Accurate Determination of the Neutron Skin Thickness of ^{208}Pb through Parity-Violation in Electron Scattering

We report a precision measurement of the parity-violating asymmetry A_{PV} in the elastic scattering of longitudinally polarized electrons from ^{208}Pb. We measure A_{PV}=550±16(stat)±8(syst) parts per billion, leading to an extraction of the neutral weak form factor F_{W}(Q^{2}=0.00616  GeV^{2})=0.368±0.013. Combined with our previous measurement, the extracted neutron skin thickness is R_{n}-R_{p}=0.283±0.071  fm. The result also yields the first significant direct measurement of the interior weak density of ^{208}Pb: ρ_{W}^{0}=-0.0796±0.0036(exp)±0.0013(theo)  fm^{-3} leading to the interior baryon density ρ_{b}^{0}=0.1480±0.0036(exp)±0.0013(theo)  fm^{-3}. The measurement accurately constrains the density dependence of the symmetry energy of nuclear matter near saturation density, with implications for the size and composition of neutron stars.

Treatment outcomes in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis according to pyrazinamide susceptibility

BACKGROUND: Pyrazinamide (PZA) is an important anti-tuberculosis drug for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). However, PZA has recently been demoted within the hierarchy of TB drugs used for MDR-TB.METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study to investigate treatment outcomes for simple MDR-TB (susceptible to both second-line injectable drugs and fluoroquinolones) according to PZA susceptibility.RESULTS: Among 216 pulmonary MDR-TB patients included in the study, 68 (31.5%) were PZA-resistant (PZA-R). The mean age was 41.8 years, and 63.4% were male. Baseline characteristics such as comorbidity, previous TB history, acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear positivity and cavitation were similar in PZA-susceptible (PZA-S) and PZA-R patients. The number of potentially effective drugs was slightly higher among PZA-S patients than among the PZA-R (5.1 vs. 4.8, respectively; P = 0.003). PZA was more frequently used in PZA-S patients (73.0%) than in the PZA-R (14.7%), while para-aminosalicylic acid was more frequently used in PZA-R than in PZA-S patients (76.5% vs. 50.7%). The treatment success rate was similar in PZA-S (77.7%) and PZA-R (75.0%) patients. PZA resistance was not associated with treatment success in multivariate analysis.CONCLUSIONS: PZA-resistant simple MDR-TB patients had the same treatment success rate as the PZA-susceptible group even without using novel anti-TB drugs.

Measurement of the Positive Muon Anomalous Magnetic Moment to 0.46 ppm

We present the first results of the Fermilab National Accelerator Laboratory (FNAL) Muon g-2 Experiment for the positive muon magnetic anomaly a_{μ}≡(g_{μ}-2)/2. The anomaly is determined from the precision measurements of two angular frequencies. Intensity variation of high-energy positrons from muon decays directly encodes the difference frequency ω_{a} between the spin-precession and cyclotron frequencies for polarized muons in a magnetic storage ring. The storage ring magnetic field is measured using nuclear magnetic resonance probes calibrated in terms of the equivalent proton spin precession frequency ω[over ˜]_{p}^{'} in a spherical water sample at 34.7 °C. The ratio ω_{a}/ω[over ˜]_{p}^{'}, together with known fundamental constants, determines a_{μ}(FNAL)=116 592 040(54)×10^{-11} (0.46 ppm). The result is 3.3 standard deviations greater than the standard model prediction and is in excellent agreement with the previous Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) E821 measurement. After combination with previous measurements of both μ^{+} and μ^{-}, the new experimental average of a_{μ}(Exp)=116 592 061(41)×10^{-11} (0.35 ppm) increases the tension between experiment and theory to 4.2 standard deviations.

Au nanolenses for near-field focusing

We report a novel strategy for the synthesis of Pt@Au nanorings possessing near-field focusing capabilities at the center through which single-particle surface enhanced Raman scattering could be readily observed. We utilized Pt@Au nanorings as a light-absorber; the absorbed light could be focused at the center with the aid of a Au nanoporous structure. We synthesized the Au nanolens structure through a Galvanic exchange process between Au ions and Ag block at the inner domain of the Pt@Au nanoring. For this step, Ag was selectively pre-deposited at the inner domain of the Pt@Au nanorings through electrochemical potential-tuned growth control and different surface energies with regard to the inner and outer boundaries of the nanoring. Then, the central nanoporous architecture was fabricated through the Galvanic exchange of sacrificial Ag with Au ions leading to the resulting Au nanoring with a Au nanoporous structure at the center. We monitored the shape-transformation by observing their corresponding localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) profiles. By varying the rim thickness of the starting Pt@Au nanorings, the inner diameter of the nanolens was accordingly tuned to maximize near-field focusing, which enabled us to obtain the reproducible and light-polarization independent measurements of single-particle SERS. Through theoretical simulation, the near-field electromagnetic field focusing capability was visualized and confirmed through single-particle SERS measurement showing an enhancement factor of 1.9 × 10⁸ to 1.0 × 10⁹.

We synthesized a Au nanolens with electromagnetic near-field focusing capability by integrating a Au nanoporous structure at the center of the Pt@Au nanoring via synthetic steps of eccentric growth of Ag and nanoscale Galvanic exchange reaction.

A visible-light phototransistor based on the heterostructure of ZnO and TiO2 with trap-assisted photocurrent generation

Visible-light phototransistors have been fabricated based on the heterojunction of zinc oxide (ZnO) and titanium oxide (TiO₂). A thin layer of TiO₂ was deposited onto the spin-coated ZnO film via atomic layer deposition (ALD). The electrical characteristics of the TiO₂ layer were optimized by controlling the purge time of titanium isopropoxide (TTIP). The optimized TiO₂ layer could absorb the visible-light from the sub-gap states near the conduction band of TiO₂, which was confirmed via photoelectron spectroscopy measurements. Therefore, the heterostructure of TiO₂/ZnO can absorb and generate photocurrent under visible light illumination. The oxygen-related-states were investigated via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and the interfacial band structure between TiO₂ and ZnO was evaluated via ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS). Oxygen-related states and subgap-states were observed, which could be used to generate photocurrent by absorbing visible light, even with TiO₂ and ZnO having a wide bandgap. The optimized TiO₂/ZnO visible-light phototransistor showed a photoresponsivity of 99.3 A W⁻¹ and photosensitivity of 1.5 × 10⁵ under the illumination of 520 nm wavelength light. This study provides a useful way to fabricate a visible-light phototransistor based on the heterostructure of wide bandgap oxide semiconductors.

Visible-light phototransistors have been fabricated based on the heterojunction of zinc oxide (ZnO) and titanium oxide (TiO₂).

Effect of Ga composition on mobility in a-InGaZnO thin-film transistors

Oxide semiconductor TFTs have attracted considerable attention in the recent past due to their excellent mobility, high optical transparency in the visible region, and most importantly their fabrication process at low-temperature. However, charge trapping formation in the gate dielectric and the interfaces in such oxide TFTs leads to serious issues such as their operational stability and reliability. Understanding the charge trapping mechanism is therefore of utmost importance to identify the root cause of the aforesaid problems. In this report, we present a detailed study on the charge trapping and dynamic charge transport of a-IGZO TFTs by examining microsecond fast IV (FIV), pulse IV (PIV), and transient IV measurements. The a-IGZO TFTs have designed and fabricated with various Ga compositions (0, 0.14 and 0.22). It was observed that the charge trapping in the a-IGZO TFT is reliant on the sweeping time and the carrier mobility measured using the FIV technique was found to be higher than that obtained from the conventional DC IV measurement. Mobility values ([Formula: see text]) was also measured through the PIV technique and are found to be approximately 10%, 16%, and 21% lower than the intrinsic mobility values. Temperature-dependent study reveals that the intrinsic mobility values (18.45, 16.1 and 12.03 cm² V^-1 s^-1) are higher than the pulse mobility values for various Ga compositions (0, 0.14 and 0.22) at higher temperature (175 °C) probably due to the formation of free carriers. Suitable optimization of process parameters of a-IGZO TFTs can therefore enhance the device stability and reliability characteristics leading to their potential utilization in flexible and stretchable electronic devices, sensors & detectors and biomedical devices.

Ruling out Color Transparency in Quasielastic ^{12}C(e,e^{'}p) up to Q^{2} of 14.2 (GeV/c)^{2}

Quasielastic ^{12}C(e,e^{'}p) scattering was measured at spacelike 4-momentum transfer squared Q^{2}=8, 9.4, 11.4, and 14.2  (GeV/c)^{2}, the highest ever achieved to date. Nuclear transparency for this reaction was extracted by comparing the measured yield to that expected from a plane-wave impulse approximation calculation without any final state interactions. The measured transparency was consistent with no Q^{2} dependence, up to proton momenta of 8.5  GeV/c, ruling out the quantum chromodynamics effect of color transparency at the measured Q^{2} scales in exclusive (e,e^{'}p) reactions. These results impose strict constraints on models of color transparency for protons.

Development and validation of a nomogram to predict pulmonary function and the presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a Korean population

BACKGROUND

Early suspicion followed by assessing lung function with spirometry could decrease the underdiagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in primary care. We aimed to develop a nomogram to predict the FEV₁/FVC ratio and the presence of COPD.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 4241 adult patients who underwent spirometry between 2013 and 2019. By linear regression analysis, variables associated with FEV₁/FVC were identified in the training cohort (n = 2969). Using the variables as predictors, a nomogram was created to predict the FEV₁/FVC ratio and validated in the test cohort (n = 1272).

RESULTS

Older age (β coefficient [95% CI], - 0.153 [- 0.183, - 0.122]), male sex (- 1.904 [- 2.749, - 1.056]), current or past smoking history (- 3.324 [- 4.200, - 2.453]), and the presence of dyspnea (- 2.453 [- 3.612, - 1.291]) or overweight (0.894 [0.191, 1.598]) were significantly associated with the FEV₁/FVC ratio. In the final testing, the developed nomogram showed a mean absolute error of 8.2% between the predicted and actual FEV₁/FVC ratios. The overall performance was best when FEV₁/FVC < 70% was used as a diagnostic criterion for COPD; the sensitivity, specificity, and balanced accuracy were 82.3%, 68.6%, and 75.5%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The developed nomogram could be used to identify potential patients at risk of COPD who may need further evaluation, especially in the primary care setting where spirometry is not available.

Dual-functional quantum-dots light emitting diodes based on solution processable vanadium oxide hole injection layer

Dual-functional quantum-dots light emitting diodes (QLEDs) have been fabricated using solution processable vanadium oxide (V2O5) hole injection layer to control the carrier transport behavior. The device shows selectable functionalities of photo-detecting and light-emitting behaviors according to the different operating voltage conditions. The device emitted a bright green light at the wavelength of 536 nm, and with the maximum luminance of 31,668 cd/m2 in a forward bias of 8.6 V. Meanwhile, the device could operate as a photodetector in a reverse bias condition. The device was perfectly turned off in a reverse bias, while an increase of photocurrent was observed during the illumination of 520 nm wavelength light on the device. The interfacial electronic structure of the device prepared with different concentration V2O5 solution was measured in detail using x-ray and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy. Both the highest occupied molecular orbital and the gap state levels were moved closer to the Fermi level, according to increase the concentration of V2O5 solution. The change of gap state position enables to fabricate a dual-functional QLEDs. Therefore, the device could operate both as a photodetector and as a light-emitting diode with different applied bias. The result suggests that QLEDs can be used as a photosensor and as a light-emitting diode for the future display industry.

Probing the Deuteron at Very Large Internal Momenta

We measure ^{2}H(e,e^{'}p)n cross sections at 4-momentum transfers of Q^{2}=4.5±0.5  (GeV/c)^{2} over a range of neutron recoil momenta p_{r}, reaching up to ∼1.0  GeV/c. We obtain data at fixed neutron recoil angles θ_{nq}=35°, 45°, and 75° with respect to the 3-momentum transfer q[over →]. The new data agree well with previous data, which reached p_{r}∼500  MeV/c. At θ_{nq}=35° and 45°, final state interactions, meson exchange currents, and isobar currents are suppressed and the plane wave impulse approximation provides the dominant cross section contribution. We compare the new data to recent theoretical calculations, where we observe a significant discrepancy for recoil momenta p_{r}>700  MeV/c.

Safety and efficacy of transarterial embolisation for treatment of dorsal pancreatic artery haemorrhage

AIM

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of transarterial embolisation (TAE) of dorsal pancreatic artery (DPA) haemorrhage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nineteen consecutive patients (M:F = 16:3, mean age 59.6 years) who underwent TAE of DPA in three tertiary medical centres between January 2001 to January 2020 were reviewed retrospectively. Angiographic features and the technical and clinical outcomes of TAE were analysed.

RESULTS

The clinical presentations were a bloody drain from the Jackson-Pratt drainage tube (n=8), melaena (n=7), abdominal pain (n=4), and haematochezia (n=3). Angiographic findings included pseudoaneurysm (n=14), contrast media extravasation (n=4), or abrupt cut-off of the arterial branch (n=1). The NBCA (N-butyl-cyanoacrylate; n=4), microcoils (n=4), and a combination of these agents (n=7) were used as embolic agents. The most common origin of the DPA in the present study cohort was the splenic artery (n=7), followed by the coeliac trunk (n=4), common hepatic artery (n=4), and superior mesenteric artery (n=4). Technical and clinical success rates were 100% and 84.2% (16/19), respectively. Of the three clinically unsuccessful cases, two patients were revealed to have newly developed bleeding from another artery. The other patient expired 1 day after the TAE procedure due to a progression of hepatic failure. In one patient, an asymptomatic non-target embolisation occurred in the right posterior tibial artery as a procedure-related complication. No major complications were observed.

CONCLUSION

TAE is safe and effective for the management of bleeding from the DPA. It is important to be aware of the DPA as a potential bleeding source, including the relevant clinical characteristics.

High-Precision Determination of Oxygen K_{α} Transition Energy Excludes Incongruent Motion of Interstellar Oxygen

We demonstrate a widely applicable technique to absolutely calibrate the energy scale of x-ray spectra with experimentally well-known and accurately calculable transitions of highly charged ions, allowing us to measure the K-shell Rydberg spectrum of molecular O_{2} with 8 meV uncertainty. We reveal a systematic ∼450  meV shift from previous literature values, and settle an extraordinary discrepancy between astrophysical and laboratory measurements of neutral atomic oxygen, the latter being calibrated against the aforementioned O_{2} literature values. Because of the widespread use of such, now deprecated, references, our method impacts on many branches of x-ray absorption spectroscopy. Moreover, it potentially reduces absolute uncertainties there to below the meV level.

Low-dose CT angiography of the lower extremities: a comparison study of image quality and radiation dose

AIM

To investigate the image quality and radiation dose of ultralow-dose (ULD) and low-dose (LD) lower-extremity computed tomography (CT) angiography (LE-CTA) using the advanced modelled iterative reconstruction (ADMIRE) algorithm to detect peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in comparison with standard-dose (SD) CT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and seven consecutive patients were examined using LE-CTA at 70 kVp and a dual-source scanner to achieve three image sets using 30% (ULD), 70% (LD), and 100% (SD) tube loads. Qualitative analysis was conducted by examining the three image sets for overall quality. The image quality of arterial segments was analysed by two independent readers. In addition, the CT dose index (CTDI_vol) was measured in the three image sets.

RESULTS

The mean overall quality scores were 3.4±0.6 for ULD CT, 3.9±0.3 for LD CT, and 3.9±0.2 for SD CT. Both readers scored the arterial segments as 2-4 (adequate-excellent) in the three image sets. In addition, 89.4% (93/104) and 54.8% (57/104) segments of PAD with calcified plaques were scored 4 between SD and LD CT and between SD and ULD CT, respectively, and 45.2% (47/104) segments had a lower score by one point in ULD CT compared with SD CT. The mean CTDI_vol was 4.1±1.1 mGy for SD CT, 2.9±0.8 mGy for LD CT, and 1.2±0.3 mGy for ULD CT.

CONCLUSIONS

LD/ULD CT at 70 kVp using ADMIRE reconstruction enables a reduction in the radiation dose while enabling adequate evaluation or follow-up of PAD based on LE-CTA.

Development and Validation of a Deep Learning-Based Automatic Brain Segmentation and Classification Algorithm for Alzheimer Disease Using 3D T1-Weighted Volumetric Images

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Limited evidence has suggested that a deep learning automatic brain segmentation and classification method, based on T1-weighted brain MR images, can predict Alzheimer disease. Our aim was to develop and validate a deep learning-based automatic brain segmentation and classification algorithm for the diagnosis of Alzheimer disease using 3D T1-weighted brain MR images.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A deep learning-based algorithm was developed using a dataset of T1-weighted brain MR images in consecutive patients with Alzheimer disease and mild cognitive impairment. We developed a 2-step algorithm using a convolutional neural network to perform brain parcellation followed by 3 classifier techniques including XGBoost for disease prediction. All classification experiments were performed using 5-fold cross-validation. The diagnostic performance of the XGBoost method was compared with logistic regression and a linear Support Vector Machine by calculating their areas under the curve for differentiating Alzheimer disease from mild cognitive impairment and mild cognitive impairment from healthy controls.

RESULTS

In a total of 4 datasets, 1099, 212, 711, and 705 eligible patients were included. Compared with the linear Support Vector Machine and logistic regression, XGBoost significantly improved the prediction of Alzheimer disease (P < .001). In terms of differentiating Alzheimer disease from mild cognitive impairment, the 3 algorithms resulted in areas under the curve of 0.758-0.825. XGBoost had a sensitivity of 68% and a specificity of 70%. In terms of differentiating mild cognitive impairment from the healthy control group, the 3 algorithms resulted in areas under the curve of 0.668-0.870. XGBoost had a sensitivity of 79% and a specificity of 80%.

CONCLUSIONS

The deep learning-based automatic brain segmentation and classification algorithm allowed an accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer disease using T1-weighted brain MR images. The widespread availability of T1-weighted brain MR imaging suggests that this algorithm is a promising and widely applicable method for predicting Alzheimer disease.

Clinical features and predictors of masked uncontrolled hypertension: from Korean ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (Korabp) registry

Background

Clinical characteristics of patients with masked uncontrolled hypertension (MUCH) are poorly defined, and few studies have reported on clinical predictors of MUCH. We investigated demographic, lifestyle, clinical and blood pressure (BP) characteristics in patients with MUCH and proposed a prediction model for MUCH.

Method

We analyzed 2044 subjects taking antihypertensive medication enrolled in the Korean Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (Kor-ABP) registry, who were categorized into controlled hypertension (n=481, normal office BP, normal 24-hour ABP), pseudo-uncontrolled hypertension (n=131, high office BP, normal 24-hour ABP), MUCH (n=380, normal office BP, high 24-hour ABP), and sustained uncontrolled hypertension (n=1,052; high office BP and high 24-hour ABP).

Result

The prevalence of MUCH increased with office systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP), whereas it was not associated with the numbers of antihypertensive drugs. But in patients with a high office SBP (≥130 mmHg), the prevalence of MUCH increased with decreasing numbers of antihypertensive drugs (interaction p=0.008; Figure 1A). Multiple logistic regression analysis identified high office SBPs and DBPs, prior stroke, dyslipidemia and single anti-hypertensive agent use as independent predictors of MUCH (Table 1). A prediction model using these predictors showed a high diagnostic accuracy (C-index 0.833) and a goodness of fit for the presence of MUCH (Figure 1B).

Conclusion

MUCH is associated with the borderline increase in office BP and the underuse of anti-hypertensive drugs as well as dyslipidemia and prior stroke, which underscores the importance of achieving the optimal BP control level in the high risk patients. The proposed model would accurately predict MUCH in patients with controlled office BP.

Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Empagliflozin treatment does not affect the hypertensive response to Ang II administration to rats but decreases oxidative stress in the arterial wall, and endothelial and cardiac dysfunction

Background

Selective sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have shown cardiovascular protection in type 2 diabetes patients with established cardiovascular disease independently of glycemic control. Angiotensin II (Ang II) and H2O2 have been shown to be strong inducers of the expression of SGLT2 and 1 in endothelial cells promoting oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction.

Purpose

This study examined the cardiovascular protective effect of empagliflozin (empa) in a normoglycemic experimental model of hypertension in the rat.

Methods

Male Wistar rats received empa (30 mg/kg/day) provided in the diet for 5 weeks. After 1 week, rats underwent sham surgery (sham rats) or surgery with implantation of an osmotic mini-pump infusing Ang II (0.4 mg/kg/d) for 4 weeks. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was assessed by sphygmomanometry, the cardiac function using echocardiography, the expression level of target proteins by immunofluorescence staining, and the level of oxidative stress using dihydroethidium staining.

Results

Angiotensin II administration increased systolic blood pressure from about 130 to 180 mmHg, which was not affected by the empa treatment. The 4-week Ang II treatment did not significantly affect the systolic cardiac function (cardiac output, left ventricle ejection fraction) but impaired the diastolic function as indicated by a reduced E' and IVRT values, and an increased E/E' value. The Ang II treatment increased significantly the heart and right ventricle weight whereas the left ventricle + septum weight was slightly but not significantly increased. No such functional and structural changes were observed in the Ang II + empa treatment group. An increased immunofluorescence eNOS signal in the endothelium, and a higher level of ROS throughout the aorta wall were observed in the Ang II-treated group, both of which were significantly reduced in the empa + Ang II-treated group. In the Ang II-treated group, the high level of oxidative stress in the aorta was significantly reduced by the AT1 receptor antagonist losartan, the NADPH oxidase inhibitor VAS-2871, the eNOS inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine and also to a greater extent by the selective SGLT2 inhibitor empa compared to the dual SGLT1/2 inhibitor sotagliflozin.

Conclusion(s)

The present findings indicate that although the empa treatment did not affect the hypertensive response of rats to Ang II, the SGLT2 inhibitor prevented the deleterious impact of Ang II on the diastolic cardiac function and remodeling, and the upregulation of eNOS expression and oxidative stress in the aorta wall. Thus, these findings highlight the protective potential of empa on the cardiovascular system in a normoglycemic hypertensive experimental model.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co KG (Biberach an der Riss, Germany)

Differences in the clinical characteristics and long-term outcome of peripartum tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy and peripartum cardiomyopathy

Background

Some peripartum-associated cardiomyopathy patients present similarly to those of tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM), little is known about the clinical course of peripartum TCM.

Purpose

To know clinicial characteristics and outcomes of peripartum TCM, in comparison with peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM)

Methods and results

Of 31 pregnancy-associated cardiomyopathy patients in a tertiary hospital, 10 cases of peripartum TCM and 21 cases of PPCM were found. Maternal near-missed death was significantly more common in the peripartum TCM group than in the PPCM group (100.0% vs. 76.2%, p=0.030). Complete recovery was observed with all peripartum TCM cases, while 23.8% of the PPCM cases had residual left ventricle (LV) dysfunction. LV ejection fraction greater than 30% on the initial echocardiogram independently predicted early echocardiographic recovery of left ventricular systolic function (odds ratio 331.33, 95% confidence interval 3.87–28402.60, p=0.011). There was no difference between the two groups in terms of the rate of adverse clinical events at 3 years of follow-up (PPCM group: 26.3% [5/19] vs. TCM group: 33.3% [3/9], p=0.750).

Conclusions

One-third of pregnancy-associated cardiomyopathy patients had peripartum TCM. With contemporary supportive care, both PPCM and peripartum TCM patients had a low mortality rate and excellent long-term outcomes.

Kaplan-Meier survival curves for death,

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Synthesis and Surface Plasmonic Characterization of Asymmetric Au Split Nanorings

In this Letter, a rational and stepwise method for the solution-phase synthesis of asymmetric Au split nanorings by adopting Au nanoprisms as a template has been demonstrated. The selective chemical etching of Au nanoprism tips activated the surface reactivity of edges and led to the selective deposition of Pt at the periphery of Au nanoplates. By controlling the total amount of Pt on the edges, different degrees of split Au@Pt nanorings were obtained; the subsequent Au coating around the Au@Pt scaffold eventually resulted in asymmetric Au hexagonal split nanorings. Their surface plasmonic features as a function of split degrees were investigated, including straight nanorods, bent nanorods, split nanorings, and full nanorings. The electrical field focusing using single-particle surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy was evaluated under different polarization angles of the incident light for two different structures with the point gap and line gap between two arms.

Associations between Household Water Fluoridation Status and Plain Tap or Bottled Water Consumption

INTRODUCTION

The benefits of community water fluoridation for preventing dental caries are attenuated if people do not consume tap water.

OBJECTIVES

We examined associations between household water fluoride content and consuming plain tap or bottled water among US youth.

METHODS

We used National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data for 2013 to 2016 for 5,193 youth aged 2 to 19 y. Fluoride content in youth's household tap water samples was measured electrometrically with ion-specific electrodes and designated low (<0.6 mg/L) or about optimal (0.6 to 1.2 mg/L). Plain tap and bottled water consumption was obtained from one 24-h dietary recall. We used binomial regression models to estimate adjusted prevalence ratios (APRs) and 95% CIs for consuming plain tap water (including tap only or both tap and bottled) and consuming only bottled water as related to household water fluoride content (low or about optimal) and sociodemographic characteristics.

RESULTS

On a given day, 52.6% of youth consumed plain tap water (43.8% exclusively and 8.8% both tap and bottled) and 28%, only bottled water. Neither tap water (APR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.84 to 1.10) nor only bottled water (APR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.86 to 1.22) consumption was associated with household water fluoride content. Non-Hispanic Black youth and Hispanic youth were about 30% relatively less likely to consume tap water and 60% to 80% relatively more likely to consume only bottled water than non-Hispanic Whites. Low income, low parental education, and no past-year dental visit were associated with not consuming tap water.

CONCLUSION

Half of youth consumed plain tap water on a given day. Consuming plain tap water was not associated with community water fluoridation status. This study is the first to find that up to 50% of the population served by fluoridated water may not receive its full caries-preventive benefits due to not consuming plain tap water.

KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER STATEMENT

Half of US youth consumed plain tap water on a given day. Consuming plain tap water was not associated with community water fluoridation status. This finding suggests that up to 50% of the population served by fluoridated water systems may not receive its full caries-preventive benefits due to not consuming plain tap water. Our findings add support for the need to identify and address barriers to tap water consumption and promote health benefits of fluoridation.

Bronchovascular bundle thickening on CT as a predictor of survival and brain metastasis in patients with stage IA peripheral small cell lung cancer

AIM

To determine if bronchovascular bundle (BVB) thickening on pretreatment computed tomography (CT) images helps predict survival in patients with peripheral small cell lung cancer (pSCLC) ≤3 cm.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The pretreatment CT examinations of 79 histopathologically proven pSCLC ≤3 cm (TNM stage I, 21; II, 13; III, 22; IV, 23) were reviewed retrospectively. The CT characteristics of the nodule and associated findings, including BVB thickening, were evaluated. Progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and brain metastasis-free survival were compared with the presence of BVB thickening using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

Among the 79 patients, 34 (43%) had BVB thickening. BVB thickening was prevalent in patients with mediastinal lymph node metastasis (50.9% versus 22.7%; p=0.024) and distant metastasis (60.9% versus 35.7%; p=0.049). Out of the 21 patients with TNM stage IA disease, the 16 patients (76.2%) without BVB thickening showed better PFS, OS, and brain metastasis-free survival (mean, 1,762 versus 483 days; p=0.019: 2,243 versus 1,328 days; p=0.038: 2,274 versus 1,287 days; p=0.038, respectively). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that the absence of BVB thickening (hazard ratio [HR], 7.806; 95% CI, 1.241-49.091; p=0.029) and surgery (HR, 0.075; 95% CI, 0.008-0.746; p=0.027) were independent and useful prognostic factors for PFS.

CONCLUSIONS

BVB thickening was found more frequently in patients with advanced-stage pSCLC ≤3 cm, and the PFS was more favourable in patients without BVB thickening, with a similar tendency to that of OS and brain metastasis-free survival, in stage IA pSCLC.

Treatment of Molar Incisor Malformation and the short term follow-up: Case reports

BACKGROUND

Molar Incisor Malformation (MIM) or Molar Root Incisor malformation (MRIM) is a recently discovered root malformation with constricted pulp and abnormally located furcation presented in permanent first molars and sometimes incisors.

CASE REPORT

Two cases that feature MIM are presented with the description of the characteristic tooth form, clinical/radiographic examination, medical history, the supposed aetiology, treatment procedure and results at the 2-year follow-up. Conservative endodontic treatment was performed in both cases, furcation perforation and canal perforation were filled with MTA (Mineral Trioxide Aggregate), and a good prognosis was observed after 2 years of follow-up. Furthermore, recommended treatment options are discussed to provide a more appropriate treatment for the patients.

CONCLUSION

Patients with MIM need to be treated at the right time to avoid severe infection and other problems. Early diagnosis with appropriate treatment is more likely to lead to a more favourable prognosis.

When Loyalty Goes Mobile: Effects of Mobile Loyalty Apps on Purchase, Redemption, and Competition

This research investigates how a shift from traditional loyalty cards to mobile-driven loyalty apps affects consumers’ reward redemption patterns, purchase behaviors, and store-level competition. The findings indicate that loyalty app adoption is associated with increased expenditure and purchase frequency as well as more active point redemption. In a multivendor loyalty program (MVLP) context, the use of loyalty apps is associated with spillover effects in which case customers visit more stores that they had not previously considered and exhibit diminished allegiance to their focal shop after they adopt a loyalty app. Finally, the adoption of loyalty apps is related to deal-prone behaviors because informed consumers tend to selectively purchase highly discounted products. Our findings provide several valuable implications for managers and platform owners who are considering launching mobile loyalty programs (LPs) and participating in an MVLP market. Although the merits of loyalty app adoption are apparent, we caution against potential downsides at individual store levels. Many customers are likely to succumb to deals, selectively purchasing highly discounted products with low margins through loyalty apps. The thrust of LPs should be directed toward fostering a strong connection with a brand, going beyond the promise of deals and promotions.

Potential anti-ageing effect of chondroitin sulphate through skin regeneration

OBJECTIVE

Skin ageing is inevitably exposed through its typical features such as wrinkles and sagging. Therefore, skin anti-ageing is a major issue in cosmetic research to prevent and improve ageing symptoms using effective ingredients. Chondroitin sulphate (CS), a type of glycosaminoglycan, is an important structural component of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and is involved in various biological processes, such as cell proliferation, differentiation and migration. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of CS on skin regeneration and examine its efficacy as a potential safe and effective skin anti-ageing ingredient.

METHODS

We investigated the effects of CS on cell proliferation in normal human keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Then, cell migration, ECM synthesis and related signalling pathways were examined in fibroblasts through gene and protein expression analysis. Finally, the effect on skin wound healing and regeneration was validated using a full-thickness skin wound model and an aged skin model.

RESULTS

Chondroitin sulphate treatment increased the proliferation of keratinocytes and fibroblasts. It also stimulated the migration and synthesis of ECM components of fibroblasts. Further analysis revealed that CS induced the expression of type I procollagen by activating the extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway. Using a full-thickness skin wound model and an aged skin model, we confirmed that CS treatment promoted skin wound healing and regeneration.

CONCLUSION

Together, our results indicated that CS has the potential to facilitate skin regeneration, implying that CS could be clinically applied to improve skin ageing.

Surface Point Cloud Ultrasound with Transcranial Doppler: Coregistration of Surface Point Cloud Ultrasound with Magnetic Resonance Angiography for Improved Reproducibility, Visualization, and Navigation in Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound

Transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound is a standard tool used in the setting of recent sub-arachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). By tracking velocity in the circle-of-Willis vessels, vasospasm can be detected as interval velocity increase. For this disease process, repeated TCD velocity measurements over many days is the basis for its usefulness. However, a key limitation to TCD is its user dependence, which is itself largely due to the fact that exact information about probe positioning is lost between subsequent scans. Surface point cloud ultrasound (SPC-US) was recently introduced as a general approach combining ultrasound and three-dimensional surface imaging of patient + probe. In the present proof-of-principle demonstration, we have applied SPC-US to TCD and co-registered the skin surface with that from MRA images to provide a roadmap of the vasculature in 3D space for better speed, accuracy, reproducibility, and potential semi-automation of TCD. Collating the acronyms, we call the combined approach SPC-US-TCD. TCD of the M1 was obtained while three-dimensional photographic images were obtained with the Structure Sensor camera. MRA imaging was also obtained. SPC-US-TCD and corresponding MRA 3D reconstruction images were co-registered in MeshMixer using the skin surfaces for alignment. A cylinder the width of the TCD probe was placed over the fused images and aligned with the direction and orientation of the TCD probe to demonstrate the acoustic beam. In the fused images, the acoustic beam intersects the right M1 segment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA). The angle of insonation is well demonstrated and measurable in various planes. Distance measurements made in Blender localized the TCD probe position based on three skin surface landmarks, and tabulated orientation based on three angles along the corresponding directions. SPC-US-TCD provides valuable information that is otherwise not present in TCD studies. By co-registering SPC-US-TCD data with that from cross sectional vessel imaging, precise probe location relative to external skin surface landmarks as well as 3D vessel location relative to TCD probe placement offers the potential to provide a roadmap that improves exam reproducibility, speed of acquisition, and accuracy. The goal of future work is to demonstrate this improvement statistically by application to multiple patients and scans.

Scattering Fourier Transform Biosensor: Binary Mixture Consisting of Magnetic Ni Nanorings and Plasmonic Au Nanorods

We report a biosensing platform based on a binary mixture comprised of Au nanorods (plasmonic nanoparticles, Au NRs) and magnetically responsive Pt@Ni nanorings (magnetic nanostirrers, MN-rings). The mixture of Au NRs and MN-rings was modulated with an external rotating magnetic field (a dynamic assay with magnetic perturbation), which led to fluctuating extinction in the UV-vis spectroscopy measurement. As the surfaces of Au NRs were modified with antigens and antibodies, their periodic profile of extinction changed in accordance with surface modification of the Au NRs. The obtained periodic extinction with time could be converted to a frequency domain function where the signal-to-noise ratios of the peaks were evaluated to monitor surface biorecognitions on Au NRs, which is in contrast to conventional biosensors (a stagnant assay without perturbation) that use only the peak shift of localized surface plasmon resonance of Au nanoparticles.

Exploring stories of learning and professional development: interactions between GP personal tutors and medical students

BACKGROUND

The demanding environment at medical school results in some students being prone to a high risk of mental health issues. GMC recommendations include positioning personal tutors for pastoral support and to act as academic role models. Tutors who are clinicians, such as GPs, could help students develop their academic and professional narratives. Our study explores interactions between GP tutors and students and evaluates how personal tutoring can support the ways in which students respond to the medical school culture and its demands.

METHOD

Six pairs of GP tutors and medical students had three personal tutor meetings over 9 months. Twelve meetings were recorded. A dialogical narrative analytical approach was used to assess how students' problems and reflective processes were negotiated with tutors. Three themes were formed to consolidate findings.

RESULTS

Tutors' affirmations helped students develop an alternative narrative to perfectionism focusing on 'doing well' and self-care. Reflection on students' perceptions of a medical career were prompted by tutors who encouraged students to keep an open-minded and enthusiastic outlook. Active participation from students sometimes required tutors to relinquish hierarchical power and share personal experiences.

CONCLUSION

GP tutors can help reframe student narratives of perfectionism and professionalism by expressing their vulnerabilities and working collaboratively. With clear guidance, there is potential for personal tutors working as GPs, to benefit students in the long run both academically and professionally. However, this should go hand in hand with a transformation of medical school culture to prevent sole focus on building student resilience.