) materials while minimizing energy loss by using 2D/3D/2D heterostructures and preserving the crystallinity of ferroelectric 3D materials. Using this approach, we were able to achieve an energy density of 191.7 joules per cubic centimeter with an efficiency greater than 90%. This precise control over relaxation time holds promise for a wide array of applications and has the potential to accelerate the development of highly efficient energy storage systems.
In Other Journals
Authors: Ash Caroline , Simonti Corinne , Wible Brad , Ross Sarah H. , Vignieri Sacha , Suleymanov Yury , Szuromi Phil
Published: April 2024

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
Plans to expand African vaccine production face steep hurdles
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: April 2024

Moderna’s pause on Kenya project highlights difficulties in creating a competitive vaccine sector on the continent
Giant planets ran amok soon after Solar System’s birth
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: April 2024

Meteorites suggest tumult occurred around the time of the Moon’s formation
Gut microbe blocks dengue and Zika viruses in mosquitoes
Authors: Offord Catherine
Published: April 2024

Naturally occurring bacterium could offer an additional way to control mosquito-borne diseases
Sialic acids as attachment factors in mosquitoes mediating Japanese encephalitis virus infection
Authors: He Yi , Miao Chang , Yang Shiping , Xu Changhao , Liu Yuwei , Zhu Xi , Wen Yiping , Wu Rui , Zhao Qin , Huang Xiaobo , Yan Qigui , Lang Yifei , Zhao Shan , Wang Yiping , Han Xinfeng , Cao Sanjie , Hu Yajie , Du Senyan
Published: April 2024

The role of
Culex
mosquitoes in the transmission of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is crucial, yet the mechanisms of JEV infection in these vectors remain unclear. Previous research has indicated that various host factors participate in JEV infection. Herein, we present evidence that mosquito sialic acids enhance JEV infection both
in vivo
and
in vitro
. By treating mosquitoes and C6/36 cells with neuraminidase or lectin, the function of sialic acids is effectively blocked, resulting in significant inhibition of JEV infection. Furthermore, knockdown of the sialic acid biosynthesis genes in
Culex
mosquitoes also leads to a reduction in JEV infection. Moreover, our research revealed that sialic acids play a role in the attachment of JEV to mosquito cells, but not in its internalization. To further explore the mechanisms underlying the promotion of JEV attachment by sialic acids, we conducted immunoprecipitation experiments to confirm the direct binding of sialic acids to the last α-helix in JEV envelope protein domain III. Overall, our study contributes to a molecular comprehension of the interaction between mosquitoes and JEV and offers potential strategies for preventing the dissemination of flavivirus in natural environments.

IMPORTANCE

In this study, we aimed to investigate the impact of glycoconjugate sialic acids on mosquito infection with Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). Our findings demonstrate that sialic acids play a crucial role in enhancing JEV infection by facilitating the attachment of the virus to the cell membrane. Furthermore, our investigation revealed that sialic acids directly bind to the final α-helix in the JEV envelope protein domain III, thereby accelerating virus adsorption. Collectively, our results highlight the significance of mosquito sialic acids in JEV infection within vectors, contributing to a better understanding of the interaction between mosquitoes and JEV.
Respiratory outcomes and survival after unplanned extubation in the NICU: a prospective cohort study from the SEPREVEN trial
Authors: Yager Helene , Tauzin Manon , Durrmeyer Xavier , Todorova Darina , Storme Laurent , Debillon Thierry , Casagrande Florence , Jung Camille , Audureau Etienne , Layese Richard , Caeymaex Laurence
Published: April 2024

Objective

To compare reintubation rates after planned extubation and unplanned extubation (UE) in patients in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), to analyse risk factors for reintubation after UE and to compare outcomes in patients with and without UE.

Design

Prospective, observational study nested in a randomised controlled trial (SEPREVEN/Study on Epidemiology and PRevention of adverse EVEnts in Neonates). Outcomes were expected to be independent of the intervention tested.

Setting

12 NICUs in France with a 20-month follow-up, starting November 2015.

Patients

n=2280 patients with a NICU stay >2 days, postmenstrual age ≤42 weeks on admission.

Interventions/exposure

Characteristics of UE (context, timing, sedative administration in the preceding 6 hours, weaning from ventilation at time of UE) and patients.

Main outcome measures

Healthcare professional-reported UE rates, reintubation/timing after extubation, duration of mechanical ventilation, mortality and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).

Results

There were 162 episodes of UE (139 patients, median gestational age (IQR) 27.3 (25.6–31.7) weeks). Cumulative reintubation rates within 24 hours and 7 days of UE were, respectively, 50.0% and 57.5%, compared with 5.5% and 12.3% after a planned extubation. Independent risk factors for reintubation within 7 days included absence of weaning at the time of UE (HR, 95% CI) and sedatives in the preceding 6 hours (HR 1.93, 95% CI 1.04 to 3.60). Mortality at discharge did not differ between patients with planned extubation or UE. UE was associated with a higher risk of BPD.

Conclusion

In the SEPREVEN trial, reintubation followed UE in 58% of the cases, compared with 12% after planned extubation.

Trial registration number

NCT02598609.
Efficacy of a single low dose of esketamine after childbirth for mothers
with symptoms of prenatal depression: randomised clinical trial
Authors: Wang Shuo , Deng Chun-Mei , Zeng Yuan , Chen Xin-Zhong , Li Ai-Yuan , Feng Shan-Wu , Xu Li-Li , Chen Liang , Yuan Hong-Mei , Hu Han , Yang Tian , Han Tao , Zhang Hui-Ying , Jiang Ming , Sun Xin-Yu , Guo Hui-Ning , Sessler Daniel I , Wang Dong-Xin
Published: April 2024

Objective

To determine whether a single low dose of esketamine administered
after childbirth reduces postpartum depression in mothers with prenatal
depression.

Design

Randomised, double blind, placebo controlled trial with two parallel
arms.

Setting

Five tertiary care hospitals in China, 19 June 2020 to 3 August
2022.

Participants

364 mothers aged ≥18 years who had at least mild prenatal depression
as indicated by Edinburgh postnatal depression scale scores of ≥10
(range 0-30, with higher scores indicating worse depression) and who
were admitted to hospital for delivery.

Interventions

Participants were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive either 0.2 mg/kg
esketamine or placebo infused intravenously over 40 minutes after
childbirth once the umbilical cord had been clamped.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was prevalence of a major depressive episode at
42 days post partum, diagnosed using the mini-international
neuropsychiatric interview. Secondary outcomes included the Edinburgh
postnatal depression scale score at seven and 42 days post partum and
the 17 item Hamilton depression rating scale score at 42 days post
partum (range 0-52, with higher scores indicating worse depression).
Adverse events were monitored until 24 hours after childbirth.

Results

A total of 364 mothers (mean age 31.8 (standard deviation 4.1)
years) were enrolled and randomised. At 42 days post partum, a major
depressive episode was observed in 6.7% (12/180) of participants in the
esketamine group compared with 25.4% (46/181) in the placebo group
(relative risk 0.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.14 to 0.48;
P<0.001). Edinburgh postnatal depression scale scores were lower in
the esketamine group at seven days (median difference −3, 95% CI −4 to
−2; P<0.001) and 42 days (−3, −4 to −2; P<0.001). Hamilton
depression rating scale scores at 42 days post partum were also lower in
the esketamine group (−4, −6 to −3; P<0.001). The overall incidence
of neuropsychiatric adverse events was higher in the esketamine group
(45.1% (82/182)v22.0% (40/182); P<0.001);
however, symptoms lasted less than a day and none required drug
treatment.

Conclusions

For mothers with prenatal depression, a single low dose of
esketamine after childbirth decreases major depressive episodes at 42
days post partum by about three quarters. Neuropsychiatric symptoms were
more frequent but transient and did not require drug
intervention.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04414943.
Sex and authorship in global cancer research
Authors: Mutebi Miriam , Lewison Grant , Mukherji Deborah , Hammad Nazik , Vanderpuye Verna , Liebermann Erica , So Winnie K W , Torode Julie , Sullivan Richard , Ginsburg Ophira
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Research is an essential pillar of cancer control and key in shaping regional cancer control agendas. Imbalances in science and technology in terms of lack of female participation have been well documented. However, there is little evidence about country-level female participation in cancer research.

Methodology

Through a complex filter, cancer research papers were identified and grouped by countries and sex of the first and last authors of each paper and analysed by the percentage of females in these positions alongside other parameters.

Results

Our analysis of 56 countries’ outputs, in 2009, revealed that females were the first authors in 37.2% and last authors in 23.3% of papers. In 2019, females were the first author in 41.6% and last author in 29.4% of papers. Females increased as first authors by 26%, and as last authors by 12% between these two time periods. The top performing countries in terms female/male parity for first or last authorship were in Eastern and Southern Europe as well as Latin American countries.

From 2009 to 2019, the highest proportion of females as first and last authors were from low-income and middle-income countries in Latin America and Eastern Europe.

Females were more likely to publish in lower impact journals and were less likely to be cited compared to males.

Conclusions

Globally, progress in female’s authorship in oncology research has been uneven. More research is needed to understand the reasons behind this. Advancing diversity and equity in research leadership and authorship will be essential to address the complex challenges of cancer globally.
Quality improvement: treatment escalation plans in oncology
Authors: Chauhan Hiten Arun , Adat Rehaan , Garofide Harieta , Bhandari Monica , Viramuthu Sivalekha
Published: April 2024

Treatment escalation plans (TEPs) are increasingly appreciated tools in modern hospital medicine. It records and advises on the appropriate escalation of care for our patients, often when those of us who know them best are not available. It is of value in all specialties, though notably in oncology where an oncologist would be best placed at advising on the care of their patients.

A baseline study in September 2021 found only 22% of patients admitted under oncology at Northampton General Hospital had TEP forms completed within 72 hours of admission. This quality improvement project aimed to significantly and sustainably improve this. Education and increasing the understanding of the medical and nursing teams about the importance of timely TEP form completion was essential. We also made TEPs a part of every multidisciplinary team discussion regarding a patient. Though, most significantly was the recognition that one of the responsibilities of the admitting registrar was to fill out a TEP form once the decision to admit had been made. Our ensuing study found an increase in our completion rate to 83% in February 2022.

A fall in performance after introduction of new medical staff was swiftly remedied by re-education and encouragement to join daily board rounds. We sustained and improved the team’s rate of TEP completion, within 72 hours of admission, to 80% in February 2023 and 91% in May 2023.
Current and future directions in interventional neuro-oncology—are we there yet?
Authors: Qiao Yang , Xiong Maggie , Zhang Yi Jonathan , Tsappidi Samuel , Kan Peter , Weiss Clifford R , Hui Ferdinand , Chen Stephen R
Published: April 2024

Advancements in technology and technical expertise increasingly enable neurointerventionalists to deliver safer and more effective endovascular treatments to cancers of the brain, spine, head, and neck. In addition to established neuro-oncological interventions such as pre-surgical tumor embolization and percutaneous ablation, newer modalities focused on direct arterial infusion of chemotherapy, radioisotopes, and radiosensitizers continue to gain traction as complementary treatment options, while stem cell-mediated delivery of theranostic nanoparticles and oncolytic virus are being explored for even greater specificity in targeting cancers across the blood–brain barrier. This article aims to provide an overview of the current state of the art and future directions for the field of interventional neuro-oncology, as well as opportunities and challenges presented by this emerging treatment modality.
Effective information bounds in modified quantum mechanics
Authors: Aghababaei Sarah , Moradpour Hooman , Wani Salman Sajad , Marino Francesco , Shah Naveed Ahmad , Faizal Mir
Published: April 2024

A common feature of collapse models and an expected signature of the quantization of gravity at energies well below the Planck scale is the deviation from ordinary quantum-mechanical behavior. Here, we analyze the general consequences of such modifications from the point of view of quantum information theory and we anticipate applications to different quantum systems. We show that quantum systems undergo corrections to the quantum speed limit which, in turn, imply the modification of the Heisenberg limit for parameter estimation. Our results hold for a wide class of scenarios beyond ordinary quantum mechanics. For some nonlocal models inspired by quantum gravity, the bounds are found to oscillate in time, an effect that could be tested in future high-precision quantum experiments.
Edge-Disjoint Hamiltonian Cycles in Balanced Hypercubes with Applications to Fault-Tolerant Data Broadcasting
Authors: Liu Shuai , Wang Yan , Fan Jianxi , Cheng Baolei
Published: April 2024

The existence of multiple edge-disjoint Hamiltonian cycles (EDHCs for short) is a desirable property of interconnection networks. These parallel cycles can provide an advantage for algorithms that require a ring structure. Additionally, EDHCs can enhance all-to-all data broadcasting and edge fault tolerance in network communications. In this paper, we investigate the construction of EDHCs in the balanced hypercube, which is a variant of the hypercube with many attractive properties, such as strong connectivity, regularity, and symmetry. In particular, each processor in the balanced hypercube has a backup processor that shares the common neighbors, enabling fault tolerance and efficient system reconfiguration. In 2019, Lü et al. provided an algorithm to construct two EDHCs in an [Formula: see text]-dimensional balanced hypercube [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. We further study this topic and give some construction schemes to construct [Formula: see text] EDHCs in [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. Since [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text]-regular, our result is optimal for [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text]). In addition, we simulate the fault-tolerant data broadcasting through these parallel cycles as transmission channels.
Quantifying Flat-Band Voltage in Si Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Structures: An Evaluation via Terahertz Emission Spectroscopy (TES)
Authors: Yang Dongxun , Tonouchi Masayoshi
Published: April 2024

Laser-induced Terahertz (THz) Emission Spectroscopy (TES) has demonstrated its potential utility in the realm of Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (MOS) devices as an expedient and noncontact estimation methodology. Owing to its discerning response to the interface electric field, the amplitude of the THz emission peak in time-domain spectroscopy encapsulates rich information regarding MOS properties, notably the flat-band voltage. This paper concentrates on the precise quantitative estimation of the flat-band voltage within the Si MOS structure, elucidating the intricacies of the estimation process through the THz emission model.
Grating-Gate AlGaN/GaN Plasmonic Crystals for Terahertz Waves Manipulation
Authors: Dub M. , Sai P. , Krajewska A. , But D. B. , Ivonyak Yu , Prystawko P. , Kacperski J. , Cywiński G. , Rumyantsev S. , Knap W. , Słowikowski M. , Filipiak M.
Published: April 2024

The grating-gate plasmonic crystal system represents a compelling arena for investigating strong light-matter interactions and diverse plasmon resonances. This study reviews the recent discovery of two distinctive terahertz phases of AlGaN/GaN plasmonic crystals that arise from varying the modulation of a two-dimensional electron density beneath the metallic gratings: the delocalized phase at weak modulation and the localized phase at strong modulation. Notably, we delve into an impact of the grating filling factor on the electrically driven transition between these phases. Our findings underscore the critical role of specific metal grating geometry parameters in facilitating this transition. Moreover, we explore the potential of utilizing graphene-based gratings as alternatives to metallic gratings. Through the integration of graphene, grown by Chemical Vapor Deposition method on copper foil and then transferred to the high electron mobility AlGaN/GaN heterostructures, we achieve an effective modulation of broadband absorption by free charge carriers within the 0.5–6 THz range via electrical biasing of the graphene electrode. However, while this approach successfully modulates absorption in a wide THz range, it does not elicit plasmon resonances within the graphene-based grating-gate plasmonic crystals. This intriguing observation poses a significant unresolved question warranting further theoretical and experimental exploration in subsequent studies.
A geometric perspective on plus-one generated arrangements of lines
Authors: Măcinic Anca , Vallès Jean
Published: April 2024

We give a geometric characterization of plus-one generated projective line arrangements that are next-to-free. We present new succinct proofs, via associated line bundles, for some properties of plus-one generated projective line arrangements.
An Intelligent Financial Fraud Detection Model Using Knowledge Graph-Integrated Deep Neural Network
Authors: Zhu Wenhan , Chen Zhuo
Published: April 2024

Financial fraud detection has been an urgent technical demand in cyberspace. It highly relies on clear extraction and deep representation toward complex relationships inside financial social networks. As consequence, this study combines both knowledge graph and deep learning to deal with such issue. Thus, an intelligent financial fraud detection model based on knowledge graph guidance and deep neural network is proposed in this paper. First, a new knowledge graph based on financially related systems is constructed, which includes multiple entities and relationships. Then, an adversarial learning-based neural network structure is formulated to extract financial attributes. Finally, the detection results can be output according to the extracted factors. Empirically, the proposal is implemented on a real-world dataset for performance evaluation. The experimental results show that it has higher accuracy and effectiveness compared to traditional fraud detection methods. The proposed detection model can not only identify known fraudulent behaviors, but also predict potential fraud patterns based on consumer habits, thereby improving the security and reliability of financial transactions. It can also update the knowledge graph in real-time, enabling it to cope with emerging fraud methods and variants.
Seismic Assessment of Self-Centering Rocking Braced Systems with Story Energy Dissipation
Authors: Raeiszadeh Farzad , Mansoori Mohammad Reza , Moghadam Abdolreza S. , Aziminejad Armin
Published: April 2024

Self-centering rocking braced (SCRB) system provides enhanced seismic performance and reduced post-earthquake residual drift. However, the effect of higher modes is controversial, affecting shear demands and bending moments in the structure. This functional deficiency is addressed by developing SCRB frames equipped with buckling-restrained columns (BRCs) and buckling-restrained braces (BRBs), performing as exchangeable fuse frames. The system consists of external columns branching off from the main core and connected to it via butterfly-shaped fuses, and BRC and BRB are incorporated into the core at four different height levels to be compared with conventional SCRB as the baseline. Three sets of 12-, 16- and 20-story structures are numerically developed in OpenSees finite element framework with regard to geometrical and material nonlinearities, making a total of 12 SCRB prototypes. The suit of 22 ground motions used in FEMA P695 was scaled to DBE and MCE hazard levels and applied to the structures. Results indicate the capability of the new system in reducing the destructive effects of higher modes, especially in the case of a fuse frame located in the middle of the height. In addition, the core moment and shear force largely reduced, almost 60%, in higher positions of the fuse frame, while those configurations led to large residual drift at the restrained level. However, all structures met the DBE-level 2% drift target. Moreover, increasing structural height nearly reduced seismic demands and increased response reductions. Overall, the system demonstrated acceptable performance in terms of high capacity for energy absorption.
Exact Eigensolutions of Two-Dimensional Laminated Panel Flutter Based on Mindlin Plate Theory and the First-Order Piston Theory
Authors: Pan Dezhuang , Xing Yufeng
Published: April 2024

The panel flutter analysis considering the shear deformation is performed with a particular focus on the exact eigensolutions and the energy transfer. According to Mindlin plate theory and the first-order piston theory, this work obtains the exact eigensolutions of two-dimensional (2D) panel flutter at supersonic speeds. The boundary conditions (BCs) considered include: two edges are simply supported (SS), two edges are clamped (CC), and two edges are clamped and free (CF) respectively. Using the obtained exact eigensolutions, the relations of the kinetic energy, the potential energy and the work done by aerodynamic force are examined for the states of divergent vibration and periodic vibration. Besides, the coupling effect of shear deformation and aerodynamic damping on flutter frequencies is also revealed, and the present results are compared with those of the Galerkin method and the 2D Kirchhoff panel.
Algebraic K0 for unpointed categories
Authors: Küng Felix
Published: April 2024

We construct a natural generalization of the Grothendieck group [Formula: see text] to the case of possibly unpointed categories admitting pushouts by using the concept of heaps recently introduced by Brezinzki. In case of a monoidal category, the defined K0 is shown to be a truss. It is shown that the construction generalizes the classical [Formula: see text] of an abelian category as the group retract along the isomorphism class of the zero object. We finish by applying this construction to construct the integers with addition and multiplication as the decategorification of finite sets and show that in this [Formula: see text] one can identify a CW-complex with the iterated product of its cells.
Wormhole inducing exponential expansion in R2 gravity
Authors: Modak B , Biswas Gargi
Published: April 2024

Wormholes are considered both from the Wheeler deWitt equation, as well as from the field equations in the Euclidean background of Robertson Walker mini-superspace in [Formula: see text] gravity. Quantum wormhole satisfies Hawking Page wormhole boundary condition in the Euclidean background of mini-superspace, however, in the Lorentzian background wave functional turns to the usual oscillatory function. The Euclidean field equations for [Formula: see text] lead to the wormhole configuration, as well as oscillating universe in Euclidean time [Formula: see text]. The oscillating universe in Euclidean time [Formula: see text] transforms to an expanding universe only for [Formula: see text] in Lorentz time [Formula: see text] under analytic continuation [Formula: see text] and asymptotically leads to an exponential solution. An Euclidean wormhole in the very early era evolves to an oscillating universe in [Formula: see text], thereafter crossing deSitter radius transition to an inflationary era is evident at later epoch only for [Formula: see text].