bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement of the electric quadrupole amplitude in atomic thallium

6P1/2→6P3/2

transition using electromagnetically induced transparency
Authors: Chen Wei Ling , Hsu Wei Min , Wang Li Bang , Liu Yi Wei
Published: January 2023

We report on a measurement of the transition amplitude ratio χ of an electric quadrupole (

E
2

) to a magnetic dipole (

M
1

) of the

6

P

1

/

2

→
6

P

3

/

2

transition in atomic thallium. We utilized the electromagnetically induced transparency mechanism and the sideband-bridging technique to resolve the isotopic transitions and their hyperfine manifold. Our measurement gave

χ

205

 
=
 
0.2550
(
20
)
(
7
)

for 205Tl, and

χ

203

=
0.2532
(
73
)
(
7
)

for 203Tl, which was measured for the first time. Our results provide a reference point for the theoretical calculation of atomic structures, and new input for the long dispute on the atomic thallium parity non-conservation measurements.
Bearing fault diagnosis based on inverted Mel-scale frequency cepstral coefficients and deformable convolution networks
Authors: Zhao Yunji , Qin Baofu , Zhou Yuhang , Xu Xiaozhuo
Published: January 2023

In the real-time test fault diagnosis algorithm based on deep learning, it is difficult to guarantee that the training and testing data come from the same time series distribution. Inconsistent distribution will lead to a decline in diagnostic performance. In addition, the convolutional neural network is limited by the fixed shape of its convolution kernel, which makes it difficult to fully extract the spatial constraint features between fault data. To solve the above problems, this paper proposes a bearing fault diagnosis method based on inverted Mel-scale frequency cepstrum coefficients and deformable convolution networks. The core of traditional Mel-scale frequency cepstrum coefficients is to construct a non-uniformly distributed frequency-domain filter bank. It is characterized by the dense distribution of low-frequency regions and the sparse distribution of high-frequency regions. Considering that the features that can well characterize fault information are concentrated in the high-frequency part, we reconstruct the traditional Mel-scale frequency cepstrum coefficients filter bank and propose a feature extraction method of inverted Mel-scale frequency cepstrum coefficients. This method can obtain the frequency-domain characteristics of bearing vibration signals, highlight the fault information contained in the high-frequency region, and reduce the influence of time series distribution inconsistency between training samples and testing samples on the diagnosis accuracy. In order to further improve the spatial discrimination between different fault categories, the deformable convolution networks model is introduced to extract the spatial distribution information of fault features and improve the accuracy of fault diagnosis. Finally, two public data sets and data from an experimental platform verify that the method can achieve high-precision fault diagnosis, and that inverted Mel-scale Frequency cepstrum coefficients are effective in solving the problem of inconsistent distribution.
Research on nonlinear compensation scheme of yarn tension sensor using SAW devices based on SSA–SVR model
Authors: Liu Shoubing , Duan Songkai , Xing Renzhou , Lu Wenke
Published: January 2023

The detection accuracy of a yarn tension sensor using surface acoustic wave devices has become increasingly important. We investigate a nonlinear compensation scheme based on sparrow search algorithm (SSA) and support vector regression (SVR) models to improve its detection accuracy, and the principle of SSA–SVR model and training method are also explored. We take the output frequency of the two sensors as input, the yarn tension applied to the working sensor as output, train an SSA–SVR model and use it for nonlinear compensation. We analyze and calculate the linearity, compensation accuracy and robustness of the SSA-SVR model, and compared it with the multiple regression model and BP neural network. The comparison results show that the SSA–SVR model has the best linearity, the highest compensation accuracy and the most robust. Finally, a novel nonlinear compensation scheme is proposed.
Lateral GeSn waveguide-based homojunction phototransistor for next-generation 2000 nm communication and sensing applications
Authors: Kumar Harshvardhan , Chen Qimiao , Tan Chuan Seng
Published: January 2023

This work reports a novel mid-infrared lateral Ge1 − x
Sn
x
(x = 6%) waveguide (WG)-based phototransistors (PTs) on a silicon platform. A lateral device structure is proposed to enhance the optical confinement factor and the optical power through the i-GeSn WG, thereby, increasing the optical responsivity of the PTs. The proposed devices are investigated using multiphysics simulation. The designed PTs are investigated in terms of the Gummel and output characteristics under both dark and illumination, 3 dB bandwidth, optical gain, and responsivity. The effect of lateral scaling on various figure-of-merits of PTs is also studied and in return, helps optimize the device structure to get the highest optical gain, responsivity, and 3 dB bandwidth at 2000 nm. The theoretically optimized PT achieves the maximum optical gain of 1650 and responsivity of about 308 A W−1 at 2000 nm, with

V

BE

=
0.3

V

and

V

CE

=
1

V

. In addition, the device exhibits a record-high 3 dB bandwidth of >55 GHz. Thus, the encouraging electrical and optical performance of the proposed PT manifests it as a great potential candidate for the 2000 nm band.
Electrical performance and noise assessment of vertical ferroelectric tunnel junction based SELBOX TFET
Authors: Ghosh Puja
Published: January 2023

A novel vertical ferroelectric tunnel junction based TFET design with selective buried oxide (SELBOX) is proposed and analytically simulated. The tunneling area is augmented as the tunnel junction remains perpendicular to the channel direction. Moreover, the device drive current boosts up due to the incorporation of ferroelectric material at the tunnel junction along with the n+ pocket. OFF current is restrained at a lower value by releasing the OFF-state charge carriers through the gap in the buried oxide. Through systematic simulation the dimensions of the device architecture are optimized to study its impact on the electrical parameters and to exaggerate the current ratio. An enhanced ION/IOFF current ratio of 4.1 × 1013 with substantially minimum Subthreshold Swing (SS) of 39 mV/decade is achieved. Further, the affectability of different noise components on the device performance has been investigated considering a range of frequency. The proposed TFET design is benchmarked with other existing novel TFETs and is proved to be a better design with improved performance considering ON state current and SS.
Stability of connected and automated vehicles platoon considering communications failures
Authors: Liu Run-Kun , Yu Hai-Yang , Ren Yi-Long , Cui Zhi-Yong
Published: January 2023

As a form of a future traffic system, a connected and automated vehicle (CAV) platoon is a typical nonlinear physical system. CAVs can communicate with each other and exchange information. However, communication failures can change the platoon system status. To characterize this change, a dynamic topology-based car-following model and its generalized form are proposed in this work. Then, a stability analysis method is explored. Finally, taking the dynamic cooperative intelligent driver model (DC-IDM) for example, a series of numerical simulations is conducted to analyze the platoon stability in different communication topology scenarios. The results show that the communication failures reduce the stability, but information from vehicles that are farther ahead and the use of a larger desired time headway can improve stability. Moreover, the critical ratio of communication failures required to ensure stability for different driving parameters is studied in this work.
Optimization of communication topology for persistent formation in case of communication faults
Authors: Wang Guo-Qiang , Luo He , Hu Xiao-Xuan , Tai Jian-Wei
Published: January 2023

To address the optimization problem of communication topology for persistent formation in the case of communication faults such as link interruption, transmitter failure, and receiver failure a two-stage model including fast reconstruction of communication topology and re-optimization of communication topology is constructed. Then, a fast reconstruction algorithm of communication topology for persistent formation (FRA-CT-PF), based on optimally rigid graph, arc addition operation, and path reversal operation, is proposed, which can quickly generate a feasible reconstructed communication topology after communication faults, thus ensuring the safety of the agents and maintaining the formation shape of persistent formation. Furthermore, a re-optimization algorithm of communication topology for persistent formation (ROA-CT-PF), based on agent position exchange, is proposed, which can further obtain a reoptimized communication topology to minimize the formation communication cost while still maintaining the formation shape of persistent formation. The time complexities of these two algorithms are also analyzed. Finally, the effectiveness of the above algorithms is verified by numerical experiments. Compared with existing algorithms, FRA-CT-PF can always obtain feasible reconstructed communication topology in much less time under all communication fault scenarios, and ROA-CT-PF can obtain a reoptimized communication topology to further reduce the formation communication cost in a shorter time.
Sequential single pion production explaining the dibaryon "d*(2380)" peak*
Authors: Molina R. , Ikeno Natsumi , Oset Eulogio
Published: January 2023

In this study, we investigate the two step sequential one pion production mechanism, that is,

followed by the fusion reaction

, to describe the

reaction with

in state

. In this reaction, a narrow peak identified with a "

" dibaryon has been previously observed. We discover that the second reaction step

is driven by a triangle singularity that determines the position of the peak of the reaction and the high strength of the cross section. The combined cross section of these two mechanisms produces a narrow peak with a position, width, and strength, that are compatible with experimental observations within the applied approximations made. This novel interpretation of the peak accomplished without invoking a dibaryon explains why this peak has remained undetected in other reactions.
En route to next-generation nerve repair: static passive magnetostimulation modulates neurite outgrowth
Authors: Neuman Katelyn , Zhang Xiaoyu , Mills Caroline , Koppes Ryan , Lewis Laura H , Koppes Abigail
Published: January 2023

Objective. Regeneration of damaged nerves is required for recovery following nervous system injury. While neural cell behavior may be modified by neuromodulation techniques, the impact of static direct current (DC) magnetic stimulation remains unclear. Approach. This study quantifies the effects of DC magnetostimulation on primary neuronal outgrowth in vitro. The extension of neurites of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) subjected to two different low-strength (mT) static magnetic flux configurations was investigated. Main results. After 3 d of 1 h in-plane (IP) magnetic field stimulation, a 62.5% increase in neurite outgrowth area was seen relative to unstimulated controls. The combined action of in-plane + out-of-plane (IP + OOP) magnetic field application produced a directional outgrowth bias parallel to the IP field direction. At the same time, the diverse magnetic field conditions produced no changes in two soluble neurotrophic factors, nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, released from resident glia. Significance. These results demonstrate the potential for DC magnetostimulation to enhance neuronal regrowth and improve clinical outcomes.
Hydrogen and oxygen on tungsten (110) surface: adsorption, absorption and desorption investigated by density functional theory
Authors: Ferro Y. , Hodille E.A. , Denis J. , Piazza Z.A. , Ajmalghan M.
Published: January 2023

In this work we investigated the adsorption of oxygen and the co-adsorption of oxygen and hydrogen on the (110) surface of tungsten by means of Density Functional calculations. The absorption, recombination and release mechanisms of hydrogen across the (110) surface with oxygen are further established at saturation and above saturation of the surface. It is found that hydrogen and oxygen both adsorb preferentially at three-fold sites. The saturation limit was determined to one monolayer in adsorbate. Oxygen is found to lower the binding energy of hydrogen on the surface and to lower the activation barrier for the recombination of molecular hydrogen. Finally, as on the clean surface, oversaturation in adsorbate is shown to lower both activation barriers for hydrogen absorption and for molecular hydrogen recombination on the (110) surface of tungsten.
Control and study of bio-inspired quadrupedal gaits on an underactuated miniature robot
Authors: Askari Mohammad , Ugur Mustafa , Mahkam Nima , Yeldan Alper , Ozcan Onur
Published: January 2023

This paper presents a linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG) controller for controlling the gait of a miniature, foldable quadruped robot with individually actuated and controlled legs (MinIAQ-III). The controller is implemented on a palm-size robot made by folding an acetate sheet. MinIAQ-III has four DC motors for actuation and four rotary sensors for feedback. It is one of the few untethered robots on a miniature scale capable of working with different gaits with the help of its individually-actuated legs and the developed controller. The presented LQG controller controls each leg’s positions and rotational speeds by measuring the positions and estimating the rotational speeds, respectively. With the precise gait control on the robot, we demonstrate different gaits inspired by quadrupeds in nature and compare the simulation and experiment results for some of the gaits. An extensive simulation environment developed for robot dynamics helps us to predict the locomotion behavior of the robot in various environments. The match between the simulation and the experiment results shows that the proposed LQG controller can successfully control the miniature robot’s gaits. We also conduct a case study that shows the potential to use the simulation to achieve different robot behavior. In a case study, we present our robot performing a prancing similar to horses. We use the simulation environment to find the required motor configuration phases and physical parameters, which can make our robot prance. After finding the parameters in simulation, we replicate the configuration in our robot and observe the robot making the same moves as the simulation.
On the perturbed second Painlevé equation
*
Authors: Holroyd Joshua , Joshi Nalini
Published: January 2023

We consider a perturbed version of the second Painlevé equation (

P

II

), which arises in applications, and show that it possesses solutions analogous to the celebrated Hastings–McLeod and tritronquée solutions of

P

II

. The Hastings–McLeod-type solution of the perturbed equation is holomorphic, real-valued and positive on the whole real-line, while the tritronquée-type solution is holomorphic in a large sector of the complex plane. These properties also characterise the corresponding solutions of

P

II

and are surprising because the perturbed equation does not possess additional distinctive properties that characterise

P

II

, particularly the Painlevé property.
Unimodularity and invariant volume forms for Hamiltonian dynamics on Poisson–Lie groups
Authors: Gutierrez-Sagredo I , Iglesias Ponte D , Marrero J C , Padrón E , Ravanpak Z
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we discuss several relations between the existence of invariant volume forms for Hamiltonian systems on Poisson–Lie groups and the unimodularity of the Poisson–Lie structure. In particular, we prove that Hamiltonian vector fields on a Lie group endowed with a unimodular Poisson–Lie structure preserve a multiple of any left-invariant volume on the group. Conversely, we also prove that if there exists a Hamiltonian function such that the identity element of the Lie group is a nondegenerate singularity and the associated Hamiltonian vector field preserves a volume form, then the Poisson–Lie structure is necessarily unimodular. Furthermore, we illustrate our theory with different interesting examples, both on semisimple and unimodular Poisson–Lie groups.
Folate decorated dextran-coated magnetic nanoparticles for targeted delivery of ellipticine in cervical cancer cells
Authors: Abdulwahid Farah Shamil , Haider Adawiya J. , Al-Musawi Sharafaldin
Published: January 2023

The dextran-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) grafted with foliate (FA) were prepared and used as a nanocarrier for ellipticine (ET) delivery in cervical cancer. In this work we prepared superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles by pulsed laser ablation in liquid method. The formation of the SPION@DEX-ET-FA nanosystem was performed by a reverse microemulsion process. Dynamic light scattering (DLS), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) were used to characteristic the morphological properties of the NPs. The appropriate impact of a therapeutic dose of SPION@DEX-ET-FA on both cancer and healthy cell lines was estimated using a 3- (4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl) -2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The flow cytometry assays was used to evaluate the induction of apoptosis in Hela cervical cancer cells. The findings of the SPION@DEX-ET-FA formulated were spherical particles with an average size, polydispersity and a zeta potential of 101 ± 15.02 nm, 0.075 and −33.8 mV, respectively. The nanosystem displayed dose-dependent cytotoxic effects on Hela cells. The results showed that SPION@DEX-ET-FA retained antitumor activity and no adverse effects on healthy cells were found.
Parameter optimization and microstructure evaluation of welding of structural steel 1020 and AA6062
Authors: Kumar C Labesh , Jayakumar V , Bharathiraja G , Palani Kumaran
Published: January 2023

AA6062 and ST1020 materials are used to perform friction stir spot welding (FSSW). In this experiment, the mechanical and microstructural characteristics of the welded joint were determined using a square-head tip tool. To enhance the life of the welded joint, three essential process parameters, namely tool speed, dwell time, and plunge depth were employed with four levels. The L16 orthogonal array was adapted for experimental work to develop a process parameter table. A tensile test was performed for a larger better value to predict the strength of the welded joint, and the value is 5.65 kN. The outcome shows that dwell time is a more prominent parameter than tool speed and plunge depth. The optimal combination of welding parameters is a dwell time of 24 s, a tool rotational speed of 1200 rpm, and a plunge depth of 0.8 mm; dwell time contributes 39.66%, followed by a plunge depth 35.7%, and at last, tool speed 6.171%. Furthermore, to determine the optimum level of parameters. The microstructure of this joint was observed with respect to heat dissipation and changes in grain size. Microstructure studies were carried out to see the area under stir zone for workpieces with high and low tensile strength. This work was validated using the response surface method (RSM). The RSM results are very close to the experimental results.
The effect of synthesis conditions on the photokilling activity of TiO2 nanostructures
Authors: Al-Harbi Laila M , Mohamed W S , Ebnalwaled A A , Said Alaa Hassan , Ezzeldien Mohammed
Published: January 2023

In this study, Titanium dioxide nanostructures were hydrothermally synthesized at different temperatures 130, 170 and 200 °C. The structural properties and crystallite size of TiO2 nanostructures were confirmed through XRD analyses. Moreover, the morphologies were confirmed using TEM analyses. These analyses confirmed the formation of single phase TiO2 nanostructures. The average crystallite size for the TiO2 nanostructures synthesized at different hydrothermal temperatures of 130, 170, and 200 °C was found to be 11.5 nm, 5.3 nm, and 5 nm, respectively. The impact of changes in these morphologies on the physical characteristics and photokilling activity of cancer cells has been studied. The results showed that the photokilling activity of TiO2 nanostructures is morphology dependent, with TiO2 nanowires having the highest activity and nanosheets having the lowest under our experimental conditions.
Influences of various natural fibers on the mechanical and drilling characteristics of coir-fiber-based hybrid epoxy composites
Authors: Boopathi Sampathi , Balasubramani V , Sanjeev Kumar R
Published: January 2023

In this research, the hybrid natural fiber composite specimens were fabricated with a 64 wt% epoxy resin matrix, 20 wt% coir fiber, and 16 wt% of various natural fibers by the hand-layup method. The influences of various natural fibers (Coir, Jute, Flax, Cotton, Human Hair, Sisal, Kenaf, and Calotropis) on the mechanical characteristics (tensile, flexural, and impact strengths) and drilling properties (delamination factor and ovality) of the Coir-fiber based hybrid composite have been investigated. The maximum tensile strength (48.15 MPa), maximum flexural strength (47.87 MPa), and maximum impact strength (2.85 kJ m−2) have been obtained by Coir/Flax, Coir/Sisal, and Coir/Hair Fiber hybrid composite materials, respectively. The minimum delamination factor (1.0) and ovality (169.4 μm) were obtained by coir/flax and coir/jute hybrid composite specimens when compared to other combinations of specimens. The delamination factor and ovality of the drilled hole of all combinations of hybrid composite specimens have been analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. The delamination factors of Coir/Flax and the drilling ovalities of Coir/Jute composite specimens are lower than those of other combinations of Coir-fiber-based composites.
A seasonal eruption in an unusual distribution
Authors: Agarwal Vani , Phillips Alexandra L , Asher Ruth , Mukkanna Krishna S
Published: January 2023

We present the case of a 23-year-old equestrian who presented with violaceous plaques on the lateral thighs. Blood tests including a full autoimmune screen, coagulation screen, cold agglutinins and cryoglobulins revealed no abnormalities. Histological findings were consistent with a low-grade lymphocytic vasculitis.
Feeding gastrostomy and duodenostomy using the round ligament of the liver versus conventional feeding jejunostomy after esophagectomy: a meta-analysis
Authors: Yasuda Tomohiko , Matsuda Akihisa , Arai Hiroki , Kakinuma Daisuke , Hagiwara Nobutoshi , Kawano Youichi , Minamimura Keisuke , Matsutani Takeshi , Watanabe Masanori , Suzuki Hideyuki , Yoshida Hiroshi
Published: January 2023

Esophageal cancer patients require enteral nutritional support after esophagectomy. Conventional feeding enterostomy to the jejunum (FJ) is occasionally associated with small bowel obstruction because the jejunum is fixed to the abdominal wall. Feeding through an enteral feeding tube inserted through the reconstructed gastric tube (FG) or the duodenum (FD) using the round ligament of the liver have been suggested as alternatives. This meta-analysis aimed to compare short-term outcomes between FG/FD and FJ. Studies published prior to May 2022 that compared FG or FD with FJ in cancer patients who underwent esophagectomy were identified via electronic literature search. Meta-analysis was performed using the Mantel–Haenszel random-effects model to calculate Odds Ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Five studies met inclusion criteria to yield a total of 1687 patients. Compared with the FJ group, the odds of small bowel obstruction (OR 0.09; 95% CI, 0.02–0.33), catheter site infection (OR 0.18; 95% CI, 0.06–0.51) and anastomotic leakage (OR 0.53; 95% CI, 0.32–0.89) were lower for the FG/FD group. Odds of pneumonia, recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy, chylothorax and hospital mortality did not significantly differ between the groups. The length of hospital stay was shorter for the FG/FD group (median difference, −10.83; 95% CI, −18.55 to −3.11). FG and FD using the round ligament of the liver were associated with lower odds of small bowel obstruction, catheter site infection and anastomotic leakage than FJ in esophageal cancer patients who underwent esophagectomy.
Global burden of atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter and its attributable risk factors from 1990 to 2019
Authors: Dong Xin-Jiang , Wang Bei-Bei , Hou Fei-Fei , Jiao Yang , Li Hong-Wei , Lv Shu-Ping , Li Fei-Hong
Published: January 2023

Aims

The aim of this study was to estimate the global burden of atrial fibrillation (AF)/atrial flutter (AFL) and its attributable risk factors from 1990 to 2019.

Methods and results

The data on AF/AFL were retrieved from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2019. Incidence, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and deaths were metrics used to measure AF/AFL burden. The population attributable fractions (PAFs) were used to calculate the percentage contributions of major potential risk factors to age-standardized AF/AFL death. The analysis was performed between 1990 and 2019. Globally, in 2019, there were 4.7 million [95% uncertainty interval (UI): 3.6 to 6.0] incident cases, 8.4 million (95% UI: 6.7 to 10.5) DALYs cases, and 0.32 million (95% UI: 0.27 to 0.36) deaths of AF/AFL. The burden of AF/AFL in 2019 and their temporal trends from 1990 to 2019 varied widely due to gender, Socio-Demographic Index (SDI) quintile, and geographical location. Among all potential risk factors, age-standardized AF/AFL death worldwide in 2019 were primarily attributable to high systolic blood pressure [34.0% (95% UI: 27.3 to 41.0)], followed by high body mass index [20.2% (95% UI: 11.2 to 31.2)], alcohol use [7.4% (95% UI: 5.8 to 9.0)], smoking [4.3% (95% UI: 2.9 to 5.9)], diet high in sodium [4.2% (95% UI: 0.8 to 10.5)], and lead exposure [2.3% (95% UI: 1.3 to 3.4)].

Conclusion

Our study showed that AF/AFL is still a major public health concern. Despite the advancements in the prevention and treatment of AF/AFL, especially in regions in the relatively SDI quintile, the burden of AF/AFL in regions in lower SDI quintile is increasing. Since AF/AFL is largely preventable and treatable, there is an urgent need to implement more cost-effective strategies and interventions to address modifiable risk factors, especially in regions with high or increased AF/AFL burden.
Electroanatomic visualization of coronary arteries: a case series to elicit safety, feasibility, and diagnostic value in complex ablation procedures
Authors: Fries Bastian , Johnson Victoria , Schneider Nikita , Dörr Oliver , Chasan Ritvan , Mathew Shibu , Hamm Christian W , Schmitt Joern
Published: January 2023

Aims

The goal of this case series was to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and advantages of a wire-based approach for the live visualization of coronary arteries (CAs) in an electroanatomic mapping (EAM) system and to assess its diagnostic information.

Methods and results

For this single-centre case series, we included procedures in which close proximity of a possible ablation site to any epicardial vessel was suspected. An uncoated-tip guidewire was introduced into the relevant CAs after exclusion of critical CA stenosis by coronary angiography. By connecting this wire to the EAM system using a clip and pin connection, mapping and live visualization of the wire tip is possible, as well as the assessment of the local electrograms within the respective CAs. Procedural wire insertion and intracoronary mapping was performed by EP specialists and was assisted to judge the relevance of CA disease by an interventional cardiologist. A total of nine procedures in nine patients were included in this case series, four ventricular tachycardia ablation procedures and five procedures for the ablation of premature ventricular contractions. The left CAs were mapped in eight cases and the right CA was mapped in one case. In two cases, epicardial mapping was combined with visualization of the right or left CAs. There were no complications attributed to coronary wiring and mapping in this case.

Conclusion

We demonstrated the feasibility and safety of CA visualization and integration in an EAM. The live visualization of the CAs added valuable information without the need for preprocedural planning or the purchase of separate software. Electroanatomic visualization was achieved intraprocedurally in a safe and straightforward manner, adding critical diagnostic information without excessive costs or risks.
Influence of the bronchus on the vascular growth of major aortopulmonary collateral arteries
Authors: Ide Yujiro , Ikeda Tadashi , Tomotsuka Sanae , Matsuda Koichi , Akagi Kentaro , Hirata Takuya , Baba Shiro , Minatoya Kenji
Published: January 2023

OBJECTIVES

Patients with major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (MAPCAs) often require additional surgical or catheter intervention after unifocalization (UF) due to stenosis and poor growth. We hypothesized that the UF design influences vascular growth; assessment was based on the passing route related to the bronchus.

METHODS

We enrolled 5 patients with pulmonary atresia (PA), ventricular septal defect and MAPCA who underwent UF and subsequent definitive repair at our institute from 2008 to 2020. Angiography and computed tomography scans were routinely performed before surgical intervention to clarify pulmonary circulation and the relationships between MAPCAs and the bronchus, which revealed peculiar MAPCAs directed to the pulmonary hilum passing behind the bronchus (defined as retro-bronchial MAPCAs; rbMAPCAs). Vascular growth of rbMAPCAs, non-rbMAPCAs and the native pulmonary artery were assessed using the angiograms before and after repair.

RESULTS

The angiogram before UF [age 42 (24–76) days, body weight 3.2 (2.7–4.2) kg] showed that the diameter of the original unilateral PA, rbMAPCA and non-rbMAPCA was 19.95 ± 6.65, 20.72 ± 5.36 and 20.29 ± 7.42 mm/m2, respectively (P = 0.917). UF was completed in a single-stage with the placement of modified Blalock–Taussig shunt through median sternotomy at the age of 1.6 (1.0–2.5) months. Angiograms performed 3.0 (1.0–10.0) years after UF completion demonstrated a smaller rbMAPCA diameter at peri-bronchial region (3.84 ± 2.84 mm/m2) compared to the native unilateral PAs (16.11 ± 5.46 mm/m2, P < 0.0001) and non-rbMAPCA (10.13 ± 4.44 mm/m2, P = 0.0103).

CONCLUSIONS

RbMAPCAs tend to be stenosed at the point where they cross the bronchus and emerge in the middle mediastinum after in situ UF.
Length-scales and dynamics of Carina’s Western wall
Authors: Downes Turlough P , Hartigan Patrick , Isella Andrea
Published: January 2023

We present a variety of analyses of the turbulent dynamics of the boundary of a photodissociation region (PDR) in the Carina Nebula using high resolution ALMA observations. Using principal component analysis, we suggest that the turbulence in this molecular cloud is driven at large scales. Analysis of the centroid velocity structure functions indicate that the turbulence is dominated by shocks rather than local (in k-space) transport of energy. We further find that length-scales in the range 0.02–0.03 pc are important in the dynamics of this cloud and this finding is supported by analysis of the dominant emission structure length-scale. These length-scales are well resolved by the observational data and we conclude that the apparent importance of this range of scales is physical in origin. Given that it is also well within the range strongly influenced by ambipolar diffusion, we conclude that it is not primarily a product of turbulence alone, but is more likely to be a result of the interplay between gravity and turbulence. Finally, through comparison of these results with previous observations of H2 emission from the Western Wall, we demonstrate that observations of a PDR can be used to probe the internal structure of the undisturbed portion of a molecular cloud.
Revisiting the mechanisms of mid-Tertiary uplift of the NE Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wei Hong-Hong , Wu Guo-Li , Ding Lin , Fan Long-Gang , Li Lin , Meng Qing-Ren
Published: January 2023

Contrasting views exist on timing and mechanisms of Tertiary crustal uplift in the NE Tibetan Plateau based on different approaches, with many models attributing surface uplift to crustal shortening. We carry out a comprehensive investigation of mid-Tertiary stratigraphy, sedimentology, and volcanism in the West Qinling, Hoh Xil and Qaidam basin, and the results challenge previous views. It was held that the discordance between Oligocene and Miocene strata is an angular unconformity in the West Qinling, but our field observations show that it is actually a disconformity, indicative of vertical crustal uplifting rather than crustal shortening at the Oligocene to Miocene transition. Widespread occurrence of synsedimentary normal faults in mid-Tertiary successions implicates supracrustal stretching. Miocene potassic–ultrapassic and mafic–ultramafic volcanics in the Hoh Xil and West Qinling suggest a crucial role of deep thermomechanical processes in generating crust- and mantle-sourced magmatism. Also noticeable are the continuity of mid-Tertiary successions and absence of volcanics in the Qaidam basin. Based on a holistic assessment of stratigraphic–sedimentary processes, volcanic petrogenesis, and spatial variations of lithospheric thicknesses, we speculate that small-sale mantle convection might have been operating beneath northeast Tibet in the mid-Tertiary. It is assumed that northward asthenospheric flow was impeded by thicker cratonic lithosphere of the Qaidam and Alxa blocks, thereby leading to edge convection. The edge-driven convection could bring about surface uplift, induce supracrustal stretching, and trigger vigorous volcanism in the Hoh Xil and West Qinling in the mid-Tertiary period. This mechanism satisfactorily explains many key geologic phenomena that are hardly reconciled by previous models.
Personal Financial Wellness Curricula for Medical Trainees: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wesslund Hannah M. , Payne Jeremy S. , Baxter Jared D. , Westmark Danielle M. , Bartels Karsten , Bailey Kristina L. , Krutsinger Dustin C.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Education debt, poor financial literacy, and a late start to retirement savings can cause financial stress among physicians. This systematic review identifies methods for curriculum development, methods for curriculum delivery, and outcome measures to evaluate the effectiveness of personal financial wellness curricula for medical students, residents, and fellows.

Method

The authors searched the Embase, MEDLINE (via EBSCO), Scopus, Education Resources Information Center (via EBSCO), and Cochrane Library databases and MedEdPORTAL (via PubMed) on July 28, 2022. Studies must have reported the outcome of at least 1 postcourse assessment to be included.

Results

Of the 1,996 unique citations identified, 13 studies met the inclusion criteria. Three curricula (23.1%) were designed for medical students, 8 (61.5%) for residents, 1 (7.7%) for internal medicine fellows, and 1 (7.7%) for obstetrics–gynecology residents and fellows. The most frequently discussed personal finance topics included student loans, investment options, disability insurance, life insurance, retirement savings, budgeting, debt management, and general personal finance. A median (interquartile range) of 3.5 (1.4–7.0) hours was spent on personal finance topics. Eleven curricula (85.6%) relied on physicians to deliver the content. Four studies (30.8%) reported precourse and postcourse financial literacy evaluations, each showing improved financial literacy after the course. Four studies (30.8%) assessed actual or planned financial behavior changes, each credited with encouraging or assisting with financial behavioral changes. One study (7.7%) assessed participants’ well-being using the Expanded Well-Being Index, which showed an improvement after the course.

Conclusions

Given the impact educational debt and other financial stressors can have on the wellness of medical trainees, institutions should consider investments in teaching financial literacy. Future studies should report more concrete outcome measures, including financial behavior change and validated measures of wellness.
Gender-Based Differences in Language Used by Students to Describe Their Noteworthy Characteristics in Medical Student Performance Evaluations
Authors: Engel-Rebitzer Eden , Kogan Jennifer R. , Heath Janae K.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The noteworthy characteristic (NC) section of the medical student performance evaluation (MSPE) was introduced to facilitate holistic review of residency applications and mitigate biases. The student-written aspect of the characteristics, however, may introduce biases resulting from gender differences in self-promotion behaviors. The authors conducted an exploratory analysis of potential gender-based differences in language used in NCs.

Method

The authors performed a single-center cohort analysis of all student-written NCs at the Perelman School of Medicine (2018–2022). NCs were converted into single words and characterized into word categories: ability (e.g., “talent”), standout (“best”), grindstone (“meticulous”), communal (“caring”), or agentic (“ambitious”). The authors qualitatively analyzed NC topic characteristics (i.e., focused on scholarship, community service). Logistic regression was used to identify gender differences in word categories and topics used in NCs.

Results

The cohort included 2,084 characteristics from 783 MSPEs (47.5%, n = 371 written by women). After adjusting for underrepresented in medicine status, honor society membership, and intended specialty, men were more likely to use standout (OR = 2.00; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.35, 2.96;P= .001) and communal (OR = 1.40; 95% CI = 1.03, 1.90;P= .03) words in their NCs compared with women but less likely to use grindstone words (OR = 0.72; 95% CI = 0.53, 0.98;P= .04). Men were more likely than women to discuss scholarship (OR = 2.03; 95% CI = 1.27, 3.23;P= .003), hobbies (OR = 1.45; 95% CI = 1.07, 1.96;P= .02), and/or awards (OR = 1.59; 95% CI = 1.16, 2.16;P= .004) and less likely to highlight community service (OR = 0.66; 95% CI = 0.48, 0.92;P= .02).

Conclusions

The self-written nature of NCs permits language differences that may contribute to gender bias in residency application.
Bethlem Myopathy (Collagen VI-Related Dystrophies): A Retrospective Cohort Study on Musculoskeletal Pathologies and Clinical Course
Authors: Silverstein Rachel S. , Wang Daniel D. , Haruno Lee S. , Lotze Timothy E. , Scott Allison C. , Rosenfeld Scott B.
Published: January 2023

Background:

Collagen VI-related myopathies with pathologic COL6A1, COL6A2, and COL6A3 variants manifest as a phenotypic continuum of rare disorders, including Bethlem myopathy (BM), characterized by early onset muscle weakness, proximal joint contractures, and distal joint laxity. Herein we discuss the concomitant orthopedic manifestations of BM, potential management strategies, and patient outcomes.

Methods:

An IRB-approved retrospective cohort study (n=23) from 2 pediatric institutions with a confirmed diagnosis of BM. Charts were reviewed for demographic data, age of disease presentation and diagnosis, COL6 genotype, diagnosis method, ambulation status, need for assistance, musculoskeletal abnormalities, other systemic comorbidities, advanced imaging and screening diagnostics, previous surgical interventions, and progression of the disease.

Results:

The mean age was 11.65 years (range 3 to 19 y). Mean age at initial presentation with symptoms was 4.18 years old, whereas diagnosis was delayed until 8.22 years old on average. Muscle weakness was the most common presenting symptom (65.2%), and 73.9% of patients required some use of assistive or mobility devices. Overall, 30.4% of patients were diagnosed with scoliosis; 57.1% required operative intervention for their scoliosis; 43.5% of patients had acetabular dysplasia; 10% required open reduction of a dislocated hip; 10% required closed reduction with hip spica application; 10% required bilateral periacetabular osteotomies for instability; 91.3% of patients developed foot and ankle deformities; 33.3% of patients underwent posteromedial-lateral equinovarus releases; 28.6% required an Achilles tendon lengthening, and 86.9% of patients had muscle tendon contractures, the most common locations being the ankle (55%) and elbow (40%).

Conclusion:

Although often less severe than other more common neuropathies and myopathies like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, BM does lead to progressive musculoskeletal deformity and disability. Its relative rarity makes it less familiar to providers and likely contributes to delays in diagnosis. Scoliosis, hip dysplasia, and equinus and varus ankle deformities are the most common musculoskeletal deformities. Physicians and surgeons should appropriately counsel patients and families about the clinical course of this disorder and the potential need for mobility assistance or surgical procedures.

Level of Evidence:

III, Prognostic. study.
Efficacy of 2 Nonpharmaceutical (Non-nutritive Sucking and Human Care Contact) Pain Relief Measures for Idiopathic Clubfoot Casted Using Ponseti Technique
Authors: Upadhyay Ankur , Barik Sitanshu , Agarwal Anil , Patel Yogesh
Published: January 2023

Purpose:

This study aimed at exploring the pain and physiological responses exhibited during Ponseti manipulation and casting in clubfoot infants. In addition, we compared the efficacy of 2 nonpharmaceutical techniques (non-nutritive sucking and human care contact) for tackling these responses.

Methods:

The study included children with unilateral and bilateral idiopathic clubfeet between 15 days to 6 months of age. For comparisons, children were divided into control group without any intervention (group A), non-nutritive sucking group (group B), and human care contact group (group C). Pain score (Neonatal Infant Pain Score), heart rate (HR), and oxygen saturation (SpO2) was assessed before, during and 1 minute after casting. These measurements were compared using statistical methods.

Results:

There were 16 children (11 bilateral) in group A, 17 (10 bilateral) in group B, and 18 (8 bilateral) in group C. Before casting, the baseline parameters (Neonatal Infant Pain Score, HR, and SpO2) of the 3 groups were comparable. Groups B and C had a significant reduction in pain score at casting and in postcasting period when compared with group A (P<0.05). Group B (at casting—mean: 174.1/min, postcasting—mean: 168.2/min) had the lowest HR both during and after cast application. Group B had the highest SpO2 among all the 3 groups, both during casting (mean: 95.7%) and after casting (mean: 97.4%) (P<0.05).

Conclusions:

Infants exhibit moderate pain response and altered physiological responses during and after Ponseti casting. Non-nutritive sucking emerged as a better method to lessen these parameters when compared with the conventional technique and human care contact.

Level of Evidence:

Level II.
HDAC Inhibitors Alleviate Uric Acid–Induced Vascular Endothelial Cell Injury by Way of the HDAC6/FGF21/PI3K/AKT Pathway
Authors: Wang Kaihao , Zhang Youhong , Zhou Min , Du Yipeng , Li Peixin , Guan Chang , Huang Zheng
Published: January 2023

Uric acid (UA) accumulation triggers endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) plays a vital role in regulating the pathological processes of various diseases. However, the influence of HDAC inhibitor on UA-induced vascular endothelial cell injury (VECI) remains undefined. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the effect of HDACs inhibition on UA-induced vascular endothelial cell dysfunction and its detailed mechanism. UA was used to induce human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) injury. Meanwhile, potassium oxonate–induced and hypoxanthine-induced hyperuricemia mouse models were also constructed. A broad-spectrum HDAC inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA) or selective HDAC6 inhibitor TubastatinA (TubA) was given to HUVECs or mice to determine whether HDACs can affect UA-induced VECI. The results showed pretreatment of HUVECs with TSA or HDAC6 knockdown-attenuated UA-induced VECI and increased FGF21 expression and phosphorylation of AKT, eNOS, and FoxO3a. These effects could be reversed by FGF21 knockdown. In vivo, both TSA and TubA reduced inflammation and tissue injury while increased FGF21 expression and phosphorylation of AKT, eNOS, and FoxO3a in the aortic and renal tissues of hyperuricemia mice. Therefore, HDACs, especially HDAC6 inhibitor, alleviated UA-induced VECI through upregulating FGF21 expression and then activating the PI3K/AKT pathway. This suggests that HDAC6 may serve as a novel therapeutic target for treating UA-induced endothelial dysfunction.
Dual Pathway Inhibition with Rivaroxaban and Aspirin Reduces Inflammatory Biomarkers in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Russo Vincenzo , Fabiani Dario , Leonardi Silvia , Attena Emilio , D'Alterio Giuliano , Cotticelli Ciro , Rago Anna , Sarpa Sara , Maione Benedicta , D'Onofrio Antonio , Golino Paolo , Nigro Gerardo
Published: January 2023

Dual pathway inhibition (DPI) with low-dose rivaroxaban and aspirin in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and/or peripheral artery disease (PAD) reduces the occurrence of cardiovascular (CV) events; however, the underlying mechanisms explaining these latter CV benefits are not clearly understood. Our explorative observational study aimed to evaluate the effect of dual pathway inhibition on plasma inflammation and coagulation markers among real-world patients with CAD and/or PAD. We prospectively included all consecutive patients with an established diagnosis of CAD and/or PAD treated with aspirin 100 mg once daily (OD) and rivaroxaban 2.5 mg twice daily (TD). Clinical evaluation and laboratory analyses, including hemoglobin, renal function (creatinine, urea, and cystatin-C), coagulation markers (INR and aPTT), inflammation markers (IL-6, CRP, lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2, and copeptin), and growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15), were conducted at baseline, before starting treatment, and at 4 and 24 weeks after study drug administration. Fifty-four consecutive patients (mean age 66 ± 7 years; male 83%) who completed the 6-month follow-up were included. At 24-week follow-up, a statistically significant reduction in IL-6 serum levels [4.6 (3.5–6.5) vs. 3.4 (2.4–4.3) pg/mL; P = 0.0001] and fibrinogen [336 (290–390) vs. 310 (275–364) mg/dL; P = 0.04] was shown; moreover, a significant increase in GDF-15 serum level [1309 (974–1961) vs. 1538 (1286–2913) pg/mL; P = 0.002] was observed. Hemoglobin, renal function, and cardiovascular homeostasis biomarkers remain stable over the time. The anti-Xa activity at both [0.005 (0–0.02) vs. 0.2 (0.1–0.34); P < 0.0001) significantly increased. The dual pathway inhibitions with low-dose rivaroxaban and aspirin in patients with CAD and/or PAD were associated with the reduction of inflammation biomarkers.