bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Morbidity and Mortality Conference: A Century-Old Practice with Ongoing Potential for Future Improvement
Authors: de Vos Marit S. , Verhagen Merel J. , Hamming Jaap F.
Published: January 2023

Objective To discuss practical strategies to consider for morbidity and mortality conferences (M&M).

Materials and Methods This article reflects on (i) insights that can be drawn from the M&M literature, (ii) practical aspects to consider when organizing M&M, and (iii) possible future directions for development for this long-standing practice for routine reflection.

Results M&M offers the opportunity to learn from past cases in order to improve the care delivered to future patients, thereby serving both educational and quality improvement purposes. For departments seeking to implement or improve local M&M practice, it is difficult that a golden standard or best practice for M&M is nonexistent. This is partly because comparative research on different formats is hampered by the lack of objective outcome measures to evaluate the effectiveness of M&M. Common practical suggestions include the use of (i) a skillful and active moderator; (ii) structured formats for case presentation and discussion; and (iii) a dedicated committee to guide improvement plans that ensue from the meeting. M&M practice is affected by various sociological factors, for which qualitative research methods seem most suitable, but in the M&M literature these are sparsely used. Moreover, aspects influencing an open and blame-free atmosphere underline how local teams should tailor the format to best fit the local context and culture.

Conclusion This article presents practice guidance on how to organize and carry out M&M This practice for routine reflection needs to be tailored to the local setting, with attention for various sociological factors that are at play.
Impact of Social Vulnerability on Long-Term Growth Outcomes in Sutureless Versus Sutured Repair of Gastroschisis
Authors: Barry Mark , Gozali Aileen , Vu Lan
Published: January 2023

Introduction The purpose of this study is to describe the long-term growth and nutrition outcomes of sutureless versus sutured gastroschisis repair. We hypothesized that weight z-score at 1 year would be affected by social determinants of health measured by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control Social Vulnerability Index (SVI).

Materials and Methods We conducted a single-center retrospective review of patients who underwent gastroschisis repair (n = 97) from 2007 to 2018. Growth z-scores collected through 5 years of age and long-term clinical outcomes were compared based on the closure method and the type of gastroschisis (simple vs. complicated). Multiple regression analysis was performed to identify the impact of SVI themes and other covariates on weight for age z-score at 1 year.

Results In total, 46 patients underwent sutureless repair and 51 underwent sutured repair with median follow-up duration of 2.5 and 1.9 years, respectively. Weight and length z-scores decreased after birth but normalized within the first year of life. Growth and long-term clinical outcomes were similar regardless of the closure method, while patients with complicated gastroschisis had higher rates of hospitalizations, small bowel obstructions, and additional abdominal surgeries. Using multiple regression, both low discharge weight and high SVI in the “minority status and language” theme were associated with lower weight for age z-scores at 1 year (p = 0.003 and p = 0.03).

Conclusion Sutureless and sutured gastroschisis repairs result in similar growth and long-term outcomes. Patients living in areas with greater social vulnerability may be at increased risk of poor weight gain. Patients should be followed at least through their first year to ensure appropriate growth.
Characterization of the error of the speckle-based wavefront metrology device at Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility
Authors: Xue Lian , Li Zhongliang , Si Shangyu , Luo Hongxin , He Yumei
Published: January 2023

A metrology device based on the near-field speckle technique was developed in the x-ray test beamline at the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility to meet the at-wavelength detection requirements of ultra-high-precision optical elements. Different sources of error that limit the uncertainty of the instrument were characterized. Two main factors that contribute to the uncertainty of the measurements were investigated: (1) noise errors introduced by the electronics and the errors introduced by the algorithm and (2) stability errors owing to environmental conditions. The results show that the high measurement stability of the device is realized because it is insensitive to the effect of the external environment. The repetition accuracy of the device achieved 9 nrad (rms) when measuring the planar mirror that produces weak phase curvature.
Optimal placement of sensor and actuator for controlling low-dimensional chaotic systems based on global modeling
Authors: Letellier Christophe , Mangiarotti Sylvain , Minati Ludovico , Frasca Mattia , Barbot Jean-Pierre
Published: January 2023

Controlling chaos is fundamental in many applications, and for this reason, many techniques have been proposed to address this problem. Here, we propose a strategy based on an optimal placement of the sensor and actuator providing global observability of the state space and global controllability to any desired state. The first of these two conditions enables the derivation of a model of the system by using a global modeling technique. In turn, this permits the use of feedback linearization for designing the control law based on the equations of the obtained model and providing a zero-flat system. The procedure is applied to three case studies, including two piecewise linear circuits, namely, the Carroll circuit and the Chua circuit whose governing equations are approximated by a continuous global model. The sensitivity of the procedure to the time constant of the dynamics is also discussed.
Jet-loaded cold atomic beam source for strontium
Authors: Kwon Minho , Holman Aaron , Gan Quan , Liu Chun-Wei , Molinelli Matthew , Stevenson Ian , Will Sebastian
Published: January 2023

We report on the design and characterization of a cold atom source for strontium (Sr) based on a two-dimensional magneto-optical trap (MOT) that is directly loaded from the atom jet of a dispenser. We characterize the atom flux of the source by measuring the loading rate of a three-dimensional MOT. We find loading rates of up to 108 atoms per second. The setup is compact, easy to construct, and has low power consumption. It addresses the longstanding challenge of reducing the complexity of cold beam sources for Sr, which is relevant for optical atomic clocks, quantum simulation, and computing devices based on ultracold Sr.
Room-temperature ferromagnetism in metal–insulator transition nanoparticles of VO2
Authors: Fukawa Akihiro , Nakazawa Takuto , Tamura Josuke , Murata Kyosuke , Shimizu Tomohiro , Miyata Masanobu , Koyano Mikio , Takase Kouichi
Published: January 2023

There have been many reports on room-temperature ferromagnetism (RTFM), which is often observed in pure semiconductor nanoparticles without transition metal elements. Because RTFM tends to be found in semiconducting thin films or nanoparticles, the origin of ferromagnetism is believed to result from the specific surface structure or defects on the surface. However, there is no direct evidence for such surface phenomena, and the relationship between RTFM and physical properties reported in the bulk state must be investigated. If RTFM is independent of the bulk properties, then it is concluded to be a surface phenomenon. In this study, VO2 nanoparticles with metal–insulator transitions (MITs) are evaluated. Magnetic field dependences of the magnetization of VO2 nanoparticles confirmed with MITs indicate a small amount of hysteresis before and after the transition temperature. This indicates that RTFM is independent of the particle's core properties, and ferromagnetic order is concluded to occur only on the surface.
Suppression of particle formation by gas-phase pre-reactions in (100) MOVPE-grown
β
-Ga2O3 films for vertical device application
Authors: Chou Ta-Shun , Seyidov Palvan , Bin Anooz Saud , Grüneberg Raimund , Pietsch Mike , Rehm Jana , Tran Thi Thuy Vi , Tetzner Kornelius , Galazka Zbigniew , Albrecht Martin , Irmscher Klaus , Fiedler Andreas , Popp Andreas
Published: January 2023

This work investigated the metalorganic vapor-phase epitaxy (MOVPE) of (100) β-Ga2O3 films with the aim of meeting the requirements to act as drift layers for high-power electronic devices. A height-adjustable showerhead achieving a close distance to the susceptor (1.5 cm) was demonstrated to be a critical factor in increasing the stability of the Ga wetting layer (or Ga adlayer) on the surface and reducing parasitic particles. A film thickness of up to 3 μm has been achieved while keeping the root mean square below 0.7 nm. Record carrier mobilities of 155 cm2 V−1 s−1 (2.2 μm) and 163 cm2 V−1 s−1 (3 μm) at room temperature were measured for (100) β-Ga2O3 films with carrier concentrations of 5.7 × 1016 and 7.1 × 1016 cm−3, respectively. Analysis of temperature-dependent Hall mobility and carrier concentration data revealed a low background compensating acceptor concentration of 4 × 1015 cm−3.
Effect of monolayer spontaneous curvature on constant tension-induced pore formation in lipid bilayers
Authors: Tazawa Kanta , Yamazaki Masahito
Published: January 2023

The methodology of constant tension-induced rupture of giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) has provided information on tension-induced pore formation. This method was used to investigate the effect of spontaneous curvature (H0) for a lipid monolayer on the rate constant (kr) for constant tension (σ)-induced rupture, which originates from pore formation in lipid bilayers. Lipids were incorporated with different H0 values into GUV membranes to change the overall H0 value for the GUV monolayer. The dioleoylphosphatidylglycerol (DOPG)/dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) (4/6, molar ratio, here and elsewhere) monolayer has a negative H0, whereas the DOPG/dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC) (4/6) monolayer has an essentially zero H0. A higher tension was required to induce the rupture of DOPG/DOPE (4/6)-GUVs compared with DOPG/DOPC (4/6)-GUVs. The line tension (Γ) for a pre-pore in DOPG/DOPE (4/6)-GUVs, determined by the analysis of the tension dependence of kr, was 1.5 times larger than that in DOPG/DOPC (4/6)-GUVs. The kr values for GUVs comprising DOPG/DOPC/18:1 lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) (40/55/10), which has a positive H0, were larger than those for DOPG/DOPC (4/6)-GUVs under the same tension. The Γ value for DOPG/DOPC/LPC (40/55/10)-GUVs was almost half that for DOPG/DOPC (4/6)-GUVs. These results indicate that Γ decreases with increasing H0, which results in an increase in kr. Based on these results, the effect of H0 on kr and Γ is discussed.
Extremely low excess noise avalanche photodiode with GaAsSb absorption region and AlGaAsSb avalanche region
Authors: Cao Ye , Blain Tarick , Taylor-Mew Jonathan D. , Li Longyan , Ng Jo Shien , Tan Chee Hing
Published: January 2023

An extremely low noise Separate Absorption and Multiplication Avalanche Photodiode (SAM-APD), consisting of a GaAs0.52Sb0.48 absorption region and an Al0.85Ga0.15As0.56Sb0.44 avalanche region, is reported. The device incorporated an appropriate doping profile to suppress tunneling current from the absorption region, achieving a large avalanche gain, ∼130 at room temperature. It exhibits extremely low excess noise factors of 1.52 and 2.48 at the gain of 10 and 20, respectively. At the gain of 20, our measured excess noise factor of 2.48 is more than three times lower than that in the commercial InGaAs/InP SAM-APD. These results are corroborated by a Simple Monte Carlo simulation. Our results demonstrate the potential of low excess noise performance from GaAs0.52Sb0.48/Al0.85Ga0.15As0.56Sb0.44 avalanche photodiodes.
Variations with Mach number for gust–airfoil interaction noise
Authors: Jiang Shujie , Wang Yanan , Yan Zhenguo , Zhang Rongping , Hu Zhiwei
Published: January 2023

The interaction of turbulence with airfoil is an important noise source in many engineering fields, including helicopters, turbofans, and contra-rotating open rotor engines, where turbulence generated in the wake of upstream blades interacts with the leading edge of downstream blades and produces aerodynamic noise. One approach to study turbulence–airfoil interaction noise is to model the oncoming turbulence as harmonic gusts. A compact noise source produces a dipole-like sound directivity pattern. However, when the acoustic wavelength is much smaller than the airfoil chord length, the airfoil needs to be treated as a non-compact source, and the gust–airfoil interaction becomes more complicated and results in multiple lobes generated in the radiated sound directivity. Capturing the short acoustic wavelength is a challenge for numerical simulations. In this work, simulations are performed for gust–airfoil interaction at different Mach numbers using a high-fidelity direct computational aeroacoustic (CAA) approach based on a spectral/hp element method verified by a CAA benchmark case. It is found that the squared sound pressure varies approximately as the fifth power of Mach number, which changes slightly with the observer location. This scaling law can give a better sound prediction than the flat-plate theory for thicker airfoils. Furthermore, another prediction method, based on the flat-plate theory and CAA simulation, has been proposed to give better predictions than the scaling law for thicker airfoils.
Construction of wetland ecosystem model framework in Phoenix Mountain National Forest Park Nature Reserve in Harbin and application case studies
Authors: Wang Yuxian , Shen Huibo , Guo Lifeng , Xu Yingying , Yang Huiying , Gao Pan , Wang Chen , Zhao Lei , Hu Jifang
Published: January 2023

Context The wetland ecosystem of Harbin Fenghuangshan National Forest Park Nature Reserve is fragile. Aims To establish a scientific and reasonable model framework for dynamic monitoring and ecological health assessment of wetlands, which is conducive to early warning, protection and management of wetland ecosystems. Methods On the basis of the full consideration of energy flow, material circulation, ecological environment and interspecific relationship, this paper proposed an ecosystem model framework. The pressure–state–response (PSR) model was used to build the evaluation index system of wetland-ecosystem health in Harbin Fenghuangshan National Forest Park. The data of each indicator are extracted and standardised through the analytic hierarchy process. Key results The results showed that the ecosystem pressure index of Harbin Fenghuangshan National Forest Park wetland was 0.52, indicating that it is in a subhealth state. The degree of health was 0.603, indicating a good condition. The comprehensive response index was 0.615, which was a positive response. The comprehensive degree of health was 0.577, indicating a subhealth state. Conclusion and implications The management and protection of wetland ecosystem in Harbin Fenghuangshan National Forest Park need to be strengthened urgently.
Distinct replay signatures for prospective decision-making and memory preservation
Authors: Wimmer G. Elliott , Liu Yunzhe , McNamee Daniel C. , Dolan Raymond J.
Published: January 2023

Theories of neural replay propose that it supports a range of functions, most prominently planning and memory consolidation. Here, we test the hypothesis that distinct signatures of replay in the same task are related to model-based decision-making (“planning”) and memory preservation. We designed a reward learning task wherein participants utilized structure knowledge for model-based evaluation, while at the same time had to maintain knowledge of two independent and randomly alternating task environments. Using magnetoencephalography and multivariate analysis, we first identified temporally compressed sequential reactivation, or replay, both prior to choice and following reward feedback. Before choice, prospective replay strength was enhanced for the current task-relevant environment when a model-based planning strategy was beneficial. Following reward receipt, and consistent with a memory preservation role, replay for the alternative distal task environment was enhanced as a function of decreasing recency of experience with that environment. Critically, these planning and memory preservation relationships were selective to pre-choice and post-feedback periods, respectively. Our results provide support for key theoretical proposals regarding the functional role of replay and demonstrate that the relative strength of planning and memory-related signals are modulated by ongoing computational and task demands.
TRF2 rescues telomere attrition and prolongs cell survival in Duchenne muscular dystrophy cardiomyocytes derived from human iPSCs
Authors: Eguchi Asuka , Gonzalez Adriana Fernanda G. S. , Torres-Bigio Sofía I. , Koleckar Kassie , Birnbaum Foster , Zhang Joe Z. , Wang Vicky Y. , Wu Joseph C. , Artandi Steven E. , Blau Helen M.
Published: January 2023

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe muscle wasting disease caused by the lack of dystrophin. Heart failure, driven by cardiomyocyte death, fibrosis, and the development of dilated cardiomyopathy, is the leading cause of death in DMD patients. Current treatments decrease the mechanical load on the heart but do not address the root cause of dilated cardiomyopathy: cardiomyocyte death. Previously, we showed that telomere shortening is a hallmark of DMD cardiomyocytes. Here, we test whether prevention of telomere attrition is possible in cardiomyocytes differentiated from patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC-CMs) and if preventing telomere shortening impacts cardiomyocyte function. We observe reduced cell size, nuclear size, and sarcomere density in DMD iPSC-CMs compared with healthy isogenic controls. We find that expression of just one telomere-binding protein, telomeric repeat-binding factor 2 (TRF2), a core component of the shelterin complex, prevents telomere attrition and rescues deficiencies in cell size as well as sarcomere density. We employ a bioengineered platform to micropattern cardiomyocytes for calcium imaging and perform Southern blots of telomere restriction fragments, the gold standard for telomere length assessments. Importantly, preservation of telomere lengths in DMD cardiomyocytes improves their viability. These data provide evidence that preventing telomere attrition ameliorates deficits in cell morphology, activation of the DNA damage response, and premature cell death, suggesting that TRF2 is a key player in DMD-associated cardiac failure.
Facile and dynamic cleavage of every iron–sulfide bond in cuboidal iron–sulfur clusters
Authors: Thompson Niklas B. , Namkoong Gil , Skeel Brighton A. , Suess Daniel L. M.
Published: January 2023

Nature employs weak-field metalloclusters to support a wide range of biological processes. The most ubiquitous metalloclusters are the cuboidal Fe–S clusters, which are comprised of Fe sites with locally high-spin electronic configurations. Such configurations enhance rates of ligand exchange and imbue the clusters with a degree of structural plasticity that is increasingly thought to be functionally relevant. Here, we examine this phenomenon using isotope tracing experiments. Specifically, we demonstrate that synthetic [Fe
4
S
4
] and [MoFe
3
S
4
] clusters exchange their Fe atoms with Fe
2+
ions dissolved in solution, a process that involves the reversible cleavage and reformation of every Fe–S bond in the cluster core. This exchange is facile—in most cases occurring at room temperature on the timescale of minutes—and documented over a range of cluster core oxidation states and terminal ligation patterns. In addition to suggesting a highly dynamic picture of cluster structure, these results provide a method for isotopically labeling pre-formed clusters with spin-active nuclei, such as
57
Fe. Such a protocol is demonstrated for the radical
S
-adenosyl-
l
-methionine enzyme, RlmN.
Unveiling the mysteries of operating voltages of lithium-carbon dioxide batteries
Authors: Xiao Xu , Zhang Zhuojun , Tan Peng
Published: January 2023

Lithium-carbon dioxide (Li-CO
2
) batteries are regarded as a promising electrochemical system owing to their energy storage capability and CO
2
utilization. However, the reported operating voltage of ~2.6 V is increasingly questioned as seemingly beyond the capability of the electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction reaction to carbon. Herein, the real operating voltage of a Li-CO
2
battery is reacquainted, and the operating voltage and the equilibrium potential are clarified to be ~1.1 V and ~2.82 V, respectively. The products formed at low voltage are identified to be crystalline Li
2
CO
3
, amorphous C, and explicitly amorphous Li
2
CO
3
. Moreover, by decoupling small currents, 1% O
2
, and 500 ppm H
2
O, the operating voltage plateaus are stimulated to ~2.0 V. An ever-increasing plateau can be achieved up to the reported level of ~2.6 V activated by a minor air leak or residue in test environments. Conclusively, the operating voltages of Li-CO
2
batteries are proposed to be deceptive and extremely sensitive to the surrounding environments. This work unveils the real operating voltage and provides the voltage regulation rules to advance next-generation Li-CO
2
batteries.
Fostering the learning of the Russian motion verbs system in Italian-speaking students
Authors: Comisso Elena , Della Putta Paolo
Published: January 2023

This study reports on the differential effectiveness of two pedagogical approaches to teaching L1-Italian students the Russian verbs of motion (глаголы движения, VoMs). The first is a Cognitive Linguistics, embodied approach, where the teacher used techniques such as image schemas, drawings and bodily activation to help the learners explore and understand the logic of VoMs. The second is a classic PPP approach, that works with mnemonic exercises, drills, and reproduction techniques, and that used classic metalinguistic terms to explain VoMs.

54 L1-Italian Russian students enrolled at the second year of University have been recruited in the study. Two groups were created: group A received a 160 minutes embodied treatment about VoMs, whereas group B received a 160 minutes classical PPP treatment on VoMs.

The informants have been tested in a classical pre, post and delayed-post test fashion with three different temporized tasks. Results show an accrued competence on VoMs of group A, that outperformed group B in all the tests. The relevance of these findings for L2 teaching will be discussed.
School improvement and school efficiency: reflections and evidences in the liquid society (Mejora de la escuela y eficacia escolar: reflexiones y evidencias en la sociedad líquida)
Authors: Pericacho-Gómez F. Javier
Published: January 2023

Discussions on the improvement and effectiveness of schools are high on the national and international education policy agendas. Despite the social and cultural complexity that frames educational processes, there is now sufficient research available on how to correctly orient theory and practice. The aim of the study is to reflect on the change and improvement of schools in the compulsory stage, based on the accumulated knowledge of the School Improvement and School Effectiveness Movements. The methodology used was that of documentary analysis of scientific production, based on the review, analysis and critical reflection of texts. The results show that in the current context of a liquid society, it is essential to have a management team that supports improvement processes, that the school as a whole is committed to renewal and, finally, that there is a participatory school culture. The conclusions reflect on and outline possible measures for improvement and innovation in schools, mainly related to the change of cultural imaginary.
MYC-mediated resistance to trametinib and HCQ in PDAC is overcome by CDK4/6 and lysosomal inhibition
Authors: Silvis Mark R. , Silva Dilru , Rohweder Riley , Schuman Sophia , Gudipaty Swapna , Truong Amanda , Yap Jeffrey , Affolter Kajsa , McMahon Martin , Kinsey Conan
Published: January 2023

Pharmacological inhibition of KRAS>RAF>MEK1/2>ERK1/2 signaling has provided no clinical benefit to patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Interestingly, combined inhibition of MEK1/2 (with trametinib [T]) plus autophagy (with chloroquine [CQ] or hydroxychloroquine [HCQ]) demonstrated striking anti-tumor effects in preclinical models and in a patient (Patient 1). However, not all patients respond to the T/HCQ regimen, and Patient 1 eventually developed resistant disease. Here we report that primary or acquired resistance is associated with focal DNA copy number gains encompassing c-MYC. Furthermore, ectopic expression of c-MYC in PDAC cell lines rendered them T/HCQ resistant. Interestingly, a CDK4/6 inhibitor, palbociclib (P), also induced autophagy and overrode c-MYC–mediated T/HCQ resistance, such that P/HCQ promoted regression of T/HCQ-resistant PDAC tumors with elevated c-MYC expression. Finally, P/HCQ treatment of Patient 1 resulted in a biochemical disease response. These data suggest that elevated c-MYC expression is both a marker and a mediator of T/HCQ resistance, which may be overcome by the use of P/HCQ.
Enhancement of temperature-modulated NbO2-based relaxation oscillator via interfacial and bulk treatments
Authors: Ang Jia Min , Dananjaya Putu Andhita , Chow Samuel Chen Wai , Lim Gerard Joseph , Seet Chim Seng , Lew Wen Siang
Published: January 2023

This work demonstrates oscillation frequency modulation in a NbO2-based relaxation oscillator device, in which the oscillation frequency increases with operating temperature and source voltage, and decreases with load resistance. An annealing-induced oxygen diffusion at 373 K was carried out to optimize the stoichiometry of the bulk NbO2 to achieve consistent oscillation frequency shift with device temperature. The device exhibits stable self-sustained oscillation in which the frequency can be modulated between 2 and 33 MHz, and a wider operating voltage range can be obtained. An additional surface treatment step was employed during fabrication to reduce the surface roughness of the bottom electrode and to remove surface contaminants that affect the interfacial properties of the device. The device frequency tunability coupled with high oscillating frequency and high endurance capability of more than 1.5 × 108 cycles indicates that the Pt/NbO2/Pt device is particularly suitable for applications in an oscillatory neural network.
Arcsine law for random dynamics with a core
Authors: Nakamura Fumihiko , Nakano Yushi , Toyokawa Hisayoshi , Yano Kouji
Published: January 2023

In their recent paper, Hata and Yano (2021 Stoch. Dyn. 2350006) first gave an example of random iterations of two piecewise linear interval maps without (deterministic) indifferent periodic points for which the arcsine law—a characterization of intermittent dynamics in infinite ergodic theory—holds. The key in the proof of the result is the existence of a Markov partition preserved by each interval maps. In the present paper, we give a class of random iterations of two interval maps without indifferent periodic points but satisfying the arcsine law, by introducing a concept of core random dynamics. As applications, we show that the generalized arcsine law holds for generalized Hata–Yano maps and piecewise linear versions of Gharaei–Homburg maps, both of which do not have a Markov partition in general.
Systematic analysis of the quench process performance and simulation of the 9.4 T-800 mm whole-body MRI magnet
Authors: Chen Shunzhong , Wang Lei , Zhang Zili , Wang Yaohui , Wang Hui , Cheng Junsheng , Dai Yinming , Wang Qiuliang
Published: January 2023

In 2021, the Institute of Electrical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences successfully reached 9.4 T in a whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) superconducting magnet with an inner diameter of 800 mm. In this study, a systematic analysis of both the real quench protection performance and a simulation are reported. The four successful quench protections during the entire energization process proved the feasibility of the ‘in-out-in’ quench protection protocol for a 9.4 T-800 mm superconducting magnet. The quench trigger sequence was shown to be adjusted by changing the heater thickness, which demonstrates the flexibility of the ‘in-out-in’ quench protection protocol to fit a different MRI magnet design. The high accuracy of the quench protection simulation method and code was confirmed through comparison of the simulation results with the real performance. Moreover, the limitations of the current quench protection and reference value to other MRI magnets were discussed. It is believed that this study will be useful to other research groups and promote the development of an extremely high-field whole-body MRI system.
Manipulation of the orbital angular momentum via four-wave mixing in Rb vapor
Authors: Liu Ning , Wang Xuewen , Yuan Jinpeng , Xiao Liantuan , Jia Suotang , Wang Lirong
Published: January 2023

The manipulation of the orbital angular momentum (OAM) contributes to understand the OAM multiplexing, is significant in free-space optical communication and information processing. We theoretically simulate and experimentally demonstrate the regularity of the OAM transfer, including the angular and radial modes, of Laguerre–Gaussian beam via four-wave mixing process in 85Rb vapor. The 420 nm coherent blue light output field inherits the phase characteristic of 780 nm and 776 nm beams with different OAM modes. The output field OAM modes show the transfer as a typical arithmetic operation of the input field OAM modes with equal-handed angular indice l, while, the conversion between angular and radial modes occurs with the opposite angular indice l. Such rules of the OAM transfer and manipulation have implications on the research of high-capacity information transfer and quantum communication.
Multi-source domain generalization and adaptation toward cross-subject myoelectric pattern recognition
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Wu Le , Zhang Xu , Chen Xiang , Li Chang , Chen Xun
Published: January 2023

Objective. Myoelectric pattern recognition (MPR) has shown satisfactory performance under ideal laboratory conditions. Nevertheless, the individual variances lead to dramatic performance degradation in cross-user MPR applications. It is crucial to enable the myoelectric interface to adapt to multiple users’ surface electromyography (sEMG) distributions in practical. Approach. Domain adaptation (DA) is a promising approach to tackle cross-user challenges due to its ability to diminish the divergence between individual users’ EMG distributions and escalate model generalization performance. However, existing DA methods in sEMG control are based on single-source domain adaptation (SDA). SDA solely mixes multiple training users’ data as a combined source domain and attempts to align with a novel user. This simple data mixing manner ignores the sEMG distribution variations between disparate training users, leading to an insufficient variance elimination and lower performance. To this end, this paper proposes a multi-source synchronize domain adaptation framework with both DA and domain generalization (DG) capability. This multi-source framework aligns each source user and the new user in individual feature spaces, which better transfers the knowledge of existing users to the new user. Moreover, we retain the source-combined data to preserve the effectiveness of SDA. The property was further confirmed by evaluating the performance of the proposed method on data from nine subjects performing six tasks. Main results. Experiment results prove that the proposed multi-source framework achieved both positive DG and DA performance in a cross-user classification manner. Significance. This work demonstrates the usability and feasibility of the proposed multi-source framework in cross-user myoelectric control.
Adult–child pairs walking down stairs: empirical analysis and optimal-step-based modeling of a complex pedestrian flow, with an exploration of flow-improvement strategies
Authors: Xie Chuan-Zhi , Tang Tie-Qiao , Zhang Bo-Tao , Nicolas Alexandre
Published: January 2023

Pedestrian egress from training schools in the after-class period (especially in China, as children walk down stairs together with their parents) raises practical concerns related to degraded flow conditions and possible safety hazards. But it also represents a challenge to mainstream modeling approaches for several reasons: they involve heterogeneous groups (adult–child pairs), which are hardly studied compared to their homogeneous counterparts, in a complex geometry, made of staircases connected by a platform where pedestrians rotate, and over a wide range of densities. In light of our field observations at a training school in China, we develop a semi-continuous model which quantitatively reproduces the collective dynamics observed empirically and enables us to assess some guidance strategies to improve egress efficiency. In this model, which extends the optimal step approach, adults and children are described as ellipses with prescribed relative positions that evolve by successive steps handled by an event-driven algorithm, along a spontaneous semi-circular path on the platform, but may deviate from it in crowded conditions by selecting their preferred next positions. In line with the observations, most pairs walk side by side overall and only a small fraction sometimes make a detour to avoid queuing. Turning to the guidance strategies, we find that promoting front-back pairing may increase the flow, while urging people to make more detours may be counterproductive. Perhaps even more relevantly, the intuitive measure consisting in desynchronizing the flows from the different floors by shifting the ends of classes succeeds in reducing the egress time by at least 10%.
The Interaction Between Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Levels and Alcohol Consumption, Sleep Disturbance and Sex-Hormones in Alcohol Use Disorders
Authors: Kolla Bhanu Prakash , Winham Stacey J , Ho Ada Man-Choi , Mansukhani Meghna P , Loukianova Larissa L , Pazdernik Vanessa , Karpyak Victor M
Published: January 2023

Aims

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels may be associated with alcohol use disorders (AUD) and alcohol consumption, correlate with sleep disturbance and be influenced by sex differences and sex hormones. These associations have not been examined in a single sample accounting for all these factors.

Methods

Data from 190 participants (29.4% female) with AUD were utilized. Sleep quality, craving intensity, depression, anxiety and alcohol consumption were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Penn Alcohol Craving Scale (PACS), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and Timeline Follow Back for 90 days(TLFB 90). Inventory of Drug Taking Situations (IDTS) assessed the tendency to drink in positive/negative emotional states. Serum BDNF (sBDNF) and plasma sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, FSH and SHBG) were measured. Pearson correlation analyses were used to examine the association between sBDNF and these measures in the entire sample and in men and women separately. Higher order interaction effects between these factors were evaluated for their association with sBDNF using a backward selection model.

Results

No significant correlations between sBDNF levels and sex hormones, PSQI, PHQ-9, PACS, IDTS scores and alcohol consumption were found (all P-values > 0.05). sBDNF levels were negatively correlated with GAD-7 scores in men (r = −0.1841; P = 0.03). When considering all quadratic and two-way interactions among PSQI, PHQ-9, GAD-7, mean and max drinks/day, number of drinking days, heavy drinking days, and sex no higher order moderating effects of sBDNF levels were found.

Conclusion

Our study revealed no significant associations between sBDNF and alcohol measures, sleep, depression and sex hormones suggesting limited utility as a biomarker.
Deciphering complex reticulate evolution of Asian Buddleja (Scrophulariaceae): insights into the taxonomy and speciation of polyploid taxa in the Sino-Himalayan region
Authors: Yang Fengmao , Ge Jia , Guo Yongjie , Olmstead Richard , Sun Weibang
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

Species of the genus Buddleja in Asia are mainly distributed in the Sino-Himalayan region and form a challenging taxonomic group, with extensive hybridization and polyploidization. A phylogenetic approach to unravelling the history of reticulation in this lineage will deepen our understanding of the speciation in biodiversity hotspots.

Methods

For this study, we obtained 80 accessions representing all the species in the Asian Buddleja clade, and the ploidy level of each taxon was determined by flow cytometry analyses. Whole plastid genomes, nuclear ribosomal DNA, single nucleotide polymorphisms and a large number of low-copy nuclear genes assembled from genome skimming data were used to investigate the reticulate evolutionary history of Asian Buddleja. Complex cytonuclear conflicts were detected through a comparison of plastid and species trees. Gene tree incongruence was also analysed to detect any reticulate events in the history of this lineage.

Key Results

Six hybridization events were detected, which are able to explain the cytonuclear conflict in Asian Buddleja. Furthermore, PhyloNet analysis combining species ploidy data indicated several allopolyploid speciation events. A strongly supported species tree inferred from a large number of low-copy nuclear genes not only corrected some earlier misinterpretations, but also indicated that there are many Asian Buddleja species that have been lumped mistakenly. Divergent time estimation shows two periods of rapid diversification (8–10 and 0–3 Mya) in the Asian Buddleja clade, which might coincide with the final uplift of the Hengduan Mountains and Quaternary climate fluctuations, respectively.

Conclusions

This study presents a well-supported phylogenetic backbone for the Asian Buddleja species, elucidates their complex and reticulate evolutionary history and suggests that tectonic activity, climate fluctuations, polyploidization and hybridization together promoted the diversification of this lineage.
In vivoreduction of age-dependent neuromelanin accumulation mitigates features of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Gonzalez-Sepulveda Marta , Compte Joan , Cuadros Thais , Nicolau Alba , Guillard-Sirieix Camille , Peñuelas Núria , Lorente-Picon Marina , Parent Annabelle , Romero-Giménez Jordi , Cladera-Sastre Joana M , Laguna Ariadna , Vila Miquel
Published: January 2023

Humans accumulate with age the dark-brown pigment neuromelanin inside specific neuronal groups. Neurons with the highest neuromelanin levels are particularly susceptible to degeneration in Parkinson’s disease, especially dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra, the loss of which leads to characteristic motor Parkinson’s disease symptoms. In contrast to humans, neuromelanin does not appear spontaneously in most animals, including rodents, and Parkinson’s disease is an exclusively human condition. Using humanized neuromelanin-producing rodents, we recently found that neuromelanin can trigger Parkinson’s disease pathology when accumulated above a specific pathogenic threshold.

Here, by taking advantage of this newly developed animal model, we assessed whether the intracellular build-up of neuromelanin that occurs with age can be slowed down in vivo to prevent or attenuate Parkinson’s disease. Because neuromelanin derives from the oxidation of free cytosolic dopamine, we enhanced dopamine vesicular encapsulation in the substantia nigra of neuromelanin-producing rats by viral vector-mediated overexpression of vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2). This strategy reduced the formation of potentially toxic oxidized dopamine species that can convert into neuromelanin and maintained intracellular neuromelanin levels below their pathogenic threshold. Decreased neuromelanin production was associated with an attenuation of Lewy body-like inclusion formation and a long-term preservation of dopamine homeostasis, nigrostriatal neuronal integrity and motor function in these animals.

Our results demonstrate the feasibility and therapeutic potential of modulating age-dependent intracellular neuromelanin production in vivo, thereby opening an unexplored path for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and, in a broader sense, brain ageing.
Treatment with lysophosphatidic acid prevents microglial activation and depression-like behaviours in a murine model of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Nagata Wataru , Koizumi Akiho , Nakagawa Keiichi , Takahashi Sayaka , Gotoh Mari , Satoh Yasushi , Ishizuka Toshiaki
Published: January 2023

Neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) is an incurable disease characterised by neuropsychiatric symptoms, particularly depression. Novel therapeutic options for NPSLE are urgently needed. Several previous reports have suggested that both microglial activation and impaired neurogenesis may be involved in the progression of depression. In contrast, the administration of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) ameliorates depression and anxiety. Therefore, in the present study, we determined whether treatment with LPA affects microglial activation, impaired neurogenesis, and abnormal behaviour in MRL/lpr mice. In both tail suspension test and forced swim test, the MRL/lpr mice exhibited a significant increase in total immobility time compared with MRL/+ mice. Treatment with LPA significantly suppressed the prolonged immobility time in MRL/lpr mice. In contrast, pretreatment with ki16425 (a specific antagonist of LPA receptor 1 and 3) significantly reversed the effects of LPA. Furthermore, MRL/lpr mice exhibited impairments in spatial working memory and visual cognitive memory, which were suppressed by LPA treatment. The expression levels of TMEM119, CD68, GFAP, and caspase-3 in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of MRL/lpr mice were significantly higher than those in MRL/+ mice. Treatment with LPA inhibited these increases in MRL/lpr mice. Pretreatment with ki16425 reversed LPA-mediated inhibition of microglial activation. The quantity of sodium fluorescein that leaked into the brain tissues in MRL/lpr mice were significantly higher than that in MRL/+ mice. Treatment with LPA tended to decrease the sodium fluorescein leakage. These findings suggest that treatment with LPA may regulate microglial activation, which is important in the pathogenesis of NPSLE, as well as blood-brain-barrier weakening and abnormal behaviour.
CEBPB regulates the migration, invasion and EMT of breast cancer cells by inhibiting THBS2 expression and O-fucosylation
Authors: Qi Liqiang , Sun Bo , Yang Beibei , Lu Su
Published: January 2023

Breast cancer (bc) is the second most common type of human malignancies with highest morbidity and mortality in the female population. Therefore, it is essential to develop novel and effective therapies for bc treatment. The main aim of the current study is to investigate the functions of CEBPB and THBS2 in bc and the underlying mechanism. Reverse transcription–quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot were performed for the measurement of ribonucleic acids and proteins. Function and mechanism assays were, respectively, conducted for the evaluation of bc biological behaviors and exploration of the potential correlation of genes. According to bioinformatics analyses and experimental results, THBS2, up-regulated in bc tissues and cell lines, could facilitate cell migration, invasion and EMT in bc. CEBPB was validated to facilitate miR-29a-3p transcription, thus negatively modulating THBS2 expression. The results of rescue experiments reflected that CEBPB could regulate the malignant behaviors of bc cells via THBS2. Furthermore, CEBPB was ascertained to inhibit the transcription of B3GALTL to affect THBS2 protein O-fucosylation and secretion. The interaction between THBS2 and ITGB1 was confirmed, and THBS2 was found to activate the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. To conclude, CEBPB could restrain bc cell migration, invasion and EMT via inhibition on THBS2 expression and O-fucosylation.
The effectiveness of a noninterruptive alert to increase prescription of take-home naloxone in emergency departments
Authors: Jennings Lindsey K , Ward Ralph , Pekar Ekaterina , Szwast Elizabeth , Sox Luke , Hying Joseph , Mccauley Jenna , Obeid Jihad S , Lenert Leslie A
Published: January 2023

Objective

Opioid-related overdose (OD) deaths continue to increase. Take-home naloxone (THN), after treatment for an OD in an emergency department (ED), is a recommended but under-utilized practice. To promote THN prescription, we developed a noninterruptive decision support intervention that combined a detailed OD documentation template with a reminder to use the template that is automatically inserted into a provider’s note by decision rules. We studied the impact of the combined intervention on THN prescribing in a longitudinal observational study.

Methods

ED encounters involving an OD were reviewed before and after implementation of the reminder embedded in the physicians' note to use an advanced OD documentation template for changes in: (1) use of the template and (2) prescription of THN. Chi square tests and interrupted time series analyses were used to assess the impact. Usability and satisfaction were measured using the System Usability Scale (SUS) and the Net Promoter Score.

Results

In 736 OD cases defined by International Classification of Disease version 10 diagnosis codes (247 prereminder and 489 postreminder), the documentation template was used in 0.0% and 21.3%, respectively (P < .0001). The sensitivity and specificity of the reminder for OD cases were 95.9% and 99.8%, respectively. Use of the documentation template led to twice the rate of prescribing of THN (25.7% vs 50.0%, P < .001). Of 19 providers responding to the survey, 74% of SUS responses were in the good-to-excellent range and 53% of providers were Net Promoters.

Conclusions

A noninterruptive decision support intervention was associated with higher THN prescribing in a pre-post study across a multiinstitution health system.
Examining medication ordering errors using AHRQ network of patient safety databases
Authors: Grauer Anne , Rosen Amanda , Applebaum Jo R , Carter Danielle , Reddy Pooja , Dal Col Alexis , Kumaraiah Deepa , Barchi Daniel J , Classen David C , Adelman Jason S
Published: January 2023

Background

Studies examining the effects of computerized order entry (CPOE) on medication ordering errors demonstrate that CPOE does not consistently prevent these errors as intended. We used the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Network of Patient Safety Databases (NPSD) to investigate the frequency and degree of harm of reported events that occurred at the ordering stage, characterized by error type.

Materials and Methods

This was a retrospective observational study of safety events reported by healthcare systems in participating patient safety organizations from 6/2010 through 12/2020. All medication and other substance ordering errors reported to NPSD via common format v1.2 between 6/2010 through 12/2020 were analyzed. We aggregated and categorized the frequency of reported medication ordering errors by error type, degree of harm, and demographic characteristics.

Results

A total of 12 830 errors were reported during the study period. Incorrect dose accounted for 3812 errors (29.7%), followed by incorrect medication 2086 (16.3%), and incorrect duration 765 (6.0%). Of 5282 events that reached the patient and had a known level of severity, 12 resulted in death, 4 resulted in severe harm, 45 resulted in moderate harm, 341 resulted in mild harm, and 4880 resulted in no harm.

Conclusion

Incorrect dose and incorrect drug orders were the most commonly reported and harmful types of medication ordering errors. Future studies should aim to develop and test interventions focused on CPOE to prevent medication ordering errors, prioritizing wrong-dose and wrong-drug errors.