bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous CTEQ-TEA extraction of PDFs and SMEFT parameters from jet and $$ t\overline{t} $$ data
Authors: Gao Jun , Gao MeiSen , Hobbs T. J. , Liu DianYu , Shen XiaoMin
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Recasting phenomenological Lagrangians in terms of SM effective field theory (SMEFT) provides a valuable means of connecting potential BSM physics at momenta well above the electroweak scale to experimental signatures at lower energies. In this work we jointly fit the Wilson coefficients of SMEFT operators as well as the PDFs in an extension of the CT18 global analysis framework, obtaining self-consistent constraints to possible BSM physics effects. Global fits are boosted with machine-learning techniques in the form of neural networks to ensure efficient scans of the full PDF+SMEFT parameter space. We focus on several operators relevant for top-quark pair and jet production at hadron colliders and obtain constraints on the Wilson coefficients with Lagrange Multiplier scans. We find mild correlations between the extracted Wilson coefficients, PDFs, and other QCD parameters, and see indications that these correlations may become more prominent in future analyses based on data of higher precision. This work serves as a new platform for joint analyses of SM and BSM physics based on the CTEQ-TEA framework.
Goldstone bosons and fluctuating hydrodynamics with dipole and momentum conservation
Authors: Glorioso Paolo , Huang Xiaoyang , Guo Jinkang , Rodriguez-Nieva Joaquin F. , Lucas Andrew
Published: May 2023

Abstract

We develop a Schwinger-Keldysh effective field theory describing the hydrodynamics of a fluid with conserved charge and dipole moments, together with conserved momentum. The resulting hydrodynamic modes are highly unusual, including sound waves with quadratic (magnon-like) dispersion relation and subdiffusive decay rate. Hydrodynamics itself is unstable below four spatial dimensions. We show that the momentum density is, at leading order, the Goldstone boson for a dipole symmetry which appears spontaneously broken at finite charge density. Unlike an ordinary fluid, the presence or absence of energy conservation qualitatively changes the decay rates of the hydrodynamic modes. This effective field theory naturally couples to curved spacetime and background gauge fields; in the flat spacetime limit, we reproduce the “mixed rank tensor fields” previously coupled to fracton matter.
Boundary Symmetry Breaking in CFT and the string order parameter
Authors: Bonsignori Riccarda , Capizzi Luca , Panopoulos Pantelis
Published: May 2023

Abstract

We consider the ground state of a one-dimensional critical quantum system carrying a global symmetry in the bulk, which is explicitly broken by its boundary conditions. We probe the system via a string-order parameter, showing how it detects the symmetry breaking pattern. We give a precise characterization of the mechanism depicted above in Boundary CFT, and we find a general logarithmic scaling for the order parameter. As a first example we analyze the breaking of a U(1) symmetry for complex free theories induced by a boundary pairing term. Moreover, we give predictions for the breaking of U(N) in free theories, arising from a boundary mixing. We test our predictions with numerical calculations for some lattice realizations of free fermionic system with boundary symmetry breaking, finding a good agreement.
Blowup equations for little strings
Authors: Kim Hee-Cheol , Kim Minsung , Sugimoto Yuji
Published: May 2023

Abstract

We propose blowup equations for 6d little string theories which generalize Nakajima-Yoshioka’s blowup equations for the 4d/5d instanton partition functions on Omega background. We find that unlike the blowup equations for standard SQFTs, we need to sum over auxiliary magnetic fluxes on the blown-up ℙ1 for a non-dynamical 2-form gauge field which plays a role in canceling the mixed anomalies of the gauge symmetries. We demonstrate with explicit examples that the blowup equations, when combined with the modular properties, can be solved in order to determine the elliptic genera of little strings.
Post-inflationary axions: a minimal target for axion haloscopes
Authors: Gorghetto Marco , Hardy Edward
Published: May 2023

Abstract

An axion-like-particle (ALP) in the post-inflationary scenario with domain wall number N > 1 can be dark matter if the residual ℤN symmetry has a small explicit breaking. Although we cannot determine the full dynamics of the system reliably, we provide evidence that such an ALP can account for the observed dark matter abundance while having a relatively small decay constant and consequently a possibly large coupling to photons. In particular, we determine the number of domain walls per Hubble patch around the time when they form using numerical simulations and combine this with analytic expectations about the subsequent dynamics. We show that the strongest constraint on the decay constant is likely to come from the dark matter ALPs being produced with large isocurvature fluctuations at small spatial scales. We also comment on the uncertainties on the dark matter small-scale structure that might form from these overdensities, in particular pointing out the importance of quantum pressure in the N = 1 case.
Reinterpretation of searches for long-lived particles from meson decays
Authors: Beltrán Rebeca , Cottin Giovanna , Hirsch Martin , Titov Arsenii , Wang Zeren Simon
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Many models beyond the Standard Model predict light and feebly interacting particles that are often long-lived. These long-lived particles (LLPs) in many cases can be produced from meson decays. In this work, we propose a simple and quick reinterpretation method for models predicting LLPs produced from meson decays. With the method, we are not required to run Monte-Carlo simulation, implement detector geometries and efficiencies, or apply experimental cuts in an event analysis, as typically done in recasting and reinterpretation works. The main ingredients our method requires are only the theoretical input, allowing for computation of the production and decay rates of the LLPs. There are two conditions for the method to work: firstly, the LLPs in the models considered should be produced from a set of mesons with similar mass and lifetime (or the same meson) and second, the LLPs should, in general, have a lab-frame decay length much larger than the distance between the interaction point and the detector. As an example, we use this method to reinterpret exclusion bounds on heavy neutral leptons (HNLs) in the minimal “3+1” scenario, into those for HNLs in the general effective-field-theory framework as well as for axion-like particles. We are able to reproduce existing results, and obtain new bounds via reinterpretation of past experimental results, in particular, from CHARM and Belle.
Scanning electron microscopy evaluation of enamel surfaces using different air-polishing powders in the orthodontic setting: an in vitro study
Authors: Ratzka Philipp , Zaslansky Paul , Jost-Brinkmann Paul-Georg
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The aim of this in vitro study was to quantify and compare changes of the enamel surface caused by periodical use of different air-polishing powders during multibracket therapy.

Methods

Bovine high-gloss polished enamel specimens were air-polished using an AIR-FLOW® Master Piezon with maximum powder and water settings. Each specimen was blasted with sodium bicarbonate (AIR-FLOW® Powder Classic, Electro Medical Systems, Munich, Germany) and erythritol (AIR-FLOW® Powder Plus, Electro Medical Systems). Blasting duration was adapted to the powders’ cleaning efficacy and corresponded to 25 air-polishing treatments in a patient with braces. A spindle apparatus ensured uniform guidance at a distance of 4 mm and a 90° angle. Qualitative and quantitative assessments were performed with the use of low vacuum scanning electron microscopy. Following external filtering and image processing, arithmetical square height (Sa) and root mean square height (Sq) were determined.

Results

Both prophy powders caused a significant increase in enamel roughness. Surfaces blasted with sodium bicarbonate (Sa = 64.35 ± 36.65 nm; Sq = 80.14 ± 44.80 nm) showed significantly (p < 0.001) higher roughness than samples treated with erythritol (Sa = 24.40 ± 7.42 nm; Sq = 30.86 ± 9.30 nm). The observed defects in enamel structure caused by sodium bicarbonate extended across prism boundaries. Prism structure remained intact after air-polishing with erythritol.

Conclusion

Both applied air-polishing powders led to surface alterations. Despite shorter treatment times, sodium bicarbonate was significantly more abrasive than erythritol. Clinicians must compromise between saving time and abrasively removing healthy enamel.
Meniscal repair failure following concurrent primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: results from the New Zealand ACL Registry
Authors: Rahardja Richard , Love Hamish , Clatworthy Mark G. , Young Simon W.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to identify the risk factors for meniscal repair failure following concurrent primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

Methods

Prospective data recorded by the New Zealand ACL Registry and the Accident Compensation Corporation were reviewed. Meniscal repairs performed during concurrent primary ACL reconstruction were included. Repair failure was defined as a subsequent reoperation involving meniscectomy of the repaired meniscus. Multivariate survival analysis was performed to identify the risk factors for failure.

Results

A total of 3,024 meniscal repairs were analysed with an overall failure rate of 6.6% (n = 201) at a mean follow‐up of 2.9 years (SD 1.5). The risk of medial meniscal repair failure was higher with hamstring tendon autografts (adjusted HR [aHR] = 2.20, 95% CI 1.36–3.56, p = 0.001), patients aged 21–30 years (aHR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.30–2.48, p = 0.037) and in patients with cartilage injury in the medial compartment (aHR = 1.75, 95% CI 1.23–2.48, p = 0.002). The risk of lateral meniscal repair failure was higher in patients aged ≤ 20 years (aHR = 2.79, 95% CI 1.17–6.67, p = 0.021), when the procedure was performed by a low case volume surgeon (aHR = 1.84, 95% CI 1.08–3.13, p = 0.026) and when a transtibial technique was used to drill the femoral graft tunnel (aHR = 2.30, 95% CI 1.03–5.15, p = 0.042).

Conclusion

The use of a hamstring tendon autograft, younger age and the presence of medial compartment cartilage injury are risk factors for medial meniscal repair failure, whereas younger age, low surgeon volume and a transtibial drilling technique are risk factors for lateral meniscal repair failure.

Level of evidence

Level II.
Atomic layer deposition thin film techniques and its bibliometric perspective
Authors: Oke James A. , Jen Tien-Chien
Published: May 2023

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is known for depositing ultra-thin film materials that enable control of composition, highly conformal film, desirable thickness, self-saturating, and uniform deposition, and this review has established its evolvement in recent times. The ALD techniques have made more device applications possible in energy storage, solar cells, memory storage, catalysis, sensors, and many more. Its advantages and disadvantages for different modes were emphasized and the precursors used for several ALD processes were highlighted. The bibliometric approach used in this review has also revealed how ALD has evolved through the assessment of published documents, journals, authors, organizations, sponsors, and countries. The method also revealed that ALD research is limited in Africa, however, the first two ALD facilities were confirmed to be acquired by T.C. Jen at the University of Johannesburg, which will in turn burst ALD material research in Africa. The current study has provided researchers with a choice when considering using the ALD technique and in terms of research collaborations. It concluded by highlighting the challenges and future perspectives of ALD and bibliometric technique.
Application of toxicology in silico methods for prediction of acute toxicity (LD50) for Novichoks
Authors: Noga Maciej , Michalska Agata , Jurowski Kamil
Published: May 2023

Novichoks represent the fourth generation of chemical warfare agents with paralytic and convulsive effects, produced clandestinely during the Cold War by the Soviet Union. This novel class of organophosphate compounds is characterised by severe toxicity, which, for example, we have already experienced three times (Salisbury, Amesbury, and Navalny's case) as a society. Then the public debate about the true nature of Novichoks began, realising the importance of examining the properties, especially the toxicological aspects of these compounds. The updated Chemical Warfare Agents list registers over 10,000 compounds as candidate structures for Novichoks. Consequently, conducting experimental research for each of them would be a huge challenge. Additionally, due to the enormous risk of contact with hazardous Novichoks, in silico assessments were applied to estimate their toxicity safely. In silico toxicology provides a means of identifying hazards of compounds before synthesis, helping to fill gaps and guide risk minimisation strategies. A new approach to toxicology testing first considers the prediction of toxicological parameters, eliminating unnecessary animal studies. This new generation risk assessment (NGRA) can meet the modern requirements of toxicological research. The present study explains, using QSAR models, the acute toxicity of the Novichoks studied (n = 17). The results indicate that the toxicity of Novichoks varies. The deadliest turned out to be A-232, followed by A-230 and A-234. On the other hand, the "Iranian" Novichok and C01-A038 compounds turned out to be the least toxic. Developing reliable in silico methods to predict various parameters is essential to prepare for the upcoming use of Novichoks.
Effects of active and sham tDCS on the soleus H-reflex during standing
Authors: McCane Lynn M. , Wolpaw Jonathan R. , Thompson Aiko K.
Published: May 2023

Weak transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is known to affect corticospinal excitability and enhance motor skill acquisition, whereas its effects on spinal reflexes in actively contracting muscles are yet to be established. Thus, in this study, we examined the acute effects of Active and Sham tDCS on the soleus H-reflex during standing. In fourteen adults without known neurological conditions, the soleus H-reflex was repeatedly elicited at just above M-wave threshold throughout 30 min of Active (N = 7) or Sham (N = 7) 2-mA tDCS over the primary motor cortex in standing. The maximum H-reflex (Hmax) and M-wave (Mmax) were also measured before and immediately after 30 min of tDCS. The soleus H-reflex amplitudes became significantly larger (by 6%) ≈1 min into Active or Sham tDCS and gradually returned toward the pre-tDCS values, on average, within 15 min. With Active tDCS, the amplitude reduction from the initial increase appeared to occur more swiftly than with Sham tDCS. An acute temporary increase in the soleus H-reflex amplitude within the first minute of Active and Sham tDCS found in this study indicates a previously unreported effect of tDCS on the H-reflex excitability. The present study suggests that neurophysiological characterization of Sham tDCS effects is just as important as investigating Active tDCS effects in understanding and defining acute effects of tDCS on the excitability of spinal reflex pathways.
Constrained polynomial zonotopes
Authors: Kochdumper Niklas , Althoff Matthias
Published: May 2023

We introduce constrained polynomial zonotopes, a novel non-convex set representation that is closed under linear map, Minkowski sum, Cartesian product, convex hull, intersection, union, and quadratic as well as higher-order maps. We show that the computational complexity of the above-mentioned set operations for constrained polynomial zonotopes is at most polynomial in the representation size. The fact that constrained polynomial zonotopes are generalizations of zonotopes, polytopes, polynomial zonotopes, Taylor models, and ellipsoids further substantiates the relevance of this new set representation. In addition, the conversion from other set representations to constrained polynomial zonotopes is at most polynomial with respect to the dimension, and we present efficient methods for representation size reduction and for enclosing constrained polynomial zonotopes by simpler set representations.
Prediction of effective humoral response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in healthy subjects by cortical thickness of post-vaccination reactive lymphadenopathy
Authors: Igual-Rouilleault Alba Cristina , Soriano Ignacio , Quan Paola Leonor , Reina Gabriel , del Pozo José Luis , Gónzalez Álvaro , Fernández-Ciriza Leire , Fernández-Montero Alejandro , Pina Luis , Elizalde Arlette
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To study the association between ultrasound cortical thickness in reactive post-vaccination lymph nodes and the elicited humoral response and to evaluate the performance of cortical thickness as a predictor of vaccine effectiveness in patients with and without a previous history of COVID-19 infection.

Methods

A total of 156 healthy volunteers were recruited and followed prospectively after receiving two COVID-19 vaccination doses using different protocols. Within a week after receiving the second dose, an axillary ultrasound of the ipsilateral vaccinated arm was performed, and serial post-vaccination serologic tests (PVST) were collected. Maximum cortical thickness was chosen as a nodal feature to analyze association with humoral immunity. Total antibodies quantified during consecutive PVST in previously-infected patients and in coronavirus-naïve volunteers were compared (Mann–Whitney U test). The association between hyperplastic-reactive lymph nodes and effective humoral response was studied (odds ratio). The performance of cortical thickness in detecting vaccination effectiveness was evaluated (area under the ROC curve).

Results

Significantly higher values for total antibodies were observed in volunteers with a previous history of COVID-19 infection (p < 0.001). The odds ratio associating immunized coronavirus-naïve volunteers after 90 and 180 days of the second dose with a cortical thickness ≥ 3 mm was statistically significant (95% CI 1.52–6.97 and 95% CI 1.47–7.29, respectively). The best AUC result was obtained comparing antibody secretion of coronavirus-naïve volunteers at 180 days (0.738).

Conclusions

Ultrasound cortical thickness of reactive lymph nodes in coronavirus-naïve patients may reflect antibody production and a long-term effective humoral response elicited by vaccination.

Clinical relevance statement

In coronavirus-naïve patients, ultrasound cortical thickness of post-vaccination reactive lymphadenopathy shows a positive association with protective antibody titers against SARS-CoV-2, especially in the long term, providing new insights into previous publications.

Key Points

• Hyperplastic lymphadenopathy was frequently observed after COVID-19 vaccination.

• Ultrasound cortical thickness of reactive post-vaccine lymph nodes may reflect a long-term effective humoral response in coronavirus-naïve patients.
False-positive recalls in the prospective Malmö Breast Tomosynthesis Screening Trial
Authors: Johnson Kristin , Olinder Jakob , Rosso Aldana , Andersson Ingvar , Lång Kristina , Zackrisson Sophia
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the total number of false-positive recalls, including radiographic appearances and false-positive biopsies, in the Malmö Breast Tomosynthesis Screening Trial (MBTST).

Methods

The prospective, population-based MBTST, with 14,848 participating women, was designed to compare one-view digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) to two-view digital mammography (DM) in breast cancer screening. False-positive recall rates, radiographic appearances, and biopsy rates were analyzed. Comparisons were made between DBT, DM, and DBT + DM, both in total and in trial year 1 compared to trial years 2 to 5, with numbers, percentages, and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

The false-positive recall rate was higher with DBT, 1.6% (95% CI 1.4; 1.8), compared to screening with DM, 0.8% (95% CI 0.7; 1.0). The proportion of the radiographic appearance of stellate distortion was 37.3% (91/244) with DBT, compared to 24.0% (29/121) with DM. The false-positive recall rate with DBT during trial year 1 was 2.6% (95% CI 1.8; 3.5), then stabilized at 1.5% (95% CI 1.3; 1.8) during trial years 2 to 5. The percentage of stellate distortion with DBT was 50% (19/38) trial year 1 compared to 35.0% (72/206) trial years 2 to 5.

Conclusions

The higher false-positive recall rate with DBT compared to DM was mainly due to an increased detection of stellate findings. The proportion of these findings, as well as the DBT false-positive recall rate, was reduced after the first trial year.

Clinical relevance statement

Assessment of false-positive recalls gives information on potential benefits and side effects in DBT screening.

Key Points

• The false-positive recall rate in a prospective digital breast tomosynthesis screening trial was higher compared to digital mammography, but still low compared to other trials.

• The higher false-positive recall rate with digital breast tomosynthesis was mainly due to an increased detection of stellate findings; the proportion of these findings was reduced after the first trial year.
Uncountably Many Cases of Filippov’s Sewed Focus
Authors: Glendinning Paul , John Hogan S. , Homer Martin , Jeffrey Mike R. , Szalai Robert
Published: May 2023

The sewed focus is one of the singularities of planar piecewise smooth dynamical systems. Defined by Filippov in his book (Differential Equations with Discontinuous Righthand Sides, Kluwer, 1988), it consists of two invisible tangencies either side of the switching manifold. In the case of analytic focus-like behaviour, Filippov showed that the approach to the singularity is in infinite time. For the case of non-analytic focus-like behaviour, we show that the approach to the singularity can be in finite time. For the non-analytic sewed centre-focus, we show that there are uncountably many different topological types of local dynamics, including cases with infinitely many stable periodic orbits, and show how to create systems with periodic orbits intersecting any bounded symmetric closed set.
Small coral reef fishes with large ecological footprints
Authors: Collins William P. , Bellwood David R. , Morais Renato A.
Published: May 2023

Seascape connectivity can facilitate key ecosystem functions in complex ecosystems like coral reefs. Many reef fishes move across the seascape, bridging different ecosystems. However, their role in shaping important functions, such as biomass production and nutrient cycling, is still poorly understood. This study, therefore, assesses the extent of natural movements of cardinalfishes (Apogonidae), one of the major contributors to nocturnal fish biomass production with the potential for a major role in transferring energy and nutrients between sandy ecosystems and adjacent coral reefs. Consistent with previous work, showing their ability to move distances of 100 s to 1000 s of metres when displaced, we reveal that these small fishes undergo major voluntary nocturnal foraging forays extending up to at least 145 m from reef structures. Their estimated daily movement distances are at least 430 times greater than expected based solely on body size-home range expectations. Given their large travel distances and strong homing abilities, apogonids may provide a major conduit for material transfer between lagoonal soft sediment habitats and adjacent coral reefs. These results highlight the potential importance of apogonids in the cross-system or cross-habitat transport of energy and nutrients on coral reefs.
Experimental determination of Rayleigh scattering cross-sections at 408 nm
Authors: Liu Yangzhuoran , Andrés Hernández Maria Dolores , George Midhun , Burrows John Philip
Published: May 2023

Cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) has been applied to retrieve accurate Rayleigh scattering cross-sections, $${\upsigma }_{\mathrm{Rayl}.}$$

σ

Rayl
.

for a set of atmospheric gases at ~ 408 nm. Step pressure changes and pressure ramps were used in three different but similar optical cavities to measure light extinction by N2, O2, Ar, CO, CO2, N2O, CH4 and synthetic air (SA). The experimentally determined $${\upsigma }_{\mathrm{Rayl}.}$$

σ

Rayl
.

were compared with $${\upsigma }_{\mathrm{Rayl}.}$$

σ

Rayl
.

values calculated for these atmospheric gases using knowledge of extrapolated literature values of the refractive index (n) and King correction factors measured in different spectral regions.

The difference between measured and calculated $${\upsigma }_{\mathrm{Rayl}.}$$

σ

Rayl
.

using the most recently published dispersion relationship for N2O and CH4 is ~ 0.6%. This confirms the improved accuracy of the new dispersion relationship. The calculated and measured $${\upsigma }_{\mathrm{Rayl}.}$$

σ

Rayl
.

agreed on average within 0.6%, 2.4%, 1.2%, 2.2%, and 1.5% for the gases CO2, N2 O2, SA, and Ar at ~ 408 nm. However, for CO, the difference is 4.1%, i.e. more than twice the error. This implies that improved knowledge of the dispersion relationship for CO, and thus the refractive index and King correction factors, would be of value to calculate $${\upsigma }_{\mathrm{Rayl}.}$$

σ

Rayl
.

in the blue spectral region.
Event-based imaging velocimetry using pulsed illumination
Authors: Willert Christian E.
Published: May 2023

The paper addresses the shortcoming of current event-based vision (EBV) sensors in the context of particle imaging. Latency is introduced both on the pixel level as well as during read-out from the array and results in systemic timing errors when processing the recorded event data. Using pulsed illumination, the overall latency can be quantified and indicates an upper bound on the frequency response on the order of 10–20 kHz for the specific EBV sensor. In particle-based flow measurement applications, particles scattering the light from a pulsed light source operating below this upper frequency can be reliably tracked in time. Through the combination of event-based vision and pulsed illumination, flow field measurements are demonstrated at light pulsing rates up to 10 kHz in both water and air flows by providing turbulence statistics and velocity spectra. The described EBV-based velocimetry system consists of only an EBV camera and a (low-cost) laser that can be directly modulated by the camera, making the system compact, portable and cost-effective.
Electron transfer and ROS production in brain mitochondria of intertidal and subtidal triplefin fish (Tripterygiidae)
Authors: Devaux Jules B. L. , Hedges Chris P. , Birch Nigel , Herbert Neill , Renshaw Gillian M. C. , Hickey Anthony J. R.
Published: May 2023

While oxygen is essential for oxidative phosphorylation, O2 can form reactive species (ROS) when interacting with electrons of mitochondrial electron transport system. ROS is dependent on O2 pressure (PO2) and has traditionally been assessed in O2 saturated media, PO2 at which mitochondria do not typically function in vivo. Mitochondrial ROS can be significantly elevated by the respiratory complex II substrate succinate, which can accumulate within hypoxic tissues, and this is exacerbated further with reoxygenation. Intertidal species are repetitively exposed to extreme O2 fluctuations, and have likely evolved strategies to avoid excess ROS production. We evaluated mitochondrial electron leakage and ROS production in permeabilized brain of intertidal and subtidal triplefin fish species from hyperoxia to anoxia, and assessed the effect of anoxia reoxygenation and the influence of increasing succinate concentrations. At typical intracellular PO2, net ROS production was similar among all species; however at elevated PO2, brain tissues of the intertidal triplefin fish released less ROS than subtidal species. In addition, following in vitro anoxia reoxygenation, electron transfer mediated by succinate titration was better directed to respiration, and not to ROS production for intertidal species. Overall, these data indicate that intertidal triplefin fish species better manage electrons within the ETS, from hypoxic–hyperoxic transitions.
Multilineage contribution of CD34+ cells in cardiac remodeling after ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Xie Jun , Jiang Liujun , Wang Junzhuo , Yin Yong , Wang Ruilin , Du Luping , Chen Ting , Ni Zhichao , Qiao Shuaihua , Gong Hui , Xu Biao , Xu Qingbo
Published: May 2023

The ambiguous results of multiple CD34+ cell-based therapeutic trials for patients with heart disease have halted the large-scale application of stem/progenitor cell treatment. This study aimed to delineate the biological functions of heterogenous CD34+ cell populations and investigate the net effect of CD34+ cell intervention on cardiac remodeling. We confirmed, by combining single-cell RNA sequencing on human and mouse ischemic hearts and an inducible Cd34 lineage-tracing mouse model, that Cd34+ cells mainly contributed to the commitment of mesenchymal cells, endothelial cells (ECs), and monocytes/macrophages during heart remodeling with distinct pathological functions. The Cd34+-lineage-activated mesenchymal cells were responsible for cardiac fibrosis, while CD34+Sca-1high was an active precursor and intercellular player that facilitated Cd34+-lineage angiogenic EC-induced postinjury vessel development. We found through bone marrow transplantation that bone marrow-derived CD34+ cells only accounted for inflammatory response. We confirmed using a Cd34-CreERT2; R26-DTA mouse model that the depletion of Cd34+ cells could alleviate the severity of ventricular fibrosis after ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury with improved cardiac function. This study provided a transcriptional and cellular landscape of CD34+ cells in normal and ischemic hearts and illustrated that the heterogeneous population of Cd34+ cell-derived cells served as crucial contributors to cardiac remodeling and function after the I/R injury, with their capacity to generate diverse cellular lineages.
Polygenic risk for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in relation to cardiovascular biomarkers
Authors: Reponen Elina J. , Ueland Thor , Rokicki Jaroslav , Bettella Francesco , Aas Monica , Werner Maren C. F. , Dieset Ingrid , Steen Nils E. , Andreassen Ole A. , Tesli Martin
Published: May 2023

Individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and a range of biomarkers related to CVD risk have been found to be abnormal in these patients. Common genetic factors are a putative underlying mechanism, alongside lifestyle factors and antipsychotic medication. However, the extent to which the altered CVD biomarkers are related to genetic factors involved in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder is unknown. In a sample including 699 patients with schizophrenia, 391 with bipolar disorder, and 822 healthy controls, we evaluated 8 CVD risk biomarkers, including BMI, and fasting plasma levels of CVD biomarkers from a subsample. Polygenic risk scores (PGRS) were obtained from genome-wide associations studies (GWAS) of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium. The CVD biomarkers were used as outcome variables in linear regression models including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder PGRS as predictors, age, sex, diagnostic category, batch and 10 principal components as covariates, controlling for multiple testing by Bonferroni correction for the number of independent tests. Bipolar disorder PGRS was significantly (p = 0.03) negatively associated with BMI after multiple testing correction, and schizophrenia PGRS was nominally negatively associated with BMI. There were no other significant associations between bipolar or schizophrenia PGRS, and other investigated CVD biomarkers. Despite a range of abnormal CVD risk biomarkers in psychotic disorders, we only found a significant negative association between bipolar disorder PGRS and BMI. This has previously been shown for schizophrenia PGRS and BMI, and warrants further exploration.
Systematic symptom screening in patients with advanced cancer treated in certified oncology centers: results of the prospective multicenter German KeSBa project
Authors: Braulke Friederike , Para Servet , Alt-Epping Bernd , Tewes Mitra , Bäumer Markus , Haberland Birgit , Mayer-Steinacker Regine , Hopprich Anne , de Wit Maike , Grabe Michaela , Bender-Säbelkampf Sophia , Weßling Caroline , Aulmann Christoph , Gerlach Christina , Regincos Pascale , Fischer Ferdinand , Haarmann Soraya , Huys Tatjana , Drygas Sabine , Rambau Anett , Kiani Alexander , Schnabel Astrid , Buhl Christoph , Seipke Stefanie , Hiemer Sonja , Polata Silke , Meßmann Maximilian , Hansmeier Anna , Anastasiadou Louiza , Letsch Anne , Wecht Daniel , Hellberg-Naegele Matthias , Krug Utz , Wedding Ulrich , van Oorschot Birgitt
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Guidelines recommend a structured symptom screening (SC) for especially advanced cancer patients (CPs). The aim of this multicenter German prospective quality assurance project KeSBa (Kennzahl Symptom- und Belastungserfassung) was to gain knowledge on SC procedures in Oncology Centers (OCs) for advanced cancer patients and a first impression on the consequences of SC.

Methods

The KeSBa project consisted of three phases: pilot, 3 months screening and feedback phase. Participating OCs decided to use either the Minimal Documentation System (MIDOS) or the Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale (IPOS) and defined the cutoff values for positive screening results.

Results

Out of 172 certified German OCs, 40 (23%) participated in the KeSBa pilot phase, 29 (16.8%) in the 3 months screening phase using MIDOS (n = 18, 58.6%) or IPOS (n = 11, 41.3%) and in the feedback round. 25/29 performed paper-based screening (86.2%). 2.963 CPs were screened. Results were documented for 1255 (42.2%, SC +) positive and 874 (29.5%, SC–) negative screenings depending on the center´s schedules: 452 SC + CPs (28.4%) and 42 SC– CPs (2.6%) had contact to specialized palliative care or other supportive specialist teams afterwards, 458 SC + CPs (28.8%) and 605 SC– CPs (38.1%) remained in standard oncology care. In the feedback round missing resources (personal and IT) and improved communication were mentioned most often.

Conclusion

Routine SC is feasible in advanced CPs treated in OCs but associated with considerable workload. In 42.2% of CPs SC was classified as positive, indicating the need of further diagnostics or professional judgment. SC requires staff and IT resources.
Bottleneck Profiles and Discrete Prokhorov Metrics for Persistence Diagrams
Authors: Dłotko Paweł , Hellmer Niklas
Published: May 2023

In topological data analysis (TDA), persistence diagrams (PDs) have been a successful tool. To compare them, Wasserstein and bottleneck distances are commonly used. We address the shortcomings of these metrics and show a way to investigate them in a systematic way by introducing bottleneck profiles. This leads to a notion of discrete Prokhorov metrics for PDs as a generalization of the bottleneck distance. These metrics satisfy a stability result and can be used to bound Wasserstein metrics from above and from below. We provide algorithms to compute the newly introduced quantities and end with an discussion about experiments.
Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Combined with Conventional Swallowing Rehabilitation Training on Post-stroke Dysphagia
Authors: Wang Lingyan , Shi Aiqun , Xue Hui , Li Qiwei , Wang Jiasheng , Yang Heliang , Hong Hong , Lu Qiaomiao , Cheng Jiaping
Published: May 2023

To observe the clinical effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with conventional swallowing rehabilitation training on post-stroke dysphagia and explore its long-term efficacy. A total of 40 patients with dysphagia after the first stroke were randomly divided into a treatment group (n = 20) and a conventional group (n = 20). The treatment group received tDCS combined with conventional swallowing rehabilitation training, while the conventional group only received conventional swallowing rehabilitation training. The Standardized Swallowing Assessment (SSA) Scale and the Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS) were used to assess dysphagia before and after treatment, at the end of 10 treatments, and at the 3-month follow-up. The changes in infection indicators [the white blood cell (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT)], the oxygenation indicator [arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2)] and nutrition-related indicators [hemoglobin (Hb) and serum prealbumin (PAB)] were compared before and after treatment. The SSA and PAS scores were lower in both groups after treatment than before treatment, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01). The SSA and PAS scores of the treatment group were lower than those of the conventional group before and after treatment and during follow-up, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). A within-group comparison showed that WBC, CRP and PCT after treatment were lower than those before treatment, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The PaO2, Hb and serum PAB were higher after treatment than before treatment, with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). The WBC, CRP and PCT of the tDCS group were lower than those of the conventional group, and PaO2, Hb and serum PAB were higher in the treatment group than in the conventional group, with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.01). The tDCS combined with conventional swallowing rehabilitation training can improve dysphagia with a better effect than conventional swallowing rehabilitation training and has a certain long-term efficacy. In addition, tDCS combined with conventional swallowing rehabilitation training can improve nutrition and oxygenation and reduce infection levels.
Endoscopic management of low output recurrent colonic fistula or leak after anterior resection for rectal cancer: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Negm Said , Farag Ahmed , Shafiq Ahmed , Allah Ehab Abd , Shehata Mohamed , Orban Yasser A. , Saleh Mohamed , Abdelghani Amr A.
Published: May 2023

Background

Colonic anastomotic leak and fistula following anterior resection surgery for rectal cancer are associated with high mortality rates. The incidence of occurrence varies from 2 to 25% and it is difficult to accurately calculate the incidence of fistula and leak post anterior resection, as most of them are asymptomatic. Endoscopic management of fistula and leak has become the first line of management after conservative management in many gastrointestinal surgical centers with the advantages of being less invasive, shorter length of post-operative hospital stay, effective and rapid recovery in comparison to revision surgery. Effective endoscopic management for colonic fistula or leak depends on the clinical status of the patient and fistula characters (time-to-occur and size and site of defect), and device availability.

Methods

This prospective randomized controlled clinical trial included all patients who developed the manifestations of low output recurrent colonic fistula or leak after colonic anterior resection for rectal cancer at Zagazig University Hospital between (December 2020 and August 2022). Sample size was 78 patients divided into two equal groups. Endoscopic group (EG): included 39 patients who underwent endoscopic management. Surgical group (SG): included 39 patients who underwent surgical management.

Results

The investigators randomized eligible 78 patients into two groups: 39 patients in SG and 39 patients in EG. The median size of the fistula or leak was nine (range: 7–14) mm in EG, versus ten (range: 7–12) mm in SG. Clipping and Endo-stitch device were used in 24 patients versus 15 patients, respectively, in EG while primary repair with ileostomy, and resection & anastomosis were used in 15 patients versus 24 patients, respectively, in SG. Recurrence, abdominal collection, and mortality were the post procedure’s complications with incidence of occurrence of 10.3, 7.7 and 0%, respectively, in EG versus 20.5, 20.5 and 2.6%, respectively, in SG. Excellent, good, and poor were the parameters for quality of life with incidence of occurrence of 43.6, 54.6 and 0%, respectively, in EG versus 28.2, 33.3 and 38.5%, respectively, in SG. Median hospital stay was one (range: 1–2) day in endoscopic group, and seven (range: 6–8) days in SG.

Conclusion

Endoscopic intervention may offer a successful modality in managing low output recurrent colonic fistula or leak after anterior resection for rectal cancer that did not respond to conservative measures in stable patients.

ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05659446.
Oscillometric arterial blood pressure in haemodynamically stable neonates in the first 2 weeks of life
Authors: Kiss Judit Klara , Gajda Anna , Mari Judit , Nemeth Judit , Bereczki Csaba
Published: May 2023

Background

We aimed to provide data on the normal blood pressure of haemodynamically stable neonates. Our study uses retrospective, real-life oscillometric blood pressure measurement values to determine the expected blood pressure in different gestational age, chronological age and birth weight groups. We also investigated the effect of antenatal steroid on neonatal blood pressure.

Methods

Our retrospective study (2019–2021) was carried out in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the University of Szeged, Hungary. We involved 629 haemodynamically stable patients and analysed 134,938 blood pressure values. Data were collected from electronic hospital records of IntelliSpace Critical Care Anesthesia by Phillips. We used the PDAnalyser program for data handling and the IBM SPSS program for statistical analysis.

Results

We found a significant difference between the blood pressure of each gestational age group in the first 14 days of life. The systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure rise are steeper in the preterm group than in the term group in the first 3 days of life. No significant blood pressure differences were found between the group with a complete antenatal steroid course and those who received incomplete steroid prophylaxis or did not receive antenatal steroids.

Conclusion

We determined the average blood pressure of stable neonates and obtained normative data by percentiles. Our study provides additional data on how blood pressure varies with gestational age and birth weight.

Graphical abstract
A Rademacher type theorem for Hamiltonians H(x, p) and an application to absolute minimizers
Authors: Liu Jiayin , Zhou Yuan
Published: May 2023

We establish a Rademacher type theorem involving Hamiltonians H(x, p) under very weak conditions in both of Euclidean and Carnot-Carathéodory spaces. In particular, H(x, p) is assumed to be only measurable in the variable x, and to be quasiconvex and lower-semicontinuous in the variable p. Without the lower-semicontinuity in the variable p, we provide a counter example showing the failure of such a Rademacher type theorem. Moreover, by applying such a Rademacher type theorem we build up an existence result of absolute minimizers for the corresponding $$L^\infty $$

L
∞

-functional. These improve or extend several known results in the literature.
The approximate functional equation of some Diophantine series
Authors: Chamizo Fernando , Martin Bruno
Published: May 2023

We prove that a family of Diophantine series satisfies an approximate functional equation. It generalizes a result by Rivoal and Roques and proves an extended version of a conjecture posed in their paper. We also characterize the convergence points.
Parkinson’s disease therapy: what lies ahead?
Authors: Wolff Andreas , Schumacher Nicolas U. , Pürner Dominik , Machetanz Gerrit , Demleitner Antonia F. , Feneberg Emily , Hagemeier Maike , Lingor Paul
Published: May 2023

The worldwide prevalence of Parkinson’s disease (PD) has been constantly increasing in the last decades. With rising life expectancy, a longer disease duration in PD patients is observed, further increasing the need and socioeconomic importance of adequate PD treatment. Today, PD is exclusively treated symptomatically, mainly by dopaminergic stimulation, while efforts to modify disease progression could not yet be translated to the clinics. New formulations of approved drugs and treatment options of motor fluctuations in advanced stages accompanied by telehealth monitoring have improved PD patients care. In addition, continuous improvement in the understanding of PD disease mechanisms resulted in the identification of new pharmacological targets. Applying novel trial designs, targeting of pre-symptomatic disease stages, and the acknowledgment of PD heterogeneity raise hopes to overcome past failures in the development of drugs for disease modification. In this review, we address these recent developments and venture a glimpse into the future of PD therapy in the years to come.
Women’s experiences of care and treatment preferences for perinatal depression: a systematic review
Authors: Westgate Verity , Manchanda Tanya , Maxwell Margaret
Published: May 2023

Understanding women’s experiences of care, and treatment preferences, is vital for delivering acceptable and useful services to women with perinatal depression. This systematic review synthesises evidence on care and treatment preferences of women with perinatal depression. This qualitative evidence synthesis uses systematic review methodology. Medline, PsychINFO, CINAHL and EMBASE were searched from January 2011 to October 2021. Search terms fell into five categories: depression, the perinatal period, treatment preferences, experiences of care and qualitative research. Study quality was assessed and thematic analysis was used to synthesise findings. Thirteen papers met the inclusion criteria. Quality of included papers was of moderate to high quality. Five key themes were identified: women prioritise family needs; perinatal-specific care; when care falls short; professional empathy; and tailored care. Clinicians need to enable mothers to prioritise their own well-being. Service providers should ensure that treatment is tailored to the specifics of the perinatal period, providing specialist advice around medication, and therapy that fits with the demands of caring for a new baby.
Temporal graph patterns by timed automata
Authors: Aghasadeghi Amir , Van den Bussche Jan , Stoyanovich Julia
Published: May 2023

Temporal graphs represent graph evolution over time, and have been receiving considerable research attention. Work on expressing temporal graph patterns or discovering temporal motifs typically assumes relatively simple temporal constraints, such as journeys or, more generally, existential constraints, possibly with finite delays. In this paper we propose to use timed automata to express temporal constraints, leading to a general and powerful notion of temporal basic graph pattern (BGP). The new difficulty is the evaluation of the temporal constraint on a large set of matchings. An important benefit of timed automata is that they support an iterative state assignment, which can be useful for early detection of matches and pruning of non-matches. We introduce algorithms to retrieve all instances of a temporal BGP match in a graph, and present results of an extensive experimental evaluation, demonstrating interesting performance trade-offs. We show that an on-demand algorithm that processes total matchings incrementally over time is preferable when dealing with cyclic patterns on sparse graphs. On acyclic patterns or dense graphs, and when connectivity of partial matchings can be guaranteed, the best performance is achieved by maintaining partial matchings over time and allowing automaton evaluation to be fully incremental. The code and datasets used in our analysis are available athttp://github.com/amirpouya/TABGP.