bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonantibiotic strategies to decrease the postbiopsy hospitalization rates because of infectious complications after transrectal prostate biopsy
Authors: Bostancı Coşkun
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To compare the effect of biopsy needle disinfection with 10% formalin solution alone and with povidone‐iodine rectal cleaning on preventing infectious complications requiring hospitalization.

Methods

The data of 902 patients who underwent prostate biopsy by transrectal route were retrospectively analyzed. Inclusion criteria were prophylactic antibiotic use and negative urine culture before the biopsy. Three groups occurred according to the methods used during the biopsy procedure. In Group 1, 501 patients, biopsy needle disinfection was made using 10% formalin solution during the biopsy procedure. Group 2, 164 patients, applied only prophylactic antibiotics. Group 3, 237 patients, applied both 10% formalin disinfection of the biopsy needle and prebiopsy povidone‐iodine rectal cleansing. Hospitalized patients because of infectious complications a month after the biopsy were our outcome measures.

Results

Hospitalization rates because of biopsy‐related infectious complications, according to Groups 1, 2, and 3, were 2.7%, 8.5%, and 0%, respectively. The best results were observed in Group 3 and the worst in Group 2.

Conclusions

The two nonantibiotic strategies, biopsy needle disinfection with formalin solution and rectal cleaning with povidone‐iodine, look more effective when applied together. However, further prospective studies are required to confirm our analysis.
Mechanical and Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy Investigations of Ultrathin Membranes Based on MoS2 and MoSe2
Authors: Piejko Adrianna , Tamulewicz‐Szwajkowska Magdalena , Król Konrad , Ciesiołkiewicz Karolina , Kudrawiec Robert , Serafińczuk Jarosław
Published: February 2024

Herein, three atomically thin membranes based on MoS2, MoSe2, and MoS1.44Se0.56 alloy are studied by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The mechanical and electrical properties of the alloy are compared to MoS2 and MoSe2. Based on the contact potential difference values obtained from AFM measurements with a Kelvin probe, the work function of the layers is determined to be 4.63 ± 0.08, 5.10 ± 0.09, and 5.17 ± 0.11 eV, for suspended MoS2, MoSe2, and MoS1.44Se0.56, respectively. In addition, a noticeable difference (≈0.02 eV) between the work function of supported and suspended areas is observed. The elastic deformation of the freely suspended layers is studied by nanoindentation using AFM. This allows the determination of Young's modulus values, which are 247.96 ± 1.8, 127.60, and 101.23 GPa for MoS2, MoSe2, and MoS1.44Se0.56, respectively. From this study, it is concluded that both the work function and Young's modulus of MoS1.44Se0.56 alloy do not interpolate linearly between MoS2 and MoSe2.
Chest drainage, a basic but essential procedure
Authors: Hamakawa Masamitsu , Ishida Tadashi
Published: February 2024

Key message

Chest drainage is a basic and important procedure in the treatment of pneumothorax. When properly implemented, even the most severely ill patients may be able to be treated without surgical intervention.
Extramural recurrence of tracheal glomus tumour following resection by rigid bronchoscopy
Authors: Takahama Makoto
Published: February 2024

Glomus tumour of the trachea is very rare neoplasm that is generally benign and arises most commonly from the distal portion of the respiratory tree. This report presents the case of a 67‐year‐old man who was referred to our institute for excision of a tracheal mass that had been found incidentally, and subsequently recurred extramurally. Initial contrast‐enhanced computed tomography images of the chest revealed a nodular lesion in the trachea, 2.5 cm above the carina, that demonstrated strong enhancement similar to blood vessels. The tumour was excised by rigid bronchoscopy, but an extramural tracheal lesion was detected 18 months later. Tracheal resection and end‐to‐end anastomosis were performed, and histopathological examination confirmed the extramural lesion as recurrence of the tracheal glomus tumour. The histologic features and treatment are discussed.
Recent advances in ruthenium‐catalysed aromatic C−H bond oxygenation, nitrogenation and halogenation
Authors: Singh Keisham S.
Published: February 2024

The transition metal‐catalysed C−H bond functionalization has emerged as a powerful tool for accessing numerous organic compounds in greener manner with step and atom economy. Remarkable progress has been made in the metal‐catalysed C−H bond functionalization during the past decades and the trend is continuing as new reactions are being added. In the transition metal‐catalysed C−H bond functionalization, a growing attention has been paid on ruthenium, particularly, the stable ruthenium(II) as it allows several C−H bond functionalization reactions to perform in water with high selectivity. The ruthenium‐catalysed C−H bond functionalization reactions, such as arylation, alkenylation, annulation, cyanation, amination and silylation just to mention some have been well documented in numerous published papers, book chapters and review articles. However, as ruthenium‐catalysed C−H functionalization has been growing rapidly, a comprehensive review is necessary from time to time to highlight the progress made in this ever expanding field. In view of this, the manuscript presents the ruthenium‐catalysed direct C−O, C−N and C‐halogen bond forming reactions involving aromatic C−H bond covering oxygenation, amination, amidation, imidation, nitration and halogenation reported from 2012 to 2022.
A Facile Route Preparation of Fe3O4/MWCNT/ZnO/PANI Nanocomposite and its Characterization for Enhanced Microwave Absorption Properties
Authors: Prima Hardianto Yuda , Nur Iman Ryan , Hidayat Arif , Mufti Nandang , HIdayat Nurul , Sunaryono Sunaryono , Amrillah Tahta , Ari Adi Wisnu , Taufiq Ahmad
Published: February 2024

With increasing concerns regarding the potential health risks associated with microwave‐based technology, researchers have been actively investigating materials with impressive microwave absorption properties. In this study, a synthesis and investigation of a nanocomposite, named Fe3O4/MWCNT/ZnO/PANI, consisting of magnetite (Fe3O4), multi‐walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT), zinc oxide (ZnO), and polyaniline (PANI) as a microwave‐absorbing material, was carried out for the first time. The nanocomposite was prepared through a simple physical mixing approach and demonstrated tunable microwave absorption, making it highly suitable for shielding applications. Structural analysis techniques, including X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis (SEM‐EDAX), confirmed the presence of all components in the nanocomposite. Moreover, ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy (UV‐Vis) further verified the formation of nanocomposite components and revealed an adjustable optical bandgap ranging from 2.86 to 3.34 eV. Impressively, the nanocomposite exhibited promising microwave absorption properties, with a minimum reflection loss (RL) of −32.66 dB for the nanocomposite containing 37.50 % PANI by weight, and a maximum electromagnetic bandwidth (EB) of 2.26 GHz for the nanocomposite containing 44.44 % PANI by weight, indicating its potential as an effective shielding material. Furthermore, a modified theory combining transmission line, Landau‐Lifshits, and Drude‐Lorentz theories was introduced to extract complex relative permittivity and permeability, providing insights into the role of polyaniline in enhancing the microwave absorption properties of the nanocomposite as measured by reflection loss (RL).
Preparation and Properties of Molybdenum‐modified High‐ortho Thermosetting Phenolic Fiber
Authors: Gu Changqing , Yang Kai , Liu Jiaxing , Ding Jinbiao , Li Keke , Li Yangyang , Jiao Mingli
Published: February 2024

The study aims to produce thermosetting resin from synthesized molybdenum‐modified high‐ortho thermoplastic phenolic resin through an addition reaction. Then, molybdenum‐modified high‐ortho thermosetting phenolic resin is blended with polyvinyl butyral and undergoes wet spinning to prepare as‐spun fibers and obtain high‐ortho molybdenum phenolic fibers via solution curing, microwave curing, or heat curing. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and fiber strength testing were used to investigate the structure and properties of molybdenum‐modified high‐ortho phenolic fibers. Results showed that adding molybdic acid introduced Mo−O bonds into the molecular chain of high‐ortho phenolic resin, thereby improving the degree of cross‐linking and thermal stability. The residual carbon content of the fibers after heat treatment exceeded 60%, and the elongation at break and the breaking strength of the microwave‐cured fibers reached 4.2% and 155 MPa, respectively, and the mechanical properties were relatively good. The study of high‐ortho phenolic fibers aims to improve their properties and expand their applications through resin modifications. It provides a possible fiber preparation strategy for improving heat‐resistant phenolic fibers, thereby guiding the research of modified high‐ortho phenolic fibers.
Fluoride Doping Na3Al2/3V4/3(PO4)3 Microspheres As Cathode Materials for Sodium‐Ion Batteries with Multielectron Redox
Authors: Xing Boyu , Ren Jingke , Hu Ping , Luo Wen , Mai Bo , Cai Hongwei , Wu Jiahao , Wu Xinfei , Chen Xingbao , Deng Zhaohui , Feng Wencong , Mai Liqiang
Published: February 2024

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are potential candidates for large energy storage usage because of the natural abundance and cheap sodium. Nevertheless, improving the energy density and cycling steadiness of SIB cathodes remains a challenge. In this work, F‐doping Na3Al2/3V4/3(PO4)3(NAVP) microspheres (Na3Al2/3V4/3(PO4)2.9F0.3(NAVPF)) are synthesized via spray drying and investigated as SIB cathodes. XRD and Rietveld refinement reveal expanded lattice parameters for NAVPF compared to the undoped sample, and the successful cation doping into the Na superionic conductor (NASICON) framework improves Na+ diffusion channels. The NAVPF delivers an ultrahigh capacity of 148 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 with 90.8% retention after 200 cycles, enabled by the activation of V2+/V5+ multielectron reaction. Notably, NAVPF delivers an ultrahigh rate performance, with a discharge capacity of 83.6 mAh g−1 at 5000 mA g−1. In situ XRD demonstrates solid‐solution reactions occurred during charge–discharge of NAVPF without two‐phase reactions, indicating enhanced structural stability after F‐doped. The full cell with NAVPF cathode and Na+ preintercalated hard carbon anode shows a large discharge capacity of 100 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 with 80.2% retention after 100 cycles. This anion doping strategy creates a promising SIB cathode candidate for future high‐energy‐density energy storage applications.
Printing of In Situ Functionalized Mesoporous Silica with Digital Light Processing for Combinatorial Sensing
Authors: Zhao Lucy , Spiehl Dieter , Kohnen Marion C. , Ceolin Marcelo , Mikolei Joanna J. , Pardehkhorram Raheleh , Andrieu‐Brunsen Annette
Published: February 2024

Combinatorial sensing is especially important in the context of modern drug development to enable fast screening of large data sets. Mesoporous silica materials offer high surface area and a wide range of functionalization possibilities. By adding structural control, the combination of structural and functional control along all length scales opens a new pathway that permits larger amounts of analytes being tested simultaneously for complex sensing tasks. This study presents a fast and simple way to produce mesoporous silica in various shapes and sizes between 0.27–6 mm by using light‐induced sol‐gel chemistry and digital light processing (DLP). Shape‐selective functionalization of mesoporous silica is successfully carried out either after printing using organosilanes or in situ while printing through the use of functional mesopore template for the in situ functionalization approach. Shape‐selective adsorption of dyes is shown as a demonstrator toward shape selective screening of potential analytes.
Multiplexed Single‐Cell Rheology Probing Using Surface Acoustic Waves
Authors: Hu Yi , Wang Yulin , Zhang Meiru , Gao Changkai , Zhao Pu , Zhang Suyan , Zan Zhaoguang , Li Dachao , Fan Zhenzhen
Published: February 2024

Cellular rheological properties affect cell function and are reflective of cell status. It is challenging to perform multiplexed single‐cell rheology probing with high controllability, particularly for adherent cells. A surface acoustic wave (SAW)‐based method is presented for this purpose. The method integrates the potent micromanipulation ability of acoustic waves in a microfluidic chamber with the ability of cell‐anchored microbeads to concentrate the acoustic energy to deform the cell. Two strategies are developed for placing a targeted microbead at a desired position on the cell membrane. The power‐law rheological dynamics with plastic components are applied to fit the creep (during the mechanical loading) and relaxation (after force removal) responses of the cell. With more than 400 measurements of adherent cells and each with detailed dynamics, a full range of viscoelastic behaviors of cells far beyond the typical rheology of previously reported adherent cells and unexpected negative plastic compliance is observed. The developed method supports in‐depth investigations of biomechanics at the cellular and subcellular levels, with considerable potential for extension to mechanical force‐based cell function regulation.
A DNA/Poly‐(L‐lysine) Hydrogel with Long Shelf‐Time for 3D Cell Culture
Authors: Tang Jianpu , Wang Jing , Ou Junhan , Cui Zhen , Yao Chi , Yang Dayong
Published: February 2024

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)‐based hydrogels are emerging as promising functional materials for biomedical applications. However, the shelf‐time of DNA hydrogels in biological media is severely shortened by nucleases, which limit the application of DNA hydrogels. Herein, a DNA hydrogel with long shelf‐time is reported for 3D cell culture. Poly‐(L‐lysine) (PLL) is introduced as both a cross‐linker and a protectant. The electrostatic interaction between PLL and DNA drove the formation of hydrogel. PLL coating on DNA increased the steric hindrance between DNA and nucleases, thus weakening the digestion of nucleases toward phosphodiester bond. As a result, the shelf‐time of DNA/PLL hydrogel for 3D cell culture is extended from generally 1 day to longer than 15 days, which has not been achieved previously. Notably, poly‐AS1411‐aptamers are integrated to DNA/PLL hydrogels for anchoring U87 cells, and the cell encapsulation efficiency of the DNA/PLL hydrogels with aptamer is 4‐time higher than that of the hydrogels without aptamer. DNA/PLL hydrogel provided a favorable microenvironment to support the proliferation of cells, which formed cell spheroid in 15 days. This protective coating strategy solves the long‐standing problem on the shelf‐time of DNA hydrogel, and is envisioned to promote the development of DNA hydrogel in more biomedical applications.
Simultaneous determination of 19 constituents in the Jian‐Nao‐Ning mixture using high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: FU Ji‐Yong , Ding Ding , Wang Ru‐Mei , Zhang Lyu‐Feng , Ma Bing‐Liang , Liu Fu‐Xuan , Zhu Guo‐Fu
Published: February 2024

Jin‐Nao‐Ning mixture (JNNm) has been clinically used to treat insomnia in China. However, the major constituents of JNNm were not revealed. In this study, an ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry was established and validated for simultaneous quantitation of 19 representative constituents of JNNm. The method had good specificity and adequate sensitivity. The calibration curves of the constituents displayed good linearity (r > 0.990) in appropriate ranges. The intra‐ and inter‐day precision at three quality control (QC) levels ranged from 0.68% to 5.17% and 0.42% to 5.37%, respectively. The recovery ranged from 91.76% to 110.06%, with a precision of less than 5.07%. In addition, the method had good repeatability (relative standard deviation [RSD] < 4.93%). The analytes were all stable for 24 h (RSD < 7.98%) at room temperature. The results of the quantitative analysis showed that salvianolic acid B (495.7–606.3 μg/mL) is the most abundant constituent, followed by betaine (411.3–468.3 μg/mL), salvianic acid A (10.7–34.9 μg/mL), lobetyolin (11.6–14.6 μg/mL), spinosin (4.0–7.6 μg/mL), schisandrol A (1.5–4.1 μg/mL), and schisandrol B (1.2–1.5 μg/mL). Concentrations of other constituents were below 1 μg/mL. This study would be helpful for the QC of JNNm and the revelation of its effective constituents.
TriClick: Interactive Dermoscopic Image Segmentation with Triangle Map
Authors: Zhao Shuofeng , Gu Chunzhi , Yu Jun , Akashi Takuya , Zhang Chao
Published: February 2024

Lesion segmentation is a fundamental task that has been widely studied in biomedicine. State‐of‐the‐art methods still struggle with the inherent challenges of dermoscopic images such as uncertain boundaries or severe occlusion. In this study, we argue that this task can be better resolved by introducing user interaction and proposing a deep interactive framework for lesion segmentation. Our method is designed to best reflect user expertise to iteratively refine the segmentation results. In each iteration, professional users are expected to click three points on the boundary of the lesion to encourage the network to update the previous round of the segmentation result. To best exploit the clues from the interaction, we explore a novel encoding strategy by producing a triangle map whose vertices are the three clicked points. Owing to the strong guidance within such triangle maps, our method can outperform state‐of‐the‐art methods with baseline segmentation backbones. Extensive experimental results and ablation studies on three commonly used lesion segmentation data sets demonstrated the effectiveness of our method in terms of segmentation accuracy and encoding effectiveness. © 2024 The Authors. IEEJ Transactions on Electrical and Electronic Engineering published by Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Maternal cardiovascular function in midgestation is related to placental angiogenesis
Authors: Papastefanou I. , Szczepkowska A. , Tezhaeva M. , De Pauli M. , Charakida M. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: February 2024

Objective

To investigate whether angiogenic markers of placental function are associated with maternal cardiac function and hemodynamic responses at 19–23 weeks' gestation, controlling for maternal risk factors and pregnancy complications.

Methods

This was a prospective study of women with singleton pregnancy attending King's College Hospital, London, UK, for a routine hospital visit at 19–23 weeks' gestation. We recorded maternal characteristics and measured mean arterial pressure (MAP), maternal heart rate, serum placental growth factor (PlGF) and soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 (sFlt‐1). We also performed maternal echocardiography to assess cardiac output and peripheral vascular resistance as well as indices of diastolic and systolic function.

Results

Our cohort included 4006 women. Lower PlGF values were significantly associated with higher MAP (P < 0.0001), lower maternal heart rate (P < 0.0001), lower mitral valve s′ mean velocity (P = 0.027) and higher left atrial area (P = 0.022) after adjustment for maternal characteristics and pregnancy complications. sFlt‐1 was associated positively with relative wall thickness (P = 0.012), whereas sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio was associated negatively with mitral valve A (P = 0.006) and positively with left atrial area (P = 0.015) and MAP (P = 0.004). The magnitude of these associations was similar in the subgroup of women without any risk factors based on their obstetric and medical history.

Conclusions

A continuous association of moderate strength between angiogenic factors and subclinical maternal cardiac function alterations is present in midgestation, independently of pre‐existing maternal risk factors and pregnancy complications. Impaired placental function appears to be related to mild systolic and diastolic dysfunction and cardiac remodeling. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Hollow viscus perforation in blunt abdominal trauma: A 14‐year experience from a trauma center
Authors: Rodriguez Veronica I. , Perez Barbara , Fernandez Andrea , Varela Cristopher , Teran Adrian
Published: February 2024

Background

Isolated perforations of hollow viscus (HV) represent less than 1% of injuries in blunt abdominal trauma (BAT). When they do present, they are generally due to high‐impact mechanisms in the segments of the intestine that are fixed. The aim of this study is to determine the incidence of major HV injuries in BAT at the “Dr. Domingo Luciani” General Hospital (HDL), and address the literature gap regarding updated HV perforations following BAT, especially in low‐income settings.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted on the medical records of patients admitted to our trauma center with a diagnosis of complicated BAT with HV perforation over 14 years.

Results and Discussion

Seven hundred sixty‐one patients were admitted under the diagnosis of BAT. Of them, 36.79% underwent emergency surgical resolution, and 6.04% had HV perforation as an operative finding. Almost half (44.44%) of these cases presented as a single isolated injury, while the remaining were associated with other intra‐abdominal organ injuries. The most common lesions were Grade II‐III jejunum and Grade I transverse colon, affecting an equal proportion of patients at 13.33%. In recent years, an increased incidence of HV injuries secondary to BAT has been observed. Despite this, in many cases, the diagnosis is delayed, so even in the presence of negative diagnostic studies, the surgical approach based on the trauma mechanism, hemodynamic status, and systematic reevaluation of the polytraumatized patient should prevail.
Developing a photography‐based harvest survey to estimate age and subspecies composition of midcontinent sandhill cranes
Authors: Dinges Andrew J. , VonBank Jay A. , Pearse Aaron T. , Brandt David A.
Published: February 2024

Midcontinent sandhill cranes (Antigone canadensis) are managed as a single population, but hunting regulations are structured so harvest is targeted towards the more numerous lesser sandhill cranes (A. c. canadensis). However, research indicates that greater sandhill cranes (A. c. tabida) have been disproportionally exposed to harvest at a rate exceeding their proportion within the midcontinent population. In addition, harvest has increased 22% per year in the U.S. Central Flyway states. The midcontinent population appears to be growing in recent years, but variability in annual abundance estimates has increased substantially. With limited resources and harvest management uncertainty increasing, we developed methods for a citizen science, photography‐based harvest survey to estimate age and subspecies composition of harvested midcontinent sandhill cranes. To develop survey methods, we collected physical parts from 284 sandhill cranes in North Dakota in 2019 and 2020. We manually measured the culmen and tarsus using calipers, and digitally measured these parts using photographs and computer software. All digitally derived measurements were 2.5% to 5.9% larger than manual measurements; therefore, we developed linear models that adjusted digital measurements, facilitating subspecies prediction using an existing morphometric‐based technique. In 2021, we requested an equal number of hunters to participate using 2 data collection methods to test if hunters could reliably take photographs suitable for digital measurement. Collection method 1 involved photographing the head and leg simultaneously, and Collection method 2 involved photographing the head only. Hunters submitted a total of 239 photographs. Only 80 of these photographs were submitted using Collection method 1, and 72% were suitable for digital measurement. Conversely, hunters submitted twice as many photographs using Collection method 2, and 88% of these photographs were deemed suitable. Although obtaining the tarsus measurement slightly improved subspecies predictability, Collection method 2 increased participation and usable data. We believe our results could be used to develop an operational survey of age and subspecies composition of midcontinent sandhill cranes, wherein a sample of crane hunters throughout the midcontinent population range would be asked to electronically submit a photograph of the head of each bird they harvest. A time series of age and subspecies composition of this population would provide managers with valuable information and improve harvest management at minimal additional cost and burden, compared to a traditional parts collection survey administered by mail.
Low-energy effective field theory below the electroweak scale: one-loop renormalization in the ’t Hooft-Veltman scheme
Authors: Naterop Luca , Stoffer Peter
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The low-energy effective field theory below the electroweak scale (LEFT) describes the effects at low energies of both the weak interaction and physics beyond the Standard Model. We study the one-loop renormalization of the LEFT in the ’t Hooft-Veltman scheme, which offers an algebraically consistent definition of the Levi-Civita symbol and γ5 in dimensional regularization. However, in connection with minimal subtraction this scheme leads to a spurious breaking of chiral symmetry in intermediate steps of the calculation. Based on the ’t Hooft-Veltman prescription, we define a renormalization scheme that restores chiral symmetry by including appropriate finite counterterms. To this end, we extend the physical LEFT operator basis by a complete set of off-shell and one-loop-evanescent operators and we perform the renormalization at one loop. We determine the finite counterterms to the physical parameters that compensate both the insertions of evanescent operators, as well as the chiral-symmetry-breaking terms from the renormalizable part of the Lagrangian in D dimensions. Our results can be applied in next-to-leading-log calculations in the ’t Hooft-Veltman scheme: using our renormalization scheme instead of pure minimal subtraction separates the physical sector from the unphysical evanescent sector and leads to results that are manifestly free of spurious chiral-symmetry-breaking terms.
Kerr-Schild double copy for Kundt spacetimes of any dimension
Authors: Ortaggio Marcello , Pravda Vojtěch , Pravdová Alena
Published: February 2024

Abstract

We show that vacuum type N Kundt spacetimes in an arbitrary dimension admit a Kerr-Schild (KS) double copy. This is mostly done in a coordinate-independent way using the higher-dimensional Newman-Penrose formalism. We also discuss two kinds of non-uniqueness of an electromagnetic field corresponding to a given KS metric (i.e., its single copy) — these originate, respectively, from the rescaling freedom in the KS vector and from the non-uniqueness of the splitting of the KS metric in the flat part and the KS part. In connection to this, we show that the subset of KS pp-waves admits both null and non-null electromagnetic single copies. Since vacuum type N Kundt spacetimes are universal solutions of virtually any higher-order gravities and null fields in such backgrounds are immune to higher-order electromagnetic corrections, the KS-Kundt double copy demonstrated in the present paper also applies to large classes of modified theories.
Searching for millicharged particles with 1 kg of Skipper-CCDs using the NuMI beam at Fermilab
Authors: Perez Santiago , Rodrigues Dario , Estrada Juan , Harnik Roni , Liu Zhen , Cervantes-Vergara Brenda A. , D’Olivo Juan Carlos , Plestid Ryan D. , Tiffenberg Javier , Yu Tien-Tien , Aguilar-Arevalo Alexis , Alcalde-Bessia Fabricio , Avalos Nicolás , Baez Oscar , Baxter Daniel , Bertou Xavier , Bonifazi Carla , Botti Ana , Cancelo Gustavo , Castelló-Mor Nuria , Chavarria Alvaro E. , Chavez Claudio R. , Chierchie Fernando , De Egea Juan Manuel , Dreyer Cyrus , Drlica-Wagner Alex , Essig Rouven , Estrada Ezequiel , Etzion Erez , Grylls Paul , Fernandez-Moroni Guillermo , Fernández-Serra Marivi , Ferreyra Santiago , Holland Stephen , Barreda Agustín Lantero , Lathrop Andrew , Lawson Ian , Loer Ben , Luoma Steffon , Villalpando Edgar Marrufo , Montero Mauricio Martinez , McGuire Kellie , Molina Jorge , Munagavalasa Sravan , Norcini Danielle , Piers Alexander , Privitera Paolo , Saffold Nathan , Saldanha Richard , Singal Aman , Smida Radomir , Sofo-Haro Miguel , Stalder Diego , Stefanazzi Leandro , Traina Michelangelo , Tsai Yu-Dai , Uemura Sho , Ventura Pedro , Cortabitarte Rocío Vilar , Yajur Rachana
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Oscura is a planned light-dark matter search experiment using Skipper-CCDs with a total active mass of 10 kg. As part of the detector development, the collaboration plans to build the Oscura Integration Test (OIT), an engineering test with 10% of the total mass. Here we discuss the early science opportunities with the OIT to search for millicharged particles (mCPs) using the NuMI beam at Fermilab. mCPs would be produced at low energies through photon-mediated processes from decays of scalar, pseudoscalar, and vector mesons, or direct Drell-Yan productions. Estimates show that the OIT would be a world-leading probe for mCPs in the ∼MeV mass range.
Carrollian structure of the null boundary solution space
Authors: Adami H. , Parvizi A. , Sheikh-Jabbari M. M. , Taghiloo V. , Yavartanoo H.
Published: February 2024

Abstract

We study pure D dimensional Einstein gravity in spacetimes with a generic null boundary. We focus on the symplectic form of the solution phase space which comprises a 2D dimensional boundary part and a 2(D(D − 3)/2 + 1) dimensional bulk part. The symplectic form is the sum of the bulk and boundary parts, obtained through integration over a codimension 1 surface (null boundary) and a codimension 2 spatial section of it, respectively. Notably, while the total symplectic form is a closed 2-form over the solution phase space, neither the boundary nor the bulk symplectic forms are closed due to the symplectic flux of the bulk modes passing through the boundary. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the D(D − 3)/2 + 1 dimensional Lagrangian submanifold of the bulk part of the solution phase space has a Carrollian structure, with the metric on the D(D − 3)/2 dimensional part being the Wheeler-DeWitt metric, and the Carrollian kernel vector corresponding to the outgoing Robinson-Trautman gravitational wave solution.
Finite-size versus finite-temperature effects in the critical long-range O(N) model
Authors: Benedetti Dario , Gurau Razvan , Harribey Sabine , Lettera Davide
Published: February 2024

Abstract

In this paper we consider classical and quantum versions of the critical long-range O(N) model, for which we study finite-size and finite-temperature effects, respectively, at large N. First, we consider the classical (isotropic) model, which is conformally invariant at criticality, and we introduce one compact spatial direction. We show that the finite size dynamically induces an effective mass and we compute the one-point functions for bilinear primary operators with arbitrary spin and twist. Second, we study the quantum model, mapped to a Euclidean anisotropic field theory, local in Euclidean time and long-range in space, which we dub fractional Lifshitz field theory. We show that this model admits a fixed point at zero temperature, where it displays anisotropic Lifshitz scaling, and show that at finite temperature a thermal mass is induced. We then compute the one-point functions for an infinite family of bilinear scaling operators.

In both the classical and quantum model, we find that, as previously noted for the short-range O(N) model in [1], the large-N two-point function contains information about the one-point functions, not only of the bilinear operators, but also of operators that appear in the operator product expansion of two fundamental fields only at subleading order in 1/N, namely powers of the Hubbard-Stratonovich intermediate field.
Non-invertible symmetries along 4d RG flows
Authors: Damia Jeremias Aguilera , Argurio Riccardo , Benini Francesco , Benvenuti Sergio , Copetti Christian , Tizzano Luigi
Published: February 2024

Abstract

We explore novel examples of RG flows preserving a non-invertible self-duality symmetry. Our main focus is on $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 quadratic superpotential deformations of 4d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 super-Yang-Mills theory with gauge algebra $$ \mathfrak{su}(N) $$
su

N

. A theory that can be obtained in this way is the so-called $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1* SYM where all adjoint chiral multiplets have a mass. Such IR theory exhibits a rich structure of vacua which we thoroughly examine. Our analysis elucidates the physics of spontaneous breaking of self-duality symmetry occurring in the degenerate gapped vacua. The construction can be generalized, taking as UV starting point a theory of class $$ \mathcal{S} $$
S
, to demonstrate how non-invertible self-duality symmetries exist in a variety of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 SCFTs. We finally apply this understanding to prove that the conifold theory has a non-invertible self-duality symmetry.
Erratum to: Cutting the traintracks: Cauchy, Schubert and Calabi-Yau
Authors: Cao Qu , He Song , Tang Yichao
Published: February 2024

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/JHEP04(2023)072
Can “Stop The Bleed” training courses for laypersons improve hemorrhage control knowledge, skills, and attitudes? A systematic review
Authors: Consunji Rafael , Mekkodathil Ahammed , Abdelrahman Husham , El-Menyar Ayman , Peralta Ruben , Rizoli Sandro , Al-Thani Hassan
Published: February 2024

Background

In many regions of the world, most trauma deaths occur within 1–2 h of injury due to uncontrolled bleeding. For this reason, training lay first-person responders in trauma care, focusing on hemorrhage control, has been recommended. We hypothesized that STOP THE BLEED (STB) training courses that teach laypersons how to stop traumatic compressible bleeding immediately are needed to potentially prevent deaths due to hemorrhage. This systematic review will analyze the effect of the STB training course on the knowledge, skill, and attitudes of lay first-person responders for hemorrhage control.

Methods

PubMed and Google Scholar databases were used to identify relevant peer-reviewed research articles describing evaluations of STB courses for laypersons from December 1 2013 to October 31 2022. In addition, a hand search of article references was undertaken. Studies were included if they implemented the STB course; trainees were laypersons, and the study had some outcome measures such as knowledge, skill, confidence gained, and willingness to provide or utilization of care provided to and outcomes of trauma patients.

Results

The database searches yielded 2,893 unique papers. We retained 33 articles for full-text review, resulting in 24 eligible papers. Gray literature and manual searches yielded 11 additional publications for a total of 35 studies. The most reported finding was a statistically significant increase in hemorrhage control knowledge or tourniquet application skills in 26 studies. Twenty-two studies reported statistically significant improvements in willingness, confidence, comfort, and likelihood to respond to a bleeding patient, and 6 studies reported substantial reductions in the retention of bleeding control knowledge or skills. Only one study reported on the effect on patient outcomes.

Conclusion

STB courses for laypersons have demonstrated significant improvements in knowledge, skill, confidence, and willingness to intervene to stop traumatic exsanguination. The evaluation of clinically relevant patient outcomes, specifically their effect on preventable deaths from traumatic exsanguination, is needed to strengthen further the evidence behind the recommendations for more widespread teaching of “STB” courses.
Design and manufacture of mould-free fibre-reinforced laminates with compound curvature
Authors: Jenkins Christopher J. , Donough Matthew J. , Prusty Gangadhara B.
Published: February 2024

Composite manufacturing demands mould tooling to produce dimensionally accurate parts, adding substantial capital costs to their production. Recent developments in advanced manufacturing of fibre-reinforced polymer composite elements have seen the implementation of mould-free technologies that can produce complex shaped parts off a flat tool. This paper presents eccentric fibre prestress as a novel mould-free method for producing curvatures within carbon fibre and glass fibre laminates. Tailoring the flexural rigidity along the primary orientation of the laminate is shown to result in predictable compound curvature profiles with a low average root mean square error of 1.39 across the four geometries tested. An analytical model based on Euler–Bernoulli beam theory is proposed and proven to correlate closely with the experiential laminates. Finally, an inverse design approach based on a genetic algorithm is demonstrated to design an accurate laminate configuration, achieving the top surface of a NACA 4412 aerofoil section with a low root mean square error of 1.98 using the proposed eccentric fibre prestress.
Biofilm-mediated infections by multidrug-resistant microbes: a comprehensive exploration and forward perspectives
Authors: Zafer Mai M. , Mohamed Gamal A. , Ibrahim Sabrin R. M. , Ghosh Soumya , Bornman Charné , Elfaky Mahmoud A.
Published: February 2024

A biofilm is a collection of microorganisms organized in a matrix of extracellular polymeric material. Biofilms consist of microbial cells that attach to both surfaces and each other, whether they are living or non-living. These microbial biofilms can lead to hospital-acquired infections and are generally detrimental. They possess the ability to resist the human immune system and antibiotics. The National Institute of Health (NIH) states that biofilm formation is associated with 65% of all microbial illnesses and 80% of chronic illnesses. Additionally, non-device-related microbial biofilm infections include conditions like cystic fibrosis, otitis media, infective endocarditis, and chronic inflammatory disorders. This review aims to provide an overview of research on chronic infections caused by microbial biofilms, methods used for biofilm detection, recent approaches to combat biofilms, and future perspectives, including the development of innovative antimicrobial strategies such as antimicrobial peptides, bacteriophages, and agents that disrupt biofilms.
ACD856, a novel positive allosteric modulator of Trk receptors, single ascending doses in healthy subjects: Safety and pharmacokinetics
Authors: Nilsson Boel , Bylund Johan , Halldin Magnus M. , Rother Matthias , Rein-Hedin Erik , Önnestam Kristin , Segerdahl Märta
Published: February 2024

Purpose

AlzeCure Pharma AB is developing novel positive allosteric modulators of Trk-receptors for treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, depression, other psychiatric conditions and other disorders where cognition is impaired. The preceding candidate drug ACD855 was shown to have a too long half-life in humans to allow further development. To de-risk the development of the follow-up compound ACD856, the oral single ascending dose study of ACD856 in humans was preceded by an intravenous microdose study, assessing the elimination half-life in plasma.

Methods

A phase 0 study with a microdose of ACD856 (0.100 mg), was conducted in six healthy male subjects all receiving ACD856. Sequentially, a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind Phase I single ascending oral dose study (1 – 150 mg) was conducted, including 56 healthy subjects. Both studies assessed the safety and tolerability, as well as the PK properties of ACD856 after single dose intravenous and oral administration.

Results

ACD856 was well tolerated with no treatment emergent, or dose related adverse events or other safety assessments. In the microdose study, ACD856 exhibited a bi-exponential plasma decline, low distribution volume, low plasma clearance with a half-life of approximately 20 hours. Orally, ACD856 exhibited rapid absorption, an almost complete bioavailability and a dose proportional increase in exposure. While the Cmax was lowered and delayed by food intake, the effect on plasma half-life and the overall bioavailability was low. No renal elimination of ACD856 was detected.

Conclusion

The prediction proved accurate demonstrating the value of conducting a microdose study prior to ascending dose studies.

Trial registration

NCT05783830 March 24, 2023 (microdose study, retrospectively registered) and NCT05077631 October 14, 2021 (single ascending dose study).
Engineering Cas9: next generation of genomic editors
Authors: Kovalev Maxim A. , Davletshin Artem I. , Karpov Dmitry S.
Published: February 2024

The Cas9 endonuclease of the CRISPR/Cas type IIA system from Streptococcus pyogenes is the heart of genome editing technology that can be used to treat human genetic and viral diseases. Despite its large size and other drawbacks, S. pyogenes Cas9 remains the most widely used genome editor. A vast amount of research is aimed at improving Cas9 as a promising genetic therapy. Strategies include directed evolution of the Cas9 protein, rational design, and domain swapping. The first generation of Cas9 editors comes directly from the wild-type protein. The next generation is obtained by combining mutations from the first-generation variants, adding new mutations to them, or refining mutations. This review summarizes and discusses recent advances and ways in the creation of next-generation genomic editors derived from S. pyogenes Cas9.

Key points

• The next-generation Cas9-based editors are more active than in the first one.

• PAM-relaxed variants of Cas9 are improved by increased specificity and activity.

• Less mutagenic and immunogenic variants of Cas9 are created.
Immunogenic cell death in colorectal cancer: a review of mechanisms and clinical utility
Authors: De Silva M. , Tse B. C. Y. , Diakos C. I. , Clarke S. , Molloy M. P.
Published: February 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite several clinical advances the survival of patients with advanced colorectal cancer remains limited, demanding newer approaches. The immune system plays a central role in cancer development, propagation, and treatment response. Within the bowel, the colorectal mucosa is a key barrier and site of immune regulation that is generally immunosuppressive. Nonetheless, within this tumour microenvironment, it is evident that anti-neoplastic treatments which cause direct cytotoxic and cytostatic effects may also induce immunogenic cell death (ICD), a form of regulated cell death that leads to an anti-tumour immune response. Therefore, novel ICD inducers and molecular biomarkers of ICD action are urgently needed to advance treatment options for advanced CRC. This article reviews our knowledge of ICD in CRC.
Advancing glenohumeral dysplasia treatment in brachial plexus birth injury: the end-to-side spinal accessory to suprascapular nerve transfer technique
Authors: Noor Md Sibat , Khabyeh-Hasbani Nathan , Behbahani Mandana , Koehler Steven M.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI) is a common injury with the spectrum of disease prognosis ranging from spontaneous recovery to lifelong debilitating disability. A common sequela of BPBI is glenohumeral dysplasia (GHD) which, if not addressed early on, can lead to shoulder dysfunction as the child matures. However, there are no clear criteria for when to employ various surgical procedures for the correction of GHD.

Methods

We describe our approach to correcting GDH in infants with BPBIs using a reverse end-to-side (ETS) transfer from the spinal accessory to the suprascapular nerve. This technique is employed in infants that present with GHD with poor external rotation (ER) function who would not necessitate a complete end-to-end transfer and are still too young for a tendon transfer. In this study, we present our outcomes in seven patients.

Results

At presentation, all patients had persistent weakness of the upper trunk and functional limitations of the shoulder. Point-of-care ultrasounds confirmed GHD in each case. Five patients were male, and two patients were female, with a mean age of 3.3 months age (4 days–7 months) at presentation. Surgery was performed on average at 5.8 months of age (3–8.6 months). All seven patients treated with a reverse ETS approach had full recovery of ER according to active movement scores at the latest follow-up. Additionally, ultrasounds at the latest follow-up showed a complete resolution of GHD.

Conclusion

In infants with BPBI and evidence of GHD with poor ER, end-to-end nerve transfers, which initially downgrade function, or tendon transfers, that are not age-appropriate for the patient, are not recommended. Instead, we report seven successful cases of infants who underwent ETS spinal accessory to suprascapular nerve transfer for the treatment of GHD following BPBI.
Clinical compatibility of magnetic resonance imaging with magnetic intramedullary nails: a feasibility study
Authors: Femino Joseph D. , Barnes Samuel R. , Nelson Scott C. , Zuckerman Lee M.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with a magnetic intramedullary lengthening nail in place is contraindicated per the manufacturer due to the concern of implant activation and migration. A prior in vitro study did not confirm these complications only noting that a 3.0 T MRI weakened the internal magnet. Therefore, a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent an MRI with a magnetic nail in place was performed to determine if any adverse effects occurred in the clinical setting.

Materials and methods

A retrospective review of all patients who underwent an MRI with a magnetic lengthening nail in place was performed. The time spent being imaged in the MRI, number of times the patient entered the MRI suite, and the images obtained were recorded. Radiographs were performed before and after the MRI to determine if any hardware complications occurred. The patients were monitored for any adverse symptoms while they were in the suite.

Results

A total of 12 patients with 13 nails were identified. Two patients underwent imaging with a 3.0 T MRI while the remaining 10 underwent imaging with a 1.5 T MRI. Each patient entered the MRI suite 2.1 times and spent an average of 84.7 min being imaged in the MRI (range 21–494). No patients noted any adverse symptoms related to the nail while in the suite and no hardware complications were identified.

Conclusion

MRI appears to be safe with a magnetic nail in place and did not result in any complications. Given the manufacturer’s recommendations, informed consent should be obtained prior to an MRI being performed and a 3.0 T MRI should be avoided when possible if further activation of the nail is required.