bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the BigRock 28 nm fast timing Analog Front End
Authors: Krieger Amanda , Caisley Kennedy , Garcia-Sciveres Maurice , Grace Carl , Heim Timon , Zhang Zhicai
Published: May 2024

An initial characterization of the BigRock high-speed, low-power Analog Front End (AFE) is presented. The BigRock AFE previously described in [1] has been refined in a second generation testbed ASIC, Pebbles. The AFE utilizes a current-mode signal path that has been designed for 4D tracking applications with precision time resolution of order 50 ps. The preamplifier concept is based on a prior art current-feedback CMOS topology in [2]. An on-chip test bench comprised of a variable injection circuit and high-resolution TDC measures the AFE timing resolution. An array of integrated load capacitors and IO IPs enhance the characterization capability. These full-custom pads include LVDS and clock receivers, CML output driver, and simple analog buffer pads designed at the process core voltage (0.9 V) on a 90 μm/180 μm pitch. Critical noise and timing metrics for an array of input detector capacitance ranging 0 to 100 fF have been measured.
Molecular mechanism of smectisation and regulation of polymorphism in nematic liquid crystal systems
Authors: Bezhanova L. , Vasilyan M. , Atanesyan A.
Published: May 2024

The study explores the application of catastrophe theory to describe the molecular mechanisms of smectisation and the regulation of polymorphism in nematic liquid crystal (NLC) systems. We propose a new approach for describing the stable and unstable states of NLC systems that induce the smectic (Sm) phase. A relation between the control variables of the cusp catastrophe and the Sm order parameter in NLC systems has been identified. The equilibrium states of the Sm phase are determined within the framework of catastrophe theory. By applying catastrophe theory to study the thermodynamic potential of an NLC system, we provide a detailed description of how the functional potential geometry changes depending on the control variables. The local geometry around the extremes of the functional thermodynamic potential allows for controllable catastrophes.
A novel cryogenic VUV spectrofluorometer for the characterization of wavelength shifters
Authors: Leonhardt Andreas , Goldbrunner Maximilian , Hackett Brennan , Schönert Stefan
Published: May 2024

We present a novel cryogenic VUV spectrofluorometer designed to characterize wavelength shifters (WLS) crucial for experiments based on liquid argon (LAr) scintillation light detection. Wavelength shifters like 1,1,4,4-tetraphenyl-1,3-butadiene (TPB) or polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) are used in these experiments to shift the VUV scintillation light to the visible region. Precise knowledge of the optical properties of the WLS at liquid argon's temperature (87 K) and LAr scintillation wavelength (128 nm) is necessary to model and understand the detector response. The cryogenic VUV spectrofluorometer was commissioned to measure the emission spectra and relative wavelength shifting efficiency (WLSE) of samples between 300 K to 87 K for VUV (120 nm to 190 nm) and UV (310 nm) excitation. New mitigation techniques for surface effects on cold WLS were established. As part of this work, the TPB-based wavelength shifting reflector (WLSR) featured in the neutrinoless double-beta decay experiment LEGEND-200 was characterized. The WLSE was observed to increase by (54 ± 5) % from room temperature (RT) to 87 K. PEN installed in LEGEND-200 was also characterized, and a first measurement of the relative WLSE and emission spectrum at RT and 87 K is presented. The WLSE of amorphous PEN was found to be enhanced by at least (37 ± 4) % for excitation with 128 nm and by (52 ± 3) % for UV excitation at 87 K compared to RT.
The role and deployment timing of direct air capture in Saudi Arabia’s net-zero transition
Authors: Qiu Yang , Iyer Gokul , Fuhrman Jay , Hejazi Mohamad , Kamboj Puneet , Kyle Page
Published: May 2024

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has pledged to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2060. Direct air carbon capture and storage (DACCS) is critical for the country to meet its net-zero target given its reliance on fossil fuels and limited options for carbon dioxide removal (CDR). However, the role of DACCS in KSA’s national climate change mitigation has not been studied in the literature. In this study, we aim to understand the potential role of DACCS and the effect of its deployment timing in KSA’s transition toward its net-zero target using the Global Change Analysis Model (GCAM)-KSA, which is a version of GCAM with KSA split out as an individual region. We find that the annual DACCS CO2 sequestration in KSA reaches 0.28–0.33 Gt yr−1 by 2060 depending on its deployment timing. Early DACCS deployment, driven by its early and rapid cost reduction worldwide, could bring significant savings (∼420 billion USD during 2020–2060) in the cost of climate change mitigation in KSA, approximately 17% reduction relative to delayed DACCS deployment. Our study suggests a strong role for KSA to proactively invest in the R&D of DACCS, initiate early DACCS deployment, and explore a broad suite of CDR options.
Evidence mounts for spin supersolid
Authors: Dumé Isabelle
Published: May 2024

A new state of matter has appeared in a quantum antiferromagnet that also shows a giant magnetocaloric effect, as Isabelle Dumé reports.
Hair helps keep us cool, infrared study reveals
Authors: Wogan Tim
Published: May 2024

Hair cools the head in hot weather while keeping the scalp warm in the cold, according to a new study by scientists in South Korea.
Treasure trove of gas giants discovered
Authors: Cooper Keith
Published: May 2024

Findings from NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite could provide insight into our own solar system, as Keith Cooper explains.
Jet Propulsion Laboratory to lay off more than 500 employees
Authors: Gwynne Peter
Published: May 2024

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has announced it will reduce its permanent workforce by roughly 8%, affecting about 530 people and 40 contractors.
Duke of Edinburgh visits Institute of Physics
Authors: Durrani Matin
Published: May 2024

Prince Edward hears how physics is supporting the “green economy”, as Matin Durrani reports.
Theory matters
Authors: Chodos Alan
Published: May 2024

A reply to the research update (January 2024) outlining the 10 winners of the Physics World Breakthroughs of the Year for 2023.
Launching a code of conduct
Authors: Freeman Tami
Published: May 2024

Biomedical ethicist Vasiliki Rahimzadeh speaks to Tami Freeman about why the rapid growth of the commercial space sector makes it imperative that we develop a universal code of ethics for doing scientific research on human subjects in space.
Caution around techno-optimism
Authors: Rao Achintya
Published: May 2024

Achintya Rao reviews Invention and Innovation: a Brief History of Hype and Failure by Vaclav Smil.
Ask me anything: Xavier Calmet
Authors: Lea Rob
Published: May 2024

Xavier Calmet is a professor of physics at the University of Sussex in the UK. His work encompasses a broad “wavefunction” of physics, with a particular focus on quantum gravity and black holes. Calmet is currently working on his first popular-science book about black holes.
Heat of second sound measured
Authors: Wogan Tim
Published: May 2024

Physicists say they have taken the temperature of “second sound”, which could be used to study high-temperature superconductors and neutron stars, as Tim Wogan reports.
Water observed on asteroids for the first time
Authors: Cooper Keith
Published: May 2024

The first direct observation of water on the surface of an asteroid has been made using an airborne near-infrared telescope.
Reliability boost for high-pressure magnetometry
Authors: Ball Philip
Published: May 2024

New technique allows nitrogen vacancies in diamond to be used to study the high-pressure response of superconductors, as Philip Ball explains.
Keeping up with events
Authors: Durrani Matin
Published: May 2024

How would physicists in earlier times have coped with modern technology?
Only degrowth can save us
Authors: Hansson Johan
Published: May 2024

Johan Hansson argues that it will never be possible to meet our climate targets if countries continue their obsession with growing the economy.
From amateur roots to worldwide groups
Authors: Chapman Emma
Published: May 2024

Having emerged from amateur beginnings in the backyards of radio engineers, radio astronomy is now the focus of elite, international global consortia. Emma Chapman outlines how the subject has developed and why it needs to strike a fine balance between its science and engineering roots.
Superfluidity keeps physics cool
Authors: Johnston Hamish
Published: May 2024

Hamish Johnston reviews Superfluid: How a Quantum Fluid Revolutionized Modern Science by John Weisend.
Prineha Narang goes the distance
Authors: Lea Rob
Published: May 2024

Prineha Narang, a physicist at UCLA who works at the intersection of condensed matter and quantum physics, tells Rob Lea about the challenges of defining yourself as a researcher, why she still puts fun at the forefront of her work, and what scientists can learn from distance running.
Ask me anything: Anne Pawsey
Authors: Durrani Matin
Published: May 2024

Anne Pawsey is secretary general of the European Physical Society (EPS) in Mulhouse, France. After a PhD in soft-condensed-matter physics at the University of Edinburgh in the UK, she was a researcher on industry-linked projects and graduate school co-ordinator of the Scottish Universities Physics Alliance. She joined EPS in 2022 after three years at the University of Göttingen in Germany as teaching and e-learning coordinator of the Max Planck School Matter to Life.
In pursuit of Kaye and Laby
Authors: Ferguson Andrew
Published: May 2024

A moment of distraction over the dishes sends Andrew Ferguson on a journey of literary discovery.
Residual emissions and carbon removal towards Japan’s net-zero goal: a multi-model analysis
Authors: Sugiyama Masahiro , Fujimori Shinichiro , Wada Kenichi , Kato Etsushi , Matsuo Yuhji , Nishiura Osamu , Oshiro Ken , Otsuki Takashi
Published: May 2024

We study Japan’s net-zero emissions target by 2050 in a multi-model framework, focusing on residual emissions and carbon dioxide removal (CDR). Four energy-economic and integrated assessment models show similar but stronger strategies for the net-zero target, compared to the previous, low-carbon policy target (80% emissions reduction). Results indicate that around 90% (inter-model median) of the current emissions are reduced through abatement, including improved energy efficiency and cleaner electricity and fuels. Models deploy new options such as CDR based on carbon capture and storage (CCS) (bioenergy with CCS and direct air carbon dioxide capture and storage) and hydrogen to achieve net zero. The scale of CCS-based CDR deployment reaches an inter-model median of 132Mt-CO2/yr. The median hydrogen share of final energy in 2050 increases from 0.79% to 6.9% between the low-carbon and net-zero scenarios. The CDR sensitivity analysis reveals that limiting the use of CDR significantly increases the mitigation costs for net zero. Achieving Japan’s net-zero goal will require exploring methods to reduce residual emissions, including demand-side solutions, and accelerating responsible CDR policies.
Revolutionizing crowd surveillance through voice-driven face recognition empowering rapid identification: towards development of sustainable smart cities
Authors: Bhat Manish , Paul Samuel , Sahu Umesh Kumar , Yadav Umesh Kumar
Published: May 2024

Recent global efforts to create sustainable smart cities have significantly transformed society and improved the lives of people. Nowadays, crowd surveillance (CS) has become essential in sustainable smart cities and society to protect public safety and security. In this regard, the face-based human detection system has received considerable attention because it is recognized as an emerging method in crowd surveillance applications. Thus, in this work, a new method for real-time identification of people for a crowd surveillance system (CSS) that uses facial and speech recognition technology has been introduced. In traditional CS systems, human operators are frequently used by crowd surveillance systems to watch and evaluate video feeds. Human error and operator weariness may result in lost opportunities or slow replies, which reduce the system’s efficacy. Certain procedures, including the initial identification and monitoring of people in video feeds, can be automated using a voice-activated system. To address the issues with the present CSS, a new framework Voice-Activated Face Recognition (VAFR) is proposed in this work. The proposed framework combines the speech and face recognition models for crowd surveillance. Experimental and simulation studies have been performed to analyze the performance of the proposed VAFR framework. The proposed framework uses the Viola-Jones algorithm for face identification and the Conformer architecture for speech analysis, reaching a noteworthy 99.8% accuracy rate in live video feeds. In addition, the ethical and safety aspect of the proposed VAFR system is presented.
Impact of a health-system specialty pharmacy on time to upadacitinib initiation
Authors: Choi David , Rubin David T , Man Bernice
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Upadacitinib has been found to improve symptoms as early as day 1 in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. As a result, early and timely initiation of upadacitinib is paramount to prevent hospital admission for an acute flare. The purpose of this study was to identify the time to initiation of upadacitinib, comparing external specialty pharmacies (ESPs) to a health-system specialty pharmacy (HSSP).

Methods

This was a single-center, retrospective study at the University of Chicago Medicine (UCM) Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center and included patients initiated on upadacitinib between March 1, 2022, and April 1, 2023. Data collected included demographics, prior authorization information, appeal information, insurance type, date the prescription was sent, and date the patient initiated therapy (patients were called to confirm the date). The primary outcome evaluated was the days from prescribing to patient initiation. Secondary outcomes included the total time to initiation and the time to notification from insurance regarding determination of a prior authorization or appeal. Patients were excluded if they were lost to follow-up, initiated therapy through alternative means, or had previously initiated upadacitinib.

Results

A total of 107 patients were initiated on upadacitinib during the study period (n = 18 through the UCM HSSP, n = 89 through an ESP). The median number of days to patient initiation was 3 days (interquartile range, 3-6 days) for the UCM specialty pharmacy vs 9 days (interquartile range, 4-13 days) for ESPs (P = 0.003). A total of 88.9% of patients filling through the UCM specialty pharmacy initiated upadacitinib within 7 days, compared to 47.2% of patients filling through an ESP (P = 0.001). Seven patients needed earlier initiation of therapy to prevent hospital admission.

Conclusion

This study validates the ability of HSSPs to initiate therapies earlier than ESPs with a particular focus on upadacitinib.
Diagnostic accuracy of autofluorescence-Raman microspectroscopy for surgical margin assessment during Mohs micrographic surgery of basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Boitor Radu A , Varma Sandeep , Sharma Ashish , Odedra Sunita , Elsheikh Somaia , Eldib Karim , Patel Anand , Koloydenko Alexey , Gran Sonia , De Winne Koen , Koljenovic Senada , Williams Hywel C , Notingher Ioan
Published: May 2024

Background

Autofluorescence (AF)–Raman microspectroscopy is a technology that can detect residual basal cell carcinoma (BCC) on the resection margin of fresh, surgically excised tissue specimens. The technology does not require tissue fixation, staining, labelling or sectioning, and provides quantitative diagnosis maps of the surgical margins in 30 min.

Objectives

To determine the accuracy of the AF–Raman instrument in detecting incomplete BCC excisions during Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS), using histology as the reference standard.

Methods

Skin layers from 130 patients undergoing MMS at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (September 2022–July 2023) were investigated with the AF–Raman instrument. The layers were measured when fresh, immediately after excision. The AF–Raman results and the intraoperative assessment by Mohs surgeons were compared with a postoperative consensus-derived reference produced by three dermatopathologists. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated. The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03482622).

Results

AF–Raman analysis was successfully completed for 125 of 130 layers and, on average, covered 91% of the specimen surface area, with the lowest surface area covered being 87% for the eyelid and the highest being 94% for forehead specimens. The AF–Raman instrument identified positive margins in 24 of 36 BCC-positive cases [67% sensitivity, 95% confidence interval (CI) 49–82] and negative margins in 65 of 89 BCC-negative cases (73% specificity, 95% CI 63–82). Only one of 12 false-negative cases was caused by misclassification by the AF–Raman algorithm. The other 11 false-negatives cases were a result of no valid Raman signal being recorded at the location of the residual BCC due to either occlusion by blood or poor contact between tissue and the cassette window. The intraoperative diagnosis by Mohs surgeons identified positive margins in 31 of 36 BCC-positive cases (86% sensitivity, 95% CI 70–95) and negative margins in 79 of 89 BCC-negative cases (89% specificity, 95% CI 81–95).

Conclusions

The AF–Raman instrument has the potential to provide intraoperative microscopic assessment of surgical margins in BCC surgery. Further improvements are required for tissue processing, to ensure complete coverage of the surgical specimens.
Oesophageal cell collection device and biomarker testing to identify high-risk Barrett's patients requiring endoscopic investigation
Authors: Chien Siobhan , Glen Paul , Penman Ian , Cruickshank Neil , Bryce Gavin , Crumley Andrew , Phull Perminder , Miller Michael , Fletcher Jonathan , Gunjaca Ivan , Apollos Jeyakumar , Robertson Kevin , Fullarton Grant
Published: May 2024

Background

Barrett's oesophagus surveillance places significant burden on endoscopy services yet is vital to detect early cancerous change. Oesophageal cell collection device (OCCD) testing was introduced across Scotland for Barrett's surveillance in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This national pragmatic retrospective study presents the CytoSCOT programme results and evaluates whether OCCD testing is successfully identifying high-risk Barrett's patients requiring urgent endoscopy.

Methods

All patients undergoing OCCD testing for Barrett's surveillance across 11 Scottish health boards over a 32-month period were identified. Patients who underwent endoscopy within 12 months of OCCD test were included. Individual patient records were interrogated to record clinical information and OCCD test result to categorize patients into risk groups. Endoscopic histopathology results were analysed according to risk group and segment length. Patients were deemed high risk if the OCCD test demonstrated atypia and/or p53 positivity.

Results

4204 OCCD tests were performed in 3745 patients: 608 patients underwent endoscopy within 12 months and were included in this analysis. Patients with longer Barrett's segments were significantly more likely to have an abnormal OCCD test. 50/608 patients (8.2%) had high-grade dysplasia or cancer on endoscopic biopsies: this equates to 1.3% of the total group (50/3745). 46/50 patients (92.0%) were deemed high risk, triggering urgent endoscopy: this rose to 100% with insufficient tests removed. There were no cancers diagnosed within 12 months post-OCCD in the low-risk group.

Conclusion

OCCD testing is an effective triage tool to identify high-risk patients with Barrett's oesophagus requiring further investigation with endoscopy within the real-world setting.
Qualitative investigation of disease course, characteristics and lived experience of generalized pustular psoriasis
Authors: Parks Emily A , Zaino Mallory L , Trettin Bettina , Feldman Steven R
Published: May 2024

Background

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a relapsing–remitting chronic disease characterized by painful pustules with systemic symptoms that has a negative impact on quality of life. The psychosocial and economic burden of this rare condition is not well characterized.

Objectives

To qualitatively characterize the cumulative burden of GPP on patients’ quality of life and psychosocial wellbeing.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients with GPP was performed to collect demographic information, followed by prospective semistructured clinical interviews. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Three major themes were revealed: (i) burden of having a chronic disease with an unpredictable course, (ii) an inability to fulfil societal roles results in a loss of identity, and (iii) a physician–patient relationship grounded in trust and transparency can be invaluable in helping patients endure chronic disease.

Conclusions

GPP has a negative impact on patients’ quality of life and psychosocial wellbeing. Impairments in daily function and mental health primarily affect patients during flares and influence behaviour during periods of quiescence. A strong patient–physician relationship may help mitigate the impact of GPP.
Caenorhabditis elegans Hedgehog-related proteins are tissue- and substructure-specific components of the cuticle and precuticle
Authors: Serra Nicholas D , Darwin Chelsea B , Sundaram Meera V
Published: May 2024

In Caenorhabditis elegans, expanded families of divergent Hedgehog-related and patched-related proteins promote numerous processes ranging from epithelial and sense organ development to pathogen responses to cuticle shedding during the molt cycle. The molecular functions of these proteins have been mysterious since nematodes lack a canonical Hedgehog signaling pathway. Here we show that Hedgehog-related proteins are components of the cuticle and precuticle apical extracellular matrices that coat, shape, and protect external epithelia. Of four Hedgehog-related proteins imaged, two (GRL-2 and GRL-18) stably associated with the cuticles of specific tubes and two (GRL-7 and WRT-10) labeled precuticle substructures such as furrows or alae. We found that wrt-10 mutations disrupt cuticle alae ridges, consistent with a structural role in matrix organization. We hypothesize that most nematode Hedgehog-related proteins are apical extracellular matrix components, a model that could explain many of the reported functions for this family. These results highlight ancient connections between Hedgehog proteins and the extracellular matrix and suggest that any signaling roles of C. elegans Hedgehog-related proteins will be intimately related to their matrix association.
MRI and Blood-based Biomarkers Are Associated With Surgery in Children and Adults With Ileal Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Dillman Jonathan R , Tkach Jean A , Fletcher Joel G , Bruining David H , Lu Aiming , Kugathasan Subra , Alazraki Adina L , Knight-Scott Jack , Stidham Ryan W , Adler Jeremy , Trapnell Bruce C , Swanson Scott D , Fei Lin , Qian Lucia , Towbin Alexander J , Kocaoglu Murat , Anton Christopher G , Imbus Rebecca A , Dudley Jonathan A , Denson Lee A
Published: May 2024

Background

Despite advances in medical therapy, many children and adults with ileal Crohn’s disease (CD) progress to fibrostenosis requiring surgery. We aimed to identify MRI and circulating biomarkers associated with the need for surgical management.

Methods

This prospective, multicenter study included pediatric and adult CD cases undergoing ileal resection and CD controls receiving medical therapy. Noncontrast research MRI examinations measured bowel wall 3-dimensional magnetization transfer ratio normalized to skeletal muscle (normalized 3D MTR), modified Look-Locker inversion recovery (MOLLI) T1 relaxation, intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) diffusion-weighted imaging metrics, and the simplified magnetic resonance index of activity (sMaRIA). Circulating biomarkers were measured on the same day as the research MRI and included CD64, extracellular matrix protein 1 (ECM1), and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) autoantibodies (Ab). Associations between MRI and circulating biomarkers and need for ileal resection were tested using univariate and multivariable LASSO regression.

Results

Our study sample included 50 patients with CD undergoing ileal resection and 83 patients with CD receiving medical therapy; mean participant age was 23.9 ± 13.1 years. Disease duration and treatment exposures did not vary between the groups. Univariate biomarker associations with ileal resection included log GM-CSF Ab (odds ratio [OR], 2.87; P = .0009), normalized 3D MTR (OR, 1.05; P = .002), log MOLLI T1 (OR, 0.01; P = .02), log IVIM perfusion fraction (f; OR, 0.38; P = .04), and IVIM apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC; OR, 0.3; P = .001). The multivariable model for surgery based upon corrected Akaike information criterion included age (OR, 1.03; P = .29), BMI (OR, 0.91; P = .09), log GM-CSF Ab (OR, 3.37; P = .01), normalized 3D MTR (OR, 1.07; P = .007), sMaRIA (OR, 1.14; P = .61), luminal narrowing (OR, 10.19; P = .003), log C-reactive protein (normalized; OR, 2.75; P = .10), and hematocrit (OR, 0.90; P = .13).

Conclusion

After accounting for clinical and MRI measures of severity, normalized 3D MTR and GM-CSF Ab are associated with the need for surgery in ileal CD.
From Prevention to Empowerment: A New Model for UK Labour Law
Authors: Adams Zoe
Published: May 2024

For at least the last 40 years, law and policy in relation to work in the UK have been rooted in a paradigm of prevention: preventing employers from abusing the power they enjoy over workers in ways that are harmful to the latter’s interests. This article argues that this paradigm is rooted in a partial and structural, understanding of power, that is incapable of grappling with the true scope of the problems associated with power as it relates to work in the context of capitalism. Exposing the issues that exist with this understanding of power, and advancing an alternative structural conceptualisation, the article explores the implications that such an understanding might have for labour law and policy.
In vitro analysis of interactions between Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans treated with silver sulfadiazine in wound infections
Authors: Kamath Preetha , Paul Suchismita , Valdes Jose , Gil Joel , Solis Michael , Higa Alex , Davis Stephen C
Published: May 2024

Background

Microorganisms tend to rely on close relationships with other species to survive. Consequently, biofilms formed by interactions of different species have been shown to delay the wound healing process. Studies suggest these mixed-population infections contribute to the development of drug resistance and inhibition of host immune response. Silver sulfadiazine (SSD) has been shown to effectively decrease the risk of infection in an open wound. Typically, these are bacterial wound infections; however, the role of fungal species needs further attention.

Objectives

The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the effect of SSD on interactions between Pseudomonas aeruginosa 09-009 (PA1) or P. aeruginosa 09-010 (PA2) and Candida albicans ATTC 64550 (CA).

Methods

A mixture of 4 mL of tryptic soy broth (TSB) and 100 µL of CA and/or PA1 or PA2 (∼106 log cfu/mL) inoculums were deposited into either wells or vials. The wells or vials were then sonicated (50 W for 10 s) to separate microorganisms attached to the walls. After incubation, cell counts were performed at 24 and 48 h for each microorganism using specific media.

Results

Our results show that without SSD treatment, P. aeruginosa exhibits an inhibitory effect on C. albicans. Treatment with SSD demonstrated significant reduction of P. aeruginosa; however, C. albicans persisted. This experiment demonstrates that SSD was effective in reducing the bioburden of both P. aeruginosa strains after 24 and 48 h; however, it was not as effective in reducing C. albicans.

Conclusions

The data suggest that for polymicrobial mixed infections containing Pseudomonas spp. and C. albicans, treatment with SSD may be beneficial but does not provide adequate microorganism eradication. As such, added treatments that provide coverage for Candida infection are necessary. Additional in vivo studies are needed to obtain a better understanding of the complex interactions between these organisms.
A case of delayed bleeding of the chest wall after VATS treated with transcatheter arterial embolization
Authors: Kameda Yohei , Osawa Hiroyuki , Sueishi Yui , Ishikawa Yoshihiro , Maehara Takamitsu
Published: May 2024

We report a case of delayed bleeding after video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) that was successfully treated with transcatheter arterial embolization. An 81-year-old woman underwent a pleural biopsy via VATS for pleural dissemination of lung cancer. The postoperative course was good, but 8 days later she was hospitalized for swelling in the right axilla and was admitted to our hospital with a diagnosis of delayed postoperative hemorrhage. Gauze compression was performed, and the patient was discharged without exacerbation of hematoma. However, 4 days later, she was hospitalized for rapidly worsening swelling and pain. Chest computed tomography at the time of rebleeding showed an increase in the hematoma and extravasation in the peripheral right lateral thoracic artery. The patient was immediately treated with emergency angiography, and coil embolization was performed. After this treatment, the patient has done well and there has been no subsequent recurrence of bleeding.
Bone mesenchymal stem cells improve cholestatic liver fibrosis by targeting ULK1 to regulate autophagy through PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway
Authors: Huang Tingjuan , Zhang Chunhong , Shang Ziyi , Shuai Qizhi , Nie Lina , Ren Junjie , Hou Shulin , Xie Jun
Published: May 2024

Cholestatic liver disease (CLD) is a severe disease, which can progress to liver cirrhosis, even liver cancer. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation plays a crucial role in CLD development. Bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) treatment was demonstrated to be beneficial in liver diseases. However, the therapeutic effect and mechanism of BMSCs on CLD are poorly known. In the present study, we investigated the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of BMSCs transplantation in mouse models of bile duct ligation-induced cholestatic liver fibrosis (CLF). The results revealed that BMSCs significantly improved liver function and reduced the formation of fibrosis after portal vein transplantation. Mechanistically, after coculturing BMSCs and HSCs, we identified that BMSCs alleviated starvation-induced HSCs activation. Further, BMSCs inhibited HSCs activation by decreasing autophagy, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway was involved in the regulation. More importantly, ULK1 is identified as the main autophagy-related gene regulated by BMSCs in HSCs autophagy. Overexpression of ULK1 reversed the suppression of HSCs autophagy by BMSCs. Collectively, our results provide a theoretical basis for BMSCs targeting ULK1 to attenuate HSCs autophagy and activation and suggest that BMSCs or ULK1 may be an alternative therapeutic approach/target for the treatment of CLF.
Quantitative Insights into Grapevine Anthracnose (Elsinoë ampelina) Epidemiology: Impact of Temperature and Leaf Age on Incubation, Lesion Development, and Sporulation
Authors: Carisse Odile , Vincent Samuel , Lafond-Lapalme Joël , Fall Mamadou Lamine , Van der Heyden Hervé
Published: May 2024

Grapevine anthracnose, caused by Elsinoë ampelina, is one of the most devastating diseases for wine and table grapes, particularly in hot, humid regions. This study explores how temperature and leaf age affect incubation and how temperature affects lesion development and sporulation. The influence of temperature and leaf age on incubation period (days) was tested under controlled conditions. Leaves from 1 to 8 days old were inoculated and maintained at temperatures of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30°C. The time elapsed between inoculation and the emergence of initial lesions was recorded. The effect of temperature on lesion development and sporulation was investigated under vineyard conditions. This was achieved through artificial inoculations, with 17, 11, and 11 inoculations conducted in 2016, 2017, and 2018, respectively. The average incubation period, considering all leaf ages, was 27.50 days at 5°C, 15.10 days at 10°C, 9.70 days at 15°C, 5.90 days at 20°C, 3.70 days at 25°C, and 2.26 days at 30°C. Regardless of temperature, the average incubation period was 3.6, 5.9, 8.3, 9.8, 11.9, 13.4, 15.6, and 17.1 days for leaves 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 days old, respectively. The exponential decay model accurately describes the incubation period as a function of both temperature and leaf age. On average, the relative lesion development (RLD) was 0.00, 0.00, 0.23, 0.47, 0.72, 0.93, 0.92, 0.90, 0.94, and 1.0 at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 days after inoculation, respectively. The average relative sporulation (RSPO) was 0.03, 0.36, 0.82, 0.96, and 1.0 at 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 days after inoculation, respectively. Both RLD and RSPO as a function of degree-days (Tbase = 0°C) since inoculation were well described by the logistic function. The rates of change in RLD and RSPO were 0.055 and 0.032, respectively. The results of this study provide new quantitative insights into three important stages (monocyclic processes) in the development of grapevine anthracnose caused by E. ampelina.
Faculty as Teachers: Career Development for the Clinician-Educator
Authors: Kinney Daniel A. , Gaiser Robert
Published: May 2024

Clinician-Educators are the primary faculty in academic anesthesiology departments. These individuals assist with the departmental mission of clinical care and of education. Despite the critical role of the clinician-educator, academic advancement for these individuals has been difficult with the criteria for promotion continuing to evolve. The problem lies in the documentation of clinical and educational excellence in a means that a promotion committee may understand. Faculty development and advanced degrees in education have been helpful with the success of programs remaining unclear.
Accuracy of Mirror Image Mapping of Lymphatic Tract for High-stage and Reoperative Lymphaticovenular Anastomosis: Intraoperative Analysis and Early Clinical Outcome
Authors: Yodrabum Nutcha , Chaikangwan Irin , Tianrungroj Jirapat , Piyaman Parkpoom
Published: May 2024

Background:

Indocyanine green lymphography (ICGL) generally has a nonlinear pattern in advanced-stage lymphedema. Despite the lack of a linear pattern ICGL, lymphatic vessels have been discovered in several studies. The purpose of this work was to establish lymphatic mapping utilizing information from the contralateral limb and to illustrate the symmetry of lymphatic systems.

Methods:

Data were retrospectively collected from 81 patients who underwent lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA) using the contralateral mapping technique during 2018 to 2022. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and negative and positive predictive values of this technique were calculated and analyzed.

Results:

Lymphatic vessels were identified in 85.2% of the upper and 82.3% of the lower limb presumed sites using the contralateral mapping technique. The positive predictive value for successful LVA anastomosis was 93.8% for upper limb and 92.3% for lower limb cases. This mirror image technique’s accuracy was 91.7% and 91.1%, for the upper limb and lower limb group, respectively. Between reoperative and new LVA cases, there was no statistically significant difference in the number, type, or diameter of lymphatic vessels or number of anastomoses.

Conclusions:

LVA with contralateral mapping technique is an effective method for patients with high-stage lymphedema with a nonlinear pattern on ICGL.
Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction Secondary to Eosinophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Case Report
Authors: Teope Jonnah Kristina , Kawade Yuka , Yo Kinga , Takahashi Ken-Ichi , Takahashi Yasuhiro
Published: May 2024

A 47-year-old Japanese woman presented with a 1-year history of right-sided epiphora. On initial consultation, the patient had a high right tear meniscus height. CT images revealed bilateral soft tissue opacification in the nasal cavity and maxillary, frontal, and ethmoid sinuses. The lesion in the right nasal cavity and maxillary sinus involved the right lacrimal sac and nasolacrimal duct. Blood test results showed elevated eosinophil count. Endoscopic sinus surgery and excisional biopsy of the nasolacrimal duct were performed. Histopathological examinations of the excised right nasolacrimal duct and nasal polyps from the nasal cavity and maxillary sinus showed high levels of eosinophilic inflammatory infiltrates. The definite diagnosis of eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis was made, based on clinical, radiological, and histopathological findings. At 1.5-year follow-up, tear meniscus height was normal, the lacrimal drainage system remained patent, and the rhinosinusitis did not recur.
Bilateral Thermal Keratopathy Due to Plasma Skin Regeneration
Authors: Meyer Benjamin I. , Gutkind Naomi E. , Shoji Marissa K. , Rong Andrew J.
Published: May 2024

A 40-year-old woman underwent periocular plasma skin regeneration, a cosmetic treatment for periorbital rejuvenation. She subsequently developed bilateral thermal keratitis, manifesting as blurred vision, irritation, and redness, with a vision decrease to 20/60 and 20/50 in her OD and OS, respectively. Examination demonstrated bilateral large, irregular corneal epithelial defects and edema, necessitating treatment with amniotic membrane grafts, bandage contact lenses, and hypertonic saline. One year posttreatment, her visual acuity improved to 20/20 and 20/25, albeit with ongoing symptomatic dryness and bilateral anterior stromal haze. This case, as only the second reported instance of ocular damage from periocular plasma skin regeneration, underscores the need for heightened awareness of potential ocular complications following plasma skin regeneration and reinforces the importance of protective measures during periocular procedures.
Combining the Tunnel Orbicularis Oculi Muscle Flap Technique With Skin Grafting for Enhanced Adhesion in Burn-Induced Ectropion Repair
Authors: Hou Jue , Hou Chunsheng , Zhang Jufang
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

Scar contracture of the eyelid following facial burns often has adverse consequences. Total cicatricial contracture often makes adjustment flap translation challenging to implement. Previously used upper and lower eyelid adhesion methods are ineffective for patients with severe cicatricial contracture, and ectropion can easily recur. This study aimed to retrospectively examine upper and lower eyelid adhesions using an orbicularis oculi muscle flap and verify its stability.

Methods:

In patients with ectropion caused by severe scar contracture following head and face burns, we employed a tunnel orbicularis oculi muscle flap technique, which involved creating a tunnel between the skin and the tarsal plate of the eyelid, mobilizing the orbicularis oculi muscle, and rotating it into this tunnel to provide stable adhesion of the upper and lower eyelids. Full-thickness skin grafting was then performed. The eyelids were examined postoperatively to determine whether reoperation was necessary and to monitor for any potential complications.

Results:

This study included 26 patients and 46 eyes. No accidental disconnection occurred after eyelid adhesion, which lasted for an average of 21.87 ± 10.08 months before the eyelid adhesion was cut open. No complications or adverse reactions occurred, and the adhesions did not break unexpectedly.

Conclusions:

Repairing eyelid ectropion with the tunnel orbicularis oculi muscle flap is a simple procedure that immediately creates tension against upper and lower eyelid contractures, providing long-term stable adhesion. This method avoids structural disorders, such as eyelid margin scarring, minimally influences surrounding tissues, and has few postoperative complications. It holds great value for repairing eyelid tissue defects and warrants further study.
Zuranolone Concentrations in the Breast Milk of Healthy, Lactating Individuals
Authors: Deligiannidis Kristina M. , Bullock Amy , Nandy Indrani , Dunbar Joi , Lasser Robert , Witte Michael , Leclair Bridgette , Wald Jeffrey
Published: May 2024

Purpose/Background

Zuranolone is a positive allosteric modulator of both synaptic and extrasynaptic γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptors and a neuroactive steroid approved as an oral, once-daily, 14-day treatment course for adults with postpartum depression in the United States. This study assessed zuranolone transfer into breast milk.

Methods/Procedures

Healthy, nonpregnant, lactating adult female participants received once-daily 30 mg zuranolone from day (D)1 through D5 in this phase 1 open-label study. The relative infant dose (RID; weight-adjusted proportion of the maternal dose in breast milk over 24 hours) for 30 mg zuranolone was assessed at D5. An RID for 50 mg zuranolone was estimated using a simulation approach across a range of infant ages and weights.

Findings/Results

Of 15 enrolled participants (mean age, 30.1 years), 14 completed the study. The mean RID for 30 mg zuranolone at D5 was 0.357%; the mean steady-state milk volume over D3 to D5 decreased from baseline by 8.3%. Overall unbound zuranolone in plasma was low (≤0.49%). Plasma concentrations peaked at D5 before decreasing in a biexponential manner. There was strong concordance between the temporal profiles of zuranolone concentrations in plasma and breast milk. The estimated mean RID for 50 mg zuranolone based on a milk intake of 200 mL/kg per day was 0.984%. All treatment-emergent adverse events reported by participants were mild, the most common being dizziness (n = 3).

Implications/Conclusions

Zuranolone transfer into the breast milk of healthy, nonpregnant, lactating adult female participants was low; the estimated RID for 50 mg zuranolone was <1%, well below the <10% threshold generally considered compatible with breastfeeding.
Respiratory Health Associated With Systemic Metal Exposure in Post-9/11 Veterans in the Department of Veterans Affairs Toxic Embedded Fragment Registry
Authors: Hines Stella E. , Gaitens Joanna M. , Brown Clayton H. , Glick Danielle R. , Reback Maxwell , Chin Katherine H. , Lawrence Emma , Cavanaugh Kerri L. , Lawson William E. , Sriram Peruvemba , Beck Lisa , Duch John , Aguayo Samuel M. , Permana Paska , McDiarmid Melissa A.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Adverse respiratory outcomes in post-9/11 veterans with elevated urinary metal measures and enrolled in the VA's Toxic Embedded Fragment registry were compared to those without elevated urinary metals.

Methods

Veterans completed questionnaires, underwent pulmonary physiology tests (pulmonary function and oscillometry), and provided urine samples for analysis of 13 metals. Respiratory symptoms, diagnoses, and physiology measures were compared in veterans with ≥1 urine metal elevation to those without metal elevations, adjusted for covariates, including smoking.

Results

Among 402 study participants, 24% had elevated urine metals, often just exceeding upper limits of reference values. Compared to veterans without elevated metals, those with elevated metals had had higher FEV1 values but similar frequencies of respiratory symptoms and diagnoses and abnormalities on pulmonary physiology tests.

Conclusions

Mild systemic metal elevations in post-9/11 veterans are not associated with adverse respiratory health outcomes.
Role of biomarkers in the diagnosis and management of HCC
Authors: Al-Hasan Mohammed , Mehta Neil , Yang Ju Dong , Singal Amit G.
Published: May 2024

For many cancers, biomarkers have served as an important tool across the cancer care continuum from risk stratification and early detection to diagnosis and treatment. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) remains one of the few validated biomarkers for patients with HCC. Although AFP has shown potential for each of these steps, its performance, when used alone, has often been suboptimal. There continue to be discordant recommendations about AFP’s value when combined with ultrasound for surveillance, as well as its role in diagnostic algorithms. Conversely, high AFP levels are associated with aggressive tumor biology and survival, so it remains a key factor for the selection of candidates for liver transplant. There have been immense efforts to identify and validate additional biomarkers for each of these steps in the HCC care continuum. Indeed, biomarker panels have shown promising data for HCC risk stratification and surveillance among patients with cirrhosis, as well as prognostication and detection of minimal residual disease in patients undergoing HCC treatment. Several large prospective studies are currently ongoing to evaluate the role of these emerging biomarkers in clinical practice.
Diagnostic Identification of Acute Brain Dysfunction in Pediatric Sepsis and Septic Shock in the Electronic Health Record: A Comparison of Four Definitions in a Reference Dataset*
Authors: Alcamo Alicia M. , Becker Andrew E. , Barren Gregory J. , Hayes Katie , Pennington Jeffrey W. , Curley Martha A.Q. , Tasker Robert C. , Balamuth Fran , Weiss Scott L. , Fitzgerald Julie C. , Topjian Alexis A.
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVES:

Acute brain dysfunction (ABD) in pediatric sepsis has a prevalence of 20%, but can be difficult to identify. Our previously validated ABD computational phenotype (CPABD) used variables obtained from the electronic health record indicative of clinician concern for acute neurologic or behavioral change. We tested whether the CPABDhas better diagnostic performance to identify confirmed ABD than other definitions using the Glasgow Coma Scale or delirium scores.

DESIGN:

Diagnostic testing in a curated cohort of pediatric sepsis/septic shock patients.

SETTING:

Quaternary freestanding children’s hospital.

SUBJECTS:

The test dataset comprised 527 children with sepsis/septic shock managed between 2011 and 2021 with a prevalence (pretest probability) of confirmed ABD of 30% (159/527).

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

CPABDwas based on use of neuroimaging, electroencephalogram, and/or administration of new antipsychotic medication. We compared the performance of the CPABDwith three GCS/delirium-based definitions of ABD—Proulx et al, International Pediatric Sepsis Consensus Conference, and Pediatric Organ Dysfunction Information Update Mandate. The posttest probability of identifying ABD was highest in CPABD(0.84) compared with other definitions. CPABDalso had the highest sensitivity (83%; 95% CI, 76–89%) and specificity (93%; 95% CI, 90–96%). The false discovery rate was lowest in CPABD(1-in-6) as was the false omission rate (1-in-14). Finally, the prevalence threshold for the definitions varied, with the CPABDbeing the definition closest to 20%.

CONCLUSIONS:

In our curated dataset of pediatric sepsis/septic shock, CPABDhad favorable characteristics to identify confirmed ABD compared with GCS/delirium-based definitions. The CPABDcan be used to further study the impact of ABD in studies using large electronic health datasets.