bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IPEM topical report: guidance on 3D printing in radiotherapy
Authors: McGarry Conor K , Tonino Baldion Anna , Burnley James , Byrne Nicholas , Doolan Paul James , Jenkins Rhys , Jones Emma , Jones Matthew R , Marshall Hannah L , Milliken Fiona , Sands Gordon , Woolliams Peter , Wright Tristan , Clark Catharine H
Published: January 2025

There has been an increase in the availability and utilization of commercially available 3D printers in radiotherapy, with applications in phantoms, brachytherapy applicators, bolus, compensators, and immobilization devices. Additive manufacturing in the form of 3D printing has the advantage of rapid production of personalized patient specific prints or customized phantoms within a short timeframe. One of the barriers to uptake has been the lack of guidance. The aim of this topical review is to present the radiotherapy applications and provide guidance on important areas for establishing a 3D printing service in a radiotherapy department including procurement, commissioning, material selection, establishment of relevant quality assurance, multidisciplinary team creation and training.
Charge transport and charge trapping in polycrystalline ZnO thin films doped by methane: local and integrated analysis
Authors: Gomeniuk Y V , Lytvyn P M , Gomeniuk Y Y , Rudenko T E , Vasin A V , Rusavsky A V , Lysenko V S , Kilchytska V , Flandre D , Nazarov A N
Published: January 2025

Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy and Scanning Spreading Resistance Microscopy measurements of hydrogen-doped polycrystalline ZnO films deposited by RF magnetron sputtering with addition of methane have shown that doping of the grain boundaries is higher than that of grains, so that the current flows preferably along the grain boundaries. Current–voltage measurements and admittance spectroscopy of ZnO/n-Si heterostructures were used to assess the density of bulk and interface states in ZnO films with thicknesses of 75 and 135 nm. The charge carrier transport at low temperatures was found to follow space charge limited current mechanism. The density of bulk states is lower in the thicker ZnO film due to the longer passivation effect of hydrogen during deposition.
Temporal evolution, propagation and mutual interaction of cos-gaussian beams in photorefractive crystals exhibiting both the linear and quadratic electro-optic effect
Authors: Potdar Gaurang , Katti Aavishkar
Published: January 2025

We investigate for the first time, the temporal evolution, propagation and interaction of cos-gaussian beams in novel photorefractive crystals having both the linear and quadratic electro-optic effect. The dynamical evolution equation is set up as a function of time using the Helmholtz equation in the paraxial approximation using the photorefractive charge transport model. The analysis is performed theoretically using the finite difference method to solve the dyamical evolution equation. Diffraction effects are prominent initially since the photorefractive effect has not built up while at larger values of time, we see self trapping and formation of breather solitons and Y-type solitons. A detailed study is subsequently undertaken for the propagation of cos-gaussian beams of different cosine modulation parameters and at various different values of the external electric field once steady state has been reached. Self trapping and formation of optical spatial solitons including breathing solitons and Y-type breathing solitons are observed as the nonlinearity is strengthened by increasing the external electric field. The characteristics of the solitons are dependent upon the modulation parameter of the cos-gaussian beam. The PMN-0.33PT crystal is taken for illustration of the results. Further, the interplay between the linear and the quadratic electro-optic effect and the ensuing effect on the propagation of the cos-gaussian beams is investigated for various cosine modulation parameters. Finally, the interaction of two cos-gaussian beams is studied for in phase and out of phase beams considering various cosine modulation parameters and various separation distances.
Diminution of surface spin disorder in a ferromagnet via proximity effect of single-molecule magnets
Authors: Das Bibekananda , Sahoo Malaya K. , Nayak Debashree , Palai Digbijaya , Sahoo Pratap Kumar , Behera J. N. , Senapati Kartik
Published: January 2025

Field-dependent resistance of a magnetic layer is often used as the basic tunable operational entity in several spintronics applications. In this work we demonstrate that the magnetoresistance (MR) of a classic ferromagnetic Ni layer can be tuned significantly by controlling the surface spin scattering of electrons, by manipulating disordered surface spins via proximity effect. This was achieved by drop casting molecules of a well-known single molecule magnet Mn
12-ac on micro-tracks of a thin (~12 nm) Ni film. We found significant changes in the width and sign of the magnetoresistance of the Ni micro-tracks. This is explained in the light of possible locking of the disordered surface spins of the Ni layer with the high spin moment of adjacent Mn
12-ac molecules, causing reduction in the surface spin scattering. As expected, the spin moments of Mn
12-ac molecules were found to effectively pin the surface spins only below the blocking temperature of Mn
12-ac. Above the blocking temperature, the Mn
12-ac molecules had no effect on the MR behavior of Ni micro-tracks. This observation offers a simple route to achieve on-demand low or high resistance states of a magnetic layer, very relevant to the field of spintronics.
Non-cooperative signal recognition: spectrum augmentation and optimization method for modulation style analysis and contrastive clustering
Authors: Zhang Bolin , Zhuang Xuebin , Kong Weisi
Published: January 2025

In non-cooperative scenarios, signal modulation style analysis has received considerable interest as a method for avoiding malicious attacks in modern cognitive communication systems. However, existing signal clustering methods often overlook the potential of the spectrum and fail to address the issue of local optima commonly encountered in the field of signal clustering. In this paper, we introduce a novel approach to accurately cluster modulation styles, termed Spectrum Augmentation for Contrastive Clustering (SACC). SACC proposes two main components, namely, spectrum augmentation and self-labeling optimization, building upon the foundation of contrastive clustering. Specifically, spectrum augmentation (SA) is employed in the first stage to facilitate effective deep semantic feature extraction, leveraging contrastive learning. SA is introduced as a signal spectrum-based data augmentation method, exploiting the temporal and frequency representation capability of signals. In the second stage, a reliable negative self-labeling optimization method is proposed atop deep clustering to address the issue of local optima arising from the lack of label guidance in signal clustering. Extensive experimental results validate the effectiveness of the SACC method, SACC achieving significant performance improvements with a straightforward design. Specifically, SACC achieves an accuracy rate of 80.1% and a normalized mutual information score of 0.826 on two publicly available datasets, demonstrating the superiority of our proposed approach.
Resonant enhancement and confinement of microwave field in coupled conductive rod systems
Authors: Abrahamyan Tigran , Ohanyan Gor , Hambaryan David , Movsisyan Artyom , Parsamyan Henrik , Haroyan Hovhannes , Babajanyan Arsen , Nerkararyan Khachatur
Published: January 2025

We investigated the resonant interaction of incident microwaves with a finite linear array of equidistantly arranged conductive rods of finite height. When strong coupling is established between adjacent rods, which act as open resonators for radial waves, a series of resonances emerges, corresponding to the number of rods in the array. Each resonance exhibits distinct charge oscillation amplitudes and phases along the rods, leading to varying radiative losses. Notably, in a system of two resonantly interacting rods, antiphase charge oscillations result in a nearly 30-fold increase in localized field intensity and a quality factor of approximately 400. This study demonstrates the feasibility of creating high-quality open resonators with sub-wavelength confinement, offering the potential for microwave-to-optical conversion and enabling control over quantum processes in materials, thereby broadening their application scope.
First Search for Pulsed CH Maser Emission Stimulated by a Pulsar
Authors: Liu Mengting , Li Di , Dawson J. R. , Weisberg Joel M. , Hobbs George , Tang Ningyu , Luo Gan , Xu Duo , Quan Donghui
Published: January 2025

We present the first search for pulsed CH maser emission potentially stimulated by PSR J1644-4559, conducted using the ultra-wide-bandwidth low-frequency receiver on Murriyang, CSIRO's Parkes Radio Telescope. Observations targeted three CH Λ-doublet transitions at 3264, 3335, and 3349 MHz, with a variability timescale of 78 ms. We detected ten CH emission features at 3335 and 3349 MHz, and seven features at 3264 MHz, during both pulsar-ON and pulsar-OFF phases. The observed velocities align with the OH emission and absorption reported by a previous study, suggesting a close spatial association between CH and OH molecules. The derived column densities for CH clouds within the Parkes beam range from 0.05 to 9.8 × 1013 cm−2, indicating that these clouds are likely in diffuse and translucent states. Upper limits for CH column densities within the pulsar beam ranged from 0.3 to 9.8 × 1013 cm−2. Comparison of these column densities suggests that CH clouds may exhibit clumpiness and substructure. No significant stimulated emission feature was detected in the optical depth spectra. Additionally, as part of our search for pulsed stimulated emission, we investigated the potential CH absorption of the pulsar signal and found none, in agreement with astrophysical expectations. The upper limits for the potential maser amplification factors towards PSR J1644-4559 at 3264, 3335, and 3349 MHz are 1.014, 1.009, and 1.009, respectively. This study demonstrates the feasibility of detecting pulsed CH maser emission in the interstellar medium stimulated by pulsar photons.
Integrated assessment of carbon dioxide removal portfolios: land, energy, and economic trade-offs for climate policy
Authors: Chiquier Solene , Gurgel Angelo , Morris Jennifer , Chen Yen-Heng Henry , Paltsev Sergey
Published: January 2025

Carbon dioxide removal (CDR) is crucial to achieve the Paris Agreement’s 1.5 °C–2 °C goals. However, climate mitigation scenarios have primarily focused on bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), afforestation/reforestation, and recently direct air carbon capture and storage (DACCS). This narrow focus exposes future climate change mitigation strategies to technological, institutional, and ecological pressures by overlooking the variety of existing CDR options, each with distinct characteristics—including, but not limited to, mitigation potential, cost, co-benefits, and adverse side-effects. This study expands the scope by evaluating CDR portfolios, consisting of any single CDR approach—BECCS, afforestation/reforestation, DACCS, biochar, and enhanced weathering—or a combination of them. We analyse the value of deploying these CDR portfolios to meet 1.5 °C goals, as well as their global and regional implications for land, energy, and policy costs. We find that diversifying CDR approaches is the most cost-effective net-zero strategy. Without the overreliance on any single approach, land and energy impacts are reduced and redistributed. A diversified CDR portfolio thus exhibits lower negative side-effects, but still poses challenges related to environmental impacts, logistics or accountability. We also investigate a CDR portfolio designed to support more scalable and sustainable climate mitigation strategies, and identify trade-offs between reduced economic benefits and lower environmental impacts. Rather than a one-size-fits-all scaling down, the CDR portfolio undergoes strategic realignment, with regional customization based on techno-economic factors and bio-geophysical characteristics. Moreover, we highlight the importance of nature-based removals, especially in Brazil, Latin America, and Africa, where potentials for avoided deforestation are the greatest, emphasizing their substantial benefits, not only for carbon sequestration, but also for preserving planetary well-being and human health. Finally, this study reveals that incentivizing timely and large-scale CDR deployment by policy and financial incentives could reduce the risk of deterring climate change mitigation, notably by minimizing carbon prices.
Dual-side polished SPR-PCF ultra-wide refractive index sensor with high amplitude sensitivity
Authors: Mahmud Russel Reza , Anzum Mariea Sharaf , Hassan Ali Ahnaf , Rafsan Ahmed Afif , Salimullah Shah Md , Nayan Md Faysal
Published: January 2025

A highly sensitive polished photonic crystal fiber (PCF) sensor with an external sensing method has been proposed, which utilizes the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) optical sensing technique. The aim of this study is to develop a sensor which can be utilized to detect a vast range of analyte samples, ranging from low refractive index (RI) chemicals to high RI biomedical applications, while also considering the cost and ease of fabrication. The two polished sides are coated with a plasmonic material called aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) that enhances the coupling strength and enables the SPR technology. The finite element method is employed to analyze the PCF numerically, which confirms a RI spanning from 1.18 to 1.45 for analyte detection, the highest detection extent found for AZO. After analysis, the maximum value of amplitude sensitivity was found to be 6312.34

RI

U

−
1

, and the highest wavelength sensitivity of 20 500 nm RIU−1 was attained. Moreover, the PCF provides a maximum amplitude resolution of 1.58 × 10−6 RIU and wavelength resolution of 4.88 × 10−6 RIU. The confinement loss was also fairly low, perfect for longer sensor lengths. The figure of merit resulted to be 820.924 RIU−1. This SPR-PCF sensor offers high stability during operation due to its high linearity in the visible and infrared spectrum. The proposed sensor has the merits of an extremely wide range of RI detection with high sensitivity and a significantly improved polished design, which can be used in various applications, including chemical analysis, gas detection, and biological cell detection with extremely high accuracy.
Suppressing surface segregation by introducing lanthanides to enhance high-temperature oxygen evolution reaction activity and durability
Authors: Li Jingwei , Wu Zichao , Shen Yuxiang , Song Yuefeng , Lv Houfu , Zhang Xiaomin , Wang Guoxiong
Published: January 2025

Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3−δ
(BSCF) is a conventional anode material for solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) to catalyze oxygen evolution reactions (OERs). However, the inferior chemical stability of BSCF results in severe surface segregation and performance degradation under high temperatures. A critical challenge lies in alleviating surface segregation and preserving the high OER performance of BSCF anodes. Herein, lanthanides are introduced to substitute the Ba in BSCF, labeled as Ln0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3−δ
(LnSCF, Ln = La, Pr, Nd, Sm), to regulate its stability and performance. The introduction of La and Pr effectively enhances stability, suppresses surface segregation and maintains high OER activity. Continuous lattice oxygen loss and Co ion oxidation of LnSCF are demonstrated upon annealing in oxidizing atmosphere; thus, we propose that surface segregation is a self-regulation mechanism of perovskite lattice to tolerant oxidizing atmosphere. Perovskite oxides maintain structurally stable via decreasing A-site valence state and forming surface segregation. SOECs with La0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3−δ
anodes deliver an optimal current density of 1.69 A cm−2 at 1.6 V and stability for CO2 electrolysis at 800 °C, shedding light on designing advanced catalysts for high-temperature OER.
Optimizing concrete mix proportions with zeolite, GGBS, and CDW: a data-driven approach integrating experimental analysis and machine learning models
Authors: Anand Pradyut , Singh Surya Dev , Bhowmik Priyam Nath , Kontoni Denise-Penelope N
Published: January 2025

The depletion of natural sand resources and the environmental impact of cement production necessitate sustainable alternatives in concrete manufacturing. This study evaluates the potential of zeolite, ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS), and construction and demolition waste (CDW) as partial replacements for sand in concrete mix proportions. Experimental investigations revealed that the optimal mix proportion, identified as Mix Batch M4 (60% Sand, 20% Zeolite, 10% GGBS, and 10% CDW), achieved a compressive strength (CS) of 67.37 MPa, flexural strength (FS) of 6.80 MPa, split tensile strength (ST) of 5.61 MPa, and notable reductions in water absorption (WA) to 4.00% and drying shrinkage (DS) to 4.02%. Additionally, durability improvements included a 30% reduction in rapid chloride permeability and enhanced ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) and rebound hammer (RH) values. Advanced machine learning models were utilized to analyze and optimize the mix designs, integrating the Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA) with models such as Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGB), Backpropagation Neural Network (BPNN), Support Vector Regression (SVR), Random Forest Regression (RFR), Gradient Boosting Regression (GBR), and LightGBM. The XGB model demonstrated the highest predictive accuracy with an R2 of 1.000. Multi-objective optimization techniques, including Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II), Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization (MOPSO), and Genetic Algorithm with Fuzzy models, were employed to refine mix proportions further, balancing mechanical properties, material sustainability, and environmental benefits. This study highlights significant reductions in natural sand consumption and waste generation while enhancing concrete performance. Practical implications include reduced environmental impact, improved resource efficiency, and the promotion of circular economy principles. These findings provide a pathway toward innovative and sustainable concrete solutions, aligning with global sustainability goals in the construction industry.
Impact of prescribing vancomycin capsules vs liquid at discharge on readmissions for C. difficile infection
Authors: Reise Rachel , Usmani Silken A , Morris Earl J , Ndai Asinamai M , Dewar Marvin A , Vouri Scott Martin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a hospital-acquired infection commonly treated with oral vancomycin. An institutional policy aimed at reducing costs by substituting compounded liquid vancomycin for capsules may have the unintended consequence of having the liquid formulation prescribed at discharge, potentially delaying patients’ access due to a lack of availability in pharmacies or lack of insurance coverage. This study aimed to evaluate hospital readmission rates of patients prescribed either vancomycin capsules or liquid upon discharge.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study conducted at an academic hospital using electronic health records data over a 6-year timeframe. The primary outcomes were all-cause and CDI-specific readmission rates within 30 days of discharge, and secondary outcomes included readmission rates within 60 and 90 days. Baseline characteristics were compared using chi-square or Mann-Whitney U tests. The hazard ratio (HR) for readmission was calculated using a Cox proportional hazards model, and readmission rates were analyzed using a Poisson regression model. All readmissions were confirmed by chart review.

Results

A total of 440 patients (61.3% female; median age, 58 years) were included; of these, 68% (n = 298) were prescribed vancomycin liquid and 32% (n = 142) a capsule form. Baseline characteristics were similar in the 2 groups, with the exception of the presence of inflammatory bowel disease (19.0% vs 6.4%, P < 0.0001) and median length of stay (6 days vs 8 days, P = 0.010). Patients prescribed vancomycin liquid were not more likely to be readmitted within 30 days relative to those prescribed capsule, with an adjusted HR for all-cause readmission of 1.58 (95% CI, 0.92-2.73) and an adjusted HR for CDI-specific readmission of 2.21 (95% CI, 0.72-6.76). However, patients prescribed liquid were more likely to be readmitted within 60 days, with an adjusted HR for all-cause readmission of 1.87 (95% CI, 1.19-2.94) and an adjusted HR for CDI-specific readmission of 2.84 (95% CI, 1.14-7.06).

Conclusion

A hospital pharmacy practice implemented to reduce medication costs may impact vancomycin prescribing at discharge and, in turn, may negatively impact readmission rates for patients with CDI treated with oral vancomycin.
English writing with Disney animation: a critical perspective
Authors: Lee Ja Yeon , Lee Mun Woo
Published: January 2025

This study explores the implementation of critical literacy in Korean EFL classrooms using Disney animations to enhance English writing skills and critical thinking among middle school students. Ten third-grade middle school students participated in this study, undergoing a series of writing activities designed to develop their critical thinking and writing skills over eight weeks. The findings revealed significant improvements in the participants’ confidence, sentence production, content organisation, and critical thinking abilities. The study highlights the effectiveness of using Disney animations as authentic texts to facilitate critical writing practices, demonstrating that critical literacy can be integrated into EFL education without compromising language learning. This study contributes to the broader discussion on educational innovation in EFL contexts, advocating the thoughtful integration of critical pedagogy and authentic texts in language education.
Exercise type and settings, quality of life, and mental health in coronary artery disease: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Toval Angel , Bakker Esmée A , Granada-Maia Joao Bruno , Núñez de Arenas-Arroyo Sergio , Solis-Urra Patricio , Eijsvogels Thijs M H , Esteban-Cornejo Irene , Martínez-Vizcaíno Vicente , Ortega Francisco B
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

Individuals with coronary artery disease have poorer mental health, health-related quality of life (HR-QoL), and cognition compared with (age-matched) controls. Exercise training may attenuate these effects. The aim is to systematically review and meta-analyse the effects of different exercise types and settings on brain structure/function, cognition, HR-QoL, mental health (e.g. depression, anxiety), and sleep in patients with coronary artery disease.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted and a network meta-analysis compared (i) exercise types, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), HIIT + resistance (HIIT + R), moderate-intensity training (MIT), MIT + R and stretching-toning-balance training, and (ii) exercise settings, in-person and home-based.

Results

A total of 42 randomized controlled trials with a parallel group design were identified, of which 36 were included in the meta-analysis. Few studies included cognition (n = 2), sleep (n = 2), and none brain structure/function (n = 0). Most studies examined HR-QoL (n = 30), depression (n = 15), and anxiety (n = 9), in which outcomes were meta-analysed. HIIT + R, HIIT, and MIT were associated with improved HR-QoL vs. no exercise (i.e. usual care) [standardized mean difference, SMD: 1.53 (95% confidence interval 0.83; 2.24), 0.44 (0.15; 0.73), and 0.44 (0.20; 0.67), respectively]. In-person exercise was associated with larger and significant improvements [HR-QoL SMD: 0.51 (0.28; 0.74), depressive SMD: −0.55 (−1.03; −0.07), and anxiety symptoms SMD: −1.16 (−2.05; −0.26)] compared with no exercise, whereas home-based programmes were not significantly associated with improvements in these outcomes. Findings were robust in secondary (i.e. intervention duration and volume) and sensitivity analyses excluding high risk of bias studies.

Conclusions

Exercise training, especially in-person sessions, was associated with improved HR-QoL, depression and anxiety, independently of exercise type. However, this study raises concern about the effectiveness of home-based programmes in improving these outcomes.

Study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023402569).
Partial replacement of the tricuspid valve using cryopreserved tricuspid homograft: 20-year outcomes
Authors: Raza Samad , Shrestha Bishwo , Doig Fiona , Pohlner Peter , Jalali Homayoun , Naidoo Rishendran
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVES

There is limited consensus on the optimal strategy for surgical treatment of severe tricuspid valve pathology. At our institution, we have implemented a unique technique of using a tricuspid homograft with its supporting apparatus for partial replacement of the native tricuspid valve. We now present the long-term outcomes of these patients.

METHODS

We analysed a cohort of patients who underwent partial tricuspid valve replacement using tricuspid homograft. Yearly clinical and echocardiographic follow-up was performed. Fine–Gray methods were used to estimate freedom from death and reoperation and reverse Kaplan–Meier methods were used to calculate follow-up.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients were included (age range 15 days to 73 years). Indications included congenital anomalies (n = 9, 64%) and infective endocarditis (n = 5, 36%). The median follow-up was 17 years (95% confidence interval (CI) 10–21 years). Two patients (14%) died due to causes unrelated to the primary tricuspid valve surgery, and three (21%) underwent redo tricuspid valve operations. In the remaining cohort, seven (50%) were asymptomatic and two (14%) reported class II dyspnoea, while none had severe tricuspid regurgitation on echocardiogram. Estimated freedom from death was 93% at 10 years and 83% at 15 and 20 years, while estimated freedom from reoperation was 77% at 10, 15 and 20 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Partial replacement of the tricuspid valve using tricuspid homograft tissue effectively restores the anatomical conformity of the native tricuspid valve and has durable long-term survival and freedom from severe tricuspid regurgitation in patients with congenital anomalies and infective endocarditis.
Efficacy and safety of posaconazole and liposomal amphotericin B use for prophylaxis of invasive fungal infections in a paediatric and young adult haemato-oncological population
Authors: Chiusaroli Lorenzo , Barbieri Elisa , Dell’Anna Lucia , Petris Maria Grazia , Liberati Cecilia , Reggiani Giulia , De Pieri Marica , Mengato Daniele , Marzollo Antonio , Gabelli Maria , Giaquinto Carlo , Biffi Alessandra , Donà Daniele
Published: January 2025

Background

The prevention of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) is crucial for paediatric haemato-oncological patients. This study evaluates the clinical efficacy and side-effects of posaconazole and liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB) as primary prophylaxis.

Materials and methods

This cohort study included patients aged 3 months to 21 years who received posaconazole or L-AmB (5 mg/kg twice weekly) as prophylaxis from January 2017 to March 2022 at the Hemato-oncological Pediatric Unit, University Hospital of Padua, Italy. Outcomes included adverse events and IFI diagnoses after the start of prophylaxis. Separate analyses were performed for patients with ALL and non-ALL diagnoses, and high-risk and low-risk groups. Cumulative incidence was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier estimator, with significant differences assessed using the log-rank test. Hazard ratios (HR) were estimated using Cox regression.

Results

Fifty-one patients received posaconazole, and 37 received L-AmB. Adverse events occurred in 26% of L-AmB patients and 5.6% of posaconazole patients. IFI breakthrough events were similar in both groups (four events each). In ALL patients, 41% experienced adverse events with L-AmB, compared to 5% with posaconazole. After 1 year, the probability of adverse events was lower in the posaconazole group (54% versus 65%, P < 0.001). Overall, posaconazole was associated with a 91% lower risk of adverse events (HR: 0.07, P < 0.001). Among high-risk patients, IFI breakthrough rates were similar between groups (P = 0.964).

Conclusions

Posaconazole was associated with fewer adverse events than L-AmB, and both drugs showed similar efficacy in preventing IFI breakthroughs, making posaconazole a viable alternative for primary prophylaxis.
Timing of depression in relation to risk of ovarian cancer
Authors: Roberts Andrea L , Townsend Mary K , Chibnik Lori B , Kubzansky Laura D , Tworoger Shelley S
Published: January 2025

Background

Several studies have suggested that depression may be associated with increased risk of ovarian cancer. Less is known about whether timing matters regarding when depression occurs. To provide evidence for an etiologically relevant exposure period, we examined depression occurring during the time in which precursor lesions develop and progress to invasive carcinoma with the risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Methods

Using data from 2 prospective cohorts (1992-2015), we divided follow-up into consecutive 2-year periods for analytic purposes, referred to as “cancer ascertainment periods.” We estimated associations of depression in the 10 years before each cancer ascertainment period with incident cancer, using Cox proportional hazards models. Next, we estimated associations of depression occurring up to 18 years before each ascertainment period, in 2-year increments, with incident cancer. We adjusted for demographic, health, and behavioral factors. All tests of statistical significance were two-sided, with a P-value threshold of less than .05.

Results

Depression occurring in the 10 prior years was associated with 30% greater risk of cancer (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.30, 95% confidence interval = 1.15 to 1.46). Associations were similar in fully adjusted models (HR = 1.27). Depression occurring in the 14 years before ascertainment was associated with elevated risk, although only estimates for depression 0-2, 6-8, and 8-10 years before ascertainment reached statistical significance (HR range = 1.20-1.36).

Conclusion

Depression occurring up to 14 years before cancer ascertainment was associated with greater cancer risk. This is the time of precursor progression to invasive ovarian carcinoma, suggesting depression may be an ovarian cancer-promoting agent.
ICAM-1 and IL-10 are associated with cognitive dysfunction using the MoCA test in glioma: findings from the NCI Neuro-Oncology Branch Natural History Study
Authors: Slattery Kaitlynn , Kauss McKenzie C , Raval Dhaivat , Hsieh Emory , Choi Ann , Davis Tara S , Robins Kimberly R , Miller Hope , Vera Elizabeth , Wright Michelle L , Penas-Prado Marta , Gilbert Mark R , Mendoza Tito , Armstrong Terri S , Guedes Vivian A
Published: January 2025

Background

Cognitive dysfunction is common among patients with malignant glioma, yet the underlying mechanisms of this dysfunction remain unclear. Protein markers of neurodegeneration, inflammation, and vascular damage have been associated with central nervous system pathology and with cognitive changes in neurological diseases, but their clinical utility in gliomas is unknown. This study examined the relationships between cognitive dysfunction, tumor isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation status in gliomas, and a panel of blood-based protein biomarkers.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 73 glioma patients with either IDH-mutant (n=45) or IDH-wildtype tumors (n=28) enrolled in a natural history study. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA, scores < 26 indicated cognitive dysfunction). Serum levels of 17 proteins were measured using ultrasensitive assays.

Results

Cognitive dysfunction was present in 53% of participants (n=39), and more frequently in the IDH-wildtype group (75%) than in the IDH-mutant group (40%). Patients with wildtype tumors had higher levels of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) than patients with IDH-mutant tumors, which remained in multivariate analysis. ICAM-1 and IL-10 were higher in patients with cognitive dysfunction compared to those with normal cognition, even after adjusting for tumor IDH-mutation status, age, tumor grade, and surgery history.

Conclusions

Cognitive dysfunction was associated with protein markers linked to vascular damage and inflammation regardless of tumor IDH status. Our findings suggest an association of cognitive dysfunction with heightened systemic inflammatory status that requires further interrogation for role in pathophysiologic mechanisms.
A psychometric approach to decision-making thresholds across legal and societal domains
Authors: Hartsough Lauren , Ginther Matthew , Cheng Edward K , Marois René
Published: January 2025

What constitutes enough evidence to make a decision? While this is an important question across multiple domains, it takes on special importance in the US legal system, where jurors and judges are instructed to apply specific burdens of proof to render life-changing decisions. Civil trials use a preponderance of evidence (PoE) threshold to establish liability, while criminal trials require proof beyond a reasonable doubt (BaRD) to convict. It is still unclear, however, how laypeople interpret and apply these decision thresholds and how these standards compare to people’s intuitive belief (IB) of what constitutes enough evidence. Further, the extent to which their correct interpretation is context-dependent is currently unknown: are they unique to the legal context, or do they generalize to other contexts (e.g. medical, scientific, and perceptual) that also critically rely on decision thresholds? To compare burdens of proof across contexts requires a common parameter space. Here, we applied quantitative, psychometric analyses developed in psychophysics to compare decision thresholds across legal, nonlegal, and perceptual domains. We found a consistent pattern across domains in which BaRD was interpreted more stringently than PoE but, surprisingly, with PoE being more stringent than people’s IB. Decision thresholds were higher for legal contexts even when the costs of decision outcomes were equated. These results highlight how decisions are rendered inherently more stringently in the legal domain and suggest that laypeople’s IB are more lenient than either legal standard. These findings also illustrate the power of applying psychometrics to elucidate complex decision processes.
pH-responsive hydrogel with dual-crosslinked network of polyvinyl alcohol/boric acid for controlled release of salvianolic acid B: novel pro-regenerative mechanisms in scar inhibition and wound healing
Authors: Song Wei , Zhang Chao , Li Zhao , Li Kejia , Kong Yi , Du Jinpeng , Kong Yue , Guo Xu , Ju Xiaoyan , Zhu Meng , Tian Ye , Huang Sha , Niu Zhongwei
Published: January 2025

This study investigates a novel pH-responsive hydrogel composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and boric acid (BA) designed for the controlled release of salvianolic acid B (SAB), addressing the critical challenge of scar formation and skin regeneration. The dual-crosslinked network architecture of the hydrogel exhibits remarkable pH sensitivity, enabling it to achieve a peak SAB release within 48 hours in the acidic microenvironment characteristic of early-stage wound healing. In vitro assessments demonstrated that the PVA-BA-SAB hydrogel significantly inhibits fibroblast activation and mitigates abnormal collagen deposition, effectively preventing excessive scar formation. Transcriptome sequencing reveals the potential role of PVA-BA-SAB hydrogel in balancing TGF-β and Wnt signaling pathways. Furthermore, in vivo studies revealed enhanced tissue regeneration, characterized by improved collagen organization and increased vascularization, as well as the promotion of mature hair follicle development. The hydrogel’s biocompatibility, mechanical robustness and adhesive properties were also thoroughly evaluated, confirming its suitability for clinical applications. These findings suggest that the PVA-BA-SAB hydrogel fully exerts the excellent characteristics of biomaterials and maximizes the pharmacological effect of SAB. Our innovative drug delivery system not only facilitates enhanced wound healing but also offers a strategic approach to minimize scarring. This research provides valuable insights into innovative therapeutic strategies for effective wound management and tissue repair.
Material surface conjugated with fibroblast growth factor-2 for pluripotent stem cell culture and differentiation
Authors: Sung Tzu-Cheng , Pan Zhi-Xian , Wang Ting , Lin Hui-Yu , Chang Chia-Lun , Hung Ling-Chun , Subbiah Suresh Kumar , Renuka Remya Rajan , Chou Shih-Jie , Chiou Shih-Hwa , Joanna Idaszek , Lee Henry Hsin-Chung , Wu Gwo-Jang , Higuchi Akon
Published: January 2025

Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) is a critical molecule for sustaining the pluripotency of human pluripotent stem (PS) cells. However, FGF-2 is extremely unstable and cannot be stored long periods at room temperature. Therefore, the following FGF-2-conjugated cell culture materials were developed to stabilize FGF-2: FGF-2-conjugated polyvinyl alcohol (PVAI-C-FGF) hydrogels and FGF-2-conjugated carboxymethyl cellulose-coated (CMC-C-FGF) dishes. Human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells were proliferated on recombinant vitronectin (rVN)-coated PVAI-C-FGF hydrogels and CMC-C-FGF dishes in medium without FGF-2. Human iPS cells could not be cultivated on rVN-coated PVAI-C-FGF hydrogels for more than two passages but could proliferate on rVN-coated CMC-C-FGF dishes. These results indicated that the amount of immobilized FGF-2 and the base cell materials are important, including the amount of immobilized rVN and the conformation of FGF-2 on the surfaces. When human iPS cells were proliferated on rVN-coated CMC-C-FGF surfaces in medium containing no FGF-2 for 10 passages, their pluripotency and potential to differentiate into cells originating from three germ layers were maintained in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, the cells could extensively differentiate into cardiomyocytes, which can be used for cardiac infarction treatment in future and retinal pigment epithelium for retinal pigmentosa treatment in future. The FGF-2-immobilized surface could enable human PS cell culture in medium that does not need to contain unstable FGF-2. The amount of FGF-2 immobilization on the rVN-coated CMC-C-5FGF and CMC-C-20FGF dishes was reduced to 93.6 and 52.2 times, respectively, which is less than the conventional amount of FGF-2 used in culture medium for one passage (6 days) of human iPS cell culture. This reduction resulted from the stabilization of unstable FGF-2 by the immobilization of FGF-2, which was achieved by utilizing optimal base materials (CMC), coating materials (rVN) and long-joint segment (PEG4-SPDP) design.
Tocilizumab and rituximab for systemic sclerosis interstitial lung disease: a real-world cohort analysis
Authors: Goldman Nina R , Nihtyanova Svetlana I , Beesley Claire F , Wells Athol U , Denton Christopher P , Renzoni Elisabetta A , Mageed Rizgar , Ong Voon H
Published: January 2025

Objectives

SSc-interstitial lung disease (ILD) is one of the leading causes of mortality in SSc. Data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) support rituximab and tocilizumab monotherapy but there are limited data regarding their use for those who fail standard immunomodulatory therapies.

Methods

SSc patients treated with rituximab or tocilizumab were retrospectively identified in a single centre cohort. Linear mixed effect models were used to analyse before and after treatment lung function trajectory, and identify patient characteristics associated with treatment response.

Results

A total of 127 patients were included for analysis. Fifty-one of 94 (54.2%) and 13 of 33 (39.4%) of the rituximab and tocilizumab cohorts, respectively, were receiving concurrent MMF. Pre-treatment decline in absolute change % forced vital capacity (%FVC)/year and % diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (%DLCO)/year, respectively, was similar in both cohorts (−3.2% and −4.0% rituximab, and −3.2% and −3.6% tocilizumab). Both treatments resulted in lung function stabilization (%FVC/year and %DLCO/year: 1.2% and +0.2% rituximab cohort, 1.0% and 1.0% tocilizumab cohort). Anti-topoisomerase antibody (ATA)-positive patients had a significant response on %FVC/year to tocilizumab compared with ATA-negative patients. Gender had a significant impact on %FVC/year response to rituximab, with males responding to a greater degree than females. Age, ILD extent and skin subset had no impact on treatment response.

Conclusion

Combination rituximab or tocilizumab with background immunosuppressive therapy is associated with stabilization in lung function trajectory among those who remain refractory to standard immunosuppressives. Specific patient characteristics have an impact on lung function response. Improved FVC response among ATA patients receiving tocilizumab validate data from RCTs.
Augmentation of Interstitial Cystitis–Bladder Pain Syndrome Treatment With Meditation and Yoga
Authors: Dao Angela N. , Komesu Yuko M. , Jansen Sierra M. , Petersen Timothy R. , Meriwether Kate V.
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate whether yoga and meditation added to usual care improves treatment response in women with interstitial cystitis–bladder pain syndrome.

METHODS:

This randomized trial compared women with interstitial cystitis–bladder pain syndrome receiving standard care alone (control group) with those receiving standard care plus meditation and yoga (mind–body group). Standard care was defined as behavioral changes or medications recommended by the American Urological Association. Individuals in the control group received standard care, and those in the mind–body group received standard care augmented with a commercially available meditation application and standardized yoga tutorial video. Both groups continued their current interstitial cystitis–bladder pain syndrome standard care treatments. The primary outcome was the modified GRA (Global Response Assessment), comparing responders (moderately, markedly improved) with nonresponders at 12 weeks. On power analysis assuming α=5% and β=80%, a sample size of 82 participants was required to find 30% difference on the GRA between groups. Weekly GRA scores over 12 weeks were also compared. Secondary outcomes included ICPI (Interstitial Cystitis Problem Index)/ICSI (Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index), pain, pain interference, anxiety/depression, and self-efficacy scores and treatment escalation over 12 weeks.

RESULTS:

Among 97 randomized participants (49 mind–body group, 48 control group), groups did not differ in characteristics or symptoms at baseline. The mind–body group had more GRA responders compared with the control group at 12 weeks (31/43 [72.1%] vs 10/39 [25.6%], relative risk [RR] 2.8, 95% CI, 1.6–4.6), corroborated by superior weekly GRA results over 12 weeks. The mind–body group had superior beneficial change on the ICPI (RR 1.8, 95% CI, 0.5–3.1), ICSI (RR 1.9, 95% CI, 0.2–3.6), and pain (RR 1.4, 95% CI, 0.4–2.5) scores than the control group at 12 weeks. The mind–body group required less treatment escalation than the control group (2/45 [4.4%] vs 14/42 [33.3%], RR 0.13, 95% CI, 0.03–0.55).

CONCLUSION:

The addition of meditation and yoga to standard interstitial cystitis–bladder pain syndrome care was associated with improved treatment response and required fewer additional interventions compared with standard care alone.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION:

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04820855.
Silver-Coated Foley Catheters to Reduce UTIs: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Lewis Kelsey , Crisp Catrina , Ray Marlana , Bonglack Mildrede , Carrel-Lammert Meredith , Aldrich Emily , Pauls Rachel , Hoehn Jonathan , Yeung Jennifer
Published: January 2025

Importance

This study is important as it challenges the effectiveness of silver-coated catheters in reducing urinary tract infections (UTIs) after pelvic floor surgery (PFS).

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of UTIs in patients using silver-coated silicone transurethral indwelling catheters (TICs) compared with standard silicone TICs among women with postoperative urinary retention following PFS.

Study Design

This was a double-blind, randomized controlled trial of women undergoing PFS between June 2022 and February 2024 with postoperative urinary retention. Participants were randomized to a silver-coated silicone TIC or a standard silicone TIC. The primary outcome was the incidence of symptomatic, culture-proven UTI within 30 days of surgery. Secondary outcomes included the categorization of uropathogens as well as adverse symptoms potentially related to the catheter. A sample size of 155 participants per arm was calculated to find a relative decrease of 47%, from 30% to 16%.

Results

Of 310 participants randomized, 303 were included in the analysis: 154 controls and 149 silver catheter. Demographics were similar for both groups. For our primary outcome, 56 patients in the control group and 52 patients in the silver catheter group were diagnosed with a UTI (36.4% vs 34.9%; P = 0.81). No adverse reactions to the silver catheter were noted. Analysis of the urinary microbiomes demonstrated Escherichia coli was the most represented uropathogen, found in 43% of the urine cultures overall.

Conclusion

There was no difference in incidence of symptomatic, culture-confirmed UTIs in patients who received silver-coated silicone TICs compared with standard silicone TICs in women undergoing PFS.
Control of odor sensation by light and cryptochrome in
theDrosophilaantenna
Authors: Thakur Dhananjay , Hunt Sydney , Tsou Tiffany , Petty Miles , Rodriguez Jason M. , Montell Craig
Published: January 2025

Olfaction is a sense employed by insects to differentiate safe from harmful
food options, evaluate potential mates, and identify oviposition sites. Here, we
found that the fruit fly,Drosophila melanogaster,
responds differently to a set of repulsive odors depending on ambient light
conditions. Ultraviolet (UV) or blue light reduces the behavioral aversion and
electrophysiological responses of olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) to certain
repellent odors, such as benzaldehyde. We found
thatcryptochrome(cry)
is strongly expressed in the antennal support cells that lie adjacent to ORNs,
and mutation ofcryeliminates the light-dependent
reduction in aversion. Thus, these data demonstrate that support cells in an
olfactory organ serve a sensory function as light receptor cells. It has been
shown that light activation of Cry creates reactive oxygen species (ROS), and
ROS activates the TRPA1 channel. We demonstrate that the TRPA1-C isoform is
expressed and required in ORNs for benzaldehyde repulsion, and that TRPA1-C is
activatedin vitroby benzaldehyde. Overexpression
of dual oxygenase, which generates hydrogen peroxide, reduced the aversion under
dark conditions. Our data support the model that light-dependent creation of
hydrogen peroxide persistently activates TRPA1-C. Consequently, the channel is
no longer effectively activated by benzaldehyde. Since flies sleep much more at
night, and begin feeding at dawn, we propose that the light-induced reduction in
aversion to certain odors provides a mechanism to lower the barrier to feeding
following the transition from night to day.