bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate change exacerbates the environmental impacts of agriculture
Authors: Yang Yi , Tilman David , Jin Zhenong , Smith Pete , Barrett Christopher B. , Zhu Yong-Guan , Burney Jennifer , D’Odorico Paolo , Fantke Peter , Fargione Joe , Finlay Jacques C. , Rulli Maria Cristina , Sloat Lindsey , Jan van Groenigen Kees , West Paul C. , Ziska Lewis , Michalak Anna M. ,   the Clim-Ag Team, Lobell David B. , Clark Michael , Colquhoun Jed , Garg Teevrat , Garrett Karen A. , Geels Camilla , Hernandez Rebecca R. , Herrero Mario , Hutchison William D. , Jain Meha , Jungers Jacob M. , Liu Beibei , Mueller Nathaniel D. , Ortiz-Bobea Ariel , Schewe Jacob , Song Jie , Verheyen Julie , Vitousek Peter , Wada Yoshihide , Xia Longlong , Zhang Xin , Zhuang Minghao
Published: September 2024

Agriculture’s global environmental impacts are widely expected to continue expanding, driven by population and economic growth and dietary changes. This Review highlights climate change as an additional amplifier of agriculture’s environmental impacts, by reducing agricultural productivity, reducing the efficacy of agrochemicals, increasing soil erosion, accelerating the growth and expanding the range of crop diseases and pests, and increasing land clearing. We identify multiple pathways through which climate change intensifies agricultural greenhouse gas emissions, creating a potentially powerful climate change–reinforcing feedback loop. The challenges raised by climate change underscore the urgent need to transition to sustainable, climate-resilient agricultural systems. This requires investments that both accelerate adoption of proven solutions that provide multiple benefits, and that discover and scale new beneficial processes and food products.
In vivo dendritic cell reprogramming for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Ascic Ervin , Åkerström Fritiof , Sreekumar Nair Malavika , Rosa André , Kurochkin Ilia , Zimmermannova Olga , Catena Xavier , Rotankova Nadezhda , Veser Charlotte , Rudnik Michal , Ballocci Tommaso , Schärer Tiffany , Huang Xiaoli , de Rosa Torres Maria , Renaud Emilie , Velasco Santiago Marta , Met Özcan , Askmyr David , Lindstedt Malin , Greiff Lennart , Ligeon Laure-Anne , Agarkova Irina , Svane Inge Marie , Pires Cristiana F. , Rosa Fábio F. , Pereira Carlos-Filipe
Published: September 2024

Immunotherapy can lead to long-term survival for some cancer patients, yet generalized success has been hampered by insufficient antigen presentation and exclusion of immunogenic cells from the tumor microenvironment. Here, we developed an approach to reprogram tumor cells in vivo by adenoviral delivery of the transcription factors PU.1, IRF8, and BATF3, which enabled them to present antigens as type 1 conventional dendritic cells. Reprogrammed tumor cells remodeled their tumor microenvironment, recruited, and expanded polyclonal cytotoxic T cells; induced tumor regressions; and established long-term systemic immunity in multiple mouse melanoma models. In human tumor spheroids and xenografts, reprogramming to immunogenic dendritic-like cells progressed independently of immunosuppression, which usually limits immunotherapy. Our study paves the way for human clinical trials of in vivo immune cell reprogramming for cancer immunotherapy.
Role of protein kinase PLK1 in the epigenetic maintenance of centromeres
Authors: Conti Duccio , Verza Arianna Esposito , Pesenti Marion E. , Cmentowski Verena , Vetter Ingrid R. , Pan Dongqing , Musacchio Andrea
Published: September 2024

The centromere, a chromosome locus defined by the histone H3–like protein centromeric protein A (CENP-A), promotes assembly of the kinetochore to bind microtubules during cell division. Centromere maintenance requires CENP-A to be actively replenished by dedicated protein machinery in the early G
1
phase of the cell cycle to compensate for its dilution after DNA replication. Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) limit CENP-A deposition to once per cell cycle and function as negative regulators outside of early G
1
. Antithetically, Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) promotes CENP-A deposition in early G
1
, but the molecular details of this process are still unknown. We reveal here a phosphorylation network that recruits PLK1 to the deposition machinery to control a conformational switch required for licensing the CENP-A deposition reaction. Our findings clarify how PLK1 contributes to the epigenetic maintenance of centromeres.
Einstein’s Oxford years
Authors: Robinson Andrew
Published: September 2024

Long overlooked by biographers, the physicist’s time at the renowned British university—and his reasons for leaving—are worth revisiting
Turning tissues temporarily transparent
Authors: Rowlands Christopher J. , Gorecki Jon
Published: September 2024

A food dye suppresses light scattering in biological tissues to enable deep in vivo imaging
Indian knowledge
Authors: Chandrashekhar Vaishnavi
Published: September 2024

To distance its science education systems from centurieslong British colonialism, India is leaning into its history and traditions—but at what cost?
Overexpression of diglucosyldiacylglycerol synthase leads to daptomycin resistance in
Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Yamamoto Ryogo , Ishikawa Kazuya , Miyoshi Yusuke , Furuta Kazuyuki , Miyoshi Shin-Ichi , Kaito Chikara
Published: September 2024

The lipopeptide antibiotic daptomycin exhibits bactericidal activity against Gram-positive bacteria by forming a complex with phosphatidylglycerol (PG) and lipid II in the cell membrane, causing membrane perforation. With the emergence of daptomycin-resistant bacteria, understanding the mechanisms of bacterial resistance to daptomycin has gained great importance. In this study, we aimed to identify the genetic factors contributing to daptomycin resistance in
Bacillus subtilis
, a model Gram-positive bacterium. Our findings demonstrated that overexpression of
ugtP
, which encodes diglucosyldiacylglycerol synthase, induces daptomycin resistance in
B. subtilis
. Specifically, overexpression of
ugtP
resulted in increased levels of diglucosyldiacylglycerol (Glc
2
DAG) and decreased levels of acidic phospholipids cardiolipin and PG, as well as the basic phospholipid lysylphosphatidylglycerol. However,
ugtP
overexpression did not alter the cell surface charge and the susceptibility to the cationic antimicrobial peptide nisin or the cationic surfactant hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide. Furthermore, by serial passaging in the presence of daptomycin, we obtained daptomycin-resistant mutants carrying
ugtP
mutations. These mutants showed increased levels of Glc
2
DAG and a >4-fold increase in the minimum inhibitory concentration of daptomycin. These results suggest that increased Glc
2
DAG levels, driven by
ugtP
overexpression, modify the phospholipid composition and confer daptomycin resistance in
B. subtilis
without altering the cell surface charge of the bacteria.

IMPORTANCE

Daptomycin is one of the last-resort drugs for the treatment of methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
infections, and the emergence of daptomycin-resistant bacteria has become a major concern. Understanding the mechanism of daptomycin resistance is important for establishing clinical countermeasures against daptomycin-resistant bacteria. In the present study, we found that overexpression of
ugtP
, which encodes diglucosyldiacylglycerol synthase, induces daptomycin resistance in
B. subtilis
, a model Gram-positive bacteria. The overexpression of
UgtP
increased diglucosyldiacylglycerol levels, resulting in altered phospholipid composition and daptomycin resistance. These findings are important for establishing clinical strategies against daptomycin-resistant bacteria, including their detection and management.
Supplemental Material: The Holleford structure: Insights into the pre- and post-impact geology of the Frontenac Terrane, Canada
Authors: McGregor Maree , al. et
Published: September 2024

Data (Tables S1–S9) and additional figures (Figs. S1–S5). 
Air Composition over the Russian Arctic–4: Atmospheric Aerosols
Authors: Antokhina O. Yu. , Antokhin P. N. , Arshinova V. G. , Arshinov M. Yu. , Belan B. D. , Belan S. B. , Berdashkinova O. I. , Golobokova L. P. , Davydov D. K. , Ivlev G. A. , Kozlov A. V. , Onischuk N. A. , Rasskazchikova T. M. , Savkin D. E. , Simonenkov D. V. , Sklyadneva T. K. , Tolmachev G. N. , Fofonov A. V. , Khodzher T. V.
Published: September 2024

This work presents the analysis of the spatial distribution of number concentration, size distribution, and chemical composition of aerosol particles measured for the first time over the seas of the Russian Arctic. Various types of vertical distribution of the number concentration were recorded, characteristic of both coastal marine and continental areas. Most of them turned out to be of the continental type. Attention is also drawn to the almost complete absence of coarse particles above 2–3 km over all seas. The chemical composition of the Arctic aerosol at altitudes of both 200 m and 5000 m contains ions that can be referred to as both marine and continental. The identifiable carbon- and salt-free elemental part of the aerosol over the Arctic is 3–4 times larger than that of ions. Over all seas and at both altitudes, the Arctic aerosols mainly contain elements of terrigenous origin – Al, Cu, Fe, and Si. Over almost all seas, except the Barents Sea, Si is dominant in the elemental composition of the aerosol, its contribution over the Chukchi Sea reaching 85%. The analysis of backward trajectories showed that in all cases considered, whether the aerosol was formed over the continent or sea, air trajectories passed both over sea and over land. In this case, the formed particles could be enriched with additional ions and elements along their pathway. This work completes a cycle of the papers, devoted to studying air composition, which was carried out over the seas of the Russian Arctic in September 2020. Our results can be used to model the atmospheric processes occurring in the Arctic under the conditions of changing climate.
Multiligament knee injury (MLKI): an expert consensus statement on nomenclature, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation
Authors: Murray Iain Robert , Makaram Navnit S , Geeslin Andrew G , Chahla Jorge , Moatshe Gilbert , Crossley Kay , Kew Michelle E , Davis Aileen , Tuca Maria , Potter Hollis , Janse van Rensburg Dina C , Emery Carolyn A , Eun SeungPyo , Grindem Hege , Noyes Frank R , Marx Robert G , Harner Chris , Levy Bruce A , King Enda , Cook James L , Whelan Daniel B , Hatch George F , Wahl Christopher J , Thorborg Kristian , Irrgang James J , Pujol Nicolas , Medvecky Michael J , Stuart Michael J , Krych Aaron J , Engebretsen Lars , Stannard James P , MacDonald Peter , Seil Romain , Fanelli Gregory C , Maak Travis G , Shelbourne K Donald , Verhagen Evert , Musahl Volker , Hirschmann Michael T , Miller Mark D , Schenck Robert C , LaPrade Robert F
Published: September 2024

Multiligament knee injuries (MLKIs) represent a broad spectrum of pathology with potentially devastating consequences. Currently, disagreement in the terminology, diagnosis and treatment of these injuries limits clinical care and research. This study aimed to develop consensus on the nomenclature, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation strategies for patients with MLKI, while identifying important research priorities for further study. An international consensus process was conducted using validated Delphi methodology in line with
British Journal of Sports Medicine
guidelines. A multidisciplinary panel of 39 members from 14 countries, completed 3 rounds of online surveys exploring aspects of nomenclature, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and future research priorities. Levels of agreement (LoA) with each statement were rated anonymously on a 5-point Likert scale, with experts encouraged to suggest modifications or additional statements. LoA for consensus in the final round were defined ‘a priori’ if >75% of respondents agreed and fewer than 10% disagreed, and dissenting viewpoints were recorded and discussed. After three Delphi rounds, 50 items (92.6%) reached consensus. Key statements that reached consensus within nomenclature included a clear definition for MLKI (LoA 97.4%) and the need for an updated MLKI classification system that classifies injury mechanism, extent of non-ligamentous structures injured and the presence or absence of dislocation. Within diagnosis, consensus was reached that there should be a low threshold for assessment with CT angiography for MLKI within a high-energy context and for certain injury patterns including bicruciate and PLC injuries (LoA 89.7%). The value of stress radiography or intraoperative fluoroscopy also reached consensus (LoA 89.7%). Within treatment, it was generally agreed that existing literature generally favours operative management of MLKI, particularly for young patients (LoA 100%), and that single-stage surgery should be performed whenever possible (LoA 92.3%). This consensus statement will facilitate clinical communication in MLKI, the care of these patients and future research within MLKI.
Prostate cancer incidence and mortality in Europe and implications for screening activities: population based study
Authors: Vaccarella Salvatore , Li Mengmeng , Bray Freddie , Kvale Rune , Serraino Diego , Lorenzoni Valentina , Auvinen Anssi , Dal Maso Luigino
Published: September 2024

Objective

To provide a baseline comparative assessment of the main epidemiological features of prostate cancer in European populations as background for the proposed EU screening initiatives.

Design

Population based study.

Setting

26 European countries, 19 in the EU, 1980-2017. National or subnational incidence data were extracted from population based cancer registries from the International Agency for Research on Cancer’s Global Cancer Observatory, and mortality data from the World Health Organization.

Population

Men aged 35-84 years from 26 eligible countries.

Results

Over the past decades, incidence rates for prostate cancer varied markedly in both magnitude and rate of change, in parallel with temporal variations in prostate specific antigen testing. The variation in incidence across countries was largest around the mid-2000s, with rates spanning from 46 (Ukraine) to 336 (France) per 100 000 men. Thereafter, incidence started to decline in several countries, but with the latest rates nevertheless remaining raised and increasing again in the most recent quinquennium in several countries. Mortality rates during 1980-2020 were much lower and less variable than incidence rates, with steady declines in most countries and lesser temporal differences between countries. Overall, the up to 20-fold variation in prostate cancer incidence contrasts with a corresponding fivefold variation in mortality. Also, the inverse U-shape of the age specific curves for incidence contrasted with the mortality pattern, which increased progressively with age. The difference between the highest and lowest incidence rates across countries ranged from 89.6 per 100 000 men in 1985 to 385.8 per 100 000 men in 2007, while mortality rates across countries ranged from 23.7 per 100 000 men in 1983 to 35.6 per 100 000 men in 2006.

Conclusions

The epidemiological features of prostate cancer presented here are indicative of overdiagnosis varying over time and across populations. Although the results are ecological in nature and must be interpreted with caution, they do support previous recommendations that any future implementation of prostate cancer screening must be carefully designed with an emphasis on minimising the harms of overdiagnosis.
Pharmaceutical intervention for hypertension in a rural district of the Republic of Zambia: a model-based economic evaluation
Authors: Yokobori Yuta , Deidda Manuela , Manca Francesco
Published: September 2024

Objectives

In Zambia, 19.1% of the adult population had elevated blood pressure. Hence, the Ministry of Health in Zambia designated the improvement of hypertension (HTN) care services as a priority policy. However, there are limited data on cost-effective interventions to address HTN and their budget impact in sub-Saharan Africa. The objective of this paper is to investigate the cost-effectiveness of primary-level interventions for HTN (pharmaceutical treatments) compared with no treatment, and the budget impact, in the Chongwe District, rural Zambia.

Methods

A cost–utility analysis was undertaken from the perspective of healthcare provider, employing a cohort Markov model with a lifetime horizon. The model was developed and populated with evidence from the literature, including novel locally collected cost data. The analysis was run for the overall population aged 40 years and above and for subpopulations stratified by three levels of risk and gender in Chongwe District by using cost data directly collected. A probabilistic analysis was performed to assess the probability of cost-effectiveness.

Results

The dominant treatment for the general population was a combination therapy of diuretics and calcium blockers. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was US$1114 compared with no treatment. This was the most cost-effective first-line medication for HTN for all subgroup populations, except for the subgroups classified as low-risk defined by WHO. The estimated annual budget impact was US$1 015 605 in total if all HTN patients in Chongwe District received the most cost-effective treatment. Considering only material costs, the annual total budget was US$29 435.

Conclusion

The most cost-effective first-line medication for HTN in rural Zambia was the combination therapy of diuretics and calcium blockers for the general population. From the perspective of budget impact, local government could need to secure approximately US$30 000 to facilitate the delivery of the most cost-effective HTN medications to the entire population over 40 years in need.
Hyperangulated versus Macintosh blades for intubation with videolaryngoscopy in ICU: the randomised multicentre INVIBLADE-ICU trial study protocol
Authors: Taboada Manuel , Estany-Gestal Ana , Fernández Jorge , Vazquez Olalla , Pajares Azucena , Ramasco Fernando , Martínez Sara , Vallejo Irene , Pérez Ana , Rama-Maceiras Pablo , Bermúdez María , Power Mercedes , García-Álvarez Raquel , Fernández-Villa Inmaculada , Aguilera Jose Luis , Carrió Marta , Cabadas Rafael , Rubín Anxo , Williams Mónica Mercedes , Fernández-García Raquel , Becerra Angel , Giné Marta , García Francisco Javier , Iglesias María Cristina , Santamarina Rosaura María , Del Valle Sara , Charco Luisa María , Alonso María Concepción , Rodríguez Inés María , Varela Marina , Hermoso Jose Ignacio , Vives Marc , Cabaleiro Teresa
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Compared with the operating room, tracheal intubations in the intensive care unit (ICU) are associated with worsened glottic view, decreased first-time success rate and increase in the technical difficulty of intubation and incidence of complications. Videolaryngoscopes (VLs) have been proposed to improve airway management, and while recent studies have confirmed that VLs improve intubation conditions in this patient population, there remains a lack of clarity regarding the selection between a standard Macintosh blade or a hyperangulated one, to determine which yields the best outcomes. The purpose of this study was to compare successful intubation on the first attempt with the Macintosh VL versus the hyperangulated VL during tracheal intubation in ICU patients. We hypothesise that tracheal intubation using the hyperangulated VL will improve the frequency of successful intubation on the first attempt.

Methods and analysis

The INtubation VIdeolaryngoscopy BLADE-ICU trial is a prospective, multicentre, open-label, interventional, randomised, controlled superiority study conducted in 29 ICUs in Spain. Patients will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to undergo intubation using a Macintosh VL (control group) or a hyperangulated VL (experimental group) for the first intubation attempt. The primary outcome is successful intubation on the first attempt. The secondary outcomes include the time to intubation, attempts for successful intubation, laryngoscopic vision assessed with the modified Cormack-Lehane scale, the need for adjuvant airway devices for intubation, difficulty assessed by the anaesthesiologist and complications during tracheal intubation. Enrolment began on 1 May 2024 and is expected to be completed in 2025.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved on 29 February 2024, by the Ethics Committee of Galicia (CEImG, code No. 2024-031).

The results will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

NCT06322719.
Adjustment of medical standards in disaster, crises and war: a scoping review of the literature
Authors: Wurmb Thomas Erik , Schade Janno , Schräder Stephanie-Julia , Meybohm Patrick , Weibel Stephanie , Kippnich Maximilian
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Currently, there is a lack of evidence on how societies and healthcare systems cope with disrupting situations like disasters, crisis and wars. The aim of the scoping review was to map evidence to the following questions: Is the fact of possible overwhelming of healthcare systems accepted or denied? Are medical standards adjusted? Are dedicated contingency concepts applied? Are there triage concepts for allocating scarce resources?

Methods

We conducted and reported the scoping review in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews. A review protocol was published a priori in the Open Science Framework. Medline via PubMed was used as data source. We considered reviews, systematic reviews, guidelines and case-control studies in English or German as eligible for this scoping review, regardless of publication year or publication status. We searched Medline via PubMed up to 8 March 2023, and updated on 20 July 2023. Title/Abstract screening, full-text screening and data extraction were performed in a dual-reviewer mode.

Results

A total of 2213 publications were identified and 71 publications were finally included. Of these, 87% generally accepted the possibility that the capacity of the healthcare system would be overwhelmed. A structured change of medical standards was reported in 89%. 51% deployed the crisis standard of care concept. International accepted guidelines for maintaining medical care do not exist. There is no common understanding of the medical care status with regard to the standards. There is a lack of political, legal and ethical agreement on the subject of triage.

Conclusion

Future research must clarify which concepts and measures are suitable for building a robust healthcare system in order to maintain medical care according to accepted standards for as long as possible. Algorithms for the allocation of scarce resources must be defined in advance to enable medical staff to act with legal certainty in a crisis.
Christianson syndrome across the lifespan: genetic mutations and longitudinal study in children, adolescents, and adults
Authors: Kavanaugh Brian C , Elacio Jennifer , Best Carrie R , St Pierre Danielle G , Pescosolido Matthew F , Ouyang Qing , Biedermann John , Bradley Rebecca S , Liu Judy S , Jones Richard N , Morrow Eric M
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Mutations in the X-linked endosomal Na+/H+ exchanger 6 (NHE6) cause Christianson syndrome (CS). Here, in the largest study to date, we examine genetic diversity and clinical progression in CS into adulthood.

Method

Data were collected as part of the International Christianson Syndrome and
NHE6
(
SLC9A6
) Gene Network Study. 44 individuals with 31 unique
NHE6
mutations, age 2–32 years, were followed prospectively, herein reporting baseline, 1 year follow-up and retrospective natural history.

Results

We present data on the CS phenotype with regard to physical growth and adaptive and motor regression across the lifespan including information on mortality. Longitudinal data on body weight and height were examined using a linear mixed model. The rate of growth across development was slow and resulted in prominently decreased age-normed height and weight by adulthood. Adaptive functioning was longitudinally examined; a majority of adult participants (18+ years) lost gross and fine motor skills over a 1 year follow-up. Previously defined core diagnostic criteria for CS (present in>85%)—namely non-verbal status, intellectual disability, epilepsy, postnatal microcephaly, ataxia, hyperkinesia—were universally present in age 6–16; however, an additional core feature of high pain tolerance was added (present in 91%). While neurologic examinations were consistent with cerebellar dysfunction, importantly, a majority of individuals (>50% older than 10) also had corticospinal tract abnormalities. Three participants died during the period of the study.

Conclusions

In this large and longitudinal study of CS, we begin to define the trajectory of symptoms and the adult phenotype thereby identifying critical targets for treatment.
Endovascular management of intracranial carotid blowout syndrome in patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Yu Kai-Wei , Ling Kan , Wu Chia-Hung , Lin Te-Ming , Tai Wei-An , Yang Chung-Han , Kang Yu-Mei , Luo Chao-Bao , Chang Feng-Chi
Published: September 2024

Background

Carotid blowout syndrome is a serious complication of head and neck cancer (HNC) that may involve the intracranial or extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA). Although parent artery occlusion (PAO) is the major endovascular treatment for intracranial carotid blowout syndrome (iCBS), the efficacy of using a balloon-expandable coronary stent-graft (BES) remains unclear.

Methods

This was a quasi-randomized trial, prospective study that included patients with iCBS treated by BES or PAO between 2018 and 2024. Patients were allocated to either group based on the last digit of their chart number; even numbers went to the BES group and odd numbers to the PAO group. The inclusion criteria of iCBS included the pathological process of CBS involving petrous and/or cavernous ICA detected by both imaging and clinical features. The primary outcome was defined as rebleeding events after intervention. The secondary outcome was defined as neurological complication after intervention.

Results

Fifty-nine patients with 61 iCBS lesions were enrolled. Thirty-three iCBS lesions were treated with BES and 28 underwent PAO. The results for the BES group versus the PAO group, respectively, were: rebleeding events, 5/33 (15.1%) vs 5/28 (17.8%) (p=0.78); neurological complication, 5/33 (15.1%) vs 5/28 (17.8%) (p=0.78); median hemostatic time (months), 10.0 vs 11.5 (p=0.22); and median survival time (months), 10.0 vs 11.5 (p=0.39).

Conclusions

No significant difference in rebleeding risk or neurological complication was observed between the BES and PAO groups. Our study confirmed the safety and effectiveness of applying BES for iCBS in HNC patients.
Acceptability of a rectal microbicide douche for HIV prevention: a mixed-methods analysis of a first-in-human formulation pilot study
Authors: Giguere Rebecca , Balán Iván C , Lentz Cody , Dolezal Curtis , Carballo-Diéguez Alex , Fuchs Edward J , Anton Peter , McGowan Ian , Ho Ken , Weld Ethel , Hendrix Craig W
Published: September 2024

Objectives

DREAM-01 was an open label, dose-escalation and variable osmolarity study to identify a tenofovir HIV-prevention douche/enema that could achieve protective colon tissue cell concentrations and high acceptability. To assess impact on sexual enjoyment, iso-osmolar and hypo-osmolar placebo douches were provided for at-home use before receptive anal sex (RAS).

Methods

Eighteen HIV-uninfected men who have RAS were administered three tenofovir douches at the research clinic: Product A, an iso-osmolar dose; Product B, an iso-osmolar escalation dose; and Product C, a hypo-osmolar escalation dose. Following Products A and C, participants were given a saline douche of matching osmolarity to use at home before RAS. Participants reported acceptability via a computer-assisted self-interview and in-depth interview in this mixed-methods study.

Results

All three products were rated acceptable by 17 (95%) of the participants. A majority (94%) would be likely or very likely to use any of the three products before RAS. Of those who used the saline douches before RAS and then rated their sexual enjoyment, most reported that their sexual enjoyment was not affected. Interview data revealed that participants found the product easy to incorporate into their regular routine, but would prefer to use more liquid for cleansing.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that the hypo-osmolar Product C, which also provides the most rapid delivery of tenofovir for HIV prevention, is acceptable for future safety trials and that our sample reports high likelihood of using a rectal microbicide douche for HIV prevention. Our findings support continued pursuit of a tenofovir rectal microbicide douche.

Trial registration number

NCT02750540.
Petrochemistry, mineralogy, and Nd isotopic analyses of Tithonian alkaline lamprophyric intrusions, north-central Newfoundland, Canada
Authors: Sandeman Hamish A.I. , Peace Alexander L.
Published: September 2024

The Newfoundland Atlantic margin in Eastern Canada formed through protracted lithospheric extension, subsequent rifting, and ultimately, breakup. Mesozoic–Cenozoic magmatism on and offshore Newfoundland coincided with, and potentially resulted from, the concurrent rifting and breakup. In north-central Newfoundland, the alkali monzogabbroic Budgell Harbour and Dildo Pond stocks, an accompanying lamprophyre dyke swarm, and a peridotite sill collectively form the Notre Dame Bay Magmatic Province and are products of a punctuated alkaline magmatic pulse on the Newfoundland margin at ca. 148 Ma (Jurassic, Tithonian) with contemporaneous rifting and the formation of offshore petroliferous basins. The stocks comprise coarsely modally layered phlogopite–ilmenite–magnetite–kaersutite olivine gabbro or essexite. The radially disposed lamprophyre dykes are aphyric to ilmenite–magnetite–diopside ± olivine ± kaersutite ± phlogopite porphyritic camptonites containing common feldspathic- and/or carbonate-dominant ocelli. Silica-undersaturated (kirschsteinite), oxidized (esseneite, calderite), and incompatible-element-bearing minerals (barite, kainosite) form paragenetically late, small grains in the groundmass mantling other phases. Mineral chemistry, lithogeochemistry, and Nd isotopic data indicate the rocks are similar to ocean island basalt and alkaline lamprophyres and were generated via low degrees of partial melting of a Neoproterozoic, weakly garnetiferous lithospheric mantle source. The intrusions occur along the intersections of broadly northeast-trending, inherited, Appalachian-cycle lithospheric scale faults with a prominent east–west step in the northeast Newfoundland Mohorovičić discontinuity along the northeast Newfoundland coast. The convergence of inherited structures with the topographic variation of the lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary likely focussed decompression melting of the lithospheric mantle driven through distal, edge-driven upwelling associated with continued extension in the northwest Atlantic.
High genetic gains in growth and resistance to white pine weevil for the next Norway spruce breeding and propagation populations in Quebec, Canada
Authors: Otis-Prud'homme Guillaume , DeBlois Josianne , Pernot Clémentine , Perron Martin
Published: September 2024

Genetic parameters for growth (height, diameter, and volume) and resistance to the white pine weevil were estimated from 209 Norway spruce families aged 15 or 20 years old. Individual heritability values ranged from low to moderate, while family heritability values were moderate to high. This suggests that there is a genetic control for these variables. A selection index was developed to rank individuals on both volume growth and resistance to the white pine weevil. Opsel 2.0 software was used for selection to optimize genetic gain while keeping the level of relatedness between selected trees below an acceptable threshold. The selection of the best 70 individuals, i.e., the top 1% of the populations evaluated, resulted in volume gains of 15.5% and weevil resistance gains of 30.3% making it possible to create a new, more productive and weevil-resistant Norway spruce population. These new breeding and propagation populations will be planted in various locations in the province of Quebec and will be used for the operational deployment of this improved material.
Criticality of the O(N) universality via global solutions to nonperturbative fixed-point equations
Authors: Tan Yang-yang , Huang Chuang , Chen Yong-rui , Fu Wei-jie
Published: September 2024

Fixed-point equations in the functional renormalization group approach are integrated from large to vanishing field, where an asymptotic potential in the limit of large field is implemented as initial conditions. This approach allows us to obtain a global fixed-point potential with high numerical accuracy, that incorporates the correct asymptotic behavior in the limit of large field. Our calculated global potential is in good agreement with the Taylor expansion in the region of small field, and it also coincides with the Laurent expansion in the regime of large field. Laurent expansion of the potential in the limit of large field for general case, that the spatial dimension d is a continuous variable in the range $$2\le d \le 4$$

2
≤
d
≤
4

, is obtained. Eigenfunctions and eigenvalues of perturbations near the Wilson–Fisher fixed point are computed with the method of eigenperturbations. Critical exponents for different values of d and N of the O(N) universality class are calculated.
ceff for 3D 𝒩=2 theories
Authors: Gukov Sergei , Jagadale Mrunmay
Published: September 2024

Based on the observed behavior of the superconformal index in three-dimensional [Formula: see text] theories, we propose a quantity that can be considered as an analogue of the “effective central charge.” We discuss the general properties of this quantity and ways of computing it in a variety of different theories, including simple Lagrangian theories as well as more interesting strongly coupled examples that come from 3d-3d correspondence.
Evaluation of transit cosmological model in f(R,Tϕ) theory of gravity
Authors: Jayas Bhojraj Singh , Bhardwaj Vinod Kumar
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we have explored a transitioning cosmic model, depicting late-time accelerated expansion in the [Formula: see text] theory of gravity for an isotropic and homogeneous universe, where the trace of the energy–momentum tensor [Formula: see text] is the function of the self-interacting scalar field [Formula: see text]. We have proposed an explicit solution to the derived model by utilizing a scale factor of the hybrid form [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are constants. To estimate the best-fit values of model parameters, statistical analysis based on the Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method has been employed on 57 [Formula: see text] points in the range [Formula: see text] and Pantheon Sample consisting of a total of 1048 SNe Ia in the range of [Formula: see text]. We have described the dynamical features of the model, like energy density, cosmic pressure, and the equation of state parameter, in the context of the scalar field [Formula: see text]. We have also described the potential and behavior of the scalar field for quintessence and phantom scenarios. For the joint dataset of OHD and Pantheon, the deceleration parameter depicts a transitioning universe with signature flipping at [Formula: see text] with the present value of the deceleration parameter [Formula: see text]. The violation of SEC for the derived model indicates cosmic expansion at a faster rate. We have used state-finders to diagnose the model. The findings for our theoretical model indicate that the derived model agrees with observed findings within a particular range of limitations.
Enhancing Translation Validation of Compiler Transformations with Large Language Models
Authors: Wang Yanzhao , Xie Fei
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a framework that integrates Large Language Models (LLMs) into translation validation, targeting LLVM compiler transformations where formal verification tools fall short. Our framework utilizes the existing tools, like Alive2, to perform initial validation. For transformations deemed unsolvable by traditional methods, our approach leverages fine-tuned LLMs to predict soundness or unsoundness, with subsequent fuzzing applied to identify counterexamples for unsound transformations. Our approach has proven effective in complex scenarios, such as deep-learning accelerator designs, enhancing the reliability of compiler transformations.
The Trustworthiness Metric Model of Interface Based on Defects
Authors: Ma Yanfang , Gao Xiaotong
Published: September 2024

The interface is a crucial element in component-based software, enabling the linkage of distinct components to facilitate interaction. Defects within the interface can significantly impact the overall trustworthiness of the system. Therefore, it is essential to assess the interface trustworthiness based on a defect-centric approach. This paper introduces a novel model for evaluating interface trustworthiness, anchored in defect analysis. First, the defect types are formalized based on interface specifications. Then, the comprehensive weight allocation method is established to characterize the importance degree of each interface defect type by combining the G1 and CRITIC methods. Subsequently, the attributes of the interface are evaluated by defect value analysis, and the trustworthiness measurement model of the interface is proposed based on these attributes. Furthermore, to evaluate the trustworthiness of the whole system, the trustworthiness measure models under different combination structure of components are established. Finally, the model’s’ applicability is demonstrated through an illustrative example. This trustworthiness evaluation from the interface view can guide interface designers to obtain high-quality interfaces and improve the trustworthiness of the entire software.
Application of FEM–BEM–PEM Hybrid Random-Vibration Method on Low-Frequency Structure-Borne Noise Prediction of U-Shaped Girder in Urban Rail Transit
Authors: Wu Zhaozhi , Zhang Nan , Bi Wei , Liu Jianchang
Published: September 2024

The U-shaped beam, a novel beam type, is extensively used in urban rail transit due to its ability to block radiation noise from wheel–rail interactions, providing effective noise control at the source. This study aims to investigate the dynamic response and structure-borne noise of a 25[Formula: see text]m concrete simply supported U-shaped girder at a vehicle speed of 80[Formula: see text]km/h, and to assess the effectiveness of novel track vibration damping devices. Grounded in stochastic vibration theory, this study employs pseudo excitation methods (PEM) to obtain the frequency domain response of a finite element model of the U-shaped girder. The structure-borne noise is then analyzed using the acoustic indirect boundary element method (BEM), with frequency-domain responses from PEM as input conditions. The eastern extension section of Nanjing Metro Line 2’s simply supported U-shaped beam is used as a case study for practical and theoretical analyses of dynamic characteristics and structural radiation noise. This study reveals that the sound pressure level of the mid-span section’s bottom plate is higher directly below and above it, while it is lower on either side of the web. Considering the ground reflection effects, sound pressure levels are highly closer to ground reflections. The damping device significantly attenuates vibration noise in the frequency range of 50–200[Formula: see text]Hz, with the bottom plate exhibiting superior vibration reduction effects compared to the web. The predictive method aligns closely with field test results, validating the feasibility of the approach. This study demonstrates that the U-shaped beam effectively controls rail transit noise, and the novel track vibration damping devices significantly reduce vibration noise, particularly in the bottom plate. This research provides valuable insights for noise control in urban rail transit systems.
Magneto-Thermoelastic Principal Parameter Resonance of a Functionally Graded Cylindrical Shell with Axial Tension
Authors: Cao Ziyi , Hu Yuda
Published: September 2024

The principal parameter resonance of a ferromagnetic functionally graded (FG) cylindrical shell under the action of axial time-varying tension in magnetic and temperature fields is investigated. The temperature dependence of physical parameters for functionally graded materials (FGMs) is considered. Meanwhile, the tension bending coupling effect is eliminated by introducing the physical neutral surface. The kinetic and strain energies are gained with the Kirchhoff–Love shell theory. Based on the nonlinear magnetization characteristics of ferromagnetic materials, the electromagnetic force acting on the shell is calculated. The nonlinear vibration equations are obtained through Hamilton’s principle. Afterward, the vibration equations are discretized and solved by Galerkin and multiscale methods, respectively. The stability criterion for steady-state motion is established utilizing Lyapunov stability theory. After example analysis, the effects of magnetic field intensity, temperature and power law index on the static deflection are elucidated. Subsequently, the impacts of these parameters, as well as axial tension, on the amplitude-frequency characteristics, resonance amplitude, and multiple solution regions are discussed explicitly. Results indicate that the stiffness can be enhanced due to the generation of static deflection. The amplitude decreases with increasing magnetic field intensity, temperature, and power law index. When the magnetic field intensity surpasses a threshold, the resonance phenomenon disappears.
Bandgap Control of Local Resonance Sandwich Meta-Plate with Cantilevered Archimedean Spiral Beam-Mass Resonators
Authors: Huo Y. J. , Hao Y. X. , Zhang W. , Yang S. W. , Cao Y. T.
Published: September 2024

In order to attenuate the various low-frequency vibrations that may cause structural fatigue and damage, impact human health and affect work efficiency, this paper presents a novel local resonance metamaterial sandwich meta-plate structure containing a cantilever spiral beam-mass resonator, and investigates vibration reduction effects of it within the obtained low-frequency bandgap range. For this purpose, a theoretical model of the low-frequency resonator being composed by a cantilever Archimedean spiral beam and cylindrical mass is established. The natural frequency of it is calculated by solving the Euler-Lagrange equation of the resonator. The accuracy and reliability of the theoretical model are verified through COMSOL simulation. The stress distribution of five types of cantilever spiral beam mass resonators (i.e. Archimedes spiral, triangle spiral, square spiral, pentagon spiral and hexagon spiral) and different cross-sectional shapes (rectangular, square, circular, diamond and triangular) are analyzed. Then, a unit cell model of a sandwich meta-plate with a cantilever Archimedean spiral beam resonator is selected. Hamilton’s principle is used to deduce the bandgap range under infinite periods, and the theoretical solutions are also verified. The parameter optimization of the substrate plate and resonator are also studied. Moreover, the effects of the various structural variables on the bandgap range are systematically explored. Finally, the dynamic responses of the sandwich meta-plate composed of [Formula: see text]-unit cells under different excitation frequencies, boundary conditions and structural damping are analyzed.
Study on Vibration and Failure of Transverse Flow Turbine Based on Fluid–Structure Interaction
Authors: Song Houbin , Xie Wenqi , Han Wei , Wang Shuai , Huang Xiaolong , Qiu Hongbo , Li Rennian
Published: September 2024

During the operation of a turbine, the water level drop can cause vibration and damage to the flow components, severely threatening its stability and reliability. Investigating the impact of operational parameters on the internal flow field and flow structures of tidal turbines under low flow conditions is crucial for peak shaving and deployment of tidal power stations. This paper takes a 24[Formula: see text]MW turbine as the research object, using numerical calculations to analyze the effects of tailwater height on the flow characteristics and structural properties of the unit under low flow conditions. It studies the hydraulic impact on the flow component walls under different operating parameters and verifies the reliability of numerical calculations through vibration and stress tests. The results show that the increase in tailwater level affects the turbine’s flow characteristics, forming large-scale, high-intensity vortices in the internal flow field and causing pressure pulsations near the wall surface. Modal analysis reveals that under different tailwater heights, the maximum modal effective mass exists along the axis of the impeller, with modal frequencies higher than the main frequencies of pressure pulsations. The impeller region corresponds to the turbine chamber wall bearing significant stress, which induces strain. The magnitude of stress and the degree of strain are positively correlated with the tailwater height. The research findings provide guidance for tailwater regulation and stable operation of tidal power stations.
THE EVOLUTION OF COMPLEXITY CO-OCCURRING KEYWORDS: BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS AND NETWORK APPROACH
Authors: ARAÚJO TANYA , ABREU ALEXANDRE , LOUÇÃ FRANCISCO
Published: September 2024

Bibliometric studies based on the Web of Science (WOS) database have become an increasingly popular method for analyzing the structure of scientific research. So do network approaches, which, based on empirical data, make it possible to characterize the emergence of topological structures over time and across multiple research areas. Our paper is a contribution to interweaving these two lines of research that have progressed in separate ways but whose common applications have been increasingly frequent. Among other attributes, Author Keywords and Keywords Plus® are used as units of analysis that enable us to identify changes in the topics of interest and related bibliography. By considering the co-occurrence of those keywords with the Author Keyword Complexity, we provide an overview of the evolution of studies on Complexity Sciences, and compare this evolution in seven social and natural scientific fields. The results show a considerable increase in the number of papers dealing with complexity, as well as a general tendency across different disciplines for this literature to move from a more foundational, general and conceptual to a more applied, specific and empirical set of co-occurring keywords. Moreover, we provide evidence of changing topologies of networks of co-occurring keywords, which are described through the computation of some topological coefficients. In so doing, we emphasize the distinguishing structures that characterize the networks of the seven research areas.
Conformal symmetries in Vaidya geometry and collapse
Authors: Kunyana Ayanda , Maharaj Sunil D. , Goswami Rituparno
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we perform a comprehensive analysis of conformal symmetries in the generalized Vaidya spacetime and establish several new results. First, a proper conformal Killing vector is shown to exist in the radial direction and interestingly the generalized Vaidya spacetimes with this symmetry are shown to be the subclass of those, which are embeddable in five-dimensional Euclidean space. The general form of the mass function that enables the proper and planar conformal symmetry in the [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] plane is also determined. This treatment also includes earlier results. We also consider the gravitational collapse of these spacetimes with proper planar conformal symmetry in the context of cosmic censorship conjecture. We obtain an interesting and novel result that censorship is always obeyed for these spacetimes, and no locally naked central singularity forms as the end state of the continual collapse.