bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new NEG coating setup with travelling thin solenoids for the SLS 2.0 complex vacuum chambers
Authors: Kirchgeorg N , Buchmann J , Gaiffi N , Ganter R , Huber P , Magjar M , Rosenberg C , Stephan D
Published: January 2024

The 288 m long Storage Ring of Swiss Light Source 2.0 (SLS 2.0) consists of several vacuum chambers with unique geometries. Complicated features, with many changes in the cross sections, are essential to provide the best impedance matching, and to allow synchrotron light extraction under the tight geometrical constraints. In order to speed up the commissioning time, it was decided to coat most of the vacuum chambers with non-evaporable getter (NEG) material. A new magnetron sputtering setup has been developed in Paul Scherrer Institut (PSI), where the plasma length, defined by thin solenoids, is relatively small. The solenoids are continuously travelling over the entire vacuum chambers more than hundred times per coating process with an average speed of 4 mm/s to assure the best possible thickness uniformity and to limit the cathode heat up. Flexibility provided by this solution allows to coat various vacuum vessels in one assembly. This paper will describe this NEG coating setup and show results on SLS 2.0 vacuum chambers.
Upgrade of the medium energy dump geometry for the SPIRAL2 single bunch selector
Authors: Giacomo M Di , Barthe-Dejean C , Jacquot B , Leloir S , Orduz A K
Published: January 2024

The medium energy beam transport of the SPIRAL2 superconducting linac contains a single bunch selection system equipped with a 7.5 kW beam dump. This device, originally designed with a long flat slope to decrease the power density so that the maximum operating temperature was 170 °C, was impacted by Coulomb scattering generating two side effects: heating of the downstream beam transport components and degrading of the beam current measurement uncertainty. The paper relates the way these two problems were solved.
Energy saving magnets for beam lines
Authors: Rossi L. , Mariotto S. , Sorti S.
Published: January 2024

Beam lines magnets for high rigidity particles can have a large power dissipation. In presence of a high duty cycle, this translates in a considerable amount of energy waste. The call for sustainability of large research infrastructures, like particle accelerator centers, and the recent increase of the cost of energy, require to take measures to reduce the energy consumption, even at cost of moderate investment. A study program called ESABLIM (Energy SAving Beam LIne Magnets) has been set up at the LASA lab of University and INFN Milano, aimed at revamping existing normal-conducting magnets for beam lines with the target of cutting the peak power by a factor 10 to 20 and reducing the energy consumption by factor 5 or more. The idea is to replace the water cooled coils of iron-dominated magnets with new superconducting coils cooled at 10-20 K by means of a cryocooler, while to reusing the iron yoke pole assembly. We envisage using MgB2 for its moderate cost, however, high temperature superconductors (HTS) will also be considered as conductor. We present the first advanced design for revamping of a large bending dipole in a hadron therapy center, and the conceptual design for magnets in a nuclear physics laboratory and we try to define the domain where this transformation of normal-conducting into super-ferric magnets can be technically and economically advantageous.
Measurements of the Variation of RFKO Extracted Beam Current for Hitachi Proton Therapy and Carbon Therapy Synchrotrons and Implications for Particle Therapy
Authors: Furutani Keith M. , Beltran Chris J.
Published: January 2024

Measurements of the extracted beam current (BC) for a Hitachi Carbon Therapy Synchrotron and a Hitachi Compact Proton Therapy Synchrotron are reported for the nominal extracted beam current (BC0) of

10

m
M
U

m
sec

, which was chosen since it is the magnitude of the clinical BC0, and a sample rate of 5 μsec (Carbon) and 8 μsec (Proton). A Noise Power Spectrum (NPS) analysis identifies the source of variation to be beam or power supply related. The rise time in the BC has been modeled and its effect on beam delivery time simulations have been estimated. The impact of the variation in BC from BC0 is shown to cause potentially significant dosimetric uncertainties in treatment delivery for modern particle therapy accelerators using fast Scanning Magnet (SCM) if plans are not simply beam current moderated or robustly optimized. The variation in beam current is shown to be inconsequential for medical physics quality assurance and commissioning measurements using properly biased ion chambers.
Proton FLASH irradiation setup for preclinical studies at HZB
Authors: Kourkafas G , Bundesmann J , Denker A , Dittwald A , Fanselow T , Heufelder J , Weber A , Mühldorfer P
Published: January 2024

The HZB cyclotron continues to provide protons for eye-tumor treatment in collaboration with the Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin after 24 years and more than 4400 patients so far. With the perspective of broadening its research capabilities in the field of radiation therapy, intensive effort has been dedicated towards proton FLASH irradiation, which requires ultra-high dose rates or beam intensities.

By combining a fast and reliable switch-off mechanism, accurate dosimetry, and a double-scattering beam nozzle with a static 3D-printed range modulator, HZB is now able to deliver a dose rate above 150 Gy/s within a flat circular irradiation field of 18mm diameter and a 27mm spread-out Bragg peak with a distal fall-off of 1mm in water. The reproducibility of the delivered dose meets the clinical acceptance criteria for a total irradiation time as low as 2.5 ms.

The first experiments with this setup were used on fibroblastic and sarcoma organoids. By adapting the design to a 35mm lateral field and using optimal accelerator tuning to increase beam transmission, similar or even higher dose rates are expected, satisfying thus the FLASH conditions for eye-tumor treatment with protons.
Calibration assessment of the PSI proton therapy Gantry 2 scanning system after 10 years of operation
Authors: Actis O , Meer D , Bula C , Mayor A
Published: January 2024

Sub-millimetre precision is a crucial criterion for beam delivery in Pencil Beam Scanning (PBS) proton therapy. Nowadays, most of the therapy systems use PBS technique where single beams with a regulated number of protons are delivered sequentially to different locations within the target. Beam energy defines the depth of the beam in the target and scanner magnets deflect the beam to the desired lateral position.

The PSI Gantry 2 was among the first gantries to use the PBS technique. Available clinical proton beam energies ranging from 70 MeV to 230 MeV are achieved by de-grading a 250 MeV beam, initially provided by a super-conducting cyclotron. Beam scanning is performed just before the last bending magnet producing a nearly parallel beam at iso-centre with a well-focused beam over the full scan area of 20×12 cm2. We developed a calibration algorithm for the scanner magnets in order to achieve the desirable precision of the beam in the target. Measuring the beam position with a strip ion chamber in the gantry nozzle, we parametrized the propagation of the beam to the target calculating the beam angle at different scan positions as well as all gantry angles. During 10 years of operation we performed regular Quality Assurance (QA) tests to validate parameters obtained during the system commissioning. The QA data proved a stable system operation and no parametrization update was required so far. In this contribution, we describe the calibration pro-cess of scanning magnets with respect to beam position at the isocentre and show the stability of this implementation over the time.
Magnet Technology and Design of Superconducting Magnets for Heavy Ion Gantry for Hadron Therapy
Authors: Rossi L. , Barna D. , Carloni A. G. , Matteis E. De , Farinon S. , Felcini E. , Gautheron E. , Karppinen M. , Kirby G. , Lecrevisse T. , Musenich R. , Perini D. , Prioli M. , Pullia M. , Sorti S. , Tommasini D.
Published: January 2024

Various initiatives in Europe have been launched to study superconducting magnets for a rotatable gantry suitable to deliver up to 440 MeV/A carbon ions for hadron therapy. One initiative is led by INFN inside an agreement with CERN, CNAO, and MedAustron aiming at designing and manufacturing a strongly curved cos θ dipole rated for 4 T central field and with a ramp rate of 0.15-0.4 T/s. Here we explore the suitability of dipole technology derived from HEP collider for a rotatable gantry that poses severe conditions on the thermal design (indirectly cooled coils). A second one is in the frame of the European program H2020-HITRIplus-WP8, aimed at exploring the feasibility of using the novel Canted Cosine Theta (CCT) concept to produce a superconducting dipole with similar characteristics. The scope is to design and built one or two prototypes with Nb-Ti rope, to see if this route could be a viable alternative. Finally in the European collaboration H2020-I. FAST-WP8 we are exploring both CCT in combined function design (dipole + quadrupole, in Nb-Ti) and the use of HTS (REBCO tapes) with CCT dipole layout, pursuing the design manufacture of small prototypes with European Industry. If HTS will be found successful, it will be a great benefit for the cryogenic design of the magnet system.
The advanced motion control system in HEPS beamline
Authors: Yue Zongyang , Lei Ge , Zhou Aiyu , Deng Xiaobao , Liu Yu , Zhang Dianshuai , Li Gang
Published: January 2024

In synchrotron radiation facilities such as the High Energy
Photon Source (HEPS), numerous motorized actuators are equipped on
the optics devices of HEPS beamline to manipulate the orientation of
crystals and mirrors, thereby altering the position and
characteristics of X-rays. The motion control system (MCS) plays an
important role in the optics devices of HEPS beamlines, such as
monochromator, K-B mirror and sample plants. In order to acquire
the specify properties of X-ray and satisfy the complex experimental
requirements, MCS must have the ability to handle the complicated
control demands. Therefore, HEPS has developed a standardized
motion control system for synchrotron radiation applications, which
is a distributed system based on EtherCAT fieldbus. The hardware of
this system consists of the control unit and driver unit, which has
the flexibility to suit for different applications. The software of
MCS is designed under the Experimental Physics and Industrial
Control System (EPICS), which is very popular in synchrotron
radiation facilities all over the world. In this paper, the
performance tests of IOC software were demonstrated, and a few
flyscan applications were given, which include spiral scan, raster
scan and position event trigger, to demonstrate the feasibility and
effectiveness of this system.
Silicon Photomultiplier selection for Large Array of Imaging Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescopes
Authors: Lu R. , Zhang L. , Ge M.M. , Zhang S.S. , Hor Y.K.
Published: January 2024

A Large Array of imaging atmospheric Cherenkov Telescopes
(LACT) will be constructed at the Large High Altitude Air Shower
Observatory site to explore the nature of PeV gamma-ray sources. The
cameras of LACT will use Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPMs) as the
photodetector. A dedicated test system was built to select SiPMs for
LACT. The characteristics of six SiPM models from three
manufacturers (Hamamatsu, Joinbon, and ON Semiconductor) were
evaluated. Based on the characteristics of the candidate SiPMs and
their preamplifiers, a Wiener-deconvolution algorithm is implemented
to correct the pileup of the SiPM output pulses. The measurement
methods and results for breakdown voltage, gain, dark count rate,
optical crosstalk, and afterpulsing of the candidate SiPMs are
reported in this article.
Network mechanism for generating genuinely correlative Gaussian states*
Authors: Bai Zhaofang , Du Shuanping
Published: January 2024

Generating a long-distance quantum state with genuine quantum correlation (GQC) is one of the most essential functions of quantum networks to support quantum communication. Here, we provide a deterministic scheme for generating multimode Gaussian states with certain GQC (including genuine entanglement). Efficient algorithms of generating multimode states are also proposed. Our scheme is useful for resolving the bottleneck in generating some multimode Gaussian states and may pave the way towards real world applications of preparing multipartite quantum states in current quantum technologies.
Assessing radiologists’ and radiographers’ perceptions on artificial intelligence integration: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Al Mohammad Badera , Aldaradkeh Afnan , Gharaibeh Monther , Reed Warren
Published: January 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate radiologists’ and radiographers’ opinions and perspectives on artificial intelligence (AI) and its integration into the radiology department. Additionally, we investigated the most common challenges and barriers that radiologists and radiographers face when learning about AI.

Methods

A nationwide, online descriptive cross-sectional survey was distributed to radiologists and radiographers working in hospitals and medical centres from May 29, 2023 to July 30, 2023. The questionnaire examined the participants’ opinions, feelings, and predictions regarding AI and its applications in the radiology department. Descriptive statistics were used to report the participants’ demographics and responses. Five-points Likert-scale data were reported using divergent stacked bar graphs to highlight any central tendencies.

Results

Responses were collected from 258 participants, revealing a positive attitude towards implementing AI. Both radiologists and radiographers predicted breast imaging would be the subspecialty most impacted by the AI revolution. MRI, mammography, and CT were identified as the primary modalities with significant importance in the field of AI application. The major barrier encountered by radiologists and radiographers when learning about AI was the lack of mentorship, guidance, and support from experts.

Conclusion

Participants demonstrated a positive attitude towards learning about AI and implementing it in the radiology practice. However, radiologists and radiographers encounter several barriers when learning about AI, such as the absence of experienced professionals support and direction.

Advances in knowledge

Radiologists and radiographers reported several barriers to AI learning, with the most significant being the lack of mentorship and guidance from experts, followed by the lack of funding and investment in new technologies.
A case of chylous ascites caused by reflux from the cisterna chyli to the disrupted common iliac lymphatic vessel: fluoroscopic records during intranodal lymphangiography
Authors: Oka Taiga , Ishimaru Hideki , Hirao Maki , Nagayama Hiroki , Miyamura Shuto , Somagawa Chika , Nonaka Takashi , Honda Takuya , Toya Ryo
Published: January 2024

A 40-year-old woman underwent laparoscopic common iliac lymphadenectomy for metastasis from rectal cancer. Two weeks after the surgery, she was found to have massive chylous ascites. After failure of conservative treatment, bilateral inguinal intranodal lymphangiography was performed. No definite extravasation was observed while lipiodol injected through the left inguinal node was ascending. When we punctured the right inguinal lymph nodes and started the injection of lipiodol, extravasation of diluted lipiodol was noted at the level of the first sacrum. Careful observation revealed that the ascending lipiodol became diluted in the cisterna chyli, refluxed through the median paraaortic route, leaked from the excised left common iliac lymph vessel, and flowed into the abdominal cavity. Lipiodol used in lymphangiography did not reduce chylous ascites at all. Twenty-seven days after lymphangiography, laparoscopic lymphatic ligation was performed, and the chylous ascites disappeared completely. CT obtained 40 days after surgical repair revealed disappearance of ascites and enlargement of the thoracic duct, which had not been observed on preoperative lymphangiography. Notably, lymphatic reflux from the cisterna chili can occur without obstruction of the thoracic duct and may result in chylous ascites.
Transcatheter management of pure native aortic valve regurgitation in patients with left ventricular assist device
Authors: Hinkov Hristian , Lee Chong Bin , Pitts Leonard , Lanmüller Pia , Klein Christoph , Kukucka Marian , Potapov Evgenij , Kempfert Jörg , Falk Volkmar , Dreger Henryk , Unbehaun Axel
Published: January 2024

OBJECTIVES

Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) frequently complicates the clinical course after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as an alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in this cohort with a mostly high surgical risk profile. The unique challenges in LVAD patients, such as presence of non-calcified aortic valves and annular dilatation, raise concerns about device migration and paravalvular leakage (PVL) leading to missing device success. This study evaluates procedural outcomes and survival rates in LVAD patients who underwent TAVI, emphasizing strategies to enhance device success.

METHODS

Between January 2017 and April 2023, 27 LVAD patients with clinically significant AR underwent elective or urgent TAVI at our centre. Primary end-points were procedural success rates, without the need for a second transcatheter heart valve (THV) and postprocedural AR/PVL. Secondary outcomes included survival rates and adverse events.

RESULTS

Among the cohort, 14.8% received AR-dedicated TAVI devices, with none requiring a second THV. There was no intraprocedural AR, and 1 patient (25%) had AR > ‘trace’ at discharge. Additionally, 25.9% underwent device landing zone (DLZ) pre-stenting with a standard TAVI device, all without needing a second THV. There was no intraprocedural AR, and none to trace AR at discharge. Among the 59.3% receiving standard TAVI devices, 37.5% required a second THV. In this subgroup, intraprocedural AR > ‘trace’ occurred in 12.5%, decreasing to 6.25% at discharge. In-hospital mortality was 3.7%, and median follow-up survival was 388 days (interquartile range 208–1167 days).

CONCLUSIONS

TAVI yields promising procedural outcomes and early survival rates in LVAD patients with AR. Tailored TAVI devices and pre-stenting techniques enhance procedural success. Continued research into these strategies is essential to optimize outcomes in this complex patient cohort.
A multidisciplinary Delphi consensus to define evidence-based quality indicators for diabetic foot ulcer care
Authors: Lusendi Flora Mbela , Vanherwegen An-Sofie , Nobels Frank , Matricali Giovanni Arnoldo
Published: January 2024

Background

Valid measures to assess quality of care delivered to patients with diabetes suffering from diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) are scarce. This study aimed to achieve consensus on relevant and feasible quality indicators (QIs) among stakeholders involved in DFU care and was conducted as the second part of a Belgian QI selection study that sought to identify QIs for DFU care.

Methods

A stakeholder panel, including caregivers from primary care and specialized disciplines active in diabetic foot care as well as a patient organization representative, was recruited. By using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method, stakeholders were asked to rate a list of 42 candidate evidence-based indicators for appropriateness through a 9-point Likert scale. QIs were classified based on the median ratings and the disagreement index, calculated by the inter-percentile range adjusted for symmetry.

Results

At the end of a three-phase process, 17 QIs were judged as appropriate. Among them, five were not previously described, covering the following topics: integration of wound care specialty in the multidisciplinary team, systematic evaluation of the nutritional status of the patient, administration of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol lowering medication and protocolized care (implementation of care and prevention management protocols).

Conclusions

The identified evidence-based QIs provide an assessment tool to evaluate and monitor quality of care delivered to DFU patients. Future research should focus on their complementarity with the existing QIs and their implementation in clinical practice.
Political polarization may affect attitudes towards vaccination. An analysis based on the European Social Survey data from 23 countries
Authors: Wróblewski Michał , Meler Andrzej
Published: January 2024

Background

Political polarization may result in increased confirmation bias, strengthening of disinformation mechanisms or policy distortion. This raises the question whether it may influence the vaccination programmes. This study investigates the relationship between the level of political polarization and coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine behaviour and vaccine acceptance.

Methods

In our study, we use the Partisan Polarization Index (PPI). The PPI aims to measure the gap between satisfaction with the government expressed by supporters of the ruling parties and that expressed by supporters of the opposition parties. We use the data from the latest round of the European Social Service from 23 countries. The effect of the PPI on the variability of vaccination declarations and intent across countries was verified based on a linear regression model.

Results

The linear regression score for 23 countries revealed a statistically significant relationship between the vaccination variable and the level of political polarization. The model explains the variability in the vaccination levels based on the PPI in a given country at 38.6%.

Conclusions

Political polarization can contribute to shaping negative attitudes towards vaccination through policy distortion, undermining the effectiveness of compliance against regulation, undermining trust in science and increasing the public's susceptibility to conspiracy theories.
A systematic review of literature examining the application of a social model of health and wellbeing
Authors: Rahman Rachel , Reid Caitlin , Kloer Philip , Henchie Anna , Thomas Andrew , Zwiggelaar Reyer
Published: January 2024

Background

Following years of sustained pressure on the UK health service, there is recognition amongst health professionals and stakeholders that current models of healthcare are likely to be inadequate going forward. Therefore, a fundamental review of existing social models of healthcare is needed to ascertain current thinking in this area, and whether there is a need to change perspective on current thinking.

Method

Through a systematic research review, this paper seeks to address how previous literature has conceptualized a social model of healthcare and, how implementation of the models has been evaluated. Analysis and data were extracted from 222 publications and explored the country of origin, methodological approach, and the health and social care contexts which they were set.

Results

The publications predominantly drawn from the USA, UK, Australia, Canada and Europe identified five themes namely: the lack of a clear and unified definition of a social model of health and wellbeing; the need to understand context; the need for cultural change; improved integration and collaboration towards a holistic and person-centred approach; measuring and evaluating the performance of a social model of health.

Conclusion

The review identified a need for a clear definition of a social model of health and wellbeing. Furthermore, consideration is needed on how a model integrates with current models and whether it will act as a descriptive framework or, will be developed into an operational model. The review highlights the importance of engagement with users and partner organizations in the co-creation of a model of healthcare.
Accelerating pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma research: the Hodgkin Lymphoma Data Collaboration (NODAL)
Authors: Wyatt Kirk D , Birz Suzi , Castellino Sharon M , Henderson Tara O , Lucas John T , Pei Qinglin , Zhou Yiwang , Volchenboum Samuel L , Furner Brian , Watkins Michael , Kelly Kara M , Flerlage Jamie E ,   the Hodgkin Lymphoma Data Collaboration (NODAL), Achen Bhavya , Appel Burt , Beauchemin Melissa , Belsky Jenny , Casey Dana , Cole Peter , Constine Louis , Dave Hema , Drachtman Richard , Forlenza Chris , Friedman Debra , Harker-Murray Paul , Hodgson David , Hoppe Brad , Jacobs Shana , Kahn Justine , Kamdar Kala , Keller Frank , Lo Andrea , Mailhot Raymond , Marks Lianna , McCarten Kathleen , Milgrom Sarah , Mori Tomi , Parsons Susan , Punnett Angela , Schwartz Cindy , Seelisch Jenn , Wu Yue , Castellino Sharon , Flerlage Jamie , Henderson Tara , Kelly Kara , Lucas John , Pei Qinglin , Volchenboum Samuel , Zhou Yiwang , Birz Suzi
Published: January 2024

Data commons have proven to be an indispensable avenue for advancing pediatric cancer research by serving as unified information technology platforms that, when coupled with data standards, facilitate data sharing. The Pediatric Cancer Data Commons, the flagship project of Data for the Common Good (D4CG), collaborates with disease-based consortia to facilitate development of clinical data standards, harmonization and pooling of clinical data from disparate sources, establishment of governance structure, and sharing of clinical data. In the interest of international collaboration, researchers developed the Hodgkin Lymphoma Data Collaboration and forged a relationship with the Pediatric Cancer Data Commons to establish a data commons for pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma. Herein, we describe the progress made in the formation of Hodgkin Lymphoma Data Collaboration and foundational goals to advance pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma research.
An interesting twist: 90 year-old female with acute small bowel obstruction due to midgut volvulus
Authors: Jackson Hillary M , Saed Khaled , Adams Turner , Maturasingh Matthew B , Vedros Fallon D , Masri Mohammad M
Published: January 2024

We report an exceptionally rare presentation of midgut volvulus secondary to malrotation in a nonagenarian female. According to our extensive literature review, this 90-year-old female is the oldest reported case of midgut volvulus. This patient presented with acute recurrent emesis. Imaging showed midgut volvulus with associated small bowel obstruction. The patient underwent an exploratory laparotomy that revealed midgut volvulus because of congenital malrotation and Ladd’s bands, necessitating a modified Ladd’s procedure. The patient had an uneventful postoperative course. Congenital malrotation with Ladd’s bands was likely asymptomatic throughout this patient’s life. Our case adds to the scarce instances where midgut volvulus with malrotation is identified in elderly patients, underscoring the importance of considering this diagnosis irrespective of age. We recommend including midgut volvulus because of malrotation in a differential list of atypical small bowel obstruction in elderly patients.
A practical guide to a moment approach for neutrino transport in numerical relativity
Authors: Musolino Carlo , Rezzolla Luciano
Published: January 2024

The development of a neutrino moment-based radiative-transfer code to simulate binary neutron star mergers can easily become an obstacle path because of the numerous ways in which the solution of the equations may fail. We describe the implementation of the grey M1 scheme in our fully general-relativistic magnetohydrodynamics code and detail those choices and strategies that could lead either to a robust scheme or to a series of failures. In addition, we present new tests designed to show the consistency and accuracy of our code in conditions that are similar to realistic merging conditions and introduce a new, publicly available, benchmark based on the head-on collision of two neutron stars. This test, which is computationally less expensive than a complete merging binary but has all the potential pitfalls of the full scenario, can be used to compare future implementations of M1 schemes with the one presented here.
Galactic cosmic-ray scattering due to intermittent structures
Authors: Butsky Iryna S , Hopkins Philip F , Kempski Philipp , Ponnada Sam B , Quataert Eliot , Squire Jonathan
Published: January 2024

Cosmic rays (CRs) with energies ≪ TeV comprise a significant component of the interstellar medium (ISM). Major uncertainties in CR behaviour on observable scales (much larger than CR gyroradii) stem from how magnetic fluctuations scatter CRs in pitch angle. Traditional first-principles models, which assume these magnetic fluctuations are weak and uniformly scatter CRs in a homogeneous ISM, struggle to reproduce basic observables such as the dependence of CR residence times and scattering rates on rigidity. We therefore explore a new category of ‘patchy’ CR scattering models, wherein CRs are pre-dominantly scattered by intermittent strong scattering structures with small volume-filling factors. These models produce the observed rigidity dependence with a simple size distribution constraint, such that larger scattering structures are rarer but can scatter a wider range of CR energies. To reproduce the empirically inferred CR scattering rates, the mean free path between scattering structures must be $\ell _{\rm mfp}\sim 10\, {\rm pc}$ at GeV energies. We derive constraints on the sizes, internal properties, mass/volume-filling factors, and the number density any such structures would need to be both physically and observationally consistent. We consider a range of candidate structures, both large scale (e.g. H ii regions) and small scale (e.g. intermittent turbulent structures, perhaps even associated with radio plasma scattering) and show that while many macroscopic candidates can be immediately ruled out as the primary CR scattering sites, many smaller structures remain viable and merit further theoretical study. We discuss future observational constraints that could test these models.
Insight-HXMT observations of thermonuclear X-ray bursts in 4U 1636−53
Authors: Yan Zhe , Zhang Guobao , Chen Yu-Peng , Zhang Shu , Méndez Mariano , Peng Jingqiang , Zhang Shuang-Nan , Qu Jinlu , Lyu Ming , Mao Jirong , Ge Mingyu , Wang Jiancheng
Published: January 2024

We conducted an analysis of 45 bursts observed from 4U 1636−53. To investigate the mechanism behind the light-curve profiles and the impact of thermonuclear X-ray bursts on the accretion environment in accreting neutron star low-mass X-ray binaries. This analysis employed both light-curve and time-resolved spectroscopy methodologies, with data collected by the Insight-Hard X-ray Modulation Telescope instrument. We found that 30 bursts exhibited similar light-curve profiles and were predominantly in the hard state, and two photospheric radius expansion (PRE) bursts were in the soft state. The light curves of most bursts did not follow a single exponential decay but displayed a dual-exponential behaviour. The initial exponent had a duration of approximately 6 s. We utilized both the standard method and the ‘fa’ method to fit the burst spectra. The majority of the ‘fa’ values exceeded 1, indicating an enhancement of the persistent emission during the burst. Under the two Comptonization components assumption, we suggest that the scattering of burst photons by the inner corona may mainly contribute to the persistent emission enhancement. We also observed an inverse correlation between the maximum fa and the persistent emission flux in the non-PRE burst. This anticorrelation suggests that when the accretion rate is lower, there is a greater enhancement of persistent emission during the burst peak. The prediction based on Poynting–Robertson drag (P–R drag) aligns with this observed anticorrelation.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease from clinical to pathological characteristics: a multi-center cross-sectional study in real world
Authors: Li Yan , Dai Changyong , Ruan Yuhua , Yang Haiqing , Zeng Huang , Huang Rui , Wang Jialu , Dai Mingjia , Hao Jungui , Wang Liping , Li Jie , Yan Xuebing , Lu Zhonghua , Ji Fang
Published: January 2024

Background

The evaluation of patients with fatty liver as defined by metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in the real world remains poorly researched. This study aimed to analyse the clinical and histological features of patients with MAFLD and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and to characterize each metabolic subgroup of MAFLD.

Methods

A total of 2563 patients with fatty liver confirmed by ultrasonography and/or magnetic resonance tomography and/or liver biopsy-proven from three hospitals in China were included in the study. Patients were divided into different groups according to diagnostic criteria for MAFLD and NAFLD, and MAFLD into different subgroups.

Results

There were 2337 (91.2%) patients fitting the MAFLD criteria, and 2095 (81.7%) fitting the NAFLD criteria. Compared to patients with NAFLD, those with MAFLD were more likely to be male, had more metabolic traits, higher liver enzyme levels, and noninvasive fibrosis scores. Among the patients with liver biopsy, the extent of advanced fibrosis in cases with MAFLD was significantly higher than those with NAFLD, 31.8% versus 5.2% (P < .001); there was no significant difference in advanced fibrosis between obese cases and lean individuals in MAFLD (P > .05); MAFLD complicated with diabetes had significantly higher advanced fibrosis than those without diabetes (43.3% and 17.2%, respectively; P < .001).

Conclusions

Patients with MAFLD have a higher degree of liver fibrosis than NAFLD patients. In addition, diabetic patients should be screened for fatty liver and liver fibrosis degree.
Vascular endothelial cellular mechanics under hyperglycemia and its role in tissue regeneration
Authors: Wang Kui , Ge Yongmei , Yang Yongshuai , Li Zhenjian , Liu Jiayi , Xue Yizebang , Zhang Yuanjun , Pang Xiangchao , Ngan A H W , Tang Bin
Published: January 2024

Diabetes is one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide. The tissue regeneration of diabetes patients is known to be rather tricky as the result of vascular dysfunction, and this leads to various clinical complications including diabetic foot ulcers. The vascular endothelial cells, which compactly line the inner surface of blood vessels, are responsible for the growth and maintenance of blood vessels and play an essential role in tissue regeneration. Although the mechanical properties of cells are generally known to be regulated by physiological/pathological conditions, few studies have been performed to investigate vascular endothelial cellular mechanics under hyperglycemia and the biological functions related to tissue regeneration. In this study, we conduct a systematic investigation of this issue. The results suggested that the stiffness of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) can be significantly regulated by the glucose concentration, subsequently, leading to significant alterations in cell migration and proliferation capabilities that are closely related to tissue regeneration. The rearrangement of the cytoskeleton induced by hyperglycemia through Cdc42 was found to be one of the pathways for the alteration of the cell stiffness and the subsequent cell dysfunctions. Therefore, we suggested that the inhibition of Cdc42 might be a promising strategy to facilitate various tissue regeneration for diabetes patients.
Genetic Variability Among U.S.-Sentinel Cotton Plot Cotton Leafroll Dwarf Virus and Globally Available Reference Isolates Based on ORF0 Diversity
Authors: Adegbola Raphael O. , Ponvert Nathaniel D. , Brown Judith K.
Published: January 2024

The aphid-transmitted polerovirus, cotton leafroll dwarf virus (CLRDV), first characterized from symptomatic cotton plants in South America, has been identified in commercial cotton plantings in the United States. Here, the CLRDV intraspecific diversity was investigated by comparative sequence analysis of the most divergent CLRDV coding region, ORF0/P0. Bayesian analysis of ORF0 sequences for U.S. and reference populations resolved three well-supported sister clades comprising one U.S. and two South American lineages. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified seven statistically supported intraspecific populations. The Bayesian phylogeny and PCA dendrogram-inferred relationships were congruent. Population analysis of ORF0 sequences indicated most lineages have evolved under negative selection, albeit certain sites/isolates evolved under positive selection. Both U.S. and South American isolates exhibited extensive ORF0 diversity. At least two U.S. invasion foci were associated with their founder populations in Alabama-Georgia and eastern Texas. The Alabama-Georgia founder is implicated as the source of recent widespread expansion and establishment of secondary disease foci throughout the southeastern-central United States. Based on the geographically restricted distribution, spread of another extant Texas population appeared impeded by a population bottleneck. Extant CLRDV isolates represent several putative introductions potentially associated with catastrophic weather events dispersing viruliferous cotton aphids of unknown origin(s).
Standard Area Diagrams for Pecan Leaf Scab: Effect of Rater Experience, Location, and Leaf Size on Reliability and Accuracy of Visual Estimates
Authors: Hilton Angelyn , Wang Xinwang , Jo Young-Ki , Conner Patrick , Randall Jennifer , Chatwin Warren , Bock Clive
Published: January 2024

Assessments of the severity of scab (Venturia effusa), an economically significant disease of pecan, are critical for determining pecan cultivar susceptibility, disease epidemiology, and integrated disease management approaches. We developed a standard area diagram (SAD) set to aid in assessments of pecan leaflet scab. Leaflets with scab lesions were harvested and scanned using a flatbed scanner at 600 dpi, and Fiji (ImageJ) was used to determine the actual percent disease severity. The SADs had 10 leaflets ranging in severity from 0.2 to 48.9%. Forty “small” (1.34 to 7.43 cm2) and 40 “large” (7.67 to 25.9 cm2) leaflet images were randomized for rater assessments. The images were assessed twice by 36 raters, first without and then with the SADs as a guide. Data were subjected to analysis using Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient (LCC, pc) to determine the accuracy of ratings and by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis to determine interrater reliability. The effects of rater experience, rater location, and leaflet size were also determined. The SADs significantly improved the agreement between raters and the actual values (LCC, pc = 0.70 and 0.84 without and with the SADs, respectively). The reliability of estimates was improved (ICC = 0.54 and 0.82 without and with the SADs, respectively). The effect of rater location on overall concordance was significant without and with the SADs based on an analysis of variance using a generalized linear model and lsmeans separation (P < 0.05). A generalized linear mixed model analysis revealed that there was a significant interaction between rater location, experience, and the use of the SADs, with some raters having greater improvement in generalized bias and concordance. Raters had a significantly better accuracy when rating “small” leaves (LCC, pc = 0.86) compared with “large” leaves (LCC, pc = 0.82) when using the SADs, highlighting the impact of psychophysics on field evaluations of plant disease severity. The proposed SADs will serve as an improved tool for performing pecan leaflet scab assessments by the pecan research community.
Macrophage mediators and mechanisms in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Schelemei Patrik , Wagner Elena , Picard Felix Simon Ruben , Winkels Holger
Published: January 2024

Macrophages are major players in myocardial infarction (MI) and atherosclerosis, two major cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Atherosclerosis is caused by the buildup of cholesterol‐rich lipoproteins in blood vessels, causing inflammation, vascular injury, and plaque formation. Plaque rupture or erosion can cause thrombus formation resulting in inadequate blood flow to the heart muscle and MI. Inflammation, particularly driven by macrophages, plays a central role in both atherosclerosis and MI. Recent integrative approaches of single‐cell analysis‐based classifications in both murine and human atherosclerosis as well as experimental MI showed overlap in origin, diversity, and function of macrophages in the aorta and the heart. We here discuss differences and communalities between macrophages in the heart and aorta at steady state and in atherosclerosis or upon MI. We focus on markers, mediators, and functional states of macrophage subpopulations. Recent trials testing anti‐inflammatory agents show a major benefit in reducing the inflammatory burden of CVD patients, but highlight a necessity for a broader understanding of immune cell ontogeny and heterogeneity in CVD. The novel insights into macrophage biology in CVD represent exciting opportunities for the development of novel treatment strategies against CVD.
Cleavage efficiency of the intramembrane protease γ‐secretase is reduced by the palmitoylation of a substrate's transmembrane domain
Authors: Aßfalg Marlene , Güner Gökhan , Müller Stephan A. , Breimann Stephan , Langosch Dieter , Muhle‐Goll Claudia , Frishman Dmitrij , Steiner Harald , Lichtenthaler Stefan F.
Published: January 2024

The intramembrane protease γ‐secretase has broad physiological functions, but also contributes to Notch‐dependent tumors and Alzheimer's disease. While γ‐secretase cleaves numerous membrane proteins, only few nonsubstrates are known. Thus, a fundamental open question is how γ‐secretase distinguishes substrates from nonsubstrates and whether sequence‐based features or post‐translational modifications of membrane proteins contribute to substrate recognition. Using mass spectrometry‐based proteomics, we identified several type I membrane proteins with short ectodomains that were inefficiently or not cleaved by γ‐secretase, including ‘pituitary tumor‐transforming gene 1‐interacting protein’ (PTTG1IP). To analyze the mechanism preventing cleavage of these putative nonsubstrates, we used the validated substrate FN14 as a backbone and replaced its transmembrane domain (TMD), where γ‐cleavage occurs, with the one of nonsubstrates. Surprisingly, some nonsubstrate TMDs were efficiently cleaved in the FN14 backbone, demonstrating that a cleavable TMD is necessary, but not sufficient for cleavage by γ‐secretase. Cleavage efficiencies varied by up to 200‐fold. Other TMDs, including that of PTTG1IP, were still barely cleaved within the FN14 backbone. Pharmacological and mutational experiments revealed that the PTTG1IP TMD is palmitoylated, which prevented cleavage by γ‐secretase. We conclude that the TMD sequence of a membrane protein and its palmitoylation can be key factors determining substrate recognition and cleavage efficiency by γ‐secretase.
Feasibility of Saphenous Nerve Somatosensory-Evoked Potential Intraoperative Monitoring During Lumbar Spine Surgery
Authors: Rucker Sydney , Singh Nishtha , Mai Eric , Asada Tomoyuki , Shahi Pratyush , Mercado Kristin , Leung Dora , Iyer Sravisht , Emerson Ronald , Qureshi Sheeraz A.
Published: January 2024

Study Design.

Retrospective review.

Objective.

Assess the feasibility of saphenous nerve somatosensory evoked potentials (SN-SSEP) monitoring in lumbar spine surgeries.

Background Context.

SN-SSEPs have been proposed for detecting lumbar plexus and femoral nerve injury during lateral lumbar surgery where tibial nerve (TN) SSEPs alone are insufficient. SN-SSEPs may also be useful in other types of lumbar surgery, as stimulation of SN below the knee derives solely from the L4 root and provides a means of L4 monitoring, whereas TN-SSEPs often do not detect single nerve root injury. The feasibility of routine SN-SSEP monitoring has not been established.

Methods.

A total of 563 consecutive cases using both TN-SSEP and SN-SSEP monitoring were included. Anesthesia was at the discretion of the anesthesiologist, using an inhalant in 97.7% of procedures. SN stimulation was performed using 13 mm needle electrodes placed below the knee using 200-400 μsec pulses at 15 to 100 mA. Adjustments to stimulation parameters were made by the neurophysiology technician while obtaining baselines. Data were graded retrospectively for monitorability and cortical response amplitudes were measured by two independent reviewers.

Results.

Ninety-eight percent of TN-SSEPs and 92.5% of SN-SSEPs were monitorable at baseline, with a mean response amplitude of 1.35 μV for TN-SSEPs and 0.71 μV for SN-SSEPs. A significant difference between the stimulation parameters used to obtain reproducible TN and SN-SSEPs at baseline was observed, with SN-SSEPs requiring greater stimulation intensities. Body mass index is not associated with baseline monitorability. Out of 20 signal changes observed, 11 involved SN, while TN-SSEPs were unaffected.

Conclusion.

With adjustments to stimulation parameters, SN-SSEP monitoring is feasible within a large clinical cohort without modifications to the anesthetic plan. Incorporating SN into standard intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring protocols for lumbar spine procedures may expand the role of SSEP monitoring to include detecting injury to the lumbar plexus.

Level of Evidence.

3.
COVID-19 in immunocompromised patients after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a pilot study
Authors: Zhang Zilu , Huang Jingtao , Wang Luxiang , Pan Zengkai , Huang Jiayu , Jiang Chuanhe , Zhang Sujiang , Li Su , Hu Xiaoxia
Published: January 2024

Data on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in patients at early stage of immune reconstitution after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) are limited. In the present study, we retrospectively investigated the incidence and clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients who underwent HSCT in 2022. Patients (allo-HSCT, n = 80; auto-HSCT, n = 37) were consecutively included in the study. The SARS-CoV-2 infection rate was 59.8%, and the median interval of HSCT to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was 4.8 (range: 0.5–12) months. Most patients were categorized as mild (41.4%) or moderate (38.6%), and 20% as severe/critical. No deaths were attributable to COVID-19. Further analysis showed that lower circulating CD8+ T-cell counts and calcineurin inhibitor administration increased the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Exposure to rituximab significantly increased the probability of severe or critical COVID-19 compared with that of mild/moderate illness (P < .001). In the multivariate analysis, rituximab use was associated with severe COVID-19. Additionally, COVID-19 had no significant effect on immune reconstitution. Furthermore, it was found that Epstein–Barr virus infection and rituximab administration possibly increase the risk of developing severe illness. Our study provides preliminary insights into the effect of SARS-CoV-2 on immune reconstitution and the outcomes of allo-HSCT recipients.